Mesoscopic Noise Theory: Microscopics, or Phenomenology?

We argue, physically and formally, that existing diffusive models of noise yield inaccurate microscopic descriptions of nonequilibrium current fluctuations. The theoretical shortfall becomes pronounced in quantum-confined metallic systems, such as the two-dimensional electron gas. In such systems we propose a simple experimental test of mesoscopic validity for diffusive theory's central claim: the smooth crossover between Johnson-Nyquist and shot noise.Comment: Invited paper, UPoN'99 Conference, Adelaide. 13 pp, no figs. Minor revisions to text and reference

Novel superconductivity: from bulk to nano systems

We begin with an introduction of superconductivity by giving a brief history of the phenomenon. The phenomenological Ginzburg–Landau theory and the microscopic theory of Bardeen, Cooper and Schrieffer are outlined. In view of recently available multi-band superconductors, relevant theories of both types are discussed. Unlike the traditional GL theory an extended GL theory is developed relevant to temperatures below the critical temperature. Superconductivity in a nanosystem is the highlight of the remaining part of the paper. Theories and experiments are discussed to give an interested reader an updated account and overview of what is new in this active area of research