Signature of strong atom-cavity interaction on critical coupling

We study a critically coupled cavity doped with resonant atoms with metamaterial slabs as mirrors. We show how resonant atom-cavity interaction can lead to a splitting of the critical coupling dip. The results are explained in terms of the frequency and lifetime splitting of the coupled system.Comment: 8 pages, 5 figure

Gap solitons with null-scattering

We study excitation of gap solitons under the conditions of coherent perfect absorption (CPA). Our system consists of a symmetric periodic structure with alternating Kerr nonlinear and linear layers, illuminated from both the ends. We show near-total transfer of incident light energy into the gap solitons resulting in null-scattering. We also report on the nonlinear super-scattering (SS) states. Both the CPA and the SS states are shown to be characterized by typical field distributions. Both the exact and the approximate results (based on nonlinear characteristic matrix method) are presented, which show good agreement

Free Trade Areas and Rules of Origin: Economics and Politics

We incorporate intermediate inputs into a small-union general- equilibrium model and develop the welfare economics of preferential trading under the rules of origin. Combining this analysis with the Grossman-Helpman political-economy model, we demonstrate that the rules of origin can improve the political viability of FTAs. Two interesting outcomes are derived. First, an FTA that lowered joint welfare of the union and was voted down in the absence of the rules of origin may become feasible in the presence of these rules. Second, an FTA that increased joint welfare of the union but was voted down in the absence of the rules of origin may become acceptable in the presence of these rules but it may also turn welfare inferior to status quo.

An Optimization-Based Decision Support System for Strategic Planning in a Process Industry: The Case of an Aluminum Company in India

<div align="justify">We describe how a generic multi-period optimization-based decision support system (DSS) can be used for strategic planning in process industries. The DSS is built on five fundamental elements . materials, facilities, activities, storage areas and time periods. It requires little direct knowledge of optimization techniques to be used effectively. Results based on real data from an aluminum company in India demonstrate significant potential for improvement in profits.</div>