L1L^1 contraction for bounded (non-integrable) solutions of degenerate parabolic equations

We obtain new $L^1$ contraction results for bounded entropy solutions of Cauchy problems for degenerate parabolic equations. The equations we consider have possibly strongly degenerate local or non-local diffusion terms. As opposed to previous results, our results apply without any integrability assumption on the %(the positive part of the difference of) solutions. They take the form of partial Duhamel formulas and can be seen as quantitative extensions of finite speed of propagation local $L^1$ contraction results for scalar conservation laws. A key ingredient in the proofs is a new and non-trivial construction of a subsolution of a fully non-linear (dual) equation. Consequences of our results are maximum and comparison principles, new a priori estimates, and in the non-local case, new existence and uniqueness results

Constructing a partially transparent computational boundary for UPPE using leaky modes

In this paper we introduce a method for creating a transparent computational boundary for the simulation of unidirectional propagation of optical beams and pulses using leaky modes. The key element of the method is the introduction of an artificial-index material outside a chosen computational domain and utilization of the quasi-normal modes associated with such artificial structure. The method is tested on the free space propagation of TE electromagnetic waves. By choosing the material to have appropriate optical properties one can greatly reduce the reflection at the computational boundary. In contrast to the well-known approach based on a perfectly matched layer, our method is especially well suited for spectral propagators.Comment: 32 pages, 19 figure

Analysis and assessment of film materials and associated manufacturing processes for a solar sail

Candidate resin manufacturers and film producers were surveyed to determine the availability of key materials and to establish the capabilities of fabricators to prepare ultrathin films of these materials within the capacity/cost/time constraints of the Halley program. Infrared spectra of three candidate samples were obtained by pressing each sample against an internal reflection crystal with the polymer sandwiched between the crystal and the metal backing. The sample size was such that less than one-fourth of the surface of the crystal was covered with the sample. This resulted in weak spectra requiring a six-fold expansion. Internal reflection spectra of the three samples were obtained using both a KRS-5 and a Ge internal reflection crystal. Subtracted infrared spectra of the three samples are presented