Chern-Simons-fermion model of quarks

We propose an extension of the standard model where quarks are viewed as fermions with a ``bare'' integer (weak) hypercharge which is normalized with a fractional part created by a quantized topological Chern-Simons configuration of the weak gauge fields. Consistency with hypercharge patterns not included in the standard model is shown.Comment: 4 pages, Revtex, no figure

Unification of standard and exotic matter through a Z2Z_2 symmetry

We consider a scenario in which the discrete weak symmetry between quarks and leptons is extended to the weak force by introducing exotic partners. We conjecture that there exists a hidden discrete symmetry $\tilde{P}$, defining a $Z_2$ group, between standard and exotic quarks and leptons. The unified model $SU(3)_{q} \times SU(3)_{\tilde{q}} \times SU(2)_{q \tilde{\ell}} \times SU(2)_{\tilde{q} \ell} \times U(1)_{Y} \times \tilde{P}$ is discussed, where the unifying discrete symmetry extends over particles and forces. It is shown that the lighter neutral and charged weak bosons generated upon spontaneous symmetry breaking have the same properties as those of the standard model. Cabbibo-Kobayashi-Maskawa unitarity is used to set a mass of order 2.8 TeV for the nonstandard weak bosons, which do not exhibit quark-lepton universality. A grand unified theory of $GUT_{q \tilde{\ell}} \times GUT_{\tilde{q} \ell} \times \tilde{P}$ type, with decay of exotic matter into standard matter and no decay of the ordinary nucleon, is put forward.Comment: 6 pages, no figure

Sharing Mobility Data for Planning and Policy Research

A California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) rulemaking and possible legislative action in 2020 could affect data sharing requirements, with implications for shared mobility providers. The purpose of this brief is to inform this regulatory and legislative decision-making. We solicited policy and planning questions and data needs for shared mobility from within the University of California Institute of Transportation Studies research network. We defined shared mobility as including shared mobility devices, such as e-bikes and e-scooters, and transportation network companies (TNCs). We evaluated whether data shared in accordance with each of six mobility data specifications could be used to support analyses that would answer these questions. We then defined three approaches to data sharing and analysis to address these and other questions, presenting the advantages and disadvantages of each. This brief does not address the full breadth of the questions raised in the CPUC rulemaking nor does it introduce the complexities of this topic. Beyond the scope of this brief are issues of user privacy, the legal authority for sharing data, and contractual or requirements for each possible model of data sharing and analysis