MOP /Matrix Operation Programs system/

MOP /Matrix Operation Programs/ system consists of a set of FORTRAN 4 subroutines which are related through a small common allocation. The system accomplishes all matrix algebra operations plus related input-output and housekeeping details

Determination of the cosmological rate of change of G and the tidal accelerations of earth and moon from ancient and modern astronomical data

The theory and numerical analysis of ancient astronomical observations (1374 to 1715) are combined with modern data in a simultaneous solution for: the tidal acceleration of the lunar longitude; the observed apparent acceleration of the earth's rotation; the true nontidal geophysical part of this acceleration; and the rate of change in the gravitational constant. Provided are three independent determinations of a rate of change of G consistent with the Hubble Constant and a near zero nontidal rotational acceleration of the earth. The tidal accelerations are shown to have remained constant during the historical period within uncertainties. Ancient and modern solar system data, and extragalactic observations provided a completely consistent astronomical and cosmological scheme

Estimation of the basic reproduction number of measles during an outbreak in a partially vaccinated population

From March to July 1996 a measles outbreak occurred in northern Luxembourg with 110 reported cases centered around two primary schools (85 cases) and the surrounding community (25 cases). Eighty four suspected cases were confirmed serologically. Vaccine coverage was estimated from questionnaire-based surveys at the two primary schools to be 70 and 76%, respectively. Vaccine efficacy during the outbreak was estimated to be 94.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) 90·4–97·0]. Using the information from the school surveys, we obtained estimates of the basic reproduction number of measles of 7·7 (95% CI 4·4–11·0) and 6·2 (95% CI 3·5–8·9), respectively. Assuming a 95% vaccine efficacy, these estimates correspond to minimal vaccine coverages of 91·6% (95% CI 81·4–95·7) and 88·3% (95% CI 75·5–93·4) which would have been necessary to minimize the chances of a major outbreak occurring. We can confirm that major outbreaks in similar school settings can only be prevented if vaccination coverage exceeds 90%

Longitudinal profiles of Extensive Air Showers with inclusion of charm and bottom particles

Charm and bottom particles are rare in Extensive Air Showers but the effect of its presence can be radical in the development of the Extensive Air Showers (EAS). If such particles arise with a large fraction of the primary energy, they can reach large atmospheric depths, depositing its energy in deeper layers of the atmosphere. As a consequence, the EAS observables ($X_{max}$, $RMS$ and $N_{max}$) will be modified, as well as the shape of the longitudinal profile of the energy deposited in the atmosphere. In this paper, we will modify the CORSIKA Monte Carlo by the inclusion of charm and bottom production in the first interaction of the primary cosmic ray. Results for different selections of the typical $x_F$ values of the heavy particles and distinct production models will be presented.Comment: Replacement of tex file by the correct versio

Discerning Elementary Particles

We extend the quantum-mechanical results of Muller & Saunders (2008) establishing the weak discernibility of an arbitrary number of similar fermions in finite-dimensional Hilbert-spaces in two ways: (a) from fermions to bosons for all finite-dimensional Hilbert-spaces; and (b) from finite-dimensional to infinite-dimensional Hilbert-spaces for all elementary particles. In both cases this is performed using operators whose physical significance is beyond doubt.This confutes the currently dominant view that (A) the quantum-mechanical description of similar particles conflicts with Leibniz's Principle of the Identity of Indiscernibles (PII); and that (B) the only way to save PII is by adopting some pre-Kantian metaphysical notion such as Scotusian haecceittas or Adamsian primitive thisness. We take sides with Muller & Saunders (2008) against this currently dominant view, which has been expounded and defended by, among others, Schr\"odinger, Margenau, Cortes, Dalla Chiara, Di Francia, Redhead, French, Teller, Butterfield, Mittelstaedt, Giuntini, Castellani, Krause and Huggett.Comment: Final Version. To appear in Philosophy of Science, July 200

Gamma-Ray Light Curves and Spectra of Models for Type-Ia Supernovae

Based on detailed Monte Carlo calculations, we present gamma-ray energy deposition functions, gamma-ray light curves, and gamma-ray spectra for a large set of theoretical models of Type Ia supernovae including ''classical'' detonation and deflagration, delayed detonation, explosions of low mass white dwarfs, and tamped detonation scenarios. Our computations show that models for Type Ia supernovae can be discriminated and the absolute amount of Ni-56 synthesized in the event can be determined on the basis of the gamma-ray light curves and spectra if gamma-ray measurements are combined with observations at other wavelengths, e.g., in the optical band. We discuss at which times gamma-ray observations are most suitable and needed from the theoretical point of view. The implication of the upper limit in the gamma-ray flux by CGRO experiment for our understanding of SN 1991 T is discussed. We find that this limit is consistent with both the optical light curve and the implied distance (12.5 Mpc), i.e., several models can be ruled out by the gamma-ray observations.Astronom

Hyposplenism in gastro-intestinal disease

The hazards of living without a spleen were recognised by the paediatricians in the early 1960’s when they focussed attention on the syndrome of fulminant sepsis, often due to pneumococcal infection, occurring in young children within the first two years of splenectomy. The danger of post-splenectomy sepsis (PSS) extends into adult life and splenectomised patients remain at risk 10, 20 and even 30 years after the operation. Problems following splenectomy may just be the tip of the iceberg. It is clear that many other diseases are associated with impaired splenic function in the presence of intact spleens.peer-reviewe