Actions of SL(n,Z) on homology spheres

Any continuous action of SL(n,Z), where n > 2, on a r-dimensional mod 2 homology sphere factors through a finite group action if r < n - 1. In particular, any continuous action of SL(n+2,Z) on the n-dimensional sphere factors through a finite group action.Comment: 11 page

On 3-manifolds that support partially hyperbolic diffeomorphisms

Let M be a closed 3-manifold that supports a partially hyperbolic diffeomorphism f. If $\pi_1(M)$ is nilpotent, the induced action of f on $H_1(M, R)$ is partially hyperbolic. If $\pi_1(M)$ is almost nilpotent or if $\pi_1(M)$ has subexponential growth, M is finitely covered by a circle bundle over the torus. If $\pi_1(M)$ is almost solvable, M is finitely covered by a torus bundle over the circle. Furthermore, there exist infinitely many hyperbolic 3-manifolds that do not support dynamically coherent partially hyperbolic diffeomorphisms; this list includes the Weeks manifold. If f is a strong partially hyperbolic diffeomorphism on a closed 3-manifold M and if $\pi_1(M)$ is nilpotent, then the lifts of the stable and unstable foliations are quasi-isometric in the universal of M. It then follows that f is dynamically coherent. We also provide a sufficient condition for dynamical coherence in any dimension. If f is center bunched and if the center-stable and center-unstable distributions are Lipschitz, then the partially hyperbolic diffeomorphism f must be dynamically coherent.Comment: 21 page

Monotone periodic orbits for torus homeomorphisms

Let f be a homeomorphism of the torus isotopic to the identity and suppose that there exists a periodic orbit with a non-zero rotation vector (p/q,r/q), then f has a topologically monotone periodic orbit with the same rotation vector.Comment: 10 pages, 1 figur

Resummation in a Hot Scalar Field Theory

A resummed perturbative expansion is used to obtain the self-energy in the high-temperature $g^2\phi^4$ field theory model up to order $g^4$. From this the zero momentum pole of the effective propagator is evaluated to determine the induced thermal mass and damping rate for the bosons in the plasma to order $g^3$. The calculations are performed in the imaginary time formalism and a simple diagrammatic analysis is used to identify the relevant diagrams at each order. Results are compared with similar real-time calculations found in the literature.Comment: 26 pages (figures not included

Common Axioms for Inferring Classical Ensemble Dynamics and Quantum Theory

The same set of physically motivated axioms can be used to construct both the classical ensemble Hamilton-Jacobi equation and Schrodingers equation. Crucial roles are played by the assumptions of universality and simplicity (Occam's Razor) which restrict the number and type of of arbitrary constants that appear in the equations of motion. In this approach, non-relativistic quantum theory is seen as the unique single parameter extension of the classical ensemble dynamics. The method is contrasted with other related constructions in the literature and some consequences of relaxing the axioms are also discussed: for example, the appearance of nonlinear higher-derivative corrections possibly related to gravity and spacetime fluctuations. Finally, some open research problems within this approach are highlighted.Comment: Final proceedings version. 6 pages. Presented at the 3rd QTRF conference at Vaxjo, Sweden, June6-11 200

Why is Schrodinger's Equation Linear?

Information-theoretic arguments are used to obtain a link between the accurate linearity of Schrodinger's equation and Lorentz invariance: A possible violation of the latter at short distances would imply the appearance of nonlinear corrections to quantum theory. Nonlinear corrections can also appear in a Lorentz invariant theory in the form of higher derivative terms that are determined by a length scale, possibly the Planck length. It is suggested that the best place to look for evidence of such quantum nonlinear effects is in neutrino physics and cosmology.Comment: 3 pages; Presented at the DICE 2004 workshop; Sept 2004, Piombino Italy. Minor corrections: this is the proceedings Versio