Single qubit decoherence under a separable coupling to a random matrix environment

This paper describes the dynamics of a quantum two-level system (qubit) under the influence of an environment modeled by an ensemble of random matrices. In distinction to earlier work, we consider here separable couplings and focus on a regime where the decoherence time is of the same order of magnitude than the environmental Heisenberg time. We derive an analytical expression in the linear response approximation, and study its accuracy by comparison with numerical simulations. We discuss a series of unusual properties, such as purity oscillations, strong signatures of spectral correlations (in the environment Hamiltonian), memory effects and symmetry breaking equilibrium states.Comment: 13 pages, 7 figure

X-ray sources as tracers of the large-scale structure in the Universe

We review the current status of studies of large-scale structure in the X-ray Universe. After motivating the use X-rays for cosmological purposes, we discuss the various approaches used on different angular scales including X-ray background multipoles, cross-correlations of the X-ray background with galaxy catalogues, clustering of X-ray selected sources and small-scale fluctuations and anisotropies in the X-ray background. We discuss the implications of the above studies for the bias parameter of X-ray sources, which is likely to be moderate for X-ray selected AGN and the X-ray background (~1-2). We finally outline how all-sky X-ray maps at hard X-rays and medium surveys with large sky coverage could provide important tests for the cosmological models.Comment: Invited review presented at the Workshop X-ray Astronomy'99: Stellar endpoints, AGN and the diffuse X-ray background (Astrophys Lett and Comm

Cosmology in the Solar System: Pioneer effect is not cosmological

Does the Solar System and, more generally, a gravitationally bound system follow the cosmic expansion law ? Is there a cosmological influence on the dynamics or optics in such systems ? The general relativity theory provides an unique and unambiguous answer, as a solution of Einstein equations with a local source in addition to the cosmic fluid, and obeying the correct (cosmological) limiting conditions. This solution has no analytic expression. A Taylor development of its metric allows a complete treatment of dynamics and optics in gravitationally bound systems, up to the size of galaxy clusters, taking into account both local and cosmological effects. In the solar System, this provides an estimation of the (non zero) cosmological influence on the Pioneer probe: it fails to account for the " Pioneer effect " by about 10 orders of magnitude. We criticize contradictory claims on this topic

Kelley Carrera and Brian T. Smith in a Joint Junior Recital

This is the program for the joint junior recital of pianist Kelley Carrera and baritone Brian T. Smith. Pianist Jay B. Crowder assisted Smith\u27s performance. The recital took place on March 11, 1988, in the Mabee Fine Arts Center Recital Hall

Free-vibration analysis of space vehicle structures made by composite materials

This work investigates the effects of composite materials and non-structural masses on the dynamic behavior of space structure components and whole space vehicle. A refined one-dimensional model has been used in the analyses, and the effects of composite materials and of the fuel mass introduced as non-structural masses have been considered. The adopted refined one-dimensional Finite Element Model has been developed using the Carrera Unified Formulation. This numerical tool allows to develop a variable kinematic displacement field over the beam cross-section, that is, a set of Lagrange (LE) expansions polynomials was adopted for the cross-sectional displacement field approximation. The use of such one-dimensional models leads to the so-called component-wise (CW) approach in which stiffeners and plate are modeled using the same one-dimensional kinematic. Static and free vibration analysis of space structural components and complete space structures have been performed. Both compact and thin-walled structural configurations have been considered. The results have been assessed using analytical solutions or refined three-dimensional Finite Element Models. Composite materials and non-structural masses, e.g. the fuel mass or payload, have been included in the analysis. The results show the capability of the present model to provide a quasi three-dimensional solution with a low computational cost. The refined kinematic allows composite materials to be investigated accurately

"Magnetoscan": A Modified Hall Probe Scanning Technique for the Detection of Inhomogeneities in Bulk High Temperature Superconductors

We present a novel technique for the investigation of local variations of the critical current density in large bulk superconductors. In contrast to the usual Hall probe scanning technique, the sample is not magnetized as a whole before the scan, but locally by a small permanent magnet, which is fixed near the Hall probe, during the scanning process. The resulting signal can be interpreted as a qualitative measure of the local shielding currents flowing at the surface.Comment: 8 pages, 4 figure

KIC 10449976: discovery of an extreme-helium subdwarf in the Kepler field

Optical spectroscopy of the blue star KIC 10449976 shows that it is an extremely helium-rich subdwarf with effective temperature T=40000+/-300 K and surface gravity log g=5.3+/-0.1. Radial-velocity measurements over a five-day timescale show an upper variability limit of ~50+/-20 km/s. Kepler photometry of KIC 10449976 in both long and short cadence modes shows evidence for a periodic modulation on a timescale of ~3.9 days. We have examined the possibility that this modulation is not astrophysical but conclude it is most likely real. We discuss whether the modulation could be caused by a low-mass companion, by stellar pulsations, or by spots. The identification of any one of these as cause has important consequences for understanding the origin of helium-rich subdwarfs.Comment: Accepted by MNRA

Effect of Localized Damages on the Free Vibration Analysis of Civil Structures by Component-Wise Approach

Refined one-dimensional (1D) models are used to carry out free vibration analysis of civil engineering structures affected by local damages. The Carrera unified formulation (CUF) provides higher-order structural models to be formulated in a compact and, eventually, hierarchical manner. In the domain of the CUF, refined 1D models characterized by three-dimensional capabilities can be realized by using various function expansions of the generalized displacement field over the cross section. Recently, a component-wise (CW) approach was introduced by using CUF. CW gives a detailed physical description of multicomponent structures, since each component can be modeled with its geometrical and mechanical characteristics; that is, no reference surfaces, axes, or homogenization techniques are used. In the present work, combinations of quadratic Lagrange elements are used to describe the beam theory kinematics. This approach enables the highly-accurate analysis of complex civil structures such as truss structures, industrial buildings, and a multifloor building. In this context, damage scenarios are introduced with no loss of accuracy in the mathematical formulation by deteriorating the single component of the structure. Effects of damages are, thus, evaluated by free vibration analyses