Multilinear Operators: The Natural Extension Of Hirota's Bilinear Formalism

We introduce multilinear operators, that generalize Hirota's bilinear $D$ operator, based on the principle of gauge invariance of the $\tau$ functions. We show that these operators can be constructed systematically using the bilinear $D$'s as building blocks. We concentrate in particular on the trilinear case and study the possible integrability of equations with one dependent variable. The 5th order equation of the Lax-hierarchy as well as Satsuma's lowest-order gauge invariant equation are shown to have simple trilinear expressions. The formalism can be extended to an arbitrary degree of multilinearity.Comment: 9 pages in plain Te

Relaxation of twisted vortices in the Faddeev-Skyrme model

We study vortex knotting in the Faddeev-Skyrme model. Starting with a straight vortex line twisted around its axis we follow its evolution under dissipative energy minimization dynamics. With low twist per unit length the vortex forms a helical coil, but with higher twist numbers the vortex becomes knotted or a ring is formed around the vortex.Comment: 7 pages, 8 jpg figure

On the parametrization of solutions of the Yang--Baxter equations

We study all five-, six-, and one eight-vertex type two-state solutions of the Yang-Baxter equations in the form $A_{12} B_{13} C_{23} = C_{23} B_{13} A_{12}$, and analyze the interplay of the `gauge' and `inversion' symmetries of these solution. Starting with algebraic solutions, whose parameters have no specific interpretation, and then using these symmetries we can construct a parametrization where we can identify global, color and spectral parameters. We show in particular how the distribution of these parameters may be changed by a change of gauge.Comment: 19 pages in LaTe

Searching for integrable lattice maps using factorization

We analyze the factorization process for lattice maps, searching for integrable cases. The maps were assumed to be at most quadratic in the dependent variables, and we required minimal factorization (one linear factor) after 2 steps of iteration. The results were then classified using algebraic entropy. Some new models with polynomial growth (strongly associated with integrability) were found. One of them is a nonsymmetric generalization of the homogeneous quadratic maps associated with KdV (modified and Schwarzian), for this new model we have also verified the "consistency around a cube".Comment: To appear in Journal of Physics A. Some changes in reference

Weak Lax pairs for lattice equations

We consider various 2D lattice equations and their integrability, from the point of view of 3D consistency, Lax pairs and B\"acklund transformations. We show that these concepts, which are associated with integrability, are not strictly equivalent. In the course of our analysis, we introduce a number of black and white lattice models, as well as variants of the functional Yang-Baxter equation