Towards an Understanding of the New Charm and Charm-Strange Mesons

The observation of the D_{sJ}^*(2317), D_{sJ}(2460), and SELEX D^*_{sJ}(2632) states with properties differing considerably from what was expected has led to a renewed interest in hadron spectroscopy. In addition to these states, non-strange partners of the D_{sJ} states have also been observed. Understanding the D_0^* and D_1' states can provide important insights into the D_{sJ} states. In this contribution I examine quark model predictions for the D_0^* and D_1' states and discuss experimental measurements that can shed light on them. I find that these states are well described as the broad, j=1/2 non-strange charmed P-wave mesons. In the latter part of this writeup I discuss the c bar{s} possibilities for the SELEX D^*_{sJ}(2632) and measurements that can shed light on it.Comment: Talk presented at the 1st Meeting of the APS Topical Group on Hadronic Physics (Fermilab, Oct 24-26, 2004). 4 pages uses jpcon

Bursting the bubble : the pseudo- development strategies of microstates

Developing microstates are bountiful on the world political map today. Yet the concept of smallness, apart from being relativistic, conjures up a sense of deviation, indicative of a subtle discrimination which implicitly takes large to be normal and preferable. Based on an extensive yet selective literature review, this article suggests that the orthodox development paradigm, in both its liberal and radical traditions, has borne little relevance to small developing states, either in theory or in practice. On looking more closely at the survival strategies of developing micro-economies, it is proposed that a different conceptualization of ‘development’ is warranted; one which, for all its negative connotations, is both plausible and consistent with the peculiar practices of microstates.peer-reviewe

Peculiar human resource management practices?

This article explores the alleged peculiarities of human resource management practices in very small developing states. A number of theoretical and ideo-typical features are culled from a literature review and are subsequently confronted with the empirical reality of human resource practices at Southern Bliss Hotel, a large, four-star tourist complex in Malta, the Mediterranean microstate. It is suggested that there are idiosyncrasies to management issues in small size and small scale territories which call for recognition on their own terms. Some implications of these observations for hotel human resource management are explored.peer-reviewe

Alternative approaches to implementing Lagrange multiplier tests for serial correlation in dynamic regression models

An approximate F-form of the Lagrange multiplier test for serial correlation in dynamic regression models is compared with three bootstrap tests. In one bootstrap procedure, residuals from restricted estimation under the null hypothesis are resampled. The other two bootstrap tests use residuals from unrestricted estimation under an alternative hypothesis. A fixed autocorrelation alternative is assumed in one of the two unrestricted bootstrap tests and the other is based upon a Pitman-type sequence of local alternatives. Monte Carlo experiments are used to estimate rejection probabilities under the null hypothesis and in the presence of serial correlation

Orations relating to the conferment of Doctor of Science honoris causa to Professor William Bannister

We are gathered here today to recognise a distinguished international scientist and alumnus of this University and it is indeed my honour and privilege to present Professor William Bannister for the award of the degree of Doctor of Science honoris causa. His career spans almost six decades and during this time he has helped shape numerous individual careers, whole Departments and our understanding of several branches of Physiology.peer-reviewe