Cross sections for neutron capture in the range of unresolved resonances are
predicted simultaneously to level distances at the neutron threshold for more
than 100 spin-0 target nuclei with A >70. Assuming triaxiality in nearly all
these nuclei a combined parameterization for both, level density and photon
strength is presented. The strength functions used are based on a global fit to
IVGDR shapes by the sum of three Lorentzians adding up to the TRK sum rule and
theory-based predictions for the A-dependence of pole energies and spreading
widths. For the small spins reached by capture level densities are well
described by only one free global parameter; a significant collective
enhancement due to the deviation from axial symmetry is observed. Reliable
predictions for compound nuclear reactions also outside the valley of stability
as expected from the derived global parameterization are important for nuclear
astrophysics and for the transmutation of nuclear waste.Comment: Contribution to the proceedings of the ERINDA workshop held at CERN
in October 2013 with modification