Operator algebra

About: Operator algebra is a research topic. Over the lifetime, 5783 publications have been published within this topic receiving 165303 citations.

Long-Range Deformations for Integrable Spin Chains

Abstract: We present a recursion relation for the explicit construction of integrable spin chain Hamiltonians with long-range interactions. Based on arbitrary shortrange (e.g. nearest neighbor) integrable spin chains, it allows us to construct an infinite set of conserved long-range charges. We explain the moduli space of deformation parameters by different classes of generating operators. The rapidity map and dressing phase in the long-range Bethe equations are a result of these deformations. The closed chain asymptotic Bethe equations for long-range spin chains transforming under a generic symmetry algebra are derived. Notably, our construction applies to generalizations of standard nearest neighbor chains such as alternating spin chains. We also discuss relevant properties for its application to planar D = 4, N = 4 and D = 3, N = 6 supersymmetric gauge theories. Finally, we present a map between long-range and inhomogeneous spin chains delivering more insight into the structures of these models, as well as their limitations at wrapping order.

Higher-dimensional algebra and Planck scale physics

Abstract: This is a nontechnical introduction to recent work on quantum gravity using ideas from higher-dimensional algebra. We argue that reconciling general relativity with the Standard Model requires a `background-free quantum theory with local degrees of freedom propagating causally'. We describe the insights provided by work on topological quantum field theories such as quantum gravity in 3-dimensional spacetime. These are background-free quantum theories lacking local degrees of freedom, so they only display some of the features we seek. However, they suggest a deep link between the concepts of `space' and `state', and similarly those of `spacetime' and `process', which we argue is to be expected in any background-free quantum theory. We sketch how higher-dimensional algebra provides the mathematical tools to make this link precise. Finally, we comment on attempts to formulate a theory of quantum gravity in 4-dimensional spacetime using `spin networks' and `spin foams'.

Vector Spaces with an Order Unit

Abstract: We develop a theory of ordered *-vector spaces with an order unit. We prove fundamental results concerning positive linear functionals and states, and we show that the order (semi)norm on the space of self-adjoint elements admits multiple extensions to an order (semi)norm on the entire space. We single out three of these (semi)norms for further study and discuss their significance for operator algebras and operator systems. In addition, we introduce a functorial method for taking an ordered space with an order unit and forming an Archimedean ordered space. We then use this process to describe an appropriate notion of quotients in the category of Archimedean ordered spaces.

Topological Mirrors and Quantum Rings

Abstract: Aspects of duality and mirror symmetry in string theory are discussed. We emphasize, through examples, the importance of loop spaces for a deeper understanding of the geometrical origin of dualities in string theory. Moreover we show that mirror symmetry can be reformulated in very simple terms as the statement of equivalence of two classes of topological theories: Topological sigma models and topological Landau-Ginzburg models. Some suggestions are made for generalization of the notion of mirror symmetry.