αs analyses from hadronic tau decays with OPAL and ALEPH data

Recently, we extracted the strong coupling, [Formula: see text], from the revised ALEPH data for non-strange hadronic tau decays. Our analysis is based on a method previously used for the determination of the strong coupling from OPAL data. In our strategy, we employ different moments of the spectral functions both with and without pinching, including duality violations, in order to obtain fully self-consistent analyses that do not rely on untested assumptions (such as the smallness of higher dimension contributions in the operation product expansion (OPE)). Here we discuss the [Formula: see text] values obtained from the ALEPH and the OPAL data, the robustness of the analysis, as well as non-perturbative contributions from DVs and the OPE. We show that, although the [Formula: see text] determination is sound, non-perturbative effects limit the accuracy with which one can extract the strong coupling from tau decay data. Finally, we discuss the compatibility of the data sets and the possibility of a combined analysis.

VECTOR AND AXIAL-VECTOR CORRELATORS IN AN INSTANTON-LIKE QUARK MODEL

The behavior of the vector Adler function at spacelike momenta is studied in the framework of a covariant chiral quark model with instanton-like quark-quark interaction. This function describes the transition between the high energy asymptotically free region of almost massless current quarks to the low energy hadronized regime with massive constituent quarks. The model reproduces the Adler function and V-A correlator extracted from the ALEPH and OPAL data on hadronic τ lepton decays, transformed into the Euclidean domain via dispersion relations. The leading order contribution from hadronic part of the photon vacuum polarization to the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon, [Formula: see text], is estimated.

Stress Factors in the Aftermath of Hurricanes Erin and Opal: Data from Small Business Owners

Hurricanes Erin and Opal struck the same coastal region in the Northwest Florida Panhandle in late summer of 1995. The study examined the stressors that most affected small businesses in the region in the aftermath of the storms. Power outages, telephone disruptions, employees' availability, debris removal, and lack of customers were the major problem areas reported by business owners ( N = 57 of 500 potential respondents). The results indicate that most of the stress factors were transitory and the findings are discussed in light of Murphy's 1985 conceptual model of disaster research.