Measurable,nonleavable gambling problems

The optimal return function for a Borel measurable gambling problem with a bounded utility function was shown by Strauch (1967) to be universally measurable when the problem is leavable in the sense that the gambler may terminate play at any time. The same is shown here for the more general class of nonleavable problems. Research supported by National Science Foundation Grant DMS-8801085.     

Working group report: Quantum chromodynamics

This is the report of the subgroup QCD of Working Group-4 at WHEPP-9. We present the activities that had taken place in the subgroup and report some of the partial results arrived at following the discussion at the working group meetings.     

The Statistical Mechanics of Semiflexible Equilibrium Polymers

We give an overview of studies of models for semiflexible, equilibrium polymers with special emphasis on our work on both lattice and continuum models for such systems. We show, principally by Monte Carlo simulations, that, once monomers self assemble to form polymers, their semiflexibility leads to nematic phases at low temperatures. Attractive wall potentials encourage the adsorption of these equilibrium polymers on surfaces. Rapid cooling leads to the formation of glasses with entangled polymers. Shear promotes nematic ordering, but, at high shear rates, this tendency decreases since the equilibrium polymers are torn apart. A version of our model in which the polymers are directed shows the polymer analog of bosonic Mott-insulating, mass-density-wave, and supersolid phases. We give a brief comparison of our work with other studies and also explore the experimental implications of our study.     

Quark mass corrections to the perturbative thrust and its effect on the determination of αs

We consider the effects of quark masses to the perturbative thrust in e ⁺ e ⁻ annihilation. In particular we show that perturbative power corrections resulting from non-zero quark masses considerably alters the size of the non-perturbative power corrections and consequently, significantly changes the fitted value of α_s.     

Capacity augmentation of a supply chain for a short lifecycle product: A system dynamics framework

For an innovative product characterized by short product lifecycle and high demand uncertainty, investment in capacity buildup has to be done cautiously. Otherwise either the product’s market diffusion is impeded or the manufacturer is left with unutilized capacity. Using the right information for making capacity augmentation decisions is critical in facing this challenge. In this paper, we propose a method for identifying critical information flows using the system dynamics model of a two-echelon supply chain. The fundamental premise of system dynamics methodology is that (system) structure determines (its) behavior. Using loop dominance analysis method we study the feedback loop structure of the supply chain system. The outcome is a set of dominant loops that determine the dynamics of capacity growth. It is revealed that the delivery delay information has little effect while the loop that connects retail sales with production order affects the dynamics significantly. Modifying this loop yields appropriate capacity augmentation decisions resulting in higher performance. What-if analyses bring out effects of modifying other structural elements. In conclusion, we claim that the information feedback based methodology is general enough to be useful in designing decision support systems for capacity augmentation. The limitations of the model are also discussed and possible extensions identified.     

On solving energy-dependent partitioned eigenvalue problem by genetic algorithm: The case of real symmetric Hamiltonian matrices

An energy-dependent partitioning scheme is explored for extracting a small number of eigenvalues of a real symmetric matrix with the help of genetic algorithm. The proposed method is tested with matrices of different sizes (30 × 30 to 1000 × 1000). Comparison is made with Löwdin’s strategy for solving the problem. The relative advantages and disadvantages of the GA-based method are analyzed     

Working group report: Neutrino and astroparticle physics

This is the report of neutrino and astroparticle physics working group at WHEPP-7. Discussions and work on CP violation in long baseline neutrino experiments, ultra high energy neutrinos, supernova neutrinos and water Cerenkov detectors are discussed.     

Studies towards the total synthesis of (−)-borrelidin: a strategy for the construction of the C11-C15 cyanodiene fragment and the utility of RCM for macrocyclization using model systems

We report here a methodology for the construction of a conjugated cyanodiene synthon and the propensity of such synthons to participate in the olefin metathesis reaction. To this end, we have developed a strategy for the construction of the C11-C15 fragment of borrelidin and demonstrated the utility of the RCM reaction in the preparation of the final macrolide. To our knowledge, this is the first example of a RCM with a nitrile functionality on a diene.     

Thermal degradation of polystyrene in the presence of hydrogen by catalyst in solution

For the first time, low temperature degradation (170-240 °C) of polystyrene in benzene is carried out in the presence of hydrogen using iron(III) oxide catalyst. The effect of temperature, catalyst loading and polymer loading on degradation are studied in hydrogen atmosphere. Degradation is also carried out at different initial hydrogen partial pressure. The time dependent molecular weight is calculated using viscosity average method. It is found that the degradation is enhanced considerably in the presence of hydrogen and followed random degradation chain scission. A random degradation kinetic model of Kelen [Kelen T. Polymer degradation. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold Company; 1983.] is used to estimate the degradation rate constants. Empirical correlations are proposed to account for the effect of catalyst loading and initial hydrogen partial pressure on degradation. The true thermal degradation rate constants are calculated using these proposed correlations at given catalyst loading and initial hydrogen partial pressure with varying temperature. The frequency factor and activation energy are also determined using Arrhenius equation considering the true thermal degradation rate constants.     

Ionic Interactions of Calcium Sulfate Dihydrate in Aqueous Sodium Chloride Solutions: Solubilities,Densities, Viscosities,Electrical Conductivities,and Surface Tensions at 35 <Superscript>∘</Superscript>C

The thermodynamic, volumetric, transport, and surface properties, solubilities, densities, viscosities, electrical conductivities, and surface tensions of calcium sulfate dihydrate in aqueous sodium chloride solutions have been measured at 35 C, with a view to determine the ionic interactions that occur in these solutions. The experimental density values have been used to calculate the mean apparent molar volumes of the ternary mixtures. Viscosity values have been analyzed using different empirical equations and the experimental values of the viscosity were combined with conductivity to yield the Walden product. Molar surface energies have been computed using experimental surface tension data. The experimental data have been fitted to polynomial equations by a least-squares analysis to obtain the coefficients and their standard errors. Results have been examined in the light of structure making or structure breaking effects of the various ions present in the solutions.