Balancing three matrices in control theory

Several problems from control theory are presented which are sensitive to badly scaled matrices. We were specially concerned with the algorithms involving three matrices, thus we extended the Ward\u27s balancing algorithm for two matrices. Numerical experiments confirmed that balancing three matrices can produce an accurate frequency response matrix for descriptor linear systems, it can also improve the solution of the pole assignment problem via state feedback and the determination of the controllable part of the system

Basis of splines associated with singularly perturbed advection -diffusion problems

Among fitted-operator methods for solving one-dimensional singular perturbation problems one of the most accurate is the collocation by linear combinations of ${1,x,exp{(pm p x)} }$, known as tension spline collocation. There exist well established results for determining the `tension parameter\u27 $p$, as well as special collocation points, that provide higher order local and global convergence rates. However, if the advection-diffusion reaction problem is specified in such a way that two boundary internal layers exist, the method is incapable of capturing only one boundary layer, which happens when no reaction term is present. For a pure advection-diffusion problem we therefore modify the basis accordingly, including only one exponential, i.e. project the solution to the space locally spanned by ${1,x,x^2,exp{(p x)}}$ where $p>0$ is the tension parameter. The aim of the paper is to show that in this situation it is still possible to construct a basis of $C^1$-locally supported functions by a simple knot insertion technique, commonly used in computer aided geometric design. We end by showing that special collocation points can be found, which yield better local and global convergence rates, similar to the tension spline case

Board Composition, Structure, And Financial Performance: An Update

In 1998, a meta-analysis of over 60 empirical research studies concluded that there was no demonstrable evidence that either Board of Directors structure or the duality of CEO/Board Chairman roles significantly impacted corporate performance.  This article looks at research done since that time, in light of Enron and other corporate scandals as well as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the increasing diversity of corporate boards.  Four additional studies, including follow-up work done by the authors of the 1998 meta-analysis, are compared and contrasted. In addition, the results of direct research on twenty Fortune 100 companies is presented. Finally, suggestions for future research in terms of both topic and methodology are provided, along with this author’s learnings from the project

Why \u27Fiscal Austerity\u27? A Review of Recent Evidence on the Economic Effects of Sovereign Debt

Concerns about the economic effect of high sovereign debt levels have motivated policy makers to constrain or reduce the growth of fiscal deficits, a practice commonly known now as fiscal austerity. However, what do we know about the economic impacts of sovereign debt? This article provides an overview of some recent empirical economic research into this question. The article first discusses data and estimation challenges confronted by empirical research into the impact of sovereign debt on economic growth. The article then reviews several studies, which vary by country sample, time period studied, and estimation technique employed. The article also reviews recent empirical studies of the economic consequences of sovereign default. The results of this article\u27s survey suggest that while the bulk of the evidence shows a negative relationship between sovereign debt levels and economic growth, the evidence to date is mixed on whether higher debt burdens cause or are merely correlated with lower economic growth, and on whether there exists a certain \u27threshold\u27 beyond which this negative relationship arises. Only a few studies have provided evidence on the economic mechanism through which higher debt burdens impact economic growth. This review of the research does, however, reveal stronger evidence that sovereign default episodes have negative impacts on an economy\u27s growth. The article concludes by raising some important questions to be addressed if we are to better understand the economic impacts of debt

Gender Stereotypes And Self-Perceptions Among College Students

In spite of advances made, women in general still do not achieve the same earnings or positions as men do in corporate America. Gender stereotyping has been identified as a major hurdle for women both in business and on college campuses. This study explores gender stereotypes and self-perception of 338 students enrolled in undergraduate business courses at two Western New York colleges.  Using a variation of the Schein Descriptive Index, attitudes about self, same sex and the typical man and woman are compared in terms of positive personality traits of successful managers. It is hoped that such research will help students recognize their own and others’ stereotypes, which is considered an important first step in managing them

Why \u27Fiscal Austerity\u27? A Review of Recent Evidence on the Economic Effects of Sovereign Debt

Concerns about the economic effect of high sovereign debt levels have motivated policy makers to constrain or reduce the growth of fiscal deficits, a practice commonly known now as fiscal austerity. However, what do we know about the economic impacts of sovereign debt? This article provides an overview of some recent empirical economic research into this question. The article first discusses data and estimation challenges confronted by empirical research into the impact of sovereign debt on economic growth. The article then reviews several studies, which vary by country sample, time period studied, and estimation technique employed. The article also reviews recent empirical studies of the economic consequences of sovereign default. The results of this article\u27s survey suggest that while the bulk of the evidence shows a negative relationship between sovereign debt levels and economic growth, the evidence to date is mixed on whether higher debt burdens cause or are merely correlated with lower economic growth, and on whether there exists a certain \u27threshold\u27 beyond which this negative relationship arises. Only a few studies have provided evidence on the economic mechanism through which higher debt burdens impact economic growth. This review of the research does, however, reveal stronger evidence that sovereign default episodes have negative impacts on an economy\u27s growth. The article concludes by raising some important questions to be addressed if we are to better understand the economic impacts of debt