On the Doi-Onsager Model of Rigid Rod-Like Polymers

In this paper, we review the Doi-Onsager model of orientation dynamics for rod-like polymers in solution, and present additional analysis. We discuss existing results on existence and convergence of solutions, as well as properties of equilibria. In particular, this model captures a phase transition indicating a switch between aligned and disordered particle orientations. We use nonlinear and linear stability analysis to further characterize this bifurcation. A new proof of equilibrium distribution symmetry is given for the two-dimensional problem. Finally, we derive, analyze, and demonstrate a numerical scheme for the two-dimensional problem which preserves the mass, positivity, and entropy-decreasing nature of the system

Authorities' Coercive and Legitimate Power:The Impact on Cognitions Underlying Cooperation

The execution of coercive and legitimate power by an authority assures cooperation and prohibits free-riding. While coercive power can be comprised of severe punishment and strict monitoring, legitimate power covers expert, and informative procedures. The perception of these powers wielded by authorities stimulates specific cognitions: trust, relational climates, and motives. With four experiments, the single and combined impact of coercive and legitimate power on these processes and on intended cooperation of n1 = 120, n2 = 130, n3 = 368, and n4 = 102 student participants is investigated within two exemplary contexts (tax contributions, insurance claims). Findings reveal that coercive power increases an antagonistic climate and enforced compliance, whereas legitimate power increases reason-based trust, a service climate, and voluntary cooperation. Unexpectedly, legitimate power is additionally having a negative effect on an antagonistic climate and a positive effect on enforced compliance; these findings lead to a modification of theoretical assumptions. However, solely reason-based trust, but not climate perceptions and motives, mediates the relationship between power and intended cooperation. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.© 2017 Hofmann, Hartl, Gangl, Hartner-Tiefenthaler and Kirchle

On the Doi-Onsager Model of Rigid Rod-Like Polymers

In this paper, we review the Doi-Onsager model of orientation dynamics for rod-like polymers in solution, and present additional analysis. We discuss existing results on existence and convergence of solutions, as well as properties of equilibria. In particular, this model captures a phase transition indicating a switch between aligned and disordered particle orientations. We use nonlinear and linear stability analysis to further characterize this bifurcation. A new proof of equilibrium distribution symmetry is given for the two-dimensional problem. Finally, we derive, analyze, and demonstrate a numerical scheme for the two-dimensional problem which preserves the mass, positivity, and entropy-decreasing nature of the system.</p

How much sweat is wasted when running? A science project

We conducted an N-of-1 observational study to build a prediction model for the amount of sweat wasted when running a given distance at a given temperature. Remarkably, running about 9 miles at a comfortably chilly 53 degrees F typically wastes 1.4 lb of sweat

How do controls impact employee trust in the employer?

Do organizational controls facilitate or hinder employees’ trust in their organization? We addressed this question through a mixed-methods design using three studies. Based on a literature review and an open-response survey study (Study 1), we developed a theoretical model proposing that organizational control is positively related to employees’ trust in their organization, and that this relationship is mediated by procedural fairness and organizational prestige. This mediated model was tested and supported in a quantitative survey of 582 European managers and professional employees from a range of organizations (Study 2). A complementary, qualitative interview-based study (Study 3) confirmed that well-implemented controls facilitate trust in the organization; however, poorly implemented control systems that are inconsistent, overly rigid, or incentivize untrustworthy behavior can undermine trust in the organization