Finite-State Dimension and Real Arithmetic

We use entropy rates and Schur concavity to prove that, for every integer k >= 2, every nonzero rational number q, and every real number alpha, the base-k expansions of alpha, q+alpha, and q*alpha all have the same finite-state dimension and the same finite-state strong dimension. This extends, and gives a new proof of, Wall's 1949 theorem stating that the sum or product of a nonzero rational number and a Borel normal number is always Borel normal.Comment: 15 page

Micelle Formation and the Hydrophobic Effect

The tendency of amphiphilic molecules to form micelles in aqueous solution is a consequence of the hydrophobic effect. The fundamental difference between micelle assembly and macroscopic phase separation is the stoichiometric constraint that frustrates the demixing of polar and hydrophobic groups. We present a theory for micelle assembly that combines the account of this constraint with a description of the hydrophobic driving force. The latter arises from the length scale dependence of aqueous solvation. The theoretical predictions for temperature dependence and surfactant chain length dependence of critical micelle concentrations for nonionic surfactants agree favorably with experiment.Comment: Accepted for publication in J. Phys. Chem.

The Law and Economics of Securities Fraud: Section 29(a) and the Non-Reliance Clause

This Note examines whether precluding a plaintiff from claiming reasonable reliance on representations made outside of a final written agreement containing a non- reliance clause violates Section 29(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Note uses the Third Circuit\u27s recent decision in AES v. Dow Chemical Co. to put the issue in context, and concludes that the court reached the wrong conclusion. By accepting the assumptions of law and economics, and addressing the arguments against such an approach from behavioralists and other critics, the Note argues that adopting a clear rule enforcing non-reliance clauses produces certainty in contractual dealings, leads to efficient outcomes, and will reduce the occurrences of fraud. As opposed to adopting a standard recognizing investors\u27 cognitive vulnerabilities, this Note advocates for the adoption of a clear rule enforcing non-reliance clauses to preclude reasonable reliance as a matter of law against sophisticated parties in an arm\u27s length transaction

Sustainable development, environmentalism, population control and global governance

The 7th annual Ethics ConferenceOne aspect of globalization, and one that is far more important than the globalization of consumer goods, is the globalization of ideas. Although many Africans are justifiably critical of the evils of slavery, colonialism and neo-colonialism and their negative impact on traditional African societies, there is remarkably little criticism of ideas from the West. Although some Western ideas are good, many are not. One Western idea that should be scrutinized carefully by Africans is that of “sustainable development”. And sustainable development does not come alone; it is bundled with other ideas that also should be evaluated critically, including environmentalism, population control and global governanceOne aspect of globalization, and one that is far more important than the globalization of consumer goods, is the globalization of ideas. Although many Africans are justifiably critical of the evils of slavery, colonialism and neo-colonialism and their negative impact on traditional African societies, there is remarkably little criticism of ideas from the West. Although some Western ideas are good, many are not. One Western idea that should be scrutinized carefully by Africans is that of “sustainable development”. And sustainable development does not come alone; it is bundled with other ideas that also should be evaluated critically, including environmentalism, population control and global governance