The tension between gauge coupling unification, the Higgs boson mass, and a gauge-breaking origin of the supersymmetric mu-term

We investigate the possibility of generating the $\mu$-term in the MSSM by the condensation of a field that is a singlet under the SM gauge group but charged under an additional family-independent $U(1)_X$ gauge symmetry. We attempt to do so while preserving the gauge coupling unification of the MSSM. For this, we find that SM non-singlet exotics must be present in the spectrum. We also prove that the pure $U(1)_X$ anomalies can always be solved with rationally charged fields, but that a large number of SM singlets are often required. For $U(1)_X$ charges that are consistent with an embedding of the MSSM in SU(5) or SO(10), we show that the $U(1)_X$ charges of the MSSM states can always be expressed as a linear combination of abelian subgroups of $E_6$. However, the SM exotics do not appear to have a straightforward embedding into GUT multiplets. We conclude from this study that if this approach to the $\mu$-term is correct, as experiment can probe, it will necessarily complicate the standard picture of supersymmetric grand unification.Comment: 10 pages, no figure

A Two-Level Finite Element Discretization of the Streamfunction Formulation of the Stationary Quasi-Geostrophic Equations of the Ocean

In this paper we proposed a two-level finite element discretization of the nonlinear stationary quasi-geostrophic equations, which model the wind driven large scale ocean circulation. Optimal error estimates for the two-level finite element discretization were derived. Numerical experiments for the two-level algorithm with the Argyris finite element were also carried out. The numerical results verified the theoretical error estimates and showed that, for the appropriate scaling between the coarse and fine mesh sizes, the two-level algorithm significantly decreases the computational time of the standard one-level algorithm.Comment: Computers and Mathematics with Applications 66 201

Traffic scenario generation technique for piloted simulation studies

Piloted simulation studies of cockpit traffic display concepts require the development of representative traffic scenarios. With the exception of specific aircraft interaction issues, most research questions can be addressed using traffic scenarios consisting of prerecorded aircraft movements merged together to form a desired traffic pattern. Prerecorded traffic scenarios have distinct research advantages, allowing control of traffic encounters with repeatability of scenarios between different test subjects. A technique is described for generation of prerecorded jet transport traffic scenarios suitable for use in piloted simulation studies. Individual flight profiles for the aircraft in the scenario are created interactively with a computer program designed specifically for this purpose. The profiles are then time-correlated and merged into a complete scenario. This technique was used to create traffic scenarios for the Denver, Colorado area with operations centered at Stapleton International Airport. Traffic scenarios for other areas may also be created using this technique, with appropriate modifications made to the navigation fix locations contained in the flight profile generation program

Index of Problematic Online Experiences: Item Characteristics and Correlation with Negative Symptomatology

This exploratory study aimed to develop and test a quick, easily administered instrument, the Index of Problematic Online Experiences (I-POE). The goal of the I-POE extends beyond assessing for Internet overuse to broadly assess problematic Internet use across several domains and activities. Data was collected from 563 college students from a Northern New England university using an online survey methodology. Results indicated the I-POE has adequate construct validity and is highly correlated with a variety of relevant constructs: depression, anger=irritability, tension-reduction behavior, sexual concerns, and dysfunctional sexual behavior as measured by the Trauma Symptom Inventory; as well as amount of Internet use and permissive attitudes toward engaging in a variety of sexual activities. Early flagging of online experiences could mitigate the negative effects associated with problematic use. The I-POE, as an easy-to-administer, short screening index, holds promise in this regard. Initial testing of the instrument points to its utility in identifying persons who are experiencing a broad range of Internet-related problems