Note on a theorem of J. Folkman on transversals of infinite families with finitely many infinite members

In this note we show by a simple direct proof that Folkman's necessary and sufficient condition for an infinite family of sets with finitely many infinite members to have a transversal implies Woodall's condition. A short proof of Folkman's theorem results by combining with Woodall's proof

Optimal procedures for stochastically failing equipment

Optimal procedures for stochastically failing equipmen

Regular line-symmetric graphs

AbstractWe say that a graph is Point-symmetric if, given any two points of the graph, there is an automorphism of the graph that sends the first point to the second. Similarly, we say that a graph is line-symmetric if, given any two lines of the graph, there is an automorphism that sends the first line to the second.In general a line-symmetric graph need not be point-symmetric. For example, any complete bipartite graph is line-symmetric, but if it is not regular then it is not point-symmetric. In this paper we investigate the extent to which line symmetry and regularity imply point symmetry.We first give some conditions on the number of points and the degree of regularity under which line symmetry and regularity imply point symmetry. We then give some general methods for constructing graphs which are line-symmetric and regular but not point-symmetric. Finally we summarize what is known about the number of points that a regular line-symmetric graph which is not point-symmetric can have. We conclude with a list of unsolved problems in this area

New Concepts in Illustration Techniques for the Printed Media

None provided

Student Research - Electromagnetic Field Effects on Succor Creek Desert Shrubs

There have been indications that exposure to electromagnetic fields produced by voltage power lines have permanent effects on living organisms. I found studies on electromagnetic field effects on rodents and humans, but there has been little research done with plants. The purpose of my study was to record any measurable effects on desert shrubs in an area of Succor Creek, Oregon, produced by an adjacent 500 KV power line

Water Main Break Rates in the USA and Canada: A Comprehensive Study, April 2012

Modern societies base their economic prosperity on a standard of living which includes a complex network of infrastructure, both above and below ground. Quality drinking water brought to the tap through elaborate underground distribution systems is a critical component to our public health and economic well-being. In the USA and Canada, it has been the hallmark of our industry and cooperation. EVIDENCE OF DECLINE Our water infrastructure is now in decline after decades of service. The signs of distress surface daily as water mains break, creating floods and sink holes. The loss of water service is more than an inconvenience, since it causes significant social and economic disruptions and jeopardizes public health. THE MEASUREMENT One factor used to quantify the occurrences of failing underground pipe networks is water main break rates. Water main break rates are calculated for all pipe materials used in the transport of water to create a measurement to judge pipe performance and durability. Water main break rates can vary year to year and by utility. However, in aggregate, break rates produce a compelling story which can aid our prudent decision making as it relates to repairing and replacing our underground pipes. PURPOSE AND HIGHLIGHTS This Comprehensive Water Main Break Rate Study for the USA and Canada compiles the collective experience of 188 utilities which can be used for making future critical pipe replacement decisions. It is the desire of the researchers and participants to offer data and analysis that utility managers and elected officials can apply to the circumstances of their own operations. Highlights of the Comprehensive Water Main Break Study include a new national metric for citizens served per one mile of pipe, aggregate data on pipe material break rates, analysis of age and corrosion in failure modes, and related observations on pressure, temperature and trenchless technology practices

Lacuna

http://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/69290/1/mfolkman_1271878489_Folkman_Thesisfinal.pd

From Learned Helplessness To Learned Efficacy: An Action Science Approach To Continuing Professional Education For Comprehensive School Reform

This paper reports the progress and second year findings that flow from a multi-year action research strategy aimed at comprehensive school reform in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. A learned helplessness model is presented as an explanation for why schools continue to struggle with implementing comprehensive reform strategies. An alternative model is offered as a blueprint for empowerment and learned efficacy. Examples from action research projects implemented during the 2002-03 academic year provide evidence that substantial progress can be made in building a learning community within the real world setting of an urban public school system

AN ACTION SCIENCE APPROACH TO CREATING AND SUSTAINING PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITIES AS A VEHICLE FOR COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL REFORM

Public education in the United States is in crisis. Far too many children are failing to achieve minimal standards in reading, writing and mathematics. New federal legislation seeks to correct this situation by legislative fiat that is backed with severe sanctions for schools and districts that fail to improve. This situation offers a unique opportunity for adult educators to play a critical role in helping public schools meet this challenge. The strategy is to focus on the learning and professional development of the adults within the system—principals, teachers, staff, parents and community partners. This paper summarizes an action research/intervention project with several Milwaukee public schools that are attempting comprehensive school reform. The research strategy employs action science theory and tools of inquiry to document interpersonal dynamics at the individual, group and organizational level that either inhibit or promote the creation of a learning culture within the school. The intervention strategy is to organize and facilitate a series of participatory action research (PAR) initiatives aimed at implementing the components of the school’s reform initiative. The combined action research/intervention project explores whether action learning technologies like PAR coupled with action science inquiry can make a significant contribution to transforming schools into learning organizations that are capable of embracing all children

Facilitating Organizational Learning And Transformation Within A Public School Setting

This paper presents a model for organizational learning and transformation within the context of public school reform. The strategy is to offer action research classes in a school setting, which serve as a vehicle for transforming a traditional school environment into a professional learning community. Excerpts from the class dialogue show how instrumental and communicative learning are intertwined in the transformation process