The phase-space structure of the Klein-Gordon field

The formalism based on the equal-time Wigner function of the two-point correlation function for a quantized Klein--Gordon field is presented. The notion of the gauge-invariant Wigner transform is introduced and equations for the corresponding phase-space calculus are formulated. The equations of motion governing the Wigner function of the Klein--Gordon field are derived. It is shown that they lead to a relativistic transport equation with electric and magnetic forces and quantum corrections. The governing equations are much simpler than in the fermionic case which has been treated earlier. In addition the newly developed formalism is applied towards the description of spontaneous symmetry breakdown.Comment: 27 pages, LaTeX, UFTP 317/199

Investigation of a new intervention for children with word-finding problems

Background: Around one-quarter of children attending language support services have difficulty in retrieving words. Therapy studies with such children have shown that both semantic and phonological techniques can improve word finding. A new approach to intervention is described using a computerized aid that converts letters into sound cues.Aims: (1) To assess the word-finding abilities in a small series of children with word-finding difficulties. (2) To investigate whether intervention with a computerized aid can improve children's ability to find words. (3) To evaluate the effect of therapy on connected speech (using the Test of Word Finding in Discourse) and in relation to children's, parents' and other practitioners' views (using a questionnaire). (4) To understand the outcome in relation to an interactive model of speech production.Methods & Procedures: Five children (aged 6:10-10:7) were assessed on a variety of background measures. Following baseline assessment, two sets of items were included in therapy: a research set (with matched control items) and a further set selected for their functional relevance for each child. Intervention using the computerized aid took place once a week for half a term (6 weeks).Outcomes & Results: The children differed from one another in their language development and non-verbal abilities, but all had difficulties in word retrieval. All children showed significant improvement in naming intervention items after therapy. This effect was maintained half a term later. Despite very different profiles, the children benefited similarly from the intervention, suggesting a common processing source for change. After the intervention, two children showed a significant reduction in word-finding behaviours (e.g. use of substitutions, repetitions and empty words) on the Test of Word Finding in Discourse. The views of participants, parents and professionals were varied but generally positive.Conclusions: The main effect of therapy can be understood, in relation to an interactive model of speech production, as strengthening links from meaning to form. Use of the aid in therapy improved word finding for targeted items and this occurred within a clinically realistic timeframe. The finding that the gains in word retrieval maintained suggests that the intervention can be functionally useful if target items are chosen appropriately. Measurable change for two children in connected speech suggests wider benefits can also occur. Overall, the aid can be a useful additional tool for therapists/teachers working with children with this difficulty

The role of simulations in consumer experiences and behavior: insights from the grounded cognition theory of desire

What are the mechanisms by which extrinsic and environmental cues affect consumer experiences, desires, and choices? Based on the recent grounded cognition theory of desire, we argue that consumption and reward simulations constitute a central mechanism in these phenomena. Specifically, we argue that appetitive stimuli, such as specific product cues, can activate simulations of consuming and enjoying the respective products, based on previous learning experiences. These consumption and reward simulations can lead to motivated behavior, and can be modulated by state and trait individual differences, situational factors, and product-extrinsic cues. We outline the role of simulations within the grounded theory of desire, offering a theoretical framework for understanding motivational processes in consumer behavior. Then we illustrate the theory with behavioral, physiological, and neuroimaging findings on simulations in appetitive behavior and sensory marketing. Finally, we outline important issues for further research and applications for stimulating healthy, prosocial, and sustainable consumer choices

Holographic Wills in Montana - Problems in Probate

Holographic Wills in Montana - Problems in Probat

Pepper v. Commissioner, 36 T.C. ..., no. 88 (1961)

Pepper v. Commissione

Holographic Wills in Montana - Problems in Probate

Holographic Wills in Montana - Problems in Probat

Meta-Incommensurability between Theories of Meaning: Chemical Evidence

Attempting to compare scientific theories requires a philosophical model of meaning. Yet different scientific theories have at times—particularly in early chemistry—pre-supposed disparate theories of meaning. When two theories of meaning are incommensurable, we must say that the scientific theories that rely upon them are meta-incommensurable. Meta- incommensurability is a more profound sceptical threat to science since, unlike first-order incommensurability, it implies complete incomparability

A. T. Klemmens & Sons v. Reber Plumbing and Heating Co., 360 P.2d 1005 (Mont. 1961)

A. T. Klemmens & Sons v. Reber Plumbing and Heating C

Wavelets as a variational basis of the XY model

We use Daubechies' orthonormal compact wavelets as a variational basis for the $XY$ model in two and three dimensions. Assuming that the fluctuations of the wavelet coefficients are Gaussian and uncorrelated, minimization of the free energy yields the fluctuation strength of wavelet coefficients at different scales, from which observables can be computed. This model is able to describe the low-temperature phase and makes a prediction about the phase transition temperature.Comment: 3 pages, postscript. Contribution to the Lattice 93 workshop (Dallas, Texas, October 1993

A model for the submarine depthkeeping team

The most difficult task the depthkeeping team must face occurs during periscope-depth operations during which they may be required to maintain a submarine several hundred feet long within a foot of ordered depth and within one-half degree of ordered pitch. The difficulty is compounded by the facts that wave generated forces are extremely high, depth and pitch signals are very noisy and submarine speed is such that overall dynamics are slow. A mathematical simulation of the depthkeeping team based on the optimal control models is described. A solution of the optimal team control problem with an output control restriction (limited display to each controller) is presented