Doubly self-consistent field theory of grafted polymers under simple shear in steady state.

PubMed

Suo, Tongchuan; Whitmore, Mark D

2014-03-21

We present a generalization of the numerical self-consistent mean-field theory of polymers to the case of grafted polymers under simple shear. The general theoretical framework is presented, and then applied to three different chain models: rods, Gaussian chains, and finitely extensible nonlinear elastic (FENE) chains. The approach is self-consistent at two levels. First, for any flow field, the polymer density profile and effective potential are calculated self-consistently in a manner similar to the usual self-consistent field theory of polymers, except that the calculation is inherently two-dimensional even for a laterally homogeneous system. Second, through the use of a modified Brinkman equation, the flow field and the polymer profile are made self-consistent with respect to each other. For all chain models, we find that reasonable levels of shear cause the chains to tilt, but it has very little effect on the overall thickness of the polymer layer, causing a small decrease for rods, and an increase of no more than a few percent for the Gaussian and FENE chains. Using the FENE model, we also probe the individual bond lengths, bond correlations, and bond angles along the chains, the effects of the shear on them, and the solvent and bonded stress profiles. We find that the approximations needed within the theory for the Brinkman equation affect the bonded stress, but none of the other quantities.

Self-consistent formation of electron $\\kappa$ distribution: 1. Theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, Peter H.; Rhee, Tongnyeol; Ryu, Chang-Mo

2006-09-01

Since the early days of plasma physics research suprathermal electrons were observed to be generated during beam-plasma laboratory experiments. Energetic electrons, often modeled by κ distributions, are also ubiquitously observed in space. Various particle acceleration mechanisms have been proposed to explain such a feature, but all previous theories rely on either qualitative analytical method or on non-self-consistent approaches. This paper discusses the self-consistent acceleration of electrons to suprathermal energies by weak turbulence processes which involve the Langmuir/ion-sound turbulence and the beam-plasma interaction. It is discussed that the spontaneous scatttering process, which is absent in the purely collisionless theory, is singularly responsible for the generation of κ distributions. The conclusion is that purely collisionless Vlasov theory cannot produce suprathermal population.

Quasiparticle self-consistent GW method for the spectral properties of complex materials.

PubMed

Bruneval, Fabien; Gatti, Matteo

2014-01-01

The GW approximation to the formally exact many-body perturbation theory has been applied successfully to materials for several decades. Since the practical calculations are extremely cumbersome, the GW self-energy is most commonly evaluated using a first-order perturbative approach: This is the so-called G 0 W 0 scheme. However, the G 0 W 0 approximation depends heavily on the mean-field theory that is employed as a basis for the perturbation theory. Recently, a procedure to reach a kind of self-consistency within the GW framework has been proposed. The quasiparticle self-consistent GW (QSGW) approximation retains some positive aspects of a self-consistent approach, but circumvents the intricacies of the complete GW theory, which is inconveniently based on a non-Hermitian and dynamical self-energy. This new scheme allows one to surmount most of the flaws of the usual G 0 W 0 at a moderate calculation cost and at a reasonable implementation burden. In particular, the issues of small band gap semiconductors, of large band gap insulators, and of some transition metal oxides are then cured. The QSGW method broadens the range of materials for which the spectral properties can be predicted with confidence.

Towards a unification of the hierarchical reference theory and the self-consistent Ornstein-Zernike approximation.

PubMed

Reiner, A; Høye, J S

2005-12-01

The hierarchical reference theory and the self-consistent Ornstein-Zernike approximation are two liquid state theories that both furnish a largely satisfactory description of the critical region as well as phase coexistence and the equation of state in general. Furthermore, there are a number of similarities that suggest the possibility of a unification of both theories. As a first step towards this goal, we consider the problem of combining the lowest order gamma expansion result for the incorporation of a Fourier component of the interaction with the requirement of consistency between internal and free energies, leaving aside the compressibility relation. For simplicity, we restrict ourselves to a simplified lattice gas that is expected to display the same qualitative behavior as more elaborate models. It turns out that the analytically tractable mean spherical approximation is a solution to this problem, as are several of its generalizations. Analysis of the characteristic equations shows the potential for a practical scheme and yields necessary conditions that any closure to the Ornstein-Zernike relation must fulfill for the consistency problem to be well posed and to have a unique differentiable solution. These criteria are expected to remain valid for more general discrete and continuous systems, even if consistency with the compressibility route is also enforced where possible explicit solutions will require numerical evaluations.

Differentiating between self and others: an ALE meta-analysis of fMRI studies of self-recognition and theory of mind.

PubMed

van Veluw, Susanne J; Chance, Steven A

2014-03-01

The perception of self and others is a key aspect of social cognition. In order to investigate the neurobiological basis of this distinction we reviewed two classes of task that study self-awareness and awareness of others (theory of mind, ToM). A reliable task to measure self-awareness is the recognition of one's own face in contrast to the recognition of others' faces. False-belief tasks are widely used to identify neural correlates of ToM as a measure of awareness of others. We performed an activation likelihood estimation meta-analysis, using the fMRI literature on self-face recognition and false-belief tasks. The brain areas involved in performing false-belief tasks were the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC), bilateral temporo-parietal junction, precuneus, and the bilateral middle temporal gyrus. Distinct self-face recognition regions were the right superior temporal gyrus, the right parahippocampal gyrus, the right inferior frontal gyrus/anterior cingulate cortex, and the left inferior parietal lobe. Overlapping brain areas were the superior temporal gyrus, and the more ventral parts of the MPFC. We confirmed that self-recognition in contrast to recognition of others' faces, and awareness of others involves a network that consists of separate, distinct neural pathways, but also includes overlapping regions of higher order prefrontal cortex where these processes may be combined. Insights derived from the neurobiology of disorders such as autism and schizophrenia are consistent with this notion.

Quantum non-objectivity from performativity of quantum phenomena

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khrennikov, Andrei; Schumann, Andrew

2014-12-01

We analyze the logical foundations of quantum mechanics (QM) by stressing non-objectivity of quantum observables, which is a consequence of the absence of logical atoms in QM. We argue that the matter of quantum non-objectivity is that, on the one hand, the formalism of QM constructed as a mathematical theory is self-consistent, but, on the other hand, quantum phenomena as results of experimenters’ performances are not self-consistent. This self-inconsistency is an effect of the language of QM differing greatly from the language of human performances. The former is the language of a mathematical theory that uses some Aristotelian and Russellian assumptions (e.g., the assumption that there are logical atoms). The latter language consists of performative propositions that are self-inconsistent only from the viewpoint of conventional mathematical theory, but they satisfy another logic that is non-Aristotelian. Hence, the representation of quantum reality in linguistic terms may be different: the difference between a mathematical theory and a logic of performative propositions. To solve quantum self-inconsistency, we apply the formalism of non-classical self-referent logics.

A self-consistency check for unitary propagation of Hawking quanta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baker, Daniel; Kodwani, Darsh; Pen, Ue-Li; Yang, I.-Sheng

2017-11-01

The black hole information paradox presumes that quantum field theory in curved space-time can provide unitary propagation from a near-horizon mode to an asymptotic Hawking quantum. Instead of invoking conjectural quantum-gravity effects to modify such an assumption, we propose a self-consistency check. We establish an analogy to Feynman’s analysis of a double-slit experiment. Feynman showed that unitary propagation of the interfering particles, namely ignoring the entanglement with the double-slit, becomes an arbitrarily reliable assumption when the screen upon which the interference pattern is projected is infinitely far away. We argue for an analogous self-consistency check for quantum field theory in curved space-time. We apply it to the propagation of Hawking quanta and test whether ignoring the entanglement with the geometry also becomes arbitrarily reliable in the limit of a large black hole. We present curious results to suggest a negative answer, and we discuss how this loss of naive unitarity in QFT might be related to a solution of the paradox based on the soft-hair-memory effect.

Beck Self-Esteem Scale-Short Form: Development and psychometric evaluation of a scale for the assessment of self-concept in schizophrenia.

PubMed

Thomas, Elizabeth C; Murakami-Brundage, Jessica; Bertolami, Nina; Beck, Aaron T; Grant, Paul M

2018-05-01

A requisite step for testing cognitive theories regarding the role of self-concept in schizophrenia is the development of measures that follow a cognitive conceptualization and better capture the multifaceted nature of this construct. The purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties a new self-concept measure, the Beck Self-Esteem Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF), based on a sample of 204 individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. We evaluated the BSES-SF's dimensionality, internal consistency reliability, and construct and divergent validity using confirmatory factor analysis, Cronbach's alpha, Pearson correlations, independent samples t-tests, and one-way analysis of variance. Findings indicate that the 10-item BSES-SF is a reliable and valid measure of self-concept that is appropriate for a broad group of individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Following cognitive theory, the scale demonstrated significant relationships with delusion severity, motivation, and depression, further signifying its utility for research and practice efforts that are designed to address psychopathology in schizophrenia. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Doubly self-consistent field theory of grafted polymers under simple shear in steady state

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Suo, Tongchuan; Whitmore, Mark D., E-mail: mark-whitmore@umanitoba.ca

2014-03-21

We present a generalization of the numerical self-consistent mean-field theory of polymers to the case of grafted polymers under simple shear. The general theoretical framework is presented, and then applied to three different chain models: rods, Gaussian chains, and finitely extensible nonlinear elastic (FENE) chains. The approach is self-consistent at two levels. First, for any flow field, the polymer density profile and effective potential are calculated self-consistently in a manner similar to the usual self-consistent field theory of polymers, except that the calculation is inherently two-dimensional even for a laterally homogeneous system. Second, through the use of a modified Brinkmanmore » equation, the flow field and the polymer profile are made self-consistent with respect to each other. For all chain models, we find that reasonable levels of shear cause the chains to tilt, but it has very little effect on the overall thickness of the polymer layer, causing a small decrease for rods, and an increase of no more than a few percent for the Gaussian and FENE chains. Using the FENE model, we also probe the individual bond lengths, bond correlations, and bond angles along the chains, the effects of the shear on them, and the solvent and bonded stress profiles. We find that the approximations needed within the theory for the Brinkman equation affect the bonded stress, but none of the other quantities.« less

Self-consistent clustering analysis: an efficient multiscale scheme for inelastic heterogeneous materials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Z.; Bessa, M. A.; Liu, W.K.

A predictive computational theory is shown for modeling complex, hierarchical materials ranging from metal alloys to polymer nanocomposites. The theory can capture complex mechanisms such as plasticity and failure that span across multiple length scales. This general multiscale material modeling theory relies on sound principles of mathematics and mechanics, and a cutting-edge reduced order modeling method named self-consistent clustering analysis (SCA) [Zeliang Liu, M.A. Bessa, Wing Kam Liu, “Self-consistent clustering analysis: An efficient multi-scale scheme for inelastic heterogeneous materials,” Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Engrg. 306 (2016) 319–341]. SCA reduces by several orders of magnitude the computational cost of micromechanical andmore » concurrent multiscale simulations, while retaining the microstructure information. This remarkable increase in efficiency is achieved with a data-driven clustering method. Computationally expensive operations are performed in the so-called offline stage, where degrees of freedom (DOFs) are agglomerated into clusters. The interaction tensor of these clusters is computed. In the online or predictive stage, the Lippmann-Schwinger integral equation is solved cluster-wise using a self-consistent scheme to ensure solution accuracy and avoid path dependence. To construct a concurrent multiscale model, this scheme is applied at each material point in a macroscale structure, replacing a conventional constitutive model with the average response computed from the microscale model using just the SCA online stage. A regularized damage theory is incorporated in the microscale that avoids the mesh and RVE size dependence that commonly plagues microscale damage calculations. The SCA method is illustrated with two cases: a carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) structure with the concurrent multiscale model and an application to fatigue prediction for additively manufactured metals. For the CFRP problem, a speed up estimated to be about 43,000 is achieved by using the SCA method, as opposed to FE2, enabling the solution of an otherwise computationally intractable problem. The second example uses a crystal plasticity constitutive law and computes the fatigue potency of extrinsic microscale features such as voids. This shows that local stress and strain are capture sufficiently well by SCA. This model has been incorporated in a process-structure-properties prediction framework for process design in additive manufacturing.« less

Similarities between Prescott Lecky's theory of self-consistency and Carl Rogers' self-theory.

PubMed

Merenda, Peter F

2010-10-01

The teachings of Prescott Lecky on the self-concept at Columbia University in the 1920s and 1930s and the posthumous publications of his book on self-consistency beginning in 1945 are compared with the many publications of Carl Rogers on the self-concept beginning in the early 1940s. Given that Rogers was a graduate student at Columbia in the 1920s and 1930s, the striking similarities between these two theorists, as well as claims attributed to Rogers by Rogers' biographers and writers who have quoted Rogers on his works relating to self-theory, strongly suggest that Rogers borrowed from Lecky without giving him the proper credit. Much of Rogers' writings on the self-concept included not only terms and concepts which were original with Lecky, but at times these were actually identical.

The self-consistent dynamic pole tide in global oceans

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dickman, S. R.

1985-01-01

The dynamic pole tide is characterized in a self-consistent manner by means of introducing a single nondifferential matrix equation compatible with the Liouville equation, modelling the ocean as global and of uniform depth. The deviations of the theory from the realistic ocean, associated with the nonglobality of the latter, are also given consideration, with an inference that in realistic oceans long-period modes of resonances would be increasingly likely to exist. The analysis of the nature of the pole tide and its effects on the Chandler wobble indicate that departures of the pole tide from the equilibrium may indeed be minimal.

The Helpfulness of Spiritually Influenced Group Work in Developing Self-Awareness and Self-Esteem: A Preliminary Investigation

PubMed Central

Coholic, Diana

2005-01-01

This paper discusses an exploratory study that investigated the helpfulness of spiritually influenced group work with eight adult women who shared a history of substance abuse. The overall purpose of the group was to help participants develop their self-awareness and self-esteem. The group, which was contextualized in transpersonal theory, was organized around the following themes and experiential exercises: meditation, mindfulness practice, dream work, stream of consciousness writing, the shadow self, and other arts-based processes. Grounded-theory analysis of group sessions and individual interviews with the participants found that the participants perceived the group to be helpful in developing their self-awareness and self-esteem. While the participants identified different aspects of the group as spiritual, making-meaning was one practice that was consistently described as a spiritually sensitive process. The results of this study in this emergent field are promising and suggestions are provided for future research. PMID:16200326

Toward a Discursive Ontology of Media.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brummett, Barry; Duncan, Margaret Carlisle

1992-01-01

Argues that mediation is extension of the self along paths of social practice, discourse, and technology. Argues that communication should be studied from that perspective, which is more consistent with the everyday experience of communication. Illustrates the theory with an analysis of the empowerment and disempowerment of men and women through…

Single-World Theory of the Extended Wigner's Friend Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sudbery, Anthony

2017-05-01

Frauchiger and Renner have recently claimed to prove that "Single-world interpretations of quantum theory cannot be self-consistent". This is contradicted by a construction due to Bell, inspired by Bohmian mechanics, which shows that any quantum system can be modelled in such a way that there is only one "world" at any time, but the predictions of quantum theory are reproduced. This Bell-Bohmian theory is applied to the experiment proposed by Frauchiger and Renner, and their argument is critically examined. It is concluded that it is their version of "standard quantum theory", incorporating state vector collapse upon measurement, that is not self-consistent.

Nanosystem self-assembly pathways discovered via all-atom multiscale analysis.

PubMed

Pankavich, Stephen D; Ortoleva, Peter J

2012-07-26

We consider the self-assembly of composite structures from a group of nanocomponents, each consisting of particles within an N-atom system. Self-assembly pathways and rates for nanocomposites are derived via a multiscale analysis of the classical Liouville equation. From a reduced statistical framework, rigorous stochastic equations for population levels of beginning, intermediate, and final aggregates are also derived. It is shown that the definition of an assembly type is a self-consistency criterion that must strike a balance between precision and the need for population levels to be slowly varying relative to the time scale of atomic motion. The deductive multiscale approach is complemented by a qualitative notion of multicomponent association and the ensemble of exact atomic-level configurations consistent with them. In processes such as viral self-assembly from proteins and RNA or DNA, there are many possible intermediates, so that it is usually difficult to predict the most efficient assembly pathway. However, in the current study, rates of assembly of each possible intermediate can be predicted. This avoids the need, as in a phenomenological approach, for recalibration with each new application. The method accounts for the feedback across scales in space and time that is fundamental to nanosystem self-assembly. The theory has applications to bionanostructures, geomaterials, engineered composites, and nanocapsule therapeutic delivery systems.

The Moral Self: Applying Identity Theory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stets, Jan E.; Carter, Michael J.

2011-01-01

This research applies identity theory to understand the moral self. In identity theory, individuals act on the basis of their identity meanings, and they regulate the meanings of their behavior so that those meanings are consistent with their identity meanings. An inconsistency produces negative emotions and motivates individuals to behave…

Towards an automated and efficient calculation of resonating vibrational states based on state-averaged multiconfigurational approaches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meier, Patrick; Oschetzki, Dominik; Pfeiffer, Florian; Rauhut, Guntram

2015-12-01

Resonating vibrational states cannot consistently be described by single-reference vibrational self-consistent field methods but request the use of multiconfigurational approaches. Strategies are presented to accelerate vibrational multiconfiguration self-consistent field theory and subsequent multireference configuration interaction calculations in order to allow for routine calculations at this enhanced level of theory. State-averaged vibrational complete active space self-consistent field calculations using mode-specific and state-tailored active spaces were found to be very fast and superior to state-specific calculations or calculations with a uniform active space. Benchmark calculations are presented for trans-diazene and bromoform, which show strong resonances in their vibrational spectra.

Towards an automated and efficient calculation of resonating vibrational states based on state-averaged multiconfigurational approaches

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Meier, Patrick; Oschetzki, Dominik; Pfeiffer, Florian

Resonating vibrational states cannot consistently be described by single-reference vibrational self-consistent field methods but request the use of multiconfigurational approaches. Strategies are presented to accelerate vibrational multiconfiguration self-consistent field theory and subsequent multireference configuration interaction calculations in order to allow for routine calculations at this enhanced level of theory. State-averaged vibrational complete active space self-consistent field calculations using mode-specific and state-tailored active spaces were found to be very fast and superior to state-specific calculations or calculations with a uniform active space. Benchmark calculations are presented for trans-diazene and bromoform, which show strong resonances in their vibrational spectra.

Functional level-set derivative for a polymer self consistent field theory Hamiltonian

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ouaknin, Gaddiel; Laachi, Nabil; Bochkov, Daniil; Delaney, Kris; Fredrickson, Glenn H.; Gibou, Frederic

2017-09-01

We derive functional level-set derivatives for the Hamiltonian arising in self-consistent field theory, which are required to solve free boundary problems in the self-assembly of polymeric systems such as block copolymer melts. In particular, we consider Dirichlet, Neumann and Robin boundary conditions. We provide numerical examples that illustrate how these shape derivatives can be used to find equilibrium and metastable structures of block copolymer melts with a free surface in both two and three spatial dimensions.

Agreeable fancy or disagreeable truth? Reconciling self-enhancement and self-verification.

PubMed

Swann, W B; Pelham, B W; Krull, D S

1989-11-01

Three studies asked why people sometimes seek positive feedback (self-enhance) and sometimes seek subjectively accurate feedback (self-verify). Consistent with self-enhancement theory, people with low self-esteem as well as those with high self-esteem indicated that they preferred feedback pertaining to their positive rather than negative self-views. Consistent with self-verification theory, the very people who sought favorable feedback pertaining to their positive self-conceptions sought unfavorable feedback pertaining to their negative self-views, regardless of their level of global self-esteem. Apparently, although all people prefer to seek feedback regarding their positive self-views, when they seek feedback regarding their negative self-views, they seek unfavorable feedback. Whether people self-enhance or self-verify thus seems to be determined by the positivity of the relevant self-conceptions rather than their level of self-esteem or the type of person they are.

Misery is not Miserly: Sad and Self-Focused Individuals Spend More

PubMed Central

Cryder, Cynthia E.; Lerner, Jennifer S; Gross, James J.; Dahl, Ronald E.

2014-01-01

Misery is not miserly: sadness increases the amount of money decision makers give up to acquire a commodity (Lerner, Small, & Loewenstein, 2004). The present research investigated when and why the “misery-is-not-miserly” effect occurs. Drawing on William James’s (1890) concept of the material self, we tested a model specifying relationships among sadness, self-focus, and the amount of money decision makers spend. Consistent with our Jamesian hypothesis, results revealed that self-focus both moderates and mediates the effect of sadness on spending. Results were consistent across males and females. Because the study used real commodities and real money, results hold implications for everyday decisions. They also hold implications for theoretical development. Economic theories of spending may benefit from incorporating psychological theories – specifically theories of emotion and the self. PMID:18578840

Complexity Theory

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lee, William H K.

2016-01-01

A complex system consists of many interacting parts, generates new collective behavior through self organization, and adaptively evolves through time. Many theories have been developed to study complex systems, including chaos, fractals, cellular automata, self organization, stochastic processes, turbulence, and genetic algorithms.

Self-consistency in Capital Markets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benbrahim, Hamid

2013-03-01

Capital Markets are considered, at least in theory, information engines whereby traders contribute to price formation with their diverse perspectives. Regardless whether one believes in efficient market theory on not, actions by individual traders influence prices of securities, which in turn influence actions by other traders. This influence is exerted through a number of mechanisms including portfolio balancing, margin maintenance, trend following, and sentiment. As a result market behaviors emerge from a number of mechanisms ranging from self-consistency due to wisdom of the crowds and self-fulfilling prophecies, to more chaotic behavior resulting from dynamics similar to the three body system, namely the interplay between equities, options, and futures. This talk will address questions and findings regarding the search for self-consistency in capital markets.

Self-consistent theory of atomic Fermi gases with a Feshbach resonance at the superfluid transition

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu Xiaji; Hu Hui

2005-12-15

A self-consistent theory is derived to describe the BCS-Bose-Einstein-condensate crossover for a strongly interacting Fermi gas with a Feshbach resonance. In the theory the fluctuation of the dressed molecules, consisting of both preformed Cooper pairs and 'bare' Feshbach molecules, has been included within a self-consistent T-matrix approximation, beyond the Nozieres and Schmitt-Rink strategy considered by Ohashi and Griffin. The resulting self-consistent equations are solved numerically to investigate the normal-state properties of the crossover at various resonance widths. It is found that the superfluid transition temperature T{sub c} increases monotonically at all widths as the effective interaction between atoms becomes moremore » attractive. Furthermore, a residue factor Z{sub m} of the molecule's Green function and a complex effective mass have been determined to characterize the fraction and lifetime of Feshbach molecules at T{sub c}. Our many-body calculations of Z{sub m} agree qualitatively well with recent measurments of the gas of {sup 6}Li atoms near the broad resonance at 834 G. The crossover from narrow to broad resonances has also been studied.« less

Self-consistent linear response for the spin-orbit interaction related properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Solovyev, I. V.

2014-07-01

In many cases, the relativistic spin-orbit (SO) interaction can be regarded as a small perturbation to the electronic structure of solids and treated using regular perturbation theory. The major obstacle on this route comes from the fact that the SO interaction can also polarize the electron system and produce some additional contributions to the perturbation theory expansion, which arise from the electron-electron interactions in the same order of the SO coupling. In electronic structure calculations, it may even lead to the necessity of abandoning the perturbation theory and returning to the original self-consistent solution of Kohn-Sham-like equations with the effective potential v̂, incorporating simultaneously the effects of the electron-electron interactions and the SO coupling, even though the latter is small. In this work, we present the theory of self-consistent linear response (SCLR), which allows us to get rid of numerical self-consistency and formulate the last step fully analytically in the first order of the SO coupling. This strategy is applied to the unrestricted Hartree-Fock solution of an effective Hubbard-type model, derived from the first-principles electronic structure calculations in the basis of Wannier functions for the magnetically active states. We show that by using v̂, obtained in SCLR, one can successfully reproduce results of ordinary self-consistent calculations for the orbital magnetization and other properties, which emerge in the first order of the SO coupling. Particularly, SCLR appears to be an extremely useful approach for calculations of antisymmetric Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya (DM) interactions based on the magnetic force theorem, where only by using the total perturbation one can make a reliable estimate for the DM parameters. Furthermore, due to the powerful 2n+1 theorem, the SCLR theory allows us to obtain the total energy change up to the third order of the SO coupling, which can be used in calculations of magnetic anisotropy of compounds with low crystal symmetry. The fruitfulness of this approach for the analysis of complex magnetic structures is illustrated in a number of examples, including the quantitative description of the spin canting in YTiO3 and LaMnO3, formation of the spin-spiral order in BiFeO3, and the magnetic inversion symmetry breaking in BiMnO3, which gives rise to both ferroelectric activity and DM interactions, responsible for the ferromagnetism. In all these cases, the use of SCLR tremendously reduces the computational efforts related to the search for noncollinear magnetic structures in the ground state.

A Theory for Self-consistent Acceleration of Energetic Charged Particles by Dynamic Small-scale Flux Ropes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

le Roux, J. A.; Zank, G. P.; Khabarova, O.; Webb, G. M.

2016-12-01

Simulations of charged particle acceleration in turbulent plasma regions with numerous small-scale contracting and merging (reconnecting) magnetic islands/flux ropes emphasize the key role of temporary particle trapping in these structures for efficient acceleration that can result in power-law spectra. In response, a comprehensive kinetic transport theory framework was developed by Zank et al. and le Roux et al. to capture the essential physics of energetic particle acceleration in solar wind regions containing numerous dynamic small-scale flux ropes. Examples of test particle solutions exhibiting hard power-law spectra for energetic particles were presented in recent publications by both Zank et al. and le Roux et al.. However, the considerable pressure in the accelerated particles suggests the need for expanding the kinetic transport theory to enable a self-consistent description of energy exchange between energetic particles and small-scale flux ropes. We plan to present the equations of an expanded kinetic transport theory framework that will enable such a self-consistent description.

Communication: The description of strong correlation within self-consistent Green's function second-order perturbation theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phillips, Jordan J.; Zgid, Dominika

2014-06-01

We report an implementation of self-consistent Green's function many-body theory within a second-order approximation (GF2) for application with molecular systems. This is done by iterative solution of the Dyson equation expressed in matrix form in an atomic orbital basis, where the Green's function and self-energy are built on the imaginary frequency and imaginary time domain, respectively, and fast Fourier transform is used to efficiently transform these quantities as needed. We apply this method to several archetypical examples of strong correlation, such as a H32 finite lattice that displays a highly multireference electronic ground state even at equilibrium lattice spacing. In all cases, GF2 gives a physically meaningful description of the metal to insulator transition in these systems, without resorting to spin-symmetry breaking. Our results show that self-consistent Green's function many-body theory offers a viable route to describing strong correlations while remaining within a computationally tractable single-particle formalism.

Self construction in schizophrenia: a discourse analysis.

PubMed

Meehan, Trudy; MacLachlan, Malcolm

2008-06-01

Lysaker and Lysaker (Theory and Psychology, 12(2), 207-220, 2002) employ a dialogical theory of self in their writings on self disruption in schizophrenia. It is argued here that this theory could be enriched by incorporating a discursive and social constructionist model of self. Harr's model enables researchers to use subject positions to identify self construction in people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia that the dialogical model, using analysis of narrative, does not as easily recognize. The paper presents a discourse analysis of self construction in eight participants with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. Transcripts from semi-structured interviews are analysed, wherein focus falls on how participants construct self in talk through the use of subject positioning. The findings indicate that Harr's theory of self and the implied method of discourse analysis enables more subtle and nuanced constructions of self to be identified than those highlighted by Lysaker and Lysaker (Theory and Psychology, 12(2), 207-220, 2002). The analysis of subject positions revealed that participants constructed self in the form of Harr's (The singular self: An introduction to the psychology of personhood, 1998, London: Sage) self1, self2, and self3. The findings suggest that there may be constructions of self used by people diagnosed with schizophrenia that are not recognized by the current research methods focusing on narrative. The paper argues for the recognition of these constructions and by implication a model of self that takes into account different levels of visibility of self construction in talk.

What is a photon?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kracklauer, A. F.

2015-09-01

The linguistic and epistemological constraints on finding and expressing an answer to the title question are reviewed. First, it is recalled that "fields" are defined in terms of their effect on "test charges" and not in terms of any, even idealistically considered, primary, native innate qualities of their own. Thus, before fields can be discussed, the theorist has to have already available a defined "test particle" and field source. Clearly, neither the test nor the engendering particles can be defined as elements of the considered field without redefining the term "field." Further, the development of a theory as a logical structure (i.e., an internally self consistent conceptual complex) entails that the subject(s) of the theory (the primitive elements) and the rules governing their interrelationships (axioms) cannot be deduced by any logical procedure. They are always hypothesized on the basis of intuition supported by empirical experience. Given hypothesized primitive elements and axioms it is possible, in principle, to test for the 'completion' of the axiom set (i.e., any addition introduces redundancy) and for self consistency. Thus, theory building is limited to establishing the self consistency of a theory's mathematical expression and comparing that with the external, ontic world. Finally, a classical model with an event-by-event simulation of an EPR-B experiment to test a Bell Inequality is described. This model leads to a violation of Bell's limit without any quantum input (no nonlocal interaction nor entanglement), thus substantiating previous critical analysis of the derivation of Bell inequalities. On the basis of this result, it can be concluded that the electromagnetic interaction possesses no preternatural aspects, and that the usual models in terms of waves, fields and photons are all just imaginary constructs with questionable relation to a presumed reality.

Interventions based on self-management of well-being theory: pooling data to demonstrate mediation and ceiling effects, and to compare formats.

PubMed

Goedendorp, M M; Steverink, N

2017-09-01

Interventions based on self-management of well-being (SMW) theory have shown positive effects, but additional questions remain: (1) Are improvements in well-being, as induced by the interventions, mediated by improved self-management ability (SMA)? (2) Do the interventions show ceiling effects? (3) Is a particular format of SMW intervention (individual, group, or self-help) more effective? Data of three randomized controlled trials were pooled. The greater part of the sample (N = 445) consisted of single older females. A bootstrap analysis was performed to test for mediation. Regression analyses with interaction effects were performed to test for ceiling effects. Controlled and transformed effect sizes (proportion of maximum change) were calculated to compare formats. There was a full significant mediation of well-being by SMA. A significant interaction (ceiling) effect was found on well-being, but not on SMA. The controlled effect sizes of the raw scores were small to medium (.04-.49), and were small to large after transformation (.41-.73). None of the intervention formats was more effective. Support for SMW theory was found, i.e. increasing self-management ability lead to improved well-being. Some ceiling effect was found. We conclude that various SMW interventions formats can improve self-management abilities and well-being with medium effects.

Dynamic Self-Consistent Field Theories for Polymer Blends and Block Copolymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kawakatsu, Toshihiro

Understanding the behavior of the phase separated domain structures and rheological properties of multi-component polymeric systems require detailed information on the dynamics of domains and that of conformations of constituent polymer chains. Self-consistent field (SCF) theory is a useful tool to treat such a problem because the conformation entropy of polymer chains in inhomogeneous systems can be evaluated quantitatively using this theory. However, when we turn our attention to the dynamic properties in a non-equilibrium state, the basic assumption of the SCF theory, i.e. the assumption of equilibrium chain conformation, breaks down. In order to avoid such a difficulty, dynamic SCF theories were developed. In this chapter, we give a brief review of the recent developments of dynamic SCF theories, and discuss where the cutting-edge of this theory is.

Two-dimensional collective electron magnetotransport, oscillations, and chaos in a semiconductor superlattice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonilla, L. L.; Carretero, M.; Segura, A.

2017-12-01

When quantized, traces of classically chaotic single-particle systems include eigenvalue statistics and scars in eigenfuntions. Since 2001, many theoretical and experimental works have argued that classically chaotic single-electron dynamics influences and controls collective electron transport. For transport in semiconductor superlattices under tilted magnetic and electric fields, these theories rely on a reduction to a one-dimensional self-consistent drift model. A two-dimensional theory based on self-consistent Boltzmann transport does not support that single-electron chaos influences collective transport. This theory agrees with existing experimental evidence of current self-oscillations, predicts spontaneous collective chaos via a period doubling scenario, and could be tested unambiguously by measuring the electric potential inside the superlattice under a tilted magnetic field.

Two-dimensional collective electron magnetotransport, oscillations, and chaos in a semiconductor superlattice.

PubMed

Bonilla, L L; Carretero, M; Segura, A

2017-12-01

When quantized, traces of classically chaotic single-particle systems include eigenvalue statistics and scars in eigenfuntions. Since 2001, many theoretical and experimental works have argued that classically chaotic single-electron dynamics influences and controls collective electron transport. For transport in semiconductor superlattices under tilted magnetic and electric fields, these theories rely on a reduction to a one-dimensional self-consistent drift model. A two-dimensional theory based on self-consistent Boltzmann transport does not support that single-electron chaos influences collective transport. This theory agrees with existing experimental evidence of current self-oscillations, predicts spontaneous collective chaos via a period doubling scenario, and could be tested unambiguously by measuring the electric potential inside the superlattice under a tilted magnetic field.

Process of Coping with Radiation Therapy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson, Jean E.; And Others

1989-01-01

Evaluated ability of self-regulation and emotional-drive theories to explain effects of informational intervention entailing objective descriptions of experience on outcomes of coping with radiation therapy among 84 men with prostate cancer. Consistent with self-regulation theory, similarity between expectations and experience and degree of…

Applying the social cognitive perspective to volunteer intention in China: the mediating roles of self-efficacy and motivation.

PubMed

Wang, Ji-Wei; Wei, Chang-Nian; Harada, Koichi; Minamoto, Keiko; Ueda, Kimiyo; Cui, Hong-Wei; Zhang, Cheng-Gang; Cui, Zhi-Ting; Ueda, Atsushi

2011-06-01

When predicting volunteer intention, much attention is paid to the volunteer organization environment (VOE). Given that self-efficacy and motivation have emerged as important predictors of volunteer intention, we adopted a combination of ideas of Bandura's social cognitive theory and Ajzen's theory of planned behavior integrating VOE, self-efficacy and motivation to examine their effects on volunteer intention and to determine whether self-efficacy and motivation mediate the relationship between VOE and volunteer intention. The subjects of this study consisted of 198 community health volunteers in Shanghai city, China. Exploratory factor analysis was performed to identify the factor structure using standard principal component analysis. Six new factors were revealed, including two VOE factors, relation with organization and support from government; two motivation factors, personal attitude and social recognition; self-efficacy and volunteer intention. The results of a hierarchical regression analysis indicated that relation with organization accounted for 14.8% of the variance in volunteer intention, and support from government failed to add significantly to variance in volunteer intention; self-efficacy and personal attitude motivation partially mediated the effects of relation with organization on volunteer intention; social recognition motivation did not mediate the relationship between relation with organization and volunteer intention; and relation with organization, self-efficacy and personal attitude motivation accounted for 33.7% of the variance in volunteer intention. These results provide support for self-efficacy and personal attitude motivation as mediators and provide preliminary insight into the potential mechanisms for predicting volunteer intention and improving volunteering by integrating VOE, self-efficacy and motivation factors.

Quasi-Particle Self-Consistent GW for Molecules.

PubMed

Kaplan, F; Harding, M E; Seiler, C; Weigend, F; Evers, F; van Setten, M J

2016-06-14

We present the formalism and implementation of quasi-particle self-consistent GW (qsGW) and eigenvalue only quasi-particle self-consistent GW (evGW) adapted to standard quantum chemistry packages. Our implementation is benchmarked against high-level quantum chemistry computations (coupled-cluster theory) and experimental results using a representative set of molecules. Furthermore, we compare the qsGW approach for five molecules relevant for organic photovoltaics to self-consistent GW results (scGW) and analyze the effects of the self-consistency on the ground state density by comparing calculated dipole moments to their experimental values. We show that qsGW makes a significant improvement over conventional G0W0 and that partially self-consistent flavors (in particular evGW) can be excellent alternatives.

An implicit theory of self-esteem: the consequences of perceived self-esteem for romantic desirability.

PubMed

Zeigler-Hill, Virgil; Myers, Erin M

2011-04-07

The provision of information appears to be an important property of self-esteem as evidenced by previous research concerning the status-tracking and status-signaling models of self-esteem. The present studies examine whether there is an implicit theory of self-esteem that leads individuals to assume targets with higher levels of self-esteem possess more desirable characteristics than those with lower levels of self-esteem. Across 6 studies, targets with ostensibly higher levels of self-esteem were generally rated as more attractive and as more desirable relationship partners than those with lower levels of self- esteem. It is important to note, however, that this general trend did not consistently emerge for female targets. Rather, female targets with high self-esteem were often evaluated less positively than those with more moderate levels of self-esteem. The present findings are discussed in the context of an extended informational model of self-esteem consisting of both the status-tracking and status-signaling properties of self-esteem.

Development of the outcome expectancy scale for self-care among periodontal disease patients.

PubMed

Kakudate, Naoki; Morita, Manabu; Fukuhara, Shunichi; Sugai, Makoto; Nagayama, Masato; Isogai, Emiko; Kawanami, Masamitsu; Chiba, Itsuo

2011-12-01

The theory of self-efficacy states that specific efficacy expectations affect behaviour. Two types of efficacy expectations are described within the theory. Self-efficacy expectations are the beliefs in the capacity to perform a specific behaviour. Outcome expectations are the beliefs that carrying out a specific behaviour will lead to a desired outcome. To develop and examine the reliability and validity of an outcome expectancy scale for self-care (OESS) among periodontal disease patients. A 34-item scale was tested on 101 patients at a dental clinic. Accuracy was improved by item analysis, and internal consistency and test-retest stability were investigated. Concurrent validity was tested by examining associations of the OESS score with the self-efficacy scale for self-care (SESS) score and plaque index score. Construct validity was examined by comparing OESS scores between periodontal patients at initial visit (group 1) and those continuing maintenance care (group 2). Item analysis identified 13 items for the OESS. Factor analysis extracted three factors: social-, oral- and self-evaluative outcome expectancy. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the OESS was 0.90. A significant association was observed between test and retest scores, and between the OESS and SESS and plaque index scores. Further, group 2 had a significantly higher mean OESS score than group 1. We developed a 13-item OESS with high reliability and validity which may be used to assess outcome expectancy for self-care. A patient's psychological condition with regard to behaviour and affective status can be accurately evaluated using the OESS with SESS. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Self-management of type 2 diabetes mellitus: a qualitative investigation from the perspective of participants in a nurse-led, shared-care programme in the Netherlands.

PubMed

Moser, Albine; van der Bruggen, Harry; Widdershoven, Guy; Spreeuwenberg, Cor

2008-03-18

Diabetes mellitus is a major public health problem. Little is known about how people with type 2 diabetes experience self-management in a nurse-led, shared-care programme. The purpose of this article is to report an empirically grounded conceptualization of self-management in the context of autonomy of people with type 2 diabetes. This study has a qualitative descriptive, and exploratory design with an inductive approach. Data were collected by means of in-depth interviews. The sample consisted of older adults with type 2 diabetes in a nurse-led, shared-care setting. The data analysis was completed by applying the constant comparative analysis as recommended in grounded theory. People with type 2 diabetes use three kinds of self-management processes: daily, off-course, and preventive. The steps for daily self-management are adhering, adapting, and acting routinely. The steps for off-course self-management are becoming aware, reasoning, deciding, acting, and evaluating. The steps for preventive self-management are experiencing, learning, being cautious, and putting into practice. These processes are interwoven and recurring. Self-management consists of a complex and dynamic set of processes and it is deeply embedded in one's unique life situation. Support from diabetes specialist nurses and family caregivers is a necessity of self-managing diabetes.

Vocational Preferences and College Expectations: An Extension of Holland's Principle of Self-Selection

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pike, Gary R.

2006-01-01

Holland's theory of vocational preferences provides a powerful framework for studying students' college experiences. A basic proposition of Holland's theory is that individuals actively seek out and select environments that are congruent with their personality types. Although studies consistently support the self-selection proposition, they have…

Testing Self-Determination Theory via Nigerian and Indian Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sheldon, Kennon M.; Abad, Neetu; Omoile, Jessica

2009-01-01

We tested the generalizability of five propositions derived from Self-Determination Theory (SDT; Deci & Ryan, 2000) using school-aged adolescents living in India (N = 926) and Nigeria (N = 363). Consistent with past U.S. research, perceived teacher autonomy-support predicted students' basic need-satisfaction in the classroom and also predicted…

Multidimensional Self-Efficacy and Affect in Wheelchair Basketball Players

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Jeffrey J.

2008-01-01

In the current study, variables grounded in social cognitive theory with athletes with disabilities were examined. Performance, training, resiliency, and thought control self-efficacy, and positive (PA) and negative (NA) affect were examined with wheelchair basketball athletes (N = 79). Consistent with social cognitive theory, weak to strong…

Microscopic theory of the superconducting gap in the quasi-one-dimensional organic conductor (TMTSF) 2ClO4 : Model derivation and two-particle self-consistent analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aizawa, Hirohito; Kuroki, Kazuhiko

2018-03-01

We present a first-principles band calculation for the quasi-one-dimensional (Q1D) organic superconductor (TMTSF) 2ClO4 . An effective tight-binding model with the TMTSF molecule to be regarded as the site is derived from a calculation based on maximally localized Wannier orbitals. We apply a two-particle self-consistent (TPSC) analysis by using a four-site Hubbard model, which is composed of the tight-binding model and an onsite (intramolecular) repulsive interaction, which serves as a variable parameter. We assume that the pairing mechanism is mediated by the spin fluctuation, and the sign of the superconducting gap changes between the inner and outer Fermi surfaces, which correspond to a d -wave gap function in a simplified Q1D model. With the parameters we adopt, the critical temperature for superconductivity estimated by the TPSC approach is approximately 1 K, which is consistent with experiment.

The Self-Efficacy Scale: A Construct Validity Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sherer, Mark; Adams, Carol

Self-efficacy is defined as the belief that one can successfully perform a behavior. Self-efficacy theory asserts that self-efficacy expectancies exert powerful influence on behavior and behavior change. The Self-efficacy Scale, which was developed to assess generalized self-efficacy expectations, consists of two subscales: general self-efficacy…

Does who you know in the positional hierarchy protect or hurt? Social capital, comparative reference group, and depression in two societies.

PubMed

Song, Lijun

2015-07-01

Does the socioeconomic status (SES) that one's (ego's) network members (alters) occupy indicate social resources or social comparison standards in the dynamics of health across culture? Using nationally representative data simultaneously collected from the United States and urban China, this study examines two competing theories-social capital and comparative reference group-in the two societies and compares their different application across the two societies using two cultural explanations, relational dependence and self-evaluation motive. Social capital theory expects absolute accessed SES and the size of higher accessed socioeconomic positions to protect health, and the size of lower accessed socioeconomic positions to harm health. But comparative reference group theory predicts the opposite. Additionally, the relational dependence explanation anticipates social capital theory to be more applicable to urban China and comparative reference group theory to be more applicable to the United States. The self-evaluation motive explanation expects the same pattern across the two societies in the examination of the size of lower accessed socioeconomic positions but the opposite pattern in the analysis of absolute accessed SES and the size of higher accessed socioeconomic positions. This study focuses on depressive symptoms and measures accessed occupational status. Results are consistent with the self-evaluation motive explanation. They support both social capital theory and comparative reference group theory in the United States but only the latter theory in urban China. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Applying the Theory of Planned Behavior to Explain Women's Role in Prostate Cancer Screening.

PubMed

Di Sarra, Luca; Ghezzi, Valerio; Eastland, Taryn Yolanda; Antonini, Francesca; Scialó, Gennaro; Zega, Maurizio; Alvaro, Rosaria

2015-01-01

To test the suitability of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) for explaining Italian women's role in prostatic cancer screening promotion. A descriptive, cross-sectional, online self-report survey was conducted with a convenience sample of 235 Italian women. Variables included attitudes women's role, perceived behavioral control, subjective norm, behavioral intention, and prostate cancer screening promotion behavior. A survey composed of the Eastland Prostate Cancer Survey subscales that were consistent with the TPB was distributed via e-mail to potential participants. The survey was live for 12 weeks (March 2013 to May 2013). Responses were collated with eSurv.org. Data were analyzed using latent path analysis and structural equation modeling. Behavioral intentions in promoting prostate cancer screening significantly predicted the likelihood of the Italian women to adopt self-reported prostate cancer screening promotion behaviors. In addition, the exclusive direct impact of the intentions explained 39% of the variance in self-reported behaviors. The TPB could represent a good framework to explain the role of Italian women in prevention behaviors related to the prostatic screening domain. Consistent with literature findings in social and nursing sciences, the intention to promote prostate cancer screening was a powerful "predictor" of the behavior itself.

A behavior-analytic critique of Bandura's self-efficacy theory

PubMed Central

Biglan, Anthony

1987-01-01

A behavior-analytic critique of self-efficacy theory is presented. Self-efficacy theory asserts that efficacy expectations determine approach behavior and physiological arousal of phobics as well as numerous other clinically important behaviors. Evidence which is purported to support this assertion is reviewed. The evidence consists of correlations between self-efficacy ratings and other behaviors. Such response-response relationships do not unequivocally establish that one response causes another. A behavior-analytic alternative to self-efficacy theory explains these relationships in terms of environmental events. Correlations between self-efficacy rating behavior and other behavior may be due to the contingencies of reinforcement that establish a correspondence between such verbal predictions and the behavior to which they refer. Such a behavior-analytic account does not deny any of the empirical relationships presented in support of self-efficacy theory, but it points to environmental variables that could account for those relationships and that could be manipulated in the interest of developing more effective treatment procedures. PMID:22477956

Depression and selection of positive and negative social feedback: motivated preference or cognitive balance?

PubMed

Alloy, L B; Lipman, A J

1992-05-01

In this commentary we examine Swann, Wenzlaff, Krull, and Pelham's (1992) findings with respect to each of 5 central propositions in self-verification theory. We conclude that although the data are consistent with self-verification theory, none of the 5 components of the theory have been demonstrated convincingly as yet. Specifically, we argue that depressed subjects' selection of social feedback appears to be balanced or evenhanded rather than biased toward negative feedback and that there is little evidence to indicate that depressives actively seek negative appraisals. Furthermore, we suggest that the studies are silent with respect to the motivational postulates of self-verification theory and that a variety of competing cognitive and motivational models can explain Swann et al.'s findings as well as self-verification theory.

Self-Consistent Field Lattice Model for Polymer Networks.

PubMed

Tito, Nicholas B; Storm, Cornelis; Ellenbroek, Wouter G

2017-12-26

A lattice model based on polymer self-consistent field theory is developed to predict the equilibrium statistics of arbitrary polymer networks. For a given network topology, our approach uses moment propagators on a lattice to self-consistently construct the ensemble of polymer conformations and cross-link spatial probability distributions. Remarkably, the calculation can be performed "in the dark", without any prior knowledge on preferred chain conformations or cross-link positions. Numerical results from the model for a test network exhibit close agreement with molecular dynamics simulations, including when the network is strongly sheared. Our model captures nonaffine deformation, mean-field monomer interactions, cross-link fluctuations, and finite extensibility of chains, yielding predictions that differ markedly from classical rubber elasticity theory for polymer networks. By examining polymer networks with different degrees of interconnectivity, we gain insight into cross-link entropy, an important quantity in the macroscopic behavior of gels and self-healing materials as they are deformed.

Predictors of Physical Activity among Adolescent Girl Students Based on the Social Cognitive Theory.

PubMed

Ardestani, Monasadat; Niknami, Shamsaddin; Hidarnia, Alireza; Hajizadeh, Ebrahim

2015-01-01

The importance of increasing adolescence girl's level of physical activity is recognized as a priority for having a healthy lifestyle. However, adolescent girls especially Iranian, are at high risk for physical inactivity. Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) is a successful theory to explain physical activity behavior. The aim of this study was to determine the predictors of physical activity based on the SCT. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 adolescent girls (15-16 yr old) in Tehran, Iran (2013). The participants were randomly chosen with multistage sampling. The SCT constructs consisted of self-efficacy, self-regulation, social support, outcome expectancy, and self-efficacy to overcoming impediments. Statistical analysis was carried out applying SPSS: 16, LISREL 8.8. Stepwise regression was used to test predictors of behavior. Pearson correlation was assessed. Self efficacy to overcoming impediments was the main construct to predict physical activity (Beta=0.37). Other determinants were self-efficacy (Beta=0.29), family support (beta=0.14), outcome expectancy (beta=0.13), friend support (beta=0.12), and self-regulation (beta=0.11), respectively. In general, the SCT questionnaire determined 0.85 variation of physical activity behavior. All of the constructs had direct significant relation to physical activity behavior (P<0.001). The constructs of SCT provide a suitable framework to perform promoting physical activity programs and self-efficacy to overcoming impediments and self-efficacy are the best predictors of physical activity in adolescent girls.

Feeling Interpersonally Controlled While Pursuing Materialistic Goals: A Problematic Combination for Moral Behavior.

PubMed

Sheldon, Kennon M; Sommet, Nicolas; Corcoran, Mike; Elliot, Andrew J

2018-04-01

We created a life-goal assessment drawing from self-determination theory and achievement goal literature, examining its predictive power regarding immoral behavior and subjective well-being. Our source items assessed direction and energization of motivation, via the distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic aims and between intrinsic and extrinsic reasons for acting, respectively. Fused source items assessed four goal complexes representing a combination of direction and energization. Across three studies ( Ns = 109, 121, and 398), the extrinsic aim/extrinsic reason complex was consistently associated with immoral and/or unethical behavior beyond four source and three other goal complex variables. This was consistent with the triangle model of responsibility's claim that immoral behaviors may result when individuals disengage the self from moral prescriptions. The extrinsic/extrinsic complex also predicted lower subjective well-being, albeit less consistently. Our goal complex approach sheds light on how self-determination theory's goal contents and organismic integration mini-theories interact, particularly with respect to unethical behavior.

Functional consistency across two behavioural modalities: fire-setting and self-harm in female special hospital patients.

PubMed

Miller, Sarah; Fritzon, Katarina

2007-01-01

Fire-setting and self-harm behaviours among women in high security special hospitals may be understood using Shye's Action System Theory (AST) in which four functional modes are recognized: 'adaptive', 'expressive', 'integrative', and 'conservative'. To test for relationships between different forms of fire-setting and self-harm behaviours and AST modes among women in special hospital, and for consistency within modes across the two behaviours. Clinical case files evidencing both fire-setting and self-harm behaviours (n = 50) were analysed for content, focusing on incident characteristics. A total of 29 fire-setting and 22 self-harm variables were analysed using Smallest Space Analysis (SSA). Chi-square and Spearman's rho (rho) analyses were used to determine functional consistency across behavioural modes. Most women showed one predominant AST mode in fire-setting (n = 39) and self-harm (n = 35). Significant positive correlations were found between integrative and adaptive modes of functioning. The lack of correlation between conservative and expressive modes reflects the differing behaviours used in each activity. Despite this, significant cross-tabulations revealed that each woman had parallel fire-setting and self-harm styles. Findings suggest that, for some women, setting fires and self harm fulfil a similar underlying function. Support is given to AST as a way of furthering understanding of damaging behaviours, whether self- or other-inflicted. Copyright 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The ordering of symmetric diblock copolymers: A comparison of self-consistent-field and density functional approaches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nath, Shyamal K.; McCoy, John D.; Curro, John G.; Saunders, Randall S.

1997-02-01

Polymer reference interaction site model (PRISM) based density functional (DF) theory is used to evaluate the structure and thermodynamics of structurally symmetric, freely jointed, diblock chains with 0.50 volume fraction. These results are compared to the results of self-consistent-field (SCF) theory. Agreement between the predictions of the SCF and DF theories is found for the lamella spacing well above the order-disorder transition (ODT) and for the qualitative behavior of the interfacial thickness as a function of both chain length and Flory-Huggins χ parameter. Disagreement is found for the magnitude of the interfacial thickness where DF theory indicates that the thickness is 1.7±0.2 times larger than that predicted by SCF theory. It appears that behavior on the monomer length scale is sensitive to system specific details which are neglected by SCF theory.

Self Modeling: Expanding the Theories of Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dowrick, Peter W.

2012-01-01

Self modeling (SM) offers a unique expansion of learning theory. For several decades, a steady trickle of empirical studies has reported consistent evidence for the efficacy of SM as a procedure for positive behavior change across physical, social, educational, and diagnostic variations. SM became accepted as an extreme case of model similarity;…

Self-consistent generalized Langevin-equation theory for liquids of nonspherically interacting particles.

PubMed

Elizondo-Aguilera, L F; Zubieta Rico, P F; Ruiz-Estrada, H; Alarcón-Waess, O

2014-11-01

A self-consistent generalized Langevin-equation theory is proposed to describe the self- and collective dynamics of a liquid of linear Brownian particles. The equations of motion for the spherical harmonics projections of the collective and self-intermediate-scattering functions, F_{lm,lm}(k,t) and F_{lm,lm}^{S}(k,t), are derived as a contraction of the description involving the stochastic equations of the corresponding tensorial one-particle density n_{lm}(k,t) and the translational (α=T) and rotational (α=R) current densities j_{lm}^{α}(k,t). Similar to the spherical case, these dynamic equations require as an external input the equilibrium structural properties of the system contained in the projections of the static structure factor, denoted by S_{lm,lm}(k). Complementing these exact equations with simple (Vineyard-like) approximate relations for the collective and the self-memory functions we propose a closed self-consistent set of equations for the dynamic properties involved. In the long-time asymptotic limit, these equations become the so-called bifurcation equations, whose solutions (the nonergodicity parameters) can be written, extending the spherical case, in terms of one translational and one orientational scalar dynamic order parameter, γ_{T} and γ_{R}, which characterize the possible dynamical arrest transitions of the system. As a concrete illustrative application of this theory we determine the dynamic arrest diagram of the dipolar hard-sphere fluid. In qualitative agreement with mode coupling theory, the present self-consistent equations also predict three different regions in the state space spanned by the macroscopic control parameters η (volume fraction) and T* (scaled temperature): a region of fully ergodic states, a region of mixed states, in which the translational degrees of freedom become arrested while the orientational degrees of freedom remain ergodic, and a region of fully nonergodic states.

Mind-Sets Matter: A Meta-Analytic Review of Implicit Theories and Self-Regulation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burnette, Jeni L.; O'Boyle, Ernest H.; VanEpps, Eric M.; Pollack, Jeffrey M.; Finkel, Eli J.

2013-01-01

This review builds on self-control theory (Carver & Scheier, 1998) to develop a theoretical framework for investigating associations of implicit theories with self-regulation. This framework conceptualizes self-regulation in terms of 3 crucial processes: goal setting, goal operating, and goal monitoring. In this meta-analysis, we included…

Probing ionization potential, electron affinity and self-energy effect on the spectral shape and exciton binding energy of quantum liquid water with self-consistent many-body perturbation theory and the Bethe-Salpeter equation.

PubMed

Ziaei, Vafa; Bredow, Thomas

2018-05-31

An accurate theoretical prediction of ionization potential (IP) and electron affinity (EA) is key in understanding complex photochemical processes in aqueous environments. There have been numerous efforts in literature to accurately predict IP and EA of liquid water, however with often conflicting results depending on the level of theory and the underlying water structures. In a recent study based on hybrid-non-self-consistent many-body perturbation theory (MBPT) Gaiduk et al (2018 Nat. Commun. 9 247) predicted an IP of 10.2 eV and EA of 0.2 eV, resulting in an electronic band gap (i.e. electronic gap (IP-EA) as measured by photoelectron spectroscopy) of about 10 eV, redefining the widely cited experimental gap of 8.7 eV in literature. In the present work, we show that GW self-consistency and an implicit vertex correction in MBPT considerably affect recently reported EA values by Gaiduk et al (2018 Nat. Commun. 9 247) by about 1 eV. Furthermore, the choice of pseudo-potential is critical for an accurate determination of the absolute band positions. Consequently, the self-consistent GW approach with an implicit vertex correction based on projector augmented wave (PAW) method on top of quantum water structures predicts an IP of 10.2, an EA of 1.1, a fundamental gap of 9.1 eV and an exciton binding (Eb) energy of 0.9 eV for the first absorption band of liquid water via the Bethe-Salpeter equation (BSE). Only within such a self-consistent approach a simultanously accurate prediction of IP, EA, Eg, Eb is possible.

Probing ionization potential, electron affinity and self-energy effect on the spectral shape and exciton binding energy of quantum liquid water with self-consistent many-body perturbation theory and the Bethe–Salpeter equation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ziaei, Vafa; Bredow, Thomas

2018-05-01

An accurate theoretical prediction of ionization potential (IP) and electron affinity (EA) is key in understanding complex photochemical processes in aqueous environments. There have been numerous efforts in literature to accurately predict IP and EA of liquid water, however with often conflicting results depending on the level of theory and the underlying water structures. In a recent study based on hybrid-non-self-consistent many-body perturbation theory (MBPT) Gaiduk et al (2018 Nat. Commun. 9 247) predicted an IP of 10.2 eV and EA of 0.2 eV, resulting in an electronic band gap (i.e. electronic gap (IP-EA) as measured by photoelectron spectroscopy) of about 10 eV, redefining the widely cited experimental gap of 8.7 eV in literature. In the present work, we show that GW self-consistency and an implicit vertex correction in MBPT considerably affect recently reported EA values by Gaiduk et al (2018 Nat. Commun. 9 247) by about 1 eV. Furthermore, the choice of pseudo-potential is critical for an accurate determination of the absolute band positions. Consequently, the self-consistent GW approach with an implicit vertex correction based on projector augmented wave (PAW) method on top of quantum water structures predicts an IP of 10.2, an EA of 1.1, a fundamental gap of 9.1 eV and an exciton binding (Eb) energy of 0.9 eV for the first absorption band of liquid water via the Bethe–Salpeter equation (BSE). Only within such a self-consistent approach a simultanously accurate prediction of IP, EA, Eg, Eb is possible.

The effects of selective schooling and self-concept on adolescents' academic aspiration: an examination of Dweck's self-theory.

PubMed

Ahmavaara, Anni; Houston, Diane M

2007-09-01

Dweck has emphasized the role of pupils' implicit theories about intellectual ability in explaining variations in their engagement, persistence and achievement. She has also highlighted the role of confidence in one's intelligence as a factor influencing educational attainment. The aim of this paper is to develop a model of achievement aspiration in adolescence and to compare young people who are educated at a selective grammar school with those who attend a non-selective 'secondary modern' school. The sample consisted of 856 English secondary school pupils in years 7 and 10 from two selective and two non-selective secondary schools. Questionnaires were completed in schools. The findings are consistent with the model, showing that achievement aspiration is predicted directly by gender, school type and type of intelligence theory. Importantly, school type also affects aspirations indirectly, with effects being mediated by confidence in one's own intelligence and perceived academic performance. Intelligence theory also affects aspirations indirectly with effects being mediated by perceived academic performance, confidence and self-esteem. Additionally, intelligence theory has a stronger effect on aspirations in the selective schools than in the non-selective schools. The findings provide substantial support for Dweck's self-theory, showing that implicit theories are related to aspirations. However, the way in which theory of intelligence relates to age and gender suggests there may be important cross-cultural or contextual differences not addressed by Dweck's theory. Further research should also investigate the causal paths between aspirations, implicit theories of intelligence and the impact of school selection.

Implicit theories about willpower predict the activation of a rest goal following self-control exertion.

PubMed

Job, Veronika; Bernecker, Katharina; Miketta, Stefanie; Friese, Malte

2015-10-01

Past research indicates that peoples' implicit theories about the nature of willpower moderate the ego-depletion effect. Only people who believe or were led to believe that willpower is a limited resource (limited-resource theory) showed lower self-control performance after an initial demanding task. As of yet, the underlying processes explaining this moderating effect by theories about willpower remain unknown. Here, we propose that the exertion of self-control activates the goal to preserve and replenish mental resources (rest goal) in people with a limited-resource theory. Five studies tested this hypothesis. In Study 1, individual differences in implicit theories about willpower predicted increased accessibility of a rest goal after self-control exertion. Furthermore, measured (Study 2) and manipulated (Study 3) willpower theories predicted an increased preference for rest-conducive objects. Finally, Studies 4 and 5 provide evidence that theories about willpower predict actual resting behavior: In Study 4, participants who held a limited-resource theory took a longer break following self-control exertion than participants with a nonlimited-resource theory. Longer resting time predicted decreased rest goal accessibility afterward. In Study 5, participants with an induced limited-resource theory sat longer on chairs in an ostensible product-testing task when they had engaged in a task requiring self-control beforehand. This research provides consistent support for a motivational shift toward rest after self-control exertion in people holding a limited-resource theory about willpower. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Island of stability for consistent deformations of Einstein's gravity.

PubMed

Berkhahn, Felix; Dietrich, Dennis D; Hofmann, Stefan; Kühnel, Florian; Moyassari, Parvin

2012-03-30

We construct deformations of general relativity that are consistent and phenomenologically viable, since they respect, in particular, cosmological backgrounds. These deformations have unique symmetries in accordance with their Minkowski cousins (Fierz-Pauli theory for massive gravitons) and incorporate a background curvature induced self-stabilizing mechanism. Self-stabilization is essential in order to guarantee hyperbolic evolution in and unitarity of the covariantized theory, as well as the deformation's uniqueness. We show that the deformation's parameter space contains islands of absolute stability that are persistent through the entire cosmic evolution.

Homogenization of Periodic Masonry Using Self-Consistent Scheme and Finite Element Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Nitin; Lambadi, Harish; Pandey, Manoj; Rajagopal, Amirtham

2016-01-01

Masonry is a heterogeneous anisotropic continuum, made up of the brick and mortar arranged in a periodic manner. Obtaining the effective elastic stiffness of the masonry structures has been a challenging task. In this study, the homogenization theory for periodic media is implemented in a very generic manner to derive the anisotropic global behavior of the masonry, through rigorous application of the homogenization theory in one step and through a full three-dimensional behavior. We have considered the periodic Eshelby self-consistent method and the finite element method. Two representative unit cells that represent the microstructure of the masonry wall exactly are considered for calibration and numerical application of the theory.

Vibrational multiconfiguration self-consistent field theory: implementation and test calculations.

PubMed

Heislbetz, Sandra; Rauhut, Guntram

2010-03-28

A state-specific vibrational multiconfiguration self-consistent field (VMCSCF) approach based on a multimode expansion of the potential energy surface is presented for the accurate calculation of anharmonic vibrational spectra. As a special case of this general approach vibrational complete active space self-consistent field calculations will be discussed. The latter method shows better convergence than the general VMCSCF approach and must be considered the preferred choice within the multiconfigurational framework. Benchmark calculations are provided for a small set of test molecules.

Development, validation, and factorial comparison of the McGill Self-Efficacy of Learners For Inquiry Engagement (McSELFIE) survey in natural science disciplines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ibrahim, Ahmed; Aulls, Mark W.; Shore, Bruce M.

2016-11-01

Sociocognitive theory [Bandura, A. (1986). Social foundations of thought and action: A social cognitive theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall; Bandura, A. (1989). Human agency in social cognitive theory. American Psychologist, 44, 1175-1184. doi:10.1037/0003-066x.44.9.1175; Bandura, A. (1991). Social cognitive theory of self-regulation. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 50, 248-287. doi:10.1016/0749-5978(91)90022-L] accords high importance to the mechanisms of human agency and how they are exercised through self-efficacy. In this paper, we developed and validated the McGill Self-Efficacy For Inquiry Engagement (McSELFIE) instrument with undergraduate students in natural science disciplines. We defined inquiry engagement as carrying out the practices of science (POS) that are supported by students' personality characteristics (SPCs) and that result in achieving inquiry-learning outcomes (ILOs). Based on these theoretical perspectives, the McSELFIE is a 60-item, learner-focused survey that addresses three components that are theoretically important for engaging in scientific inquiry: (a) SPCs, (b) ILOs, and (c) POS. Evidence for construct and content validity were obtained by using experts' judgments and confirmatory factor analysis with a sample of 110 undergraduate students enrolled in science disciplines. Internal consistency of the factors and instrument was also examined. The McSELFIE instrument is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring science undergraduate students' self-efficacy for inquiry engagement. Matched pairs analyses were conducted among the instruments' factors. Students reported the highest self-efficacy for openness, applying knowledge, and carrying out investigations. Students reported the lowest self-efficacy for extraversion, understanding metacognitive knowledge, and planning investigations. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Sign Switch of Gaussian Bending Modulus for Microemulsions: A Self-Consistent Field Analysis Exploring Scale Invariant Curvature Energies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Varadharajan, Ramanathan; Leermakers, Frans A. M.

2018-01-01

Bending rigidities of tensionless balanced liquid-liquid interfaces as occurring in microemulsions are predicted using self-consistent field theory for molecularly inhomogeneous systems. Considering geometries with scale invariant curvature energies gives unambiguous bending rigidities for systems with fixed chemical potentials: the minimal surface I m 3 m cubic phase is used to find the Gaussian bending rigidity κ ¯, and a torus with Willmore energy W =2 π2 allows for direct evaluation of the mean bending modulus κ . Consistent with this, the spherical droplet gives access to 2 κ +κ ¯. We observe that κ ¯ tends to be negative for strong segregation and positive for weak segregation, a finding which is instrumental for understanding phase transitions from a lamellar to a spongelike microemulsion. Invariably, κ remains positive and increases with increasing strength of segregation.

Dynamical self-arrest in symmetric and asymmetric diblock copolymer melts using a replica approach within a local theory.

PubMed

Wu, Sangwook

2009-03-01

We investigate dynamical self-arrest in a diblock copolymer melt using a replica approach within a self-consistent local method based on dynamical mean-field theory (DMFT). The local replica approach effectively predicts (chiN)_{A} for dynamical self-arrest in a block copolymer melt for symmetric and asymmetric cases. We discuss the competition of the cubic and quartic interactions in the Landau free energy for a block copolymer melt in stabilizing a glassy state depending on the chain length. Our local replica theory provides a universal value for the dynamical self-arrest in block copolymer melts with (chiN)_{A} approximately 10.5+64N;{-3/10} for the symmetric case.

When does self-esteem relate to deviant behavior? The role of contingencies of self-worth.

PubMed

Ferris, D Lance; Brown, Douglas J; Lian, Huiwen; Keeping, Lisa M

2009-09-01

Researchers have assumed that low self-esteem predicts deviance, but empirical results have been mixed. This article draws upon recent theoretical developments regarding contingencies of self-worth to clarify the self-esteem/deviance relation. It was predicted that self-esteem level would relate to deviance only when self-esteem was not contingent on workplace performance. In this manner, contingent self-esteem is a boundary condition for self-consistency/behavioral plasticity theory predictions. Using multisource data collected from 123 employees over 6 months, the authors examined the interaction between level (high/low) and type (contingent/noncontingent) of self-esteem in predicting workplace deviance. Results support the hypothesized moderating effects of contingent self-esteem; implications for self-esteem theories are discussed.

Charge and spin diffusion on the metallic side of the metal-insulator transition: A self-consistent approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wellens, Thomas; Jalabert, Rodolfo A.

2016-10-01

We develop a self-consistent theory describing the spin and spatial electron diffusion in the impurity band of doped semiconductors under the effect of a weak spin-orbit coupling. The resulting low-temperature spin-relaxation time and diffusion coefficient are calculated within different schemes of the self-consistent framework. The simplest of these schemes qualitatively reproduces previous phenomenological developments, while more elaborate calculations provide corrections that approach the values obtained in numerical simulations. The results are universal for zinc-blende semiconductors with electron conductance in the impurity band, and thus they are able to account for the measured spin-relaxation times of materials with very different physical parameters. From a general point of view, our theory opens a new perspective for describing the hopping dynamics in random quantum networks.

The Thomas-Fermi model in the theory of systems of charged particles above the surface of liquid dielectrics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lytvtnenko, D. M.; Slyusarenko, Yu. V.; Kirdin, A. I.

2012-10-01

A consistent theory of equilibrium states of same sign charges above the surface of liquid dielectric film located on solid substrate in the presence of external attracting constant electric field is proposed. The approach to the development of the theory is based on the Thomas-Fermi model generalized to the systems under consideration and on the variational principle. The using of self-consistent field model allows formulating a theory containing no adjustable constants. In the framework of the variational principle we obtain the self-consistency equations for the parameters describing the system: the distribution function of charges above the liquid dielectric surface, the electrostatic field potentials in all regions of the system and the surface profile of the liquid dielectric. The self-consistency equations are used to describe the phase transition associated with the formation of spatially periodic structures in the system of charges on liquid dielectric surface. Assuming the non-degeneracy of the gas of charges above the surface of liquid dielectric film the solutions of the self-consistency equations near the critical point are obtained. In the case of the symmetric phase we obtain the expressions for the potentials and electric fields in all regions of the studied system. The distribution of the charges above the surface of liquid dielectric film for the symmetric phase is derived. The system parameters of the phase transition to nonsymmetric phase - the states with a spatially periodic ordering are obtained. We derive the expression determining the period of two-dimensional lattice as a function of physical parameters of the problem - the temperature, the external attractive electric field, the number of electrons per unit of the flat surface area of the liquid dielectric, the density of the dielectric, its surface tension and permittivity, and the permittivity of the solid substrate. The possibility of generalizing the developed theory in the case of degenerate gas of like-charged particles above the liquid dielectric surface is discussed.

Self-exchange reaction of [Ni(mnt)2](1-,2-) in nonaqueous solutions.

PubMed

Kowert, Bruce A; Fehr, Michael J; Sheaff, Pamela J

2008-07-07

The rate constant, k, for the homogeneous electron transfer (self-exchange) reaction between the diamagnetic bis(maleonitriledithiolato)nickel dianion, [Ni(mnt) 2] (2-), and the paramagnetic monoanion, [Ni(mnt) 2] (1-), has been determined in acetone and nitromethane (CH 3NO 2) using (13)C NMR line widths at 22 degrees C (mnt = 1,2-S 2C 2(CN) 2). The values of k (2.91 x 10 (6) M (-1) s (-1) in acetone, 5.78 x 10 (6) M (-1) s (-1) in CH 3NO 2) are faster than those for the electron transfer reactions of other Ni(III,II) couples; the structures of [Ni(mnt) 2] (1-) and [Ni(mnt) 2] (2-) allow for a favorable overlap that lowers the free energy of activation. The values of k are consistent with the predictions of Marcus theory. In addition to k, the spin-lattice relaxation time, T 1e, of [Ni(mnt) 2] (1-) is obtained from the NMR line width analysis; the values are consistent with those predicted by spin relaxation theory.

Current-Voltage and Floating-Potential characteristics of cylindrical emissive probes from a full-kinetic model based on the orbital motion theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Xin; Sánchez-Arriaga, Gonzalo

2018-02-01

To model the sheath structure around an emissive probe with cylindrical geometry, the Orbital-Motion theory takes advantage of three conserved quantities (distribution function, transverse energy, and angular momentum) to transform the stationary Vlasov-Poisson system into a single integro-differential equation. For a stationary collisionless unmagnetized plasma, this equation describes self-consistently the probe characteristics. By solving such an equation numerically, parametric analyses for the current-voltage (IV) and floating-potential (FP) characteristics can be performed, which show that: (a) for strong emission, the space-charge effects increase with probe radius; (b) the probe can float at a positive potential relative to the plasma; (c) a smaller probe radius is preferred for the FP method to determine the plasma potential; (d) the work function of the emitting material and the plasma-ion properties do not influence the reliability of the floating-potential method. Analytical analysis demonstrates that the inflection point of an IV curve for non-emitting probes occurs at the plasma potential. The flat potential is not a self-consistent solution for emissive probes.

N = (2,0) self-dual non-Abelian tensor multiplet in D = 3 + 3 generates N = (1,1) self-dual systems in D = 2 + 2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nishino, Hitoshi; Rajpoot, Subhash

2018-03-01

We formulate an N = (2 , 0) system in D = 3 + 3 dimensions consisting of a Yang-Mills (YM)-multiplet (ˆ μ ˆ IA, λˆI), a self-dual non-Abelian tensor multiplet (ˆ μ ˆ ν ˆ IB, χˆI ,φˆI), and an extra vector multiplet (C ˆ μ ˆ IC, ρˆI). We next perform the dimensional reductions of this system into D = 2 + 2, and obtain N = (1 , 1) systems with a self-dual YM-multiplet (AIμ ,λI), a self-dual tensor multiplet (BIμν , χI , φI), and an extra vector multiplet (CIμ , ρI). In D = 2 + 2, we reach two distinct theories: 'Theory-I' and 'Theory-II'. The former has the self-dual field-strength Hμν(+)I of CIμ already presented in our recent paper, while the latter has anti-self-dual field strength Hμν(-)I. As an application, we show that Theory-II actually generates supersymmetric-KdV equations in D = 1 + 1. Our result leads to a new conclusion that the D = 3 + 3 theory with non-Abelian tensor multiplet can be a 'Grand Master Theory' for self-dual multiplet and self-dual YM-multiplet in D = 2 + 2, that in turn has been conjectured to be the 'Master Theory' for all supersymmetric integrable theories in D ≤ 3.

Re-designing Orem's Self-care Theory for Patients with Chronic Hepatitis.

PubMed

Hasanpour-Dehkordi, Ali; Mohammadi, Nooredin; Nikbakht-Nasrabadi, Alireza

2016-01-01

Hepatitis is an inflammatory disease which has many adverse effects on patients' life because of its chronic nature. Since Orem's theory of self-care is a grounded theory, the concepts and applications of this theory in patients with chronic hepatitis who have special needs may lead to some challenges. The purpose of this study was to explore self-care in patients with chronic hepatitis. A directed content analysis was used in this qualitative study. Participants were recruited from a metropolitan area. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The verbatim transcripts of the participants' interviews were analyzed according to directed content analysis. In this study, four themes, suggested by Orem, were drawn from the data according to directed content analysis. The codes generated from the data were classified into concepts and then the concepts were assigned into these four themes. These themes were needs in the matrix of time and place, self-care agency, need for change in self-care and consequences of hepatitis. The use of Orem's self-care theory cannot meet the need for self-care in hepatitis patients because these patients have vital sexual, respect and belonging, physical, economical, and psychological-behavioral needs, and lack adequate knowledge about self-care. Consequently, the specific self-care model developed in this study helps health professionals identify self-care activities in patients with chronic hepatitis.

Approach to atmospheric laser-propagation theory based on the extended Huygens-Fresnel principle and a self-consistency concept.

PubMed

Bochove, Erik J; Rao Gudimetla, V S

2017-01-01

We propose a self-consistency condition based on the extended Huygens-Fresnel principle, which we apply to the propagation kernel of the mutual coherence function of a partially coherent laser beam propagating through a turbulent atmosphere. The assumption of statistical independence of turbulence in neighboring propagation segments leads to an integral equation in the propagation kernel. This integral equation is satisfied by a Gaussian function, with dependence on the transverse coordinates that is identical to the previous Gaussian formulation by Yura [Appl. Opt.11, 1399 (1972)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.11.001399], but differs in the transverse coherence length's dependence on propagation distance, so that this established version violates our self-consistency principle. Our formulation has one free parameter, which in the context of Kolmogorov's theory is independent of turbulence strength and propagation distance. We determined its value by numerical fitting to the rigorous beam propagation theory of Yura and Hanson [J. Opt. Soc. Am. A6, 564 (1989)JOAOD60740-323210.1364/JOSAA.6.000564], demonstrating in addition a significant improvement over other Gaussian models.

Interactions between Nanoparticles and Polymer Brushes: Molecular Dynamics Simulations and Self-consistent Field Theory Calculations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Shengfeng; Wen, Chengyuan; Egorov, Sergei

2015-03-01

Molecular dynamics simulations and self-consistent field theory calculations are employed to study the interactions between a nanoparticle and a polymer brush at various densities of chains grafted to a plane. Simulations with both implicit and explicit solvent are performed. In either case the nanoparticle is loaded to the brush at a constant velocity. Then a series of simulations are performed to compute the force exerted on the nanoparticle that is fixed at various distances from the grafting plane. The potential of mean force is calculated and compared to the prediction based on a self-consistent field theory. Our simulations show that the explicit solvent leads to effects that are not captured in simulations with implicit solvent, indicating the importance of including explicit solvent in molecular simulations of such systems. Our results also demonstrate an interesting correlation between the force on the nanoparticle and the density profile of the brush. We gratefully acknowledge the support of NVIDIA Corporation with the donation of the Tesla K40 GPU used for this research.

Self-management programs based on the social cognitive theory for Koreans with chronic disease: a systematic review.

PubMed

Jang, Yeonsoo; Yoo, Hyera

2012-02-01

Self-management programs based on social cognitive theory are useful to improve health care outcomes for patients with chronic diseases in Western culture. The purpose of this review is to identify and synthesize published research on the theory to enhance self-efficacy in disease management and examine its applicability to Korean culture regarding the learning strategies used. Ultimately, it was to identify the optimal use of these learning strategies to improve the self-efficacy of Korean patients in self-management of their hypertension and diabetic mellitus. The authors searched the Korean and international research databases from January 2000 to September 2009. Twenty studies were selected and reviewed. The most frequently used learning strategies of social cognitive theory was skill mastery by practice and feedback (N = 13), followed by social or verbal persuasion by group members (N = 7) and, however, observation learning and reinterpretation of symptoms by debriefing or discussion were not used any of the studies. Eight studies used only one strategy to enhance self-efficacy and six used two. A lack of consistency regarding the content and clinical efficacy of the self-efficacy theory-based self-management programs is found among the reviewed studies on enhancing self-efficacy in Koreans with hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Further research on the effectiveness of these theory-based self-management programs for patients with chronic diseases in Korea and other countries is recommended.

The role and behavior of spin in gravitational physics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, John R.

1987-01-01

A self-consistent method of introducing spin into any Lagrangian based theory of gravitation was developed. The metric variation of the Lagrangian in the theory leads to an improved energy-momentum tensor which represents the source term in the gravitational field equations. The goal of the research is the construction of a theory general enough to be used to investigate spin effects in astrophysical objects and cosmology, and also to serve as a basis for discussion of the theoretical ideas tested by the NASA Gyroscope Experiment (aboard Gravity Probe B). Specific accomplishments in the following areas are summarized: the inclusion of electromagnetism into the variational principle for spinning matter, formulation of a self-consistent theory for the case of a fluid in which particle production processes occur, and the derivation of the Raychaudhuri equation in the case of spinning matter.

Self-consistent quantum kinetic theory of diatomic molecule formation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Forrey, Robert C.

2015-07-14

A quantum kinetic theory of molecule formation is presented which includes three-body recombination and radiative association for a thermodynamically closed system which may or may not exchange energy with its surrounding at a constant temperature. The theory uses a Sturmian representation of a two-body continuum to achieve a steady-state solution of a governing master equation which is self-consistent in the sense that detailed balance between all bound and unbound states is rigorously enforced. The role of quasibound states in catalyzing the molecule formation is analyzed in complete detail. The theory is used to make three predictions which differ from conventionalmore » kinetic models. These predictions suggest significant modifications may be needed to phenomenological rate constants which are currently in wide use. Implications for models of low and high density systems are discussed.« less

Self-choice enhances value in reward-seeking in primates.

PubMed

Setogawa, Tsuyoshi; Mizuhiki, Takashi; Matsumoto, Narihisa; Akizawa, Fumika; Shidara, Munetaka

2014-03-01

When an individual chooses one item from two or more alternatives, they compare the values of the expected outcomes. The outcome value can be determined by the associated reward amount, the probability of reward, and the workload required to earn the reward. Rational choice theory states that choices are made to maximize rewards over time, and that the same outcome values lead to an equal likelihood of choices. However, the theory does not distinguish between conditions with the same reward value, even when acquired under different circumstances, and does not always accurately describe real behavior. We have found that allowing a monkey to choose a reward schedule endows the schedule with extra value when compared to performance in an identical schedule that is chosen by another agent (a computer here). This behavior is not consistent with pure rational choice theory. Theoretical analysis using a modified temporal-difference learning model showed an enhanced schedule state value by self-choice. These results suggest that an increased reward value underlies the improved performances by self-choice during reward-seeking behavior. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd and the Japan Neuroscience Society. All rights reserved.

A study of the dynamic tire properties over a range of tire constructions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nybakken, G. H.; Dodge, R. N.; Clark, S. K.

1973-01-01

The dynamic properties of four model aircraft tires of various construction were evaluated experimentally and compared with available theory. The experimental investigation consisted of measuring the cornering force and the self-aligning torque developed by the tires undergoing sinusoidal steering inputs while operating on a small scale, road-wheel tire testing apparatus. The force and moment data from the different tires are compared with both finite- and point-contact patch string theory predictions. In general, agreement between finite contact patch theory and experimental observation is good. A modified string theory is also presented in which coefficients for cornering force and self-aligning torque are determined separately. This theory improves the correspondence between the experimental and analytical data, particularly on tires with relatively high self-aligning torques.

Mind-sets matter: a meta-analytic review of implicit theories and self-regulation.

PubMed

Burnette, Jeni L; O'Boyle, Ernest H; VanEpps, Eric M; Pollack, Jeffrey M; Finkel, Eli J

2013-05-01

This review builds on self-control theory (Carver & Scheier, 1998) to develop a theoretical framework for investigating associations of implicit theories with self-regulation. This framework conceptualizes self-regulation in terms of 3 crucial processes: goal setting, goal operating, and goal monitoring. In this meta-analysis, we included articles that reported a quantifiable assessment of implicit theories and at least 1 self-regulatory process or outcome. With a random effects approach used, meta-analytic results (total unique N = 28,217; k = 113) across diverse achievement domains (68% academic) and populations (age range = 5-42; 10 different nationalities; 58% from United States; 44% female) demonstrated that implicit theories predict distinct self-regulatory processes, which, in turn, predict goal achievement. Incremental theories, which, in contrast to entity theories, are characterized by the belief that human attributes are malleable rather than fixed, significantly predicted goal setting (performance goals, r = -.151; learning goals, r = .187), goal operating (helpless-oriented strategies, r = -.238; mastery-oriented strategies, r = .227), and goal monitoring (negative emotions, r = -.233; expectations, r = .157). The effects for goal setting and goal operating were stronger in the presence (vs. absence) of ego threats such as failure feedback. Discussion emphasizes how the present theoretical analysis merges an implicit theory perspective with self-control theory to advance scholarship and unlock major new directions for basic and applied research.

Derivation of the density functional theory from the cluster expansion.

PubMed

Hsu, J Y

2003-09-26

The density functional theory is derived from a cluster expansion by truncating the higher-order correlations in one and only one term in the kinetic energy. The formulation allows self-consistent calculation of the exchange correlation effect without imposing additional assumptions to generalize the local density approximation. The pair correlation is described as a two-body collision of bound-state electrons, and modifies the electron- electron interaction energy as well as the kinetic energy. The theory admits excited states, and has no self-interaction energy.

Self-consistent-field perturbation theory for the Schröautdinger equation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goodson, David Z.

1997-06-01

A method is developed for using large-order perturbation theory to solve the systems of coupled differential equations that result from the variational solution of the Schröautdinger equation with wave functions of product form. This is a noniterative, computationally efficient way to solve self-consistent-field (SCF) equations. Possible applications include electronic structure calculations using products of functions of collective coordinates that include electron correlation, vibrational SCF calculations for coupled anharmonic oscillators with selective coupling of normal modes, and ab initio calculations of molecular vibration spectra without the Born-Oppenheimer approximation.

Theoretical studies of electronically excited states

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Besley, Nicholas A.

2014-10-06

Time-dependent density functional theory is the most widely used quantum chemical method for studying molecules in electronically excited states. However, excited states can also be computed within Kohn-Sham density functional theory by exploiting methods that converge the self-consistent field equations to give excited state solutions. The usefulness of single reference self-consistent field based approaches for studying excited states is demonstrated by considering the calculation of several types of spectroscopy including the infrared spectroscopy of molecules in an electronically excited state, the rovibrational spectrum of the NO-Ar complex, core electron binding energies and the emission spectroscopy of BODIPY in water.

Motivation and Gifted Students: Implications of Theory and Research

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clinkenbeard, Pamela R.

2012-01-01

An analysis of contemporary motivation theories reveals implications for gifted and talented students. The expectancy-value framework, intrinsic-extrinsic motivation theories, goal orientations, self-efficacy and other self-perceptions, and attribution theory are described and discussed with respect to implications for the psychology and education…

How and when do personal values guide our attitudes and sociality? Explaining cross-cultural variability in attitude-value linkages.

PubMed

Boer, Diana; Fischer, Ronald

2013-09-01

This article examines how and when personal values relate to social attitudes. Considering values as motivational orientations, we propose an attitude-value taxonomy based on Moral Foundation Theory (Haidt & Joseph, 2007) and Schwartz's (1992) basic human values theory allowing predictions of (a) how social attitudes are related to personal values, and (b) when macro-contextual factors have an impact on attitude-value links. In a meta-analysis based on the Schwartz Value Survey (Schwartz, 1992) and the Portrait Value Questionnaire (Schwartz et al., 2001; k = 91, N = 30,357 from 31 countries), we found that self-transcendence (vs. self-enhancement) values relate positively to fairness/proenvironmental and care/prosocial attitudes, and conservation (vs. openness-to-change) values relate to purity/religious and authority/political attitudes, whereas ingroup/identity attitudes are not consistently associated with value dimensions. Additionally, we hypothesize that the ecological, economic, and cultural context moderates the extent to which values guide social attitudes. Results of the multi-level meta-analysis show that ecological and cultural factors inhibit or foster attitude-value associations: Disease stress is associated with lower attitude-value associations for conservation (vs. openness-to-change) values; collectivism is associated with stronger attitude-value links for conservation values; individualism is associated with stronger attitude-value links for self-transcendence (vs. self-enhancement) values; and uncertainty avoidance is associated with stronger attitude-values links, particularly for conservation values. These findings challenge universalistic claims about context-independent attitude-value relations and contribute to refined future value and social attitude theories. (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved.

Promoting cognitive and metacognitive reflective reasoning skills in nursing practice: self-regulated learning theory.

PubMed

Kuiper, Ruth Anne; Pesut, Daniel J

2004-02-01

Effective clinical reasoning in nursing practice depends on the development of both cognitive and metacognitive skills. While a number of strategies have been implemented and tested to promote these skills, educators have not been able consistently to predict their development. Self-regulated learning theory suggests that this development requires concurrent attention to both the cognitive and metacognitive dimensions of reasoning in nursing care contexts. This paper reports on a study to explore the impact of self-regulated learning theory on reflective practice in nursing, and to advance the idea that both cognitive and metacognitive skills support the development of clinical reasoning skills. Integrative review of published literature in social science, educational psychology, nursing education, and professional education using the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL), Educational Resource Information Center (ERIC), and American Psychological Association (PsychInfo) Databases. The search included all English language articles with the key words clinical reasoning, cognition, critical thinking, metacognition, reflection, reflective practice, self-regulation and thinking. Reflective clinical reasoning in nursing practice depends on the development of both cognitive and metacognitive skill acquisition. This skill acquisition is best accomplished through teaching-learning attention to self-regulation learning theory. A critical analysis of the literature in the areas of critical thinking and reflective practice are described as a background for contemporary work with self-regulated learning theory. It is apparent that single-minded attention to critical thinking, without attention to the influence of metacognition or reflection, is but one perspective on clinical reasoning development. Likewise, single-minded attention to metacognition or reflection, without attention to the influence of critical thinking, is another perspective on clinical reasoning development. While strategies to facilitate critical thinking and reflective practice have been used in isolation from each other, there is evidence to suggest that they are inextricably linked and come together with the use of self-regulated learning prompts. Students and practising nurses are able to improve their cognitive and metacognitive skills in clinical contexts by using self-regulated learning strategies. The self-regulated learning model in nursing is offered to support teaching and learning of reflective clinical reasoning in nursing practice contexts.

Making Democracy Safe for the World: A Game Theory Analysis of the Impact of Elites on the Democratization Process

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-01

elites often possess fragile self - esteem and lack empathy. Craving adulation, they often surround themselves with sycophants, placing themselves out of...variable due to their power and influence. Elites fall into two categories: self -oriented and servant-oriented. Based on game theory analysis...transitioners favor the top- down approach, servant-oriented elites favor accepting democracy, and self -oriented elites favor rejecting democracy. Analysis

Psychometric properties of the Swedish version of the Self-Transcendence Scale among very old people.

PubMed

Lundman, Berit; Årestedt, Kristofer; Norberg, Astrid; Norberg, Catharina; Fischer, Regina Santamäki; Lövheim, Hugo

2015-01-01

This study tested the psychometric properties of a Swedish version of the Self-Transcendence Scale (STS). Cohen's weighted kappa, agreement, absolute reliability, relative reliability, and internal consistency were calculated, and the underlying structure of the STS was established by exploratory factor analysis. There were 2 samples available: 1 including 194 people aged 85-103 years and a convenience sample of 60 people aged 21-69 years. Weighted kappa values ranged from .40 to .89. The intraclass correlation coefficient for the original STS was .763, and the least significant change between repeated tests was 6.25 points. The revised STS was found to have satisfactory psychometric properties, and 2 of the 4 underlying dimensions in Reed's self-transcendence theory were supported.

New test of the equivalence principle from lunar laser ranging

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, J. G.; Dicke, R. H.; Bender, P. L.; Alley, C. O.; Currie, D. G.; Carter, W. E.; Eckhardt, D. H.

1976-01-01

An analysis of six years of lunar-laser-ranging data gives a zero amplitude for the Nordtvedt term in the earth-moon distance yielding the Nordtvedt parameter eta = 0.00 plus or minus 0.03. Thus, earth's gravitational self-energy contributes equally, plus or minus 3%, to its inertial mass and passive gravitational mass. At the 70% confidence level this result is only consistent with the Brans-Dicke theory for omega greater than 29. We obtain the absolute value of beta - 1 less than about 0.02 to 0.05 for five-parameter parametrized post-Newtonian theories of gravitation with energy-momentum conservation.

Constitutive Modeling of Superalloy Single Crystals and Directionally Solidified Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walker, K. P.; Jordan, E. H.

1985-01-01

A unified viscoplastic constitutive relation based on crystallographic slip theory was developed for the deformation analysis of nickel base face centered cubic superalloy single crystals at elevated temperature. The single crystal theory is embedded in a self consistent method to derive a constitutive relation for a directionally solidified material comprised of a polycrystalline aggregate of columnar cylindrical grains. One of the crystallographic axes of the cylindrical crystals points in the columnar direction while the remaining crystallographic axes are oriented at random in the basal plane perpendicular to the columnar direction. These constitutive formulations are coded in FORTRAN for use in nonlinear finite element and boundary element programs.

Ability of Stress, Sense of Control, and Self-Theories to Predict Swedish High School Students' Final Grades

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ollfors, Marianne; Andersson, Sven Ingmar

2007-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate self-theories (theories of intelligence, confidence in one's intelligence, internal attribution of failure, academic self-efficacy), specific control, and experiencing of stress by means of a questionnaire for 915 Swedish high school students. Factor analysis yielded 6 stress domains (Workload, Psychosocial…

Self-consistent field model for strong electrostatic correlations and inhomogeneous dielectric media.

PubMed

Ma, Manman; Xu, Zhenli

2014-12-28

Electrostatic correlations and variable permittivity of electrolytes are essential for exploring many chemical and physical properties of interfaces in aqueous solutions. We propose a continuum electrostatic model for the treatment of these effects in the framework of the self-consistent field theory. The model incorporates a space- or field-dependent dielectric permittivity and an excluded ion-size effect for the correlation energy. This results in a self-energy modified Poisson-Nernst-Planck or Poisson-Boltzmann equation together with state equations for the self energy and the dielectric function. We show that the ionic size is of significant importance in predicting a finite self energy for an ion in an inhomogeneous medium. Asymptotic approximation is proposed for the solution of a generalized Debye-Hückel equation, which has been shown to capture the ionic correlation and dielectric self energy. Through simulating ionic distribution surrounding a macroion, the modified self-consistent field model is shown to agree with particle-based Monte Carlo simulations. Numerical results for symmetric and asymmetric electrolytes demonstrate that the model is able to predict the charge inversion at high correlation regime in the presence of multivalent interfacial ions which is beyond the mean-field theory and also show strong effect to double layer structure due to the space- or field-dependent dielectric permittivity.

The self-transcendence scale: an investigation of the factor structure among nursing home patients.

PubMed

Haugan, Gørill; Rannestad, Toril; Garåsen, Helge; Hammervold, Randi; Espnes, Geir Arild

2012-09-01

Self-transcendence, the ability to expand personal boundaries in multiple ways, has been found to provide well-being. The purpose of this study was to examine the dimensionality of the Norwegian version of the Self-Transcendence Scale, which comprises 15 items. Reed's empirical nursing theory of self-transcendence provided the theoretical framework; self-transcendence includes an interpersonal, intrapersonal, transpersonal, and temporal dimension. Cross-sectional data were obtained from a sample of 202 cognitively intact elderly patients in 44 Norwegian nursing homes. Exploratory factor analysis revealed two and four internally consistent dimensions of self-transcendence, explaining 35.3% (two factors) and 50.7% (four factors) of the variance, respectively. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the hypothesized two- and four-factor models fitted better than the one-factor model (cx (2), root mean square error of approximation, standardized root mean square residual, normed fit index, nonnormed fit index, comparative fit index, goodness-of-fit index, and adjusted goodness-of-fit index). The findings indicate self-transcendence as a multifactorial construct; at present, we conclude that the two-factor model might be the most accurate and reasonable measure of self-transcendence. This research generates insights in the application of the widely used Self-Transcendence Scale by investigating its psychometric properties by applying a confirmatory factor analysis. It also generates new research-questions on the associations between self-transcendence and well-being.

Depression and Identity: Are Self-Constructions Negative or Conflictual?

PubMed Central

Montesano, Adrián; Feixas, Guillem; Caspar, Franz; Winter, David

2017-01-01

Negative self-views have proved to be a consistent marker of vulnerability for depression. However, recent research has shown that a particular kind of cognitive conflict, implicative dilemma, is highly prevalent in depression. In this study, the relevance of these conflicts is assessed as compared to the cognitive model of depression of a negative view of the self. In so doing, 161 patients with major depression and 110 controls were assessed to explore negative self-construing (self-ideal discrepancy) and conflicts (implicative dilemmas), as well as severity of symptoms. Results showed specificity for the clinical group indicating a pattern of mixed positive and negative self-descriptions with a high rate of conflict. Regression analysis lent support to the conflict hypothesis in relation to clinically relevant indicators such as symptom severity, global functioning. However, self-ideal discrepancy was a stronger predictor of group membership. The findings showed the relevance of cognitive conflicts to compliment the well-consolidated theory of negative self-views. Clinical implications for designing interventions are discussed. PMID:28611716

Depression and Identity: Are Self-Constructions Negative or Conflictual?

PubMed

Montesano, Adrián; Feixas, Guillem; Caspar, Franz; Winter, David

2017-01-01

Negative self-views have proved to be a consistent marker of vulnerability for depression. However, recent research has shown that a particular kind of cognitive conflict, implicative dilemma, is highly prevalent in depression. In this study, the relevance of these conflicts is assessed as compared to the cognitive model of depression of a negative view of the self. In so doing, 161 patients with major depression and 110 controls were assessed to explore negative self-construing (self-ideal discrepancy) and conflicts (implicative dilemmas), as well as severity of symptoms. Results showed specificity for the clinical group indicating a pattern of mixed positive and negative self-descriptions with a high rate of conflict. Regression analysis lent support to the conflict hypothesis in relation to clinically relevant indicators such as symptom severity, global functioning. However, self-ideal discrepancy was a stronger predictor of group membership. The findings showed the relevance of cognitive conflicts to compliment the well-consolidated theory of negative self-views. Clinical implications for designing interventions are discussed.

The regulatory function of self-esteem: testing the epistemic and acceptance signaling systems.

PubMed

Stinson, Danu Anthony; Logel, Christine; Holmes, John G; Wood, Joanne V; Forest, Amanda L; Gaucher, Danielle; Fitzsimons, Grainné M; Kath, Jennifer

2010-12-01

The authors draw on sociometer theory (e.g., Leary, 2004) and self-verification theory (e.g., Swann, 1997) to propose an expanded model of the regulatory function of self-esteem. The model suggests that people not only possess an acceptance signaling system that indicates whether relational value is high or low but also possess an epistemic signaling system that indicates whether social feedback is consistent or inconsistent with chronic perceived relational value (i.e., global self-esteem). One correlational study and 5 experiments, with diverse operationalizations of social feedback, demonstrated that the epistemic signaling system responds to self-esteem consistent or inconsistent relational-value feedback with increases or deceases in epistemic certainty. Moreover, Studies 3-6 demonstrated that the acceptance and epistemic signaling systems respond uniquely to social feedback. Finally, Studies 5 and 6 provide evidence that the epistemic signaling system is part of a broader self-regulatory system: Self-esteem inconsistent feedback caused cognitive efforts to decrease the discrepancy between self-views and feedback and caused depleted self-regulatory capacity on a subsequent self-control task. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved.

Investigation of toilet activities in elderly patients with dementia from the viewpoint of motivation and self-awareness.

PubMed

Uchimoto, Kazuki; Yokoi, Teruo; Yamashita, Teruo; Okamura, Hitoshi

2013-08-01

Toilet activities of the elderly patients with dementia were observed focusing on care conditions and investigated based on Hull's drive reduction theory (behavior = drive × habit × incentive) and our self-awareness model (consisting of theory of mind, self-evaluation, and self-consciousness) to evaluate the association between self-awareness and toilet activities in patients with dementia and to explain the time when and the reason why a series of toilet activities as habit once acquired become unfeasible. If theory of mind is lost, awareness of one's desire and intention becomes vague, and toilet activities begin to collapse. Furthermore, if incentive disappears, one's intention hardly arises and toilet activities further collapse. If self-evaluation is lost, time sense fades, future goals based on the present time cannot exist, and behavior loses directivity. As a result, toilet activities collapse, and with a decrease in drive toilet activities cease.

Antiplane shear wave propagation in fiber-reinforced composites.

PubMed

Kim, Jin-Yeon

2003-05-01

A self-consistent method for analyzing antiplane shear wave propagation in two-dimensional inhomogeneous media is presented. For applications in the high-frequency range, the self-consistent condition for the effective medium is solved being supplemented with the theory of quasidynamic effective density. Comparisons with other theoretical calculations and experimental data for fiber-reinforced composites demonstrate the merits of using the present method.

Self-consistent DFT +U method for real-space time-dependent density functional theory calculations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tancogne-Dejean, Nicolas; Oliveira, Micael J. T.; Rubio, Angel

2017-12-01

We implemented various DFT+U schemes, including the Agapito, Curtarolo, and Buongiorno Nardelli functional (ACBN0) self-consistent density-functional version of the DFT +U method [Phys. Rev. X 5, 011006 (2015), 10.1103/PhysRevX.5.011006] within the massively parallel real-space time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) code octopus. We further extended the method to the case of the calculation of response functions with real-time TDDFT+U and to the description of noncollinear spin systems. The implementation is tested by investigating the ground-state and optical properties of various transition-metal oxides, bulk topological insulators, and molecules. Our results are found to be in good agreement with previously published results for both the electronic band structure and structural properties. The self-consistent calculated values of U and J are also in good agreement with the values commonly used in the literature. We found that the time-dependent extension of the self-consistent DFT+U method yields improved optical properties when compared to the empirical TDDFT+U scheme. This work thus opens a different theoretical framework to address the nonequilibrium properties of correlated systems.

Visual-vestibular cue integration for heading perception: applications of optimal cue integration theory.

PubMed

Fetsch, Christopher R; Deangelis, Gregory C; Angelaki, Dora E

2010-05-01

The perception of self-motion is crucial for navigation, spatial orientation and motor control. In particular, estimation of one's direction of translation, or heading, relies heavily on multisensory integration in most natural situations. Visual and nonvisual (e.g., vestibular) information can be used to judge heading, but each modality alone is often insufficient for accurate performance. It is not surprising, then, that visual and vestibular signals converge frequently in the nervous system, and that these signals interact in powerful ways at the level of behavior and perception. Early behavioral studies of visual-vestibular interactions consisted mainly of descriptive accounts of perceptual illusions and qualitative estimation tasks, often with conflicting results. In contrast, cue integration research in other modalities has benefited from the application of rigorous psychophysical techniques, guided by normative models that rest on the foundation of ideal-observer analysis and Bayesian decision theory. Here we review recent experiments that have attempted to harness these so-called optimal cue integration models for the study of self-motion perception. Some of these studies used nonhuman primate subjects, enabling direct comparisons between behavioral performance and simultaneously recorded neuronal activity. The results indicate that humans and monkeys can integrate visual and vestibular heading cues in a manner consistent with optimal integration theory, and that single neurons in the dorsal medial superior temporal area show striking correlates of the behavioral effects. This line of research and other applications of normative cue combination models should continue to shed light on mechanisms of self-motion perception and the neuronal basis of multisensory integration.

Self-consistent hybrid functionals for solids: a fully-automated implementation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erba, A.

2017-08-01

A fully-automated algorithm for the determination of the system-specific optimal fraction of exact exchange in self-consistent hybrid functionals of the density-functional-theory is illustrated, as implemented into the public Crystal program. The exchange fraction of this new class of functionals is self-consistently updated proportionally to the inverse of the dielectric response of the system within an iterative procedure (Skone et al 2014 Phys. Rev. B 89, 195112). Each iteration of the present scheme, in turn, implies convergence of a self-consistent-field (SCF) and a coupled-perturbed-Hartree-Fock/Kohn-Sham (CPHF/KS) procedure. The present implementation, beside improving the user-friendliness of self-consistent hybrids, exploits the unperturbed and electric-field perturbed density matrices from previous iterations as guesses for subsequent SCF and CPHF/KS iterations, which is documented to reduce the overall computational cost of the whole process by a factor of 2.

The Landau-de Gennes approach revisited: A minimal self-consistent microscopic theory for spatially inhomogeneous nematic liquid crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gârlea, Ioana C.; Mulder, Bela M.

2017-12-01

We design a novel microscopic mean-field theory of inhomogeneous nematic liquid crystals formulated entirely in terms of the tensor order parameter field. It combines the virtues of the Landau-de Gennes approach in allowing both the direction and magnitude of the local order to vary, with a self-consistent treatment of the local free-energy valid beyond the small order parameter limit. As a proof of principle, we apply this theory to the well-studied problem of a colloid dispersed in a nematic liquid crystal by including a tunable wall coupling term. For the two-dimensional case, we investigate the organization of the liquid crystal and the position of the point defects as a function of the strength of the coupling constant.

Self-verification and depression among youth psychiatric inpatients.

PubMed

Joiner, T E; Katz, J; Lew, A S

1997-11-01

According to self-verification theory (e.g., W.B. Swann, 1983), people are motivated to preserve stable self-concepts by seeking self-confirming interpersonal responses, even if the responses are negative. In the current study of 72 youth psychiatric inpatients (36 boys; 36 girls; ages 7-17, M = 13.18; SD = 2.59), the authors provide the 1st test of self-verification theory among a youth sample. Participants completed self-report questionnaires on depression, self-esteem, anxiety, negative and positive affect, and interest in negative feedback from others. The authors made chart diagnoses available, and they collected peer rejection ratings. Consistent with hypotheses, the authors found that interest in negative feedback was associated with depression, was predictive of peer rejection (but only within relatively longer peer relationships), was more highly related to cognitive than emotional aspects of depression, and was specifically associated with depression, rather than being generally associated with emotional distress. The authors discuss implications for self-verification theory and for the phenomenology of youth depression.

Infrared modified gravity with propagating torsion: Instability of torsionfull de Sitter-like solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nikiforova, Vasilisa; Damour, Thibault

2018-06-01

We continue the exploration of the consistency of a modified-gravity theory that generalizes general relativity by including a dynamical torsion in addition to the dynamical metric. The six-parameter theory we consider was found to be consistent around arbitrary torsionless Einstein backgrounds, in spite of its containing a (notoriously delicate) massive spin-2 excitation. At zero bare cosmological constant, this theory was found to admit a self-accelerating solution whose exponential expansion is sustained by a nonzero torsion background. The scalar-type perturbations of the latter torsionfull self-accelerating solution were recently studied and were found to preserve the number of propagating scalar degrees of freedom, but to exhibit, for some values of the torsion background, some exponential instabilities (of a rather mild type). Here, we study the tensor-type and vector-type perturbations of the torsionfull self-accelerating solution, and of its deformation by a nonzero bare cosmological constant. We find strong, "gradient" instabilities in the vector sector. No tuning of the parameters of the theory can kill these instabilities without creating instabilities in the other sectors. Further work is needed to see whether generic torsionfull backgrounds are prone to containing gradient instabilities, or if the instabilities we found are mainly due to the (generalized) self-accelerating nature of the special de Sitter backgrounds we considered.

Validity and reliability analysis of the planned behavior theory scale related to the testicular self-examination in a Turkish context.

PubMed

Iyigun, Emine; Tastan, Sevinc; Ayhan, Hatice; Kose, Gulsah; Acikel, Cengizhan

2016-06-01

This study aimed to determine the validity and reliability levels of the Planned Behavior Theory Scale as related to a testicular self-examination. The study was carried out in a health-profession higher-education school in Ankara, Turkey, from April to June 2012. The study participants comprised 215 male students. Study data were collected by using a questionnaire, a planned behavior theory scale related to testicular self-examination, and Champion's Health Belief Model Scale (CHBMS). The sub-dimensions of the planned behavior theory scale, namely those of intention, attitude, subjective norms and self-efficacy, were found to have Cronbach's alpha values of between 0.81 and 0.89. Exploratory factor analysis showed that items of the scale had five factors that accounted for 75% of the variance. Of these, the sub-dimension of intention was found to have the highest level of contribution. A significant correlation was found between the sub-dimensions of the testicular self-examination planned behavior theory scale and those of CHBMS (p < 0.05). The findings suggest that the Turkish version of the testicular self-examination Planned Behavior Theory Scale is a valid and reliable measurement for Turkish society.

Shock Waves Propagation in Scope of the Nonlocal Theory of Dynamical Plasticity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khantuleva, Tatyana A.

2004-07-01

From the point of view of the modern statistical mechanics the problems on shock compression of solids require a reformulation in terms of highly nonequilibrium effects arising inside the wave front. The self-organization during the multiscale and multistage momentum and energy exchange are originated by the correlation function. The theory of dynamic plasticity has been developed by the author on the base of the self-consistent nonlocal hydrodynamic approach had been applied to the shock wave propagation in solids. Nonlocal balance equations describe both the reversible wave type transport at the initial stage and the diffusive (dissipative) one in the end. The involved inverse influence of the mesoeffects on the wave propagation makes the formulation of problems self-consistent and involves a concept of the cybernetic control close-loop.

Notes on hyperscaling violating Lifshitz and shear diffusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolekar, Kedar S.; Mukherjee, Debangshu; Narayan, K.

2017-07-01

We explore in greater detail our investigations of shear diffusion in hyperscaling violating Lifshitz theories in Phys. Lett. B 760, 86 (2016), 10.1016/j.physletb.2016.06.046. This adapts and generalizes the membrane-paradigm-like analysis of Kovtun, Son, and Starinets for shear gravitational perturbations in the near horizon region given certain self-consistent approximations, leading to the shear diffusion constant on an appropriately defined stretched horizon. In theories containing a gauge field, some of the metric perturbations mix with some of the gauge field perturbations and the above analysis is somewhat more complicated. We find a similar near-horizon analysis can be obtained in terms of new field variables involving a linear combination of the metric and the gauge field perturbation resulting in a corresponding diffusion equation. Thereby as before, for theories with Lifshitz and hyperscaling violating exponents z , θ satisfying z <4 -θ in four bulk dimensions, our analysis here results in a similar expression for the shear diffusion constant with power-law scaling with temperature suggesting universal behavior in relation to the viscosity bound. For z =4 -θ , we find logarithmic behavior.

A practical guide to density matrix embedding theory in quantum chemistry

DOE PAGES

Wouters, Sebastian; Jimenez-Hoyos, Carlos A.; Sun, Qiming; ...

2016-05-09

Density matrix embedding theory (DMET) (Knizia, G.; Chan, G. K.-L. Phys. Rev. Lett. 2012, 109, 186404) provides a theoretical framework to treat finite fragments in the presence of a surrounding molecular or bulk environment, even when there is significant correlation or entanglement between the two. In this work, we give a practically oriented and explicit description of the numerical and theoretical formulation of DMET. Here, we also describe in detail how to perform self-consistent DMET optimizations. We explore different embedding strategies with and without a self-consistency condition in hydrogen rings, beryllium rings, and a sample SN2 reaction.

Periodic Pulay method for robust and efficient convergence acceleration of self-consistent field iterations

DOE PAGES

Banerjee, Amartya S.; Suryanarayana, Phanish; Pask, John E.

2016-01-21

Pulay's Direct Inversion in the Iterative Subspace (DIIS) method is one of the most widely used mixing schemes for accelerating the self-consistent solution of electronic structure problems. In this work, we propose a simple generalization of DIIS in which Pulay extrapolation is performed at periodic intervals rather than on every self-consistent field iteration, and linear mixing is performed on all other iterations. Lastly, we demonstrate through numerical tests on a wide variety of materials systems in the framework of density functional theory that the proposed generalization of Pulay's method significantly improves its robustness and efficiency.

The phonon-coupling model for Skyrme forces

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lyutorovich, N.; Tselyaev, V.; Speth, J., E-mail: J.Speth@fz-juelich.de

2016-11-15

A short review on the self-consistent RPA based on the energy-density functional of the Skyrme type is given. We also present an extension of the RPA where the coupling of phonons to the single-particle states is considered. Within this approach we present numerical results which are compared with data. The self-consistent approach is compared with the Landau–Migdal theory. Here we derive from the self-consistent ph interaction, the Landau–Migdal parameters as well as their density dependence. In the Appendix a new derivation of the reduced matrix elements of the ph interaction is presented.

Psychosocial Predictors for Cancer Prevention Behaviors in Workplace Using Protection Motivation Theory.

PubMed

Zare Sakhvidi, Mohammad Javad; Zare, Maryam; Mostaghaci, Mehrdad; Mehrparvar, Amir Houshang; Morowatisharifabad, Mohammad Ali; Naghshineh, Elham

2015-01-01

Backgrounds. The aim of this study was to describe the preventive behaviors of industrial workers and factors influencing occupational cancer prevention behaviors using protection motivation theory. Methods. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 161 petrochemical workers in Iran in 2014 which consisted of three sections: background information, protection motivation theory measures, and occupational cancers preventive behaviors. Results. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between PM and self-efficacy, response efficacy, and the cancer preventive behaviors. Meanwhile, statistically significant negative correlations were found between PM, cost, and reward. Conclusions. Among available PMT constructs, only self-efficacy and cost were significant predictors of preventive behaviors. Protection motivation model based health promotion interventions with focus on self-efficacy and cost would be desirable in the case of occupational cancers prevention.

Psychosocial Predictors for Cancer Prevention Behaviors in Workplace Using Protection Motivation Theory

PubMed Central

Zare Sakhvidi, Mohammad Javad; Zare, Maryam; Mehrparvar, Amir Houshang; Morowatisharifabad, Mohammad Ali; Naghshineh, Elham

2015-01-01

Backgrounds. The aim of this study was to describe the preventive behaviors of industrial workers and factors influencing occupational cancer prevention behaviors using protection motivation theory. Methods. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 161 petrochemical workers in Iran in 2014 which consisted of three sections: background information, protection motivation theory measures, and occupational cancers preventive behaviors. Results. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between PM and self-efficacy, response efficacy, and the cancer preventive behaviors. Meanwhile, statistically significant negative correlations were found between PM, cost, and reward. Conclusions. Among available PMT constructs, only self-efficacy and cost were significant predictors of preventive behaviors. Protection motivation model based health promotion interventions with focus on self-efficacy and cost would be desirable in the case of occupational cancers prevention. PMID:26543649

Directionality of the relationship between social well-being and subjective well-being: evidence from a 20-year longitudinal study.

PubMed

Joshanloo, Mohsen; Sirgy, M Joseph; Park, Joonha

2018-04-30

Self-determination theory suggests that psycho-social well-being prospectively predicts subjective well-being. In contrast, the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions suggests that subjective well-being has a positive impact on subsequent levels of psycho-social well-being. The present study sought to empirically disentangle the directionality of the relationship between subjective well-being and social well-being over time. The study used three waves of survey data, with intervals of 10 years, from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) project, a representative longitudinal panel study of American adults (N = 2732). Cross-lagged panel modeling was used for data analysis. The results revealed that social well-being predicted increases in subsequent subjective well-being, whereas subjective well-being did not prospectively predict social well-being. Social well-being also demonstrated more stability over time than did subjective well-being. These findings suggest that optimal social functioning is more likely to be an antecedent to subjective well-being, not the other way around. The results are consistent with predictions guided by self-determination theory.

Development of a valid measurement instrument to understand self-regulatory driving practices among older drivers in Malaysia.

PubMed

Yeoh, Sok Foon; Ibrahim, Rahimah; Oxley, Jennifer; Hamid, Tengku Aizan; Rashid, Sharifah Norazizan Syed Abd

2016-07-01

Self-regulatory driving is a term used to describe a strategy used by older drivers to preserve mobility and safety, through the adjustment of driving behaviors to match declining physical functions. It can be regarded as a way to prolong driving, or as a process leading to the cessation of driving. Previous studies have striven to explore and understand how older drivers self-regulate their driving. This paper aims to provide an overview of the relevant theories, to explicate the factors that contribute to the adoption of self-regulated driving and the scales used to measure self-regulatory behaviors. This paper also reports on the development and psychometric testing of a Self-Regulatory Driving Practices (SRDP) scale in the Malaysian context. Based on the reviewed theories, adoption of self-regulatory driving practices is a process and involves cognitive thinking that reflects a set of actions. Existing instruments to measure self-regulatory driving practices have been developed and used to identify the behavioral components of self-regulation. Based on literature reviews and a thematic analysis from focus group discussions, a SRDP scale was developed, accommodating the Malaysian context. There were 498 surveys completed by older drivers for further psychometric testing purposes. Results revealed that the final 12-item SRDP scale (α=0.81) consists of four subscales that are planning, avoidance, reduction and alternatives. Suggestions for future research are also recommended. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

School bullying, low self-control, and opportunity.

PubMed

Moon, Byongook; Alarid, Leanne Fiftal

2015-03-01

The theory of low self-control has been shown to be a valid predictor of a wide variety of criminal and deviant behaviors. However, a limited number of studies were conducted to understand the relationship between low self-control and bullying and the effects of opportunity factors (i.e., parental supervision, association with other bullies, negative school environment, and disciplinary measures used by teachers) on bullying in the context of low self-control theory. The present study, using a sample of nearly 300 youths, examined the effects of low self-control and opportunity factors on various types of bullying behaviors. Results indicated that youths with low self-control were likely to physically and psychologically bully, consistent with the theory's prediction. When opportunity measures were introduced, they were stronger explanations of bullying than low self-control, especially association with other bullies and youth who experienced disciplinary measures by their teacher. Negative school environment was a significant predictor of psychological bullying but not for physical bullying. Theoretical and policy implications are discussed. © The Author(s) 2014.

[Reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the Thinking Style Inventory].

PubMed

Ochiai, Jun; Maie, Yuko; Wada, Yuichi

2016-06-01

This study examined the internal and external validity of the Japanese version of the Thinking Styles Inventory (TSI: Hiruma, 2000), which was originally developed by Sternberg and Wagner (1991) based on the framework of Sternberg's (1988) theory of mental self-government. The term "thinking style" refers to the concept that individuals differ in how they organize, direct, and manage their own thinking activities. We administered the Japanese version of the TSI to Japanese participants (N = 655: Age range 20-84 years). The results of item analysis, reliability analysis, and factor analysis, were consistent with the general ideas of the theory. In addition, there were significant relationships between certain thinking styles and 3 participant characteristics: age, gender, and working arrangement. Furthermore, some thinking styles were positively correlated with social skill. Implications of these results for the nature of Japanese thinking styles are discussed.

Self-consistent core-pedestal transport simulations with neural network accelerated models

DOE PAGES

Meneghini, Orso; Smith, Sterling P.; Snyder, Philip B.; ...

2017-07-12

Fusion whole device modeling simulations require comprehensive models that are simultaneously physically accurate, fast, robust, and predictive. In this paper we describe the development of two neural-network (NN) based models as a means to perform a snon-linear multivariate regression of theory-based models for the core turbulent transport fluxes, and the pedestal structure. Specifically, we find that a NN-based approach can be used to consistently reproduce the results of the TGLF and EPED1 theory-based models over a broad range of plasma regimes, and with a computational speedup of several orders of magnitudes. These models are then integrated into a predictive workflowmore » that allows prediction with self-consistent core-pedestal coupling of the kinetic profiles within the last closed flux surface of the plasma. Finally, the NN paradigm is capable of breaking the speed-accuracy trade-off that is expected of traditional numerical physics models, and can provide the missing link towards self-consistent coupled core-pedestal whole device modeling simulations that are physically accurate and yet take only seconds to run.« less

Self-consistent core-pedestal transport simulations with neural network accelerated models

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Meneghini, Orso; Smith, Sterling P.; Snyder, Philip B.

Fusion whole device modeling simulations require comprehensive models that are simultaneously physically accurate, fast, robust, and predictive. In this paper we describe the development of two neural-network (NN) based models as a means to perform a snon-linear multivariate regression of theory-based models for the core turbulent transport fluxes, and the pedestal structure. Specifically, we find that a NN-based approach can be used to consistently reproduce the results of the TGLF and EPED1 theory-based models over a broad range of plasma regimes, and with a computational speedup of several orders of magnitudes. These models are then integrated into a predictive workflowmore » that allows prediction with self-consistent core-pedestal coupling of the kinetic profiles within the last closed flux surface of the plasma. Finally, the NN paradigm is capable of breaking the speed-accuracy trade-off that is expected of traditional numerical physics models, and can provide the missing link towards self-consistent coupled core-pedestal whole device modeling simulations that are physically accurate and yet take only seconds to run.« less

Self-consistent core-pedestal transport simulations with neural network accelerated models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meneghini, O.; Smith, S. P.; Snyder, P. B.; Staebler, G. M.; Candy, J.; Belli, E.; Lao, L.; Kostuk, M.; Luce, T.; Luda, T.; Park, J. M.; Poli, F.

2017-08-01

Fusion whole device modeling simulations require comprehensive models that are simultaneously physically accurate, fast, robust, and predictive. In this paper we describe the development of two neural-network (NN) based models as a means to perform a snon-linear multivariate regression of theory-based models for the core turbulent transport fluxes, and the pedestal structure. Specifically, we find that a NN-based approach can be used to consistently reproduce the results of the TGLF and EPED1 theory-based models over a broad range of plasma regimes, and with a computational speedup of several orders of magnitudes. These models are then integrated into a predictive workflow that allows prediction with self-consistent core-pedestal coupling of the kinetic profiles within the last closed flux surface of the plasma. The NN paradigm is capable of breaking the speed-accuracy trade-off that is expected of traditional numerical physics models, and can provide the missing link towards self-consistent coupled core-pedestal whole device modeling simulations that are physically accurate and yet take only seconds to run.

Assessing vocational outcome expectancy in individuals with serious mental illness: a factor-analytic approach.

PubMed

Iwanaga, Kanako; Umucu, Emre; Wu, Jia-Rung; Yaghmaian, Rana; Lee, Hui-Ling; Fitzgerald, Sandra; Chan, Fong

2017-07-04

Self-determination theory (SDT) and self-efficacy theory (SET) can be used to conceptualize self-determined motivation to engage in mental health and vocational rehabilitation (VR) services and to predict recovery. To incorporate SDT and SET as a framework for vocational recovery, developing and validating SDT/SET measures in vocational rehabilitation is warranted. Outcome expectancy is an important SDT/SET variable affecting rehabilitation engagement and recovery. The purpose of this study was to validate the Vocational Outcome Expectancy Scale (VOES) for use within the SDT/SET vocational recovery framework. One hundred and twenty-four individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) participated in this study. Measurement structure of the VOES was evaluated using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Both EFA and CFA results supported a two-factor structure: (a) positive outcome expectancy, and (b) negative outcome expectancy. The internal consistency reliability coefficients for both factors were acceptable. In addition, positive outcome expectancy correlated stronger than negative outcome expectancy with other SDT/SET constructs in the expected directions. The VOES is a brief, reliable and valid instrument for assessing vocational outcome expectancy in individuals with SMI that can be integrated into SDT/SET as a vocational rehabilitation engagement and recovery model in psychiatric rehabilitation.

Second-order perturbation theory with a density matrix renormalization group self-consistent field reference function: theory and application to the study of chromium dimer.

PubMed

Kurashige, Yuki; Yanai, Takeshi

2011-09-07

We present a second-order perturbation theory based on a density matrix renormalization group self-consistent field (DMRG-SCF) reference function. The method reproduces the solution of the complete active space with second-order perturbation theory (CASPT2) when the DMRG reference function is represented by a sufficiently large number of renormalized many-body basis, thereby being named DMRG-CASPT2 method. The DMRG-SCF is able to describe non-dynamical correlation with large active space that is insurmountable to the conventional CASSCF method, while the second-order perturbation theory provides an efficient description of dynamical correlation effects. The capability of our implementation is demonstrated for an application to the potential energy curve of the chromium dimer, which is one of the most demanding multireference systems that require best electronic structure treatment for non-dynamical and dynamical correlation as well as large basis sets. The DMRG-CASPT2/cc-pwCV5Z calculations were performed with a large (3d double-shell) active space consisting of 28 orbitals. Our approach using large-size DMRG reference addressed the problems of why the dissociation energy is largely overestimated by CASPT2 with the small active space consisting of 12 orbitals (3d4s), and also is oversensitive to the choice of the zeroth-order Hamiltonian. © 2011 American Institute of Physics

Mediation Analysis of the Efficacy of the Eban HIV/STD Risk-Reduction Intervention for African American HIV Serodiscordant Couples.

PubMed

El-Bassel, Nabila; Jemmott, John B; Bellamy, Scarlett L; Pequegnat, Willo; Wingood, Gina M; Wyatt, Gail E; Landis, J Richard; Remien, Robert H

2016-06-01

Targeting couples is a promising behavioral HIV risk-reduction strategy, but the mechanisms underlying the effects of such interventions are unknown. We report secondary analyses testing whether Social-Cognitive-Theory variables mediated the Eban HIV-risk-reduction intervention's effects on condom-use outcomes. In a multisite randomized controlled trial conducted in four US cities, 535 African American HIV-serodiscordant couples were randomized to the Eban HIV risk-reduction intervention or attention-matched control intervention. Outcomes were proportion condom-protected sex, consistent condom use, and frequency of unprotected sex measured pre-, immediately post-, and 6 and 12 months post-intervention. Potential mediators included Social-Cognitive-Theory variables: outcome expectancies and self-efficacy. Mediation analyses using the product-of-coefficients approach in a generalized-estimating-equations framework revealed that condom-use outcome expectancy, partner-reaction outcome expectancy, intention, self-efficacy, and safer-sex communication improved post-intervention and mediated intervention-induced improvements in condom-use outcomes. These findings underscore the importance of targeting outcome expectancies, self-efficacy, and safer-sex communication in couples-level HIV risk-reduction interventions.

Older adults' exercise behavior: roles of selected constructs of social-cognitive theory.

PubMed

Umstattd, M Renée; Hallam, Jeffrey

2007-04-01

Exercise is consistently related to physical and psychological health benefits in older adults. Bandura's social-cognitive theory (SCT) is one theoretical perspective on understanding and predicting exercise behavior. Thus, the authors examined whether three SCT variables-self-efficacy, self-regulation, and outcome-expectancy value-predicted older adults' (N = 98) exercise behavior. Bivariate analyses revealed that regular exercise was associated with being male, White, and married; having higher income, education, and self-efficacy; using self-regulation skills; and having favorable outcome-expectancy values (p < .05). In a simultaneous multivariate model, however, self-regulation (p = .0097) was the only variable independently associated with regular exercise. Thus, exercise interventions targeting older adults should include components aimed at increasing the use of self-regulation strategies.

Sources of Writing Self-Efficacy Beliefs of Elementary, Middle, and High School Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pajares, Frank; Johnson, Margaret J.; Usher, Ellen L.

2007-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of Albert Bandura's four hypothesized sources of self-efficacy on students' writing self-efficacy beliefs (N = 1256) and to explore how these sources differ as a function of gender and academic level (elementary, middle, high). Consistent with the tenets of self-efficacy theory, each of the…

Progress of plasma wakefield self-modulation experiments at FACET

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adli, E.; Berglyd Olsen, V. K.; Lindstrøm, C. A.; Muggli, P.; Reimann, O.; Vieira, J. M.; Amorim, L. D.; Clarke, C. I.; Gessner, S. J.; Green, S. Z.; Hogan, M. J.; Litos, M. D.; O`Shea, B. D.; Yakimenko, V.; Clayton, C.; Marsh, K. A.; Mori, W. B.; Joshi, C.; Vafaei-Najafabadi, N.; Williams, O.

2016-09-01

Simulations and theory predict that long electron and positron beams may under favorable conditions self-modulate in plasmas. We report on the progress of experiments studying the self-modulation instability in plasma wakefield experiments at FACET. The experimental results obtained so far, while not being fully conclusive, appear to be consistent with the presence of the self-modulation instability.

Self-consistent conversion of a viscous fluid to particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molnar, Denes; Wolff, Zack

2017-02-01

Comparison of hydrodynamic and "hybrid" hydrodynamics+transport calculations with heavy-ion data inevitably requires the conversion of the fluid to particles. For dissipative fluids the conversion is ambiguous without additional theory input complementing hydrodynamics. We obtain self-consistent shear viscous phase-space corrections from linearized Boltzmann transport theory for a gas of hadrons. These corrections depend on the particle species, and incorporating them in Cooper-Frye freeze-out affects identified particle observables. For example, with additive quark model cross sections, proton elliptic flow is larger than pion elliptic flow at moderately high pT in Au+Au collisions at the BNL Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider. This is in contrast to Cooper-Frye freeze-out with the commonly used "democratic Grad" ansatz that assumes no species dependence. Various analytic and numerical results are also presented for massless and massive two-component mixtures to better elucidate how species dependence arises. For convenient inclusion in pure hydrodynamic and hybrid calculations, Appendix G contains self-consistent viscous corrections for each species both in tabulated and parametrized form.

Renormalization group analysis of turbulence

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Leslie M.

1989-01-01

The objective is to understand and extend a recent theory of turbulence based on dynamic renormalization group (RNG) techniques. The application of RNG methods to hydrodynamic turbulence was explored most extensively by Yakhot and Orszag (1986). An eddy viscosity was calculated which was consistent with the Kolmogorov inertial range by systematic elimination of the small scales in the flow. Further, assumed smallness of the nonlinear terms in the redefined equations for the large scales results in predictions for important flow constants such as the Kolmogorov constant. It is emphasized that no adjustable parameters are needed. The parameterization of the small scales in a self-consistent manner has important implications for sub-grid modeling.

The online social self: an open vocabulary approach to personality.

PubMed

Kern, Margaret L; Eichstaedt, Johannes C; Schwartz, H Andrew; Dziurzynski, Lukasz; Ungar, Lyle H; Stillwell, David J; Kosinski, Michal; Ramones, Stephanie M; Seligman, Martin E P

2014-04-01

We present a new open language analysis approach that identifies and visually summarizes the dominant naturally occurring words and phrases that most distinguished each Big Five personality trait. Using millions of posts from 69,792 Facebook users, we examined the correlation of personality traits with online word usage. Our analysis method consists of feature extraction, correlational analysis, and visualization. The distinguishing words and phrases were face valid and provide insight into processes that underlie the Big Five traits. Open-ended data driven exploration of large datasets combined with established psychological theory and measures offers new tools to further understand the human psyche. © The Author(s) 2013.

Undergraduates' intentions to take a second language proficiency test: a comparison of predictions from the theory of planned behavior and social cognitive theory.

PubMed

Lin, Bih-Jiau; Chiou, Wen-Bin

2010-06-01

English competency has become essential for obtaining a better job or succeeding in higher education in Taiwan. Thus, passing the General English Proficiency Test is important for college students in Taiwan. The current study applied Ajzen's theory of planned behavior and the notions of outcome expectancy and self-efficacy from Bandura's social cognitive theory to investigate college students' intentions to take the General English Proficiency Test. The formal sample consisted of 425 undergraduates (217 women, 208 men; M age = 19.5 yr., SD = 1.3). The theory of planned behavior showed greater predictive ability (R2 = 33%) of intention than the social cognitive theory (R2 = 7%) in regression analysis and made a unique contribution to prediction of actual test-taking behavior one year later in logistic regression. Within-model analyses indicated that subjective norm in theory of planned behavior and outcome expectancy in social cognitive theory are crucial factors in predicting intention. Implications for enhancing undergraduates' intentions to take the English proficiency test are discussed.

Second-Order Perturbation Theory for Generalized Active Space Self-Consistent-Field Wave Functions.

PubMed

Ma, Dongxia; Li Manni, Giovanni; Olsen, Jeppe; Gagliardi, Laura

2016-07-12

A multireference second-order perturbation theory approach based on the generalized active space self-consistent-field (GASSCF) wave function is presented. Compared with the complete active space (CAS) and restricted active space (RAS) wave functions, GAS wave functions are more flexible and can employ larger active spaces and/or different truncations of the configuration interaction expansion. With GASSCF, one can explore chemical systems that are not affordable with either CASSCF or RASSCF. Perturbation theory to second order on top of GAS wave functions (GASPT2) has been implemented to recover the remaining electron correlation. The method has been benchmarked by computing the chromium dimer ground-state potential energy curve. These calculations show that GASPT2 gives results similar to CASPT2 even with a configuration interaction expansion much smaller than the corresponding CAS expansion.

Spinning fluids in general relativity. II - Self-consistent formulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, John R.; Smalley, Larry, L.; Krisch, Jean P.

1987-01-01

Methods used earlier to derive the equations of motion for a spinning fluid in the Einstein-Cartan theory are specialized to the case of general relativity. The main idea is to include the spin as a thermodynamic variable in the theory.

Principals' Leadership and Teachers' Motivation: Self-Determination Theory Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eyal, Ori; Roth, Guy

2011-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between educational leadership and teacher's motivation. The research described here was anchored in the convergence of two fundamental theories of leadership and motivation: the full range model of leadership and self-determination theory. The central hypotheses were that…

Self-consistent expansion for the molecular beam epitaxy equation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katzav, Eytan

2002-03-01

Motivated by a controversy over the correct results derived from the dynamic renormalization group (DRG) analysis of the nonlinear molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) equation, a self-consistent expansion for the nonlinear MBE theory is considered. The scaling exponents are obtained for spatially correlated noise of the general form D(r-->-r',t-t')=2D0\\|r-->- r'\\|2ρ-dδ(t-t'). I find a lower critical dimension dc(ρ)=4+2ρ, above which the linear MBE solution appears. Below the lower critical dimension a ρ-dependent strong-coupling solution is found. These results help to resolve the controversy over the correct exponents that describe nonlinear MBE, using a reliable method that proved itself in the past by giving reasonable results for the strong-coupling regime of the Kardar-Parisi-Zhang system (for d>1), where DRG failed to do so.

Self-consistent expansion for the molecular beam epitaxy equation.

PubMed

Katzav, Eytan

2002-03-01

Motivated by a controversy over the correct results derived from the dynamic renormalization group (DRG) analysis of the nonlinear molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) equation, a self-consistent expansion for the nonlinear MBE theory is considered. The scaling exponents are obtained for spatially correlated noise of the general form D(r-r('),t-t('))=2D(0)[r-->-r(')](2rho-d)delta(t-t(')). I find a lower critical dimension d(c)(rho)=4+2rho, above which the linear MBE solution appears. Below the lower critical dimension a rho-dependent strong-coupling solution is found. These results help to resolve the controversy over the correct exponents that describe nonlinear MBE, using a reliable method that proved itself in the past by giving reasonable results for the strong-coupling regime of the Kardar-Parisi-Zhang system (for d>1), where DRG failed to do so.

Applicability of Kerker preconditioning scheme to the self-consistent density functional theory calculations of inhomogeneous systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Yuzhi; Wang, Han; Liu, Yu; Gao, Xingyu; Song, Haifeng

2018-03-01

The Kerker preconditioner, based on the dielectric function of homogeneous electron gas, is designed to accelerate the self-consistent field (SCF) iteration in the density functional theory calculations. However, a question still remains regarding its applicability to the inhomogeneous systems. We develop a modified Kerker preconditioning scheme which captures the long-range screening behavior of inhomogeneous systems and thus improves the SCF convergence. The effectiveness and efficiency is shown by the tests on long-z slabs of metals, insulators, and metal-insulator contacts. For situations without a priori knowledge of the system, we design the a posteriori indicator to monitor if the preconditioner has suppressed charge sloshing during the iterations. Based on the a posteriori indicator, we demonstrate two schemes of the self-adaptive configuration for the SCF iteration.

Numerical methods for solving moment equations in kinetic theory of neuronal network dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rangan, Aaditya V.; Cai, David; Tao, Louis

2007-02-01

Recently developed kinetic theory and related closures for neuronal network dynamics have been demonstrated to be a powerful theoretical framework for investigating coarse-grained dynamical properties of neuronal networks. The moment equations arising from the kinetic theory are a system of (1 + 1)-dimensional nonlinear partial differential equations (PDE) on a bounded domain with nonlinear boundary conditions. The PDEs themselves are self-consistently specified by parameters which are functions of the boundary values of the solution. The moment equations can be stiff in space and time. Numerical methods are presented here for efficiently and accurately solving these moment equations. The essential ingredients in our numerical methods include: (i) the system is discretized in time with an implicit Euler method within a spectral deferred correction framework, therefore, the PDEs of the kinetic theory are reduced to a sequence, in time, of boundary value problems (BVPs) with nonlinear boundary conditions; (ii) a set of auxiliary parameters is introduced to recast the original BVP with nonlinear boundary conditions as BVPs with linear boundary conditions - with additional algebraic constraints on the auxiliary parameters; (iii) a careful combination of two Newton's iterates for the nonlinear BVP with linear boundary condition, interlaced with a Newton's iterate for solving the associated algebraic constraints is constructed to achieve quadratic convergence for obtaining the solutions with self-consistent parameters. It is shown that a simple fixed-point iteration can only achieve a linear convergence for the self-consistent parameters. The practicability and efficiency of our numerical methods for solving the moment equations of the kinetic theory are illustrated with numerical examples. It is further demonstrated that the moment equations derived from the kinetic theory of neuronal network dynamics can very well capture the coarse-grained dynamical properties of integrate-and-fire neuronal networks.

MOTIVATION INTERNALIZATION AND SIMPLEX STRUCTURE IN SELF-DETERMINATION THEORY.

PubMed

Ünlü, Ali; Dettweiler, Ulrich

2015-12-01

Self-determination theory, as proposed by Deci and Ryan, postulated different types of motivation regulation. As to the introjected and identified regulation of extrinsic motivation, their internalizations were described as "somewhat external" and "somewhat internal" and remained undetermined in the theory. This paper introduces a constrained regression analysis that allows these vaguely expressed motivations to be estimated in an "optimal" manner, in any given empirical context. The approach was even generalized and applied for simplex structure analysis in self-determination theory. The technique was exemplified with an empirical study comparing science teaching in a classical school class versus an expeditionary outdoor program. Based on a sample of 84 German pupils (43 girls, 41 boys, 10 to 12 years old), data were collected using the German version of the Academic Self-Regulation Questionnaire. The science-teaching format was seen to not influence the pupils' internalization of identified regulation. The internalization of introjected regulation differed and shifted more toward the external pole in the outdoor teaching format. The quantification approach supported the simplex structure of self-determination theory, whereas correlations may disconfirm the simplex structure.

How can self-efficacy be increased? Meta-analysis of dietary interventions.

PubMed

Prestwich, Andrew; Kellar, Ian; Parker, Richard; MacRae, Siobhan; Learmonth, Matthew; Sykes, Bianca; Taylor, Natalie; Castle, Holly

2014-01-01

Targeting individuals' beliefs that they are able to eat healthily can improve dietary-related behaviours. However, the most effective behaviour change techniques (BCTs) to promote dietary self-efficacy have not been systematically reviewed. This research addressed this gap. Studies testing the effect of interventions on healthy eating and underlying dietary-related self-efficacy, within randomised controlled trials, were systematically reviewed in MEDLINE, EMBASE and PSYCINFO. Two reviewers independently coded intervention content in both intervention and comparison groups. Data pertaining to study quality were also extracted. Random effects meta-analysis was used to calculate an overall effect size on dietary self-efficacy for each study. The associations between 26 BCTs and self-efficacy effects were calculated using meta-regression. In some of the analyses, interventions that incorporated self-monitoring (tracking one's own food-related behaviour), provided feedback on performance, prompted review of behavioural goals, provided contingent rewards (rewarding diet success), or planned for social support/social change increased dietary self-efficacy significantly more than interventions that did not. Stress management was consistently associated with self-efficacy effects across all analyses. There was strong evidence for stress management and weaker evidence for a number of other BCTs. The findings can be used to develop more effective, theory- and evidence-based behavioural interventions.

The idealized self and the situated self as predictors of employee work behaviors.

PubMed

Farmer, Steven M; Van Dyne, Linn

2010-05-01

This article presents a model integrating research on idealized and situated selves. Our key premise is that identity-relevant behaviors are most likely to occur in the workplace when identities are psychologically central and activating forces make those identities salient. Analysis of matched data from 278 employees, supervisors, and organizational records generally supported our model. Helping identity and industrious work identity were positively associated with related role behaviors only when time-based occupancy in the role of organization member was high. Industrious work identity was positively associated with role behaviors only when reflected appraisals from coworkers were consistent with that identity. In contrast, reflected appraisal of helping identity had an independent relationship with identity-relevant role behaviors. Results demonstrate the importance of theory linking the idealized self and the situated self to understanding identity relations with work performances. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved.

Raychaudhuri equation in the self-consistent Einstein-Cartan theory with spin-density

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fennelly, A. J.; Krisch, Jean P.; Ray, John R.; Smalley, Larry L.

1988-01-01

The physical implications of the Raychaudhuri equation for a spinning fluid in a Riemann-Cartan spacetime is developed and discussed using the self-consistent Lagrangian based formulation for the Einstein-Cartan theory. It was found that the spin-squared terms contribute to expansion (inflation) at early times and may lead to a bounce in the final collapse. The relationship between the fluid's vorticity and spin angular velocity is clarified and the effect of the interaction terms between the spin angular velocity and the spin in the Raychaudhuri equation investigated. These results should prove useful for studies of systems with an intrinsic spin angular momentum in extreme astrophysical or cosmological problems.

Pressure calculation in hybrid particle-field simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milano, Giuseppe; Kawakatsu, Toshihiro

2010-12-01

In the framework of a recently developed scheme for a hybrid particle-field simulation techniques where self-consistent field (SCF) theory and particle models (molecular dynamics) are combined [J. Chem. Phys. 130, 214106 (2009)], we developed a general formulation for the calculation of instantaneous pressure and stress tensor. The expressions have been derived from statistical mechanical definition of the pressure starting from the expression for the free energy functional in the SCF theory. An implementation of the derived formulation suitable for hybrid particle-field molecular dynamics-self-consistent field simulations is described. A series of test simulations on model systems are reported comparing the calculated pressure with those obtained from standard molecular dynamics simulations based on pair potentials.

Predicting the nonlinear optical response in the resonant region from the linear characterization: a self-consistent theory for the first-, second-, and third-order (non)linear optical response

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pérez-Moreno, Javier; Clays, Koen; Kuzyk, Mark G.

2010-08-01

We introduce a self-consistent theory for the description of the optical linear and nonlinear response of molecules that is based strictly on the results of the experimental characterization. We show how the Thomas-Kuhn sum-rules can be used to eliminate the dependence of the nonlinear response on parameters that are not directly measurable. Our approach leads to the successful modeling of the dispersion of the nonlinear response of complex molecular structures with different geometries (dipolar and octupolar), and can be used as a guide towards the modeling in terms of fundamental physical parameters.

Development of renormalization group analysis of turbulence

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, L. M.

1990-01-01

The renormalization group (RG) procedure for nonlinear, dissipative systems is now quite standard, and its applications to the problem of hydrodynamic turbulence are becoming well known. In summary, the RG method isolates self similar behavior and provides a systematic procedure to describe scale invariant dynamics in terms of large scale variables only. The parameterization of the small scales in a self consistent manner has important implications for sub-grid modeling. This paper develops the homogeneous, isotropic turbulence and addresses the meaning and consequence of epsilon-expansion. The theory is then extended to include a weak mean flow and application of the RG method to a sequence of models is shown to converge to the Navier-Stokes equations.

Extended Lagrangian Excited State Molecular Dynamics

DOE PAGES

Bjorgaard, Josiah August; Sheppard, Daniel Glen; Tretiak, Sergei; ...

2018-01-09

In this work, an extended Lagrangian framework for excited state molecular dynamics (XL-ESMD) using time-dependent self-consistent field theory is proposed. The formulation is a generalization of the extended Lagrangian formulations for ground state Born–Oppenheimer molecular dynamics [Phys. Rev. Lett. 2008 100, 123004]. The theory is implemented, demonstrated, and evaluated using a time-dependent semiempirical model, though it should be generally applicable to ab initio theory. The simulations show enhanced energy stability and a significantly reduced computational cost associated with the iterative solutions of both the ground state and the electronically excited states. Relaxed convergence criteria can therefore be used both formore » the self-consistent ground state optimization and for the iterative subspace diagonalization of the random phase approximation matrix used to calculate the excited state transitions. In conclusion, the XL-ESMD approach is expected to enable numerically efficient excited state molecular dynamics for such methods as time-dependent Hartree–Fock (TD-HF), Configuration Interactions Singles (CIS), and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT).« less

Extended Lagrangian Excited State Molecular Dynamics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bjorgaard, Josiah August; Sheppard, Daniel Glen; Tretiak, Sergei

In this work, an extended Lagrangian framework for excited state molecular dynamics (XL-ESMD) using time-dependent self-consistent field theory is proposed. The formulation is a generalization of the extended Lagrangian formulations for ground state Born–Oppenheimer molecular dynamics [Phys. Rev. Lett. 2008 100, 123004]. The theory is implemented, demonstrated, and evaluated using a time-dependent semiempirical model, though it should be generally applicable to ab initio theory. The simulations show enhanced energy stability and a significantly reduced computational cost associated with the iterative solutions of both the ground state and the electronically excited states. Relaxed convergence criteria can therefore be used both formore » the self-consistent ground state optimization and for the iterative subspace diagonalization of the random phase approximation matrix used to calculate the excited state transitions. In conclusion, the XL-ESMD approach is expected to enable numerically efficient excited state molecular dynamics for such methods as time-dependent Hartree–Fock (TD-HF), Configuration Interactions Singles (CIS), and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT).« less

Extended Lagrangian Excited State Molecular Dynamics.

PubMed

Bjorgaard, J A; Sheppard, D; Tretiak, S; Niklasson, A M N

2018-02-13

An extended Lagrangian framework for excited state molecular dynamics (XL-ESMD) using time-dependent self-consistent field theory is proposed. The formulation is a generalization of the extended Lagrangian formulations for ground state Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics [Phys. Rev. Lett. 2008 100, 123004]. The theory is implemented, demonstrated, and evaluated using a time-dependent semiempirical model, though it should be generally applicable to ab initio theory. The simulations show enhanced energy stability and a significantly reduced computational cost associated with the iterative solutions of both the ground state and the electronically excited states. Relaxed convergence criteria can therefore be used both for the self-consistent ground state optimization and for the iterative subspace diagonalization of the random phase approximation matrix used to calculate the excited state transitions. The XL-ESMD approach is expected to enable numerically efficient excited state molecular dynamics for such methods as time-dependent Hartree-Fock (TD-HF), Configuration Interactions Singles (CIS), and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT).

Transitioning NWChem to the Next Generation of Manycore Machines

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bylaska, Eric J.; Apra, E; Kowalski, Karol

The NorthWest chemistry (NWChem) modeling software is a popular molecular chemistry simulation software that was designed from the start to work on massively parallel processing supercomputers [1-3]. It contains an umbrella of modules that today includes self-consistent eld (SCF), second order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory (MP2), coupled cluster (CC), multiconguration self-consistent eld (MCSCF), selected conguration interaction (CI), tensor contraction engine (TCE) many body methods, density functional theory (DFT), time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT), real-time time-dependent density functional theory, pseudopotential plane-wave density functional theory (PSPW), band structure (BAND), ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD), Car-Parrinello molecular dynamics (MD), classical MD, hybrid quantum mechanicsmore » molecular mechanics (QM/MM), hybrid ab initio molecular dynamics molecular mechanics (AIMD/MM), gauge independent atomic orbital nuclear magnetic resonance (GIAO NMR), conductor like screening solvation model (COSMO), conductor-like screening solvation model based on density (COSMO-SMD), and reference interaction site model (RISM) solvation models, free energy simulations, reaction path optimization, parallel in time, among other capabilities [4]. Moreover, new capabilities continue to be added with each new release.« less

Understanding Sources of Self-Efficacy of Chinese Students Learning English in an American Institution

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zuo, Huifang; Wang, Chuang

2016-01-01

This qualitative study explores the sources of the self-efficacy development of five Chinese doctoral students' use of English as a second language in a southeastern university in the United Sates. Although individual differences were reported, common themes were also recognized. Consistent with the self-efficacy theory and previous studies in…

Nonequilibrium self-energy functional theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hofmann, Felix; Eckstein, Martin; Arrigoni, Enrico; Potthoff, Michael

2013-10-01

The self-energy functional theory (SFT) is generalized to describe the real-time dynamics of correlated lattice-fermion models far from thermal equilibrium. This is achieved by starting from a reformulation of the original equilibrium theory in terms of double-time Green's functions on the Keldysh-Matsubara contour. With the help of a generalized Luttinger-Ward functional, we construct a functional Ω̂[Σ] which is stationary at the physical (nonequilibrium) self-energy Σ and which yields the grand potential of the initial thermal state Ω at the physical point. Nonperturbative approximations can be defined by specifying a reference system that serves to generate trial self-energies. These self-energies are varied by varying the reference system's one-particle parameters on the Keldysh-Matsubara contour. In the case of thermal equilibrium, this approach reduces to the conventional SFT. Contrary to the equilibrium theory, however, “unphysical” variations, i.e., variations that are different on the upper and the lower branches of the Keldysh contour, must be considered to fix the time dependence of the optimal physical parameters via the variational principle. Functional derivatives in the nonequilibrium SFT Euler equation are carried out analytically to derive conditional equations for the variational parameters that are accessible to a numerical evaluation via a time-propagation scheme. Approximations constructed by means of the nonequilibrium SFT are shown to be inherently causal, internally consistent, and to respect macroscopic conservation laws resulting from gauge symmetries of the Hamiltonian. This comprises the nonequilibrium dynamical mean-field theory but also dynamical-impurity and variational-cluster approximations that are specified by reference systems with a finite number of degrees of freedom. In this way, nonperturbative and consistent approximations can be set up, the numerical evaluation of which is accessible to an exact-diagonalization approach.

Conditions associated with wandering in people with dementia from the viewpoint of self-awareness: five case reports.

PubMed

Yokoi, Teruo; Aoyama, Keiji; Ishida, Kie; Okamura, Hitoshi

2012-05-01

The conditions associated with wandering in people with dementia include purposeless activity, purposeful actions, irritation, and symptoms of depression. The words and actions of 5 people admitted to long-term health care facilities who often exhibited wandering behavior were observed, and the above conditions were studied based on our self-awareness model (consisting of "theory of mind," "self-evaluation," and "self-consciousness"). One person who had not passed the theory of mind task but had passed the self-evaluation task was aware of her wandering. However, she could not understand where she wanted to go or for what purpose. Four persons who had not passed the self-evaluation tasks were not aware of their wandering and had no purpose for their wandering.

Sex Offending and Situational Motivation: Findings From a Qualitative Analysis of Desistance From Sexual Offending.

PubMed

Farmer, Mark; McAlinden, Anne-Marie; Maruna, Shadd

2016-09-25

Sex offending is typically understood from a pathology perspective with the origin of the behavior thought to be within the offending individual. Such a perspective may not be beneficial for those seeking to desist from sexual offending and reintegrate into mainstream society. A thematic analysis of 32 self-narratives of men convicted of sexual offences against children suggests that such individuals typically explain their pasts utilizing a script consistent with routine activity theory, emphasizing the role of circumstantial changes in both the onset of and desistance from sexual offending. It is argued that the self-framing of serious offending in this way might be understood as a form of "shame management," a protective cognition that enables desistance by shielding individuals from internalizing stigma for past violence. © The Author(s) 2016.

What Does It Take to Produce Interpretation? Informational, Peircean, and Code-Semiotic Views on Biosemiotics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brier, Soren; Joslyn, Cliff A.

2013-04-01

This paper presents a critical analysis of code-semiotics, which we see as the latest attempt to create paradigmatic foundation for solving the question of the emergence of life and consciousness. We view code semiotics as a an attempt to revise the empirical scientific Darwinian paradigm, and to go beyond the complex systems, emergence, self-organization, and informational paradigms, and also the selfish gene theory of Dawkins and the Peircean pragmaticist semiotic theory built on the simultaneous types of evolution. As such it is a new and bold attempt to use semiotics to solve the problems created by the evolutionary paradigm’s commitmentmore » to produce a theory of how to connect the two sides of the Cartesian dualistic view of physical reality and consciousness in a consistent way.« less

First-principles analysis of anharmonic nuclear motion and thermal transport in thermoelectric materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tadano, Terumasa; Tsuneyuki, Shinji

2015-12-01

We show a first-principles approach for analyzing anharmonic properties of lattice vibrations in solids. We firstly extract harmonic and anharmonic force constants from accurate first-principles calculations based on the density functional theory. Using the many-body perturbation theory of phonons, we then estimate the phonon scattering probability due to anharmonic phonon-phonon interactions. We show the validity of the approach by computing the lattice thermal conductivity of Si, a typical covalent semiconductor, and selected thermoelectric materials PbTe and Bi2Te3 based on the Boltzmann transport equation. We also show that the phonon lifetime and the lattice thermal conductivity of the high-temperature phase of SrTiO3 can be estimated by employing the perturbation theory on top of the solution of the self-consistent phonon equation.

Failure causes fear: the effect of self-esteem threat on death-anxiety.

PubMed

Routledge, Clay

2012-01-01

According to terror management theory (TMT; Greenberg, Pyszczynski, 1986), self-esteem protects people from anxiety associated with the knowledge of certain mortality. A number of studies provide evidence consistent with this assertion, but no studies have experimentally examined the effect of threatened self-esteem on death-anxiety. In the current study, self-esteem was manipulated and death-anxiety measured. A self-esteem threat increased death-anxiety relative to a self-esteem boost and non-self threat control condition.

Anomalous electron transport in Hall-effect thrusters: Comparison between quasi-linear kinetic theory and particle-in-cell simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lafleur, T.; Martorelli, R.; Chabert, P.; Bourdon, A.

2018-06-01

Kinetic drift instabilities have been implicated as a possible mechanism leading to anomalous electron cross-field transport in E × B discharges, such as Hall-effect thrusters. Such instabilities, which are driven by the large disparity in electron and ion drift velocities, present a significant challenge to modelling efforts without resorting to time-consuming particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations. Here, we test aspects of quasi-linear kinetic theory with 2D PIC simulations with the aim of developing a self-consistent treatment of these instabilities. The specific quantities of interest are the instability growth rate (which determines the spatial and temporal evolution of the instability amplitude), and the instability-enhanced electron-ion friction force (which leads to "anomalous" electron transport). By using the self-consistently obtained electron distribution functions from the PIC simulations (which are in general non-Maxwellian), we find that the predictions of the quasi-linear kinetic theory are in good agreement with the simulation results. By contrast, the use of Maxwellian distributions leads to a growth rate and electron-ion friction force that is around 2-4 times higher, and consequently significantly overestimates the electron transport. A possible method for self-consistently modelling the distribution functions without requiring PIC simulations is discussed.

Development of a measure of student self-evaluation of physics exam performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hagedorn, Eric Anthony

The central purpose of this study was to provide preliminary evidence of the reliability and validity of the SEVSI - P (Self- evaluation scaled instrument - physics). This instrument, designed to measure student self-evaluation of physics exam performance, was developed in congruence with social cognitive theory. Self-evaluation in this study is defined to consist of two of the three subprocesses of self-regulation: self-observation and judgmental process. As such, the SEVSI - P consists of two subscales, one measuring the frequency and types of self-observations made during a physics exam and one measuring the frequency and types of judgmental comparisons made after an exam. Data from 621 completed surveys, voluntarily taken by first semester algebra/trigonometry based physics students at six Midwestern universities and one Southern university, were analyzed for reliability and factorial validity. Cronbach alphas of .71 and .83 for the self-observation and judgment subscales, respectively, indicate acceptable reliability for the instrument. Confirmatory factor analysis indicates the acceptability of the hypothesis that the data analyzed could have indeed been obtained from the proposed two factor model (self-observation and judgment). The results of this confirmatory factor analysis provide preliminary construct validity for this instrument. A number of theoretically related items were included on the SEVSI - P form to elicity information about the use of goals and pre-planned strategies, actions taken in response to previous poor performances, and emotional responses to performance. A correlational analysis of these items along with the self-observation and judgment subscale scores provided a limited degree of convergent validity for the two subscales. Analyses of variance were done to determine the presence of differences in scoring patterns based on gender or reported ethnic origin. These results indicate slightly higher judgment subscale scores for women and members of minority groups. The implications of these differences are suggested as warranting future research. Future uses of the SEVSI - P include classroom use to assist students self-evaluate their exam performances in order to increase their achievement. Future research using the SEVSI - P to determine the causal relationships between self-evaluation, actual achievement, and other social cognitive constructs such as self-efficacy are suggested.

The Caregiver Contribution to Heart Failure Self-Care (CACHS): Further Psychometric Testing of a Novel Instrument.

PubMed

Buck, Harleah G; Harkness, Karen; Ali, Muhammad Usman; Carroll, Sandra L; Kryworuchko, Jennifer; McGillion, Michael

2017-04-01

Caregivers (CGs) contribute important assistance with heart failure (HF) self-care, including daily maintenance, symptom monitoring, and management. Until CGs' contributions to self-care can be quantified, it is impossible to characterize it, account for its impact on patient outcomes, or perform meaningful cost analyses. The purpose of this study was to conduct psychometric testing and item reduction on the recently developed 34-item Caregiver Contribution to Heart Failure Self-care (CACHS) instrument using classical and item response theory methods. Fifty CGs (mean age 63 years ±12.84; 70% female) recruited from a HF clinic completed the CACHS in 2014 and results evaluated using classical test theory and item response theory. Items would be deleted for low (<.05) or high (>.95) endorsement, low (<.3) or high (>.7) corrected item-total correlations, significant pairwise correlation coefficients, floor or ceiling effects, relatively low latent trait and item information function levels (<1.5 and p > .5), and differential item functioning. After analysis, 14 items were excluded, resulting in a 20-item instrument (self-care maintenance eight items; monitoring seven items; and management five items). Most items demonstrated moderate to high discrimination (median 2.13, minimum .77, maximum 5.05), and appropriate item difficulty (-2.7 to 1.4). Internal consistency reliability was excellent (Cronbach α = .94, average inter-item correlation = .41) with no ceiling effects. The newly developed 20-item version of the CACHS is supported by rigorous instrument development and represents a novel instrument to measure CGs' contribution to HF self-care. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Development of Depression Profile: a new psychometric instrument to selectively evaluate depressive symptoms based on the neurocircuitry theory.

PubMed

Faludi, Gábor; Gonda, Xenia; Kliment, Edit; Bekes, Vera; Mészáros, Veronika; Oláh, Attila

2010-06-01

Although we have several self-report instruments available to assess depression, they yield a composite score and thus do not allow for the differential examination of major symptom clusters associated with depression. However, such an instrument would be a useful tool in subtyping depression and selecting the most appropriate pharmacotherapy for each patient. The neurocircuitry theory describes the biochemical and neuroanatomic background associated with the major symptoms of depression. Based on the neurocircuitry theory, our team has developed a new instrument, the Depression Profile, to selectively assess depressive symptom clusters associated with different neurotransmitter systems and neuroanatomic structures. The aim of our study was to investigate the psychometric characteristics of Depression Profile. 339 patients consecutively admitted with DSM-IV major depression in our hospital completed the Depression Profile in the first two weeks of their hospitalisation. 81 patients in an adult outpatient unit also completed the Zung Self-rating Depression Scale. Internal consistency of Depression Profile was tested with item analysis. The external validity of Depression Profile against the Zung Self-rating Depression Scale was tested using Pearson correlations. The internal consistency of Depression Profile proved to be excellent. The Cronbach alpha values of the scales met the expectable minimum level derived from the number of items in the scales. In testing for convergent validity, all Pearson correlation coefficients between Depression profile subscales and the Zung Self-rating Depression Scale were significant and moderate to high which indicates the good external validity of our instrument. The initial psychometric evaluation of Depression Profile indicates that our instrument has good reliability and internal and external validity. The instrument also proved to be useful in clinical work to aid the choice of medications and determine the subtype of depressive episodes. Further studies, possibly with biochemical and neuroimaging methodology are needed to validate the 9 main symptom clusters of the Depression Profile subscales with respect to their neuroanatomical and neurochemical bases.

Linear-scaling implementation of molecular response theory in self-consistent field electronic-structure theory.

PubMed

Coriani, Sonia; Høst, Stinne; Jansík, Branislav; Thøgersen, Lea; Olsen, Jeppe; Jørgensen, Poul; Reine, Simen; Pawłowski, Filip; Helgaker, Trygve; Sałek, Paweł

2007-04-21

A linear-scaling implementation of Hartree-Fock and Kohn-Sham self-consistent field theories for the calculation of frequency-dependent molecular response properties and excitation energies is presented, based on a nonredundant exponential parametrization of the one-electron density matrix in the atomic-orbital basis, avoiding the use of canonical orbitals. The response equations are solved iteratively, by an atomic-orbital subspace method equivalent to that of molecular-orbital theory. Important features of the subspace method are the use of paired trial vectors (to preserve the algebraic structure of the response equations), a nondiagonal preconditioner (for rapid convergence), and the generation of good initial guesses (for robust solution). As a result, the performance of the iterative method is the same as in canonical molecular-orbital theory, with five to ten iterations needed for convergence. As in traditional direct Hartree-Fock and Kohn-Sham theories, the calculations are dominated by the construction of the effective Fock/Kohn-Sham matrix, once in each iteration. Linear complexity is achieved by using sparse-matrix algebra, as illustrated in calculations of excitation energies and frequency-dependent polarizabilities of polyalanine peptides containing up to 1400 atoms.

Ground-state energies and highest occupied eigenvalues of atoms in exchange-only density-functional theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yan; Harbola, Manoj K.; Krieger, J. B.; Sahni, Viraht

1989-11-01

The exchange-correlation potential of the Kohn-Sham density-functional theory has recently been interpreted as the work required to move an electron against the electric field of its Fermi-Coulomb hole charge distribution. In this paper we present self-consistent results for ground-state total energies and highest occupied eigenvalues of closed subshell atoms as obtained by this formalism in the exchange-only approximation. The total energies, which are an upper bound, lie within 50 ppm of Hartree-Fock theory for atoms heavier than Be. The highest occupied eigenvalues, as a consequence of this interpretation, approximate well the experimental ionization potentials. In addition, the self-consistently calculated exchange potentials are very close to those of Talman and co-workers [J. D. Talman and W. F. Shadwick, Phys. Rev. A 14, 36 (1976); K. Aashamar, T. M. Luke, and J. D. Talman, At. Data Nucl. Data Tables 22, 443 (1978)].

Hidden Fermi liquid: Self-consistent theory for the normal state of high-Tc superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casey, Philip A.

The anomalous "strange metal" properties of the normal, non-superconducting state of the high-Tc cuprate superconductors have been extensively studied for over two decades. The resistivity is robustly T-linear at high temperatures, while at low T it appears to maintain linearity near optimal doping and is T2 at higher doping. The inverse Hall angle is strictly T2 and hence has a distinct scattering lifetime from the resistivity. The transport scattering lifetime is highly anisotropic as directly measured by angle-dependent magnetoresistance (ADMR) and indirectly in more traditional transport experiments. The IR conductivity exhibits a non-integer power-law in frequency, which we take as a defining characteristic of the "strange metal". A phenomenological theory of the transport and spectroscopic properties at a self-consistent and predictive level has been much sought after, yet elusive. Hidden Fermi liquid theory (HFL) explicitly accounts for the effects of Gutzwiller projection in the t-J Hamiltonian, widely believed to contain the essential physics of the high-Tc superconductors. We show this theory to be the first self-consistent description for the normal state of the cuprates based on transparent, fundamental assumptions. Our well-defined formalism also serves as a guide for further experimental confirmation. Chapter 1 reviews the "strange metal" properties and the relevant aspects of competing models. Chapter 2 presents the theoretical foundations of the formalism. Chapters 3 and 4 derive expressions for the entire normal state relating many of the properties, for example: angle-resolved photoemission, IR conductivity, resistivity, Hall angle, and by generalizing the formalism to include the Fermi surface topology---ADMR. Self-consistency is demonstrated with experimental comparisons, including the most recent laser-ARPES and ADMR. Chapter 5 discusses entropy transport, as in the thermal conductivity, thermal Hall conductivity, and consequent metrics of non-Fermi liquid behavior such as the Wiedemann-Franz and Kadowaki-Woods ratios.

Self-affirmation activates brain systems associated with self-related processing and reward and is reinforced by future orientation

PubMed Central

O’Donnell, Matthew Brook; Tinney, Francis J.; Lieberman, Matthew D.; Taylor, Shelley E.; Strecher, Victor J.; Falk, Emily B.

2016-01-01

Self-affirmation theory posits that people are motivated to maintain a positive self-view and that threats to perceived self-competence are met with resistance. When threatened, self-affirmations can restore self-competence by allowing individuals to reflect on sources of self-worth, such as core values. Many questions exist, however, about the underlying mechanisms associated with self-affirmation. We examined the neural mechanisms of self-affirmation with a task developed for use in a functional magnetic resonance imaging environment. Results of a region of interest analysis demonstrated that participants who were affirmed (compared with unaffirmed participants) showed increased activity in key regions of the brain’s self-processing (medial prefrontal cortex + posterior cingulate cortex) and valuation (ventral striatum + ventral medial prefrontal cortex) systems when reflecting on future-oriented core values (compared with everyday activities). Furthermore, this neural activity went on to predict changes in sedentary behavior consistent with successful affirmation in response to a separate physical activity intervention. These results highlight neural processes associated with successful self-affirmation, and further suggest that key pathways may be amplified in conjunction with prospection. PMID:26541373

Analysis of mass incident diffusion in Weibo based on self-organization theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Jun; Shen, Huizhang

2018-02-01

This study introduces some theories and methods of self-organization system to the research of the diffusion mechanism of mass incidents in Weibo (Chinese Twitter). Based on the analysis on massive Weibo data from Songjiang battery factory incident happened in 2013 and Jiiangsu Qidong OJI PAPER incident happened in 2012, we find out that diffusion system of mass incident in Weibo satisfies Power Law, Zipf's Law, 1/f noise and Self-similarity. It means this system is the self-organization criticality system and dissemination bursts can be understood as one kind of Self-organization behavior. As the consequence, self-organized criticality (SOC) theory can be used to explain the evolution of mass incident diffusion and people may come up with the right strategy to control such kind of diffusion if they can handle the key ingredients of Self-organization well. Such a study is of practical importance which can offer opportunities for policy makers to have good management on these events.

Development and psychometric validation of social cognitive theory scales in an oral health context.

PubMed

Jones, Kelly; Parker, Eleanor J; Steffens, Margaret A; Logan, Richard M; Brennan, David; Jamieson, Lisa M

2016-04-01

This study aimed to develop and evaluate scales reflecting potentially modifiable social cognitive theory-based risk indicators associated with homeless populations' oral health. The scales are referred to as the social cognitive theory risk scales in an oral health context (SCTOH) and are referred to as SCTOH(SE), SCTOH(K) and SCTOH(F), respectively. The three SCTOH scales assess the key constructs of social cognitive theory: self-efficacy, knowledge and fatalism. The reliability and validity of the three scales were evaluated in a convenience sample of 248 homeless participants (age range 17-78 years, 79% male) located in a metropolitan setting in Australia. The scales were supported by exploratory factor analysis and established three distinct and internally consistent domains of social cognition: oral health-related self-efficacy, oral health-related knowledge and oral health-related fatalism, with Cronbach's alphas of 0.95, 0.85 and Spearman's-Brown ρ of 0.69. Concurrent ability was confirmed by each SCTOH scale's association with oral health status in the expected directions. The three SCTOH scales appear to be internally valid and reliable. If confirmed by further research, these scales could potentially be used for tailored educational and cognitive-behavioural interventions to reduce oral health inequalities among homeless and other vulnerable populations. © 2015 Public Health Association of Australia.

Nonequilibrium fixed points in longitudinally expanding scalar theories: Infrared cascade, Bose condensation and a challenge for kinetic theory

DOE PAGES

Berges, J.; Schlichting, S.; Boguslavski, K.; ...

2015-11-05

In [Phys. Rev. Lett. 114, 061601 (2015)], we reported on a new universality class for longitudinally expanding systems, encompassing strongly correlated non-Abelian plasmas and N-component self-interacting scalar field theories. Using classical-statistical methods, we showed that these systems share the same self-similar scaling properties for a wide range of momenta in a limit where particles are weakly coupled but their occupancy is high. Here we significantly expand on our previous work and delineate two further self-similar regimes. One of these occurs in the deep infrared (IR) regime of very high occupancies, where the nonequilibrium dynamics leads to the formation of amore » Bose-Einstein condensate. The universal IR scaling exponents and the spectral index characterizing the isotropic IR distributions are described by an effective theory derived from a systematic large-N expansion at next-to-leading order. Remarkably, this effective theory can be cast as a vertex-resummed kinetic theory. The other novel self-similar regime occurs close to the hard physical scale of the theory, and sets in only at later times. In this study, we argue that the important role of the infrared dynamics ensures that key features of our results for scalar and gauge theories cannot be reproduced consistently in conventional kinetic theory frameworks.« less

Nonequilibrium fixed points in longitudinally expanding scalar theories: Infrared cascade, Bose condensation and a challenge for kinetic theory

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Berges, J.; Schlichting, S.; Boguslavski, K.

In [Phys. Rev. Lett. 114, 061601 (2015)], we reported on a new universality class for longitudinally expanding systems, encompassing strongly correlated non-Abelian plasmas and N-component self-interacting scalar field theories. Using classical-statistical methods, we showed that these systems share the same self-similar scaling properties for a wide range of momenta in a limit where particles are weakly coupled but their occupancy is high. Here we significantly expand on our previous work and delineate two further self-similar regimes. One of these occurs in the deep infrared (IR) regime of very high occupancies, where the nonequilibrium dynamics leads to the formation of amore » Bose-Einstein condensate. The universal IR scaling exponents and the spectral index characterizing the isotropic IR distributions are described by an effective theory derived from a systematic large-N expansion at next-to-leading order. Remarkably, this effective theory can be cast as a vertex-resummed kinetic theory. The other novel self-similar regime occurs close to the hard physical scale of the theory, and sets in only at later times. In this study, we argue that the important role of the infrared dynamics ensures that key features of our results for scalar and gauge theories cannot be reproduced consistently in conventional kinetic theory frameworks.« less

Motivation in later life: theory and assessment.

PubMed

Vallerand, R J; O'Connor, B P; Hamel, M

1995-01-01

A framework that has been found useful in research on young adults, Deci and Ryan's self-determination theory [1, 2], is suggested as a promising direction for research on motivation in later life. The theory proposes the existence of four types of motivation (intrinsic, self-determined extrinsic, nonself-determined extrinsic, and amotivation) which are assumed to have varying consequences for adaptation and well-being. A previously published French measure of motivational styles which is known to be reliable and valid was translated into English and was tested on seventy-seven nursing home residents (aged 60 to 98 years). It was found that the four motivational styles can be reliably measured; that the intercorrelations between the motivational styles are consistent with theoretical predictions; and that the four types of motivation are related to other important aspects of the lives of elderly people in a theoretically meaningful manner. Suggestions are made for further research using self-determination theory and the present scales.

Between-sex differences in romantic jealousy: substance or spin? A qualitative analysis.

PubMed

Fussell, Nicola J; Stollery, Brian T

2012-03-29

An influential evolutionary account of romantic jealousy proposes that natural selection shaped a specific sexually-dimorphic psychological mechanism in response to relationship threat. However, this account has faced considerable theoretical and methodological criticism and it remains unclear whether putative sex differences in romantic jealousy actually exist and, if they do, whether they are consistent with its predictions. Given the multidimensional nature of romantic jealousy, the current study employed a qualitative design to examine these issues. We report the results of sixteen semi-structured interviews that were conducted with heterosexual men and women with the purpose of exploring the emotions, cognitions and behaviors that formed their subjective, lived experience in response to relationship threat. Interpretative phenomenological analysis revealed four super-ordinate themes ("threat appraisal", "emotional episodes", "sex-specific threat" and "forgive and forget") and unequivocal sex differences in romantic jealousy consistent with the evolutionary account. Self-esteem, particularly when conceptualized as an index of mate value, emerged as an important proximal mediator for both sexes. However, specific outcomes were dependent upon domains central to the individual's self concept that were primarily sex-specific. The findings are integrated within the context of existing self-esteem and evolutionary theory and future directions for romantic jealousy research are suggested.

Derivation of Multiple Covarying Material and Process Parameters Using Physics-Based Modeling of X-ray Data

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Khaira, Gurdaman; Doxastakis, Manolis; Bowen, Alec

There is considerable interest in developing multimodal characterization frameworks capable of probing critical properties of complex materials by relying on distinct, complementary methods or tools. Any such framework should maximize the amount of information that is extracted from any given experiment and should be sufficiently powerful and efficient to enable on-the-fly analysis of multiple measurements in a self-consistent manner. Such a framework is demonstrated in this work in the context of self-assembling polymeric materials, where theory and simulations provide the language to seamlessly mesh experimental data from two different scattering measurements. Specifically, the samples considered here consist of diblock copolymersmore » (BCP) that are self-assembled on chemically nanopatterned surfaces. The copolymers microphase separate into ordered lamellae with characteristic dimensions on the scale of tens of nanometers that are perfectly aligned by the substrate over macroscopic areas. These aligned lamellar samples provide ideal standards with which to develop the formalism introduced in this work and, more generally, the concept of high-information-content, multimodal experimentation. The outcomes of the proposed analysis are then compared to images generated by 3D scanning electron microscopy tomography, serving to validate the merit of the framework and ideas proposed here.« less

Non-suicidal self-injury and other self-directed violent behaviors in India: A review of definitions and research.

PubMed

Gandhi, Amarendra; Luyckx, Koen; Maitra, Shubhada; Claes, Laurence

2016-08-01

The interpersonal theory of suicide suggests that most forms of self-directed violent behaviors lie on a continuum, with each behavior successively increasing the capability of committing suicide. There is increasing evidence to suggest that the continuum may begin with Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI). This theory can be important in developing interventions for suicide prevention. However, in India, consistent usage of definitions of various forms of self-directed violent behaviors is lacking. In the present study, we reviewed definitions of various forms of self-directed violent behaviors that have been investigated in India. Further, we compared the usage of these definitions with the usage by WHO. Additionally, we reviewed NSSI research in India. Thirty-eight publications were identified by a comprehensive electronic search undertaken in Indian psychiatry, psychology, and mental health-related databases. Inconsistent definitions of eight self-directed violent behaviors were observed in Indian literature. Agreement on consistent definitions of various forms of self-directed behaviors is essential. Based on the findings of the current review, it can be suggested that culturally relevant large-scale research on NSSI in India is required to confirm the limited evidence that suggests high prevalence of NSSI in India. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Self-image resilience and dissonance: the role of affirmational resources.

PubMed

Steele, C M; Spencer, S J; Lynch, M

1993-06-01

It was predicted that high self-esteem Ss (HSEs) would rationalize an esteem-threatening decision less than low self-esteem Ss (LSEs), because HSEs presumably had more favorable self-concepts with which to affirm, and thus repair, their overall sense of self-integrity. This prediction was supported in 2 experiments within the "free-choice" dissonance paradigm--one that manipulated self-esteem through personality feedback and the other that varied it through selection of HSEs and LSEs, but only when Ss were made to focus on their self-concepts. A 3rd experiment countered an alternative explanation of the results in terms of mood effects that may have accompanied the experimental manipulations. The results were discussed in terms of the following: (a) their support for a resources theory of individual differences in resilience to self-image threats--an extension of self-affirmation theory, (b) their implications for self-esteem functioning, and (c) their implications for the continuing debate over self-enhancement versus self-consistency motivation.

The motivation for drug abuse treatment: testing cognitive and 12-step theories.

PubMed

Bell, D C; Montoya, I D; Richard, A J; Dayton, C A

1998-11-01

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate two models of behavior change: cognitive theory and 12-step theory. Research subjects were drawn from three separate, but parallel, samples of adults. The first sample consisted of out-of-treatment chronic drug users, the second consisted of drug users who had applied for treatment at a publicly funded multiple-provider drug treatment facility, and the third consisted of drug users who had applied for treatment at an intensive outpatient program for crack cocaine users. Cognitive theory was supported. Study participants applying for drug abuse treatment reported a higher level of perceived problem severity and a higher level of cognitive functioning than out-of-treatment drug users. Two hypotheses drawn from 12-step theory were not supported. Treatment applicants had more positive emotional functioning than out-of-treatment drug users, and one treatment-seeking sample had higher self-esteem.

Behavioral change in patients with severe self-injurious behavior: a patient's perspective.

PubMed

Kool, Nienke; van Meijel, Berno; Bosman, Maartje

2009-02-01

Semistructured interviews were conducted with 12 women who had successfully stopped self-injuring to gain an understanding of the process of stopping self-injury. The data were analyzed based on the grounded theory method. The researchers found that the process of stopping self-injury consists of six phases. Connection was identified as key to all phases of the process. Nursing interventions should focus on forging a connection, encouraging people who self-injure to develop a positive self-image and learn alternative behavior.

Density functional theory for polymeric systems in 2D.

PubMed

Słyk, Edyta; Roth, Roland; Bryk, Paweł

2016-06-22

We propose density functional theory for polymeric fluids in two dimensions. The approach is based on Wertheim's first order thermodynamic perturbation theory (TPT) and closely follows density functional theory for polymers proposed by Yu and Wu (2002 J. Chem. Phys. 117 2368). As a simple application we evaluate the density profiles of tangent hard-disk polymers at hard walls. The theoretical predictions are compared against the results of the Monte Carlo simulations. We find that for short chain lengths the theoretical density profiles are in an excellent agreement with the Monte Carlo data. The agreement is less satisfactory for longer chains. The performance of the theory can be improved by recasting the approach using the self-consistent field theory formalism. When the self-avoiding chain statistics is used, the theory yields a marked improvement in the low density limit. Further improvements for long chains could be reached by going beyond the first order of TPT.

The Needs Analysis in Self-Concept Module Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yusop, Yusni Mohamad; Sumari, Melati; Mohamed, Fatanah; Said, Shahriza; Azeez, Mohd Ibrahim K.; Jamil, Mohd Ridhuan Mohd

2015-01-01

This research studies needs analyses conducted to examine the need for a self-concept module. Two types of analyses had been conducted; content analysis and experts' consensus. Content analysis was conducted to explore the issues of self-concept from the theory and literature perspective. Later, needs analysis had also been carried out to observe…

Hypnosis in the Treatment of Alcoholism: A Theoretical Perspective.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Steffenhagen, R. A.

1983-01-01

Reviews the history and theory of alcoholism and hypnosis and proposes a theoretical model of alcholism based on self-esteem. Suggets that hypnosis may be an effective tool in the treatment of alcoholism with cure as the goal, and calls for more consistency in theory and practice. (JAC)

Perceptions of Self-Testing for Chlamydia: Understanding and Predicting Self-Test Use.

PubMed

Powell, Rachael; Pattison, Helen M; Marriott, John F

2016-05-10

Self-testing technology allows people to test themselves for chlamydia without professional support. This may result in reassurance and wider access to chlamydia testing, but anxiety could occur on receipt of positive results. This study aimed to identify factors important in understanding self-testing for chlamydia outside formal screening contexts, to explore the potential impacts of self-testing on individuals, and to identify theoretical constructs to form a Framework for future research and intervention development. Eighteen university students participated in semi-structured interviews; eleven had self-tested for chlamydia. Data were analysed thematically usingaFrameworkapproach. Perceivedbenefitsofself-testingincludeditsbeingconvenient, anonymousandnotrequiringphysicalexamination. Therewasconcernabouttestaccuracyandsome participants lacked confidence in using vulvo-vaginal swabs. While some participants expressed concern about the absence of professional support, all said they would seek help on receiving a positive result. Factors identified in Protection Motivation Theory and the Theory of Planned Behaviour, such as response efficacy and self-efficacy, were found to be highly salient to participants in thinking about self-testing. These exploratory findings suggest that self-testing independentlyofformalhealthcaresystemsmaynomorenegativelyimpactpeoplethanbeingtested by health care professionals. Participants' perceptions about self-testing behaviour were consistent with psychological theories. Findings suggest that interventions which increase confidence in using self-tests and that provide reassurance of test accuracy may increase self-test intentions.

Self-criticism in therapist training: A grounded theory analysis.

PubMed

Kannan, Divya; Levitt, Heidi M

2017-03-01

The primary objective of this study is to engender an understanding of how therapists-in-training experience and cope with self-criticism in the context of their clinical training and therapy experiences. In this study, trainees were interviewed about their experience of self-criticism related to psychotherapy practice and these interviews were subjected to a grounded theory analysis generating a core self-critical process. The analysis highlighted the vulnerability of self-criticism in therapists' training experiences, especially when they related to balancing the "expert" role while maintaining authentic interactions with their clients. The results also described ways in which self-criticism is mitigated by a sense of interpersonal safety and the provision of clinical freedom and flexibility in therapists' training. The implications for future psychotherapy research and clinical training within clinical training environments are discussed.

Implicit theory of athletic ability and self-handicapping in college students.

PubMed

Chen, Lung Hung; Chen, Mei-Yen; Lin, Meng-Shyan; Kee, Ying Hwa; Kuo, Chin Fang; Shui, Shang-Hsueh

2008-10-01

Self-handicapping is a maladaptive behavior which undermines students' achievements, but the antecedents of self-handicapping are not well studied in physical education. The aim was to examine the relations of implicit theory of abilities and self-handicapping in physical education. 264 college students, whose mean age was 20.3 yr. (SD = 1.7), completed the Conceptions of the Nature of Athletic Ability Questionnaire-2 and Self-handicapping Scale for Sport. Analysis indicated entity beliefs positively predicted reduced effort and making excuses. Also, incremental beliefs negatively predicted reduced effort. Results are discussed in terms of implicit theory of ability and self-handicapping. Directions for research and implications are stated.

Justifying quasiparticle self-consistent schemes via gradient optimization in Baym-Kadanoff theory.

PubMed

Ismail-Beigi, Sohrab

2017-09-27

The question of which non-interacting Green's function 'best' describes an interacting many-body electronic system is both of fundamental interest as well as of practical importance in describing electronic properties of materials in a realistic manner. Here, we study this question within the framework of Baym-Kadanoff theory, an approach where one locates the stationary point of a total energy functional of the one-particle Green's function in order to find the total ground-state energy as well as all one-particle properties such as the density matrix, chemical potential, or the quasiparticle energy spectrum and quasiparticle wave functions. For the case of the Klein functional, our basic finding is that minimizing the length of the gradient of the total energy functional over non-interacting Green's functions yields a set of self-consistent equations for quasiparticles that is identical to those of the quasiparticle self-consistent GW (QSGW) (van Schilfgaarde et al 2006 Phys. Rev. Lett. 96 226402-4) approach, thereby providing an a priori justification for such an approach to electronic structure calculations. In fact, this result is general, applies to any self-energy operator, and is not restricted to any particular approximation, e.g., the GW approximation for the self-energy. The approach also shows that, when working in the basis of quasiparticle states, solving the diagonal part of the self-consistent Dyson equation is of primary importance while the off-diagonals are of secondary importance, a common observation in the electronic structure literature of self-energy calculations. Finally, numerical tests and analytical arguments show that when the Dyson equation produces multiple quasiparticle solutions corresponding to a single non-interacting state, minimizing the length of the gradient translates into choosing the solution with largest quasiparticle weight.

Self-consistent approach to many-body localization and subdiffusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prelovšek, P.; Herbrych, J.

2017-07-01

An analytical theory, based on the perturbative treatment of the disorder and extended into a self-consistent set of equations for the dynamical density correlations, is developed and applied to the prototype one-dimensional model of many-body localization. Results show a qualitative agreement with the numerically obtained dynamical structure factor in the whole range of frequencies and wave vectors, as well as across the transition to nonergodic behavior. The theory reveals the singular nature of the one-dimensional problem, whereby on the ergodic side the dynamics is subdiffusive with dynamical conductivity σ (ω ) ∝|ω| α , i.e., with vanishing dc limit σ0=0 and α <1 varying with disorder, while we get α >1 in the localized phase.

Time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) coupled with reference interaction site model self-consistent field explicitly including spatial electron density distribution (RISM-SCF-SEDD)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yokogawa, D., E-mail: d.yokogawa@chem.nagoya-u.ac.jp; Institute of Transformative Bio-Molecules

2016-09-07

Theoretical approach to design bright bio-imaging molecules is one of the most progressing ones. However, because of the system size and computational accuracy, the number of theoretical studies is limited to our knowledge. To overcome the difficulties, we developed a new method based on reference interaction site model self-consistent field explicitly including spatial electron density distribution and time-dependent density functional theory. We applied it to the calculation of indole and 5-cyanoindole at ground and excited states in gas and solution phases. The changes in the optimized geometries were clearly explained with resonance structures and the Stokes shift was correctly reproduced.

Self-consistent modeling of laminar electrohydrodynamic plumes from ultra-sharp needles in cyclohexane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Becerra, Marley; Frid, Henrik; Vázquez, Pedro A.

2017-12-01

This paper presents a self-consistent model of electrohydrodynamic (EHD) laminar plumes produced by electron injection from ultra-sharp needle tips in cyclohexane. Since the density of electrons injected into the liquid is well described by the Fowler-Nordheim field emission theory, the injection law is not assumed. Furthermore, the generation of electrons in cyclohexane and their conversion into negative ions is included in the analysis. Detailed steady-state characteristics of EHD plumes under weak injection and space-charge limited injection are studied. It is found that the plume characteristics far from both electrodes and under weak injection can be accurately described with an asymptotic simplified solution proposed by Vazquez et al. ["Dynamics of electrohydrodynamic laminar plumes: Scaling analysis and integral model," Phys. Fluids 12, 2809 (2000)] when the correct longitudinal electric field distribution and liquid velocity radial profile are used as input. However, this asymptotic solution deviates from the self-consistently calculated plume parameters under space-charge limited injection since it neglects the radial variations of the electric field produced by a high-density charged core. In addition, no significant differences in the model estimates of the plume are found when the simulations are obtained either with the finite element method or with a diffusion-free particle method. It is shown that the model also enables the calculation of the current-voltage characteristic of EHD laminar plumes produced by electron field emission, with good agreement with measured values reported in the literature.

Dental hygiene self-assessment: a key to quality care.

PubMed

DeVore, L; Fried, J L; Dailey, J; Qori, C G

2000-01-01

To help achieve the goal of delivering quality care to the public, this study applied the Theory of Reasoned Action to dental hygienists' self-assessment (appraisal of one's performance). This theory suggests that individuals are likely to exhibit a given behavior, i.e., self-assessment, when they view it positively and when they believe that important others think they should perform it. To date, no research has been conducted on the self-assessment (SA) behaviors of practicing dental hygienists. The following research questions were addressed: what/who are the (1) behavioral beliefs; (2) normative beliefs; (3) salient referents; (4) attitudes toward self-assessment; (5) intentions to perform self-assessment; (6) outcomes associated with self-assessment; and (7) motivations to comply with self-assessment in a representative sample of dental hygienists? This study consisted of two phases: Phase I, telephone interviews (N = 30) and Phase II, a mailed survey of 600 randomly selected subjects. Interview responses from Phase I determined questionnaire items. Survey data analysis included descriptive statistics and correlations of component mean scores. A total of 273 usable surveys were returned, achieving a 46% response rate. Respondents valued the potential benefits of SA with a statistical mean of 2.70 on a six point scale ranging from minus three to plus three. Attitude correlated strongly with intention to self-assess (R = .7455). Survey respondents are motivated by their own beliefs and perceived benefits of SA rather than by the values of others. The insights that were derived from this study will permit the development of strategies to enable dental hygiene educators and practitioners to incorporate self-assessment as part of quality assurance plans. Application of well-developed self-assessment strategies promises potential benefits for dental hygienists and the public they serve.

Examining the impact of harmonic correlation on vibrational frequencies calculated in localized coordinates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hanson-Heine, Magnus W. D., E-mail: magnus.hansonheine@nottingham.ac.uk

Carefully choosing a set of optimized coordinates for performing vibrational frequency calculations can significantly reduce the anharmonic correlation energy from the self-consistent field treatment of molecular vibrations. However, moving away from normal coordinates also introduces an additional source of correlation energy arising from mode-coupling at the harmonic level. The impact of this new component of the vibrational energy is examined for a range of molecules, and a method is proposed for correcting the resulting self-consistent field frequencies by adding the full coupling energy from connected pairs of harmonic and pseudoharmonic modes, termed vibrational self-consistent field (harmonic correlation). This approach ismore » found to lift the vibrational degeneracies arising from coordinate optimization and provides better agreement with experimental and benchmark frequencies than uncorrected vibrational self-consistent field theory without relying on traditional correlated methods.« less

Development and evaluation of theory-based diabetes support services.

PubMed

Guo, Sophie Huey-Ming; Lin, Yung-Hsiu; Chen, Rong-Rong; Kao, Shu-Fen; Chang, Her-Kun

2013-01-01

Technology-enabled support services for diabetes can fulfill patient demand to care for diabetes independently. Patients benefit from such services after greater adoption of the services in healthcare systems. Unfortunately, conventional service development fails to thoroughly understand patient care support, making it difficult to achieve the desired design, and posing substantial challenges in adopting these services. Thus, previously developed services in many cases are not as patients expected, as evidenced by their low acceptance among patients. To solve this problem, adequate strategies must be developed by incorporating theoretical knowledge as a solid foundation in order to improve service design. This study develops technology-enabled diabetes support services based on the self-care theory. A set of self-care service scenarios is also established and combined with theoretical concepts. The developed services consist of a nurse-led consultation service and a mobile application service. Additionally, user acceptance is confirmed by assessing patient perceptions of the diabetes support services in a group of patients with diabetes (N=27). Results of analysis reveal that patients respond favorably toward the services. Patient preference and perceived ease of use attest to their intention to use the services. Greater adoption of the services can be anticipated, owing to a higher levels of preference and higher perceived ease of use. This study demonstrated that the self-care theory can be linked to nursing informatics research and chronic care clinical practices.

The blood donor identity survey: a multidimensional measure of blood donor motivations.

PubMed

France, Christopher R; Kowalsky, Jennifer M; France, Janis L; Himawan, Lina K; Kessler, Debra A; Shaz, Beth H

2014-08-01

Evidence indicates that donor identity is an important predictor of donation behavior; however, prior studies have relied on diverse, unidimensional measures with limited psychometric support. The goals of this study were to examine the application of self-determination theory to blood donor motivations and to develop and validate a related multidimensional measure of donor identity. Items were developed and administered electronically to a sample of New York Blood Center (NYBC) donors (n=582) and then to a sample of Ohio University students (n=1005). Following initial confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) on the NYBC sample to identify key items related to self-determination theory's six motivational factors, a revised survey was administered to the university sample to reexamine model fit and to assess survey reliability and validity. Consistent with self-determination theory, for both samples CFAs indicated that the best fit to the data was provided by a six-motivational-factor model, including amotivation, external regulation, introjected regulation, identified regulation, integrated regulation, and intrinsic regulation. The Blood Donor Identity Survey provides a psychometrically sound, multidimensional measure of donor motivations (ranging from unmotivated to donate to increasing levels of autonomous motivation to donate) that is suitable for nondonors as well as donors with varying levels of experience. Future research is needed to examine longitudinal changes in donor identity and its relationship to actual donation behavior. © 2014 AABB.

Development and validation of the Alcohol Myopia Scale.

PubMed

Lac, Andrew; Berger, Dale E

2013-09-01

Alcohol myopia theory conceptualizes the ability of alcohol to narrow attention and how this demand on mental resources produces the impairments of self-inflation, relief, and excess. The current research was designed to develop and validate a scale based on this framework. People who were alcohol users rated items representing myopic experiences arising from drinking episodes in the past month. In Study 1 (N = 260), the preliminary 3-factor structure was supported by exploratory factor analysis. In Study 2 (N = 289), the 3-factor structure was substantiated with confirmatory factor analysis, and it was superior in fit to an empirically indefensible 1-factor structure. The final 14-item scale was evaluated with internal consistency reliability, discriminant validity, convergent validity, criterion validity, and incremental validity. The alcohol myopia scale (AMS) illuminates conceptual underpinnings of this theory and yields insights for understanding the tunnel vision that arises from intoxication.

Theoretical study of triaxial shapes of neutron-rich Mo and Ru nuclei

DOE PAGES

Zhang, C. L.; Bhat, G. H.; Nazarewicz, W.; ...

2015-09-10

Here, whether atomic nuclei can possess triaxial shapes at their ground states is still a subject of ongoing debate. According to theory, good prospects for low-spin triaxiality are in the neutron-rich Mo-Ru region. Recently, transition quadrupole moments in rotational bands of even-mass neutron-rich isotopes of molybdenum and ruthenium nuclei have been measured. The new data have provided a challenge for theoretical descriptions invoking stable triaxial deformations. The purpose of this study is to understand experimental data on rotational bands in the neutron-rich Mo-Ru region, we carried out theoretical analysis of moments of inertia, shapes, and transition quadrupole moments of neutron-richmore » even-even nuclei around 110Ru using self-consistent mean-field and shell model techniques. Methods: To describe yrast structures in Mo and Ru isotopes, we use nuclear density functional theory (DFT) with the optimized energy density functional UNEDF0. We also apply triaxial projected shell model (TPSM) to describe yrast and positive-parity, near-yrast band structures. As a result, our self-consistent DFT calculations predict triaxial ground-state deformations in 106,108Mo and 108,110,112Ru and reproduce the observed low-frequency behavior of moments of inertia. As the rotational frequency increases, a negative-gamma structure, associated with the aligned ν(h 11/2) 2 pair, becomes energetically favored. The computed transition quadrupole moments vary with angular momentum, which reflects deformation changes with rotation; those variations are consistent with experiment. The TPSM calculations explain the observed band structures assuming stable triaxial shapes. Lastly, the structure of neutron-rich even-even nuclei around Ru-110 is consistent with triaxial shape deformations. Our DFT and TPSM frameworks provide a consistent and complementary description of experimental data.« less

Electrostatic correlations in inhomogeneous charged fluids beyond loop expansion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buyukdagli, Sahin; Achim, C. V.; Ala-Nissila, T.

2012-09-01

Electrostatic correlation effects in inhomogeneous symmetric electrolytes are investigated within a previously developed electrostatic self-consistent theory [R. R. Netz and H. Orland, Eur. Phys. J. E 11, 301 (2003)], 10.1140/epje/i2002-10159-0. To this aim, we introduce two computational approaches that allow to solve the self-consistent equations beyond the loop expansion. The first method is based on a perturbative Green's function technique, and the second one is an extension of a previously introduced semiclassical approximation for single dielectric interfaces to the case of slit nanopores. Both approaches can handle the case of dielectrically discontinuous boundaries where the one-loop theory is known to fail. By comparing the theoretical results obtained from these schemes with the results of the Monte Carlo simulations that we ran for ions at neutral single dielectric interfaces, we first show that the weak coupling Debye-Huckel theory remains quantitatively accurate up to the bulk ion density ρb ≃ 0.01 M, whereas the self-consistent theory exhibits a good quantitative accuracy up to ρb ≃ 0.2 M, thus improving the accuracy of the Debye-Huckel theory by one order of magnitude in ionic strength. Furthermore, we compare the predictions of the self-consistent theory with previous Monte Carlo simulation data for charged dielectric interfaces and show that the proposed approaches can also accurately handle the correlation effects induced by the surface charge in a parameter regime where the mean-field result significantly deviates from the Monte Carlo data. Then, we derive from the perturbative self-consistent scheme the one-loop theory of asymmetrically partitioned salt systems around a dielectrically homogeneous charged surface. It is shown that correlation effects originate in these systems from a competition between the salt screening loss at the interface driving the ions to the bulk region, and the interfacial counterion screening excess attracting them towards the surface. This competition can be quantified in terms of the characteristic surface charge σ _s^*=√{2ρ _b/(π ℓ _B)}, where ℓB = 7 Å is the Bjerrum length. In the case of weak surface charges σ _s≪ σ _s^* where counterions form a diffuse layer, the interfacial salt screening loss is the dominant effect. As a result, correlation effects decrease the mean-field density of both coions and counterions. With an increase of the surface charge towards σ _s^*, the surface-attractive counterion screening excess starts to dominate, and correlation effects amplify in this regime the mean-field density of both type of ions. However, in the regime σ _s>σ _s^*, the same counterion screening excess also results in a significant decrease of the electrostatic mean-field potential. This reduces in turn the mean-field counterion density far from the charged surface. We also show that for σ _s≫ σ _s^*, electrostatic correlations result in a charge inversion effect. However, the electrostatic coupling regime where this phenomenon takes place should be verified with Monte Carlo simulations since this parameter regime is located beyond the validity range of the one-loop theory.

Electrostatic correlations in inhomogeneous charged fluids beyond loop expansion.

PubMed

Buyukdagli, Sahin; Achim, C V; Ala-Nissila, T

2012-09-14

Electrostatic correlation effects in inhomogeneous symmetric electrolytes are investigated within a previously developed electrostatic self-consistent theory [R. R. Netz and H. Orland, Eur. Phys. J. E 11, 301 (2003)]. To this aim, we introduce two computational approaches that allow to solve the self-consistent equations beyond the loop expansion. The first method is based on a perturbative Green's function technique, and the second one is an extension of a previously introduced semiclassical approximation for single dielectric interfaces to the case of slit nanopores. Both approaches can handle the case of dielectrically discontinuous boundaries where the one-loop theory is known to fail. By comparing the theoretical results obtained from these schemes with the results of the Monte Carlo simulations that we ran for ions at neutral single dielectric interfaces, we first show that the weak coupling Debye-Huckel theory remains quantitatively accurate up to the bulk ion density ρ(b) ≃ 0.01 M, whereas the self-consistent theory exhibits a good quantitative accuracy up to ρ(b) ≃ 0.2 M, thus improving the accuracy of the Debye-Huckel theory by one order of magnitude in ionic strength. Furthermore, we compare the predictions of the self-consistent theory with previous Monte Carlo simulation data for charged dielectric interfaces and show that the proposed approaches can also accurately handle the correlation effects induced by the surface charge in a parameter regime where the mean-field result significantly deviates from the Monte Carlo data. Then, we derive from the perturbative self-consistent scheme the one-loop theory of asymmetrically partitioned salt systems around a dielectrically homogeneous charged surface. It is shown that correlation effects originate in these systems from a competition between the salt screening loss at the interface driving the ions to the bulk region, and the interfacial counterion screening excess attracting them towards the surface. This competition can be quantified in terms of the characteristic surface charge σ(s)*=√(2ρ(b)/(πl(B)), where l(B) = 7 Å is the Bjerrum length. In the case of weak surface charges σ(s)≪σ(s)* where counterions form a diffuse layer, the interfacial salt screening loss is the dominant effect. As a result, correlation effects decrease the mean-field density of both coions and counterions. With an increase of the surface charge towards σ(s)*, the surface-attractive counterion screening excess starts to dominate, and correlation effects amplify in this regime the mean-field density of both type of ions. However, in the regime σ(s)>σ(s)*, the same counterion screening excess also results in a significant decrease of the electrostatic mean-field potential. This reduces in turn the mean-field counterion density far from the charged surface. We also show that for σ(s)≫σ(s)*, electrostatic correlations result in a charge inversion effect. However, the electrostatic coupling regime where this phenomenon takes place should be verified with Monte Carlo simulations since this parameter regime is located beyond the validity range of the one-loop theory.

Content Analysis of Diet-Related Mobile Apps: A Self-Regulation Perspective.

PubMed

Zahry, Nagwan R; Cheng, Ying; Peng, Wei

2016-10-01

Diet-related mobile apps hold promise in helping individuals self-regulate their eating behaviors. Nevertheless, little is known about the extent to which diet-related mobile apps incorporate the established behavior change theories and evidence-based practices that promote dietary self-regulation. Guided by the self-regulation aspect of Bandura's social cognitive theory and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, this study conducts a content analysis of diet-related mobile apps for iPhone (N = 400). In terms of the adherence to the self-regulation aspect of the social cognitive theory, results show that although 72.5% of the apps incorporate at least one theoretical construct, few apps tap all three processes of self-regulation (i.e., self-observation/monitoring, judgment process, and self-reaction). Additionally, outcome expectation is manifested in a majority of the diet-related apps. In terms of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010, while the diet-related apps equally emphasize setting goals for calorie intake or nutrient consumption, more apps feature nutrient tracking than calorie tracking. Implications and limitations are discussed.

Developing a supportive-educative program for patients with advanced heart failure within Orem's general theory of nursing.

PubMed

Jaarsma, T; Halfens, R; Senten, M; Abu Saad, H H; Dracup, K

1998-01-01

Recovery from heart failure and coping with the effects of this serious condition has a major impact on the self-care demand of patients with heart failure. To prevent potential self-care deficits, education and support are important issues in nursing care. The purpose of this article is to describe the development of a supportive-educative program that is designed to enhance self-care abilities of patients with heart failure. To structure nursing care for these patients and their families in a consistent systematized way, Orem's general theory of nursing is used as a frame of reference.

Pi Bond Orders and Bond Lengths

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Herndon, William C.; Parkanyi, Cyril

1976-01-01

Discusses three methods of correlating bond orders and bond lengths in unsaturated hydrocarbons: the Pauling theory, the Huckel molecular orbital technique, and self-consistent-field techniques. (MLH)

Psychometric evaluation of the Differentiation of Self Inventory for adolescents.

PubMed

Knauth, Donna G; Skowron, Elizabeth A

2004-01-01

Evidence of psychometric support is needed for use of the Differentiation of Self Inventory with adolescents as a clinical assessment instrument to evaluate psychotherapeutic progress and outcomes, and for its use as a research instrument to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions on the basis of Bowen family systems theory. To examine the reliability and validity of the 46-item, self-report Differentiation of Self Inventory (DSI) for use with adolescents. An ex post facto research design was used to determine the psychometric properties of the DSI for adolescents, and to test theoretically grounded hypotheses drawn from Bowen theory that linked differentiation of self with chronic anxiety and symptom development. The DSI, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Symptom Pattern Scale were administered to an ethnically diverse sample of 363 adolescents 14 to 19 years of age. The DSI full scale demonstrated good internal consistency reliability, with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of.84. Factor analysis yielded a six-factor structure, representing the multidimensionality of the DSI items among adolescents. As hypothesized, differentiation of self mediated the relation between chronic anxiety and symptom development (p <.001), indicating that greater differentiation of self predicted fewer symptoms over and above chronic anxiety, and lending support to the construct validity of the DSI in adolescent populations. The results of this study support the use of the DSI with adolescents. Future longitudinal studies are needed for definitive causal conclusions regarding the role that differentiation of self plays as a mediator between the relation of chronic anxiety and symptom development.

Impact of self-assessment by students on their learning.

PubMed

Sharma, Rajeev; Jain, Amit; Gupta, Naveenta; Garg, Sonia; Batta, Meenal; Dhir, Shashi Kant

2016-01-01

Tutor assessment is sometimes also considered as an exercise of power by the assessor over assesses. Student self-assessment is the process by which the students gather information about and reflect on their own learning and is considered to be a very important component of learning. The primary objective of this study was to analyze the impact of self-assessment by undergraduate medical students on their subsequent academic performance. The secondary objective was to obtain the perception of students and faculty about self-assessment as a tool for enhanced learning. The study was based on the evaluation of two theory tests consisting of both essay type and short answer questions, administered to students of the 1(st) year MBBS (n = 89). They self-assessed their performance after 3 days of the first test followed by marking of faculty and feedback. Then, a nonidentical theory test on the same topic with the same difficulty level was conducted after 7 days and assessed by the teachers. The feedback about the perception of students and faculty about this intervention was obtained. Significant improvement in the academic performance after the process of self-assessment was observed (P < 0.001). There was a significantly positive correlation between student and teacher marking (r = 0.79). Both students and faculty perceived it to be helpful for developing self-directed learning skills. Self-assessment can increase the interest and motivation level of students for the subjects leading to enhanced learning and better academic performance, helping them in development of critical skills for analysis of their own work.

From virtual clustering analysis to self-consistent clustering analysis: a mathematical study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Shaoqiang; Zhang, Lei; Liu, Wing Kam

2018-03-01

In this paper, we propose a new homogenization algorithm, virtual clustering analysis (VCA), as well as provide a mathematical framework for the recently proposed self-consistent clustering analysis (SCA) (Liu et al. in Comput Methods Appl Mech Eng 306:319-341, 2016). In the mathematical theory, we clarify the key assumptions and ideas of VCA and SCA, and derive the continuous and discrete Lippmann-Schwinger equations. Based on a key postulation of "once response similarly, always response similarly", clustering is performed in an offline stage by machine learning techniques (k-means and SOM), and facilitates substantial reduction of computational complexity in an online predictive stage. The clear mathematical setup allows for the first time a convergence study of clustering refinement in one space dimension. Convergence is proved rigorously, and found to be of second order from numerical investigations. Furthermore, we propose to suitably enlarge the domain in VCA, such that the boundary terms may be neglected in the Lippmann-Schwinger equation, by virtue of the Saint-Venant's principle. In contrast, they were not obtained in the original SCA paper, and we discover these terms may well be responsible for the numerical dependency on the choice of reference material property. Since VCA enhances the accuracy by overcoming the modeling error, and reduce the numerical cost by avoiding an outer loop iteration for attaining the material property consistency in SCA, its efficiency is expected even higher than the recently proposed SCA algorithm.

The effects of feedback self-consistency, therapist status, and attitude toward therapy on reaction to personality feedback.

PubMed

Collins, David R; Stukas, Arthur A

2006-08-01

Individuals' reactions to interpersonal feedback may depend on characteristics of the feedback and the feedback source. The present authors examined the effects of experimentally manipulated personality feedback that they--in the guise of therapists--e-mailed to participants on the degree of their acceptance of the feedback. Consistent with Self-Verification Theory (W. B. Swann Jr., 1987), participants accepted feedback that was consistent with their self-views more readily than they did feedback that was inconsistent with their self-views. Furthermore, the authors found main effects for therapist's status and participant's attitude toward therapy. Significant interactions showed effects in which high-status therapists and positive client attitudes increased acceptance of self-inconsistent feedback, effects that were only partially mediated by clients' perceptions of therapist competence. The present results indicate the possibility that participants may be susceptible to self-concept change or to self-fulfilling prophecy effects in therapy when they have a positive attitude toward therapy or are working with a high-status therapist.

A Latent Class Growth Analysis of School Bullying and Its Social Context: The Self-Determination Theory Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lam, Shui-fong; Law, Wilbert; Chan, Chi-Keung; Wong, Bernard P. H.; Zhang, Xiao

2015-01-01

The contribution of social context to school bullying was examined from the self-determination theory perspective in this longitudinal study of 536 adolescents from 3 secondary schools in Hong Kong. Latent class growth analysis of the student-reported data at 5 time points from grade 7 to grade 9 identified 4 groups of students: bullies (9.8%),…

Conductance of finite systems and scaling in localization theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suslov, I. M.

2012-11-01

The conductance of finite systems plays a central role in the scaling theory of localization (Abrahams et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 42, 673 (1979)). Usually it is defined by the Landauer-type formulas, which remain open the following questions: (a) exclusion of the contact resistance in the many-channel case; (b) correspondence of the Landauer conductance with internal properties of the system; (c) relation with the diffusion coefficient D(ω, q) of an infinite system. The answers to these questions are obtained below in the framework of two approaches: (1) self-consistent theory of localization by Vollhardt and Wölfle, and (2) quantum mechanical analysis based on the shell model. Both approaches lead to the same definition for the conductance of a finite system, closely related to the Thouless definition. In the framework of the self-consistent theory, the relations of finite-size scaling are derived and the Gell-Mann-Low functions β( g) for space dimensions d = 1, 2, 3 are calculated. In contrast to the previous attempt by Vollhardt and Wölfle (1982), the metallic and localized phase are considered from the same standpoint, and the conductance of a finite system has no singularity at the critical point. In the 2D case, the expansion of β( g) in 1/ g coincides with results of the σ-model approach on the two-loop level and depends on the renormalization scheme in higher loops; the use of dimensional regularization for transition to dimension d = 2 + ɛ looks incompatible with the physical essence of the problem. The results are compared with numerical and physical experiments. A situation in higher dimensions and the conditions for observation of the localization law σ(ω) ∝ - iω for conductivity are discussed.

A study of Maryland dental hygienists' perceptions regarding self-assessment.

PubMed

Fried, J L; DeVore, L; Dailey, J

2001-01-01

This research applied the Theory of Reasoned Action to study dental hygienists' perceptions about self-assessment (SA). This theory suggests that individuals are likely to exhibit a given behavior, i.e., self-assessment, when they view it positively and when they believe that important others think they should perform it. Using the Theory of Reasoned Action model, the study addressed the following research questions: What are dental hygienists' beliefs, attitudes, motivations, and intentions regarding SA? Respondents were asked if they actually self-assess when providing dental hygiene services and if they felt they had adequate time to do so. The study also examined correlations between socio-demographic variables (i.e., initial year of licensure, educational level, practice characteristics, and professional membership) and self-assessment intention and behavior. A self-administered survey was mailed to 200 dental hygienists randomly selected from a list of all currently licensed dental hygienists in Maryland. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, correlations to predict intention and behavior, and analyses of differences related to socio-demographic variables. A total of 119 usable surveys were returned after one mailing, achieving a 59.5% response rate. The demographic data indicated that the respondents were a representative sample, with 66% holding associate degrees, 30% baccalaureate degrees, and 3% masters' degrees. Respondents' attitudes toward SA and intention to perform SA were strongly positive (X = 2.7, 2.6 respectively, on a Likert Scale ranging from -3 to +3) and, as the Theory of Reasoned Action suggests, attitude was strongly associated with intention (r = .6673). However, in contrast to the Theory, intention was weakly associated with behavior (r = .3721). Only one socio-demographic variable correlated with SA intention or self-reported behavior. Subjects who worked 20 hours per week or more were significantly more likely to self-assess when providing dental hygiene care than those who worked less than 20 hours per week (p < .01, .0089). A majority of respondents (76%) reported that they consistently perform SA and felt they had adequate time to do so. Respondents seemed to be motivated by perceived benefits of SA rather than by social pressure to perform it. Dental hygienists in this study appear to value self-assessment, use it when they provide patient care, and believe they have the time to do it. The extent and scope of their SA behaviors were not investigated. As SA is an integral component of quality assurance, application of well-developed self-assessment strategies in both educational and practice settings may benefit both dental hygienists and the public they serve.

Social orientation and the social self-esteem of gifted and talented female adolescents.

PubMed

Hollinger, C L; Fleming, E S

1985-03-01

Carlson's developmental theory of self-concept provides a theoretical explanation for equivalent levels of self-esteem among both sexes, despite sex differences in self-concept. The present study tests the applicability of Carlson's theory for a sample of gifted and talented female adolescents by examining three dimensions of possible self-esteem antecedents: actual talent ratings, self-perceptions of talent, and personality attributes. According to Carlson, talent ratings, self-perceptions, and personality attributes consistent with the feminine gender-role stereotype and a social orientation should emerge as positive predictors of the female adolescent's social self-esteem. Results of the regression analyses indicate that the best prediction of the social self-esteem of gifted and talented female adolescents is obtained from a combination of stereotypic feminine socially oriented and stereotypic masculine personally oriented predictor variables. For this sample, constructs such as androgyny appear to be more relevant to the understanding of social self-esteem than dichotomies such as personal-social orientation.

An Assessment of the Army Officer Education System From an Adult Learning Perspective

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-05-26

learning 2 Brockett, Ralph, and Roger Hiemstra. "Bridging the Theory -Practice Gap in Self-Directed... Learning ." In Self-Directed Learning : From Theory to Practice, edited by S. Brookfield. New Directions for Continuing Education No. 25. (San...offers conclusions and recommendations about the Army Officer Education System based on analysis from adult learning theory . Statement of the

Predicting Self-Management Behaviors in Familial Hypercholesterolemia Using an Integrated Theoretical Model: the Impact of Beliefs About Illnesses and Beliefs About Behaviors.

PubMed

Hagger, Martin S; Hardcastle, Sarah J; Hingley, Catherine; Strickland, Ella; Pang, Jing; Watts, Gerald F

2016-06-01

Patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) are at markedly increased risk of coronary artery disease. Regular participation in three self-management behaviors, physical activity, healthy eating, and adherence to medication, can significantly reduce this risk in FH patients. We aimed to predict intentions to engage in these self-management behaviors in FH patients using a multi-theory, integrated model that makes the distinction between beliefs about illness and beliefs about self-management behaviors. Using a cross-sectional, correlational design, patients (N = 110) diagnosed with FH from a clinic in Perth, Western Australia, self-completed a questionnaire that measured constructs from three health behavior theories: the common sense model of illness representations (serious consequences, timeline, personal control, treatment control, illness coherence, emotional representations); theory of planned behavior (attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control); and social cognitive theory (self-efficacy). Structural equation models for each self-management behavior revealed consistent and statistically significant effects of attitudes on intentions across the three behaviors. Subjective norms predicted intentions for health eating only and self-efficacy predicted intentions for physical activity only. There were no effects for the perceived behavioral control and common sense model constructs in any model. Attitudes feature prominently in determining intentions to engage in self-management behaviors in FH patients. The prominence of these attitudinal beliefs about self-management behaviors, as opposed to illness beliefs, suggest that addressing these beliefs may be a priority in the management of FH.

Performance and Self-Consistency of the Generalized Dielectric Dependent Hybrid Functional

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brawand, Nicholas P.; Govoni, Marco; Vörös, Márton

Here, we analyze the performance of the recently proposed screened exchange constant functional (SX) on the GW100 test set, and we discuss results obtained at different levels of self-consistency. The SX functional is a generalization of dielectric dependent hybrid functionals to finite systems; it is nonempirical and depends on the average screening of the exchange interaction. We compare results for ionization potentials obtained with SX to those of CCSD(T) calculations and experiments, and we find excellent agreement, on par with recent state of the art methods based on many body perturbation theory. Applying SX perturbatively to correct PBE eigenvalues yieldsmore » improved results in most cases, except for ionic molecules, for which wave function self-consistency is instead crucial. Calculations where wave functions and the screened exchange constant (α SX) are determined self-consistently, and those where α SX is fixed to the value determined within PBE, yield results of comparable accuracy. Perturbative G 0W 0 corrections of eigenvalues obtained with self-consistent αSX are small on average, for all molecules in the GW100 test set.« less

Performance and Self-Consistency of the Generalized Dielectric Dependent Hybrid Functional

DOE PAGES

Brawand, Nicholas P.; Govoni, Marco; Vörös, Márton; ...

2017-05-24

Here, we analyze the performance of the recently proposed screened exchange constant functional (SX) on the GW100 test set, and we discuss results obtained at different levels of self-consistency. The SX functional is a generalization of dielectric dependent hybrid functionals to finite systems; it is nonempirical and depends on the average screening of the exchange interaction. We compare results for ionization potentials obtained with SX to those of CCSD(T) calculations and experiments, and we find excellent agreement, on par with recent state of the art methods based on many body perturbation theory. Applying SX perturbatively to correct PBE eigenvalues yieldsmore » improved results in most cases, except for ionic molecules, for which wave function self-consistency is instead crucial. Calculations where wave functions and the screened exchange constant (α SX) are determined self-consistently, and those where α SX is fixed to the value determined within PBE, yield results of comparable accuracy. Perturbative G 0W 0 corrections of eigenvalues obtained with self-consistent αSX are small on average, for all molecules in the GW100 test set.« less

Tomorrow I'll Be Me: The Effect of Time Perspective on the Activation of Idealistic versus Pragmatic Selves

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kivetz, Yifat; Tyler, Tom R.

2007-01-01

It is widely accepted that the self-system is dynamic and consists of multiple selves that emerge under different contexts. The present research describes two types of diverging self-conceptions, the idealistic and pragmatic selves. Building on a synthesis of construal level theory with research on the self, we propose that a more distal time…

Cognitive components of self esteem for individuals with severe mental illness.

PubMed

Blankertz, L

2001-10-01

In a sample of 182 individuals with severe mental illness, the applicability of reflected appraisals and self-enhancement theories as explanations for global self-esteem was examined at two time points on components of stigma, mastery, overall functioning, education, and job prestige. Path analysis demonstrated that the two theories work independently; and that stigma, mastery, and overall functioning are significant, persist over time, and have an enduring effect on self-esteem.

Self-consistent field theory of tethered polymers: one dimensional, three dimensional, strong stretching theories and the effects of excluded-volume-only interactions.

PubMed

Suo, Tongchuan; Whitmore, Mark D

2014-11-28

We examine end-tethered polymers in good solvents, using one- and three-dimensional self-consistent field theory, and strong stretching theories. We also discuss different tethering scenarios, namely, mobile tethers, fixed but random ones, and fixed but ordered ones, and the effects and important limitations of including only binary interactions (excluded volume terms). We find that there is a "mushroom" regime in which the layer thickness is independent of the tethering density, σ, for systems with ordered tethers, but we argue that there is no such plateau for mobile or disordered anchors, nor is there one in the 1D theory. In the other limit of brushes, all approaches predict that the layer thickness scales linearly with N. However, the σ(1/3) scaling is a result of keeping only excluded volume interactions: when the full potential is included, the dependence is faster and more complicated than σ(1/3). In fact, there does not appear to be any regime in which the layer thickness scales in the combination Nσ(1/3). We also compare the results for two different solvents with each other, and with earlier Θ solvent results.

High School Physical Education: What Contributes to the Experience of Flow?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stormoen, Sidsel; Urke, Helga Bjørnøy; Tjomsland, Hege Eikeland; Wold, Bente; Diseth, Åge

2016-01-01

This study seeks to identify factors that promote positive experiences in high school physical education (PE). The study combines elements of Self-determination Theory (SDT) with the theory of "flow". Special attention is given to gender differences. The study sample consisted of 167 Norwegian senior high school students (78 females and…

Improving Students' Predisposition towards Physical Education by Optimizing Their Motivational Processes in an Acrosport Unit

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abós, Ángel; Sevil, Javier; Julián, José Antonio; Abarca-Sos, Alberto; García-González, Luis

2017-01-01

Grounded in self-determination theory and achievement goal theory, this quasi-experimental study evaluated the effectiveness of a teaching intervention programme to improve predisposition towards physical education based on developing a task-oriented motivational climate and supporting basic psychological needs. The final sample consisted of 35…

Sound produced by an oscillating arc in a high-pressure gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Popov, Fedor K.; Shneider, Mikhail N.

2017-08-01

We suggest a simple theory to describe the sound generated by small periodic perturbations of a cylindrical arc in a dense gas. Theoretical analysis was done within the framework of the non-self-consistent channel arc model and supplemented with time-dependent gas dynamic equations. It is shown that an arc with power amplitude oscillations on the order of several percent is a source of sound whose intensity is comparable with external ultrasound sources used in experiments to increase the yield of nanoparticles in the high pressure arc systems for nanoparticle synthesis.

Modeling of the EAST ICRF antenna with ICANT Code

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Qin Chengming; Zhao Yanping; Colas, L.

2007-09-28

A Resonant Double Loop (RDL) antenna for ion-cyclotron range of frequencies (ICRF) on Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) is under construction. The new antenna is analyzed using the antenna coupling code ICANT which self-consistently determines the surface currents on all antenna parts. In this work, the modeling of the new ICRF antenna using this code is to assess the near-fields in front of the antenna and analysis its coupling capabilities. Moreover, the antenna reactive radiated power computed by ICANT and shows a good agreement with deduced from Transmission Line (TL) theory.

Modeling of the EAST ICRF antenna with ICANT Code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qin, Chengming; Zhao, Yanping; Colas, L.; Heuraux, S.

2007-09-01

A Resonant Double Loop (RDL) antenna for ion-cyclotron range of frequencies (ICRF) on Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) is under construction. The new antenna is analyzed using the antenna coupling code ICANT which self-consistently determines the surface currents on all antenna parts. In this work, the modeling of the new ICRF antenna using this code is to assess the near-fields in front of the antenna and analysis its coupling capabilities. Moreover, the antenna reactive radiated power computed by ICANT and shows a good agreement with deduced from Transmission Line (TL) theory.

Development and Evaluation of the Brief Sexual Openness Scale—A Construal Level Theory Based Approach

PubMed Central

Chen, Xinguang; Wang, Yan; Li, Fang; Gong, Jie; Yan, Yaqiong

2015-01-01

Obtaining reliable and valid data on sensitive questions represents a longstanding challenge for public health, particularly HIV research. To overcome the challenge, we assessed a construal level theory (CLT)-based novel method. The method was previously established and pilot-tested using the Brief Sexual Openness Scale (BSOS). This scale consists of five items assessing attitudes toward premarital sex, multiple sexual partners, homosexuality, extramarital sex, and commercial sex, all rated on a standard 5-point Likert scale. In addition to self-assessment, the participants were asked to assess rural residents, urban residents, and foreigners. The self-assessment plus the assessment of the three other groups were all used as subconstructs of one latent construct: sexual openness. The method was validated with data from 1,132 rural-to-urban migrants (mean age = 32.5, SD = 7.9; 49.6% female) recruited in China. Consistent with CLT, the Cronbach alpha of the BSOS as a conventional tool increased with social distance, from .81 for self-assessment to .97 for assessing foreigners. In addition to a satisfactory fit of the data to a one-factor model (CFI = .94, TLI = .93, RMSEA = .08), a common factor was separated from the four perspective factors (i.e., migrants’ self-perspective and their perspectives of rural residents, urban residents and foreigners) through a trifactor modeling analysis (CFI = .95, TLI = .94, RMSEA = .08). Relative to its conventional form, CTL-based BSOS was more reliable (alpha: .96 vs .81) and valid in predicting sexual desire, frequency of dating, age of first sex, multiple sexual partners and STD history. This novel technique can be used to assess sexual openness, and possibly other sensitive questions among Chinese domestic migrants. PMID:26308336

Efficient algorithm for multiconfiguration pair-density functional theory with application to the heterolytic dissociation energy of ferrocene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sand, Andrew M.; Truhlar, Donald G.; Gagliardi, Laura

2017-01-01

The recently developed multiconfiguration pair-density functional theory (MC-PDFT) combines multiconfiguration wave function theory with a density functional that depends on the on-top pair density of an electronic system. In an MC-PDFT calculation, there are two steps: a conventional multiconfiguration self-consistent-field (MCSCF) calculation and a post-MCSCF evaluation of the energy with an on-top density functional. In this work, we present the details of the MC-PDFT algorithm that avoids steeply scaling steps that are present in other post-self-consistent-field multireference calculations of dynamic correlation energy. We demonstrate the favorable scaling by considering systems of H2 molecules with active spaces of several different sizes. We then apply the MC-PDFT method to calculate the heterolytic dissociation enthalpy of ferrocene. We find that MC-PDFT yields results that are at least as accurate as complete active space second-order perturbation theory and are more stable with respect to basis set, but at a fraction of the cost in both time and memory.

Efficient algorithm for multiconfiguration pair-density functional theory with application to the heterolytic dissociation energy of ferrocene.

PubMed

Sand, Andrew M; Truhlar, Donald G; Gagliardi, Laura

2017-01-21

The recently developed multiconfiguration pair-density functional theory (MC-PDFT) combines multiconfiguration wave function theory with a density functional that depends on the on-top pair density of an electronic system. In an MC-PDFT calculation, there are two steps: a conventional multiconfiguration self-consistent-field (MCSCF) calculation and a post-MCSCF evaluation of the energy with an on-top density functional. In this work, we present the details of the MC-PDFT algorithm that avoids steeply scaling steps that are present in other post-self-consistent-field multireference calculations of dynamic correlation energy. We demonstrate the favorable scaling by considering systems of H 2 molecules with active spaces of several different sizes. We then apply the MC-PDFT method to calculate the heterolytic dissociation enthalpy of ferrocene. We find that MC-PDFT yields results that are at least as accurate as complete active space second-order perturbation theory and are more stable with respect to basis set, but at a fraction of the cost in both time and memory.

Self-care Concept Analysis in Cancer Patients: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis.

PubMed

Hasanpour-Dehkordi, Ali

2016-01-01

Self-care is a frequently used concept in both the theory and the clinical practice of nursing and is considered an element of nursing theory by Orem. The aim of this paper is to identify the core attributes of the self-care concept in cancer patients. We used Rodgers' evolutionary method of concept analysis. The articles published in English language from 1980 to 2015 on nursing and non-nursing disciplines were analyzed. Finally, 85 articles, an MSc thesis, and a PhD thesis were selected, examined, and analyzed in-depth. Two experts checked the process of analysis and monitored and reviewed the articles. The analysis showed that self-care concept is determined by four attributes of education, interaction, self-control, and self-reliance. Three types of antecedents in the present study were client-related (self-efficacy, self-esteem), system-related (adequate sources, social networks, and cultural factors), and healthcare professionals-related (participation). The self-care concept has considerably evolved among patients with chronic diseases, particularly cancer, over the past 35 years, and nurses have managed to enhance their knowledge about self-care remarkably for the clients so that the nurses in healthcare teams have become highly efficient and able to assume the responsibility for self-care teams.

Self-care Concept Analysis in Cancer Patients: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis

PubMed Central

Hasanpour-Dehkordi, Ali

2016-01-01

Background: Self-care is a frequently used concept in both the theory and the clinical practice of nursing and is considered an element of nursing theory by Orem. The aim of this paper is to identify the core attributes of the self-care concept in cancer patients. Materials and Methods: We used Rodgers’ evolutionary method of concept analysis. The articles published in English language from 1980 to 2015 on nursing and non-nursing disciplines were analyzed. Finally, 85 articles, an MSc thesis, and a PhD thesis were selected, examined, and analyzed in-depth. Two experts checked the process of analysis and monitored and reviewed the articles. Results: The analysis showed that self-care concept is determined by four attributes of education, interaction, self-control, and self-reliance. Three types of antecedents in the present study were client-related (self-efficacy, self-esteem), system-related (adequate sources, social networks, and cultural factors), and healthcare professionals-related (participation). Conclusion: The self-care concept has considerably evolved among patients with chronic diseases, particularly cancer, over the past 35 years, and nurses have managed to enhance their knowledge about self-care remarkably for the clients so that the nurses in healthcare teams have become highly efficient and able to assume the responsibility for self-care teams. PMID:27803559

Theoretical exploration of competing phases of lattice Bose gases in a cavity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liao, Renyuan; Chen, Huang-Jie; Zheng, Dong-Chen; Huang, Zhi-Gao

2018-01-01

We consider bosonic atoms loaded into optical lattices with cavity-mediated infinite-range interactions. Competing short- and global-range interactions cultivate a rich phase diagram. With a systematic field-theoretical perspective, we present an analytical construction of a global ground-state phase diagram. We find that the infinite-range interaction enhances the fluctuation of the number density. In the strong-coupling regime, we find four branches of elementary excitations, with two being "particlelike" and two being "holelike," and that the excitation gap becomes soft at the phase boundary between compressible phases and incompressible phases. We derive an effective theory describing compressible superfluid and supersolid states. To complement this perturbative study, we construct a self-consistent mean-field theory and find numerical results consistent with our theoretical analysis. We map out the phase diagram and find that a charge density wave may undergo a structure phase transition to a different charge density wave before it finally enters into the supersolid phase driven by increasing the hopping amplitude.

Self-consistent phonon theory of the crystallization and elasticity of attractive hard spheres.

PubMed

Shin, Homin; Schweizer, Kenneth S

2013-02-28

We propose an Einstein-solid, self-consistent phonon theory for the crystal phase of hard spheres that interact via short-range attractions. The approach is first tested against the known behavior of hard spheres, and then applied to homogeneous particles that interact via short-range square well attractions and the Baxter adhesive hard sphere model. Given the crystal symmetry, packing fraction, and strength and range of attractive interactions, an effective harmonic potential experienced by a particle confined to its Wigner-Seitz cell and corresponding mean square vibrational amplitude are self-consistently calculated. The crystal free energy is then computed and, using separate information about the fluid phase free energy, phase diagrams constructed, including a first-order solid-solid phase transition and its associated critical point. The simple theory qualitatively captures all the many distinctive features of the phase diagram (critical and triple point, crystal-fluid re-entrancy, low-density coexistence curve) as a function of attraction range, and overall is in good semi-quantitative agreement with simulation. Knowledge of the particle localization length allows the crystal shear modulus to be estimated based on elementary ideas. Excellent predictions are obtained for the hard sphere crystal. Expanded and condensed face-centered cubic crystals are found to have qualitatively different elastic responses to varying attraction strength or temperature. As temperature increases, the expanded entropic solid stiffens, while the energy-controlled, fully-bonded dense solid softens.

Share, steal, or buy? A social cognitive perspective of music downloading.

PubMed

LaRose, Robert; Kim, Junghyun

2007-04-01

The music downloading phenomenon presents a unique opportunity to examine normative influences on media consumption behavior. Downloaders face moral, legal, and ethical quandaries that can be conceptualized as normative influences within the self-regulatory mechanism of social cognitive theory. The music industry hopes to eliminate illegal file sharing and to divert illegal downloaders to pay services by asserting normative influence through selective prosecutions and public information campaigns. However the deficient self-regulation of downloaders counters these efforts maintaining file sharing as a persistent habit that defies attempts to establish normative control. The present research tests and extends the social cognitive theory of downloading on a sample of college students. The expected outcomes of downloading behavior and deficient self-regulation of that behavior were found to be important determinants of intentions to continue downloading. Consistent with social cognitive theory but in contrast to the theory of planned behavior, it was found that descriptive and prescriptive norms influenced deficient self-regulation but had no direct impact on behavioral intentions. Downloading intentions also had no direct relationship to either compact disc purchases or to subscription to online pay music services.

Coarse-Graining Polymer Field Theory for Fast and Accurate Simulations of Directed Self-Assembly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Jimmy; Delaney, Kris; Fredrickson, Glenn

To design effective manufacturing processes using polymer directed self-assembly (DSA), the semiconductor industry benefits greatly from having a complete picture of stable and defective polymer configurations. Field-theoretic simulations are an effective way to study these configurations and predict defect populations. Self-consistent field theory (SCFT) is a particularly successful theory for studies of DSA. Although other models exist that are faster to simulate, these models are phenomenological or derived through asymptotic approximations, often leading to a loss of accuracy relative to SCFT. In this study, we employ our recently-developed method to produce an accurate coarse-grained field theory for diblock copolymers. The method uses a force- and stress-matching strategy to map output from SCFT simulations into parameters for an optimized phase field model. This optimized phase field model is just as fast as existing phenomenological phase field models, but makes more accurate predictions of polymer self-assembly, both in bulk and in confined systems. We study the performance of this model under various conditions, including its predictions of domain spacing, morphology and defect formation energies. Samsung Electronics.

Testing General Relativity with Stellar Orbits around the Supermassive Black Hole in Our Galactic Center.

PubMed

Hees, A; Do, T; Ghez, A M; Martinez, G D; Naoz, S; Becklin, E E; Boehle, A; Chappell, S; Chu, D; Dehghanfar, A; Kosmo, K; Lu, J R; Matthews, K; Morris, M R; Sakai, S; Schödel, R; Witzel, G

2017-05-26

We demonstrate that short-period stars orbiting around the supermassive black hole in our Galactic center can successfully be used to probe the gravitational theory in a strong regime. We use 19 years of observations of the two best measured short-period stars orbiting our Galactic center to constrain a hypothetical fifth force that arises in various scenarios motivated by the development of a unification theory or in some models of dark matter and dark energy. No deviation from general relativity is reported and the fifth force strength is restricted to an upper 95% confidence limit of |α|<0.016 at a length scale of λ=150 astronomical units. We also derive a 95% confidence upper limit on a linear drift of the argument of periastron of the short-period star S0-2 of |ω[over ˙]_{S0-2}|<1.6×10^{-3}  rad/yr, which can be used to constrain various gravitational and astrophysical theories. This analysis provides the first fully self-consistent test of the gravitational theory using orbital dynamic in a strong gravitational regime, that of a supermassive black hole. A sensitivity analysis for future measurements is also presented.

The relationship of self-regulation and aggression: an empirical test of personality systems interaction theory.

PubMed

Ross, Thomas; Fontao, María Isabel

2008-10-01

On the basis of personality systems interaction (PSI) theory, the authors examine self-regulation, conflict behaviour, behavioural resources, and personality disorders in a sample of 83 male offenders and explore the role self-regulatory variables play with respect to aggressive behaviour. Although substantial correlations between self-regulatory functions and aggressive behaviour were found, these variables did not predict aggression in a subsequent regression analysis with measures of self-regulation, conflict behaviour, and personality disorders as independent variables. Antisocial behaviour, behavioural self-control, and affect were among the strongest predictors of aggression. Specific predictions based on PSI theory could not be confirmed. Theoretical implications of the findings are discussed and put into relation with treatment issues of offenders.

Self-consistent field theory and numerical scheme for calculating the phase diagram of wormlike diblock copolymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Ying; Chen, Jeff Z. Y.

2013-10-01

This paper concerns establishing a theoretical basis and numerical scheme for studying the phase behavior of AB diblock copolymers made of wormlike chains. The general idea of a self-consistent field theory is the combination of the mean-field approach together with a statistical weight that describes the configurational properties of a polymer chain. In recent years, this approach has been extensively used for structural prediction of block copolymers, based on the Gaussian-model description of a polymer chain. The wormlike-chain model has played an important role in the description of polymer systems, covering the semiflexible-to-rod crossover of the polymer properties and the highly stretching regime, which the Gaussian-chain model has difficulties to describe. Although the idea of developing a self-consistent field theory for wormlike chains could be traced back to early development in polymer physics, the solution of such a theory has been limited due to technical difficulties. In particular, a challenge has been to develop a numerical algorithm enabling the calculation of the phase diagram containing three-dimensional structures for wormlike AB diblock copolymers. This paper describes a computational algorithm that combines a number of numerical tricks, which can be used for such a calculation. A phase diagram covering major parameter areas was constructed for the wormlike-chain system and reported by us, where the ratio between the total length and the persistence length of a constituent polymer is suggested as another tuning parameter for the microphase-separated structures; all detailed technical issues are carefully addressed in the current paper.

Derivation of the cut-off length from the quantum quadratic enhancement of a mass in vacuum energy constant Lambda

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fukushima, Kimichika; Sato, Hikaru

2018-04-01

Ultraviolet self-interaction energies in field theory sometimes contain meaningful physical quantities. The self-energies in such as classical electrodynamics are usually subtracted from the rest mass. For the consistent treatment of energies as sources of curvature in the Einstein field equations, this study includes these subtracted self-energies into vacuum energy expressed by the constant Lambda (used in such as Lambda-CDM). In this study, the self-energies in electrodynamics and macroscopic classical Einstein field equations are examined, using the formalisms with the ultraviolet cut-off scheme. One of the cut-off formalisms is the field theory in terms of the step-function-type basis functions, developed by the present authors. The other is a continuum theory of a fundamental particle with the same cut-off length. Based on the effectiveness of the continuum theory with the cut-off length shown in the examination, the dominant self-energy is the quadratic term of the Higgs field at a quantum level (classical self-energies are reduced to logarithmic forms by quantum corrections). The cut-off length is then determined to reproduce today's tiny value of Lambda for vacuum energy. Additionally, a field with nonperiodic vanishing boundary conditions is treated, showing that the field has no zero-point energy.

Factorial validity and internal consistency of the motivational climate in physical education scale.

PubMed

Soini, Markus; Liukkonen, Jarmo; Watt, Anthony; Yli-Piipari, Sami; Jaakkola, Timo

2014-01-01

The aim of the study was to examine the construct validity and internal consistency of the Motivational Climate in Physical Education Scale (MCPES). A key element of the development process of the scale was establishing a theoretical framework that integrated the dimensions of task- and ego involving climates in conjunction with autonomy, and social relatedness supporting climates. These constructs were adopted from the self-determination and achievement goal theories. A sample of Finnish Grade 9 students, comprising 2,594 girls and 1,803 boys, completed the 18-item MCPES during one physical education class. The results of the study demonstrated that participants had highest mean in task-involving climate and the lowest in autonomy climate and ego-involving climate. Additionally, autonomy, social relatedness, and task- involving climates were significantly and strongly correlated with each other, whereas the ego- involving climate had low or negligible correlations with the other climate dimensions.The construct validity of the MCPES was analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis. The statistical fit of the four-factor model consisting of motivational climate factors supporting perceived autonomy, social relatedness, task-involvement, and ego-involvement was satisfactory. The results of the reliability analysis showed acceptable internal consistencies for all four dimensions. The Motivational Climate in Physical Education Scale can be considered as psychometrically valid tool to measure motivational climate in Finnish Grade 9 students. Key PointsThis study developed Motivational Climate in School Physical Education Scale (MCPES). During the development process of the scale, the theoretical framework using dimensions of task- and ego involving as well as autonomy, and social relatedness supporting climates was constructed. These constructs were adopted from the self-determination and achievement goal theories.The statistical fit of the four-factor model of the MCPES consisting of motivational climate factors supporting perceived autonomy, social relatedness, task-involvement, and ego-involvement was satisfactory. Additionally, the results of the reliability analysis showed acceptable internal consistencies for all four dimensions.The results of the study demonstrated that participants had highest mean in task-involving climate and the lowest in autonomy climate.Autonomy, social relatedness, and task climate were significantly and strongly correlated with each other, whereas the ego climate factor had low or negligible correlations with the other three factors.

Factorial Validity and Internal Consistency of the Motivational Climate in Physical Education Scale

PubMed Central

Soini, Markus; Liukkonen, Jarmo; Watt, Anthony; Yli-Piipari, Sami; Jaakkola, Timo

2014-01-01

The aim of the study was to examine the construct validity and internal consistency of the Motivational Climate in Physical Education Scale (MCPES). A key element of the development process of the scale was establishing a theoretical framework that integrated the dimensions of task- and ego involving climates in conjunction with autonomy, and social relatedness supporting climates. These constructs were adopted from the self-determination and achievement goal theories. A sample of Finnish Grade 9 students, comprising 2,594 girls and 1,803 boys, completed the 18-item MCPES during one physical education class. The results of the study demonstrated that participants had highest mean in task-involving climate and the lowest in autonomy climate and ego-involving climate. Additionally, autonomy, social relatedness, and task- involving climates were significantly and strongly correlated with each other, whereas the ego- involving climate had low or negligible correlations with the other climate dimensions.The construct validity of the MCPES was analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis. The statistical fit of the four-factor model consisting of motivational climate factors supporting perceived autonomy, social relatedness, task-involvement, and ego-involvement was satisfactory. The results of the reliability analysis showed acceptable internal consistencies for all four dimensions. The Motivational Climate in Physical Education Scale can be considered as psychometrically valid tool to measure motivational climate in Finnish Grade 9 students. Key Points This study developed Motivational Climate in School Physical Education Scale (MCPES). During the development process of the scale, the theoretical framework using dimensions of task- and ego involving as well as autonomy, and social relatedness supporting climates was constructed. These constructs were adopted from the self-determination and achievement goal theories. The statistical fit of the four-factor model of the MCPES consisting of motivational climate factors supporting perceived autonomy, social relatedness, task-involvement, and ego-involvement was satisfactory. Additionally, the results of the reliability analysis showed acceptable internal consistencies for all four dimensions. The results of the study demonstrated that participants had highest mean in task-involving climate and the lowest in autonomy climate. Autonomy, social relatedness, and task climate were significantly and strongly correlated with each other, whereas the ego climate factor had low or negligible correlations with the other three factors. PMID:24570617

Homelessness in Modern Society: An Integration of Mead and Berger and Implications for a Paradigm of Mass Communication.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, Charlotte

George Herbert Mead's theory of mind, self, and society is synthesized in this paper, as is the extension of that basic theory by Peter Berger and Thomas Luckmann. The paper argues that Mead's functionalist perspective, while rich and internally consistent, is naive in that it lacks a theory of institutions, and it shows how Berger and Luckmann's…

The Confounded Self-Efficacy Construct: Review, Conceptual Analysis, and Recommendations for Future Research

PubMed Central

Williams, David; Rhodes, Ryan E.

2014-01-01

Self-efficacy is central to health behaviour theories due to its robust predictive capabilities. In this paper we present and review evidence for a self-efficacy-as-motivation argument in which standard self-efficacy questionnaires—i.e., ratings of whether participants “can do” the target behaviour—reflect motivation rather than perceived capability. The potential implication is that associations between self-efficacy ratings (particularly those that employ a “can do” operationalization) and health-related behaviours simply indicate that people are likely to do what they are motivated to do. There is some empirical evidence for the self-efficacy-as-motivation argument, with three studies demonstrating causal effects of outcome expectancy on subsequent self-efficacy ratings. Three additional studies show that—consistent with the self-efficacy-as-motivation argument—controlling for motivation by adding the phrase “if you wanted to” to the end of self-efficacy items decreases associations between self-efficacy ratings and motivation. Likewise, a qualitative study using a thought-listing procedure demonstrates that self-efficacy ratings have motivational antecedents. The available evidence suggests that the self-efficacy-as-motivation argument is viable, although more research is needed. Meanwhile, we recommend that researchers look beyond self-efficacy to identify the many and diverse sources of motivation for health-related behaviours. PMID:25117692

The confounded self-efficacy construct: conceptual analysis and recommendations for future research.

PubMed

Williams, David M; Rhodes, Ryan E

2016-06-01

Self-efficacy is central to health behaviour theories due to its robust predictive capabilities. In this paper, we present and review evidence for a self-efficacy-as-motivation argument in which standard self-efficacy questionnaires - i.e., ratings of whether participants 'can do' the target behaviour - reflect motivation rather than perceived capability. The potential implication is that associations between self-efficacy ratings (particularly those that employ a 'can do' operationalisation) and health-related behaviours simply indicate that people are likely to do what they are motivated to do. There is some empirical evidence for the self-efficacy-as-motivation argument, with three studies demonstrating causal effects of outcome expectancy on subsequent self-efficacy ratings. Three additional studies show that - consistent with the self-efficacy-as-motivation argument - controlling for motivation by adding the phrase 'if you wanted to' to the end of self-efficacy items decreases associations between self-efficacy ratings and motivation. Likewise, a qualitative study using a thought-listing procedure demonstrates that self-efficacy ratings have motivational antecedents. The available evidence suggests that the self-efficacy-as-motivation argument is viable, although more research is needed. Meanwhile, we recommend that researchers look beyond self-efficacy to identify the many and diverse sources of motivation for health-related behaviours.

The Construct Validity of the German Academic Self-regulation Questionnaire (SRQ-A) within Primary and Secondary School Children.

PubMed

Kröner, Julia; Goussios, Christina; Schaitz, Caroline; Streb, Judith; Sosic-Vasic, Zrinka

2017-01-01

The assessment of students' motivation can be a powerful tool in enhancing and understanding students' learning. One valid and often applied self-report measure is the Academic Self-Regulation Questionnaire (SRQ-A) which is grounded in the self-determination theory. However, to date, there is still no German equivalent to the English version of this questionnaire. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to adapt and validate the SRQ-A on a representative German student sample, consisting of 672 children (327 girls), ages 8-14 from one primary and two secondary German schools. First, the translation-back-translation method was used to ensure the linguistic equivalence of the German questionnaire. Second, item analysis of the generated scores of the German SRQ-A were conducted. Third, the multidimensional factorial structure of the original measure was tested with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using maximum likelihood estimation. Last, additional construct validity of the German SRQ-A was tested using correlational analyses with convergent and divergent measures. After conducting CFA, four items were excluded from the original questionnaire, due to loadings lower than 0.40, resulting in 28 items. The German SRQ-A showed good internal consistency for all subscales, with Chronbach's α ranging between 0.75 and 0.88. The simplex-structure of the original measurement could also be confirmed, however, the four-factorial model could not be replicated. The measurement showed good convergent and discriminant validity with other related questionnaires. In summary, the German SRQ-A is a reliable and valid self-report instrument for the assessment of self-determined motivational styles within the school context.

The Construct Validity of the German Academic Self-regulation Questionnaire (SRQ-A) within Primary and Secondary School Children

PubMed Central

Kröner, Julia; Goussios, Christina; Schaitz, Caroline; Streb, Judith; Sosic-Vasic, Zrinka

2017-01-01

The assessment of students' motivation can be a powerful tool in enhancing and understanding students' learning. One valid and often applied self-report measure is the Academic Self-Regulation Questionnaire (SRQ-A) which is grounded in the self-determination theory. However, to date, there is still no German equivalent to the English version of this questionnaire. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to adapt and validate the SRQ-A on a representative German student sample, consisting of 672 children (327 girls), ages 8–14 from one primary and two secondary German schools. First, the translation-back-translation method was used to ensure the linguistic equivalence of the German questionnaire. Second, item analysis of the generated scores of the German SRQ-A were conducted. Third, the multidimensional factorial structure of the original measure was tested with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using maximum likelihood estimation. Last, additional construct validity of the German SRQ-A was tested using correlational analyses with convergent and divergent measures. After conducting CFA, four items were excluded from the original questionnaire, due to loadings lower than 0.40, resulting in 28 items. The German SRQ-A showed good internal consistency for all subscales, with Chronbach's α ranging between 0.75 and 0.88. The simplex-structure of the original measurement could also be confirmed, however, the four-factorial model could not be replicated. The measurement showed good convergent and discriminant validity with other related questionnaires. In summary, the German SRQ-A is a reliable and valid self-report instrument for the assessment of self-determined motivational styles within the school context. PMID:28690567

Dynamics and Thermodynamics of Quantum Crystals Near the Instability Point in the Self-Consistent Phonon Theory

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-01-01

Buckingham (B), Lennard - Jones (LI ) and Morse (M) potential energy parameters of solid helium and neon calculated with the help of experimental data for the...Using the values of potential energy parameters given in Table 1 for the Buckingham (Eq.(3)), Lennard - Jones (Eq.(4)) and the Morse (Eq.(5)) s.c...calculations are performed in terms of the (expm) Buckingham, the (n,m) Lennard - Jones and the (expexp) Morse self-consistent potentials as

Self-consistent approximation beyond the CPA: Part II

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kaplan, T.; Gray, L.J.

1981-08-01

In Part I, Professor Leath has described the substantial efforts to generalize the CPA. In this second part, a particular self-consistent approximation for random alloys developed by Kaplan, Leath, Gray, and Diehl is described. This approximation is applicable to diagonal, off-diagonal and environmental disorder, includes cluster scattering, and yields a translationally invariant and analytic (Herglotz) average Green's function. Furthermore Gray and Kaplan have shown that an approximation for alloys with short-range order can be constructed from this theory.

The Influence of Parenting Styles, Achievement Motivation, and Self-Efficacy on Academic Performance in College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Turner, Erlanger A.; Chandler, Megan; Heffer, Robert W.

2009-01-01

Parenting styles have consistently been shown to relate to various outcomes such as youth psychopathology, behavior problems, and academic performance. Building on the research in the parenting style literature, along with examining components of self-determination theory, the present study examined the relations among authoritative parenting…

Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis of the Adolescent Motivation to Cook Questionnaire: A Self-Determination Theory instrument.

PubMed

Miketinas, Derek; Cater, Melissa; Bailey, Ariana; Craft, Brittany; Tuuri, Georgianna

2016-10-01

Increasing adolescents' motivation and competence to cook may improve diet quality and reduce the risk for obesity and chronic diseases. The objective of this study was to develop an instrument to measure adolescents' intrinsic motivation to prepare healthy foods and the four psychological needs that facilitate motivation identified by the Self Determination Theory (SDT). Five hundred ninety-three high school students (62.7% female) were recruited to complete the survey. Participants indicated to what extent they agreed or disagreed with 25 statements pertaining to intrinsic motivation and perceived competence to cook, and their perceived autonomy support, autonomy, and relatedness to teachers and classmates. Data were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and internal consistency reliability. EFA returned a five-factor structure explaining 65.3% of the variance; and CFA revealed that the best model fit was a five-factor structure (χ2 = 524.97 (265); Comparative Fit Index = 0.93; RMSEA = 0.056; and SRMR = 0.04). The sub-scales showed good internal consistency (Intrinsic Motivation: α = 0.94; Perceived Competence: α = 0.92; Autonomy Support: α = 0.94; Relatedness: α = 0.90; and Autonomy: α = 0.85). These results support the application of the Adolescent Motivation to Cook Questionnaire to measure adolescents' motivation and perceived competence to cook, autonomy support by their instructor, autonomy in the classroom, and relatedness to peers. Further studies are needed to investigate whether this instrument can measure change in cooking intervention programs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Behavioral phenotypes: cognitive and emotional explanation].

PubMed

Pérez-Alvarez, F; Timoneda-Gallart, C

We present a series of Behavioural phenotypes treated with neurocognitive and neuroemotional procedure. A sample of 26 cases were selected according to qualitative methodology from neuropediatric patients. The method was based on using the PASS theory of intelligence to approach the cognitive problem and the theory of masquerade behaviour as self-defence to solve the emotional problem. Both theories have neurological bases. DN:CAS battery was utilized for assessment of cognitive processes. On the other hand, analysis of cases was carried out doing data analysis with video recorder device. All cases were considered responder cases although in different degree. The responder was defined as the patient which reached better intellectual achievement with respect to cognitive function and which gave up, at least partially, masquerade Behaviour with respect to emotional function. The Behaviour of the Behavioural phenotypes has neurological rationale. The PASS theory and the planning, in particular, supported by prefrontal cortex justifies consistently some behaviours. The masquerade Behaviour theory is explained by the fear emotional response mechanism which means emotion is a cerebral processing with neurological rationale. The Behavioural phenotypes are Behaviours and every Behaviour can be explained by neurological reasons both cognitive and emotional reasons. So, they can be treated by a cognitive and emotional procedure understood in the light of the neurology.

Digital morphogenesis via Schelling segregation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barmpalias, George; Elwes, Richard; Lewis-Pye, Andrew

2018-04-01

Schelling’s model of segregation looks to explain the way in which particles or agents of two types may come to arrange themselves spatially into configurations consisting of large homogeneous clusters, i.e. connected regions consisting of only one type. As one of the earliest agent based models studied by economists and perhaps the most famous model of self-organising behaviour, it also has direct links to areas at the interface between computer science and statistical mechanics, such as the Ising model and the study of contagion and cascading phenomena in networks. While the model has been extensively studied it has largely resisted rigorous analysis, prior results from the literature generally pertaining to variants of the model which are tweaked so as to be amenable to standard techniques from statistical mechanics or stochastic evolutionary game theory. In Brandt et al (2012 Proc. 44th Annual ACM Symp. on Theory of Computing) provided the first rigorous analysis of the unperturbed model, for a specific set of input parameters. Here we provide a rigorous analysis of the model’s behaviour much more generally and establish some surprising forms of threshold behaviour, notably the existence of situations where an increased level of intolerance for neighbouring agents of opposite type leads almost certainly to decreased segregation.

Cultural bases for self-evaluation: seeing oneself positively in different cultural contexts.

PubMed

Becker, Maja; Vignoles, Vivian L; Owe, Ellinor; Easterbrook, Matthew J; Brown, Rupert; Smith, Peter B; Bond, Michael Harris; Regalia, Camillo; Manzi, Claudia; Brambilla, Maria; Aldhafri, Said; González, Roberto; Carrasco, Diego; Paz Cadena, Maria; Lay, Siugmin; Schweiger Gallo, Inge; Torres, Ana; Camino, Leoncio; Özgen, Emre; Güner, Ülkü E; Yamakoğlu, Nil; Silveira Lemos, Flávia Cristina; Trujillo, Elvia Vargas; Balanta, Paola; Macapagal, Ma Elizabeth J; Cristina Ferreira, M; Herman, Ginette; de Sauvage, Isabelle; Bourguignon, David; Wang, Qian; Fülöp, Márta; Harb, Charles; Chybicka, Aneta; Mekonnen, Kassahun Habtamu; Martin, Mariana; Nizharadze, George; Gavreliuc, Alin; Buitendach, Johanna; Valk, Aune; Koller, Silvia H

2014-05-01

Several theories propose that self-esteem, or positive self-regard, results from fulfilling the value priorities of one's surrounding culture. Yet, surprisingly little evidence exists for this assertion, and theories differ about whether individuals must personally endorse the value priorities involved. We compared the influence of four bases for self-evaluation (controlling one's life, doing one's duty, benefitting others, achieving social status) among 4,852 adolescents across 20 cultural samples, using an implicit, within-person measurement technique to avoid cultural response biases. Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses showed that participants generally derived feelings of self-esteem from all four bases, but especially from those that were most consistent with the value priorities of others in their cultural context. Multilevel analyses confirmed that the bases of positive self-regard are sustained collectively: They are predictably moderated by culturally normative values but show little systematic variation with personally endorsed values.

A Multidisciplinary Work-Related Low Back Pain Predictor Questionnaire: Psychometric Evaluation of Iranian Patient-Care Workers.

PubMed

Sarallah, Shojaei; Sadat, Tavafian Sedigheh; Jamshidi, Ahmad Reza; Joan, Wagner

2016-06-01

Psychometric evaluation design. Psychometric evaluation of a multidisciplinary work-related low back pain predictor questionnaire (MWRLBPPQ) of Iranians patient-care workers based on the social cognitive theory. Healthcare is one of the professions in which work-related musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent. The chronic low back pain experienced by patient caregivers can negatively impact their professional performance, and patient handling in a hospital is the main cause of low back pain in this population. This was a cross-sectional study carried out in Qom, Iran from July 2014 to November 2014. A MWRLBPPQ based on nine concepts of the social cognitive theory and existing literature regarding chronic low back pain was developed. Ten patient-care workers first completed the questionnaire as a pilot test, allowing the ambiguities of the instrument to be resolved. Exploratory factor analysis was used to confirm construct validity. This questionnaire was distributed among 452 patient-care workers in hospitals located in different geographically areas in Qom, Iran. Cronbach's Alpha was calculated to assess reliability. In all, 452 caregivers of patients with mean age of 37.71 (standard deviation=8.3) years participated in the study. An exploratory factor analysis loaded seven concepts of self-efficacy, knowledge, outcome perception, self-control, emotional coping, and self-efficacy in overcoming impediments and challenges in the environment. All concepts were jointly accounted for 50.08% of variance of behavior change. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient showed favorable internal consistency (alpha=0.83), and test-retest of the scale with 2-week intervals indicated an appropriate stability for the MWRLBPPQ. The MWRLBPPQ is a reliable and valid theory-based instrument that can be used to predict factors influencing work-related low back pain among workers who lift and transfer patients in hospitals.

Gate-controlled current and inelastic electron tunneling spectrum of benzene: a self-consistent study.

PubMed

Liang, Y Y; Chen, H; Mizuseki, H; Kawazoe, Y

2011-04-14

We use density functional theory based nonequilibrium Green's function to self-consistently study the current through the 1,4-benzenedithiol (BDT). The elastic and inelastic tunneling properties through this Au-BDT-Au molecular junction are simulated, respectively. For the elastic tunneling case, it is found that the current through the tilted molecule can be modulated effectively by the external gate field, which is perpendicular to the phenyl ring. The gate voltage amplification comes from the modulation of the interaction between the electrodes and the molecules in the junctions. For the inelastic case, the electron tunneling scattered by the molecular vibrational modes is considered within the self-consistent Born approximation scheme, and the inelastic electron tunneling spectrum is calculated.

From morbid obesity to a healthy weight using cognitive-behavioral methods: a woman's three-year process with one and one-half years of weight maintenance.

PubMed

Annesi, James J; Tennant, Gisèle A

2012-01-01

Obesity is a national health problem regularly confronting medical professionals. Although reduced-energy (kilocalorie [kcal]) eating and increased exercise will reliably reduce weight, these behaviors have been highly resistant to sustained change. To control eating using theory-based cognitive-behavioral methods that leverage the positive psychosocial effects of newly initiated exercise as an alternate to typical approaches of education about appropriate nutrition. A woman, age 48 years, with morbid obesity initiated exercise through a 6-month exercise support protocol based on social cognitive and self-efficacy theory (The Coach Approach). This program was followed by periodic individual meetings with a wellness professional intended to transfer behavioral skills learned to adapt to regular exercise, to then control eating. There was consistent recording of exercises completed, foods consumed, various psychosocial and lifestyle factors, and weight. Over the 4.4 years reported, weight decreased from 117.6 kg to 59.0 kg, and body mass index (BMI) decreased from 43.1 kg/m(2) to 21.6 kg/m(2). Mean energy intake initially decreased to 1792 kcal/day and further dropped to 1453 kcal/day by the end of the weight-loss phase. Consistent with theory, use of self-regulatory skills, self-efficacy, and overall mood significantly predicted both increased exercise and decreased energy intake. Morbid obesity was reduced to a healthy weight within 3.1 years, and weight was maintained in the healthy range through the present (1.3 years later). This case supports theory-based propositions that exercise-induced changes in self-regulation, self-efficacy, and mood transfer to and reinforce improvements in corresponding psychosocial factors related to controlled eating.

Implementation of the diagonalization-free algorithm in the self-consistent field procedure within the four-component relativistic scheme.

PubMed

Hrdá, Marcela; Kulich, Tomáš; Repiský, Michal; Noga, Jozef; Malkina, Olga L; Malkin, Vladimir G

2014-09-05

A recently developed Thouless-expansion-based diagonalization-free approach for improving the efficiency of self-consistent field (SCF) methods (Noga and Šimunek, J. Chem. Theory Comput. 2010, 6, 2706) has been adapted to the four-component relativistic scheme and implemented within the program package ReSpect. In addition to the implementation, the method has been thoroughly analyzed, particularly with respect to cases for which it is difficult or computationally expensive to find a good initial guess. Based on this analysis, several modifications of the original algorithm, refining its stability and efficiency, are proposed. To demonstrate the robustness and efficiency of the improved algorithm, we present the results of four-component diagonalization-free SCF calculations on several heavy-metal complexes, the largest of which contains more than 80 atoms (about 6000 4-spinor basis functions). The diagonalization-free procedure is about twice as fast as the corresponding diagonalization. Copyright © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Conceptualizing the multidimensional nature of self-efficacy: assessment of situational context and level of behavioral challenge to maintain safer sex. National Institute of Mental Health Multisite HIV Prevention Trial Group.

PubMed

Murphy, D A; Stein, J A; Schlenger, W; Maibach, E

2001-07-01

A. Bandura (1991) argued that self-efficacy measurement should be specific both to the situation in which the behavior occurs and level of challenge in that situation. Measures consistent with the 2 dimensions were developed with graded challenge levels and differing gender-appropriate situations. Participants were 1,496 controls in the National Institute of Mental Health Multisite HIV Prevention Trial recruited from STD clinics and health service centers (925 women and 571 men). The authors tested 4 separate-sex confirmatory factor analysis models as follows: (a) Condom negotiation efficacy as a unitary construct across situations and gradation of difficulty; (b) situation as preeminent, which transfers across skills whatever the gradation of difficulty; (c) skill as predominant, irrespective of situation; and (d) a multidimensional design that simultaneously accounts for both situation and graded difficulty. Consistent with Bandura's theory, the multidimensional model provided the best fit for both samples.

Extended Gravity: State of the Art and Perspectives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Capozziello, Salvatore; de Laurentis, Mariafelicia

2015-01-01

Several issues coming from Cosmology, Astrophysics and Quantum Field Theory suggest to extend the General Relativity in order to overcome several shortcomings emerging at conceptual and experimental level. From one hand, standard Einstein theory fails as soon as one wants to achieve a full quantum description of space-time. In fact, the lack of a final self-consistent Quantum Gravity Theory can be considered one of the starting points for alternative theories of gravity. Specifically, the approach based on corrections and enlargements of the Einstein scheme, have become a sort of paradigm in the study of gravitational interaction. On the other hand, such theories have acquired great interest in cosmology since they "naturally" exhibit inflationary behaviours which can overcome the shortcomings of standard cosmology. From an astrophysical point of view, Extended Theories of Gravity do not require to find candidates for dark energy and dark matter at fundamental level; the approach starts from taking into account only the "observed" ingredients (i.e., gravity, radiation and baryonic matter); it is in full agreement with the early spirit of General Relativity but one has to relax the strong hypothesis that gravity acts at same way at all scales. Several scalar-tensor and f(R)-models agree with observed cosmology, extragalactic and galactic observations and Solar System tests, and give rise to new effects capable of explaining the observed acceleration of cosmic fluid and the missing matter effect of self-gravitating structures. Despite these preliminary results, no final model addressing all the open issues is available at the moment, however the paradigm seems promising in order to achieve a complete and self-consistent theory working coherently at all interaction scales.

A self-consistent density based embedding scheme applied to the adsorption of CO on Pd(111)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lahav, D.; Klüner, T.

2007-06-01

We derive a variant of a density based embedded cluster approach as an improvement to a recently proposed embedding theory for metallic substrates (Govind et al 1999 J. Chem. Phys. 110 7677; Klüner et al 2001 Phys. Rev. Lett. 86 5954). In this scheme, a local region in space is represented by a small cluster which is treated by accurate quantum chemical methodology. The interaction of the cluster with the infinite solid is taken into account by an effective one-electron embedding operator representing the surrounding region. We propose a self-consistent embedding scheme which resolves intrinsic problems of the former theory, in particular a violation of strict density conservation. The proposed scheme is applied to the well-known benchmark system CO/Pd(111).

Anharmonic frequencies of CX2Y2 (X, Y = O, N, F, H, D) isomers and related systems obtained from vibrational multiconfiguration self-consistent field theory.

PubMed

Pfeiffer, Florian; Rauhut, Guntram

2011-10-13

Accurate anharmonic frequencies are provided for molecules of current research, i.e., diazirines, diazomethane, the corresponding fluorinated and deuterated compounds, their dioxygen analogs, and others. Vibrational-state energies were obtained from state-specific vibrational multiconfiguration self-consistent field theory (VMCSCF) based on multilevel potential energy surfaces (PES) generated from explicitly correlated coupled cluster, CCSD(T)-F12a, and double-hybrid density functional calculations, B2PLYP. To accelerate the vibrational structure calculations, a configuration selection scheme as well as a polynomial representation of the PES have been exploited. Because experimental data are scarce for these systems, many calculated frequencies of this study are predictions and may guide experiments to come.

Torsion as a source of expansion in a Bianchi type-I universe in the self-consistent Einstein-Cartan theory of a perfect fluid with spin density

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bradas, James C.; Fennelly, Alphonsus J.; Smalley, Larry L.

1987-01-01

It is shown that a generalized (or 'power law') inflationary phase arises naturally and inevitably in a simple (Bianchi type-I) anisotropic cosmological model in the self-consistent Einstein-Cartan gravitation theory with the improved stress-energy-momentum tensor with the spin density of Ray and Smalley (1982, 1983). This is made explicit by an analytical solution of the field equations of motion of the fluid variables. The inflation is caused by the angular kinetic energy density due to spin. The model further elucidates the relationship between fluid vorticity, the angular velocity of the inertially dragged tetrads, and the precession of the principal axes of the shear ellipsoid. Shear is not effective in damping the inflation.

Quasiparticle self-consistent GW study of cuprates: electronic structure, model parameters, and the two-band theory for Tc

PubMed Central

Jang, Seung Woo; Kotani, Takao; Kino, Hiori; Kuroki, Kazuhiko; Han, Myung Joon

2015-01-01

Despite decades of progress, an understanding of unconventional superconductivity still remains elusive. An important open question is about the material dependence of the superconducting properties. Using the quasiparticle self-consistent GW method, we re-examine the electronic structure of copper oxide high-Tc materials. We show that QSGW captures several important features, distinctive from the conventional LDA results. The energy level splitting between and is significantly enlarged and the van Hove singularity point is lowered. The calculated results compare better than LDA with recent experimental results from resonant inelastic xray scattering and angle resolved photoemission experiments. This agreement with the experiments supports the previously suggested two-band theory for the material dependence of the superconducting transition temperature, Tc. PMID:26206417

Surfing gravitational waves: can bigravity survive growing tensor modes?

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Amendola, Luca; Könnig, Frank; Martinelli, Matteo

The theory of bigravity offers one of the simplest possibilities to describe a massive graviton while having self-accelerating cosmological solutions without a cosmological constant. However, it has been shown recently that bigravity is affected by early-time fast growing modes on the tensor sector. Here we argue that we can only trust the linear analysis up to when perturbations are in the linear regime and use a cut-off to stop the growing of the metric perturbations. This analysis, although more consistent, still leads to growing tensor modes that are unacceptably large for the theory to be compatible with measurements of themore » cosmic microwave background (CMB), both in temperature and polarization spectra. In order to suppress the growing modes and make the model compatible with CMB spectra, we find it necessary to either fine-tune the initial conditions, modify the theory or set the cut-off for the tensor perturbations of the second metric much lower than unity. Initial conditions such that the growing mode is sufficiently suppresed can be achieved in scenarios in which inflation ends at the GeV scale.« less

Analysis of Parental Involvement and Self-Esteem on Secondary School Students in Kieni West Sub-County, Nyeri County, Kenya

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wairimu, Mburu Josephine; Macharia, Susan M.; Muiru, Ann

2016-01-01

This study investigated the relationship between parental involvement and the self-esteem among adolescents in secondary school students in Kieni West District in Nyeri County. It was guided by Self Determination Theory (SDT) by James William and Baumrind Theory of Parenting Styles by Diana Blumberg Baumrind. Some of the gaps identified in the…

Self-consistent adjoint analysis for topology optimization of electromagnetic waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Yongbo; Korvink, Jan G.

2018-05-01

In topology optimization of electromagnetic waves, the Gâteaux differentiability of the conjugate operator to the complex field variable results in the complexity of the adjoint sensitivity, which evolves the original real-valued design variable to be complex during the iterative solution procedure. Therefore, the self-inconsistency of the adjoint sensitivity is presented. To enforce the self-consistency, the real part operator has been used to extract the real part of the sensitivity to keep the real-value property of the design variable. However, this enforced self-consistency can cause the problem that the derived structural topology has unreasonable dependence on the phase of the incident wave. To solve this problem, this article focuses on the self-consistent adjoint analysis of the topology optimization problems for electromagnetic waves. This self-consistent adjoint analysis is implemented by splitting the complex variables of the wave equations into the corresponding real parts and imaginary parts, sequentially substituting the split complex variables into the wave equations with deriving the coupled equations equivalent to the original wave equations, where the infinite free space is truncated by the perfectly matched layers. Then, the topology optimization problems of electromagnetic waves are transformed into the forms defined on real functional spaces instead of complex functional spaces; the adjoint analysis of the topology optimization problems is implemented on real functional spaces with removing the variational of the conjugate operator; the self-consistent adjoint sensitivity is derived, and the phase-dependence problem is avoided for the derived structural topology. Several numerical examples are implemented to demonstrate the robustness of the derived self-consistent adjoint analysis.

Self-affirmation activates brain systems associated with self-related processing and reward and is reinforced by future orientation.

PubMed

Cascio, Christopher N; O'Donnell, Matthew Brook; Tinney, Francis J; Lieberman, Matthew D; Taylor, Shelley E; Strecher, Victor J; Falk, Emily B

2016-04-01

Self-affirmation theory posits that people are motivated to maintain a positive self-view and that threats to perceived self-competence are met with resistance. When threatened, self-affirmations can restore self-competence by allowing individuals to reflect on sources of self-worth, such as core values. Many questions exist, however, about the underlying mechanisms associated with self-affirmation. We examined the neural mechanisms of self-affirmation with a task developed for use in a functional magnetic resonance imaging environment. Results of a region of interest analysis demonstrated that participants who were affirmed (compared with unaffirmed participants) showed increased activity in key regions of the brain's self-processing (medial prefrontal cortex + posterior cingulate cortex) and valuation (ventral striatum + ventral medial prefrontal cortex) systems when reflecting on future-oriented core values (compared with everyday activities). Furthermore, this neural activity went on to predict changes in sedentary behavior consistent with successful affirmation in response to a separate physical activity intervention. These results highlight neural processes associated with successful self-affirmation, and further suggest that key pathways may be amplified in conjunction with prospection. © The Author (2015). Published by Oxford University Press. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Testing a Longitudinal Integrated Self-Efficacy and Self-Determination Theory Model for Physical Activity Post-Cardiac Rehabilitation

PubMed Central

Sweet, Shane N.; Fortier, Michelle S.; Strachan, Shaelyn M.; Blanchard, Chris M.; Boulay, Pierre

2014-01-01

Self-determination theory and self-efficacy theory are prominent theories in the physical activity literature, and studies have begun integrating their concepts. Sweet, Fortier, Strachan and Blanchard (2012) have integrated these two theories in a cross-sectional study. Therefore, this study sought to test a longitudinal integrated model to predict physical activity at the end of a 4-month cardiac rehabilitation program based on theory, research and Sweet et al.’s cross-sectional model. Participants from two cardiac rehabilitation programs (N=109) answered validated self-report questionnaires at baseline, two and four months. Data were analyzed using Amos to assess the path analysis and model fit. Prior to integration, perceived competence and self-efficacy were combined, and labeled as confidence. After controlling for 2-month physical activity and cardiac rehabilitation site, no motivational variables significantly predicted residual change in 4-month physical activity. Although confidence at two months did not predict residual change in 4-month physical activity, it had a strong positive relationship with 2-month physical activity (β=0.30, P<0.001). The overall model retained good fit indices. In conclusion, results diverged from theoretical predictions of physical activity, but self-determination and self-efficacy theory were still partially supported. Because the model had good fit, this study demonstrated that theoretical integration is feasible. PMID:26973926

Quantum resource theories in the single-shot regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gour, Gilad

2017-06-01

One of the main goals of any resource theory such as entanglement, quantum thermodynamics, quantum coherence, and asymmetry, is to find necessary and sufficient conditions that determine whether one resource can be converted to another by the set of free operations. Here we find such conditions for a large class of quantum resource theories which we call affine resource theories. Affine resource theories include the resource theories of athermality, asymmetry, and coherence, but not entanglement. Remarkably, the necessary and sufficient conditions can be expressed as a family of inequalities between resource monotones (quantifiers) that are given in terms of the conditional min-entropy. The set of free operations is taken to be (1) the maximal set (i.e., consists of all resource nongenerating quantum channels) or (2) the self-dual set of free operations (i.e., consists of all resource nongenerating maps for which the dual map is also resource nongenerating). As an example, we apply our results to quantum thermodynamics with Gibbs preserving operations, and several other affine resource theories. Finally, we discuss the applications of these results to resource theories that are not affine and, along the way, provide the necessary and sufficient conditions that a quantum resource theory consists of a resource destroying map.

Conformal higher spin theory and twistor space actions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hähnel, Philipp; McLoughlin, Tristan

2017-12-01

We consider the twistor description of conformal higher spin theories and give twistor space actions for the self-dual sector of theories with spin greater than two that produce the correct flat space-time spectrum. We identify a ghost-free subsector, analogous to the embedding of Einstein gravity with cosmological constant in Weyl gravity, which generates the unique spin-s three-point anti-MHV amplitude consistent with Poincaré invariance and helicity constraints. By including interactions between the infinite tower of higher-spin fields we give a geometric interpretation to the twistor equations of motion as the integrability condition for a holomorphic structure on an infinite jet bundle. Finally, we conjecture anti-self-dual interaction terms which give an implicit definition of a twistor action for the full conformal higher spin theory.

The dynamic interplay between perceived true self-knowledge and decision satisfaction.

PubMed

Schlegel, Rebecca J; Hicks, Joshua A; Davis, William E; Hirsch, Kelly A; Smith, Christina M

2013-03-01

The present research used multiple methods to examine the hypothesis that perceived true self-knowledge and decision satisfaction are inextricably linked together by a widely held "true-self-as-guide" lay theory of decision making. Consistent with this proposition, Study 1 found that participants rated using the true self as a guide as more important for achieving personal satisfaction than a variety of other potential decision-making strategies. After establishing the prevalence of this lay theory, the remaining studies then focused on examining the proposed consequent relationship between perceived true self-knowledge and decision satisfaction. Consistent with hypotheses, 2 cross-sectional correlational studies (Studies 2 and 3) found a positive relationship between perceived true self-knowledge and decision satisfaction for different types of major decisions. Study 4 used daily diary methods to demonstrate that fluctuations in perceived true self-knowledge reliably covary with fluctuations in decision satisfaction. Finally, 2 studies directly examined the causal direction of this relationship through experimental manipulation and revealed that the relationship is truly bidirectional. More specifically, Study 5 showed that manipulating perceived knowledge of the true self (but not other self-concepts) directly affects decision satisfaction. Study 6 showed that this effect also works in reverse by manipulating feelings of decision satisfaction, which directly affected perceived knowledge of the true self (but not other self-concepts). Taken together, these studies suggest that people believe the true self should be used as a guide when making major life decisions and that this belief has observable consequences for the self and decision making. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved

Adolescents' Perceptions of Chronic Self-Concept, Peer Relations, and Learning Conditions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Weiping; Eckert, Thomas

2014-01-01

Based on Lewin's Field Theory, Bronfenbrenner's Bioecological Systems Theory and social network analysis, the authors collected data from 405 Chinese adolescents about their peer relations, chronic self-concept levels and learning condition variables through questionnaire distributing, and from their teachers about their annual average academic…

Aberrant pain perception in direct and indirect non-suicidal self-injury: an empirical test of Joiner's interpersonal theory.

PubMed

St Germain, Sarah A; Hooley, Jill M

2013-08-01

Using a community sample (N=148) we examined pressure pain perception in 3 study groups--people who engaged in non-suicidal self-injury, people who engaged in indirect forms of self-injury, and non-self-injuring controls. In so doing we tested hypotheses derived from Joiner's (2005) interpersonal theory of suicide. Consistent with previous studies and with Joiner's model, people who engaged in NSSI endured pain for significantly longer than non-self-injuring controls. Importantly, pain endurance in the Indirect self-injury group was comparable to that found in the NSSI group and significantly elevated relative to controls. This pattern of results suggests that abnormal pain perception may not be specific to forms of self-injury (e.g., NSSI) that involve immediate physical pain (e.g., cutting). Our findings further suggest that the concept of acquired capability for suicide might have relevance for both direct and indirect forms of self-injurious behavior. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Adapting Poisson-Boltzmann to the self-consistent mean field theory: Application to protein side-chain modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koehl, Patrice; Orland, Henri; Delarue, Marc

2011-08-01

We present an extension of the self-consistent mean field theory for protein side-chain modeling in which solvation effects are included based on the Poisson-Boltzmann (PB) theory. In this approach, the protein is represented with multiple copies of its side chains. Each copy is assigned a weight that is refined iteratively based on the mean field energy generated by the rest of the protein, until self-consistency is reached. At each cycle, the variational free energy of the multi-copy system is computed; this free energy includes the internal energy of the protein that accounts for vdW and electrostatics interactions and a solvation free energy term that is computed using the PB equation. The method converges in only a few cycles and takes only minutes of central processing unit time on a commodity personal computer. The predicted conformation of each residue is then set to be its copy with the highest weight after convergence. We have tested this method on a database of hundred highly refined NMR structures to circumvent the problems of crystal packing inherent to x-ray structures. The use of the PB-derived solvation free energy significantly improves prediction accuracy for surface side chains. For example, the prediction accuracies for χ1 for surface cysteine, serine, and threonine residues improve from 68%, 35%, and 43% to 80%, 53%, and 57%, respectively. A comparison with other side-chain prediction algorithms demonstrates that our approach is consistently better in predicting the conformations of exposed side chains.

Motivation: An Updated Analysis. IDEA Paper #59

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Svinicki, Marilla D.

2016-01-01

Because instructors are very concerned about how to motivate their students, this paper describes some of the most prominent and practically relevant contemporary theories of motivation, specifically expectancy value theory, goal orientation theory, and self-determination theory. After describing each theory and its basic components, suggestions…

PRODUCTION OF SOUND BY UNSTEADY THROTTLING OF FLOW INTO A RESONANT CAVITY, WITH APPLICATION TO VOICED SPEECH

PubMed Central

Howe, M. S.; McGowan, R. S.

2011-01-01

An analysis is made of the sound generated by the time-dependent throttling of a nominally steady stream of air through a small orifice into a flow-through resonant cavity. This is exemplified by the production of voiced speech, where air from the lungs enters the vocal tract through the glottis at a time variable volume flow rate Q(t) controlled by oscillations of the glottis cross-section. Voicing theory has hitherto determined Q from a heuristic, reduced complexity ‘Fant’ differential equation (G. Fant, Acoustic Theory of Speech Production, 1960). A new self-consistent, integro-differential form of this equation is derived in this paper using the theory of aerodynamic sound, with full account taken of the back-reaction of the resonant tract on the glottal flux Q. The theory involves an aeroacoustic Green’s function (G) for flow-surface interactions in a time-dependent glottis, so making the problem non-self-adjoint. In complex problems of this type it is not usually possible to obtain G in an explicit analytic form. The principal objective of the paper is to show how the Fant equation can still be derived in such cases from a consideration of the equation of aerodynamic sound and from the adjoint of the equation governing G in the neighbourhood of the ‘throttle’. The theory is illustrated by application to the canonical problem of throttled flow into a Helmholtz resonator. PMID:21666824

To have or to be? A comparison of materialism-based theories and self-determination theory as explanatory frameworks of prejudice.

PubMed

Van Hiel, Alain; Cornelis, Ilse; Roets, Arne

2010-06-01

The present study aimed to delineate the psychological structure of materialism and intrinsic and extrinsic value pursuit. Moreover, we compared models based on self-determination theory (SDT), Fromm's marketing character, and Inglehart's theory of social change to account for racial prejudice. In a sample of undergraduate students (n=131) and adults (n=176) it was revealed that the extrinsic value pursuit Financial Success/Materialism could be distinguished from the extrinsic value scales Physical Appeal and Social Recognition, and Community Concern could be distinguished from the intrinsic value pursuit scales Self-acceptance and Affiliation. Moreover, Financial Success/Materialism and Community Concern were consistently and significantly related to prejudice, whereas the other SDT facet scales yielded weaker relationships with prejudice. Structural models based on SDT and Inglehart were not corroborated, but instead the present data supported a mediation model based on Fromm's work in which the effect of Community Concern was mediated by Financial Success/Materialism. Broader implications for SDT are critically assessed.

Motivational and behavioural models of change: A longitudinal analysis of change among men with chronic haemophilia-related joint pain.

PubMed

Elander, J; Richardson, C; Morris, J; Robinson, G; Schofield, M B

2017-09-01

Motivational and behavioural models of adjustment to chronic pain make different predictions about change processes, which can be tested in longitudinal analyses. We examined changes in motivation, coping and acceptance among 78 men with chronic haemophilia-related joint pain. Using cross-lagged regression analyses of changes from baseline to 6 months as predictors of changes from 6 to 12 months, with supplementary structural equation modelling, we tested two models in which motivational changes influence behavioural changes, and one in which behavioural changes influence motivational changes. Changes in motivation to self-manage pain influenced later changes in pain coping, consistent with the motivational model of pain self-management, and also influenced later changes in activity engagement, the behavioural component of pain acceptance. Changes in activity engagement influenced later changes in pain willingness, consistent with the behavioural model of pain acceptance. Based on the findings, a combined model of changes in pain self-management and acceptance is proposed, which could guide combined interventions based on theories of motivation, coping and acceptance in chronic pain. This study adds longitudinal evidence about sequential change processes; a test of the motivational model of pain self-management; and tests of behavioural versus motivational models of pain acceptance. © 2017 European Pain Federation - EFIC®.

The relevance of self-esteem and self-schemas to persecutory delusions: a systematic review.

PubMed

Kesting, Marie-Luise; Lincoln, Tania Marie

2013-10-01

Self-esteem is frequently targeted in psychological approaches to persecutory delusions (PD). However, its precise role in the formation and maintenance of PD is unclear and has been subject to a number of theories: It has been hypothesized that PD function to enhance self-esteem, that they directly reflect negative conceptualizations of the self, that self-esteem follows from the perceived deservedness of the persecution (poor-me versus bad-me-paranoia) and that the temporal instability of self-esteem is relevant to PD. In order to increase our understanding of the relevance of self-esteem to PD, this article systematically reviews the existing research on self-esteem in PD in the light of the existing theories. We performed a literature search on studies that investigated self-esteem in PD. We included studies that either investigated self-esteem a) within patients with PD or compared to controls or b) along the continuum of subclinical paranoia in the general population. We used a broad concept of self-esteem and included paradigms that assessed implicit self-esteem, specific self-schemas and dynamic aspects of self-esteem. The literature search identified 317 studies of which 52 met the inclusion criteria. The reviewed studies consistently found low global explicit self-esteem and negative self-schemas in persons with PD. The studies therefore do not support the theory that PD serve to enhance self-esteem but underline the theory that they directly reflect specific negative self-schemas. There is evidence that low self-esteem is associated with higher perceived deservedness of the persecution and that PD are associated with instable self-esteem. Only few studies investigated implicit self-esteem and the results of these studies were inconsistent. We conclude by proposing an explanatory model of how self-esteem and PD interact from which we derive clinical implications. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Improving the collective self-efficacy of the teams of nurse trainers at IFSI through professional didactics].

PubMed

Nagels, Marc

2011-03-01

The purpose of the study is to show that the analysis of the activity is a factor of construction of the collective self-efficacy of the trainers of five training institutes in nursing care (IFSI). As a collective system of beliefs on the capacity of the group to attain its goals, self-efficacy finds its foundations in the sociocognitive theory which articulates, within a mutual triadic causality, the personal, behavioral and environmental factors of the human agentivity. The personal determiners (self-efficacy, cognitive organization of the activity) are put in connection with the behavioral (production of the performance) and environmental (attribution of skill, professional tasks and standards) factors. The intervention consisted in introducing one hundred and nine nurse trainers to work analysis in a context of hospital reforms. The collective self-efficacy of the trainers appears as a key variable of the success of these reforms. The collective self-efficacy was the object of a pre-test and a qualitative post-test on the basis of motivational indicators, of the effectiveness of the educational realizations to the students and the estimation of the performance of the group to conduct the reform. The level of collective self-efficacy increases and the first realizations maintain the belief of the trainers in their capacity to succeed collectively in the implementation of the training plan. This is the first research in France which shows that the analysis of the activity comes along with an increase of the collective self-efficacy in work. These results question the practices of the trainers beyond the paramedical sector alone.

Ionic interactions in biological and physical systems: a variational treatment.

PubMed

Eisenberg, Bob

2013-01-01

Chemistry is about chemical reactions. Chemistry is about electrons changing their configurations as atoms and molecules react. Chemistry has for more than a century studied reactions as if they occurred in ideal conditions of infinitely dilute solutions. But most reactions occur in salt solutions that are not ideal. In those solutions everything (charged) interacts with everything else (charged) through the electric field, which is short and long range extending to the boundaries of the system. Mathematics has recently been developed to deal with interacting systems of this sort. The variational theory of complex fluids has spawned the theory of liquid crystals (or vice versa). In my view, ionic solutions should be viewed as complex fluids, particularly in the biological and engineering context. In both biology and electrochemistry ionic solutions are mixtures highly concentrated (to approximately 10 M) where they are most important, near electrodes, nucleic ids, proteins, active sites of enzymes, and ionic channels. Ca2+ is always involved in biological solutions because the concentration (really free energy per mole) of Ca2+ in a particular location is the signal that controls many biological functions. Such interacting systems are not simple fluids, and it is no wonder that analysis of interactions, such as the Hofmeister series, rooted in that tradition has not succeeded as one would hope. Here, we present a variational treatment of ard spheres in a frictional dielectric with the hope that such a treatment of an lectrolyte as a complex fluid will be productive. The theory automatically extends to spatially nonuniform boundary conditions and the nonequilibrium systems and flows they produce. The theory is unavoidably self-consistent since differential equations are derived (not assumed) from models of (Helmholtz free) nergy and dissipation of the electrolyte. The origin of the Hofmeister series is (in my view) an inverse problem that becomes well posed when enough data from disjoint experimental traditions are interpreted with a self-consistent theory.

The dialectic in becoming a mother: experiencing a postpartum phenomenon.

PubMed

Sethi, S

1995-01-01

In this study of the phenomenon of the postpartum period grounded theory methodology was used to investigate the experiences of first-time mothers during the first three months following their deliveries. The sample consisted of 12 primipara women and 3 multipara women. The data were generated by using unstructured interviews and field notes. Each woman was interviewed twice, the first time between 2 and 3 weeks postpartum, and the second time between 10 and 12 weeks postpartum. The final data for analysis consisted of: data generated through interviews, field notes, and the narratives of four mothers found in the non-fiction literature. Constant comparative analysis resulted in the generation of four categories and corresponding subcategories. These were: (1) Giving of Self; (2) Redefining Self; (3) Redefining Relationships; and (4) Redefining Professional Goals. The categories were not mutually exclusive. All the categories converged to provide support for the core variable 'Dialectic in Becoming a Mother'. The dialectic perspective demonstrated that, in becoming mothers, the women experienced transition, contradictions, tensions and transformations. A theoretical model was developed to show relationships among these major concepts. The findings of this study will be useful in effecting change in the provision of care to postpartum women and their families.

Fear of self-annihilation and existential uncertainty as predictors of worldview defense: Comparing terror management and uncertainty theories.

PubMed

Rubin, Mark

2018-01-01

Terror management theory (TMT) proposes that thoughts of death trigger a concern about self-annihilation that motivates the defense of cultural worldviews. In contrast, uncertainty theorists propose that thoughts of death trigger feelings of uncertainty that motivate worldview defense. University students (N = 414) completed measures of the chronic fear of self-annihilation and existential uncertainty as well as the need for closure. They then evaluated either a meaning threat stimulus or a control stimulus. Consistent with TMT, participants with a high fear of self-annihilation and a high need for closure showed the greatest dislike of the meaning threat stimulus, even after controlling for their existential uncertainty. Contrary to the uncertainty perspective, fear of existential uncertainty showed no significant effects.

The effect of anisotropic heat transport on magnetic islands in 3-D configurations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schlutt, M. G.; Hegna, C. C.

2012-08-01

An analytic theory of nonlinear pressure-induced magnetic island formation using a boundary layer analysis is presented. This theory extends previous work by including the effects of finite parallel heat transport and is applicable to general three dimensional magnetic configurations. In this work, particular attention is paid to the role of finite parallel heat conduction in the context of pressure-induced island physics. It is found that localized currents that require self-consistent deformation of the pressure profile, such as resistive interchange and bootstrap currents, are attenuated by finite parallel heat conduction when the magnetic islands are sufficiently small. However, these anisotropic effects do not change saturated island widths caused by Pfirsch-Schlüter current effects. Implications for finite pressure-induced island healing are discussed.

Gyrokinetic theory for particle and energy transport in fusion plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falessi, Matteo Valerio; Zonca, Fulvio

2018-03-01

A set of equations is derived describing the macroscopic transport of particles and energy in a thermonuclear plasma on the energy confinement time. The equations thus derived allow studying collisional and turbulent transport self-consistently, retaining the effect of magnetic field geometry without postulating any scale separation between the reference state and fluctuations. Previously, assuming scale separation, transport equations have been derived from kinetic equations by means of multiple-scale perturbation analysis and spatio-temporal averaging. In this work, the evolution equations for the moments of the distribution function are obtained following the standard approach; meanwhile, gyrokinetic theory has been used to explicitly express the fluctuation induced fluxes. In this way, equations for the transport of particles and energy up to the transport time scale can be derived using standard first order gyrokinetics.

Learning "A La Carte": A Theory-Based Tool for Maximizing Student Engagement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sibold, Jeremy

2016-01-01

It is well-established that motivation is a critical component of one's best performance of a task. A primary model in the field of motivation is the self-determination theory (SDT). The three pillars of SDT include competency, autonomy, and relatedness; when supported these have been shown to improve the quality, consistency, and persistence of…

Global self-esteem, goal achievement orientations, and self-determined behavioural regulations in a physical education setting.

PubMed

Hein, Vello; Hagger, Martin S

2007-01-15

We examined a theoretical model of global self-esteem that incorporated constructs from achievement goal and self-determination theories. The model hypothesized that self-determined or autonomous motives would mediate the influence of achievement goal orientation on global self-esteem. The adapted version of the Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (Mullan et al., 1997), the Perception of Success Questionnaire (Roberts & Balague, 1991), and Rosenberg's (1965) self-esteem scales were administered to 634 high school students aged 11 - 15 years. A structural equation model supported the hypotheses and demonstrated that autonomous motives mediated the effect of goal orientations on global self-esteem. The results suggest that generalized motivational orientations influence self-esteem by affecting autonomous motivation and is consistent with theory that suggests that experiences relating to intrinsic motivation are the mechanism by which global motivational orientations are translated into adaptive outcomes like self-esteem. The findings suggest that physical activity interventions that target autonomous motives in physical activity contexts are likely to enhance young people's general self-esteem.

Item response theory analysis of the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire.

PubMed

Costa, Daniel S J; Asghari, Ali; Nicholas, Michael K

2017-01-01

The Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ) is a 10-item instrument designed to assess the extent to which a person in pain believes s/he is able to accomplish various activities despite their pain. There is strong evidence for the validity and reliability of both the full-length PSEQ and a 2-item version. The purpose of this study is to further examine the properties of the PSEQ using an item response theory (IRT) approach. We used the two-parameter graded response model to examine the category probability curves, and location and discrimination parameters of the 10 PSEQ items. In item response theory, responses to a set of items are assumed to be probabilistically determined by a latent (unobserved) variable. In the graded-response model specifically, item response threshold (the value of the latent variable for which adjacent response categories are equally likely) and discrimination parameters are estimated for each item. Participants were 1511 mixed, chronic pain patients attending for initial assessment at a tertiary pain management centre. All items except item 7 ('I can cope with my pain without medication') performed well in IRT analysis, and the category probability curves suggested that participants used the 7-point response scale consistently. Items 6 ('I can still do many of the things I enjoy doing, such as hobbies or leisure activity, despite pain'), 8 ('I can still accomplish most of my goals in life, despite the pain') and 9 ('I can live a normal lifestyle, despite the pain') captured higher levels of the latent variable with greater precision. The results from this IRT analysis add to the body of evidence based on classical test theory illustrating the strong psychometric properties of the PSEQ. Despite the relatively poor performance of Item 7, its clinical utility warrants its retention in the questionnaire. The strong psychometric properties of the PSEQ support its use as an effective tool for assessing self-efficacy in people with pain. Copyright © 2016 Scandinavian Association for the Study of Pain. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A pre-registered naturalistic observation of within domain mental fatigue and domain-general depletion of self-control

PubMed Central

Harlow, Iain; Inzlicht, Michael

2017-01-01

Self-control is often believed to operate as if it were a finite, domain-general resource. However, recent attempts to demonstrate this under transparent conditions have failed to yield positive results. In the current study, we monitor two groups of students (N1 = 8,867, N2 = 8,754) over separate 17-week intervals with 24-hour coverage, as they engage in voluntary learning and self-testing using an online program. We use daily behavior to assess whether time-of-day effects support domain-general theories of self-control. Additionally, we assess whether mental fatigue emerges within task during prolonged persistent effort. Results reveal within-task fatigue emerges within an hour on-task. However, there is a negligible effect on ability throughout the day. Additionally, time-of-day has no detrimental effect on motivation; rather there is a strong tendency to increase learning time at night. Results are consistent with theories indicating people lose motivation within a specific task, but at odds with theories that argue for a domain-general self-control resource. PMID:28931013

Comparing online and offline self-disclosure: a systematic review.

PubMed

Nguyen, Melanie; Bin, Yu Sun; Campbell, Andrew

2012-02-01

Disclosure of personal information is believed to be more frequent in online compared to offline communication. However, this assumption is both theoretically and empirically contested. This systematic review examined existing research comparing online and offline self-disclosure to ascertain the evidence for current theories of online communication. Studies that compared online and offline disclosures in dyadic interactions were included for review. Contrary to expectations, disclosure was not consistently found to be greater in online contexts. Factors such as the relationship between the communicators, the specific mode of communication, and the context of the interaction appear to moderate the degree of disclosure. In relation to the theories of online communication, there is support for each theory. It is argued that the overlapping predictions of each theory and the current state of empirical research highlights a need for an overarching theory of communication that can account for disclosure in both online and offline interactions.

The development and initial psychometric evaluation of a measure assessing adherence to prescribed exercise: the Exercise Adherence Rating Scale (EARS).

PubMed

Newman-Beinart, Naomi A; Norton, Sam; Dowling, Dominic; Gavriloff, Dimitri; Vari, Chiara; Weinman, John A; Godfrey, Emma L

2017-06-01

There is no gold standard for measuring adherence to prescribed home exercise. Self-report diaries are commonly used however lack of standardisation, inaccurate recall and self-presentation bias limit their validity. A valid and reliable tool to assess exercise adherence behaviour is required. Consequently, this article reports the development and psychometric evaluation of the Exercise Adherence Rating Scale (EARS). Development of a questionnaire. Secondary care in physiotherapy departments of three hospitals. A focus group consisting of 8 patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) and 2 physiotherapists was conducted to generate qualitative data. Following on from this, a convenience sample of 224 people with CLBP completed the initial 16-item EARS for purposes of subsequent validity and reliability analyses. Construct validity was explored using exploratory factor analysis and item response theory. Test-retest reliability was assessed 3 weeks later in a sub-sample of patients. An item pool consisting of 6 items was found suitable for factor analysis. Examination of the scale structure of these 6 items revealed a one factor solution explaining a total of 71% of the variance in adherence to exercise. The six items formed a unidimensional scale that showed good measurement properties, including acceptable internal consistency and high test-retest reliability. The EARS enables the measurement of adherence to prescribed home exercise. This may facilitate the evaluation of interventions promoting self-management for both the prevention and treatment of chronic conditions. Copyright © 2017 Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Applicability of Complexity Theory to Martian Fluvial Systems: A Preliminary Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosenshein, E. B.

2003-01-01

In the last 15 years, terrestrial geomorphology has been revolutionized by the theories of chaotic systems, fractals, self-organization, and selforganized criticality. Except for the application of fractal theory to the analysis of lava flows and rampart craters on Mars, these theories have not yet been applied to problems of Martian landscape evolution. These complexity theories are elucidated below, along with the methods used to relate these theories to the realities of Martian fluvial systems.

Linking transformational leadership to nurses' extra-role performance: the mediating role of self-efficacy and work engagement.

PubMed

Salanova, Marisa; Lorente, Laura; Chambel, Maria J; Martínez, Isabel M

2011-10-01

This paper is a report of a social cognitive theory-guided study about the link between supervisors' transformational leadership and staff nurses' extra-role performance as mediated by nurse self-efficacy and work engagement. Past research has acknowledged the positive influence that transformational leaders have on employee (extra-role) performance. However, less is known about the psychological mechanisms that may explain the links between transformational leaders and extra-role performance, which encompasses behaviours that are not considered formal job requirements, but which facilitate the smooth functioning of the organization as a social system. Seventeen supervisors evaluated nurses' extra-role performance, the data generating a sample consisting of 280 dyads. The nurses worked in different health services in a large Portuguese hospital and the participation rate was 76·9% for nurses and 100% for supervisors. Data were collected during 2009. A theory-driven model of the relationships between transformation leadership, self-efficacy, work engagement and nurses' extra-role performance was tested using Structural Equation Modelling. Data analysis revealed a full mediation model in which transformational leadership explained extra-role performance through self-efficacy and work engagement. A direct relationship between transformational leadership and work engagement was also found. Nurses' supervisors with a transformational leadership style enhance different 'extra-role' performance in nurses and this increases hospital efficacy. They do so by establishing a sense of self-efficacy but also by amplifying their levels of engagement in the workplace. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Performance of extended Lagrangian schemes for molecular dynamics simulations with classical polarizable force fields and density functional theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vitale, Valerio; Dziedzic, Jacek; Albaugh, Alex; Niklasson, Anders M. N.; Head-Gordon, Teresa; Skylaris, Chris-Kriton

2017-03-01

Iterative energy minimization with the aim of achieving self-consistency is a common feature of Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics (BOMD) and classical molecular dynamics with polarizable force fields. In the former, the electronic degrees of freedom are optimized, while the latter often involves an iterative determination of induced point dipoles. The computational effort of the self-consistency procedure can be reduced by re-using converged solutions from previous time steps. However, this must be done carefully, as not to break time-reversal symmetry, which negatively impacts energy conservation. Self-consistent schemes based on the extended Lagrangian formalism, where the initial guesses for the optimized quantities are treated as auxiliary degrees of freedom, constitute one elegant solution. We report on the performance of two integration schemes with the same underlying extended Lagrangian structure, which we both employ in two radically distinct regimes—in classical molecular dynamics simulations with the AMOEBA polarizable force field and in BOMD simulations with the Onetep linear-scaling density functional theory (LS-DFT) approach. Both integration schemes are found to offer significant improvements over the standard (unpropagated) molecular dynamics formulation in both the classical and LS-DFT regimes.

Performance of extended Lagrangian schemes for molecular dynamics simulations with classical polarizable force fields and density functional theory.

PubMed

Vitale, Valerio; Dziedzic, Jacek; Albaugh, Alex; Niklasson, Anders M N; Head-Gordon, Teresa; Skylaris, Chris-Kriton

2017-03-28

Iterative energy minimization with the aim of achieving self-consistency is a common feature of Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics (BOMD) and classical molecular dynamics with polarizable force fields. In the former, the electronic degrees of freedom are optimized, while the latter often involves an iterative determination of induced point dipoles. The computational effort of the self-consistency procedure can be reduced by re-using converged solutions from previous time steps. However, this must be done carefully, as not to break time-reversal symmetry, which negatively impacts energy conservation. Self-consistent schemes based on the extended Lagrangian formalism, where the initial guesses for the optimized quantities are treated as auxiliary degrees of freedom, constitute one elegant solution. We report on the performance of two integration schemes with the same underlying extended Lagrangian structure, which we both employ in two radically distinct regimes-in classical molecular dynamics simulations with the AMOEBA polarizable force field and in BOMD simulations with the Onetep linear-scaling density functional theory (LS-DFT) approach. Both integration schemes are found to offer significant improvements over the standard (unpropagated) molecular dynamics formulation in both the classical and LS-DFT regimes.

Performance of extended Lagrangian schemes for molecular dynamics simulations with classical polarizable force fields and density functional theory

DOE PAGES

Vitale, Valerio; Dziedzic, Jacek; Albaugh, Alex; ...

2017-03-28

Iterative energy minimization with the aim of achieving self-consistency is a common feature of Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics (BOMD) and classical molecular dynamics with polarizable force fields. In the former, the electronic degrees of freedom are optimized, while the latter often involves an iterative determination of induced point dipoles. The computational effort of the self-consistency procedure can be reduced by re-using converged solutions from previous time steps. However, this must be done carefully, as not to break time-reversal symmetry, which negatively impacts energy conservation. Self-consistent schemes based on the extended Lagrangian formalism, where the initial guesses for the optimized quantities aremore » treated as auxiliary degrees of freedom, constitute one elegant solution. We report on the performance of two integration schemes with the same underlying extended Lagrangian structure, which we both employ in two radically distinct regimes—in classical molecular dynamics simulations with the AMOEBA polarizable force field and in BOMD simulations with the Onetep linear-scaling density functional theory (LS-DFT) approach. Furthermore, both integration schemes are found to offer significant improvements over the standard (unpropagated) molecular dynamics formulation in both the classical and LS-DFT regimes.« less

Performance of extended Lagrangian schemes for molecular dynamics simulations with classical polarizable force fields and density functional theory

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Vitale, Valerio; Dziedzic, Jacek; Albaugh, Alex

Iterative energy minimization with the aim of achieving self-consistency is a common feature of Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics (BOMD) and classical molecular dynamics with polarizable force fields. In the former, the electronic degrees of freedom are optimized, while the latter often involves an iterative determination of induced point dipoles. The computational effort of the self-consistency procedure can be reduced by re-using converged solutions from previous time steps. However, this must be done carefully, as not to break time-reversal symmetry, which negatively impacts energy conservation. Self-consistent schemes based on the extended Lagrangian formalism, where the initial guesses for the optimized quantities aremore » treated as auxiliary degrees of freedom, constitute one elegant solution. We report on the performance of two integration schemes with the same underlying extended Lagrangian structure, which we both employ in two radically distinct regimes—in classical molecular dynamics simulations with the AMOEBA polarizable force field and in BOMD simulations with the Onetep linear-scaling density functional theory (LS-DFT) approach. Furthermore, both integration schemes are found to offer significant improvements over the standard (unpropagated) molecular dynamics formulation in both the classical and LS-DFT regimes.« less

Self-consistent description of a system of interacting phonons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poluektov, Yu. M.

2015-11-01

A proposal for a method of self-consistent description of phonon systems. This method generalizes the Debye model to account for phonon-phonon interaction. The idea of "self-consistent" phonons is introduced; their speed depends on the temperature and is determined by solving a non-linear equation. The Debye energy is also a function of the temperature within the framework of the proposed approach. The thermodynamics of "self-consistent" phonon gas are built. It is shown that at low temperatures the cubic law temperature dependence of specific heat acquires an additional term that is proportional to the seventh power of the temperature. This seems to explain the reason why the cubic law for specific heat is observed only at relatively low temperatures. At high temperatures, the theory predicts a linear deviation with respect to temperature from the Dulong-Petit law, which is observed experimentally. A modification to the melting criteria is considered, to account for the phonon-phonon interaction.

Congruency between Occupational Daydreams and Self Directed Search (SDS) Scores among College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, Mark J.; Springer, Thomas P.; Tobacyk, Jerome; Wells, Don

2004-01-01

In this study, the relationship of expressed occupational daydreams and scores on the Self-Directed Search (SDS) were examined. Results were consistent with Holland's theory of careers. Implications for career counselors are discussed. Students were asked to provide specific biographical data (i. e., age, gender, race) and to write down their…

An Analysis of a First-Year Class on the Self-Efficacy of University Students in Japan

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shin, Kimie; Nakagami, Masafumi

2015-01-01

This study aimed to examine the effect of the first-year class in Japanese universities on developing students' self-efficacy. An analysis of the class design based on the theory of self-efficacy implies that such courses are primarily intended to develop students' self-efficacy by putting them through enactive mastery experiences. In addition,…

Neural Responses to Heartbeats in the Default Network Encode the Self in Spontaneous Thoughts.

PubMed

Babo-Rebelo, Mariana; Richter, Craig G; Tallon-Baudry, Catherine

2016-07-27

The default network (DN) has been consistently associated with self-related cognition, but also to bodily state monitoring and autonomic regulation. We hypothesized that these two seemingly disparate functional roles of the DN are functionally coupled, in line with theories proposing that selfhood is grounded in the neural monitoring of internal organs, such as the heart. We measured with magnetoencephalograhy neural responses evoked by heartbeats while human participants freely mind-wandered. When interrupted by a visual stimulus at random intervals, participants scored the self-relatedness of the interrupted thought. They evaluated their involvement as the first-person perspective subject or agent in the thought ("I"), and on another scale to what degree they were thinking about themselves ("Me"). During the interrupted thought, neural responses to heartbeats in two regions of the DN, the ventral precuneus and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, covaried, respectively, with the "I" and the "Me" dimensions of the self, even at the single-trial level. No covariation between self-relatedness and peripheral autonomic measures (heart rate, heart rate variability, pupil diameter, electrodermal activity, respiration rate, and phase) or alpha power was observed. Our results reveal a direct link between selfhood and neural responses to heartbeats in the DN and thus directly support theories grounding selfhood in the neural monitoring of visceral inputs. More generally, the tight functional coupling between self-related processing and cardiac monitoring observed here implies that, even in the absence of measured changes in peripheral bodily measures, physiological and cognitive functions have to be considered jointly in the DN. The default network (DN) has been consistently associated with self-processing but also with autonomic regulation. We hypothesized that these two functions could be functionally coupled in the DN, inspired by theories according to which selfhood is grounded in the neural monitoring of internal organs. Using magnetoencephalography, we show that heartbeat-evoked responses (HERs) in the DN covary with the self-relatedness of ongoing spontaneous thoughts. HER amplitude in the ventral precuneus covaried with the "I" self-dimension, whereas HER amplitude in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex encoded the "Me" self-dimension. Our experimental results directly support theories rooting selfhood in the neural monitoring of internal organs. We propose a novel functional framework for the DN, where self-processing is coupled with physiological monitoring. Copyright © 2016 Babo-Rebelo et al.

Neural Responses to Heartbeats in the Default Network Encode the Self in Spontaneous Thoughts

PubMed Central

Babo-Rebelo, Mariana; Richter, Craig G.

2016-01-01

The default network (DN) has been consistently associated with self-related cognition, but also to bodily state monitoring and autonomic regulation. We hypothesized that these two seemingly disparate functional roles of the DN are functionally coupled, in line with theories proposing that selfhood is grounded in the neural monitoring of internal organs, such as the heart. We measured with magnetoencephalograhy neural responses evoked by heartbeats while human participants freely mind-wandered. When interrupted by a visual stimulus at random intervals, participants scored the self-relatedness of the interrupted thought. They evaluated their involvement as the first-person perspective subject or agent in the thought (“I”), and on another scale to what degree they were thinking about themselves (“Me”). During the interrupted thought, neural responses to heartbeats in two regions of the DN, the ventral precuneus and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, covaried, respectively, with the “I” and the “Me” dimensions of the self, even at the single-trial level. No covariation between self-relatedness and peripheral autonomic measures (heart rate, heart rate variability, pupil diameter, electrodermal activity, respiration rate, and phase) or alpha power was observed. Our results reveal a direct link between selfhood and neural responses to heartbeats in the DN and thus directly support theories grounding selfhood in the neural monitoring of visceral inputs. More generally, the tight functional coupling between self-related processing and cardiac monitoring observed here implies that, even in the absence of measured changes in peripheral bodily measures, physiological and cognitive functions have to be considered jointly in the DN. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The default network (DN) has been consistently associated with self-processing but also with autonomic regulation. We hypothesized that these two functions could be functionally coupled in the DN, inspired by theories according to which selfhood is grounded in the neural monitoring of internal organs. Using magnetoencephalography, we show that heartbeat-evoked responses (HERs) in the DN covary with the self-relatedness of ongoing spontaneous thoughts. HER amplitude in the ventral precuneus covaried with the “I” self-dimension, whereas HER amplitude in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex encoded the “Me” self-dimension. Our experimental results directly support theories rooting selfhood in the neural monitoring of internal organs. We propose a novel functional framework for the DN, where self-processing is coupled with physiological monitoring. PMID:27466329

Does Selective Migration Explain the Hispanic Paradox?: A Comparative Analysis of Mexicans in the U.S. and Mexico

PubMed Central

Bostean, Georgiana

2014-01-01

Latino immigrants, particularly Mexican, have some health advantages over U.S.-born Mexicans and Whites. Because of their lower socioeconomic status, this phenomenon has been called the epidemiologic “Hispanic Paradox.” While cultural theories have dominated explanations for the Paradox, the role of selective migration has been inadequately addressed. This study is among the few to combine Mexican and U.S. data to examine health selectivity in activity limitation, self-rated health, and chronic conditions among Mexican immigrants, ages 18 and over. Drawing on theories of selective migration, this study tested the “healthy migrant” and “salmon-bias” hypotheses by comparing the health of Mexican immigrants in the U.S. to non-migrants in Mexico, and to return migrants in Mexico. Results suggest that there are both healthy migrant and salmon-bias effects in activity limitation, but not other health aspects. In fact, consistent with prior research, immigrants are negatively selected on self-rated health. Future research should consider the complexities of migrants’ health profiles and examine selection mechanisms alongside other factors such as acculturation. PMID:22618355

Does selective migration explain the Hispanic paradox? A comparative analysis of Mexicans in the U.S. and Mexico.

PubMed

Bostean, Georgiana

2013-06-01

Latino immigrants, particularly Mexican, have some health advantages over U.S.-born Mexicans and Whites. Because of their lower socioeconomic status, this phenomenon has been called the epidemiologic "Hispanic Paradox." While cultural theories have dominated explanations for the Paradox, the role of selective migration has been inadequately addressed. This study is among the few to combine Mexican and U.S. data to examine health selectivity in activity limitation, self-rated health, and chronic conditions among Mexican immigrants, ages 18 and over. Drawing on theories of selective migration, this study tested the "healthy migrant" and "salmon-bias" hypotheses by comparing the health of Mexican immigrants in the U.S. to non-migrants in Mexico, and to return migrants in Mexico. Results suggest that there are both healthy migrant and salmon-bias effects in activity limitation, but not other health aspects. In fact, consistent with prior research, immigrants are negatively selected on self-rated health. Future research should consider the complexities of migrants' health profiles and examine selection mechanisms alongside other factors such as acculturation.

Coach strategies for addressing psychosocial challenges during the return to sport from injury.

PubMed

Podlog, Leslie; Dionigi, Rylee

2010-09-01

The purpose of this study was to examine coach strategies for addressing athletes' psychosocial challenges in returning to sport following injury rehabilitation. Qualitative interviews with eight elite coaches from the Western Australian Institute of Sport (WAIS) in Perth, Australia revealed that coaches facilitated athletes' return to sport from injury through a variety of means, but did not typically provide systematic forms of assistance. Coaches commented that the idiosyncratic nature of the injury experience meant that they needed to apply strategies consistent with athletes' particular psychosocial needs. Such strategies included: (a) coordination of a "team approach" to rehabilitation; (b) fostering open communication with athletes and treatment team members; (c) social support; (d) positive thinking and goal setting; and (e) role models. Analysis of these strategies revealed that coaches attempted to address competence, autonomy, and relatedness needs in facilitating athletes' return from injury. These findings suggest that self-determination theory may be a valuable approach for examining coach forms of assistance regarding athletes' return to competition following injury. Findings are discussed in relation to injury literature and self-determination theory. Suggestions for future research are also presented.

Application of a theoretical framework to foster a cardiac-diabetes self-management programme.

PubMed

Wu, C-J Jo; Chang, A M

2014-09-01

This paper analyses and illustrates the application of Bandura's self-efficacy construct to an innovative self-management programme for patients with both type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease. Using theory as a framework for any health intervention provides a solid and valid foundation for aspects of planning and delivering such an intervention; however, it is reported that many health behaviour intervention programmes are not based upon theory and are consequently limited in their applicability to different populations. The cardiac-diabetes self-management programme has been specifically developed for patients with dual conditions with the strategies for delivering the programme based upon Bandura's self-efficacy theory. This patient group is at greater risk of negative health outcomes than that with a single chronic condition and therefore requires appropriate intervention programmes with solid theoretical foundations that can address the complexity of care required. The cardiac-diabetes self-management programme has been developed incorporating theory, evidence and practical strategies. This paper provides explicit knowledge of the theoretical basis and components of a cardiac-diabetes self-management programme. Such detail enhances the ability to replicate or adopt the intervention in similar or differing populations and/or cultural contexts as it provides in-depth understanding of each element within the intervention. Knowledge of the concepts alone is not sufficient to deliver a successful health programme. Supporting patients to master skills of self-care is essential in order for patients to successfully manage two complex, chronic illnesses. Valuable information has been provided to close the theory-practice gap for more consistent health outcomes, engaging with patients for promoting holistic care within organizational and cultural contexts. © 2014 International Council of Nurses.

Depression: a psychiatric nursing theory of connectivity.

PubMed

Feely, M; Long, A

2009-10-01

This paper presents a theory of connectivity, which was formulated from the findings of a Classical Grounded Theory study that was designed to capture a sample of people's perceptions of living with depression or caring for individuals with depression. Data were collected from: (1) a focus group consisting of people with depression (n = 7), of which five were patients in the community and two were nurses; (2) one-to-one interviews with patients in the community (n = 5) and nurses (n = 5), three of whom had experienced depression from both sides of the caring process; and (3) two 'happy accident' focus groups (n = 25; n = 18) comprising of healthcare workers with a shared understanding of depression. Purposeful sampling was used initially. Thereafter, in keeping with one of the key tenets of grounded theory, theoretical sampling was used until theoretical saturation occurred. Data were analysed using the constant comparative approach together with the NVivo qualitative analysis software package. The core category that emerged was 'connectivity' relating to the connections and disconnections, which people make in their lives. Six key categories emerged all of which were integrated with the core category. Hence, connectivity provided a significant platform for understanding and responding to the life experience of depression. They were: (1) life encounters on the journey to naming; (2) depression: What's in a name? The silent thief; (3) tentative steps to health care; (4) connective encounters and challenges; (5) connecting with self; and (6) self-connection maintenance. Subsequently, a theory, 'Depression: a psychiatric nursing theory of connectivity', surfaced from the overall findings. We argue that this theory of connectivity provides a framework that people working in the field of holistic treatment and care could use to better understand and respond to the life experience of people living with depression.

Predictors of Self-care among the Elderly with Diabetes Type 2: Using Social Cognitive Theory.

PubMed

Borhaninejad, Vahidreza; Iranpour, Abedin; Shati, Mohsen; Tahami, Ahmad Naghibzadeh; Yousefzadeh, Gholamrezan; Fadayevatan, Reza

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases among the elderly and is also a very serious health problem. Adopting theory-based self-care behaviors is an effective means in managing such diseases. This study aimed to determine the predictors of diabetes self-care in the elderly in Kerman based on a social cognitive theory. In this cross-sectional study, 384 elderly diabetic patients who had referred to health screening centers in Kerman were chosen via cluster sampling. To collect information about self-care and its predictors, Toobert Glasgow's diabetes self-efficacy scale as well as a questionnaire was used which was based on social cognitive theory constructs. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed. The data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and linear regression analysis in SPSS software 17. Among the subjects, 67.37% (252) had poor self-care ability; 29.14% (109) had average ability, and 3.40% (13) enjoyed a proper level of self- care ability. There was a significant relationship between the constructs of the social cognitive theory (knowledge, self- efficacy, social support, outcome expectations, outcome expectancy and self-regulation) and the self-care score. Furthermore, the mentioned constructs could predict 0.47% of the variance of the self-care behaviors. self-care behaviors in this study were poor. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an educational intervention based on cognitive theory constructs with the goal of properly managing diabetes in the elderly patients. Copyright © 2016 Diabetes India. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Quasiparticle self-consistent GW study of cuprates: electronic structure, model parameters, and the two-band theory for Tc.

PubMed

Jang, Seung Woo; Kotani, Takao; Kino, Hiori; Kuroki, Kazuhiko; Han, Myung Joon

2015-07-24

Despite decades of progress, an understanding of unconventional superconductivity still remains elusive. An important open question is about the material dependence of the superconducting properties. Using the quasiparticle self-consistent GW method, we re-examine the electronic structure of copper oxide high-Tc materials. We show that QSGW captures several important features, distinctive from the conventional LDA results. The energy level splitting between d(x(2)-y(2)) and d(3z(2)-r(2)) is significantly enlarged and the van Hove singularity point is lowered. The calculated results compare better than LDA with recent experimental results from resonant inelastic xray scattering and angle resolved photoemission experiments. This agreement with the experiments supports the previously suggested two-band theory for the material dependence of the superconducting transition temperature, Tc.

Effects of a physical activity program on post-bariatric patients: A qualitative study from a self-determination theory perspective.

PubMed

González-Cutre, David; Megías, Ángel; Beltrán-Carrillo, Vicente J; Cervelló, Eduardo; Spray, Christopher M

2018-04-01

This study provides an in-depth analysis of the psychosocial benefits that 10 post-bariatric patients (nine female, 31-59 years) perceived from their participation in an exercise program grounded in self-determination theory. Qualitative data were collected through observations and interviews. Participants reported many factors which facilitated basic psychological need satisfaction such as the instructors caring about their opinion, affection, fitness improvement, pain reduction, and knowledge acquisition. These factors were associated with autonomous motivation, enjoyment, intention to be physically active, happiness, and self-confidence. The results suggest that self-determination theory-based exercise programs could be designed to achieve positive outcomes in this population.

The Effectiveness of the Harm Reduction Group Therapy Based on Bandura's Self-Efficacy Theory on Risky Behaviors of Drug-Dependent Sex Worker Women.

PubMed

Rabani-Bavojdan, Marjan; Rabani-Bavojdan, Mozhgan; Rajabizadeh, Ghodratollah; Kaviani, Nahid; Bahramnejad, Ali; Ghaffari, Zohreh; Shafiei-Bafti, Mehdi

2017-07-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the harm reduction group therapy based on Bandura's self-efficacy theory on risky behaviors of sex workers in Kerman, Iran. A quasi-experimental two-group design (a random selection with pre-test and post-test) was used. A risky behaviors questionnaire was used to collect. The sample was selected among sex workers referring to drop-in centers in Kerman. Subjects were allocated to two groups and were randomly classified into two experimental and control groups. The sample group consisted of 56 subjects. The experimental design was carried out during 12 sessions, and the post-test was performed one month and two weeks after the completion of the sessions. The results were analyzed statistically. By reducing harm based on Bandura's self-efficacy theory, the risky behaviors of the experimental group, including injection behavior, sexual behavior, violence, and damage to the skin, were significantly reduced in the pre-test compared to the post-test (P < 0.010). The harm reduction group therapy based on Bandura's self-efficacy theory can reduce the risky behaviors of sex workers.

Nonadiabatic Dynamics for Electrons at Second-Order: Real-Time TDDFT and OSCF2.

PubMed

Nguyen, Triet S; Parkhill, John

2015-07-14

We develop a new model to simulate nonradiative relaxation and dephasing by combining real-time Hartree-Fock and density functional theory (DFT) with our recent open-systems theory of electronic dynamics. The approach has some key advantages: it has been systematically derived and properly relaxes noninteracting electrons to a Fermi-Dirac distribution. This paper combines the new dissipation theory with an atomistic, all-electron quantum chemistry code and an atom-centered model of the thermal environment. The environment is represented nonempirically and is dependent on molecular structure in a nonlocal way. A production quality, O(N(3)) closed-shell implementation of our theory applicable to realistic molecular systems is presented, including timing information. This scaling implies that the added cost of our nonadiabatic relaxation model, time-dependent open self-consistent field at second order (OSCF2), is computationally inexpensive, relative to adiabatic propagation of real-time time-dependent Hartree-Fock (TDHF) or time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT). Details of the implementation and numerical algorithm, including factorization and efficiency, are discussed. We demonstrate that OSCF2 approaches the stationary self-consistent field (SCF) ground state when the gap is large relative to k(b)T. The code is used to calculate linear-response spectra including the effects of bath dynamics. Finally, we show how our theory of finite-temperature relaxation can be used to correct ground-state DFT calculations.

Effective Contraceptive Use: An Exploration of Theory-Based Influences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peyman, N.; Oakley, D.

2009-01-01

The purpose of this study was to explore factors that influence oral contraceptive (OC) use among women in Iran using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and concept of self-efficacy (SE). The study sample consisted of 360 married OC users, aged 18-49 years recruited at public health centers of Mashhad, 900 km east of Tehran. SE had the strongest…

Multiple Intelligences: Theory to Practice in New York City Schools. Grades K-5. [Manual and Video Guide].

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leopold, Marjorie

This program is a self-guided professional development experience that explains how to use multiple intelligences (MI) theory to improve teaching, learning, and achievement in elementary classrooms and schools. The program consists of one manual and six VHS videos, each of which corresponds to one of the six modules listed in the table of…

Microscopic theory of topologically entangled fluids of rigid macromolecules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sussman, Daniel M.; Schweizer, Kenneth S.

2011-06-01

We present a first-principles theory for the slow dynamics of a fluid of entangling rigid crosses of zero excluded volume based on a generalization of the dynamic mean-field approach of Szamel for infinitely thin nonrotating rods. The latter theory exactly includes topological constraints at the two-body collision level and self-consistently renormalizes an effective diffusion tensor to account for many-body effects. Remarkably, it predicts scaling laws consistent with the phenomenological reptation-tube predictions of Doi and Edwards for the long-time diffusion and the localization length in the heavily entangled limit. We generalize this approach to a different macromolecular architecture, infinitely thin three-dimensional crosses, and also extend the range of densities over which a dynamic localization length can be calculated for rods. Ideal gases of nonrotating crosses have recently received attention in computer simulations and are relevant as a simple model of both a strong-glass former and entangling star-branched polymers. Comparisons of our theory with these simulations reveal reasonable agreement for the magnitude and reduced density dependence of the localization length and also the self-diffusion constant if the consequences of local density fluctuations are taken into account.

The application of Bandura's self-efficacy theory to abstinence-oriented alcoholism treatment.

PubMed

Rollnick, S; Heather, N

1982-01-01

This paper explores the relevance of self-efficacy theory (Bandura, 1977b) to the process of abstinence treatment and the phenomenon of relapse. By distinguishing between the particular efficacy and outcome expectations created in treatment it is possible to clarify some of the problems encountered between clinicians and alcoholics. Bandura's theory also explains why some treatment methods might be more effective than others. Analysis of relapse suggests that while some of the expectations created in treatment might serve to promote abstinence, others might unwittingly precipitate relapse. The understanding of abstinence treatment could be enhanced by the testing of hypotheses which emerge from this analysis.

Trainee Teachers' Mental Effort in Learning Spreadsheet through Self-Instructional Module Based on Cognitive Load Theory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tasir, Zaidatun; Pin, Ong Chiek

2012-01-01

A printed module should consist of media elements, namely text and pictures, which are self-instructional and could cater to the needs of the user. However, the typical platform of such visualization frequently overloads the limited working memory causing split attention and redundancy effects. The purpose of this study is to design and develop a…

Supporting and Inhibiting the Well-Being of Early Career Secondary School Teachers: Extending Self-Determination Theory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hobson, Andrew J.; Maxwell, Bronwen

2017-01-01

This paper reports an original examination of the well-being of early career secondary school teachers in England, which extends the evidence bases relating to early career teachers' working lives, teacher well-being, self-determination theory and performativity, respectively. Drawing on a secondary analysis of qualitative data generated for four…

Cohorts and Relatedness: Self-Determination Theory as an Explanation of How Learning Communities Affect Educational Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beachboard, Martine Robinson; Beachboard, John C.; Li, Wenling; Adkison, Stephen R.

2011-01-01

This study examines whether feelings of relatedness constitute a substantial means by which learning communities (cohorts) improve learning outcomes in higher education. It applies Ryan and Deci's Self-Determination Theory to an analysis of the National Survey of Student Engagement. The SDT hypothesizes that environments that support perceptions…

Measurement properties of the Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation: Rasch analysis of responses from a traumatic hand injury population.

PubMed

Packham, Tara; MacDermid, Joy C

2013-01-01

The Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation (PRWHE) is a self-reported assessment of pain and disability to evaluate outcome after hand injuries. Rasch analysis is an alternative strategy for examining the psychometric properties of a measurement scale based in item response theory, rather than classical test theory. This study used Rasch analysis to examine the content, scoring and measurement properties of the PRWHE. PRWHE scores (n = 264) from persons with a traumatic injury or reconstructive surgery to one hand were collected from an outpatient hand rehabilitation facility. Rasch analysis was conducted to assess how the PRWHE fit the Rasch model, confirms the scaling structure of the pain and disability subscales, and identifies any areas of bias from differential item functioning. Rasch analysis of the PRWHE supports internal consistency of the scale (α = 0.96) and reliability (as measured by the person separation index) of 0.95. While gender, age, diagnosis, and duration since injury all systematically influenced how people scored the PRWHE, hand dominance and affected side did not. Rasch analysis supported a 3 subscale structure (pain, specific activities and usual activities) rather than the current divisions of pain and disability. Initial examination of the PRWHE indicates the psychometric properties of consistency, reliability and responsiveness previously tested by classical methods are further supported by Rasch analysis. It also suggests the scale structure may be best considered as 3 subscales rather than simply pain and disability. Copyright © 2013 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prediction of tautomer ratios by embedded-cluster integral equation theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kast, Stefan M.; Heil, Jochen; Güssregen, Stefan; Schmidt, K. Friedemann

2010-04-01

The "embedded cluster reference interaction site model" (EC-RISM) approach combines statistical-mechanical integral equation theory and quantum-chemical calculations for predicting thermodynamic data for chemical reactions in solution. The electronic structure of the solute is determined self-consistently with the structure of the solvent that is described by 3D RISM integral equation theory. The continuous solvent-site distribution is mapped onto a set of discrete background charges ("embedded cluster") that represent an additional contribution to the molecular Hamiltonian. The EC-RISM analysis of the SAMPL2 challenge set of tautomers proceeds in three stages. Firstly, the group of compounds for which quantitative experimental free energy data was provided was taken to determine appropriate levels of quantum-chemical theory for geometry optimization and free energy prediction. Secondly, the resulting workflow was applied to the full set, allowing for chemical interpretations of the results. Thirdly, disclosure of experimental data for parts of the compounds facilitated a detailed analysis of methodical issues and suggestions for future improvements of the model. Without specifically adjusting parameters, the EC-RISM model yields the smallest value of the root mean square error for the first set (0.6 kcal mol-1) as well as for the full set of quantitative reaction data (2.0 kcal mol-1) among the SAMPL2 participants.

Using Item Response Theory to Develop Measures of Acquisitive and Protective Self-Monitoring From the Original Self-Monitoring Scale.

PubMed

Wilmot, Michael P; Kostal, Jack W; Stillwell, David; Kosinski, Michal

2017-07-01

For the past 40 years, the conventional univariate model of self-monitoring has reigned as the dominant interpretative paradigm in the literature. However, recent findings associated with an alternative bivariate model challenge the conventional paradigm. In this study, item response theory is used to develop measures of the bivariate model of acquisitive and protective self-monitoring using original Self-Monitoring Scale (SMS) items, and data from two large, nonstudent samples ( Ns = 13,563 and 709). Results indicate that the new acquisitive (six-item) and protective (seven-item) self-monitoring scales are reliable, unbiased in terms of gender and age, and demonstrate theoretically consistent relations to measures of personality traits and cognitive ability. Additionally, by virtue of using original SMS items, previously collected responses can be reanalyzed in accordance with the alternative bivariate model. Recommendations for the reanalysis of archival SMS data, as well as directions for future research, are provided.

GW and Bethe-Salpeter study of small water clusters

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Blase, Xavier, E-mail: xavier.blase@neel.cnrs.fr; Boulanger, Paul; Bruneval, Fabien

We study within the GW and Bethe-Salpeter many-body perturbation theories the electronic and optical properties of small (H{sub 2}O){sub n} water clusters (n = 1-6). Comparison with high-level CCSD(T) Coupled-Cluster at the Single Double (Triple) levels and ADC(3) Green’s function third order algebraic diagrammatic construction calculations indicates that the standard non-self-consistent G{sub 0}W{sub 0}@PBE or G{sub 0}W{sub 0}@PBE0 approaches significantly underestimate the ionization energy by about 1.1 eV and 0.5 eV, respectively. Consequently, the related Bethe-Salpeter lowest optical excitations are found to be located much too low in energy when building transitions from a non-self-consistent G{sub 0}W{sub 0} description ofmore » the quasiparticle spectrum. Simple self-consistent schemes, with update of the eigenvalues only, are shown to provide a weak dependence on the Kohn-Sham starting point and a much better agreement with reference calculations. The present findings rationalize the theory to experiment possible discrepancies observed in previous G{sub 0}W{sub 0} and Bethe-Salpeter studies of bulk water. The increase of the optical gap with increasing cluster size is consistent with the evolution from gas to dense ice or water phases and results from an enhanced screening of the electron-hole interaction.« less

Motivation in rehabilitation and acquired brain injury: can theory help us understand it?

PubMed

Kusec, Andrea; Velikonja, Diana; DeMatteo, Carol; Harris, Jocelyn E

2018-04-25

In acquired brain injury (ABI) populations, low motivation to engage in rehabilitation is associated with poor rehabilitation outcomes. Motivation in ABI is thought to be influenced by internal and external factors. This is consistent with Self-determination Theory, which posits that motivation is intrinsic and extrinsic. This paper discusses the benefit of using Self-determination Theory to guide measurement of motivation in ABI. Using a narrative review of the Self-determination Theory literature and clinical rehabilitation research, this paper discusses the unique role intrinsic and extrinsic motivation has in healthcare settings and the importance of understanding both when providing rehabilitation in ABI. Based on the extant literature, it is possible that two independently developed measures of motivation for ABI populations, the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust Motivation Questionnaire-Self and the Motivation for Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Questionnaire, may assess intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, respectively. Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in ABI may be two equally important but independent factors that could provide a comprehensive understanding of motivation in individuals with ABI. This increased understanding could help facilitate behavioural approaches in rehabilitation. Implications for Rehabilitation Conceptualization of motivation in ABI would benefit from drawing upon Self-determination Theory. External factors of motivation such as the therapeutic environment or social support should be carefully considered in rehabilitation in order to increase engagement. Assessing motivation as a dual rather than a global construct may provide more precise information about the extent to which a patient is motivated.

Acidity in DMSO from the embedded cluster integral equation quantum solvation model.

PubMed

Heil, Jochen; Tomazic, Daniel; Egbers, Simon; Kast, Stefan M

2014-04-01

The embedded cluster reference interaction site model (EC-RISM) is applied to the prediction of acidity constants of organic molecules in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solution. EC-RISM is based on a self-consistent treatment of the solute's electronic structure and the solvent's structure by coupling quantum-chemical calculations with three-dimensional (3D) RISM integral equation theory. We compare available DMSO force fields with reference calculations obtained using the polarizable continuum model (PCM). The results are evaluated statistically using two different approaches to eliminating the proton contribution: a linear regression model and an analysis of pK(a) shifts for compound pairs. Suitable levels of theory for the integral equation methodology are benchmarked. The results are further analyzed and illustrated by visualizing solvent site distribution functions and comparing them with an aqueous environment.

Development of an instrument based on the protection motivation theory to measure factors influencing women's intention to first pap test practice.

PubMed

Hassani, Lale; Dehdari, Tahereh; Hajizadeh, Ebrahim; Shojaeizadeh, Davoud; Abedini, Mehrandokht; Nedjat, Saharnaz

2014-01-01

Given that there are many Iranian women who have never had a Pap smear, this study was designed to develop and validate a measurement tool based on the Protection Motivation Theory to assess factors influencing the Iranian women's intention to perform first Pap testing. In this psychometric research, to determine the Content Validity Index (CVI) and the Content Validity Ratio (CVR), a panel of experts (n=10) reviewed scale items. Reliability was estimated through the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (n=30) and internal consistency (n=240). Also, factor analysis (exploratory and conformity) was performed on the data of the sample women who had never had a Pap smear test (n=240). A 26-item questionnaire was developed. The CVI and CVR scores of the scale were 0.89 and 0.90, respectively. Exploratory factor analysis loaded a 26-item with seven factors questionnaire (perceived vulnerability and severity, fear, response costs, response efficacy, self-efficacy, and protection motivation (or intention)) that jointly accounted for 72.76% of the observed variance. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated a good fit for the data. Internal consistency (range 0.70-0.93) and test-retest reliability (range 0.72-0.96) of sub-scales were acceptable. This study showed that the designed instrument was a valid and reliable tool for measuring the factors influencing the women's intention to perform their first Pap testing.

Development and psychometric properties of a belief-based Physical Activity Questionnaire for Diabetic Patients (PAQ-DP).

PubMed

Ghazanfari, Zeinab; Niknami, Shamsaddin; Ghofranipour, Fazlollah; Hajizadeh, Ebrahim; Montazeri, Ali

2010-11-09

This study carried out to develop a scale for assessing diabetic patients' perceptions about physical activity and to test its psychometric properties (The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Diabetic Patients-PAQ-DP). An item pool extracted from the Theory of Planned Behavior literature was generated. Then an expert panel evaluated the items by assessing content validity index and content validity ratio. Consequently exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed to indicate the scale constructs. In addition reliability analyses including internal consistency and test-retest analysis were carried out. In all a sample of 127 women with diabetes participated in the study. Twenty-two items were initially extracted from the literature. A six-factor solution (containing 19 items) emerged as a result of an exploratory factor analysis namely: instrumental attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, affective attitude, self-identity, and intention explaining 60.30% of the variance observed. Additional analyses indicated satisfactory results for internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha ranging from 0.54 to 0.8) and intraclass correlation coefficients (ranging from 0.40 to 0.92). The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Diabetic Patients (PAQ-DP) is the first instrument that applies the Theory of Planned Behavior in its constructs. The findings indicated that the PAQ-DP is a reliable and valid measure for assessing physical activity perceptions and now is available and can be used in future studies.

Development and psychometric properties of a belief-based Physical Activity Questionnaire for Diabetic Patients (PAQ-DP)

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background This study carried out to develop a scale for assessing diabetic patients' perceptions about physical activity and to test its psychometric properties (The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Diabetic Patients-PAQ-DP). Methods An item pool extracted from the Theory of Planned Behavior literature was generated. Then an expert panel evaluated the items by assessing content validity index and content validity ratio. Consequently exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed to indicate the scale constructs. In addition reliability analyses including internal consistency and test-retest analysis were carried out. Results In all a sample of 127 women with diabetes participated in the study. Twenty-two items were initially extracted from the literature. A six-factor solution (containing 19 items) emerged as a result of an exploratory factor analysis namely: instrumental attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, affective attitude, self-identity, and intention explaining 60.30% of the variance observed. Additional analyses indicated satisfactory results for internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha ranging from 0.54 to 0.8) and intraclass correlation coefficients (ranging from 0.40 to 0.92). Conclusions The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Diabetic Patients (PAQ-DP) is the first instrument that applies the Theory of Planned Behavior in its constructs. The findings indicated that the PAQ-DP is a reliable and valid measure for assessing physical activity perceptions and now is available and can be used in future studies. PMID:21062466

Multireference Density Functional Theory with Generalized Auxiliary Systems for Ground and Excited States.

PubMed

Chen, Zehua; Zhang, Du; Jin, Ye; Yang, Yang; Su, Neil Qiang; Yang, Weitao

2017-09-21

To describe static correlation, we develop a new approach to density functional theory (DFT), which uses a generalized auxiliary system that is of a different symmetry, such as particle number or spin, from that of the physical system. The total energy of the physical system consists of two parts: the energy of the auxiliary system, which is determined with a chosen density functional approximation (DFA), and the excitation energy from an approximate linear response theory that restores the symmetry to that of the physical system, thus rigorously leading to a multideterminant description of the physical system. The electron density of the physical system is different from that of the auxiliary system and is uniquely determined from the functional derivative of the total energy with respect to the external potential. Our energy functional is thus an implicit functional of the physical system density, but an explicit functional of the auxiliary system density. We show that the total energy minimum and stationary states, describing the ground and excited states of the physical system, can be obtained by a self-consistent optimization with respect to the explicit variable, the generalized Kohn-Sham noninteracting density matrix. We have developed the generalized optimized effective potential method for the self-consistent optimization. Among options of the auxiliary system and the associated linear response theory, reformulated versions of the particle-particle random phase approximation (pp-RPA) and the spin-flip time-dependent density functional theory (SF-TDDFT) are selected for illustration of principle. Numerical results show that our multireference DFT successfully describes static correlation in bond dissociation and double bond rotation.

Theory and modelling of light-matter interactions in photonic crystal cavity systems coupled to quantum dot ensembles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cartar, William K.

Photonic crystal microcavity quantum dot lasers show promise as high quality-factor, low threshold lasers, that can be integrated on-chip, with tunable room temperature opera- tions. However, such semiconductor microcavity lasers are notoriously difficult to model in a self-consistent way and are primarily modelled by simplified rate equation approxima- tions, typically fit to experimental data, which limits investigations of their optimization and fundamental light-matter interaction processes. Moreover, simple cavity mode optical theory and rate equations have recently been shown to fail in explaining lasing threshold trends in triangular lattice photonic crystal cavities as a function of cavity size, and the potential impact of fabrication disorder is not well understood. In this thesis, we develop a simple but powerful numerical scheme for modelling the quantum dot active layer used for lasing in these photonic crystal cavity structures, as an ensemble of randomly posi- tioned artificial two-level atoms. Each two-level atom is defined by optical Bloch equations solved by a quantum master equation that includes phenomenological pure dephasing and an incoherent pump rate that effectively models a multi-level gain system. Light-matter in- teractions of both passive and lasing structures are analyzed using simulation defined tools and post-simulation Green function techniques. We implement an active layer ensemble of up to 24,000 statistically unique quantum dots in photonic crystal cavity simulations, using a self-consistent finite-difference time-domain method. This method has the distinct advantage of capturing effects such as dipole-dipole coupling and radiative decay, without the need for any phenomenological terms, since the time-domain solution self-consistently captures these effects. Our analysis demonstrates a powerful ability to connect with recent experimental trends, while remaining completely general in its set-up; for example, we do not invoke common approximations such as the rotating-wave or slowly-varying envelope approximations, and solve dynamics with zero a priori knowledge.

Nonperturbative finite-temperature Yang-Mills theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cyrol, Anton K.; Mitter, Mario; Pawlowski, Jan M.; Strodthoff, Nils

2018-03-01

We present nonperturbative correlation functions in Landau-gauge Yang-Mills theory at finite temperature. The results are obtained from the functional renormalisation group within a self-consistent approximation scheme. In particular, we compute the magnetic and electric components of the gluon propagator, and the three- and four-gluon vertices. We also show the ghost propagator and the ghost-gluon vertex at finite temperature. Our results for the propagators are confronted with lattice simulations and our Debye mass is compared to hard thermal loop perturbation theory.

Self-determined motivation and physical activity in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

B Owen, Katherine; Smith, Jordan; Lubans, David R; Ng, Johan Y Y; Lonsdale, Chris

2014-10-01

Self-determination theory is used as a framework for examining the relation between motivation and physical activity. The purpose of this review was to systematically review studies that assessed the association between self-determined motivation and physical activity levels in children and adolescents. We searched electronic databases in April 2013. Included studies assessed the relation between motivation (as outlined in self-determination theory) and physical activity in children and adolescents. Forty-six studies (n=15,984 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis indicated that overall levels of self-determined motivation had a weak to moderate, positive associations with physical activity (ρ=.21 to .31). Autonomous forms of motivation (i.e., intrinsic motivation and identified regulation) had moderate, positive associations with physical activity (ρ=.27 to .38), whereas controlled forms of motivation (i.e., introjection and external regulation) had weak, negative associations with physical activity (ρ=-.03 to -.17). Amotivation had a weak, negative association with physical activity (ρ=-.11 to -.21). Evidence provides some support for self-determination theory tenets. However, there was substantial heterogeneity in most associations and many studies had methodological shortcomings. Crown Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A simple derivation of the exact quasiparticle theory and its extension to arbitrary initial excited eigenstates.

PubMed

Ohno, Kaoru; Ono, Shota; Isobe, Tomoharu

2017-02-28

The quasiparticle (QP) energies, which are minus of the energies required by removing or produced by adding one electron from/to the system, corresponding to the photoemission or inverse photoemission (PE/IPE) spectra, are determined together with the QP wave functions, which are not orthonormal and even not linearly independent but somewhat similar to the normal spin orbitals in the theory of the configuration interaction, by self-consistently solving the QP equation coupled with the equation for the self-energy. The electron density, kinetic, and all interaction energies can be calculated using the QP wave functions. We prove in a simple way that the PE/IPE spectroscopy and therefore this QP theory can be applied to an arbitrary initial excited eigenstate. In this proof, we show that the energy-dependence of the self-energy is not an essential difficulty, and the QP picture holds exactly if there is no relaxation mechanism in the system. The validity of the present theory for some initial excited eigenstates is tested using the one-shot GW approximation for several atoms and molecules.

Hybrid modeling and empirical analysis of automobile supply chain network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Jun-yan; Tang, Jian-ming; Fu, Wei-ping; Wu, Bing-ying

2017-05-01

Based on the connection mechanism of nodes which automatically select upstream and downstream agents, a simulation model for dynamic evolutionary process of consumer-driven automobile supply chain is established by integrating ABM and discrete modeling in the GIS-based map. Firstly, the rationality is proved by analyzing the consistency of sales and changes in various agent parameters between the simulation model and a real automobile supply chain. Second, through complex network theory, hierarchical structures of the model and relationships of networks at different levels are analyzed to calculate various characteristic parameters such as mean distance, mean clustering coefficients, and degree distributions. By doing so, it verifies that the model is a typical scale-free network and small-world network. Finally, the motion law of this model is analyzed from the perspective of complex self-adaptive systems. The chaotic state of the simulation system is verified, which suggests that this system has typical nonlinear characteristics. This model not only macroscopically illustrates the dynamic evolution of complex networks of automobile supply chain but also microcosmically reflects the business process of each agent. Moreover, the model construction and simulation of the system by means of combining CAS theory and complex networks supplies a novel method for supply chain analysis, as well as theory bases and experience for supply chain analysis of auto companies.

The ideas behind self-consistent expansion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwartz, Moshe; Katzav, Eytan

2008-04-01

In recent years we have witnessed a growing interest in various non-equilibrium systems described in terms of stochastic nonlinear field theories. In some of those systems, like KPZ and related models, the interesting behavior is in the strong coupling regime, which is inaccessible by traditional perturbative treatments such as dynamical renormalization group (DRG). A useful tool in the study of such systems is the self-consistent expansion (SCE), which might be said to generate its own 'small parameter'. The self-consistent expansion (SCE) has the advantage that its structure is just that of a regular expansion, the only difference is that the simple system around which the expansion is performed is adjustable. The purpose of this paper is to present the method in a simple and understandable way that hopefully will make it accessible to a wider public working on non-equilibrium statistical physics.

Applying psychological theories to evidence-based clinical practice: identifying factors predictive of placing preventive fissure sealants.

PubMed

Bonetti, Debbie; Johnston, Marie; Clarkson, Jan E; Grimshaw, Jeremy; Pitts, Nigel B; Eccles, Martin; Steen, Nick; Thomas, Ruth; Maclennan, Graeme; Glidewell, Liz; Walker, Anne

2010-04-08

Psychological models are used to understand and predict behaviour in a wide range of settings, but have not been consistently applied to health professional behaviours, and the contribution of differing theories is not clear. This study explored the usefulness of a range of models to predict an evidence-based behaviour -- the placing of fissure sealants. Measures were collected by postal questionnaire from a random sample of general dental practitioners (GDPs) in Scotland. Outcomes were behavioural simulation (scenario decision-making), and behavioural intention. Predictor variables were from the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), Common Sense Self-regulation Model (CS-SRM), Operant Learning Theory (OLT), Implementation Intention (II), Stage Model, and knowledge (a non-theoretical construct). Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the predictive value of each theoretical model individually. Significant constructs from all theories were then entered into a 'cross theory' stepwise regression analysis to investigate their combined predictive value. Behavioural simulation - theory level variance explained was: TPB 31%; SCT 29%; II 7%; OLT 30%. Neither CS-SRM nor stage explained significant variance. In the cross theory analysis, habit (OLT), timeline acute (CS-SRM), and outcome expectancy (SCT) entered the equation, together explaining 38% of the variance. Behavioural intention - theory level variance explained was: TPB 30%; SCT 24%; OLT 58%, CS-SRM 27%. GDPs in the action stage had significantly higher intention to place fissure sealants. In the cross theory analysis, habit (OLT) and attitude (TPB) entered the equation, together explaining 68% of the variance in intention. The study provides evidence that psychological models can be useful in understanding and predicting clinical behaviour. Taking a theory-based approach enables the creation of a replicable methodology for identifying factors that may predict clinical behaviour and so provide possible targets for knowledge translation interventions. Results suggest that more evidence-based behaviour may be achieved by influencing beliefs about the positive outcomes of placing fissure sealants and building a habit of placing them as part of patient management. However a number of conceptual and methodological challenges remain.

[Effects of a Multi-disciplinary Approached, Empowerment Theory Based Self-management Intervention in Older Adults with Chronic Illness].

PubMed

Park, Chorong; Song, Misoon; Cho, Belong; Lim, Jaeyoung; Song, Wook; Chang, Heekyung; Park, Yeon-Hwan

2015-04-01

The purpose of this study was to develop a multi-disciplinary self-management intervention based on empowerment theory and to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention for older adults with chronic illness. A randomized controlled trial design was used with 43 Korean older adults with chronic illness (Experimental group=22, Control group=21). The intervention consisted of two phases: (1) 8-week multi-disciplinary, team guided, group-based health education, exercise session, and individual empowerment counseling, (2) 16-week self-help group activities including weekly exercise and group discussion to maintain acquired self-management skills and problem-solving skills. Baseline, 8-week, and 24-week assessments measured health empowerment, exercise self-efficacy, physical activity, and physical function. Health empowerment, physical activity, and physical function in the experimental group increased significantly compared to the control group over time. Exercise self-efficacy significantly increased in experimental group over time but there was no significant difference between the two groups. The self-management program based on empowerment theory improved health empowerment, physical activity, and physical function in older adults. The study finding suggests that a health empowerment strategy may be an effective approach for older adults with multiple chronic illnesses in terms of achieving a sense of control over their chronic illness and actively engaging self-management.

Self-Consistent Field Theory of Gaussian Ring Polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Jaeup; Yang, Yong-Biao; Lee, Won Bo

2012-02-01

Ring polymers, being free from chain ends, have fundamental importance in understanding the polymer statics and dynamics which are strongly influenced by the chain end effects. At a glance, their theoretical treatment may not seem particularly difficult, but the absence of chain ends and the topological constraints make the problem non-trivial, which results in limited success in the analytical or semi-analytical formulation of ring polymer theory. Here, I present a self-consistent field theory (SCFT) formalism of Gaussian (topologically unconstrained) ring polymers for the first time. The resulting static property of homogeneous and inhomogeneous ring polymers are compared with the random phase approximation (RPA) results. The critical point for ring homopolymer system is exactly the same as the linear polymer case, χN = 2, since a critical point does not depend on local structures of polymers. The critical point for ring diblock copolymer melts is χN 17.795, which is approximately 1.7 times of that of linear diblock copolymer melts, χN 10.495. The difference is due to the ring structure constraint.

Self-consistent Green's function embedding for advanced electronic structure methods based on a dynamical mean-field concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chibani, Wael; Ren, Xinguo; Scheffler, Matthias; Rinke, Patrick

2016-04-01

We present an embedding scheme for periodic systems that facilitates the treatment of the physically important part (here a unit cell or a supercell) with advanced electronic structure methods, that are computationally too expensive for periodic systems. The rest of the periodic system is treated with computationally less demanding approaches, e.g., Kohn-Sham density-functional theory, in a self-consistent manner. Our scheme is based on the concept of dynamical mean-field theory formulated in terms of Green's functions. Our real-space dynamical mean-field embedding scheme features two nested Dyson equations, one for the embedded cluster and another for the periodic surrounding. The total energy is computed from the resulting Green's functions. The performance of our scheme is demonstrated by treating the embedded region with hybrid functionals and many-body perturbation theory in the GW approach for simple bulk systems. The total energy and the density of states converge rapidly with respect to the computational parameters and approach their bulk limit with increasing cluster (i.e., computational supercell) size.

Multiple Intelligences: Theory to Practice in New York City Schools. Middle School/High School. [Manual and Video Guide].

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leopold, Marjorie

This program is a self-guided professional development experience that explains how to use multiple intelligences (MI) theory to improve teaching, learning, and achievement in middle and high school classrooms. The program consists of one manual and six VHS videos, each of which corresponds to one of the six modules listed in the table of…

An Analysis of Motivation in Three Self-Determination Curricula

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sinclair, James; Bromley, Katherine W.; Shogren, Karrie A.; Murray, Christopher; Unruh, Deanne K.; Harn, Beth A.

2017-01-01

Self-determination skill development is a central construct in the field of secondary special education. Recently, there has been discussion to revisit the motivational theoretical roots that influence the conceptualization of self-determination in special education, and merge motivational theories with instructional practices. Self-determination…

Personal investment, culture and learning: insights into school achievement across Anglo, Aboriginal, Asian and Lebanese students in Australia.

PubMed

McInerney, Dennis M

2008-10-01

Personal investment theory is a multifaceted theory of motivation, in which three key components: achievement goals (mastery, performance, social, and extrinsic), sense of self (sense of purpose, self-reliance, negative self-concept, positive self-concept), and facilitating conditions (parent support, teacher support, peer support), engage students in the process of learning. Four cultural groups (Anglo Australian, n = 852, Aboriginal Australian, n = 343, Lebanese Australian, n = 372, and Asian Australian, n = 283) of students were compared on these personal investment components and on several outcome measures (engagement, affect, achievement, participation). A series of MANOVAs, followed up by univariate tests, indicated ethnic differences and similarities in the endorsement of the personal investment theory components as well as in the outcome measures. Multiple regression analyses showed that each of the three sets of predictors (achievement goals, sense of self, facilitating conditions) explained a significant amount of the variance in almost all of the outcome measures. Across cultural groups, students' mastery goal and sense of purpose were consistently found to be significant predictors of their intention for further education, positive affect for schooling, and valuing of schooling.

Mediation and moderation of an efficacious theory-based abstinence-only intervention for African American adolescents.

PubMed

Zhang, Jingwen; Jemmott, John B; Jemmott, Loretta Sweet

2015-12-01

This secondary data analysis sought to determine what mediated reductions in self-reported sexual initiation over the 24-month postintervention period in early adolescents who received "Promoting Health among Teens," a theory-based, abstinence-only intervention (Jemmott, Jemmott, & Fong, 2010). African American Grade 6 and 7 students at inner-city public middle schools were randomized to 1 of 5 interventions grounded in social-cognitive theory and the theory of reasoned action: 8-hr abstinence-only targeting reduced sexual intercourse; 8-hr safer-sex-only targeting increased condom use; 8-hr and 12-hr comprehensive interventions targeting sexual intercourse and condom use; 8-hr control intervention targeting physical activity and diet. Primary outcome was self-report of vaginal intercourse by 24 months postintervention. Potential mediators, assessed immediately postintervention, were theory-of-reasoned-action variables, including behavioral beliefs about positive consequences of abstinence and negative consequences of sex, intention to have sex, normative beliefs about sex, and HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) knowledge. We tested single and serial mediation models using the product-of-coefficients approach. Of 509 students reporting never having vaginal intercourse at baseline (324 girls and 185 boys; mean age = 11.8 years, SD = 0.8), 500 or 98.2% were included in serial mediation analyses. Consistent with the theory of reasoned action, the abstinence-only intervention increased positive behavioral beliefs about abstinence, which reduced intention to have sex, which in turn reduced sexual initiation. Negative behavioral beliefs about sex, normative beliefs about sex, and HIV/STI knowledge were not mediators. Abstinence-only interventions should stress the gains to be realized from abstinence rather than the deleterious consequences of sexual involvement. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Mediation and Moderation of an Efficacious Theory-Based Abstinence-Only Intervention for African American Adolescents

PubMed Central

Zhang, Jingwen; Jemmott, John B.; Jemmott, Loretta Sweet

2018-01-01

Objective This secondary data analysis sought to determine what mediated reductions in self-reported sexual initiation over the 24-month post-intervention period in early adolescents who received “Promoting Health among Teens,” a theory-based, abstinence-only intervention (Jemmott, Jemmott, & Fong, 2010). Methods African American grade 6 and 7 students at inner-city public middle schools were randomized to one of five interventions grounded in social cognitive theory and the theory of reasoned action: 8-hour abstinence-only targeting reduced sexual intercourse; 8-hour safer-sex-only targeting increased condom use; 8-hour and 12-hour comprehensive interventions targeting sexual intercourse and condom use; 8-hour control intervention targeting physical activity and diet. Primary outcome was self-report of vaginal intercourse by 24 months post-intervention. Potential mediators, assessed immediately post-intervention, were theory-of-reasoned-action variables, including behavioral beliefs about positive consequences of abstinence and negative consequences of sex, intention to have sex, normative beliefs about sex, and HIV/STI knowledge. We tested single and serial mediation models using the product-of-coefficients approach. Results Of 509 students reporting never having vaginal intercourse at baseline (324 girls and 185 boys; mean age = 11.8 years; SD = 0.8), 500 or 98.2% were included in serial mediation analyses. Consistent with the theory of reasoned action, the abstinence-only intervention increased positive behavioral beliefs about abstinence, which reduced intention to have sex, which in turn reduced sexual initiation. Negative behavioral beliefs about sex, normative beliefs about sex, and HIV/STI knowledge were not mediators. Conclusions Abstinence-only interventions should stress the gains to be realized from abstinence rather than the deleterious consequences of sexual involvement. PMID:26214076

UCLA IGPP Space Plasma Simulation Group

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1998-01-01

During the past 10 years the UCLA IGPP Space Plasma Simulation Group has pursued its theoretical effort to develop a Mission Oriented Theory (MOT) for the International Solar Terrestrial Physics (ISTP) program. This effort has been based on a combination of approaches: analytical theory, large scale kinetic (LSK) calculations, global magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations and self-consistent plasma kinetic (SCK) simulations. These models have been used to formulate a global interpretation of local measurements made by the ISTP spacecraft. The regions of applications of the MOT cover most of the magnetosphere: the solar wind, the low- and high-latitude magnetospheric boundary, the near-Earth and distant magnetotail, and the auroral region. Most recent investigations include: plasma processes in the electron foreshock, response of the magnetospheric cusp, particle entry in the magnetosphere, sources of observed distribution functions in the magnetotail, transport of oxygen ions, self-consistent evolution of the magnetotail, substorm studies, effects of explosive reconnection, and auroral acceleration simulations.

Influence of Chirality in Ordered Block Copolymer Phases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prasad, Ishan; Grason, Gregory

2015-03-01

Block copolymers are known to assemble into rich spectrum of ordered phases, with many complex phases driven by asymmetry in copolymer architecture. Despite decades of study, the influence of intrinsic chirality on equilibrium mesophase assembly of block copolymers is not well understood and largely unexplored. Self-consistent field theory has played a major role in prediction of physical properties of polymeric systems. Only recently, a polar orientational self-consistent field (oSCF) approach was adopted to model chiral BCP having a thermodynamic preference for cholesteric ordering in chiral segments. We implement oSCF theory for chiral nematic copolymers, where segment orientations are characterized by quadrupolar chiral interactions, and focus our study on the thermodynamic stability of bi-continuous network morphologies, and the transfer of molecular chirality to mesoscale chirality of networks. Unique photonic properties observed in butterfly wings have been attributed to presence of chiral single-gyroid networks, this has made it an attractive target for chiral metamaterial design.

Theory-based self-management educational interventions on patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Zhao, Fang-Fang; Suhonen, Riitta; Koskinen, Sanna; Leino-Kilpi, Helena

2017-04-01

To synthesize the effects of theory-based self-management educational interventions on patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in randomized controlled trials. Type 2 diabetes is a common chronic disease causing complications that put a heavy burden on society and reduce the quality of life of patients. Good self-management of diabetes can prevent complications and improve the quality of life of T2DM patients. Systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials following Cochrane methods. A literature search was carried out in the MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PSYCINFO, and Web of Science databases (1980-April 2015). The risk of bias of these eligible studies was assessed independently by two authors using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool. The Publication bias of the main outcomes was examined. Statistical heterogeneity and random-effects model were used for meta-analysis. Twenty studies with 5802 participants met the inclusion criteria. The interventions in the studies were based on one or more theories which mostly belong to mid-range theories. The pooled main outcomes by random-effects model showed significant improvements in HbA1c, self-efficacy, and diabetes knowledge, but not in BMI. As for quality of life, no conclusions can be drawn as the pooled outcome became the opposite with reduced heterogeneity after one study was excluded. No significant publication bias was found in the main outcomes. To get theory-based interventions to produce more effects, the role of patients should be more involved and stronger and the education team should be trained beyond the primary preparation for the self-management education program. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Particle and momentum confinement in tokamak plasmas with unbalanced neutral beam injection and strong rotation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Malik, M.A.

1988-01-01

There is a self-consistent theory of the effects of neutral beam injection on impurity transport in tokamak plasmas. The theory predicts that co-injection drives impurities outward and that counter-injection enhances the normally inward flow of impurities. The theory was applied to carry out a detailed analysis of the large experimental database from the PLT and the ISX-B tokamaks. The theory was found to generally model the experimental data quite well. It is, therefore, concluded that neutral beam co-injection can drive impurities outward to achieve clean central plasmas and a cool radiating edge. Theoretical predictions for future thermonuclear reactors such asmore » INTOR, TIBER II, and ITER indicated that neutral beam driven flow reversal might be an effective impurity control method if the rate of beam momentum deposited per plasma ion is adequate. The external momentum drag, which is a pivotal concept in impurity flow reversal theory, is correctly predicted by the gyroviscous theory of momentum confinement. The theory was applied to analyze experimental data from the PLT and the PDX tokamaks with exact experimental conditions. The theory was found to be in excellent agreement with experiment over a wide range of parameters. It is, therefore, possible to formulate the impurity transport theory from first principles, without resort to empiricism.« less

Self-defense against verbal assault: shame, anger, and the social bond.

PubMed

Scheff, T J

1995-09-01

With many years of experience and refinement, the arts of self-defense against physical assault are highly developed. Without an effective theory and and a useful practice, there is little in the way of self-defense against verbal assault. For THEORY, I draw upon ideas from aikido, family systems theory, and the sociology of emotions. Since unacknowledged shame seems to generate rage and damage social bonds, I emphasize the management of shame, anger, and bonds. To illustrate the meaning of these principles, I offer several episodes as examples, using the METHOD of discourse analysis. I apply this theory and method to the PRACTICE of psychotherapy by describing some rudimentary principles of defense of self against verbal aggression, especially the subtle aggression of innuendo. Psychotherapy is often an arena of verbal aggression by both therapist and client, even though it is usually unintentional and outside of awareness.

Self-efficacy with application to nursing education: a concept analysis.

PubMed

Robb, Meigan

2012-01-01

Concept analysis and self-efficacy. This article analyzes the concept self-efficacy and its relationship to nursing education using Walker and Avant's methodology. Published literature. Nursing literature suggests increasing students' perceived self-efficacy will help to narrow the theory-practice gap. Self-efficacy is a cognitive variable that affects performance behaviors and affective processes. Perceived self-efficacy can be influenced by a direct experience, vicarious experience, or verbal persuasion. Individuals with high levels of self-efficacy demonstrate the defining attributes of confidence, perceived capability, and perseverance. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Impact of Teachers' Implicit Theories and Perceived Pressures on the Establishment of an Autonomy Supportive Climate

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leroy, Nadia; Bressoux, Pascal; Sarrazin, Philippe; Trouilloud, David

2007-01-01

According to self-determination theory, when teachers establish an autonomy supportive climate in the classroom, students demonstrate high levels of self-determination and are intrinsically motivated. The aim of this study was to identify factors leading teachers (N=336) to report that they create such a climate. We conducted a path analysis in…

A statistical mechanics approach to autopoietic immune networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barra, Adriano; Agliari, Elena

2010-07-01

In this work we aim to bridge theoretical immunology and disordered statistical mechanics. We introduce a model for the behavior of B-cells which naturally merges the clonal selection theory and the autopoietic network theory as a whole. From the analysis of its features we recover several basic phenomena such as low-dose tolerance, dynamical memory of antigens and self/non-self discrimination.

The Development and Validation of the Empathy Components Questionnaire (ECQ).

PubMed

Batchelder, Laurie; Brosnan, Mark; Ashwin, Chris

2017-01-01

Key research suggests that empathy is a multidimensional construct comprising of both cognitive and affective components. More recent theories and research suggest even further factors within these components of empathy, including the ability to empathize with others versus the drive towards empathizing with others. While numerous self-report measures have been developed to examine empathy, none of them currently index all of these wider components together. The aim of the present research was to develop and validate the Empathy Components Questionnaire (ECQ) to measure cognitive and affective components, as well as ability and drive components within each. Study one utilized items measuring cognitive and affective empathy taken from various established questionnaires to create an initial version of the ECQ. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to examine the underlying components of empathy within the ECQ in a sample of 101 typical adults. Results revealed a five-component model consisting of cognitive ability, cognitive drive, affective ability, affective drive, and a fifth factor assessing affective reactivity. This five-component structure was then validated and confirmed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) in an independent sample of 211 typical adults. Results also showed that females scored higher than males overall on the ECQ, and on specific components, which is consistent with previous findings of a female advantage on self-reported empathy. Findings also showed certain components predicted scores on an independent measure of social behavior, which provided good convergent validity of the ECQ. Together, these findings validate the newly developed ECQ as a multidimensional measure of empathy more in-line with current theories of empathy. The ECQ provides a useful new tool for quick and easy measurement of empathy and its components for research with both healthy and clinical populations.

The Development and Validation of the Empathy Components Questionnaire (ECQ)

PubMed Central

Batchelder, Laurie; Brosnan, Mark; Ashwin, Chris

2017-01-01

Key research suggests that empathy is a multidimensional construct comprising of both cognitive and affective components. More recent theories and research suggest even further factors within these components of empathy, including the ability to empathize with others versus the drive towards empathizing with others. While numerous self-report measures have been developed to examine empathy, none of them currently index all of these wider components together. The aim of the present research was to develop and validate the Empathy Components Questionnaire (ECQ) to measure cognitive and affective components, as well as ability and drive components within each. Study one utilized items measuring cognitive and affective empathy taken from various established questionnaires to create an initial version of the ECQ. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to examine the underlying components of empathy within the ECQ in a sample of 101 typical adults. Results revealed a five-component model consisting of cognitive ability, cognitive drive, affective ability, affective drive, and a fifth factor assessing affective reactivity. This five-component structure was then validated and confirmed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) in an independent sample of 211 typical adults. Results also showed that females scored higher than males overall on the ECQ, and on specific components, which is consistent with previous findings of a female advantage on self-reported empathy. Findings also showed certain components predicted scores on an independent measure of social behavior, which provided good convergent validity of the ECQ. Together, these findings validate the newly developed ECQ as a multidimensional measure of empathy more in-line with current theories of empathy. The ECQ provides a useful new tool for quick and easy measurement of empathy and its components for research with both healthy and clinical populations. PMID:28076406

Algebraic diagrammatic construction formalism with three-body interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raimondi, Francesco; Barbieri, Carlo

2018-05-01

Background: Self-consistent Green's function theory has recently been extended to the basic formalism needed to account for three-body interactions [Carbone, Cipollone, Barbieri, Rios, and Polls, Phys. Rev. C 88, 054326 (2013), 10.1103/PhysRevC.88.054326]. The contribution of three-nucleon forces has so far been included in ab initio calculations on nuclear matter and finite nuclei only as averaged two-nucleon forces. Purpose: We derive the working equations for all possible two- and three-nucleon terms that enter the expansion of the self-energy up to the third order, thus including the interaction-irreducible (i.e., not averaged) diagrams with three-nucleon forces that have been previously neglected. Methods: We employ the algebraic diagrammatic construction up to the third order as an organization scheme for generating a nonperturbative self-energy, in which ring (particle-hole) and ladder (particle-particle) diagrams are resummed to all orders. Results: We derive expressions of the static and dynamic self-energy up to the third order, by taking into account the set of diagrams required when either the skeleton or nonskeleton expansions of the single-particle propagator are assumed. A hierarchy of importance among different diagrams is revealed, and a particular emphasis is given to a third-order diagram [see Fig. 2(c)] that is expected to play a significant role among those featuring an interaction-irreducible three-nucleon force. Conclusion: A consistent formalism to resum at infinite order correlations induced by three-nucleon forces in the self-consistent Green's function theory is now available and ready to be implemented in the many-body solvers.

Challenging Students' Intuitions—the Influence of a Tangible Model of Virus Assembly on Students' Conceptual Reasoning About the Process of Self-Assembly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Larsson, Caroline; Tibell, Lena A. E.

2015-10-01

A well-ordered biological complex can be formed by the random motion of its components, i.e. self-assemble. This is a concept that incorporates issues that may contradict students' everyday experiences and intuitions. In previous studies, we have shown that a tangible model of virus self-assembly, used in a group exercise, helps students to grasp the process of self-assembly and in particular the facet "random molecular collision". The present study investigates how and why the model and the group exercise facilitate students' learning of this particular facet. The data analysed consist of audio recordings of six group exercises ( n = 35 university students) and individual semi-structured interviews ( n = 5 university students). The analysis is based on constructivist perspectives of learning, a combination of conceptual change theory and learning with external representations. Qualitative analysis indicates that perceived counterintuitive aspects of the process created a cognitive conflict within learners. The tangible model used in the group exercises facilitated a conceptual change in their understanding of the process. In particular, the tangible model appeared to provide cues and possible explanations and functioned as an "eye-opener" and a "thinking tool". Lastly, the results show signs of emotions also being important elements for successful accommodation.

Cognitive vulnerabilities and depression versus other psychopathology symptoms and diagnoses in early adolescence.

PubMed

Alloy, Lauren B; Black, Shimrit K; Young, Mathew E; Goldstein, Kim E; Shapero, Benjamin G; Stange, Jonathan P; Boccia, Angelo S; Matt, Lindsey M; Boland, Elaine M; Moore, Lauren C; Abramson, Lyn Y

2012-01-01

We examined the concurrent associations between multiple cognitive vulnerabilities to depression featured in hopelessness theory, Beck's theory, and response styles theory and depressive symptoms and diagnoses in a sample of early adolescents. We also examined the specificity of these cognitive vulnerabilities to depression versus anxiety and externalizing psychopathology, controlling for co-occurring symptoms and diagnoses. Male and female, Caucasian and African American, 12- to 13-year-old adolescents were assessed in a cross-sectional design. Cognitive vulnerabilities of hopelessness, inferential style, rumination, and self-referent information processing were assessed with self-reports and behavioral tasks. Symptoms and diagnoses of depressive, anxiety, and externalizing disorders were assessed with self-report questionnaires and diagnostic interviews. Hopelessness exhibited the greatest specificity to depressive symptoms and diagnoses, whereas negative inferential styles, rumination, and negative self-referent information processing were associated with both depressive and anxiety symptoms and diagnoses and, in some cases, with externalizing disorders. Consistent with cognitive theories of depression, hopelessness, negative inferential styles, rumination, and negative self-referent information processing were associated with depressive symptoms and diagnoses. However, with the exception of hopelessness, most of the remaining cognitive vulnerabilities were not specific to depression. With further maturation of our sample, these cognitive vulnerabilities may become more specific to depression as cognitive styles further develop and consolidate, the rates of depression increase, and individuals' presentations of psychopathology become more differentiated.

Cognitive Vulnerabilities and Depression versus Other Psychopathology Symptoms and Diagnoses in Early Adolescence

PubMed Central

Alloy, Lauren B.; Black, Shimrit K.; Young, Mathew E.; Goldstein, Kim E.; Shapero, Benjamin G.; Stange, Jonathan P.; Boccia, Angelo S.; Matt, Lindsey M.; Boland, Elaine M.; Moore, Lauren C.; Abramson, Lyn Y.

2012-01-01

Objective We examined the concurrent associations between multiple cognitive vulnerabilities to depression featured in Hopelessness Theory, Beck’s Theory, and Response Styles Theory and depressive symptoms and diagnoses in a sample of early adolescents. We also examined the specificity of these cognitive vulnerabilities to depression versus anxiety and externalizing psychopathology, controlling for co-occurring symptoms and diagnoses. Method Male and female, Caucasian and African-American, 12–13 year old adolescents were assessed in a cross-sectional design. Cognitive vulnerabilities of hopelessness, inferential style, rumination, and self-referent information processing were assessed with self-reports and behavioral tasks. Symptoms and diagnoses of depressive, anxiety, and externalizing disorders were assessed with self-report questionnaires and diagnostic interviews. Results Hopelessness exhibited the greatest specificity to depressive symptoms and diagnoses, whereas negative inferential styles, rumination, and negative self-referent information processing were associated with both depressive and anxiety symptoms and diagnoses and, in some cases, with externalizing disorders. Conclusions Consistent with cognitive theories of depression, hopelessness, negative inferential styles, rumination, and negative self-referent information processing were associated with depressive symptoms and diagnoses. However, with the exception of hopelessness, most of the remaining cognitive vulnerabilities were not specific to depression. With further maturation of our sample, these cognitive vulnerabilities may become more specific to depression as cognitive styles further develop and consolidate, the rates of depression increase, and individuals’ presentations of psychopathology become more differentiated. PMID:22853629

Approximate solution of the mode-mode coupling integral: Application to cytosine and its deuterated derivative.

PubMed

Rasheed, Tabish; Ahmad, Shabbir

2010-10-01

Ab initio Hartree-Fock (HF), density functional theory (DFT) and second-order Møller-Plesset (MP2) methods were used to perform harmonic and anharmonic calculations for the biomolecule cytosine and its deuterated derivative. The anharmonic vibrational spectra were computed using the vibrational self-consistent field (VSCF) and correlation-corrected vibrational self-consistent field (CC-VSCF) methods. Calculated anharmonic frequencies have been compared with the argon matrix spectra reported in literature. The results were analyzed with focus on the properties of anharmonic couplings between pair of modes. A simple and easy to use formula for calculation of mode-mode coupling magnitudes has been derived. The key element in present approach is the approximation that only interactions between pairs of normal modes have been taken into account, while interactions of triples or more are neglected. FTIR and Raman spectra of solid state cytosine have been recorded in the regions 400-4000 cm(-1) and 60-4000 cm(-1), respectively. Vibrational analysis and assignments are based on calculated potential energy distribution (PED) values. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of a self-management program for employees with complaints of the arm, neck, and/or shoulder: an intervention mapping approach.

PubMed

Hutting, Nathan; Detaille, Sarah I; Engels, Josephine A; Heerkens, Yvonne F; Staal, J Bart; Nijhuis-van der Sanden, Maria Wg

2015-01-01

To develop a self-management program with an additional eHealth module, using the six steps of the intervention mapping (IM) protocol, to help employees with complaints of the arm, neck, and/or shoulder (CANS) cope with their problems. In Step 1 of the IM protocol, a needs assessment was performed consisting of a review of the Dutch multidisciplinary guidelines on CANS, and of focus group sessions with employees with CANS (n=15) and with relevant experts (n=17). After the needs assessment, the objectives of the intervention and the determinants of self-management at work were formulated (Step 2). Furthermore, theory-based intervention methods and practical strategies were selected (Step 3), and an intervention program (including the eHealth module) was developed (Step 4). Finally, plans for implementation and evaluation of the program were developed (Steps 5 and 6). Step 1 of the IM protocol revealed that employees with CANS should be stimulated to search for information about the cause of their complaints, about how to deal with their complaints, and in which manner they can influence their complaints themselves. In Step 2, the overall goal of the intervention was defined as "self-management behavior at work" with the aim to alleviate the perceived disability of the participants. Step 3 described how the intervention methods were translated into practical strategies, and goal setting was introduced as an important method for increasing self-efficacy. The product of Step 4 was the final program plan, consisting of 6-weekly group sessions of 2.5 hours each and an eHealth module. In Step 5, a recruitment plan and course materials were developed, a steering committee was set up, trainers were recruited, and the final program was tested. In Step 6, an evaluation plan was developed, which consists of a randomized controlled trial with a 12-month follow-up period and a qualitative evaluation (interviews) with some of the participants. This study resulted in a theory- and practice-based self-management program, based on behavioral change theories, guideline-related evidence, and practice-based knowledge that fits the needs of employees with CANS.

Integrating simulated teaching/learning strategies in undergraduate nursing education.

PubMed

Sinclair, Barbara; Ferguson, Karen

2009-01-01

In this article, the results of a mixed-methods study integrating the use of simulations in a nursing theory course in order to assess students' perceptions of self-efficacy for nursing practice are presented. Nursing students in an intervention group were exposed to a combination of lecture and simulation, and then asked to rate their perceptions of self-efficacy, satisfaction and effectiveness of this combined teaching and learning strategy. Based on Bandura's (1977, 1986) theory of self-efficacy, this study provides data to suggest that students' self-confidence for nursing practice may be increased through the use of simulation as a method of teaching and learning. Students also reported higher levels of satisfaction, effectiveness and consistency with their learning style when exposed to the combination of lecture and simulation than the control group, who were exposed to lecture as the only method of teaching and learning.

The self-perceived survival ability and reproductive fitness (SPFit) theory of substance use disorders.

PubMed

Newlin, David B

2002-04-01

A new theory of substance use disorders is proposed-the SPFit theory-that is based on evolutionary biology and adaptive systems. Self-perceived survival ability and reproductive fitness (SPFit) is proposed as a human psychobiological construct that prioritizes and organizes (i.e. motivates) behavior, but is highly vulnerable to temporary, artificial activation by drugs of abuse. Autoshaping/sign-tracking/feature positive phenomena are proposed to underlie the development of craving and expectations about drugs as the individual learns that abused drugs will easily and reliably inflate SPFit. The cortico-mesolimbic dopamine system and its modulating interconnections are viewed as the biological substrate of SPFit; it is proposed to be a survival and reproductive motivation system rather than a reward center or reward pathway. Finally, the concept of modularity of mind is applied to the SPFit construct. Although considerable empirical data are consistent with the theory, new research is needed to test specific hypotheses derived from SPFit theory.

The emotion regulation questionnaire in women with cancer: A psychometric evaluation and an item response theory analysis.

PubMed

Brandão, Tânia; Schulz, Marc S; Gross, James J; Matos, Paula Mena

2017-10-01

Emotion regulation is thought to play an important role in adaptation to cancer. However, the emotion regulation questionnaire (ERQ), a widely used instrument to assess emotion regulation, has not yet been validated in this context. This study addresses this gap by examining the psychometric properties of the ERQ in a sample of Portuguese women with cancer. The ERQ was administered to 204 women with cancer (mean age = 48.89 years, SD = 7.55). Confirmatory factor analysis and item response theory analysis were used to examine psychometric properties of the ERQ. Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the 2-factor solution proposed by the original authors (expressive suppression and cognitive reappraisal). This solution was invariant across age and type of cancer. Item response theory analyses showed that all items were moderately to highly discriminant and that items are better suited for identifying moderate levels of expressive suppression and cognitive reappraisal. Support was found for the internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the ERQ. The pattern of relationships with emotional control, alexithymia, emotional self-efficacy, attachment, and quality of life provided evidence of the convergent and concurrent validity for both dimensions of the ERQ. Overall, the ERQ is a psychometrically sound approach for assessing emotion regulation strategies in the oncological context. Clinical implications are discussed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A randomized controlled trial to evaluate self-determination theory for exercise adherence and weight control: rationale and intervention description

PubMed Central

Silva, Marlene N; Markland, David; Minderico, Cláudia S; Vieira, Paulo N; Castro, Margarida M; Coutinho, Sílvia R; Santos, Teresa C; Matos, Margarida G; Sardinha, Luís B; Teixeira, Pedro J

2008-01-01

Background Research on the motivational model proposed by Self-Determination Theory (SDT) provides theoretically sound insights into reasons why people adopt and maintain exercise and other health behaviors, and allows for a meaningful analysis of the motivational processes involved in behavioral self-regulation. Although obesity is notoriously difficult to reverse and its recidivism is high, adopting and maintaining a physically active lifestyle is arguably the most effective strategy to counteract it in the long-term. The purposes of this study are twofold: i) to describe a 3-year randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed at testing a novel obesity treatment program based on SDT, and ii) to present the rationale behind SDT's utility in facilitating and explaining health behavior change, especially physical activity/exercise, during obesity treatment. Methods Study design, recruitment, inclusion criteria, measurements, and a detailed description of the intervention (general format, goals for the participants, intervention curriculum, and main SDT strategies) are presented. The intervention consists of a 1-year group behavioral program for overweight and moderately obese women, aged 25 to 50 (and pre-menopausal), recruited from the community at large through media advertisement. Participants in the intervention group meet weekly or bi-weekly with a multidisciplinary intervention team (30 2 h sessions in total), and go through a program covering most topics considered critical for successful weight control. These topics and especially their delivery were adapted to comply with SDT and Motivational Interviewing guidelines. Comparison group receive a general health education curriculum. After the program, all subjects are follow-up for a period of 2 years. Discussion Results from this RCT will contribute to a better understanding of how motivational characteristics, particularly those related to physical activity/exercise behavioral self-regulation, influence treatment success, while exploring the utility of Self-Determination Theory for promoting health behavior change in the context of obesity. Trial Registration Clinical Trials Gov. Identifier NCT00513084 PMID:18613959

Mate value and self-esteem: evidence from eight cultural groups.

PubMed

Goodwin, Robin; Marshall, Tara; Fülöp, Marta; Adonu, Joseph; Spiewak, Slawomir; Neto, Felix; Hernandez Plaza, Sonia

2012-01-01

This paper explores self-perceived mate value (SPMV), and its association with self-esteem, in eight cultures. 1066 participants, from 8 cultural groups in 7 countries, rated themselves on 24 SPMVs and completed a measure of self-esteem. Consistent with evolutionary theory, women were more likely to emphasise their caring and passionate romantic nature. In line with previous cross-cultural research, characteristics indicating passion and romance and social attractiveness were stressed more by respondents from individualistic cultures, and those higher on self-expression (rather than survival) values; characteristics indicative of maturity and confidence were more likely to be mentioned by those from Traditional, rather than Secular, cultures. Contrary to gender role theory, societal equality had only limited interactions with sex and SPMV, with honesty of greater significance for male self-esteem in societies with unequal gender roles. These results point to the importance of cultural and environmental factors in influencing self-perceived mate qualities, and are discussed in relation to broader debates about the impact of gender role equality on sex differences in personality and mating strategies.

Self-management improvement program combined with community involvement in Thai hypertensive population: an action research.

PubMed

Srichairattanakull, Jeamjai; Kaewpan, Wonpen; Powattana, Arpaporn; Pichayapinyo, Panan

2014-04-01

To investigate the effectiveness of a program that utilizes community involvement to improve the self-management strategies among people living with hypertension. Forty-four subjects, aged 35 to 59-year-old, with hypertension in Nakhon Pathom Province, Thailand, were randomly allocated to either an experimental group (n = 22) or a control group (n = 20). The experimental group attended a program to improve self-management methods based on social cognitive theory (SCT). The program lasted 12 weeks, consisted of 1 1/2 hours meeting once a week, including group meetings and home visit monitoring. Mann-Whitney U test and Friedman test were employed to analyze the program's effectiveness. After the program, the mean rank of the perceived self-efficacy for the self-management strategies was statistically different between the two groups (p = 0.023). In the experimental group, after the twelve week, the mean rank of perceived self-efficacy and outcome expectancy increased and diastolic blood pressure decreased after the eight week. The program applied social cognitive theory (SCT) to promote self-management techniques, increased the health promoting behavior among hypertensive people.

Mate Value and Self-Esteem: Evidence from Eight Cultural Groups

PubMed Central

Goodwin, Robin; Marshall, Tara; Fülöp, Marta; Adonu, Joseph; Spiewak, Slawomir; Neto, Felix; Hernandez Plaza, Sonia

2012-01-01

This paper explores self-perceived mate value (SPMV), and its association with self-esteem, in eight cultures. 1066 participants, from 8 cultural groups in 7 countries, rated themselves on 24 SPMVs and completed a measure of self-esteem. Consistent with evolutionary theory, women were more likely to emphasise their caring and passionate romantic nature. In line with previous cross-cultural research, characteristics indicating passion and romance and social attractiveness were stressed more by respondents from individualistic cultures, and those higher on self-expression (rather than survival) values; characteristics indicative of maturity and confidence were more likely to be mentioned by those from Traditional, rather than Secular, cultures. Contrary to gender role theory, societal equality had only limited interactions with sex and SPMV, with honesty of greater significance for male self-esteem in societies with unequal gender roles. These results point to the importance of cultural and environmental factors in influencing self-perceived mate qualities, and are discussed in relation to broader debates about the impact of gender role equality on sex differences in personality and mating strategies. PMID:22558347

TOPICA/TORIC integration for self-consistent antenna and plasma analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maggiora, Riccardo; Lancellotti, Vito; Milanesio, Daniele; Kyrytsya, Volodymyr; Vecchi, Giuseppe; Bonoli, Paul T.; Wright, John C.

2006-10-01

TOPICA [1] is a numerical suite conceived for prediction and analysis of plasma-facing antennas. It can handle real-life 3D antenna geometries (with housing, Faraday screen, etc.) as well as a realistic plasma model, including measured density and temperature profiles. TORIC [2] solves the finite Larmor radius wave equations in the ICRF regime in arbitrary axisymmetric toroidal plasmas. Due to the approach followed in developing TOPICA (i.e. the formal splitting of the problem in the vacuum region around the antenna and the plasma region inside the toroidal chamber), the code lends itself to handle toroidal plasmas, provided TORIC is run independently to yield the plasma surface admittance tensorsY (m,m',n). The latter enter directly into the integral equations solved by TOPICA, thus allowing a far more accurate plasma description that accounts for curvature effects. TOPICA outputs comprise, among others, the EM fields in front of the plasma: these can in turn be input to TORIC, in order to self-consistently determine the EM field propagation in the plasma. In this work, we report on the theory underlying the TOPICA/TORIC integration and the ongoing evolution of the two codes. [1] V. Lancellotti et al., Nucl. Fusion, 46 (2006) S476 [2] M. Brambilla, Plasma Phys. Contr. Fusion (1999) 41 1

Branes in Extended Spacetime: Brane Worldvolume Theory Based on Duality Symmetry.

PubMed

Sakatani, Yuho; Uehara, Shozo

2016-11-04

We propose a novel approach to the brane worldvolume theory based on the geometry of extended field theories: double field theory and exceptional field theory. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach by showing that one can reproduce the conventional bosonic string and membrane actions, and the M5-brane action in the weak-field approximation. At a glance, the proposed 5-brane action without approximation looks different from the known M5-brane actions, but it is consistent with the known nonlinear self-duality relation, and it may provide a new formulation of a single M5-brane action. Actions for exotic branes are also discussed.

SCF and CI calculations of the dipole moment function of ozone. [Self-Consistent Field and Configuration-Interaction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curtiss, L. A.; Langhoff, S. R.; Carney, G. D.

1979-01-01

The constant and linear terms in a Taylor series expansion of the dipole moment function of the ground state of ozone are calculated with Cartesian Gaussian basis sets ranging in quality from minimal to double zeta plus polarization. Results are presented at both the self-consistent field and configuration-interaction levels. Although the algebraic signs of the linear dipole moment derivatives are all established to be positive, the absolute magnitudes of these quantities, as well as the infrared intensities calculated from them, vary considerably with the level of theory.

Tunable terahertz optical properties of graphene in dc electric fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, H. M.; Huang, F.; Xu, W.

2018-03-01

We develop a simple theoretical approach to investigate terahertz (THz) optical properties of monolayer graphene in the presence of an external dc electric field. The analytical results for optical coefficients such as the absorptance and reflectivity are obtained self-consistently on the basis of a diagrammatic self-consistent field theory and a Boltzmann equilibrium equation. It is found that the optical refractive index, reflectivity and conductivity can be effectively tuned by not only a gate voltage but also a driving dc electric field. This study is relevant to the applications of graphene as advanced THz optoelectronic devices.

Self-similar Theory of Wind-driven Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakharov, V. E.

2015-12-01

More than two dozens field experiments performed in the ocean and on the lakes show that the fetch-limited growth of dimensionless energy and dimensionless peak frequency is described by powerlike functions of the dimensionless fetch. Moreover, the exponents of these two functions are connected with a proper accuracy by the standard "magic relation", 10q-2p=1. Recent massive numerical experiments as far as experiments in wave tanks also confirm this magic relation. All these experimental facts can be interpreted in a framework of the following simple theory. The wind-driven sea is described by the "conservative" Hasselmann kinetic equation. The source terms, wind input and white-capping dissipation, play a secondary role in comparison with the nonlinear term Snl that is responsible for the four-wave resonant interaction. This equation has four-parameter family of self-similar solutions. The magic relation holds for all numbers of this family. This fact gives strong hope that development of self-consistent analytic theory of wind-driven sea is quite realizable task.

Self-care confidence may be more important than cognition to influence self-care behaviors in adults with heart failure: Testing a mediation model.

PubMed

Vellone, Ercole; Pancani, Luca; Greco, Andrea; Steca, Patrizia; Riegel, Barbara

2016-08-01

Cognitive impairment can reduce the self-care abilities of heart failure patients. Theory and preliminary evidence suggest that self-care confidence may mediate the relationship between cognition and self-care, but further study is needed to validate this finding. The aim of this study was to test the mediating role of self-care confidence between specific cognitive domains and heart failure self-care. Secondary analysis of data from a descriptive study. Three out-patient sites in Pennsylvania and Delaware, USA. A sample of 280 adults with chronic heart failure, 62 years old on average and mostly male (64.3%). Data on heart failure self-care and self-care confidence were collected with the Self-Care of Heart Failure Index 6.2. Data on cognition were collected by trained research assistants using a neuropsychological test battery measuring simple and complex attention, processing speed, working memory, and short-term memory. Sociodemographic data were collected by self-report. Clinical information was abstracted from the medical record. Mediation analysis was performed with structural equation modeling and indirect effects were evaluated with bootstrapping. Most participants had at least 1 impaired cognitive domain. In mediation models, self-care confidence consistently influenced self-care and totally mediated the relationship between simple attention and self-care and between working memory and self-care (comparative fit index range: .929-.968; root mean squared error of approximation range: .032-.052). Except for short-term memory, which had a direct effect on self-care maintenance, the other cognitive domains were unrelated to self-care. Self-care confidence appears to be an important factor influencing heart failure self-care even in patients with impaired cognition. As few studies have successfully improved cognition, interventions addressing confidence should be considered as a way to improve self-care in this population. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Avoidant coping and self-efficacy mediate relationships between perceived social constraints and symptoms among long-term breast cancer survivors.

PubMed

Adams, Rebecca N; Mosher, Catherine E; Cohee, Andrea A; Stump, Timothy E; Monahan, Patrick O; Sledge, George W; Cella, David; Champion, Victoria L

2017-07-01

Many breast cancer survivors feel constrained in discussing their cancer experience with others. Limited evidence suggests that social constraints (e.g., avoidance and criticism) from loved ones may negatively impact breast cancer survivors' global health, but research has yet to examine relationships between social constraints and common physical symptoms. Informed by social cognitive processing theory, this study examined whether perceived social constraints from partners and healthcare providers (HCPs) were associated with fatigue, sleep disturbance, and attentional functioning among long-term breast cancer survivors (N = 1052). In addition, avoidant coping and self-efficacy for symptom management were examined as potential mediators of these relationships. Long-term breast cancer survivors (mean years since diagnosis = 6) completed questionnaires assessing social constraints from partners and HCPs, avoidant coping, self-efficacy for symptom management, and symptoms (i.e., fatigue, sleep disturbance, and attentional functioning). Structural equation modeling was used to evaluate the hypothesized relationships among variables in two models: one focused on social constraints from partners and one focused on social constraints from HCPs. Both models demonstrated good fit. Consistent with theory and prior research, greater social constraints from both partners and HCPs were associated with greater symptom burden (i.e., greater fatigue and sleep disturbance, poorer attentional functioning). In addition, all relationships were mediated by avoidant coping and self-efficacy for symptom management. Findings are consistent with social cognitive processing theory and suggest that symptom management interventions may be enhanced by addressing the impact of social constraints from survivors' partners and HCPs on their coping and self-efficacy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Why do dementia patients become unable to lead a daily life with decreasing cognitive function?

PubMed

Yokoi, Teruo; Okamura, Hitoshi

2013-09-01

In order to understand the words and deeds of dementia patients that we find very hard to explain or understand, we have paid attention to the self-awareness ability of dementia patients, the intellectual subject that integrates their own intellectual functions, and created 'a model for interpreting puzzling words and deeds of dementia patients from the viewpoint of self-awareness'. The purpose of this study is to explain the reasons why dementia patients become unable to successfully perform activities of daily living (ADL) with advancement of dementia, using our model to present viewpoints understandable to caregivers. We classified dementia inpatients of a geriatric health services facility into four stages, using the model of self-awareness ability (consisting of 'theory of mind', 'self-evaluation' and 'self-consciousness') that was constructed by combining 'theory of mind' and Lewis's developmental model of cognition and emotion. Furthermore, we observed and documented scenes from daily life, and we interpreted the reasons why patients become unable to seek assistance from others for ADL, based on the model. We came to understand why the patients could not seek assistance from others, because the patients who failed in the task of 'theory of mind' were unable to self-assess their own mind and the minds of others, and those having failed in the task of 'self-evaluation' could not evaluate their own situation.

The compulsion zone: a pharmacological theory of acquired cocaine self-administration.

PubMed

Norman, Andrew B; Tsibulsky, Vladimir L

2006-10-20

In rats trained to reliably self-administer cocaine, the cumulative drug level was calculated during sessions in which cocaine was administered either contingently or non-contingently. During both types of sessions a high rate of responding was observed only when cocaine levels were above the priming threshold but below the satiety threshold. When the levels of non-contingently administered cocaine were maintained between the priming and satiety thresholds for at least 5 h rats continuously maintained high rates of responding. Although it is generally assumed that rats are responding for cocaine during self-administration sessions, the persistence of responding during non-contingent administration is consistent with responding being induced by cocaine. Therefore, in contrast to the basic assumptions underlying the operant theory of self-administration behavior, choice, contingency and reinforcement are not necessary to explain acquired cocaine self-administration. The presented data demonstrate that there is no ascending limb of the dose-response curve and that the cocaine priming and satiety thresholds delineate the lower and upper limits, respectively, of a cocaine "compulsion zone". It is concluded that the self-administration paradigm is the sum of cocaine induced responding and cocaine induced satiety and which of these cocaine-induced effects occur at any time is dependent on the cocaine level. This novel pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic theory provides a basis for a comprehensive understanding of the cocaine self-administration paradigm.

The compulsion zone: A pharmacological theory of acquired cocaine self-administration

PubMed Central

Norman, Andrew B.; Tsibulsky, Vladimir L.

2010-01-01

In rats trained to reliably self-administer cocaine, the cumulative drug level was calculated during sessions in which cocaine was administered either contingently or non-contingently. During both types of sessions a high rate of responding was observed only when cocaine levels were above the priming threshold but below the satiety threshold. When the levels of non-contingently administered cocaine were maintained between the priming and satiety thresholds for at least 5 h rats continuously maintained high rates of responding. Although it is generally assumed that rats are responding for cocaine during self-administration sessions, the persistence of responding during non-contingent administration is consistent with responding being induced by cocaine. Therefore, in contrast to the basic assumptions underlying the operant theory of self-administration behavior, choice, contingency and reinforcement are not necessary to explain acquired cocaine self-administration. The presented data demonstrate that there is no ascending limb of the dose-response curve and that the cocaine priming and satiety thresholds delineate the lower and upper limits, respectively, of a cocaine “compulsion zone”. It is concluded that the self-administration paradigm is the sum of cocaine induced responding and cocaine induced satiety and which of these cocaine-induced effects occur at any time is dependent on the cocaine level. This novel pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic theory provides a basis for a comprehensive understanding of the cocaine self-administration paradigm. PMID:16942754

Striving for the moral self: the effects of recalling past moral actions on future moral behavior.

PubMed

Jordan, Jennifer; Mullen, Elizabeth; Murnighan, J Keith

2011-05-01

People's desires to see themselves as moral actors can contribute to their striving for and achievement of a sense of self-completeness. The authors use self-completion theory to predict (and show) that recalling one's own (im)moral behavior leads to compensatory rather than consistent moral action as a way of completing the moral self. In three studies, people who recalled their immoral behavior reported greater participation in moral activities (Study 1), reported stronger prosocial intentions (Study 2), and showed less cheating (Study 3) than people who recalled their moral behavior. These compensatory effects were related to the moral magnitude of the recalled event, but they did not emerge when people recalled their own positive or negative nonmoral behavior (Study 2) or others' (im)moral behavior (Study 3). Thus, the authors extend self-completion theory to the moral domain and use it to integrate the research on moral cleansing (remunerative moral strivings) and moral licensing (relaxed moral strivings).

Attachment, self-esteem, worldviews, and terror management: evidence for a tripartite security system.

PubMed

Hart, Joshua; Shaver, Phillip R; Goldenberg, Jamie L

2005-06-01

On the basis of prior work integrating attachment theory and terror management theory, the authors propose a model of a tripartite security system consisting of dynamically interrelated attachment, self-esteem, and worldview processes. Four studies are presented that, combined with existing evidence, support the prediction derived from the model that threats to one component of the security system result in compensatory defensive activation of other components. Further, the authors predicted and found that individual differences in attachment style moderate the defenses. In Studies 1 and 2, attachment threats motivated worldview defense among anxiously attached participants and motivated self-enhancement (especially among avoidant participants), effects similar to those caused by mortality salience. In Studies 3 and 4, a worldview threat and a self-esteem threat caused attachment-related proximity seeking among fearful participants and avoidance of proximity among dismissing participants. The authors' model provides an overarching framework within which to study attachment, self-esteem, and worldviews.

Manipulating the ABCs of self-assembly via low-χ block polymer design

PubMed Central

Chang, Alice B.; Lee, Byeongdu; Garland, Carol M.; Jones, Simon C.; Matsen, Mark W.

2017-01-01

Block polymer self-assembly typically translates molecular chain connectivity into mesoscale structure by exploiting incompatible blocks with large interaction parameters (χij). In this article, we demonstrate that the converse approach, encoding low-χ interactions in ABC bottlebrush triblock terpolymers (χAC ≲ 0), promotes organization into a unique mixed-domain lamellar morphology, which we designate LAMP. Transmission electron microscopy indicates that LAMP exhibits ACBC domain connectivity, in contrast to conventional three-domain lamellae (LAM3) with ABCB periods. Complementary small-angle X-ray scattering experiments reveal a strongly decreasing domain spacing with increasing total molar mass. Self-consistent field theory reinforces these observations and predicts that LAMP is thermodynamically stable below a critical χAC, above which LAM3 emerges. Both experiments and theory expose close analogies to ABA′ triblock copolymer phase behavior, collectively suggesting that low-χ interactions between chemically similar or distinct blocks intimately influence self-assembly. These conclusions provide fresh opportunities for block polymer design with potential consequences spanning all self-assembling soft materials. PMID:28588139

A Middle-Range Explanatory Theory of Self-Management Behavior for Collaborative Research and Practice.

PubMed

Blok, Amanda C

2017-04-01

To report an analysis of the concept of self-management behaviors. Self-management behaviors are typically associated with disease management, with frequent use by nurse researchers related to chronic illness management and by international health organizations for development of disease management interventions. A concept analysis was conducted within the context of Orem's self-care framework. Walker and Avant's eight-step concept analysis approach guided the analysis. Academic databases were searched for relevant literature including CIHAHL, Cochrane Databases of Systematic Reviews and Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, PsycARTICLES and PsycINFO, and SocINDEX. Literature using the term "self-management behavior" and published between April 2001 and March 2015 was analyzed for attributes, antecedents, and consequences. A total of 189 journal articles were reviewed. Self-management behaviors are defined as proactive actions related to lifestyle, a problem, planning, collaborating, and mental support, as well as reactive actions related to a circumstantial change, to achieve a goal influenced by the antecedents of physical, psychological, socioeconomic, and cultural characteristics, as well as collaborative and received support. The theoretical definition and middle-range explanatory theory of self-management behaviors will guide future collaborative research and clinical practice for disease management. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Disinhibition of negative true self for identity reconstructions in cyberspace: Advancing self-discrepancy theory for virtual setting.

PubMed

Hu, Chuan; Kumar, Sameer; Huang, Jiao; Ratnavelu, Kurunathan

2017-01-01

In face-to-face communications, to avoid sanctions and disapproval from others, people are more likely to hide negative aspects of their true self (such as socially undesirable personalities, minds, beliefs and consciousness) to avoid conflict with social norms and laws. The anonymity of cyberspace provides people a unique environment to behave more freely and openly with less restraint from the real word. Existing research related to online true self expression has mainly explored true self as an independent aspect of self. Regarding true self as a two-dimensional concept, this study investigates true self from the perspective of individuals' self-guide and identity reconstruction in both online and offline world. Using qualitative research methods, the current study investigates 57 participants through interviews and questionnaires. Content analysis reveals four factors that motivate people to express more true self (especially negative true self) when reconstructing their online identity and involve true self as a part of their self-guide in anonymous environment. By incorporating true self as an important part of individuals' self-guide and identity online, the current study advances self-discrepancy theory, making it more comprehensive for cyberspace. The results are also interpreted based on self-determination theory. The theoretical contributions of this study are discussed and practical implications are also presented.

Analysis of surface segregation in polymer mixtures: A combination of mean field and statistical associated fluid theories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krawczyk, Jaroslaw; Croce, Salvatore; Chakrabarti, Buddhapriya; Tasche, Jos

The surface segregation in polymer mixtures remains a challenging problem for both academic exploration as well as industrial applications. Despite its ubiquity and several theoretical attempts a good agreement between computed and experimentally observed profiles has not yet been achieved. A simple theoretical model proposed in this context by Schmidt and Binder combines Flory-Huggins free energy of mixing with the square gradient theory of wetting of a wall by fluid. While the theory gives us a qualitative understanding of the surface induced segregation and the surface enrichment it lacks the quantitative comparison with the experiment. The statistical associating fluid theory (SAFT) allows us to calculate accurate free energy for a real polymeric materials. In an earlier work we had shown that increasing the bulk modulus of a polymer matrix through which small molecules migrate to the free surface causes reduction in the surface migrant fraction using Schmidt-Binder and self-consistent field theories. In this work we validate this idea by combining mean field theories and SAFT to identify parameter ranges where such an effect should be observable. Department of Molecular Physics, Łódź University of Technology, Żeromskiego 116, 90-924 Łódź, Poland.

(3 + 1)-dimensional topological phases and self-dual quantum geometries encoded on Heegaard surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dittrich, Bianca

2017-05-01

We apply the recently suggested strategy to lift state spaces and operators for (2 + 1)-dimensional topological quantum field theories to state spaces and operators for a (3 + 1)-dimensional TQFT with defects. We start from the (2 + 1)-dimensional TuraevViro theory and obtain a state space, consistent with the state space expected from the Crane-Yetter model with line defects.

Theory verification and numerical benchmarking on neoclassical toroidal viscosity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Z. R.; Park, J.-K.; Liu, Y. Q.; Logan, N. C.; Menard, J. E.

2013-10-01

Systematic verification and numerical benchmarking has been successfully carried out among three different approaches of neoclassical toroidal viscosity (NTV) theory and the corresponding codes: IPEC-PENT is developed based on the combined NTV theory but without geometric simplifications; MARS-K originally calculating the kinetic energy is upgraded to calculate the NTV torque based on the equivalence between kinetic energy and NTV torque; MARS-Q includes smoothly connected NTV formula. The derivation and numerical results both indicate that the imaginary part of kinetic energy calculated by MARS-K is equivalent to the NTV torque in IPEC-PENT. In the benchmark of precession resonance between MARS-Q and MARS-K/IPEC-PENT, it is first time to show the agreement and the correlation between the connected NTV formula and the combined NTV theory in different collisional region. Additionally, both IPEC-PENT and MARS-K indicates the importance of the bounce harmonic resonance which could greatly enhance the NTV torque when E cross B drift frequency reaches the bounce resonance condition. Since MARS-K also has the capability to calculate the plasma response including the kinetic effect self-consistently, the self-consistent NTV torque calculations have also been tested. This work is supported by DOE Contract No. DE-AC02-09CH11466.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Saperstein, E. E., E-mail: saper@mbslab.kiae.ru; Tolokonnikov, S. V.

Recent results obtained on the basis of the self-consistent theory of finite Fermi systems by employing the energy density functional proposed by Fayans and his coauthors are surveyed. These results are compared with the predictions of Skyrme–Hartree–Fock theory involving several popular versions of the Skyrme energy density functional. Spherical nuclei are predominantly considered. The charge radii of even and odd nuclei and features of low-lying 2{sup +} excitations in semimagic nuclei are discussed briefly. The single-particle energies ofmagic nuclei are examined inmore detail with allowance for corrections to mean-field theory that are induced by particle coupling to low-lying collective surfacemore » excitations (phonons). The importance of taking into account, in this problem, nonpole (tadpole) diagrams, which are usually disregarded, is emphasized. The spectroscopic factors of magic and semimagic nuclei are also considered. In this problem, only the surface term stemming from the energy dependence induced in the mass operator by the exchange of surface phonons is usually taken into account. The volume contribution associated with the energy dependence initially present in the mass operator within the self-consistent theory of finite Fermi systems because of the exchange of high-lying particle–hole excitations is also included in the spectroscopic factor. The results of the first studies that employed the Fayans energy density functional for deformed nuclei are also presented.« less

Self-consistent field theory of polymer-ionic molecule complexation.

PubMed

Nakamura, Issei; Shi, An-Chang

2010-05-21

A self-consistent field theory is developed for polymers that are capable of binding small ionic molecules (adsorbates). The polymer-ionic molecule association is described by Ising-like binding variables, C(i) ((a))(kDelta)(=0 or 1), whose average determines the number of adsorbed molecules, n(BI). Polymer gelation can occur through polymer-ionic molecule complexation in our model. For polymer-polymer cross-links through the ionic molecules, three types of solutions for n(BI) are obtained, depending on the equilibrium constant of single-ion binding. Spinodal lines calculated from the mean-field free energy exhibit closed-loop regions where the homogeneous phase becomes unstable. This phase instability is driven by the excluded-volume interaction due to the single occupancy of ion-binding sites on the polymers. Moreover, sol-gel transitions are examined using a critical degree of conversion. A gel phase is induced when the concentration of adsorbates is increased. At a higher concentration of the adsorbates, however, a re-entrance from a gel phase into a sol phase arises from the correlation between unoccupied and occupied ion-binding sites. The theory is applied to a model system, poly(vinyl alcohol) and borate ion in aqueous solution with sodium chloride. Good agreement between theory and experiment is obtained.

Disformally self-tuning gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Emond, William T.; Saffin, Paul M.

2016-03-01

We extend a previous self-tuning analysis of the most general scalar-tensor theory of gravity in four dimensions with second order field equations by considering a generalized coupling to the matter sector. Through allowing a disformal coupling to matter we are able to extend the Fab Four model and construct a new class of theories that are able to tune away the cosmological constant on Friedmann-Lemaitre-Robertson-Walker backgrounds.

Attitudes of Academic Staff towards Their Own Work and towards External Evaluation, from the Perspective of Self-Determination Theory: Estonian Case

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seema, Riin; Udam, Maiki; Mattisen, Heli

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to ascertain the attitudes of academic staff towards their own work as well as towards external evaluations. The study was based on (1) an analysis of assessment reports of institutional accreditations conducted by the Estonian Quality Agency for Higher and Vocational Education and (2) self-determination theory on…

Communication: A difference density picture for the self-consistent field ansatz.

PubMed

Parrish, Robert M; Liu, Fang; Martínez, Todd J

2016-04-07

We formulate self-consistent field (SCF) theory in terms of an interaction picture where the working variable is the difference density matrix between the true system and a corresponding superposition of atomic densities. As the difference density matrix directly represents the electronic deformations inherent in chemical bonding, this "difference self-consistent field (dSCF)" picture provides a number of significant conceptual and computational advantages. We show that this allows for a stable and efficient dSCF iterative procedure with wholly single-precision Coulomb and exchange matrix builds. We also show that the dSCF iterative procedure can be performed with aggressive screening of the pair space. These approximations are tested and found to be accurate for systems with up to 1860 atoms and >10 000 basis functions, providing for immediate overall speedups of up to 70% in the heavily optimized TeraChem SCF implementation.

Communication: A difference density picture for the self-consistent field ansatz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parrish, Robert M.; Liu, Fang; Martínez, Todd J.

2016-04-01

We formulate self-consistent field (SCF) theory in terms of an interaction picture where the working variable is the difference density matrix between the true system and a corresponding superposition of atomic densities. As the difference density matrix directly represents the electronic deformations inherent in chemical bonding, this "difference self-consistent field (dSCF)" picture provides a number of significant conceptual and computational advantages. We show that this allows for a stable and efficient dSCF iterative procedure with wholly single-precision Coulomb and exchange matrix builds. We also show that the dSCF iterative procedure can be performed with aggressive screening of the pair space. These approximations are tested and found to be accurate for systems with up to 1860 atoms and >10 000 basis functions, providing for immediate overall speedups of up to 70% in the heavily optimized TeraChem SCF implementation.

A conceptual care model for individualized care approach in cardiac rehabilitation--combining both illness representation and self-efficacy.

PubMed

Lau-Walker, Margaret

2006-02-01

This paper analyses the two prominent psychological theories of patient response--illness representation and self-efficacy--and explore the possibilities of the development of a conceptual individualized care model that would make use of both theories. Analysis of the literature established common themes that were used as the basis to form a conceptual framework intended to assist in the joint application of these theories to therapeutic settings. Both theories emphasize personal experience, pre-construction of self, individual response to illness and treatment, and that the patients' beliefs are more influential in their recovery than the severity of the illness. Where the theories are most divergent is their application to therapeutic interventions, which reflects the different sources of influence that each theory emphasizes. Based on their similarities and differences it is possible to integrate the two theories into a conceptual care model. The Interactive Care Model combines both theories of patient response and provides an explicit framework for further research into the design of effective therapeutic interventions in rehabilitation care.

Criteria for selecting implementation science theories and frameworks: results from an international survey.

PubMed

Birken, Sarah A; Powell, Byron J; Shea, Christopher M; Haines, Emily R; Alexis Kirk, M; Leeman, Jennifer; Rohweder, Catherine; Damschroder, Laura; Presseau, Justin

2017-10-30

Theories provide a synthesizing architecture for implementation science. The underuse, superficial use, and misuse of theories pose a substantial scientific challenge for implementation science and may relate to challenges in selecting from the many theories in the field. Implementation scientists may benefit from guidance for selecting a theory for a specific study or project. Understanding how implementation scientists select theories will help inform efforts to develop such guidance. Our objective was to identify which theories implementation scientists use, how they use theories, and the criteria used to select theories. We identified initial lists of uses and criteria for selecting implementation theories based on seminal articles and an iterative consensus process. We incorporated these lists into a self-administered survey for completion by self-identified implementation scientists. We recruited potential respondents at the 8th Annual Conference on the Science of Dissemination and Implementation in Health and via several international email lists. We used frequencies and percentages to report results. Two hundred twenty-three implementation scientists from 12 countries responded to the survey. They reported using more than 100 different theories spanning several disciplines. Respondents reported using theories primarily to identify implementation determinants, inform data collection, enhance conceptual clarity, and guide implementation planning. Of the 19 criteria presented in the survey, the criteria used by the most respondents to select theory included analytic level (58%), logical consistency/plausibility (56%), empirical support (53%), and description of a change process (54%). The criteria used by the fewest respondents included fecundity (10%), uniqueness (12%), and falsifiability (15%). Implementation scientists use a large number of criteria to select theories, but there is little consensus on which are most important. Our results suggest that the selection of implementation theories is often haphazard or driven by convenience or prior exposure. Variation in approaches to selecting theory warn against prescriptive guidance for theory selection. Instead, implementation scientists may benefit from considering the criteria that we propose in this paper and using them to justify their theory selection. Future research should seek to refine the criteria for theory selection to promote more consistent and appropriate use of theory in implementation science.

Application of the Protection Motivation Theory in Predicting Cigarette Smoking Among Adolescents in China

PubMed Central

Yan, Yaqiong; Jacques-Tiura, Angela J.; Chen, Xinguang; Xie, Nianhua; Chen, Jing; Yang, Niannian; Gong, Jie; MacDonell, Karen Kolmodin

2013-01-01

Reducing tobacco use among adolescents in China represents a significant challenge for global tobacco control. Existing behavioral theories developed in the West – such as the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) – may be useful tools to help tackle this challenge. We examined the relationships between PMT factors and self-reported cigarette smoking behavior and intention among a random sample of vocational high school students (N = 553) in Wuhan, China. Tobacco-related perceptions were assessed using the PMT Scale for Adolescent Smoking. Among the total sample, 45% had initiated cigarette smoking, and 25% smoked in the past month. Among those who never smoked, 15% indicated being likely or very likely to smoke in a year. Multiple regression modeling analysis indicated the significance of the seven PMT constructs, the four PMT perceptions and the two PMT pathways in predicting intention to smoke and actual smoking behavior. Overall, perceived rewards of smoking, especially intrinsic rewards, were consistently positively related to smoking intentions and behavior, and self-efficacy to avoid smoking was negatively related to smoking. The current study suggests the utility of PMT for further research examining adolescent smoking. PMT-based smoking prevention and clinical smoking cessation intervention programs should focus more on adolescents’ perceived rewards from smoking and perceived efficacy of not smoking to reduce their intention to and actual use of tobacco. PMID:24157424

Application of the protection motivation theory in predicting cigarette smoking among adolescents in China.

PubMed

Yan, Yaqiong; Jacques-Tiura, Angela J; Chen, Xinguang; Xie, Nianhua; Chen, Jing; Yang, Niannian; Gong, Jie; Macdonell, Karen Kolmodin

2014-01-01

Reducing tobacco use among adolescents in China represents a significant challenge for global tobacco control. Existing behavioral theories developed in the West - such as the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) - may be useful tools to help tackle this challenge. We examined the relationships between PMT factors and self-reported cigarette smoking behavior and intention among a random sample of vocational high school students (N=553) in Wuhan, China. Tobacco-related perceptions were assessed using the PMT Scale for Adolescent Smoking. Among the total sample, 45% had initiated cigarette smoking, and 25% smoked in the past month. Among those who never smoked, 15% indicated being likely or very likely to smoke in a year. Multiple regression modeling analysis indicated the significance of the seven PMT constructs, the four PMT perceptions and the two PMT pathways in predicting intention to smoke and actual smoking behavior. Overall, perceived rewards of smoking, especially intrinsic rewards, were consistently positively related to smoking intentions and behavior, and self-efficacy to avoid smoking was negatively related to smoking. The current study suggests the utility of PMT for further research examining adolescent smoking. PMT-based smoking prevention and clinical smoking cessation intervention programs should focus more on adolescents' perceived rewards from smoking and perceived efficacy of not smoking to reduce their intention to and actual use of tobacco. © 2013.

A molecularly based theory for electron transfer reorganization energy.

PubMed

Zhuang, Bilin; Wang, Zhen-Gang

2015-12-14

Using field-theoretic techniques, we develop a molecularly based dipolar self-consistent-field theory (DSCFT) for charge solvation in pure solvents under equilibrium and nonequilibrium conditions and apply it to the reorganization energy of electron transfer reactions. The DSCFT uses a set of molecular parameters, such as the solvent molecule's permanent dipole moment and polarizability, thus avoiding approximations that are inherent in treating the solvent as a linear dielectric medium. A simple, analytical expression for the free energy is obtained in terms of the equilibrium and nonequilibrium electrostatic potential profiles and electric susceptibilities, which are obtained by solving a set of self-consistent equations. With no adjustable parameters, the DSCFT predicts activation energies and reorganization energies in good agreement with previous experiments and calculations for the electron transfer between metallic ions. Because the DSCFT is able to describe the properties of the solvent in the immediate vicinity of the charges, it is unnecessary to distinguish between the inner-sphere and outer-sphere solvent molecules in the calculation of the reorganization energy as in previous work. Furthermore, examining the nonequilibrium free energy surfaces of electron transfer, we find that the nonequilibrium free energy is well approximated by a double parabola for self-exchange reactions, but the curvature of the nonequilibrium free energy surface depends on the charges of the electron-transferring species, contrary to the prediction by the linear dielectric theory.

A Multidisciplinary Work-Related Low Back Pain Predictor Questionnaire: Psychometric Evaluation of Iranian Patient-Care Workers

PubMed Central

Sarallah, Shojaei; Jamshidi, Ahmad Reza; Joan, Wagner

2016-01-01

Study Design Psychometric evaluation design. Purpose Psychometric evaluation of a multidisciplinary work-related low back pain predictor questionnaire (MWRLBPPQ) of Iranians patient-care workers based on the social cognitive theory. Overview of Literature Healthcare is one of the professions in which work-related musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent. The chronic low back pain experienced by patient caregivers can negatively impact their professional performance, and patient handling in a hospital is the main cause of low back pain in this population. Methods This was a cross-sectional study carried out in Qom, Iran from July 2014 to November 2014. A MWRLBPPQ based on nine concepts of the social cognitive theory and existing literature regarding chronic low back pain was developed. Ten patient-care workers first completed the questionnaire as a pilot test, allowing the ambiguities of the instrument to be resolved. Exploratory factor analysis was used to confirm construct validity. This questionnaire was distributed among 452 patient-care workers in hospitals located in different geographically areas in Qom, Iran. Cronbach's Alpha was calculated to assess reliability. Results In all, 452 caregivers of patients with mean age of 37.71 (standard deviation=8.3) years participated in the study. An exploratory factor analysis loaded seven concepts of self-efficacy, knowledge, outcome perception, self-control, emotional coping, and self-efficacy in overcoming impediments and challenges in the environment. All concepts were jointly accounted for 50.08% of variance of behavior change. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient showed favorable internal consistency (alpha=0.83), and test-retest of the scale with 2-week intervals indicated an appropriate stability for the MWRLBPPQ. Conclusions The MWRLBPPQ is a reliable and valid theory-based instrument that can be used to predict factors influencing work-related low back pain among workers who lift and transfer patients in hospitals. PMID:27340530

Prospects of Anderson's theorem for disordered cuprate superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosal, Amit; Chakraborty, Debmalya; Kaushal, Nitin

2018-05-01

We develop a simple pairing theory of superconductivity in strongly correlated d-wave superconductors for up to a moderate strength of disorder. Our description implements the key ideas of Anderson, originally proposed for disordered s-wave superconductors, but in addition takes care of the inherent strong electronic repulsion in these compounds, as well as the inhomogeneities. We first obtain the self-consistent one-particle states, that capture the effects of disorder exactly, and strong correlations using Gutzwiller approximation. These 'normal states' (at zero temperature) when coupled through BCS-type pairing attractions, produces results which are nearly identical to those from a more sophisticated Gutzwiller augmented Bogoliubov-de Gennes analysis.

Self and Other Dialogue in Infancy: Normal versus Compromised Developmental Pathways

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stone, Sarah Ahlander; DeKoeyer-Laros, Ilse; Fogel, Alan

2012-01-01

Dialogical Self Theory, co-regulation, and foundational movement analysis are used to present a description of the development of the dialogical self during the first five months of life using observations of two mother-infant dyads. Susan and her mother illustrate normative emergence of the dialogical self. Susan's I-positions emerge through…

Autonomy support and need satisfaction in prevocational programs on care farms: The self-determination theory perspective.

PubMed

Ellingsen-Dalskau, Lina H; Morken, Margrete; Berget, Bente; Pedersen, Ingeborg

2015-01-01

Mental health problems are leading causes for early and prolonged withdrawal from the workforce. Green work on care farms represents a prevocational training program intended to stimulate return to work for people with mental health problems. Research suggests that care farms may improve mental health, but there is still little knowledge of the subjective perspective of clients in green work programs. To gain a deeper and broader understanding of the individual experiences of people with mental health problems participating in green work on care farms in Norway. A hermeneutic phenomenological research design was applied. Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted. The self-determination theory (SDT) was adapted to gain a deeper understanding of the themes that emerged in the analysis process of the interviews. Five main themes materialize describing participants' experiences within the green work program. The main themes consist of (1) structure and flexibility, (2) understanding and acknowledgement, (3) guidance and positive feedback, (4) nature and animals, and (5) reflections on personal functioning and the future. The main themes identified indicate a high degree of autonomy support and need satisfaction within the care farm context, which according to SDT can facilitate good human functioning, and well-being.

Self-assembled microstructures of confined rod-coil diblock copolymers by self-consistent field theory.

PubMed

Yang, Guang; Tang, Ping; Yang, Yuliang; Wang, Qiang

2010-11-25

We employ the self-consistent field theory (SCFT) incorporating Maier-Saupe orientational interactions between rods to investigate the self-assembly of rod-coil diblock copolymers (RC DBC) in bulk and especially confined into two flat surfaces in 2D space. A unit vector defined on a spherical surface for describing the orientation of rigid blocks in 3D Euclidean space is discretized with an icosahedron triangular mesh to numerically integrate over rod orientation, which is confirmed to have numerical accuracy and stability higher than that of the normal Gaussian quadrature. For the hockey puck-shaped phases in bulk, geometrical confinement, i.e., the film thickness, plays an important role in the self-assembled structures' transitions for the neutral walls. However, for the lamellar phase (monolayer smectic-C) in bulk, the perpendicular lamellae are always stable, less dependent on the film thicknesses because they can relax to the bulk spacing with less-paid coil-stretching in thin films. In particular, a very thin rod layer near the surfaces is formed even in a very thin film. When the walls prefer rods, parallel lamellae are obtained, strongly dependent on the competition between the degree of the surface fields and film geometrical confinement, and the effect of surface field on lamellar structure as a function of film thickness is investigated. Our simulation results provide a guide to understanding the self-assembly of the rod-coil films with desirable application prospects in the fabrication of organic light emitting devices.

Medical Students' Professional Development as Educators Revealed Through Reflections on Their Teaching Following a Students-as-Teachers Course.

PubMed

Yoon, Michelle H; Blatt, Benjamin C; Greenberg, Larrie W

2017-01-01

Phenomenon: Teaching is an important part of the tri-partite mission of every medical center. Although teaching often is given lower priority and recognition as opposed to patient care and/or research, this activity for many physicians in academic medicine ranks second to their patient care responsibilities. Medical teacher training has traditionally been aimed at faculty and residents through faculty development initiatives, continuing education for physicians at professional conferences, formalized degree or certificate programs in education, and residents as teachers programs. More recently medical schools have developed medical-students-as-teachers programs, often offered as 4th-year electives, to introduce learners to the theory of teaching and learning with appropriate application in the clinical setting. Data on learner outcomes and students' perceptions and experiences in these programs consist mostly of their satisfaction after completing such a program. In this article we explore 4th-year medical student trainees' experiences and emerging self-concepts as educators during a teaching elective. The purpose of this project was to explore students' reflections on their experiences in a 4th-year medical students-as-teachers course in their own words through their written self-assessment narratives. We used qualitative content analysis to examine 96 trainees' self-reported, written reflective narratives of how they translated their students-as-teachers course experience into application by applying newly learned educational theories, instructional strategies, and feedback skills while teaching novice peers physical diagnosis skills. Narratives revealed candid self-assessments and detailed descriptions of their experiences and what they valued most from the course. Content analysis revealed nine key themes: using teaching strategies for adult learning, preparing for class, modeling professionalism, incorporating clinical correlations, exceeding course requirements, giving and receiving feedback, providing mentoring, creating a positive learning climate, and growing as educators. Insights: This study's results reveal how learners perceive and translate their experiences in a teaching course, in terms of incorporating particular knowledge or skills, valuing or displaying certain professional behaviors, and gaining self-awareness and satisfaction from teaching experiences. The findings of this study, specifically major themes from self-assessment narratives, provide us with a better understanding of medical students' developing identities and emerging professional self-concept as educators, specifically as experienced through a combination of formal teaching, and applying education theories and strategies. Findings may be informative from a program evaluation lens but also for faculty development initiatives related to training medical teachers and the larger landscape of the emerging field of Health Professions Education.

Clarifying self-harm through evolutionary concept analysis.

PubMed

Tofthagen, Randi; Fagerstrøm, Lisbeth

2010-09-01

Clarification of the concept self-harm is needed in order to enable research and theory development and facilitate the development and evaluation of medical interventions and nursing care for individuals who self-harm. This study presents such a conceptual analysis. Articles from 1997 to 2007 were sought from the Medline, PubMed, Cinahl, and PsychINFO search engines by entering the search words 'self-harm', 'self-harming', and 'psychiatric care'. 25 medicine and 23 nursing science articles were chosen for inclusion and analysed. Rodgers' evolutionary concept analysis process was used to delineate and clarify the concept's context, surrogate terms, antecedents, attributes, and consequences, as well as to determine implications for further research. Attributes of self-harm may include repetitive injury of mouth or exterior body, that is to say the infliction of physical pain to alleviate mental pain, and time spent self-harming. Antecedents may be gender, mental pain, substance abuse and relational problems. Consequences often include the need for medication and help with altering coping behaviour. Some self-harm patients met with negative attitudes from nurses. Individualized care and treatment is recommended. Accordingly, inter-professional collaboration and postgraduate education is needed in order to provide better care and treatment for self-harm patients. Furthermore, better understanding is needed to help enable health care personnel understand why individuals self-harm. The conceptual analysis presented in this study may be helpful as regards theory development within this still rather unexplored field. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 Nordic College of Caring Science.

Self-consistent self-interaction corrected density functional theory calculations for atoms using Fermi-Löwdin orbitals: Optimized Fermi-orbital descriptors for Li-Kr

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kao, Der-you; Withanage, Kushantha; Hahn, Torsten; Batool, Javaria; Kortus, Jens; Jackson, Koblar

2017-10-01

In the Fermi-Löwdin orbital method for implementing self-interaction corrections (FLO-SIC) in density functional theory (DFT), the local orbitals used to make the corrections are generated in a unitary-invariant scheme via the choice of the Fermi orbital descriptors (FODs). These are M positions in 3-d space (for an M-electron system) that can be loosely thought of as classical electron positions. The orbitals that minimize the DFT energy including the SIC are obtained by finding optimal positions for the FODs. In this paper, we present optimized FODs for the atoms from Li-Kr obtained using an unbiased search method and self-consistent FLO-SIC calculations. The FOD arrangements display a clear shell structure that reflects the principal quantum numbers of the orbitals. We describe trends in the FOD arrangements as a function of atomic number. FLO-SIC total energies for the atoms are presented and are shown to be in close agreement with the results of previous SIC calculations that imposed explicit constraints to determine the optimal local orbitals, suggesting that FLO-SIC yields the same solutions for atoms as these computationally demanding earlier methods, without invoking the constraints.

3D theory of a high-gain free-electron laser based on a transverse gradient undulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baxevanis, Panagiotis; Ding, Yuantao; Huang, Zhirong; Ruth, Ronald

2014-02-01

The performance of a free-electron laser (FEL) depends significantly on the various parameters of the driving electron beam. In particular, a large energy spread in the beam results in a substantial reduction of the FEL gain, an effect which is especially relevant when one considers FELs driven by plasma accelerators or ultimate storage rings. For such cases, one possible solution is to use a transverse gradient undulator (TGU). In this concept, the energy spread problem is mitigated by properly dispersing the electron beam and introducing a linear, transverse field dependence in the undulator. This paper presents a self-consistent theoretical analysis of a TGU-based, high-gain FEL which takes into account three-dimensional (3D) effects, including beam size variations along the undulator. The results of our theory compare favorably with simulation and are used in fast optimization studies of various x-ray FEL configurations.

Evolution, Energy Landscapes and the Paradoxes of Protein Folding

PubMed Central

Wolynes, Peter G.

2014-01-01

Protein folding has been viewed as a difficult problem of molecular self-organization. The search problem involved in folding however has been simplified through the evolution of folding energy landscapes that are funneled. The funnel hypothesis can be quantified using energy landscape theory based on the minimal frustration principle. Strong quantitative predictions that follow from energy landscape theory have been widely confirmed both through laboratory folding experiments and from detailed simulations. Energy landscape ideas also have allowed successful protein structure prediction algorithms to be developed. The selection constraint of having funneled folding landscapes has left its imprint on the sequences of existing protein structural families. Quantitative analysis of co-evolution patterns allows us to infer the statistical characteristics of the folding landscape. These turn out to be consistent with what has been obtained from laboratory physicochemical folding experiments signalling a beautiful confluence of genomics and chemical physics. PMID:25530262

Many-body Green’s function theory for electron-phonon interactions: The Kadanoff-Baym approach to spectral properties of the Holstein dimer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Säkkinen, Niko; Peng, Yang; Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, Faradayweg 4-6, 14195 Berlin-Dahlem

2015-12-21

We present a Kadanoff-Baym formalism to study time-dependent phenomena for systems of interacting electrons and phonons in the framework of many-body perturbation theory. The formalism takes correctly into account effects of the initial preparation of an equilibrium state and allows for an explicit time-dependence of both the electronic and phononic degrees of freedom. The method is applied to investigate the charge neutral and non-neutral excitation spectra of a homogeneous, two-site, two-electron Holstein model. This is an extension of a previous study of the ground state properties in the Hartree (H), partially self-consistent Born (Gd) and fully self-consistent Born (GD) approximationsmore » published in Säkkinen et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 143, 234101 (2015)]. Here, the homogeneous ground state solution is shown to become unstable for a sufficiently strong interaction while a symmetry-broken ground state solution is shown to be stable in the Hartree approximation. Signatures of this instability are observed for the partially self-consistent Born approximation but are not found for the fully self-consistent Born approximation. By understanding the stability properties, we are able to study the linear response regime by calculating the density-density response function by time-propagation. This amounts to a solution of the Bethe-Salpeter equation with a sophisticated kernel. The results indicate that none of the approximations is able to describe the response function during or beyond the bipolaronic crossover for the parameters investigated. Overall, we provide an extensive discussion on when the approximations are valid and how they fail to describe the studied exact properties of the chosen model system.« less

Inverse-scattering-theory approach to the exact n→∞ solutions of O(n) ϕ⁴ models on films and semi-infinite systems bounded by free surfaces.

PubMed

Rutkevich, Sergei B; Diehl, H W

2015-06-01

The O(n) ϕ(4) model on a strip bounded by a pair of planar free surfaces at separation L can be solved exactly in the large-n limit in terms of the eigenvalues and eigenfunctions of a self-consistent one-dimensional Schrödinger equation. The scaling limit of a continuum version of this model is considered. It is shown that the self-consistent potential can be eliminated in favor of scattering data by means of appropriately extended methods of inverse scattering theory. The scattering data (Jost function) associated with the self-consistent potential are determined for the L=∞ semi-infinite case in the scaling regime for all values of the temperature scaling field t=(T-T(c))/T(c) above and below the bulk critical temperature T(c). These results are used in conjunction with semiclassical and boundary-operator expansions and a trace formula to derive exact analytical results for a number of quantities such as two-point functions, universal amplitudes of two excess surface quantities, the universal amplitude difference associated with the thermal singularity of the surface free energy, and potential coefficients. The asymptotic behaviors of the scaled eigenenergies and eigenfunctions of the self-consistent Schrödinger equation as function of x=t(L/ξ(+))(1/ν) are determined for x→-∞. In addition, the asymptotic x→-∞ forms of the universal finite-size scaling functions Θ(x) and ϑ(x) of the residual free energy and the Casimir force are computed exactly to order 1/x, including their x(-1)ln|x| anomalies.

An Instrument to Assess Self-Statements During Public Speaking: Scale Development and Preliminary Psychometric Properties

PubMed Central

Hofmann, Stefan G.; DiBartolo, Patricia Marten

2006-01-01

Public speaking is the most commonly reported fearful social situation. Although a number of contemporary theories emphasize the importance of cognitive processes in social anxiety, there is no instrument available to assess fearful thoughts experienced during public speaking. The Self-Statements During Public Speaking (SSPS) scale is a 10-item questionnaire consisting of two 5-item subscales, the “Positive Self-Statements” (SSPS-P) and the “Negative Self-Statements” subscale (SSPS-N). Four studies report on the development and the preliminary psychometric properties of this instrument. PMID:16763666

Quantum Theory of Orbital Magnetization and Its Generalization to Interacting Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Junren; Vignale, G.; Xiao, Di; Niu, Qian

2007-11-01

Based on standard perturbation theory, we present a full quantum derivation of the formula for the orbital magnetization in periodic systems. The derivation is generally valid for insulators with or without a Chern number, for metals at zero or finite temperatures, and at weak as well as strong magnetic fields. The formula is shown to be valid in the presence of electron-electron interaction, provided the one-electron energies and wave functions are calculated self-consistently within the framework of the exact current and spin-density functional theory.

Non-linear quenching of current fluctuations in a self-exciting homopolar dynamo, proved by feedback system theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Paor, A. M.

Hide (Nonlinear Processes in Geophysics, 1998) has produced a new mathematical model of a self-exciting homopolar dynamo driving a series- wound motor, as a continuing contribution to the theory of the geomagnetic field. By a process of exact perturbation analysis, followed by combination and partial solution of differential equations, the complete nonlinear quenching of current fluctuations reported by Hide in the case that a parameter ɛ has the value 1 is proved via the Popov theorem from feedback system stability theory.

Reciprocal Effects of Self-Concept and Performance From a Multidimensional Perspective: Beyond Seductive Pleasure and Unidimensional Perspectives.

PubMed

Marsh, Herbert W; Craven, Rhonda G

2006-06-01

We (Marsh & Craven, 1997) have claimed that academic self-concept and achievement are mutually reinforcing, each leading to gains in the other. Baumeister, Campbell, Krueger, and Vohs (2003) have claimed that self-esteem has no benefits beyond seductive pleasure and may even be detrimental to subsequent performance. Integrating these seemingly contradictory conclusions, we distinguish between (a) older, unidimensional perspectives that focus on global self-esteem and underpin the Baumeister et al. review and (b) more recent, multidimensional perspectives that focus on specific components of self-concept and are the basis of our claim. Supporting the construct validity of a multidimensional perspective, studies show that academic achievement is substantially related to academic self-concept, but nearly unrelated to self-esteem. Consistent with this distinction, research based on our reciprocal-effects model (REM) and a recent meta-analysis show that prior academic self-concept (as opposed to self-esteem) and achievement both have positive effects on subsequent self-concept and achievement. We provide an overview of new support for the generality of the REM for young children, cross-cultural research in non-Western countries, health (physical activity), and nonelite (gymnastics) and elite (international swimming championships) sport. We conclude that future reviews elucidating the significant implications of self-concept for theory, policy, and practice need to account for current research supporting the REM and a multidimensional perspective of self-concept. © 2006 Association for Psychological Science.

Learning Actions, Objects and Types of Interaction: A Methodological Analysis of Expansive Learning among Pre-Service Teachers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rantavuori, Juhana; Engeström, Yrjö; Lipponen, Lasse

2016-01-01

The paper analyzes a collaborative learning process among Finnish pre-service teachers planning their own learning in a self-regulated way. The study builds on cultural-historical activity theory and the theory of expansive learning, integrating for the first time an analysis of learning actions and an analysis of types of interaction. We examine…

How True Is Grit? Assessing Its Relations to High School and College Students' Personality Characteristics, Self-Regulation, Engagement, and Achievement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Muenks, Katherine; Wigfield, Allan; Yang, Ji Seung; O'Neal, Colleen R.

2017-01-01

Duckworth, Peterson, Matthews, and Kelly (2007) defined "grit" as one's passion and perseverance toward long-term goals. They proposed that it consists of 2 components: consistency of interests and perseverance of effort. In a high school and college student sample, we used a multidimensional item response theory approach to examine (a)…

The self-consistent multiparticle-multihole configuration mixing. Motivations, state of the art and perspectives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pillet, N.; Robin, C.; Dupuis, M.; Hupin, G.; Berger, J.-F.

2017-03-01

The main objective of this paper is to review the state of the art of the multiparticle-multihole configuration mixing approach which was proposed and implemented using the Gogny interaction ˜ 10 years ago. Various theoretical aspects are re-analyzed when a Hamiltonian description is chosen: the link with exact many-body theories, the impact of truncations in the multiconfigurational space, the importance of defining single-particle orbitals which are consistent with the correlations introduced in the many-body wave function, the role of the self-consistency, and more practically the numerical convergence algorithm. Several applications done with the phenomenological effective Gogny interaction are discussed. Finally, future directions to extend and generalize the method are discussed.

Development and validation of a self-efficacy scale for postoperative rehabilitation management of lung cancer patients.

PubMed

Huang, Fei-Fei; Yang, Qing; Han, Xuan Ye; Zhang, Jing-Ping; Lin, Ting

2017-08-01

The purpose of this study was to develop a Self-Efficacy Scale for Rehabilitation Management designed specifically for postoperative lung cancer patients (SESPRM-LC) and to evaluate its psychometric properties. Based on the concept of self-management of chronic disease, items were developed from literature review and semistructured interviews of 10 lung cancer patients and screened by expert consultation and pilot testing. Psychometric evaluation was done with 448 postoperative lung cancer patients recruited from 5 tertiary hospitals in Fuzhou, China, by incorporating classical test theory and item response theory methods. A 6-factor structure was illustrated by exploratory factor analysis and confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis, explaining 60.753% of the total variance. The SESPRM-LC achieved Cronbach's α of 0.694 to 0.893, 2-week test-retest reliability of 0.652 to 0.893, and marginal reliability of 0.565 to 0.934. The predictive and criterion validities were demonstrated by significant association with theoretically supported quality-of-life variables (r = 0.211-0.392, P < .01), and General Perceived Self-efficacy Scale (r = 0.465, P < .01), respectively. Item response theory analysis showed that the SESPRM-LC offers information about a broad range of self-efficacy measures and discriminates well between patients with high and low levels of self-efficacy. We demonstrated initial support for the reliability and validity of the 27-item SESPRM-LC, as a developmentally appropriate instrument for assessing self-efficacy among lung cancer patients during postoperative rehabilitation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The Interactions of Relationships, Interest, and Self-Efficacy in Undergraduate Physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dou, Remy

This collected papers dissertation explores students' academic interactions in an active learning, introductory physics settings as they relate to the development of physics self-efficacy and interest. The motivation for this work extends from the national call to increase participation of students in the pursuit of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers. Self-efficacy and interest are factors that play prominent roles in popular, evidence-based, career theories, including the Social cognitive career theory (SCCT) and the identity framework. Understanding how these constructs develop in light of the most pervasive characteristic of the active learning introductory physics classroom (i.e., peer-to-peer interactions) has implications on how students learn in a variety of introductory STEM classrooms and settings structured after constructivist and sociocultural learning theories. I collected data related to students' in-class interactions using the tools of social network analysis (SNA). Social network analysis has recently been shown to be an effective and useful way to examine the structure of student relationships that develop in and out of STEM classrooms. This set of studies furthers the implementation of SNA as a tool to examine self-efficacy and interest formation in the active learning physics classroom. Here I represent a variety of statistical applications of SNA, including bootstrapped linear regression (Chapter 2), structural equation modeling (Chapter 3), and hierarchical linear modeling for longitudinal analyses (Chapter 4). Self-efficacy data were collected using the Sources of Self-Efficacy for Science Courses - Physics survey (SOSESC-P), and interest data were collected using the physics identity survey. Data for these studies came from the Modeling Instruction sections of Introductory Physics with Calculus offered at Florida International University in the fall of 2014 and 2015. Analyses support the idea that students' perceptions of one another impact the development of their social network centrality, which in turn affects their self-efficacy building experiences and their overall self-efficacy. It was shown that unlike career theories that emphasize causal relationships between the development of self-efficacy and the subsequent growth of student interest, in this context student interest takes precedence before the development of student self-efficacy. This outcome also has various implications for career theories.

Do deterrence and social-control theories predict driving after drinking 15 years after a DWI conviction?

PubMed

Lapham, Sandra C; Todd, Michael

2012-03-01

This study investigates the utility of deterrence and social-control theories for prospective prediction of driving-while-impaired (DWI) outcomes of first-time DWI offenders. The sample consisted of a subset of 544 convicted first-time DWI offenders (N=337 females) who were interviewed 5 and 15 years after referral to a Screening Program in Bernalillo County, New Mexico. Variables collected at the 5-year (initial) interview were used in structural equation models to predict past 3-months, self-reported DWI at the 15-year follow-up (follow-up) interview. These variables represented domains defined by deterrence and social-control theories of DWI behavior, with one model corresponding to deterrence theory and one to social-control theory. Both models fit the data. DWI jail time was positively related to perceived enforcement, which was negatively but not significantly related to self-reported DWI. Neither jail time for DWI nor perceived likelihood of arrest was linearly related to self-reported DWI at follow-up. Interactions between jail time and prior DWI behavior indicated relatively weaker associations between initial and 15-year DWI for those reporting more jail time. Our prospective study demonstrated that for this convicted DWI offender cohort, classic formulations of deterrence and social-control theories did not account for DWI. However, results suggest that punishment may decrease the likelihood of DWI recidivism. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Autonomy and self-determination theory in different contexts: A comparison of middle school science teachers' motivation and instruction in China and the United States

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robertson, Laura Elizabeth

This study examined factors that contribute to Chinese and United States middle school science teachers' perceptions of autonomy support. Autonomy is one component of self-determination theory and has been associated with intrinsic motivation. The study used a mixed methods design including quantitative data collected through an online survey and qualitative data collected through open-ended interview questions. The online survey consisted of four assessments related to teachers' self-determination, perceptions of constraints at work, perceptions of students' self-determination, and level of autonomy support for students and allowed for the testing of the structural model developed by Pelletier, Seguin-Levesque, and Legault (2002). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of responses for the combined teacher sample (n=201) was carried out for each of the survey assessments. Significance testing for Chinese (n=107) and U.S. (n=94) teachers, based on the factors resulting from EFA, revealed significant differences in teachers' self-determination and perceptions of constraints at work. No significant differences were found for teachers' perceptions of students' self-determination or level of autonomy support for students. Multiple regression was used to predict teachers' autonomy support for students. For the Chinese teachers, perceptions of constraints at work, teachers' self-determination, and teachers' perceptions of student motivation were found to significantly predict teachers' autonomy support. For the U.S. teachers, teacher motivation was the only significant predictor of teachers' autonomy support. A sub-sample of the Chinese and U.S. science teachers (n=19) were interviewed about their perceived levels of autonomy support, constraints at work, and their students' self determination. The analyses of the interviews showed that teachers in both countries reported that autonomy was important to their motivation and the quality of instruction they provided to students. Teachers from the two countries differed in their satisfaction with current levels of autonomy and reported different constraints on teaching science related to materials, lab space, curriculum standards, and assessment.

Drag reduction by a linear viscosity profile.

PubMed

De Angelis, Elisabetta; Casciola, Carlo M; L'vov, Victor S; Pomyalov, Anna; Procaccia, Itamar; Tiberkevich, Vasil

2004-11-01

Drag reduction by polymers in turbulent flows raises an apparent contradiction: the stretching of the polymers must increase the viscosity, so why is the drag reduced? A recent theory proposed that drag reduction, in agreement with experiments, is consistent with the effective viscosity growing linearly with the distance from the wall. With this self-consistent solution the reduction in the Reynolds stress overwhelms the increase in viscous drag. In this Rapid Communication we show, using direct numerical simulations, that a linear viscosity profile indeed reduces the drag in agreement with the theory and in close correspondence with direct simulations of the FENE-P model at the same flow conditions.

Structural, electronic and vibrational properties of lanthanide monophosphide at high pressure

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Panchal, J. M., E-mail: amitjignesh@yahoo.co.in; Department of Physics, University School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat; Joshi, Mitesh

2016-05-06

A first-principles plane wave self-consistent method with the ultra-soft-pseudopotential scheme in the framework of the density functional theory (DFT) is performed to study structural, electronic and vibrational properties of LaP for Rock-salt (NaCl/Bl) and Cesium-chloride (CsCl/B2) phases. The instability of Rock-salt (NaCl/Bl) phases around the transition is discussed. Conclusions based on electronic energy band structure, density of state, phonon dispersion and phonon density of states in both phases are outlined. The calculated results are consistence and confirm the successful applicability of quasi-harmonic phonon theory for structural instability studies for the alloys.

Motivational predictors of physical education students' effort, exercise intentions, and leisure-time physical activity: a multilevel linear growth analysis.

PubMed

Taylor, Ian M; Ntoumanis, Nikos; Standage, Martyn; Spray, Christopher M

2010-02-01

Grounded in self-determination theory (SDT; Deci & Ryan, 2000), the current study explored whether physical education (PE) students' psychological needs and their motivational regulations toward PE predicted mean differences and changes in effort in PE, exercise intentions, and leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) over the course of one UK school trimester. One hundred and seventy-eight students (69% male) aged between 11 and 16 years completed a multisection questionnaire at the beginning, middle, and end of a school trimester. Multilevel growth models revealed that students' perceived competence and self-determined regulations were the most consistent predictors of the outcome variables at the within- and between-person levels. The results of this work add to the extant SDT-based literature by examining change in PE students' motivational regulations and psychological needs, as well as underscoring the importance of disaggregating within- and between-student effects.

Crafting the TALE: construction of a measure to assess the functions of autobiographical remembering.

PubMed

Bluck, Susan; Alea, Nicole

2011-07-01

Theory suggests that autobiographical remembering serves several functions. This research builds on previous empirical efforts (Bluck, Alea, Habermas, & Rubin, 2005) with the aim of constructing a brief, valid measure of three functions of autobiographical memory. Participants (N=306) completed 28 theoretically derived items concerning the frequency with which they use autobiographical memory to serve a variety of functions. To examine convergent and discriminant validity, participants rated their tendency to think about and talk about the past, and measures of future time orientation, self-concept clarity, and trait personality. Confirmatory factor analysis of the function items resulted in a respecified model with 15 items in three factors. The newly developed Thinking about Life Experiences scale (TALE) shows good internal consistency as well as convergent validity for three subscales: Self-Continuity, Social-Bonding, and Directing-Behaviour. Analyses demonstrate factorial equivalence across age and gender groups. Potential use and limitations of the TALE are discussed.

The Basic Psychological Needs at Work Scale: Measurement Invariance between Canada and France.

PubMed

Brien, Maryse; Forest, Jacques; Mageau, Geneviève A; Boudrias, Jean-Sébastien; Desrumaux, Pascale; Brunet, Luc; Morin, Estelle M

2012-07-01

The purpose of this study is to develop and validate the Basic Psychological Needs at Work Scale (BPNWS) in French, but items are also provided in English in the article. The BPNWS is a work-related self-report instrument designed to measure the degree to which the needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, as identified by Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 2000), are satisfied at work. Using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, the first study examines the structure of the BPNWS in a group of 271 workers. The second study tests the measurement invariance of the scale in a group of 851 teachers from two different cultures, Canada and France. Results support the three-factor structure and show adequate internal consistency, as well as nomological validity across samples. © 2012 The Authors. Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being © 2012 The International Association of Applied Psychology.

What is satisfying about satisfying events? Testing 10 candidate psychological needs.

PubMed

Sheldon, K M; Elliot, A J; Kim, Y; Kasser, T

2001-02-01

Three studies compared 10 candidate psychological needs in an attempt to determine which are truly most fundamental for humans. Participants described "most satisfying events" within their lives and then rated the salience of each of the 10 candidate needs within these events. Supporting self-determination theory postulates (Ryan & Deci, 2000)--autonomy, competence, and relatedness, were consistently among the top 4 needs, in terms of both their salience and their association with event-related affect. Self-esteem was also important, whereas self-actualization or meaning, physical thriving, popularity or influence, and money-luxury were less important. This basic pattern emerged within three different time frames and within both U.S. and South Korean samples and also within a final study that asked, "What's unsatisfying about unsatisfying events?" Implications for hierarchical theories of needs are discussed.

Gender role orientation and anxiety symptoms among African american adolescents.

PubMed

Palapattu, Anuradha G; Kingery, Julie Newman; Ginsburg, Golda S

2006-06-01

The present study evaluated gender role theory as an explanation for the observed gender differences in anxiety symptoms among adolescents. Specifically, the relation between gender, gender role orientation (i.e., masculinity and femininity), self-esteem, and anxiety symptoms was examined in a community sample of 114 African Americans aged 14 to 19 (mean age 15.77; 57 girls). Results revealed that masculinity was negatively associated with anxiety symptoms whereas femininity was positively associated with anxiety symptoms. Gender role orientation accounted for unique variance in anxiety scores above biological gender and self-esteem, and self-esteem moderated the relation between femininity (but not masculinity) and overall anxiety symptoms. Consistent with research on children and Caucasians, findings supported gender role theory as a partial explanation for the observed gender disparity in anxiety symptoms among African American adolescents.

Ab initio calculation of hyperfine splitting constants of molecules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohta, K.; Nakatsuji, H.; Hirao, K.; Yonezawa, T.

1980-08-01

Hyperfine splitting (hfs) constants of molecules, methyl, ethyl, vinyl, allyl, cyclopropyl, formyl, O3-, NH2, NO2, and NF2 radicals have been calculated by the pseudo-orbital (PO) theory, the unrestricted HF (UHF), projected UHF (PUHF) and single excitation (SE) CI theories. The pseudo-orbital (PO) theory is based on the symmetry-adapted-cluster (SAC) expansion proposed previously. Several contractions of the Gaussian basis sets of double-zeta accuracy have been examined. The UHF results were consistently too large to compare with experiments and the PUHF results were too small. For molecules studied here, the PO theory and SECI theory gave relatively close results. They were in fair agreement with experiments. The first-order spin-polarization self-consistency effect, which was shown to be important for atoms, is relatively small for the molecules. The present result also shows an importance of eliminating orbital-transformation dependence from conventional first-order perturbation calculations. The present calculations have explained well several important variations in the experimental hfs constants.

Microscopic theory of vortex interaction in two-band superconductors and type-1.5 superconductivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silaev, Mihail; Babaev, Egor

2011-03-01

In the framework of self-consistent microscopic theory we study the structure and interaction of vortices in two-gap superconductor taking into account the interband Josephson coupling. The asymptotical behavior of order parameter densities and magnetic field is studied analytically within the microscopic theory at low temperature. At higher temperatures, results consistent with Ginzburg-Landau theory are obtained. It is shown that under quite general conditions and in a wide temperature ranges (in particular outside the validity of the Ginzburg-Landau theory) there can exist an additional characteristic length scale of the order parameter density variation which exceeds the London penetration length of magnetic field due to the multi-component nature of superconducting state. Such behavior of order parameter density variation leads to the attractive long-range and repulsive short-range interaction between vortices. Supported by NSF CAREER Award DMR-0955902, Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation through the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences and Swedish Research Council, ''Dynasty'' foundation and Russian Foundation for Basic Research.

The interpersonal theory of suicide and adolescent suicidal behavior.

PubMed

Barzilay, S; Feldman, D; Snir, A; Apter, A; Carli, V; Hoven, C W; Wasserman, C; Sarchiapone, M; Wasserman, D

2015-09-01

Joiner's interpersonal theory of suicide (IPTS) proposes that suicide results from the combination of a perception of burdening others, social alienation, and the capability for self-harm. The theory gained some empirical support, however the overall model has yet to be tested. This study aimed to test the main predictions of IPTS in a large community sample of Israeli adolescents. 1196 Israeli Jewish and Arab high-school pupils participating in the SEYLE project completed a self-report questionnaire measuring perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, health risk behaviors, and non-suicidal self-injury (risk variables), and suicidal ideation and suicide attempts (outcome measures). The data were tested in cross-sectional regression models. Consistent with IPTS, perceived burdensomeness was found to interact with thwarted belongingness, predicting suicidal ideation. Depression mediated most of the effect of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness on suicidal ideation. Acquired capability for self-harm, as measured by health risk behaviors and direct non-suicidal self-injurious behaviors, predicted suicide attempt. However, this mechanism operated independently from ideation rather than in interaction with it, at variance with IPTS-based predictions. The cross-sectional design precludes conclusions about causality and directionality. Proxy measures were used to test the interpersonal theory constructs. The findings support some of the IPTS predictions but not all, and imply two separate pathways for suicidal behavior in adolescents: one related to internalizing psychopathology and the other to self-harm behaviors. This conceptualization has clinical implications for the differential identification of adolescents at risk for suicidal behavior and for the development of prevention strategies. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Texting to increase adolescent physical activity: Feasibility assessment

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Feasibility trials assess whether a behavior change program warrants a definite trial evaluation. This paper reports the feasibility of an intervention consisting of Self Determination Theory-informed text messages, pedometers, and goal prompts to increase adolescent physical activity. A 4-group ran...

Student Perceptions of Instructional Choices in Middle School Physical Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Agbuga, Bulent; Xiang, Ping; McBride, Ron E.; Su, Xiaoxia

2016-01-01

Purpose: Framed within self-determination theory, this study examined relationships among perceived instructional choices (cognitive, organizational, and procedural), autonomy need satisfaction, and engagement (behavioral, cognitive, and emotional) among Turkish students in middle school physical education. Methods: Participants consisted of 246…

Social anxiety, alcohol expectancies, and self-efficacy as predictors of heavy drinking in college students.

PubMed

Gilles, Donna M; Turk, Cynthia L; Fresco, David M

2006-03-01

Burke and Stephens (1999) [Burke, R.S., Stephens, R.S. Social anxiety and drinking in college students: A social cognitive theory analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 19, (1999) 513-530.] proposed a social cognitive theory of heavy drinking in college students. According to this theory, alcohol expectancies for social facilitation and self-efficacy for refusing heavy drinking in anxiety-producing social situations moderate the relationship between social anxiety and drinking. In the current study, a significant three-way interaction was observed among social anxiety, expectancies, and self-efficacy when amount and frequency of drinking was the dependent variable. As predicted by the model, socially anxious college students with low self-efficacy for avoiding heavy drinking in social situations and high positive expectancies for social facilitation reported more alcohol consumption than other socially anxious individuals.

Quantum mechanics: The Bayesian theory generalized to the space of Hermitian matrices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benavoli, Alessio; Facchini, Alessandro; Zaffalon, Marco

2016-10-01

We consider the problem of gambling on a quantum experiment and enforce rational behavior by a few rules. These rules yield, in the classical case, the Bayesian theory of probability via duality theorems. In our quantum setting, they yield the Bayesian theory generalized to the space of Hermitian matrices. This very theory is quantum mechanics: in fact, we derive all its four postulates from the generalized Bayesian theory. This implies that quantum mechanics is self-consistent. It also leads us to reinterpret the main operations in quantum mechanics as probability rules: Bayes' rule (measurement), marginalization (partial tracing), independence (tensor product). To say it with a slogan, we obtain that quantum mechanics is the Bayesian theory in the complex numbers.

Higher order alchemical derivatives from coupled perturbed self-consistent field theory.

PubMed

Lesiuk, Michał; Balawender, Robert; Zachara, Janusz

2012-01-21

We present an analytical approach to treat higher order derivatives of Hartree-Fock (HF) and Kohn-Sham (KS) density functional theory energy in the Born-Oppenheimer approximation with respect to the nuclear charge distribution (so-called alchemical derivatives). Modified coupled perturbed self-consistent field theory is used to calculate molecular systems response to the applied perturbation. Working equations for the second and the third derivatives of HF/KS energy are derived. Similarly, analytical forms of the first and second derivatives of orbital energies are reported. The second derivative of Kohn-Sham energy and up to the third derivative of Hartree-Fock energy with respect to the nuclear charge distribution were calculated. Some issues of practical calculations, in particular the dependence of the basis set and Becke weighting functions on the perturbation, are considered. For selected series of isoelectronic molecules values of available alchemical derivatives were computed and Taylor series expansion was used to predict energies of the "surrounding" molecules. Predicted values of energies are in unexpectedly good agreement with the ones computed using HF/KS methods. Presented method allows one to predict orbital energies with the error less than 1% or even smaller for valence orbitals. © 2012 American Institute of Physics

Emotional loneliness in sexual murderers: a qualitative analysis.

PubMed

Milsom, Jacci; Beech, Anthony R; Webster, Stephen D

2003-10-01

This study compared levels of emotional loneliness between sexual murderers and rapists who had not gone on to kill their victim/s. All participants were life-sentenced prisoners in the United Kingdom. Assessment consisted of a semistructured interview and was subjected to grounded theory analysis. This approach is defined as the breaking down, naming, comparing, and categorizing of data. As such, it is distinguished from other qualitative methods by the process of constant comparison. This continual sifting and comparing elements assists in promoting conceptual and theoretical development. The results of this process found that sexual murderers, compared to rapists, reported significantly higher levels of grievance towards females in childhood, significantly higher levels of peer group loneliness in adolescence, and significantly higher levels of self as victim in adulthood.

Disinhibition of negative true self for identity reconstructions in cyberspace: Advancing self-discrepancy theory for virtual setting

PubMed Central

Hu, Chuan; Kumar, Sameer; Huang, Jiao; Ratnavelu, Kurunathan

2017-01-01

In face-to-face communications, to avoid sanctions and disapproval from others, people are more likely to hide negative aspects of their true self (such as socially undesirable personalities, minds, beliefs and consciousness) to avoid conflict with social norms and laws. The anonymity of cyberspace provides people a unique environment to behave more freely and openly with less restraint from the real word. Existing research related to online true self expression has mainly explored true self as an independent aspect of self. Regarding true self as a two-dimensional concept, this study investigates true self from the perspective of individuals’ self-guide and identity reconstruction in both online and offline world. Using qualitative research methods, the current study investigates 57 participants through interviews and questionnaires. Content analysis reveals four factors that motivate people to express more true self (especially negative true self) when reconstructing their online identity and involve true self as a part of their self-guide in anonymous environment. By incorporating true self as an important part of individuals' self-guide and identity online, the current study advances self-discrepancy theory, making it more comprehensive for cyberspace. The results are also interpreted based on self-determination theory. The theoretical contributions of this study are discussed and practical implications are also presented. PMID:28399153

[Predictive factors of depression in adolescents at school: the role of implicit theories of intelligence].

PubMed

Da Fonseca, D; Cury, F; Rufo, M; Poinso, F

2007-10-01

The aim of this study was to complete the identification of predictive factors of depression during adolescence. For some authors, depression is characterized by a style of attribution, which consists essentially in attributing most of the negative outcomes to internal, stable, and uncontrollable factors. It seems that these attributions depend essentially on the type of their beliefs and in particular, those concerning the nature of intelligence. These beliefs called "implicit theories of intelligence", are the entity theory of intelligence and the incremental theory of intelligence. The entity theory of intelligence corresponds to the belief according to which intelligence is the expression of a relatively stable, fixed, and noncontrollable feature, and which we cannot change. In contrast, the incremental theory corresponds to the belief according to which intelligence is a controllable quality, which we can develop through effort and work. Several studies have demonstrated that the adolescents who consider intelligence as a malleable quality explain their bad results by internal, unstable, and controllable factors. Conversely, students who consider intelligence as a fixed capacity tend to strongly attribute their failure to internal, stable, and uncontrollable factors. We have consequently formulated the hypothesis according to which the entity theory should be a predictive factor of depression. We have also tested the fact that anxiety should be a mediating factor within the relation between the entity theory and depression. The sample was composed of 424 adolescents. Using different questionnaires, we measured implicit theories of the intelligence (TIDI), self-esteem (EES), anxiety (STAI-Form Y-B) and depression (CDI). Multiple regression analyses demonstrated that the entity theory of intelligence positively predicts depression. Self-esteem negatively predicts anxiety and depression. Moreover, anxiety is a mediator of the relation between self-esteem and depression, on one hand, and the relation between the entity theory of intelligence and depression, on the other. Finally, the effect of the entity theory of intelligence appears to be modulated by the level of self-esteem. This study explains the mechanisms by which the implicit theories of intelligence engender anxiety and depression. Furthermore, this approach provides interesting perspectives in the prevention and management of adolescents presenting depression.

Quantum physics with non-Hermitian operators Quantum physics with non-Hermitian operators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bender, Carl; Fring, Andreas; Günther, Uwe; Jones, Hugh

2012-11-01

The main motivation behind the call for this special issue was to gather recent results, developments and open problems in quantum physics with non-Hermitian operators. There have been previous special issues in this journal [1, 2] and elsewhere on this subject. The intention of this issue is to reflect the current state of this rapidly-developing field. It has therefore been open to all contributions containing new results on non-Hermitian theories that are explicitly PT-symmetric and/or pseudo-Hermitian or quasi-Hermitian. In the last decade these types of systems have proved to be viable self-consistent physical theories with well defined unitary time-evolution and real spectra. As the large number of responses demonstrates, this is a rapidly evolving field of research. A consensus has been reached regarding most of the fundamental problems, and the general ideas and techniques are now readily being employed in many areas of physics. Nonetheless, this issue still contains some treatments of a more general nature regarding the spectral analysis of these models, in particular, the physics of the exceptional points, the breaking of the PT-symmetry, an interpretation of negative energies and the consistent implementation of the WKB analysis. This issue also contains a treatment of a scattering theory associated with these types of systems, weak measurements, coherent states, decoherence, unbounded metric operators and the inclusion of domain issues to obtain well defined self-adjoint theories. Contributions in the form of applications of the general ideas include: studies of classical shock-waves and tunnelling, supersymmetric models, spin chain models, models with ring structure, random matrix models, the Pauli equation, the nonlinear Schrödinger equation, quasi-exactly solvable models, integrable models such as the Calogero model, Bose-Einstein condensates, thermodynamics, nonlinear oligomers, quantum catastrophes, the Landau-Zener problem and pseudo-Fermions. Applications close to experimental realization are proposed in optics, including short light pulse models, waveguides and laser systems, and also in electronics. We hope that this issue will become a valuable reference and inspiration for the broader scientific community working in mathematical and theoretical physics. References [1] Fring A, Jones H F and Znojil M (ed) 2008 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 41 240301 [2] Geyer H, Heiss D and Znojil M (ed) 2006 J. Phys. A: Math. Gen. 39 9963

Application of the strongly coupled-mode theory to integrated optical devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chuang, Shun-Lien

1987-01-01

A theory for strongly coupled waveguides is discussed and applied to two- and three-waveguide couplers and optical wavelength filters. This theory makes use of an exact analytical relation governing the coupling coefficients and the overlap integrals. It removes almost all of the constraints imposed by a simpler and approximate coupled-mode theory by Marcatili (1986). It also satisfies the energy conservation and the reciprocity theorem self-consistently. Very good numerical results with the overlap integral as large as 49 percent are shown. The applications to electrooptical modulators, power dividers, power transfer devices, and optical filters are all presented with numerical results.

Analytical description of the transverse Anderson localization of light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schirmacher, Walter; Leonetti, Marco; Ruocco, Giancarlo

2017-04-01

We develop an analytical theory for describing the transverse localization properties of light beams in optical fibers with lateral disorder. This theory, which starts from the widely used paraxial approximation for the Helmholtz equation of the electric field, is a combination of an effective-medium theory for transverse disorder with the self-consistent localization theory of Vollhardt and Wölfle. We obtain explicit expressions for the dependence of the transverse localization length on the direction along the fiber. These results are in agreement with simulational data published recently by Karbasi et al. In particular we explain the focussing mechanism leading to the establishment of narrow transparent channels along the sample.

Clinical Growth: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis.

PubMed

Barkimer, Jessica

2016-01-01

Clinical growth is an essential component of nursing education, although challenging to evaluate. Considering the paradigm shift toward constructivism and student-centered learning, clinical growth requires an examination within contemporary practices. A concept analysis of clinical growth in nursing education produced defining attributes, antecedents, and consequences. Attributes included higher-level thinking, socialization, skill development, self-reflection, self-investment, interpersonal communication, and linking theory to practice. Identification of critical attributes allows educators to adapt to student-centered learning in the clinical environment. These findings allow educators to determine significant research questions, develop situation-specific theories, and identify strategies to enhance student learning in the clinical environment.

A test of self-determination theory in school physical education.

PubMed

Standage, Martyn; Duda, Joan L; Ntoumanis, Nikos

2005-09-01

Contemporary research conducted in the context of school physical education (PE) has increasingly embraced various tenets of self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985, 1991). Despite this increase in research attention, some postulates of the framework remain unexplored (e.g. impact of a need-supportive climate). As such, the present study sought to provide a more comprehensive test of self-determination theory. The present work also examined Deci and Ryan's claim that the motivational sequence embraced by their framework is invariant across gender. (i) To examine a model of motivation based on the tenets of self-determination theory, and (ii) explore the invariance of the model across gender. Participants were 950 British secondary school students (443 male, 490 female, 17 gender not specified) Participants completed a questionnaire that included measures of need support, need satisfaction, motivation, positive and negative affect, task challenge, and concentration. Structural equation modelling (SEM) analysis revealed that students who perceived a need-supporting environment experienced greater levels of need satisfaction. Need satisfaction predicted intrinsic motivation, which, in turn, linked to adaptive PE-related outcomes. In contrast, need satisfaction negatively predicted amotivation, which, in turn, was positively predictive of feelings of unhappiness. Multisample SEM invariance testing revealed the model to be largely invariant for male and female students. The results of the study provide support for self-determination theory and corroborate the application of the framework to the context of school PE. Further, we largely found support for the invariance of the motivational processes embraced by self-determination theory across gender.

Treatment of Phobic Disorders Using Cognitive and Exposure Methods: A Self-Efficacy Analysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Biran, Mia; Wilson, G. Terence

1981-01-01

Examined predictions derived from self-efficacy theory in comparing the effects of exposure and cognitive interventions with simple phobics. Guided exposure (GE) was significantly superior to cognitive restructuring (CR) in enhancing approach behavior, increasing level and strength of self-efficacy, reducing subjective fear, and decreasing…

The materiality of the abstraction voice.

PubMed

Schürmann, Volker

2008-03-01

The comment on Bertau's paper underlines the importance of the internally social character of the dialogical self, which is not trivial and can not be taken for granted. A consistent theory of this internal character demands specific theoretical means native to a tradition of Leibniz' philosophy. In consequence the concept of dialogical self is presented as a non-empirical one based in an ethos. We, and not nature, are responsible for the modes of conceptualising.

Age and gender differences in self-esteem-A cross-cultural window.

PubMed

Bleidorn, Wiebke; Arslan, Ruben C; Denissen, Jaap J A; Rentfrow, Peter J; Gebauer, Jochen E; Potter, Jeff; Gosling, Samuel D

2016-09-01

Research and theorizing on gender and age differences in self-esteem have played a prominent role in psychology over the past 20 years. However, virtually all empirical research has been undertaken in the United States or other Western industrialized countries, providing a narrow empirical base from which to draw conclusions and develop theory. To broaden the empirical base, the present research uses a large Internet sample (N = 985,937) to provide the first large-scale systematic cross-cultural examination of gender and age differences in self-esteem. Across 48 nations, and consistent with previous research, we found age-related increases in self-esteem from late adolescence to middle adulthood and significant gender gaps, with males consistently reporting higher self-esteem than females. Despite these broad cross-cultural similarities, the cultures differed significantly in the magnitude of gender, age, and Gender × Age effects on self-esteem. These differences were associated with cultural differences in socioeconomic, sociodemographic, gender-equality, and cultural value indicators. Discussion focuses on the theoretical implications of cross-cultural research on self-esteem. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Self-action of propagating and standing Lamb waves in the plates exhibiting hysteretic nonlinearity: Nonlinear zero-group velocity modes.

PubMed

Gusev, Vitalyi E; Lomonosov, Alexey M; Ni, Chenyin; Shen, Zhonghua

2017-09-01

An analytical theory accounting for the influence of hysteretic nonlinearity of micro-inhomogeneous plate material on the Lamb waves near the S 1 zero group velocity point is developed. The theory predicts that the main effect of the hysteretic quadratic nonlinearity consists in the modification of the frequency and the induced absorption of the Lamb modes. The effects of the nonlinear self-action in the propagating and standing Lamb waves are expected to be, respectively, nearly twice and three times stronger than those in the plane propagating acoustic waves. The theory is restricted to the simplest hysteretic nonlinearity, which is influencing only one of the Lamé moduli of the materials. However, possible extensions of the theory to the cases of more general hysteretic nonlinearities are discussed as well as the perspectives of its experimental testing. Applications include nondestructive evaluation of micro-inhomogeneous and cracked plates. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Time dependence of triplet-singlet excitation transfer from compact poly rA to bound dye at 77 K.

PubMed Central

Pearlstein, R M; Van Nostrand, F; Nairn, J A

1979-01-01

The nonexponential phosphorescence decay of a highly folded form of poly-riboadenylic acid (poly rA) with noncovalently bound dye is explained by a novel application of a well-known theory of electronic excitation transfer based on the Förster mechanism. This theory, originally used to describe singlet-singlet energy transfer from donor molecules to an acceptor in a solution, is here applied to the transfer of triplet excitation from the adenine (in poly rA) to the singlet manifold of either of the bound dyes, ethidium bromide or proflavine. New experimental data are presented that allow straight-forward theoretical interpretation. These data fit the form predicted by the theory, U(t) exp(-Bt1/2), where U(t) is the decay of the poly rA phosphorescence in the absence of dye, for a range of relative concentrations of either dye. The self-consistency of these theoretical fits is demonstrated by the proportionality of B to the square root of the Förster triplet-singlet overlap integrals for transfer from poly rA to each of the dyes, as demanded by the theory. From these self-consistent values of B, the theory enables one to deduce the mean packing density of nucleotides in this folded poly rA, which we estimate to be approximately 1 nm-3. We conclude that some variations of the method described here may be useful for deducing packing densities of nucleotides in other compact nucleic acid structures. PMID:262411

The Development of a Nurse-Led Internet-Based Learning and Self-care Program for Cancer Patients With Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression-A Part of U-CARE.

PubMed

Hauffman, Anna; Alfonsson, Sven; Mattsson, Susanne; Forslund, Marina; Bill-Axelson, Anna; Nygren, Peter; Johansson, Birgitta

Having access to information about the disease and being encouraged to participate in self-care activities may reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in cancer patients. Internet-based interventions may be one way to support effective self-care strategies to improve emotional well-being and health-related quality of life. The aim of this study was to describe the development and acceptance of an Internet-based program intended to support cancer patients with anxiety and depression symptoms. A structured collaboration between patients, clinicians, and researchers was used to develop a theory- and evidence-based interactive health communication application (IHCA) based on Orem's self-care deficit nursing theory with influences from Bandura's social learning theory and psychoeducation. The result is an IHCA described as a Nurse-led, Internet-based Learning and Self-care program that helps patients to perform self-care using different types of material in interaction with patients and healthcare staff. The acceptance of the program is consistent with the results of similar studies. Collaboration between patients, clinicians, and researchers seems to be a fruitful approach in the development of an IHCA aiming to support cancer patients' self-care strategies. Well-designed intervention studies are needed to evaluate the effects of the IHCA. This article suggests a theoretical foundation for an IHCA and allows researchers and healthcare providers to take part in the discussion regarding format and content of IHCAs.

Exploring Physical Activity Behaviour of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis: A Qualitative Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Resnik, Linda; Allen, Susan

2015-01-01

Purpose Identify facilitators and barriers to physical activity (PA), and explore the utility of Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) and Transactional Model of Stress and Coping (TMSC) in understanding PA behaviour among persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods Thirteen participants from a clinical trial were interviewed and classified as physically active, sometimes active, or inactive based on the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile-II. Interviews were analysed using analytical induction, which consisted of coding data into pre-established categories and then exploring similarities and differences between groups. Pre-established coding categories were constructs from SCT (i.e. environment, expectations, self-efficacy, and self-regulation) and TMSC (i.e. stress appraisal and coping style). Results Inactive and active participants differed in their self-regulation skills, self-efficacy, and coping styles. Common barriers to PA included symptoms and the physical and social environment. Facilitators of PA included strong self-regulation skills, confidence to overcome symptoms to engage in PA (i.e. barrier self-efficacy), and positive coping styles. Conclusion Results from this pilot study suggest that PA interventions will need to implement multiple strategies that target self-efficacy, social environment, and coping styles. We found SCT and TMSC useful in understanding PA behaviour among persons with MS; however, a limitation to these theories is that they are not explicit in the relationship between health and cognitions. Future research will need to explore how to incorporate models of health and function into existing behaviour change theories. PMID:19479491

REVIEWS OF TOPICAL PROBLEMS: Physics of pulsar magnetospheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beskin, Vasilii S.; Gurevich, Aleksandr V.; Istomin, Yakov N.

1986-10-01

A self-consistent model of the magnetosphere of a pulsar is constructed. This model is based on a successive solution of the equations describing global properties of the magnetosphere and on a comparison of the basic predictions of the developed theory and observational data.

Rasch analysis suggested three unidimensional domains for Affiliate Stigma Scale: additional psychometric evaluation.

PubMed

Chang, Chih-Cheng; Su, Jian-An; Tsai, Ching-Shu; Yen, Cheng-Fang; Liu, Jiun-Horng; Lin, Chung-Ying

2015-06-01

To examine the psychometrics of the Affiliate Stigma Scale using rigorous psychometric analysis: classical test theory (CTT) (traditional) and Rasch analysis (modern). Differential item functioning (DIF) items were also tested using Rasch analysis. Caregivers of relatives with mental illness (n = 453; mean age: 53.29 ± 13.50 years) were recruited from southern Taiwan. Each participant filled out four questionnaires: Affiliate Stigma Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and one background information sheet. CTT analyses showed that the Affiliate Stigma Scale had satisfactory internal consistency (α = 0.85-0.94) and concurrent validity (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale: r = -0.52 to -0.46; Beck Anxiety Inventory: r = 0.27-0.34). Rasch analyses supported the unidimensionality of three domains in the Affiliate Stigma Scale and indicated four DIF items (affect domain: 1; cognitive domain: 3) across gender. Our findings, based on rigorous statistical analysis, verified the psychometrics of the Affiliate Stigma Scale and reported its DIF items. We conclude that the three domains of the Affiliate Stigma Scale can be separately used and are suitable for measuring the affiliate stigma of caregivers of relatives with mental illness. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The theory of reasoned action in prediction of breast self-examination: a comparison of two studies.

PubMed

Powell-Cope, G M; Lierman, L M; Kasprzyk, D; Young, H M; Benoliel, J Q

1991-01-01

The purpose of this article is to report the application of the theory of reasoned action (TRA) to predict breast self-examination (BSE) intention and frequency in two studies with middle-aged and older women. The sample in Study 1 consisted of 93 volunteers from church groups; the second sample consisted of 175 randomly selected subscribers to a large health maintenance organization. Questionnaires to measure attitudinal and subjective normative influences relevant to BSE were developed using guidelines specified by Ajzen and Fishbein (1980). The attitudinal components predicted BSE intention in both studies and BSE frequency in Study 1. In contrast, the subjective norm contributed significantly only to the prediction of frequency in Study 1. Findings demonstrate varying degrees of success for the TRA in predicting BSE intention and behavior. Explanations for the inconsistency in the predictive ability of the TRA can be related to differences between the two studies regarding sample and design characteristics.

Accurate X-Ray Spectral Predictions: An Advanced Self-Consistent-Field Approach Inspired by Many-Body Perturbation Theory

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liang, Yufeng; Vinson, John; Pemmaraju, Sri

Constrained-occupancy delta-self-consistent-field (ΔSCF) methods and many-body perturbation theories (MBPT) are two strategies for obtaining electronic excitations from first principles. Using the two distinct approaches, we study the O 1s core excitations that have become increasingly important for characterizing transition-metal oxides and understanding strong electronic correlation. The ΔSCF approach, in its current single-particle form, systematically underestimates the pre-edge intensity for chosen oxides, despite its success in weakly correlated systems. By contrast, the Bethe-Salpeter equation within MBPT predicts much better line shapes. This motivates one to reexamine the many-electron dynamics of x-ray excitations. We find that the single-particle ΔSCF approach can bemore » rectified by explicitly calculating many-electron transition amplitudes, producing x-ray spectra in excellent agreement with experiments. This study paves the way to accurately predict x-ray near-edge spectral fingerprints for physics and materials science beyond the Bethe-Salpether equation.« less

Self consistent solution of the tJ model in the overdoped regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shastry, B. Sriram; Hansen, Daniel

2013-03-01

Detailed results from a recent microscopic theory of extremely correlated Fermi liquids, applied to the t-J model in two dimensions, are presented. The theory is to second order in a parameter λ, and is valid in the overdoped regime of the tJ model. The solution reported here is from Ref, where relevant equations given in Ref are self consistently solved for the square lattice. Thermodynamic variables and the resistivity are displayed at various densities and T for two sets of band parameters. The momentum distribution function and the renormalized electronic dispersion, its width and asymmetry are reported along principal directions of the zone. The optical conductivity is calculated. The electronic spectral function A (k , ω) probed in ARPES, is detailed with different elastic scattering parameters to account for the distinction between LASER and synchrotron ARPES. A high (binding) energy waterfall feature, sensitively dependent on the band hopping parameter t' is noted. This work was supported by DOE under Grant No. FG02-06ER46319.

Accurate X-Ray Spectral Predictions: An Advanced Self-Consistent-Field Approach Inspired by Many-Body Perturbation Theory

DOE PAGES

Liang, Yufeng; Vinson, John; Pemmaraju, Sri; ...

2017-03-03

Constrained-occupancy delta-self-consistent-field (ΔSCF) methods and many-body perturbation theories (MBPT) are two strategies for obtaining electronic excitations from first principles. Using the two distinct approaches, we study the O 1s core excitations that have become increasingly important for characterizing transition-metal oxides and understanding strong electronic correlation. The ΔSCF approach, in its current single-particle form, systematically underestimates the pre-edge intensity for chosen oxides, despite its success in weakly correlated systems. By contrast, the Bethe-Salpeter equation within MBPT predicts much better line shapes. This motivates one to reexamine the many-electron dynamics of x-ray excitations. We find that the single-particle ΔSCF approach can bemore » rectified by explicitly calculating many-electron transition amplitudes, producing x-ray spectra in excellent agreement with experiments. This study paves the way to accurately predict x-ray near-edge spectral fingerprints for physics and materials science beyond the Bethe-Salpether equation.« less

Testing variations of the GW approximation on strongly correlated transition metal oxides: hematite (α-Fe2O3) as a benchmark.

PubMed

Liao, Peilin; Carter, Emily A

2011-09-07

Quantitative characterization of low-lying excited electronic states in materials is critical for the development of solar energy conversion materials. The many-body Green's function method known as the GW approximation (GWA) directly probes states corresponding to photoemission and inverse photoemission experiments, thereby determining the associated band structure. Several versions of the GW approximation with different levels of self-consistency exist in the field. While the GWA based on density functional theory (DFT) works well for conventional semiconductors, less is known about its reliability for strongly correlated semiconducting materials. Here we present a systematic study of the GWA using hematite (α-Fe(2)O(3)) as the benchmark material. We analyze its performance in terms of the calculated photoemission/inverse photoemission band gaps, densities of states, and dielectric functions. Overall, a non-self-consistent G(0)W(0) using input from DFT+U theory produces physical observables in best agreement with experiments. This journal is © the Owner Societies 2011

Accurate X-Ray Spectral Predictions: An Advanced Self-Consistent-Field Approach Inspired by Many-Body Perturbation Theory.

PubMed

Liang, Yufeng; Vinson, John; Pemmaraju, Sri; Drisdell, Walter S; Shirley, Eric L; Prendergast, David

2017-03-03

Constrained-occupancy delta-self-consistent-field (ΔSCF) methods and many-body perturbation theories (MBPT) are two strategies for obtaining electronic excitations from first principles. Using the two distinct approaches, we study the O 1s core excitations that have become increasingly important for characterizing transition-metal oxides and understanding strong electronic correlation. The ΔSCF approach, in its current single-particle form, systematically underestimates the pre-edge intensity for chosen oxides, despite its success in weakly correlated systems. By contrast, the Bethe-Salpeter equation within MBPT predicts much better line shapes. This motivates one to reexamine the many-electron dynamics of x-ray excitations. We find that the single-particle ΔSCF approach can be rectified by explicitly calculating many-electron transition amplitudes, producing x-ray spectra in excellent agreement with experiments. This study paves the way to accurately predict x-ray near-edge spectral fingerprints for physics and materials science beyond the Bethe-Salpether equation.

The Social Context of Managing Diabetes across the Life Span

PubMed Central

Wiebe, Deborah J.; Helgeson, Vicki; Berg, Cynthia A.

2016-01-01

Diabetes self-management is crucial to maintaining quality of life and preventing long-term complications, and occurs daily in the context of close interpersonal relationships. This article examines how social relationships are central to meeting the complex demands of managing type 1 and type 2 diabetes across the life span. The social context of diabetes management includes multiple resources, including family (parents, spouses), peers, romantic partners, and health care providers. We discuss how these social resources change across the life span, focusing on childhood and adolescence, emerging adulthood, and adulthood and aging. We review how diabetes both affects and is affected by key social relationships at each developmental period. Despite high variability in how the social context is conceptualized and measured across studies, findings converge on the characteristics of social relationships that facilitate or undermine diabetes management across the life span. These characteristics are consistent with both Interpersonal Theory and Self-Determination Theory, two organizing frameworks that we utilize to explore social behaviors that are related to diabetes management. Involvement and support from one’s social partners, particularly family members, is consistently associated with good diabetes outcomes when characterized by warmth, collaboration and acceptance. Under-involvement and interactions characterized by conflict and criticism are consistently associated with poor diabetes outcomes. Intrusive involvement that contains elements of social control may undermine diabetes management, particularly when it impinges on self-efficacy. Implications for future research directions and for interventions that promote the effective use of the social context to improve diabetes self-management are discussed. PMID:27690482

Two decades of terror management theory: a meta-analysis of mortality salience research.

PubMed

Burke, Brian L; Martens, Andy; Faucher, Erik H

2010-05-01

A meta-analysis was conducted on empirical trials investigating the mortality salience (MS) hypothesis of terror management theory (TMT). TMT postulates that investment in cultural worldviews and self-esteem serves to buffer the potential for death anxiety; the MS hypothesis states that, as a consequence, accessibility of death-related thought (MS) should instigate increased worldview and self-esteem defense and striving. Overall, 164 articles with 277 experiments were included. MS yielded moderate effects (r = .35) on a range of worldview- and self-esteem-related dependent variables (DVs), with effects increased for experiments using (a) American participants, (b) college students, (c) a longer delay between MS and the DV, and (d) people-related attitudes as the DV. Gender and self-esteem may moderate MS effects differently than previously thought. Results are compared to other reviews and examined with regard to alternative explanations of TMT. Finally, suggestions for future research are offered.

Theory, modeling, and integrated studies in the Arase (ERG) project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seki, Kanako; Miyoshi, Yoshizumi; Ebihara, Yusuke; Katoh, Yuto; Amano, Takanobu; Saito, Shinji; Shoji, Masafumi; Nakamizo, Aoi; Keika, Kunihiro; Hori, Tomoaki; Nakano, Shin'ya; Watanabe, Shigeto; Kamiya, Kei; Takahashi, Naoko; Omura, Yoshiharu; Nose, Masahito; Fok, Mei-Ching; Tanaka, Takashi; Ieda, Akimasa; Yoshikawa, Akimasa

2018-02-01

Understanding of underlying mechanisms of drastic variations of the near-Earth space (geospace) is one of the current focuses of the magnetospheric physics. The science target of the geospace research project Exploration of energization and Radiation in Geospace (ERG) is to understand the geospace variations with a focus on the relativistic electron acceleration and loss processes. In order to achieve the goal, the ERG project consists of the three parts: the Arase (ERG) satellite, ground-based observations, and theory/modeling/integrated studies. The role of theory/modeling/integrated studies part is to promote relevant theoretical and simulation studies as well as integrated data analysis to combine different kinds of observations and modeling. Here we provide technical reports on simulation and empirical models related to the ERG project together with their roles in the integrated studies of dynamic geospace variations. The simulation and empirical models covered include the radial diffusion model of the radiation belt electrons, GEMSIS-RB and RBW models, CIMI model with global MHD simulation REPPU, GEMSIS-RC model, plasmasphere thermosphere model, self-consistent wave-particle interaction simulations (electron hybrid code and ion hybrid code), the ionospheric electric potential (GEMSIS-POT) model, and SuperDARN electric field models with data assimilation. ERG (Arase) science center tools to support integrated studies with various kinds of data are also briefly introduced.[Figure not available: see fulltext.

Discrepancy-based and anticipated emotions in behavioral self-regulation.

PubMed

Brown, Christina M; McConnell, Allen R

2011-10-01

Discrepancies between one's current and desired states evoke negative emotions, which presumably guide self-regulation. In the current work we evaluated the function of discrepancy-based emotions in behavioral self-regulation. Contrary to classic theories of self-regulation, discrepancy-based emotions did not predict the degree to which people engaged in self-regulatory behavior. Instead, expectations about how future self-discrepancies would make one feel (i.e., anticipated emotions) predicted self-regulation. However, anticipated emotions were influenced by previous discrepancy-based emotional experiences, suggesting that the latter do not directly motivate self-regulation but rather guide expectations. These findings are consistent with the perspective that emotions do not necessarily direct immediate behavior, but rather have an indirect effect by guiding expectations, which in turn predict goal-directed action.

Reshaping an enduring sense of self: the process of recovery from a first episode of schizophrenia.

PubMed

Romano, Donna M; McCay, Elizabeth; Goering, Paula; Boydell, Katherine; Zipursky, Robert

2010-08-01

Although advances in the treatment of schizophrenia have been made, little is known about the process of recovery from first episode of schizophrenia (FES). To date, the study of recovery in the field of mental health has focused on long-term mental illness. This qualitative study addresses ways in which individuals with FES describe their process of recovery and how identified individuals (e.g. family members) describe their perceptions of and roles in the participant's process of recovery. Charmaz's constructivist grounded theory methodology was used to interview 10 young adults twice who self-identified as recovering from FES. In addition, 10 individuals were identified who had influenced their recovery and were interviewed once, for a total of 30 interviews. Data collection sources included in-depth semi-structured interviews. Data analysis methods were consistent with Charmaz's methodology and included coding, and constant comparison of data. The results provide a substantive theory of the process of recovery from FES that is comprised of the following phases: 'Who they were prior to the illness', 'Lives interrupted: Encountering the illness', 'Engaging in services and supports', 'Re-engaging in life', 'Envisioning the future'; and the core category, 'Re-shaping an enduring sense of self', that occurred throughout all phases. A prominent feature of this model is that participants' enduring sense of self were reshaped rather than reconstructed throughout their recovery. This model of recovery from FES is unique, and as such, provides implications for clinical care, research and policy development for these young adults and their families.

The Patient Assessment Questionnaire: initial validation of a measure of treatment effectiveness for patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

PubMed

Mojtabai, Ramin; Corey-Lisle, Patricia K; Ip, Edward Hak-Sing; Kopeykina, Irina; Haeri, Sophia; Cohen, Lisa Janet; Shumaker, Sally

2012-12-30

Investigation of patients' subjective perspective regarding the effectiveness - as opposed to efficacy - of antipsychotic medication has been hampered by a relative shortage of self-report measures of global clinical outcome. This paper presents data supporting the feasibility, inter-item consistency, and construct validity of the Patient Assessment Questionnaire (PAQ)-a self-report measure of psychiatric symptoms, medication side effects and general wellbeing, ultimately intended to assess effectiveness of interventions for schizophrenia-spectrum patients. The original 53-item instrument was developed by a multidisciplinary team which utilized brainstorming sessions for item generation and content analysis, patient focus groups, and expert panel reviews. This instrument and additional validation measures were administered, via Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interviewing (ACASI), to 300 stable, medicated outpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Item elimination was based on psychometric properties and Item-Response Theory information functions and characteristic curves. Exploratory factor analysis of the resulting 40-item scale yielded a five factor solution. The five subscales (General Distress, Side Effects, Psychotic Symptoms, Cognitive Symptoms, Sleep) showed robust convergent (β's=0.34-0.75, average β=0.49) and discriminant validity. The PAQ demonstrates feasibility, reliability, and construct validity as a self-report measure of multiple domains pertinent to effectiveness. Future research needs to establish the PAQ's sensitivity to change. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Bifurcation theory and cardiac arrhythmias

PubMed Central

Karagueuzian, Hrayr S; Stepanyan, Hayk; Mandel, William J

2013-01-01

In this paper we review two types of dynamic behaviors defined by the bifurcation theory that are found to be particularly useful in describing two forms of cardiac electrical instabilities that are of considerable importance in cardiac arrhythmogenesis. The first is action potential duration (APD) alternans with an underlying dynamics consistent with the period doubling bifurcation theory. This form of electrical instability could lead to spatially discordant APD alternans leading to wavebreak and reentrant form of tachyarrhythmias. Factors that modulate the APD alternans are discussed. The second form of bifurcation of importance to cardiac arrhythmogenesis is the Hopf-homoclinic bifurcation that adequately describes the dynamics of the onset of early afterdepolarization (EAD)-mediated triggered activity (Hopf) that may cause ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation (VT/VF respectively). The self-termination of the triggered activity is compatible with the homoclinic bifurcation. Ionic and intracellular calcium dynamics underlying these dynamics are discussed using available experimental and simulation data. The dynamic analysis provides novel insights into the mechanisms of VT/VF, a major cause of sudden cardiac death in the US. PMID:23459417

How Settings Change People: Applying Behavior Setting Theory to Consumer-Run Organizations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Louis D.; Shepherd, Matthew D.; Wituk, Scott A.; Meissen, Greg

2007-01-01

Self-help initiatives stand as a classic context for organizational studies in community psychology. Behavior setting theory stands as a classic conception of organizations and the environment. This study explores both, applying behavior setting theory to consumer-run organizations (CROs). Analysis of multiple data sets from all CROs in Kansas…

Dimensions of Motivation to Transfer: A Longitudinal Analysis of Their Influence on Retention, Transfer, and Attitude Change

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gegenfurtner, Andreas

2013-01-01

This longitudinal study examined the multidimensionality of motivation to transfer training. Based on self-determination theory, expectancy theory, and the theory of planned behaviour, motivation to transfer was conceptualized in three dimensions: autonomous motivation to transfer, controlled motivation to transfer, and intention to transfer.…

Psychometric analysis of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) in primary care using modern item response theory.

PubMed

Jordan, Pascal; Shedden-Mora, Meike C; Löwe, Bernd

2017-01-01

The Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) is one of the most frequently used diagnostic self-report scales for screening, diagnosis and severity assessment of anxiety disorder. Its psychometric properties from the view of the Item Response Theory paradigm have rarely been investigated. We aimed to close this gap by analyzing the GAD-7 within a large sample of primary care patients with respect to its psychometric properties and its implications for scoring using Item Response Theory. Robust, nonparametric statistics were used to check unidimensionality of the GAD-7. A graded response model was fitted using a Bayesian approach. The model fit was evaluated using posterior predictive p-values, item information functions were derived and optimal predictions of anxiety were calculated. The sample included N = 3404 primary care patients (60% female; mean age, 52,2; standard deviation 19.2) The analysis indicated no deviations of the GAD-7 scale from unidimensionality and a decent fit of a graded response model. The commonly suggested ultra-brief measure consisting of the first two items, the GAD-2, was supported by item information analysis. The first four items discriminated better than the last three items with respect to latent anxiety. The information provided by the first four items should be weighted more heavily. Moreover, estimates corresponding to low to moderate levels of anxiety show greater variability. The psychometric validity of the GAD-2 was supported by our analysis.

Psychometric analysis of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) in primary care using modern item response theory

PubMed Central

Shedden-Mora, Meike C.; Löwe, Bernd

2017-01-01

Objective The Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) is one of the most frequently used diagnostic self-report scales for screening, diagnosis and severity assessment of anxiety disorder. Its psychometric properties from the view of the Item Response Theory paradigm have rarely been investigated. We aimed to close this gap by analyzing the GAD-7 within a large sample of primary care patients with respect to its psychometric properties and its implications for scoring using Item Response Theory. Methods Robust, nonparametric statistics were used to check unidimensionality of the GAD-7. A graded response model was fitted using a Bayesian approach. The model fit was evaluated using posterior predictive p-values, item information functions were derived and optimal predictions of anxiety were calculated. Results The sample included N = 3404 primary care patients (60% female; mean age, 52,2; standard deviation 19.2) The analysis indicated no deviations of the GAD-7 scale from unidimensionality and a decent fit of a graded response model. The commonly suggested ultra-brief measure consisting of the first two items, the GAD-2, was supported by item information analysis. The first four items discriminated better than the last three items with respect to latent anxiety. Conclusion The information provided by the first four items should be weighted more heavily. Moreover, estimates corresponding to low to moderate levels of anxiety show greater variability. The psychometric validity of the GAD-2 was supported by our analysis. PMID:28771530

Included as Excluded and Excluded as Included: Minority Language Pupils in Norwegian Inclusion Policy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hilt, Line Torbjørnsen

2015-01-01

This article offers an analysis of four Norwegian policy documents on inclusion of minority language pupils. The main concepts of this policy will be reconstructed and re-described, applying Niklas Luhmann's systems theory at different levels of the analysis. Luhmann's theory about society as a conglomerate of self-referential social systems…

The cheater's high: the unexpected affective benefits of unethical behavior.

PubMed

Ruedy, Nicole E; Moore, Celia; Gino, Francesca; Schweitzer, Maurice E

2013-10-01

Many theories of moral behavior assume that unethical behavior triggers negative affect. In this article, we challenge this assumption and demonstrate that unethical behavior can trigger positive affect, which we term a "cheater's high." Across 6 studies, we find that even though individuals predict they will feel guilty and have increased levels of negative affect after engaging in unethical behavior (Studies 1a and 1b), individuals who cheat on different problem-solving tasks consistently experience more positive affect than those who do not (Studies 2-5). We find that this heightened positive affect does not depend on self-selection (Studies 3 and 4), and it is not due to the accrual of undeserved financial rewards (Study 4). Cheating is associated with feelings of self-satisfaction, and the boost in positive affect from cheating persists even when prospects for self-deception about unethical behavior are reduced (Study 5). Our results have important implications for models of ethical decision making, moral behavior, and self-regulatory theory.

A meta-analytic examination of the goal orientation nomological net.

PubMed

Payne, Stephanie C; Youngcourt, Satoris S; Beaubien, J Matthew

2007-01-01

The authors present an empirical review of the literature concerning trait and state goal orientation (GO). Three dimensions of GO were examined: learning, prove performance, and avoid performance along with presumed antecedents and proximal and distal consequences of these dimensions. Antecedent variables included cognitive ability, implicit theory of intelligence, need for achievement, self-esteem, general self-efficacy, and the Big Five personality characteristics. Proximal consequences included state GO, task-specific self-efficacy, self-set goal level, learning strategies, feedback seeking, and state anxiety. Distal consequences included learning, academic performance, task performance, and job performance. Generally speaking, learning GO was positively correlated, avoid performance GO was negatively correlated, and prove performance GO was uncorrelated with these variables. Consistent with theory, state GO tended to have stronger relationships with the distal consequences than did trait GO. Finally, using a meta-correlation matrix, the authors found that trait GO predicted job performance above and beyond cognitive ability and personality. These results demonstrate the value of GO to organizational researchers. 2007 APA, all rights reserved

Feedback Seeking in Early Adolescence: Self-Enhancement or Self-Verification?

PubMed

Rosen, Lisa H; Principe, Connor P; Langlois, Judith H

2013-02-13

The authors examined whether early adolescents ( N = 90) solicit self-enhancing feedback (i.e., positive feedback) or self-verifying feedback (i.e., feedback congruent with self-views, even when these views are negative). Sixth, seventh, and eighth graders first completed a self-perception measure and then selected whether to receive positive or negative feedback from an unknown peer in different domains of self. Results were consistent with self-verification theory; adolescents who perceived themselves as having both strengths and weaknesses were more likely to seek negative feedback regarding a self-perceived weakness compared to a self-perceived strength. The authors found similar support for self-verification processes when they considered the entire sample regardless of perceived strengths and weaknesses; hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) examined the predictive power of ratings of self-perceived ability, certainty, and importance on feedback seeking for all participants and provided additional evidence of self-verification strivings in adolescence.

Feedback Seeking in Early Adolescence: Self-Enhancement or Self-Verification?

PubMed Central

Rosen, Lisa H.; Principe, Connor P.; Langlois, Judith H.

2012-01-01

The authors examined whether early adolescents (N = 90) solicit self-enhancing feedback (i.e., positive feedback) or self-verifying feedback (i.e., feedback congruent with self-views, even when these views are negative). Sixth, seventh, and eighth graders first completed a self-perception measure and then selected whether to receive positive or negative feedback from an unknown peer in different domains of self. Results were consistent with self-verification theory; adolescents who perceived themselves as having both strengths and weaknesses were more likely to seek negative feedback regarding a self-perceived weakness compared to a self-perceived strength. The authors found similar support for self-verification processes when they considered the entire sample regardless of perceived strengths and weaknesses; hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) examined the predictive power of ratings of self-perceived ability, certainty, and importance on feedback seeking for all participants and provided additional evidence of self-verification strivings in adolescence. PMID:23543746

Preschool boys' development of emotional self-regulation strategies in a sample at risk for behavior problems.

PubMed

Supplee, Lauren H; Skuban, Emily Moye; Trentacosta, Christopher J; Shaw, Daniel S; Stoltz, Emilee

2011-01-01

Little longitudinal research has been conducted on changes in children's emotional self-regulation strategy (SRS) use after infancy, particularly for children at risk. In this study, the authors examined changes in boys' emotional SRS from toddlerhood through preschool. Repeated observational assessments using delay of gratification tasks at ages 2, 3, and 4 years were examined with both variable- and person-oriented analyses in a low-income sample of boys (N = 117) at risk for early problem behavior. Results were consistent with theory on emotional SRS development in young children. Children initially used more emotion-focused SRS (e.g., comfort seeking) and transitioned to greater use of planful SRS (e.g., distraction) by 4 years of age. Person-oriented analysis using trajectory analysis found similar patterns from 2 to 4 years, with small groups of boys showing delayed movement away from emotion-focused strategies or delay in the onset of regular use of distraction. The results provide a foundation for future researchers to examine the development of SRS in low-income young children.

Development and Validation of a Cervical Cancer Screening Self-Efficacy Scale for Low-Income Mexican American Women

PubMed Central

Fernández, Maria E.; Diamond, Pamela M.; Rakowski, William; Gonzales, Alicia; Tortolero-Luna, Guillermo; Williams, Janet; Morales-Campos, Daisy Y.

2011-01-01

While self-efficacy (SE), a construct from Social Cognitive Theory, has been shown to influence other screening behaviors, few measures currently exist for measuring Pap test SE. This paper describes the development and psychometric testing of such a measure for Mexican-American women. Data from two separate samples of Mexican-American women 50 years or older, obtained as part of a study to develop and evaluate a breast and cervical cancer screening educational program, were used in the current study. Exploratory factor analysis indicated a single factor solution and all item loadings were > .73. Confirmatory analysis confirmed a single factor structure with all standardized loadings greater than .40 as hypothesized. The eight item SE scale demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = .95). As hypothesized, SE was correlated with knowledge, prior experience, and screening intention. Logistic regression supported the theoretical relationship that women with higher SE were more likely to have had a recent Pap test. Findings showed a significant increase in SE following the intervention, indicating the measure has good sensitivity to change over time. PMID:19258484

Preschool Boys' Development of Emotional Self-regulation Strategies in a Sample At-risk for Behavior Problems

PubMed Central

Supplee, Lauren H.; Skuban, Emily Moye; Trentacosta, Christopher J.; Shaw, Daniel S.; Stoltz, Emilee

2011-01-01

Little longitudinal research has been conducted on changes in children's emotional self-regulation strategy (SRS) use after infancy, particularly for children at risk. The current study examined changes in boys' emotional SRS from toddlerhood through preschool. Repeated observational assessments using delay of gratification tasks at ages 2, 3, and 4 were examined with both variable- and person-oriented analyses in a low-income sample of boys (N = 117) at-risk for early problem behavior. Results were consistent with theory on emotional SRS development in young children. Children initially used more emotion-focused SRS (e.g., comfort seeking) and transitioned to greater use of planful SRS (e.g., distraction) by age 4. Person-oriented analysis using trajectory analysis found similar patterns from 2–4, with small groups of boys showing delayed movement away from emotion-focused strategies or delay in the onset of regular use of distraction. The results provide a foundation for future research to examine the development of SRS in low-income young children. PMID:21675542

The psychometric validation of the Social Problem-Solving Inventory--Revised with UK incarcerated sexual offenders.

PubMed

Wakeling, Helen C

2007-09-01

This study examined the reliability and validity of the Social Problem-Solving Inventory--Revised (SPSI-R; D'Zurilla, Nezu, & Maydeu-Olivares, 2002) with a population of incarcerated sexual offenders. An availability sample of 499 adult male sexual offenders was used. The SPSI-R had good reliability measured by internal consistency and test-retest reliability, and adequate validity. Construct validity was determined via factor analysis. An exploratory factor analysis extracted a two-factor model. This model was then tested against the theory-driven five-factor model using confirmatory factor analysis. The five-factor model was selected as the better fitting of the two, and confirmed the model according to social problem-solving theory (D'Zurilla & Nezu, 1982). The SPSI-R had good convergent validity; significant correlations were found between SPSI-R subscales and measures of self-esteem, impulsivity, and locus of control. SPSI-R subscales were however found to significantly correlate with a measure of socially desirable responding. This finding is discussed in relation to recent research suggesting that impression management may not invalidate self-report measures (e.g. Mills & Kroner, 2005). The SPSI-R was sensitive to sexual offender intervention, with problem-solving improving pre to post-treatment in both rapists and child molesters. The study concludes that the SPSI-R is a reasonably internally valid and appropriate tool to assess problem-solving in sexual offenders. However future research should cross-validate the SPSI-R with other behavioural outcomes to examine the external validity of the measure. Furthermore, future research should utilise a control group to determine treatment impact.

Scale-free avalanche dynamics in the stock market

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bartolozzi, M.; Leinweber, D. B.; Thomas, A. W.

2006-10-01

Self-organized criticality (SOC) has been claimed to play an important role in many natural and social systems. In the present work we empirically investigate the relevance of this theory to stock-market dynamics. Avalanches in stock-market indices are identified using a multi-scale wavelet-filtering analysis designed to remove Gaussian noise from the index. Here, new methods are developed to identify the optimal filtering parameters which maximize the noise removal. The filtered time series is reconstructed and compared with the original time series. A statistical analysis of both high-frequency Nasdaq E-mini Futures and daily Dow Jones data is performed. The results of this new analysis confirm earlier results revealing a robust power-law behaviour in the probability distribution function of the sizes, duration and laminar times between avalanches. This power-law behaviour holds the potential to be established as a stylized fact of stock market indices in general. While the memory process, implied by the power-law distribution of the laminar times, is not consistent with classical models for SOC, we note that a power-law distribution of the laminar times cannot be used to rule out self-organized critical behaviour.

Self-management support in chronic illness care: a concept analysis.

PubMed

Kawi, Jennifer

2012-01-01

This article reports on the concept analysis of self-management support (SMS) to provide clarity for systematic implementation in practice. SMS is a concept in its early phase of development. It is increasingly evident in literature on chronic illness care. However, the definition has been simplified or vague leading to variable SMS programs and inconsistent outcomes. Elucidation of SMS is necessary in chronic illness care to facilitate clear understanding and implementation. Rodgers' evolutionary concept analysis method was used to examine SMS. Data sources included systematic multidisciplinary searches of multiple search engines. SMS refers to comprehensive sustaining approaches toward improving chronic illness outcomes consisting of patient-centered attributes (involving patients as partners; providing diverse, innovative educational modalities specific to patients' needs; individualizing patient care), provider attributes (possessing adequate knowledge, skills, attitudes in providing care), and organizational attributes (putting an organized system of care in place, having multidisciplinary team approach, using tangible and social support). A well-clarified SMS concept is important in theory development. The attributes offer necessary components in SMS programs for systematic implementation, evaluation, and research. There is great potential that SMS can help improve outcomes of chronic illness care.

Extremely asymmetric phase diagram of homopolymer-monotethered nanoparticles: Competition between chain conformational entropy and particle steric interaction.

PubMed

Zhang, Tiancai; Fu, Chao; Yang, Yingzi; Qiu, Feng

2017-02-07

The phase behaviors of homopolymer-monotethered nanoparticles (HMNs) in melt are investigated via a theoretical method combining self-consistent field theory for polymers and density functional theory for hard spheres. An extremely asymmetric phase diagram is observed: (i) microphases are only possible for the volume fraction of the tethered polymer f A > 0.35; (ii) in addition to lamellar phase, the system can only self-assemble into various morphologies with a polymer-rich matrix, including gyroid phase, cylindrical phase, and spherical phase. In the frame of this theory, the critical point for HMNs' microphase separation is significantly lower than that of linear diblock copolymers. Furthermore, the characteristic length of microphase-separated structures of HMNs is much smaller than that of linear diblock copolymers with the same molecular weight. Our calculation results on morphologies and characteristic length agree well with recent simulations and experimental observations.

The Interaction with Disabled Persons scale: revisiting its internal consistency and factor structure, and examining item-level properties.

PubMed

Iacono, Teresa; Tracy, Jane; Keating, Jenny; Brown, Ted

2009-01-01

The Interaction with Disabled Persons scale (IDP) has been used in research into baseline attitudes and to evaluate whether a shift in attitudes towards people with developmental disabilities has occurred following some form of intervention. This research has been conducted on the assumption that the IDP measures attitudes as a multidimensional construct and has good internal consistency. Such assumptions about the IDP appear flawed, particularly in light of failures to replicate its underlying factor structure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the construct validity and dimensionality of the IDP. This study used a prospective survey approach. Participants were recruited from first and second year undergraduate university students enrolled in health sciences, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, community and emergency health, nursing, and combined degrees of nursing and midwifery, and health sciences and social work at a large Australian university (n=373). Students completed the IDP, a 20-item self-report scale of attitudes towards people with disabilities. The IDP data were analysed using a combination of factor analysis (Classical Test Theory approach) and Rasch analysis (Item Response Theory approach). The results indicated that the original IDP 6-factor solution was not supported. Instead, one factor consisting of five IDP items (9, 11, 12, 17, and 18) labelled Discomfort met the four criteria for empirical validation of test quality: interval level scaling (scalability), unidimensionality, lacked of DIF across the two participant groups and data collection occasions, and hierarchical ordering. Researchers should consider using the Discomfort subscale of the IDP in future attitude research since it exhibits sound measurement properties.

Diagrammatic expansion for positive spectral functions beyond GW: Application to vertex corrections in the electron gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stefanucci, G.; Pavlyukh, Y.; Uimonen, A.-M.; van Leeuwen, R.

2014-09-01

We present a diagrammatic approach to construct self-energy approximations within many-body perturbation theory with positive spectral properties. The method cures the problem of negative spectral functions which arises from a straightforward inclusion of vertex diagrams beyond the GW approximation. Our approach consists of a two-step procedure: We first express the approximate many-body self-energy as a product of half-diagrams and then identify the minimal number of half-diagrams to add in order to form a perfect square. The resulting self-energy is an unconventional sum of self-energy diagrams in which the internal lines of half a diagram are time-ordered Green's functions, whereas those of the other half are anti-time-ordered Green's functions, and the lines joining the two halves are either lesser or greater Green's functions. The theory is developed using noninteracting Green's functions and subsequently extended to self-consistent Green's functions. Issues related to the conserving properties of diagrammatic approximations with positive spectral functions are also addressed. As a major application of the formalism we derive the minimal set of additional diagrams to make positive the spectral function of the GW approximation with lowest-order vertex corrections and screened interactions. The method is then applied to vertex corrections in the three-dimensional homogeneous electron gas by using a combination of analytical frequency integrations and numerical Monte Carlo momentum integrations to evaluate the diagrams.

Adaptive multi-resolution 3D Hartree-Fock-Bogoliubov solver for nuclear structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pei, J. C.; Fann, G. I.; Harrison, R. J.; Nazarewicz, W.; Shi, Yue; Thornton, S.

2014-08-01

Background: Complex many-body systems, such as triaxial and reflection-asymmetric nuclei, weakly bound halo states, cluster configurations, nuclear fragments produced in heavy-ion fusion reactions, cold Fermi gases, and pasta phases in neutron star crust, are all characterized by large sizes and complex topologies in which many geometrical symmetries characteristic of ground-state configurations are broken. A tool of choice to study such complex forms of matter is an adaptive multi-resolution wavelet analysis. This method has generated much excitement since it provides a common framework linking many diversified methodologies across different fields, including signal processing, data compression, harmonic analysis and operator theory, fractals, and quantum field theory. Purpose: To describe complex superfluid many-fermion systems, we introduce an adaptive pseudospectral method for solving self-consistent equations of nuclear density functional theory in three dimensions, without symmetry restrictions. Methods: The numerical method is based on the multi-resolution and computational harmonic analysis techniques with a multi-wavelet basis. The application of state-of-the-art parallel programming techniques include sophisticated object-oriented templates which parse the high-level code into distributed parallel tasks with a multi-thread task queue scheduler for each multi-core node. The internode communications are asynchronous. The algorithm is variational and is capable of solving coupled complex-geometric systems of equations adaptively, with functional and boundary constraints, in a finite spatial domain of very large size, limited by existing parallel computer memory. For smooth functions, user-defined finite precision is guaranteed. Results: The new adaptive multi-resolution Hartree-Fock-Bogoliubov (HFB) solver madness-hfb is benchmarked against a two-dimensional coordinate-space solver hfb-ax that is based on the B-spline technique and a three-dimensional solver hfodd that is based on the harmonic-oscillator basis expansion. Several examples are considered, including the self-consistent HFB problem for spin-polarized trapped cold fermions and the Skyrme-Hartree-Fock (+BCS) problem for triaxial deformed nuclei. Conclusions: The new madness-hfb framework has many attractive features when applied to nuclear and atomic problems involving many-particle superfluid systems. Of particular interest are weakly bound nuclear configurations close to particle drip lines, strongly elongated and dinuclear configurations such as those present in fission and heavy-ion fusion, and exotic pasta phases that appear in neutron star crust.

The self-assembly of particles with isotropic interactions: Using DNA coated colloids to create designer nanomaterials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thompson, R. B.; Dion, S.; Konigslow, K. von

Self-consistent field theory equations are presented that are suitable for use as a coarse-grained model for DNA coated colloids, polymer-grafted nanoparticles and other systems with approximately isotropic interactions. The equations are generalized for arbitrary numbers of chemically distinct colloids. The advantages and limitations of such a coarse-grained approach for DNA coated colloids are discussed, as are similarities with block copolymer self-assembly. In particular, preliminary results for three species self-assembly are presented that parallel results from a two dimensional ABC triblock copolymer phase. The possibility of incorporating crystallization, dynamics, inverse statistical mechanics and multiscale modelling techniques are discussed.

Does cost-benefit analysis or self-control predict involvement in two forms of aggression?

PubMed

Archer, John; Fernández-Fuertes, Andrés A; Thanzami, Van Lal

2010-01-01

The main aim of this research was to assess the relative association between physical aggression and (1) self-control and (2) cost-benefit assessment, these variables representing the operation of impulsive and reflective processes. Study 1 involved direct and indirect aggression among young Indian men, and Study 2 physical aggression to dating partners among Spanish adolescents. In Study 1, perceived benefits and costs but not self-control were associated with direct aggression at other men, and the association remained when their close association with indirect aggression was controlled. In Study 2, benefits and self-control showed significant and independent associations (positive for benefits, negative for self-control) with physical aggression at other-sex partners. Although being victimized was also correlated in the same direction with self-control and benefits, perpetration and being victimized were highly correlated, and there was no association between being victimized and these variables when perpetration was controlled. These results support the theory that reflective (cost-benefit analyses) processes and impulsive (self-control) processes operate in parallel in affecting aggression. The finding that male adolescents perceived more costs and fewer benefits from physical aggression to a partner than female adolescents did is consistent with findings indicating greater social disapproval of men hitting women than vice versa, rather than with the view that male violence to women is facilitated by internalized patriarchal values. (c) 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Social relations and the self-esteem of older persons.

PubMed

Lee, G R; Shehan, C L

1989-12-01

This study employs survey data from a sample of persons 55 years of age and older to examine the antecedents of self-esteem. Hypotheses are derived from a theoretical orientation that hinges on the ability of the individual to terminate relations that might be productive of negative reflected appraisals. Consistent with hypotheses, friendship interaction is positively related to self-esteem, whereas kinship interaction is not. Marital satisfaction also affects self-esteem positively; among men, this effect is stronger for the retired than for the employed. Finally, never-married and nonemployed older women have lower self-esteem than other women have. Implications are drawn regarding the importance and role of self-esteem in theories of psychological well-being among older persons.

Resisting Temptation: Tracking How Self-Control Conflicts Are Successfully Resolved in Real Time.

PubMed

Stillman, Paul E; Medvedev, Danila; Ferguson, Melissa J

2017-09-01

Across four studies, we used mouse tracking to identify the dynamic, on-line cognitive processes that underlie successful self-control decisions. First, we showed that individuals display real-time conflict when choosing options consistent with their long-term goal over short-term temptations. Second, we found that individuals who are more successful at self-control-whether measured or manipulated-show significantly less real-time conflict in only self-control-relevant choices. Third, we demonstrated that successful individuals who choose a long-term goal over a short-term temptation display movements that are smooth rather than abrupt, which suggests dynamic rather than stage-based resolution of self-control conflicts. These findings have important implications for contemporary theories of self-control.

Development of a self-management program for employees with complaints of the arm, neck, and/or shoulder: an intervention mapping approach

PubMed Central

Hutting, Nathan; Detaille, Sarah I; Engels, Josephine A; Heerkens, Yvonne F; Staal, J Bart; Nijhuis-van der Sanden, Maria WG

2015-01-01

Purpose To develop a self-management program with an additional eHealth module, using the six steps of the intervention mapping (IM) protocol, to help employees with complaints of the arm, neck, and/or shoulder (CANS) cope with their problems. Methods In Step 1 of the IM protocol, a needs assessment was performed consisting of a review of the Dutch multidisciplinary guidelines on CANS, and of focus group sessions with employees with CANS (n=15) and with relevant experts (n=17). After the needs assessment, the objectives of the intervention and the determinants of self-management at work were formulated (Step 2). Furthermore, theory-based intervention methods and practical strategies were selected (Step 3), and an intervention program (including the eHealth module) was developed (Step 4). Finally, plans for implementation and evaluation of the program were developed (Steps 5 and 6). Results Step 1 of the IM protocol revealed that employees with CANS should be stimulated to search for information about the cause of their complaints, about how to deal with their complaints, and in which manner they can influence their complaints themselves. In Step 2, the overall goal of the intervention was defined as “self-management behavior at work” with the aim to alleviate the perceived disability of the participants. Step 3 described how the intervention methods were translated into practical strategies, and goal setting was introduced as an important method for increasing self-efficacy. The product of Step 4 was the final program plan, consisting of 6-weekly group sessions of 2.5 hours each and an eHealth module. In Step 5, a recruitment plan and course materials were developed, a steering committee was set up, trainers were recruited, and the final program was tested. In Step 6, an evaluation plan was developed, which consists of a randomized controlled trial with a 12-month follow-up period and a qualitative evaluation (interviews) with some of the participants. Conclusion This study resulted in a theory- and practice-based self-management program, based on behavioral change theories, guideline-related evidence, and practice-based knowledge that fits the needs of employees with CANS. PMID:26170689

Manipulating the ABCs of self-assembly via low-χ block polymer design

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chang, Alice B.; Bates, Christopher M.; Lee, Byeongdu

Block polymer self-assembly typically translates molecular chain connectivity into mesoscale structure by exploiting incompatible blocks with large interaction parameters (χ ij). In this report, we demonstrate that the converse approach, encoding low-χ interactions in ABC bottlebrush triblock terpolymers (χ AC ≲ 0), promotes organization into a unique mixed-domain lamellar morphology which we designate LAM P. Transmission electron microscopy indicates that LAMP exhibits ACBC domain connectivity, in contrast to conventional three-domain lamellae (LAM 3) with ABCB periods. Complementary small angle X-ray scattering experiments reveal a strongly decreasing domain spacing with increasing total molar mass. Self-consistent field theory reinforces these observations andmore » predicts that LAM P is thermodynamically stable below a critical χ AC, above which LAM 3 emerges. Both experiments and theory expose close analogies to ABA triblock copolymer phase behavior, collectively suggesting that low-χ interactions between chemically similar or distinct blocks intimately influence self-assembly. Furthermore, these conclusions provide new opportunities in block polymer design with potential consequences spanning all self-assembling soft materials.« less

Manipulating the ABCs of self-assembly via low-χ block polymer design

DOE PAGES

Chang, Alice B.; Bates, Christopher M.; Lee, Byeongdu; ...

2017-06-06

Block polymer self-assembly typically translates molecular chain connectivity into mesoscale structure by exploiting incompatible blocks with large interaction parameters (χ ij). In this report, we demonstrate that the converse approach, encoding low-χ interactions in ABC bottlebrush triblock terpolymers (χ AC ≲ 0), promotes organization into a unique mixed-domain lamellar morphology which we designate LAM P. Transmission electron microscopy indicates that LAMP exhibits ACBC domain connectivity, in contrast to conventional three-domain lamellae (LAM 3) with ABCB periods. Complementary small angle X-ray scattering experiments reveal a strongly decreasing domain spacing with increasing total molar mass. Self-consistent field theory reinforces these observations andmore » predicts that LAM P is thermodynamically stable below a critical χ AC, above which LAM 3 emerges. Both experiments and theory expose close analogies to ABA triblock copolymer phase behavior, collectively suggesting that low-χ interactions between chemically similar or distinct blocks intimately influence self-assembly. Furthermore, these conclusions provide new opportunities in block polymer design with potential consequences spanning all self-assembling soft materials.« less