System Modeling And Response: Theoretical And Experimental Approaches

This thesis represents a unique mix of theoretical work discussing the Lorentz theory of gravity and experimental work searching for supersymmetry with the Compact Muon Solenoid experiment at the Large Hadron Collider. It begins by reviewing a set of widely-discussed theoretical solutions to the cosmological constant problem, including a natural solution provided by the recently developed Lorentz gauge theory of gravity.

For a long time the design of data processing systems has been mainly based on experience and practical considerations more than on formal quantitative approaches. This was true both in the design of computer architecture and in the design of software systems such as operating systems and database systems. Two relevant exceptions were the early studies in switching theory, concerned with such problems as minimization and reliability, on the one hand, and on the other hand, the general mathematical approach to computer system modeling and performance evaluation. More recently, the evaluation of distributed computing related to technological advances in microelectronics, has increased the need for quantitative studies for optimizing the design of computer systems.