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This précis provides a summary of the book, What's the Use of Philosophy? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the synthesis of high Curie temperature (TC > 800 K) Mn-doped CoSi nanowires. CoSi and Co1–xMnxSi nanowires were synthesized by chemical vapor deposition. Transmission electron microscopy was used to identify a crystalline B20 cubical structure. Zero-field cooling and field cooling measurements confirm spin disorder behaviour at low temperatures. The magnetic properties of doped samples were explained by means of the Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida interaction where the localized Mn atoms interact with the conduction electrons in CoSi providing a net ferromagnetic moment and explaining spin disorder at low temperatures. An individual CoSi nanowire was experimentally analyzed by performing off-axis electron holography, providing information about its local magnetization. Density functional theory calculations were performed to understand the effects of Mn doping, Si-vacancies, and surface atoms in the magnetic properties at the surface of the nanowire. An estimation of the Curie temperature was made using the mean field approximation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel 3-(2-(phenyl/substituted phenyl)-1H-benzo[b] [1,5]-diazepin-4-yl)-4-methoxy-1-phenyl/methylquinolin-2(1H)-one [IV-a(1-6)/IV-b(1-6)] derivatives are synthesised by condensation of 3-substituted cinnamoyl-4-methoxy-1-phenyl/methylquinolin-2(1H)-one [III-a(1-6)/III-b(1-6)] with o-phenylenediamine. The results of the docking studies reveal that the synthesised compounds exhibited well conserved hydrogen bonding with one or more amino acid residues in the active pocket of alpha1beta3gamma2L GABA(A) Receptor (PDB ID: 6HUO) using Molegro Virtual Docker Software (MVD-2013, 6.0). The title compounds exhibit Mol Dock Score in the range of -124.502 to - 149.448 with score more or comparable to the standard ligand score of -127.4127 and better than the standard drug - 92.3878. All the synthesized compounds were satisfactorily characterized by spectral analysis and were tested for in vivo hypnotic activity based on the potentiation of barbiturate (phenobarbitone) sleeping time in miceusing diazepam as reference standard. All the compounds, except 4-methoxy-1-methyl-3-(2-(3-nitrophenyl)-1H-benzo[b][1,5]-diazepin-4-yl) quinolin-2(1H)-one (IV-b4), significantly decrease the sleep latency, prolonged the duration of sleep and also showed good muscle relaxation property. Among the synthesised compounds, 4-methoxy-3-(2-(3-methoxyphenyl)-1H-benzo[b][1,5]-diazepin-4-yl)-1-phenylquinolin-2(1H)-one (IV-a3) is found to be the most potenthypnotic agentwith sleep latency of 26.67 ± 2.629 min and sleeping time of 111.00 ± 6.028 minutesand matches with pharmacophore mapping of the designed molecule with the MolDock score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the synthesis and structure of single-walled aluminosilicate nanotubes with microporous zeolitic walls. This quasi-one-dimensional zeolite is assembled by a bolaform structure-directing agent (SDA) containing a central biphenyl group connected by C10 alkyl chains to quinuclidinium end groups. High-resolution electron microscopy and diffraction, along with other supporting methods, revealed a unique wall structure that is a hybrid of characteristic building layers from two zeolite structure types, beta and MFI. This hybrid structure arises from minimization of strain energy during the formation of a curved nanotube wall. Nanotube formation involves the early appearance of a mesostructure due to self-assembly of the SDA molecules. The biphenyl core groups of the SDA molecules show evidence of p stacking, whereas the peripheral quinuclidinium groups direct the microporous wall structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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An approach to the synthesis of controlling of lumped sources for distributed systems with feedback is proposed in the paper. We solve the problem of damping membrane oscillations by using point stabilizers, and optimize the following parameters: 1) the points of placement of stabilizers; 2) the points of measurement membrane state; 3) parameters of linear feedback, which define the relationship between the measurements of membrane state and the modes of function of stabilizers. The formulas of the functional gradient by the optimized parameters are obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the emergence of all references to modern mathematics in Difference and Repetition, and we explain how, using these mathematical approaches, Deleuze constructs an "ideal synthesis of difference" which goes well beyond the usual reductionist perspectives of his commentators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Peirce's mature accounts of his classification of the sciences never lack a few sentences about Science of Review, the role that this principal division of science plays for both his architectonic of science in general and the heuretic coenoscopic philosophical sciences in particular remains rather unclear, although it even seems to contain philosophical disciplines such as a philosophia ultima. The aim of this paper is to take stock of Peirce's remarks on Science of Review in published and unpublished writings from the years 1902–1911 in order to (I.) provide a philologically reliable account of the development of Peirce's conception of this branch of science, (II.) highlight the nature of Peirce's work as a taxonomist of the sciences as a contribution to one of the three essential orders of Science of Review, and finally (III.) shed light on its architectonic role as an integral function of scientific semeiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Realistic and interactive visualization of individual trees is a desirable functionality in numerous applications for landscape planning, ecosystem simulations, and forest management. However, achieving a persuasive visualization of extensive forests while maintaining an interactive experience remains a challenge. This paper introduces a new framework for a convincing and interactive visualization of large-scale forests originating from forest growth simulation. First, the GPU-based self-organizing tree synthesis algorithm is adapted to produce detailed tree models on-the-fly with the desired level of detail and at interactive rates. Next, the algorithm is enhanced to generate tree models corresponding to the forest simulation results and local growth conditions. Finally, a forest succession model, based on single trees, is linked to the tree synthesis algorithm, to produce detailed tree models that concur with the results of forest simulation. The results demonstrate that the generated trees follow predicted height from forest simulation, are adapted to their neighbors properly, and retain the typical form of the corresponding species. A decimation technique, integrated directly into tree geometry construction, lowers memory requirements for interactive visualization of forests containing thousands of trees. Finally, a combination of the GPU-based tree synthesis and load balancing enables interactive tree synthesis in-between individual frames. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article considers suppositions and implementation of "figurativeness" of literature in the modern cultural context. The intersection in the process of the synthesis of arts generates polyartistic domain within the framework of a unified author's text. The phenomenon of this process has started to be examined only since the beginning of the 19th century, but examples of synthetic art can be found since Antiquity. The tendency to synthesis is inherent both in some art forms and a number of separate genres. The synthesis of different types of arts can be carried out within a particular work or at the intersection of two or more works belonging to different types of art. The very understanding of the "synthesis of arts" has undergone changes in its assimilation, but the basic principle of creating a new form remained constant. At the same time, in the" watershed" periods, the actualization of synthesis was observed, which contributed to the emergence of new artistic objects. At the same time, literature was influenced greatly and, first of all, by cinema. By the example of Boris Akunin's novels, it is possible to observe how, following the author's strategy, the novel space is filled with cinematic and illustrative imagery, which contributes to the creation of polyartistic, polysemantic in the figurative and expressive respect of the text. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of the vanishing mediator is basically a theory concentrating on a mediation that ceases when its task is complete. However fundamental its function is, it still has nuances that are, when juxtaposed altogether, quite differing. What I intend to do in this paper is to develop the concept to be utilized as a theoretical framework for further researches. To do that, I will: 1) succinctly clarify theory both in its essence and its being a concept through symbolic logic; 2) review related literature and tabulate the recently cited related works on the vanishing mediator; 3) frame a structure or methodology and discuss its nuances based on the common references strategically extracted; 4) attempt to develop a refined version of it and its process through synthesis; and later, 5) present areas or topics in some selected disciplines where the concept can be applied as conclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Discovery of novel materials is impaired by lack of predictability of solid-state synthesis. In addressing this impediment, an approach toward rational planning of syntheses of solid state and materials is presented. Within the underlying "chemical energy landscape" concept, the whole materials world is projected onto an energy landscape, associated with a respective configuration space. Evidently, all chemical compounds possible are present in virtuo in such a landscape. For the identification of targets for syntheses, these energy landscapes are computationally searched for (meta)stable structure candidates. Moving to finite temperatures, phase diagrams have been established, even including metastable phases, without using any preinformation. The approach presented is physically consistent, and its feasibility has been proven. Quite satisfactorily, many of the predicted compounds were verified experimentally. Synthesis of elusive Na 3 N, furthermore realizing almost all of its forecasted polymorphs, is a particularly convincing result. Comparisons with competing strategies toward effective materials discovery are drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract New zinc(II) phthalocyanines cotaining octa triazole linked tetraethylene glycol derived from peripheral or non-peripheral bis-{3-[4-(2-{2-[2-(2-hydroxy-ethoxy)-ethoxy]-ethoxy}-ethoxymethyl]-[1,2,3] triazol-1-yl]-propylsulfanyl}-phthalonitriles (9 , 12) have been synthesized by multi-step reaction sequence and characterized. Phthalonitriles have been prepared by the reaction of 3,6-bis(3-azido-propylsulfanyl) phthalonitrile (7) or 4,5-bis(3-azido-propylsulfanyl)phthalonitrile (11). The new water-soluble zinc (II) phthalocyanines were synthesized by the tetramerization reaction of substituted dicarbodinitrile compounds. Singlet oxygen quantum yields of the complexes have been determined. These new compounds have been characterized by a combination of elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1H and 13C NMR, MS spectrometer and UV–vis spectrophotometer techniques. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • The newly synthesized compounds were confirmed analytical and spectral data. • The goal of preparation of water soluble zinc(II) phthalocyanines have been achieved. • New Zn(II) phthalocyanines meet some important criteria such as water solubility. • New Zn(II) phthalocyanines have got strong absorptions in the 700-780 nm region for PDT studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract MIL-101(Cr), a well-known chromium-benzenedicarboxylate metal organic framework with huge porosity, has been facile synthesized with particle sizes from micron-size to nano-size by using different additives as modifier. For MIL-101(Cr) synthesis in general, the addition of a modifier is a common method to adjust the morphology and improve the properties of the products. The effect of additives was thoroughly investigated in the synthesis of MIL-101(Cr), and among these additives, NaOH could largely increase the porosity (S BET > 4000 m2/g) of the product with particle diameter around 87 nm. Furthermore, the nano-sized MIL-101(Cr) showed enhanced CO 2 adsorption property (5.77 mmol/g), which is nearly twice as much as that of bulk MIL-101(Cr). Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • A new method for synthesis of nanoparticles of the robust high-surface area MOF MIL-101(Cr) is proposed. • The particle size of MIL-101(Cr) can be facile controlled by adjusting the different kind of additives in the reaction system. • The nano-scaled MIL-101(Cr) showed much better CO 2 adsorption performance than that of bulk phase MIL-101(Cr), due to its ‘nano effect’ at low temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Oleanolic acid is an antitumor traditional Chinese medicine component whose oral efficacy and clinical applications are limited because of its strong hydrophobicity. Recently, the use of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) as drug carriers has attracted considerable research attention. In this study, the hollow structure of MOF-5 was synthesized. Its drug loading and drug release capacity were studied. The human ovarian cancer SK-OV-3 cell line was selected to study the drug loading system, cytotoxicity, and cellular uptake. We concluded that a hollow MOF with an excellent morphology was successfully fabricated in the experiment; it increased the drug loading capacity, achieved a more ideal sustained-release effect, improved the treatment efficiency of the hydrophobic Chinese medicine component, and provided a relatively efficient drug loading material. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • The novel hollow nanocages MOF-5 were synthesized. • Try to solve the load-bearing problem of insoluble antitumor drug oleanolic acid • The carrier entered the cytoplasm through endocytosis, the drug could be freed from the carrier to exert its efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis and structural characterisation of the difluorido organo gold(iii) complexes [AuClF2(SIMes)] and [AuF2(OTeF5)(SIMes)] are presented. The substitution of a fluorido ligand in [AuF3(SIMes)] by an OTeF5 group increases the Lewis acidity of the Au moiety. A scale for carbene affinities is presented, which correlates calculated and experimental values for the Lewis acidity of the metal centre in akin compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider the controller synthesis problem for multi-agent systems that consist of a set of controlled and uncontrolled agents. Controlled agents may need to cooperate with each other and react to actions of uncontrolled agents in order to fulfill their objectives. Moreover, agents may be imperfect, i.e., only partially observe their environment. We propose a framework for controller synthesis based on compositional reactive synthesis. We implement the algorithms symbolically and apply them to a robot motion planning case study where multiple robots are placed on a grid-world with static obstacles and other dynamic, uncontrolled and potentially adversarial robots. We consider different objectives such as collision avoidance, keeping a formation and bounded reachability. We show that by taking advantage of the structure of the system, compositional synthesis algorithm can significantly outperform centralized alternative, both from time and memory perspective, and can solve problems where the centralized algorithm is infeasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A low band gap polymer based on thieno[3,4-b]thiophene (TT) and cyclopentadithiophene (CPDT), named as P-TT, was synthesized through palladium-catalyzed Stille coupling reaction. Due to the strong electron-donating property of CPDT and quinoidal structural TT, P-TT exhibited narrow band gap (1.30 eV). Optical and thermal properties of P-TT had been investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, I argue, first, that Hegel defended a version of the analytic/synthetic distinction—that, indeed, his version of the distinction deserves to be called Kantian. For both Kant and Hegel, the analytic/synthetic distinction can be explained in terms of the discursive character of cognition: insofar as our cognition is discursive, its most basic form can be articulated in terms of a genus/species tree. The structure of that tree elucidates the distinction between analytic and synthetic judgments. Second, I argue that Hegel has an interesting and so far unexplored argument for the analytic/synthetic distinction: Hegel argues that the systematic relationship between concepts expressed in a genus/species tree can only be expressed through synthetic judgments. Third and finally, I explore some of the implications that the arguments in the first two parts of the essay have for understanding the way in which Hegel differs from Kant. I argue that Hegel accepts Kant's point that discursive cognition cannot be used to cognize the absolute. However, Hegel thinks that we can, nevertheless, cognize the absolute. I explore the character of this non‐discursive cognition and argue that we can understand Hegel's glosses on this form of cognition—as simultaneously analytic and synthetic and as having a circular structure—through contrasting it with his account of discursive cognition. As a consequence, I argue that we must give up on attempts to understand ‘the dialectical method’ and ‘speculative cognition’ on the model of discursive cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sr 0.95 Ba 0.05 La 2-x O 4 :xRE 3+ (RE = Eu,Er,Ce and Ho) phosphors are synthesized through high temperature solid-state reaction method at steps of 1000, 1100, 1200 °C. The impact of temperature on phase structures, functional group, luminescence properties and decay lifetime are investigated. The prepared Sr 0.95 Ba 0.05 La 2-x O 4 phosphors exhibit abundant luminescent properties with doping of different RE 3+ ions under ultraviolet–visible and infrared excitation (980 nm) excitation. The Sr 0.95 Ba 0.05 La 2-x O 4 :xEr 3+ particles characterize red emission ( 4 F 9/2 → 4 I 15/2 ) through up-conversion emissions at 980 nm NIR irradiation. The chromaticity (CIE 1931) colour coordinates of the titled phosphors have also been evaluated. The merits of multicolor emissions in the visible region endow the synthesized material by UV irradiation reveals potential candidate in the field of light display systems, lasers and optoelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to introduce a new approach for the synthesis and analysis of multidimensional poverty and well-being indicators. Our general perspective is inspired by the theoretical foundations of the capability approach and sustainable human development paradigm. The new synthesis of indicators aims at monitoring outcomes of units of interest. Its defining features include: full sensitiveness, continuity, flexibility in substitution between dimensions, and the straightforward interpretation of the results. All these properties are obtained through a transparent and accountable process that is fully open to public scrutiny and reason (as suggested by Amartya Sen). The main contribution of this approach is that the degree of substitutability between dimensions can be directly linked to the general level of well-being of a person, which addresses the so-called 'inescapable arbitrariness' issue discussed by Anand and Sen (Concepts of human development and poverty: a multidimensional perspective. Human Development Papers. UNDP, New York, 1997). The new synthesis proposed opens up new possibilities for different types of applications, including monitoring and evaluating development programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis of three mefenamic acid (MEF) derivatives - ionic liquid compounds composed of MEF in an anionic form and ammonium cation (choline, MEF1), or {di(2-hydroxyethyl)dimethyl ammonium (MEF2)}, or {tri(2-hydroxyethyl)methyl ammonium compound (MEF3)} is presented. The basic thermal properties of pure compounds i.e. fusion temperatures, and the enthalpy of fusion of these compounds have been measured with differential scanning microcalorimetry technique (DSC). Molar volumes have been calculated with the Barton group contribution method. The solubilities of MEF1, MEF2 and MEF3 using the dynamic method were measured at constant pH in a range of temperature from (290 to 370) K in three solvents: water, ethanol and 1-octanol. The experimental solubility data have been correlated by means of three commonly known G E equations: the Wilson, NRTL and UNIQUAC with the assumption that the systems studied here present simple eutectic behaviour. The activity coefficients of pharmaceuticals at saturated solutions in each binary mixture were calculated from the experimental data. The formation of MEF-ionic liquid compounds greatly increases the solubility in water in comparison with pure MEF or complexes with 2-hydroxypropyl- β -cyclodextrin. The development of these compounds formulations will assist in medication taking into account oral solid or gel medicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel piperidinyl-based sulfamide derivatives were designed and synthesized through various synthetic routes. Anticancer activities of these sulfamides were evaluated by phenotypic screening on National Cancer Institute's 60 human tumor cell lines (NCI-60). Preliminary screening at 10 μM concentration showed that piperidinyl sulfamide aminoester 26 ( NSC 749204 ) was sensitive to most of the cell lines in the panel. Further dose-response studies showed that 26 was highly selective for inhibition of colon cancer cell lines with minimum GI 50 = 1.88 μM for COLO-205 and maximum GI 50 = 11.1 μM for SW-620 cells. These newly synthesized sulfamides were also screening for their Tdp1 inhibition activity. Compound 18 ( NSC 750706 ) showed significant inhibition of Tdp1 with IC 50 = 23.7 μM. Molecular-docking studies showed that 18 bind to Tdp1 in its binding pocket similar to a known Tdp1 inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article engages with the criticism of my suggestion to work towards synthesis and consilience (i.e., compatibility with natural science, especially cognitive science and evolutionary psychology) in strategic communication research. It notes that there seems to be agreement about the field's unsatisfactory state, yet disagreement about the way forward. I attempt to demonstrate that none of the arguments developed by the critics breaks the case for synthesis and consilience, but I acknowledge that there is a pragmatic issue, namely a deeply rooted distrust of the natural sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown a robust bias to express the goal path over the source path when describing events ('the bird flew into the pitcher,' rather than '... out of the bucket into the pitcher'). Motivated by linguistic theory, this study manipulated the causal structure of events (specifically, making the source cause the motion of the figure) and measured the extent to which adults and 3.5- to 4-year-old English-speaking children included the goal and source in their descriptions. We found that both children's and adults' encoding of the source increased for events in which the source caused the motion of the figure compared to nearly identical events in which the source played no such causal role. However, a goal bias persisted overall for both causal and noncausal motion events. These findings suggest that although the goal bias in language is highly robust, properties of the source (such as causal agency) influence its likelihood of being encoded in language, thus shedding light on how properties of an event can influence the mapping of event components into language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Philosophers have traditionally addressed the issue of scientific unification in terms of theoretical reduction. Reductive models, however, cannot explain the occurrence of unification in areas of science where successful reductions are hard to find. The goal of this essay is to analyse a concrete example of integration in biology-the developmental synthesis-and to generalize it into a model of scientific unification, according to which two fields are in the process of being unified when they become explanatorily relevant to each other. I conclude by suggesting that this methodological conception of unity, which is independent of the debate on the metaphysical foundations of science, is closely connected to the notion of interdisciplinarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the writing of Eliseo Fernandez and Jesper Hoffmeyer, this essay introduces important ideas in the emerging interdisciplinary field known as "biosemiotics." Later discussion summarizes Michael Polanyi's criticisms of the Modern Synthesis and his alternative constructive philosophical account of life, evolution and biological study, suggesting areas of overlap with contemporary biosemiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on response from the authors of the articles on major areas raised by the commentaries such as interaction of Language Synthesis with aspects of bilinguals' linguistic lives and data aspects in developing the model. Topics discussed include rare balance of languages of a bilingual due to input changes over demands and time, symmetrical contribution of two languages and employment of mouthing of words in many sign languages.

The article describes the case of the need to establish categories if an organization of terms is to serve information retrieval. It tackles the systemic indexing developed by Julius Otto Kaiser, the use of the expression "literature" with "text" by Kaiser, synthesis in systemic indexing and the kinds of index terms.

Background: Research networks that facilitate collaborative research are increasing both regionally and globally and such collaborations contribute greatly to knowledge transfer particularly in health research. The Palliative Care Research Network is an Irish-based network that seeks to create opportunities and engender a collaborative environment to encourage innovative research that is relevant for policy and practice. The current review outlines a methodology to identify cross-cutting messages to identify how dissemination outputs can be optimized to ensure that key messages from this research reaches all knowledge users. Methods/design: Preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocol guidelines will inform the search and analysis plan to ensure that the synthesis of the data is as rigorous as possible. An approach based on critical interpretative synthesis will be adapted to include a thematic synthesis for the identification of higher-order themes and messages from a body of dissemination products generated by the Palliative Care Research Network. Discussion: The thematic synthesis outlined in the present protocol offers a novel method of synthesising data from a focused research network that employs a variety of dissemination materials as a means of identifying key themes and messages from a specific body of research. The high-level themes and messages will be identified from the thematic synthesis, widely disseminated and targeted towards a range of stakeholders and knowledge users such as carers, health and social care professionals, policy makers and researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Zen Maoist koan: Bill is developing a crazy synthesis that brings together Buddhism, Maoism, and French Marxism, especially Badiou. Running through all three are themes concerning emptiness, letting go, and contingency. On the other hand, when Bill's mind runs toward just making up stuff that seems funny to him, it is hard for him to stop. This "essay" is a meeting point between these two activities, and at some point in the underdetermined, contingent future there will have to be expansion upon these themes and "examples" – "Joke Ideas," as Bill calls them – and some serious analysis of what we have learned in this experiment. Best read with John Cage playing in the background – and we don't mean 4′33″. That would be silly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis is the automated construction of a system from its specification. The system has to satisfy its specification in all possible environments. The environment often consists of agents that have objectives of their own. Thus, it makes sense to soften the universal quantification on the behavior of the environment and take the objectives of its underlying agents into an account. Fisman et al. introduced rational synthesis: the problem of synthesis in the context of rational agents. The input to the problem consists of temporal logic formulas specifying the objectives of the system and the agents that constitute the environment, and a solution concept (e.g., Nash equilibrium). The output is a profile of strategies, for the system and the agents, such that the objective of the system is satisfied in the computation that is the outcome of the strategies, and the profile is stable according to the solution concept; that is, the agents that constitute the environment have no incentive to deviate from the strategies suggested to them. In this paper we continue to study rational synthesis. First, we suggest an alternative definition to rational synthesis, in which the agents are rational but not cooperative. We call such problem strong rational synthesis. In the strong rational synthesis setting, one cannot assume that the agents that constitute the environment take into account the strategies suggested to them. Accordingly, the output is a strategy for the system only, and the objective of the system has to be satisfied in all the compositions that are the outcome of a stable profile in which the system follows this strategy. We show that strong rational synthesis is 2 ExpTime-complete, thus it is not more complex than traditional synthesis or rational synthesis. Second, we study a richer specification formalism, where the objectives of the system and the agents are not Boolean but quantitative. In this setting, the objective of the system and the agents is to maximize their outcome. The quantitative setting significantly extends the scope of rational synthesis, making the game-theoretic approach much more relevant. Finally, we enrich the setting to one that allows coalitions of agents that constitute the system or the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Counterfactual questions such as “what would happen if you re-run the tape of life?” turn on the nature of the landscape of biological possibilities. Since the number of potential sequences that store genetic information grows exponentially with length, genetic possibility spaces can be so unimaginably vast that commentators frequently reach of hyper-astronomical metaphors that compare their size to that of the universe. Re-run the tape of life and the likelihood of encountering the same sequences in such hyper-astronomically large spaces is infinitesimally small, suggesting that evolutionary outcomes are highly contingent. On the other hand, the wide-spread occurrence of evolutionary convergence implies that similar phenotypes can be found again with relative ease. How can this be? Part of the solution to this conundrum must lie in the manner that genotypes map to phenotypes. By studying simple genotype–phenotype maps, where the counterfactual space of all possible phenotypes can be enumerated, it is shown that strong bias in the arrival of variation may explain why certain phenotypes are (repeatedly) observed in nature, while others never appear. This biased variation provides a non-selective cause for certain types of convergence. It illustrates how the role of randomness and contingency may differ significantly between genetic and phenotype spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

First, I will introduce the distinction between analytic and synthetic as a partition of propositions, proofs, programs and definitions, as an extension of the distinction between analytic categorical propositions and synthetic categorical propositions in ancient Logic. Secondly, I will discuss some logical questions concerning the distinction between analytic and synthetic, and I will present main results obtained in mathematical logic as answers to the logical questions concerning the relationships between analytic and synthetic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asking people a question about performing a target behavior influences future performance of that behavior. While contextually robust and methodologically simple, this “question–behavior effect” reveals theoretical complexity as evidenced by the large number of proposed explanations for the effect. Furthermore, considerable heterogeneity exists regarding the “question” used to elicit the effect and the variety of different types of target “behaviors” for which the effect has manifested. A meta-analytic synthesis of 104 question-behavior studies across 51 published and unpublished papers is presented. Grouping proposed theories for the effect into four overarching categories, we derive and test systematic predictions regarding potential moderators of conceptual and practical significance. Our findings provide varying degrees of support for four different theoretical mechanisms (attitudes, consistency, fluency and motivations) proposed to underlie the effect. Insights into these mechanisms are presented and outstanding gaps in our understanding are identified as opportunities for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to provide an account of the relationship between transcendental claims and the project of using transcendental argumentation that differs from the mainstream literature. In much of the literature, such claims are said to have as their primary value the overcoming of various sceptical positions. The author argues that, whilst transcendental arguments may be narrowly characterised as anti-sceptical, transcendental claims do not have to be used in only this way, and in fact can be useful in several areas of philosophy outside the issue of scepticism, and so can be used by transcendental arguments more broadly conceived. The author offers four examples of transcendental claims that are not used in narrow, anti-sceptical transcendental arguments. The author argues that these broader arguments use transcendental claims but not in an anti-sceptical way. From this, the author concludes that given the wellknown difficulties transcendental arguments in this narrow sense seem to have had in defeating scepticism, distinguishing narrow transcendental arguments clearly from transcendental claims as such in this manner can provide a way for the latter to still serve an important role in philosophy, by showing how such claims can be used more broadly, regardless of any doubts one may have about the anti-sceptical value of such claims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article inquires into how the tactile sense became a promising area of investigation in media theory, particularly to counteract notions of linear, mechanical culture. I take two starting points: (1) Modern psychology and the arts, unlike Post-Kantian philosophy, are interested in the structure and efficiency of synthetic processes as an effect of a certain medial constitution of sensual perception. (2) Since antiquity, the sense of touch is hardly ever connected with immediacy. On the contrary, since Aristotle it possesses a deeply mediating and reflexive character. Aristotle grasps the sense of touch in two ways: askoine aisthesis, common sense – which will later also be known as the sensus communis – and as ‘inner touch’, which synthesizes the individual sense perceptions. This notion of the sense of touch still resonates in Marshall McLuhan’s interest in the haptic sense: ‘Tactile’ is the word he uses to refer to those percepts that require a strong inner involvement of the perceiving subject. Drawing on Gestalt theory (modern psychology) and avant-garde art, McLuhan unites the two strands of discourse. The article therefore traces a number of versions of the conception of tactility since antiquity and focuses on two distinct fields: physiology and psychology of prosthetics and the classical avant-gardes of the early twentieth century, particularly Raoul Hausmann’s thought experiments with Ernst Marcus’ concept of ‘eccentric sensation’. It argues that with media theory in a strong sense the antique tradition that considered skin and flesh as medium is connected with Avant-garde sensibilities and helps to develop a diagnostic perspective on the effects of media technologies on human agency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we develop a theoretical framework for abstraction-based failure prognosis of partially observed discrete event systems. The purpose of using abstraction is to verify prognosability and synthesize a prognoser based on the abstracted models with fewer states and transitions. We present conditions under which prognosability can be verified and a prognoser can be synthesized based on the abstracted models of the system and the specification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both evolutionary/scientific and constructivist or humanistic approaches have brought valuable understandings to anthropology and continue to do so today. Discussions of the split(s) and possibilities of reintegration across anthropology have been valuable; however, practical reintegration will only come from a serious and open intellectual engagement with a diverse range of theoretical contexts and a direct connection to data. This volume is an attempt to provide innovative contexts for, and examples of, anthropologists reporting on their data and/or conceptualizing approaches to the data in ways that cross or straddle boundaries. While we offer niche construction theory and the extended evolutionary synthesis as common framework, the articles are not all in agreement on explanatory means and priorities. And this is a good thing. To develop an effective reintegration requires anthropologists to move away from artificial dichotomies and standing grudges and toward collaborations and a respect for theoretical plurality. The unifying endeavor of this collection is in the sincere attempt by all of its members to draw on more than a single approach and to integrate understandings gleaned from the inside and the outside. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Niche Construction Theory (NCT) provides a powerful conceptual framework for understanding how and why humans and target species entered into domesticatory relationships that have transformed Earth's biota, landforms, and atmosphere, and shaped the trajectory of human cultural development. NCT provides fresh perspective on how niche-constructing behaviors of humans and plants and animals promote co-evolutionary interactions that alter selection pressures and foster genetic responses in domesticates. It illuminates the role of niche-altering activities in bequeathing an ecological inheritance that perpetuates the co-evolutionary relationships leading to domestication, especially as it pertains to traditional ecological knowledge and the transmission of learned behaviors aimed at enhancing returns from local environments. NCT also provides insights into the contexts and mechanisms that promote cooperative interactions in both humans and target species needed to sustain niche-constructing activities, ensuring that these activities produce an ecological inheritance in which domesticates play an increasing role. A NCT perspective contributes to on-going debates in the social sciences over explanatory frameworks for domestication, in particular as they pertain to issues of reciprocal causation, co-evolution, and the role of human intentionality. Reciprocally, domestication provides a model system for evaluating on-going debates in evolutionary biology concerning the impact of niche construction, phenotypic plasticity, extra-genetic inheritance, and developmental bias in shaping the direction and tempo of evolutionary change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

O presente paper analisa a filosofia do precedente, a partir do marco da filosofia analítica, percorrendo as escolas de pensamento inerentes a evolução histórica, focando a análise, respectivamente, na Estrutura dos Precedentes, nas "Fundações Filosóficas" dos Precedentes, na Relevância do Precedente Judicial para a Teoria do Direito, na "Ratio Decidendi", no "Obiter Dictum", na Interpretação os Precedente, na Interpretação da Ratio Decidendi, nas funções interpretativas da Ratio Decidendi, nos modelos para a Determinação da "Ratio Decidendi" de um Caso, e, na explicação da Relevância Prática dos Precedentes Judicais. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Software maintenance process in globally distributed settings brings significant management challenges to software organizations. Objectives Investigate the factors specific to managing software maintenance process in globally distributed settings and best practices in software organizations. Method A systematic literature review and interviews with industry practitioners were conducted. For analysis and synthesis, the grounded theory method was used. Results We identified a number of management challenges and mitigation strategies and then classified them under people, process, product, and technology factors. Overall, a structure of challenges and solutions, the conceptual framework, has been developed that may be used to understand and classify global maintenance challenges. Conclusions Distributed software maintenance process has specific management challenges in relation to process, people, product, and technology. Therefore, companies performing maintenance in distributed settings should consider these factors, which are not present in the general global software development literature, although many lessons apply to both. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meta-analysis synthesizes a body of research investigating a common research question. Outcomes from meta-analyses provide a more objective and transparent summary of a research area than traditional narrative reviews. Moreover, they are often used to support research grant applications, guide clinical practice, and direct health policy. The aim of this article is to provide a practical and non-technical guide for psychological scientists that outlines the steps involved in planning and performing a meta-analysis of correlational datasets. I provide a supplementary R script to demonstrate each analytical step described in the paper, which is readily adaptable for researchers to use for their analyses. While the worked example is the analysis of a correlational dataset, the general meta-analytic process described in this paper is applicable for all types of effect sizes. I also emphasize the importance of meta-analysis protocols and pre-registration to improve transparency and help avoid unintended duplication. An improved understanding this tool will not only help scientists to conduct their own meta-analyses but also improve their evaluation of published meta-analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of the Synthesis and Scaffolding Project were to understand: the role of specific scaffolds in relation to the activity of learners, and the activity of learners during a collaborative design task from multiple perspectives, through the collection and analysis of multiple streams of data and the adoption of a synthesis approach to the research. The Synthesis Approach to Analysing Educational Design ( SAAED) dataset is comprised of video, audio and image files, transcripts of the discourse, as well as copies of physical artefacts generated by three groups of three postgraduate education students during a 90-minute design session. The data were collected in January 2013. Each group was given a different scaffold related to the design process, the social interactions or the use of the tools available to the participants. Researchers interested in analysing the SAAED are required to sign a collaborator agreement to become part of the project team. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article addresses Kant's distinction between a synthetic and an analytic method in philosophy. I will first consider how some commentators have accounted for Kant's distinction and analyze some passages in which Kant defined the analytic and the synthetic method. I will suggest that confusion about Kant's distinction arises because he uses it in at least two different senses. I will then identify a specific way in which Kant accounts for this distinction when he is differentiating between mathematical and philosophical syntheses. I will examine Kant's arguments in the Critique of Pure Reason with the latter sense of the distinction in mind. I will evaluate if he uses the analytic or the synthetic method and if the synthetic method is able to identify, without a previous consideration of some sort of given knowledge, sufficient conditions for deriving some aspects of our knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article argues that early modern philosophy should be seen as an integrated enterprise of moral and natural philosophy. Consequently, early modern moral and natural philosophy should be taught as intellectual enterprises that developed hand in hand. Further, the article argues that the unity of these two fields can be best introduced through methodological ideas. It illustrates these theses through a case study on Scottish Newtonianism, starting with visions concerning the unity of philosophy and then turning to a discussion of how methodological ideas figure in those visions. Finally, the article argues that methodological considerations can serve as good starting points to introduce and discuss central topics and canonical figures of the early modern period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life span scholars are urged to continue unpacking what is meant by development in adulthood. Relational developmental systems theory provides a theoretically rich framework within which to ground our empirical work, but consideration of current models shows that additional theorizing and more empirical work are needed to better understand development in adulthood. Articulation of linkages between intraindividual variability developmental studies in conjunction with population-based studies is one suggested strategy. The six foci personality model is presented as an exemplar, compatible with intraindividual variability and population science, to move us further along in theorizing about adult development in one important domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]