Integration of psychological models in the design of artificial creatures

Artificial creatures form an increasingly important component of interactive computer games. Examples of such creatures exist which can interact with each other and the game player and learn from their experiences. However, we argue, the design of the underlying architecture and algorithms has to a large extent overlooked knowledge from psychology and cognitive sciences. We explore the integration of observations from studies of motivational systems and emotional behaviour into the design of artificial creatures. An initial implementation of our ideas using the “sim agent” toolkit illustrates that physiological models can be used as the basis for creatures with animal like behaviour attributes. The current aim of this research is to increase the “realism” of artificial creatures in interactive game-play, but it may have wider implications for the development of AI

Emotional modulation of visual cortex activity: A functional nearinfrared spectroscopy study

Functional neuroimaging and electroencephalography reveal emotional effects in early visual cortex. Here, we used fNIRS to examine haemodynamic responses evoked by neutral, positive and negative emotional pictures, matched for brightness, contrast, hue, saturation, spatial frequency and entropy. Emotion content modulated amplitude and latency of oxy-, deoxy- and total haemoglobin response peaks, and induced peripheral autonomic reactions. The processing of positive and negative pictures enhanced haemodynamic response amplitude, and this effect was paralleled by blood pressure changes. The processing of positive pictures was reflected in reduced haemodynamic response peak latency. Together these data suggest early visual cortex holds amplitude-dependent representation of stimulus salience and latency-dependent information regarding stimulus valence, providing new insight into affective interaction with sensory processing

E151 (sym15), A Pleiotropic Mutant of Pea (Pisum sativum L.), Displays Low Nodule Number, Enhanced Mycorrhizae, Delayed Lateral Root Emergence, and High Root Cytokinin Levels

In legumes, the formation of rhizobial and mycorrhizal root symbioses is a highly regulated process which requires close communication between plant and microorganism. Plant mutants that have difficulties establishing symbioses are valuable tools for unravelling the mechanisms by which these symbioses are formed and regulated. Here E151, a mutant of Pisum sativum cv. Sparkle, was examined to characterize its root growth and symbiotic defects. The symbioses in terms of colonization intensity, functionality of micro-symbionts, and organ dominance were compared between the mutant and wild type. The endogenous cytokinin (CK) and abscisic acid (ABA) levels and the effect of the exogenous application of these two hormones were determined. E151 was found to be a low and delayed nodulator, exhibiting defects in both the epidermal and cortical programmes though a few mature and functional nodules develop. Mycorrhizal colonization of E151 was intensified, although the fungal functionality was impaired. Furthermore, E151 displayed an altered lateral root (LR) phenotype compared with that of the wild type whereby LR emergence is initially delayed but eventually overcome. No differences in ABA levels were found between the mutant and the wild type, but non-inoculated E151 exhibited significantly high CK levels. It is hypothesized that CK plays an essential role in differentially mediating the entry of the two micro-symbionts into the cortex; whereas it would inhibit the entry of the rhizobia in that tissue, it would promote that of the fungus. E151 is a developmental mutant which may prove to be a useful tool in further understanding the role of hormones in the regulation of beneficial root symbioses

A single-blind, pilot randomised trial of a weight management intervention for adults with intellectual disabilities and obesity: study protocol

Background: The prevalence of obesity in adults with intellectual disabilities has consistently been reported to be higher than the general population. Despite the negative impact of obesity on health, there is little evidence of the effectiveness of weight management interventions for adults with intellectual disabilities and obesity. Preliminary results from a single-stranded feasibility study of a multi-component weight management intervention specifically designed for adults with intellectual disabilities and obesity (TAKE 5) and that satisfied clinical recommendations reported that it was acceptable to adults with intellectual disabilities and their carers. This study aims to determine the feasibility of a full-scale clinical trial of TAKE 5.<p></p> Methods: This study will follow a pilot randomised trial design. Sixty-six obese participants (body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2) will be randomly allocated to the TAKE 5 multi-component weight management intervention or a health education ‘active’ control intervention (Waist Winners Too (WWToo)). Both interventions will be delivered over a 12-month period. Participants’ anthropometric measures (body weight, BMI, waist circumference, percentage body fat); indicators of activity (levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviour) and well-being will be measured at three time points: baseline, 6 and 12 months. The researcher collecting outcome measures will be blind to study group allocation.<p></p> Conclusions: The data from this study will generate pilot data on the acceptability of randomisation, attrition rates and the estimates of patient-centred outcomes of TAKE 5, which will help inform future research and the development of a full-scale randomised clinical trial

Development of a Survey Instrument to Explore the Characteristics of Australian Private Physiotherapy Practitioners’ Interprofessional Interactions

Background: Interprofessional collaboration is a complex process defined by the relationships and interactions between health practitioners from diverse professional backgrounds. Although the benefits of a collaborative health workforce are widely acknowledged, it is currently poorly understood to what extent private physiotherapy practitioners engage in interprofessional collaboration as a part of their clinical practice, and whether they consider to be adequately trained in this area. Information regarding the frequency, modes of communication, and perceived level of satisfaction associated with private physiotherapy practitioners’ interprofessional interactions is also limited. Purpose: The aim of this paper is to describe the development of a survey instrument that can be used to explore the characteristics of Australian private physiotherapy practitioners’ interprofessional interactions. Methods: A multiphase process was used to develop the survey instrument. The research team conducted a literature search which resulted in the generation of 34 individual survey items. After the initial pool of survey items was developed, three experienced physiotherapists were invited to review the items. The draft survey instrument was then subject to online testing with private physiotherapy practitioners to evaluate the utility of the instrument. Results: All three physiotherapists invited to review the initial pool of survey items provided written feedback to the research team. Following revision, five private physiotherapy practitioners participated in pilot testing the survey instrument. Pilot testing revealed that approximately 10 minutes was required to complete the online survey. Conclusions: The final survey instrument has 29 questions in six sections with categorical, Likert and free text response options and can be used to explore the characteristics of Australian private physiotherapy practitioners’ interprofessional interactions. Information obtained from future research projects utilising this survey may guide the development of effective interventions aimed at enhancing the nature and quality of clinical interactions between private physiotherapy practitioners and other health practitioners working in Australia

Development of a survey instrument to explore the characteristics of Australian private physiotherapy practitioners’ interprofessional interactions

Background: Interprofessional collaboration is a complex process defined by the relationships and interactions between health practitioners from diverse professional backgrounds. Although the benefits of a collaborative health workforce are widely acknowledged, it is currently poorly understood to what extent private physiotherapy practitioners engage in interprofessional collaboration as a part of their clinical practice, and whether they consider to be adequately trained in this area. Information regarding the frequency, modes of communication, and perceived level of satisfaction associated with private physiotherapy practitioners’ interprofessional interactions is also limited. Purpose: The aim of this paper is to describe the development of a survey instrument that can be used to explore the characteristics of Australian private physiotherapy practitioners’ interprofessional interactions. Methods: A multiphase process was used to develop the survey instrument. The research team conducted a literature search which resulted in the generation of 34 individual survey items. After the initial pool of survey items was developed, three experienced physiotherapists were invited to review the items. The draft survey instrument was then subject to online testing with private physiotherapy practitioners to evaluate the utility of the instrument. Results: All three physiotherapists invited to review the initial pool of survey items provided written feedback to the research team. Following revision, five private physiotherapy practitioners participated in pilot testing the survey instrument. Pilot testing revealed that approximately 10 minutes was required to complete the online survey. Conclusions: The final survey instrument has 29 questions in six sections with categorical, Likert and free text response options and can be used to explore the characteristics of Australian private physiotherapy practitioners’ interprofessional interactions. Information obtained from future research projects utilising this survey may guide the development of effective interventions aimed at enhancing the nature and quality of clinical interactions between private physiotherapy practitioners and other health practitioners working in Australia

Eye See Eye Learn The Benefit of Comprehensive Eye Examinations for Preschoolers

Objective: Undetected vision problems in children can lead to permanent vision loss, a condition known as amblyopia. Early detection and treatment of the causes of amblyopia may prevent this vision loss. The objective of this paper is to look for evidence that comprehensive eye examinations upon entry to junior Kindergarten are an effective way to identify and treat vision problems early. methods: Relevant peer-reviewed publications on amblyopia and the importance of comprehensive eye examinations were reviewed. Specific areas investigated include: the prevalence and causes of amblyopia; impact of vision problems on child development and education; impact of amblyopia and/or strabismus on quality of life; and the cost effectiveness of treating amblyopia. The validity of vision screening compared to a comprehensive eye examination was also reviewed. Synthesis:The review suggests that without a complete eye examination many eye or vision problems remain undetected at school entry. Left uncorrected these problems negatively impact child development, education and quality of life. Reduced vision due to amblyopia also restricts future employment opportunities and increases the risk of bilateral visual impairment in adulthood. Examination procedures with high sensitivity and specificity are required to accurately detect these problems. Studies show that amblyopia treatment initiated at an early age is one of the most cost-effective of all health interventions. Conclusion: There is good evidence in the literature that a full eye examination is critical to detect all cases of amblyopia. This and other visual problems can be detected and managed at an early age, which leads to better visual quality of life and economical outcomes. The Eye See Eye Learn program offers the “gold standard” of eye care

Public perceptions of drinking water: A postal survey of residents with private water supplies

Background: In Canada, the legal responsibility for the condition of private water supplies, including private wells and cisterns, rests with their owners. However, there are reports that Canadians test these water supplies intermittently and that treatment of such water is uncommon. An estimated 45% of all waterborne outbreaks in Canada involve non-municipal systems. An understanding of the perceptions and needs of Canadians served by private water supplies is essential, as it would enable public health professionals to better target public education and drinking water policy. The purpose of this study was to investigate the public perceptions of private water supplies in the City of Hamilton, Ontario (Canada), with the intent of informing public education and outreach strategies within the population. Methods: A cross-sectional postal survey of 246 residences with private water supplies was conducted in May 2004. Questions pertained to the perceptions of water quality and alternative water sources, water testing behaviours and the self-identified need for further information. Results: Private wells, cisterns or both, were the source of household water for 71%, 16% and 13% of respondents, respectively. Although respondents rated their water quality highly, 80% also had concerns with its safety. The most common concerns pertained to bacterial and chemical contamination of their water supply and its potential negative effect on health. Approximately 56% and 61% of respondents used in-home treatment devices and bottled water within their homes, respectively, mainly due to perceived improvements in the safety and aesthetic qualities compared to regular tap water. Testing of private water supplies was performed infrequently: 8% of respondents tested at a frequency that meets current provincial guidelines. Two-thirds of respondents wanted more information on various topics related to private water supplies. Flyers and newspapers were the two media reported most likely to be used. Conclusion: Although respondents rated their water quality highly, the majority had concerns regarding the water from their private supply, and the use of bottled water and water treatment devices was extensive. The results of this study suggest important lines of inquiry and provide support and input for public education programs, particularly those related to private water testing, in this population

Photoreceptor Outer Segment-like Structures in Long-Term 3D Retinas from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells.

The retinal degenerative diseases, which together constitute a leading cause of hereditary blindness worldwide, are largely untreatable. Development of reliable methods to culture complex retinal tissues from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) could offer a means to study human retinal development, provide a platform to investigate the mechanisms of retinal degeneration and screen for neuroprotective compounds, and provide the basis for cell-based therapeutic strategies. In this study, we describe an in vitro method by which hPSCs can be differentiated into 3D retinas with at least some important features reminiscent of a mature retina, including exuberant outgrowth of outer segment-like structures and synaptic ribbons, photoreceptor neurotransmitter expression, and membrane conductances and synaptic vesicle release properties consistent with possible photoreceptor synaptic function. The advanced outer segment-like structures reported here support the notion that 3D retina cups could serve as a model for studying mature photoreceptor development and allow for more robust modeling of retinal degenerative disease in vitro