Towards a Worldsheet Description of N=8 Supergravity

In this note we address the worldsheet description of 4-dimensional N=8 supergravity using ambitwistors. After gauging an appropriate current algebra, we argue that the only physical vertex operators correspond to the N=8 supermultiplet. It has previously been shown that worldsheet correlators give rise to supergravity tree level scattering amplitudes. We extend this work by proposing a definition for genus-one amplitudes that passes several consistency checks such as exhibiting modular invariance and reproducing the expected infrared behavior of 1-loop supergravity amplitudes.Comment: 6 page

Interest For Writing: How Teachers Can Make A Difference

Although interest plays a large role in motivation and confidence, we need a clearer understanding of how teachers and classroom practices can influence students\u27 interest for the act of writing. Rebecca L. Lipstein and K. Ann Renninger studied the perceptions of 178 students in grades 7, 8, and 9 to develop this understanding. They offer characteristics of students in four phases of interest and describe instructional approaches to meet students\u27 wants and needs

Lattice gerbe theory.

We formulate the theory of a 2-form gauge field on a Euclidean spacetime lattice. In this approach, the fundamental degrees of freedom live on the faces of the lattice, and the action can be constructed from the sum over Wilson surfaces associated with each fundamental cube of the lattice. If we take the gauge group to be U(1), the theory reduces to the well-known abelian gerbe theory in the continuum limit. We also propose a very simple and natural non-abelian generalization with gauge group U(N)×U(N), which gives rise to U(N) Yang-Mills theory upon dimensional reduction. Formulating the theory on a lattice has several other advantages. In particular, it is possible to compute many observables, such as the expectation value of Wilson surfaces, analytically at strong coupling and numerically for any value of the coupling

Being as Normal as Possible: How Young People Ages 16–25 Years Evaluate the Risks and Benefits of Treatment for Inflammatory Arthritis

Objective To explore how young people (ages 16–25 years) with inflammatory arthritis evaluate the risks and benefits of treatment, particularly treatment with biologic therapies. Methods This qualitative study involved in-depth interviews (n = 44) with young people, trusted others (e.g., parents), and health professionals; audio-recordings (n = 4) of biologic therapy–related consultations; and focus groups (n = 4). Analysis used techniques from grounded theory (open and focused coding, constant comparison, memoing, and mapping). Results Young people aspired to live what they perceived as a “normal” life. They saw treatment as presenting both an opportunity for and a threat to achieving this. Treatment changes were therefore subject to complex and ongoing evaluation, covering administration, associated restrictions, anticipated effects, and side effects. Information sources included expert opinion (of professionals and other patients) and personal experience. Previous treatments provided important reference points. Faced with uncertain outcomes, young people made provisional decisions. Both trusted others and health professionals expressed concern that young people were too focused on short-term outcomes. Conclusion Young people value treatment that helps them to live a “normal” life. There is more to this than controlling disease. The emotional, social, and vocational consequences of treatment can be profound and lasting: opportunities to discuss the effects of treatment should be provided early and regularly. While making every effort to ensure understanding of the long-term clinical consequences of taking or not taking medication, the wider impact of treatment should not be dismissed. Only through understanding young people's values, preferences, and concerns can a sustainable balance between disease control and treatment burden be achieved

Characteristic Performance -- A New Concept in the Conflict of Laws in Matters of Contract for the EEC

The concept of characteristic performance, used in conflicts law to determine which country\u27s law applies in the absence of an express or implied choice of law, has been incorporated into Article 4 of the Draft Convention on the Law Applicable to Contractual and Non-Contractual Obligations. In this article, Professor Lipstein examines the purpose, history, and criticisms of the concept of characteristic performance and concludes by supporting the use by the Member States of characteristic performance as a means of determining the legal system governing the contract as a whole

Characteristic Performance -- A New Concept in the Conflict of Laws in Matters of Contract for the EEC

The concept of characteristic performance, used in conflicts law to determine which country\u27s law applies in the absence of an express or implied choice of law, has been incorporated into Article 4 of the Draft Convention on the Law Applicable to Contractual and Non-Contractual Obligations. In this article, Professor Lipstein examines the purpose, history, and criticisms of the concept of characteristic performance and concludes by supporting the use by the Member States of characteristic performance as a means of determining the legal system governing the contract as a whole