This volume-dedicated to Michael K. Sain on the occasion of his seventieth birthday-is a collection of chapters covering recent advances in stochastic optimal control theory and algebraic systems theory. Written by experts in their respective fields, the chapters are thematically organized into four parts:

* Part I focuses on statistical control theory, where the cost function is viewed as a random variable and performance is shaped through cost cumulants. In this respect, statistical control generalizes linear-quadratic-Gaussian and H-infinity control.

* Part II addresses algebraic systems theory, reviewing the use of algebraic systems over semirings, modules of zeros for linear multivariable systems, and zeros in linear time-delay systems.

* Part III discusses advances in dynamical systems characteristics. The chapters focus on the stability of a discontinuous dynamical system, approximate decentralized fixed modes, direct optimal adaptive control, and stability of nonlinear systems with limited information.

* Part IV covers engineering education and includes a unique chapter on theology and engineering, one of Sain's latest research interests.

The book will be a useful reference for researchers and graduate students in systems and control, algebraic systems theory, and applied mathematics. Requiring only knowledge of undergraduate-level control and systems theory, the work may be used as a supplementary textbook in a graduate course on optimal control or algebraic systems theory.

Statistical Control.- and Literature Survey of Statistical Control: Going Beyond the Mean.- Cumulant Control Systems: The Cost-Variance, Discrete-Time Case.- Statistical Control of Stochastic Systems Incorporating Integral Feedback: Performance Robustness Analysis.- Multi-Cumulant and Pareto Solutions for Tactics Change Prediction and Performance Analysis in Stochastic Multi-Team Noncooperative Games.- A Multiobjective Cumulant Control Problem.- Algebraic Systems Theory.- Systems over a Semiring: Realization and Decoupling.- Modules of Zeros for Linear Multivariable Systems.- Zeros in Linear Time-Delay Systems.- Dynamical System Characteristics.- On the Status of the Stability Theory of Discontinuous Dynamical Systems.- Direct Adaptive Optimal Control: Biologically Inspired Feedback Control.- Characterization and Calculation of Approximate Decentralized Fixed Modes (ADFMs).- Some New Nonlinear and Symbol Manipulation Techniques to Mitigate Adverse Effects of High PAPR in OFDM Wireless Communications.- Homogeneous Domination and the Decentralized Control Problem for Nonlinear System Stabilization.- Volterra Control Synthesis.- Engineering Education.- The First Professional Degree: Master of Engineering?.- Theology and Engineering: A Conversation in Two Languages.