Constraint Identification Using Modified Hoare Logic on Hybrid Models of Gene Networks

We present a new hybrid Hoare logic dedicated for a class of linear hybrid automata well suited to model gene regulatory networks. These automata rely on Thomas\u27 discrete framework in which qualitative parameters have been replaced by continuous parameters called celerities. The identification of these parameters remains one of the keypoints of the modelling process, and is difficult especially because the modelling framework is based on a continuous time. We introduce Hoare triples which handle biological traces and pre/post-conditions. Observed chronometrical biological traces play the role of an imperative program for classical Hoare logic and our hybrid Hoare logic, defined by inference rules, is proved to be sound. Furthermore, we present a weakest precondition calculus (a la Dijkstra) which leads to constraints on dynamical parameters. Finally, we illustrate our "constraints generator" with a simplified circadian clock model describing the rhythmicity of cells in mammals on a 24-hour period

Consumer demands for organic and genetically modified foods

Issues concerning consumer demands for genetically modified and organic food remain topical. It is unclear how consumers perceive issues associated with food production such as food safety, environmental impacts or animal welfare. It is also unclear how consumers might value potential changes in those issues in regional and metropolitan centres. This paper reports on research using the choice modelling technique to estimate and compare consumer demand for genetically modified and organic foods in Australia. The case study considers tomatoes, milk and beef commodities. The results draw comparisons between the contribution of associated factors influencing consumer purchasing decisions in a regional and metropolitan city. The results are relevant to the current policy debate regarding the introduction of GM foods.Genetically modified, organic, demand, choice modelling, Crop Production/Industries, Demand and Price Analysis, Food Consumption/Nutrition/Food Safety,

Making Common Causes: Crises, Conflict, Creation, Conversations: Offerings from the Biennial ALECC Conference Queen’s University, Kingston 2016

At ALECC’s biennial gathering at Queen’s University in June 2016, participants came together to explore the possibilities of “making common causes” from a host of angles, yet all were anchored in an acknowledgement of the diverse more-than-human relationships that make up our common worlds. The following collection of short essays, authored by some of the gathering’s keynote speakers, explores specific aspects of making common causes. In this special section of The Goose, we deliberately invoke the plural of conversation. We understand the effort to make common causes as a process, rather than a “one and done” act. It is multifaceted and messy; it invites imagination and critique. Most importantly, it needs to cultivate the common ground whereupon these difficult conversations can be engaged

We are all activists now

There is a fundamental difficulty with the word ‘activism.’ This problem exists whether it is used in academic contexts or beyond. The term has been captured by the left. As broadly defined, it generally refers to volunteer and professional campaigners, theorists, and analysts who are dedicated to struggles against racism, misogyny, bigotry, war, economic inequality, and climate change

From creative destruction to convivial innovation. A post-growth perspective

In this paper, we argue that the notion of Creative Destruction underpinning classical innovation management theory as well as having crystallised into technological determinism and productivism has come to a dead-end. Framing innovation's ultimate goal as the endless pursuit of economic growth is unrealistic if we wish to address pressing environmental challenges. We show that Creative Destruction historically emerged as an ideology from a specific set of values and worldviews at the cradle of Western capitalism and its need for valorisations. Capital valorisation imposes its logic on innovation, definition of needs, consumption, and organisation of work. The mantra of ‘innovate or die’ and its underpinning values represent a hegemonic view on technology aligned with the capitalist mode of production. We argue that a counter-hegemonic view emphasising conviviality and use-value is possible instead and needed to address the environmental and social challenges of our time. We posit that the (re-)emerging mode of production, commons-based peer production (CBPP) has such potential. Indicative cases show that innovation underlined by counter-hegemonic values already exists, albeit in the cracks of the dominant system and in constant danger of co-optation. Governmental institutions need to support these alternative practices of innovation.Axencia Galega de InnovaciónUniversidade de Vigo/CISU

Electrochemical and Optical Biosensors in Medical Applications

Analysis of many biochemical processes is of great significance for clinical, biological, food, environmental as well as bioterror applications. But, exchanging of the biochemical information to kind of electronic signal is a defiance due to connecting an electronic tool directly to a biological surrounding. Electrochemical detection instrument due to its advantageous to analyze the subject of a biological sample has a great potential in conversion of a biochemical occurrence to an electronic signal

Design of Bio-Conjugated Hydrogels for Regenerative Medicine Applications: From Polymer Scaffold to Biomolecule Choice

Bio-conjugated hydrogels merge the functionality of a synthetic network with the activity of a biomolecule, becoming thus an interesting class of materials for a variety of biomedical applications. This combination allows the fine tuning of their functionality and activity, whilst retaining biocompatibility, responsivity and displaying tunable chemical and mechanical properties. A complex scenario of molecular factors and conditions have to be taken into account to ensure the correct functionality of the bio-hydrogel as a scaffold or a delivery system, including the polymer backbone and biomolecule choice, polymerization conditions, architecture and biocompatibility. In this review, we present these key factors and conditions that have to match together to ensure the correct functionality of the bio-conjugated hydrogel. We then present recent examples of bio-conjugated hydrogel systems paving the way for regenerative medicine applications

Food, Farms & Solidarity

The Confédération Paysanne, one of France's largest farmers' unions, has successfully fought against genetically modified organisms (GMOs), but unlike other allied movements, theirs has been led by producers rather than consumers. In Food, Farms, and Solidarity, Chaia Heller analyzes the group's complex strategies and campaigns, including a call for a Europe-wide ban on GM crops and hormone-treated beef, and a protest staged at a McDonald's. Her study of the Confédération Paysanne shows the challenges small farms face in a postindustrial agricultural world. Heller also reveals how the language the union uses to argue against GMOs encompasses more than the risks they pose; emphasizing solidarity has allowed farmers to focus on food as a cultural practice and align themselves with other workers. Heller's examination of the Confédération Paysanne's commitment to a vision of alter-globalization, the idea of substantive alternatives to neoliberal globalization, demonstrates how ecological and social justice can be restored in the world