Inferring heuristic classification hierarchies from natural language input

A methodology for inferring hierarchies representing heuristic knowledge about the check out, control, and monitoring sub-system (CCMS) of the space shuttle launch processing system from natural language input is explained. Our method identifies failures explicitly and implicitly described in natural language by domain experts and uses those descriptions to recommend classifications for inclusion in the experts' heuristic hierarchies

Diet transition to a high-fat diet for 3 weeks reduces brain omega-3-fatty acid levels, alters BDNF signaling and induces anxiety & depression-like behavior in adult rats

Background: The consumption of diets high in calories and low in nutrient value is becoming increasingly common in modern society, which can lead to metabolic disorders like diabetes and obesity, and potentially to psychiatric disorders. We have performed studies to assess how the shift from a healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids to a diet rich in saturated fatty acid affects the substrates for brain plasticity and function, and anxiety and depression-like behavior. Methods: Pregnant rats were fed with omega-3 supplemented diet from their 2nd day of gestation period as well as their male pups for 12 weeks. Afterwards, the animals were randomly assigned to either a group fed on the same diet or a group fed on a high-fat diet (HFD) rich in saturated fats for 3 weeks. Anxiety and depression-like behaviors were assessed by using open field (OF) and elevated plus maze (EPM). Molecular assessments were performed in the frontal cortex and hippocampus as dysfunctions in these brain regions are main contributors towards depression, anxiety-like behavior and stress. Results: We found that the HFD increased vulnerability for anxiety and depression-like behavior, and that these modifications harmonized with changes in the anxiety-related neuropeptide Y (NPY)-1 receptor. The HFD reduced levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and the BDNF signaling receptor pTrkB, as well as the cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB), in these brain regions. Brain DHA contents were significantly associated with the levels of anxiety and depression-like behavior in these rats. Conclusions: These results suggest that the change in dietary lifestyle leading to alteration of dietary n3/n-6 fatty acids levels imposes a risk factor for anxiety-like behaviors. Dietary DHA might help for building cognitive reserve that can resist psychiatric disorders

An integrative approach for modeling and simulation of Heterocyst pattern formation in Cyanobacteria strands

A comprehensive approach to cellular differentiation in cyanobacteria is developed. To this aim, the process of heterocyst cell formation is studied under a systems biology point of view. By relying on statistical physics techniques, we translate the essential ingredients and mechanisms of the genetic circuit into a set of differential equations that describes the continuous time evolution of combined nitrogen, PatS, HetR and NtcA concentrations. The detailed analysis of these equations gives insight into the single cell dynamics. On the other hand, the inclusion of diffusion and noisy conditions allows simulating the formation of heterocysts patterns in cyanobacteria strains. The time evolution of relevant component concentrations are calculated allowing for a comparison with experiments. Finally, we discuss the validity and the possible improvements of the model.Comment: 20 pages (including the supporting information), 8 figure

Towards a navigational logic for graphical structures

One of the main advantages of the Logic of Nested Conditions, defined by Habel and Pennemann, for reasoning about graphs, is its generality: this logic can be used in the framework of many classes of graphs and graphical structures. It is enough that the category of these structures satisfies certain basic conditions. In a previous paper [14], we extended this logic to be able to deal with graph properties including paths, but this extension was only defined for the category of untyped directed graphs. In addition it seemed difficult to talk about paths abstractly, that is, independently of the given category of graphical structures. In this paper we approach this problem. In particular, given an arbitrary category of graphical structures, we assume that for every object of this category there is an associated edge relation that can be used to define a path relation. Moreover, we consider that edges have some kind of labels and paths can be specified by associating them to a set of label sequences. Then, after the presentation of that general framework, we show how it can be applied to several classes of graphs. Moreover, we present a set of sound inference rules for reasoning in the logic.Peer ReviewedPostprint (author's final draft

A logic of graph conditions extended with paths

In this paper we tackle the problem of extending the logic of nested graph conditions with paths. This means, for instance, that we may state properties about the existence of paths between some given nodes. As a main contribution, a sound and complete tableau method is defined for reasoning about this kind of properties.Peer ReviewedPostprint (published version

Legal Issues Department Chairs Often Face

This workshop covers legal principles and issues that arise frequently in college and university administration - including due process, freedom of speech, sexual misconduct (Title IX), termination of employment and/or tenure, retaliation and defenses in the event of a lawsuit - with reference to the latest court cases. The presenter defines and describes the principles and, with participant interactions, analyzes hypothetical situations so as to enable participants to gain a real-world understanding of legal areas discussed. Workshop materials analyze the law and provide numerous plain-English guidelines for future reference

Electric Fence to PC Wireless Radio Frequency Communications Interface

Electric fencing is commonly used on New Zealand's farms. Modern technology is used in farm management systems to solve old farming problems in a more efficient and simple way. Engineers have researched the use of the electric fence as a communication medium and new technologies based on transmission line theory are used at present to monitor and troubleshoot problems occurring in electric fences. The next stage of the development is to use wireless devices to accomplish those same tasks from remote locations. This project aims to develop a prototype that provides a wireless link between an electric fence and a personal computer in a remote location. This prototype is expected to prove concepts that lead to the future design of useful, marketable products. The project was supported by Gallagher Electronics and is implemented using their existing products where possible