Showing papers by "Saint Anselm College published in 2021"

Trinity of relational quantum dynamics

Abstract: The problem of time in quantum gravity calls for a relational solution. Using quantum reduction maps, we establish a previously unknown equivalence between three approaches to relational quantum dynamics: (1) relational observables in the clock-neutral picture of Dirac quantization, (2) Page and Wootters' (PW) Schr\"odinger picture formalism, and (3) the relational Heisenberg picture obtained via symmetry reduction. Constituting three faces of the same dynamics, we call this equivalence the trinity. In the process, we develop a quantization procedure for relational Dirac observables using covariant positive operator-valued measures which encompass nonideal clocks and resolve the nonmonotonicity issue of realistic quantum clocks reported by Unruh and Wald. The quantum reduction maps reveal this procedure as the quantum analog of gauge-invariantly extending gauge-fixed quantities. We establish algebraic properties of these relational observables. We extend a recent ``clock-neutral'' approach to changing temporal reference frames, transforming relational observables and states, and demonstrate a clock dependent temporal nonlocality effect. We show that Kucha\ifmmode \check{r}\else \v{r}\fi{}'s criticism, alleging that the conditional probabilities of the PW formalism violate the constraint, is incorrect. They are a quantum analog of a gauge-fixed description of a gauge-invariant quantity and equivalent to the manifestly gauge-invariant evaluation of relational observables in the physical inner product. The trinity furthermore resolves a previously reported normalization ambiguity and clarifies the role of entanglement in the PW formalism. The trinity finally permits us to resolve Kucha\ifmmode \check{r}\else \v{r}\fi{}'s criticism that the PW formalism yields wrong propagators by showing how conditional probabilities of relational observables give the correct transition probabilities. Unlike previous proposals, our resolution does not invoke approximations, ideal clocks or ancilla systems, is manifestly gauge invariant, and easily extends to an arbitrary number of conditionings.

Equivalence of Approaches to Relational Quantum Dynamics in Relativistic Settings

Abstract: We have previously shown (arXiv:1912.00033) that three approaches to relational quantum dynamics -- relational Dirac observables, the Page-Wootters formalism and quantum deparametrizations -- are equivalent. Here we show that this `trinity' of relational quantum dynamics holds in relativistic settings per frequency superselection sector. Time according to a clock subsystem is defined via a positive operator-valued measure (POVM) that is covariant with respect to the group generated by its (quadratic) Hamiltonian. This differs from the usual choice of a self-adjoint clock observable conjugate to the clock momentum. It also resolves Kuchar's criticism that the Page-Wootters formalism yields incorrect localization probabilities for the relativistic particle when conditioning on a Minkowski time operator. We show that conditioning instead on the covariant clock POVM results in a Newton-Wigner type localization probability commonly used in relativistic quantum mechanics. By establishing the equivalence mentioned above, we also assign a consistent conditional-probability interpretation to relational observables and deparametrizations. Finally, we expand a recent method of changing temporal reference frames, and show how to transform states and observables frequency-sector-wise. We use this method to discuss an indirect clock self-reference effect and explore the state and temporal frame-dependence of the task of comparing and synchronizing different quantum clocks.

Quantum Relativity of Subsystems

Abstract: One of the most basic notions in physics is the partitioning of a system into subsystems, and the study of correlations among its parts. In this work, we explore these notions in the context of quantum reference frame (QRF) covariance, in which this partitioning is subject to a symmetry constraint. We demonstrate that different reference frame perspectives induce different sets of subsystem observable algebras, which leads to a gauge-invariant, frame-dependent notion of subsystems and entanglement. We further demonstrate that subalgebras which commute before imposing the symmetry constraint can translate into non-commuting algebras in a given QRF perspective after symmetry imposition. Such a QRF perspective does not inherit the distinction between subsystems in terms of the corresponding tensor factorizability of the kinematical Hilbert space and observable algebra. Since the condition for this to occur is contingent on the choice of QRF, the notion of subsystem locality is frame-dependent.

Quantum time dilation in atomic spectra

Abstract: The authors show that signatures of quantum time dilation manifest in spectroscopic experiments, and propose experiments based on this to test relativistic quantum physics

Is growth in entrepreneurial activity truly beneficial for a prosperous and equitable economy

Abstract: This study attempts to refine and extend the understanding of how entrepreneurial activity in combination with various institutional and economic factors may increase or decrease the levels of econ...

Linking Tooth Shape to Strike Mechanics in the Boa constrictor

Abstract: Snakes, with the obvious exception of the fangs, are considered to lack the regional specialization of tooth shape and function which are exemplified by mammals. Recent work in fishes has suggested that the definition of homodont and heterodont are incomplete without a full understanding of the morphology, mechanics, and behavior of feeding. We investigated this idea further by examining changes in tooth shape along the jaw of Boa constrictor and integrating these data with the strike kinematics of boas feeding on rodent prey. We analyzed the shape of every tooth in the skull, from a combination of anesthetized individuals and CT scanned museum specimens. For strike kinematics, we filmed eight adult boas striking at previously killed rats. We determined the regions of the jaws that made first contact with the prey, and extrapolated the relative positions of those teeth at that moment. We further determined the roles of all the teeth throughout the prey capture process, from the initiation of the strike until constriction began. We found that the teeth in the anterior third of the mandible are the most upright, and that teeth become progressively more curved posteriorly. Teeth on the maxilla are more curved than on the mandible, and the anterior teeth are more linear or recurved than the posterior teeth. In a majority of strikes, boas primarily made contact with the anterior third of the mandible first. The momentum from the strike caused the upper jaws and skull to rotate over the rat. The more curved teeth of the upper jaw slid over the rat unimpeded until the snake began to close its jaws. In the remaining strikes, boas made contact with the posterior third of both jaws simultaneously, driving through the prey and quickly retracting, ensnaring the prey on the curved posterior teeth of both jaws. The curved teeth of the palatine and pterygoid bones assist in the process of swallowing.

A Cross-Disciplines and Cross-Sector Mixed-Methods Examination of Design Thinking Practices and Outcome

Abstract: This mixed method study investigated design thinking (DT) practices and outcomes from across disciplinary frameworks within one institution of higher education. Building upon prior DT studies, it examined three interlocking research questions: What DT practices are being implemented across the curriculum? What kinds of outcomes do faculty observe? What are the significant relationships between particular practices and observed outcomes? Thirty-five courses were examined via a faculty survey adapted from Liedtka and Bahr (2019), and a semi-structured interview created by Lake, Ricco, and Whipps (2018). In alignment with liberal arts educational practices, the most frequently utilized DT practices included working in teams that recognize diverse contributions and engaging in active listening in order to find shared meaning. Consistent with expectations for project- and team-based courses, faculty felt such practices yielded valued outcomes, concluding DT practices built trust across teams and increased the quality of solutions. Relationships between practices and outcomes revealed the utilization of more ethnographic tools was associated with a lower frequency of expanding relationships and resources, and that a greater focus on design criteria to find an ideal solution hampered efforts towards trust building. These findings suggest DT requires time and trust which can be constrained by the imposed deadlines of semester-based projects. The survey and interviews pointed to both similarities and differences between disciplines in DT practices. Future research investigating design thinking pedagogy should include faculty, students, and stakeholders with multiple touchpoints for assessment to identify learning experiences that build change-making capacities and yield genuinely valuable and viable real world projects.

Same-Sex Couples and the Police: A 10-Year Study of Arrest and Dual Arrest Rates in Responding to Incidents of Intimate Partner Violence.

Abstract: Despite concern, little research has been conducted on whether victims in same-sex relationships receive disparate treatment from law enforcement. Utilizing 2000 through 2009 National Incident-Base...

Shaping the Future of Smart Dentistry: From Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Intelligence Augmentation (IA)

Abstract: Digitization is the emerging process in the current transformation of industry. Understanding the role and socio-economic consequences of digitalization is crucial for the way technology is being deployed in each sector. One of the affected sectors is dentistry. This study highlights the current advances and challenges in integrating and merging artificial intelligence (AI), intelligence augmentation (IA), and machine learning (ML) in dentistry. We conduct a comparative analysis to give an overview of which technology is being currently deployed and what role IA and AI will play in dentistry, as AI plays an assistive role in advancing human capabilities. We find that challenges range from AI finding its way into routine medical practice to qualitative challenges of retrieving adequate data input. Other challenges lie in the yet unanswered questions of liability in how to reduce deployment costs of new technology. Given these challenges, we provide an outlook of how future technology can be deployed in daily-life dentistry and how robots and humans will interact, given the current technology developments. The aim of this paper is to discuss the future of dentistry and whether it is AI or IA conquering the modern dentistry era.

Measuring the effect of simulation experience on perceived self-efficacy for interprofessional collaboration among undergraduate nursing and social work students.

Abstract: Barriers to effective interprofessional collaboration may include insufficient knowledge of other professional roles and inexperience using effective communication skills. Improving self-efficacy for interprofessional collaboration may enhance the ability to practice expertly within the interprofessional environment of healthcare. This article examines the results of a multiple methods pretest/posttest study that used the Self-Efficacy for Interprofessional Experiential Learning (SEIEL) scale to determine self-reported perceptions of self-efficacy development following participation in a trauma simulation. Participants included 74 undergraduate nursing students and nine undergraduate social work students. Findings included a significant increase in perceived self-efficacy from pretest to posttest for both groups. Nursing majors and participants who reported previous interaction with a member of another profession scored significantly higher on the posttest. Qualitative data were analyzed through thematic content analysis which produced three themes: an improved understanding of the importance of communication and the interconnection of interprofessional roles; a realistic simulation which challenged the students; and an increased appreciation for teamwork. These findings suggest that challenging simulations with pre-licensure students can increase undergraduate students' perceived self-efficacy for interprofessional collaboration and contribute to an improved understanding of interprofessional team roles and communication.

Social Responsibility and Bank Resiliency

Abstract: We provide transatlantic evidence about the relation between social responsibility and resiliency in the banking industry. We analyse various measures of resiliency, an exposure measure (SRISK) and a contribution measure (Delta CoVaR) to systemic risk, as well as measures of systematic risk (beta) and insolvency risk (z-score). Social responsibility is measured by Thomson Reuters' ESG-scores and their subcategories, both according to the older Asset 4 and the present TR ESG Refinitiv classification. We find that the social aggregate score significantly enhances resiliency in all dimensions and in both classifications. On the level of subcategories, we identify significant common resiliency enhancing factor proxies for long-term orientation, such as product responsibility and workforce training, while short-term objectives proxied by shareholder orientation tend to relate to lower levels of resiliency. Looking deeper into the components of each ESG pillar, we also discover significant transatlantic differences mainly related to the different organization of labour markets as well as the board structure.

Genome Annotations of Two Bacillus Phages, Tomato and BaseballField.

Abstract: Tomato and BaseballField are Bacillus bacteriophages that were isolated and annotated by students in the Howard Hughes Medical Institute Phage Hunters program. Tomato has a unique truncation of the tape measure gene that is not found in other closely related C1 Bacillus phages. BaseballField is a strictly lytic phage with a compact genome of 26 kb.

Gender, Race, Ethnicity, and the Racialization of Attitudes Toward Descriptive Representation:

Abstract: Who is most likely to consider diverse representation desirable? Previous literature typically emphasizes the importance of partisanship and group identity congruence (i.e., women representing wome...

Why Is the Universe Comprehensible

Abstract: Why is the universe comprehensible? How is it that we can come to know its regularities well enough to exploit them for our own gain? In this essay I argue that the nature of our comprehension lies in the mutually agreed upon methodology we use to attain that comprehension and on the basic stability of the universe. But I also argue that the very act of comprehension itself places constraints on what we can comprehend by forcing us to establish a context for our knowledge. In this way the universe has managed to conspire to make itself objectively comprehensible to subjective observers.

Does the shadow economy mitigate the effect of cashless payment technology on currency demand? dynamic panel evidence

Abstract: Recent government attempts at reducing currency demand by promoting cashless payment technology, e.g., subsidies for point-of-sale terminals, have met with mixed success. In this paper, we argue th...

Chapter 3 Vulnerability Assessment of Digitized Socio-technological Systems via Entropy

Abstract: This article tackles the complexity of assessing the vulnerability of digitized socio-technological systems by application of Entropy weight method. We present the application of a powerful and universal mathematical tool to data-driven applied systems analysis by bridging the socio-technological gap between organizational structures and system development. As information entropy can be significantly reduced, the assessment of the weaknesses in the structure of a socio-technological system improves proportionally to the reduction in information redundancies and losses, as well as to the improvement in information accuracy and efficiency.

It’s not me, it’s you: perceptions of others and attitudes toward a female nominee in the 2020 New Hampshire democratic primary

Abstract: While the 2020 Democratic field was touted as one of the most diverse in presidential nomination history, a white, male, heterosexual candidate ultimately won the nomination. This is, on its face, ...

From Placements to Partnerships: The State of Clinical Practice and Preparation

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine the scope and sequence of clinical experiences in educator-preparation programs in New Hampshire within the context of a conceptual framework for clinical pr...

Disentangling complex genomic signals to understand population structure of an exploited, estuarine-dependent flatfish.

Abstract: Interpreting contemporary patterns of population structure requires an understanding of the interactions among microevolutionary forces and past demographic events. Here, 4,122 SNP-containing loci were used to assess structure in southern flounder (Paralichthys lethostigma) sampled across its range in the US Atlantic Ocean (Atlantic) and Gulf of Mexico (Gulf) and relationships among components of genomic variation and spatial and environmental variables were assessed across estuarine population samples in the Gulf. While hierarchical amova revealed significant heterogeneity within and between the Atlantic and Gulf, pairwise comparisons between samples within ocean basins demonstrated that all significant heterogeneity occurred within the Gulf. The distribution of Tajima's D estimated at a genome-wide scale differed significantly from equilibrium in all estuaries, with more negative values occurring in the Gulf. Components of genomic variation were significantly associated with environmental variables describing individual estuaries, and environment explained a larger component of variation than spatial proximity. Overall, results suggest that there is genetic spatial autocorrelation caused by shared larval sources for proximal nurseries (migration/drift), but that it is modified by environmentally driven differentiation (selection). This leads to conflicting signals in different parts of the genome and creates patterns of divergence that do not correspond to paradigms of strong local directional selection.

Arboreal Prey-Handling of Endothermic Prey by Captive Boa Constrictors

Abstract: Prey-handling behavior serves as an important link between the processes of prey capture, transport, and swallowing. Snakes, lacking limbs, have developed a series of complex behaviors for the purposes of subjugating and handling their food. Using captive individuals of the semiarboreal Boa constrictor, we describe for the first time a set of behaviors unique to handling dead, endothermic prey in an arboreal context. Faced with the challenges of having to support the body weight of both themselves and their prey, Boa Constrictors create a series of loops that allow the body of the snake to support the prey item while also allowing for intraoral transport and swallowing. These loops can be adjusted and repositioned during transport, positioning the prey so that the pull of gravity is in line with swallowing.

A Revised Situation-Specific Theory of Breast/Chest Feeding

Abstract: The Revised Situation-Specific Theory of Breast/Chest Feeding (STB-R) was derived from the original Situation-Specific Theory of Breastfeeding (STB). It is an explanatory theory which recognizes breastfeeding as fundamentally embodied, personal, and situational. The theory is unique from other theories in that it reconceptualizes both the central tension involved in the personal parental infant feeding experience, and the desired outcome of support. The theory proposes the more congruity and less conflict between parents and their support networks the more readily breastfeeding dyads will progress toward achieving an individually defined “salutary” (health-promoting, and self-affirming) breast/chest feeding experience. The STB-R recognizes the diversity of breast/chest feeding families, respects the patients’ right to choose, and remains true to the ethical values of the nursing profession.

Development and Implementation of a Spanish Minor for Nursing Majors.

Abstract: Cultural competence is a recognized standard in baccalaureate nursing education, but nursing programs are challenged by a predetermined course sequence and mandated requirements. Interaction with and immersion in a Spanish-speaking country have been found to increase knowledge, skills, and attitudes related to cultural competence. This article describes the development and implementation of a Spanish minor for nursing majors, a unique set of experiences with an educational focus on language and culture related to the Hispanic/Latino population.

Every cog and wheel: Unraveling biocomplexity at the genomic and phenotypic level in a population complex of Chinook salmon

Abstract: Genomic diversity is the fundamental building block of biodiversity and the necessary ingredient for adaptation Our rapidly increasing ability to quantify functional, compositional, and structural genomic diversity of populations forces the question of how to balance conservation goals – should the focus be on important functional diversity and key life history traits or on maximizing genomic diversity as a whole? Specifically, the intra-specific diversity (biocomplexity) comprised of phenotypic and genetic variation can determine the ability of a population to respond to changing environmental conditions Here, we explore the biocomplexity of California’s Central Valley Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) population complex at the genomic level Notably, despite apparent gene flow among individuals with the same migration (life history) phenotypes inhabiting different tributaries, each group is characterized by a surprising component of unique genomic diversity Our results emphasize the importance of formulating conservation goals focused on maintaining biocomplexity at both the phenotypic and genotypic level Doing so will maintain the species’ adaptive potential and increase the probability of persistence of the population complex despite changing environmental pressures