Network inference in matrix-variate Gaussian models with non-independent noise

Inferring a graphical model or network from observational data from a large number of variables is a well studied problem in machine learning and computational statistics. In this paper we consider a version of this problem that is relevant to the analysis of multiple phenotypes collected in genetic studies. In such datasets we expect correlations between phenotypes and between individuals. We model observations as a sum of two matrix normal variates such that the joint covariance function is a sum of Kronecker products. This model, which generalizes the Graphical Lasso, assumes observations are correlated due to known genetic relationships and corrupted with non-independent noise. We have developed a computationally efficient EM algorithm to fit this model. On simulated datasets we illustrate substantially improved performance in network reconstruction by allowing for a general noise distribution

Entanglement and Sources of Magnetic Anisotropy in Radical Pair-Based Avian Magnetoreceptors

One of the principal models of magnetic sensing in migratory birds rests on the quantum spin-dynamics of transient radical pairs created photochemically in ocular cryptochrome proteins. We consider here the role of electron spin entanglement and coherence in determining the sensitivity of a radical pair-based geomagnetic compass and the origins of the directional response. It emerges that the anisotropy of radical pairs formed from spin-polarized molecular triplets could form the basis of a more sensitive compass sensor than one founded on the conventional hyperfine-anisotropy model. This property offers new and more flexible opportunities for the design of biologically inspired magnetic compass sensors

Asymmetric recombination and electron spin relaxation in the semiclassical theory of radical pair reactions

We describe how the semiclassical theory of radical pair recombination reactions recently introduced by two of us [D. E. Manolopoulos and P. J. Hore, J. Chem. Phys. 139, 124106 (2013)] can be generalised to allow for different singlet and triplet recombination rates. This is a non-trivial generalisation because when the recombination rates are different the recombination process is dynamically coupled to the coherent electron spin dynamics of the radical pair. Furthermore, because the recombination operator is a two-electron operator, it is no longer sufficient simply to consider the two electrons as classical vectors: one has to consider the complete set of 16 two-electron spin operators as independent classical variables. The resulting semiclassical theory is first validated by comparison with exact quantum mechanical results for a model radical pair containing 12 nuclear spins. It is then used to shed light on the spin dynamics of a carotenoid-porphyrin-fullerene (CPF) triad containing considerably more nuclear spins which has recently been used to establish a 'proof of principle' for the operation of a chemical compass [K. Maeda et al., Nature 453, 387 (2008)]. We find in particular that the intriguing biphasic behaviour that has been observed in the effect of an Earth-strength magnetic field on the time-dependent survival probability of the photo-excited C+PF- radical pair arises from a delicate balance between its asymmetric recombination and the relaxation of the electron spin in the carotenoid radical

Roman Bodies as Bodies of Romans: Corporeal Symbolism in Lucan's Pharsalia

HUMA 3107, Roman Republican LiteratureLA&PS 2016 Writing Prize Finalists, 3rd Year Honourable Mentio

Diversity and Structure of Spider Assemblages in Terai Conservation Area

Not availabl

Use of Building Information Modelling in Responding to Low Carbon Construction Innovations: an Irish Perspective

At present the Irish construction industry is facing one of its most uncertain and challenging periods and will see major cuts in all areas of the economy in 2012. Despite this, Ireland pushes forward in sustainability initiatives with the Government ruling that environmentally-friendly policies are to get priority in competing for State contracts worth up to €16 billion a year. This and further initiatives are in place, so as to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20% by the year 2020. By the end of 2018 the public sector must own or rent only buildings with high energy-saving standards and promote the conversion of existing buildings to nearly zero standards. Furthermore, the retro-fitting of Ireland\u27s existing building stock will challenge Ireland to meet carbon targets. This paper outlines how Building Information Modelling (BIM) can be utilised on future and present public works projects in Ireland to significantly assist the Irish Government in managing a low carbon energy future. The paper will focus on the application of a sophisticated BIM model in helping to predict the performance of buildings or assess retrofit/upgrade options in managing low carbon construction. The authors’ data collation methodology involved the testing and analysis of a BIM model for a public works project, used during a four day workshop in late 2011. The workshop proved a success and provided the platform for the Irish Government to see first-hand, how a collaborative BIM model used on a public works projects could provide a low carbon future for both future and existing building stock

Low temperature thermodynamics of charged bosons in a random potential and the specific heat of La_{2-x}Sr_{x}CuO_{4} below Tc

We propose a simple analytical form of the partition function for charged bosons localised in a random potential and derive the consequent thermodynamics below the superfluid transition temperature. In the low temperature limit, the specific heat, C, depends on the localisation length exponent nu: C is linear for nu1 we find C proportional to T^{1/nu}. This unusual sub-linear temperature dependence of the specific heat has recently been observed in La_{2-x}Sr_{x}CuO_{4} below Tc.Comment: Revtex, 6 pages, 4 postscript figure

‘Tosspots’ and ‘Quaffers’: Characterizations of Drinking and Drunkenness in Hamilton City, 1945-1989

This thesis investigates how drinking and drunkenness behaviours were characterized and viewed in Hamilton city and how they were influenced by a number of factors between the release of the 1945-46 Royal Commission on Licensing’s findings and the passing of the 1989 Sale of Liquor Act. In doing so this study seeks to examine drinking and drunkenness in an historical context that acknowledges these things as existing in more than simply a pathological light. Through the themes of legislative change, cultural difference and characterizations of youth drinking and drunkenness this study answers a call to examine people’s understandings of drinking and drunkenness and the meanings they give to drinking and drunkenness in order to create a broader understanding of Hamilton’s and New Zealand’s history