title: A Study of Flotation and Leaching Behaviour of Bornite and Chalocpyrite

subject: Chalcopyrite Leaching Flotation Bornite

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mining Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-11 00:25:35.365

abstract:
This study was carried out to investigate the flotation and leaching behaviour of bornite and chalcopyrite when they are together as principal sulphide minerals. Bench scale flotation performance was examined both in the absence and in the presence of a collector, PEX. In the absence of a collector, chalcopyrite floated significantly better than bornite. In the presence of a collector there was a reversal in selectivity, with bornite recovery presiding over that of chalcopyrite. Chalcopyrite recovery was marginally improved from the collectorless flotation case while bornite experienced vastly improved recoveries in the presence of a collector to surpass the recovery of chalcopyrite. The gap between floatability of bornite and chalcopyrite became more prominent under oxygen-deficient conditions induced by nitrogen flotation, which significantly decreased flotation rate of both minerals, but the floatability of bornite was still much higher than that of chalcopyrite. It is suggested that galvanic interactions promote the interaction of bornite with a collector while retarding interactions of chalcopyrite with the collector. Collectorless flotation of chalcopyrite observed under oxidizing conditions using air is thought to be prevalent even in the presence of a collector obscuring the selectivity of the process.
Leaching of the mixtures of bornite and chalcopyrite at mass ratios of 1:1, 1:3 and 3:1 are performed under various conditions to investigate the possible changes in leaching behaviour in relation to galvanic interactions. Leaching at 90°C in the presence of 0.1 M ferric ions in 0.1 M sulphuric acid provided the best results with 90% copper extraction from the mixtures in 6 hours. Observed copper extractions suggested increased copper extraction from chalcopyrite with this approach. The introduction of cupric and ferrous ions into solution, together with variation of solution potential made it difficult to assess in details on the effects of galvanic interactions due to these parameters being known to improve copper extraction from chalcopyrite. Galvanic interactions together with the presence of cupric ions were held mainly responsible for the increased copper extraction.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Curatorial Analysis: Spoken Word Performance through the lens of Narratology, Narrative-making and Auto-ethnography

contributor:
Robertson, Clive
Cultural Studies

rights: This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.

subject:
Performance Art
Auto-Ethnography
Spoken Word

abstract: Thesis (Master, Cultural Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-07 02:07:39.286

abstract:
As a major project, this work studies the spoken word genre as a response to, and interpretation of, oppression and examine my own spoken word performance through the lens of narratology, narrative-making and auto-ethnography. This project is composed of two parts: a full-length spoken word performance and a curatorial analysis of this performance. While attempting to re-enact the trauma of oppression, this performance dually recognizes the impossibility within the task. Maurice Blanchot writes in The Writing of the Disaster, “The disaster, unexperienced. It is what escapes the very possibility of experience- it is the limit of writing. This must be repeated: the disaster de- scribes.” This project aims to perform the places of de-scription. In poems detailing experiences of trauma, racism, misogyny, and relationships, this spoken word performance will offer an account of the subject for whom the act of narration is subversive. In this, the performance is self-aware and self-reflective; it communicates experiences for which the language to describe such experiences is either unavailable or nonexistent. The continuous theme of ‘home’ is maintained throughout the performance- how its absence marks the absence of the oppressed subject, how its absence implies the absence of language for the subject, and how spoken word can begin the outlining of a narrative, a foundation, for the subject.

My accompanying curatorial paper will examine similar themes. As spoken word is an art form deeply linked to activism, my paper will begin with an analysis of how this art has taken place, what its role has been in community development, and how it continues to

function as a teaching tool. My paper argues that spoken word is instrumental in tying learning to voice; by offering young people a medium that both gives them a forum to voice the issues directly impacting their lives, while giving them a means of developing skills in language, presentation and communicating ideas effectively, spoken word acts as a unique and important teaching tool.

abstract: M.A.


title: Microsaccades in Parkinson's disease

contributor:
Munoz, Douglas P.
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
Microsaccades
Saccades
Basal Ganglia
Parkinson's Disease

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-09 23:31:21.78

abstract: Individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) display deficits in voluntary saccade generation but improved automatic, visually-triggered saccade performance. This can be tested using prosaccades, saccades to visual stimuli, and antisaccades, saccades in the opposite direction from the visual stimuli. Voluntary saccade impairments resulting in antisaccade direction errors and longer saccadic reaction times (SRTs) are thought to be due to insufficient presetting of neural circuitry during saccade preparation in complex tasks involving suppression and selection. The basal ganglia, a major site of PD pathology, might be the cause of abnormalities in preparing for action selection in PD patients. Recently, microsaccade rates have been hypothesized to reflect the dual preparatory signals of saccade facilitation and suppression. In this thesis, we investigated the microsaccade behaviour of PD patients as they performed prosaccades and antisaccades. We hypothesized that deficits in voluntary movements in PD would result in impaired suppression of involuntary movements as reflected by increased microsaccade rates. Our findings demonstrate consistently elevated microsaccade rates in PD subjects compared to age-matched controls. Furthermore, positive correlations were found between antisaccade direction error rate and microsaccade rate as well as microsaccade rate and Hoehn-Yahr score, an indicator of disease severity in PD patients. We conclude that microsaccades reflect the impaired suppression of involuntary movements caused by voluntary movement deficits in PD pathology. Our findings indicate that microsaccades provide insight into action preparatory mechanisms and BG dysfunction. Therefore, measuring microsaccades in PD may provide a useful biomarker to follow disease progression and effectiveness of treatment therapies.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The toxicity of alkyl-chrysenes and benz[a]anthracenes to embryonic fish

contributor:
Hodson, Peter
Biology

subject:
alkyl-PAHs
chronic toxicity

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-10 16:35:00.232

abstract: Alkylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (alkyl-PAHs) are major constituents of crude oil, and the 3-5 ringed alkyl-PAHs have been identified as the main components chronically toxic to fish. While chysene homologues have higher cytochrome P4501A (CYP1A) induction potencies than alkyl-phenanthrenes, there is little characterization of toxicity for 4-ringed alkyl PAHs. This study measured the chronic toxicity of chrysene, benz[α]anthracene, and some alkylated congeners to the embryos of Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes) using the partition-controlled delivery method (PCD) of exposure. This exposure method relies on the partitioning of chemicals from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) films, loaded with various concentrations of test chemical, to embryo rearing solutions. The objectives of this thesis were: (1) to further characterize the PCD method with a series of 4-ringed PAHs; (2) to evaluate the effects of different chemical structures on the toxicity of test compounds; and (3) to extend structure toxicity relationships from alkyl-phenanthrenes. The PCD method generated a gradient of aqueous concentrations for test compounds, and these exposure concentrations were maintained constant for the 17-day period. Benz[α]anthracene showed higher toxicity than chrysene. Toxicity increased with the degree of alkylation on the ring structures, except that 2-methylbenz[α]anthracene was less toxic than the unsubstituted benz[α]anthracene. Substitutions at the middle region contributed to a higher toxicity than substitutions at the distal region. While actual mechanisms for these compounds to cause toxicity are unknown, the narcotic mode of action seems to be not involved due to the lack of mortality. Within the range of test concentrations, the chronic sublethal toxicity was limited by the low solubility of the test compounds. A structure toxicity relationship was illustrated by the regression between log EC50s and log Kow values. In addition to hydrophobicity represented by log Kow, structural dissimilarities between compounds and physical characteristics such as aqueous solubility limits should be taken into account in toxicity assessments with alkyl-PAHs. This research is the first toxicological assessment of alkyl-chrysenes and benz[α]anthracenes which is essential for a better understanding of structure toxicity relationships of alkyl-PAHs, and will contribute to more accurate ecological risk assessments of PAH contamination.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Lattice Strain Response of Zr-2 During Biaxial Deformation

contributor:
Daymond, Mark R.
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Biaxial Deformation
Zircaloy-2
Neutron Diffraction

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-13 11:24:21.692

abstract:
Pseudo-plane strain compression tests are carried out on rolled plate Zircaloy-2 using different
combinations of loaded and constrained sample directions relative to the plate principal directions. Lattice
strains are measured for 17 out of 18 possible measureable sample directions. The inability to obtain true
plane strain led to little effect of the compression rig on deformation during elastic loading; however
noticeable differences are seen when compared to similar uniaxial data for Zircaloy-2 in the plastic
region. Work hardening increased with increased constraint and was affected by the configuration of
loaded and constrained sample directions.

Constraint showed significant effects on twinning when twinning was present. For the RD loaded cases
the initiation of twinning occurs at -318 MPa for the RD/ND case (RD loaded, ND constrained direction)
and -420 MPa for the RD/TD case. Intensity profiles of the (0002) and {101
̅
0} indicate that more
twinning occurs in the RD/TD case than the RD/ND case. For TD/YD an amplification of twinning was
seen in the TD/RD when compared to the TD/ND. This is indicated both by texture results as well as the
intensity profiles of the (0002) and {101
̅
0}.

Using the experimental data an elastic-plastic self-consistent (EPSC) code was used to probe the
micromechanical processes that are occurring when the compression rig is operated. The experimental
data was used further to constrain the hardening parameters of the EPSC code using an inverse approach.
The EPSC code was able to capture the relative activity of the twinning characteristics found by the
experimental data but unable to truly capture the evolution of the (0002) lattice strains when twinning
occurs.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: An Exploration of the Architecture of First Person Shooter Games

contributor:
Cordy, James R.
Computing

subject:
First Shooter Games
Software Reengineering
Software Architecture

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-13 15:26:25.387

abstract: First Person Shooter (FPS) games are one of the most popular game genres and have a history of over 2 decades. While there has been extensive research on such games, the focus has been limited to their analysis at an individual level. In this thesis, we present a comparative analysis of three first person shooter games - Doom, Quake3 and Cube from an architectural point of view. All of these games have come at different times in the history of first person shooter games, and thus possess different and unique features.  We describe the process followed in deriving their architecture at various levels of abstraction – the file level, the subsystem level, the library/non-library level and the individual subsystem level for a given part of code. We conclude with a comparative analysis of the similarities and differences in the structure and architecture of the three gaming systems.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Distribution of Cytoplasmic and Membrane-Associated Tropomyosin-Related Kinase B (TrkB) Receptor in the Dendritic Tree of Adult Spinal Motoneurons

contributor:
Rose, Ken P.
Neuroscience Studies

subject: Microscopy TrkB Motoneuron Dendrite

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-14 12:48:21.357

abstract:
Although neurotrophins are conventionally associated with the proper growth and
survival of developing neurons, there is increasing evidence that they play an equally
significant role in the functions of adult neurons. Specifically, brain derived neurotrophic
factor activation of its preferred receptor TrkB is essential in the regulation of
motoneuronal activity. Neurotrophin‐dependent and independent activation of TrkB
regulates the motoneuronal dendritic integrity, and maintains unique classes of synapses. In
addition, it regulates the expression and function of ion channels as well as the strength of
inhibitory and excitatory synapses via different intracellular pathways. The recent
physiological findings in the regulatory roles of TrkB are implicative of its presence on
motoneuronal dendrites. Although, the expression of TrkB in the soma has long been
confirmed, its distribution on the dendritic tree of motoneurons remains unknown. We
aimed to examine the distribution of TrkB in the cytoplasm and membrane‐associated
regions of the dendritic tree of adult neck motoneurons.
We have determined, via confocal microscopy, that TrkB is present and abundant
throughout the cytoplasm and the membrane‐associated regions of motoneuronal dendrites
as well as the soma. TrkB is organized in clusters and its distribution is best described as
punctated. We then developed a technique to separately extract and quantify the TrkB
immunoreactivity associated with the membrane and the cytoplasm as function of distance
from the soma and dendritic tree. We have demonstrated that there is no bias in TrkB
immunoreactivity to a specific region of the dendritic tree in five trapezius motoneurons.
These observations were confirmed for both cytoplasmic and membrane‐associated TrkB.
There is compelling evidence that both mature full‐length and immature
hypoglycosylated TrkB isoforms are active in strengthening the response to excitatory
synapses in motoneurons. We identified the full length TrkB as well as 3 hypoglycosylated isoforms in cervical spinal segments that contain trapezius motoneurons and phrenic
motoneurons.
Taken together, these data indicate that TrkB is likely involved in regulating and
maintaining different classes of ion channels and synapses on the dendrites as well as the
soma. Various isoforms of TrkB may also be involved in regulating motoneuronal activity.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Radiopurity measurement of acrylic for the DEAP-3600 dark matter experiment

subject: poly(methyl methacrylate)

subject: Pb-210

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-14 19:27:47.533

abstract: The liquid argon target of the DEAP-3600 dark matter detector is contained by an extremely radiopure acrylic vessel. Alpha decays from the inner surface of the acrylic vessel are a source of background. If a fraction of the alpha energy is observed, or if the recoiling nucleus from the alpha decay is observed, the event will not be separated from a dark matter candidate event. In addition to the low level of inherent contamination from uranium and thorium, the Pb-210 from Rn-222 diffusion during manufacturing must be measured. The limit for the DEAP-3600 acrylic vessel is 1.1 × 10^−20 g/g Pb-210. By vaporizing a large quantity of acrylic and counting the concentrated residue with an ultralow background HPGe well detector and a low background alpha spectrometer, the bulk acrylic was found to have an upper limit of 10^−19 g/g Pb-210. The design, installation, commissioning, operation, and analysis for various aspects of the acrylic assay are described.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Properties of Absorbent Polymer Extractants for the Selective Removal of Target Molecules from Fermentation Systems

contributor:
Daugulis, Andrew J.
Chemical Engineering

subject: Polymer Absorption Partitioning Bioreactors Selectivity Biocatalysis

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Chemical Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-17 13:43:54.818

abstract:
This thesis investigated polymer properties for their application as extractants in two-phase partitioning bioreactors (TPPBs), which are intended to remove inhibitory fermentation products as they are produced. Three applications of polymer TPPB extractants were studied, followed by an investigation into poly(ether)-based polymers’ affinity toward representative target molecules, to identify properties which confer improved extraction performance.
The first investigation aimed to replace a liquid extractant (silicone oil) using a block copolymer, Hytrel® 8206, in the biotransformation of indene to cis-(1S,2R)-indandiol, a chiral pharmaceutical intermediate, by Pseudomonas putida ATCC55687. The polymer simultaneously delivered substrate and removed the product and by-products to alleviate inhibition, improving operability and productivity relative to silicone oil, which could only deliver substrate. Subsequently, soft segment composition and proportion were varied in different block copolymers to selectively extract product or by-product(s) from the same biotransformation, altering the cells’ production profile. This demonstrated selective polymer extraction to help direct substrate utilization toward the product rather than by-product(s) in complex biotransformations.
The next study was on absorptive extraction of a hydrophilic target molecule, 4-valerolactone, produced by recombinant Pseudomonas putida KT2440, featuring an equilibrium-limited final step. The aim was to demonstrate the first application of equilibrium-pulling using selective product absorption, improving production by 30%. Furthermore, this study showed that limited polymer water absorption is helpful to aid in extraction of hydrophilic target molecules, but high polymer water content compromises selectivity, diminishing the equilibrium-pulling effect.
Finally, the effects of soft block proportion, molecular weight, and chain-end composition on affinity toward representative target molecules, carveol and carvone, were studied using commercial block copolymers and their representative homopolymer components. Target molecule affinity improved at low molecular weights in the absence of polar homopolymer end-groups. End-group polarity had an effect whose direction depended on the polarity of the target molecule, improving affinity toward a third, polar target molecule, 4-valerolactone, thereby providing a means to tailor selectivity. Crystallinity and hard segment proportion were both found to reduce uptake.
This work has provided insights into the selection of polymeric TPPB absorbents by identifying polymer properties which improve affinity and selectivity toward different fermentation target molecules, especially relatively hydrophilic ones. The future design of purpose-built polymer extractants will benefit from considering these findings.

abstract: PhD


title: Three Essays on Volatility Measurement and Modeling with Price Limits: A Bayesian Approach

contributor:
Nielsen, Morten Ørregaard
Economics

subject:
Price Limits
Volatility

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Economics) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-22 10:29:12.507

abstract: This dissertation studies volatility measurement and modeling issues when asset prices are subject to price limits based on Bayesian approaches. Two types of estimators are developed to consistently estimate integrated volatility in the presence of price limits. One is a realized volatility type estimator, but using both realized asset prices and simulated asset prices. The other is a discrete sample analogue of integrated volatility using posterior samples of the latent volatility states. These two types of estimators are first constructed based on the simple log-stochastic volatility model in Chapter 2. The simple log-stochastic volatility framework is extended in Chapter 3 to incorporate correlated innovations and further extended in Chapter 4 to accommodate jumps and fat-tailed innovations. For each framework, a MCMC algorithm is designed to simulate the unobserved asset prices, model parameters and latent states. Performances of both type estimators are also examined using simulations under each framework. Applications to Chinese stock markets are also provided.

abstract: PhD


title: Evaluating Social-Ecological Resilience of an Urban Forestry Coalition: Trees for Life

contributor:
Whitelaw, Graham S.
Environmental Studies

subject:
Social Innovation
Urban Forestry
Developmental Evaluation
Ecosystem Services
Social-Ecological Resilience
Mixed Methods
Delphi Survey
Adaptive Environmental Management

abstract: Thesis (Master, Environmental Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-22 11:53:22.196

abstract: Meeting observations, literature review, document analysis, and Delphi surveying are used within a “mixed methodology” to tease out emerging patterns of thought in an effort to provide an urban forestry coalition, “Trees for Life” with critical information that could be used to help shape future projects. The purpose of this research is to identify key themes to help direct future Trees for Life (TFL) projects, and to also recognize stakeholders and possible new players to establish more productive partnerships within the coalition. Specific barriers that impede the success of TFL are also outlined. Ecological degradation of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) watershed continues, despite the many initiatives carried out by the Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) to protect and conserve ecosystem health. Social change is critical in addressing this issue. The TFL coalition is an umbrella group beneath Green Infrastructure Ontario (GIO), another coalition working towards establishing green infrastructure technologies and practices as required components of urban planning and development to address ecological degradation. This coalition is overseen by a steering committee that includes TRCA. The overarching goal of TFL is to increase tree canopy cover in the GTA to 40%.  The TFL is comprised of several urban forestry groups, each with unique roles and perspectives, but all striving to achieve the 40% goal. This research will help TFL to build adaptive capacity and may lead to the adoption of adaptive environmental management techniques. Ultimately, this study will provide some valuable insight into TFL and other programs involved with enhancing social-ecological resilience of the TRCA and the GTA.

abstract: M.E.S.


title: The Role of HSV-2 Proteins ICP0 and Us3 in Counteracting Cellular Antiviral Defence

contributor:
Banfield, Bruce
Microbiology and Immunology

subject:
Us3
Herpesvirus
intrinsic immunity
PML-NB
Virology
ICP0

abstract: Thesis (Master, Microbiology & Immunology) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-23 10:55:16.715

abstract: In response to viral infection, host cells activate various antiviral defence mechanisms to inhibit virus replication. Therefore in order for a virus to replicate efficiently, it must counteract cellular antiviral defence. Promyelocytic leukemia protein (PML) is a cellular protein involved in intrinsic immunity. It inherently forms nuclear bodies (PML-NBs) that assemble at the site of viral genomes. Proteins related to epigenetic regulation are recruited to PML-NBs, and silence viral gene transcription. This study focuses on the role of two herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) proteins, ICP0 and Us3, in disrupting PML-NBs and counteracting cellular antiviral defence. En passant mutagenesis was used to create recombinant HSV-2 viruses lacking ICP0, Us3, or both ICP0 and Us3. Growth analysis of these recombinants indicates no growth defects for the ICP0Δ virus, while the Us3Δ virus grows to one log lower titres than wild type virus (WT). By contrast, the ICP0Δ virus displays a delay in PML-NB disruption, but the Us3Δ virus is as efficient as WT. However, Us3 is still important for PML-NB disruption, since the ICP0Δ/Us3Δ double mutant exhibits a greater delay than the ICP0Δ single mutant. Although PML is a mediator of the interferon (IFN) response and it was predicted that ICP0 and Us3 interfere with the IFN response through disruption of PML-NBs, my results show that only some HSV-2 Us3Δ clones are hypersensitive to the effects IFN, and others are resistant. Us3 affects more than one cellular pathway, and those cellular pathways are affected by more than one viral protein. I conclude that the activities of multiple viral proteins create a fine balance between activating cellular pathways to promote virus replication, and inhibiting cellular antiviral defence.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Designing Organic User Interfaces

contributor:
Vertegaal, Roel
Computing

subject:
Industrial Design
Interaction Design
Organic User Interfaces
Shaped Interfaces
HCI

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-23 12:00:08.953

abstract: With the emergence of flexible display technologies, graphical user interfaces will no longer be limited to flat surfaces. As such, it will become necessary for interface designers to move beyond flat display designs, contextualizing interaction in an object’s physical shape. Grounded in early explorations of Organic User Interfaces (OUIs), this thesis examines the evolving relationship between industrial and interaction design and argues that not only what, but how we design is changing. To understand how to better design OUIs, we report on an empirical study of pointing behavior that shows how Fitts’ law can model movement time on an extremely convex surface. We also show that touch sensing technology can be repurposed for the OUI design process by making it possible to tape, draw, or paint touch sensing directly on a physical prototype. We then discuss how supporting sketching, a fundamental activity of many design fields, is increasingly critical for the interactive three-dimensional forms in OUI and that a ‘hypercontextualized’ approach to their design can reduce the drawbacks met when everyday objects become interactive. Finally, we discuss that when interactive hardware is seamlessly melded into an object’s shape, the ‘computer’ disappears. When designing OUIs, it is better seen as a basic material, like the clay, foam core, or plastics used by an industrial designer, and one that happens to have interactive potential.

abstract: My thesis contains a discussion about the use of a novel touch technology that is being considered for patenting. It is in chapter 3 under "resigraphs"

abstract: PhD


title: A Novel Variable Inductor-Based VCO Design with 17% Frequency Tuning Range for IEEE 802.11AD Applications

contributor:
Frank, Brian M.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
SiGe BiCMOS
variable inductor
VCO
IEEE 802.11ad
60 GHz
Colpitts oscillator

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-23 13:40:31.258

abstract:
This thesis focuses on the design and analysis of a novel variable inductor (VID) based VCO solution to the frequency tuning range (TR) limitation of the IEEE 802.11ad compliant radio systems. The IEEE 802.11ad standard has drawn strong attention from the industry as the next generation affordable multi-gigabit speed wireless communication standard. Prepared for the global market, IEEE 802.11ad compliant systems are required to cover a broad 8 GHz TR centered on 60 GHz. This wide TR at V band imposes significant challenge to the VCO design in radio transceivers, and makes the TR of the integrated VCO a major bottleneck to the successful commercialization of many IEEE 802.11ad compliant radio systems today.

As an effort to solve the current TR problem for the IEEE 802.11ad compliant radio systems, 2 VCOs designs based on this novel VID-based solution and a conventional Colpitts-Clapp VCO design are presented in this thesis report. The novel VCOs integrate a VID into the differential Colpitts configuration to create a feasible solution to the aforementioned TR problem. The VID in the VCO tank eliminates the base node varactors and their fixed parasitic capacitance that degrades TR in conventional VCO designs, while the differential Colpitts configuration provides advantageous performance at mm-wave frequencies and high output power for real-world applications. Also, a fundamental 30 GHz Colpitts-Clapp VCO was developed in conjunction with the other 2 VCOs for comparison purposes.

One of the 2 VID-based VCO designs is a fundamental 30 GHz VID-based Colpitts VCO that covers 17% TR for proof of concept to the novel topology. Another is an IEEE 802.11ad compliant 60 GHz VCO chain consists of the 30 GHz VID-based Colpitts VCO and a frequency doubler covering 17% TR with 3 dBm output power and -115.7 dBc/Hz phase noise at 10 MHz offset. The conventional Colpitts-Clapp VCO is used to compare with the other 2 VID-based VCOs. As the measurement results indicate, this VID-based VCO topology provides a viable solution to overcome the TR bottleneck in the current IEEE 802.11ad compliant VCO development. All 3 VCOs are fabricated using a 130 nm SiGe BiCMOS process.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: The Src/Stat3 axis in Met signaling in human invasive breast cancer: a potential predictive marker

contributor:
Raptis, Leda
Elliott, Bruce E.
Pathology and Molecular Medicine

subject:
Breast cancer
xenografts
Therapeutics
Metastasis

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-23 23:36:06.52

abstract:
Met has been found to be over-expressed in human breast cancer, correlating with disease progression and poor prognosis. Src and Stat3 have also been found to be over-expressed in many human cancers, including breast. Met, Src and Stat3 have all been proposed as potential therapeutic targets for basal-like breast cancer (BLBC), an aggressive subtype of breast cancer defined by expression of Cytokeratin 5/6 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). In addition, Src and Stat3 have been shown to act co-operatively to promote the transcription of HGF, while Stat3 can also increase the expression of Met mRNA. The goal of this study was to determine if Src and Stat3 affect the activity and expression of Met in human breast cancer. The study has also assessed the functional effect of Src, Stat3 and Met blockade on cultured breast cancer cells and a breast tumour xenograft model. Finally, a preliminary assessment was performed of Src, Stat3 and Met as biomarkers for distinct clinico-pathological parameters in a breast cancer cohort, and of the prognostic value of these markers in an online, publically available, breast cancer database.
The results demonstrate a density- and Src-dependent increase in Met protein levels in cultured cells, through Stat3 (Src/Stat3-Met). Furthermore Src, Stat3 or Met blockade in tumour xenograft models were found to inhibit primary tumour growth. However treatment with Dasatinib (Src inhibitor) or Met knockdown had no effect on pulmonary metastasis, while Stat3 inhibition (CPA7) increased metastasis, indicating that Stat3 may have a protective function in metastatic breast cancer. Finally Src and the Stat3 target gene, Cyclin D1, were found to correlate with distinct clinico-pathological parameters in a human breast cancer cohort.
My study has identified a Src/Stat3-regulated Met pathway in human invasive breast cancer. These findings further provide insight into the minimal effectiveness of Src and Met inhibitors as single agent therapeutics in breast cancer treatment.

abstract: The majority of data has not bee published. We therefore wish to restrict the thesis until the information is published.

abstract: PhD


title: Clinical Decision Support Algorithm for Prediction of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation Following Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

contributor:
Akl, Selim
Redfearn, Damian P.
Computing

subject: Computer Science

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-26 19:05:06.703

abstract:
Introduction: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is exhibited by 20-40% of patients following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). POAF is associated with increased long-term morbidity and mortality, as well as additional healthcare costs. I aimed to find techniques for predicting which patients are likely to develop POAF, and therefore who may benefit from prophylaxis.
Methods: Informed consent was obtained prospectively from patients attending for elective CABG. Patients were placed in the POAF group if atrial fibrillation (AF) was sustained for at least 30 seconds prior to discharge, and were placed in the ‘no AF’ (NOAF) group otherwise. I evaluated the performance of classifiers including binary logistic regression (BLR), k-nearest neighbors (k-NN), support vector machine (SVM), artificial neural network (ANN), decision tree, and a committee of classifiers in leave-one-out cross validation. Accuracy was calculated in terms of sensitivity (Se), specificity (Sp), positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and C-statistic.
Results: Consent was obtained from 200 patients. I excluded 21 patients due to postoperative administration of amiodarone, 5 due to perioperative AF ablation, and 1 due to both. Exclusions were also made for 8 patients with a history of AF, 2 patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED), and 3 patients with no CABG (valve replacement only). POAF was exhibited by 54 (34%) of patients. Factors significantly associated (P<0.05) with POAF were longer postoperative hospital stay, advanced age, larger left atrial (LA) volume, presence of valvular disease, and lower white blood cell count (WCC). Using BLR for dimensionality reduction, I created a feature vector consisting of age, presence of congestive heart failure (CHF) (P=0.06), valvular disease, WCC, and aortic valve replacement (AVR). I performed leave-one-out cross validation. In unlabeled testing data, I obtained Se=70%, Sp=56%, PPV=89%, NPV=26%, and C=58% using a committee (BLR, k-NN, and ANN).
Conclusion: My results suggest that prediction of patients likely to develop POAF is possible using established machine learning techniques, thus allowing targeting of appropriate contemporary preventative techniques in a population at risk for POAF. Studies appear warranted to discover new predictive indices that may be added to this algorithm during continued enrolment and validation.

abstract: I have two manuscripts based on this work that will be published in the coming months. I want to avoid those journals thinking that I have plagiarized my own work.

abstract: PhD


title: Morphological and behavioural evolution through the Ediacaran and basal Cambrian of the Mackenzie Mountains, NW Canada

contributor: Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering

subject: Geology Ediacaran Behaviour Ichnology

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geological Sciences & Geological Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-27 12:37:17.741

abstract:
The Mackenzie Mountains of NW Canada contains a superb record of biotic evolution through the late Ediacaran-early Cambrian that is ideal for studying the biological, ecological, behavioural, and environmental innovations that occurred during the Ediacaran and basal Cambrian. Newly discovered Ediacara-type megafossils in the uppermost Blueflower Formation at Sekwi Brook include tubes possibly attributable to suspension-feeding annelids, the preserved top of a large frond holdfast, and several problematica. These fossils represent the youngest and shallowest Ediacaran fossils known from NW Canada, and differ significantly from the communities of deep-water rangeomorphs preserved lower in the succession.

Behavioural evolution of the infauna through the Ediacaran and earliest Cambrian can be observed in the rich trace fossil records of the Blueflower and Ingta formations. Trace fossils in the lower part of the Blueflower Formation are characterized by millimeter-diameter, simple, horizontal burrows of microbial grazers and deposit feeders that demonstrated very primitive and inconsistent two-dimensional avoidance strategies. Upper Blueflower trace fossils additionally include three-dimensional avoidance burrows and oblique burrows of filter-feeders or predators, reflecting new behavioural innovations and increased three-dimensional use of the substrate. The Cambrian strata of the Ingta Formation further include probing, U-shaped, and radiating burrows, irregular networks, and arthropod trails. These new feeding strategies were accompanied by increasingly more systematic grazing burrows. The development of more diverse feeding styles upwards through the succession both caused and reflected the spatial and temporal disappearance of Proterozoic matgrounds and their replacement by Phanerozoic mixgrounds. Avoidance strategies among grazing burrows became more consistent and complicated upward throughout this succession, increasingly resembling the guided meanders of Phanerozoic trace fossils. This implies that, while the first avoidance burrows probably reflected the responses of individual burrowers to individual stimuli, genetically-coded programmed behaviour developed and became dominant in the earliest Cambrian. These observations imply that increases in sensory and neural capacity accompanied skeletonization as a major factor in the Cambrian explosion of animal life.

abstract: This thesis contains the name and description of a new taxon that has not yet been published

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Vital Networks:  The Biological Turn in Computation, Communication, and Control

contributor:
Hird, Myra J.
Sociology

subject:
communication
sociology
science and technology studies
control
Deleuze
simulations
biological inspiration
microbial communication
assemblages
vital network

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Sociology) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-27 14:57:29.139

abstract:
Networks, such as the Internet, are comprised of dense information flows with expansive, multi-directional reach that continuously change—and this changeability is what keeps the network active, relative, and vital. I call the form of network exhibiting those dynamic features the vital network. This form of network is not simply the outcome of connectivity and communication between affiliative objects and actors such as cell phones and humans that together convey a sense or feeling of ‘aliveness,’ it is the outcome of software programming goals for communication systems inspired by nonhuman, self-organizing biological life. The biological turn in computation produces an organizing logic for the vital network that self-propagates connections and disconnections, services, collectives, and structures proximal to forms that feel vital and dynamic. The vital network can do things, it has capacities to act, and different material consequences emerge out of the organization and coordination of communication with particular implications for human privacy, autonomy, and network transparency.
I examine the biological turn in computing as a feature within a development program for the design of digital network control systems that rely on self-regulation and autonomous communication processes intentionally constructed to be non-transparent. I explore nonhuman models of control as a response to this requirement considered through three objects: microbe, simulation, and control, each understood in process terms that disclose what these things do and how they act. It is appropriate to the concerns of this dissertation to think of these as object-processes occurring within three moments or transverse becomings: first, in terms of Gilles Deleuze’s notion of differentiation from the one to the many; secondly, from organism to simulation through the use of models to describe microbial processes in informatic terms; and finally, from description to control through the progression in computing from an emphasis on structure and descriptive procedures, to processes of control.
Given that so much of contemporary life is structured by communication technology, my study points to the need for an ethics of control to imagine how much and how deep control should go when considering the organization appropriate to our shared, technically enabled, sphere of communication.

abstract: PhD


title: Genetic Suppression of Stress Sensitivity Following Loss of SSPI (CAMKK) in Schizosaccharomyces Pombe

contributor:
Young, Paul G.
Biology

subject:
Ssp1 (CamKK)
Stress Response

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-27 15:55:29.75

abstract: Loss of the ssp1 protein kinase (CAMKK) gene results in stress sensitivity, cell elongation, slow growth and in some cases cell cycle arrest.  In order to identify new components of the ssp1 stress response pathway, a transposon mediated suppressor screen was used to identify loss of function suppressors of a Schizosaccharomyces pombe ssp1 gene disruption. The Musca domestica Hermes transposon was used to randomly insert the KanMx6 selectable marker in the genome.  The selection was for Hermes insertions which rescued the G2 cell cycle arrest phenotype of ssp1- when grown at pH 3.5 and 36 C.  Second site mutations that rescued the cell cycle arrest and allowed for colony formation were identified.   In total 121 mutant strains with elongated morphology but capable of colony formation at pH 3.5 and 36 C were isolated and 22 insertion sites were identified by inverse PCR and sequencing. Genes for a transcriptional suppressor, scr1 (SPBC1D7.02c ),  a spermidine transporter (SPCC569.05c ), cyp9 cyclophilin 9 (SPCC553.04), complexed with cdc5 (cwf4)  (SPBC31F10.11c),  ptr8 (SPAC17A5.06), (SPBC1921.07c), and set7 (SPCC297.04c) were identified as second site loss of function suppressors of the ssp1 deletion.  Identifying these genes and their phenotype in conjunction with loss of ssp1, substantially improves our understanding of the Ssp1 molecular pathway in cell cycle control and cell stress response

abstract: I am restricting my thesis to have my results to be published in a journal article soon. I need to keep those results from being public at the moment.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Effect of Crumb Rubber and Warm Mix Additives on Asphalt Aging, Rheological, and Failure Properties

contributor:
Hesp, Simon
Chemistry

subject:
Crumb Rubber
Rheology
Asphalt
WMA

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-30 11:56:43.978

abstract:
Asphalt-rubber mixtures have been shown to have useful properties with respect to distresses observed in asphalt concrete pavements. The most notable change in properties is a large increase in viscosity and improved low-temperature cracking resistance. Warm mix additives can lower production and compaction temperatures. Lower temperatures reduce harmful emissions and lower energy consumption, and thus provide environmental benefits and cut costs.
	In this study, the effects of crumb rubber modification on various asphalts such as California Valley, Boscan, Alaska North Slope, Laguna and Cold Lake were also studied. The materials used for warm mix modification were obtained from various commercial sources. The RAF binder was produced by Imperial Oil in their Nanticoke, Ontario, refinery on Lake Erie. A second commercial PG 52-34 (hereafter denoted as NER) was obtained/sampled during the construction of a northern Ontario MTO contract.
	Some regular tests such as Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) and Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR), Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR) and some modified new protocols such as the extended BBR test (LS-308) and the Double-Edge Notched Tension (DENT) test (LS-299) are used to study, the effect of warm mix and a host of other additives on rheological, aging and failure properties.
	A comparison in the properties of RAF and NER asphalts has also been made as RAF is good quality asphalt and NER is bad quality asphalt.
 From the studies the effect of additives on chemical and physical hardening tendencies was found to be significant. The asphalt samples tested in this study showed a range of tendencies for chemical and physical hardening.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Group Integration

contributor:
Lister, Andrew
Political Studies

subject:
Multiculturalism
Immigrant groups
Canadian Politics
Diversity

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Political Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-28 18:13:12.34

abstract:
This dissertation argues that we ought to promote the integration of groups as groups. Group integration is characterised by the process through which a group develops its own institutions and becomes a participatory member of its host society. This dissertation is neither a refutation of previous literature on individual integration, nor is it a rejection of the idea that immigrant groups are owed different rights than are national minorities and aboriginal groups. Instead, the goal is to fortify our understanding of what treatment is owed to immigrant groups. This dissertation argues that it is normatively desirable to promote group integration both for instrumental benefits in terms of expediting individual integration, and due to reasons of justice and democratic equality between groups.
	Chapters Two, Three, and Four are predominantly theoretical. They involve a discussion of the importance of group rights and group deliberation, why group integration is normatively desirable, and a response to theoretical critiques of my proposal that group integration ought to be promoted. Chapters Five and Six are based on an application of the theory developed in the preceding chapters, and explore cases where we can see evidence of group integration. It is argued that group integration can justify differentiated rights for immigrant groups that may have integrated, as individuals and groups, under different historical circumstances. The Sixth chapter explores some implications that group integration may have for a group that is not easily characterised by the traditional liberal multiculturalist categories of aboriginal, immigrant group, and national minority. Finally, in Chapter Seven I provide an overview of the three main rubrics of argumentation used in this dissertation.

abstract: PhD


title: NeCO: Ontology Alignment using Near-miss Clone Detection

contributor:
Cordy, James R.
Zouaq, Amal
Computing

subject:
Ontology
Clone Detection
Near-miss
Alignment

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-29 14:38:52.873

abstract: The Semantic Web is an endeavour to enhance the web with the ability to represent knowledge. The knowledge is expressed through what are called ontologies. In order to make ontologies useful, it is important to be able to match the knowledge represented in different ontologies. This task is commonly known as ontology alignment. Ontology alignment has been studied, but it remains an open problem with an annual competition dedicated to measure alignment tools' performance. Many alignment tools are computationally heavy, require training, or are useful in a specific field of study. We propose an ontology alignment method, NeCO, that builds on clone detection techniques to align ontologies. NeCO inherits the clone detection features, and it is light-weight, does not require training, and is useful for any ontology.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Understanding and predicting excavation damage in sedimentary rocks:  A continuum based approach

subject:
Excavation Damage
Tensile Strength
Sedimentary Rock
Continuum Modelling

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Geological Sciences & Geological Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-29 16:08:58.022

abstract:
The most widely accepted approach to long-term storage of nuclear waste is to design and construct a deep geological repository, where the geological environment acts as a natural barrier to radio nuclide migration. Sedimentary rocks, particularly argillaceous formations, are being investigated by many countries because of favorable isolating qualities (laterally continuous and low permeability) and the ability of self-sealing of fractures. Underground construction creates a damage zone around the excavation. The depth away from the excavation surface of the damage zone depends on the rock mass properties, the stress field, and the construction method. This research investigates the fracture development process in sedimentary rocks and evaluates continuum modelling methods to predict the damage zone dimensions.
At the laboratory scale, a complete classification system for samples of carbonate and siliciclastic rocks has been developed, with geotechnical considerations, which when applied narrows the variability of the mechanical properties. Using this system, crack initiation (CI) shows the most uniform range in each class, particularly for mud rocks. Tensile strength was found to be higher for the Brazilian method than Direct method of testing. Brazilian reduction to Direct values was found to be rock type dependent. Laboratory testing results are also influenced by the orientation of bedding.
Bedding and other structures were also found to influence the excavation behaviour as observed at the Niagara Tunnel Project in a mudstone and in excavations in the Quintner limestone of Switzerland. The conceptual stages of damage development and the potential fracture networks in sedimentary rocks are used to summarize the understanding of excavation damage developed in this thesis.
Using a continuum based modelling approach, a set of predictive damage depth curves were developed for the different excavation damage zones. This approach was found to be most sensitive to the tensile strength used as an input. Back analysis of the Niagara Tunnel Project and forward prediction of the excavation damage around a shaft in the Queenston Formation are used to illustrate the importance of this research. The prediction methods were also applied to cut-off design analysis. This research has enhanced the understanding of excavation damage development in sedimentary rocks and provided a methodology to predict the dimensions of the excavation damage zones using a continuum based approach.

abstract: PhD


title: Optimization and Biological Characterization of Decellularized Adipose Tissue Scaffolds for Soft Tissue Reconstruction

contributor:
Flynn, Lauren E.
Chemical Engineering

subject:
ECM (extracellular matrix)
Decellularization
Biomaterial
Adipose tissue engineering

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemical Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-30 12:25:22.044

abstract: It would be a great advantage in reconstructive surgery to have an off-the-shelf biomaterial to promote regeneration and volume augmentation following soft tissue damage. With this long-term objective, human adipose tissue (fat) is an abundant and accessible source of extracellular matrix (ECM) for bioscaffold fabrication. The main goal of the current research project was to optimize the established 5-day detergent-free decellularization protocol developed by the Flynn group, by shortening it to a maximum of 3 days, while achieving comparable results in terms of cell and lipid extraction with preservation of the ECM. The effectiveness of the optimized protocol was assessed by examination of the decellularized adipose tissue (DAT) and its characteristic biological properties, including in vitro bioactivity assays with human adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) to measure adipogenic potential, as well as in vivo testing of scaffold biocompatibility. In the optimized approach, the addition of mechanical processing steps including repeated pressing and centrifugation were shown to enhance cell extraction. Fibrous ultrastructure was observed under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for the original and optimized protocols. The preservation of collagen fibres was assessed with picro-sirius red staining and confirmed by high hydroxyproline content. Enhanced preservation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) was determined for the optimized protocol. Residual DNA content was higher in the DAT scaffolds processed with the optimized protocol, including larger DNA fragments that were not typically observed in the samples treated with the original protocol, which incorporated additional enzymatic treatment stages with DNase, RNase and lipase. However, no residual nuclei were visualized through DAPI staining for both protocols. Enhanced removal of DNA was achieved with electron beam (e-beam) sterilization. E-beam sterilization caused some changes in the fine fibrous structure of the ECM, but did not negatively affect the adipo-conductive potential in vitro. In comparison to the original protocol, DAT produced via the optimized protocol exhibited similar adipo-conductive properties in vitro. The in vivo biocompatibility study over a 16 week period using an immunocompetent Wistar rat model showed promising results. DAT implants produced with the original and optimized protocols promoted adipogenesis and angiogenesis, gradually being remodelled to resemble mature adipose tissue.

abstract: Publishable material.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Peroxide-Curable Macromonomer Derivatives of Isobutylene-Rich Elastomers

contributor:
Parent, J. Scott
Chemical Engineering

subject:
Macromonomer
Peroxide-Curable
Butyl Rubber
Ionomer

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemical Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-29 17:09:42.428

abstract:
Macromonomers bearing oligomerizable C=C functionality have been prepared by the nucleophilic displacement of allylic bromide functionality on brominated poly(isobutylene-co-isoprene) (BIIR). Whereas commercial grades of isobutylene-rich elastomers do not cure under the action of peroxides, these materials undergo simultaneous cross-linking and degradation when activated by radical initiators, with the competitive balance dictated by the reactivity of the oligomerizable group. Vinyl benzoate, vinyl imidazolium, and acrylate functionalities cure rapidly to high cross-link density whereas the maleimide graft is too reactive and unstable for any utility. Methacrylate and itaconate macromonomers cure to moderate extent while maleate esters and unactivated terminally unsaturated groups are unable to significantly counteract the degradation mechanism and do not afford any appreciable cross-link density to BIIR.

The most reactive macromonomers display the potential for scorch, an effect that is efficiently mitigated with the introduction of (2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-piperidin-1-yl)oxyl (TEMPO) to quench free radical cure activity. Furthermore, an acrylated adduct, AOTEMPO, is able to recover more of the cross-link density that would otherwise be lost to irreversible free radical coupling. These nitroxyls display longer than expected induction times, likely due to the catalytic nature of TEMPO when alkoxyamine decomposition is significant.

A suite of elastomeric ionomers bearing N-functional imidazolium bromide functionality have been prepared in order to investigate the N-alkylation dynamics with brominated poly(isobutylene-co-para-methylstyrene) (BIMS) as well as the subsequent peroxide cure activity of the reactive ionomer. A functional imidazole bearing a methacrylate group displayed moderate alkylation rate and good cure activity whereas a 4-vinylbenzyl analogue provides fast alkylation at the expense of storage stability. N-Allylimidazole is rapidly alkylated by BIMS in both solution and solvent free processes and the resulting ionomer displays unique cure dynamics. This phenomenon is investigated by model compound polymerization and is likely due to the unique free radical reactivity of allyl imidazolium moieties. The cross-linked ionomer displays many of the beneficial physical properties associated with a hybrid ionic/covalent network including good resistance to stress relaxation and thermal stability.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Jamaican Middle-Class Immigrants in Toronto: Habitus, Capitals and Inclusion

contributor:
Mullings, Beverley
Geography

subject:
Capitals
Skilled Immigrants
Jamaicans
Habitus

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-29 20:12:27.959

abstract:
This dissertation explores connections between the labour market experiences of skilled middle-class immigrants in Canada, and their civic engagement in both sending and receiving countries. My work expands scholarship by delving into the ways that the criteria of social distinction, such as gender, race, immigrant status, and class, and the internalized roles, values, and norms passed down over generations shape citizenship practice. I argue that there is a link between inclusion and the possibilities offered through civic engagement, in that the struggle for inclusion is also a struggle for the recognition of resources that are valued as markers of valued members of society.
This research engaged with a theoretical orientation that required synthesizing various forms of social structures that shape societies. Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of practice offered an alternative perspective on the use of assets in order to retain or improve social positioning, and the use of networks and civic engagement as a form of capital that can also serve to influence one’s place in society. Semi-structured interviews and participant observation were used to gather information regarding the experiences of skilled Jamaican immigrants involved in ethnic-based organizations that support economic, social, and infrastructural development projects in Jamaica and organizations that focus on the socio-economic well-being of the black community in Canada.
This research shows that the processes of migration and (re)settlement have implications for the ways ideologies and social relations shift across space. I found that historically-shaped values, ideals, and norms associated with the development of a middle-class identity informed the ways the participants responded to barriers in the labour market, and changes in socio-economic status. Responses to changed socio-economic positioning through civic engagement were found to be based on gendered relations, the recognition and experiences of racism, and political attitude towards Jamaica, and relied on familiar strategies of the uses of social and cultural capitals to retain and/or improve their middle-class positions. This process of negotiation revealed the complex ways that middle-class(ness) is produced and reproduced across territories, and the implications for civic participation not only in Canada, but also in support of Jamaican development.

abstract: PhD


title: Analysis of Discrete Shapes Using Lie Groups

contributor:
Ellis, Randy E.
Computing

subject:
Statistical Shape Analysis
Lie Groups

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-30 09:49:03.293

abstract:
Discrete shapes can be described and analyzed using Lie groups, which
are mathematical structures having both algebraic and geometrical
properties.  These structures, borrowed from mathematical physics, are
both algebraic groups and smooth manifolds.  A key property of a Lie
group is that a curved space can be studied, using linear algebra, by
local linearization with an exponential map.

Here, a discrete shape was a Euclidean-invariant computer
representation of an object.  Highly variable shapes are known to
exist in non-linear spaces where linear analysis tools, such as
Pearson's decomposition of principal components, are inadequate.  The
novel method proposed herein represented a shape as an ensemble of
homogenous matrix transforms.  The Lie group of homogenous transforms
has elements that both represented a local shape and
acted as matrix operators on other local shapes.  For the
manifold, a matrix transform was found to be equivalent to
a vector transform in a linear space.  This combination of
representation and linearization gave a simple implementation for
solving a computationally expensive problem.

Two medical datasets were analyzed: 2D contours of femoral
head-neck cross-sections and 3D surfaces of proximal femurs.  The
Lie-group method outperformed the established principal-component
analysis by capturing higher variability with fewer components.  Lie
groups are promising tools for medical imaging and data analysis.

abstract: PhD


title: Women's Citizenship: Between Bloodlines and Patriarchal Conditioning in Postcolonial Algeria

contributor:
McKittrick, Katherine
Gender Studies

subject:
Gender Violence
Algerian Civil War
Gender and Nation
Postcolonialism
Citizenship
Family Code
Algerian Feminist Activism
Resistance
Political Comic Strips
Islam

abstract: Thesis (Master, Gender Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-30 10:39:01.867

abstract: My thesis maps a genealogy of patriarchal structures that underpin Algerian history, culture, and institutions between the war of independence and the 1991-2001 civil war. More specifically, I contextualize the ways in which patriarchal lineages and origin stories—and thus the symbolic and structural promises of the family—underpin political struggle. In mapping these symbolic lineages found at work in the promise of independence, and the ways in which they underpin political struggle, I demonstrate how the war of independence reified and redefined familial and patriarchal kinships within political and social structures. I suggest that historical and social conditionings found at work at these different historical moments have legitimated, to a certain extent, the domination over women and a normalization of violence against them. My thesis examines social and political discourses at four central moments in Algerian history. Firstly, in the constructions of the Algerian nation-state post independence in 1962; secondly, in the Islamic Renaissance of the 1980s and the creation of the Family Code; and in a third moment, I draw connections between the Family Code, violent political clashes of 1990s and the civil war that ensued. Finally, I analyze laws and discourses created after the civil war and the resistance movements that have continuously contested power and oppression throughout these different periods.

abstract: M.A.


title: The Experiences of Students with Intellectual Disability and their Teachers During the Implementation Process of an Augmentative and Alternative Communication Device: A Case Study

contributor:
Colgan, Lynda
Education

subject: Intellectual Disability

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-30 11:38:38.195

abstract:
The purpose of this study was to describe the experiences of students with intellectual disability (ID) and their teachers throughout the implementation process of an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device. Two students and three teachers at an arts-based school for adults with developmental disabilities were trained by a speech and language pathologist on how to use the device. The students were selected by the teachers because they had limited ability to produce speech, and it was thought that they would benefit from using the device. The three teachers made up the school’s faculty, and the speech and language pathologist was selected based on her expertise working with people with developmental disabilities.
	Self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985) framed the study, and, it guided the observations and discussion of this thesis. Student experiences were explained through the lens of this theory, but teacher experiences were more applicable to Guskey’s (1989) model of teacher change. This framework was used to interpret the experiences of the teachers.
	Data were collected through direct observations and teacher journals throughout the implementation process, and semi-structured interviews, post-implementation. A total of 10, one-hour observations per student were conducted between January 15, 2013 and March 11, 2013; with one additional observation of an unplanned follow-up session that lasted one-and-a-half hours on May 8, 2013. The researcher observed student communication and engagement before, during, and after the device was brought into the class. The implementation steps included: introduction and experimentation with the AAC device in-class; teacher-only training; in-class student coaching and modeling; and withdrawal of SLP support.
	This study found that that there were practical and logistical challenges with AAC device implementation for both students and teachers. Limited time for in-class training, strategic planning, goal-setting, and financial resources, such as funds to hire supply teachers so that teachers could observe in-class training, were barriers to implementation. One student, more than the other, used the AAC device to communicate throughout the study. Recommendations emerging from the study included more purposeful advance planning, goal-setting, developing teacher pedagogical knowledge prior to implementation, and collectively-planned in-class training sessions for students and teachers.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Wah Eye Nuh See Heart Nuh Leap: Queer Marronage In The Jamaican Dancehall

subject:
Homophobia
African Retention
Performance
Jamaica
Performativity
Legal Geographies
Caribbean
Black Geographies
Blindspot
Queerness
Geo-psychic Blindspot
Performance as Personhood
Dancehall
Resistance Technologies
Queer Visibility
Blackness
Queerness as Praxes
Identity Politics
Modernity
Queerness of Blackness
Dancehall Geographies
Sexuality
Plantation Technologies
Colonial Debris
Queer Imperialism
Unvisibility
Colonialism

abstract: Thesis (Master, Gender Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-30 13:32:15.082

abstract: This thesis explores the interweaving of colonial and post-colonial British and Jamaican Laws and the interpretive legalities of sexuality, compulsory heterosexuality, and queerness. The research project begins by exploring the ways in which the gendered colonial law produces black sexualities as excessive and in need of discipline while also noticing how Caribbean peoples negotiate and subvert these legalities.  The work then turns to dancehall and its enmeshment with landscape (which reflects theatre-in-the round and African spiritual ceremonies), psycho scape (which retains African uses of marronage and pageantry as personhood), and musicscape (which deploys homophobia to demand heterosexuality), in order to tease out the complexities of Caribbean sexualities and queer practices.  I couple these legal narratives and geographies with interviews and ethnographic data and draw attention to the ways in which queer men inhabit the dancehall.  I argue that queer men participate in a dancehall culture—one that is perceived as heterosexual and homophobic—undetected because of the over-arching (cultural and aesthetic) queerness of the space coupled with the de facto heterosexuality afforded all who ‘brave’ dancehall’s homophobia. Queer dancehall participants report that inhabiting this space involves the tactical deployment of (often non-sexual) heterosexual signifiers as well as queering the dancehall aesthetic by moving from margin to centre. In so doing, I argue, queer dancehall queers transition from unvisible (never seen but always invoked) to invisible (blending into the queered space) while also moving across and through, as well as calling into question, North American gay culture, queer liberalism, and identity politics.

abstract: M.A.


title: Application of Distributed Generation Sources for Micro-Grid Power Quality Enhancement

contributor:
Bakhshai, Alireza
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject: THESIS

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-02-01 08:16:28.205

abstract:
In conventional power generation systems, large centralized plants operating on fossil fuel mainly generate the electric power. The generated electricity has to travel through the long transmission and distribution lines to be delivered to the end users. In addition to being costly, this structure yields poor reliability and low efficiency. On the other hand, serious concerns have been raised about the shortage of fossil fuels, global warming, and energy security. As a result, the power systems are moving toward more distributed structures based on renewable energy resources.
During the last decade, the concept of small-scale energy resources distributed over the grid has gained a considerable interest. This concept is often called distributed generation (DG). DG systems are mainly using renewable energy sources as their prime movers. Renewable energy sources (including biomass, wind, solar, hydropower, and geothermal) can provide clean, efficient, reliable and adequate energy supply while making modern energy services accessible and affordable.
However, despite the substantial benefits of distributed generation, the application of an individual DG system can cause as many problems as it may solve. To avoid such problems and to realize the emerging potential of distributed generation, a system approach has been taken, in which generation and loads are considered as a subsystem called “micro-grid”.
One important issue in the existing power network is the capability of renewable energy sources to increase the power quality of the micro-grid. One aspect of this feature is harmonic compensation using distributed resources.
In this thesis an adoptive notch filter (ANF) is employed in the control system of a distributed generation (DG) system for harmonic compensation. It is shown that the performance of the system is highly improved using the adoptive notch filter.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Female Ornamentation in the American Robin

contributor:
Montgomerie, Robert
Biology

subject:
birds
Maternal Investment
Assortative Mating
Female Ornamentation

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-30 15:09:57.797

abstract:
Ornamental traits in male birds have been the subject of much research effort, and sexual selection is recognized as the leading explanation for their evolution. The expression of ornamental traits in females has received little study until recent decades. Female colouration has been considered a non-adaptive, correlated response to selection on males. However, models predict that male mate choice, female competition, and the evolution of honest signals could help explain female ornamentation, especially where male investment in offspring and variation in female quality are high. I investigated this in the American robin (Turdus migratorius), a socially monogamous species with bi-parental care and variable female ornamentation. Female robins display conspicuous red breast plumage, bright yellow bills, and achromatic ornamentation. Female ornamentation is similar to males, but is subdued to varying degrees across individuals.
Female colouration could function as a useful criterion in mate selection by males if it is correlated with aspects of female quality important to producing viable offspring. I assessed whether female ornamentation in robins might act as an honest signal by relating variation in female colour to measures of individual quality and reproductive investment. To assess ornamentation, I took colour measurements of the bill, crown and breast of male and female robins in the field using reflectance spectrometry. Female bill, breast and crown traits reliably predicted age, crown and bill colour traits were related to better body condition, and bill colour decreased seasonally as well as with ectoparasite load. I found evidence of assortative mating based on crown UV reflectance and bill colour. To assess reproductive investment, I measured egg size, yolk proportion, and deposition of yolk testosterone and carotenoids. Females with brighter (lighter) carotenoid-based bill colour laid larger eggs, and females with yellower bills laid eggs with higher yolk proportions and more total yolk carotenoids. Yolk testosterone level was associated with redder female breasts. These results support the hypothesis that female colour may be a reliable indicator of individual quality and capacity for reproductive investment.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Development of a Functional Assay for Determination of BRCA1 Carrier Status

contributor:
Davey, Scott
Pathology and Molecular Medicine

subject: BRCA1

abstract: Thesis (Master, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-31 20:49:06.393

abstract: Given the high risk of cancer development associated with BRCA1 mutation carriers, it is important that they be identified early and accurately. Identification is impeded however, by the large number of variants of unknown significance (VUS) and the pleiotropic nature of BRCA1 function. Our lab has developed a novel functional assay that identifies BRCA1 mutation carriers based on gene signatures in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-transformed lymphoblastoid cells (LCLs). Given that this assay was developed using blood-derived cells, we hypothesized that the same abnormally regulated genes would be detected in fresh blood samples and that this could be used to develop a novel blood-based functional assay for the determination of BRCA1 status in a patient population. The first part of the study used selected reaction monitoring-mass spectrometry (SRM-MS) as well as flow cytometry (FC) to determine protein expression in LCLs and identify potential targets for the development of a protein-based functional assay. Interestingly, many of the strong predictors of BRCA1 carriers were proteins involved in two signalling pathways: Interferon (IFN)-regulated signalling and B cell development. If validated in fresh blood samples, these observations represent potentially novel findings and suggest yet unexplored functions for BRCA1. Next, this study established the methodology to identify the desired cell population within a heterogeneous whole-blood sample by determining that LCLs express the pan B cell surface marker CD20. To determine which targets were detectable in CD20+ B cells isolated from fresh blood samples, mRNA and protein expression of the selected targets was examined using a sample cohort of BRCA1 mutation carrier and non-carrier control patients. The results showed that four mRNA targets, CXCR3, GLDC, IFIT1 and TBX21 were detectable in these fresh blood samples identifying them as appropriate targets for further development of a qRT-PCR-based assay. However, given poor RNA quality and changes in transcript expression levels as the age of the blood samples increased, the development of a protein-based assay is the best approach moving forward. Moreover, four proteins, IGHM, IGHD, CD24 and CXCR3, had high expression on CD20+ B cells, identifying them as the best targets for further development of a FC-based functional assay.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Effective Institutionalized Antiracism: Negotiating Backlash, Neoliberalization, and Geopolitics

contributor:
Kobayashi, Audrey
Geography

subject:
backlash
geopolitics
political geography
neoliberalization
social geography
antiracism

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-31 08:45:08.578

abstract: In this research, I provide a foundation for theorizing and understanding institutionalized antiracism initiatives; under-examined sites of geographical research. Through an examination of three different research sites (Queen’s University, the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), I seek to understand how organizations working in different contexts negotiate a range of variables so as to achieve the most effective outcomes possible. With a focus on site-specific context and its role in antiracist initiatives, this research combines a range of qualitative methods including interviews and researcher observations to assess the factors that influence the strategic directions and decisions of organizations. This thesis contributes to the exploration of social change and human rights strategies by positioning institutionalized antiracism initiatives as the focus of study; highlighting the importance of geopolitical context and other institutional factors in this work; identifying key challenges and opportunities; presenting findings on effective human rights strategies; and filling a gap in this area of geographic study. More specifically, this research demonstrates that institutionalized antiracism initiatives experience specific advantages and challenges as a result of factors internal and external to the organization. It also provides insight into the climate of social change in Canada and reveals some important findings with regard to antiracism strategies that can be used by organizations to improve the effectiveness of their initiatives and programs.

abstract: PhD


title: Modelling motor cortex using neural network control laws

contributor:
Scott, Stephen H.
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
Motor Cortex
Machine Learning
Neural Networks
Neuroscience

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Neuroscience) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-31 10:34:43.816

abstract: The ease with which our brains learn to control our bodies belies intricate neural processing which remains poorly understood. We know that a network of brain regions work together in a carefully coordinated fashion to allow us to move from one place to another. In mammals, we know that the motor cortex plays a central role in this process, but precisely how its activity contributes to control is a matter of long and continued debate. In this thesis we demonstrate the need for developing mechanistic neural network models to address this question. Using such models, we show that contentious response properties of non-human primate primary motor cortex (M1) neurons can be understood as reflecting control processes which take into account the physics of the body. And we develop new computational techniques for teaching neural network models how to execute control. In the first study (Chapter 2), we critically examined a recently developed correlation-based descriptive model for characterizing the activity of M1 neuron activity. In the second study (Chapter 3), we developed neural network control laws which performed reaching and postural tasks using a physics model of the upper limb. We show that the population of artificial neurons in these networks exhibit preferences for certain directions of movement and certain forces applied during posture. These patterns parallel empirical observations in M1, and the model shows that the patterns reflect particular features of the biomechanics of the arm. The final study (Chapter 4) develops new techniques for building network models. To understand how the brain solves difficult control tasks we need to be able to construct mechanistic models which can do the same. And, we need to be able to construct controllers that compute via simple neuron-like units. In this study, we combine tools for automatic computation of derivatives with recently developed ideas about second-order approaches to optimization to build better neural network control laws. Taken together, this thesis helps develop arguments for, and the tools to build mechanistic neural network models to understand how motor cortex contributes to control of the body.

abstract: Sections of the thesis contain unpublished ideas which we do not wish to be made publicly available at this date.

abstract: PhD


title: Encyclopaedism, Collecting and the Singular Event: a Study of Fictions of Order

contributor:
Willmott, Glenn
English

subject: English Encyclopaedia

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, English) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-31 15:24:08.171

abstract:
The ordering of knowledge is generally understood as the process through which ideas are anchored to structure. If the nature of the structure is understood, the ideas that it contains are navigable and retrievable, particularly in their relation to one another. To maneuver through our epistemological history, we turn to the map, dictionary, museum, and so on—sanctioned spaces that purposefully bring together the variables of what we know. Currently, studies regarding encyclopaedism in fiction have been devoted almost entirely to its use in satire, as the pretence to totalized knowledge is rife with satirical possibilities.  My dissertation proposes that encyclopaedism is more than merely girth or epic ambition; it is also an expression of the desire to understand and communicate the experience of the world through ordering systems.
My second chapter provides a theoretical discussion of collecting and its relation to encyclopaedism with an interdisciplinary methodology drawn from psychoanalytic and phenomenological theories.  I propose that collecting (like writing) is less a working-through of a psychoanalytic problem than an engagement with a phenomenological problem, and psychoanalytic theory describes only part of a process that is fundamentally about our relationship to the world of objects and ideas.  My third chapter charts the arc of the encyclopaedic paradigm, considering its philosophic and literary consequences beginning with seventeenth century encyclopaedic projects.  These early encyclopaedias (also known as Dictionaries) served as a catalyst for the aestheticization of classificatory representational systems which in their practical form were thought to represent both transparently and pragmatically and to signify a totality of knowledge. My fourth chapter looks at specific examples of encyclopaedism in fiction, with an emphasis on the generative possibilities of the encyclopaedic work.
My dissertation provides an updated exploration of the encyclopaedic paradigm, showing how and why in recent years it has be manipulated to account for the unaccountable through the mapping of impossible worlds or the ordering of an only partially knowable totality, relevant to an age seduced by the possibility of ordering the mind, the infinite and the unknowable.

abstract: I would like to keep it private for 5 years

abstract: PhD


title: Guided Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioural Self-Management Intervention for Individuals With Chronic Pain: a Feasibility Study

contributor:
Van Den Kerkhof, Elizabeth
Nursing

subject: chronic pain

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Nursing) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-31 11:54:25.7

abstract:
Background:  The “gold standard” in chronic pain treatment is multidisciplinary care.  With long wait times to receive appropriate care, there is a need for improved access to non-pharmacological treatments in the time gap between primary and specialist care.  The Internet is emerging as a tool for delivery of healthcare information and intervention.  Using this format to offer access to chronic pain therapies prior to specialist intervention may improve outcomes.
Objective:  To develop and test a guided Internet-based intervention for individuals with chronic pain waiting for specialty care.
Method:  A novel, Internet-based chronic pain intervention (ICPI) was developed, using evidence-based concepts proven effective in face-to-face interventions.  This study was designed to assess feasibility of conducting larger-scale research and usability of the ICPI, and to collect preliminary data on effectiveness of the intervention.  Data were collected at baseline, after each of the six intervention modules and 12 weeks after completion of the intervention.
Results:  Participants with chronic pain (n=41) reported satisfaction with the structure of the intervention, and ease of use at and away from their computers.  Use of the Internet as a recruitment strategy aided in accrual of participants, making further large-scale study of the ICPI feasible.  Preliminary data showed that the ICPI was effective in improving emotional function, had no demonstrable effect on physical function and produced a small but significant decrease in average and current pain intensity and pain interference.  Most participants felt they benefited at least minimally overall as a result of using the ICPI.
Conclusion:  The newly-developed ICPI was well-received by participants and demonstrated some positive outcomes in this preliminary study.  Further research with more participants is feasible and necessary, to fully assess the effect of this intervention.

abstract: PhD


title: Effects of an invasive consumer on zooplankton communities are unaltered by nutrient inputs

contributor:
Arnott, Shelley E.
Biology

subject:
Nutrient Enrichment
Zooplankton
Zebra Mussels
Multiple Stressors
Antagonistic
Invasive Species
Trophic Interactions

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-31 15:20:15.387

abstract: Interactions between multiple anthropogenic stressors can have unexpected synergistic or antagonistic effects, making it difficult to predict their combined effect using single stressor studies. The interaction between invasive consumers and nutrient enrichment is particularly important as both of these stressors frequently co-occur and their respective bottom-up and top-down effects have the potential to interact across multiple trophic levels. We conducted a mesocosm experiment that crossed an increasing nutrient addition gradient against an increasing zebra mussel invasion gradient. Native zooplankton communities were added to the mesocosms, and after three months we examined how the single stressor effects on available resources and the zooplankton community were altered by their multiple stressor interaction. Added nutrients had no effect on primary producer abundance, but increased the abundance and dominance of the top consumer, which likely increased predation pressure on the producers and so prevented their response to increased nutrients. Zebra mussels reduced total phytoplankton abundance by ~75%, rotifer abundance by ~80%, and shifted communities towards dominance of cladocerans and adult/juvenile copepods. When combined, the top-down control exerted by the mussels interacted antagonistically to prevent any bottom-up influence of nutrient enrichment on the zooplankton community. These results provide insight into the potential outcomes of nutrient and invasive consumer stressor interactions, and illustrate the need for researchers to consider single stressor problems in a multiple stressor context.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Living in Harmony with Nature: A Post-Human Analysis of Consumers’ Relationships with Nature

contributor:
Handelman, Jay
Management

subject:
Sustainable Consumption
Post-Humanism
Human/Nature Relationship
Materialism
Harmony
Nature Agency
Nature

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Management) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-31 14:58:31.326

abstract:
Living in harmony with nature is a pervasive ideology, or cultural blueprint, of how a "sustainable future,” a "good society,” and a "fulfilled life" would look like. However, this notion of harmony with nature is highly paradoxical, as consumers often want and even must dominate and control nature. The current thesis explores consumers’ desires of living in harmony with nature through a post-human analysis of how backcountry hikers negotiate tensions between utilitarian and romantic discourses of nature vis-à-vis their experience of material forces of nature. Through conceptualizing nature as an active actor in a symmetric assemblage of material and cultural entities (i.e., nature agency), this thesis contributes to our understanding of the human/nature relationship, materialism, and sustainable consumption.
Findings are presenting through three interrelated themes. The first theme highlights how hikers appropriate romantic discourses by seeking harmony in a nature that is perceived as external to civilization. Noting the contradiction that hikers’ quest for being in harmony with a “romantic nature” oftentimes exposes them to higher physical dangers in material nature, the subsequent themes explore how harmony can arise when hikers have to struggle with physical dangers of nature. Focusing on physical dangers that are experienced in material nature, theme 2 finds that hikers’ relationship with nature is highly ambivalent: They strive to experience “more nature and less civilization”, but also “more civilization and less nature.” The third theme explores how meanings of nature and technology emerge from fluidly shifting assemblages, finding that the same technological resources can both distract from and enable feelings of harmony with nature.
These findings contribute to consumer research by broadening our understanding of the human/nature relationship and by challenging previous notions (Canniford and Shankar 2013) that technology and civilization must always betray consumers’ experiences of “romantic nature.” Furthermore, the notions of nature agency and that no single actor can unilaterally shape the assemblage of heterogeneous entities contribute to the emerging material turn in consumer research. Finally, this post-human analysis of consumers’ relationships with nature offers theoretical and practical implications for sustainable consumption and sustainable marketing.

abstract: PhD


title: GFRP-Reinforced Concrete Guideway Beams for Monorail Applications

contributor:
Green, Mark F.
Fam, Amir Z.
Civil Engineering

subject:
Field Study
Fibre Reinforced Polymer
Reinforced Concrete
Structural Analysis
Transit Infrastructure

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-31 15:15:31.307

abstract:
Increased demand for reliable public transit is motivating new and innovative transportation solutions. Monorail trains are quickly being established as transportation solutions for dense urban areas, due to their unobtrusive infrastructure. To obtain maximum value from investments made, the infrastructure is required to last longer than typical reinforced concrete. This thesis will explore the use of glass-fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars as reinforcement in concrete guideway beams as a means of avoiding the deterioration problems that plague steel-reinforced concrete.
This thesis includes a two part investigation: a full-scale field application of a GFRP-reinforced concrete guideway beam (690 mm x 1,500 mm x 11,600 mm), compared to a typical steel-reinforced beam (both installed on a 1.86 km long monorail test track); and a laboratory study of a scaled-down version of the GFRP-reinforced beam to better predict behaviour beyond typical service load levels.
A total of 450 test passes of a two-car monorail train were observed over the two instrumented beams on the track. These passes were performed at vehicle loads ranging from fully unloaded for the first testing phase, up to the maximum allowable design service load. At each stage of testing, vehicle speeds ranged from as low as 5 km/h to as high as 90 km/h, allowing for the dynamic behaviour of the guideway to be observed and quantified. Deflections, strains, and cracks were recorded and compared with code/guideline limitations as well as to numerical predictions to determine which design tools were most effective and could predict behaviour accurately. In the laboratory, the half-scale GFRP-reinforced beam was tested statically to failure, and the behaviour was compared to the same modelling tools used in the field study.
Based on the testing performed, the GFRP-reinforced concrete beams performed satisfactorily and met all serviceability requirements, but did not perform as well as the steel-reinforced beam (as a result of the reduced stiffness of GFRP). The use of non-prestressed GFRP-reinforced beams should be limited to applications where spans are of comparable length to the field study. To maintain satisfactory performance, guideway spans significantly longer will need to continue to be design as prestressed beams.

abstract: Research for thesis conducted with industry partner. As part of the contractual agreement with partner, the Thesis shall be restricted for a period of up to 6 months.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: A Study on the Charging of Electric Vehicles On a Prototypical Residential Feeder

subject:
Smart Grid
Electric Vehicle Charging

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-31 16:02:37.201

abstract:
Due to recent concerns regarding energy conservation and dependence on fossil fuels, the efficient integration of electric vehicle populations’ in the future smart grid has become a significant area of research.  Despite the heavy penetration of smart meters throughout North America and Europe a lack of research exists utilizing real consumption data.

Making use of smart meter data, a model of a prototypical residential feeder was created to observe the effects of increased electric vehicle penetration on the selected feeder.  Simulations of the current operation of the feeder were performed along with modeled uncoordinated, coordinated, and coordinated vehicle to grid charging of electric vehicles.

As expected, it was found that the normal operation of the feeder is subject to several inefficiencies which are made worse by uncoordinated charging of electric vehicles.  Significant improvements in the considered operational parameters were found as a result of the coordinated charging of vehicles using a quadratic programming based control algorithm.  Further it was found, that the use of coordinated vehicle to grid connections only produces marginal benefits over standard connections.  Leading to the conclusion that development of charging controls is more significant to the mitigation of electric vehicle charging effects than the integration of vehicle to grid connections.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Thinking outside the lake: Multiple scales of amphipod recovery

contributor:
Arnott, Shelley E.
Gunn, John
Biology

subject:
Biological Recovery
Landscape Limnology

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2014-01-31 21:50:26.021

abstract: Tracking recovery in disturbed environments requires the consideration of many spatial and temporal scales. A sensitive indicator organism, Hyalella azteca, was used to assess lake recovery at multiple scales in the region of Sudbury, Canada. A 40-lake presence-absence survey was conducted over a period of 23 years to track colonization history and chemical factors that limit this typically ubiquitous organism. A six-lake study was used to investigate the importance of spatially varying watershed characteristics within lakes, which could provide habitat hot spots for colonization during early stages of recovery. An intensive single-lake study examined the effects of local-scale chemistry (e.g., bioavailable metals, waterborne organic matter) and adjacent subcatchment terrestrial features on the availability of suitable habitat for colonizing amphipods. At the regional scale, presence-absence models suggested that colonization probability increased with lake water conductivity and alkalinity. Within lakes, subcatchment confluence sites appeared to be important habitats in the early stages of colonization. Site-specific features, such as macrophyte and woody debris cover, increased and decreased H. azteca abundance, respectively, and yet these relationships were influenced by adjacent terrestrial subcatchment characteristics. For example, with more terrestrial vegetation, the relative increase in abundance due to macrophyte cover was further increased. Within the intensively-studied lake, larger subcatchments with more terrestrially-derived waterborne organic matter had higher abundances of H. azteca. Using H. azteca as an indicator of aquatic ecosystem health, these relationships suggest that as lakes recover, subcatchment confluence sites can be hot-spots for colonization, and their suitability improves with interactions between local habitat characteristics and terrestrial characteristics.

abstract: M.Sc.