title: Twenty Years and Counting: Examining the Development of Equity and Inclusive Education Policy in Ontario (1990-2010)

contributor:
Kutsyuruba, Benjamin
Education

subject: education equity

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-18 17:16:53.936

abstract:
Despite a long history of multicultural education initiatives in Ontario (Chan, 2007), Harper (1997) argues that “racially motivated violence, gender and sexual harassment, and cultural and class conflict that continue to occur in Ontario schools” demonstrate the need for new and better ways to respond to student diversity (p. 203).  The Ontario Ministry of Education responded to these inadequacies by mandating that school boards develop equity and inclusive education policies, as specified in Policy/Program Memorandum No. 119 (2009) Developing and Implementing Equity and Inclusive Education Policies in Ontario Schools.  Still, a considerable and observable gap exists between the goals of policy and the realities of practice in many Ontario schools.  A necessary starting point in analyzing this gap is to examine the development of equity education policy in Ontario as documented in PPM No. 119 (2009).
	Relying on document analysis and policy analysis as the sole methods of data collection, I documented the ideological, socio-cultural, political, legal, and economic context from which PPM No. 119 (2009) developed in order to understand what groups of stakeholders were included in the development of PPM No. 119 (2009) and whose values the policy document ultimately represents.
	Collected documents that represent both the federal and provincial level of policymaking and a variety of regional stakeholders and policy actors illustrated that, despite a shift to focus on equity, conceptions of liberal multiculturalism continue to influence education policy in Ontario.  Authoritative decision makers at the Ontario Ministry of Education ultimately trumped the recommendations made by a variety of stakeholder groups and policy actors during the process of policy decision-making.
	I concluded that the process of equity education policy development must become a more inclusive process, reflecting the identities, values, and experiences of school administrators, teachers, and students.  However, if the goals of equity in education remain framed within the discourse of liberal multiculturalism and the hierarchical process of policymaking is not deconstructed, the goal of equity may continue to evade Ontario’s education system.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Single-Microphone Speech Dereverberation: Modulation Domain Processing and Quality Assessment

contributor:
Chan, Wai-Yip Geoffrey
Electrical and Computer Engineering

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:
Speech enhancement
Dereverberation
Speech signal processing

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-20 03:18:30.021

abstract:
In a reverberant enclosure, acoustic speech signals are degraded by reflections from
walls, ceilings, and objects. Restoring speech quality and intelligibility from reverberated speech has received increasing interest over the past few years. Although multiple channel dereverberation methods provide some improvements in speech quality/
intelligibility, single-channel dereverberation remains an open challenge. Two types of advanced single-channel dereverberation methods, namely acoustic domain spectral subtraction and modulation domain filtering, provide small improvement in speech quality and intelligibility. In this thesis, we study single-channel dereverberation algorithms. Firstly, an
upper bound of time-frequency masking (TFM) performance for dereverberation is
obtained using ideal time-frequency masking (ITFM). ITFM has access to both the
clean and reverberated speech signals in estimating the binary-mask matrix. ITFM
implements binary masking in the short time Fourier transform (STFT) domain, preserving
only those spectral components less corrupted by reverberation. The experiment
results show that single-channel ITFM outperforms four existing multi-channel
dereverberation methods and suggest that large potential improvements could be
obtained using TFM for speech dereverberation. Secondly, a novel modulation domain spectral subtraction method is proposed for dereverberation. This method estimates modulation domain long reverberation spectral variance (LRSV) from time domain LRSV using a statistical room impulse response (RIR) model and implements spectral subtraction in the modulation domain. On one hand, different from acoustic domain spectral subtraction, our method
implements spectral subtraction in the modulation domain, which has been shown
to play an important role in speech perception. On the other hand, different from
modulation domain filtering which uses a time-invariant filter, our method takes the
changes of reverberated speech spectral variance along time into account and implements spectral subtraction adaptively. Objective and informal subjective tests show
that our proposed method outperforms two existing state-of-the-art single-channel
dereverberation algorithms.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Children’s Active Transportation to School: the Role of Parental Perceptions, Social Connections, and the Neighbourhood Environment in the Success of a Walking School Bus Program

contributor:
Moore, Spencer
O'Connor, Kathleen Steel
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject: Parental Social Connections

subject: Walking School Bus Program

subject: School Active Transportation

subject: Parental Perceptions of Active Transportation

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-20 17:17:15.828

abstract:
During the 2010-11 school year, KFL&A Public Health partnered with Lancaster Drive Public School (LDPS) to develop and implement a Walking School Bus Program (WSBP). This study was designed as a pre-test post-test study to explore parental concerns and attitudes towards their children’s use of active transportation and the WSBP, perceptions of the social and built environment, and how these may be associated with parental willingness to allow their children to participate in the WSBP.  However, a low response rate did not allow comparisons of pre- and post-test results. Therefore, this thesis uses the pre-test data as a pilot study to evaluate the methods, tools, and feasibility of a future, multi-school pre-and post-test study.
As part of the pilot study, a questionnaire was developed and administered to 298 households. Parental willingness was assessed using one item rated on a 10-point scale. Concerns and attitudes were assessed from similar scales developed for this study. Social environment perceptions were measured using a neighbourhood collective efficacy scale and a name generator/interpreter social network instrument. Multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the association of parental willingness with the aforementioned variables.
Fifty parents participated, which may have contributed to low power to detect associations. However, even with low power, attitudes of parents whose children had already used active transportation to school were found to be significantly associated with willingness when contrasting high and low levels (OR: 1.61, 95%CI: 1.02-2.54). This association did not appear in parents of children who used inactive transportation. Significant correlations were seen between parental willingness and compositional aspects of parental social network ties, i.e., having ties to individuals of diverse ages (τ=0.271) and having ties to individuals with children of the same age as their own (τ=0.267). Qualitative analyses of concerns revealed sub-themes related to the traffic, the need to cross a street, and the need for a suitable place to walk and bicycle, as well as concerns about the WSBP.  KFL&A Public Health, LDPS, and Kingston’s City Traffic Engineers can use these results to address barriers to the WSBP and to advocate for improvements in the community infrastructure.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Understanding the Primary Health Care Needs and Current Care Guidelines for Women Following Breast Cancer Treatment: a Scoping Review and Validation Study

contributor:
Aiken, Alice
Rehabilitation Science

subject:
Primary Care Physician
Cancer Survivorship
Post-Treatment Breast Cancer Patient
Breast Cancer Survivor
Primary Health Care

abstract: Thesis (Master, Rehabilitation Science) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-22 16:09:35.682

abstract:
Purpose: The purpose of this thesis was to perform a scoping review of the current literature and available clinical practice guidelines to generate an understanding of the primary health care needs of women following treatment for breast cancer.
Methods: Based on an extensive scoping review of the literature, research findings regarding the complications of breast cancer treatments and corresponding primary care interventions were synthesized. Additionally, validation of the findings of the scoping review was performed through semi-structured interviews with two primary care physicians and three post-treatment breast cancer patients.
Results: Eleven broad categories related to the primary health care needs of women after undergoing treatments for breast cancer were identified. These included concerns related to: surgical complications, lymphedema, gynecologic and menopausal symptoms, psychosocial issues, additional primary cancers, cardiovascular implications, osteoporosis, lifestyle changes, fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and pregnancy. Additionally, it was determined that the majority of existing clinical practice guidelines for breast cancer were outdated, and related to cancer detection and treatment as opposed to survivorship care.

Summary: Findings from the scoping review and interviews demonstrate the vast range of primary care needs of women after undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Additionally, these results highlight the critical need for the development of a comprehensive set of current clinical practice guidelines which target primary care physicians and are specifically focused on the survivorship needs of women following breast cancer treatment.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Comparative toxicity and bioavailability of heavy fuel oils to fish using different exposure scenarios

contributor:
Hodson, Peter
Biology

subject:
Toxicity
Heavy fuel oil

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-25 10:43:05.759

abstract:
Heavy fuel oils (HFO) are produced from the refining of crude oils, and have high
specific gravities and high viscosities. In recent years, spills of HFO have increased in the environment, and are of great concern because they are difficult to clean up. Spilled HFO is likely to become submerged, and can become stranded if fresh HFO coats benthic substrates or if weathered HFO sinks as tarballs. Conversely, lighter oils float on the surface and their components disperse and become diluted in the water column. There is a research need to assess the unique ecological risks of HFO that can sink and contaminate spawning shoals of fish. Chronic toxicity of HFO to fish embryos is
correlated with exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) that become
bioavailable from spilled HFO to identify under which spill conditions fish populations
are at greatest risk. The results of this research demonstrate that: (1) Stranded HFO is a significant source of PAH to the receiving environment and causes chronic toxicity to embryonic fish; (2) Tarballs and weathered HFO cause less toxicity than fresh HFO, likely a consequence of physical limitations to PAH release; (3) HFO 7102 samples collected from an HFO spill in Wabamun Lake, Alberta, are less toxic than HFO 6303; (4) HFO is at least 2-fold more toxic than Medium South American (MESA), a well-studied reference crude oil, coincident with 3-fold higher concentrations of alkyl PAH, namely alkyl phenanthrenes.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Source-Channel Mappings with Applications to Compressed Sensing

contributor:
Alajaji, Fady
Chan, Wai-Yip Geoffrey
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
source-channel mappings
compressed sensing

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-29 02:30:11.978

abstract:
Tandem source-channel coding is proven to be optimal by Shannon given unlimited
delay and complexity in the coders. Under low delay and low complexity constraints,
joint source-channel coding may achieve better performance. Although digital joint
source-channel coding has shown a noticeable gain in terms of reconstructed signal
quality, coding delay, and complexity, it suffers from the leveling-off effect. However, analog systems do not suffer from the leveling-off effect. In this thesis, we investigate the advantage of analog systems based on the Shannon-Kotel’nikov approach and
hybrid digital-analog coding systems, which combine digital and analog schemes to achieve a graceful degradation/improvement over a wide range of channel conditions.
First, we propose a low delay and low complexity hybrid digital-analog coding that is able to achieve high (integer) expansion ratios (  >3). This is achieved by combining
the spiral mapping with multiple stage quantizers. The system is simulated for a 1 : 3 bandwidth expansion and the behavior for a 1 : M (with M an integer  >3) system is studied in the low noise level regime.
Next, we propose an analog joint source-channel coding system that is able to achieve
a low (fractional) expansion ratio between 1 and 2. More precisely, this is an N : M
bandwidth expansion system based on combining uncoded transmission and a 1 : 2 bandwidth expansion system (with N < M < 2N).Finally, a 1 : 2 analog bandwidth expansion system using the (Shannon-Kotel’nikov) Archimedes’ spiral mapping is used in the compressed sensing context, which is inherently analog, to increase the system’s immunity against channel noise. The proposed system is compared to a conventional compressed sensing system that assumes noiseless transmission and a compressed sensing based system that account for noise during signal reconstruction.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Heated Biofilm Growth in a Planar Fracture for Reduction of Hydraulic Aperture

contributor:
Novakowski, Kent S.
Civil Engineering

subject:
Hydrogeology
Bioremediation
Fractured Bedrock

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-01 12:33:25.286

abstract:
The objective of this study was to examine the effect of heat on the growth of a biofilm in a parallel glass plate fracture table.    Groundwater was collected from a limestone aquifer and amended with a nutrient mixture to stimulate the indigenous microbial population.  The amended water was heated to approximately 30oC in an upgradient reservoir attached to the fracture table and recirculated through the 2-m long, 0.6-m wide, parallel glass plate fracture having an approximate fracture aperture of 2000 μm.  The fracture was maintained at approximately 10oC to simulate natural in situ groundwater temperature and the upgradient reservoir maintained at 30oC.  Geochemical parameters and bacterial counts were measured regularly throughout the biostimulation to monitor biofilm growth in the fracture.  Hydraulic tests and tracer experiments completed before and after the biostimulation were used as the primary indicators of the successful bioclogging of the fracture.
Geochemical parameters measured throughout the trial revealed an increasingly reducing environment capable of supporting the development of a diverse biofilm.   Direct and indirect bacterial counts revealed the dominant bacteria within the system included common groundwater bacteria pseudonomads, enteric, and slime-forming bacteria.  Heterotrophic bacteria were also present in significant concentrations.  Visible clusters of biofilm were observed on Day 2 of the trial with a fully-connected biofilm observed by Day 7.
The biofilm impacted the groundwater flow through the fracture resulting in an approximately 2.75-hour delay in the tracer’s breakthrough during the tracer experiment completed on Day 13 of the trial compared to an experiment conducted during the initial stages of biofilm development.  Based on the results of the tracer experiment, the biofilm growth reduced the velocity of the groundwater by 9.8%, the fracture aperture by 37.8%, and increased the bulk dispersivity to 50mm.   Recommendations for future work include the application of heated biostimulation at the field scale in a well-characterized, isolated fracture.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: An Investigation of the Sleep Architecture in Ziprasidone-Treated Bipolar Depression

contributor:
Milev, Roumen
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
Bipolar Depression
Sleep Architecture

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-02 17:39:05.883

abstract:
Objective: To primarily determine the effect of ziprasidone augmentation therapy on sleep architecture, specifically slow wave sleep (SWS) and rapid eye movement sleep (REM), in the treatment of bipolar depression.  Secondarily, to determine the effect of ziprasidone augmentation treatment on clinical measures of subjective sleep quality and illness severity.  Finally, to examine the correlation between change in sleep architecture and change in clinical measures.
Methods: This was a prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. 14 patients with bipolar disorder currently experiencing a major depressive episode were included.  Patients were on a stable medication regime for 4 weeks prior to study enrollment and throughout the study.  Sleep architecture was measured by overnight, ambulatory polysomnography.  Subjective sleep quality was assessed using the self-reported Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Epworth Sleepiness Scale and a visual analogue scale.  Illness severity was determined using the 17 item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17), the Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA) and the Clinical Global Impression-Severity scale (CGI-S).  Polysomnographs and clinical measures were administered at baseline, after 2-5 days and after 28-31 days of treatment.
Results:  There was no significant difference between ziprasidone and placebo treated groups on age, gender, diagnosis, education level, employment or marital status and number of children.  Duration of SWS, latency to REM, duration of stage 2 sleep, total sleep time, onset to sleep latency, sleep efficiency and number of awakenings significantly improved in ziprasidone treated participants over placebo, whereas duration of REM sleep did not.  CGI-S and HAMA scores were significantly improved with ziprasidone treatment.  No significant difference between treatment groups was seen on the HAMD-17 and MADRS or in self-reported sleep quality.  Change in REM sleep significantly correlated to change in subjective sleep quality in the ziprasidone group.
Conclusion: Ziprasidone augmentation treatment in bipolar depression improves SWS duration, REM latency, and sleep continuity while also having a beneficial effect on overall illness severity and anxiety symptoms.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Srk1 kinase suppresses mitosis in response to heat stress in fission yeast

contributor:
Young, Paul G.
Biology

subject:
Heat Stress
Srk1 kinase

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-28 09:34:52.164

abstract: Fission yeast Srk1 kinase is essential for cellular responses to extracellular stimuli. It is activated downstream of the MAPK Spc1 and participates in controlling mitotic entry by directly phosphorylating and inhibiting Cdc25 phosphatase during the normal cell cycle and also in response to osmotic stress. Following phosphorylation, Cdc25 is exported out of the nucleus. Heat stress caused by a temperature shift from 25°C to 36°C, which is within the normal temperature tolerance of fission yeast, temporarily inhibits nuclear division in wildtype cells. The same response is seen in cells deleted for the Pyp1 and Pyp2 phosphatases which normally serve to down regulate the Spc1 stress response. I have shown that the transient block in nuclear division caused by temperature shifts within the physiological range does not occur in srk1- cells but instead there is a stimulation of mitosis and cell division in response to the heat stress. This pattern of mitotic stimulation is phenocopied in cdc25-9a cells where nine putative Srk1 phosphorylation sites on Cdc25 are changed to alanine. Cells lacking srk1, however, display the same cell cycle progression pattern as the wildtype cells in response to osmotic stress. This experiment clearly distinguishes separate pathways for these two stress responses. Also, Cdc25 is found to be phosphorylated after a mild heat stress and seems to be exported out of the nucleus. These data indicate that Srk1 kinase plays the central role in regulating mitotic entry in response to mild heat stress by negatively regulating the Cdc25 tyrosine phosphatase. Thus my work highlights the role of Srk1 kinase in cell cycle regulation and is consistent with the Spc1 MAPK cascade linking the G2/M transition to extracellular stress. This response to mild heat stress is important because temperature sensitive mutants are frequently used in fission yeast research and this work shows that a temperature shift from 25°C to 36°C, which is within the physiological growth range, can trigger a stress response.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: A study of mechanisms underlying inflammation-induced abnormal nociceptive signaling from the colon in models of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

contributor:
Vanner, Stephen
Physiology

subject: Nociception, Colitis, Inflammatory bowel disease, Irritable bowel syndrome

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-28 10:17:58.863

abstract:
Abdominal pain is a common symptom of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Although the extent differs, visceral inflammation is thought to play a significant role in nociception in these disorders. This thesis describes studies examining mechanisms of inflammation-induced changes in nociceptive signaling from the colon using human colonic biopsy and animal models of the conditions.
Citrobacter rodentium infection in mice produced profound colitis at day 10 post-infection which resolved by day 30. Perforated current clamp recordings showed that inflammation induced hyperexcitability of colonic DRG neurons that persisted at day 30 post-infection. Similarly, multi-unit afferent nerve recordings revealed enhanced firing of colonic afferents following colon distension at this time. In voltage clamp studies, suppression of IA K+ currents in post-infected C. rodentium neurons was observed. Combining water-avoidance stress (WAS) and C. rodentium infection exaggerated these effects. Interactions between proteases and stress mediators underlie these actions. In vivo studies revealed WAS combined with C. rodentium post-infection induced visceral hyperalgesia and allodynia.
A separate series of studies examined the possible role of cysteine proteases in post-infectious IBS.  The cysteine protease cathepsin-s (Cat-S) induced neuronal excitability and, provoked visceral hypersensitivity in mice. Human IBS supernatants increased neuronal excitability, but this was reversed in neurons pre-treated with the cysteine protease inhibitor E-64. Together these data suggest that Cat-S is a secreted neuromodulator in human IBS supernatants and could be important in nociceptive signaling in IBS.
In studies examining whether similar mechanisms operate in a traditional inflammatory condition, IBD, human ulcerative colitis (UC) supernatants showed elevated TNF-α levels. Exogenous TNF-α and UC-supernatants increased colonic nociceptor excitability, which was attenuated in neurons from TNFR knock-out animals. TNF-α and UC-supernatants both increased TTX-R Nav1.8 and suppressed IA and IK K+ currents.
Together these results suggest that inflammation significantly increases and sustains peripheral nociceptive signaling in IBD and IBS.  These effects involve changes in the properties of nociceptive DRG neurons through actions of specific secreted factors which modulate specific voltage-gated ion channels. Chronic stress exaggerates these changes through synergistic actions of stress hormones and local mediators, suggesting an interplay between central and peripheral mechanisms.

abstract: PhD


title: The Effects of Recent and Relict Permafrost Disturbances on Tundra Vegetation, Cape Bounty, Melville Island, Nunavut

contributor:
Lamoureux, Scott F.
Treitz, Paul
Geography

subject: Geomorphology Biogeography

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-28 11:42:47.636

abstract:
Permafrost disturbances, including active layer detachments (ALDs), have occurred both recently and historically at Cape Bounty, Melville Island. These recent and relict ALDs were studied to determine their short- and long-term landscape effects. Six relict detachments showed altered vegetation and site characteristics, despite 60 or more years of recovery. Of the environmental variables studied, including soil moisture, soil temperature, and active layer depth, soil moisture showed the greatest changes in disturbed zones. These were attributed to the concavity of disturbance, which allows for more snow accumulation. Two vegetation types influenced by moisture regimes, polar desert and mesic heath, were compared to determine the role of moisture in recovery.
The best indicators of disturbance differed in areas of different moisture regimes, with canopy height showing increases in disturbed mesic heath zones, while Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) values increased in polar desert disturbances.
Ultimately, the comparison of vegetation in disturbed and undisturbed zones revealed differences to be highly localized and minimal. Remote sensing was utilized to compare the effects of recent and relict disturbances as seen on satellite and airborne imagery. Vegetation was classified using NDVI, and zonal separation of these values in ALDs revealed the upper scar areas and lower toe zones contained significantly different NDVI values. The upper scar values were similar to undisturbed control areas, as blocks of vegetation in these areas often contain unmodified vegetation, which later helps with revegetation. The lower toe zone displayed both elevated and lower NDVI values, as material accumulates in these areas but often in a complex with bare soil. Remote sensing techniques also allowed for site characterization of disturbances, with physiographic factors including slope and flow properties determined through satellite imagery. Slope values ranged from 3 to 13 degrees in each disturbance, but were found to be slightly lower in relict disturbances, as recovery and revegetation have reduced these slopes. Flow paths were identified in ALDs, however similar patterns were also identified in surrounding undisturbed landscapes. Given the small scale of many ALDs, it is difficult to characterize the nature of the changes associated with these events, particularly for relict ALDs.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Identification of Genes Involved in the C. elegans VAB-1 Eph Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Signaling Pathway

contributor:
Chin-Sang, Ian D.
Biology

subject:
Caenorhabditis elegans
Axon guidance
Ena/VASP
N-WASP
Eph receptor tyrosine kinase
VAB-1
Nck

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-28 16:20:31.957

abstract: The generation of a functional nervous system requires that neuronal cells and axons navigate precisely to their appropriate targets. The Eph Receptor Tyrosine Kinases (RTKs) and their ephrin ligands have emerged as one of the important guidance cues for neuronal and axon navigation. However, the molecular mechanisms of how Eph RTKs regulate these processes are still incomplete. The purpose of this work was to contribute to the understanding of how Eph receptors regulate axon guidance by identifying and characterizing components of the Caenorhabditis elegans Eph RTK (VAB-1) signaling pathway. To achieve this objective I utilized a hyper active form of the VAB-1 Eph RTK (MYR-VAB-1) that caused penetrant axon guidance defects in the PLM mechanosensory neurons, and screened for suppressors of the MYR-VAB-1 phenotype. Through a candidate gene approach, I identified the adaptor NCK-1 as a downstream effector of VAB-1. Molecular and genetic analysis revealed that the nck-1 gene encodes for two isoforms (NCK-1A and NCK-1B) that share similar expression patterns in parts of the nervous system, but also have independent expression patterns in other tissues. Genetic rescue experiments showed that both NCK-1 isoforms can function in axon guidance, but each isoform also has specific functions. In vitro binding assays showed that NCK-1 binds to VAB-1 in a kinase dependent manner. In addition to NCK-1, WSP-1/N-WASP was also identified as an effector of VAB-1 signaling. Phenotypic analysis showed that nck-1 and wsp-1 mutants had PLM axon over extension defects similar to vab-1 animals. Furthermore, VAB-1, NCK-1 and WSP-1 formed a complex in vitro. Intriguingly, protein binding assays showed that NCK-1 can also bind to the actin regulator UNC-34/Ena, but genetic experiments suggest that unc-34 is an inhibitor of nck-1 function. Through various genetic and biochemical experiments, I provide evidence that VAB-1 can disrupt the NCK-1/UNC-34 complex, and negatively regulate UNC-34. Taken together, my work provides a model of how VAB-1 RTK signaling can inhibit axon extension. I propose that activated VAB-1 can prevent axon extension by inhibiting growth cone filopodia formation. This is accomplished by inhibiting UNC-34/Ena activity, and simultaneously activating Arp2/3 through a VAB-1/NCK-1/WSP-1 complex.

abstract: This work is in the process of being prepared for publication, and would like to restrict the thesis until the work is published.

abstract: PhD


title: Role of Caveolin-3 in the Modulation of hERG Potassium Channel

contributor:
Zhang, Shetuan
Physiology

subject: Electrophysiology Physiology

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-28 16:42:41.304

abstract: The human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) encodes the pore-forming subunit of the rapidly activating delayed rectifier potassium channel (IKr) that is important for cardiac repolarization. Previously, we have discovered that hERG channels rapidly internalize in low extracellular K+ ([K+]o). In cell culture, this process is driven by the endocytic protein, caveolin-1 (Cav1), which is an integral player in the caveolae-dependant endocytosis pathway. However, in the heart, Caveolin-3 (Cav3) is, in fact, the predominant form in the myocyte, and thus may play a direct role in regulating hERG expression in the heart. Thus, I hypothesize that this reduction of hERG conductance in cardiac myocytes derives from the presence of Cav3, which is integral regulator of hERG homeostasis innately in the heart. To investigate the effect of Cav3 on hERG, I overexpressed Cav3 in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK-293) cells stably expressing hERG channels. Cav3 overexpression significantly and specifically decreased both the hERG current amplitude and the mature channel expression in normal culture conditions. Co-immunoprecipitation analysis and confocal imaging demonstrated an association between hERG and Cav3 in HEK cells as well as rat and rabbit cardiomyocytes. Mechanistically, I discovered that Cav3 possesses a faster turnover rate compared to Cav1, and can enhance hERG degradation through up-regulating mature channel ubiquitination via the ubiquitin ligase, NEDD4-2. Knockdown of Cav3 in neonatal cardiac myocytes also enhanced hERG expression. My data indicate that Cav3 participates in hERG trafficking, and is an important regulator of hERG channel homeostasis in cardiac myocytes. This information provides a platform for future intervention of the hERG-induced type-2 long QT syndrome (LQTS).

abstract: Unpublished materials

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Monitoring Mechanisms, Risk, and Equity Prices

contributor:
Purda, Lynnette
Management

subject: Risk Monitoring

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Management) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-29 10:45:05.376

abstract:
What is the measure of the effectiveness of corporate governance? What is the relationship between corporate governance and performance? This thesis sheds light on these questions by examining the consequences of two kinds of corporate governance monitoring mechanisms, religion as an external mechanism and independent directors as an internal mechanism.
            Though recent work in finance and accounting provide evidence that religion is an effective external monitoring mechanism, whether it has pricing effects has yet to be examined. I explore this issue by investigating the relation between the degree of religiosity surrounding a firm’s headquarters and the firm’s cost of equity capital in Chapter 2. I find that firms located in more religious counties of the U.S. exhibit a lower cost of equity capital. The effects are also more pronounced for firms and during periods lacking alternative regulation mechanisms. Finally, I find that the effects of religion on the firm’s cost of equity capital are more pronounced for firms with greater information asymmetry.
           The second part of my thesis is motivated by the considerable debate on whether board independence is an effective internal monitoring mechanism. I offer a new perspective by examining the relationship between firm risk and board independence. I find that board independence is associated with a significantly lower level of idiosyncratic risk. Further tests suggest that firms’ idiosyncratic risk is negatively related to the independence of audit committees and nominating committees, but positively related to the independence of compensation committees. In addition, I find that firms with greater board independence display lower degrees of operating risk exposure, and are less prone to stock price crashes.
            My thesis makes several important contributions to the literature. First, my thesis shows that studying the important social factors that influence different agents and determine the deeds of collective groups may be important for corporate governance research and practice. Furthermore, my results provide robust evidence supporting the view that religion facilitates economic development. Finally, my findings provide an explanation for the insignificant relationship between board independence and firm performance documented by recent literature.

abstract: PhD


title: Reverse Atrial Electrical Remodeling Induced by Continuous Positive Airway Pressure in Patients with Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea

contributor:
Baranchuk, Adrian
Physiology

subject:
Atrial Remodeling
Obstructive Sleep Apnea

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-29 12:53:09.134

abstract:
Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been associated with atrial enlargement in response to high arterial and pulmonary pressures and increased sympathetic tone. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the gold standard treatment for OSA; its impact on atrial electrical remodeling has not been investigated however. Signal-averaged p-wave (SAPW) is a non-invasive quantitative method to determine p-wave duration, an accepted marker for atrial electrical remodeling. The objective was to determine whether CPAP induces reverse atrial electrical remodeling in patients with severe OSA.
Methods: Prospective study in consecutive patients attending the Sleep Clinic at Kingston General Hospital. All patients underwent full polysomnography. OSA-negative and severe OSA were defined as apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) < 5 events/hour and AHI ≥ 30 events/hour, respectively. In severe OSA patients, SAPW was determined pre- and post-intervention with CPAP for 4 - 6 weeks. In OSA-negative controls, SAPW was recorded at baseline and 4 - 6 weeks thereafter without any intervention.
Results: A total of 19 severe OSA patients and 10 controls were included in the analysis. Mean AHI and minimum O2 saturation were 41.4 ± 10.1 events/hour and 80.5 ± 6.5% in severe OSA patients and 2.8 ± 1.2 events/hour and 91.4 ± 2.1% in controls. Baseline BMI was different between severe OSA patients and controls (34.3 ± 5.4 vs 26.6 ± 4.6 kg/m2; p < 0.001). At baseline, severe OSA patients had a greater SAPW duration than controls (131.9 ± 10.4 vs 122.8 ± 10.5 ms; p = 0.02). After CPAP intervention, there was a significant reduction of SAPW duration in severe OSA (131.9 ± 10.4 to 126.2 ± 8.8 ms; p < 0.001). In controls, SAPW duration did not change within 4 - 6 weeks.
Conclusion: CPAP induced reverse atrial electrical remodeling in patients with severe OSA as represented by a significant reduction in SAPW duration.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Climate change and water availability over the last two millennia in Little Raleigh Lake, northwestern Ontario.

contributor:
Cumming, Brian F.
Biology

subject:
Paleolimnology
Drought
Depth Model
Diatoms

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-29 17:09:49.155

abstract: The Winnipeg River Drainage Basin (WRDB), located in the boreal forest region of Canada, is a pivotal region of focus for the assessment of water availability to determine susceptibility to drought in the past. To date, there have been relatively few paleolimnological studies focusing on how lake levels have changed in the past and whether these changes have been synchronous in the WRDB. This study investigates temporal patterns in effective moisture from Little Raleigh Lake over the last two millennia. Analyses are based on diatoms from two near-shore sediment cores from different locations and water depth in Little Raleigh Lake. Changes in diatom assemblages are used to reconstruct quantitative estimates of effective moisture in the past through the calibration of a diatom-inferred depth model developed from diatom assemblages in surficial sediments along a depth transect in Little Raleigh Lake. Declines of ~1-3m occurred during the late Holocene, with prolonged periods of aridity consistent with the timing of the Medieval Climate Anamoly (~950-1250AD) and the Little Ice Age (~1650-1750AD).  The nearshore core retrieved closer to the present-day ecotone between the benthic and planktonic diatom assemblages was more sensitive to tracking water level changes in the lake than the deeper core. Conditions during the last two millennia can be used for the assessment of water availability in the past, and may offer insight on future conditions under increasing temperatures.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Literacy-related professional development preferences of secondary teachers

contributor:
Lee, Elizabeth
Education

subject:
literacy
teacher development
secondary teachers
professional development

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-30 22:17:45.962

abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the literacy-related professional development preferences of participating secondary teachers in one school board in Ontario. Data was collected using a survey. The findings of this study confirm and extend existing research: the majority of secondary teachers want to engage in literacy-related professional development; secondary teachers have preferences for various forms of professional development, including duration and form; there are differences in preferences for duration, form, and content of teachers in different subject areas; and differences exist in preferences for form and content of teachers of different course types. The findings of this study that confirmed existing research included: the preferences by teachers of Science and Geography for literacy-related professional development on instruction of reading graphical text; the preference for literacy-related professional development by teachers of Math on reading word problems; the preference for literacy-related professional development that results in practical ideas and strategies; and the preference for literacy-related professional development that meets the needs of teachers and students. Interesting themes emerged that extend previous research: the preference for literacy-related professional development that is short in duration (between one to five hours); a higher percentage of teachers of Science, Math, and Technology wanting no literacy-related professional development; the preference by teachers of Open type courses for literacy-related professional development on differentiating literacy instruction; and a stronger focus on the content (as opposed to a focus on form) of literacy-related professional development by teachers of Science, Math, and Technology.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: The Association Between Incidental Physical Activity and Cardiorespiratory Fitness

contributor:
Ross, Robert
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
Physical activity
Cardiorespiratory fitness

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-30 16:43:47.703

abstract:
Objective The primary objective of this study was two-fold. First, to determine whether incidental physical activity (IPA), which is composed of both light-intensity physical activity (LPA) and sporadic moderate-intensity physical activity (MPA; physical activity accrued in bouts less than 10 minutes), was associated with cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). Second, to determine whether sporadic MPA was associated with CRF.
Methods Participants were abdominally obese (defined as a waist circumference > 102 cm in men and > 88 cm in women), inactive, adult men (N = 24; [mean ± SD] age = 55.5 ± 7.8 years) and women (N = 55; age = 52.3 ± 7.5 years) recruited from Kingston, Canada. Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed using a graded treadmill test. IPA (activity ≥ 1 metabolic equivalent (MET)) and sporadic MPA (activity ≥ 3 METs accrued in bouts less than 10 minutes) was measured using the SenseWear Pro Armband (SWA). IPA and sporadic MPA were categorized into duration (minutes/day) and expenditure (MET-minutes/day). In secondary analyses, we investigated the association between LPA (activity between 1 – 2.99 METs), sedentary behaviour (SED; activity < 1.0 MET) and CRF.
Results Participants accumulated an average of 326.6 ± 127 minutes of IPA per day which was composed of 40.7 ± 17.8 minutes of sporadic MPA and 285.9 ± 118.2 minutes of LPA. Both duration and expenditure of IPA were significantly associated with CRF independent of sex, however, after further control for body mass index and age neither association remained significant (p > 0.05). Sporadic MPA was significantly associated with CRF after control for covariates (p ≤ 0.05). Neither LPA nor SED were associated with CRF after control for covariates (p > 0.05).
Conclusions IPA was not significantly associated with CRF, however, sporadic MPA was an independent predictor of CRF.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Effects of Temperature on the Service-Life of Landfill Liners and Potential Temperature Control Strategies

contributor:
Rowe, Kerry
Civil Engineering

subject:
Geosynthetics
Temperature Effects
Landfills
Geomembranes
Geosynthetic Clay Liners
Barriers
Desiccation
Tire Chips
Service-Life
Thermal Analysis
Liners

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2011-07-31 07:34:33.165

abstract:
Landfill facilities are required to have a barrier system that will limit escape of contaminants to groundwater and surface water for the contaminating lifespan of landfill. Heat generated by the biodegradation of waste and chemical reactions in landfills reduces the service-life of geomembranes by accelerating the ageing process of high-density polyethylene. It may also lead to the desiccation of clay components of the liners.
Four considerations with respect to the evaluation of the potential effects of liner temperature on the service-life of liners and the potential control of liner temperature are examined. For the first time, the likely temperature and service-life of a secondary geomembrane in a double composite lining system is predicted. It is shown that, in some cases, the temperature is likely to be high enough to substantially reduce the service-life of the secondary geomembrane. The possible effectiveness of using tire chips as passive thermal insulation between the primary and secondary liners, as well as traditional soil materials, is then explored. For the barrier system and contaminant examined, the results show that tire chips could potentially lower the temperature of the secondary geomembrane sufficiently to significantly extend its service-life. However, the use of tire chips brings about other practical issues, which are also discussed in this study. An active alternative method of controlling the increase in the landfill liner temperature is then examined.  This approach, which is inspired by geothermal heat pumps, involves an array of cooling pipes beneath the waste. Numerical modelling showed that the hypotetical introduction of the cooling pipes resulted in a reasonable decrease in liner temperature. It is suggested that the proposed technique warrants further consideration. Finally the conditions that may lead to the desiccation of geosynthetic clay liners used in composite liners due to waste generated heat are examined and recommendations regarding possible means of mitigating the effects of heat on the performance of GCLs are presented. For example, numerical modelling shows that the hydration of GCL prior to waste placement, liner temperature, overburden stress, depth to aquifer and moisture content and grain size of subsoil affect desiccation.

abstract: PhD


title: Abnormal inflammation in a rat model of spontaneous fetal loss leads to maternal coagulopathies associated with placental haemostatic alterations

contributor:
Graham, Charles H.
Othman, Maha
Anatomy and Cell Biology

subject:
Rat
Fetal loss
Coagulopathy
Inflammation

abstract: Thesis (Master, Anatomy & Cell Biology) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-01 14:29:12.489

abstract:
Spontaneous foetal loss is the most common complication of pregnancy, affecting up to 20% of recognized pregnancies and recurring in 1-3% of cases. Abnormal maternal inflammation and systemic maternal coagulopathies are associated with foetal loss; however, the causal role of inflammation in the development of obstetric coagulopathies has not been determined. Further, questions remain as to whether maternal systemic coagulopathies are associated with placental haemostatic alterations and what role these local alterations play in foetal outcome.

We hypothesized that abnormal maternal inflammation during pregnancy is causally linked to maternal coagulopathies and that these coagulopathies are associated with impaired utero-placental blood flow preceding foetal death. To induce inflammation-mediated fetal death, we administered lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 100-µg/kg) to Wistar rats on gestational day 14.5 and characterized the systemic maternal coagulation status 1hr post LPS administration using thromboelastograpy. Utero-placental haemostatic alterations were analyzed by periodic acid Schiff staining (PAS) and immunohistochemistry for fibrin/fibrinogen. Spiral arteriole peak flow velocity was determined by Doppler ultrasound. To determine causality between abnormal maternal inflammation, coagulopathies, and placental hemodynamics, the TNF -inhibitor etanercept (Enbrel®) was administered six hours prior to LPS administration.

Systemic maternal coagulopathies were evident in 82% of LPS-treated dams and were associated with specific placental haemostatic alterations as well as reduced utero-placental blood flow. Etanercept administration prevented the development of systemic coagulopathies and placental haemostatic alterations. Furthermore, etanercept maintained normal spiral arteriole peak flow velocity.

 This study demonstrated that abnormal maternal inflammation is causally linked to systemic coagulopathies specific to pregnancy. Moreover, we showed that inflammation-induced systemic coagulopathies are associated with placental haemostatic alterations and reduced utero-placental blood flow preceding foetal death. Modulation of maternal inflammation may thus be useful in the prevention of coagulopathies associated with complications of pregnancy.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Rural Routes: Place–Based Music Education in Two Rural Canadian Communities

contributor:
Upitis, Rena
Education

subject:
Rural Education
Music Education

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Education) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-02 23:27:03.786

abstract: The purpose of this research study was to profile exemplary rural music programs, examining how their components and contexts contributed to a deep sense of place for students, teachers, and the community. Using case-study methodology, two rural communities were profiled: Bella Coola, British Columbia and Winkler, Manitoba. By examining these programs through interview, observational, and questionnaire data, the conditions that support these programs and the perceptions of stakeholders were garnered in order to create a rich view of music education programs that could inform the development of high-quality music programs in other rural communities. Analysis procedures consisted of coding the data for emergent themes as well as a priori themes combed from music education curricula and place-based education literature. The analysis was guided by complexity thinking literature. Closed-ended questions were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Through this analysis process, a descriptive framework of the contents and context of the music programs was created. The adaptive and iterative nature of the music programs and how they related to the communities were also examined. Findings from this study revealed rich place-based music education general music programs, choral programs, and band programs that were highly regarded by the communities. Features in each music program were reflective of the musical practices in the communities. Developing place-based music programs also included the celebration of diversity and the incorporation of activities that broadened students’ musical experiences and allowed students to be leaders. The extent to which diverse types of music could be incorporated into the music programs was dependent on the teachers’ background and available resources. Performances were an important aspect of these place-based programs as attending students’ performances served as one of the only times that community residents interacted with the school, and for many, these performances were the only source of live music. Performing at other local and provincial music events strengthened students’ musical understanding and also deepened their connections to the respective communities. Students were part of their communities, and they were actively able to participate in the present in a way that honoured the past and brightened the future.

abstract: PhD


title: Variations on Artin's Primitive Root Conjecture

contributor:
Murty, Maruti Ram
Mathematics and Statistics

subject:
primitive roots
elliptic curves
Sieve Theory
higher rank
Titchmarsh divisor problems
Analytic Number Theory

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mathematics & Statistics) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-03 10:45:47.408

abstract:
Let $a \in \mathbb{Z}$ be a non-zero integer.  Let $p$ be a prime such that $p \nmid a$.  Define the index of $a$ modulo $p$, denoted $i_{a}(p)$, to be the integer $i_{a}(p) := [(\mathbb{Z}/p\mathbb{Z})^{\ast}:\langle a \bmod{p} \rangle]$.  Let $N_{a}(x) := \#\{p \le x:i_{a}(p)=1\}$.  In 1927, Emil Artin conjectured that
\begin{equation*}
N_{a}(x) \sim A(a)\pi(x)
\end{equation*}
where $A(a)>0$ is a constant dependent only on $a$ and $\pi(x):=\{p \le x: p\text{ prime}\}$.  Rewrite $N_{a}(x)$ as follows:
\begin{equation*}
N_{a}(x) = \sum_{p \le x} f(i_{a}(p)),
\end{equation*}
where $f:\mathbb{N} \to \mathbb{C}$ with $f(1)=1$ and $f(n)=0$ for all $n \ge 2$.\\
\indent We examine which other functions $f:\mathbb{N} \to \mathbb{C}$ will give us formul\ae
\begin{equation*}
\sum_{p \le x} f(i_{a}(p)) \sim c_{a}\pi(x),
\end{equation*}
where $c_{a}$ is a constant dependent only on $a$.\\
\indent Define $\omega(n) := \#\{p|n:p \text{ prime}\}$, $\Omega(n) := \#\{d|n:d \text{ is a prime power}\}$ and $d(n):=\{d|n:d \in \mathbb{N}\}$. We will prove
\begin{align*}
\sum_{p \le x} (\log(i_{a}(p)))^{\alpha} &= c_{a}\pi(x)+O\left(\frac{x}{(\log x)^{2-\alpha-\varepsilon}}\right) \\
\sum_{p \le x} \omega(i_{a}(p)) &= c_{a}^{\prime}\pi(x)+O\left(\frac{x\log \log x}{(\log x)^{2}}\right) \\
\sum_{p \le x} \Omega(i_{a}(p)) &= c_{a}^{\prime\prime}\pi(x)+O\left(\frac{x\log \log x}{(\log x)^{2}}\right)
\end{align*}
and
\begin{equation*}
\sum_{p \le x} d(i_{a}) = c_{a}^{\prime\prime\prime}\pi(x)+O\left(\frac{x}{(\log x)^{2-\varepsilon}}\right)
\end{equation*}
for all $\varepsilon > 0$.\\
\indent We also extend these results to finitely-generated subgroups of $\mathbb{Q}^{\ast}$ and $E(\mathbb{Q})$ where $E$ is an elliptic curve defined over $\mathbb{Q}$.

abstract: PhD


title: Genotypic Differences and Life-History Trade-Offs in the Freshwater Zooplankton, Daphnia Pulicaria, Under Natural Levels of Food Limitation

contributor:
Nelson, William A.
Biology

subject:
Trade-Offs
Growth
Survivorship
Daphnia pulicaria
Reproduction
Individual Life History
Food Concentration

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-14 11:32:27.808

abstract: The schedule of growth, reproduction and survivorship of an individual are the key components of life history, which reflect fitness performance of a genotype. Examining the variation in life history performance among genotypes provides an avenue for which genotypic fitness differences can be compared. The parthenogenetic freshwater zooplankton, Daphnia pulicaria, is a model organism to investigate and disentangle the genotypic from the phenotypic influences of life history variation. While Daphnia spp. life history has been extensively studied, few have examined the effect of low food concentrations on life history traits. Since Daphnia spp. are frequently subjected to periods food limitation caused by natural phytoplankton cycles, it is necessary to understand how individuals respond in low food environments in order to obtain an accurate representation of life history responses among genotypes. In this study, I conducted a set of highly controlled laboratory experiments using multiple genotypes of Daphnia pulicaria under a range of food-limited conditions in order to gain insight into the environmental and genotypic responses of life history traits. I measured a suite of life history traits, growth, reproduction and survivorship, as discrete elements for each individual and synthesized these traits into a representation of the life history schedule. This provided an accurate method to compare genotypes and allowed for identification of trade-offs between life history traits. My results indicate a significant effect of low food concentration on life history traits, causing a decrease in performance of all traits. Additionally, genotypic differences occurred in most traits, however these differences only manifested within the intermediate food levels. There were no genotypic differences in daily reproductive rate, indicating that genotypes only differ in the number of individuals reproducing within an environment. Allocation-based trade-offs among these life history traits were examined within a genotype, however the only trade-off identified was between reproduction and survivorship and this only manifested at low food levels. Even though these genotypes do not co-exist in the same lakes, similar patterns occurred in trade-offs among genotypes. This potentially indicates that trade-offs among genotypes occur due to the same physiological mechanisms witnessed at the individual level.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Amorous Ex/Incursions: Love in Writings of Badiou, Weil, Fromm, and Barthes

contributor:
Varadharajan, Asha
English

subject:
Literary Theory
Love

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, English) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-04 13:17:28.779

abstract: My dissertation explores the enabling contributions of love to the practice of ethico-political and cultural critique. Engaging with the work of Alain Badiou, Simone Weil, Erich Fromm, and Roland Barthes, I examine love in terms of the following modalities: waiting, giving, and looking. I place the aforementioned thinkers in dialogue with selected literary and cinematic texts to explicate and interrogate the meaningful possibilities of their discourse on love. In my chapter on Alain Badiou, I discuss his ontology, which I draw upon heavily to set the theoretical parameters of my study. I also discuss the logic of love that he develops in his philosophy. Speaking to the problem of pre-Evental agency that critics of his work identify, I suggest that waiting as attention, as theorized by Simone Weil, might be the closest form of agency that a pre-Evental (amorous) being can experience. In my discussion of Erich Fromm, I reevaluate his “art of loving” within the constellation of late capitalism. Reading his work through a Lacanian lens, I explore the utility of his prescriptions by examining Chuck Palahniuk’s controversial novel Fight Club. In my chapter on Roland Barthes, I theorize the possibility of cinematic looking that does not depend on the antagonism inherent in the binaries masculine/ feminine and (Gazing) spectator/ (to-be-looked-at) image. Towards this objective, I propose the “amorous look,” a mode of viewing occasioned by cinematic punctual encounters, that I contend is beyond the domain of desire and perversion. I deploy the “amorous look” as I reflect on Aureus Solito’s film Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Olivares (The Blossoming of Maximo Olivares) and its representations of love and waiting.

abstract: To protect rights to commercial publication.

abstract: PhD


title: Foldamers and Macrocycles Based on Formamidoxime Subunits

contributor:
Petitjean, Anne
Chemistry

subject: Foldamer Formamidoxime Macrocycle

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-05 14:48:21.156

abstract:
The objective of this thesis is the study of the control of the shape of formamidine motifs and application to folding open-ended structures and more elaborate macrocycles.

The multi-step synthesis of macrocycles M1 and M2, which are analogs of 18-crown ether-6, have been successfully achieved. Macrocycles M1 and M2 have been fully characterized. The study of the crystal structures of M1 and M2 gave interesting information about their packing and molecular recognition properties.

Moreover, analysis of some by-products formed in macrocyclizations gave intriguing results. The existence of a four-pyridine-unit interlocked catenane which was isolated from the synthesis of M1 has been confirmed by MS-MS. A surprisingly large 54-membered macrocycle “Maxi-M2” was isolated from the synthetic crude product of M2 and confirmed by X-ray crystallography.

Driven by the desire to understand the formation of catenane and “Maxi-M2”, a systematic study of the corresponding condensation reaction was performed. The E isomers derived from N-acyl-N’-substituted formamidoximes were, for the first time, reported and isolated. The protons can facilitate E to Z isomerization. The best conditions to selectively generate either the E or Z isomers have been fully studied and applied to the synthesis.

The unexpected formation of the E isomers may promote polymerization and limit the yield improvement of macrocyclization. Therefore, a new synthetic method for the target macrocycle M2 was investigated, trying to avoid the formation of E isomers and thus cyclize more efficiently.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Advocacy Under Authoritarianism: Transnational Networks in China

contributor:
Nossal, Kim Richard
Gilley, Bruce
Political Studies

subject:
China
Transnational Advocacy Networks
NGOs
Norms

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Political Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-08 21:05:30.662

abstract: The standard theoretical account of transnational advocacy networks (TANs) is one of principled non-state actors remaking world politics by upsetting conventional notions of power in the international system.  Relying on persuasion and framing instead of disruption and protest, these global networks of activists, NGOs, scientists and technical experts transform states and their preferences by developing, promoting, and monitoring compliance with norms.  At the core of this literature is an implicit assumption of fixity in the moral commitments of TANs that galvanizes collective identity, sustains transnational mobilization, and ultimately allows them to leverage actors much more powerful than themselves.  By contrast, this dissertation develops a theory of “advocacy drift” based on a selection of transnational issue campaigns in the People’s Republic of China.  It argues that in state-dominated contexts with highly developed institutions of social control, immovable national interests sometimes exert transformative effects on the principled goals of activist campaigns or see the TAN incorporated into the state itself.  This finding not only suggests that authoritarian governments influence advocacy networks just as advocates can influence those governments, but that the preferences and identities of TANs are less static than previously thought, and may shift in response to exogenous environmental stimuli.

abstract: PhD


title: Ice-binding proteins adsorb to their ligand via anchored clathrate waters

contributor:
Davies, Peter L.
Biochemistry

subject:
Biochemistry
Antifreeze Proteins

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Biochemistry) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-08 14:09:05.143

abstract:
The main success of my thesis has been to establish the mechanism by which antifreeze
proteins (AFPs) bind irreversibly to ice crystals, and hence prevent their growth. AFPs organize
ice-like water on their ice-binding site, which then merges and freezes with the quasi-liquid layer
of ice. This was revealed from studying the exceptionally large (ca. 1.5-MDa) Ca 2+-dependent
AFP from the Antarctic bacterium Marinomonas primoryensis (MpAFP). The 34-kDa antifreeze-
active region of MpAFP was predicted to fold as a novel Ca 2+-binding β-helix. Site-directed
mutagenesis confirmed the model and demonstrated that its ice-binding site (IBS) consisted of
solvent-exposed Thr and Asx parallel arrays on the Ca 2+-binding turns.
The X-ray crystal
structure of the antifreeze region was solved to a resolution of 1.7 Å. Two of the four molecules
within the unit cell of the crystal had portions of their IBSs freely exposed to solvent. Identical
clathrate-like cages of water molecules were present on each IBS. These waters were organized
by the hydrophobic effect and anchored to the protein via hydrogen bonds. They matched the
spacing of water molecules in an ice lattice, demonstrating that anchored clathrate waters bind
AFPs to ice.
This mechanism was extended to other AFPs including the globular type III AFP from
fishes. Site-directed mutagenesis and a modified ice-etching technique demonstrated this protein
uses a compound ice-binding site, comprised of two flat and relatively hydrophobic surfaces, to
bind at least two planes of ice. Reinvestigation of several crystal structures of type III AFP
identified anchored clathrate waters on the solvent-exposed portion of its compound IBS that
matched the spacing of waters on the primary prism plane of ice.
Ice nucleation proteins (INPs), which can raise the temperature at which ice forms in
solution to just slightly below 0oC, have the opposite effect to AFPs. A novel dimeric β-helical
model was proposed for the INP produced by the bacterium Pseudomonas borealis. Molecular
dynamics simulations showed that INPs are also capable of ordering water molecules into an ice-
like lattice. However, their multimerization brings together sufficient ordered waters to form an
ice nucleus and initiate freezing.

abstract: PhD


title: Everyone poops but no one wants to talk about it: The lived experiences of young people with inflammatory bowel disease

contributor:
Power, Elaine
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
Youth
Inflammatory Bowel Disease

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-09 10:39:24.603

abstract:
Crohn’s disease and Colitis, the two most common Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD), are on the rise among young people. IBD symptoms include severe abdominal pain and frequent bowel movements, which can result in major dietary restrictions and delays in growth. IBD can also limit people’s physical activity, eating habits, and activities that are distant from a bathroom.  Having IBD can be both limiting and embarrassing but little research has investigated the social and emotional implications of these diseases from a qualitative approach. Existing research fails to identify how stigma and dominant IBD discourses affect the lived experiences of people with IBD, young people in particular. IBD can create additional challenges for adolescents because it is perceived to threaten their normal development into healthy adults. The purpose of this project is to investigate how being young complicates the already difficult experience of being ill.
I conducted interviews with three young people and a discursive analysis of official IBD resources for adolescents and found almost no descriptions of the actual experience of illness. Participants who engaged in photo-elicited interviews minimized the physical and emotional repercussions of having IBD. Informational resources designed for youth failed to address the severe physical and emotional pain of Crohn’s and Colitis. Instead, the available resources provided saccharine and arguably unrealistic depictions of IBD that deny young people a forum to express their own struggles. I compare my analysis of the interviews and IBD resources with my own experience and experiences presented in a zine. Analysis of both the interviews and the IBD resources reveals that young people with IBD can experience an embodied disappearance. Their bodies are smaller and weak, they retreat from social situations to avoid embarrassment, and their emotions are denied because they have no forums to be expressive. Finally, young people can experience a compounded disappearance because they are treated not for who they are but for what they should become. I argue that enabling young people the opportunity to speak candidly about the social conditions that contribute to their struggles could help them better understand, negotiate, and express their illness experiences

abstract: M.A.


title: A role for interleukin-17a as a mediator of sympathetic neuroanatomical remodelling during experimental colitis.

contributor:
Lomax, Alan E.
Physiology

subject:
inflammation
neuroanatomical plasticity
sympathetic nervous system

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-10 09:40:13.514

abstract:
Sympathetic catecholamines and co-transmitters released within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract provide dynamic regulation of gut motility, fluid secretion, blood flow and immune cell function. Pathological GI inflammation in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) evokes functional and structural plasticity in sympathetic neurons that innervate the gut, which may contribute to symptom generation. The mechanisms responsible for aberrant sympathetic behaviour during colonic inflammation remain elusive, though evidence points to a role for mediators of the mucosal immune response. Interleukin (IL)-17 is the principal cytokine of the novel TH17 lineage of helper T cells. Based on mounting clinical, genetic and experimental evidence, IL-17 is thought to play a pivotal role in the immunopathogenesis of IBD. However, nothing is known of the contribution of IL-17 to sympathetic neuroplasticity during chronic inflammatory disease. We hypothesized that remodelling of postganglionic sympathetic axons occurs in response to exposure of axons to the inflamed colonic milieu and that IL-17 serves as the primary mediator of this neuroanatomical remodelling.
    An increase in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunoreactivity, a marker of sympathetic axons, was observed in the muscularis externae and mucosae of colons from mice subjected to acute and chronic models of dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. In parallel, we found markedly elevated levels of IL-17 in the serum and colonic tissues of mice with colitis. To investigate whether the colitis microenvironment promoted axonal growth, distal neurites of adult sympathetic neurons from the superior mesenteric ganglion (SMG) were incubated in supernatant collected from explant cultures of inflamed colon. Colitis supernatant enhanced neurite outgrowth from gut-projecting SMG neurons compared to supernatants from control colon. Importantly, this effect was abrogated following the addition of IL-17-neutralising antiserum to cultures. Moreover, IL-17 increased the morphological complexity of SMG neurites in vitro while none of the other inflammatory cytokines known to be elevated during IBD had a similar effect. These findings suggest a novel role for IL-17 as a mediator of sympathetic neuroanatomical plasticity during colonic inflammation. Whether this contributes to the functional deficits and chronic inflammatory response that occurs in the GI tract during IBD remains to be determined.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Mental Health and Criminality Among Psychiatric Offenders in Southeastern Ontario

contributor:
Arboleda-Flórez, Julio
Scott, Duncan
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
Criminal Responsibility
Psychiatric Offenders
Ontario Review Board
Forensic Psychiatry
Mentally Ill Offenders
NCRMD

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-10 10:35:13.036

abstract:
OBJECTIVES: (1) Describe the population of mentally ill offenders over whom Ontario Review Board (ORB) held jurisdiction. (2) Assess the influences of psychopathology and criminal factors on criminal career.
METHOD: This study was a retrospective case series design that reviewed all offenders who were court ordered for psychiatric evaluation at Mental Health Services Site of Providence Care in Kingston, Ontario from 1993 to 2007 (N=347). Eighty five subjects were found not criminally responsible on the account of mental disorder and were included in statistical analysis (n=85). Bivariate associations between five key variables and two outcome variables, seriousness of crime and recidivism, were examined. Logistic regressions were conducted to test the role of the predictor variables on the outcome variables.
RESULTS: Age and change in principal psychiatric diagnosis over time were shown to be associated with seriousness of crime. Timing of psychiatric onset, early signs of deviance and change in diagnosis were shown to be associated with recidivism. On the whole, study population did not markedly vary in their distribution of variables by the outcome variables. Regression model included timing of psychiatric onset; psychiatric history; existence of criminal associate; child abuse history; and early signs of deviance. Recidivism was shown to be predicted by early signs of deviance (OR=8.154, p<0.05). Existence of criminal associates was shown to have substantial values of odds ratio at marginal significance (OR=7.577, p=0.13).
CONCLUSION: Seriousness of crime is a complex factor that could not be sufficiently predicted by any one or combinations of study variables. Recidivism is better predicted by criminality factors than psychopathology. In the future, an exploratory analysis that more broadly examines the psychopathology and criminal factors in Canadian forensic population is needed. Findings from this study have important clinical and legal implications.

abstract: Wish to publish in academic journals first.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Long History of the Networked Home: Convergences of technology, space and sociality in the domestic environment

contributor:
Hand, Martin
Sociology

subject:
Domestic Technology
Sociology

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Sociology) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-10 18:06:17.221

abstract: This dissertation is about the increasing technologization of domestic spaces and the implications for human-technology sociality that are ‘built-into’ ICT-enabled domestic spaces and technologies. Its central focus is the socio-cultural development of the networked home in terms of convergences of and between humans and technologies throughout the twentieth century. The dissertation considers electricity, automobility, and the informationalization of domestic spaces as necessary conditions for the emergence of the contemporary networked home. Acknowledging the broader context of changes in capitalism, the dissertation focuses upon sociotechnical change represented within ordinary and popular visions of domestic spaces that circulated in the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. To this end, it traces the long history of the networked home between 1906 and 2006 in two mass circulation magazines (and in appliance and home industry research materials between 1993 and 2008), and analyzes the advertisements, advice columns, and research reports contained therein. A framework drawn from social studies of technology, theories of the network society, and of consumption is used to address several broad questions: What are the implications of the scripted, built-in, and assumed characteristics of the relationships between humans and technologies in domestic spaces? What do these mean for the ways in which domestic spaces are configured? What lessons for the future of sociality between and among humans and technologies in and around domestic spaces might be taken from prior configurations? The hybrid sociality that is created by combinations of ICTs, domestic spaces and appliances, and human users relies upon ‘built-in’ scripts to function, layers of which – including the competences, skill sets, and preferred uses – become sedimented and help to facilitate the introduction, normalization, and domestication of novel technologies. By understanding how these built-in scripts have worked in technologized homes since 1906, this dissertation is an important step toward a sociological account of the next emerging trend in domestic technologies: those concerned with environmental sustainability.

abstract: PhD


title: Developing Single-Laser Sources for Multimodal Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering Microscopy

subject:
CARS Microscopy
Nonlinear Optics
Optics

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-11 13:46:26.065

abstract: Coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microscopy has developed rapidly and is opening the door to new types of experiments. This work describes the development of new laser sources for CARS microscopy and their use for different applications. It is specifically focused on multimodal nonlinear optical microscopy—the simultaneous combination of different imaging techniques. This allows us to address a diverse range of applications, such as the study of biomaterials, fluid inclusions, atherosclerosis, hepatitis C infection in cells, and ice formation in cells. For these applications new laser sources are developed that allow for practical multimodal imaging. For example, it is shown that using a single Ti:sapphire oscillator with a photonic crystal fiber, it is possible to develop a versatile multimodal imaging system using optimally chirped laser pulses. This system can perform simultaneous two photon excited fluorescence, second harmonic generation, and CARS microscopy. The versatility of the system is further demonstrated by showing that it is possible to probe different Raman modes using CARS microscopy simply by changing a time delay between the excitation beams. Using optimally chirped pulses also enables further simplification of the laser system required by using a single fiber laser combined with nonlinear optical fibers to perform effective multimodal imaging. While these sources are useful for practical multimodal imaging, it is believed that for further improvements in CARS microscopy sensitivity, new excitation schemes are necessary. This has led to the design of a new, high power, extended cavity oscillator that should be capable of implementing new excitation schemes for CARS microscopy as well as other techniques. Our interest in multimodal imaging has led us to other areas of research as well. For example, a fiber-coupling scheme for signal collection in the forward direction is demonstrated that allows for fluorescence lifetime imaging without significant temporal distortion.  Also highlighted is an imaging artifact that is unique to CARS microscopy that can alter image interpretation, especially when using multimodal imaging. By combining expertise in nonlinear optics, laser development, fiber optics, and microscopy, we have developed systems and techniques that will be of benefit for multimodal CARS microscopy.

abstract: PhD


title: Red and Black Blood: Teaching the Logic of the Canadian Settler State

contributor:
Morgensen, Scott Lauria
Gender Studies

subject:
post colonial studies
transatlantic exchange
cultural studies
indigenous studies
gender studies
black studies

abstract: Thesis (Master, Gender Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-12 15:55:33.498

abstract: I examine Ontario history textbooks to demonstrate how the portrayal of the white settler fantasy of Canada being peacefully colonized and settled is enforced through the temporality and geography of the Canadian settler state, leading to the erasure of connections between indigenous and black communities in the development of the settler state. The temporality of the settler state is enforced through the Indian Act and the Multiculturalism Act, which work together to deny shared time between indigenous peoples, black peoples, and settlers. Settlers are positioned as inhabiting the here and now as reflected in the temporality of the modern settler state, while indigenous peoples are consigned to a status of primitivity, and black peoples are positioned as hailing from a primitive place, yet recently arriving in Canada. The temporality of the Indian Act is represented geographically through the reserve system, which works within the Indian Act to replace indigenous sovereignty and nationhood with Indian Bands, while the temporality of the Multiculturalism Act is represented geographically through the image of Canada as a cultural mosaic, which enforces the divide-and-conquer strategies of the settler state. If indigenous peoples and black peoples are always positioned as temporally and spatially distant, then it follows that their histories developed discretely. However, through analyzing how, what Patrick Wolfe terms, a “logic of elimination” (105) is deployed within the Canadian settler state, it become clear that settler colonialism and transatlantic slavery have always been engaged in an intimate and mutually reinforcing relationship in Canada. By moving beyond the temporality and geography of the settler state, not only does it becomes clear that the connections between indigenous and black peoples are actually foundational to the Canadian settler state’s current formation, but space is also created to develop alliances between indigenous and black peoples. Developing alliances is integral to imagining a reconfiguration of the current settler state that moves beyond divide-and-conquer politics, and towards a more just way of organizing societies that takes seriously the flesh-and-blood of all individual subjects and the human species as whole (Wynter 47).

abstract: M.A.


title: Neural Correlates of Predictive Saccades in Young Healthy Adults

contributor:
Munoz, Douglas P.
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
Predictive Saccades
Cerebellum
Oculomotor Network
Default Network

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-12 10:21:37.744

abstract: Our behaviour is guided by the ability to predict future events. The predictive saccade paradigm has been shown to be a valuable tool that uses eye movements to measure the control of predictive behaviour. In this task, subjects follow a visual target that alternates or “steps” between two fixed locations at either predictable or unpredictable inter-stimulus time intervals (ISIs). Response times can be measured by subtracting the time of saccade initiation from the time of target appearance. When the ISI is predictable, saccadic reaction times (SRTs) become predictive (SRT <100ms) within 3-4 target steps, but when the ISI is unpredictable, the SRTs remain reactive to target appearance (SRT >100ms). The goal of our study was to investigate neural mechanisms controlling prediction by contrasting areas in the brain that were more active for predictive (PRED) versus reactive (REACT) saccades in young healthy adults using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). fMRI analysis revealed two distinct neural networks more recruited for REACT and PRED tasks. We observed greater activation for the REACT task compared to the PRED task in oculomotor network areas including the frontal, supplementary, parietal eye fields, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, thalamus, and putamen. These structures are all involved with the control of saccades. We also observed greater activation for the PRED task compared to the REACT task in default network areas, including the medial prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, inferior parietal lobule, and hippocampus. These structures are known to be involved with passive thinking when subjects are not focused on their external environments. We also observed greater activation for the PRED task in the cerebellum (crus I), which may serve as the internal clock that drives the regular rhythmic behaviour observed for predictive saccades. In summary, our findings suggest brain activation in the PRED task reflects automated and motor-timed responses, while that for the REACT task reflects externally-driven responses. Therefore, the predictive saccade task is an excellent tool for measuring prediction involving fast internally-guided responses.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Three Essays on Signalling and Price Dynamics in Mergers and Acquisitions

contributor:
Johnson, Lewis
Management

subject:
Market Efficiency
Signalling
Anticipation
Merger
Acquisition
Price Dynamics
Event Study
Insider Trading
Premium
Takeover

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Management) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-12 10:35:35.142

abstract: In this dissertation, I investigate three different issues related to signalling and price dynamics in mergers and acquisitions. The first issue is whether the act of raising capital signals an increase in takeover probability for a forthcoming target. Analysing target returns under event-study methodology, I find that this is indeed the case, as was initially pre-supposed by financial journalists. The second issue is whether the observed increase in target returns which are associated with the increase in takeover probability can be attributed to the actions of sophisticated traders, either via information leakage or through the adept analysis of publicly available information. An examination of price-volume dynamics reveals that investors incorporate the increased likelihood of a takeover attempt into target firm returns without necessarily resorting to illegal insider trading. The final issue is whether this public signal of raising capital impacts the target price runup and takeover premium in a meaningful way. Multivariate regression analysis reveals substantial support that raising capital close in proximity to the acquisition announcement date is associated with significant increases in both target firm returns as well as takeover premiums paid by acquiring firms. In sum, these three essays provide evidence which supports the notion that raising capital can act as both a statistically and economically significant signal to all market participants of a forthcoming takeover attempt.

abstract: PhD


title: Moduli Spaces of K3 Surfaces with Large Picard Number

contributor:
Yui, Noriko
Mathematics and Statistics

subject:
K3 Surfaces
Algebraic Geometry
Mathematics
Moduli spaces

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mathematics & Statistics) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-12 14:38:04.131

abstract:
Morrison has constructed a geometric relationship between K3 surfaces with large Picard number and abelian surfaces. In particular, this establishes that the period spaces of certain families of lattice polarized K3 surfaces (which are closely related to the moduli spaces of lattice polarized K3 surfaces) and lattice polarized abelian surfaces are identical. Therefore, we may study the moduli spaces of such K3 surfaces via the period spaces of abelian surfaces.

In this thesis, we will answer the following question: from the moduli space of abelian surfaces with endomorphism structure (either a Shimura curve or a Hilbert modular surface), there is a natural map into the moduli space of abelian surfaces, and hence into the period space of abelian surfaces. What sort of relationship exists between the moduli spaces of abelian surfaces with endomorphism structure and the moduli space of lattice polarized K3 surfaces? We will show that in many cases, the endomorphism ring of an abelian surface is just a subring of the Clifford algebra associated to the N\'eron-Severi lattice of the abelian surface. Furthermore, we establish a precise relationship between the moduli spaces of rank 18 polarized K3 surfaces and Hilbert modular surfaces, and between the moduli spaces of rank 19 polarized K3 surfaces and Shimura curves.

Finally, we will calculate the moduli space of E_8^2 + <4>-polarized K3 surfaces as a family of elliptic K3 surfaces in Weierstrass form and use this new family to find families of rank 18 and 19 polarized K3 surfaces which are related to abelian surfaces with real multiplication or quaternionic multipliction via the Shioda-Inose construction.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Established and suspected risk factors for breast cancer: A case-control study in Vancouver, BC and Kingston, ON

contributor:
Aronson, Kristan J.
Walker, G. Ross
Community Health and Epidemiology

subject:
Alcohol
Smoking
Hormone Replacement
NSAID
Second-hand Smoke
Ethnicity
Breast Biopsy
Risk Factors
Menarche
Menopause
Grilled Meat
Estrogen
Progesterone
Body Mass Index
Her2/neu
Case-control
Breast cancer
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

abstract: Thesis (Master, Community Health & Epidemiology) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-15 19:43:06.689

abstract:
More than half of all cases of breast cancer occur among women without any known risk factors.  More research is needed on suspected risk factors in order to refine current breast cancer screening tools.  The objectives of this thesis were: to determine the breast cancer risk associated with known risk factors (ethnicity, family history, breast biopsy, age at menarche, age at first birth, alcohol, HRT, and BMI), suspected risk factors (smoking, second-hand smoke exposure, smoked/grilled foods, and NSAID use), and to examine the above associations according to tumour receptor status, histologic grade, and menopausal status, with potential confounders also considered.  This thesis project was conducted within the framework of the Molecular Epidemiology of Breast Cancer study, a case-control study of women in Vancouver, BC and Kingston, ON, with 1140 cases and 1169 controls recruited from 2005-2010.  Information was collected from a detailed questionnaire.
       Cases and controls were similar in terms of age at menarche, age at first birth, smoking history, second-hand smoke exposure, lifetime smoked/grilled food consumption, HRT, and BMI.  Among cases, there were significantly less Europeans and more Chinese, Japanese, and Filipino subjects compared to controls.  Cases were more likely to have a first degree relative with breast cancer, as well as a previous benign breast biopsy.  Alcohol consumption and past NSAID usage was higher among controls.  The level of education completed was higher among controls.  Cases were also more likely to be postmenopausal.
       Family history was associated with breast cancer risk (OR=1.59, CI=1.30-1.94), as was BMI (OR=1.28, CI=1.05-1.58 for overweight and OR=2.28, CI=1.35-3.86 for obese class II).  Second-hand smoke was also found to be associated with breast cancer risk (OR=1.42, CI=1.02-1.97 for individuals with a less than 10 pack-year smoking history).  Due to reduced sample size with stratification and marginally significant results, it is not possible to draw definitive conclusions regarding pathology sub-types.
In summary, these results provide support for the association between several risk factors and breast cancer risk.  More research is needed to ascertain how receptor status, histologic grade, and menopausal status affect these associations.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Oxyfunctionalization of Polystyrene Using Non-Heme Iron Catalysts

contributor:
Baird, Michael C.
Chemistry

subject: Inorganic Chemistry

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-15 10:12:54.588

abstract: The non-polar nature of polystyrene has allowed this material to be widely used in both industrial and household applications. This same property also limits its interactions with polar materials and its stability renders it slow to degrade in an environmental setting.  Considering its widespread use in society, this makes polystyrene an environmental concern.  The introduction of a limited number of polar groups along the backbone could increase its compatibility with polar materials as well as possibly rendering it biodegradable.  The literature contains many reports of iron based catalysts that oxidize small molecule alkanes in moderate yields to introduce ketone or alcohol groups.1-3  In principle, the chemistry applicable to small molecules should also be applicable to their macromolecular analogues.  This thesis used two such iron complexes, [(Fe(TPA)(MeCN)2] (OTf)2 and Fe(BPMEN)(OTf)2, to catalyze the oxidation of polystyrene using hydrogen peroxide as oxidant.  The polymeric product was analyzed first by IR and if oxyfunctionalization was detected in the form of a carbonyl or hydroxyl peak, the material was further analyzed by DSC, GPC and 1H NMR.  The results reported herein constitute a proof of principle for the use of iron based non-heme catalysts and hydrogen peroxide for the oxyfunctionalization of polystyrene.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Split in two: the food-related experiences of teenagers who move between two homes post-divorce

subject: divorce teenagers food eating

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-15 11:24:22.997

abstract: There is little research examining the impact of divorce on children’s experiences of food and eating. This is surprising considering the high rates of divorce in Canada, 50% of which involve children, and current concerns about children’s health and weight. The purpose of this project was to explore how divorce and spending time in two households affects teenagers’ eating practices, the social and cultural meanings they associate with food and eating, and their identities. Situated in the childhood studies literature, this study acknowledged teenagers’ agency and competence by engaging them in photo-elicited, open-ended interviews. Nine teenagers between the ages of 11-17 were recruited and participated in individual interviews that ranged from 55 to 120 minutes in duration. I used inductive qualitative techniques to code and analyze the data. The findings show that teenagers from divorced families who split their time between two homes must negotiate and adapt to new food cultures in each of their homes. Rules around the types of, and access to certain foods changed between homes as did the expectations around dinnertime, eating together, and food preparation responsibilities. The rules and expectations of the teenagers changed as parents re-married and as new stepsiblings and half-siblings joined the family. The participants were active agents in each home, often deciding to comply with the rules and expectations but also exerting power and control, for example, by withholding mealtime conversation. The participants were aware of hegemonic ideals of the family and the family meal and worked to protect the image of their parents and families. This study shows that divorce influences social and cultural aspects of food and eating for teenagers. The findings can help inform public health strategies and best practice of clinicians, such as dietitians, counsellors, and doctors. It can also add to the limited body of research on the topic in childhood studies and food studies.

abstract: M.A.


title: Cardiac Potassium Channel hERG is Rregulated by Ubiquitin Ligase Nedd4-2

contributor:
Zhang, Shetuan
Physiology

subject: Nedd4-2

subject: hERG

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-15 18:17:00.452

abstract: The cardiac rapidly activating delayed rectifier potassium channel (IKr) is encoded by the human ether-a-go-go related gene (hERG), which is important for repolarization of the cardiac action potential. Reduction in hERG expression levels due to genetic mutations or drugs causes Long QT Syndrome (LQTS). Recently, we demonstrated that ubiquitination of hERG channels is involved in low K+ induced hERG endocytic degradation. Since homeostatic degradation is an important pathway in maintaining hERG membrane expression levels, we investigated the molecular mechanisms for hERG degradation by focusing on the role and consequence of overexpressing the ubiquitin (Ub) ligase, Nedd4-2 (Neural Precursor Cell- Expressed Developmentally Downregulated Gene 4- 2) (Yang & Kumar, 2010). Previous work in the lab demonstrated that Ub plays a role in the internalization of cell-surface hERG channels, and I hypothesized that ubiquitination of hERG channels is facilitated through Nedd4-2. To study the effects of Nedd4-2 on hERG channels, I overexpressed Nedd4-2 in human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells that stably express the hERG channels. Electrophysiological recordings, Western blot, co-immunoprecipitation analysis, and confocal microscopy were performed to identify Nedd4-2’s role in hERG expression. The data from whole-cell patch clamp recordings demonstrated that, among hEAG, Kv1.5 and hERG, Nedd4-2 specifically eliminates the hERG channel current. Western blot and confocal imaging analyses showed that Nedd4-2 overexpression led to a significant reduction in mature hERG channels in the plasma membrane. Data obtained using co-immunoprecipitation indicated that Nedd4-2 significantly increases ubiquitinated hERG channels. These data indicate that Nedd4-2 may play a role in hERG homeostatic degradation.

abstract: data is in a paper to be published.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Barriers and Solutions to Open Source Appropriate Technology for Sustainable Development: Innovation Through Collaboration

contributor:
Pearce, Joshua M.
Environmental Studies

subject:
Open Source
Appropriate Technology
Sustainable Development
Knowledge Commons

abstract: Thesis (Master, Environmental Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-08-16 17:13:06.891

abstract:
It has been proposed that the field of appropriate technology (AT) - small-scale, energy efficient and low-cost solutions, can be of tremendous assistance in many of the sustainable development challenges, such as food and water security, health, shelter, education and work opportunities. Unfortunately, there has not yet been a significant uptake of AT by organizations, researchers, policy makers or the mainstream public working in the many areas of the development sector. Some of the biggest barriers to higher AT engagement include: 1) AT perceived as inferior or ‘poor persons technology’, 2) questions of technological robustness, design, fit and transferability, 3) funding, 4) institutional support, as well as 5) general barriers associated with tackling rural poverty. With the rise of information and communication technologies (ICTs) for online networking and knowledge sharing, the possibilities to tap into the collaborative open-access and open-source AT are growing, and so is the prospect for collective poverty reducing strategies, enhancement of entrepreneurship, communications, education and a diffusion of life-changing technologies. In short, the same collaborative philosophy employed in the success of open source software can be applied to hardware design of technologies to improve sustainable development efforts worldwide. To analyze current barriers to open source appropriate technology (OSAT) and explore opportunities to overcome such obstacles, a series of interviews with researchers and organizations working in the field of AT were conducted.
The results of the interviews confirmed the majority of literature identified barriers, but also revealed that the most  pressing problem for organizations and researchers currently working in the field of AT is the need for much better communication and collaboration to share the knowledge and resources and work in partnership. In addition, interviews showcased general receptiveness to the principles of collaborative innovation and open source on the ground level. A much greater focus on networking, collaboration, demand-led innovation, community participation, and the inclusion of educational institutions through student involvement can be of significant help to build the necessary knowledge base, networks and the critical mass exposure for the growth of appropriate technology.

abstract: I have submitted 2 papers that came from this thesis for journal consideration, I would like to place a hold on thesis web posting until I hear back.

abstract: M.E.S.