title: The Uyghur and the Scholar: Competing Narratives of Ethno-religious Identity

subject:
Xinjiang
Uyghur
religion
religious nationalism
semiotics
myth
narrative
historiography
religion
Islam
Muslim
China
religious minorities

abstract:
This paper engages the nationalist and ethno-religious discourses among and
pertaining to the Uyghur of China’s Xinjiang province. The purpose of such engagement
is to illustrate that the scholarly discourse that has alternately deconstructed or validated
the narratives of history that contributed to the ethnogenesis of the Uyghur is complicit in
this wider discourse. The widely held assertion that the notion of the ethno-religious
identity ‘Uyghur’ is both a construction of the twentieth century, and largely artificial or
misleading, challenges the pre-existing discourse among the Uyghur themselves and the
governing bodies of the People’s Republic of China. A close examination of the
scholarly narrative in consideration of theories of ethnicity and semiotic discourse
therefore illustrates that this narrative competes among other claims to the ‘natural’
identity of the Turkic oasis dwellers of Xinjiang. My aim is to illustrate, in view of the
case of the Uyghur, that it would be naïve to consider the work of scholars on ethnicity
and religion to be mimetic reflections of reality. Indeed I contend that scholars possess
the same propensity for myth-making as any given object of their study.


title: Naṣīḥa and Ideology: Evolution in Religious Authority in Post-Colonial Morocco

subject:
Islam
Morocco
French protectorate
religious authority
Post-colonial theory
Qarawiyin
Madrasa

abstract:
The relationship between religious authority and political power has been continuously redefined in the tumultuous setting of post-Colonial Morocco. In this paper, I examine new and innovative trends in one traditional Moroccan formulation of this relationship–the letter of advise from religious scholar to ruler, or naṣīḥa–as one space where the historical balance of power has undergone radical transformation in modern times.
While this form of religio-political contestation is itself not new to Morocco’s dizzying history of competition over religious legitimacy, the contours of the modern challenge, I argue, have been significantly shaped by French colonial policy towards the long established authority of Morocco’s Islamic scholars. As we will see, this situation is brought into especial relief through an examination of the changing nature of religious scholarship and education in Morocco, as it developed in response to European colonial pressure in the pre-colonial period (roughly mid-19th century to the early 20th), as it was affected by the French Protectorate (1912- 1956) and as it has emerged in the new era of Moroccan independence (1956 to the present).
As the popularly grounded conceptions of religious knowledge changed under the French Protectorate, so too did the limitations and scope of scholarly authority in Moroccan politics. The breakdown of the scholarly establishment–both the conceptual fixity of the traditional education system as well as the social functions of the scholars–contributed to a freeing-up or “liberalizing” of popular constructions of the interaction between religion and politics. While this created the space for the Pan-Islamist nationalist movement that played a critical role in achieving Moroccan independence from colonial power, it also freed up space for Islamic fundamentalism and a reinvention of the Moroccan tradition of naṣīḥa.


title: Lymphocyte Contributions to Local and Systemic Cardiovascular Regulation in Mouse Pregnancy

contributor:
Croy, B. Anne
Anatomy and Cell Biology

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:
Immunology
Lymphocytes
Radiotelemetry
Blood Pressure
Type 1 Diabetes
Genetically modified mice
Pregnancy
Uterine natural killer cells
Vascular remodeling

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Anatomy & Cell Biology) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-01 20:56:15.648

abstract:
Healthy term pregnancy requires precisely timed coordination of multiple systems, including reproductive, neuroendocrine, immune and cardiovascular.  Dynamic maternal alterations occur systemically as well as locally within the reproductive tract. Systemic cardiovascular changes during gestation are relatively conserved in mammals, permitting comparison.  These physiological changes are relatively acute and reversible, in contrast to the pathological changes seen during cardiovascular disease development.  Gestational hypertensive disorders, such as preeclampsia, are the leading causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.  The pathogenesis of preeclampsia is not fully elucidated, but perturbation of the immune system is a fundamental component.  The angiogenic and vascular properties of uterine NK lymphocytes have been well studied in mice and women, but their relationships to gestational blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular adaptations have not been addressed.  In non-pregnant women and mice, T cells, but not B cells, have been found to alter cardiovascular functioning.  NK cells in humans also possess these capabilities, but no functional studies have been completed.  The aim of this thesis was to define the role of NK and T lymphocytes in cardiovascular adaptations during mouse gestation.  Using chronic radiotelemetry, histology, post-mortem and other techniques, female inbred mice of differing genotypes that lack specific lymphocyte subsets were compared before and across gestation.  In normal, immune competent mice, a five-phase gestational blood pressure profile was found.  This dynamic profile corresponded to stages of placental development.  In mice with a compound deficit in arterial modification and lymphocytes, no gestational hypertension was observed.  To elevate the maternal challenge of pregnancy, studies of pregnant, autoimmune Type 1 Diabetic mice were conducted. Impaired spiral artery remodeling, dysfunctional lymphocytes and growth-restricted fetuses were identified.  From mid-gestation, diabetic pregnant mice were hypotensive and bradycardic and showed signs of pre-renal failure (proteinuria and electrolyte imbalances).  In pregnant mice lacking T cells, tachycardia was observed despite otherwise normal gestational outcomes.  In pregnant mice lacking T cells with impaired NK cells, blood pressure was blunted and tachycardia was observed.
These findings support the conclusion that impaired spiral artery remodeling is insufficient to cause gestational hypertension in mice. The data further identify a role for T and NK cells in cardiac function during gestation.

abstract: PhD


title: Understanding the Functions of IT-enabled Transparency in Organizations: A Theoretical Explanation From a Case Study of High-Growth Ventures

contributor:
Gallupe, R. Brent
Management

subject: Technology Transparency Organizations Growth

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Management) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-01 21:11:13.187

abstract: This dissertation examines how people use information technologies to generate transparency in organizations.  Transparency has long been considered a core feature of the contemporary digital workplace (Zuboff, 1988).  Transparency is defined here as a functional affordance provided by information technologies which, once appropriated, contribute to solve three types of problems faced by organizations: mobilizing the workforce, pooling work artefacts among occupational communities, and reporting accountability. An inductive theory building case study of four similar high-growth ventures from the business and entertainment software industries was conducted.  The findings indicate that appropriations of information technology compete with alternative practices to fulfill transparency functions and a set of coherent contextual conditions have been found to influence the type of appropriations that will emerge and be selected in a given organization.  Appropriations of information technology also exhibit functional equivalence, as distinct appropriations of technology were observed to fulfill the same transparency function with the same level of adequacy. This research contributes to information systems and social informatics theory by synthesizing and extending previously disparate studies to develop a theoretical explanation of how information technology appropriations fulfill transparency functions within an organization.  Because of the nature of the cases studied in this research, this research also has implications for researchers and practitioners interested in how information technology gets appropriated by high-growth ventures in the “creative” and “new media” industries.

abstract: PhD


title: Anti-GD3 antibodies are targeting molecules for delivery of siRNA to melanoma

contributor:
Tron, Victor
Pathology and Molecular Medicine

subject:
Drug Delivery
Liposomes
RNA interference
GD3
small interfering RNA (siRNA)
melanoma
antibody-targeting
Mcl-1

abstract: Thesis (Master, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-02 10:29:37.944

abstract: Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin cancers, with an incidence increasing more rapidly than any other malignant cancer in the past 40 years. Metastatic melanoma is resistant to conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Our lab has previously demonstrated that Mcl-1 is a key contributor in protecting melanoma from therapy-induced cell death. RNAi therapeutics was employed as a novel way to silence the anti-apoptotic protein by using Mcl-1 mRNA sequence-specific siRNAs in vitro. In our hands, passive non-targeted delivery of RNAi therapy into melanoma tumours has been shown to be neither effective, nor selective in vitro and in vivo. Consequently, in this study, siRNA was linked to a delivery system which expressed a ligand specifically targeting melanoma cells. Previously shown, melanoma overexpresses the cell surface ganglioside GD3, thus it is my belief that the anti-GD3 R24 monoclonal antibody can function as a targeting molecule. The antibody was linked to coated cationic liposomes (CCLs) carrying siRNA molecules. Our first step was to confirm R24 ligation to CCLs. Untargeted CCLs showed insignificant values of antibody, whereas antibody-conjugated CCLs presented approximately 30 antibodies per liposome. I also confirmed that siRNA was internalized within CCLs using spectrometry, with an encapsulation efficiency of approximately 80%. Since liposomes need to be small to be effective in vitro and in vivo, CCLs were confirmed to be less than 100nm in diameter. In vitro studies using fluorescent microscopy demonstrated greater binding to melanoma cells with antibody-conjugated CCLs as compared to untargeted CCLs. In vivo experiments showed specific localization of targeted CCLs to induced subcutaneous mouse xenograft tumours. Western blotting demonstrated greater Mcl-1 knockdown using GD3-targeted CCLs. Taken together, these results suggest that anti-GD3 antibodies can serve as targeting molecules to deliver siRNA to melanoma cells and furthermore, GD3-targeted CCLs can promote siRNA-mediated gene silencing.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Culture and Postdecisional Confirmation Bias

contributor:
Ji, Li-Jun
Psychology

subject:
Decision Making
Information Seeking
Cross-Cultural Differences

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-02 12:51:18.396

abstract: The present research explored cross-cultural differences in postdecisional confirmation bias. I hypothesized that, following a personal decision—one that entails consequences for the decision maker only, Euro-Canadians would be more likely to seek out confirmatory information than would Japanese, whereas following an interpersonal decision—one that entails consequences for those closest to the decision maker, Japanese would be more likely to do so than Euro-Canadians. In Study 1, Euro-Canadians and Japanese university students were randomly assigned to either the self or friend condition. Participants in the self and friend condition selected a movie for which they or their friend would ostensibly receive a free pass to see in theatres, respectively. After selecting a movie, participants were presented with a list of 12 movie reviews that either confirmed or disconfirmed their choice. Participants then indicated which of the reviews they wanted to read further. Study 2 employed the same paradigm as did Study 1 and also included a measure of participants’ information processing goals. For Study 1, the results of a series of one-sample t tests revealed that Euro-Canadians in the self condition exhibited confirmation bias as well as did those in the friend condition, albeit this latter trend was not significant. In contrast, Japanese in both conditions showed no preference for confirmatory or disconfirmatory information. For Study 2, Japanese continued to exhibit a balanced search. However, Euro-Canadians in the friend condition preferred confirmatory information, whereas Euro-Canadians in the self condition exhibited a slight, non-significant preference for disconfirmatory information. Regarding participants’ information processing goals, those in the friend condition were more concerned with affirming and convincing others of the correctness of their choice than were those in the self condition. Also, Euro-Canadians indicated that they were motivated to be accurate more than did Japanese. The present research indicates that Euro-Canadians and Japanese differ in terms of the decisions that they seek to confirm (albeit not in the predicted direction). Reasons for such discrepant findings and limits of the present research are discussed.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Sensory-motor deficits in children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders assessed using a robotic virtual reality platform

contributor:
Reynolds, James
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
prenatal alcohol exposure
sensory-motor control
reaching
body position sense
virtual reality
robotics

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-02 15:10:25.653

abstract: Maternal consumption of alcohol during pregnancy can induce a range of behavioral and cognitive deficits in offspring, which are collectively termed Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).  There are significant delays in motor development and sensory-motor skills in children with FASD, but the underlying neurobiological mechanisms of these deficits are poorly understood. The goal of this research project is to test the hypothesis that the Kinesiological Instrument for Normal and Altered Reaching Movements (KINARM) will serve as an effective tool for identifying and measuring specific, neurologically-based motor deficits in children with FASD. These deficits were revealed through investigation of multi-joint upper limb movements during the performance of sensory-motor tasks. Children (31 FASD; 83 controls, aged 5 to 18 years, male and female) performed: (1) a visually-guided reaching task with fingertip feedback only; and children (31 FASD; 49 controls, aged 5 to 18 years, male and female) performed: (2) an arm position-matching task in the absence of visual feedback. Children with FASD differed significantly from controls in many reaching task outcome measures, specifically those related to the initial motor response and corrective responses. In particular, large effect sizes were observed for outcome measures related to the first (initial) movement (corresponding to feedforward control; e.g., direction error; distance error), as well as for those measures related to corrective responses (corresponding to feedback control; e.g., difference between minimum and maximum hand speeds; number of speed peaks during movement).  In the position-matching task, children with FASD constricted the spatial workspace of the subject-controlled arm relative to the robot-controlled arm, in the horizontal axis. There was also observed a systematic shift between the subject- and robot-controlled arms in the XY end position, resulting in significant error. Additionally, children with FASD exhibited significantly increased trial-to-trial variability for final hand position of the subject-controlled arm, over all targets, and for which large effect sizes were observed. The results suggest that children with FASD have difficulty integrating sensory information into planned motor movements. The KINARM is a promising research tool that may be used to assess motor control deficits in children affected by prenatal exposure to alcohol.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Cone Beam Optical Computed Tomography-Based Gel Dosimetry

subject:
Optical Computed Tomography
Gel Dosimetry
Radiation Therapy
3D Dose

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-02 15:01:48.501

abstract:
The complex dose distributions delivered by modern, conformal radiation therapy techniques present a considerable challenge in dose verification.  Traditional measurement tools are difficult and laborious to use, since complete verification requires that the doses be determined in three dimensions (3D). The difficulty is further complicated by a required target accuracy of ± 5% for the dose delivery. Gel dosimetry is an attractive option for realizing a tissue-equivalent, 3D dose verification tool with high resolution readout capabilities. However, much important work remains to be completed prior to its acceptance in the clinic. The careful development of easily accessible, fast optical readout tools such as cone beam optical computed tomography (CT) in combination with stable and reliable low-toxicity gel dosimeters is one key step in this process.
	In this thesis, the performance capabilities and limitations of the two main classes of cone beam optical CT-based absorbing and scattering gel dosimetry are characterized, and their measurement improved through careful matching of dosimeter and scanner performance. These systems are then applied to the evaluation of clinically relevant complex dose distributions. Three-dimensional quality assurance assessments of complex treatment plan dose distributions are shown to be feasible using an optically absorbing Fricke-xylenol-orange-gelatin-based gel dosimeter. Better than 95% voxel agreement is achieved between the plan and the delivery, using 3% dose difference and 3 mm spatial distance-to-agreement gamma function comparison criteria. Small field dose delivery evaluations are demonstrated to be viable using an optically scattering N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM)-based polymer gel, with the same comparison criteria. Full treatment process quality assurance is also possible using a NIPAM dosimeter in-phantom, but is limited in its accuracy due to the inherent difficulty of managing the effects of stray light pertubation in the optical attenuation-to-dose calibration.

abstract: PhD


title: A Littoral Place: Loss and Environment in Contemporary Newfoundland Fiction

contributor:
Ware, Tracy
English

subject:
Newfoundland
Literature
Place Theory
Space Theory
Environment
Cultural Geography
Tourism
Trauma
Loss
Resource Management
Nostalgia
Melancholia
Mourning
Newfoundland History
Newfoundland Identity
Regionalism
Newfoundland Literature

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, English) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-02 15:51:29.14

abstract:
This dissertation examines three contemporary Newfoundland novels to reconsider the relationship among loss, environment, and Newfoundland identity. Studies of Newfoundland literature often perform environmentally deterministic readings, or readings that characterize Newfoundland as a nostalgic and pathological culture fixated on loss and disaster. Newfoundlanders are too frequently understood as victims either of environment or of their colonial past. The dissertation argues that Newfoundlanders are, rather, victims of a misunderstanding of both. Using the works of philosophers Edward Casey and Arnold Berleant, I contend that these novels retell the history of Newfoundland as the story of places being treated as interchangeable sites, and criticize the consequences that stem from this misperception.
   Chapter 1 outlines the development of two dominant literary traditions in Newfoundland writing—“Romanticism” and stoicism—and their corresponding place myths. Chapter 2, which discusses Wayne Johnston’s The Colony of Unrequited Dreams (1998), explains Casey’s and Berleant’s distinction between space and place, traces the history of Newfoundland being treated as an exchangeable site in empty space rather than as a unique place, and sets the theoretical framework for the dissertation. I counter environmentally deterministic readings and argue that Johnston reveals Newfoundlanders’ relationship with place to be reciprocal.
	Chapters 3 and 4 question the assumption that “Romantic” and sentimental expressions of loss are pathological fixations. Chapter 3 examines Kenneth J. Harvey’s The Town that Forgot How to Breathe (2003), an antimodern and dystopic novel set in outport Newfoundland following the collapse of the cod fishery. I employ Svetlana Boym’s distinction between “restorative” and “reflective” nostalgia to suggest that reflective nostalgia might play a key role in re-placing Newfoundland. Chapter 4 focuses on Lisa Moore’s February (2009), which portrays the grief of a family following the loss of their father in the Ocean Ranger disaster. The chapter contends that the same mentality that regards places merely as sites for resource extraction also considers people to be dispensable, and I argue that “resistant mourning”—rather than being pathological—amounts to an ethical protest against this mentality. I conclude by discussing the difficulty and necessity of understanding the ocean as place.

abstract: PhD


title: The Implementation of a Delirium Knowledge Translation Product for Families of the Elderly

contributor:
Buchanan, Diane
Nursing

subject:
Delirium
Family
Education
Elderly
Knowledge Translation
Knowledge to Action
Caregiver

abstract: Thesis (Master, Nursing) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-03 12:50:12.792

abstract:
Family members are in an optimal position to identify changes in behaviour of loved ones suffering from delirium. To date there are no known studies on educational interventions specifically targeting families of the elderly related to delirium outside of the hospital setting.
Using the Knowledge to Action Process, families became involved in the development of a knowledge translation product related to delirium. It was found from two focus groups that participants’ knowledge of delirium was limited. Also, it was determined that participants were most interested in receiving an educational session in a group setting. The education session was developed using feedback from the focus groups as well as evidence based resources. The focus for the education session was on prevention and identification of delirium.
There were a total of seven education sessions held and 16 eligible participants. In each session a pre and post-test for delirium knowledge was given to the participants. There was a significant increase in scores on the post-test following the session. Participants were also given a post session questionnaire to evaluate the education session. Overall the session was well received; participants were often interested in learning more about delirium. Half of the participants felt they would be able to identify delirium in someone close to them. The majority of participants thought that it is important for other families of the elderly to receive a similar session on delirium.

Four to six weeks following the education session, semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with five participants from the second phase in order to receive further feedback on the intervention. Most participants were able to recall information related to risk factors and signs of delirium. Three participants stated that the education sessions should be longer in order to provide more time for discussion. Participants still thought they would be able to recognize delirium as long as they were close to the person experiencing it. Since the education session none of the participants had witnessed anyone who was delirious.

abstract: MNSc.


title: Cystatin Related Epididymal Spermatogenic Protein Resides in the Outer Dense Fibres and Likely Transiently Associates With the Surface of Epididymal Mouse Spermatozoa

contributor:
Oko, Richard
Anatomy and Cell Biology

subject:
Spermatozoa
CRES
Outer Dense Fibres
Epididymal Maturation
Spermatogenesis
Epididymis
Testis
Sperm Tail

abstract: Thesis (Master, Anatomy & Cell Biology) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-03 14:22:01.913

abstract:
Cystatin Related Epididymal Spermatogenic protein (CRES) is expressed in both the testis and epididymis and found associated with spermatozoa. It appears as non-glycosylated (14 and 12 kDa) and glycosylated isoforms (19 and 17 kDa). The role of CRES is enigmatic and dependent on localization of its isoforms, which is the objective of this study. The initial approach was to investigate testicular and epididymal origins of these isoforms by immunohistochemistry and immunogold cytochemistry. To further pinpoint CRES localization we then selectively extracted and fractionated epididymal spermatozoa in order to find by immunoblotting which sperm fractions contained CRES isoforms. Immunohistochemical analysis of mouse spermatogenesis showed that CRES was expressed in the tail cytoplasm of elongating spermatids from step 9-16, with a pattern reminiscent of outer dense fibre (ODF) proteins. Ultrastructural immunocytochemistry revealed that the immunogold label was concentrated over growing ODFs and mitochondrial sheath in the testes which persisted in spermatozoa through the epididymis. Sequential extractions of isolated sperm tails with Triton X-100-dithiothreitol (DTT) to remove the mitochondrial sheath, whose extract contained an unrelated 66 kDa immunoreactive band, followed by either sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-DTT or urea-DTT to solubilise accessory fibres of the tail revealed a 14 kDa immunoreactive band associated with the ODF. In addition, Western blots revealed glycosylated and non-glycosylated CRES isoforms in nonyl phenoxylpolyethoxylethanol (NP40) extracts of the caput, but not cauda, sperm. Immunohistochemical analysis of the caput and cauda epithelium showed that CRES is secreted by the Golgi apparatus of the
ii
initial segment, fills the proximal caput lumen, and disappears by mid caput. Western blots of caput and cauda tissue and luminal fluid revealed 14 and 19 kDa immunoreactive bands in caput tissues and luminal fluid, but not in the cauda. This study concludes that there are two origins of CRES, one arising in the testis and the other in the epididymis. Testicular CRES is ionically and covalently associated with the ODF while epididymal CRES is detergent soluble and is most likely associated temporarily with the surface of caput epididymal sperm.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Fetal and Newborn Auditory Processing of the Mother's and Father's Voice

contributor:
Kisilevsky, Barbara
Nursing

subject: Fetus Newborn Audition Language Voice Learning

abstract: Thesis (Master, Nursing) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-03 17:23:13.638

abstract: Term fetuses show differential heart rate responses to their mother’s vs. a female stranger’s voice and newborns show a preference for their mother’s vs. a female stranger’s voice, indicating recognition/learning of the mother’s voice before birth.  However, fetal response to the father’s voice is unknown and was examined in this study. Forty mother-fetal pairs and the fathers participated.  Parents were audio recorded reading a story.  Each fetus was presented with the recordings using the following 3 min periods:  pre-voice no-sound, voice (mother or father, counterbalanced over subjects), post-voice no-sound. Following a 20 min delay, the opposite voice was delivered. Voices were presented about 10 cm above the maternal abdomen at an average of 95 dB A; heart rate and body movements were recorded continuously.  After delivery, newborn head-turning to three, 20 s trials of each parent’s voice (counter balanced over subjects) delivered at an average of 80 dB A was observed. Results showed that fetuses responded to the mother’s and father’s voices, demonstrating a heart rate increase to both voices compared to no heart rate change during the pre-voice baseline period. Fetuses showed no heart rate response to their mother reading a story but showed a heart rate increase when her audio recording was played. After birth, as newborns, they turned their heads more often towards their mother’s voice and away from their father’s voice. It was concluded that both the mother’s and father’s voice can capture and sustain the fetuses’ attention and that newborns prefer their mother’s vs. their father’s voice.

abstract: MNSc.


title: Spinoza's Causal Axiom: A Defense

contributor:
Miller, Jon
Philosophy

subject: Spinoza axiom cause knowledge rationalism conception effect substance

abstract: Thesis (Master, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-04 13:22:27.876

abstract:
In the first chapter, I examine the definitions and axioms in Part One of Spinoza's Ethics. From there, I discuss five interpretations of Spinoza's notion of `axiom' in order to strengthen our understanding of the role Spinoza took axioms to play in his work.

In the second chapter, I move from the discussion of what an axiom is to a consideration of the precise meaning of the fourth axiom of the first part (1A4). A key move in this chapter is to show that Spinoza does not separate causation and conception.

In the third chapter, I defend the truth of 1A4 by showing that it follows from the definitions of Substance and Mode. I argue that in virtue of the conclusions of the previous two chapters, the axiom can be regarded as true for its relevant magnitude (in a way akin to the 'common notions' of Euclid's Elements).

abstract: M.A.


title: Compounding Effects of Dysphoria and Mood Stability on Eyewitness Identification

contributor:
Jacobson, Jill A.
Psychology

subject:
Dysphoria
Depression
Eyewitness Identification
Eyewitness Accuracy
Chronic Negative Mood
Mood Dependency

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-23 13:11:50.153

abstract: To date, research on the effect of depressive symptomatology on victim-witness identification is scarce even though depressive symptomatology is highly prevalent in the victim-witness experience.  Furthermore, being a victim-witness often instigates the use of counselling services, which could cause a shift in affect, and applying mood dependent memory theories, any change in affect should be detrimental to eyewitness accuracy.  Still, individuals suffering from subclinical depression, or dysphoria, have exhibited heightened perceptual skills, and depressed affect exhibits remarkable stability over time.  Therefore, I theorized that: (1) dysphoric people’s heightened sensitivity and motivation towards accurate understanding may result in more accurate eyewitness identifications, and (2) individuals who express stable levels of dysphoria should have greater eyewitness identification accuracy than should people with stable levels of nondysphoria, with stable levels of severe depressive symptomatology, or with unstable depressive symptomatology.  In Study One, 132 students were randomly assigned to one of three autobiographical mood inductions: a positive, negative, or neutral/control.  Following this manipulation, participants completed 12 experimental trials each consisting of a target exposure, a 30-second distraction task, and lastly, a six-person simultaneous line-up.  Higher levels of dysphoria were associated with greater overall identification accuracy and that temporary mood conferred an advantage only when participants recalled highly sad memories.  In Study Two, 173 participants were exposed to 12 target faces at a first session and returned two-to-four weeks later to identify these faces from 12 six-person simultaneous line-ups.  Individuals who exhibited stable levels of dysphoria from eyewitness event to the line-up task performed significantly better on the simultaneous line-ups than all of the other groups.  Among those exhibiting unstable dysphoria, people whose depressive symptomatology improved were almost as accurate as those who had stable dysphoria.  These results support the need for victim-witnesses to receive immediate help to stabilize or improve depressive symptomatology not just for their mental well-being but also to preserve eyewitness accuracy.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Psychosocial Processes Influencing Weight Management Among Persons Newly Prescribed Atypical Antipsychotic Medications

contributor:
Baker, Cynthia
Nursing

subject:
Schizophrenia
First-Episode Psychosis
Weight Gain
Grounded Theory

abstract: Thesis (Master, Nursing) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-06 00:12:11.781

abstract:
PURPOSE: To generate a theory of the psychosocial processes influencing weight management among persons newly prescribed atypical antipsychotic medications.
RESEARCH QUESTIONS:
1. What influences weight management in persons with first-episode psychosis who are newly prescribed atypical antipsychotic medications?
2. How is weight management facilitated in persons with first-episode psychosis who are newly prescribed atypical antipsychotic medications?
3. What psychosocial processes impede weight management in persons with first-episode psychosis who are newly prescribed atypical antipsychotic medications?
METHODS: A qualitative, grounded theory research design was used to guide the study. Semi-structured interviews were the method of data collection and analysis was performed using constant comparison.
SAMPLE & SETTING: A sample of 10 participants with first-episode psychosis prescribed atypical antipsychotics for at least eight weeks and six participants with a diagnosis of chronic schizophrenia who have been taking atypical antipsychotic medication for at least three years were obtained from an Outpatient Psychiatric program using theoretical sampling.
FINDINGS: Contextual factors influencing weight management were: accessibility to resources, unstructured lifestyle, and others’ perception of their weight. Conditions influencing weight management were: rapid weight gain, insatiable hunger, and a lack of motivation boosters. Participants’ early responses to actions influencing weight gain management included discontinuing medications, choosing lower calorie foods, using walking in daily activities as exercise, accepting weight gain, and trying to manage weight but giving up. The consequences revealed from data analysis were contemplating weight management and not trying, as the barriers to weight management substantially exceeded the facilitators and many procrastinated in taking on any weight management strategies.
CONCLUSION: The theoretical framework developed in this study can assist with the understanding and management of weight gain among this unique population.

abstract: MNSc.


title: Art as Research: Untangling the Ecological Citizen

contributor:
Smith, Mick
Rettig, Ted
Environmental Studies

subject:
Ecological Citizenship
Lisa Figge
New Genra Public Art
Judith Butler
Hannah Arendt
Public Space
Politics
Art Practice
Environmental Studies
Union Gallery
Public Sphere

abstract: Thesis (Master, Environmental Studies) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-06 18:48:33.277

abstract: In this thesis, Lisa Figge analyzes the political space of ecological citizenship by theorizing her art practice.  Beginning with an Arendtian lens, Figge creates projects in the vein of New Genre Public Art, to trace the qualitatively-distinct activities of the public sphere, in which ecological citizens appear.  The art practices of Mierle Laderman Ukeles, Colette Urban, Pat Aylesworth, Helen and Newton Harrison help move this critique along.  Then, taking Judith Butler’s thinking on the bond between speech and action, or speech acts, Figge situates her art practice and thesis writing as an account of herself as an ecological citizen.  Figge is interested in finding ways to multiply opportunities, for her and others, to perform concerned engagement with the world.  In order to begin this process Figge acts out and analyses her three art interventions: Madame E and her suit of environmentally conscious a(r)mour, Ecological Citizen in Training, and 86 Hands on Wolfe Island.  In giving an account of herself, she shows how our aptitude for sorting things should not be used to override our capacity to make a meaningful life.  The art exhibition Dust to Dust, 2010 is the twin of this accounting, which was held at Queen’s University’s Union Gallery.

abstract: M.E.S.


title: Heme-Oxygenase Inhibitors: a Novel Strategy For Treating Chronic and Persistent Pain

contributor:
Cahill, Catherine M.
Nakatsu, Kanji
Pharmacology and Toxicology

subject: Pharmacology and Toxicology

abstract: Thesis (Master, Pharmacology & Toxicology) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-07 14:20:35.537

abstract:
It is well recognized that there is a lack of effective therapies for treating chronic pain.  Therefore, development of novel analgesics with minimal side effects and the absence of addiction potential are essential. The present study assessed the effectiveness of a novel class of selective heme oxygenase (HO) inhibitors in models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain in rats.
A research collaboration of Dr. Kanji Nakatsu (Pharmacology and Toxicology) and Dr. Walter Szarek (Chemistry) has designed and synthesized a series of azole-based compounds with a range of activity as HO inhibitors. This series has been dubbed as QC-xx. QC-15 selectively inhibits the HO-1 isoform, while QC-10 inhibits both HO-1 and HO-2.
Intraplantar injection of 1% formalin produces a biphasic nociceptive response characterized by licking and flinching of the affected hind paw. Intraperitoneal (IP) administration of QC-15 (100μmol/kg) attenuated nociceptive behaviors to formalin, which were not blocked by the opioid receptor antagonist, naloxone (1 mg/kg, IP). Similarly, IP delivery of QC-10 (100μmol/kg) decreased formalin-induced nociceptive behavior. To determine whether the effects of the drug were peripheral or spinally mediated, compounds were delivered either locally or spinally. Intrathecal (IT) administration of QC-15 (0.3 μmol) attenuated pain behavior, whereas local injection into the paw had no effect.
 The effects of QC-15 were also assessed in a model of neuropathic pain, induced by constriction of the common sciatic nerve using 4 chromic sutures. Mechanical withdrawal thresholds (von Frey filaments) were used to assess mechanical allodynia before and after IP administration of QC-15. Animals treated with the HO-1 inhibitor had significantly higher thresholds (indicating decreased mechanical allodynia) on both day 7 and 14 compared to pre-drug baselines. These observations suggest that HO-1 may also play a role in neuropathic pain.
	Finally we were able to demonstrate that QC-15 had no effect on motor coordination that would interfere with behavioral testing. Animals treated with the 100μmol/kg dose of QC-15 were able to maintain equal performance as controls treated with saline. In conclusion, behavioral results indicate that the inducible form of HO (HO-1) may play an important role in persistent and chronic pain states.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Relating to Reasons

contributor:
Kumar, Rahul
Philosophy

subject: Practical Reason

abstract: Thesis (Master, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-07 20:05:36.934

abstract:
While each of us has an intuitive sense of what a reason is, when considered more carefully the concept is not so clear. There are a number of questions to which any successful account of reasons will provide some answer. For example, on some accounts reasons may appear to be metaphysically odd entities, unlike other sorts of facts in our world. From here there are very serious questions which spring up regarding the motivational efficacy of reasons: given the nature of reasons, as respective accounts describe them, how is it that reasons get a grip in an agent? Further, whatever reasons are, and in whichever relation agents stand to reasons, how is it that agents get in touch with truths about reasons? How in theory – and importantly, in practice – do agents figure out which reasons apply to them?
I will be defending a view of reasons in which reasons are primitive. This is what T.M. Scanlon calls 'Reasons Fundamentalism'. In particular, I will defend this view against charges which claim that an account of reasons as primitive or fundamental fails us in the following three respects: 1) it cannot provide us with an adequate account of what sorts of facts reasons are, and how they intermingle with other sorts of facts; 2) it cannot provide us with adequate account of how a consideration can count as a reason for an agent even if that agent fails to be gripped by the consideration, and; 3) it cannot provide us with an adequate account of how we figure out, in principle and in practice, what count as reasons and which reasons apply to us.
If reasons are fundamental, existing and applying to us independently of anything already true of particular agents and are the sorts of things we can come to understand through reflection, it seems that such a story also succeeds in capturing our
phenomenological experience of practical reasoning in our every day lives. This, I will suggest, goes some distance toward setting it apart from – and ahead of – other accounts.

abstract: M.A.


title: Structure-Guided Studies of Bacterial Competition Mechanisms

contributor:
Jia, Zongchao
Biochemistry

subject:
Phosphonate Utilization
Chloramphenicol Biosynthesis
C-P Lyase
Flavin-Dependent Halogenase
PhnP
CmlS
Phosphodiesterase

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Biochemistry) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-08 15:06:08.853

abstract: Microorganisms have evolved a stunning array of strategies for nutrient competition, ranging from concerted effort of antibiotic release to kill off competing species, to evolving complex enzymatic pathways that are capable of scavenging nutrients from sources not utilizable by other organisms. The carbon-phosphorous (C-P) lyase pathway is a survival mechanism that is activated during phosphate limitation in certain species of bacteria and enables cleavage of the extremely stable C-P bond in order to obtain phosphorous from organophosphonates. The structure and biochemical characterization of PhnP, a critical accessory protein from C-P lyase pathway of E. coli is presented in this thesis. The structure of PhnP revealed a conserved metal-dependent hydrolase active site with two Mn2+ ions, and another unique mononuclear Zn2+ site that appears to have a structural role. A non-physiological ligand that fortuitously co-crystallized with the enzyme provided insights into the catalytic features of the active site. We were able to demonstrate hydrolytic activity towards a number of phosphodiesterase substrates, and propose a plausible physiological role for PhnP. These results contribute to deciphering the mechanism of phosphonate utilization, which would allow design of bioremediation programs to remove toxic phsophonates from the environment. Antibiotic production is another mechanism for resource competition. Structural characterization of CmlS, a halogenase from the chloramphenicol biosynthesis pathway of S. venezuelae is presented. The crystal structure revealed a novel covalent modification of its FAD cofactor, which was confirmed through ESI-MS and chemical denaturation studies. The unique C-terminal domain, active site architecture, and the position of the C-terminus suggest that halogenation mechanism of CmlS may differ from the currently proposed mechanism for structurally related halogenases. This work provides early steps towards understanding mechanisms of enzymatic halogenations, which is of great scientific, as well as pharmaceutical interest.

abstract: PhD


title: Control of a Pneumatic System With Adaptive Neural Network Compensation

contributor:
Surgenor, Brian W.
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Pneumatics
Control
Neural Network
Compensation
Position
Robotics

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-08 15:02:28.177

abstract:
Considerable research has been conducted on the control of pneumatic systems due to their potential as a low-cost, clean, high power-to-weight ratio actuators. However, nonlinearities such as those due to compressibility of air continue to limit their accuracy. Among the nonlinearities in a pneumatic system, friction can have a significant effect on tracking performance, especially in applications that use rodless cylinders which have higher Coulomb friction than rodded cylinders.
Compensation for nonlinearities in pneumatic systems has been a popular area of research in pneumatic system control. Most advanced nonlinear control strategies are based on a detailed mathematical model of the system.  If a simplified mathematical model is used, then performance is sensitive to uncertainties and parameter variations in the robot. Although they show relatively good results, the requirement for model parameter identification has made these methods difficult to implement. This highlights the need for an adaptive controller that is not based on a mathematical model.
The objective of this thesis was to design and evaluate a position and velocity controller for application to a pneumatic gantry robot. An Adaptive Neural Network (ANN) structure was implemented as both a controller and as a compensator. The implemented ANN had online training as this was considered to be the algorithm that had the greatest potential to enhance the performance of the pneumatic system.
One axis of the robot was used to obtain results for the cases of velocity and position control. Seven different velocity controllers were tested and their performance compared. For position control, only two controllers were examined: conventional PID and PID with an ANN Compensator (ANNC). The position controllers were tuned for step changes in the setpoint. Their performance was evaluated as applied to sinusoid tracking.
It was shown that the addition of ANN as a compensator could improve the performance of both position and velocity control. For position control, the ANNC improved the tracking performance by over 20%. Although performance was better than with conventional PID control, it was concluded that the level of improvement with ANNC did not warrant the extra effort in tuning and implementation.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Patterns of Workplace Support: An Exploration of the Experiences of Workers with Mental Health Disabilities

contributor:
Lysaght, Rosemary
Rehabilitation Science

subject:
mental health disabilities
workplace support

abstract: Thesis (Master, Rehabilitation Science) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-08 19:03:05.468

abstract: Purpose: To evaluate differences in perceived workplace social support for different disability groups, and to better understand the support experiences of persons with mental health disabilities. Methods: A sequential mixed methods design was used. Phase I involved the analysis of an existing dataset to compare perceived social support scores between participants with different disabilities. Phase II, rooted in the phenomenology tradition, involved interviews with workers with mental health disabilities. Triangulation of methods was done in the analysis phase by comparing participant interviews with their corresponding support scores. Results: Phase I - No significant differences were found between participants with orthopaedic and emotional disabilities regarding their total perceived social support score, or support scores according to type (e.g. informational) or source (e.g. supervisor) of support; however, trends suggested that participants with emotional disabilities had higher perceived support scores for friends/family support and lower perceived support scores for appraisal support. Regression models developed from the demographic variables did not predict the perceived amount of social support. Phase II – 9 theme clusters concerning the role of supervisors, external and internal factors, and disclosure emerged from the interviews with workers with mental health disabilities regarding their experiences of support in the workplace. Conclusions: This was the first mixed-methods study to examine the workplace support experiences of individuals with mental health disabilities using a workplace and disability context specific support scale and interviews rooted in phenomenology. No significant differences in perceived support scores between orthopaedic and emotional disabilities were found and this may be attributable to small sample size. In addition, although the qualitative findings provide interesting insight into support experiences, additional research with more participants from a variety of industries would add to the findings.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Obituarizing Michael Jackson: Subject Formation through Material Cultural Branding

contributor:
Burfoot, Annette J.
Sociology

subject:
obituary
communicative mediums
popular culture
subject formation
media
Michael Jackson

abstract: Thesis (Master, Sociology) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-08 22:49:48.239

abstract: Historically, obituaries were created as news items and published in print media with the intentions of informing an audience of public hangings or similar sensational deaths. Over the years, obituaries changed in form to become a way of publicly notifying audiences of one’s life upon their death, focusing more on biography and familial structure than sensation. However, with advancements in communicative mediums, including the increased popularity and easy accessibility of the Internet, traditional understandings of the term ‘obituary’ are challenged to include all forms of media publications that draw on elements of sensation and biography. The combination of this new, inclusive definition and the increasing popularity and advancement of technological mediums has republicized deceased celebrities as marketable and profitable brands that rely on subject formation through media and participatory fandom. However, the branding of celebrated, deceased figures through processes of social subjectification often remains embedded within cultural texts. As a result, audiences are often unaware of their ability to shift or influence identities of the deceased, and their fandom becomes the target of alternative messages embedded in sites of obituarization. By applying Marshall McLuhan’s theory of technology as an extension of human consciousness in addition to Roland Barthes’ theory of mythologisation when examining Michael Jackson’s 2009 death, this thesis explains how the subject formation of deceased individuals becomes so powerful and globalized that their death becomes a positive and beneficial occurrence with regards to the profitability and marketability of their brand. Therefore, the subject formation of celebrated, deceased figures is a fragile process that is altering how North Americans mediate the culture surrounding death and dying.

abstract: M.A.


title: An Evaluation of the Environmental Protection Provided by Composite Liner Systems

contributor:
Rowe, Kerry
Civil Engineering

subject:
Landfill Cover
Cation Exchange
Bottom Liner
Leakage and Transport
Swelling and Swell Index
GCL

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-09 12:20:42.298

abstract:
The effect of calcium uptake by hydration and diffusion from an adjacent calcium-rich soil on the performance of a geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) is examined for three cases. In Case 1 the GCL rested directly on a soil with a high calcium (1800 mg/l) concentration in the pore water (called “calcium rich soil” herein). Case 2 involved a GCL resting on 300 mm of soil with a low (200 - 300 mg/l) calcium concentration in the pore water (“foundation soil”) overlying the calcium rich soil. In the third (“control case”), the GCL only rested on the foundation soil. The overburden pressure was 15 kPa. The moisture content of GCL increased to 96%, 86% and 108% in the first 279 days for Cases 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Under isothermal conditions, the GCL moisture content decreased to 80% and 67% for Cases 1 and 2 respectively and increased to 113% for Case 3. After 1100 days, the hydraulic conductivity (k) of the GCL was 4×10-11 m/s for Case 3 but had increased up to about 7×10-11 m/s and 2×10-10 m/s for cases with and without the foundation layer respectively. The results are used to calibrate finite element models. A good correlation was found between k the bulk void ratio (eB) of GCL.
Leakage and contaminant transport through 10 mm diameter hole in a geomembrane in a composite liner involving a GCL is examined at a stress of 100 kPa for hydraulic heads of 0.3 or 1 m. When permeated with distilled water, the interface transmissivity (θ) was about 2.3 × 10 11 m2/s. After 800 days of permeation with 0.14M NaCl there was only about 3% increase in the flow despite an order of magnitude increase in GCL permeability near the hole because θ decreased from 2.3×10-11 m2/s to 1.1×10-11 m2/s and controlled the leakage despite the increase in GCL permeability. Numerical modeling demonstrated reasonable agreement with the observed transport.

abstract: PhD


title: Executive Function and Fronto-Striatal Circuitry: Insights From Antisaccades, Task Switching, and Parkinson’s Disease

contributor:
Munoz, Douglas P.
Pari, Giovanna
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
fMRI
Basal Ganglia
Parkinson's Disease
Saccades
Executive Control
Prefrontal Cortex

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-09 12:17:46.904

abstract: Many studies of ‘executive control’ have focused on the prefrontal cortex (PFC), which contains the neuronal functional properties, modulatory neurotransmitters, and network connections with sensory and motor regions to make this large brain area a candidate region to provide all the necessary elements to voluntarily control behavior. However, like the motor and premotor cortex, the PFC is integrated with the basal ganglia (BG) in such a similar fashion, that it is impossible not to consider that the PFC might depend on the BG to implement executive control effectively. This thesis draws on knowledge of PFC and BG function, and combines studies that require the instantaneous top-down control over motor behavior with a neurological patient group with primarily BG dysfunction (Parkinson’s disease), to provide for a new understanding of prefrontal-BG networks sub-serving executive control. The tasks performed by subjects consist of antisaccades (generate a voluntary eye-movement away from a visual stimulus) and those dealing with task switching (change behavior after an alternate was previously required). Numerous neural and functional imaging studies have identified key areas of the prefrontal cortex and BG that are critical to antisaccade generation, and studies in task switching have implicated similar neural mechanisms that are involved in overriding one behavior with another. By combining task switching with antisaccades, this thesis specifically examines the neural mechanisms related to suddenly changing behavior, under conditions where one behavior is easier to perform than the other. The methods utilize on-line eye-tracking in healthy young adults and older adults with, and without, Parkinson’s disease, to develop theories of a role of the BG in executive control, and to search for specific neural correlates of executive control signals in the PFC, premotor cortex and BG using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Together, the conclusions drawn from this thesis point to an important role of the BG in overriding more automatic behavior with behavior that is more difficult to perform. This thesis also suggests that this overriding mechanism occurs through the boosting of cortical executive control signals via net excitatory feedback from the BG.

abstract: PhD


title: Track Persistence in Wireless Sensor Networks

contributor:
Akl, Selim
Rappaport, David
Computing

subject:
WSN
Wireless Sensor Networks
Target Tracking
Object Tracking
Track Persistence
Single object tracking
Track
Persistence

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-09 12:56:50.921

abstract: In this thesis we directly consider an object tracking problem for wireless sensor networks (WSNs), called track persistence.  Track persistence temporally extends the problem of object tracking by seeking to store and retrieve the entire history of an object.  To provide an initial solution to track persistence, we develop two distinct algorithms.  The first algorithm, update to sink, translates track persistence into a centralized problem.  The second algorithm, a linked list-like algorithm, builds a dynamic data structure as the object traverses the network, and rebuilds the object history distributively upon demand.  We conduct worst case analysis upon both of these algorithms.  Finally, we implement a simulation environment and run a number of tests upon both algorithms.  Track persistence is a very challenging problem, and this thesis contributes a pair of solutions which stand as a basis for future research.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Leonard Woolf and the Politics of Reason in Interwar Britain

contributor:
den Otter, Sandra M.
History

subject:
Interwar Britain
Leonard Woolf
British Labour Party
International Relations
Psychology
Reason

abstract: Thesis (Master, History) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-09 13:03:11.911

abstract: This thesis is an examination of the role of reason in the thought of the left-leaning writer, publisher, editor and journalist Leonard Woolf.  Examining Woolf’s response to political radicalization and impending international conflict between 1930 and 1940, this discussion contends that Woolf sought to emphasise human thought, reason and individual psychology as a response to interwar anxieties about cultural crisis.

abstract: M.A.


title: Street Connectivity as a Determinant of Health in Canadian Youth

contributor:
Pickett, William
Janssen, Ian
Community Health and Epidemiology

subject:
Street connectivity
Physical activity
Injury
Youth
Population health

abstract: Thesis (Master, Community Health & Epidemiology) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-14 15:26:49.565

abstract:
Background: Street connectivity, an important aspect of the built environment, refers to the directness of links and the density of connections in road networks.  Street connectivity of youth’s neighborhoods may impact upon both physical activity patterns and the occurrence of physical activity injuries in street locations.

Objectives: The objectives of the two studies comprising this thesis were to examine, among Canadian youth in grades 6 to 10: (1) the relationship between street connectivity and physical activity, and (2) the relationship between street connectivity and physical activity injuries occurring in the street.

Methods: 9,717 youth in grades 6-10 from 188 schools across Canada participated in the 2006 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey.  A street connectivity composite measure was gathered objectively using a geographic information system database, and was based on intersection density, average block length, and connected node ratio in a 5km radius around each school.  Physical activity was measured via students’ self-reported hours of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per week outside of school hours.  Injury was measured via students’ self-reports to questions regarding whether they had suffered an injury while playing in the street in the past 12 months.  Multi-level regression analyses were used to examine the relations between street connectivity and both physical activity and injury.

Results: Compared to students living in the highest street connectivity quartile, those in the second (Relative Risk (RR) 1.22; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10-1.35), third (RR 1.25; 95% CI 1.13-1.37), and fourth (lowest; RR 1.21; 95% CI 1.09-1.34) quartiles reported considerably higher levels of physical activity outside of school hours.  Conversely, students living in neighbourhoods with low street connectivity reported higher occurrence of physical activity injuries occurring in the street relative to students living in highly connected neighbourhoods (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.47; 95% CI 0.94 -2.31).

Conclusions: Neighbourhoods with low street connectivity may be conducive to youth physical activity, yet they may also result in an increased risk of injury.  Further, the relationship between street connectivity and physical activity reported in Canadian youth is not consistent with the relationship reported for adult populations.  This variation requires consideration in applied health policy.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Greening of Chinese Daoism: Modernity, Bureaucracy and Ecology in Contemporary Chinese Religion

subject: Daoism China Ecology Science Modernity

abstract: This paper seeks to examine the role of Daoism as a green religion. It analyzes a variety of sources which report an overall trend of greening within Daoism in China, including academic literature, primary source material from Daoist groups and my own research from visits to sacred sites at Maoshan and Taibaishan. The analysis reveals that the green trend within Daoism is multifaceted, serving a variety of functions and is intimately bound up with the history of state-religion relations and the process of modernization within China. I contend that the current green agenda being pursued by the Chinese Daoist Association (CDA) represents an attempt by the CDA to transform Daoism into the definition of a modern Chinese religion. The CDA achieves this transformation by emphasizing humanist language and stressing the role of the natural environment, through the institution of a hierarchical structure which regulates temple activities and by distancing itself from so called superstitious practices in adopting a more a scientific discourse through ecological principles. This greening process has implications for both environmentalism in China and Daoism as a living tradition.


title: A Performance Comparison of Frame Structures in WiMAX Multi-Hop Relay Networks

contributor:
Hassanein, Hossam S.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
Frame Structure
Single Frame
Multi Frame
802.16j
Voice Capacity
ns2 relay add-on

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-09 23:55:00.995

abstract:
Wireless multi-hop relay systems are the newest amendment to the IEEE 802.16 standard for local and metropolitan area networks, else known as WiMAX. Relay systems come in different flavours, based on their capabilities and have the potential to offer many advantages over the single-hop technology. Upcoming broadband wireless technologies, that utilize multi-hop relays, need good network planning and design in order to achieve their full potential.
There are two main types of multi-hop relay stations: transparent, which are not able to transmit control information and non-transparent, which have the capability to transmit such information. This study focuses mainly on non-transparent relay stations due to their complexity and ability to operate in a more than two hop environment. Currently, the latest IEEE amendment provides two different frame structures − single and multi-frame − for utilization in multi-hop relay networks, to allocate bandwidth.
The purpose of this thesis is to evaluate the two proposed frame structures, in various network scenarios in terms of delay, throughput, rate, and user capacity. In addition, we will discuss some of the issues that need to be considered to cost effectively plan and design a multi-hop relay network. The evaluation methodology that we utilize is in accordance with the Multi-hop Relay System Evaluation Methodology developed by the IEEE 802.16 Broadband Wireless Access Working Group.
To evaluate the above frame structures we developed an evaluation model for use in the network simulator 2 (ns2) from University of California Berkeley, by modifying the light WiMAX (LWX) add-on from Taiwan University. Unlike the original LWX module, which supports only transparent relay configurations, our module supports both multi-frame and single frame structures, as well as non-transparent multi-hop relay environments.
To our knowledge there is no previous work, which analyzes the performance of the single frame and multi-frame system in multi-hope relay environments using the guidelines from the latest amendment to the standard (IEEE 802.16j-2009). Moreover, there is no publicly available software that will enable the study of such performance. The resulting source code of our work has been made publicly available and can be obtained from our website.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Motivation and Learning Outcomes: A Study of Incoming Exchange Students at Queen's University

contributor:
Klinger, Don A.
Education

subject:
Higher Education
International Education
Study Abroad
Student Exchange
Motivation
Learning Outcomes
Cross-cultural

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-09 23:30:52.947

abstract:
The purpose of this study was to measure the relationship between the motivation and learning outcomes of incoming exchange students at Queen’s University. The majority of research on study abroad programs measures the learning outcomes of U.S. students abroad in courses and programs designed exclusively for them. What is lacking is research on participants in exchange programs where incoming students study alongside, and are immersed in a similar living environment to, local students.
The present study adds to the literature on study abroad by providing information about motivation and learning outcomes resulting from participating in an exchange. Using a pre-test/post-test research design, this study examines how both motivation and learning outcomes vary by gender, program of study, region of origin, duration of study and first language. The Study Abroad Goals Scale was used to measure motivation in the pre-test (n = 182) and the Global Perspectives Inventory (GPI) measured learning outcomes in both the pre- and post-test of incoming exchange students to Queen’s university in the 2009-2010 academic year (n = 98).
Results indicate that the strongest motivation of the incoming exchange students was Cross-Cultural, followed by Academic and Personal/Social. Motivation differences were found in each independent variable except for gender indicating that motivation to study on exchange is not uniform among all participants. Findings from the measures of the GPI did not indicate any significant changes between the pre- and post-test. This suggests that participation in an exchange program does not necessarily lead to student development and that program administrators may need to implement proactive learning interventions to enhance the exchange experience for students.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Hybrid Materials of Block Copolymers and Magnetic Nanoparticles

contributor:
Liu, Guojun
Chemistry

subject:
Hybrid material
magnetic nano particle
block copolymer
self-assembly
emulsion sphere

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-10 11:50:46.618

abstract:
In this PhD thesis, the preparation of several types of hybrid materials of block copolymer and magnetic nanoparticles is described. The diversified morphologies of nanoaggregates formed by dispersing poly(glyceryl methacrylate)-block-poly(2-cinnamoyloxyethyl methacrylate)-block-poly(tert-butyl acrylate) tri-block copolymers in block selective solvents will be reported first.  The volume occupied by the core block in these nanoaggregates can be swollen by solvent, and the core block can be sculpted.  The cores can act potentially as the template to grow magnetic nanoparticles. Thus, a potential method for preparing hybrid magnetic materials of block copolymers and magnetic nanoparticles with different morphologies is developed.
A one-pot method to synthesize cobalt nanoparticles covered by a polymer shell is then reported.  This is achieved by thermally decomposing dicobalt octacarbonyl in the presence of polymeric multi-dentate ligand poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(acrylic acid). Using a similar method, cobalt nanoparticles covered by poly(2-cinnamoyloxyethyl methacryate)-block-poly(acrylic acid) ligand are synthesized. The cobalt nanoparticles fuse into chains for their magnetic dipole-dipole interaction.  The chains are then coated with poly(tert-butyl acrylate)-block-poly(2-cinnamoyloxyethyl methacrylate). The coated Co chains are further locked by photo-crosslinking the poly(2-cinnamoyloxyethyl methacrylate) segments. The as-prepared cobalt nano wires have interesting magnetic response and may be used to build complicated magnetic nano devices.
Another hybrid magnetic material is prepared via an oil-in-water emulsion method. The oil phase of the emulsion sphere consists of r-Fe2O3 magnetic nanoparticles covered with the poly(2-cinnamoyloxyethyl methacryate)-block-poly(acrylic acid) ligand and a poly(2-cinnamoyloxyethyl methacryate) homopolymer. It was dispersed in water using a mixture of poly(2-cinnamoyloxyethyl methacrylate)-block-poly(succinoylglyceryl methacrylate) and poly(2-cinnamoyloxyethyl methacrylate)-block-poly(glyceryl methacrylate) as the surfactants. The evaporation of the organic solvent left behind solid particles in water. The polymer chains on the surface of the obtained spheres allow the immobilization of biomolecules. Factors affecting the emulsion process are studied systematically. The emulsion spheres are characterized using TEM, AFM, TGA and etc. The emulsion sphere have potential application is immunoassay. The protein binding capacity of the spheres is determined.

abstract: PhD


title: Errors in Affective Forecasting:  Contrasting Anticipated and Experienced Regret after Group Failure versus Individual Failure

contributor:
MacDonald, Tara K.
Psychology

subject:
affective forecasting
anticipated regret
groups

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-10 15:45:04.097

abstract: This dissertation contributes to a growing literature on affective forecasting showing that people are often inaccurate when predicting their future emotions, particularly the emotion of regret (Wilson & Gilbert, 2003).  In the current program of research I explored the differences in the anticipated and experienced regret of participants who worked (or imagined working) either alone or as part of a group.  In Experiment One I demonstrated that participants anticipated more regret from failing a task when alone than from failing a task that when working as part of a group. I speculated that this occurs because working with a group allows one to blame others for a failure, thus reducing one’s own regret.  In Experiment Two I demonstrated that although participants anticipated more regret from an individual relative to a group failure, the regret they actually experienced is equivalent in these conditions. I hypothesised that this is because the psychological immune system (Gilbert, Pinel, Wilson, Blumberg, & Wheatley, 1998) works hard to reduce the regret of the participants who worked alone to levels matching that of the participants who worked in groups.  I also demonstrated that this psychological immune system takes time to reduce regret differences in levels of regret were found between participants in the group and alone conditions when participants reported their regret immediately, but when regret was reported after a delay, these differences were no longer found.  In Experiment Three I ruled out a potential confound by demonstrating that the differences between Experiments One and Two were not due to participants thinking of different time frames while reporting their regret.  In Experiments Four and Five I extended my program of research by investigating whether the anticipated and experienced regret that is caused by failing a task varies depending on whether one is working with in-group or out-group partners.  I found that while participants anticipate more regret from failing a task with an in-group compared to an out-group partner, the regret they ultimately experience is not affected by the group status of their partner.  Implications and future directions are discussed.

abstract: PhD


title: Learning as transformation: Women's HIV & AIDS education in Malindi, Kenya

contributor:
Wilcox, Susan
Education

subject:
Transformative Learning Theory
Adult Learning
Women's Education
HIV & AIDS Education
Kenya
Africa

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-13 15:18:43.535

abstract: Understanding why, when, and with whom women engage in opportunities for HIV & AIDS education is critical in exploring the extent to which popular education strategies promote transformational learning among women in Malindi, Kenya.  Three central questions animate this research: a) What do rural women who participate in HIV & AIDS popular education programs learn about HIV & AIDS, b) through what range of pedagogical practices and theories does their learning occur, and c) how does this learning contribute to transformative changes that improve women's health, at both individual (e.g., beliefs, behaviour) and communal levels (e.g., group actions)?  Employing a qualitative research design, face-to-face interviews, and document analysis of secondary sources enabled a rich and in-depth exploration of specific learnings and actions among Kenyan women.  Qualitative analysis of eight semi-structured interviews reveals three dimensions of transformative learning among adult women in Malindi, including a) striving towards openness, b) culture of support, and c) connected knowing.  These inter-related themes outline the potential for Kenyan women's HIV & AIDS education to move beyond instrumental, and communicative, to more empowering transformative learning.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Melatonin and sex hormones among rotating shift nurses

contributor:
Aronson, Kristan J.
Graham, Charles H.
Community Health and Epidemiology

subject:
Breast cancer
shift work
melatonin
sex hormones

abstract: Thesis (Master, Community Health & Epidemiology) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-14 11:42:06.201

abstract:
Background: In 2007, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified shift-work involving circadian disruption as a “probable carcinogen.” One proposed pathway for this relationship involves nighttime light exposure and subsequent decreases in melatonin production. It is postulated that melatonin, a cancer-protective hormone, may influence patterns of sex hormone production that in turn influence breast cancer risk. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between night shift-work history, melatonin and sex hormone levels among shift-working women.
Methods: 82 pre-menopausal nurses who work a rotating shift pattern of two days (7AM-7PM), two nights (7PM-7AM), followed by five days off participated in two study periods approximately six months apart (in summer and winter), each taking place during a day shift of the normal rotating shift pattern. Creatinine-adjusted melatonin metabolite concentrations were measured from morning void urine samples, and estradiol, estrone, progesterone and prolactin concentrations were measured from fasting blood samples taken at the same time. Other pertinent information was collected by measurement (weight, height) and by self-report via questionnaire. We examined melatonin-sex hormone relationships within each of two seasons, and across seasons, to investigate two hypothesized latency periods for influences of melatonin levels on sex hormones. Multivariate linear regression was used to explore relationships, with adjustment for confounders including age and body mass index.
Results: An inverse relationship between melatonin and estradiol was suggested in winter (β = -0.13, p = 0.11), and a positive relationship was suggested for increasing estrone with increasing melatonin tertile in summer (p = 0.07), after multivariate adjustments. Melatonin was not associated with other hormones in either season. On investigation of a longer latency period, melatonin in the first season was not associated with sex hormones in the second season. While those working night shifts for 20 years or more had higher mean levels of estradiol, estrone and progesterone, results were not statistically different from those with a shorter history of night work.
Conclusions: The results of this study do not provide evidence to support the proposed biological pathway involving altered melatonin and sex hormone levels as intermediates between shift-work and breast cancer risk.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Hydrated Sodium-Magnesium Sulfate Minerals Associated with Inland Saline Systems

contributor: Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering

subject:
Geology
Mineralogy
Sulfates
Crystal structure

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geological Sciences & Geological Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-16 09:02:33.843

abstract: Hydrated sodium-magnesium sulfate minerals are common in many continental evaporite settings around the world. The crystallization sequence of these minerals depends on such parameters as the composition of the parent brine, the temperature, the evaporation rate of the brine, and the differences in the atomic structure and water content of the minerals. The atomic structures of konyaite [Na2Mg(SO4)2·5H2O] and sodium-magnesium decahydrate [Na2Mg(SO4)2·10H2O], a newly described sulfate salt, have been determined from single-crystal X-ray diffraction experiments. The refined structures are discussed and compared to that of blödite [Na2Mg(SO4)2·4H2O]. The arrangement and importance of hydrogen bonds within all three structures are also discussed, and have been further investigated by infrared spectroscopy. Löweite [Na12Mg7(SO4)13·15H2O] was included in this experiment to provide a low-hydration end-member. Differences in water content and the importance of hydrogen bonds in the respective structures were clearly reflected in the generated infrared spectra. The growth conditions of the decahydrate, konyaite, blödite, löweite, and other phases of the Na2O-MgO-H2O system, as well as their stability relationships, were studied in a temperature-controlled crystal-growth experiment. Konyaite and the decahydrate phase were found as first precipitates over a range of temperatures and brine compositions where they are not considered to be the thermodynamically stable phase. The importance of evaporation rate in the formation of these, and other metastable phases, is discussed in relation to inland saline systems. Possible localities where the decahydrate could exist in nature are discussed, and challenges for future research are presented.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Studies of the Coordination Chemistry and Catalytic Activity of Rhodium and Ruthenium N-Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes

contributor:
Crudden, Cathleen M.
Chemistry

subject:
Organometallic Chemistry
Catalysis
N-Heterocyclic Carbenes
Hydrogenation
Hydroformylation

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-17 12:44:52.686

abstract:
The side-on dioxygen adducts of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) containing rhodium complexes, [ClRh(IPr)2(O2)] and [ClRh(IMes)2(O2)], previously synthesized in our laboratories possess a square planar geometry and O-O bond lengths of 1.323(3) and 1.341(4) Å, respectively.  Both of these attributes are uncharacteristic of Rh(O2) complexes, which are typically octahedral and possess O-O bond lengths of approximately 1.45 Å.  Full characterization by NMR, IR, Raman, DFT and XAS confirmed the short O-O bond lengths of these structures and revealed that they were rhodium(I) coordination complexes of singlet oxygen with no net oxidation/reduction process having taken place. The unique bonding mode appears to result from the interaction of a filled Rh d orbital with one of the two degenerate O2 * orbitals, which causes splitting of the O2 * orbitals, favoring spin pairing in the O2 HOMO, and the inability of Rh to donate electron density to the empty * orbital. Initial investigations of these complexes as catalysts for the reduction and oxidation of C-O bonds, as well as singlet oxygen generation were also undertaken. Rh(IPr)2 coordination complexes of N2, H2 and CO were also synthesized and characterized by X-ray crystallography, NMR and elemental analysis. Interestingly, the addition of hydrogen gas to rhodium did result in oxidation of the metal.
A Rh(NHC) complex featuring an anionic acetate ligand, [(AcO)Rh(IPr)(CO)2], was synthesized and characterized by NMR, IR and X-ray crystallography.  This complex proved to be an effective catalyst for the regioselective hydroformylation of aliphatic and aromatic alkenes, which occurred without isomerization of the alkene. Initial rates of hydroformylation with our catalyst were compared to the chloride analogue, [ClRh(IPr)(CO)2], and demonstrated the beneficial nature of replacing the halide with a carboxylate ligand, which is less inhibiting of the reaction.
The synthesis of a bifunctional hydrogenation catalyst featuring a protic-NHC was attempted by addition of benzimidazoles to [Cl2Ru(diphosphine)].  Although these attempts were unsuccessful, a large number of complexes of the formula [Cl2Ru(diphosphine)(-N3-benzimidazole)2] were synthesized and proved to be effective catalysts for the chemoselective hydrogenation of ketones versus alkenes.  Use of chiral diphosphines and 1-triphenylmethylbenzimidazole yielded catalysts capable of producing secondary alcohols with moderate enantioselectivity.

abstract: PhD


title: An Investigation of Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data and Multi-Band Scaling Relations of Spiral Galaxies

subject: Galaxies Astronomy Photometry Tully-Fisher

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-17 16:23:20.649

abstract: We have compiled a large sample of 3041 spiral galaxies with multi-band $gri$ photometry from the the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) Data Release 7 archive. We compare our own extracted photometry with data products provided through the SDSS pipeline algorithms. This comparison benefits from an extensive compilation of galaxy rotational velocities, $V$, derived from HI linewidths. Galaxy sizes and luminosities can thus be compared against an unbiased and independent metric. We find the SDSS radial ($R$), and luminous, ($L$), data products to be unreliable for the construction of tight scaling relations of $R$ and $L$ with velocity ($V$). We use our own robust scaling parameters to yield the tightest $VRL$ relations possible. We further compile the largest scaling relation of galaxy baryonic mass (stars + gas) with velocity to find that the relation is not tighter, and thus no more significant, than the luminous $VL$ relation.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Investigating the effects of nanoparticles on reproduction and development in Drosophila melanogaster and CD-1 mice.

contributor:
Walker, Virginia K.
Winn, Louise M.
Environmental Studies

subject:
developmental toxicity
Drosophila
CD-1 mice
nanoparticles

abstract: Thesis (Master, Environmental Studies) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-20 17:57:59.343

abstract: Manufactured nanoparticles (NPs) are a class of small ( ≤ 100 nm) materials that are being used for a variety of purposes, including industrial lubricants, food additives, antibacterial agents, as well as delivery systems for drug and gene therapies.  Their unique characteristics due to their small size as well as their parent materials allow them to be exploited in convenience applications; however, some of these properties also allow them to interact with and invade biological systems.  Few studies have been performed to determine the potential harm that NPs can inflict on reproductive and developmental processes in organisms.  In this study, Drosophila melanogaster and CD-1 mice were orally exposed to varying doses of titanium dioxide (TiO2) NPs, silver (Ag) NPs, or hydroxyl-functionalized carbon nanotubes (fCNTs) and Drosophila were also exposed to microparticles (MPs) as a control for particle size.  The subsequent effect of these materials on reproduction and development were evaluated.  Strikingly, each type of NP studied negatively affected either reproduction or development in one or both of the two model systems.  TiO2 NPs significantly negative effected both CD-1 mouse development (100 mg/kg or 1000 mg/kg) as well as Drosophila female fecundity (0.005%-0.5% w/v).  Ag NPs significantly reduced mouse fetus viability after prenatal exposure to10 mg/kg.  Ag NPs also significantly decreased the developmental success of Drosophila when they were directly exposed to these NPs (0.05% - 0.5% w/v) compared to both the vehicle and MP controls.  fCNTs significantly increased the presence of morphological defects, resorptions and skeletal abnormalities in CD-1 mice, but had little effect on Drosophila.  We speculate that the differences seen in the effects of NP types may be partially due to differences in reproductive physiology as well as each organism’s ability to internalize these NPs.  Whereas the differing response of each organism to a NP type was likely  due in part to varying durations of exposure.  Since NPs are a popular commodity in today’s consumer world, the research presented here accentuates the need for further studies on the detrimental effects that these particles may have on a variety of developing organisms and on female reproductive health.

abstract: The authors request that this thesis be restricted to ensure that we are able to submit these papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals prior to their being available on the internet in the form of this dissertation.  Some journals require that there be no previous publications of a study prior to submission to their journal, so we believe this is a reasonable request.

abstract: M.E.S.


title: Physicalism and Phenomenal Consciousness

contributor:
Knight, Deborah
Philosophy

subject: Mind, Consciousness, Dualism, Chalmers, Zombie, Qualia

abstract: Thesis (Master, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-18 13:18:41.928

abstract:
The following thesis is concerned with the contemporary debate in the philosophy of mind surrounding the nature of phenomenal consciousness (viz. subjective experience, or qualia).  My primary aim is to adjudicate the ongoing dialectic between dualists and physicalists regarding the ontological status of phenomenal consciousness — physical or nonphysical — by examining the two major arguments most commonly deployed against physicalism: namely, the zombie argument (Chalmers), and the knowledge argument (Jackson).  I conclude by showing that once physicalism has been shorn of the various doctrines that it need not and ought not accept — that is, once we are clear about what, precisely, the fundamental doctrine of physicalism actually is — it becomes clear that these arguments do not go through, and that the case for dualism has not been made.  I also argue that the task of actually disarming these arguments (in the right way) is potentially critically instructive to contemporary physicalists, as this helps to nourish a clearer overall understanding of what physicalism (properly understood) is, and is not, committed to.
	In Chapter One I lay the groundwork for the aforementioned anti-physicalist arguments by explaining precisely what is meant by the phrase “phenomenal consciousness” and its various synonyms.  I then briefly summarize the mind-body problem and articulate the so-called “explanatory gap” therein.  Chapter Two looks at the zombie argument (as articulated by David Chalmers, 1996) and finds that the argument itself, as stated, actually has very little to do with defending dualism against physicalism, but rather is ultimately an argument for epiphenomenalism — which, I argue, is untenable.  Chapter Three examines Frank Jackson’s knowledge argument against physicalism (1982).  Here I show why the argument itself fails to support property dualism, but also why the standard physicalist objections to it fail.  I argue that Mary does indeed learn facts about the world upon her release, and that physicalists must face up to this squarely.  I then suggest that physicalism (properly understood) is entirely compatible with this admission.  Chapter Four examines a kind of rehabilitated version of the zombie argument in the context of a larger discussion about the relation between conceivability and possibility.

abstract: M.A.


title: Testing Applied Lineup Theory

contributor:
Lindsay, Roderick C. L.
Munhall, Kevin G.
Psychology

subject:
eyewitness psychology
eyewitness memory
lineups
quality of memory
decision making
face recognition
applied lineup theory

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-18 16:10:43.637

abstract: The field of eyewitness memory has long been concerned with identifications but functioned in the absence of an explanatory theory. Recently Charman and Wells (2007) developed applied lineup theory to address this deficiency. They argue that quality of memory and the decision process interact to determine lineup decision accuracy. In a series of experiments I tested whether their theoretical assumptions hold for face recognition tasks and tested the theory using simple manipulations with lineups. Experiments 1 through 7 utilized a face recognition paradigm. In Experiments 1 through 5, the relationship between quality of memory and face recognition accuracy was explored as a function of frequency of viewing, duration of viewing, and depth of processing. The results indicated that, as expected, increased frequency of viewing and deeper processing of faces at encoding led to better recognition memory. Unexpectedly, increasing the duration of viewing did not increase recognition memory. In the remaining experiments (Experiments 6 to 9) I manipulated the decision process by manipulating the match between a face image shown at encoding and retrieval and how quickly participants were able to respond. The results of Experiments 6 and 7 only weakly supported applied lineup theory. In Experiments 8 and 9 I used a lineup paradigm and again found little support for applied lineup theory. Notably, the manipulations of decision process were relatively unsuccessful in Experiments 6 to 9. The stimulus manipulations used may not have been sufficient to produce differences in the decision process or applied lineup theory may not account for lineup decisions. Suggestions for future research on lineup decision processes to clarify whether applied lineup theory can account for lineup decisions are made.

abstract: PhD


title: Listening to Students with Mild and Moderate Hearing Loss: Learning and Social-Emotional Needs in Educational Contexts

contributor:
Hutchinson, Nancy L.
Education

subject:
Hearing Loss
Social-Emotional
Students

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-19 17:27:44.048

abstract: Educational research on students with mild and moderate hearing loss (MMHL), who represent up to 15% of the student population in regular classrooms, provides neither consistent nor meaningful attention to their learning and social-emotional experiences in school contexts. The purpose of this research is to investigate the perspectives of students with MMHL to gain insight into how they, as learners, conceptualize and manage their hearing loss at school and to develop recommendations for researchers and educators. Reviewed literature includes both quantitative and qualitative research which relies heavily on teachers’ and parents’ perspectives and achievement scores over student perspectives. Literature also indicates that there are discrepancies in student reporting depending on methods of data collection. Three students with MMHL were asked directly during in-depth interviews to describe their experiences in educational contexts. Self Determination Theory (SDT) (Deci & Ryan, 1985) provides an analytical and organizing framework for social-emotional elements of these learners’ experiences based on three psychological needs: relatedness, competence, and autonomy. In addition to SDT, a discussion of disability identity development research (e.g., Gill, 1997) provides a supplementary conceptual tool to expand the latent meanings of these experiences and socially constructed elements that students with hearing loss negotiate. Findings provide descriptive accounts of participants’ lived experiences with MMHL in educational contexts. Emergent patterns and themes identify broadly defined yet coherent messages highlighting the importance that educators (a) understand the lived experience of students with MMHL, (b) recognize the inherent contradictions that can accompany this disability, and (c) attend to needs, to communication, learning, and social-emotional needs. Each case indicates that student needs are met inconsistently resulting in adverse consequences for self-determined learning and social-emotional well-being. It is recommended that classroom teachers proactively facilitate potential learning outcomes for students with MMHL by attending to not only academic and communication needs, but to social-emotional needs as well. Researchers in education must further investigate the population of students with MMHL to assess their strengths and to ascertain the type of supports and interventions from which they could benefit.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Gender, Occupational Health and Safety Practices, and Injury Among Saskatchewan Farm Adolescents

contributor:
Ding, Keyue
Pickett, William
Community Health and Epidemiology

subject: Agriculture

subject: Pediatrics

subject: Injury

abstract: Thesis (Master, Community Health & Epidemiology) -- Queen's University, 2010-09-19 19:25:41.479

abstract:
Background:  Farming is an hazardous occupation.  The underlying determinants of farm injury are not well understood among adolescent populations, particularly from a gender lens.
Objectives:  (1)  To evaluate the association between gender and occupational health and safety practices reported for hazardous work among working adolescent farm children; and, (2) to evaluate the association between use of such practices and time to farm injury, and also whether such associations vary by gender.
Methods:  Survey data from an existing farm injury cohort were available for analysis.  Occupational health and safety practices were:  non-use of personal protective equipment, non-use of training and supervision for work with heavy equipment, non-use of training and supervision for work with large animals, and conduct of hazardous tasks.  Logistic regression was used to examine associations between gender and use of safety practices, and Cox regression was used to examine relationships between occupational health and safety practices and time to first injury.
Results:  Girls reported increased odds for the non-use of personal protective equipment (adjusted OR 2.39 [95% CI: 1.16, 4.94]). There was no evidence of an association between gender and the conduct of hazardous tasks (adjusted OR 0.69 [95% CI: 0.28, 1.73]). Gender patterns surrounding non-use of training and supervision for work with equipment (adjusted OR 2.38 [95% CI: 0.53, 10.66]) and with animals (adjusted OR 1.52 [95% CI: 0.75, 3.06]) were not significant.  Use of personal protective equipment (adjusted HR 1.25 [95% CI: 0.76, 2.06]) did not significantly reduce the risk of farm injury, neither did use of training and supervision during equipment work (HR 1.25 [95% CI: 0.69, 2.28]), nor during animal work (HR 1.06 [95% CI: 0.59, 1.92]), or the conduct of hazardous tasks (HR 1.04 [95% CI: 0.67, 1.63]).  Further, there was no significant modification of these associations and injury by gender.
Conclusions:  Among adolescents, farm occupational health and safety practices appear to vary by gender.  Girls on farms report fewer exposures to hazards, and receive less training and supervision and less use of personal protective equipment, consistent with assigned tasks.  While gender appears to play a role in the assignment of farm tasks and occupational health and safety practices, these practices did not reduce the likelihood of subsequent injury.  As well, the latter associations did not appear to vary by gender.  A public health approach that recognizes gender as a determinant of hazardous farm exposures and associated occupational health and safety practices is needed.

abstract: M.Sc.