title: High Resolution Electron Microscopy and X-Ray Study of Cancrinite

contributor:
Grundy, H. D.
Geology

subject: Geology Geology

abstract:
High resolution electron microscopy has provided information on the submicroscopic structure of a (Na, Ca) CO₃ cancrinite from Ontario and this information assisted in re-fining the average crystal structure (R=2.9%) by standard X-ray techniques.

The superstructure of this mineral is commensurate and superlattice reflections can be indexed on a 8c₀ - supercell. Six out of the seven such reflections have been observed by the electron and x-ray diffractions. It is shown that the ordering of the CO₃ ions in the large channels is responsible for the superlattice reflections.

Furthermore, 'cancrinites' reported in the literature show superstructures that can be indexed on supercells of 5c₀, 7c₀, 8c₀, 11c₀, 14c₀ and 16c₀. The ordering of the CO3 ions is again responsible for these extra reflections.

Moreover, the framework structures of three new mineral phases (liottite, afghanite and franzinite) that have recently been discovered are the same as that of cancrinite. They differ only as regards the intraframework anions (SO₄, CO₃ and Cl). The chlorine is statistically distributed with H₂O in the cages and the ordering of the SO₄ and CO₃ in the large channels gives rise to commensurate superstructure reflections which can be indexed on multiple subcells i.e., 3c₀, 4c₀, and 5c₀ for liottite, afghanite and franzinite respectively.

In addition, losod and microsommite (or davyne) also fit within the framework of the proposed model. Losod can be considered as 2c₀ - cancrinite and microsommite whose a-dimension is twice that of cancrinite (but with the same c-dimension) can be considered as having different ordering in adjacent channels. However, superstructure data are not yet available for these minerals.

These new minerals should all be considered as "NC - cancrinite" as this term is necessary and sufficient to describe cancrinites. The value of N should be given on the basis of the multiple subcell observed.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: Planar maximal covering location problem under different block norms

contributor:
Weslowsky, George O.
Steiner, George
Abad, Prakash L.
Management Science/Systems

subject: management science/systems

subject: Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods

abstract: This study introduces a new model for the planar maximal covering location problem (PMCLP) under different block norms. The problem involves locating p facilities anywhere on the plane in order to cover the maximum number of n given demand points. The generalization we introduce is that distance measures assigned to facilities are block norms of different types and different proximity measures. This problem is handled in three phases. First, a simple model based on the geometrical properties of the block norms' unit ball contours is formulated as a mixed integer program (MIP). The MIP formulation is more general than previous PMCLP's and can handle facilities with different coverage measures under block norm distance and different setup cost, and capacity. Second, an exact solution approach is presented based on: (1) An exact algorithm that is capable of handling a single facility efficiently. (2) An algorithm for an equivalent graph problem--the maximum clique problem (MCP). Finally, the PMCLP under different block norms is formulated as an equivalent graph problem. This graph problem is then modeled as an unconstrained binary quadratic problem (UQP) and solved by a genetic algorithm. Computational examples are provided for the MIP, the exact algorithm, and the genetic algorithm approaches.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: The Interplay of Ideas Behind the Question of Untouchability: The Interaction of the British, Ambedkar and Gandhi

contributor:
Younger, Paul
Religious Studies

subject: Religion Religion

abstract:
Article 17 of the Indian Constitution, abolishing Untouch-ability, is implicitly contravened by Articles 330-342 which guarantee political privileges to groups in the Indian population enumerated on the basis of Untouchability. These provisions were formulated during the Independence period as the result of a complex series of interactions primarily political in nature. From these interactions several different understandings of the status of the lowest stratum of the Hindu population emerged, of which three, the British, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar's, and Mahatma Gandhi's, were crucial. These understandings, or paradigms, pertain to ideas about Untouchability and Hindu social organization, and are reflected in the Constitutional provisions.

The thesis examines,this interplay of ideas behind the Constitutional clauses. Each of the three paradigms is abstracted and analyzed to determine the strategic assessment of the social situation of the lowest caste Hindus it presents. The analysis was done through an examination of the terminology used in reference to the lowest caste Hindus. A specific term is embodied in each paradigm: "Scheduled Caste" for the British, "Untouchable" for Ambedkar, and "Harijan" for Gandhi. Each term encodes a conceptual model of the reference group and a strategy to deal with that group. The study breaks down into discussions of the meaning and history of each term as used by its representative thinkers, or group of thinkers, in the context of the Independence struggle. These discussions provide the means to decode and analyze the different ideas about Untouchability.

In addition, a fourth term, "Depressed Classes" is discussed, both as a part of the British paradigm, as it was the precursor to the term "Scheduled Castes", and as a part of the history of the Independence struggle. By examining the conversations about the "Depressed Classes", which took place during the negotiations for the transfer of power, the interactions of the British government officials, Ambedkar, and Gandhi become clearer and the logical complexity of the ensuing government policy is demonstrated.

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: A DISAGGREGATED ECONOMETRIC MODEL OF PRICE BEHAVIOUR IN BANGLADESH

contributor:
Kubursi, A.A.
Economics / Economic Policy

subject: Economics Economics

abstract: A large number of studies of price behaviour treat the price variable as a single aggregate variable. Various sectoral prices exhibit different trends and have different implications for the economic agents of an economy. In this study a disaggregated econometric model is formulated to study the problem of price behaviour in a developing country, Bangladesh. The main purpose of this study is to identify the important determinants of sectoral prices. One interesting aspect of this study is its emphasis on the supply side. This is in sharp contrast with a large number of macroeconometric models for developing countries which derive their basic framework from Keynesian-type demand determined models. A distinction is made between the agricultural and the non-agricultural sectors. At the output level, a distinction is made between food, jute, jute manufactures, non-jute manufactures and services. The labour market in the agricultural sector has been treated separately from that of the manufacturing sector. The equation regarding supply of credit to the private sector is developed in the model of the financial sector. The complete model consists of forty five equations including twenty two stochastic equations. Since the model is fairly large, various blocks of equations are estimated independently. The structural equations belonging to the sectoral submodels, which form blocks of simultaneous equations, are estimated using two stage least squares. The reduced form equations for these blocks are derived and identification exercises are carried out to check for identifiability of the structural parameters from the reduced form estimates. The reduced form equations show the nature of the constraints imposed on the reduced form coefficients by the structure of the model. The reduced form equations are estimated using the non-linear least squares estimation technique. The equations forming recursive blocks have been estimated using ordinary least squares. The qualitative characteristics of the model are examined by conducting simulation experiments. Included among the simulations performed are experiments to study the impacts of fiscal and monetary policies, a lower rate of growth of population, a Hicks-neutral technical change in the production of food, and higher foreign aid. The estimation and simulation results suggest that the supply response to price changes is very low, especially in the food producing sector. Rigidity in food supply, coupled with a growing population and food demand, have contributed substantially to inflation in Bangladesh. Technical change in the production of food, although increasing the cost of living index, increases per capita real disposable income. The study also provides evidence in support of the view that the structuralist and monetarist positions on inflation in developing countries are complementary rather than being competitive.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Aseismic analyses of underground openings

contributor:
Emery, J.J.
Engineering

subject: Engineering Engineering

abstract: Facilities such as pipelines, tunnels, shafts and some power plant components require safe underground construction and operation. Many of these facilities are also critical from an overall safety viewpoint and/or the provision of relief services after earthquakes. For this reason, such underground structures require reliable and economic procedures for their aseismic analysis and design: a subject which has not received much attention until recently. The aseismic analysis work described herein may be divided into two major parts: the spatial distribution of seismic ground motions; and the dynamic analysis of the structure-medium system. For the first part, a method of computing component responses at the base rock level due to upward and downward propagating shear waves was developed. An improved method for determination of period and phase velocity of R-waves and their contribution to seismic ground motions was also adopted. The size of the problems involved is often too large for efficient computing or design office computers. To overcome this difficulty, methods for substantially reducing the size of the problem and cost of the analysis were applied. For underground structures of considerable length, analysis of a typical portion is often satisfactory. A method for such analysis, with due consideration of the continuity of the system in the axial direction at the transverse ends, was selected from a number of approaches and verified. Parametric studies using a simple, single layer system with a horizontal tunnel were carried out for a number of soil and tunnel properties. The results of these analyses were reasonable and consistent with the behaviour of such structures observed during past earthquakes and field tests. It is considered that the investigation has both contributed to a better understanding of the seismic response of underground structure-medium systems, and provides the necessary methods for the detailed aseismic design of such systems.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Polymer sintering and its role in rotational molding

contributor:
Vlachopoulos, John
Chemical Engineering

subject:
Chemical Engineering
Chemical Engineering

abstract:
Polymer sintering can be described as the formation of a homogeneous melt from the coalescence of powder particles under the action of surface tension. Sintering is a fundamental phenomenon in processes such as rotational molding and powder coating. Rotational molding uses plastic powder to produce hollow plastic parts. The porosity of the final part produced in rotational molding depends on the completion of polymer sintering and the removal of bubbles. The objectives of this work are to study the effects of the material properties as well as the molding conditions on the sintering rate and to develop an appropriate model for polymer sintering.

An experimental study of polymer sintering has been carried out. A reliable method has been developed for the obsevation and the measurement of the coalescence rate for two particles. The material viscosity, elasticity, and particle size were found to affect the sintering process. Most of the results obtained corroborate observations in rotational molding experiments. The effect of the particle geometry on the sintering rate was found to be negligible. This results has to led to the study of the rotomoldability of micropellets. Numerical studies have revealed that the processing conditions are severe and probably affect the micropellet rheology, which in return affects the coalescence process.

A mathematical model describing the complete polymer sintering process has been developed. The approach was similar to that of Frenkel (1945). For Newtonian fluids, the proposed model's predictions are very close to Hopper's theoretical model (Hopper, 1984) and to numerical results for viscous sintering (Jagota and Dawson, 1988, Van de Vorst, 1994). The proposed model is successful in predicting the sintering rate for most of the rotational molding grade polyethylene resins used. However, all Newtonian models predict a faster coalescence rate than that observed with the copolymer resins used in this study. This result indicates that factors other than the surface tension and the viscosity play a role in polymer sintering.

The proposed model has been generalized to describe sintering for viscoelastic fluids. As a first approach, the convected Maxwell constitutive equations were used together with the quasi-steady state approximation. The viscoelastic sintering model is capable of predicting the sintering rate observed in this study and the trends reported in the literature for the coalescence of acrylic resins.

The combination of the present experimental and modeling studies can be used for the selection of appropriate materials and for improvement of the rotational molding process.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Exploring the meaning of environmental risk and uncertainty in an environmentally sensitized community

contributor:
Eyles, John
Geography

subject: Geography Geography

abstract:
Community opposition to environmental hazards is often high despite expert assessment that the risk (probability of negative impacts) is quite low. This thesis addresses this problem through an inductive, qualitative case study of a community that was sensitized to a single environmental issue by being the preferred site for a regional municipal solid waste landfill for five years. There are three research objectives: i) explore the meanings of risk and uncertainty for residents; ii) investigate the effect of context on risk perceptions/constructions and; iii) develop a conceptual framework for understanding risk in context. Forty-four in-depth interviews were conducted mainly with residents (n=40) and some experts (n=4) to explore opinions on: risk, safety, general environmental concerns, valued aspects of the community, concerns about the landfill, trusted sources of information, and views of experts.

While the residents were concerned about the potential impacts to health, property values and agriculture the landfill also threatened their ways of life (e.g., rural farming) as expressed through core values (e.g., slow growth) and worldviews (e.g., trust in neighbours). That is, the landfill and siting process threatened the things that residents had worked hard to obtain and maintain in their community. Threats to core values, worldviews and ways of life were mediated by contextual issues including: extremely negative images of waste/garbage, knowledge of contamination from other landfills, perceptions of an unfair siting process, lack of trust in experts, and and widespread community support for opposition.

A conceptual framework for understanding risk at Caledon is compared to a wide variety of literatures on risk (e.g. geographic, economic, psychologic, sociologic). Several concepts fro these literatures are reconceptualized for understanding the social construction of risk at Caledon including: risk, safety, dread, uncertainty, trust, costs weighed against benefits, and psychosocial impacts. Further, an argument is made for increasing the prominence of social/cultural values within existing conceptual frameworks when they are used to understand risk in the context of everyday life. This local-level study provides empirical support for Beck's risk society theory which was developed originally to explain social change in relation to high-consequence global-level technological hazards. one of the main methodological contributions of the thesis is the explicit use and explanation of specific practices for enhancing qualitative rigour including: source and investigator triangulation, member checking, prolonged engagement, low inference descriptors and autobiography. Future research may include explorations of the relative importance of core values and the ability to protest those values (e.g., financially, politically) in a variety of different contexts involving technological environmental hazards.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Structural and functional analysis of the yeast general transcript elongation factor, TFIIS

contributor:
Edwards, A. M.
Biology

subject: Biology Biology

abstract:
Transcription by GNA polymerases is regulated at several stages, including initiation, elongation, and termination. The rate of transcipt elongation can be reduced by a multitude of factors, two of which include the template DNA sequence and DNA binding proteins. DNA sequences can cause the elongating polymerase to become stalled. Stalled ternary complexes containing eukaryotic RNA polymerase II require the transcription factor TFIIS to stimulate the resumption of transcription. This stimulation involves the endonucleolytic cleavage and release of oligonucleotides from the 3' terminus of the nascent transcript, with subsequent progression through these modulatory sequences.

I have determined the domain structure of yeast TFIIS by limited proteolytic digestion and assigned functions to the domains required for TFIIS activities in vitro. Using a novel binding assay, the surfaces of both yeast RNA polymerase II and yeast TFIIS responsible for their association were determined. The region of yeast RNA polymerase II mediating the interaction with TFIIS was determined to include amino acid residues between 1208 and 1264, which is conserved among eukaryotic RNA polymerase II homologues. The region of TFIIS that interacts with RNA polymerase II was localized to the region 143 to 240 and subsequently to a cluster of amino acid residues contained within this domain. The carboxyl terminal domain of TFIIS is required for the stimulation of endonucleolytic activity by elongating RNA polymerase complexes. Based on the three dimensional structural of TFIIS, I have identified amino acid residues that are important for the stimulation of the nascent transcript cleavage activity. Several site-directed mutants of TFIIS were unable to stimulate the cleavage activity, yet maintained wild type binding characteristics. I propose a model that describes the mechanism of TFIIS stimulated release of RNA polymerase II from stalled ternary complexes.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: "Thinking too much" and "worrying too much": Ghanaian women's accounts of their health problems

contributor:
Walters, V.
Sociology

subject: Sociology Sociology

abstract:
Women's voices are usually absent in the literature on women's health in developing countries. We know little about women's own concerns about their health, the ways in which they understand the problems they experience, how they cope and what changes they think would help to improve their health. The information on women in developing countries is typically provided by academics, health professionals, non-governmental organizations and policy makers. We do not know whether this captures the views of women themselves. Moreover, explanations of women's health often rely on biomedical and cultural/behavioural models and we do not know whether these reflect women's own approaches to understanding their health.

The research reported here documents the health problems and concerns of Ghanaian women. Using the concept of the social production of illness, the research also aimed to determine whether women traced their health problems to the social and material conditions under which they lived. The data are drawn from semi-structured interviews with 75 women in Kpando, a community in south-eastern Ghana. The data show that, when asked to talk about their health, women do not dwell on reproductive health issues. Rather, they emphasize "worrying too much" and "thinking too much", as well as a range of physical health problems. In their explanations of health problems women talked about their roles in social reproduction and production and about the links between their social relationships and their health. In order to perform their roles and avoid disrupting household organization, women relied on short term coping mechanisms, especially painkillers. In the longer term they called for an improvement in the situation of women through social structural changes - better access to education, jobs and credit. The research findings prompt questions about commonly held assumptions about women in the developing world and they illustrate the value of listening to the voice of women.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Magnetic susceptibility observation of a spin-reorientation transition in Fe/2 ML Ni(111)/W(110) FILMS

contributor:
Venus, D.
Physics

subject: Physics Physics

abstract: One of the most important topics in ultrathin film magnetism is perpendicular ferromagnetism, in which the orientation of the film magnetization is perpendicular to the film plane. A perpendicular orientation is surprising because of the very strong dipolar field produced by the film as a whole which prefers that the film moment be in-plane. In the limit of atomic thicknesses, magnetic anisotropies are occasionally strong enough to overcome the dipolar field and establish a perpendicular orientation of the moment. In such films, the moment exhibits a spin-reorientation transition, reorienting from perpendicular to in-plane with increasing coverage or temperature. Another phenomenon associated with a perpendicular preference is a disintegration of the film into domain structures that are expected to closely resemble liquid crystals. Ultrathin fcc Fe, grown on a 2 atomic layer fcc Ni(111) buffer, is ferromagnetic and exhibits the spin-reorientation transition. Through refinements of an existing technique, the surface magneto-optical Kerr effect (SMOKE), extremely high resolution magnetic susceptibility measurements were made of this system. The magnitudes and temperature-dependencies of the experimental susceptibilities are found to be consistent with theories of the domain structure. A temperature-coverage phase diagram is constructed and reveals structure closer the multicritical point of the transition, where reorientation and order-disorder boundaries meet, than in any previous experimental study. In that part of the phase diagram where the transition to disorder proceeds directly from the perpendicularly magnetized state, no evidence of a Curie temperature is observed.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Social Psychology and the Theory of Working Class Revolution in Karl Marx

contributor:
Archibald, Peter W.
Sociology

subject: Sociology Sociology

abstract: For all intents and purposes the thesis presented here will be an examination of the implicit and explicit social psychology of Karl Marx. That Marx has a psychological content is obvious to even the most cursory reader (indeed, it has been argued by Louis Althusser, in a fit of structuralist pique, that it is exactly the cursory reading of Marx that "discovers" a psychological content). Precisely what this psychological content consists of is a contentious matter. Nonetheless, it is of the utmost importance that the issue of psychological content be confronted in order that social psychology finds its appropriate position in the sociological method suggested by Marx's historical materialism.¹ The desire to carry out this examination of Marx's psychological assumptions, and to demonstrate the social psychology most appropriate to the historical materialist approach to social history, is largely derived from an utter frustration and disatisfaction with so called "traditional" Marxist social psychology. From existentialism to Freudianism, from social behaviorism to structuralism, the attempt has been made to supplant or negate Marx's psychological content. Many of these attempts have demonstrated little concern for the philosophical implications of their brutalizations of Marx. The accusation that various attempts at "translating" Marx's psychological content are not "faithful" to Marx is frequently heard. This is partially attributable to Marx's own ambiguity. As such, it is a problem that confronts anyone who wishes to study Marx and to make public the results of his study. I see no reason why this attempt should escape this fate. However, with effort, perhaps this attempt will prove more faithful and less brutal. This is my sincere hope and stated aim.

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: HLA-A,-B,-C and -DR Antigens and Juvenile-Onset Diabetes Mellitus

contributor: Medical Sciences (Blood and Cardiovascular)

subject:
Medical Sciences
Medical Sciences

abstract:
The genetic region which exerts a major influence on graft rejection is known as the major histocompatibility complex or MHC. The MHC in man, the HLA system, includes at least five distinct multi-allelic loci, HLA-A,-B,-C,-D and -DR. The HLA system possesses three fundamental characteristics: it is highly polymorphic; its alleles are in linkage disequilibrium with one another as well as with other loci; and the HLA antigens demonstrate extensive cross-reactivity.

A number of previous reports have established associations between certain HLA-B antigens and juvenile-onset insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (JOD). In this investigation we have studied the distribution of HLA antigens in patients with diabetes mellitus with a special emphasis on HLA antigens belonging to the DR locus. We observed a significant increase in the incidence of HLA-DR4 in JOD patients as compared to its frequency in the normal controls. The present data also confirm earlier reports of the increased incidence of HLA-B15, -B40 and -CW3 in the patient group. Further analyses of the data showed that the primary association of JOD was with HLA-DR4 and the associations with the HLA-B and -C loci antigens were secondary in nature.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: Validation of the First Voided Urine (FVU) as a Specimen for Culture to Identify Male Asymptomatic Urethral Carriers of Gonorrhoea in Sierra Leone - A Design Thesis

contributor:
Milner, Ruth
Medical Sciences

subject:
Medical Sciences
Medical Sciences

abstract:
The current method presently in use for diagnosing male asymptomatic urethral gonococcal carrier is considered unsuitable for screening purposes in Sierra Leone. A search for a reliable, cheap, simple, and unobtrusive method found the first voided urine (FVU) as a specimen for culture to be the most promising. Because of methodologic weaknesses associated with previous evaluation of the FVU and the change in the population to which it would be used, blind adoption of the FVU was considered inappropriate.

A protocol for validating the FVU in Sierra Leone is presented. The major methodologic problems addressed were definition of asymptomatic male urethral gonococcal carrier, the selection of the study population, and quality control in the laboratory.

The finding of a sensitivity of 0.9 or greater for the FVU will be considered valid for the study.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effectiveness of a Village Health Committee Approach in Improving the Health Status of Rural Communities in Sierra Leone

contributor: Design, Measurement and Evaluation: Health Care Research Methods

subject:
Medicine and Health Sciences
Medicine and Health Sciences

abstract:
The issues in providing adequate health care for rural populations in developing countries and Sierra Leone in particular are discussed - showing the need for a community-based health care programme to counteract the problems not being addressed by institutionalized health care services.

The literature has been reviewed to assess the methods-whereby community health programmes using village workers or village groups have been used around the world.

A randomized controlled trial has been designed to test the effectiveness of one particular health status of rural people in Sierra Leone. It is hoped that the results of this study will enable the Sierra Leone government to decide on a national primary health care programme for use in Sierra Leone.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: The Impact of Medical Assistants on the Health Status of Rural Sierra Leoneans - A Study Design

contributor: Design, Measurement and Evaluation: Medical Sciences

abstract:
The issues relating to planning for health care delivery in developing countries, the current health care delivery system in rural Sierra Leone and the health care problem of this rural population particularly infant and children, have been examined. The research literature was reviewed and the various options for health care delivery systems to rural communities were discussed.

A design for a randomized controlled study to evaluate the effectiveness of health care teams led by medical assistants working in pairs in reducing infant and childhood mortality and malnutrition and improving sanitation and safe water supplies of communities will be compared with effectiveness of health care teams led by nurse dispensers working in pairs and individually, has been presented. The proposed study is intended to be carried out in nine chiefdoms in rural Sierra Leone and it is expected to last for 52 months.

It is anticipated that the result of the study will provide information useful to the Ministry of Health in Sierra Leone to plan for a future health care delivery system in rural Sierra Leone.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: The Effects of Liver Preparation on Prolactin Release from Pituitary Tissue in vitro

contributor:
Brown, Gregory M.
Medical Sciences, Neurosciences

subject:
Medical Sciences
Medical Sciences

abstract:
The effects of liver on pituitary prolactin (PRL) secretion were investigated using an in vitro organ culture system. It was determined that various preparations of liver when coincubated with pituitary tissue resulted in a diminished PRL content in the bathing culture medium. Female Wistar rats (>200gm) provided the source for liver chunks (~150mg) that were coincubated with pituitary tissue obtained from female Wistar rats (>200gm) primed with estradiol-17-β and progesterone. The PRL content of the culture medium obtained from the liver - pituitary coincubate was reduced significantly (p<.001) compared to control. This effect could not be attributed to PRL degradation and/or binding to liver and was therefore interpreted as inhibition of secretion. The effect was partly but not completely antagonized by the addition of Haldol at concentrations ranging up to 1000nM.

It was also noted that the diminished PRL content was observed when methanol extracts of male and female livers were coincubated with male and female (primed and unprimed) pituitary tissue. It is concluded that factors associated with liver and extracts of liver inhibit the secretion of prolactin. These factors are thought not to mediate all of their actions through the dopamine receptor as maximally effective concentrations of Haldol only partially eliminate this inhibition.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: A Computer-Aided Design System (FBAR) to Solve Four-bar Coupler Position Problems

contributor:
Newcombe, W. R.
Mechanical Engineering

subject:
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering

abstract:
A computer-aided design system (FBAR) has been developed which is capable of solving four-bar coupler position problems. This system can handle theoretically any number of positions of the coupler link and allows the designer to exercise his judgement in the design process by making use of the computer and the graphical display.

The theory is based on a multifactor optimization of two dependent design variables (errors in the coupler point coordinates and in the coupler link orientation) and by imposing constraints to ensure that a proper four-bar mechanism is obtained.

At present the synthesis program of the system is run on a CDC 6400 computer in a timesharing mode and the graphical analysis program is run on a PDP11/34 mini-computer. The final aim would be to make it a single system through a satellite graphics approach.

FBAR, the software system, has been tested for all types of the four-bar mechanisms (i.e., crank-rocker, double-crank and double-rockers) with the number of prescribed positions of the coupler link varying from three to nine.

abstract: Master of Engineering (ME)


title: Effects of Lipophilin on Dimyristoylphospha-tidycholine Bilayers

contributor:
Epand, R.M.
Biochemistry

subject: Biochemistry Biochemistry

abstract:
In this study the technique of scanning densimetry was used to investigate the effects of lipophilin, an integral myelin protein, on the packing and phase transitional properties of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine bilayers. The technique was shown to give both precise and accurate measurement of the volume properties of the system.

The phase transition of phospholipids from gel to liquid crystalline state is accompanied by a 3% increase in volume. Lipophilin does not significantly alter the phase transition temperature of 24°C of the pure lipid. However, the phase transition is broadened when the lipophilin concentration is greater than 10% by weight. This can be explained by a decrease in the cooperativity of the lipid transition induce by the protein.

As the percent lipophilin incorporated into the lipid is increased, there is a reduction in the magnitude of the change in partial specific volume which occurs at phase transition temperature. From this data, the number of lipid molecules surrounding each lipophilin molecule was calculated. The calculated value of 19 lipid molecules per molecule of protein agrees well with estimates based on calorimetric results.

The partial specific volume of lipophilin has never been reported. In this study it was determined in a number of solvents at 20°C. The partial specific volume of lipophilin in water was 0.715 ± 0.004 ml/g while the partial specific volume in the buffer system employed was 0.732 ± 0.003 ml/g. These results are explained in terms of differences in the solvation of the protein.

Assuming no large change in the partial specific volume of the protein upon incorporation into lipid, the results demonstrate that lipophilin causes a reduction in the volume of dimyristoylphosphatidyl-choline bilayers below, above and near the phase transition temperature. This may be a fundamental property of boundary lipid that surrounds protein.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: External Cell Surface Protein Phosphorylation in Normal and Rous Sarcoma Virus Transformed Chick Embryo Fibroblasts

contributor:
Branton, Philip E.
Medical Sciences

subject:
Medical Sciences
Medical Sciences

abstract: Endogenous protein kinase activity was detected on the external cell surface of both normal and Rous sarcoma virus (RSV)-transformed chick embryo fibroblasts (CEF). Cells growing in plastic dishes were incubated with [Υ-³²P]ATP for 20 minutes. Under the conditions employed, only proteins located on the external cell surface were labeled, as the radioactivity could be removed by mild trypsin treatment. In addition, exogenous histones were phosphorylated when added to the reaction mixture. The addition of cAMP and cGMP to the reaction had virtually no effect on ³²P incorporation, suggesting there is little or no cyclic nucleotide-dependent protein kinase activity present on the external cell surface. Cell surface protein kinase activity was higher in RSV-transformed CEF than in normal CEF, and, using a temperature-sensitive src mutant, this difference was found to be transformation-specific. Several differences were observed in the cell surface proteins phosphorylated in normal and transformed cells, and at least two of these were transformation-specific. These data suggest that changes in external cell surface protein phosphorylation are associated with RSV transformation and thus could play a role in the formation of the transformed cell phenotype.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: Pharmacy Services in Rural Mexico: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Augmented Pharmaceutical Services in Rural Mexico

contributor: Medical Sciences, Design Measurement and Evaluation, Health Care Research Methods

subject:
Medical Sciences
Medical Sciences

abstract:
This thesis intends to study the effects of introducing a pharmacy-service-package in three health districts of the State of Tlaxcala, Mexico. Each district consists of several villages with rural health centres. They have small variation in size and their total economy and natural resources are almost equal. Districts have some features in common, none of them have experienced the "intervention" and all have the same health care system.

The investigative method followed consists of randomly allocated intervention and then surveying the districts at two points in time, noting the changes that occur in the interim. Thus it basically requires two sets of observations, one for what might be called the before period (from 1977-1981), the other for what might be called the after period (1982-1983).

These districts have already been studied by the University of Mexico. From this survey and auxilliary resources, enough information has been assembled that will be used to determine the initial health care conditions of the districts in the base line period. The investigation of the follow-up and terminal period are the author's responsibility. This work will consist of the designing of a study to collect comparable data and the designing of the analysis to provide evidence of the most important changes that will take place during the study.

Chapter One contains an overview of Mexico. Chapter Two describes the current health care system in Mexican rural areas with emphasis on pharmaceutical services. A review of the literature is presented in Chapter Three. In an attempt to establish some basis for the design of a study, existent data is presented in Chapter Four. In this chapter also a proposed protocol presents the design of a definitive study to analyse the effects of pharmacy services in those districts.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: Rat X Mouse Hybridoma Secreting Monoclonal Antibody to Mouse Alpha-1-Protease Inhibitor: Development and Characterization

contributor:
Gauldie, J.
Medical Sciences

subject:
Medical Sciences
Medical Sciences

abstract: In our investigations concerning the control of synthesis of mouse alpha-1-protease inhibitor (α1Pi), also called alpha-1-antitrypsin (α1AT), a major inhibitor of serum proteases, we had reason to attempt to develop a monoclonal antibody to this molecule to clarify some apparent molecular heterogeneity, as conventional approaches to separate the isoproteins had met with limited success. We immunized Lewi rats with purified mouse α1Pi and fused the immune spleen cells with mouse SP2 plasmacytoma cells after optimizing some of the fusion parameters such as the source of polyethylene glycol (PEG), its concentration and exposure time to cells. In addition, we examined two different fusion protocols for their ability to produce xenogenic rat X mouse hybrid cells. Several hybridomas were produced, one in particular secreting rat IgM specific for mouse α1Pi. Screening of the positive clones was carried out by modified ELISA and radioimmunoassays. Characterization of the cell product was completed by SDS-PAGE and radioimmunoelectrophoresis. Specificity of the secreted immunoglobulin (D7-IgM) was determined using crossed radioimmunoelectrophoresis with ³⁵S-methionine labelled monoclonal antibody. The establishment of a mouse ascitic form of the hybridoma was not successful even after prolonged subcutaneous adaptation of the hybridoma line in ALS treated, bone marrow reconstituted, X-irradiated Balb/c recipients. Mice bearing the solid tumor exhibited pathology in the liver in the form of discrete necrotic lesions suggesting metastatic localization of the hybridoma in the liver and local production and interaction of the monoclonal antibody with the hepatocyte via one of its secreted molecules, alpha-1-protease inhibitor.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: A Distributed Microprocessor Control System for an Industrial Robot

contributor:
Sinha, N.K.
Tlusty, J.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Electrical and Computer Engineering

abstract:
Complex automation systems, such as industrial robots, require a computer-based control system for the effective utilization of the advanced technology.

A state-of-the-art was studied and presented in this thesis.

A distributed computer control system for a modified Unimate 2000 robot, is presented. The 16-bit Intel 8086 microprocessor was used as the master computer, and the 8-bit Intel 8748 microprocessor as the slave processor.

The system is effective and the experimental results agree with the simulation.

abstract: Master of Engineering (ME)


title: Mathematical modelling and design of optimal satellite constellations with multi-fold continuous coverage for position location and navigation

contributor:
Carter, C.R.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

abstract: The demand for significant improvements in navigation systems, which must include more accurate and reliable position location, has been continuously growing in the last decade and is expected to increase rapidly in the near future. The need for this advanced position location and navigation system extends, not only to the airspace, but also to the surface of the earth where ships, land vehicles and aircraft in distress exist. Investigations have shown that satellite-based systems offer a number of unique advantages which meet the required characteristics of the future position location and navigation system. Whether the satellite system is designed to serve the entire earth or a certain portion of the earth, it is required that one or more satellites be visible simultaneously to the user. This necessitates the use of a satellite constellation which provides a multi-fold continuous coverage pattern. In this thesis, a detailed study of coverage patterns and design of satellite constellations for position location and navigation is presented. The metod employed relies on mathematical modelling and computer search f or the configurations of the optimal constellations. The selected optimization criterion is based on minimizing the cost through the minimization of the total number of satellites and satellite altitude. Several new mathematical models have been developed which eliminate the need for computer modelling. Computer search has been conducted based on the different models to determine the optimal satellite constellation for multi-fold continuous coverage. Results are presented throughout the thesis. Specifically, the analysis has led to the development of the following: 1. A mathematical model for a constellation of satellites in an equatorial orbits. 2. Two different mathematical models for a constellation of satellites in a network of polar orbits. A major development is the concept of the interaction between orbits to maximize the coverage. 3. Two mathematical models for a satellite constellation in a hybrid network which combines a network of polar orbits with an equatorial orbit. This type of constellation has not received attention in the open literature to date. 4. A model for a satellite constellation in a network of inclined orbits providing single-fold continuous coverage. 5. Five different satellite constellations in synchronous orbits for three-fold continuous coverage of the Atlantic Ocean. Finally, conclusions and a number of recommendations for future research are provided.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Coupled Lateral Torsional Response of One-Story Buildings to Ground Shaking

contributor: Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics

subject:
Civil Engineering
Engineering Mechanics
Civil Engineering

abstract:
In seismic analysis of buildings it is usual to consider planar models along each of the two principal axes, and to independently analyze the response of each model to the in-plane horizontal component of ground motion. Analysis on this basis is strictly valid only for structures with coincident centers of mass and rigidity. The lateral and torsional motions are coupled if the centers of mass and rigidity do not coincide.

It is the purpose of this thesis to consider the torsional effect in the seismic analysis of one-story buildings and to illustrate the effect of the lateral-torsional coupling on their response.

A mathematical model for a torsionally coupled one-story building is developed considering the effect of eccentricity between the center of mass and the center of resistance. The coupled analysis is then investigated for excitation due to several different earthquakes.

The second object of this study is to develop a simple procedure, which provides a convenient means to obtain conservative estimates of earthquake forces in a special class of torsionally coupled systems.

abstract: Master of Engineering (ME)


title: A design for a Randomized Clinical Trial to Determine Safe and Effective Doses of Niridazole in the Treatment of Urinary Schistosomiasis in School Children

contributor: Design, Measurement and Evaluation; Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics

subject:
Life Sciences
Life Sciences

abstract:
Schistosomiasis is known to affect over 200 million people in tropical countries. It is well known to have variable manifestations in similar geographical regions. It is also known to have variable responses to treatments in different geographical regions.

Literature on its treatment though abundant reveals no agreement on doses of drugs to be administered.

This thesis presents a design to determine doses of a recommended drug in the treatment of haematobium schistosomiasis. Three dosage levels of niridazole (ambilhar) will be tested against a recommended dose of metrifonate. The trial will be conducted over a 12 month period and will involve infected school children in a town in Ondo State of Nigeria.

Children will be followed up during the trial period to determine the effects of treatment on their urinary egg output.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: Relationship Between Admission Procedures and Performance in the Baccalaureate Nursing Program at McMaster University. Design of Two Randomized Controlled Trials

contributor: Medical Sciences (Design, Measurement, and Evaluation)

subject:
Medical Sciences
Medical Sciences

abstract:
Each year, educational programs, with the responsibility of graduating health professionals, face the dilemma of selecting the most suitable candidates from numerous applicants. Since the number of positions in these classes is limited, the goal underlying the admission procedure is to identify those most likely to succeed.

Nursing programs, in particular, have had difficulty in realizing this goal. Despite the use of a variety of selection devices by different schools, the attrition rate of nursing students consistently remains between 30 and 40 percent.

The reduction of this attrition rate, by careful examination of various admission methods, will be addressed in this thesis. First, the scientific literature examining attrition and admission procedures in nursing, as well as other disciplines, will be reviewed. Following this, the extent of the attrition problem, specifically in the baccalaureate nursing program at McMaster University, will be explored by means of a retrospective analysis of four years of data. Finally, the design of two randomized controlled trials, each addressing one of two categories of applicants, will be described.

The McMaster baccalaureate nursing program presently assesses candidates applying for a position directly upon completion of secondary school on the basis of Grade 13 marks. A second group, 'special' applicants, are considered on the basis of interview scores. The designs will examine two selection devices--the autobiographical letter and the team interview.

An additional feature of the proposed study is that all applicants will participate in each admission procedure, but will be blind to the device used to determine their admission. Data about the alternate selection tools will be available for analysis at the end of the study.

The validity of the selection devices will be assessed by the examination of four outcome measures. First, success of students in terms of remaining in the program, failing, and withdrawing will be monitored. Second and third, grades in nursing courses for the first two years of the program will be recorded, as well as grades in nursing science courses. Lastly, first and second year tutors will be asked to evaluate the students in terms of their abilities in self-directed learning, problem-solving, interpersonal relations, and self-evaluation.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: Neutron Star Cooling

contributor:
Sutherland, Peter G.
Physics

subject: Physics Physics

abstract: To determine the detectability of thermal radiation from the surface of a neutron star, the surface temperature as a function of time is needed. To find this, the surface temperature as a function of core temperature is found; this ratio depending on temperature, stellar mass, and magnetic field strength. The energy loss rates from photon emission and neutrino emission are calculated, along with the specific heat of the star; the latter two quantities depending on the core temperature. The surface temperature as a function of time is then calculated for various combinations of the variable parameters: stellar mass, equation of state, magentic field, superfluidity, and pion cutoff density. Finally, a calculation of the detectability (distance vs. age) of a typical neutron star is made, using the estimated capabilities of the X-ray telescope on the Einstein Observatory.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: THE EFFECT OF SLIP IN REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS

subject:
Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering

abstract: The effect of slip, in the form of a bond stress-slip relationship at the concrete-steel interface, on the behaviour of reinforced concrete beams without web reinforcement is examined. The beam is analysed as a composite beam with incomplete interaction. An elastic and an inelastic method of analyses are developed. An analysis of the concrete teeth structure is presented. Also, a theory of cracking is presented. A review of the state of the art of the load-deformation characteristics, for the elements of the beam, and of the criteria of failure for beams is presented. The proposed method is used to analyse Leonhardt and Walther's and Taylor's tested beams, and to examine the influence of M/Vd ratio and bond-slip relationship. Finally, an inelastic method of analysis of multilayered composite systems (a continuous beam is an example) is presented.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Nietzsche's View of Christianity in On The Genealogy of Morals

contributor:
Weeks, I.
Religious Studies

subject: Religion Religion

abstract: An exposition of Nietzsche's view of Christianity in On The Genealogy of Morals. Concentration on the text itself with a view to indicating some of the more problematic aspects of Nietzsche's treatment of Christianity in the Genealogy.

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: The Baptist Contribution to Nineteenth Century Education for Women: An Examination of Moulton College and McMaster University

contributor:
Sheriff, Peta
Sociology

subject: Sociology Sociology

abstract: In this work nineteenth century developments in education for women are examined within the context of transformations in the Canadian social structure. The admission of women to university education is analyzed not only as part of the limited democratization of the system, but also in terms of the expansion and redefinition of the 'proper sphere' of middle and upper class women. In accounting for why women were allowed access to higher education we present the underlying political and economic realities that shaped the arguments of those involved in the debate and final resolution of the conflict. The Baptist denomination, despite its small size, lack of general wealth and organizational difficulties, made an important contribution to the development of education in Ontario. Baptist democratic church organization, emphasis on the importance of individual salvation and evangelical orientation combined with other factors to produce a predisposition towards promoting education for girls and women. Specifically, the establishment and continued support of Moulton College and McMaster University constituted a unique achievement in educational endeavour.

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: "Playing Ourselves": Native Histories, Native Interpreters, and Living History Sites

contributor:
Nicks, Trudy
Anthropology

subject: Anthropology Anthropology

abstract: This study examines the representation of First Nations cultures, peoples, and histories at six North American public history sites: Lower Fort Garry, Old Fort William, the North West Company Fur Post at Pine City, Colonial Michilimackinac, Waswagoning, and Sainte-Marie among the Hurons. The study examines the history and development of these sites and of their Native interpretation programs. The different meanings that representations of Native histories have for Native and non-Native staff and visitors at these places are also explored. Traditionally, historic reconstructions, the national historical narratives in which they figure, and the representation of Native cultures within such institutions have been shaped by members of the economically and politically dominant class of North American society, and these representations have justified and naturalized the power of that class over Native people. However, I argue that they have come to be sites of opposition to such power and perspectives, opportunities to voice Native perspectives to visitors and administrators. The study thus challenges literature on the hegemonic functions of public history, national history, and tourism by examining the agendas, agency, and impact of Native staff at public history sites.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: The Unity of Psalm 19

contributor:
Combs, A. E.
Religious Studies

subject: Religion Religion

abstract:
The unity of Psalm 19 has been questioned because of different content, form and divine names in two sections of the Psalm. The purpose of this thesis is to show that there is a conceptual unity to the Psalm. Each of the chapters responds to one of the three problems listed above.

The first chapter argues that the Psalm is unified by a theme of instruction. The heavens instruct men about the knowledge which the Creator possesses and which is displayed in the created order. The sun is a picture of the relevatory character of this knowledge. Through the use of carefully chosen terms in the latter part of the Psalm, the light imagery is shown to be present in law. The law of the Lord is also a source of instruction.

The second chapter argues that the parallelism of the Psalm is constructed in such a way as to focus the Psalm upon law. However, the parallelism itself cannot be used to suggest that the two sections of the Psalm are independent. This argument entails a criticism of several form-critical studies of the Psalm inasmuch as these studies have used the change in the type of parallelism in the Psalm as a factor which indicates that two independent forms are present in the Psalm.

The third chapter argues that the Psalm displays an assimilation of the idea of Creator into the idea of a Law-Giver. The most visible literary characteristic which shows the assimilation of these theological conceptions is found in the final colon of the Psalm. There are two epithets which summarise the two theological conceptions of the Psalm and their placement in apposition to the divine name YHWH draws together these conceptions in the deity YHWH.

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: Digital Processing of Non-Stationary Signals

contributor:
Sarna, S.K.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

abstract:
Various tests had been conducted in order to examine the stationarity and the normality characteristics of electrical control signals of the digestive tract. They were done because the conventional frequency analysis, which is used extensively for the investigation of biological signals, usually assumes the signal to be stationary and normally distributed. The validity of this assumption should then be examined before any further analysis is applied. The tests are conducted by proposing a null hypothesis that the signal under investigation is stationary and normally distributed. It was found that the percentage of rejection of the hypothesis increases towards the colonic end of the tract.

Since conventional power spectral analysis does not provide any phase information on non-stationary signal, the bispectral analysis, which is the Fourier transform of the third moment; was used in order to examine many of the still-unknown characteristics of the gastrointestinal signal. The analysis mainly searches for any phase-locking between frequency components and hence identifies the generators of the signal. Two seperate analyses had been done : one was for a single channel and the other was for a double channel of signals. It was found that the same group of generators for the electrical signals on the upper part of the tract is present most of the time. But short-lived and locally based oscillators dominate the functions in the colon. From the cross-bispectral analysis, it was found that the generators in the stomach and the duodenum usually exert driving force to the distal site but bidirectionally in the jejunum. In the colon, only independent frequency components were found to be phased-locked occasionally.

In conclusion, the analyses carried out in this study provide some alternate means to investigate many of the still largely unknown signals.

abstract: Master of Engineering (ME)


title: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of the Alternative Approaches to the Prophylaxis of Venous Thromboembolism

contributor:
Stoddart, G.L.
Medical Sciences

subject:
Medical Sciences
Medical Sciences

abstract: Up until the last decade, physicians were content to base management decisions in postoperative surgical patients on the clinical diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Subsequently, multiple studies have demonstrated the insensitivity of clinical diagnosis. Pulmonary embolism (PE) is the most common preventable cause of in-hospital death, which no doubt reflects the insensitivity of clinical diagnosis. Multiple randomized trials indicate that low-dose subcutaneous (sc) heparin and intravenous (IV) dextran are effective for preventing death due to pulmonary embolism in postoperative general surgical patients. Other approaches effective against venous thromboembolism are: intermittent pneumatic leg compression (IPLC) and screening with ¹²⁵I-fibrinogen leg scanning. We have performed a cost-effective analysis in 1,000 patients over the age of forty years undergoing major elective surgery comparing the prophylactic approaches described above with the "no-programme" situation (early ambulation but no other active prophylaxis). The total cost (Canadian dollars) and total effects (deaths from pulmonary embolism averted) are as follows: s.c. heparin $35,714 for 7 lives saved; IPLC $55,803 for 7 lives saved; IV dextran $137,235 for 6 lives saved; leg scanning $396,599 for 7 lives saved; and the "no-programme" situation $53,472 for 8 lives lost. The "no-programme" situation is clearly cost-ineffective. Incremental cost-effectiveness analysis indicates that s.c. heparin is the most cost-effective, followed by IPLC. Dextran and leg scanning, although effective, are both expensive; therefore s.c. heparin or IPLC prophylaxis are preferred.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: Problems in Validating the Ames Assay as a Predictor of Human Environmental Carcinogenic Risk

contributor:
Roberts, R.S.
Medical Sciences

subject:
Medical Sciences
Medical Sciences

abstract:
The Ames Assay is a battery of tests which measures the mutagenicity of chemical substances. In order for its results to be relevant to human health, Ames Assay mutagenicity must relate to human cancer in a biologically credible and comprehensive way. It must also correlate with other measures and attributes of carcinogenicity. The evidence presented demonstrates its biologic credibility, but illustrates the improbability of its being a comprehensive measure of all attributes of carcinogenesis. Agreement between the Ames Assay and animal cancer studies, other short-term bioassays, human carcinogens, and chemical structures predictive of carcinogens is presented. The range of possible predictive accuracy for the Ames Assay is calculated from these agreement evaluations. A hypothetical model is developed to test whether the Ames Assay is a sufficiently valid predictor of human carcinogenesis regardless of the extremes of this range. It is not sufficiently valid in the lower half of the range. So more work must be done to define precisely its accuracy.

The problems of applying the range of accuracy of a laboratory test of pure substances to biologic and environmental samples are explored. Unsolved problems in collection and analysis of airborne samples are identified. A study design is presented which minimizes the chance of bias in collecting airborne samples. The limitations of the laboratory procedure and the problems of sample collection are brought together in two continuous flow schemes. Together these demonstrate the unsolved biologic and biostatistical problems in validating the Ames Assay.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: Single- and multiphoton infrared laser spectroscopy of atomic negative ions

contributor:
Haugen, Harold K.
Physics

subject: Physics Physics

abstract: A pulsed, tunable infrared laser source (0.6-5.2 μm) has been developed on the basis of a commercial dye laser and non-linear optical conversion techniques. This laser source was combined with a keV negative ion beam apparatus in a crossed-beam geometry, with the aim to systematically study several atomic negative ions through a variety of single- and multiphoton detachment experiments. Photodetachment threshold spectra of 21 ionic species (B- , C- , O- , Al- , Si- , Cr- , Co- , Ni- , Cu- , Ge- , Mo- , Rh- , Pd- , Ag- , Sn- , Sb- , Te- , Cs- , Ir- , Pt- , and Bi- ) have been recorded, in most cases resulting in very accurate determinations of ionic binding energies, marking substantial improvements over previous experimental values. In fact, several ionic states investigated here had not been observed previously. Different schemes for resonant multiphoton detachment of atomic negative ions were demonstrated for the first time. These studies were conducted with several anions (Si- , Sri- , Sb- , Te- , Ir- , and Pt- ) providing highly accurate ionic energy level splittings and clearly demonstrating that multiphoton probes are generally applicable to negative ion structure.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Studies of Delta I = 4 bifurcation in A similar to 150 superdeformed bands

contributor:
Waddington, J.C.
Physics

subject: Physics Physics

abstract: When some nuclei are excited to tens of MeV above their ground state, with angular momenta so high that they are on the verge of fissioning, they can take on cigar-like shapes with axis ratios of 2 : 1, so-called superdeformed shapes. These superdeformed nuclei de-excite by the emission of cascades of γ rays (a superdeformed band). One of the most puzzling aspects of this emission is the phenomenon called ΔI = 4 bifurcation, or staggering, in which every second γ-ray energy in a given superdeformed band is shifted upward relative to the other energies in the band. Very little is known about this phenomenon, making a systematic investigation necessary. In this thesis, ΔI = 4 bifurcation has been studied in twenty-two bands in europium and gadolinium nuclei with mass numbers A near 150. The results obtained include the observation that the staggering patterns in three identical bands (bands with identical moments of inertia) are very highly correlated. This result seems to agree with what one might expect from a restrictive interpretation of the model of Hamamoto and Mottelson, and the staggering patterns in these three bands are used to constrain the model parameters for this triplet of bands. This systematic survey of ΔI = 4 bifurcation has been used to rigorously test the model of Pavlichenkov, and that of Hamamoto and Mottelson. It is demonstrated that neither of these models is capable of explaining the results presented. Finally, a statistical analysis of the staggering patterns presented in this thesis is proposed and carried out. This analysis underlines the highly non-statistical nature of the staggering phenomenon, but also emphasizes the importance of independent verification of these results.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Construction and characterization of adenoviral vectors expressing cytokines for cancer immunotherapy

contributor:
Graham, Frank L.
Biology

subject: Biology Biology

abstract:
Not Available.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Tunable diode lasers and their applications in trace gas and liquid detection

contributor:
Cassidy, D.T.
Engineering Physics

subject:
Engineering Physics
Engineering Physics

abstract: The use of InGaAsP semiconductor lasers as radiation sources in gas and liquid detection is described in this thesis. Single mode operation and tunability were studied in several schemes including diode lasers with a short external cavity (SXC), diode lasers with multiple short external cavities (MSXC), and a grating external cavity (GEC) diode laser. Comparisons of SXC, MSXC and GEC lasers are given in terms of tunability, side mode suppression ratio (SMSR), stability, and ease of construction and operation. In highly sensitive gas detection, the harmonic content of residual amplitude modulation (RAM) for current modulation of the diode lasers was studied based on the concept that the light intensity rather than the electric field is directly modulated by the injection current. Formulae for RAM and the absorption signals are given for injection current modulation spectroscopy with diode lasers. Water vapour was detected by using InGaAsP SXC and DFB diode lasers, and an electronic subtracter was employed to reduce the detection noise. A sensitivity of $\approx$1.6 $\times$ 10$\sp{-6}$ in units of equivalent absorbance in an equivalent noise bandwidth of 1.25Hz was obtained. In liquid detection, InGaAsP laser diodes with multiple short external cavities (MSCX's) were developed to provide a wide spectral coverage, up to 72nm spectral coverage was achieved. Liquid detection by MSXC diode lasers was studied in conjunction with multivariate calibration methods, i.e., principal component regression (PCR) and partial least squares (PLS). A sensitivity of 0.1% H$\sb2$O in D$\sb2$O was achieved and the limiting noise source was assessed. Three component mixtures of H$\sb2$O, acetone and methanol were studied in terms of regression factors and outlier detection in the PCR and the PLS algorithms. To achieve even broader tunability by means of external cavity, work on making broad gain peak InGaAsP/InP lasers was initiated.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: The Dynamics of Cadium and Metallothionein Accumulation in Peripheral Blood Cells and Selected Organs of Rats

contributor:
Nieboer, Evert
Physiology and Pharmacology

subject: Pharmacology, Toxicology and Environmental Health

subject: Physiology

abstract:
Cadium (Cd) is a naturally occurring metal with well documented toxic effects on humans and animals. MT is an endogenous protein that binds Cd and other metals; its role in relation to metabolism, homeostasis and detoxication of metals has yet to be fully elucidated. The dynamics of Cd and Mt were studied in individual rats (3 per group. Each rat served as its own control with blood sampled collected at -20, 0, 6, 12, 24, , 48, 72, and 96h via surgically inserted jugular cannula. Several cadmium chloride concentrations (2.5, 1.25, and 0.25 mg Cd/kg) or saline were investigated as a short course (single IP injection at T=Oh) or subchronic (multiple injections over 2 months) with 3 rates per dose. Feces, urine and whole blood were collected at each time point and blood was separated into whole blood, plasma, erythrocytes (RBC), polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN), lymphocytes (Ly) and monocytes (M). Liver, kidney, spleen and lung were collected at T=96h when the animals were euthanized. Quantitative determinations were made by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (EAAS) for total Cd and by the Cd Saturation Assay (CSA) for MT. Cd and MT levels were elevated in a dose-response manner for all tissues and blood components except in the PMNs. The sequence of control (basal) blood MT concentrations was: plasma > RBC > M > Ly >PMN, compared to plasma > *M ≥ *Ly > RBC > PMN, for the 1.25 mg/kg (medium) exposure group at T = 12h. Similarly, the sequence of basal blood Cd concentrations was: whole blood > plasma > RBC ≥ Ly ≥ M ≥ PMN, compared to "whole blood > *RBC >> plasma > *M ≥ *Ly ≥ PMN for the medium exposure group at T = 2h. Significant differences (*p<0.05) were evident in longitudinal comparisons (concentration versus time) and between doses in both experimental protocols.

The evidence presented in this thesis clearly establishes Cd levels in RBCs and whole blood as reliable short-and long-term indices of exposure and possible of body burden. MT levels in plasma and RBCs constitute similar markers. Further, Cd in lymphocytes shows promise as a long-term indicator and in monocytes as a short-term index of exposure. Post mortem examination of subchronic organs did not support the contention of Cd-induced MT protection, but rather that of Cd accumulation and dose-dependent toxicity.

The in vivo jugular cannulation approach developed has both advantages and disadvantages. Body fluid samples can be collected over a 96-h time period from the same animal, thereby reducing inter-animal variation. The dynamics of Cd uptake and distribution and MT induction can thus be assessed in a single animal and be linked to the corresponding tissue results. The main disadvantage is that replicate sampling at a specific time point is limited by the volume of blood that can be drawn. However, this limitation is partially compensated by the ability to collect many samples over an extensive time period permitting longitudinal statistical comparisons with fewer animals. Another limitation is that the sample collection period is short compared to the time involved in chronic exposures.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Wealth Holding in Wentworth County, Ontario, 1872-1892.

contributor:
George, Peter J.
Economics / Economic Policy

subject: Economics wealth

abstract: This study presents an examination of wealth holding in late nineteenth century Wentworth County using a set of historical micro-data constructed from the probate records of the Wentworth County Surrogate Court, the Census of Canada and municipal tax assessment rolls. The final sample consists of 283 probated decedents - 50 from 1872, 79 from 1882 and 154 from 1892. The information contained in the data set was augmented by historical information drawn from the inspection of local newspapers and period documents. The data set was used to derive information on the size, composition and distribution of wealth for the sample population, a subsection of late nineteenth century Canadian society. Econometric techniques were used to examine whether these probated decedents were characterized by life-cycle or bequest saving behaviour. The study then is both an examination of past wealth holding and an attempt to analyze the motives for saving and wealth holding. Ordinary Least Squares and Tobit were employed in a regression analysis of the determinants of total wealth. Separate equations were estimated for real estate and financial assets. It was found that a decedent's real wealth was positively and significantly related to age, occupational status, and the number of surviving children. Real estate holdings were positively and significantly related to the number of children, but there was no significant relationship between financial asset holding and the number of children. The presence of a hump-shaped wealth-age profile as well as a relationship between wealth holding and children suggest that both life-cycle and bequest motives for saving were present in late nineteenth century Wentworth County. At the same time, the low rate of decumulation after peak wealth, and the breakdown of the wealth-age profile for the separate real estate and financial asset equations both suggest that the bequest motive was more important. It is difficult then, to reconcile the evidence on life-cycle and bequest-saving in Wentworth County with the Life-Cycle Transition hypothesis advanced by Ransom and Sutch. Clearly, the presence of both life-cycle and bequest saving attributes, both in this thesis and in other studies of late twentieth-century saving, provides conflicting evidence that a unique transition was taking place in the late nineteenth century.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: A Four Factor Model for the Selection of a Systems Development Approach

contributor:
Archer, Norman P.
Management Science/Information Systems

subject:
Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering

abstract: The purpose of this research was to develop a model which would aid in selecting the best systems development approach for supplying a decision maker with a computer based support system. The research proceeded in several stages. First a hierarchical model was developed. The "top" level of the model described situations in terms of four factors or meta-constructs; User Participation in the Decision Making Process, Problem Space Complexity, Resource Availability and Organizational Context. The set of factors was based on Churchman's systems theory and the organizational interaction represented by the Leavitt Diamond. In the "lower" level the factors were each described by a set of attributes. The list of attributes was based on a literature search, aided by a model developed by Ginzberg and Stohr. Next the model was validated in a three phase process. The first phase involved validation of the model structure and content. A normative group technique (Delphi method) was chosen to obtain expert consensus on both the factors and the attributes that defined them. The second phase of the validation aided in content validation of the lower level of the model and associated a factor value with each unique set of attribute levels. It consisted of two sets of case-based interviews. Two of the factors had been defined as managerial in nature and these interviews were conducted with senior administrative personnel. The other two factors had been defined as technical in nature and the subjects of these interviews had a systems background. The thrid phase of the research aided in content validation of the "top" level of the model and determined which approaches were preferred in which situations (unique set of factor values). It consisted of a set of case-based interviews with senior MIS personnel (including experienced academics) to assign the "best" or "preferred" approach to each of the situations (set of factor values). Based on the results of these studies we have shown that it is possible to define situations in terms of a hierarchically ordered set of attributes, for the purpose of determining how best to provide computer based support for the decision maker facing a particular situation.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Spectral Estimation of Gastrointestinal Signals

abstract:
The problem of estimating the power spectral density of Gastrointestinal (GI) signals is studied. Classical nonparametric methods based on the discrete Fourier Transform are presented along with modern parametric methods which are generally based on autoregressive- moving average (ARMA) time series models. Some algorithms of ARMA parameter estimation are presented under the classification of optimal and suboptimal methods. Two recently proposed ARMA methods are particularly considered and proven to be equivalent. Additive interference between autoregressive signals is shown to produce an ARMA process with equal orders of the MA and the AR parts. This has been made use of in modelling and spectral estimation of the Electrical Control Activity (ECA) in the small intestine.

Four methods for spectral estimation of GI signals have been implemented in a general minicomputer based program.

The performance of the different methods is demonstrated by examples taken from small intestinal ECA. The spatial distribution and the temporal variations have been investigated for the ECA spectra in the small intestine.

abstract: Master of Engineering (ME)


title: Synthesis in vitro of a Putative Precursor of Mitochondrial Malate Dehydrogenase

contributor:
Freeman, K.B.
Biochemistry

subject: Biochemistry Biochemistry

abstract:
Although mitochondria have their own genetic system, their DNA codes for less than 10% of their protein mass. The bulk of mitochondrial protein is coded for by the nucleus, synthesized in the cytoplasm and imported. Much attention has recently been focussed on the question of how these proteins are specifically directed to the mitochondrion.

It has been found that many mitochondrial proteins are synthesized as higher molecular weight precursors, which might suggest a role in directing their uptake by mitochondria - thus it was decided to determine if rat liver mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase (mMDH) is also first synthesized as a higher molecular weight precursor.

Rat liver mMDH was purified by a rapid procedure developed here and antibodies to the denatured rat liver and beef heart (commercial) enzyme were raised in white rabbits. These antisera were shown to cross-react with denatured rat and beef mMDH and were highly specific for these antigens. Total RNA and free polysomes isolated from rat liver were translated in a micrococcal nuclease-treated reticulocyte lysate cell free protein synthesizing system in the presence of [35s]methionine. The translation products were denatured and incubated with antiserum after which antigen-antibody complexes were removed using Protein A Sepharose. The complexes were subsequently stripped from the Protein A then examined by SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and fluorography.

It was found that a protein 1,500-2,000 daltons larger than mature rat liver mMDH (34,500 daltons) was immuno-precipitated using either free polysome or total RNA to prime synthesis. The recovery of this protein could be prevented by competition with excess unlabelled mMDH. This suggests that this 36,000 dalton protein is a higher molecular weight precursor of rat liver mMDH. It was also found that ten times more of this protein could be immunoprecipitated using free polysomes rather than total RNA suggesting that the free polysome fraction is involved in the synthesis of this enzyme.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: Seawater Alteration of Early Precambrian (Archean) Volcanic Rock and Exploration Criteria for Stratiform Gold Deposits, Porcupine Camp, Abitibi Greenstone Belt, Northeastern Ontario

contributor:
Crocket, James H.
Geology

subject: Geology Geology

abstract:
Regionally distributed, low temperature (<250°C), synvolcanic interaction between seawater and Early Precambrian (Archean) tholeiitic and komatiitic volcanic rocks in the Timmins area is characterized by relict palagonitization textures, elevated abundances of K₂O, Rb, Li, Ba, B, H₂O and CO₂ in the altered flows, and localized, intensely altered chlorite and carbonate-rich zones which occur throughout the tholeiitic and komatiitic volcanic stratigraphy as discordant and stratabound zones. These localized alteration zones formed at the seawater/seafloor interface and in a subseafloor volcanic environment. Only the alteration zones which developed in the seafloor environment are associated with local accumulations of felsic volcanic rock and exhalative, auriferous, cherty dolomites. Subsequent to the low temperature, seawater alteration of the flows, the volcanic pile was metamorphosed to greenschist facies.

Gold is leached from the volcanic rock during the most intense stages of the carbonate alteration. There is no significant difference between the gold content of komatiitic and tholeiitic flows.

Altered magnesium tholeiitic basalts which are spatially associated with auriferous, cherty dolomite-type mineralization are enriched in Li (> 30 ppm), B (> 30 ppm), Sb (> 0.35 ppm), Au (> 5 ppb), and As (> 70 ppm) and are depleted in Cu (< 70 ppm), with respect to altered basalts not associated with such gold mineralization. Ore-related, altered komatiitic flows can be screened only using Au (>5 ppb) and As (>70 ppm).

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: Robust Identification of Bilinear Systems

contributor:
Sinha, Naresh K.
Electrical Engineering

subject: Engineering Engineering

abstract:
This thesis has been directed towards the problem of robust identification of bilinear systems. Special attention has been given to the robust estimation problem of expansion coefficients of orthogonal function series.

A thorough survey of the robust identification of linear systems has been made. The existing robust identification methods have been critically evaluated. Six robust on-line identification algorithms have been proposed for not only parameter identification but also state estimation of bilinear systems. The convergence of these algorithms is theoretically established by using two different techniques. The simulation examples included in this thesis demonstrate the robustness of these methods.

An off-line method, the robust iterative least squares method with modified results (RILSMMR), has been developed for identification of both linear and bilinear systems. A convergence proof for this method has also been provided. The advantage of this method over the currently used robust methods has clearly been confirmed by simulation.

The RILSMMR has successfully been used for the first time to estimate the expansion coefficients of orthogonal function series when the time series are contaminated by not only noise but also outliers. This makes it possible to use orthogonal functions to solve various application problems in different areas. Hitherto, these problems have been unaddressed due to the presence of noise and outliers. Two examples using orthogonal functions, namely, Walsh and block-pulse functions have been utilized for the first time for the robust identification of both linear and bilinear systems. The convergence analysis of these approaches have been given on the basis of the convergence proof of the RILSMMR. The simulation examples demonstrate the advantage of these approaches over their non-robust counterparts.

Finally, comments and recommendations for further research have been included.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: An Adaptive Predictor for Speech Encoding

contributor:
Sinha, Naresh K.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

abstract:
In order to improve the performance of differential encoding systems, the encoding and decoding models have to change according to the speech waveform. The speech signal can be treated as quasi-stationary processes, which over a short period of time can be modelled by a certain set of parameters. Adaptive algorithms should be viewed as means of adjusting the system parameters.

In this thesis, a 2.048 sec. long sentence has been studied by the Box-Jenkins time series procedure to determine the order of the linear prediction model and to investigate the need for adding moving-average terms. The algorithm suggested by Box-Jenkins for parameter estimation has been employed to update the parameters of the predictor of a prediction error coder each specific period of time.

Since it is difficult to implement this algorithm on-line an alternative scheme has been studied. It is based on using the Box-Jenkins procedure to determine a suitable ARMA model and then updating the parameters of this model using a good on-line estimation algorithm. The applicability of the recursive least-squares and the stochastic approximation algorithms has been investigated. Stochastic approximation appears more promising as it takes less time for computation with an acceptable performance.

As a result of this study, the addition of moving average terms to the predictor's model are shown to be necessary. But when Box-Jenkins' algorithm was tested with an ARMA model with adaptive and fixed initial parameters, it did not outperform the pure autoregressive model used with the same algorithm.

The application or the three adaptive algorithms, the Box-Jenkins' approach, the recursive least-squares and the stochastic approximation, has been studied for the PEC configuration and the performance of the predictor was evaluated in each case. The results of this study indicate that combining stochastic approximation with the time series, and including an adaptive quantizer is applicable to differential encoder configurations, mainly the DPCM, with slight modificiations, and would yield better signal-to-noise ratio.

abstract: Master of Engineering (ME)


title: Nonlinear Response of Torsionally Coupled Structures

contributor: Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics

abstract:
Very little research has been done on the nonlinear response of asymmetric structures although real buildings may undergo plastic deformations in response to strong ground excitation. Also, it is a common design philosophy to permit inelastic behaviour since lower design forces may be, used.

In this analysis, the nonlinear response of a torsionally coupled single-story model consisting of a rigid diaghram resting on three equally spaced frames is investigated. The main concern herein is the peak ductility demand especially at edges.

A limited parametric study is undertaken to identify trends in peak ductility demand. The effects of torsional coupling in nonlinear systems are also investigated. Real earthquake records as well as an idealized sinusoidal excitation are used as ground motion. Two types of load-deformation relation are used: (1) the simple bilinear type which can adequately simulate the dynamic response of steel structural elements, (ii) the Clough's degrading stiffness model to simulate the hysteretic behaviour of reinforced concrete structural elements. A comparison between both types is made to assess the significance of the type of load-deformation relation.

abstract: Master of Engineering (ME)


title: The "Heretical" Origins of Early Christian Art

contributor:
Meyer, B.F.
Religious Studies

subject: Religion Religion

abstract:
This thesis deals with a paradox: the early Christian Fathers, who were active before the Edict of Milan of 313 CE, were firmly against art, while at the same time, Christians were busy producing a mass of monumental artistic works such as those which are found in the Roman catacombs. An examination of the Fathers stance in relation to the existence of the artistic monuments led to an investigation of secondary literature on the subject. This revealed that both historians of religion and art unquestioningly accepted the Fathers as orthodox. That is, the Fathers represented the majority of Christians and were the official voice of the Christian church, the centre of which was seen to be at Rome.

But the great mass of art was produced in Rome and, with the exception of Justin Martyr, none of the Fathers were active in the city. Is it possible then, to equate the Fathers with Rome and with orthodoxy? Who were the Roman Christians who produced the art? They obviously did not adhere to the Fathers' aniconic opinions. Because these art-producing Christians did not follow the Fathers' dicta, would this automatically make them heretics as the Fathers intimate?

This problem must be approached from another perspective. The ultimate authority of the Fathers and their iconophobic position in their own time must be re-examined. It will be seen that they may not have been as influential during their own lifetimes as their writings have been for posterity. By freeing the Fathers from their straight-jacket of dictatorial orthodoxy, they can be perceived as a protesting provincial faction who tried to warn Roman art-producing Christians of the dangers of visual images. At the same time, those Roman Christians who produced the art were not heretics, but were the nucleus of those groups in Rome who, within a century, were to consolidate their control over the various Christian factions in the eternal city. It was this group of Christians who were to be come the winning orthodoxy recognized by the Edict of Milan.

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: Nonviolence, ecology and war: Extending Gandhian theory

contributor:
Vorobej, Mark
Philosophy

subject: Philosophy Philosophy

abstract: My thesis challenges the conception that Gandhi's theory and practice of nonviolence is, and must be, rooted in a particular religious perspective. I undertake to reconstruct a consistent theory of nonviolence, which starts with Gandhi's theory, but is not centred in, or expressed through, Hindu thought. My approach is based on secular moral arguments for nonviolence, and ecological ideas concerning the interconnectedness and interdependence of nature. I develop a set of principles using both Gandhi and Western environmentalists, such as Aldo Leopold and Arne Naess. In my view, what is lacking in Gandhi's theory is an environmental ethical outlook, and what is lacking in Leopold's and Naess' environmental ethics is an overall theory of nonviolence. By identifying and connecting the mutually reinforcing ethical and philosophical concepts of these thinkers, my theory integrates two significant bodies of work in order to address the morality of the institution of war and its effects on ecosystems. I develop ten principles of nonviolence and ecology which support the argument that in order to protect nature from damage it is important to resolve human conflict through nonviolence.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Trilobites and strata of the Lower and Middle Cambrian Peyto, Mount Whyte and Naiset Formations, Alberta and British Columbia

subject: Paleontology Paleontology Paleontology

abstract: The uppermost Lower Cambrian Peyto Formation consists mainly of bioclastic, oolitic, and oncolitic limestones and dolostones which contain locally abundant quartz sand; shales are a minor component. Four carbonate facies-associations record shallow subtidal deposition adjacent to shelf-edge oolitic sand shoals. The uppermost Lower Cambrian to lowermost Middle Cambrian Mt. Whyte Formation conformably overlies the Peyto and consists of a lower bioturbated quartz siltstone and shale member, followed by oolitic and bioclastic limestones with locally abundant oncolites and thrombolites. Four facies associations, all of which include a silt- to mud-grade siliciclastic component, are indicative of shallow subtidal to intertidal shelf deposition. The Naiset Formation is correlative with the Mt. Whyte and comprises mainly thinly laminated lime mudstones, quartz siltstones, and shales. Two primarily fine-grain siliciclastic facies-associations are characterized by slumps, slide scars, debris flows and turbidites that indicate continental slope deposition. Twenty-one collections yielded over 1,686 trilobites. Two Lower Cambrian, and four Middle Cambrian trilobite biofacies are defined from generic relative abundance data. Each biofacies is associated with a particular depositional environment on the Cambrian continental shelf and slope. New, species-based trilobite zones, established in the context of biofacies, provide greater biostratigraphic resolution than the genus-based zones which they replace. In ascending order, the zones are: the Olenellus gilberti - puertoblancoensis Zone, the Syspacephalus laticeps Zone, the Syspacephalus perola Zone, and the Alokistocare cleora Zone. Major revisions to the Corynexochida are made at the suprageneric level: Zacanthoididae Swinnerton, and Dolichometopidae Walcott, are both synonymized with the Corynexochidae Angelin, and the superfamily Oryctocephalacea Beecher is revised to include the Dinesidae Lermontova, Oryctocephalidae Beecher and Dorypygidae Kobayashi. Numerous genus-level revisions are made in the Corynexochida and the Ptychopariida, including the following synonymies: Bonnia Walcott with Olenoides Meek; Stephenaspis Rasetti with Fieldaspis Rasetti; Poulsenia Resser, Onchocephalus Resser, Piaziella Lochman, Eoptychoparia Rasetti, Parapoulsenia Rasetti, Spencella Rasetti, Nyella Palmer, and Illtydaspis Fritz with Antagmus Resser; and Amecephalus Walcott with Alokistocare Lorenz. A total of 32 species representing 16 genera are described and illustrated.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: People, Space and Time: Landscape Change in Hamilton's Durand Neighbourhood, 1946-1994

contributor:
Taylor, S. M.
Geography

subject:
Geography
urban landscape

abstract: This study investigates the links between urban form and process as evidenced by buildings. Specifically, the objectives of the study are to describe, explain and interpret the post-WWII evolution of the Durand neighbourhood, an inner city residential area in Hamilton, Ontario. The focus in these objectives is placed on viewing buildings as markers or symbols of the forms and processes which characterize the inner city. Using a variety of primary and secondary sources of information, the postwar evolution of Durand is reconstructed featuring ‘place/space vignettes’ which illustrate the significance of buildings on urban landscape. The findings suggest that buildings, in addition to being the products of broad societal forces, can also be viewed as spatial manifestations of actions by individuals and groups acting as knowledgeable agents. In Durand, the ideologies and aspirations of the residents and other key participants are evidenced by the fates of individual buildings. Taken in their totality, the buildings which compromise this urban landscape are both products and symbols of a variety of forces which shape our cities. This study demonstrates that a closer inspection of the urban landscape’s constituent elements, e.g., buildings, can enhance our understanding of the city. It is argued that such a ‘closer inspection’ is possible through an interpretive approach to the study of urban landscape. And while such an approach contains its own inherent limitations, it does provide insights into the urban landscape which otherwise might remain inaccessible.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: A design for a multi center cohort study to assess clinicians' performance in Ontario's Emergency Rooms

contributor:
Sibley, J.
Medicine

abstract: Quality of care in the Emergency Department may be influenced by several factors and Canada is in the process of training specialists in Emergency Medicine to improve and standardize emergency care. Emergency departments are increasingly used and medical staff and in the organization there is a wide variation in the of the departments. This proposal describes a design for a multi-centre cohort to answer the question: "Is there any difference in the quality of care provided in Ontario's Emergency Department (ED) by Emergency Room Physicians (EP), Casualty Officers (CO) and General Practioners (GP)?". The study is confined to 35 eligible hospitals, within 100 Km around Hamilton, with more than 300 beds, with an average visit in the ED of more than 100 visits/day, with full time medical coverage, supporting facilities and access to specialized consultations. Twenty-eight physicians will be selected randomly in each of the 3 physician categories, half of them will be in university affiliated hospitals. The outcome measure is the assessment of quality of care: 1) the "technical process" of care will be assessed using ten indicator conditions and the data will be collected by unobtrusive observation and chart review; 2) the "art of care" will be assessed by the ED nurse observer; 3) the "patient outcome" will be assessed two weeks after the ED visit by a phone interview done by a research assistant. Each physician will be observed during two shifts. Each case will be classified as urgent or non-urgent. More than 6 cases per physician need to be assessed to detect a 25% difference between the groups with a risk alpha of 1% (two tailed) and a risk beta of 5%. An analysis of variance will be used to detect a difference for the process score, the physician attitude score and the outcome score. The influence of six factors will be estimated with a multiple regression linear model: 1) university affiliation, 2) urgency of cases, 3) workload, 4) training level of physicians, 5) method of payment and 6) working hours in the ED. Also descriptive data on the structure of the ED will be studied. Thirteen months should permit the completion of the study.

abstract: Master of Science (MS)


title: On-Line Impedance Measurement of Transmission Lines Using A Microprocessor and A Fast Multiplier

contributor:
Kitai, R.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

abstract: A system is designed for calculating on-line digital impedance of a transmission line using a Microprocessor (Intel 8085) and a Fast Multiplier (TRW TDC 1003J). The approach taken is to use a digital filter to extract the fundamental component of voltage V and current I, then the impedance is given by V/I. The filter is of the sliding or running spectral measurement type. The total time taken for impedance calculation is 1.033 msec for 16 samples in a cycle at the power line frequency of 60 Hz. The maximum absolute error is ±1.52% the largest possible impedance value.

abstract: Master of Engineering (ME)