title: Addressing the needs of individuals with learning challenges in group CBT

subject:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Mood and Anxiety Program
Health Sciences North

abstract:
This practicum essay is based on a 450 hour placement that was done within the Mood
and Anxiety Program via Health Sciences North in Sudbury, Ontario. Here, I gained some
clinical experience and a better understanding of the applications of group Cognitive-Behavioral
Therapy approaches (CBT) for adults (16 years and older) who suffer from mood disorders. My
objectives consisted of first, acquiring clinical skills and proficiency in the delivery of group
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Second: to develop an understanding of approaches to social
work assessment and individual therapy within MAP. Third, to adapt group CBT material to
address the needs for people with learning challenges, this final objective represents my main
challenge and represents the bulk of this essay. This project outlines some of the specific learning
challenges found in populations with cognitive impairments focusing on those with Asperger’s,
mild intellectual disabilities and learning disabilities. Basic adaptations and teaching strategies
are discussed in hopes of increasing accessibility and creativity with the CBT approach. The
need for individual services is also recognized. I am proud to say that this experience has
allowed me to grow as a competent professional in the social work field.

abstract: Field Placement Practicum Essay, MSS


title: Broadband optical wireless communications for the teleoperation of mining equipment

subject:
Optical Wireless Communications (OWC)
broadband operation
bandwidth
noise
wavelength-shifting

abstract:
The current level of technological advancement of our civilization serving more than seven
billion human population requires new sources of biotic and abiotic natural resources. The
depletion and scarcity of high-grade mineral deposits in dry land are forcing the Natural Re-
sources industry to look for alternate sources in underwater environments and outer space,
requiring the creation of reliable broadband omnidirectional wireless communication systems
that allows the teleoperation of exploration and production equipment. Within these ob-
jectives, Optical Wireless Communications (OWC) are starting to be used as an alternative
or complement to standard radio systems, due to important advantages that optical wave-
lengths have to transmit data: potential for Terabit/s bit rates, broadband operation in
underwater environments, energy e ciency and better protection against interference and
eavesdropping. This research focus in two crucial design aspects required to implement
broadband OWC systems for the teleoperation of mining equipment: high bandwidth wide
beam photon emission and low noise omnidirectional Free-Space Optical (FSO) receivers.
Novel OWC omnidirectional receivers using guided wavelength-shifting photon concentra-
tion are experimented in over 100 meters range vehicle teleoperation.

abstract: Master of Science (MSc) in Natural Resources Engineering


title: Transformation of Symphytum officinale L. and Panicum virgatum L. biomass to 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural for biofuel production

subject:
5-hydroxymethylfurfural
biofuel
comfrey
ionic liquid

abstract: Lignocellulosic biomass has the potential to offer a cleaner alternative as a renewable source for fuel production. The present work aimed to use two plants, Symphytum officinale L. (common comfrey) and Panicum virgatum L. (switchgrass) to produce 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) using metal chloride catalysis in two ionic liquids, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([BMIM]Cl) or 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([EMIM]Cl). Pre-treatments were used to increase sugar availability, and two types of treatments were found to be suitable for HMF production. First, the 0.5 M sulfuric acid hydrolysis yielded 230±23 mg of sugars per g of hydrolysed comfrey, and 425±13 mg of sugars per g of hydrolysed switchgrass. Second, the methanol extraction yielded 300±60 mg of sugars per g of extracted comfrey, and 202±16 mg of sugars per g of extracted switchgrass. The yield of HMF produced was improved from <1% using untreated biomass, to 6.04% and 18.0% using methanol extracts of comfrey and switchgrass, respectively.

abstract: Master of Science (MSc) in Chemical Sciences


title: Walking recovery talk : mental health organizational change

publisher:
Laurentian University of Sudbury
Laurentian University of Sudbury

subject:
mental illness
mental health organizations

abstract: The full experience of mental illness cannot be described in isolation from the context in which one lives, yet the internal physical manifestation of symptoms has been the focus of treatment in western cultures. The “recovery” paradigm is emerging as best-practice philosophy for mental health practice and represents a significant departure from existing standards thereby challenging mental health organizations to re-negotiate their relationship with the dominant bio-medical model. Despite the growing acceptance of recovery philosophy, literature exploring large-scale recovery-oriented organizational change is sparse. The purpose of this research was twofold; 1) to outline the steps taken by change agents within an organization embarking on recovery organizational change, and 2) to understand the experience, including successes and challenges associated with change. The qualitative data obtained from interviewing seventeen participants revealed the impact of organizational contextual factors, leadership and communication on recovery organizational change. Further, the data exposed the complexity of challenging preconceptions and practice when trying to adopt recovery approaches. The findings may guide other community based mental health organizations in their recovery journey.

abstract: Master's Theses


title: Teamwork and staffing in an acute care hospital

subject: team teamwork staffing nursing

abstract: The literature suggests that teamwork among patient care teams can have positive effects on work environment, job satisfaction, and quality of patient care. The purpose of this study was to determine the perceived level of nursing teamwork by registered nurses, registered practical nurses, personal support workers, and unit clerks working on patient care teams in one acute tertiary care hospital in northern Ontario, and to determine if there is a relationships between the staff scores on the Nursing Teamwork Survey (NTS) and participant perception of adequate staffing. Using a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional research design, 600 staff were invited to complete the NTS with a 33% response rate (N=200). The participants from the critical care unit reported the highest scores on the NTS, while participants from the inpatient surgical (IPS) unit reported the lowest scores. Participants from the IPS unit also reported less experience, less satisfaction in their current position, and a higher intention to leave. No statistically significant correlation was found between scores on the NTS and the perception of adequate staffing. Strategies to increase teamwork among patient care teams may positively influence job satisfaction and patient care on patient care units.

abstract: Master of Science in Nursing


title: Characterisation of  CTR-17 and CTR-20, novel chalcone derivatives that inhibit tubulin polymerisation activity

subject: CTR-17

subject: CTR-20

subject: chalcone

subject: cancer

subject: tubulin

abstract:
Agents targeting colchicine-binding sites are recognised as valuable lead
compounds in the development of new anticancer drugs. Although colchicine can
effectively inhibit cell proliferation, its use as an anticancer agent has not been
approved by the FDA due to its inherent toxicity. To develop colchicine-binding
site targeting agents with low or no toxicity, in collaboration with Rajiv Gandhi
Technical University of India, several chalcone derivatives were created and
examined. Preliminary studies at the Lee Lab identified CTR-17 and CTR-20 as
promising leads. Their anti-proliferative activities using three human breast
cancer cell lines (MDA-MB468, MDA-MB231 and MCF-7) and two matching noncancer
breast cell lines (184B5 and MCF10A) were initially determined.
Subsequently, nine other cancer cell lines were used to assess the broad
spectrum anti-proliferative effects of the CTR compounds. Data from this study
showed that CTR-17 and CTR-20 preferentially kill cancer cells 10-25 times over
non-cancer cells. Data obtained from flow cytometry, confocal microscopy and
Western blotting showed that CTR-17 induced a prolonged mitotic arrest, leading
to cancer cell death probably via apoptosis. I also found that both CTR-17 and
CTR-20 inhibited tubulin polymerisation and bound to purified tubulin fibers with a
dissociation constant of 4.58±0.95 μM and 5.09±0.49 μM, respectively. CTR-17
and CTR-20 competitively inhibited the binding of colchicine to tubulin with an
inhibitory concentration of 5.68±0.35 μM and 1.05±0.39 μM, respectively,
suggesting that the CTR compounds bind to tubulin at a site partially overlapping
the colchicine-binding site. Molecular docking studies confirmed this binding to
occur via two and one hydrogen bonds between tubulin and CTR-20 and CTRiv
17, respectively. More interestingly, CTR compounds inhibit the proliferation of
multi-drug resistant cell lines, which overexpress drug transporters involved in
the efflux of clinically available microtubule targeting agents. In addition, the CTR
compounds exhibit a synergistic relationship with paclitaxel in causing
cytotoxicity to a P-glycoprotein overexpressing cell line. Therefore, these novel
chalcone derivatives not only possess cancer-specific cell killing property but
also the ability to exhibit similar cytotoxicity to both the multi-drug sensitive and
resistant cells. Hence, CTR compounds possess substantial potential as safe
and effective anticancer drugs.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD.) in Biomolecular Sciences


title: Ramsey Lake Interpretive Centre : an architectural response to aquatic environmental public awareness

subject:
Ramsey Lake, Sudbury, Ontario
Ramsey Lake Interpretive Centre
aquatic ecosystems
public environmental awareness
environmental remediation
architectural interventions

abstract:
This thesis will aim to address the following theoretical questions: How can
architectural interventions mitigate human impact on a more than human
landscape? How can enhanced and sustainable interaction between aquatic
life and people contribute to greater appreciation and conservation for underwater ecosystems?
Specifically, this thesis will study and analyze Ramsey Lake, in Sudbury,
Ontario, Canada, through mapping exercises, scientific research, media
articles, and site documentation to inform the design of a “Ramsey Lake
Interpretive Centre”. The centre would raise public environmental awareness
of regional aquatic ecosystems and provide direct opportunities for environmental remediation of a lake which has been impacted by industrial activity and urban development for over one-hundred-years.
Ramsey Lake was selected as the focus of this study because of the central
role that it plays within the community. In addition to acting as a drinking water reservoir for over 40% of Greater Sudbury, it also represents a significant centre for culture and recreation within the community.

abstract: Master of Architecture (M.Arch)


title: Examining literary and policy discourses of mental disability in the post-dismantlement phase of Ontario's institutional cycle

subject: mental disability

subject: critical discourses analysis methodology

subject: post-dismantlement phase

subject: Ontario's institutional cycle

subject: major policy

subject: literary discourses

abstract: Persons living with a mental disability in Ontario comprise a significant and diverse population that has historically existed in the margins of society as a result of the discrimination that has dominated the province's social and political discourses. Building upon McCauley's (2011) research, a critical discourse analysis methodology was utilized to examine the ways that major policy and literary discourses have influenced the cultural constructions of mental disability in Ontario. The present study focuses on policy and literary texts, specifically novels and memoires, published since the last institutions in the province were closed in 2009, marking the beginning of the post-dismantlement phase of the Ontario's institutional cycle.  It was anticipated that an examination of the ways that literature and policy construct mental disability during the post-dismantlement phase of Ontario's institutional cycle would help to identify policy planning needs and opportunities for advancing human rights for persons living with mental disabilities. Findings ultimately identify a disconnect between Ontario's public policies that assert a responsibility to uphold the social and economic rights of persons living with disabilities, and experiences of exclusion amongst persons living with mental disabilities as depicted in literary fiction and non-fiction narratives. In order for equality in social and economic participation to be realized a number of recommendations are proposed, including the use of direct consultation with service-users of varying abilities to inform policy planning initiatives, as well as increased availability of institutional services such as long-term care facilities.

abstract: Master of Social Work (MSW)


title: The roots of contemporary adolescent mental health an Erikson perspective

subject: adolescent mental health issues

subject: self-harming behaviours

subject: healthy identity

abstract:
This theoretical thesis was inspired by this social workers desire to have a
better understanding of the increase in self-harming behaviours, including suicidal
ideation, depression, and anxiety among today’s youth. Why all these complex and
multi systemic breakdowns.
The approached was interdisciplinary in nature which included biological,
social, philosophical, anthropological, psychological, and developmental aspects of
the individual. When considering a platform, the decision was made to use Erikson’s
theory of psychosocial developmental as it provided the broad contextual framework
in understanding the fundamental requirements of acquiring a healthy identity
through various psychosocial stages.
The research analyzed an array of factors such as family structure, parenting
styles, relationships, culture, practices, self-determination, materialism/consumerism
along with other social determinants and how all of them having some degree of
influence on an adolescent’s inability to achieve a healthy identity formation.
The intent is not to provide the reader with any direct approaches or strategies to reducing adolescent mental health issues but offers a critical and comprehensive
understanding of the multitude of elements that contribute to an adolescent’s state of
disequilibrium and potential avenues to explore in therapy.

abstract: Maîtrise en Service Social


title: The effects of low-level electromagnetic fields and ultraweak photon emission on biological systems.

subject: Low-level electromagnetic fields

subject: Ultraweak photon emission

subject: Biological systems

subject: Intracellular and intercellular interactions

subject: Cancerous cells

subject: Metastatic cells

subject: Specific sequence of patterns

subject: Specific wavelengths

subject: Appropriate equipment configuration

subject: Non-locality (entanglement)

abstract:
The functionality of biological organisms is a product of minute-invisible forces and structures, which together form a cohesive ensemble that initiate the processes of life. The electromagnetic and photonic nature of biological life and its basic unit the cell may be considered a viable option for communication, survival and senescence. The basis of this investigation considers the dynamic nature of low-level electromagnetic fields and ultraweak photon emission as a mechanism for intracellular and intercellular interactions, which
work under the premise of only demanding small quanta of energy. Metastatic cancerous cells have been observed to emit specific frequencies of photon emission compared to healthy cells and increase this emission in unfavorable conditions. The application of a specific sequence of patterns (MuKarb) at a specific intensity, observed in the dissolution of planarian worms, when applied to cancerous cells produce complete death of the exposed metastatic cells but not healthy cells. When such patterns of light at specific wavelengths are pulsed into the aforementioned cells, the emitted light from the cells in the pulsed pattern is observed relative to the duration of the light exposure. These effects become critical to the specificity of the appropriate pattern and intensity of the field, which has been linked to the importance of appropriate equipment configuration. The smallest iv changes in the current/voltage flow within the circuitry of the digital to analogue converter and electromagnetic field devices can make drastic changes with respect to the elimination of cancerous cells being observed or not. This phenomenon reflects the Aharanov-Bohm phase shifts in voltage within the electromagnetic field equipment and its importance in producing effects as a result of low-level electromagnetic fields. The application of specificity within low-level electromagnetic generating equipment has also been shown through the process of non-locality (entanglement) where appropriate and tuned apparatus are required to produce specific non-local effects. Successful non-local effects were observed through observing decreases in growth of melanoma cells through nontangible means, comparable to the manipulate local melanoma cells. These results converge on the premise and importance of properly tuned equipment for successful low-level electromagnetic field and photon exposures. Furthermore the interaction between the use of low-level electromagnetic fields and photons at specific pattern has shown the importance of interfering with the propagation of metastatic cells.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biomolecular Sciences


title: Navigating the thermal landscape: thermo-spatial ecology of wood turtles (Glyptemys insculpta) in the north

subject:
wood turtles
thermal landscape
Sudbury District
north

abstract: Thermal ecology studies of ectotherms, like turtles, have typically focused on a species' thermal preferences and tolerances, or on thermoregulation site selections; only recently have landscape-scale thermal ecology studies been performed. I examined the spatial and nesting ecology of wood turtles in Sudbury District of Ontario, Canada, in a thermal context. I also measured the thermal impacts of natural resource extraction on wood turtle habitat. Wood turtles (Glyptemys insculpta) cover a wide variety of terrestrial and aquatic habitats during their annual cycle, making them ideal for thermo-spatial studies. I tracked movements and thermal use of 15 radio-tagged adult turtles during the active season, comparing their selections to temperature monitoring stations spread in an array across the study area, to determine if the turtles are navigating a thermal landscape. Temperature had minimal influence on home range-scale movements, but possibly influenced movements at a smaller spatial scale. I compared the thermal landscape (using thermal imagery), soil moisture, and grain size distribution of 3 nesting beaches to determine the strongest predictor of nest-searching behaviour. Temperature range appeared to be an important cue, but females were apparently using a suite of cues to select their nest sites. I mapped the thermal landscapes of six sites: two relatively undisturbed wood turtle habitat sites, two recently-harvested forestry sites, and two active gravel pits, to find the effects of resource harvesting on wood turtle habitat. The undisturbed sites were cooler and less variable than the disturbed sites, and provided higher-quality thermal habitat. My results support the findings of previous studies: that temperature is a stronger driver of turtle behaviour at the micro-habitat scale than the home range scale, and that soil temperature co-varies with soil structural variables at the micro-habitat scale. The data from the habitat mapping provide useful information for conservation efforts when mitigating or rehabilitating wood turtle habitat.

abstract: Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Biology


title: Understanding the acculturation experiences of immigrant athletes within the Canadian sport system

subject:
cultural transitions
cultural sport psychology
newcomers
adaptation

abstract:
Societies are in constant evolution and have become more culturally and ethnically
diverse. One of the contributors to this diversity is the movement of people
between/within countries. Although the reason for relocating to an unfamiliar country or
context varies for these individuals relocating (Berry, 1997; Berry, Poortinga, Segal, &
Dasen, 2002), they all face the task of navigating between their home culture and a new
culture (i.e., that of the receiving community). Acculturation refers to a process of
psychological and socio-cultural change and adjustment to unfamiliar cultural practices,
such as in eating patterns, dress, and language, which an immigrant undergoes to align
with the dominant societal group (Schinke, McGannon, Battochio, & Wells, 2013). The
acculturation process of immigrants has been considered from various disciplines (e.g.,
psychology, sociology, and sport psychology) and various theoretical approaches (e.g.,
positivist, interpretivist, and social constructionist) have been used to examine this
concept. Within this dissertation, acculturation was examined through a critical sociocultural and interdisciplinary position to better excavate into the stories of sport
participants in multicultural societies. This project was designed to advance acculturation
research area by examining the stories told by immigrant athletes about their acculturation
challenges within their sport and non-sport contexts from a critical epistemological position (Chirkov, 2009a; Schinke & McGannon, 2014), the impact of such challenges,
and multi-level strategies they utilized to overcome such challenges. Data was collected
using the following four methods: (a) arts-based approaches focused on representation of
the athletes’ daily routine, (b) conversational interviews, (c) guided journey, and (d) fieldnotes. Moving stories were the culmination of the four data sources and were used to tease out and bring to light the athletes’ stories and voices, allowing readers to vicariously
learn from their acculturation journeys. The data analysis was done using an interpretive
thematic analysis (ITA), followed by the development of composite moving stories. Two
overarching themes were driven by my engagement with the data and methods; (a) role of
family (sub-themes; family support, athlete-family settlement conflicts, times and mutual
understanding) (b) role of community-sport community (sub-themes; immersion through
communication and creating relationships, exchange of goals and values, skill level,
openness creates ease of communication, preserving home, and culture and accepting the
new). The moving stories within theme one allows for the highlighting of the complicated
web of relationships (i.e., struggles between competing cultural narratives of
expectations) and the role that each member of the family played in helping the athletes
achieve success. The stories within the second overarching theme allow for the
highlighting of vacillations (i.e., integrating within the receiving community while
preserving cultural practices of home culture) as the immigrant athletes engaged in and
experienced the receiving community. The findings contributed towards the acculturation
scholarship in sport psychology by providing highly contextualized insights into how athletes navigated their transition between cultures as they progressed through their day.
The use of moving stories as a form of representation extended this research area by
offering the reader an opportunity to think along with the athletes and learn through an
embodied response to the complex relocation stories encountered by elite immigrant
athletes.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Human Studies


title: Model based fault detection for two-dimensional systems

subject:
Two dimensional systems
Fault detection
Kalman filter
Polynomial theory

abstract:
Fault detection and isolation (FDI) are essential in ensuring safe and reliable operations in industrial
systems. Extensive research has been carried out on FDI for one dimensional (1-D)
systems, where variables vary only with time. The existing FDI strategies are mainly focussed
on 1-D systems and can generally be classified as model based and process history data based
methods. In many industrial systems, the state variables change with space and time (e.g., sheet
forming, fixed bed reactors, and furnaces). These systems are termed as distributed parameter
systems (DPS) or two dimensional (2-D) systems. 2-D systems have been commonly represented
by the Roesser Model and the F-M model. Fault detection and isolation for 2-D systems
represent a great challenge in both theoretical development and applications and only limited
research results are available.
In this thesis, model based fault detection strategies for 2-D systems have been investigated
based on the F-M and the Roesser models. A dead-beat observer based fault detection has been
available for the F-M model. In this work, an observer based fault detection strategy is investigated
for systems modelled by the Roesser model. Using the 2-D polynomial matrix technique,
a dead-beat observer is developed and the state estimate from the observer is then input to a
residual generator to monitor occurrence of faults. An enhanced realization technique is combined
to achieve efficient fault detection with reduced computations. Simulation results indicate
that the proposed method is effective in detecting faults for systems without disturbances as well
as those affected by unknown disturbances.The dead-beat observer based fault detection has been shown to be effective for 2-D systems
but strict conditions are required in order for an observer and a residual generator to exist. These
strict conditions may not be satisfied for some systems. The effect of process noises are also not
considered in the observer based fault detection approaches for 2-D systems. To overcome the
disadvantages, 2-D Kalman filter based fault detection algorithms are proposed in the thesis. A recursive 2-D Kalman filter is applied to obtain state estimate minimizing the estimation
error variances. Based on the state estimate from the Kalman filter, a residual is generated
reflecting fault information. A model is formulated for the relation of the residual with faults
over a moving evaluation window. Simulations are performed on two F-M models and results
indicate that faults can be detected effectively and efficiently using the Kalman filter based fault
detection.
In the observer based and Kalman filter based fault detection approaches, the residual signals
are used to determine whether a fault occurs. For systems with complicated fault information
and/or noises, it is necessary to evaluate the residual signals using statistical techniques. Fault
detection of 2-D systems is proposed with the residuals evaluated using dynamic principal component
analysis (DPCA). Based on historical data, the reference residuals are first generated using
either the observer or the Kalman filter based approach. Based on the residual time-lagged
data matrices for the reference data, the principal components are calculated and the threshold
value obtained. In online applications, the T2 value of the residual signals are compared with
the threshold value to determine fault occurrence. Simulation results show that applying DPCA
to evaluation of 2-D residuals is effective.

abstract: Doctoral Theses


title: Semi-automation of a rockbreaker system: dynamic modeling and optimal collision-free trajectory planning

subject:
rockbreaker
hydraulic machinery
automation
dynamic modeling
trajectory planning
collision avoidance
collision detection

abstract:
In light of technological advancements, the mining industry is seeing an increase in equipment
automation. A hydraulic rockbreaker is a machine that would bene t from automation. The goal of
this research is to develop some of the necessary algorithms to render a rockbreaker semi-autonomous.
Semi-automation of such systems would allow for improved ease of use, increased productivity and
e ciency of rock breaking operations, reduced maintenance costs while also removing the operator
from harm's way. Several components are necessary to make semi-automation feasible, including a
dynamic model as well as trajectory planning algorithms which generate collision-free trajectories
to be used by a controller. The development of a complete dynamic model for such a system would
allow for better control when using model-based controllers. However, such a model is di cult to
develop in practice, has added complexity and may be computationally expensive. In this work,
simpli ed dynamic models are developed and compared with respect to a complete dynamic model
of the rockbreaker. One of the resulting simpli ed dynamic models, which only considers the inertial
and gravitational e ects of the rockbreaker's mechanical links as well as the gravitational e ects of
its hydraulic actuators, is shown to provide adequate representation of the system so as to be used in
a model-based controller. The work also develops a set of o ine trajectory planning algorithms that
generate time-optimal trajectories which ensure smooth motions and hydraulic valve actuation while
satisfying the system's  ow rate constraints. With the addition of a collision avoidance strategy and
collision detection algorithm, the generated trajectories within the system's work environment can
be expected to be collision-free.

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc) in Natural Resources Engineering


title: An analysis of primary and secondary sector employment in Canada in relation to the distribution of median income

subject: employment activity

subject: primary sector

subject: secondary sector

subject: ArcMap

subject: manufacturing

subject: national economy

subject: Canada

subject: local economies

abstract:
The Canadian economy continues to become more ‘advanced’ and is shifting towards
more service jobs; tertiary, quaternary, and quinary. As a result, the Canadian job market now
focusses less on direct resource and manufacturing employment. These changes are occurring in
the context of globalization where productivity is continually being improved upon and higher
education is greatly valued. This study addresses employment activity in the primary and
secondary sector in Canada. This analysis is done to get a better understanding of the continued
importance of these employment activities in a country that is focussing on more professional
and service jobs. In order to analyze the primary and secondary sector in Canada, three variables
have been used. The three variables are: 1) mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction; 2)
agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting; and 3) manufacturing. ArcMap has been used in this
study to provide a visual representation of the spatial distribution of each of these three variables
by according to a low, middle, and high range of industry activity. Locations in Canada that are
categorized as low, middle and high in terms of industrial activity are also compared by median
income. This research indicates that primary and secondary sector activity in Canada is still very
important to the national economy as well as numerous local economies in Canada.

abstract: Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Geography


title: The role of ceremonial ayahuasca use and the healing of eating disorders: a qualitative study

subject:
eating disorders
Ayahuasca
therapeutic potential
conventional eating disorder treatment

abstract:
Eating disorders (EDs) are serious mental disorders and are associated with significant physical,
psychological and social impairments. As EDs are highly treatment-resistant, novel approaches
are needed and therapeutic modalities from other cultures must be explored. A growing body of
literature has revealed that individuals struggling with depression, anxiety and problematic
substance use and most recently EDs, have reported physical and psychological improvements
with the use of a psychoactive plant-based brew known as ayahuasca. The present manuscriptbased
thesis sought to better understand ayahuasca’s potential value as a therapeutic tool in the
treatment of EDs. Two qualitative studies were conducted to identify; 1) the perceived outcomes
from ceremonial ayahuasca that may influence ED healing, and 2) the overall impressions of
conventional ED treatment with a comparison of ayahuasca to these conventional approaches.
Participants with a history of a diagnosed ED and experience with ceremonial ayahuasca were
interviewed and the transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Overall, the themes
identified suggest that ayahuasca works as an integrative approach that includes psychological,
physical, relational and spiritual aspects of healing. As well, in comparison to conventional-ED
approaches, participants perceived that ayahuasca worked on a deeper, more emotional and
spiritual level that was more effective than conventional treatment. The study results suggest that
ceremonial ayahuasca can serve as a valuable therapeutic tool, giving hope to those individuals
for whom conventional ED treatment approaches have not been effective. Further research studies on ayahuasca as adjuncts to ED treatment are warranted.

abstract: Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology


title: Cytokine-mediated regulation of catecholamine biosynthetic enzymes in adrenal chromaffin cells

subject:
Hypertension
Adrenal Medulla
Catecholamine
Immune
Cytokine
Glucocorticoid

abstract: The immune system is increasingly recognized for its role in the genesis and progression of hypertension. Catecholamines function in the neuro-hormonal regulation of blood pressure and have a well-established link to hypertension. It was hypothesized that cytokine signalling within the adrenal medulla influences catecholamine biosynthesis, thereby potentially impacting blood pressure. This study reports that IFN-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and CCL2 affected transcript levels of tyrosine hydroxylase, dopamine β-hydroxylase, and phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PNMT) in PC12 cells. Further, simultaneous treatment with dexamethasone or forskolin produced context-dependent changes in the transcripts, some of which corresponded to alterations in PNMT promoter activation, but not to localization of glucocorticoid receptor. Thus, cytokines exert transcriptional control over catecholamine biosynthetic enzymes and cytokine signalling is integrated with hormonal and neural regulatory mechanisms in PC12 cells. Changes in adrenal cytokines during hypertension may promote blood pressure elevation by influencing catecholamine biosynthesis.

abstract: Master of Science (MSc) in Biology


title: How does reading support resilience? An interdisciplinary narrative study with children and adults

subject:
Reading for pleasure
narrative
resilience
protective factor
coping mechanism

abstract:
Anecdotal evidence suggests that adults are very much influenced by what they read as children.
This interdisciplinary thesis examines the effect that reading books and stories can have to
support resilience strategies. It centers on the following research question: How does the reading
of text-based narratives (in children’s literature) support the development of resilience in
children (ages 10 – 13 years)? In this question, reading refers to recreational reading; narrative
refers to a textual story; and resilience refers to the ability of the reader to adapt to situations.
This thesis reviews and combines key concepts about how readers engage with narratives and the
act of reading. It examines literatures from education, literary theory, reader-response theory,
bibliotherapy, human development and library science. Fifteen children between the ages of 10
and 13 years and sixteen adults between the ages of 18 and 91 years were interviewed. Analysis
of the data, both thematic and narrative results, indicate that both the act of reading for pleasure
and the narrative being read support positive coping strategies (such as self-regulation). Such
strategies help to build resilience in human beings. Responses from participants assisted in
providing a model of coping skills and positive behaviour. For example, the act of reading itself becomes a recovery mechanism in response to coping with stressful situations. Implications for
further research into reading and mood-management and the benefits of re-reading are presented.


title: Exploring media representations of overweight & obese women’s dietary and exercise behaviours in the biggest loser: a self-determination theory approach

subject:
self-determination theory
weight loss practices
weight loss strategies
reality television
overweight women

abstract:
Objective: The purpose of this study was to use self-determination theory (SDT) to gain a better
understanding regarding how weight loss practices (i.e., dietary and exercise behaviours) and
weight loss strategies for overweight and obese women were portrayed within the reality television
show The Biggest Loser (Season 13). The psychological, behavioural and health promotion
implications were of interest.
Design and Method: An ethnographic content analysis (see Altheide, 1996) of media
representations of all 18 episodes within season 13 of The Biggest Loser were undertaken with a
specific focus on five female contestants.
Results: Analysis revealed that weight loss was portrayed under an over-arching theme: reaching
weight loss goals equals success/not reaching weight loss goals equals failure. Multiple meanings
of weight loss and implications emerged depending on four distinct sub themes: a) fat women’s
lack of self-control; b) weight loss strategies associated with disordered exercise practices; c)
weight loss promoted as a privilege; and d) weight loss as a new and improved self. These themes
had motivational implications when interpreted within the context of SDT.
Conclusion: This study extends the understanding of the ways in which certain forms of media (i.e.,
reality television) construct and reinforce particular cultural, social and behavioural norms
concerning the promotion of weight loss practices in overweight women. This study also extends
previous exercise psychology literature seeking to conceptualize and study the promotion and selfregulation
of exercise and weight loss practices from a SDT perspective within a cultural context
(i.e., the media).

abstract: Master's These


title: Absenteeism in a health care setting

subject:
Absenteeism
Health care

abstract: Not provided

abstract: Master of Arts (M. A.) in Human Development


title: Role of ammonium ions on the modulation of apoptosis in glutamine-starved cells

subject:
Ammonia
apoptosis
caspase
glutamine
glutamine addiction
glutamine analog
glutaminolysis
hybridoma.

abstract:
Highly proliferating cells reprogram their metabolism in order to fulfill their requirements
in biosynthetic precursors. One consequence of this metabolic adaptation is glutamine
(Gln) addiction, a phenomenon whereby cells become dependent on Gln for their
survival. How cells sense Gln levels and link this information to the survival machinery
remains to be fully understood. Our laboratory previously showed that when Sp2/0-
Ag14 (Sp2/0) hybridoma cells were deprived of Gln, apoptosis is triggered within
minutes. In this study, I used the Sp2/0 cell line to characterize the role which
ammonium ions, a product of glutaminolysis, play in the modulation of cell survival. In a
first series of experiments, I demonstrated that, when supplemented with ammonium
salts, Gln-deprived Sp2/0 cell cultures showed a significant increase in viability. This
effect of ammonium salts was independent of the cells’ ability to synthesize Gln, and
was not affected by co-treatment with -ketoglutarate. In agreement with their effect on
cell viability, ammonium salts caused a significant reduction in the number of Glnstarved
Sp2/0 cells with apoptotic nuclear condensation and fragmentation.
Unexpectedly, supplementing Gln-starved Sp2/0 cells with ammonium salts did not alter
cytosolic cytochrome c release, caspase-3 activation, DNA fragmentation or nuclear
lamin A/C cleavage, indicating that the mechanisms triggering the apoptotic machinery
remained intact. In a second set of experiments, I used the Gln antagonists 6-Diazo-5-
oxo-L-Norleucine (DON) and azaserine (AZA) to interfere with Gln metabolism in lieu of Gln deprivation. Both antagonists were toxic to Sp2/0 cells, an effect which was
attenuated by supplementation with ammonium salts. This indicated that Gln metabolism was required for cell viability, and that the effect of ammonium salts did not require metabolic pathways utilizing Gln. Unexpectedly, the supplementation of DON or AZA to Gln-starved cultured led to a small but significant increase in cell viability.  Moreover, the supplementation with ammonium salts of Gln-deprived Sp2/0 cultures
treated with DON or AZA caused a marked increase in cell viability. More importantly,
the combination of ammonium salts and Gln antagonists resulted in a significant
reduction in caspase-3 activation in Gln-starved Sp2/0 cells, indicating that they
interfered with the apoptotic process. Altogether, our data demonstrate that ammonium
ions trigger a pro-survival cellular response in Gln-deprived Sp2/0 cells.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy in Biomolecular Sciences


title: Centre d'hébergement : traits de personnalité et attitudes de préposées aux bénéficiaires ayant l’intention de rester dans leur milieu de travail

subject:
préposées aux bénéficiaires
centre d’hébergement
traits de personnalités
attitudes
années d’expérience

abstract:
Le vieillissement de la population canadienne a un impact sur les organismes de santé, le
nombre de personnes âgées qui ont besoin de soins augmente. Les centres d’hébergement en
Ontario ont de la difficulté non seulement à attirer, mais aussi à retenir les préposées aux
bénéficiaires (PAB). La présente étude va déterminer les traits de personnalité et les attitudes des
préposées qui décident de rester au travail dans les centres d’hébergement. Cinquante préposées
de six centres d’hébergement du Grand Sudbury ont complété les questionnaires : le 16
personnality factor de Cattell (16 PF) et le Kogan’s Attitudes Toward Old People Scale (KAOP).
De manière générale et selon l’administration de ses deux outils, les PAB de l’étude sont
chaleureuses, concrètes, réactives, soumises, spontanées, consciencieuses, timides et objectives.
Elles sont vigilantes, perfectionnistes, pratiques, intériorisées, appréhensives, traditionnelles,
perfectionnistes et décontractées. Elles sont extraverties, anxieuses, fermées, contrôlées et
dépendantes. Tout compte fait, les PAB ont des attitudes positives envers les personnes âgées

abstract: maîtrise ès sciences infirmières (M.Sc.Inf.)


title: Numerical investigation of anisotropic and time-dependent behaviours of foliated rock mass

subject:
squeezing ground
foliation
anisotropic rock mass
time-dependent behaviour
FLAC3D

abstract:
Squeezing ground conditions have become a major challenge faced by underground hard rock
mines exploiting reserves at greater depth and in a high-stress environment. This thesis
investigates the influence of various parameters on the severity of squeezing ground
conditions in foliated rock mass utilizing continuum numerical modelling in FLAC3D finite
difference code. A series of numerical simulations were carried out for selected cases of two
mines subject to squeezing ground conditions to investigate the rock mass failure
mechanisms, the influence of various geological, mining and stress parameters, time
dependence and the role of rock reinforcements. The numerical models were calibrated using
field data and underground observations.  The numerical models were successful in capturing the observed failure mechanisms at the
two mines. The calibrated numerical models were used to investigate the influence of varying
interception angle, excavation shape, excavation over-break, mining depth and parallel
excavations on the severity of squeezing ground conditions utilizing ubiquitous joint model.
The time dependence in the numerical models was simulated by using the power ubiquitous
model and the role of various rock reinforcement elements was simulated by using structural
elements. The results of the numerical simulations were found to be in good agreement with
the underground convergence data and observations. The modelling methodology used in the
thesis can be used to improve the understanding of the anisotropic and time-dependent
behaviour of the foliated rock mass to various mining conditions. The methodology can also
be used to evaluate performance of various rock reinforcement strategies and elements that
are used in squeezing ground conditions.

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc) in Natural Resource Engineering


title: Classification approaches for microarray gene expression data analysis

subject: Microarray data gene

abstract: The technology of Microarray is among the vital technological advancements in bioinformatics. Usually, microarray data is characterized by noisiness as well as increased dimensionality. Therefore, data, that is finely tuned, is a requirement for conducting the microarray data analysis. Classification of biological samples represents the most performed analysis on microarray data. This study is focused on the determination of the confidence level used for the classification of a sample of an unknown gene based on microarray data. A support vector machine classifier (SVM) was applied, and the results compared with other classifiers including K-nearest neighbor (KNN) and neural network (NN). Four datasets of microarray data including leukemia data set, prostate dataset, colon dataset, and breast dataset were used in the research. Additionally, the study analyzed two different kernels of SVM. These were radial kernel and linear kernels. The analysis was conducted by varying percentages of dataset distribution coupled with training and test datasets in order to make sure that the best positive sets of data provided the best results. The 10-fold cross validation method (LOOCV) and the L1 L2 techniques of regularization were used to get solutions for the over-fitting issues as well as feature selection in classification. The ROC curve and a confusion matrix were applied in performance assessment. K-nearest neighbor and neural network classifiers were trained with similar sets of data and comparison of the results was done. The results showed that the SVM exceeded the performance and accuracy compared to other classifiers. For each set of data, support vector machine was the best functional method based on the linear kernel since it yielded better results than the other methods. The highest accuracy of colon data was 83% with SVM classifier, while the accuracy of NN with the same data was 77% and KNN was 72%. Leukemia data had the highest accuracy of 97% with SVM, 85% with NN, and 91% with KNN. For breast data, the highest accuracy was 73% with SVM-L2, while the accuracy was 56% with NN and 47% with KNN. Finally, the highest accuracy of prostate data was 80% with SVM-L1, while the accuracy was 75% with NN and 66% with KNN. It showed the highest accuracy as well as the area under curve compared to k-nearest neighbor and neural network in the three different tests.

abstract: Master of Science (MSc) in Computational Sciences


title: A comparison of doxorubicin and doxorubicinol in rat heart and liver tissue following anthracycline administration

subject:
Doxorubicin pharmacokinetics
Doxorubicin
Doxorubicinol
Chromatography

abstract:
This study examined the pharmacokinetic profile of the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin (DOX), and of its main metabolite doxorubicinol (DOXOL) in male Sprague-Dawley rats. HPLC was used to evaluate both the effect of dose (1.5 mg/kg vs. 4.5 mg/kg) and the effect of recovery time (24, 24, 72, 96, 120, 144, 168 and 192 hours) from the bolus intraperitoneal injection on plasma, liver and heart concentrations. Fluorescence microscopy allowed for qualitative analysis of DOX in liver and heart sections. Plasma concentrations of both drug and metabolite were relatively stable over the examination period. The pattern of response was similar in the liver, although DOX concentrations were decreased after 192 hours, preceded by a spike in DOXOL at 168 hours. The 4.5 mg/kg dose produced increased concentrations of DOX at several of the initial sampling time points in this tissue. In heart tissue, concentrations of DOX steadily decreased for both doses and a dose response was evident until 144 hours. No differences were distinguishable between time-points nor between doses beyond 144 hours. The concentration of DOXOL in this tissue was elevated after 24 hours and subsequently remained stable. Interestingly, DOX and DOXOL remained detectable at 192 hours post-injection for all samples. Fluorescence microscopy results consistently revealed sections that indicated the presence of DOX and were representative of the tissues being analyzed. It was observed that following injection, DOX entered the nuclei of cells rather rapidly and seemingly in proportion to the dose administered. This localization was less apparent as time progressed. These findings strongly suggest that DOX was rapidly absorbed, distributed and metabolized, however its elimination patterns remain unclear. The fact that concentrations remained relatively stable in plasma and liver, and fixed in heart tissue after 144 hours, implies that it is stored in cardiac
iii
tissue, and also potentially in other compartments, allowing for constant re-introduction and re-distribution. Remarkably, an increase in the dose administered did not produce greater accumulation of either drug or metabolite over time in any of the tissues analyzed, therefore the mechanism(s) responsible for the uptake and distribution within the tissues appear to be rate limiting (dose-independent). Nevertheless, the residual amounts of DOX and DOXOL in the heart and liver suggest the possibility of further accumulation upon repeated injections, supporting previous findings suggesting that cumulative doses of DOX are extremely damaging and can result in cardioxicity.

abstract: Master of Science (MSc) in Biology


title: Bioelectrical and biophysical interactions across spatio-temporal domains: identifying the conduit for the emergence of material from the immaterial

subject:
Excess correlation
senescence in plants
electrodynamics
electric fields
magnetic fields
electrical potential

abstract: The emergence of biophysical and bioelectrical dynamics at the level of the organism are explored in an attempt to identify the physiological correlates of the onset of senescence in plants. Furthermore, the ability of phylogenically disparate entities to demonstrate the potential to simultaneously display correlated electro-dynamic processes akin to sharing the "same space" or spatial parameters is investigated. The underlying, aforementioned electrophysiological changes associated with senescence and the potential for phylogenically disparate systems to display markedly correlated processes may share water as a common source of variance. The imperative investigations on the physical nature of water and its interactions with applied electromagnetic fields with respect to enhanced latency of the onset of deviations in pH and enhanced electro-dynamic correlations are experimentally explored. A hypothesis, supplemented by marked quantitative convergence, suggests that water is the central conduit necessary for the emergence of material from the immaterial.

abstract: Master of Science (M.Sc) in Biology


title: A multi-predator analysis: comparing trophic niche dimensions and mercury concentrations among four sympatric piscivores of boreal Lakes

subject:
trophic
boreal lakes
mercury
dimensions
sympatric piscivores

abstract:
Aquatic apex predators, like all predators, are an intrinsic part of a healthy
ecosystem. They help stabilize food webs, as well as regulate and support strong
biodiversity. In addition to being ecologically important, many predatory fish species are
also of high socio-economic and cultural importance. Unfortunately, at the top of the
trophic pyramid, apex predators are also at greater risk of accumulating harmful
contaminants, such as mercury (Hg). With reports of rising Hg in boreal predatory fish
species, the objective of this study was to compare and contrast the trophic ecologies and
Hg concentrations of four sympatric piscivores of 27 boreal lakes across Ontario.
In Chapter 1, trophic relationships among sympatric burbot (Lota lota), lake trout
(Salvelinus namaycush), northern pike (Esox lucius) and walleye (Sander vitreus) were
investigated by using stable isotopes ratios of nitrogen (δ15N) and carbon (δ13C) to
calculate metrics of trophic niche dimensions (position, size and shape) and trophic
interaction. How each metric responded to varying environmental conditions was also
explored. The trophic range utilized by all four species was similar, and the differences in
trophic niche positions and dimensions observed were greatest when comparing species
along a nearshore to offshore gradient. Overall, different environmental conditions had
varying effects at different scales (i.e., population, paired-species, community); however,
lake mean depth had the strongest and most consistent positive effect on niche
dimensions and the dispersion of species within isotopic space. Deeper, clearer, less
productive lakes (i.e., greater Secchi depth) supported greater niche segregation among
these four species, while shoreline complexity had a negative effect on community
trophic dispersion.
iv
In Chapter 2, the relative importance of food web position (δ15N and δ13C) and
somatic growth rate (LGR) in explaining differences in muscle total Hg concentrations
([THg]) among the same four predatory fish species was explored. Ecosystem differences
accounted for 44% of the total observed variability in [THg], and species differences
accounted for 15%, of which approximately half could be attributed to differences in
trophic positions and growth rates. Relative to δ13C and LGR, δ15N was the best predictor
of [THg] among sympatric predators, but the best model included both δ15N and LGR.
My thesis highlights how top predators in boreal lakes share trophic space and
how their trophic interactions are modified by different lake habitat features. Identifying
trophic variability among co-habiting top predators could help us better understand
differences in [THg] among the important sympatric piscivores we rely on.

abstract: Master of Science (MSc) in Biology


title: Walking with our sisters: healing through storytelling

subject:
storytelling
Walking with Our Sisters
Indigenous stories
WWOS
Sudbury (Ontario)

abstract:
This thesis explores the experiences of members of the Walking with Our Sisters
organizing committee before, during, and after the installation came to Sudbury, Ontario in
January 2018. The primary research objective was understanding how storytelling allows for a
collaborative and holistic approach to the research process.
Through the sharing of Indigenous stories and knowledge, this thesis implicates the
researcher as a settler-researcher who was privileged with stories of members of the WWOS
organizing committee’s journey before, during, and after the installation visited Sudbury in
January 2018.
Although each participant’s story revealed the uniqueness of everyone’s experiences
working in the committee, four major themes emerged from the interviews: 1) personal
connections to violence against women 2) relationships, self-care & debriefing, 3) arts-based
methods as a form of healing and 4) closing the bundle. Presenting the participants’ interviews
back, through the process of storytelling, revealed the emotional and personal responses to the
WWOS installation and created a more collaborative research process than traditional Western
approaches, thus shifting the power in the research.
The results of this research will be useful in contributing to decolonial literature and
understanding the importance of practicing self-care when approaching the traumatic subject
matter associated with MMIWG.

abstract: Master of Indigenous Relations


title: A self-learning audio player that uses a rough set and neural net hybrid approach

subject:
self learning
Artificial Neural Network
music
NN

abstract:
A
self-‐learning
Audio
Player
was
built
to
learn
users
habits
by
analyzing
operations
the
user
does
when
listening
to
music.
The
self-‐learning
component
is
intended
to
provide
a
better
music
experience
for
the
user
by
generating
a
special
playlist
based
on
the
prediction
of
users
favorite
songs.
The
rough
set
core
characteristics
are
used
throughout
the
learning
process
to
capture
the
dynamics
of
changing
user
interactions
with
the
audio
player.
The
engine
is
evaluated
by
simulation
data.
The
simulation
process
ensures
the
data
contain
specific
predetermined
patterns.
Evaluation
results
show
the
predictive
power
and
stability
of
the
hybrid
engine
for
learning
a
users
habits
and
the
increased
intelligence
achieved
by
combining
rough
sets
and
NN
when
compared
with
using
NN
by
itself.


title: Investigating coxiella burnetii at the livestock - wildlife interface

subject:
Coxiella burnetii
dairy goats
wildlife
DNA
domestic animals
Ontario

abstract: The intent of this project was to better understand the role of wildlife in the epidemiology of the zoonotic bacterium, Coxiella burnetii, at the livestock-wildlife interface. In Chapter 1, I compared the prevalence of C. burnetii DNA in dairy goats, other domestic animals, and wildlife on goat farms and adjacent natural areas. In Chapter 2, I compared the prevalence of C. burnetii DNA in different sample types from goats and wildlife, and assessed the level of agreement among the different samples. From April to August 2014, genital, fecal and milk samples were collected from goats on 16 Ontario dairy goat farms. Fecal and genital samples were also collected from other resident animals (cats, chickens, cows, dogs, horses, pigs), and from wildlife (deer mice, house mice, opossums, raccoons, red-backed voles, red squirrels and skunks) live-trapped on farms and from 14 adjacent natural areas. Coxiella burnetii was detected by PCR in samples from 89.2% (404/453) of goats, 68.8% (33/48) of other farm animals, 64.7% (44/68) of wild animals sampled on farms, and 58.1% (165/284) of wild animals sampled in natural areas. Coxiella burnetii was detected at all study sites and the prevalence in wildlife was similar on farms and adjacent natural areas, independent of site distances. These findings provide evidence to support the hypothesis that wildlife are able to maintain C. burnetii independent of livestock and may act as possible maintenance or reservoir hosts of C. burnetii at the livestock-wildlife interface. I determined that genital and fecal swab samples, which yielded the highest proportion positives, were optimal sample types to use for the detection of C. burnetii DNA in deer mice, eastern chipmunks, and raccoons. Genital swab, fecal swab and fecal material sample types were all suitable for detecting C. burnetii DNA in house mice and red squirrels. On the other hand, genital swab samples were optimal for detecting C. burnetii DNA in dairy goats and were significantly more likely to be positive for C. burnetii DNA than the other sample types. Additional studies need to be conducted to further elucidate the epidemiology of C. burnetii at the livestock-wildlife interface in southern Ontario and to confirm the optimal sample types to use for C. burnetii detection in wildlife and dairy goats.

abstract: Master of Science (MSc) in Biology


title: Imaging, characterization and processing with axicon derivatives.

subject:
Axicon
Image processing
Wiener Deconvolution
Histogram equalization
Point spread function
Characterization
Extended depth of field
Resolution limit

abstract:
Axicons have been proposed for imaging applications since they offer the advantage of extended depth of field (DOF). This enhanced DOF comes at the cost of degraded image quality. Image processing has been proposed to improve the image quality. Initial efforts were focused on the use of an axicon in a borescope thereby extending depth of focus and eliminating the need for a focusing mechanism. Though promising, it is clear that image processing would lead to improved image quality. This would also eliminate the need, in certain applications, for a fiber optic imaging bundle as many modern day video borescopes use an imaging sensor coupled directly to the front end optics.
In the present work, three types of refractive axicons are examined: a linear axicon, a logarithmic axicon and a Fresnel axicon. The linear axicon offers the advantage of simplicity and a significant amount of scientific literature including the application of image restoration techniques. The Fresnel axicon has the advantage of compactness and potential low cost of production. As no physical prior examples of the Fresnel axicons were available for experimentation until recently, very little literature exists. The logarithmic axicon has the advantage of nearly constant longitudinal intensity distribution and an aspheric design producing superior pre-processed images over the aforementioned elements. Point Spread Functions (PSFs) for each of these axicons have been measured. These PSFs form the basis for the design of digital image restoration filters. The performance of these three optical elements and a number of restoration techniques are demonstrated and compared.

abstract: Master of Science (MASc) in Engineering


title: Retrospective analysis of mine seismicity: Glencore, Kidd Mine

subject:
Seismicity
Deep underground mines
Deep hardrock mines
Mining-induced seismicity
rock mass response to mining
Ontario hardrock mines
mXrap analysis in deep hardrock mines
energy variations
apparent stress
spatial and temporal analysis

abstract:
Understanding the rock mass response to underground mining is a significant benefit to assist with decisions aimed at maintaining safe access and controlling conditions in which incidents of rock mass failure may occur during excavation development. As Canadian mines get deeper, high stress conditions become more prevalent, often leading to dynamic rock mass failure. This failure results in recordable dynamic stress waves, also called mining induced seismic events. The occurrence of large seismic events has become commonplace in many Ontario hardrock mines.
This thesis investigates the mining-induced seismic events recorded in the deepest levels of Glencore’s Kidd Mine, near Timmins, Ontario. The research focuses on mining-induced seismic events in Mine D, which is between 2000 and 3000 metres below surface. Spatial and temporal trends of large seismic events are investigated. Particular emphasis is placed on analysis of the variations in radiated seismic energy associated with large magnitude events.
Through analysis of seismic source parameters such as radiated seismic energy, a better understanding of dynamic rock mass failure in a mine is achieved. This improved understanding aids in managing the risks associated with deep mining in high stress conditions.

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc) in Natural Resources Engineering


title: Re-examining temporal and seasonal microbial acid mine: drainage community variation

subject:
Acid mine drainage
Mine tailings
Microbial community

abstract: Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) is characterized by high metal concentrations and an extremely low pH, primarily generated by the microbial oxidation of iron sulfides from mine tailings. Research on the microbial AMD community has largely focused on Bacteria, while little information is known about the Archaeal and Eukaryote members or the seasonal patterns within the communities. Here I examined the Bacterial, Archaeal, and eukaryotic AMD seasonal microbial community, using direct sequencing techniques on AMD samples from the Copper Cliff Tailings AMD site in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada. I found large variation in the community profile and species composition between sampling times of both the Bacterial and Eukaryote communities, suggesting a dynamic community, both between and within seasons. Bacterial diversity was highest during the winter, with Acidithiobacillus dominating, while during the summer, Acidiphilium was the dominant genus. The winter Eukaryote community was dominated by classes of algae and fungi, while the majority of summer sequencing could not be classified to the class level. Few reads were obtained for the Archaeal domain, with low and similar biodiversity between seasons. Overall, the AMD community variation and abundance were found to largely correlate with drainage water and seasonal temperature.

abstract: Master of Science (MSc) in Chemical Sciences


title: Violence in hockey: a social and legal perspective.

subject:
Hockey violence
Sports
Sports law
Criminal law
League self-regulation
Culture
Consent
Criminal prosecution
Fighting
Social control

abstract:
The ongoing debate with regards to the regulation of violence in hockey is analyzed
through a legal and social perspective. The main research question touches on whether
the law has a role to play in such regulation and how violence can be properly addressed
in order to ensure the health and safety of all participants. There is a culture of hockey
violence that creates an environment that is tolerable of excessive violence. This thesis
addresses excessive violence and considers the player perspective with interview data and
vignette research. Interview participants include hockey players at different levels of
play. This research demonstrates at what point the law should intervene to regulate
hockey violence and makes relevant suggestions on potential improvements in the
regulation of violent behaviour in hockey. The goal is to create a framework for criminal
courts that face cases of hockey violence.

abstract: Master of Arts (MA) in Sociology


title: Mauer-Frei : generating transformation at the Berlin-Brandenburg border

subject: architecture infrastructure walls Berlin highway border concrete

abstract:
Whether architectural or urban in scale, the basic building element
of the wall is invariably a product of its sociopolitical context. While often
deceptively simple in form, walls embody complex political maneuvering and
perpetuate tremendous divisive power. A striking instance of this at a large
scale was the descent of the Iron Curtain across Europe, which, through the
aggressive imposition of walls, literally and metaphorically concretized the
ideological contention between democracy and communism in the twentieth
century. Taking Berlin as a vivid case through which to investigate the legacy
of this polarizing divider, this thesis offers a timely reflection on the potential
and relevance of subverting the inherent divisiveness of walls. Titled MauerFrei (or, “Wall-Free”), this thesis project advances an antithetical elaboration
on the restrictive and imposing influence of the Berlin Wall and positively
engages those traversing the zone demarcated by the former DreilindenDrewitz (East) and Checkpoint Bravo (West) border crossings.

abstract: Master of Architecture (M.Arch)


title: Déterminants socio-économiques affectant le choix d'une maison de retraite : points de vue des résidents d'une maison francophone à Toronto

subject:
déterminants socio-économiques
personnes âgées
maison de retraite
maison francophone (Héritage)
langue
valeurs culturelles
financier

abstract:
Cette étude vise à explorer le problème de logement lié au vieillissement de la
population.
L’objet principal de la présente thèse est de comprendre les déterminants socioéconomiques
qui influencent la décision des personnes âgées d’aller vivre en maison de
retraite et leur choix d’une maison de retraite en particulier. Les données ont été
collectées à l’aide d’une méthode qualitative, par l’entremise d’entrevues semi-directives.
Les trente-sept personnes âgées constituant notre échantillon se sont exprimées sur leurs
expériences afin de nous permettre de mieux cerner les déterminants socio-économiques
affectant leur choix d’aller vivre en maison de retraite. Tous nos participants sont des
résidents de la maison Héritage, une institution de Toronto.
Les résultats de cette recherche nous révèlent que le choix d’aller vivre dans une
maison comme l’Héritage implique des aspects qui dépassent largement les motifs
purement économiques. En conséquence, les déterminants liés à la solitude, aux décès de
conjoint (e), au soutien adapté, ont été très influents dans la première phase du choix
d’aller vivre dans une maison de retraite. En revanche, dans le choix de l’Héritage, des
déterminants liés à l’identité, comme la langue, les valeurs culturelles, ont été plus
influents.

abstract: Maîtrise ès arts en Sociologie (M.A.)


title: Older adult mistreatment, dementia, and the family caregiver in the Northeastern Ontario home:  the influence of context on professional agency

subject:
older adult mistreatment
elder abuse
dementia
caregiver
home care
professional agency
rural
urban
northern

abstract:
This integrated-article thesis presents the findings of a qualitative critical inquiry with three
related aims: to understand the experience of formal care practitioners who encounter
mistreatment of an older adult with dementia by their family caregiver in the home; to explain
the influences of the domestic, health care, geographical, and socio-political contexts upon that
experience; and to facilitate empowerment and collective action to improve policy, practice and
care outcomes. Viewing this experience through a Critical Social Theory lens, data collection
methods consisted of interviews, reflective journals, and inquiry and action focus groups.
Practitioners representing 23 organizations providing care to older adults in their homes in urban
and rural Northeastern Ontario participated over the course of two phases of Understanding and
Empowerment. In this thesis, Chapter 1 will review the literature, identifying gaps in knowledge
and describing the critical theoretical underpinnings, methodology and theoretical thematic
analysis which were instrumental to facilitate self-reflection of past cases, critique of socially
dominant ideologies and structures, dialogue with other practitioners also encountering these
cases, and dialectic reasoning, a process of examining contradictions of what is, versus what
should be in cases of older adult mistreatment and dementia. Chapter 2 presents the findings on the experience of practitioners with these cases. More specifically, practitioners described a lack
of professional agency defined as the ability to control outcomes and act in a meaningful way in
their cases. Next, Chapter 3 examines the home, familial, health care, geographical and socio-
political contexts and their influences on professional agency. Those findings describe the
oppression of these contexts on practitioners who could not control the outcomes of older adult
mistreatment [OAM] within them. Chapter 4 then presents the process of empowerment during
which practitioners shared their concerns related to these oppressive contexts and collaborated towards collective action projects to improve policy, practice and outcomes. Chapter 5 situates
the significance of the findings within the field of OAM and dementia and discusses cross-
cutting themes linking the papers. Limitations of the study will be reviewed as well as
recommendations for policy, practice and research.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Interdisciplinary Rural and Northern Health


title: Characteristics of diagenetic fluids affecting two major carbonate units on Victoria Island, Northwest Territories

subject:
carbonate diagenesis
fluid origin
fluid inclusion
Victoria Island

abstract: Diagenetic histories of Proterozoic and Paleozoic carbonate strata on Victoria Island, in the Canadian arctic, are poorly understood, and their potential to be associated with base metals or petroleum is unknown. Using fluid inclusion and geochemical techniques, it was determined that the diagenetic fluid compositions of two major carbonate units, the Wynniatt Formation and the “Victoria Island formation”, were largely controlled by fluid-rock reactions in reservoirs and by mixing of multiple fluids. Diagenesis of the Wynniatt Formation resulted from the progression from a shale-dominant fluid mixture to a meteoric-dominant mixture. Fluid composition of “Victoria Island formation” was a shale-dominant mixture. A change in fluid:rock from low to high was recorded during diagenesis of both units. Metals and hydrocarbons transported to the study sites were ac-quired by the fluids during interaction with the respective source reservoirs. Mixing of diagenetic fluids follows the established ‘mixing model’ used to explain many other min-eralised locations. The diagenetic fluids that affected the strata in this study were compa-rable to those that produced the Polaris Zn-Pb deposit. This similarity suggests that there is potential for mineralisation on Victoria Island.

abstract: Master of Science (MSc) in Geology


title: Adaptation during a longitudinal integrated clerkship: the lived experiences of third-year medical students at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine.

subject:
Medical student adaptation
Transitions
Longitudinal integrated clerkship

abstract:
There are three interrelated concepts of what medical students learn, which include the
formal, informal, and hidden curriculum. Several researchers who have investigated notions of
the hidden curriculum have demonstrated how the experiences of medical training entrenched in
the hidden curriculum can have a profound impact on medical student adaptation. The most
influential transitional stage in undergraduate medical education is the third-year clinical
clerkship, when medical students transition from classroom learners into clinicians. The Northern
Ontario School of Medicine’s (NOSM) clinical clerkship year consists of a mandatory eightmonths
of living and working in rural and northern communities throughout Northern Ontario,
and learning in the context of rural family practice.
Informed by a social constructivist research paradigm, I explored how 12 third-year
students described the challenges they had to manage and, in response, the strategies they
employed to adapt to their clerkship. I elicited their experiences and perspectives to contribute to
a rich understanding of how students at the NOSM describe developing processes of adaptation
during the Comprehensive Community Clerkship. Data were collected between August 2011 and
April 2012, including: a) pre-clerkship interviews and a demographic questionnaire, b) mobile
methods in the form of ‘guided walks’ in the communities, and c) post-clerkship interviews. The
quality of the data collection and analysis were enhanced through processes of methodological
and interpretive rigour, representativeness and authenticity, rich description and contextual
relevance, audit trail, and reflexivity.
Through an inductive thematic analysis of the data, the findings provide a rich description
of events experienced such as medical training in one’s hometown or a familiar community,
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transitions including adaptation to the clinical setting and to the medical profession, and the
influence of the clerkship on career path, personal well-being, and empathy for patients.
The findings serve to advance our understanding of how medical students describe
developing processes of adaptation throughout a longitudinal integrated clerkship. Implications
are considered for medical students, the NOSM, the clerkship communities, and medical schools
nationally and internationally. I propose recommendations regarding the suitability of authentic
methods in medical education research, and discuss the implications for rural and northern health
research.

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Rural and Northern Health


title: Finding yourself through art education students experiences of an arts-based mindfulness group program

subject:
mindfulness
university students
education students
pre-service teachers
teacher presence
arts-based
group work

abstract:
Postsecondary students’ mental health is a pressing concern on campuses across the
country as young adults are experiencing alarmingly high rates of stress-related challenges such
as anxiety and depression. A recent report released through the Council of Ontario Universities
recommends postsecondary institutions work together with mental health systems to break down
silos, find collaborative solutions, and implement programs focused on building resilience. My
research study explored the suitability and effectiveness of an innovative mindfulness-based
intervention (MBIs) called the Holistic Arts-Based Program (HAP) to teach mindfulness skills to
education students. Arts-based methods are enjoyable and engaging, and enable individuals to
express feelings/thoughts that might otherwise be difficult to elicit; this information is rich and
interesting, even powerful. Results of qualitative thematic analysis of pre- and post-group group
interviews led to the development of three main themes: (1) increased self-awareness and
mindfulness, (2) benefits of arts-based methods, and (3) benefits of group work. Participation in
HAP helped students mitigate the negative impacts of stress, and taught them mindfulness
concepts and activities that they were inspired to introduce into their education practicum. My
research demonstrates how interventions such as the HAP could make a difference in student’s
mental health. As MBIs may not have universal appeal they should not be a mandatory program requirement, but consideration may be given to offer mindfulness interventions as self-care
options for postsecondary students.

abstract: Masters in Social Work


title: William G. 'Reindeer' Walton and the face of adversity in Canada's North, 1892-1928

subject:
missionaires
indigenous people
William G. Walton
Cree people
Inuit people
reindeer campaign
Daisy Spencer
fur trade

abstract: “Chapter 1: Historiography” provides the reader with an overview of the work of historians who have written about missionaries, and highlights in particular three main themes: the northern missionary experience, the role of Indigenous and Métis women in the fur trade, and the position of the Federal Government on mission projects and the future of Indigenous people in Canada. “Chapter Two: William G. Walton: An English Missionary in Canada’s North” explores Walton’s experiences as a missionary adjusting to the northern climate and his initial attempts to connect with the people. This chapter briefly introduces the reader to the Spencers, Walton’s in-laws, and their impact on him as an Anglican missionary. There is great detail about some of Walton’s notable achievements, including his work in creating the ‘Eskimo-English’ Dictionary. Also, this chapter displays the shift in the missionary approach in Canada during the early-twentieth century and how this affected the outcome of mission work. “Chapter Three: Daisy and William, a Team Effort” makes extensive use of the correspondence the couple maintained while apart from each other. Daisy was a Métis woman who grew up in the fur trade and spoke Cree. Her skills and life experience proved to be a valuable asset to Walton as he became better trained to work with the Cree and Inuit during his mission work. In letters from the CMS and articles from The Globe, Daisy is said to deserve equal credit to Walton for the work in Fort George and Great Whale River. Lastly, “Chapter Four: The Reindeer Project,” is dedicated to Walton’s last great triumph as a missionary: his recognition of the starving and dying Inuit in Great Whale River and further north. He believed their only salvation would be the domestication of reindeer to make the communities sustainable as they had previously been. This endeavour was the result of almost fifteen years of work with moments of victory as well as disappointment. Walton spread his message across not only Canada, but also across the ocean to his homeland in hopes to rally support and the attention for this grand plan to save hundreds of Indigenous people in Canada. By exploring these three aspects of Walton’s career: his mission work, his collaboration with Daisy, and his reindeer campaign; this essay maintains that he represented an earlier approach to missionary work that relied on mediation rather than assimilation, and was out of harmony with the agenda of the Department of Indian Affairs in the early-twentieth century.

abstract: Master of Arts (MA) in History


title: In SITU railway track fault detection using railcar vibration

subject:
railway
track fault detection
railcar vibration

abstract:
This thesis investigates the development of an automated fault detection system developed for a novel lightweight railway material haulage system; in particular, the study aims to detect railway track faults at the incipient stage to determine the feasibility of maintenance decision support, ultimately with the function of preventing catastrophic failure. The proposed approach is an extension of the current state of the art in fault detection of unsteady machinery.
The most common railway track faults associated with train derailment were considered; namely, horizontal and transverse crack propagation, mechanical looseness, and railbed washout were the faults of interest. A series of field experiments were conducted to build a database of vibration, speed, and localization data in healthy and faulted states. These data were used to develop, investigate, and validate the effectiveness of various approaches for fault detection.
A variety of feature sets and classification approaches were investigated to determine the best overall configuration for the fault detector. The feature sets were used to condense data segments and extract characteristics that were sensitive to damage, but insensitive to healthy variations due to unsteady operation. The pattern recognition classifiers were used to categorize new data members as belonging to the healthy class or faulted class.
The fault detection results from the proposed approach were promising. The feasibility of an automated online fault detection system for the lightweight material haulage system examined in this study was confirmed. The conclusions of this research outline the major potential for an
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effective fault detection system and address future work for the practical implementation of this system.

abstract: Masters of Applied Science (MASc) in Natural Resources Engineering


title: The protonic brain: engineering a simple brain emulator and investigating physical mechanisms in non-local communication

subject:
protonic brain
brain function
brain structure
non- local communication
non-local transfer of data
QEEG

abstract: The brain is not entirely as it has been described in the classic neuroscientific literature. Physical and chemical properties of brain function can be separated from classical brain structure, allowing for multiple realizations of memory processing and the expression of correlates of consciousness. Further, the brain can be described as energy or information separate from although related to the organic structure which is perhaps subject to technologies which facilitate non-local transfer of data. Chapter 1 introduces the subject and provides sufficient information to explore the major concepts outlined in later sections. Chapter 2 outlines an experimental demonstration of electrophysiological activity in an abiological material which strongly correlates with human quantitative electroencephalographic (QEEG) frequency spectra under specified geometrical and chemical constraints. In Chapter 3, results indicate that this same amorphous material can effectively store and release information when classically conditioned, indicating learning and network formation can be separated from cells proper. Chapter 4 presents a technology which can effectively link two simple chemical systems such that equal and opposite reactions are induced at locus A upon elicitation of a given event within locus B. Chapter 5 provides a systematic analysis of the electromagnetic field dynamics associated with the aforementioned technology, providing both experimental and theoretical grounding. Chapter 6 is a general discussion which links these concepts and provides a summary of the works as they relate to the protonic brain.

abstract: Master's Theses


title: Experiences of adolescents receiving mental health services: a study of the benefits, limitations and recommendations

subject:
Community mental health services
Teenagers mental health services
Children’s mental health services

abstract: This study focused on youths’ experience of receiving school-based mental health services and community-based mental health services. This qualitative study utilized a sample of eight girls and boys, ages 15-17 years old, who attended school within the district of Timmins. Data was collected using individual interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results of the study revealed benefits to services, limitations to services, and some recommendations for changes to services. This research helped to explain what the participants, who have had experiences with mental health services, thought about the services they have had; it also provided some recommendations the participants made for changes to the mental health services based on their experiences. The conclusion of this study involved a connection between this study and social work practice, and offered suggestions for future research in the field of children’s mental health services.

abstract: Master of Social Work Program


title: Concerning the politicization of climate science: epistemic dependency, trust in expert testimony, and determining What We Ought to Believe

subject:
anthropogenic climate change
scientific skepticism
ethics of belief
epistemic trust
epistemic dependence
moral authority
social epistemology
feminist theory

abstract:
Belief in climate change does not divide into a simple dichotomy of (good) believers and (evil)
nonbelievers. An unclear view of skepticism arises when the differences between empirical and
normative claims are revealed. Developing responsible beliefs on matters of which we possess
no expertise requires reliable expert testimony. However, trust and objectivity are integral factors
for belief in expert consensus. A reduction in public opinion regarding the reliability of climate
science, due to politicization, enables the dismissal anthropogenic climate change.
Understanding politicization from both Pielke and Douglas clarifies a negative role that politics
can play in the doing of science. The risks that politicization pose, mistrust for one, do not
undermine the necessary role of values in science. The role of values within scientific enquiry
must be restricted and acknowledged for trustworthy science to be produced, and for scientific
findings regarding climate change to be accepted by nonexperts, including policymakers.

abstract: Master of Arts (MA) in Interdisciplinary Humanities


identifier: Jeffrey W. Wood.  Defining Literacies: The Complex Literacies Use And Understandings Of Tree Children. Indiana: Indiana University, 2007

format: application/pdf application/pdf application/pdf application/pdf application/pdf application/pdf application/pdf application/pdf application/pdf

abstract:
This nine-year ethnographic study describes how three children, Emily,
Tristan, and Simon learned, used and understood literacies over time, across
sites and within specific discourses. In documenting the literacies of these
children, I have gained insight into the processes by which they became literate
as well as how each of these children scaffold their own learning by using
multiple literacies and sign systems. Emily, Tristan and Simon helped me to see
literacies as complex in their conception and use and that all sign systems (e.g.
art, dance, reading, writing, maths, sports, videogaming, etc.) operate using
common semiotic principles. Sign systems as literacies are multimodal,
meaning-focused and motivated; they involve specific social and cultural
practices which differ depending on site and community. During every literate act
the children in this study made extensive use of the semantic, sensory, syntactic
and pragmatic cuing systems to make meaning, regardless of the literacies used.
Emily, Tristan and Simon taught me that we need to see children as literate, as
symbol users, and meaning-makers from birth. In order to support literacies
learning we need to begin by recognizing and supporting the literacies learning
process that is already in place.


title: The effects of climate on the bioaccumulation of mercury in two large-bodied fish species in northern Ontario lakes

subject:
mercury
fish
walleye
white sucker
climate
sulfate
dissolved organic carbon

abstract: Increasing temperatures and changing precipitation patterns in subarctic Canada are expected to alter many processes in aquatic ecosystems, including mercury bioaccumulation in fish. I investigated patterns of fish mercury concentrations across the current climatic gradient in Ontario in order to assess how future climate change might impact the provisioning of safe fish. Walleye and white sucker were sampled from 70 lakes throughout northern Ontario spanning over 9.0° of latitude and representing a range of climatic conditions (annual growing degree days 604-1599). Muscle total mercury concentrations ([tHg]) were analyzed with respect to climatic variables as well as other chemical, physical, and biological variables. Second order Akaike Information Criterion (AICc) model ranking indicated that neither temperature nor precipitation were dominant drivers of mercury accumulation in walleye or white sucker. Instead, lake and watershed physical structure and δ13C best predicted white sucker [tHg], while water chemistry and fish condition best predicted walleye [tHg]. Specifically, walleye [tHg] showed a curvilinear pattern when related to [SO4] and [DOC]. The inhibitory effect of high lake [SO4] on mercury accumulation in fish has, to the best of my knowledge, only been theorised. Although fish mercury accumulation is not strongly driven by the current climatic conditions, a changing climate may indirectly affect mercury availability, methylmercury production, and the rate of methylmercury assimilation into fish tissue in ways that are not yet clear to us.

abstract: Master of Science (MSc) in Biology


title: Quelle université pour les francophones minoritaires? Le rôle des congrégations religieuses dans la fondation des universités Laurentienne et de Moncton

subject: Ontario français

subject: Congrégation des Jésuites

subject: Collège du Sacré-Cœur

subject: Université de Sudbury

subject: Université Laurentienne

subject: Émile Bouvier

subject: Charles Dubé

subject: francophonies canadiennes

subject: bilinguisme et unilinguisme institutionnel

subject: éducation universitaire / postsecondaire

subject: minorités linguistiques.

subject: Acadie du Nouveau-Brunswick

subject: Congrégation des Sainte-Croix

subject: Collège/Université SaintJoseph

subject: Université de Moncton

subject: Commission Deutsch

subject: Clément Cormier

subject: Jean Cadieux.

subject: années 1950

subject: années 1960

abstract:
Durant les années 1960, un débat national sur le bilinguisme institutionnel se tient à travers
le Canada. Parallèlement, les collèges classiques des communautés religieuses, qui assuraient
l’éducation supérieure des francophones, sont confrontés à la laïcisation des services publics dans
le contexte de la Révolution tranquille et de l’affirmation de l’État providence. Alors que le secteur
universitaire est en pleine croissance pour répondre à la nouvelle demande de la génération du
baby-boom, qu’advient-il des institutions cléricales qui assuraient l’éducation supérieure des
francophones en milieu minoritaire?
Ce projet de recherche porte sur l’éducation supérieure des francophones minoritaires dans
ce contexte, et plus spécifiquement sur la création de l’Université Laurentienne, à Sudbury, et de
l’Université de Moncton entre les années 1950 et 1965. L’éducation supérieure des francophones
de ces régions avait jusque lors été assurée par les congrégations religieuses des Jésuites et des
Sainte-Croix, respectivement, et ces congrégations ont joué des rôles actifs dans la création des
nouvelles universités. Nous argumentons que la conjoncture ainsi que la culture interne de ces
congrégations ont contribué au choix des statuts linguistiques de chacune de ces
universités canadiennes. Notre recherche ajoute à la connaissance historique de l’éducation
universitaire des régions de Moncton et de Sudbury.

abstract: Maitrise des arts (MA) en histoire


title: Establishing a mechanism for the effects of specific patterned electromagnetic fields at the molecular level using fragmented bacteria

subject:
Electromagnetic fields (EMF)
behavioral changes
Bacterial species
absorbance
fluorescence
biological matter
theory of abiogenesis

abstract: Electromagnetic fields (EMF) are a physical property resulting from the movement of charged particles, have elicited behavioral changes. Changes at the microscopic level have yet to be observed. In the present study, the objective was to determine if EMFs have an effect on biological matter and to determine the mechanism producing the change. Bacterial species were an ideal candidate for this type of research, as their rapid growth permitted extensive experimentation. Four separate species of bacteria (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Serratia marcescens) were lysed to destroy their cellular integrity, exposed to one of three EMF conditions (Sham, Thomas-EMF, LTP-EMF) for 60 minutes, and analyzed using spectroscopic techniques. The effects of the EMFs were ascertained by analyzing the absorbance and fluorescence of biological matter pre and post treatment. Results demonstrated that there was approximately a 10-15% increase in absorbance for solutions exposed to an EMF condition compared to sham. The results indicate that the EMF exposure had no significant impact on the fluorescence of the biological matter within the solution. Biological matter from the different bacterial species had a significant impact on their fluorescence. Implications for these results regarding the theory of abiogenesis shall be discussed.

abstract: Honours Essay


title: Lotka-Volterra predator-prey models analytic and numerical methods.

subject:
Lotka-Volterra model
Lambert W function
Geometric numerical integration
Poisson system
Non-standard finite differences
Integrable system.

abstract:
The Lotka-Volterra equations are a classical model of the populations of interacting
species. In the case of two interacting species, we present a closed parametric solution
to a particular case of the Lotka-Volterra model. We also determine closed expressions
for the branch points, bounds on the parameter, amplitude of the oscillation of the
prey and predator populations, and period of this model in terms of the Lambert W
function. In the case of three interacting species, under certain conditions solutions
are again periodic. However, standard numerical methods often fail to preserve this
periodicity, as well as other important properties of the model. The underlying geometry
of the three-species predator-prey model is developed through the framework of
Poisson dynamics. It is shown that the system is bi-Poisson and possesses two independent first integrals. Numerical methods for approximating solutions to the model
are constructed which incorporate the underlying Poisson geometry of the continuous
system. These methods preserve the periodicity of solutions, and the error in the first
integrals remains bounded. Simulations are used to show that these methods produce
more accurate results than standard numerical methods which do not consider the
Poisson structure of the equations.

abstract: Master of Science (MSc) in Computational Sciences