title: Three Studies on Counterintuitive Effects of Organizational Status

contributor:
Barling, Julian
Management

subject: Relationships Status

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Management) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-13 14:12:57.107

abstract:
This dissertation examines some counterintuitive effects associated with having high status. Whereas much literature focuses on benefits associated with holding high status, in this dissertation, I highlight some negative outcomes that can come from having status. Study 1 examines marital costs that can emerge when women hold high job status relative to their spouses. I propose a conditional process model such that when women experience job status leakage, a construct referring to contempt that women feel towards their husbands’ lower job status, this will positively predict marital instability, mediated through decreased relationship satisfaction. The model is tested in a cross-sectional field study on women in high job status positions, and the model is supported.
	The second study of this dissertation examines potential costs when in high status positions to CEOs longevity. I argue that despite the benefits accrued at the highest level of organizational status; CEOs will compare their status to other CEOs, which influences their longevity. Using a retrospective cohort analysis on award winners from Financial Word Magazine’s “CEO of the Year” contest, I test four competing models, which suggest that the ways CEOs interpret their status can predict longevity. The results of this study are largely unsupported, though post-hoc analyses and theorizing suggest that status maintenance comes at a cost to longevity for this group of CEOs.
	In the third study of this dissertation, I examine the relational costs associated with holding high status. Given the relational nature of status, for some individuals to have high status, there must be lower status referents. The emotions and behaviors of those lower status others are the focus of the third study. I propose that in the presence of status differences, lower status individuals will feel envious of others’ higher status positions, and I quantify how much status dispersion must be present in order for envy to be triggered. I also suggest that when individuals are envious of others’ status positions, they are more likely to ostracize high status targets and perceive themselves as ostracized in social interactions. The results suggest that there is a curvilinear relationship between status dispersion and envy, where only minimal status differences need be present in order for envy to emerge, and envy then predicts feeling ostracized in social situations.
	The dissertation closes with a general discussion of the studies, and suggests areas for future research.

abstract: PhD


title: Enzymatic Cleavage of Carbon-Phosphorus Bonds

contributor:
Zechel, L. David
Chemistry

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

subject:
Di-Iron Oxygenase
CP-lyase
Dioxygenase
Organophosphonic Acid

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-13 16:24:17.261

abstract:
Inorganic phosphate (Pi) plays a critical role in many biological structures and processes. However, Pi typically occurs at low concentrations, particularly in marine environments. In comparison, naturally occurring organophosphonates, which are characterized by a stable carbon-phosphorus (CP) bond, are frequently present at higher concentrations. Accordingly, bacteria have evolved different mechanisms for cleaving the CP bond of organophosphonates to liberate Pi for metabolic use. Two prominent enzyme pathways for catabolic cleavage of a CP bond are examined in this thesis.
The first, called CP-lyase, is encoded by the phn operon that consists of 14 genes (phnCDEFGHIJKLMNOP). CP-lyase has long been of interest for its ability to degrade a wide array of organophosphonates through a homolytic CP bond cleaving reaction. A soluble protein complex consisting of PhnGHIJK was isolated from E. coli, suggesting that protein-protein interactions are important for CP bond cleavage. Intermediates of organophosphonate catabolism by E. coli CP-lyase were also detected and isolated, including -D-ribosyl-1,2-cyclic phosphate and N-acetylated aminoalkylphosphonates, 2-N-acetamidoethylphosphonate and 5’-phospho--D-ribosyl-1’-alkylphosphonates. The former compound was shown to be converted by the phosphodiesterase PhnP to -D-ribosyl-1-phosphate. It was also shown that PhnO is an aminoalkylphosphonate N-acetyl transferase and that N-acetylation by this enzyme is necessary for CP bond cleavage of 1-aminoalklyphosphonates. These results demonstrated that in addition to forming protein complexes, CP-lyase also comprises a catabolic pathway, with ribosylation of organophosphonates playing a key part in setting up the CP bond cleaving reaction.
The second pathway examined in this thesis is comprised of marine bacterial enzymes PhnY and PhnZ and is specific for 2-aminoethylphosphonate. PhnY was shown to be an -ketoglutarate / Fe(II) dependent dioxygenase that hydroxylates the -carbon of 2-aminoethylphosphonate to form (R)-2-amino-1-hydroxyethylphosphonate. PhnZ was shown to be a novel Fe(II) dependent oxygenase that converts (R)-2-amino-1-hydroxyethylphosphonate to glycine and Pi. Site directed mutagenesis, kinetic analysis, reactions with substrate analogues, and X-ray crystallography examined the roles of active site residues and the di-iron active site. Additionally, a unique induced-fit mechanism was discovered which appears to synchronize substrate binding with activation of molecular oxygen. Overall these results show that PhnZ represents a new mechanism for catabolic cleavage of a CP bond.

abstract: We are in the process of submitting a paper. We do not want the thesis to be published prior to the paper being accepted.

abstract: PhD


title: Evaluating the Performance and Water Chemistry Dynamics of Passive Systems Treating Municipal Wastewater and Landfill Leachate

contributor:
Champagne, Pascale
Hall, Geoffrey
Civil Engineering

subject:
Algae
Lagoons
Wastewater
Time Series Analysis
Landfills
Leachate Treatment
Principal Components Analysis
Regressions

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-10-27 05:29:20.564

abstract: This thesis consists of work conducted in two separate studies, evaluating the performance of passive systems for treating wastewater effluents. The first study involved the characterization of three wastewater stabilization ponds (WSPs) providing secondary and tertiary treatment for municipal wastewater at a facility in Amherstview, Ontario, Canada. Since 2003, the WSPs have experienced excessive algae growth and high pH levels during the summer months. A full range of parameters consisting of: pH, chlorophyll-a (chl-a), dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, alkalinity, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), conductivity, nutrient species, and organic matter measures; were monitored for the system and the chemical dynamics in the three WSPs were assessed through multivariate statistical analysis. Supplementary continuous monitoring of pH, chl-a, and DO was performed to identify time-series dependencies. The analyses showed strong correlations between chl-a and sunlight, temperature, organic matter, and nutrients, and strong time dependent correlations between chl-a and DO and between chl-a and pH. Additionally, algae samples were collected and analyzed using metagenomics methods to determine the distribution and speciation of algae growth in the WSPs. A strong shift from the dominance of a major class of green algae, chlorophyceae, in the first WSP, to the dominance of land plants, embryophyta – including aquatic macrophytes – in the third WSP, was observed and corresponded to field observations during the study period. The second study involved the evaluation of the performance and chemical dynamics of a hybrid-passive system treating leachate from a municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill in North Bay, Ontario, Canada.  Over a three year period, monitoring of a full range of parameters consisting of: pH, DO, temperature, alkalinity, ORP, conductivity, sulfate, chloride, phenols, solids fractions, nutrient species, organic matter measures, and metals; was conducted bi-weekly and the dataset was analyzed with time series and multivariate statistical techniques. Regression analyses identified 8 parameters that were most frequently retained for modelling the five criteria parameters (alkalinity, ammonia, chemical oxygen demand, iron, and heavy metals), on a statistically significant level (p < 0.05): conductivity, DO, nitrite, organic nitrogen, ORP, pH, sulfate, and total volatile solids.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Objects of Affection: Producing and Consuming Toys and Childhood in Canada, 1840-1989

contributor:
Dubinsky, Karen
History

subject:
Children and Youth
Canadian History

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, History) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-15 01:20:03.345

abstract: This thesis examines the significance of toy production, distribution, marketing and consumption to Canadian understandings of childhood. Drawing on Patrick J. Ryan’s concept of the discursive landscape of modern childhood and Daniel Thomas Cook’s commercial persona of the child consumer, it explores the effect of toy controversies on a number of social, political and economic issues between the arrival of manufactured toys in Canada in the mid-nineteenth century and the rise of postindustrial capitalism. The toy industry, the social sciences, consumer activists and the Canadian state all played a pivotal role in raising the social significance attached to toy consumption. In the end, debates about toys highlighted popular manifestations of complex political and social issues by placing children and their material culture at the symbolic centre of “adult” conflicts.

abstract: PhD


title: Toward a Virtue-Centred Ethics of Reproduction

contributor:
Overall, Christine
Philosophy

subject:
reproduction
antinatalism
virtue ethics
procreative beneficence
ethical naturalism

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-17 10:44:50.827

abstract:
When it comes to potential children, is to love them to leave them be (nonexistent)? I examine the possibility of virtuous reproduction, as well as some more basic theoretical issues surrounding the nature of moral goodness and obligation generally. Currently, there is a large body of literature in the field of reproductive ethics on questions of what considerations and practices ought to guide reproductive decision-making. The appropriate use of testing technologies to inform such decision-making, for instance, has been widely debated. Much smaller and less visible is the debate surrounding the prior question of whether reproduction itself is morally appropriate or desirable. I am particularly interested in how consequentialist strategies for including considerations of beneficence in reproductive decision-making have shaped moral approaches to reproduction. The principle of procreative beneficence (PPB), which mandates potential reproducers to select the best possible child, highlights the problematic nature of these strategies. The limited conceptual resources and problematic normative foundations of such strategies have stymied the development of a robust discussion on the ethics of reproduction itself. Other types of ethical approaches, loosely defined as deontological, offer superior accounts of what is at issue in reproduction, but also draw on some flawed background assumptions regarding, for instance, the nature of the moral agent and the scope of the moral sphere. The question of the morality of reproduction itself thus leads to an examination of far more basic issues in ethical theory: namely, the significance of meta-ethical commitments, and the desirability of a normative framework that offers a rich and agent-focused account of moral goodness and badness. I argue that a virtue-centred ethics, grounded in neo-Aristotelian naturalism,
accomplishes just that. And it is well-equipped to provide a meaningful and helpful analysis of the morality of reproduction, both holistically, in terms of the potential virtuousness of reproduction generally, and in terms of how the virtues of courage and benevolence may be expressed in reproduction. I conclude that a virtue-centred assessment of reproduction offers a sound and practical form of evaluation and that a virtuous character may indeed be expressed through reproduction.

abstract: PhD


title: An fMRI comparison between younger and older adults of neural activity associated with recognition of familiar melodies

contributor:
Cuddy, Lola L.
Johnsrude, Ingrid S.
Neuroscience Studies

subject: musical semantic memory

subject: sparse sampling

subject: fMRI

subject: musical memory

subject: melody processing

subject: superior temporal gyrus

subject: neural basis of musical memory

subject: inferior frontal gyrus

subject: effects of aging on musical semantic memory

subject: musical lexicon

subject: aging

subject: familiarity

subject: familiar melodies

subject: semantic memory

subject: recognition

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-16 12:38:10.757

abstract: We investigated age-related differences in neural activation associated with recognition of familiar melodies, a process that requires retrieval from musical semantic memory and leads to a feeling of familiarity.  We used sparse sampling fMRI to determine the neural correlates of melody processing and familiarity by comparing activation when listening to melodies versus signal-correlated noise, and to familiar versus unfamiliar melodies, respectively.  Overall, activity in the bilateral superior temporal gyrus correlated well with melody processing.  Familiarity was associated with several frontal regions (bilateral inferior frontal gyrus, superior frontal gyrus, and precentral gyrus; left insular cortex), right superior temporal gyrus; left supramarginal gyrus and cingulate gyrus; bilateral putamen and thalamus; cerebellum and brainstem.  No significant differences were found between younger and older adults for either melody processing or familiarity based activation.  Assessment of familiarity-related group differences using less stringent criteria identified plausible areas; greater activation was seen bilaterally in the superior temporal gyrus in younger adults and in some left parietal regions in older adults.  This study adds to the knowledge of musical semantic memory with results based on a large sample (N = 40) that includes older adults.  Our findings for activation associated with melody processing and familiarity support some, but not all, previous results of related studies.  We were unable to find conclusive evidence of age-related differences in neural correlates of musical semantic memory, while also being the first study (to the best of our knowledge) to search for these differences.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Urban Agriculture and Various Food Sourcing Strategies: How Can They Mitigate Food Insecurity Amongst the Urban Poor in Cape Town, South Africa?

contributor:
van Loon, Gary
Environmental Studies

subject:
Urban Agriculture
South Africa
Cape Town
Food Security

abstract: Thesis (Master, Environmental Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-17 14:02:39.23

abstract:
South Africa is considered food secure yet, depending on the source used, it is estimated that food insecurity exists in 20-52% of households. Many factors, such as differing livelihood strategies, play significant roles in determining food security and this project attempted to explore these issues, using Cape Town as a case study. In particular, we compared two types of urban agricultural interventions:home and community gardening as facilitated by two urban agriculture NGO’s (Soil for Life and Abalimi, respectively).
Semi-structured interviews were conducted amongst 91 participants living below the poverty line in two ‘townships’ in Cape Town: Langa and Khayelitsha. Twenty-five home-gardeners in Langa and 21 community-gardeners in Khayelitsha were interviewed and compared with equal numbers of non-gardeners in both areas. Data analysis showed that participants who cited community gardening as a food source were most food secure (Household Food Insecurity Access Scale [HFIAS] = 13.04), followed by Langa’s home gardeners (HFIAS = 18.88), Langa’s non-gardeners (HFIAS = 21.84) and finally non-gardeners in Khayelitsha (HFIAS = 22.25). Food Security for non-gardeners in Langa and Khayelitsha was correlated with income (r=0.78; 0.48, respectively), as compared to both gardening groups. The gardeners in Langa and Khayelitsha also showed more diversified diets and lower Months of Inadequate Household Food Provisioning Scores (MIHFP), indicating fewer months of inadequate food provisioning.
These data suggest that food security may be positively affected by gardening practices as well as by increased diversity in food sourcing. Community gardening appeared to be more effective than home gardening, perhaps due to greater accessibility to inputs such as land space, manure and water, as facilitated directly by the associated NGO.

abstract: M.E.S.


title: Structural and Thermal Behaviour of Insulated FRP-Strengthened Reinforced Concrete Beams and Slabs in Fire

contributor:
Green, Mark F.
Civil Engineering

subject:
Numerical Simuation
Fire Safety
Finite Volume
Finite Element
Reinforced Concrete
Beam
Slab
Bond
PIV
High Temperature
FRP
Fibre Optic Sensor

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-17 15:11:16.185

abstract:
Despite the superior properties of Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) materials, the use of FRPs in buildings is limited. A key cause of concern for their use in buildings arises from their poor performance in fire occurrences. This thesis presents the results of fire performance of Reinforced Concrete (RC) beams and slabs strengthened with externally bonded FRP sheets. The performance and effectiveness of insulation materials and techniques are also investigated in this thesis. Two full-scale reinforced concrete T-beams and two intermediate-scale slabs were strengthened in flexure with carbon and glass fibre reinforced polymer sheets and insulated with a layer of spray-on material. The T-beams and slabs were then exposed to a standard fire. Fire test results show that fire endurances of more than 4 h can be achieved using an appropriate insulation system. Tests were performed in order to understand the behaviour of FRP concrete bond at high temperatures.  An empirical model was then formulated to describe the bond strength deterioration due to temperature rise.  Innovative measurement techniques were employed throughout the experiments to measure important observables like strain and temperature. Meanwhile, the effectiveness and practicality of techniques such as Fibre Optic Sensing (FOS) and Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) for high temperature applications were investigated.
A numerical finite-volume heat transfer model was developed to simulate the heat transfer phenomenon. The validity of the numerical model was verified by comparing the results with the results from the fire tests. By using this model, parametric analyses were performed to investigate the effect of different fire scenarios on the performance of the insulated beams.  To simulate the structural performance of the T-beams a numerical model which was capable of predicting stresses and strains and deflections of a heated beam was developed. The model is capable of incorporating the effects of axial forces in the response of a restrained beam. This model was verified and used in combination with the thermal model to simulate the deflections of T-beams in fire.

abstract: PhD


title: Homoclinic Points in the Composition of Two Reflections

contributor:
Offin, Daniel
Mathematics and Statistics

subject:
Area Preserving Maps
Homoclinic Points
Mathematics
Dynamical Systems

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mathematics & Statistics) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-17 14:22:35.72

abstract: We examine a class of planar area preserving mappings and give a geometric condition that guarantees the existence of homoclinic points.  To be more precise, let $f,g:R \to R$ be $C^1$ functions with domain all of $R$.  Let $F:R^2 \to R^2$ denote a horizontal reflection in the curve $x=-f(y)$, and let $G:R^2 \to R^2$ denote a vertical reflection in the curve $y=g(x)$.  We consider maps of the form $T=G \circ F$ and show that a simple geometric condition on the fixed point sets of $F$ and $G$ leads to the existence of a homoclinic point for $T$.

abstract: PhD


title: Fatigue Behavior of Concrete Bridge Decks Cast on GFRP Stay-in-Place Structural Forms and Static Performance of GFRP-Reinforced Deck Overhangs

contributor:
Fam, Amir Z.
Civil Engineering

subject:
FRP
GFRP
Stay-In-Place Formwork
Fatigue
Cyclic Loading
Bridge Deck
Overhangs

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-17 18:54:18.131

abstract:
The first part of the thesis addresses the fatigue performance of concrete bridge decks with GFRP stay-in-place structural forms replacing the bottom layer of rebar. The forms were either flat plate with T-up ribs joined using lap splices, or corrugated forms joined through pin-and-eye connections. The decks were supported by simulated Type III precast AASHTO girders spaced at 1775mm (6ft.). Two surface preparations were examined for each GFRP form, either using adhesive coating that bonds to freshly cast concrete, or simply cleaning the surface before casting. For the bonded deck with flat-ribbed forms, adhesive bond and mechanical fasteners were used at the lap splice, whereas the lap splice of the unbonded deck had no adhesive or fasteners. All the decks survived 3M cycles at 123kN service load of CL625 CHBDC design truck. The bonded flat-ribbed-form deck survived an additional 2M cycles at a higher load simulating a larger girder spacing of 8ft. Stiffness degradations were 9-33% with more reduction in the unbonded specimens. Nonetheless, live load deflections of all specimens remained below span/1600. The residual ultimate strengths after fatigue were reduced by 5% and 27% for the flat-ribbed and corrugated forms, respectively, but remained 7 and 3 times higher than service load.
The second part of the thesis investigates the performance of bridge deck overhangs reinforced by GFRP rebar. Overhangs of full composite slab-on-girder bridge decks at 1:2.75 scale were tested monotonically under an AASHTO tire pad. Five tests were conducted on overhangs of two lengths: 260mm and 516mm, representing scaled overhangs of 6ft. and 8ft. girder spacing, respectively. The 260mm overhang was completely reinforced with GFRP rebar while the 516mm overhang consisted of a GFRP-reinforced section and a steel-reinforced section. The peak loads were approximately 2 to 3 times the established equivalent service load of 24.3kN, even though the overhangs were not designed for flexure according to the CHBDC but rather with lighter minimum reinforcement in anticipation of shear failure. The failure mode
of each overhang section was punching shear. The steel-reinforced overhang section exhibited a greater peak load capacity (13.5%) and greater deformability (35%) when compared to the GFRP-reinforced overhang section.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Application of reliability methods to the design of underground structures

contributor: Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering

subject:
Reliability-based design methods
Underground support design
Geomechanics
Geotechnical engineering

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Geological Sciences & Geological Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-18 10:35:26.265

abstract:
Uncertainty in rockmass and in situ stress parameters poses a critical design challenge in geotechnical engineering. This uncertainty stems from natural variability (aleatory) due to the complex history of formation and continual reworking of geological materials as well as knowledge-based uncertainty (epistemic) due to a lack of site specific information and the introduction of errors during the testing and design phases. While such uncertainty can be dealt with subjectively through the use of conservative design parameters, this leads to a lack of understanding of the variable ground response and the selection of an over-conservative design that can have a negative impact on both the project cost and schedule.
Reliability methods offer an alternative approach that focuses on quantifying the uncertainty in ground conditions and utilizing it directly in the design process. By doing so, a probability of failure can be calculated with respect to a prescribed limit state, providing a measure of design performance. When multiple design options are considered, reliability methods can be paired with a quantitative risk analysis to determine the optimum design on the basis of safety and minimum cost rather than subjective conservatism.
Despite the inherent benefits of such an approach, the adoption of reliability methods has been slow in geotechnical engineering due to a number of technical and conceptual challenges. The research conducted pertaining to this thesis aims to address these issues and remove the perceived “cloak of mystery” that surrounds the use of reliability methods. The scientific and engineering research in this thesis was divided into four sections: (1) the assessment of uncertainty in geotechnical input parameters, (2) a review of reliability methods in the context of geotechnical problems, (3) the development of a reliability-based, quantitative risk approach for underground support design and (4) the application of such a method to existing case studies. The completion of these areas is critical to the design of underground structures and may bring about a shift in design philosophy in the geotechnical industry.

abstract: PhD


title: Interpersonal Interactions and Athlete Development in Different Youth Sport Contexts

contributor:
Côté, Jean
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
Youth Sport
Positive Youth Development
Sport Psychology

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-27 14:27:49.668

abstract:
According to the 2008 Statistics Canada report on the extracurricular activities of Canadian children and youth, approximate 76% of Canadians under the age of 17 participate in sport. As such, sport represents a significant developmental experience in many young peoples’ lives. Whether this experience is positive or negative depends on a number of factors related to the specific context in which sport participation occurs. In particular, interpersonal interactions are known to be a significant influence on athlete development and may vary greatly across sport contexts. In youth sport, there are two primary contexts of participation: coach-driven organized sport and youth-driven informal sport play. The purpose of the present program of research was to examine the predominant interpersonal interactions occurring in organized sport and informal sport play contexts and their relationship to athlete development.
Study 1 was methodological and presents the development and validation of an observational coding system designed to capture the motivational tone of youth sport coaches’ interactions with their athletes. Motivational tone represents a theoretically relevant but previously unexplored dimension of coaches’ interactive behaviour.
Study 2 used the newly developed coding system from study 1 to examine the motivational tone of coach-athlete interactions in competitive youth volleyball, an organized sport context. Using a person-centred analysis approach, these coach-athlete interaction were then linked to athletes’ longitudinal development trajectories over the course of the competitive season. Results revealed significant differences in the coach-athlete interaction profiles of athletes on a negative developmental trajectory compared to athletes on a positive developmental trajectory.
Study 3 was an exploratory observational examination of peer interactive behaviour in an informal sport play context. These interactive behaviours were examined with respect to athletes’ developmental outcomes. Results pointed to the social nature of participation in informal sport play contexts and the critical relationship between athlete competence and peer interaction tendencies.
Overall, the results of the three studies comprising this program of research offered new information to further our understanding of interpersonal interactions and athlete development in different youth sport contexts but also identified several avenues requiring further research.

abstract: PhD


title: From Governors to Grocers: How Profiteering Changed English-Canadian Perspectives of Liberalism in the Great War of 1914-1918

contributor:
McKay, Ian G.
History

subject:
Food Controller
World War One
Military Contracts
Scandals
1914-1918
Inflation
Profit
Liberalism
Patronage
Corruption
Profiteers
Profiteer
Conscription
Big Interests
Income Tax
Great War
Income War Tax
Business Profits War Tax
Liberal Order
Taxation
Conscription of Wealth
Combines
Graft
Jobbery
First World War
English Canada
Patriotism
Working Class
Equality
Equality of Sacrifice
Regulation
Shell Committee
Imperial Munitions Board
Profiteering
Liberal
Trusts
Great War Veterans Association
laissez-faire
Democracy
Board of Commerce
Canada
Food Board

abstract: Thesis (Master, History) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-19 19:02:13.077

abstract: The war against Germany was perceived by the majority of English Canadians as a necessity to defend the British Empire, democracy and justice. However, it became increasingly evident to the public that some individuals were being permitted to prosper, while others — particularly those of the working class — endured immense hardship. These individuals who prospered at a level judged excessive became known as "profiteers." Initial criticisms of profiteering were connected to graft, jobbery and patronage apparent in government military purchases. However, as public sacrifices intensified, the morally acceptable extent to which individuals and businesses could profit came to be more narrowly defined. Criticisms of profiteering expanded to challenge the mainstream liberal notions of private wealth and laissez-faire policies as being inequitable and undemocratic. The federal government's unwillingness to seriously implement measures against profiteering led to rising discontent. Consequently, working-class English Canadians aspired to form a 'new democracy' that was worth the sacrifices of the war.

abstract: M.A.


title: Chemical Detection and Sensing Using Optical Interferometry

contributor:
Yam, Scott
Loock, Hans-Peter
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
Optical Refractometer
Optical Interferometry
Thin Film Characterization
Volatile Organic Compound Sensors
Refractive Index

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-19 22:21:38.836

abstract:
Chemical detection, including analysis of gases and liquids, is a large field in environmental research and industry. It requires sensitive, rapid, and inexpensive chemical sensors. Many industrial materials such as coatings and adhesives readily absorb chemical analytes, which may result in changes of their chemical, mechanical, and optical properties. This uptake of volatile organic compounds either from the gas phase or from an aqueous solution into a thin film is frequently accompanied by a change in material refractive index and film thickness. While the undesired swelling of thin film coatings and their refractive index changes affect their use in harsh environments, the sensitivity of some polymers to solvent vapours can also be exploited for sensing applications.
In this project, a method is reported for real-time monitoring of vapour uptake by simultaneous detection of the refractive index, n, and thickness, d, of thin transparent films with a precision of 10-4 for refractive index and 100 nm for thickness. The setup combines a total internal reflection refractometer with an interferometric imaging method. Two setups using 1550 nm and 635 nm measurement wavelengths were developed, with a detection rate of 1 second per measurement.
Two processing methods using a fast Fourier transform algorithm to calculate n and d are applied to the experimental results and compared. Both methods could extract n and d simultaneously from each image captured by the refractometer. The results show that the setup is capable of monitoring film RI and thickness change in real-time.
The partitioning of volatile organic compound vapours into polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and PDMS-polydiphenylsiloxane (PDPS) copolymers is described. The system is also suited for characterization of other solid and liquid films like SU-8 photoresist and crude oil. It shows great potential in commercial applications of thin film characterization.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: An Actor-Network Theory Examination Of Cheese And Whey Production In Ontario

contributor:
Hird, Myra J.
Sociology

subject:
ANT
Food Studies
Sociology
Actor-Network Theory

abstract: Thesis (Master, Sociology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-20 09:12:33.559

abstract: In this thesis, I explore the phenomena of cheese production in Ontario, Canada. I initiated this project after learning that some cheese producers in Ontario that were struggling to stay in business, in part because of whey management issues, especially as they relate to the Ontario Nutrient Management Act O. Reg 267/03 (OMAFRA 2002). In this thesis, I utilize the Actor-Network Theory (Latour 2005) approach to examine how certain elements of cheese production in Ontario are organized, with an emphasis on whey management and utilization. Of interest are tensions that threaten to destabilize these relations, such as controversies over how whey should be handled, how identities such as “artisan” or “industrial” cheese producers are constructed and maintained, and how smaller producers sustain themselves in a market in which they compete with large- scale industrial cheese production were examined. Interviews took place with seven participants involved in government, agriculture, and cheese production. Participant/observation data were collected in six field sites (cheese factories, farms). I found that humans and nonhumans perform significant work in holding cheese production and whey management together, even in situations commonly understood as under human mastery or control. In particular, I found that the manner by which relations between entities both human and nonhuman are governed, through law or through informal expectations (e.g., "protocol"; Galloway and Thacker 2007), is responsive to, and emergent from, these relations.

abstract: M.A.


title: Novel Iron(II) Triazole-Pyridine Based Dinuclear Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization And Magnetic Properties

contributor:
Petitjean, Anne
Chemistry

subject:
Coordination chemistry
Spin Crossover

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-20 10:34:02.756

abstract: The major focus of this thesis involves a new approach to spin-crossover (SCO) in iron(II) dinuclear complexes. In order to acquire SCO properties, a series of novel ligands (L1M, L2M, L3M, L4M), together with the corresponding iron(II) and/or nickel(II) complexes were synthesized and characterized. Beyond the successful synthesis and characterization of these ligands, some interesting aspects of their synthesis are discussed. The reported ligands are methyl-derivatives from ligands previously studied in the group. The methyl group in the position 6 of the pyridine group is introduced to induce steric hindrance in the complexes and decrease the ligand field strength. As a result, the influence of the methyl group may induce SCO in low spin (LS) complexes, or tune the SCO properties (such as transition hysteresis or transition temperature) in complexes with SCO. Ligands were divided into three different types according to their spacers: a ligand with an aromatic spacer (L1M), ligands with aliphatic spacer (L2M, L3M) and a ligand with no spacer (L4M). The difference between their structures helped us to better understand the coordination chemistry of the corresponding complexes. The nickel(II) complexes formed provided useful background information on the coordination chemistry of iron(II), such as the crystal field stabilization energy (10Dq) value. An approximation of 10Dq value of iron(II) was calculated based on the 10Dq value of analogous nickel(II) complexes using an empirical rule, to provide a prediction of SCO property.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Living Learning Space: Recognizing Public Pedagogy in a Small Town AIDS Service Organization

contributor:
Adams, Mary Louise
Cultural Studies

subject:
Community Education
HIV/AIDS Activism

abstract: Thesis (Master, Cultural Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-20 14:39:55.828

abstract: In the early days of HIV/AIDS in North America, those most directly affected by the crisis created a social movement to respond to the virus when no one else would. The legacy of activists’ efforts can be seen in the more than seventy-five AIDS service organizations (ASOs) that provide prevention, support, and education to communities across Ontario today. While these organizations were once an important site of advocacy and resistance for people living with HIV/AIDS (PHAs), ASOs are now often viewed as professionalized, bureaucratic and impersonal spaces. Linking theoretical understandings of public pedagogy and the pedagogical potential of space with HIV/AIDS scholarship, I offer a conception of ASOs as more than simply impersonal service providers, but vibrant spaces of community learning.  Drawing on interviews with people who work, volunteer, and use services at a small ASO in Kingston, Ontario called HIV/AIDS Regional Services  (HARS), I identify three pedagogical assets within the agency’s space that tend to go unrecognized as such. The agency’s drop-in space, artworks created by PHAs that decorate the walls of the office, and HARS’ storefront design are not usually counted as elements of the kind of formal “HIV/AIDS education” that ASOs provide. However, by exploring the learning experiences that are incited by these assets, I argue that we may broaden our understandings of what counts as HIV/AIDS education and of the value of ASOs in their communities. These unacknowledged assets not only enhance peoples’ understanding of issues related to HIV/AIDS, they also work to develop a sense of community and belonging for visitors to the space.  In conclusion, I reiterate that while today’s ASOs are surely different than the organizations that activists created in the 1980s, the learning experiences that arise in agencies like HARS demonstrate that community-building and mutual support can remain as integral aspects of ASOs.

abstract: M.A.


title: Opportunities and Limitations of (Social) Entrepreneurial Approaches: a Case Study of the Recycling Sector in Cape Town, South Africa

contributor:
Goebel, Allison
Environmental Studies

subject:
South Africa
Cape Town
Recycling
Environmental Studies
Social Entrepreneurship

abstract: Thesis (Master, Environmental Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-20 21:17:33.868

abstract: Social entrepreneurship, which can be described as the application of market-based approaches to societal and/or environmental problems, represents a collision between good intentions and the pursuit of profitability. Nearly two decades ago, the democratically elected African National Congress inherited a country in crisis. Neoliberal policies have since promoted the role of the private sector in economic and social development in South Africa. Entrepreneurship is seen as a tool to stimulate poverty alleviation, address staggering unemployment rates and integrate blacks into the mainstream economy. Municipalities are increasingly turning to alternative service delivery, privatization and public-private partnerships to address service delivery crises. Moving beyond traditional methodological approaches of individual case studies, this research adopts a holistic analysis of the recycling sector, which allows reflections on the state and implications of (social) entrepreneurial approaches. Particularly, this research is concerned with the opportunities and limitations afforded by entrepreneurial approaches, including the extent to which contextual variables are acknowledged and unequal power dynamics are challenged or further entrenched. Grounded in entrepreneurship and business theory, this research also pulls from waste management literature, global development, critical and gender studies. Various methodological inquires are undertaken, including structured and semi-structured interviews of participants of recycling initiatives and management of sector organizations, content analysis, and the facilitation of a Recycling Forum. Findings suggest that while there are some opportunities, (social) entrepreneurial approaches are significantly hindered by a lack of acknowledgement of contextual variables and critical investigation into the institutional structures and biases that create particular gendered entrepreneurial spaces. Initiatives risk entrenching apartheid-era inequalities and further disadvantaging the most vulnerable through the creation of competition. The emphasis on recycling deflects efforts from more immediate or hazardous challenges and is insufficient to challenge market inequalities. Moving beyond a guise of good intentions, social entrepreneurship is suggested as a reflective and iterative process that promotes greater self-awareness of one’s impact on the existing value chain, power dynamics and social justice.

abstract: M.E.S.


title: Visual-Vestibular Interaction For Maintaining Stability While Standing Up From A Sitting Position: Effects Of Aging

contributor:
Deshpande, Nandini
Rehabilitation Science

subject:
Aging
Visual System
Vestibular System
Sit-to-stand

abstract: Thesis (Master, Rehabilitation Science) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-20 23:22:16.695

abstract:
Background: Sit-to-stand is a challenging task as it requires the transition from a large 3-point base of support to a small 2-point base of support while simultaneously controlling anteroposterior and vertical body acceleration. Age-related morphological changes in both the visual and vestibular system could impair the ability to extract and interpret sensory information necessary for motor control in older adults, which can increase instability and the risk of falls. The purpose of this study is to understand the effects of aging on visual-vestibular interaction for maintaining stability during sit-to-stand.
Methods: Fifteen younger (age=22.5±1.1) and fifteen older (age=73.9±5.3) healthy adults were asked to stand from a sitting position as quickly as possible. Vestibular input was manipulated using percutaneous bipolar galvanic vestibular stimulation where threshold intensity was individually calculated for each participant during quiet stance with eyes closed. Galvanic vestibular stimulation was applied at both threshold (1xGVS) and 2-times the participant’s threshold intensity (2xGVS). Visual conditions included eyes opened, wearing custom-made vision blurring goggles, or eyes closed. Outcome measures included a global measure of performance (transition phase duration), mediolateral stability (peak-to-peak trunk roll angle, mediolateral center of mass displacement, mediolateral center of pressure displacement) and anteroposterior stability (peak braking force, peak-to-peak trunk pitch angle, and peak anteroposterior center of mass velocity).
Results: When vision was suboptimal (blurring goggles), older adults had significantly longer transition phase duration than younger adults (p<0.05). Older adults demonstrated greater mediolateral instability than younger adults. When vision was absent, trunk roll angle was significantly greater with 1xGVS than 2xGVS (p<0.05). Mediolateral center of mass displacement was greater when vision was absent than when vision was available, irrespective of age (p<0.05). No effects of age, vision or galvanic vestibular stimulation were seen in peak braking force, trunk pitch angle, and peak anteroposterior center of mass velocity (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Regardless of age, visual inputs were more critical to maintain stability during sit-to-stand than vestibular inputs. Differences between younger adults and older adults were only seen in the mediolateral direction. Despite having greater mediolateral instability, older adults utilized similar strategies as younger adults to overcome sensory perturbations during sit-to-stand.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Tate Conjectures for Product and Quotient Varieties

contributor:
Kani, Ernst
Mathematics and Statistics

subject:
Quotient Varieties
Tate's Conjectures

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mathematics & Statistics) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-21 09:43:47.789

abstract:
This thesis extends Tate’s conjectures from the smooth case to quotient varieties. It
shows that two of those conjectures hold for quotient varieties if they hold for smooth
projective varieties. We also consider arbitrary product of modular curves and show
that the three conjectures of Tate (in codimension 1) hold for this product. Finally we
look at quotients of the surface V = X1(N)×X1(N) and prove that Tate’s conjectures
are satisfied for those quotients.

abstract: PhD


title: Human Rights and Self-Government in the Age of Cosmopolitan Interventionism

contributor:
Kymlicka, Will
Philosophy

subject:
Michael Walzer
Cosmopolitanism
Self-Government
Humanitarian Intervention
Human Rights
Genocide

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-25 12:11:55.056

abstract:
This dissertation explores a family of theoretical models of humanitarian military intervention. A number of recent theorists, including Tesón, Caney, Buchanan, Orend, Moellendorf, and Wheeler, build their models from a perspective called ‘cosmopolitanism.’ They offer arguments based on the moral supremacy of human rights, the arbitrary character of territorial boundaries, and the duty to protect individual human beings exposed to serious and systematic violence by their own governments. I develop a model of intervention that recognizes the moral significance of political self-government. To the extent that international society should countenance a ‘duty to protect’ human rights, the duty ought to be constrained by a commitment to the values of self-government. The model developed in this dissertation also recognizes the significance of international law enforcement. Insofar as we should permit a role of enforcement for international human rights, that role should be constrained by formally accepted global principles and in particular by positive obligations to prevent and punish actions regarded as international crimes.
These other global values are viewed with suspicion by cosmopolitan theorists, who tend to construe them in stark contrast to the vision of global responsibility for human rights protection. But I will show how these other values emerged simultaneously with cosmopolitanism and share many of its underlying intuitions. Because self-government and law enforcement are linked politically to the cosmopolitan vision, these two distinctive global values can be utilized as tools to fortify or expand cosmopolitanism by enlarging the global sense of responsibility for human rights. The aim of this project is to explain how these other values came to be neglected by cosmopolitan theorists, and why they should not be forgotten.

abstract: PhD


title: South Asians as Medical Scapegoats in British Columbia and the Pacific Coast States, 1900-1924

contributor:
Brison, Jeffrey
Walker, Barrington
History

subject:
hookworm
public health
south asian
immigration

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, History) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-25 20:19:03.29

abstract: This transnational study of the first-wave South Asian immigrant experience in British Columbia and the Pacific coast states shows how elected officials at all levels of government, bureaucrats, union leaders, physicians, members of the press, and the general public utilized purported public health concerns to justify South Asian exclusion and disenfranchisement.   While all Asian groups living along the Pacific coast faced opposition to their immigration and settlement, India’s subordinate status within the British Empire, and a sustained western association of South Asians with disease, uniquely positioned North American discourse on South Asians at the intersection of colonial theory, Orientalism, and medicalized nativism in the first two decades of the twentieth century.

abstract: The thesis will be restricted because I want to publish it with an academic publisher.

abstract: PhD


title: Strengthening Damaged Reinforced Concrete Beams and Slender Columns Using Ultra-High Modulus CFRP Plates

subject:
debonding
Externally bonded CFRP
delamination
slenderness
modulus
buckling
loading history

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-24 12:36:48.352

abstract: This thesis investigates the application of ultra-high modulus carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) plates to strengthen damaged reinforced concrete beams and slender columns.  In the first phase, two different pre-repair loading histories were simulated in seven 3000x300x150 mm reinforced concrete beams, namely cracking within the elastic range, and overloading in the plastic range. After unloading, the beams were repaired with either high- or ultra-high modulus (210 or 400 GPa) CFRP plates, or a hybrid system, and then reloaded to failure. It was shown that the level of pre-existing damage has an insignificant effect on the strengthening effectiveness and the failure mode at ultimate. The 210 and 400 GPa CFRP of reinforcement ratio ρf = 0.17% increased the ultimate strength by up to 29 and 51%, respectively, despite the 40% lower tensile strength of the 400 GPa CFRP, due to the change in failure mode from debonding to rupture.  Doubling ρf of the 400 GPa CFRP to 0.34% resulted in a 63% overall gain in flexural strength, only 8% increase in ultimate strength over ρf = 0.17%, due to change in failure mode from rupture to concrete cover delamination. The beam retrofitted by hybrid CFRP showed remarkable pseudo ductility and warning signs before failure.  However, a parametric study revealed a critical balance in proportioning the areas of hybrid CFRP to achieve reliable pseudo ductility. In the beam with ρf =0.34%, this was achieved using a maximum of 30% ρf of the 400 GPa CFRP. The second phase of this thesis presents an analytical model developed by modifying the provisions of the ACI 318-08 code and employing the computer software Response 2000, to predict the performance of CFRP strengthened slender reinforced concrete columns.  Response 2000 is used to establish the interaction curve while the modified ACI 318-08 code is used to acquire the slender column loading path to failure including the second order effects.  The model predicts that the effectiveness of the FRP strengthening system increases as the slenderness ratio and FRP reinforcement ratio increase.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: The Association between Nutritional Adequacy and Long-term Outcomes in Critically Ill Patients Requiring Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation

contributor:
Ouellette-Kuntz, Hélène
Day, Andrew
Heyland, Daren
Community Health and Epidemiology

subject:
Caloric Intake
Follow-Up
Nutrition Therapy
Critical Care

abstract: Thesis (Master, Community Health & Epidemiology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-28 21:31:40.064

abstract:
Background: While the provision of adequate nutrition support in critically ill patients has been shown to have an impact on short-term clinical outcomes, relatively little is known about subsequent long-term outcomes. We aimed to examine the association between nutritional adequacy and long-term outcomes including survival and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in critically ill patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation.
Methods: The study was conducted as a retrospective cohort study on data collected prospectively in the context of a multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT) in critically ill patients. Randomized patients who stayed in the intensive care unit (ICU) and were mechanically ventilated for >8 days were eligible for the study, but only six-month survivors were considered for the assessment of HRQoL. Nutritional adequacy was obtained from the average proportion of prescribed calories received during the first eight days of mechanical ventilation in the ICU. Survival status and HRQoL as assessed using Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) were obtained prospectively as part of the RCT protocol at three-months and six-months post ICU admission.
Results: Of the 1223 patients enrolled in the randomized controlled trial, 475 met the inclusion criteria for this study. At six-month follow-up, 302 of the 475 patients were alive. Among critically ill patients with >8 days of mechanical ventilation in the ICU, survival time in those who received low nutritional adequacy was significantly shorter than for those who received high nutritional adequacy after adjusting for important covariates. Among six-month survivors, clinically meaningful and statistical significant associations between increase in scores of Physical Functioning (PF) and Role Physical domains (RP) of the SF-36 and 25% increase in nutritional adequacy were observed at three-months follow-up. No significant associations were observed at six-months.
Conclusions: Our findings suggest that nutritional adequacy received as early as the first week in the ICU seems beneficial to longer survival time and faster physical recovery post ICU discharge in critically ill patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation in the ICU. Well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to provide stronger assessment of the causal impact of nutrition therapy on long-term outcomes.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Elucidation of Jasmonate-Responsive Promoter Elements in the Calmodulin-Like Gene CML39 in Arabidopsis

contributor:
Snedden, Wayne A.
Biology

subject:
Calcium Signaling
Calmodulin-Like
Cis-Element
Promoter
Jasmonic Acid

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-24 21:06:30.592

abstract: All organisms require rapid and flexible signaling mechanisms in order to effectively respond to biotic and abiotic stress. Calcium ions (Ca2+) have proven to be important components of signaling networks. Observations of stimulus-specific oscillations of cytosolic Ca2+ during signal transduction suggest that Ca2+ signals directly encode information. These stimulus-specific oscillations, known as Ca2+ signatures, can be interpreted by an array of Ca2+-binding sensors and effectors, which subsequently regulate appropriate cellular responses. While progress has been made regarding the classic Ca2+-sensor calmodulin (CaM), less research has been directed towards the CaM-like family of Ca2+-sensors (CMLs). This family – unique to plants – is suspected to regulate a multitude of stress and developmental pathways; however, to date very few members of this family have had their functions elucidated by the identification of downstream targets and upstream regulators. In the present study, I investigate the regulation of CML39, which has previously been shown to strongly respond to the stress hormone jasmonic acid (JA) in Arabidopsis. Bioinformatic tools predict a large number of putative JA-responsive cis-elements within the CML39 promoter. Deletion analysis of CML39 promoter fragments in planta reveals that some cis-elements respond in a tissue-specific manner. Analysis of transgenic MYC2 loss-of-function (myc2) mutants demonstrates that MYC2 – the preeminent JA-responsive transcription factor – is not necessary for CML39 promoter activity. Collectively, these data reveal a complex tissue-specific pattern of CML39 regulation and provide a foundation for the future identification of relevant transcription factors.

abstract: Work is to be published, but has yet to be submitted to journals.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: How to Sustain Emergency Health Care Services in Rural and Small Town Ontario

contributor:
Medves, Jennifer M.
Edge, Dana S.
Nursing

subject:
mixed methods
sustainability
emergency
health care services
rural nursing

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Nursing) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-24 16:23:27.162

abstract:
The sustainability of publicly funded Canadian health care services is an ongoing debate. Timely access to services and the availability of qualified health care professionals are vital to the survival of emergency health care services in rural and small towns.  One of many factors threatening sustainability is the lack of qualified professionals.  The current nursing shortage and the aging nursing workforce present rural hospitals with recruitment and retention challenges that threaten the sustainability of emergency services and thus have the potential to compromise the health of Canadians living in rural communities.
Health care decisions are primarily based upon economics without consideration of the diversity of rural communities.  Challenges in health care delivery including access to emergency services affect Canadians living in rural communities.  These challenges need to be highlighted in the context of rural health as a unique entity in order to build awareness in policy makers to ensure appropriate health care service delivery to rural communities.  It is important for researchers and policy makers to recognize that rural hospitals are not mini-urban centres and thus have differing needs.
This two phase study focused on the sustainability of emergency health care services in rural and small town Ontario. Using a mixed methods approach, this study explored a descriptive analysis of emergency departments in rural Ontario and concluded with in-depth case studies of three rural emergency departments with varying travel distances to tertiary care facilities.  These findings have validated pre-existing frameworks and can be used to assist policy makers at all levels to develop recommendations for sustaining emergency health care services in rural Ontario including ways to recruit, train, retain, and maintain resources that are vital to the survival of rural emergency services.

abstract: PhD


title: An Efficient Demand-Side Load Shedding Algorithm in Smart Grid

contributor:
Ibnkahla, Mohamed
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
Wireless Sensor Network
Demand Response
Load Shedding
Micro-Grid Islanding
Smart Grid

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-24 20:01:37.098

abstract:
Rapid advances in the smart grid technology are making it possible to tackle a lot of problems in the aged power systems. High-speed data acquisition system, high-voltage power electronic equipment, advanced utility and customer interaction technologies, as well as distributed renewable generation are enabling the revolution in the electric power generation, delivery and distribution. Through the implementation of ubiquitous metering and communication networks, the customers would no longer be a passive receiver of the electrical energy, but instead, an active participant in the power system and electricity market. They can not only sell their own energy to the utility, but also take part in the emergency restoration in the power grid. Nonetheless, some technical barriers are encountered during this revolution, such as difficulties in integrating home automation, smart metering, customer interaction and power system operation into the whole system.
	This thesis proposes a customer involved load shedding algorithm for both the power system frequency control and the micro-grid islanding. This new algorithm possesses the features of centralized load control and distributed load control, which fully utilizes the advantages of hierarchical communication networks along with the home automation. The proposed algorithm considers the reliability of the power grid as well as the comfort of the electricity users. In the power distribution system, the high-level control centre is responsible for coordinating the local load controllers, whilst the local controller takes charge of frequency monitoring and decision making. In the micro-grid, a centralized control strategy is adopted to better serve the system with the wide set of information available at the micro-grid control centre. The simulation results have demonstrated the correctness and feasibility of the proposed algorithm. Finally, the hardware implementation further tests the validity of the wireless sensor networks serving as the system’s monitoring and communication technology.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Shiftwork, sleep disturbances and cardiometabolic risk in female hospital employees

contributor:
Tranmer, Joan E.
Aronson, Kristan J.
Community Health and Epidemiology

subject:
Women's Health
Sleep Disturbances
Metabolic Syndrome
Shiftwork
Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index

abstract: Thesis (Master, Community Health & Epidemiology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-24 21:16:38.768

abstract:
Background: Epidemiologic evidence supports the association between shiftwork and the development of cardiovascular disease. Sleep disturbances are associated with a variety of adverse cardiometabolic outcomes and they may lie on the causal pathway between the exposure to shiftwork and cardiovascular disease.
Objectives: 1) To describe sleep quality in a group of shift-working and day-working female hospital employees; 2) To determine the association between shiftwork status and sleep disturbances in this group and to determine the effect of lifetime exposure to shiftwork on current sleep disturbances; and 3) To explore whether sleep disturbances mediate the relationship between shiftwork and cardiometabolic risk.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among female hospital employees: participants were 132 women working only during the day, and 98 women who worked a shift schedule of two 12-hour days, followed by two 12-hour nights and five days off. Sleep quality was assessed with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire.  The primary outcome of interest was the metabolic syndrome defined in accordance with the 2009 Joint Interim Studies consensus statement.
Results: Shiftwork was associated with poor sleep latency (odds ratio (OR)= 2.08 95% CI: 1.11-3.92), poor sleep efficiency (OR=2.35 95% CI: 1.21- 4.54), and poor global sleep quality (OR=1.88 95% CI: 1.02-3.49), while the impact of past shiftwork history was inconclusive. The OR for the association of shiftwork with the metabolic syndrome was 2.00 (95% CI: 0.89-4.51), and there was no evidence of mediation by sleep disturbances in the relationship of shiftwork and the metabolic syndrome.
Conclusion: In this study, a rapid forward rotating 2-shift system is associated with self-reported poor sleep quality, while the long-term effects of sleep disturbances on cardiometabolic risk requires further study.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Impact of Deprivation on the Management of Diabetes in Primary Health Care

contributor:
Hunter, Duncan
Williamson, Tyler
Birtwhistle, Richard
Community Health and Epidemiology

subject:
Primary Health Care
Deprivation
Diabetes

abstract: Thesis (Master, Community Health & Epidemiology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-27 13:37:55.755

abstract:
Background: Socioeconomic factors and gender may influence the quality of care received by patients with diabetes. Millions of people are diagnosed with diabetes and rates are expected to increase. The management of diabetes in primary care is important in optimizing health for all.
Objectives: To investigate whether the selected diabetes quality of care indicators (haemoglobin A1c, low-density lipoprotein, blood pressure, abumin to creatinine ratio (ACR), and prescribed medication) are significantly different between those persons living in least and most materially and socially deprived neighbourhoods.
Methods: A cross-sectional study design with a population sample of patients with diabetes from a primary care practice in Southeast Ontario. De- identified patient data from electronic medical records were retrieved from the Canadian Primary Care Sentinel Surveillance Network. Combined material and social deprivation scores were based on the Pampalon Deprivation Index.
Results: The patients with diabetes largely resided in either the most or the least deprived neighbourhoods. Patients with diabetes living in the most deprived neighbourhoods were less likely than patients with diabetes living in the least deprived neighbourhoods to have their low-density lipoproteins within normal range (RR=0.84; CIs 0.73-0.98; p-value=0.026). There was no difference in management of diabetes between least and most deprived patients with diabetes regarding haemoglobin A1c, blood pressure, ACR, and medication prescribed; these were positive result for the clinical practice. Women with diabetes were less likely than men with diabetes to have their low-density lipoproteins under control (RR=0.71; CIs 0.62-0.81; p-value <0.001) and be prescribed ACE inhibitors or ARBs (RR=0.79; CIs 0.69-0.90; p-value <0.001). However, women with diabetes were more likely to have their most recent haemoglobin A1c within normal range (RR=1.24; CIs 1.10-1.40; p-value <0.001) and have their most recent ACR within normal range (RR=1.25; CIs 1.05-1.50; p-value=0.015).
Conclusion: This study found that the quality of care for patients with diabetes was not influenced by whether a person lived in a deprived neighbourhood or not. However, the study identified some important gender differences related to whether a person’s diabetes was under control. The reason for these differences is unknown.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Unstable Brake Orbits in Symmetric Hamiltonian Systems

contributor:
Offin, Daniel
Mathematics and Statistics

subject:
Equivariant Action Integral
Maslov Index
Brake Orbit
Time Reversing Symmetry
Hamiltonian
n-body problem

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mathematics & Statistics) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-25 10:47:53.257

abstract:
In this thesis we investigate the existence and stability of  periodic solutions of Hamiltonian systems with a discrete symmetry.  The global existence of periodic motions can be proven using the classical techniques of the calculus of variations; our particular interest is in how the  stability type  of the solutions thus obtained can be determined analytically  using solely the variational problem and the  symmetries of the system  --  we make no use of numerical or perturbation techniques.  Instead, we use a method introduced in [41] in the context of a special case of the three-body problem.  Using techniques from symplectic geometry,  and specifically the Maslov index  for curves of Lagrangian subspaces along the minimizing trajectories, we verify conditions which preclude the existence of eigenvalues of the monodromy matrix on the unit circle.

We study the applicability of this method in two specific cases.  Firstly, we consider another special case from celestial mechanics:  the hip-hop solutions of the 2N-body problem.  This is a family of Z_2-symmetric, periodic orbits which arise as  collision-free minimizers of the Lagrangian action on a space of symmetric loops [14, 53].  Following a symplectic reduction,  it is shown that the  hip-hop solutions are  brake orbits which are  generically hyperbolic on the reduced energy-momentum surface.

Secondly we consider a class of natural Hamiltonian systems of two degrees of freedom with a homogeneous potential function.  The associated action functional  is unbounded above and below on the function space of symmetric curves, but saddle points can be located by minimization subject to a certain natural constraint of a type first considered by Nehari [37, 38].  Using the direct method of the calculus of variations, we  prove the existence of symmetric solutions of both prescribed period and prescribed energy. In the latter case, we employ a variational principle of van Groesen [55] based upon a modification of the Jacobi functional, which has not been widely used  in the literature. We then  demonstrate that the (constrained) minimizers are again hyperbolic brake orbits; this is the first time the method has been applied to solutions which are not globally minimizing.

abstract: PhD


title: Aging, deprivation, and health: A "triple jeopardy" faced by the older population

contributor:
Rosenberg, Mark W.
Geography

subject:
Health
Canada
Deprivation
Kingston
Area-based deprivation index
Aging

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-25 11:30:26.279

abstract: It is crucial to understand the factors that influence the health of Canada’s rapidly aging population. This thesis examines social and material deprivation among the older population in Canada, focusing on a case study of Kingston, Ontario, as well as the intersections between indicators of deprivation and health. A Canadian area-based deprivation index developed by Robert Pampalon was used to measure deprivation. Data were obtained from the Institut national de santé public de Quebec, the Canadian Institute for Health Information, the Canadian Community Health Survey, and the Canadian Census. Firstly, these data were used to examine relationships between deprivation indicators, aging and health. The percentage of the population in fair or poor health increases with age, as does the likelihood that this group will experience one or more indicators of deprivation. Secondly, the spatial patterns of deprivation were compared to the areas where the older population is living in Kingston. Social deprivation is positively correlated with areas with a higher percentage of those 75 years of age or more, whereas material deprivation is negatively correlated with these areas. Collectively, these results indicate that the older population in Kingston is facing a triple jeopardy of declining health, declining resources, and living in areas that are socially deprived. This population seems to be asset-rich, in that they own their own homes, but cash-poor. Overall, these findings contribute to our understanding of aging and the burden of deprivation faced by the older population. In order to facilitate healthy aging, it is important to take into account the social and material environments where the older population resides as part of an effort to maximize the health and wellbeing of this vulnerable population.

abstract: M.A.


title: Downstream Patterns and Catchment Controls on Suspended Sediment Transport in a High Arctic River

contributor:
Lamoureux, Scott F.
Geography

subject:
Hydrology
Geomorphology
Suspended Sediment Transport

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-25 11:36:58.882

abstract:
A study of downstream suspended sediment transport dynamics in the West River at Cape Bounty, Melville Island, Nunavut, was undertaken in 2012. The first component of the research quantified the sediment mobilized in the West River during the 2012 season. A nival bed-contact survey was undertaken to identify areas of the river in which stream flow was isolated from the bed, and was combined with a reach-based sediment budget approach to assess sediment entrainment and downstream movement. This analysis revealed the propensity of the West River to store suspended sediment through much of the season. Permafrost disturbances in 2007 inundated the West River with fine sediments, the majority of which are progressing from the headwaters as a sediment slug that is subject to substantial downstream storage. Diurnal and event hysteresis analysis from 2004-2012 demonstrate the change in sediment delivery inter-annually, transitioning from a system characterized by clockwise hysteresis prior to the 2007 disturbances, to counter-clockwise hysteresis post 2007.  The latter is reflective of the important contribution of the headwater sediment slug from disturbance to downstream sediment transport and common net sediment storage in the lower reaches of the river.
The second project studied the delivery of suspended sediment following late season major rainfall events (MRE) and the control antecedent catchment conditions prior to rainfall exert on the magnitude of stream runoff and suspended sediment transport. Two MREs on July 9 and July 23, totalling 35.4 and 10.6 mm, respectively, resulted in exceptionally low discharge response and sediment mobilization. Analysis of synoptic level pressure patterns and catchment soil moisture revealed low volumetric water content preceding both MREs, a result of sustained exceptional early summer warmth under stable regional high pressure. Compared to similar MREs in 2007-2009, the soil in 2012 did not become saturated, and substantial runoff did not occur.
These studies contribute to an understanding of the processes of sediment transport in response to disturbances, rainfall, and antecedent catchment conditions, all of which are becoming important components of the Arctic fluvial systems but have had limited study due to the emphasis on snow melt processes and hydrological fluxes.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Self-Management of Chronic Pain:  Interventions, Strategies, Barriers, and Facilitators

contributor:
Van Den Kerkhof, Elizabeth
Nursing

subject:
chronic pain
self-management

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Nursing) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-25 12:57:58.59

abstract:
Background & Purpose:
Chronic pain is a prevalent chronic condition for which the best management options rarely provide complete relief.  Individuals with chronic pain with neuropathic characteristics (NC) report more severe pain and experience less relief from interventions.  Little is known about current self-management practices.  The purpose of this dissertation was to inform self-management of chronic pain with and without NC at the individual, health system, and policy levels using the Innovative Care for Chronic Conditions Framework.
Methods:
The study included a systematic search and review and cross-sectional survey.  The review evaluated the evidence for chronic pain self-management interventions and explored the role of health care providers in supporting self-management.  The survey was mailed to 8,000 randomly selected Canadians in November 2011, and non-respondents were followed-up in May 2012.  Screening questions were included for both chronic pain and NC.  The questionnaire captured pain descriptions, self-management strategies, and self-management barriers, and facilitators.
Results:
Findings of the review suggested that self-management interventions are effective in improving pain and health outcomes.  Health care professionals provided self-management advice and referred individuals to self-management interventions.  The questionnaire was completed by 1,520 Canadians.  Those with chronic pain (n=710) identified primary care physicians as the most helpful pain management professional.  Overall, use of non-pharmaceutical medical self-management strategies was low.  While use positive emotional self-management strategies was high, individuals with NC were more likely to use negative emotional self-management strategies compared to those without NC.  Multiple self-management barriers and facilitators were identified, however those with NC were more likely than those without NC to experience low self-efficacy, depression and severe pain which may impair the ability to self-management.
Conclusions:
Health care professionals have the opportunity to improve chronic pain outcomes by providing self-management advice, referring to self-management interventions, and addressing self-management barriers and facilitators.  Individuals with NC may require additional health services to address their greater self-management challenges, and further research is needed to identify non-pharmaceutical interventions effective in relieving chronic pain with NC.  Public policy is needed to facilitate health systems in providing long-term self-management support for individuals with chronic pain.

abstract: I am restricting this thesis until the two unpublished manuscripts have been accepted for publication.

abstract: PhD


title: Physical Modelling of the Mobility of Dry Granular Landslides

contributor:
Take, W. Andy
Civil Engineering

subject:
Granular Landslides
Geotechnical Centrifuge
Landslide Flume
Physical Modelling

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-25 15:48:54.761

abstract: In geotechnical engineering, granular flows are often studied as a means to further the understanding of the mechanisms that drive landslide motion. High quality experimental data is essential in providing evidence for the development and verification of new theoretical methods that link complex grain interactions to the extended mobility of some landslide events. At present, limited experimental data is available that captures the full range of landslide mobility. In an attempt to add to the present data sources, high quality experimental data was obtained through the use of high speed cameras and physical modelling using a geotechnical centrifuge and a large scale landslide flume. These modelling techniques allow for landslide motion, representative of field scale events, to be observed in a well-defined and controlled setting. A series of nine tests were performed in a geotechnical centrifuge under varying slope inclinations and Coriolis conditions. The effects of Coriolis on landslide mobility were evident when comparing final deposit shapes and total runout. The effects of Coriolis were more pronounced for higher velocity situations and when material was travelling on the horizontal base section opposed to the sloped section of the physical model. A series of thirty tests were performed using a large scale flume under varying source volumes and basal friction conditions, capturing the grain scale interactions and overall runout behaviour. The grain interactions and ultimately the flow behavioural regimes developed were a function of material source volume and boundary roughness. The dimensionless inertial number was used to classify flows into behavioural regimes, but was found to break down when describing transitions to the granular gas behavioural regime.  The runout-time results and final deposit shapes showed significant variation between test configurations, indicating the effects of volume and basal friction on overall mobility. Using the depth averaged numerical model, DAN, it was found that a single set of empirically derived frictional parameters (i.e. specific to internal and basal friction conditions) was appropriate for matching the overall mobility of the experimental flows over a range of flow volumes and slope inclinations.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Putting a Price on Environmentalism: a Study of Mainstream Environmentalism, Consumerism, and Class

contributor:
Goebel, Allison
Sociology

subject: Consumerism Class Environmentalism Sociology

abstract: Thesis (Master, Sociology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-25 16:26:11.314

abstract:
In this thesis I argue that within Canadian society, mainstream environmentalism has been constructed as a consumer-based activity that fundamentally excludes low income households and serves to support a capitalist economy.  Historically, humans’ relationship to the environment has been based on economic benefit and so people readily accept this construction of environmentalism as it conforms to established social norms.  Contemporary research has shown that eco-labeling is one of the primary marketing tools that give the impression of social structural change while keeping capitalism intact.
This thesis critically examines documents from three Canadian sources: the Toronto Star newspaper, the David Suzuki Foundation website, and the Canadian Government.  By applying the theories of social constructionism and representation, I show that these documents and articles have multiple levels and meanings about environmentalism that favour the capitalist agenda. This analysis also identifies four main ways in which these sources contribute to and reinforce the exclusion of low income families from Canadian mainstream environmentalism: 1) sources primarily promote ‘green’ consumables and disregard the associated cost of these goods, 2) sources do not acknowledge the constraints associated with level of access to non-consumable green resources, 3) sources shape environmental problems as economic issues by focusing on corporations, and 4) increased time commitments associated with green behaviour are not acknowledged.  These three sources would suggest that the current form of environmentalism, as a consumer based construct, exclude low income household in mainstream Canadian society.  By illuminating some of the problems with the current construction of environmentalism, it becomes possible to construct new perspectives on environmentalism that are both effective and inclusive.

abstract: M.A.


title: Effect of acute exercise on whole body fat oxidation: contributions of abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue

contributor:
Gurd, Brendon J.
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
Lipolysis
Reesterification
Adipose tissue
Glyceroneogenesis
Fat oxidation
Exercise

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-25 20:39:11.506

abstract: In consideration of the rising prevalence of obesity and its effect on metabolic health and disease, this study was conducted to examine mechanisms involved in adipose tissue function following an acute bout of exercise in abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue. Sedentary, overweight/obese women (n=10, BMI=30.6±6.0 kg∙m-2, VO2peak=30.3±5.4 mL•kg-1•min-1) completed 2 visits to the lab in which they either exercised for 1 hour or a rested in bed for the equivalent time (control). Experiments were executed randomly using a randomized cross-over study design. Gas exchange measures were measured at three time points before biopsies and subcutaneous adipose biopsies were obtained pre-condition, immediately after condition (0hr), two hours post (2hr), and four hours post (4hr). Acute exercise had significant effects whole body fat oxidation and phosphorylation of insulin signalling proteins, but had no effect on the phosphorylation of proteins regulating the expression of glyceroneogenic genes. In combination, these results suggest that acute exercise can transiently decrease insulin signalling although the mechanism by which this occurs is unclear. Additionally, acute exercise had no effect on the phosphorylation of proteins that are thought to regulate glyceroneogenic gene expression, suggesting that there are either alternative mechanisms involved or that time since the consumption of a meal is a greater stimulus for the activation/upregulation of glyceroneogenesis.  Our findings suggest that acute exercise may acutely alter function of adipose tissue such that it contributes to elevations in whole body fatty acid metabolism, however, whether or not chronic adaptations are induced remains an important area for future study.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: On the Prevention of Cache-Based Side-Channel Attacks in a Cloud Environment

contributor:
Zulkernine, Mohammad
Computing

subject:
CPU Cache
Server Side Defense
Cloud Computing
Security
Side Channel

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-25 18:03:47.737

abstract:
As Cloud services become more commonplace, recent works have uncovered vulnerabilities unique to such systems. Specifi cally, the paradigm promotes a risk of information leakage across virtual machine isolation via side-channels. Unlike conventional
computing, the infrastructure supporting a Cloud environment allows mutually dis-
trusting clients simultaneous access to the underlying hardware, a seldom met requirement for a side-channel attack. This thesis investigates the current state of
side-channel vulnerabilities involving the CPU cache, and identifi es the shortcomings
of traditional defenses in a Cloud environment. It explores why solutions to non-Cloud cache-based side-channels cease to work in Cloud environments, and describes
new mitigation techniques applicable for Cloud security. Speci cally, it separates
canonical cache-based side-channel attacks into two categories, Sequential and Parallel attacks, based on their implementation and devises a unique mitigation technique
for each. Applying these solutions to a canonical Cloud environment, this thesis
demonstrates the validity of these Cloud-specifi c, cache-based side-channel mitigation techniques. Furthermore, it shows that they can be implemented, together, as a
server-side approach to improve security without inconveniencing the client. Finally,
it conducts a comparison of our solutions to the current state-of-the-art.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Childhood Obesity Prevention Intervention and Policy in the Mexican School System

contributor:
Lévesque, Lucie L.
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
School-Based Interventions
Ecological Model
Childhood Obesity
Mexico
Obesity Prevention
Policy Evaluation
Evaluation of Interventions

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-30 17:05:33.787

abstract: Overweight and obesity in Mexican children substantiates the need to identify effective strategies and policies to address this problem.  Instituto Nacional de Salud Publica (INSP) designed and implemented a randomized control trial (RCT) to assess an ecologically-based intervention program to modify the school environment to promote healthy lifestyle behaviours in children. The objectives of this thesis are to describe the design and impact of this RCT, to examine the program content through an ecological approach, and to examine policy activities that have been informed by the RCT findings. Four manuscripts address these objectives. Manuscript one is Promoting a Healthful Diet and Physical Activity in the Mexican School System for the Prevention of Obesity in Children:  Rationale, Design and Methods. It describes the rationale, design, and methods of the two-year INSP-Secretaria de Educacion Publica (Secretary of Public Education, SEP) RCT. Manuscript two is Impact of a School-based Intervention Program on Obesity Risk Factors in Mexican Children. It reports on the environmental impact of the INSP-SEP intervention by comparing 16 intervention schools with 11 non-intervention schools.  Results showed increased availability and food intake of healthy foods with a concomitant decrease in unhealthy food availability in intervention schools/children. Manuscript three is An Ecological and Theoretical Deconstruction of a School-based Obesity Prevention Program in Mexico. It reports on an assessment of the integration of ecological principles and theoretical constructs in the school-based behavioural change/obesity prevention intervention carried out by the INSP-SEP. Results showed that 32 intervention strategies were implemented in the school setting to engage target-groups; the most used SCT construct was Reciprocal Determinism. Manuscript four is titled Quality and Implementation of the Nutrition and Physical Activity School Policy Guidelines in Mexico City. It assesses the quality and implementation conditions of a policy and reports on the implementation and the uptake of the national school policy to prevent obesity in Mexico city through a policy analysis, WHO School Policy Framework (SPF) and indicators informed by the national policy. Findings showed that not all of the 10 implementation pre-conditions were met; School Guidelines mostly complied with SPF but were not fully implemented within our sample.

abstract: PhD


title: The response of lakes to climate change and anthropogenic activity in the North Frontenac/Addington Highlands Region, Ontario

subject:
North Frontenac
Addington Highlands
Paleolimnology
Climate Change
Limnology

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-26 08:41:44.182

abstract: Climate change and anthropogenic activities have been known to change the rate of productivity and physical characteristics of temperate lakes. This paleolimnologcial study examines the effect of recent climate change and watershed land-usage activities in nine lakes in the North Frontenac/Addington Highlands region of Ontario, and aims to predict future lake changes based on recent trends. Despite this region being identified as an area highly susceptible to the effects of climate change, no scientific studies have examined the effects of these changes on lakes of the region. Lake sediment analysis for chlorophyll-a concentration, and organic carbon and nitrogen deposition indicate that production has increased in the majority of study lakes in the approximate past century. Water column sampling for dissolved oxygen concentration, temperature, conductivity, and turbidity found the majority of lakes to be thermally stratified and hypoxic in the bottom waters during the ice-covered and ice-free seasons. Climate records also indicate mean annual air temperatures have been increasing since the early 20th century. It was concluded that climate change is increasing production in the lakes of the North Frontenac/Addington Highlands region, and that future increases may increase the zone of hypoxia within the study lakes, or cause anoxia in the lakes. Additionally, it was also found that individual watershed land-usage events (i.e. logging, road construction) affected some of the study lakes, and possibly amplified the increase in production found in some. These findings assist in developing future lake mitigation methods, and preventing future increases in productivity.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Electrospun Elastomeric Vocal Fold Constructs for the Application of Vocal Fold Tissue Engineering

contributor:
Woodhouse, Kimberly
Chemical Engineering

subject:
tissue engineering
vocal fold scarring

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemical Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-26 09:49:22.891

abstract:
Voice disorders affect up to 9% of the population, and can be caused by vocal fold scarring. They can reduce the ability of a person to participate in the workplace and can also cause depression in individuals. Vocal fold scarring changes the organization and composition of the lamina propria, and affects the biomechanical properties of the tissue. These changes cause an inability of the lamina propria to produce a normal mucosal wave during speech, resulting in hoarseness or complete voice loss. Currently there is a clinical need for treatment options for vocal fold scarring.
This work focuses on developing a novel, elastomeric electrospun biomaterial to be used as a model system to evaluate the response of immortalized human vocal fold fibroblast cells (HVFF) to scaffold architecture and to the presence of an elastin polypeptide. The scaffold was developed by electrospinning Tecoflex™. Electrospun scaffolds were successfully made with aligned and unaligned fibers, and they were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and uniaxial tensile testing. The aligned scaffolds had initial elastic moduli of ~14 MPa and ~0.3 MPa in the preferred and cross-preferred direction respectively. The unaligned scaffolds had initial elastic moduli of ~5 MPa and ~0.6 MPa in the preferred and cross-preferred direction respectively. An elastin-like polypeptide (ELP) developed in the Woodhouse lab, ELP4, was successfully adsorbed onto the scaffolds to investigate the effect of ELP’s on the HVFF cells. HVFF cells were seeded onto the scaffolds and their viability, proliferation, morphology, and gene expression were characterized. Over the culture period the cells remained viable, and showed signs of proliferation. The scaffold topography had a significant impact on the orientation of the cells, with very aligned cultures on the aligned scaffold, and randomly oriented cells on the unaligned scaffold. The scaffold alignment and the ELP4 coating impacted the extracellular matrix gene expression. The ELP4 coating, and the aligned scaffolds promoted elastin synthesis when tested on day 7, and may also reduce collagen-3 expression on day 3. These results signify that aligned electrospun scaffolds, as well as an ELP4 coating, may be promising to use in future biodegradable vocal fold constructs.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 2 activation mediates post-myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury inflammatory processes

contributor:
Funk, Colin D.
Physiology

subject:
Myocardial Infarction
Ischemia
Leukotriene
Vascular Permeability
Inflammation

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-26 10:29:03.466

abstract: Myocardial infarction (MI) is primarily caused by blockade of the coronary circulation, resulting in ischemic insult. The only available remedy is reperfusion, which induces oxidative stress and activates inflammatory responses at the site of injury. Cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLTs) are potent pro-inflammatory mediators that exert their effects through two classical receptors: cysLT receptor 1 (CysLT1R) and cysLT receptor 2 (CysLT2R), the latter of which is prevalent in the heart and circulatory system and has been implicated in cardiovascular disease. However, although endothelial CysLT2R overexpression exacerbates MI damage and induces vascular hyperpermeability, understanding of CysLT2R activation-induced mechanisms is poor, as isolating CysLT2R-specific effects has proven difficult due to a lack of appropriate pharmacological agents. We investigate herein the role of CysLT2R activation in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. We have characterized a novel CysLT2R-selective antagonist BayCysLT2 in both in vitro and in vivo systems, and establish that CysLT2R-selective antagonism attenuates exacerbated MI injury, adhesion molecule gene regulation, and myocardial neutrophil presence observed in CysLT2R overexpressing (EC) mice. We also examined effects of CysLT2R antagonism in long-term cardiac remodeling post-myocardial infarction, and found that blockade of CysLT2R post-reperfusion, regardless of whether CysLT2R is overexpressed or not, elicits a mild pathological cardiac hypertrophic response despite mitigating infarction damage to the apical ventricular wall. Finally, we created a novel mouse model (EC/KO) that expresses CysLT2R predominantly in vascular endothelium in order to identify tissue-specific mechanisms of CysLT2R activation. Surprisingly, MI injury was attenuated in EC/KO mice, indicating that both endothelial and non-endothelial CysLT2R expression subsets have roles in mediating infarction injury. Indeed, EC/KO mice demonstrated hyperpermeability in cremaster venules only when leukotrienes are applied, in contrast to EC mice. In addition, endothelial CysLT2R activation facilitates leukocyte transmigration, whereas non-endothelial CysLT2Rs regulate basal rolling leukocyte flux in microvasculature. Although much work remains to be done, the characterization of a CysLT2R-selective antagonist provides a vital tool for CysLT2R research moving forward, and our investigation of CysLT2R activation reveal the existence of a complicated and multi-faceted pathway resulting in activation of pro-inflammatory mechanisms.

abstract: PhD


title: The Effects of Several Paper Characteristics and Application Methods on the Sublimation Rate of Cyclododecane

contributor:
Murray, Alison
Art Conservation

subject: Sublimation Paper Conservation Cyclododecane

abstract: Thesis (Master, Art Conservation) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-27 09:00:28.77

abstract: Cyclododecane (CDD) is a waxy, solid cyclic hydrocarbon (C12H24) that sublimes at room temperature and possesses strong hydrophobicity. In paper conservation CDD is used principally as a temporary fixative of water-soluble media during aqueous treatments. Hydrophobicity, ease of reversibility, low toxicity, and absence of residues are reasons often cited for its use over alternative materials although the latter two claims continue to be debated in the literature. The sublimation rate has important implications for treatment planning as well as health and safety considerations given the dearth of reliable information on its toxicity and exposure limits. This study examined how the rate of sublimation is affected by fiber type, sizing, and surface finish as well as delivery in the molten phase and as a saturated solution in low boiling petroleum ether. The effect of warming the paper prior to application was also evaluated. Sublimation was monitored using gravimetric analysis after which samples were tested for residues with gas chromatography-flame ionization detection (GC-FID) to confirm complete sublimation. Water absorbency tests were conducted to determine whether this property is fully reestablished. Results suggested that the sublimation rate of CDD is affected minimally by all of the paper characteristics and application methods examined in this study. The main factors influencing the rate appear to be the thickness and mass of the CDD over a given surface area as well as temperature and ventilation. The GC-FID results showed that most of the CDD sublimed within several days of its disappearance from the paper surface regardless of the application method. Minimal changes occurred in the water absorbency of the samples following complete sublimation.

abstract: Restricted for possible publication.

abstract: M.A.C.