identifier: Ryan, D'Arcy J  (2001) Strategic alliances and their impacts on the container shipping industry.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The thesis deals with the evolution of container shipping route networks over a ten-year span from 1989 to 1999. The network evolution is shown to be a direct result of globalization, with a decline in the number of direct routes serving only two maritime ranges and a proliferation of multi-range services. A particular development has been the establishment of Strategic Alliances. Today, the industry has restructured itself around five major groupings. This paper provides an explanation for the establishment of such alliances and their influence. In particular the New World Alliance and its members will be examined in the thesis.


identifier: Pnevmonidis, Pantelis  (2002) Feynman rules and static quantities of the charged vector bosons in a left-right supersymmetric extension of the standard model.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract: The Standard Model is reviewed and its extension is proposed to incorporate left-right symmetry as well as supersymmetry. Model principles are developed to build a gauge theory with supersymmetry and the minimal supersymmetric extension of the Standard Model (MSSM) is briefly discussed. The left-right supersymmetric extension of the Standard Model is introduced and the symmetry-breaking pattern is described. The physical vector bosons, the charginos and neutralinos, and the Higgs particles are identified. The Lagrangian terms for the interactions of the vector bosons A, Z L , Z R , W L , W R amongst themselves as well as all corresponding Feynman rules are written down. The interaction Lagrangian terms with three fields are obtained at least one of which is the Photon A or a neutral vector boson Z L or Z R or a charged vector boson W L or W R . Feynamn rules are written down for interactions with three fields at least one of which is the Photon A, or a charged vector boson W L or W R . The Feynman rules are used in order to calculate the anomalous magnetic moments and quadrupole moments of the charged vector bosons W L or W R of the left-right supersymmetric extension of the Standard Model.


identifier: Dahr Azma, Behnaz  (2002) Extraction of copper from mining residues by rhamnolipids.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Mining residues, in general, and metal ores, in particular, contain heavy metals within the rock. These heavy metals are very harmful to humans and, as such, are a serious problem for the environment. They can be considered as contaminated rocks. One of the heavy metals with increasing demand around the world is copper (Cu) that is the subject of this study. To extract copper from the residue with 8,950 mg copper per kg rock, a biosurfactant, rhamnolipid was used. To optimize the conditions for maximum extraction, several batch tests were performed on washed ore samples in 25C̕. The best size of particle sizes was determined to be between 0.15 and 0.3 mm while the pH was set at 6. A minimum volume of 10mL rhamnolipid of 2% concentration for 1 g of ore was required to extract about 28% of copper from the ore. Although better results are also possible with higher concentrations of rhamnolipid, the solution becomes very viscous as well. Adding 1% NaOH to the solution dramatically improved the extraction up to 42% in 6 days. Unwashed samples of mixed size particles were tested under the optimized conditions and 24% of copper was extracted. A sequential extraction procedure was performed to determine the fractions of different forms of copper in the ore. The oxide and hydroxide, residual part, and carbonates are the main fractions and the extracted ore was extracted mainly from the oxide and hydroxide part.


identifier: Awwad, Falah Rashad  (2002) Design of high-performance VLSI RLC interconnects.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: On-Chip Inductance has become of significance in the design of high-speed interconnects. In this thesis, three techniques are applied to regenerate an RLC: interconnect in series, parallel and without regeneration. Simulations using a 0.25 om TSMC technology show that the parallel regeneration starts achieving a better speed than the non-regenerated line at wire lengths smaller than that achieved when the wire is serially regenerated. It also features 47% time delay saving and 96% Area-Delay product saving over the serial regeneration.  Repeaters are now widely used to enhance the performance of long On-Chip interconnects in CMOS VLSI. For RC-modeled interconnects, parallel repeaters have proved to be superior to serial ones. In this thesis, a Variable-Segment Regeneration Technique is introduced and compared with a Variable-Driver Parallel Technique, a recently proposed transparent repeater and with other three conventional techniques. HSpice Simulations using a 0.25 om TSMC technology show that both the variable-segment and variable-driver techniques feature 62% time delay saving and 354% Area-Delay product saving over the transparent repeater, and are superior to all conventional techniques. Moreover, our new variable-segment technique is characterized by a 116% Area-Delay product saving over the variable-driver technique. Thus, making it the most performant in the field of high-performance RLC interconnect regeneration. The simulation results and an analytical model of VSRT confirm the superiority of the parallel regeneration technique over the serial ones.


identifier: Chen, Danyan  (2002) Simulation of adaptive array algorithms for 3G CDMA systems.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The increasing demand for mobile communication services without a corresponding increase in RF spectrum allocation motivates the need for new techniques to improve spectrum utilization. CDMA systems and adaptive antenna array are two approaches that show real promise for increasing spectrum efficiency. In this research, we investigate the performance of different adaptive array algorithms, blind and non-blind, in the CDMA systems. Three algorithms, least-squares despread re-spread multitarget constant modulus algorithm (LS-DRMTCMA), Wiener solution with pilot channel on reverse link of 3G CDMA and least-mean-square (LMS) algorithm with training sequence, are developed. A C++ simulation testbed is created to compare the performance of these algorithms. It is shown from the simulation results that system performance is greatly improved by using adaptive array. Wiener solution with pilot channel can outperform the other algorithms in all the test situations considered (e.g., AWGN channel, four types of fading channels). However the LMS algorithm with training sequence has less computational requirements than the other algorithms.


identifier: Jain, Dheeraj K  (2001) Analysis and design of an auxiliary commutated full bridge DC/DC converter for low voltage and high current applications.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The analysis and design of an auxiliary commutated Full Bridge dc/dc converter topology including the effect of leakage inductance of the output transformer is presented in this thesis. In applications where the transformer has high turns-ratio between the primary and secondary windings, the value of leakage inductance is relatively high. This high value of leakage inductance, however, is not large enough to achieve the zero voltage switching (ZVS) of the converter over the entire range of operating load conditions, but can be effectively used in minimizing the circulating current of the auxiliary commutation circuit used for achieving ZVS. The operating principle of the circuit is demonstrated, and the steady state analysis is performed. Based on the analysis, a criterion for optimal design is given.


identifier: Musavi, Fariborz  (2001) A resonant AC/DC converter for high frequency power distribution systems.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: A Resonant AC/DC Converter for High Frequency Power Distribution Systems is presented in this thesis. The proposed converter employs a resonant network consisting of a few passive components. With this resonant network, the converter can attain close to unity power factor and very small total harmonic distortion under all load conditions. The operating principle of the circuit is demonstrated, and the steady state analysis is performed including the effect of leakage inductance. Based on the analysis, criteria for optimal design are given. Experimental and simulation results of a prototype converting the input AC voltage of 28 V rms at 1 MHz, to 1.6 Volt DC at 20 A are given to verify the proof of concept, and analytical work reported in this thesis.


identifier: Hai, Chen  (2002) Random vibration and fracture of tapered composite laminates.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Polymer-matrix tapered composite laminates with internal taper are considered in the present thesis. Appropriate finite element models for the tapered laminates are developed using quadratic isoparametric elements. Both the rectangular and triangular isoparametric elements are employed in the model in order to obtain accurate solutions. Singularity elements are used to model the vicinity of the crack tip in the laminate. Appropriate computational methods including the displacement extrapolation method and virtual crack extension method are employed for the determination of the following fracture parameters: stress intensity factor, energy release rate, and J-integral. In order to determine the response to random excitation, the normal mode method is employed in conjunction with the finite element method. The associated computer programs are developed using FORTRAN ® and MATLAB ® programming languages.  The fracture behavior and the dynamic response to stationary random excitation of different types of internally tapered laminate are investigated based on the finite element model. The locations of delamination initiation are predicted based on the stress analysis results and the Von Mises failure criterion. The energy release rates and J-integral values corresponding to the delamination at the critical location of the laminate are computed. The effects of taper angle and the laminate configuration on the fracture behavior and the random vibration of the laminate are determined. The probability of failure is then calculated and the use of this information in determining the location of failure initiation is demonstrated.


identifier: Choi, Yongseok  (2002) Context based delivery of voice messages.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: As a new technology for communication enriches, users are often overwhelmed not only by the technology itself but also by the information that comes with it. Especially, message receivers become more vulnerable to interruption of their normal workflow than the past, as there has been such an increase in the number and volume of messages received. People need to keep their attention focused on their mainline task by minimizing interruptions from unnecessary messages. One possible solution to tackle this problem is to give users a personalized control of messages according to their current contexts.  The purpose of this study is to develop an agent-based architecture based on the blackboard communication model that captures a user's contexts to enhance a user's control over the incoming messages. Some of the strengths of using the blackboard communication model are the ability to separate the concerns among the agents and to allow for the replacement of one agent with another agent that might be more effective in doing the intended functionality. In the proposed system architecture, the core parts are: characterizing and representing the user's context, allowing the user to set rules of preference dynamically, and managing the delivery of incoming messages. As a result, this system enables users to receive messages according to the paradigm, 'where you are', 'what you are doing', 'when a message arrives', 'who is calling', and what you want to do with the incoming message in the current context


identifier: Pestina, Simona  (2002) Development frameworks for mobile/wireless user interfaces : a comparative study.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: In this research, we investigated the development frameworks for mobile/wireless Web applications with a special consideration to the user interface (UI) component. The Web applications running on small mobile devices cannot support the full range of the traditional desktop Web functionality. This is due to the devices' physical and computational constraints. We described how the mobile devices' constraints and their increased diversity and connectivity are affecting the traditional UI development tools, methods and concepts. We also analyzed the development impacts that are emerging from the necessity of building consistent user interfaces for different mobile devices and platforms. In particular, we discussed how the current development frameworks could satisfy the constrained mobile environment while preserving the cross-platform usability. We conducted a comparative survey of these frameworks using different criteria such as data processing, data interactivity and presentation techniques, data transfer, security support, cross-platform or device specific availability, scalability, UI modeling techniques, UI delivery mechanism. We exposed the strengths and weaknesses of each framework while highlighting the areas for future improvements. Our survey highlighted the need for a "universal" high-level framework for mobile UIs development.


identifier: Vo, SiNguyen  (2002) Wavelet transforms and template approaches to face recognition.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Face recognition is a very important task in many applications such as biometric authentication or for content-based indexing photo and video retrieval systems. In recent years, considerable progress has been made on the problems of face detection and recognition, using different methods divided into two groups of geometrical measures and template matching. However, as computation is very expensive and require a great amount of storage for the earlier methods based on correlation, several more recent methods have then been based on principal component analysis, neural network classification and deformable model of templates of features.  The first topic of the work reported in this thesis is the experimental evaluation of face recognition methods based on template approaches. Our aim is to test different approaches of template matching: using cross-correlation with Fast Fourier transform, using features obtained from filtering with Gabor wavelet transform or Daubechies wavelet transform, with both rigid grid matching and deformable graph matching. Then, in the second part of the thesis, we propose an implementation of face recognition based on the Daubechies wavelet transform with the matching of series of corresponding graphs while being both speed and storage friendly. The experiments performed on the entire image database of AT&T Laboratories Cambridge show that while the training phase from our proposed face recognition system outperforms in terms of speed other previously described methods such as those based on Fast Fourier transform, Gabor wavelet transform, and even Eigenfaces, its recognition rate is 81% for the entire raw database and even reaches 91% when images are not distorted by strong facial expressions or accessories.


identifier: Dlusy-Apel, Deena  (2001) A personal portrayal of breast cancer : how art can educate.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: On October 22 2001, the art exhibition "One in Nine--A Personal Portrayal of Breast Cancer: How Art Can Educate" opened at Gallery Gora in downtown Montreal.  I, as the artist who presented this body of work, wanted to bring the breast cancer issue to the attention of the public. I wanted the visitors to the show to become aware of the problems that women who live with breast cancer face.  By focussing on my brush with breast cancer, this thesis explores how personal experience can become a conduit for creative art making. Furthermore the thesis examines my art show, and demonstrates how activist art, by being placed in the public arena, can educate its viewers.


identifier: Estevez, Jorge  (2001) The educational potential of public art : an art event at the Mount Royal Park : "tam tam" 2000.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis is the study of "tam tam" 2000, an art project that was presented to the public attending the venue traditionally known as "tam tam," in the Mount Royal Park, during the summer of 2000. Through this art event, the public and the art educator united by a common interest, explored the art discourse and practice by painting on canvas during three consecutive Sunday sessions. The art educator invited the public to make Public Art by providing a framework consisting of canvas, paint, and themes related to socio-cultural issues of communal interest. With this project, the intention was to promote art as a vital social practice in order to motivate positive social change. Considerable pedagogical and logistical efforts were put into the making of "tam tam" 2000 in order to make the art experience entertaining, educational and meaningful. As a result of the interaction of the public, the site, art and the educator, the sessions produced three mural-like paintings. The event was documented on video and personal comments from the public were collected in a response book. Through the analysis of this documentation, this thesis examines the concept of Public Art as an important subject matter of art education.


identifier: Marciano Toledano, Anat  (2002) The pedagogical influence of Nehama Leibowitz.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study is an analysis of the pedagogic teaching style of a leading Bible teacher and scholar: Nehama Leibowitz. Recognized as being one of Israel's best Bible teachers, she has presented a new dimension to Bible study through her teachings and publications. Some of the most important elements contributing to her influence according to this research are: the pedagogical methodology that she used both inside and outside her classes, her contribution to Jewish education in the context of other changes in education, and finally her influence on some her former students as well as the community of Montreal.


identifier: Marcoux, Alain  (2002) The life and works of Dimitri Dimakopoulos architect (1929-1995).  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This art historical retrospective on an eminent Canadian architect of the twentieth century is not a biography. Since Dimitri Dimakopoulos was a very discrete and reserved person, the thesis is much more oriented towards his architectural works than his private life and intimate personality. Following a short introduction, the first part deals with his early life in Athens from 1929 to 1948 in relation with the major socio-political events of the period. It also includes a summary of his university studies at the McGill School of Architecture from 1948 to 1955, focusing on his academic activities in relation with the program of studies.  The second part of the thesis deals with his partnership from 1955 to 1969 in ARCOP, a major architectural firm operating in Montreal during that period. It investigates his participation or full involvement as an architectural designer in various projects of the firm. The third part of the thesis deals with the works produced by his own architectural firm called Dimitri Dimakopoulos & Partners between 1970 and 1995. Each major project of the firm is investigated in detail from architectural and art historical point of views. Finally, a conclusion elaborates upon the characteristics of Dimakopoulos' oeuvre, from an architectural design and stylistic point of view in relation with the period of his production.


identifier: Leroux, John  (2002) The murals of Fred Ross : a quest for relevance.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis investigates and analyses the early mural work (1946-1954) by the New Brunswick artist Frederick Joseph Ross (b. 1927).  Fred Ross studied art at the Saint John Vocational School during the early 1940s, where he was introduced by his teacher Ted Campbell to Renaissance art as well as the work and ideals of the post-revolutionary Mexican muralists and the New Deal-sponsored American W.P.A. artists. Influenced by their social content and compositional strategies, Ross produced five figurative murals over the ensuing years: Annual School Picnic (1946), City Slums (1950), and Humanistic Education (1954), all of which were installed at the Saint John Vocational School; The Destruction of War and Rebuilding the World Through Education (1948), a two-panel mural installed at Fredericton High School; and a mural at the Hotel de la Borda in Taxco, Mexico (1949). Of the six, only City Slums, Humanistic Education , and the Hotel de la Borda Mural are still extant and in situ.  Prominent realist and social artistic convictions emerged in Saint John during the pre- and post-World War II periods. Painters like Miller Brittain and Jack Humphrey, among others, shared a similarly sympathetic outlook that portrayed the desperation, angst, and joys of the working class. Such models, combined with Ross's own murals, position the rise of muralism in Saint John during the 1940s, its ebb by the late 1950s, and its subsequent reevaluation and rebirth in public interest during the 1990s


identifier: Sanjakdar, Roukana  (2001) Do North American standards for Web design require adjustments for Arab audience?  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis discusses those elements of web design that may create different impact on people from distinct cultures, specifically Arab versus Western cultures. Since the inception of the Internet, there has been only one set of standards in designing web sites (including education sites), essentially American standards. This thesis tries to determine whether different users (Arabs in particular) read sites differently, or react differently to interface design elements such as color, graphics, and arrangement. For instance, do Arabic speaking users have different preferences for placement of elements on the page due to the fact that the Arabic language reads from right to left, in contrast to the English language, which reads from left to right?  The research starts with a literature review, including an examination of cross-cultural issues and a summary of the American standards used in designing web sites. Questionnaires were composed, based on the literature review, to survey designers for the Arabic market and both Arabic and North American users providing the research with rich data used in compiling the results and establishing recommendations. These recommendations are potentially useful for designers trying to design and develop for the Arabian market, as well as for designers targeting other cultural groups. The results and recommendations may also help other researchers seeking more information in the areas of culture and Internet use


identifier: Sallabi, Abdulwahab K  (2002) Computer simulations of the structure, stability and phase transitions of diatomic molecules physisorbed on ionic surfaces : the CO/MgO(001), N2/MgO(001) and N2/NaCl(001) systems.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Metropolis Monte Carlo simulations, using semiempirical potentials, are performed to study the structures, stability, and phase transitions of layers of CO and N 2 molecules physisorbed on the MgO(100) surface as well as a monolayer of N 2 physisorbed on NaCl(001) surface.  In agreement with experiments [35-37], our simulations show that the c (4 x 2) structure of CO on the MgO(001) surface is the most stable structure below 41 K. The unit cell contains three CO molecules; two bridging molecules tilted in opposite directions by the same polar angle of 31 ̕with respect to the surface normal and a third molecule perpendicular to the surface. At 41 K the c (4 x 2) phase undergoes a transition into a less dense disordered phase accompanied by the desorption of some molecules. The density of this disordered phase is the same as for the p (3 x 2) phase. A model to compare the stability of the c (4 x 2) and the p (3 x 2) phases is constructed and suggests that at sufficiently high pressures and temperatures the p (3 x 2) phase is more stable than the c (4 x 2) phase as found by Panella et al . [35]. We propose that a sequence of transitions to a set of (n x 2) structure with ever decreasing density is possible under suitable conditions of temperature and pressure. This sequence of transitions is an example of the devil's staircase phenomenon as has been suggested by LEED experiments.  Nitrogen molecules adsorbed on MgO(001) were studied and were also found to form a sequence of structures. A ([Special characters omitted.] ) R 33.7 ̕structure is found to form the most stable phase at low temperatures (below 20 K). This structure undergoes a phase transition into a less dense phase at 20 K and in all likelihood evolves into the less dense ([Special characters omitted.] ) R 36.9 ̕structure. The ([Special characters omitted.] )R36.9 ̕structure is stable up to 25 K. These results are in agreement with HAS results. This system might also prove to be an example of the devil's staircase phenomena.  A monolayer of nitrogen molecules adsorbed on an NaCl(001) surface are used to test the validity of the theory of critical phenomena and its applicability to molecular systems. The simulations predict that this system undergoes a continuous order-disorder transition near 25 K with a logarithmically divergent heat capacity. The values of the critical exponents for the order parameter and susceptibility are calculated and found to deviate significantly from the Ising values but still satisfy Rushbrooke's scaling law. This behaviour is typical of the universality class containing the XY model with cubic anisotropy where the critical exponents are functions of the anisotropy and are thus "nonuniversal"


identifier: Bonneau, Marlene  (2002) Re-thinking rites of passage in contemporary double-ring ceremonies in Montreal Jewish weddings.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This dissertation focuses on ritual and, in particular, contemporary Montreal Jewish wedding rituals. It is a study of the material objects used in the diverse acts of human symbol-making which represent distinct identities, both personal and communal. The change from one to two wedding rings will be the focus of this investigation within the context of several Jewish weddings within Reform, Orthodox, Conservative and Reconstructionist denominations. Double-ring wedding ceremonies present a conundrum in Judaism. On the one hand, Jewish law does not acknowledge the bride's giving of a second ring to the groom as a legal kinyan , while on the other hand, the practice exists. Various identities and interpretations emerged in this study over the subject of the second ring. The juxtaposition of three salient realities--namely, rings, rabbis and couples--provided the raw material for investigating the "second ring phenomenon". Finally, a re-thinking of Arnold Van Gennep's classic model of "rites of passage" shaped the central argument of this dissertation, that contemporary double-ring ceremonies in this study represented celebrations or events that were primarily rites of identity more than rites of passage.


identifier: Pillai, Sharmila  (2002) Integrating learner culture into the elementary curriculum : the case of grade 2 science in the Amharic speaking regions of Ethiopia.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis study investigates the integration of traditional indigenous knowledge into an elementary school curriculum in the Amharic speaking regions of Ethiopia. The main question it addresses is whether science education in this developing country builds on the learners' schemas, culture and environment, to learning leading to eventual marginalisation. My study is in two phases. The first is a content analysis of a Grade 2 Science textbook used in the Amharic-speaking areas around Addis Ababa. The second is a classroom observation, which I conducted in four schools in September 2001, comparing the findings of the content analysis to actual teacher language and behaviour at the point of delivery. The overall findings suggest that the inclusion of indigenous content taught via Amharic can be an effective bridge between students' local understandings of phenomena in their home culture and "Western" scientific ways of looking and knowing.


identifier: Melançon, Natalie  (2002) La consommation symbolique de marques de commerce : appropriations subversives et autres luttes contre l'univocité du signe.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Incarnations culturelles plus explicites que le symbole, la marque de commerce, prérogative de la distinction sociale, renvoit à un universel tout en appelant l'interprétation locale. Cette plus-value symbolique--ou capital de marque--est de plus en plus rentable et est conséquemment jalousement contrôlée par l'entreprise. Ce capital devient le lieu de confrontations entre l'entreprise et les consommateurs; lesquels entretiennent une relation toute autre avec ces icônes qu'ils s'approprient, reformulent et subvertissent, afin de se positionner de manière critique en regard des dispositifs de production dominants. Ces pratiques deviennent un acte énonciatif qui mets en péril les visées économiques des détenteurs de marques tout en ébranlant l'ordre socio-économique dominant dans un acte politique plus large.  La marque de commerce constitue--selon l'auteur--un objet de choix pour l'élaboration de ce que l'on pourrait qualifier de ±politique culturelle de la consommation». Le travail à suivre propose une analyse de l'importance des marques dans l'arène de l' everyday ; du rôle de médiation de l'entreprise dans le processus de détermination de l'identité culturelle; ainsi que de l'expression, à travers la parodie de marques de commerce, d'idées allant à l'encontre de l'ordre économique et culturel dominant. Cette analyse s'articule en trois volets: un historique annoté de l'image de marque; une discussion sur les approches théoriques permettant l'étude de la consommation symbolique de marques comme pratique; ainsi qu'une étude de cas réalisée sur le terrain de la Marche des Peuples dans le cadre du deuxième Sommet des Amériques.


identifier: Le Bras, Alan  (2002) A strange and sublime address : présentation et traduction d'Amit Chaudhuri ; une approche traductologique.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This memoir is based on a translation of an Indian novel written in English by a Bengali author. It has led to research on Bengali literature and Indian literature written in English, as well as on cultural exchanges between France and India, which are both interesting and enriching for Translation Studies. First of all, it seemed useful to approach the author's work from a historical perspective--partly inspired by the Polysystem theory--since translation is perceived as belonging to a larger set of cultural exchanges. Cultural mediators between France and India have played an important role, yet exchanges have remained minimal. Next, a historical assessment of translations into French of Indian literature written in English and Bengali has led us to the conclusion that certain authors stood out, such as Tagore and Rushdie. After an analysis of Amit Chaudhuri's novel, its essential features are discussed: its "Bengaliness", which results from its interest in the daily details of Calcuttan life, its inscription in Bengali culture and its intertextuality with other Bengali literary works and films. The essential features of the work are taken up in the translation commentary which relies on some of Antoine Berman's theories. The theoretical framework put forward by Berman does not impede the translating subject's reflection. The translation commentary also relies on Sukanta Chaudhuri's ideas on the cultural encounter provoked by translation.


identifier: Han, SangSoo  (2002) Three dimensional numerical modeling of mixing at river confluences.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: River confluences are key sites in river systems where, when the difference in depth between the two incoming streams can give rise to a distortion of the mixing layer and to upwelling of the deeper channel fluid in the shallower channel. This has been shown to enhance mixing between the two rivers. In the present study, the relation between the confluence bed geometry and the mixing characteristics is studied using a three-dimensional numerical model (PHOENICS software).  Curvilinear coordinates and modified k-f closure model are used to investigate the flow structure for a laboratory confluence model and a field stream confluence. A scalar tracer with different concentrations was introduced in the main and the tributary channels of the simulated numerical model to examine the mixing rates in the region downstream of the junction. The tracer is subject to both convection and turbulent diffusion.  The results displayed the enhanced mixing due to the amplified secondary flow pattern triggered by the effect of bed discordance. Numerical simulations at two flow conditions of the natural confluence with a similar bed discordance in the tributary also confirmed that a rapid mixing occurs due to the effect of bed discordance


identifier: Ghassemian, Reza  (2002) Evaluation of flight simulation software development tools.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: One of the CAE product lines is commercial aircraft flight simulators for which over 400 engineers develop the simulation codes. Currently, aircraft design documents are converted into source code manually. This approach is time consuming, generates large number of errors in the code, and the code generated is very hard to debug. An alternative approach is to use commercially available software development tools to implement the design documents into a visual environment and automatically generate the simulation code for the implemented model. This approach is expected to reduce the software development process, minimize the number of errors in the generated simulation software, and provide user-friendly environment for debugging the code more easily and efficiently, and plus many more advantages. This thesis contributes in the development of such an approach. It addresses the new software development method using MATRIX X which is one of the leading commercial software development tools widely used in aerospace industries. Two aircraft systems, medium commercial jet's flight warning computer and a generic autopilot, have been chosen to evaluate the use of MATRIX X as software development tool. This thesis will explore the use of MATRIX X and its advantages over manual coding, and will identify if there are any evaluation criteria or implementation issues that will make the use of MATRIX X impractical. In addition, it will be examined if there is any need for post-processing utility to adapt the generated code to flight simulation software environment.


identifier: Radulescu, Steluta Budrean  (2002) High availability solution for a transactional database system.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: In our increasingly wired world, there is stringent need for the IT community to provide uninterrupted services of networks, servers and databases. Considerable efforts, both by industrial and academic communities have been directed to this end. In this project, we examine the requirements for high availability, the measures used to express it, and the approaches used to implement this for databases. The purpose of this project is to present a high availability solution, using off-the-shelf hardware and software components, for fast fallback and restart in a fast changing transaction-based application. The approach uses synchronous replication, which, in case of a failure, is able to resynchronize the databases without shutting down the system.


identifier: Wang, Tianyu  (2002) Tree auto-configuration for the reliable multicast transport protocol.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The Reliable Multicast Transport Protocol is a hierarchical transport level protocol for IP multicast that provides reliable data transmission. The objective of this thesis is to define and implement the Tree Auto-Configuration algorithm, which generates a tree topology used for tree based reliable multicast transport protocols. The tree topology is comprised of a pre-deployed mesh, multiple senders, local service nodes, and a large number of receivers. We implement this algorithm in C++ based on Meta-Transport Library, which is a set of C++ base classes designed to present an infrastructure for building transport protocols.


identifier: Wang, Ligang  (2002) Modelling and verification of interworking between SIP and H.323.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Various standards organizations have considered signaling for voice and video over IP from different approaches. There are currently two standards for signaling and control of Internet telephone calls, namely ITU-T Recommendation H.323 and the IETF Session Initiation Protocol (SIP).  H.323 is an umbrella standard that provides a well-defined system architecture and implementation guidelines that cover the entire call set-up, call control, and the media used in the call. SIP is a text-based protocol that was designed to work hand in hand with other core Internet protocols such as HTTP.  Both protocols provide comparable functionality using different mechanisms and provide similar quality of service. While SIP is more flexible and scalable, H.323 offers better network management and interoperability. Although there are numerous industry debates about the merits of the two protocols, the truth is that both of them, along with other complementary protocols, are necessary to provide universal access and to support IP-based enhanced services.  Both protocols have been widely deployed, so interworking between SIP and H.323 is essential to ensure full end-to-end connectivity. Because of the inherent differences between H.323 and SIP, accommodation must be made to allow interworking between the two protocols.  In this thesis, a new system model is established for simulating and verifying interworking between SIP and H.323. Five main components of this system are modelled by SDL/MSC: H.323 endpoint, H.323 gatekeeper, SIP-H.323 interworking facility, SIP server, SIP endpoint. Two configurations have been used in this model. One is that both protocols work within the same administrative domain, the other one is that both protocols are operating in separate administrative domains. Using a series of scenarios, it has been shown that the model meets the functional specifications outlined in SIP-H323-Interworking specification documents.


identifier: Mesa, Yohanna  (2002) Approximate reinsurance premiums.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: Approximate reinsurance premiums

abstract: Insurance is a risk transfer mechanism, which allows individuals and firms to reduce the uncertainty about their future cash flows. It provides financial compensation for the effects of misfortune through the establishment of a fund, into which all insured pay premiums and from which benefits are paid when insured events occur.  These uncertainty is usually modeled through two distinct components the claim frequency and the claim severity, since in any given year, neither the number of claims nor their severity is known in advance. The usual stochastic insurance model is thus a random sum called the aggregate claims, where the random number of variables summed represents the claim frequency, while each variable summed represents the claims severities. Each play an important role in the model.  Usually it is difficult to obtain the exact aggregate claims distribution, although it is important to researchers and practitioners in actuarial science. Several approximations have been suggested to this purpose. In particular, Chaubey et al. [3] proposed a new inverse gaussian-gamma mixture approximation.  The main goal of this thesis is to study approximation methods to calculate stop-loss reinsurance premiums, including a proposal based on the inverse gaussian-gamma mixture approximation.  Various graphical and numerical illustrations are given in support of our conclusions.


identifier: Dinh, Gwladys Tran  (2002) Impact of relationships in business-to-business : what is communicated during the first contact?  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study is an exploration of the social and psychological aspect of what makes the first impression between a buyer and a salesperson in the Fine Chemistry industry (pharmaceutical and cosmetics). The emphasis is placed on the buyer's appreciation of both the supplier's global offer and its salespersons' attitudes during the first meeting. The research took place in two countries: Canada and France with the purpose to find a parallel in industrial managers' understanding of relationship theories.  The results indicate an opening of the relationship marketing in a highly technical industry where the complexity of the products has always generated buyers' rational ways of thinking. Also, these findings show a difference of importance in the perception of the several relational-oriented items between the two countries surveyed.  Managerial as well as theoretical implications are discussed and limitations are provided that can be converted into practical advice for future research on a related topic.


identifier: Rusu, Gabriela  (2002) Corporate hedging policy and the accuracy of analysts' forecasts : evidence from large, non-financial U.S. corporations.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This paper examines the accuracy of forecasts of financial analysts in light of the hedging policies of the S&P 500 non-financial companies over the 1994-1997 period. Given that hedging reduces the volatility of cash flows, we ask whether it allows financial analysts to provide more accurate forecasts for firms that hedge than for firms that do not. Three data sources are used to construct the data set for this study: the Edgar database, Compustat and I/B/E/S. Univariate and multivariate tests are run in order to determine the effect of the usage of derivative products for hedging purposes, as well as that of the level of the usage, on analysts' forecasts accuracy. Only interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk hedging are considered, separately and together as the total hedging variable. The empirical results show that neither the involvement, nor the degree of involvement in hedging activities of a firm will result in more accurate forecasts, when considering the 1-year forecasts. Interest rate hedging and overall hedging do not impact on the accuracy of forecasts in a statistically significant way. However, surprisingly, the results show an increase in the forecast error when the company is involved in higher levels of foreign exchange hedging. The results also show evidence that the further away in time the forecast is made, the more relevant the hedging policies of a company are to the analyst.


identifier: Mavidis, Anastasia  (2001) Advocacy intentions : the relationship of service quality, satisfaction and personality with a surgical experience.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: In specialized health care services, the context of this study, positive word-of-mouth and referrals are better devices than mass advertising and promotion techniques. Because advocacy intentions are conducive to success in such an industry, they are of prime interest in this study. A patient's willingness to talk to others about their service experience has serious financial outcomes and can serve as a valuable marketing resource to the facility as seen in this study on the Shouldice Hospital.  Much literature agrees that service quality and satisfaction are antecedents to positive behavioural intentions. However, the research goal is to study various independent relationships that affect advocacy intentions specifically. This study attempts to prove that advocacy intentions will be highest when patients' perception of overall service quality, technical (physical signals) and functional (human interaction) quality, and satisfaction are at their highest. In addition, personality is added to the model to suggest that certain personality types are positively related to advocacy intentions over others, an area gone understudied


identifier: Li Kam Wa, Peter  (2001) The critical success factors of customer relationship management (CRM) technological initiatives.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Customers are any organizations' best assets. As an increasing number of organizations realize the importance of becoming more customer-centric in today's competitive economy, they are also discovering that they must deliver knowledge about their customers, products, and services internally (i.e across multiple organizational functions) and externally (i.e at all customer touch points). Therefore, enterprise executives are interested in knowing the Critical Success Factors that will drive their Customer Relationship Management (CRM) technological initiatives. CRM technological initiatives help foster a customer-centric business strategy, the diffusion of knowledge, a unified face to all customers, and a holistic view of customers.  There is no empirical research, to our knowledge, that delves into an understanding of the Critical Success Factors behind CRM technological initiatives. Nor has it been demonstrated that different profiles of Critical Success Factors exist for specific CRM technological initiatives such as Customer Support and Service (CSS), Sales Force Automation (SFA), and Enterprise Marketing Automation (EMA). This thesis compiles the Critical Success Factors of CRM technological initiatives using empirical data from 101 organizations across Canada. The Partial Least Squares (PLS) Structural Equation Modeling method was used to analyze the collected data. A comparison between 57 adopters of CRM technology and 44 non-adopters of CRM technology indicates that the levels of strategic perceived benefits, top management support, and knowledge management capabilities differ between these two independent groups.  The core finding of this study reveals that technological readiness, alone, does not lead to successful CRM technological initiatives. Possessing knowledge management capabilities emerges as the most significant critical success factor of CRM technological initiatives and is strongly related to technological readiness. Top management support is significant for all CRM technological initiatives with the exception of the SFA CRM Infrastructure.


identifier: Hosseini, Mojgan  (2002) Economic flutuations [sic] and gender division of labour force.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Sociological literature embodies a great deal of research on labour market. The Gender division of labour force, as a sociological aspect of labour market, has been the subject of extensive research in the past few decades. In this thesis we have formulated three questions which have been essentially derived from the literature on this subject. The questions pose possible gender based differences during the economic hardship of the 1980s among three groups of labour force participants, namely, unemployed participants, those who held involuntary part-time work, and those who had to leave their jobs due to family responsibilities. The labour force data for 1980s have been used to examine the questions. Our observations indicate that during the recession of 1983, on the average, men seem to have a higher rate of unemployment than women in the goods-producing sector. While the rate of involuntary part-time work is almost equal for both genders, regardless of sector, during the recession of 1983, the average rate of job leaving is, however, higher for women compared to men. These observations have been discussed from the perspective of Human Capital theory and Feminist theory. Job segregation theory has also been considered, though to a much lesser extent. The data have also been explored for the possible impact of some determinant variables, such as education and occupation, on the observed gender based differences.


identifier: Werk, Christine M  (2002) Long-term potentiation in the sensorimotor cortex of the awake rat is effectively induced by theta-patterned stimulation.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The neocortex of awake animals is resistant to the induction of long-term synaptic potentiation (LTP). To determine if intense stimulation patterned after the theta (4-12 Hz) electroencephalographic (EEG) rhythm may be effective in inducing synaptic plasticity in the sensorimotor cortex, LTP induction was examined in vivo using single 300-Hz trains and paired trains delivered at a 100-ms interval. Consistent with previous findings, single 300-Hz trains caused a reduction of the early monosynaptic field potential component, reflecting UP of inputs to layer V, and a facilitation of the late polysnaptic component, reflecting the spread of activation across layer V. In response to paired trains, however, there was minimal change in the early component and a much larger increase in the late component as compared to single 300-Hz trains. To investigate the mechanisms mediating the effectiveness of paired trains in inducing UP, an NMDA receptor antagonist was administered and effects on responses to UP induction stimuli and short-pulse trains at theta-frequency were assessed. NMDA-receptor antagonism reduced the early and late component amplitudes and the amount of short-term facilitation observed during repetitive stimulation. This indicates that theta-patterned stimulation induces short-term potentiation effects that involve substantial NMDA-receptor mediated synaptic currents. Therefore, the enhanced induction of UP in the neocortex induced by paired trains versus 300-Hz trains is likely due to enhanced NMDA receptor activation. These results suggest that learning-related plasticity in the sensorimotor neocortex may be promoted by rhythmic, population activity at theta-frequency.


identifier: Pandy, Anand  (2002) Experimental investigation and modeling of anisotropic etching of silicon in tetra-methyl ammonium hydroxide.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Anisotropic etching of silicon is a fundamental process in micro-systems technology (MST) and in the fabrication of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). This work addresses the fundamental atomic mechanisms of anisotropic etching of single-crystal silicon, by wagon-wheel-based under-etch experiments of n and d silicon in TMAH at 25wt%, 19wt%, 17wt%, 15wt%, 12wt% and 9wt% at 80C̕. The under-etched surfaces often consist of two to three facets. The inclination angles of these facets are categorized in two modes, as being defined either by periodic bond chains, or by rows of atoms each having two dangling bonds. Using the facet information, a simple atomic model is applied to the under-etch rates, based on removal frequencies of the chains or rows ( f p and f k ), and based on steps on flat o planes. Variations of under-etched surfaces near enough to o planes are well-matched by the model. Planes near n and d cannot be matched by this simple formulation. Effective f k and f p are calculated for all the experimental cases. The etching of the same crystallographic features can vary substantially at different geometrical attitudes, in identical etchant conditions.


identifier: Brisson, Janet V  (2001) The Holy Spirit in Christianity and in the world.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study begins with a search for the Christian understanding of the Holy Spirit as found in the Scriptures and in the writings of the Fathers of the Early Church. It examines the exclusive nature of the Church's understanding of the activity of the Holy Spirit and reflects upon what it means for a Christian to live a life "in the Spirit". Selected documents of the Vatican II Council are examined in order to underline the shift in the Church's understanding of the Holy Spirit from an exclusive to an inclusive view of the Holy Spirit. This study is discussed within the framework of the terms exclusivism, inclusivism and pluralism which have come into use since Vatican II. It seeks to clarify the possible and probable position that the Holy Spirit is active in other World Faiths.


identifier: Rak, Valeria-Sabina  (2002) Église Orthodoxe Roumaine de l'Annonciation : 8080, rue Christophe-Colomb, Montréal (Québec) Canada : étude architecturale.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Trois aspects seront abordés: le profil sociologique de l'église dans le premier chapitre, son histoire politique dans le deuxième et son esthétique dans le dernier chapitre. En sachant que toute structure architecturale gagne de l'importance dans son contexte, chacun de ces aspects a des répercussions sur la perception et la signification de l'architecture elle-même. Un bâtiment est, avant tout, fonctionnel et doit donc être perçu à l'intérieur de ses fonctions. Pour conclure, tous les éléments ci-haut mentionnés seront réunis pour en faire un récit d'ensemble de l'architecture de cette bâtisse religieuse aussi complet que possible.


identifier: Al Ohali, Yousef  (2002) Handwritten word recognition : application to Arabic cheque processing.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis presents a study to process Arabic handwritten cheques. It includes the development of a unique set of databases that constitute a solid base for research in this domain. The databases are unique in terms of their source, domain and tags validation process. First, they are originated from real-world bank cheques, which, to the best of our knowledge, has never been reached in a university setting. Second, it constitutes the only databases in the domain of Arabic handwritten cheques so far. To the best of our knowledge, there is no database that provides training and testing samples for Arabic cheques. Third, it involved a unique tagging validation process that takes advantage of the embedded redundancy in the format of the cheque to verify the tagging process. A grammar to validate Arabic legal amounts and translate them to numerical values is also included.  This work includes an efficient method to derive one-dimensional feature sequence that preserves the dynamics of the original two-dimensional images. This is very important to accommodate small variations while modeling two-dimensional signals. The thesis provides a detailed description of an improved graph representation of sub-word images, a more efficient method to extract dynamic information from two-dimensional images and a clear positioning of the applicability of other curve-ordering criteria, e.g. vision rules.  In addition, this thesis includes a significant improvement in the discrimination power of HMM which allows the differentiation between short sub-words and longer ones that share significant initial observation sequences. It also allows the HMM to properly classify incomplete observation sequences. The improvement is achieved by introducing a new parameter to the HMM called the termination probability.  Included in this work are tests that prove the applicability and efficiency of the above contributions. At the time of this dissertation, our survey indicates that this work is the only research in the literature which handles images of handwritten sub-words extracted from Arabic cheques. The results of this study show a 94.36% sub-word recognition rate on the top 10 choices. Error analysis indicates some errors caused by the pre-processing (48%), feature extraction (28%) and classification (24%) modules


identifier: Légaré, Geneviève  (2002) An investigation of the effect of task design on the development of critical thinking skills by engineering students.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: There is much literature on the theory, the practice and the research on critical thinking skills. Several theoretical definitions have been proposed for these skills which are also referred to as "higher order thinking skills". Although Bloom's taxonomy of cognitive skills still serves as the groundwork for the study of critical thinking skills, categories such as "analysis", "synthesis" and "evaluation" have been refined over the years by subsequent scholars and researchers. Hence, more current models tend to include aspects such as metacognitive skills, handling multiple perspectives, decision making skills and critical thinking dispositions.  The rationale for teaching critical thinking skills at all levels of the educational process is not questioned: it is generally assumed that these skills are desirable for any students to function adequately in society. The challenge, however, becomes one of teaching methods. It is assumed that constructivist approaches provide more opportunities to engage critical thinking skills than regular teacher-centered methods because they usually offer novel problems or perplexing situations.  However, research on teaching critical thinking skills, especially in higher education, remains sparse. Most studies, exploratory in nature, are conducted with very small groups of participants, mainly in social science domains. Content of online collaborative discussions, usually facilitated by an instructor who uses a scaffolding strategy, tends to be the preferred source of data for research on critical thinking skills.  This study investigated the effect of task design on the development of critical thinking skills by engineering students. It was hypothesized that the introduction of complexity in instructional activities would increase the incidence of critical thinking skills. Specifically, a "complexity" variable was incorporated in the instructional tasks carried out individually by the participants. Participants (N = 65) were fourth year engineering students registered in the course "Impacts of Technology on Society" (Engr 492) at Concordia University.  A quasi-experimental time-series design was used to carry out this study, which was conducted over a period of six weeks. Five instructional tasks constituted the treatments; students' written productions provided the main source of data. Individual feedback and instructor's interventions during the data collection were controlled. Students were debriefed upon completion of Task 4. Performance on the first two tasks provided the baseline for the pre-treatment level of students' critical thinking skills. The baseline of the treatment group was compared with that of the non-treatment group to establish group equivalence.  A modified version of Herrington and Oliver's synthesis of critical thinking skills instrument was used to analyze the data. A trend analysis confirmed that the overall treatment had a positive effect on the incidence of observed critical thinking skills. Results indicated that the first level of the complexity variable embedded in the case study (Task 3) triggered a higher incidence of critical thinking, as well as a different set of critical thinking skills. On the second level of complexity, students in Tasks 4 and 5 showed fewer instances of critical thinking skills than in the earlier Tasks. An exploration of the outcome on those tasks suggests that simulation, as an instructional approach, provides too much complexity for individual learners, and so does not trigger a higher incidence of observable critical thinking skills. The results are discussed both in terms of implications for instructional design and for conducting research about critical thinking.


identifier: Legault, Ellen  (2002) Argumentive reasoning about the causes of personal problems.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Psychotherapy asks clients to change the way they think about their difficulties, including attributions of causes. Sometimes clients come to surprising, even ill-founded, conclusions. What kind of reasoning do people use in arriving at beliefs concerning the causes of personal problems? The reasoning literature suggests there are many weaknesses in human reasoning in other domains (e.g., social and physical). The literature suggests skill in reasoning is acquired slowly and as a result of repeated engagement in reasoning challenges. Yet, even when skill improves, poorer quality reasoning strategies remain in the reasoner's repertoire and are sometimes used. An individual's reasoning performance is therefore likely to fluctuate with changes in the demands of the reasoning task and the cues available in the situation. The present study examined (a) the informal reasoning skills demonstrated by participants when talking about the causes of personal problems and (b) the effect of two different therapeutic approaches on type and quality of reasoning processes. To test the effect of two different styles of therapy 90 participants were randomly assigned to one of 3 groups: a control group, a cognitive group, or a childhood group. The control group received no intervention, the cognitive group received an analogue of a cognitive therapy session, and the childhood group received an intervention designed to encourage the participant to instantiate the theory that a current personal problem was caused by a pattern of experience that began in childhood. Following the intervention, argumentive and epistemological reasoning were elicited from all participants during semi-structured interviews modeled on interviews used by Kuhn (1991). Interview protocols were coded for degree of success in the skills of argument (developing theory, finding supporting evidence, developing opposing theories, finding counterevidence, and rebutting counterarguments) and for epistemology. Reasoning about the causes of personal problems showed many of the characteristics of reasoning in other domains. However, more participants than in other studies expressed a high degree of confidence in their theories. Participants often used unsuccessful or poor quality evidence to support their theories. Type of analogue therapeutic intervention was nonsignificantly related to argumentive reasoning quality.


identifier: Wood, Wendy-Jo  (2001) Do people perceive women as worrying more than men? : a status account of the gender stereotypes of worry.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Research indicates that people perceive women as experiencing more fear than men (Brody & Hall, 1993) and research also shows that worry is related to fear (Borkovec, Robinson, Pruzinsky, & Depree). The purpose of this Study 1 was to explore how people perceive men and women to worry overall as well as in specific domains. Three hundred and one Concordia University students completed two worry questionnaires to measure overall amount of worry and worry in specific domains. The results showed that people perceive women as experiencing more worry than men and men as experiencing more worry about achievement, finances, and incompetence. A second objective was to compare people's perceptions of men and women's worry to their perceptions of high and low-status individuals' worry to determine if a status model is a viable option for explaining the gender stereotypes of worry that emerged in Study 1. Women generally have lower status than men (Rhoodie, 1989), which leads to the hypothesis that people perceive low-status individuals as worrying more overall as well as worrying more about relationships. In contrast, people perceive high-status individuals as worrying more about achievement, finances and incompetence. Sixty-two Concordia University students listened to a tape describing a culture that consists of high and low-status individuals. Participants completed modified versions of the worry questionnaires used in Study 1 to measure their perceptions of low and high-status individuals' worry. The findings suggest that status is a viable model for explaining the stereotype of overall worry that emerged from Study 1.


identifier: Wei, Wenyu  (2001) Neural network-based controllers for an electrothermal furnace system.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Neural network schemes are applied in this thesis to a temperature control system problem. The electrothermal furnace is a very popular instrument for applications in material testing area. In this work feedforward neural networks are trained for both identification and control problems of the electrothermal furnace system.  The thesis demonstrates that neural networks can be used effectively for this application problem, which is a highly nonlinear dynamical system. The first emphasis is on the electrothermal furnace model identification and the second emphasis is on the design of neural network based PID and internal model control strategies. Both static and dynamic back-propagation methods are discussed. In the electrothermal furnace models that are introduced, multi-layer feedforward networks are interconnected in novel configurations.  A novel technique based on the internal model control for nonlinear systems using neural networks is proposed. The control structure proposed directly incorporates a model of the plant that was identified by a neural network and its inverse as part of the control strategy. The potential utilizations of the proposed methods are illustrated through experimental and numerical simulations of an electrothermal furnace system.


identifier: ChampRoux, Nicolas  (2001) Les relations incestueuses entre la photographie et l'architecture moderne : la représentation photographique de la Place Ville-Marie entre septembre 1962 et février 1963.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Ce mémoire tente d'identifier le caractère spécifique des photographies représentant la Place Ville Marie et publiées dans le livret promotionnel, les journaux quotidiens et les revues d'architecture, entre septembre 1962 et février 1963. Nous portons une attention toute particulière sur les relations entre la photographie et la société de consommation moderne en constant renouvellement. Nous notons une tension paradoxale entre les iléaux modernistes cherchant à créer une architecture fonctionnelle dépourvue de style qui serait, par sa perfection technique, définitive, et les conditions de la vie moderne qui consomme systématiquement toute nouveauté par soif d'idéal et qui se lasse d'un objet, architectural ou autre, après que ce darnier ait cessé d'être neuf.  En commençant par l'historique de la Place Ville-Marie, nous constaterons importance des changements portés au plan et la portée symbolique du bâtiment dans l'esprit populaire. Identifiant ensuite les fondements de rarchitecture moderniste, nous jetterons une lumière nouvelle sur la lettre d'intention rédigée par l'architecte Henry N. Cobb et l'urbaniste Vincent Ponte, tous deux responsables du projet. Il sera alors temps d'aborder le concept de modernité afin de mieux comprendre l'importance du médium photographique dans la représentation de l'univers contemporain soumis à un renouvellement constant. Enfin, nous étudierons une sélection d'images représentant Place Ville-Made et articulons notre argument en une série de trois comparaisons, juxtaposant les clichés avec: l'historique de la photographie d'architecture; la critique du projet moderniste, les images publicitaires contemporaines.


identifier: Holakoo, Ladan  (2001) On the capability of rhamnolipids for oil spill control of surface water.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Since the risk of oil spills will never diminish and they continue to be a recurring event, methods to manage them are required to be cost efficient and effective. Dispersants are one of the practical responses to oil spills at sea to break the slick into fine droplets. To reduce toxicity of dispersants in the marine environment and enhance biodegradation of the dispersed oil, biosurfactants can be used instead of chemical surfactants in the dispersant formulations.  The objective of this research was to evaluate the capability of the biosurfactant rhamnolipid (JBR425) in dispersing oil slicks and ways to improve its efficiency. At 25C̕ and salinity of 35[per thousand], JBR425 (2%) in saline applied at a dispersant-oil ratio (DOR) of 1:2, could disperse 65% of Brut crude oil into the water without settling, but the percentage drops to 12.5% after 2 min of settling. Different solvents and additives were used to increase its efficiency in terms of percentage dispersion and stabilization of the dispersed oil in water. Starch and cellulose, as natural polymeric additives, were used to increase the stability of the emulsion but they were not effective. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)


identifier: McHarg, Stephen  (2002) Equity financing decisions : a Canadian perspective.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: We document the operating performance of Canadian firms that issue different types of seasoned equity financings (common shares, units, warrants) and initial public offerings in the years prior to and following their issue. The results indicate that the operating performance of public firms that issue equity decline in the years following such issues. This underperformance is more pronounced among firms with smaller market capitalizations. The price to book ratio is not a significant determinant of the change in median operating performance of issuers after issue. The operating performance of issuing firms in the consumer products industry underperforms that of the industrial, natural products, and 'others' industries.


identifier: Lekkas, Georgia  (2002) Option pricing in the presence of warrants.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study estimates option prices via a recombining binomial tree incorporating the effect of warrant dilution on the capital structure of the firm (Warrant Dilution Option-Pricing model--WDOP). The binomial lattice is constructed on the value of the firm under the assumption of constant volatility of the rate of return of the firm value.  The mean percentage prediction error and the mean absolute value of the mean prediction error indicate that the predicted option prices deviate significantly from the observed option prices. The weak predicting performance of the WDOP model doesn't seem to follow a systematic pattern. This is true even when the sample is divided into subcategories based on option moneyness, and option and warrant life.  We tested the WDOP model with one parameter, the volatility of the rate of return of the firm value, estimated out-of-sample.  We compare the WDOP model with the Black Schole option-pricing model (hereafter B/S) applied to the options without taking into account the equity dilution effect.  Finally, we calculate the warrant prices throughout the sample


identifier: Kolomytsyn, Dmitriy  (2002) The valuation effects of the changes in state-level interstate multi bank holding company legislation on the U.S. commercial banks' stock returns.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This paper examines the effect of in-state and out-of-state liberalization of interstate banking regulation on U.S. bank stock returns and risk during the period 1982-92. The empirical findings suggest that shareholders have a positive attitude towards laws with national provisions and a negative attitude to laws, allowing for only regional reciprocity. The bank portfolios produce positive abnormal returns around the dates when the interstate banking bill, allowing some form of reciprocity is first introduced by either the Bankers Association or state bankers, demonstrating a market enthusiasm about news of coming changes. The banks' exposure to market related risk is directly related to the degree of reciprocity granted by the home state. According to Gross State Product (GSP) figures and the number of failing banks in each state, the poorest states with the weakest banking sector tend to choose the most liberal form of interstate banking legislation. The results also reveal a drop in the actual number of banking institutions for the majority of states and an increase in the number of branches and publicly traded banks after the deregulation becomes effective.


identifier: Huang, Qinchao  (2002) Effects of coupons on brand categorization and choice processes of fast food in China.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study, first of all, tests the Brisoux-Laroche Brand Categorization Model and the Laroche Competitive Vulnerability Model in the context of the choice of fast-food restaurants in China. It also examines the effects of coupons on attitudes and intention of the two models.  By supporting the hypothesized profiles of the four brand categories (consideration, hold, foggy, and rejects sets ), the results empirically validate the Brisoux-Laroche Brand Categorization Model. Also by examining the relationships between brand cognitions, attitudes, confidence and intention among the focal and its competing brands, the Laroche Competitive Vulnerability Model is supported.  Coupon incentive is suggested to have positive effects on the same brand's attitude and intention, and negative effects on the competing brands' attitudes and intention. Cultural dimension and fast-food brand profiles in China are discussed. Suggestions for future research and managerial implications are provided.


identifier: Farah, Assaad  (2002) Crew resource management training and airline accident prevention.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Human resource training in the airline industry is of cardinal importance for aviation safety. Pilots are the key players in this industry and human resource training dedicated at reducing pilot error plays a significant role in decreasing a large number of aircraft mishaps. Crew Resource Management is the elite training method that deals with human error reduction within the aviation industry. This study proposes that the evolution of Crew Resource Management training helps reducing particular types of airline pilot errors. Archival data on aircraft mishaps in the United States taken from the National Transportation Safety Board is used in the evaluation of the aforementioned training development.


identifier: Bonaccio, Silvia  (2002) The effect of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation on social loafing.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Decreased performance in group settings, labeled social loafing, has previously been attributed to the lack of identifiability of individual performance. However, some research indicates that the power of identifiability may depend on motivational orientation. The purpose of this laboratory experiment was to understand the effects of different motivational styles on social loafing. Specifically, motivation was thought to moderate the relationship between identifiability of individual outputs and performance. Participants were subjected to a priming manipulation intended to elicit intrinsic or extrinsic motivational states. They also worked under one of three group settings, which were intended to create a condition conducive to social loafing, and two control conditions. It was expected that extrinsically motivated participants working in a group where their individual efforts would be unidentifiable would show the highest levels of social loafing. Results indicate that the priming manipulation was unsuccessful, which explains why the main hypothesis was not supported. The value of using a motivational analysis in social loafing research is discussed.


identifier: Askarova, Lola  (2002) Consumer brand choice and categorization processes in a post Soviet country : Kazakhstan.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Two multi-brand models of consumer brand choice behavior have emerged and have been tested over the years and in a number of countries. The Brisoux-Laroche brand categorization model permits one to predict consumer brand choice by knowing the focal brand's location in a certain category or set in the consumer's mind. The competitive vulnerability model allows prediction of consumer's brand choice by knowing his or her cognitions of, attitudes and intentions toward, and confidence in evaluation of the focal brand as well as competing brands.  The net utility analysis is yet another approach to forecasting changes in the consideration set membership. Bliemel's (1984) price-quality evaluations framework sheds more light on the brand categorization process and assists in understanding consumers' brand choice behavior from a perspective of the net utility concept.  In this study we test the Brisoux-Laroche categorization model, price-quality framework and the Laroche's competitive vulnerability model in a setting new to the North American tradition of consumer behaviour research, a post-Soviet country with a transitional economy, Kazakhstan.  Testing all three frameworks in this study is led by a general goal--to understand how Kazakhstan consumers arrive at their purchase decisions. It was hypothesized that three frameworks would be useful in explaining brand choice and categorization behaviors of Kazakhstan consumers.  The Kazakhstan beer market serves as a subject of study. The study is concluded with interesting managerial implications that could be useful to manufacturers, brand managers and other marketing practitioners working in Kazakhstan beer industry.


identifier: Loeschner, Kristina  (2002) Symmetry in combinatorial optimization.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: Symmetry in combinatorial optimization

abstract: Integer optimization is in the class of NP-hard problems, and it is very time and memory intensive to find optimal solutions. In this thesis an algorithm will be developed to improve the efficiency in solving a linear integer program if there are symmetries in the problem, that is, variables can be permuted without changing the integer program. Using the group of symmetries, the size of the feasible set can be restricted. For the smaller optimization problem, common solution methods will be able to find the optimal solutions faster than for the original problem. The set of all optimal solutions can be generated from the determined ones by applying the symmetry group.


identifier: Temcheff, Caroline Elizabeth  (2002) Longitudinal predictors of family violence and parenting style : a study of high-risk individuals.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Numerous researchers have suggested that an aggressive behavioural style is more stable over time in boys than girls. This literature has recently been called into question by studies demonstrating that girls' styles of expressing aggression may be different from boys', and that aggression may occur in different contexts for males and females across the life course. The present study explored longitudinal predictors of self-reported family violence and parenting styles in men and women with childhood histories that placed them at high-risk for various psycho-social problems. Three main questions are addressed: (a) Within a high-risk sample, to what extent can we use participants' past histories of aggression and withdrawal to predict spousal and parental violence and parenting style? (b) Can we make the same predictions for both men and women? and (c) What are the developmental and current life variables that favor/hinder the development and practice of violence in the home and positive parenting strategies?


identifier: Sinai, Marco  (2002) Age and task difficulty effects on task-switching : an event-related potentials study.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Aging has been associated with a decline in executive functions. The ability to switch between tasks is thought to require executive processes. Given that aging has been associated with relative sparing of semantic memory and relative decline in episodic memory, it was hypothesized (a) that older subjects would be slower than their younger counterparts when switching to an episodic task, and (b) that brain activation would be different in both groups. Event Related Potentials (ERP) and Reaction Times (RT) were measured in a cued task-switching paradigm where subjects had to switch between two semantic and two episodic tasks. As expected, episodic tasks were slower than semantic tasks and switch trials were slower than repeat trials in both groups. The absence of group RT differences was probably due to the high functioning status of the elderly participants. Contrary to expectations, episodic switch costs were smaller than semantic switch costs in both groups. As expected, the cue-locked waveform was characterized by a preparatory like negativity. Although the two groups' ERP waves had similar shapes, only the young group had significant condition effects. A significant N400 attenuation to the semantic repeat condition relative to the episodic repeat and switch conditions was interpreted as an index of task-set facilitation. As expected, target-locked activity was characterized by a larger P300 following repeat trials compared to switch trials and was interpreted as more efficient processing of repeat than switch trials. The results are discussed in relation to various task-switching models and in relation to aging and executive processes.


identifier: Mobayyen, Forouzan  (2002) Semantic memory organization for verb concepts : proactive interference as a function of content and structure.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The featural and the categorical proposals of semantic memory organization were investigated through the use of a variant of the release from proactive interference (PI) paradigm. Six categories of verb concepts were employed: verbs similar in semantic and argument structure; verbs similar in argument, semantic and morphological structure; verbs similar in semantic content; verbs similar in argument and morphological structure and semantic content; and verbs similar in argument structure. As controls, three categories of nouns (e.g., fruits) were employed. Three main hypotheses were examined in three PI experiments conducted on healthy young adults: (1) If verb concepts were represented on the basis of semantic structure, then verb concepts sharing semantic structure were expected to generate the most substantial amount of build-up effect; (2) If concepts were represented on the basis of shared semantic content, then words sharing semantic content were expected to generate the most substantial amount of build-up effect; (3) Assuming that noun and verb concepts were encoded differentially, a significant magnitude of PI release was expected as a function of a shift from pre-shift trials to the shift trials.


identifier: Kamkar, Katayoun  (2002) The role of attachments to mother, father, and peer in depression among male and female middle adolescents.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: While both parent and peer attachment security have been found to be related to adolescent's well-being, the relative importance of each on the adolescent's adjustment is in question. Further, insecure attachment appears to be a more important factor in depression for adolescent girls than boys (Kobak, Sudler, & Gamble, 1991). The present study investigates the role of parental and peer attachments in depression among adolescent boys and girls, and whether secure attachment to peers protects adolescents insecurely attached to parents, particularly girls, against depression. Adolescents (n = 176) completed self-reports measuring their depressed feelings and their attachment to mother, father, and best friend, and a computer task consisting of hypothetical situations in which they were asked how they would feel. The results suggested that attachment security to a close peer only protected girls insecurely attached to their father against depression. Attachment security to both parents appeared to protect adolescents against depression. These findings substantiate the importance of attachment security to parents in adolescence and the need to examine gender differences and the separate effects of both mother and father when studying the importance of security to parents and to peers on the adolescent's mental health.


identifier: Fossey, Myrtis-Eirene  (2002) Sleep quality, daytime functioning and psychological adjustment in chronic fatigue syndrome : a comparative analysis.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) has been a contentious diagnosis for many years. Without definitive laboratory tests, specific etiology, or effective treatment, it has long been characterized as a functional disorder with a substantial psychological component. Despite the almost universal complaint that they awaken unrefreshed and experience debilitating daytime fatigue, little is known about the sleep characteristics of individuals with CFS. Although psychological maladjustment has generally been assumed in CFS, reports as to its nature and role in the illness have been inconsistent.  The present study compares sleep characteristics, daytime functioning, general health and psychological adjustment in three samples: individuals with CFS, individuals with Narcolepsy and healthy Controls. Prevalence of physiologically based sleep disorder such as Sleep Apnea and Periodic Limb Movement Disorder was assessed by polysomnography. Sleep quality, daytime functioning, general health and psychological adjustment were evaluated by self-report measures.  Results indicate that 58% of the CFS sample was diagnosed with a primary sleep disorder as compared with 48% of those with Narcolepsy and 13% in Controls. Insomnia problems were reported by 86% of the CFS sample, 55% of the Narcolepsy sample, and 8% of the Control sample. Individuals with CFS manifested some psychological distress relative to Controls. Individuals with Narcolepsy were generally similar to those with CFS in this respect. This pattern of findings raises some important questions regarding the role of sleep disorder and insomnia in CFS symptomatology and the assumed etiological role of psychological maladjustment in this condition. Implications of these findings to future research are discussed.


identifier: Bell, Tricia  (2002) Maintaining infinite readiness for war : environmental wreckage and human misery.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis combines a study of case examples and theories of war to help illuminate the magnitude of environmental ruin and negative human impact of maintaining an infinite readiness for domination in war. I draw from a body of literature on theories of war to exemplify two major concepts: first, that the reach of the military into our everyday (civil) lives has blurred the boundaries of concepts like military and civil or war and peace; and second, that we are experiencing an intensification of destructive forces. I present evidence of the charge that the military is the worst environmental vandal worldwide, and yet can evade public scrutiny and legal liability. I also challenge the logic of pursuing military prowess to 'deter' the 'enemy' or 'protect' 'national security' by examining two specific examples, nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands and chemical warfare production at Rocky Mountain Arsenal. Finally, I assert that infinite war-readiness, or 'peace-fare', is a distinct historical marker in contemporary war and I highlight some of the factors influencing its evolution. An analysis of the lethality of 'peace-fare' military missions demands immediate attention because of the irrevocable environmental damage and potential for mutual annihilation that accompanies its pursuit. The time to oppose infinite militarization is now because it can only offer us insecurity, devastation, death, and potentially planetary annihilation.


identifier: Reiser, Patra  (2002) The cause of diamonds.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: The cause of diamonds.

abstract: The Cause of Diamonds depicts the emotional and mental breakdown of a young woman in contemporary Montreal. The two-part novel reflects a narrator endeavouring to harmonise her consciousness with her environment. Mia Diamond, narrator of the novel, is the offspring of a Canadian mother and a Greek father.  In Part I, the adult Mia takes the reader on a journey back to her childhood. Much of Part I takes place in the ancestral land of her father. The world of her extended paternal family is one of superstition and myth, where the names of the ancient Greek Gods are evoked regularly. There is a belief in fate, and the uselessness of fighting against predestination. While sifting through the labyrinth of her memories, Mia alternately reconstructs and revises an assembly of scenes and images, all the while struggling between appearance and reality. At the heart of the novel, the scene to which she constantly returns and which is ultimately the climax of the novel, is the scene of a family birthday dinner where a tragedy occurs.


identifier: Zhongxiao, Chen  (2002) Differing expectations : a study of Chinese children's integration into elementary school in Quebec.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis studies the integration process of a small sample of Chinese immigrant children in Quebec's public elementary schools. Specifically, it concentrates on the socio-cultural context of Quebec, and compares it with the Chinese home culture. It looks at the differing expectations of these two cultures, and determines whether they pose challenges for the academic and social achievement of Chinese children. The findings of the study show that Chinese immigrant children are experienced in facing a dual culture in their immigrant life. As China becomes the biggest immigrant resource country for Canada and Quebec, Chinese immigrant children are changing the composition of the Quebec classroom. The study also indicates that some teachers and educators are not very familiar with the Chinese culture, and tend to view the Chinese learner in a stereotypical way as 'inevitably destined for academic success'. There seems to be an urgent need for further research into ways to compromise the dual culture of the Chinese immigrant child.


identifier: Banasik, Brendan  (2002) Teacher turnover in isolated native communities : a qualitative reflection.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study is a reflection on the experience of living and teaching in isolated Native communities. A literature review and data derived from photographs are used to cross-reference the memories from a fifteen-year career living and teaching in First Nations and Inuit communities. Large and frequent staff turnover is examined and linked to culture shock and isolation, and the absence of a proper orientation for teachers arriving in cross-cultural situations. The topic is introduced after a literature review of the history of education for Canada's Native peoples. The phenomenon of turnover is then considered in light of the complexities of the teaching profession in general and the added dimension of Native teaching and learning styles. The use of data from photographs and personal narratives represent a phenomenological reflection on the experience. The study is not meant to provide definitive answers. It is intended to identify some pertinent questions and provide a perspective on the experience of cross-cultural teaching in isolated Native communities in Canada.


identifier: Émond, Anne-Marie  (2002) The effects of viewing historical art and contemporary art on cognitive dissonance and consonance as verbalized by adult visitors in a fine arts museum.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study explored the impact of two very different art forms on the production of cognitive dissonance and consonance by museum visitors. It involved an investigation of the verbalizations expressed by adult participants in reaction to the moments of conflict and enjoyment that they experienced while viewing historical and contemporary art.  The research methodology adopted for this study centred on the Thinking Aloud approach, which was used to collect visitor responses to artworks. The twelve subjects of this research were frequent art museum visitors, that is, people who visited museums at least twice a year. Their comments were tape-recorded as they walked through specified galleries. They were accompanied by the researcher, who acted as an observer. The transcripts of their verbalizations constituted the raw data used in the analysis. Weltzl-Fairchild's typologies of cognitive dissonance and consonance were the instruments used to analyse the verbalized musings of the subjects. Once their discourse was categorized into dissonant and consonant moments, it was further scrutinized in order to identify visitors' specific meaning.  This analysis revealed that the visitors produced more consonance than dissonance in response to both historical art and contemporary art. These findings indicate that the art form has an impact on the production of cognitive dissonance and consonance. They suggest, for instance, that visitors to the historical galleries, unlike visitors to the contemporary galleries, expect to use the criterion of realism to judge an artwork. Visitor responses to historical art were mostly associated with the notion of Beauty; in the case of contemporary art, however, they had to do with the concept of communication. Another noticeable difference between both art forms was linked to museum organization. Since visitor responses to historical art focussed on the historical context in which the works were created, visitors expected to see this reflected in the museum context. As for visitors to the contemporary art galleries, their attention was drawn to the actual context of the museum itself. This study suggests how art museum educators can empower visitors as they accompany them on their museum journey, and how the resulting overall museum experience can be a more positive one, whether that journey is characterized by moments of conflict or harmony.


identifier: Rubalcava Cervantes, Arturo  (2002) Essays on TSE shares cross-listed in U.S. trade venues.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The thesis consists of three essays. The first essay examines whether an international trade venue clientele effect exists for Canadian shares cross-listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), American Stock Exchange (AMEX) and National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System (NASDAQ). The main hypothesis states that for trades of Canadian cross-listed shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSE) and U.S. stock markets, assets with increasing (decreasing) trade costs as measured by the relative effective half-spreads across trade venues are held in portfolios with the same or expected increasing (decreasing) relative investors' holding periods. The results support this hypothesis for the Canadian cross-listed shares whose trades are executed on the TSE and each U.S. trade venue. The findings suggests that the TSE has consistently lost its share of executed order flow relative to the U.S. primary trade venues, and that this loss is associated with increased relative trade costs on the TSE.  The second essay analyzes the determinants of the price impact at the announcement and issue dates for domestic and international seasoned equity offerings (SEOs) for Canadian shares cross-listed on the NYSE/AMEX or NASDAQ. In addition, it analyzes whether the determinants for domestic and international SEOs are the same for shares cross-listed on the NYSE/AMEX and NASDAQ, respectively. The findings indicate that the determinants of the market reaction at the announcement and issue dates for the SEOs of the Canadian cross-listed shares differ for all the studied samples and are unambiguously dependent on the SEO geographic placement and cross-listing U.S. trade venue.  Finally, the third essay investigates whether the determinants of underwriter fees are the same for domestic and non-domestic SEOs by Canadian firms cross-listed on the NYSE/AMEX or NASDAQ. The results clearly indicate that the determinants of underwriting fees differ for the domestic and non-domestic SEOs. After controlling for differences in other relevant fee determinants, the underwriter fees for non-domestic SEOs are significantly higher for the Canadian shares cross-listed on the NASDAQ compared to those cross-listed on the NYSE/AMEX.