title: STATISTICAL AND METHODOLOGICAL ISSUES IN THE DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF NON-INFERIORITY CLINICAL TRIALS OF RADIOTHERAPY IN WOMEN WITH EARLY STAGE BREAST CANCER

contributor: Clinical Epidemiology/Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics

subject:
non-inferiority
clinical trials
breast cancer
radiotherapy
methodology

abstract:
Background and Objectives
We investigate three statistical and methodological issues within the context of non-inferiority randomized controlled trials (RCTs), specifically those of radiotherapy regimens for the prevention of local recurrence in patients with early stage breast cancer who have undergone breast conserving surgery. These issues are: (1) the analysis of multiple time-to-event outcomes in non-inferiority RCTs; (2) the interim analysis of a binary outcome that is repeatedly assessed at pre-specified times; and (3) determining the optimal analysis population for dealing with crossovers in non-inferiority RCTs.
Methods
Issue 1: We investigated and compared the properties of four statistical models (proportional hazards model, competing risk model, marginal model and frailty model) for analyzing radiotherapy non-inferiority RCTs of patients with early stage breast cancer who are at risk for and may experience multiple failure types. We applied the four methods to data from an existing trial in which subjects with breast cancer could experience local recurrence (the primary outcome), distant recurrence, death, or a combination of these events. In addition, we compared these models using simulated examples of similar non-inferiority trials with varying hazards of each failure type.
Issue 2: We investigated and compared the properties of three methods for estimating the event proportions for an interim analysis in RCTs with a binary outcome that is repeatedly assessed at pre-specified times. Generally, interim analyses are performed after half or more of the subjects have completed full follow-up. However, depending on the duration of accrual relative to the length of follow-up, this may be inefficient, since there is a possibility that the trial will have completed accrual prior to the interim analysis. We focussed our simulations on situations where delaying the interim analysis until half or more of subjects have completed full follow-up is an inefficient approach. The methods include: 1) estimation of the event proportion based on subjects who have been followed for a pre-specified time (less than the full follow-up duration) or who experienced the outcome; 2) estimation of the event proportion based on all available data from subjects randomized by the time of the interim analysis; and 3) the Kaplan-Meier approach to estimate the event proportion. We varied the risk of the outcome, the treatment effect and the probability of an event occurring at each pre-specified time. We compared the three methods in terms of overall type I and II errors, as well as the probability of stopping early for benefit.
Issue 3: We explored the effect of subject crossover from the experimental to the standard radiotherapy arm prior to treatment initiation on the intention-to-treat, per-protocol, as-treated and combined intention-to-treat and per-protocol analysis in non-inferiority RCTs of radiotherapy for the prevention of local recurrence in patients with early stage breast cancer. We varied the non-inferiority margin, the percent of subjects who cross over and evaluated random and non-random crossover. The main comparison of the methods was done using overall type I error. In addition, we compared the methods based on estimate bias and standard error of the estimate.
Results and Conclusions
Issue 1: All four models produced similar results for the existing trial (i.e. non-inferiority was observed regardless of the method used). Simulations showed that the event-specific methods yielded contrasting results when the distribution of distant recurrence or death differed between treatment groups. We conclude that multiple models should be used as part of a comprehensive analysis.
Issue 2: We showed that conducting an interim analysis when a considerable number of subjects have completed a portion of their full follow-up duration is an efficient approach under certain scenarios where event distribution probabilities are similar between treatment groups. Under these specific scenarios, all three methods preserved the type I and II errors. In these cases, we recommend using the Kaplan-Meier method because it incorporates all the available data and has greater probability of early stopping.
Issue 3: The as-treated analysis had the best performance in terms of type I error rate. However, it can be recommended only in scenarios where crossover is random. It performed poorly in scenarios with greater than 2% non-random crossover. The intention-to-treat and per-protocol analysis performed poorly under both random and non-random crossover scenarios.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Characterization of Semicomputable Sets, and Computable Partial Functions, on the Real Plane

contributor:
Zucker, Jeffery
Computer Science

abstract:
(1) Characterizations of semicomputable subsets of the Real Plane as unions of effective  infinite sequences of "elementary" open sets.

This developed from Bo Xie's MSc thesis (2004) on semicomputable subsets of R, where the elementary sets are simply open (rational or algebraic) intervals. This is generalized to two dimensions by taking elementary sets to be basic open semalgebraic sets.  Three structure theorems are derived, based on computability by various forms of the 'whiles' programming language. By means of the cell decomposition theorem, variants of these structure theorem are derived, with "basic open semialgebraic sets" replaced by "connected open semialgebraic sets".

(2) Equivalence of computability models for partial functions on the Real Plane.

This developed from the research in my Msc thesis (2007) for partial functions f on R, in which
four models of computability (including Grzegorczyk-Lacombe (GL) computability, tracking computability, and multi-polynomial approximability) were shown to be equivalent, under two global assumptions:

(i) the domain of f is the union of an effective exhaustion of finite unions of "elementary" open sets,

(ii) f is effectively locally uniformly continuous w.r.t this exhaustion.

This thesis extends this study to functions on the Real Plane. For functions on R, the elementary sets were simply rational open intervals. For functions on the Real Plane (as in this thesis), the appropriate elementary sets turn out to be bounded, connected basic open semialgebraic subsets of the plane.

The most interesting of the equivalence proofs is in the direction "GL comp. => multipolynomial approx". Here the function f, defined on an elementary set, is first effectively extended to a GL-computable function on a rectangle, and then approximated by a sequence of polynomials, using an effective version of the Weierstrass theorem in 2 dimensions. The cell decomposition theorem is again used here, to justify the algorithm extending the domain of f to a rectangle.

It is conjectured that the two global conditions are satisfied by all elementary functions of two real variables.

abstract: Dissertation

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Optimal Scheduling of Converter Aisle Operation in a Nickel Smelting Plant

contributor:
Swartz, Christopher
Chemical Engineering

subject:
Scheduling
Rolling-Horizon
Continuous-time formulation
Semi-continuous
Production Planning
Nickel Smelting Converting
Mixed-Integer Linear Programming
Tiered Optimization

abstract:
The scheduling of the converter aisle of a nickel smelting plant is a non-trivial task with significant consequences to plant profitability and production. An optimization-based scheduling formulation is developed using a continuous-time paradigm to accurately represent event timings. The formulation accounts for environmental restrictions on sulfur dioxide emissions using event timing constraints. The formulation includes novel semi-continuous modeling to represent flash furnaces which operate with a continuous inlet flow and intermittent discrete material removal, as well as, a novel sequencing and symmetry-breaking scheme to account for identical units operating in parallel. A rolling horizon feature is included in the formulation to accommodate multi-period optimization. Tightening constraints are developed and used to improve the computational performance of the optimization and demonstrate the capacity of the proposed methodology to function as a real-time decision-support tool. A solution procedure is presented where an aggregate model is used to bound the objective function of the master problem in a two layer optimization scheme. Finally, a novel multi-tiered procedure is presented to enhance the optimization solution by re-optimizing for objectives of decreasing priority in order to minimize task start times and penalize deviations in the furnace flow rate.

To address the closed-loop properties of scheduling, a reactive scheduling mechanism is included to allow for rescheduling to account the impact of process disturbances on the operating schedule. A methodology for reducing radical scheduling changes due to the optimization during reactive scheduling is presented. The reactive scheduling algorithm utilizes a tiered optimization approach that progressively increases the degrees of freedom available, as required, in order to achieve a feasible production schedule. The use of the reactive scheduling algorithm demonstrates the ability to reject disturbances and transition plant operation in an agile manner.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: Assessment of Normal force testing to measure adhesion at organic-inorganic interfaces in organic optoelectronic devices

contributor:
Tutak, Dr. Ayse
Engineering Physics

subject:
Organic optoelectronic device
Adhesion
Normal testing system
organic-inorganic interface

abstract:
Organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices are emerging as a reliable source of energy due to their
combination of unique features. Though desired for their flexibility, low cost, light weight, large area fabrication compatibility and eco-friendly nature, these devices face numerous challenges in achieving high performance and stability. The organic-electrode interface specifically plays a key role in controlling device stability. Recent studies have revealed that the stability is heavily affected by  the adhesion of the organic-electrode interface. Measurement of adhesion at these interfaces, however, is a challenging task. In this study, Normal Force Adhesion testing was assessed to determine its suitability for organic devices. In this approach, force is applied perpendicular to the substrate, over the entire surface area of one device (9 mm2) until delamination occurs. In addition to the extracted force-distance curves, images of the interfaces before and after each experiment and a real-time,
in-situ video taken from a lateral perspective were examined. All three of these critical pieces of information are necessary to obtain a complete picture of the success of a Normal test. A statistical assessment has been made of the testing apparatus, using many samples (> 50) of one metal - organic combination, Al-Alq3 - an archetypal combination for organic electronics. In addition, five other metal-organic combinations widely used in organic electronic devices, have been chosen to assess the Normal force approach. Due to the ease of testing a large number of samples, Normal force testing does appear to be a viable approach to examining interfacial adhesion, though care must be taken in the experimental design to avoid common experimental failures. Based on the results, a few recommendations have been made to improve the utility of the adhesion testing system for rapid quality testing of organic devices.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: Close-Range Machine Vision for Strain Analysis

contributor:
Spence, Allan D.
Capson, David
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
sheet metal
strain analysis
computer vision
feature detection
grid tracking
deformable registration

abstract: A substantial fraction of the automotive assembly comprises formed sheet metal parts. To reduce vehicle weight and improve fuel economy, total sheet metal mass should be minimized without compromising the structural integrity of the vehicle. Excessive deformation contributes to tearing or buckling of the metal, and therefore a forming limit is investigated experimentally to determine the extent to which each particular material can be safely strained. To assess sheet metal formability, this thesis proposes a novel framework for sheet metal surface strain measurement using a scalable dot-grid pattern. Aluminum sheet metal samples are marked with a regular grid of dot-features and imaged with a close-range monocular vision system. After forming, the sheet metal samples are imaged once again to examine the deformation of the surface pattern, and thereby resolve the material strain. Grid-features are localized with sub-pixel accuracy, and then topologically mapped using a novel algorithm for deformation-invariant grid registration. Experimental results collected from a laboratory setup demonstrate consistent robustness under practical imaging conditions. Accuracy, repeatability, and timing statistics are reported for several state-of-the-art feature detectors.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: STUDY OF TRIMMING BEHAVIOR OF AUTOMOTIVE MAGNESIUM SHEET MATERIALS

contributor:
Jain, Mukesh
Mechanical Engineering

subject:
Trimming
Finite Element analysis
ABAQUS/Explicit
Magnesium sheet materials

abstract:
Sheet trimming is an important forming operation in stamping industry. However, trimming of automotive magnesium sheet materials is not well understood. The objective of present study was to investigate the trimming behavior of AZ31 and ZEK100 automotive magnesium sheet materials using a laboratory-based experimental set-up and complementary finite element (FE) simulations of the lab-based experiments. The effects of the trimming process parameters that included tool setup configuration, punch speed, clearance, sheet thickness and sheet orientation (rolling and transverse directions) on the quality of trimmed edge were analyzed. Experimental results indicated that the trimmed edge quality depended strongly on the trimming conditions. The optimal trimming parameters for AZ31 and ZEK100 sheets were experimentally obtained. Interrupted trimming experiments were conducted to examine crack initiation and development, the mechanism of fracture, and the generation of the fracture profile of the trimmed edges. The R-value as a measure of material anisotropy and fracture strain of both materials were measured using uniaxial tension and plane strain tests and incorporated in the FE model.
General purpose Finite Element software ABAQUS/Explicit was employed to simulate the trimming process where five different fracture criteria and element deletion method were used to predict profile of trimmed edge and the fracture initiation and development during the trimming process. Good general agreement was observed between experiments and FE simulations. However, some discrepancies were also observed. These are presented and discussed in the thesis.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: A study of rare-earth doped silicon based films as a luminescent downshifting layer for cadmium telluride photovoltaics

contributor:
Mascher, Peter
Engineering Physics

subject: luminescent downshifting, rare earth, nanostructures, photovoltaics

abstract:
The peak efficiency range for CdTe solar cells is between 500-700nm; however efficiencies are limited at wavelengths shorter than 500nm due to the fact that at higher energies, most photons are absorbed in the CdS layer of the module and cannot contribute to the cell current. This means that incident photons with higher energies are ‘wasted’ as they are not efficiently absorbed by the cell.  Luminescent downshifting (LDS) is a third-generation photovoltaic technology in which an external layer applied to the front surface of the cell absorbs high energy photons and re-emits them towards the cell at energies where they are more efficiently absorbed, thus avoiding front surface loss mechanisms.
	This research project investigates the use of cerium and terbium co-doped silicon oxide thin films grown using electron cyclotron resonance plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition (ECR PECVD) as a luminescent down-shifting layer. Post-deposition annealing in a quartz tube furnace caused the formation of cerium disilicate (Ce2Si2O7) nanocrystallites, which were found to strongly absorb incident light at wavelengths below 360 nm and efficiently sensitize Tb3+ ions in the film for re-emission. The effect of annealing time and sample composition on physical and optical properties was studied.
Film compositions were determined through Rutherford backscattering spectrometry, revealing an incremental increase in rare earth concentration. Photoluminescence measurements showed a distinct Tb3+ peak around 550nm, which is close to the ideal efficiency wavelength for CdTe photovoltaics. Variable Angle Spectroscopic Ellipsometry measurements were used to determine the index of refraction of as-deposited and annealed films. UV-Visible absorption spectroscopy and transmission ellipsometry measurements showed a sharp increase in absorption around 400nm confirming wide separation between absorption and emission bands. When LDS films were coupled with thin film CdTe, subsequent absorption spectroscopy and transmission measurements showed stronger absorption at short wavelengths, as anticipated.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: “Something has to give”: Exploring The Negotiation of Masculinity and Identity of Gay Males in Sport

contributor:
Sinding, Chris
Social Work

subject:
Gay
Male
Athletes
Masculinity
Identity
Arts
Letter Writing
Phenomenology
Sport
Social Work
Arts-Informed Research
Queer Theory
Hegemonic Masculinity
Gay Male
Gay Athlete
Narrative
Letters to Past Self
Negotiating Identity
Negotiating Masculinity

abstract:
The institution of sport has an extensive history of heterosexism, and homophobia, making sport a problematic and unsafe space for gay-identified males. The lack of representation of gay athletes in professional sports highlights the risks associated with openly identifying one’s sexual identity within athletic settings, as gay-identified players often are faced with discrimination and harassment. As a result, gay-identified athletes may choose not to be open about their sexual identity or leave sports altogether as a way to avoid being subjected to discrimination and marginalization within athletics.

Grounded in queer theory, and engaging in phenomenology and arts-informed inquiry, this study seeks to explore the ways in which gay-identified males involved in sport negotiate their identies and masculinities. After each participant was interviewed, he wrote a letter to his past self as a way to share what he had come to learn about his process of coming into his own identity and negotiating masculinity. The study interrogates how gay males experience team-based competitive sports differently than individually-based sports and personal fitness activities. Additionally, it explores the personal process of defining and embracing masculinity. Deconstructing the definition of hegemonic masculinity, this study explores how masculinity can be understood in multiple ways. Changing the heterosexist and homophobic discourse that informs the organization of sport on multiple levels creates more opportunities for gay-identified athletes to be welcomed into the arena of sport and safely access the benefits associated with competitive sports and healthy active living activities. This study brings light to the emotional and psychosocial consequences that stem from homophobia and heterosexism’s dominance in our society. The perpetual discrimination and marginalization faced by those who identify as gay males highlights the need for social work’s involvement in justice-oriented research and practice as a way to bring greater equality and equity into our communities.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Social Work (MSW)


title: 'Under a magnifying glass':The experiences of social service use for mothers living with HIV

contributor:
Greene, Saara
Social Work

subject:
HIV
women
mothers
arts-based research
collage
feminist participatory action research
FPAR
art
social service use
service user
HIV-positve mother
HIV-positive women
children's aid society
criminal justice system
marginalized women
social welfare programs
HIV related stigma
feminist research
HIV-positive
WLWH
MLWH
action research

abstract: This study explores the subjective experiences of mothers living with HIV from Southeastern Ontario when accessing health and social services. Drawing on principles of feminist participatory action research, 5 MLWH were brought together in order to share their stories of accessing health and social services and to participate in the creation of a collage as part of the storytelling process. Intersectional feminist theory was chosen as a theoretical lens for this project to highlight the ways women’s multiple identities intersect and contribute to HIV-stigma.  Emerging from the storytelling and arts based process were stories about the women’s interactions with the criminal justice system, Children’s Aid Societies, social welfare programs and women-specific supports. The key concerns that the women raised in connection to these interactions included having to re-tell their story, concerns about confidentiality and disclosure and experiencing a loss of control as a result of depending on a myriad of health and social services. In addition, the participants identified changes they would like to see within health/social services including more opportunities for peer support and an increase in services available to support the unique psychosocial challenges of MLWH.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Social Work (MSW)


title: Food Banks, Food Drives, and Food Insecurity: The Social Canstruction® of Hunger

contributor:
Baker Collins, Stephanie
Social Work

subject:
Food Security
Food Insecurity
Food Banks
Hunger
Discourse Analysis
Food Drives
Canada
Social Construction
Arts Based Research

abstract:
Food banks have become an institutionalized response to helping individuals and families gain access to food as wages have stagnated, employment becomes more precarious, and social entitlements have dramatically declined over the years. Food banks were supposed to be a temporary stop gap measure in response to the recession of 1980. Thirty-three years later, food banks have proliferated across Canada in assisting a growing population in need of their services.

I present an analysis of how food bank suppliers use the concept of hunger in a fundraising campaign called Canstruction® to understand how it relates to people’s perception of this social problem in our society. This qualitative research study uses discourse analysis to unpack the solicitation discourse used at Canstruction® events held in Waterloo and Toronto, Ontario in 2014. I have collected data from three different groups: persons who designed and installed their artwork at the Canstruction® Toronto event; persons who volunteer at a food bank; and people who have food insecurity experience.

The findings indicate a differentiated understanding of hunger within the solicitation discourse for each research group: Canstruction® participants, food bank volunteers, and persons with food insecurity experience. The Canstruction® participants’ absorption of the solicitation discourse produced a limited understanding about hunger in our society. The food bank volunteer group agreed with the solicitation discourse but their images of hunger illustrated deeper criticisms of the event and food bank system. The participant group with food insecurity experience expressed the greatest amount of criticism against the food bank’s solicitation discourse and their images of hunger reflected their psycho-social experience of living in poverty. Also, an overwhelming majority of research participants with food insecurity wanted a food bank system that was more responsive to their needs and that honoured human dignity.

My study on the social construction of hunger portrayed by food banks highlights how this knowledge is reinforced, reproduced and challenged through a food drive that creates packaged food items into artwork and from images described by research participants. These insights have the potential to shift the discourse away from the branding of hunger as a matter of charity and move towards discussing its fundamental causes: poverty and social inequality.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Social Work (MSW)


title: Dissemination of Clinical Practice Guidelines to Patients and the Public

subject:
clinical practice guidelines
dissemination
patients
public

abstract:
People are seeking health information from a wide variety of sources. The comprehensive information in clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) represents an excellent source of evidence based information which should be communicated to this audience. Currently, there is little research about how to write a version of a CPG that would be easily accessible to people and more information is needed to identify barriers and supports, and potential solutions to disseminate CPGs to this audience (i.e. patients and the public).

This thesis represents a body of research consisting of four scientific papers with an overarching objective to understand and explore how CPGs and recommendations primarily developed and written for health care professionals can be disseminated to patients and the public. A CPG was developed using the rigorous methods of the GRADE approach; a randomised controlled trial was conducted to evaluate a format to disseminate synthesised evidence to patients and the public; a systematic review of the literature with a thematic and narrative synthesis of patient and public attitudes towards and awareness of CPGs was performed; and a qualitative description and content analysis of a sample of patients versions of CPGs was conducted. The studies found that people are interested in patient versions of CPGs for a variety of purposes, such as for decision making, as a tool to prepare for consultations with health care providers, and as advice for self-care management. However, barriers to their use may include lack of personalisation of information, negative attitudes towards guidelines as ways to restrict and control access to care, and lack of understanding of the recommendations and the evidence. A format to disseminate the evidence from a guideline is proposed, but future research should focus on strategies to personalise the information, to overcome the negative attitudes towards guidelines, and to communicate the recommendations and the evidence informing the recommendations.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Seasonal and Reproductive Effects on Wound Healing in the Flight Membranes of Captive Big Brown Bats (Eptesicus fuscus)

contributor:
Faure, Paul A.
Psychology

subject:
Wound healing
Flight membranes
Chiroptera
Bat restrainer

abstract:
Bats (Order Chiroptera) are the only mammals capable of power flight. The flight membranes of bats are not only essential for locomotion, but also play vital roles in homeostasis. Although understanding wound healing in the flight membranes of bats is important because injuries in the wild are common, with the recent emergence of white-nose syndrome, understanding wound healing in bat flight membranes has become even more important.
In order to conduct my studies on wound healing in the flight membranes of bats, it was necessary to manually restrain bats. In this thesis I present a novel bat restrainer that I designed and that reduces stress experienced by restrained bats during experimentation and data collection.
Wound healing is an energy dependent process, as such it is expected that wound healing times will vary during periods of energy constraint (i.e. hibernation) and/or at times of peak demand (i.e. lactation). However, previous studies on wound healing have only looked at healing at times when there are no energy constraints.  In thesis I aimed to better understand the effects of seasonality and reproduction on wound healing. Using an 8 mm circular punch, I inflicted biopsy wounds to the chiropatagium of healthy captive big brown bats, Eptesicus fuscus. I compared wound healing times between winter and summer seasons, and between reproductive (i.e. lactating) and non-reproductive females. As expected, wound healing times were longer during the winter months when bats are conserving energy. On the other hand, reproductive status did not have an effect on wound healing times. Although most bats heal, I observed impaired wound healing. This finding is important because it is the first time that impaired wound healing is reported in healthy bats.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: Exploring experiences of parents of children with special needs at school entry: A mixed methods approach

contributor: Clinical Health Sciences (Health Research Methodology)

subject:
Transition to school
Children with special needs
School entry
Mixed methods research

abstract:
Background: The transition from pre-school to kindergarten can be complex for children who
need special assistance due to mental or physical disabilities (children with “special needs”). We
used a longitudinal mixed-methods approach to explore parents’ experiences with service
provision as their children transitioned to school.
Methods: Parents (including one grandparent) of 37 children aged 4 to 6 years completed
measures assessing their perceptions of and satisfaction with services, as well as their perceptions of the children’s behaviour. Teachers completed measures indicating children’s school readiness and school adjustment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents to understand their experiences with services.
Findings: Post-transition, parents reported lower perceptions of services and decreased
satisfaction than pre-transition. Pre-transition perceptions of services and satisfaction with
services were associated with some of the children’s outcomes important for school success.
Socio-economic characteristics of parents did not predict change in their perceptions of services
or satisfaction with services post-transition. The following themes emerged from the qualitative
data: qualities of services and service providers, communication and information transfer, parent advocacy, uncertainty about services, and contrasts and contradictions in satisfaction. The qualitative findings indicate parents were both satisfied and concerned with aspects of the post-transition service provision.
Conclusions: While the quantitative results suggested that parents’ experience with services
became less positive after their children entered school, the qualitative findings illustrated the
variability in parents’ experiences and components of service provision that require
improvements to facilitate a successful school entry.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: Communications Through Non-Line-of-Sight Solar-Blind Ultraviolet Scattering Channels

contributor:
Hranilovic, Steve
Electrical and Computer Engineering

abstract:
A recent exciting application in free-space optical communication systems is to use atmospheric scattering to establish non-line-of-sight (NLOS) links in the solar-blind ultraviolet (SB-UV) band. Such scattering links enable communications to take place in rough terrain where the line-of-sight is blocked. NLOS SB-UV links are of great interest in many potential civilian and military operations especially for applications with low data rate and short coverage range requirements. This thesis proposes a fundamental approach to design NLOS SB-UV communication systems that takes into consideration the unique characteristic of this type of link.

An analytical geometrical scattering propagation model is developed that generalizes the classical model under the assumption of first-order scattering. The generalized model considers the impact of finite receiver aperture size to overcome the inaccuracies when significant scattering takes place near the receiver. In addition, it handles the noncoplanar geometry case where it relaxes the restriction that transmitter and receiver axes have to lie in a common plane. The accuracy of this analytical model is verified by a stochastic Monte Carlo method that shows a close agreement. Next, a rigorous communication channel model is defined that combines both the temporal dispersion due to the multipath propagation and the stochastic impairments due to the random arrival of the scattered photons. Unlike previous work, system performance is investigated by numerically computing the achievable channel information rates for binary-inputs. Practical error control coding is applied, and a message passing decoding technique is outlined in order to approach the fundamental channel rates. Finally, to improve the system performance in terms of the information rates, an array of multiple receiver elements is considered to make use of the information in photon spatial arrival-locations on the detecting surface. A spatial diversity receiver for a multipath compensation and a noise suppression is designed. Information rates under equally likely are computed where a significant gain in rate over a single-element receiver is achieved especially in the case of a narrow transmitter beam.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Health Outcomes Following Work-Related Impairments: Examining the Health Status and Lived Experience of Injured Workers through a Life Course Lens

contributor:
Campbell, Lori
Sociology

subject:
Injured workers
Disability
Impairment
Health
Unmet health care needs
Quantitative
Qualitative
Life course perspective

abstract: This dissertation focuses on the health, health care utilization rates, and unmet health care needs of individuals aging with work-related impairments. A life course perspective is used to understand the health experiences of these individuals, and a mixed method approach was used to study their health and health care use. Three components make up the dissertation, two quantitative projects and one qualitative project. The first article provides a broad overview of chronic health conditions reported by respondents from the Research Action Alliance on the Consequences of Work Injury (RAACWI) Health and Health Care Utilization Survey who experienced a work-related impairment. Health outcomes and access to health care for this group is compared to a similar aged sample of Ontarian respondents from the Canadian Community Health Survey. The second article uses the National Population Health Survey to examine whether rates of unmet health care needs over eight cycles varied based on disability status. Respondents are categorized as either without disability, having a work-related disability, having a disability as a result of a disease or illness, or having disability for other reasons. The reasons for unmet health care needs is examined for seven cycles to determine whether unmet health care need could be characterized as personal or structural. The third article provides a deeper understanding of how 11 individuals age with a work injury. A convenience sample of 11 participants from the RAACWI Health Survey participated in semi-structured, in-depth interviews where they discussed their work injury and how they are coping with its ongoing consequences, including subsequent health problems as they age. This article provides a richer understanding of health changes and unmet health care needs that could not be examined in the other projects due to the nature of quantitative analysis. Together these three articles enable me to showcase the lived experiences of individuals with work-related impairments and how they age with the work injury and subsequent, additional chronic health conditions.

abstract: Dissertation

abstract: Candidate in Philosophy


title: Assessing the functional role of adult hippocampal neurogenesis in humans using cognitive and neurobiological correlates

title: Functional role of adult neurogenesis in humans

contributor:
Becker, Suzanna
Neuroscience

subject:
exercise
growth factor
episodic memory
pattern separation
hippocampus
neurogenesis

abstract:
Adult hippocampal neurogenesis, the generation of new neurons in the adult hippocampus, represents the most drastic form of ongoing plasticity in the human brain. When these adult-born neurons are a few weeks old, they have developed enough connections with surrounding hippocampal neurons to evoke meaningful change in network dynamics, but still have different morphological and physiological properties compared to developmentally generated neurons that render them more plastic. As such, and due to their location in the hippocampus, many have theorized that these new neurons play an important role in certain forms of learning memory as well as emotion. This dissertation outlines the first attempt to answer the question “what are new neurons in the hippocampus good for?” using human participants.
	Aerobic exercise is a lifestyle factor well-established from the animal literature to upregulate neurogenesis, while chronic stress is a known downregulator of neurogenesis. The second chapter of this thesis describes a study in which aerobic capacity and depression inventory scores demonstrated a significant positive correlation and a significant negative correlation with putative neurogenesis-dependent memory, respectively, in separate cohorts of healthy young adults. The third chapter outlines a study that expands on the one presented in the second by elucidating another potential role for neurogenesis in human cognition – remote memory. Finally, Chapter 4 describes a study investigating the utility of neurotrophins measured from peripheral blood as biomarkers for neurogenic activity in humans by examining how changes in their expression following chronic exercise predict changes in putative neurogenesis-dependent memory performance.
These studies are the first to explicitly test and provide supporting evidence for the theoretical roles of adult hippocampal neurogenesis in humans. Taken together, these studies provide a strong foundation for how investigators and clinicians can indirectly quantify and test the function of adult-born neurons in the human brain.

abstract: Dissertation

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

abstract:
New neurons are generated in the adult hippocampus throughout life. The hippocampus is a structure in the medial temporal lobe important for learning and memory as well as emotion. It is currently unknown what the contributions of newborn neurons are to these processes. This dissertation outlines the first attempt to answer the question “what are new neurons in the hippocampus good for?” using human participants.
	Aerobic exercise is a lifestyle factor well-known from research in rodents to positively influence the rate of birth of newborn neurons in the hippocampus, while long-term stress reduces the rate of birth. The second chapter of this thesis describes a study in which aerobic fitness and depression inventory scores demonstrated a significant positive correlation and a significant negative correlation with a memory  test susceptible to high interference, respectively, in different populations of healthy young adults. The third chapter outlines a study that expands on the one presented in the second chapter by elucidating another potential role for neurogenesis in human cognition – long-term memory. Finally, Chapter 4 describes a study investigating the how measuring various proteins found in circulating blood may help us to understand how exercise influence the rate of birth of new hippocampal neurons in humans.
These studies are the first to test and provide supporting evidence for the potential roles of newborn hippocampal neurons in humans. Taken together, these studies provide a strong foundation for how investigators and clinicians can indirectly quantify and test the role of adult-born neurons in the human brain.


title: Optimization-based Operability Analysis of Process Supply Chains

contributor:
Swartz, Christopher L.E.
Chemical Engineering

subject:
supply chain optimization
operability
flexibility
responsiveness

abstract:
The North American forest products industry is primarily commodity-based and faces challenges. This has led to the proposal of a shift toward revenue diversification through the production of high-value specialty products along with the conventional commodity products. A key consideration for this new business strategy to remain competitive and sustainable is that the forest products supply chain designs must perform satisfactorily under the dynamic market conditions. The notion of supply chain operability attempts to characterize the ability of a supply chain to perform satisfactorily in the face of uncertainty. However, limited quantitative analysis is available in the current body of literature.
In this work, the concepts originated within the context of process systems engineering are adapted to develop optimization-based frameworks in order to characterize supply chain operability measures, in particular, supply chain flexibility and dynamic responsiveness. Although motivated by the forest products industry, the practical mathematical formulations presented are widely applicable to general process supply chains in other industries.
This thesis aims to extend the supply chain flexibility analysis formulation established by Mastragostino (2012) to include additional quantitative flexibility measures. The resulting framework provides a quantitative mapping to various types of flexibility frequently discussed in the operations research literature. Two case studies are included to illustrate the application of this framework for analyzing the flexibility of existing supply chain processes, as well as utilizing it in supply chain design. The work also builds on the analysis framework established by Mastragostino and Swartz (2014) to assess supply chain responsiveness, and to configure the framework in preparation for tackling design problems under uncertainty. Then a composite operability analysis framework is proposed to address both flexibility and responsiveness metrics simultaneously in forest products supply chain design and operation. A comprehensive case study based on a forest product company is performed and the trade-offs among flexibility, responsiveness and economics are examined.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: Examining the Daily Operations and Workplace Accommodations within a Social Enterprise for Individuals Living with Mental Illness in Ontario, Canada

contributor:
Wilton, Robert
Geography and Earth Sciences

subject:
social enterprise
mental illness
workplace accommodations
paid employment

abstract:
In contemporary societies, such as Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States, an
emphasis has been placed on moving individuals with mental illness into mainstream paid
employment. Although mainstream employment may offer an inclusive environment, existing
scholars argue that various problems can arise with this transition to paid work. For example,
employers often report a minimal understanding regarding accommodations for someone with
mental health issues and workers may be reluctant to disclose mental health issues for fear of
workplace discrimination and/or discharge. Social enterprises have been created to address these problems and the available literature illustrates that these organizations are beneficial for
individuals with mental illness because they offer necessary workplace accommodations that are often not found in mainstream jobs, allow for engagement in meaningful activity and provide the opportunity to earn a wage. However, scholars have primarily relied on secondary sources and/or surveys of these organizations and, as a result, there is a limited understanding of how social enterprise organizations work in practice. This thesis research seeks to address this gap by using participant observation, along with semi-structured interviews and focus group data, to produce an in-depth analysis that examines the daily operations of a social enterprise in Ontario, Canada, and the experiences of the workers within it. Key themes of analysis pertain to the nature of the work and the labour process; workers’ wages; the organization as a place for meaningful activity and social interaction; and the provision of workplace accommodations. The findings that have emerged from this project have empirical, methodological and conceptual contributions to the existing work on social enterprises for individuals with mental illness.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: "The Best of a Bad Job": Canadian Participation in the Development of the International Bill of Rights, 1945-1976

contributor:
Frager, Ruth
History

subject:
Human Rights Canada
International Human Rights
United Nations
Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Foreign Policy

abstract:
This thesis provides a historical study of the Canadian government's changing foreign policy toward the development of an international bill of rights at the United Nations from the 1940s to the 1970s. Canada was initially reluctant to support international human rights instruments because the concept of 'universal human rights' articulated at the UN challenged customary understandings of civil liberties in Canada, and federal policy makers felt an international bill of rights would have a negative impact on domestic policy. By the 1970s, however, the Canadian government was pushing for the ratification of the International Covenants on Human Rights and working to present Canada as an advocate for the UN's human rights regime. This study considers this change in policy by examining the domestic and global factors that influenced the government's approach to international human rights.
Within Canada, rights activism led to increased public awareness of human rights issues, and transformed Canadian understandings of rights and of the role of government in promoting these rights. This led to pressure on the Canadian government to support human rights initiatives at the United Nations. In this same period, the geopolitics of the Cold War and the rise of anti-colonialism shaped debates at the UN over human rights. As global support for the UN's human rights instruments grew, Canada became the subject of criticism from other states. Concerned about the negative implications, at home and within the international community, of appearing to stand in opposition to the principles of human rights, Ottawa changed its policy. Despite the government’s new rhetoric of support for the international bill of rights, however, federal policy makers continued to question the benefit of these instruments for Canada. This lack of commitment accounts, at least in part, for Canada’s continued failure to fully implement its international human rights obligations.

abstract: Dissertation

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Detecting RNA Regulatory Interactions in Bacterial Cells

contributor:
Li, Yingfu
Brown, Eric
Elliot, Marie
Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences

subject:
RNA
gene regulation
sRNA
riboswitch
biosensor
fluorescent protein
GFP
Escherichia coli

abstract:
Non-coding RNAs are involved in the regulation of most major cellular process in Escherichia coli.  With current technologies, many of these molecules have been identified; however, the full scope of their regulatory interactions is still unknown.  None of the techniques currently in use employ the regulatory effect of the RNAs, which is the major unifying attribute of these molecules, for their identification.  This thesis presents projects involving the design of a dual-reporter plasmid and screening method in the discovery and characterization of RNA regulatory interactions
	The first project details the engineering of the dual reporter plasmid.  This vector utilizes one fluorescent protein to detect regulatory events and a second to normalize for off-target effects. The second project utilizes this tool in the discovery and characterization of novel regulatory responses.   This is accomplished by screening a library of intergenic regions for regulatory responses against a collection of metabolite. Interesting interactions involving nitrogen abundance, iron and uracil are identified and further examined.
Finally, this thesis examines how this technology can be further expanded for the study of RNA regulatory functions. The use of the screening method for the detection of regulatory events caused by alternative minimal media composition and the potential for the dual reporter plasmid to aid in the study of riboswitches are investigated.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Science  (PhD)


title: Neural responses demonstrate the dynamicity of speech perception

contributor:
Connolly, John F.
Moro, Anna L.
Cognitive Science of Language

subject: N100, P200, PMN, phonological mapping negativity, phonology, EEG, elecroencephalography, ERP, event-related potentials, subphonemic, cues, features, spoken word recognition

abstract: Spoken language is produced with a great deal of variability with which listeners must be able to cope. One source of variation is coarticulation, which is due to articulatory planning and transitions between segments. Recently, the temporal features of coarticulation were investigated during a picture/spoken-word matching task by using spliced stimuli carrying either congruent or incongruent subphonemic cues at the CV juncture (Archibald & Joanisse, 2011). ERPs were recorded with attention paid to the phonological mapping negativity (PMN) (Connolly & Phillips, 1994; Newman & Connolly, 2004) – a prelexical response sensitive to violations of phonological expectations. Results found that the PMN varied in response to coarticulation violations and concluded that phonetic features in spoken words influence prelexical processing during word recognition. Using a written-/spoken-word paradigm, Arbour, 2012 controlled phonological shape by using onsets that were either fricatives or stops, hypothesizing that coarticulatory information would be differentially processed due to their temporal differences. Findings supported the PMN’s sensitivity to coarticulation but also showed that temporal and physical differences between onsets modulated the effect. These results raise the question of whether acoustic distance between vowels will modulate prelexical processing of speech as reflected by the PMN amplitude: the focus of the current study. Words were organized into minimal sets such that all onset/coda combinations appeared with each vowel provided that English words resulted. Vowels were one of /i, u, æ, ɑ/, maximizing acoustic distance (height and backness). Data from 20 subjects indicate that the PMN is sensitive to the degree of difference between the original and post-splice vowels. When the number of distinctive features changing is greater, the result is an earlier, more robust PMN. This suggests that the rate of speech recognition is not static but dynamic, and is dependent on likeness of subphonemic features.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: A Distributed System Interface for a Flight Simulator

contributor:
von Mohrenschild, Martin
Software Engineering

subject:
flight simulation
distributed system
interface
cessna 172

abstract: The importance of flight training has been realized since the inception of manned flight. In this thesis, a project about the interfacing of hardware cockpit instruments with a flight simulation software over a distributed system is to be described.  A TRC472 Flight Cockpit was to be used while linked with Presagis FlightSIM to fully simulate a Cessna 172 Skyhawk aircraft. The TRC 472 contains flight input gauges (Airspeed Indicator, RPM indicator... etc.), pilot control devices (Rudder, Yoke...etc.) and  navigation systems (VOR,ADF...etc.) all connected to computer through separate USBs and identified as HID's (Human Interface Devices). These devices required real-time interaction with FlightSIM software; in total 21 devices communicating at the same time.  The TRC472 Flight Cockpit and the FlightSIM software were to be running on a distributed system of computers and to be communicating together through Ethernet.  Serialization was to be used for the data transfer across the connection link so objects can be reproduced seamlessly on the different computers. Some of the TRC472 devices were straight forward in writing and reading from, but some of them required some calibrations of raw I/O data and buffers. The project also required making plugins to overwrite and extend FlightSIM software to communicate with the TRC472 Flight Cockpit.  The final product is to be a full fledged flight experience with complete environment and physics of the Cessna 172.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: "By What Authority?": Women Writing in the Seventeenth Century

contributor:
Roebuck, W.G.
English

subject: feminist, contextualist, origins, women, writers, seventeenth century, hierarchial world view, feminism, conflicting

abstract:
This thesis attempts to reconcile a feminist with a contextualist approach. It enquires into the historical origins of the emergence of women as writers in the seventeenth century. At the same time, it places this women's movement in the context of a profoundly complex revolution in thought, thereby discovering that women's intellectual contributions to the destruction of the hierarchical world view and to the search for new, just alternatives were as diverse and as problematic as men's were.
The women who wrote in the seventeenth century were all preoccupied, implicitly or explicitly, with the question: By what authority do I cast off the traditional silence of women and dare to speak out? They gave different answers.
Part One uses the lives of Gertrude More and Mary Ward to illustrate the subtle ways in which the Catholic Church's concept of grace required the submission of women despite their conflicting inner voices.
In contrast, Part Two explores the challenge of the seventeenth-century chariasmatic movement to the traditional notion of grace. The radical female Protestants made a significant step towards modern feminism both because they appealed to their own experience as a source for truth and because they initiated an autobiographical form which dramatizes the convinced woman in revolt against patriarchal structures.
Part Three demonstrates that, despite the decline in the authority of the prophet's experience which came with the trliumph of the perspective and methods of science, Jane Lead's writings continued a mystical counter-tradition which would nourish the Romantic alternative to scientific reductionism.
Part IV analyzes the views of Margaret Cavendish and Aphra Behn who argued the natural right of a woman to write. Both challenged neoclassical aesthetic ideals--Cavendish by writing to delight herself, Behn by writing to delight her audience.
Part V concludes by contrasting the approaches of two women who appealed to the authority of rational argument to justify their views. Mary Astell emerges as an early theorist for enlightenment feminism, Anne Conway as a theorist for holistic feminism.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Analysis of TRF1 Interaction with Cajal Bodies and Characterization of the Effect of Cancer-Associated CSB Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms on CSB UV Sensitivity

contributor:
Zhu, Xu-Dong
Biology

subject: TRF1, Cajal body, telomerase, CSB, cancer

abstract:
Telomeres are the ends of linear chromosomes which are protected by a multi-protein complex called shelterin. The proper maintenance of telomeres involves strict control over the length of the TTAGGG telomeric repeat sequences. In part, this is achieved through the action of the shelterin complex component TRF1. TRF1 binds to duplex telomere DNA and acts as a suppressor of telomerase-dependent telomere elongation, however the exact mechanism by which it achieves this is currently unknown. Recent observations with a phospho-specific TRF1 antibody indicate that phosphorylated (pT371)TRF1 localizes at Cajal bodies. Cajal bodies are subnuclear organelles with myriad functions, one of which is to recruit the subunits of the telomerase holoenzyme for assembly and the subsequent targeting of the enzyme to telomeres for elongation. The results presented here demonstrate that this association of phosphorylated (pT371)TRF1 to Cajal bodies is highly specific, requiring its DNA binding capability, and occurring only in Cajal bodies which are not actively involved with telomere extension. While the function of this association has not been elucidated, the data are suggestive of a telomerase-related role being played by phosphorylated (pT371)TRF1 at Cajal bodies, possibly related to its function in suppressing telomere elongation.
	CSB is a multifunction protein which is implicated in transcription-coupled repair (TCR), base excision repair (BER), and control of transcription. Certain mutations and truncations of CSB are known to cause Cockayne syndrome (CS) in humans, an autosomal recessive progeria with devastating consequences. Unlike other progeria, CS patients do not display increased cancer incidence. Despite this fact, CSB is upregulated and in many cancers.  In these cells, removal of CSB leads to apoptosis and increased sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs which suggests a dependency on CSB. The CSB of some non-CS cancer patients has also been found to be mutated at several recurring SNPs through the CSB gene. Preliminary examination of some of these SNPs suggests that they may invoke a change in the efficiency of TCR repair of UV-induced DNA damage. The results presented here demonstrate that, for the SNPs examined, there is no significant change in the repair of UV damage as assessed by colony survival assays post UV-treatment. While this may rule out an effect on TCR by these cancer-associated SNPs, it is possible that they may have an effect on CSB’s involvement in other vital cellular processes.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: The effectiveness of simulator motion in the transfer of performance on a tracking task is influenced by vision and motion disturbance cues

contributor:
Shedden, Judith
Psychology

subject: self-motion, transfer-of-training, disturbance motion, target tracking

abstract: The importance of physical motion in simulators for pilot training is strongly debated. The present experiment isolated different types of motion, a potentially important variable contributing to the controversy.  Participants used a joystick to perform a target tracking task in a motion simulator built using a MOOG Stewart platform.  Five training conditions compared training without motion (as one would train in a stationary simulator), with correlated motion, with disturbance motion, with disturbance motion isolated to the visual display, and with both correlated and disturbance motion. The test condition involved the full motion model with both correlated and disturbance motion. We analyzed speed and accuracy across training and test as well as strategic differences in joystick control.  We found that training with disturbance provided better transfer to test conditions that included disturbance motion for accuracy, but not speed, and that training with disturbance motion produced different joystick control strategies compared to training without disturbance.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: A Multifaith Military: Religiosity and Belonging Among Muslim Canadian Armed Forces Members

contributor:
Rothenberg, Celia
Religious Studies

subject:
military
Islam
Canadian Armed Forces
belonging and unity
chaplaincy
Canadian identity
military culture
multifaith
accommodation

abstract: In studying the experiences of Muslim Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members by way of ethnographic interviews, I investigate both religious accommodation and feelings of belonging among individuals in this minority faith group. Interviews demonstrate that the CAF and its Chaplain Branch are generally equipped and willing to accommodate the practice of Islam by personnel. I argue, however, that as a result of accommodation, which marks Muslim CAF as “different,” as well as military culture, which conflicts with certain aspects of Islamic doctrine and practice, the experience of unity that is fundamental to the Canadian Armed Forces is limitedly available to Muslim members. This research is the first ethnographic study of a specific minority religious experience in the CAF. It builds on a small, but growing discourse about religiosity and spirituality in the Canadian military that includes the development of the Chaplain Branch as a multifaith service.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: Poly(N,N-dimethylamino) ethyl methacrylate-grafted silicon: protein resistance and response to carbon dioxide

contributor:
Brash, J.L.
Zhu, Shiping
Biomedical Engineering

subject:
PDMAEMA
carbon dioxide

abstract:
This thesis work focused on polymer modification of silicon surface to improve its resistance to protein adsorption. Surface modification was achieved through surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP) grafting of poly(N,N-dimethyl amino) ethyl methacrylate (PDMAEMA). Since PDMAEMA is CO2-responsive, CO2 cleaning of the modified surface was also investigated.
SI-ATRP was chosen to graft PDMAEMA brushes on silicon surface for high graft densities and its good control of polymer molecular weight and polydispersity.
Surface characterization of PDMAEMA-modified silicon surfaces included hydrophilicity, layer thickness and surface chemical elemental composition.
Protein adsorption experiments were carried out to evaluate the protein resistance of the modified surfaces. Albumin adsorption from single protein solution, as well as from human plasma, decreased significantly after PDMAEMA grafting, and the adsorbed amount decreased with increasing polymer chain length. The maximum decrease in adsorption of 90% relative to the unmodified silicon, was reached at a graft layer thickness of 40 nm (measured in the dry state). Protein resistance in plasma showed PDMAEMA -modified silicon provided significant resistance to most of the tested proteins. Compared to the PEO-modified surface, the PDMAEMA surface showed much greater resistance to albumin adsorption, but, surprisingly, it adsorbed relatively large amounts of vitronectin and prothrombin. Vitronectin may have been degraded in contact with PDMAEMA-modified surface.  Also, it was the only surface out of the four, which adsorbed significant amounts of prothrombin. These unexpected observations indicate further investigation will be required to fully assess the protein-resistant properties of these PDMAEMA surfaces.
CO2-induced protein desorption was also studied. Cleaning experiments were performed by bubbling CO2 into vials containing the protein-adsorbed PDMAEMA-modified surface after 2 h protein solution exposure. Radiolabelling of albumin showed that the CO2 cleaning effectiveness was related with the PDMAEMA thickness. It was found that a surface with graft thickness 20 nm (dry) responded more strongly to CO2 than one with 15 nm thickness. Western blotting results confirmed that CO2 contributed to protein desorption from the PDMAEMA surface.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: Prestellar Cores in Perseus

contributor:
Wilson, Christine
Physics and Astronomy

subject:
Star Formation
Giant Molecular Cloud
Perseus
Infrared
Radio
Source finding algorithms

abstract: Star formation is a complex hierarchical process that witnesses the transfer of mass among a range of scales from large diffuse molecular clouds to crowded clumps and finally down to prestellar cores. The final stage of this process has prestellar cores actively accreting matter while undergoing gravitational collapse on their way to becoming main sequence stars. This thesis presents multi wavelength submillimeter observations of the Perseus molecular cloud using 160 μm, 250 μm, 350 μm, and 500 μm maps of thermal dust emission from the Herschel space observatory. Additionally C18O J = 3 → 2 spectral line emission is observed in four star forming clumps within Perseus using the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope. Spectral line emission allows for the separation of material along the line of sight. Prestellar core mass is derived from observational maps using various source finding algorithms. The mass is overestimated when compared to prestellar core mass found from spectral line data. This overestimation can be mitigated with careful selection of source finding algorithm and background removal. Further, the prestellar core mass derived from spectral line data was the closest match to the initial stellar mass function over dust maps. However, both the spectral line masses and dust map masses do not agree with the IMF confirming a star forming efficiency factor in the evolutionary step between prestellar core and main sequence star. Lastly, a filamentary analysis finds that high mass stars preferentially form in crowded regions close to, or contained within, filament structure.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)

abstract: Star formation is a complex hierarchical process that witnesses the transfer of mass among a range of scales from large diffuse molecular clouds to crowded clumps and finally down to prestellar cores. The final stage of this process has prestellar cores actively accreting matter while undergoing gravitational collapse on their way to becoming main sequence stars. This thesis presents multi wavelength submillimeter observations of the Perseus molecular cloud using 160 μm, 250 μm, 350 μm, and 500 μm maps of thermal dust emission from the Herschel space observatory. Additionally carbon monoxide spectral line emission is observed in four star forming clumps within Perseus using the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope. Spectral line emission allows for the separation of material along the line of sight. Prestellar core mass is derived from observational maps using various source finding algorithms. The mass is overestimated when compared to prestellar core mass found from spectral line data. This overestimation can be mitigated with careful selection of source finding algorithm and background removal. Further, the prestellar core mass derived from spectral line data was the closest match to the initial stellar mass function over dust maps. However, both the spectral line masses and dust map masses do not agree with the IMF confirming a star forming efficiency factor in the evolutionary step between prestellar core and main sequence star. Lastly, a filamentary analysis finds that high mass stars preferentially form in crowded regions close to, or contained within, filament structure.


title: DEVELOPING A HIGH THROUGHPUT ASSAY TO INVESTIGATE CHEMICAL AGENTS WHICH SENSITIZE TUMOUR CELLS TO KILLING BY CAR ENGINEERED T CELLS

contributor: Medical Sciences (Molecular Virology and Immunology Program)

subject:
Immunology
Cancer
High Throughput Screening
Cancer Immunotherapy
T cells
Chimeric Antigen Receptor

abstract: Cancer immunotherapy is emerging as a powerful tool in the treatment of cancer.  Multiple clinical trials have established that infusion of tumour-specific T cells can cause regression of advanced tumours and prevent tumour relapse. While tumour-specific T cells are typically rare, engineering methods have been developed to introduce tumour-specific receptors into T cells and engender peripheral blood T cells with the ability to kill tumour cells. These engineering successes notwithstanding, tumour cells demonstrate variable sensitivity to T cell attack. Therefore, to maximize the impact of the engineered T cells, it is necessary to develop therapeutic strategies that render tumour cells sensitive to immune attack. For my thesis research, I sought to develop a high throughput screening assay that would allow me to screen chemical libraries for agents that sensitize tumour cells to T cell attack. My ultimate goal is to define chemical agents that effectively sensitize tumour cells to T cell attack but display a better toxicity profile than existing chemotherapies. To this end, I developed a screen where resistant tumour cells were exposed to T cells engineered with chimeric antigen receptors and positive hits were defined as agents that could enhance killing of the tumour cells. My work explored both murine and human systems and I ultimately decided to use human cells for my screen.  Multiple methods for measuring tumour cell killing were evaluated, many tumour lines were screened and I optimized the conditions for generating large numbers of engineered T cells for the screen.  The net result of my thesis work is a miniaturized assay that is ready for high throughput screening.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science in Medical Sciences (MSMS)


title: Taphonomy: What About the Small Bones, Long Bones, and Cranial Bones? A Study of the Representation and Weathering of Human Remains from the Battle of Stoney Creek during the War of 1812

title: The Representation and Weathering of Human Remains

contributor:
Brickley, Megan
Anthropology

subject:
human remains
taphonomy
weathering
representation

abstract:
Disarticulated, commingled, and fragmented assemblages occur over a range of geographic and temporal contexts, yet the relationship between the representation and weathering of bone in these collections is unclear. Previous studies have produced inconsistent results and there is little elaboration discussing why the representation of large bones differ from small bones in archaeological collections containing commingled remains. The purpose of this research was to determine which bones were better represented, and if the representation correlated to the weathering of bone in the collection of human remains from the Battle of Stoney Creek, a War of 1812 site. The soldiers from the battle were likely buried in a mass grave; however, almost 200 years of extensive taphonomic disturbances created an assemblage that was disarticulated, commingled, and fragmented.
A database of the collection was used to gather information on bone fragment completeness recorded using the zonation method (Knüsel and Outram 2004), and weathering scores recorded using the scale by McKinley (2004). Results from the Z-statistic and Wilcoxon Rank-Sum statistic indicated that small bones (metacarpals, metatarsals, tali and calcanei) were better represented and less weathered than long upper and lower limb bones (femora, tibiae, fibulae, humeri, ulnae and radii) (p=0.05). The binomial distribution also determined that the crania were underrepresented in comparison to two cemetery sites; the West Tenter Street and Cross Bones burial ground (p=0.1).
There are a number of possible reasons for this expression of representation and weathering including the size, morphology, and density of bones, taphonomic disturbances, the burial environment (e.g., soil characteristics, the feather edge effect), and clothing. This study highlights the importance of preservation analyses in commingled, disarticulated, and fragmented collections. The findings from this research suggest that small bones may be better represented than the larger limb bones at sites with extensive taphonomic disturbances.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: Resistivity Measurements of Fermi Liquid Compounds

contributor:
Timusk, Thomas
Physics and Astronomy

abstract:
This thesis contains a report on resistivity measurements performed on two
compounds, doped URu2Si2 (with Re, Fe and Rh) and Sr2RuO4 . These two
materials are strongly correlated systems and they become superconducting
at low temperature. In the  rst two chapters, we review Fermi liquid theory
and the Kondo model. We also review some previous studies on Fermi liquid
behaviour of these compounds and the hidden order phase in URu2Si2 (which
is still not fully understood). In the following chapter we explain the resistivity
measurement techniques we used and summarize the procedure of how we
built the immersion probe we use in our lab at McMaster University. Finally
we report the resistivity measurements on the doped URu2Si2 samples and
Sr2RuO4 done in our lab and their Fermi liquid behaviour.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: 'L'organisation Du Mystère' Dans Le Théâtre De Cocteau

contributor:
Pocknell, Brian
French

subject: crtitics, Cocteau, mystère, l'organisation, théâtre,

abstract:
La plupart des critiques de l'oeuvre de Cocteau
soulignent la variété dans son théâtre. Tout en utilisant
le mot "mystère" pour caractériser certains éléments du
théâtre de Cocteau, les critiques ne tentent pas de
réunir les pièces autour de ce mystère qui se trouve dans
toutes les parties du texte. En examinant chaque élément
de l'oeuvre--les personnages, les paroles, le décor, les
accessoires et l'action--il est possible de dévoiler les
différentes formes sous lesquelles le mystère se manifeste
chez Cocteau. Le but de cette thèse sera non seulement d'identifier
le mystère dans le théâtre de Cocteau, mais aussi de déterminer son fonctionnement et son importance dans l'oeuvre de Cocteau.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: The Properties of Galaxies in X-ray Bright and Faint Groups

contributor:
Parker, Laura
Physics and Astronomy

abstract:
Galaxy groups are an intermediate density environment in which more than half
of the galaxies in the local universe reside. Galaxy groups have a small contrast
against the vast background of galaxies and therefore until recently it has remained
very difficult to identify large samples. Using observational data from the Group
Environment and Evolution Collaboration (GEEC) and the Cosmological Evolution
Survey (COSMOS) new calculations of passive fractions and disk fractions for galaxies
in X-ray bright and faint groups are investigated. How these fractions depend on the
overall environment, galaxy stellar mass, total group mass, group-centric distance,
group X-ray luminosity and redshift is examined. It was found that the passive and
disk fractions were different in X-ray bright and faint groups and depend most strongly
on galaxy stellar mass, redshift and overall environment with less dependence on the
other parameters. Attempts to connect the star formation and morphology results
are made.
The results show that the passive fractions were higher in X-ray groups yet the
disk fractions were also found to be higher in these groups. This was a surprising
result as disk-like galaxies are typically associated with star-forming galaxies. The
results show the complexity within galaxy groups.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: From Moral Condemnation to Economic Strategies: Reframing the End of the British Transatlantic Slave Trade

contributor:
Budros, Art
Sociology

subject: Abolition; Great Britain; Qualitative, Quantitative and Historical Methods; Slave trade; Social Movements

abstract: Why did Great Britain abolish the transatlantic slave trade in 1807, after a nearly twenty-year social movement campaign to end it? This question still continues to puzzle scholars despite the vast amount of historical research conducted on the subject since the beginning of the twentieth century. In this dissertation, I use social movement theory and a two-tiered empirical approach to examine British slave trade abolition. Systematic qualitative and quantitative analyses of the legislative debates on the slave trade underscores the importance of abolitionists’ rhetorical strategies and the economic utility of Britain’s departure from the trade. A frame analysis of abolitionists’ speeches made during the parliamentary debates suggests that a law to end the slave trade was passed when abolitionist MPs deliberately reframed their ideological campaign to include an increased number of economic pleas in their arguments. Drawing on key aspects of social movement theory, I examine the relationship between resource mobilization, cultural framing and opportunity structures (both political and non-political) and British abolition. My findings suggest that cultural, economic and political factors help to explain why the British slave trade was finally abolished.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Individual differences in orthographic processing

contributor:
Kuperman, Victor
Cognitive Science of Language

subject:
compound words
eye-movements
individual differences
morphology

abstract: This study aimed to examine how variable exposure to language statistical patterns affects reading behaviour, specifically, eye-movements during reading. The statistical patterns of language affect how individuals store, produce and comprehend language. When reading, individuals with greater linguistic proficiency typically have been shown to rely less on language statistical information compared to less proficient readers. Based on the Lexical Quality Hypothesis, however, it was hypothesized that spelling bias, a print-specific probabilistic cue, may only be utilized for representations with sufficient strengths of representation - through increased exposure to print in individuals, or through higher frequency of occurrence for individual words, since these individuals, and these words, would be expected to have representations of high quality in the reader’s mental lexicon. Undergraduate students with varying amounts of reading experience were presented with sentences containing English noun-noun compound words that varied in spelling bias, i.e. the probability of occurring in text either as spaced (window sill) or concatenated (windowsill). Linear mixed effect multiple regression models were fitted to the eye-movement data and demonstrated that compound words presented in their more supported format - i.e. the format with the highest bias, were read faster, but that this effect was modulated by reading experience, as measured by a test of exposure to print, as well as by word frequency. Only individuals with the most reading experience, and words with the highest frequencies benefited from this facilitatory effect of bias. This distributional property can thus be used during reading, but only when individuals' lexical representations are of sufficiently high quality. The results of this study thus suggest that future research considering the relationship between linguistic properties and reading must consider individual differences in reading skill and exposure.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: Native People in English-Canadian Drama

title: Struggle Against the Stereotype: Native People in English-Canadian Daama

contributor:
Hyman, R.
English

subject:
Native peopl
Engish- Canadian Drama

abstract:
Until quite recently, native people in English-Canadian drama have been portrayed by non-native playwrights. Stereotypes such as the Indian maiden and the noble savage were the early result of this white perspective. In the liberal climate prevailing after 1950, non-native dramatists perceived the native as a doomed figure struggling
to survive in an alien culture. This tragic but static view has gradually given way to a more positive depiction of a people who, although badly wounded, have nevertheless
endured. This new perception owes a great deal to the work of native playwrights, who are finding their own voice and celebrating their own culture and traditions.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin: Expression and Secretion by Airway Epithelium as a Function of Genotype

title: Airway Epithelial-Derived Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin

subject:
Airway Epithelium
Allergic Disease
Eosinophils
T cells
TSLP

abstract: Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is a pleotropic cytokine highly implicated in the pathophysiology of asthma and allergic diseases. Although there are robust data regarding the associations of TSLP polymorphisms with the development of allergy and asthma, there is very little information on how these TSLP variants functionally affect downstream effector pathways and disease phenotype. The overall objective of this thesis was to investigate how TSLP polymorphisms are linked to alterations in TSLP secretion and subsequent downstream cellular events. Initially, we investigated the influence of innate and adaptive stimuli on epithelial-derived TSLP expression and secretion, including effects on dendritic cells (DC). We show that polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (polyI:C) and allergen-specific T cells induced enhanced TSLP secretion from asthmatic bronchial epithelial cells (BEC) compared to non-asthmatic BEC. Furthermore, activated-BEC culture supernatants induced TSLP-dependent CCL17 production from monocyte-derived DC in relation to clinical asthmatic status (Chapter 2). Next, we examined effects of TSLP on hemopoietic progenitor eosinophil-basophil (Eo/B) differentiation, demonstrating enhanced TSLP-mediated hemopoiesis ex vivo in relation to clinical atopic status. We further demonstrated p38MAPK-dependent autocrine signaling by TNFα in TSLP-mediated human Eo/B differentiation ex vivo (Chapter 3). Lastly, to explore the potential functional consequences of a key variant of the TSLP gene, we investigated associations between the rs1837253 TSLP variant and ex vivo production of TSLP in nasal epithelial cells (NEC). We showed that NEC derived from individuals with the “protective” minor allele have diminished TSLP secretion, which suggests that this rs1837253 polymorphism may be directly involved in the regulation of TSLP secretion (Chapter 4). The novel work presented herein provides further evidence for TSLP regulation of distinct immunological pathways in allergic immune inflammatory airway responses initiated at the epithelial surface, and thus (by implication) of allergic disease. These observations support the concept that TSLP is potentially an important biomarker and therapeutic target for allergic diseases characterized by increased Th2 and/or eosinophilic-basophilic inflammation. Continued investigations into the functional mechanisms linking TSLP variants to allergic disease phenotype are of critical importance.

abstract: Dissertation

abstract: Doctor of Science  (PhD)


title: Implementation of a Neural Network-based In-Vehicle Engine Fault Detection System

contributor:
von Mohrenschildt, Martin
Computing and Software

subject:
neural networks
fault detection
Smooth Variable Structure Filter
SVSF

abstract:
Arti cial neural networks (ANNs) are a powerful processing units inspired by the human brain. They can be used in many applications due to their pattern classi cation
abilities, ability to model complex nonlinear input-output mappings, and their ability
to adapt and learn.
The relatively new Smooth Variable Structure Filter (SVSF) has recently been
applied to the training of feedforward multilayered neural networks. It has shown to
have good accuracy and a fast speed of convergence.
In this thesis, an engine fault detection system using an ANN will be implemented.
ANNs are used in engine fault detection due to the high-noise environment that engine
operate in. Additionally the fault detection system must work while the engine is
mounted in a vehicle, which provide additional sources of noise.
The SVSF training method is evaluated and compared to other traditional training
methods. Also di erent accelerometer types are compared to evaluate whether lower
cost accelerometers can be used to keep the system cost down.
The system is tested by inducing a missing spark fault, a fault that has a complex
fault signature and is di cult to detect, especially in an engine with a high number
of cylinders.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: CFD Study of a Large Buried Tank within a Borehole Field

contributor:
Lightstone, Marilyn
Mechanical Engineering

subject:
borehole field
buried tank
computational fluid dynamics

abstract:
This work explores the impact of burying a short term thermal storage (STTS) tank within a borehole thermal energy storage (BTES, or borehole field). There is motivation to bury tanks in order to save space on ground level, as well as to improve the overall efficiency of the system by reducing heat losses from the tank. This work mainly looks to understand the impact of the lack of boreholes under the buried tank, as well as the thermal interactions between the tank and boreholes.

Computational Fluid Dynamics was used to predict the transient temperature throughout the domain. The long-term performance was assessed by simulation a five year period. Examination of factors that influence the tank-borehole interactions was studied and it was determined that radial stratification of the borehole field as well as the soil properties have the largest influence in terms of increasing the efficiency of the BTES. Other factors, such as tank stratification and tank insulation have little impact and the remainder (tank aspect ratio, and alternate geometries) have some impact.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: Identifying the fate of petroleum hydrocarbons released into the environment and their potential biodegradation using stable carbon isotopes and microbial lipid analysis

title: Fate of petroleum hydrocarbons in the environment

contributor:
Slater, Greg
Earth and Environmental Sciences

subject:
Geochemistry
Biodegradation
Carbon isotopes
PLFA
Petroleum hydrocarbons

abstract:
Petroleum contamination is ubiquitous worldwide, and poses significant health risks to humans, organisms, and the environment. Understanding the fate and behaviour of these chemicals is extremely important in order to predict and mitigate the effects of spills and accidental releases, and limit the exposure of these contaminants to humans and ecosystems. The physical and biological interactions with various petroleum hydrocarbons released into the environment were examined throughout this thesis in two different environmental settings; offshore bay sediments near Deepwater Horizon oil spill impacted sites, and an experimental aquifer injected with compounds representative of ethanol blended fuels. Stable carbon isotopes were used to identify carbon sources in a given environment as well as utilized by microbial communities during biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons.
	Patterns of n-alkanes, low levels of UCM and the lack of PAHs suggest hydrocarbons in Barataria Bay sediments were of dominantly terrestrial origin. Stable carbon isotope analysis of microbial lipids and n-alkanes indicate the presence of some petroleum residues, however there is no strong evidence of Deepwater Horizon oil.
	Dissolved ethanol, toluene, and MTBE were continuously injected into a pilot-scale laboratory tank simulating an unconfined sand aquifer contaminated with ethanol blended fuel. Ethanol, toluene and MTBE all experienced significant mass loss within the aquifer, which was attributed to biological degradation using stable carbon isotope analysis of residual hydrocarbons. Isotopic analysis of PLFA indicated a strong ethanol sourced signature used in microbial metabolism with some indications of an additional carbon sources such as toluene or MTBE.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: Agee and Shame: A Psychoanalytical Reading of the Autobiographical Fiction

contributor:
King, James
English

subject:
James Agee
A Death in the Family
The Morning Watch

abstract:
This thesis explores the autobiographical fiction of James Agee from the perspective ofKohut's self psychology and shame studies. Chapter One provides an outline of these psychological theories and draws connections between Kohut's narcissistic personality disorder and shame, makes reference to other scholars such as Joseph Adamson, J. Brooks Bouson and Barbara Ann Schapiro who have employed these theories with such effectiveness to other authors, and discusses Agee within these contexts. Chapter Two focuses on A Death in the Family and examines how Agee's autobiographical persona suffers from a narcissistic injury and excessive shame that precedes his father's death, and explores how other family members suffer from similar disturbances. Chapter Three examines Agee's first novel, The Morning Watch, and - discusses the shame dynamics that underlie Agee's ambiguous presentation ofreligion. Chapter Four explores Agee's short autobiographical fiction from the 1940's and
discusses how Agee' s response to the modem world plays an integral role in his examination of the self and interpersonal conflicts.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: A systematic examination of the role of social influence on leisure time physical activity among persons with physical disabilities

contributor:
Martin Ginis, Kathleen A.
Kinesiology

abstract:
The purpose of this dissertation was to systematically examine social influence on leisure time physical activity (LTPA) among persons with physical disability.  Study 1 examines sex -differences in Theory of Planned Behavior-based predictors of LTPA among men and women with spinal cord injury, as well as the role of social support in explaining such differences in social cognitions.  Results suggest that women feel significantly less control over their physical activity behavior and have lower confidence to overcome barriers to physical activity than do men. Social support predicts perceived control and barrier self-efficacy for LTPA in both men and women.
      Study 2 identifies the association between social influence and physical activity behavior and social cognitions among persons with physical disability.  Findings suggest that there is a positive, medium-sized relationship between social influence and both physical activity behavior and social cognitions among persons with physical disability.  These effects are somewhat larger than the effects reported in the previous meta-analysis among able-bodied persons.
      Study 3 aims to test a model of Social Cognitive Theory variables for predicting level of sport participation (i.e., higher versus lower level) among parasport athletes with physical disabilities.  The secondary aim is to identify which operationalization of social support (general support, family support for sport, peer support for sport) contributes to the best fitting model for predicting level of sport participation among parasport athletes.  The results suggest Social Cognitive Theory provides a reasonable model for predicting leisure time physical activity among persons with physical disabilities.  Further, within Social Cognitive Theory, peer support for sport is an appropriate operationalization of social support for predicting level of sport participation among parasport athletes.
      Study 4 tests the efficacy of a peer-facilitated, Skype-delivered brief action planning intervention for creating more positive LTPA social cognitions among persons with spinal cord injury than standard care.  The findings suggest peer-delivered brief action planning is efficacious for creating more positive social cognitions for LTPA among persons with spinal cord injury than standard care.  In sum, these four dissertation studies expand the current knowledge about the magnitude of the relationship between social influence and physical activity among persons with physical disabilities that cause mobility impairment and its potential role in changing LTPA social cognitions and behavior.

abstract: Dissertation

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Functional characterization of renal ammonia transport and acid-base regulation in teleost and elasmobranch fishes

contributor:
Wood, Chris M.
Wright, Patricia A.
Biology

subject:
Ammonia
Renal ammonia transport
Kidney
Sodium
Rhesus glycoproteins
Acid-base regulation
Teleost fish
Elasmobranch fish
Comparative and Evolutionary Physiology
Systems and Integrative Physiology
Biology
Cellular and Molecular Physiology
Metabolic Acidosis
Gills
Amino acid metabolism
H+ ATPase

abstract: Teleost fishes incorporate renal ammonia excretion as part of a greater acid-base regulatory system. However, the transport mechanisms employed by the renal epithelium to excrete ammonia are relatively unknown. I hypothesized that, under metabolic acidosis, increased renal ammonia excretion would be the product of tubular secretion and involve a Na+/NH4+ exchange metabolon mediated through Rhesus (Rh) glycoproteins. To induce metabolic acidosis, goldfish (Carassius auratus) were exposed to a low pH environment (pH 4.0; 48-h). There was a clear signal of metabolic acidosis: a reduction in both plasma [HCO3-] and blood pH with no influence on plasma PCO2. Goldfish demonstrated an elevation in total plasma [ammonia] with a reduction in PNH3 under acidosis. Metabolic acidosis induced higher rates of urinary excretion of acidic equivalents in the form of both NH4+ and titratable acidity-HCO3- (TA-HCO3-) excretion. Urinary Na+ excretion was not affected by acidosis and urine [Na+] did not correlate with urinary [ammonia]. Alanine aminotransferase activity in the kidney was higher in acidotic goldfish. Glomerular filtration rate and urine flow rate were not affected by acidosis. Increased renal NH4+ excretion was due to increased secretion, and not increased filtration, of ammonia. There was a corresponding elevation in Rhcg1b mRNA expression but no change in renal Na+ reabsorption. My data support a secretion-based mechanism of teleost renal ammonia transport. This system is Na+ independent and is likely mediated by Rh glycoproteins and H+ ATPase, involving a parallel H+/NH3 secretion mechanism. To investigate effects of metabolic acidosis on elasmobranch fish, Pacific spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias suckleyi) were infused with an acidic saline (125 mM HCl/375 mM NaCl; 3 ml/kg/h; 24-h). The results are preliminary, with no marked effects of HCl infusion on plasma acid-base or N-status, but increased branchial NHE2 and lower renal NHE3 protein expressions. These data are summarized in an Appendix.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: Neutron Activation Analysis for the Rare Earths in Apatite

contributor:
McNutt, R. H.
Science

subject: Neuron activation analysis

abstract: A method for the determination of low concentrations (<10PPM) of rare earths in minerals and rocks by neutron activation analysis is presented. A 10 min irradiation of sample and standard required no chemical purification owhile a 20hr, irradiation required an ion exchange purification before actual counting. A Li-drifted germanium detector an 1600 channel gamma spectrometer provided sufficient resolution to allow determination of La, Pr, Sm, Eu, Dy, Ho, Yb and Lu in two apatite samples. The results are generally higher than those obtained by other neutron activation analyses. The specific causes are uncertain and can be resolved best by further study and modification of this neutron activation analysis.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Bachelor of Science (BSc)


title: Effect of Floor Slabs and Floor Beams on Static and Dynamic Behaviour of Shear Wall Structures

contributor:
Tso, W.K.
Civil Engineering

subject:
static and dynamic behaviour
shear wall structure
static and dynamic loading
continuum approach
Vlasov's theory

abstract: This thesis studies the effect of-floor slabs on the static and dynamic behaviour of the shear wall structure. A single component has been analysed using the 'Matrix Transfer' technique along with Vlaspv's thin walled elastic beam theory. Experimental verification was done on a small scale plexiglas eight storey model in the form of a channel section for both static and dynamic loading. The thesis also deals with the ·analysis of the nonplanar shear walls coupled through floor beams subjected to static loading. The continuum approach along with Vlasov's theory h&s been used in the analysis. Experimental verification was done on a small scale plexiglas model in the form of two equal angles connected by eight floor beams at equal spacing.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Engineering (ME)