identifier: Stolar, Batia Boe  (1997) "So what's the joke?" : locating Jewish-American female authorship.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis examines the fiction of three contemporary Jewish-American female writers, Grace Paley, Cynthia Ozick and Erica Jong, and locates their writing in the context of their quasi-double-marginalization--the yoking of their Jewishness and femaleness. Their texts illustrate their reaction to a history of patriarchal Judaism that relegates femaleness to the domestic sphere, and to a history of anti-Semitism that is marked by persecution, and, most explicitly, the Holocaust. An examination of the narrative strategics that these writers utilize--oral storytelling, traditional genre paradigms, and hyperbolic satire--illustrates their reaction to oppressive constructions of Jewishness--particularly Jewish femaleness--that have been authorized and promoted by such canonical Jewish male authors as Saul Bellow, Bernard Malamud, and Philip Roth. Paley, Ozick and Jong challenge the authority of their canonical male counterparts and ridicule their caricatures of Jewish women--particularly that of the ball-breaking "Jewish Mother." Their rewritings and inscriptions of Jewish-American femaleness reconstruct a frequently ignored immigrant domestic sphere, and the sexuality of the Jewish-American woman--whose sexuality has been dismissed by the Jewish male desire for the shiksa. And yet, their texts also remind us that Jewish-American female writers are not relegated to the domestic sphere, nor do they lack authority.


identifier: Subramanian, Narayana Iyer  (1997) A foundation for integrating heterogeneous data sources.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract: We study the foundations of the integration issues that arise in a federation of heterogeneous data sources, possibly storing related information. Some of the notable features of our approach, motivated by the shortcomings of existing technology, include (a) the ability to share data across multiple heterogeneous data sources, (b) the ability to manipulate the meta-data (schema) component of a data source in the same vein as data can be manipulated, and (c) the ability to query besides well-structured data sources (such as relational databases), semi-structured data sources (such as the HTML documents on the World Wide Web). Our approach is declarative and is based on a simple logic called SchemaLog. SchemaLog's syntax is higher-order but it enjoys a first-order semantics. We present a formal account of the semantics of SchemaLog by developing a model theory, a proof theory, and a fixpoint theory.  SchemaLog can be implemented on top of existing database systems in a 'non-intrusive' way. Realizing an efficient implementation of a SchemaLog-based system warrants the study of the calculus and algebraic languages underlying SchemaLog. We develop a new algebra by extending the conventional relational algebra with some new operations that are capable of manipulating both data and schema information in a federation of databases. We also develop a calculus language inspired by SchemaLog. Based on the calculus language, we study varying notions of safety that naturally arise in a federation scenario.  One of our primary concerns in this dissertation has been the practical relevance and industrial impact of our contributions. In this vein and inspired by the SchemaLog experience, we develop a principled extension of SQL, called SchemaSQL. SchemaSQL is downward compatible with SQL syntax and semantics and is capable of (a) representing data in a database, in a structure substantially different from the original database, in which data and meta-data may be interchanged, (b) creating views whose schema is dynamically dependent on the input database, (c) expressing novel aggregation (over rows, and in general blocks of information) operations, in the spirit of some of the functionalities needed in OLAP applications, and (d) providing a great facility for interoperability and data, meta-data management in multidatabase systems.  Legacy as well as non-traditional information systems constitute an important fragment of the data sources available in real-life. We demonstrate that SchemaLog can be naturally extended to support non-relational systems as well. In particular, we address the fundamental problem of retrieving specific information of interest to the user, from the enormous number of resources that are available on the Web. With this in mind, and inspired by SchemaLog, we develop a simple logic called WebLog and illustrate the simplicity and power of WebLog for Web querying and restructuring using a variety of applications involving real-life information in the Web. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)


identifier: Szawlowski, Grazyna  (1997) Inherent rights, vision rights : a virtual environment by Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: My fascination with new technologies lies, in part, in their appearance to function invisibly, like unseen forces possessing miraculous and mysterious powers. My intention in this thesis is to explore these unseen forces, through Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun's 1991-92 virtual environment Inherent Rights Vision Rights. The work Inherent Rights, Vision Rights, as part of the Land Spirit, Power exhibition of 1992, made Canadian art "history" as it was the first virtual reality piece ever shown at the National Gallery of Canada.  In this thesis Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun's work Inherent Rights, Vision Rights (1991-92) is explored within the literature of postcolonial identity politics and contemporary theories of virtual environments and cyberspace. Yuxweluptun's longhouse in cyberspace is an invitation for the viewer to understand his Coast Salish culture through cyberspace immersion. The notion of interactivity with a total work of art merits an understanding that new technology is embedded in cultural and social contexts. The result of this new interaction between artwork and viewer (active participant), cyberspace is understood "as a discursive site of ideological struggles that define the relationship between new technology and the subjectivity of the active participant" (Kendrick 147). This powerful tool for Yuxweluptun permits him to expand and explore the issue of identity construction.


identifier: Tadisetty, Mohan Rao  (1997) On the design and implementation of a top-down datalog interpreter in C++.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Datalog is a database query language based on the logic programming paradigm. Datalog is the language of deductive databases, obtained by extending the basic relational database model with the reasoning capability, that is, one can not only query about the facts stored explicitly in the database but also query about derived facts. Datalog provides the clauses with parameters, called logical variables. The interpreter for Datalog requires the matching of predicates and of logical variables, through unification and substitution. Datalog behaves like a programming language because it can return values as answers to queries, rather than just "yes" and "no" answers. In this report, the syntax and semantics of Datalog, the efforts to design and implement a top-down version of the Datalog interpreter in C++ and the experimental results are presented.  The name "Datalog" is chosen because of its connection with database query languages. In this implementation, the Datalog interpreter can process one query at a time.


identifier: Talebi, Heidar Ali  (1997) Neural network-based control of flexible-link manipulators.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The problem of modeling and control of flexible-link manipulators has received much attention in the past several years. There are a number of potential advantages arising from the use of light-weight flexible-link manipulators, such as faster operation, lower energy consumption, and higher load-carrying capacity. However, structural flexibility causes many difficulties in modeling the manipulator dynamics and guaranteeing stable and efficient motion of the manipulator end-effector. Control difficulties are mainly due to the non-colocated nature of the sensor and actuator position, which results in unstable zero dynamics. Further complications arise because of the highly nonlinear nature of the system and the difficulty involved in accurately modeling various friction and backlash terms. Control strategies that ignore these problems generally fail to provide satisfactory closed-loop performance.  This dissertation presents experimental evaluation on the performance of neural network-based controllers for tip position tracking of flexible-link manipulators. The controllers are designed by utilizing the output redefinition approach to overcome the problem caused by the non-minimum phase characteristic of the flexible-link system. Four different neural network schemes are proposed. The first two schemes are developed by using a modified version of the "feedback-error-learning" approach to learn the inverse dynamics of the flexible manipulator. The neural networks are trained and employed as online controllers. Both schemes require only a linear model of the system for defining the new outputs and for designing conventional PD-type controllers. This assumption is relaxed in the third and fourth schemes. In the third scheme, the controller is designed based on tracking the hub position while controlling the elastic deflection at the tip. In the fourth scheme which employs two neural networks, the first network (referred to as the output neural network) is responsible for specifying an appropriate output for ensuring minimum phase behavior of the system. The second neural network is responsible for implementing an inverse dynamics controller. Both networks are trained online. Finally, the four proposed neural network controllers are implemented oil a single flexible-link experimental test-bed. Experimental and simulation results are presented to illustrate the advantages and improved performance of the proposed tip position tracking controllers over the conventional PD-type controllers in the presence of unmodeled dynamics such as hub friction and stiction and payload variations.


identifier: Therrien, Michel-Charles  (1997) Guidelines for the instructional design of technological and cooperative applications in a music program.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The basis of this thesis is to assist in the development of instructional strategies using cooperative and technological learning tools. An experiment comparing supported self-study in computer-based instruction versus cooperative learning groups was used as the basis of the instructional design system. The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness and/or the efficiency of two teaching strategies in the field of Theory and Aural Training. One approach uses a cooperative strategy where students work in small groups on their Theory and Ear-Training skills using a piano as sound source. The other approach uses a self-regulating tutorial strategy where students use a computer equipped with a Theory and Ear-Training software (Practica Musica) and receive randomly generated and/or pre-defined Theory and Ear-Training material (i.e. intervals, rhythm, pitch matching, identify scales, name chords, etc ...) along with immediate response to their input.


identifier: Varley, Jill  (1997) Not real but true : evolution in form and theme in Alice Munro's Lives of girls and women, The progress of love, and Open secrets.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Through the use of detailed textual analysis, this study explores the relationship between form and theme in Lives of Girls and Women, The Progress of Love and Open Secrets. A close reading of Munro's deceptively simple narrative style reveals a rich combination of formal techniques that has evolved to reflect the author's increasingly complex artistic vision. While the author consistently explores questions of female identity and the nature of reality, her focus is shown to widen from a close-up on one developing artistic consciousness to a cinematographic panning of various characters' attempts at making meaning from the world around them. This shift in focus is traced throughout the stories of all three collections, demonstrating movement from a reliance on what Munro refers to as a "single path" through a story, to an increasingly complex labyrinth in which characters' lives and visions intersect in unexpected and inexplicable ways. Munro's writing is shown to have evolved over time, most recently leading her to pursue a quest similar to that of Will in "The Jack Randa Hotel": "Perhaps it is my age--I am 56--that urges me to find connections" (172)


identifier: Velissarios, John  (1997) A pseudo one-time-pad based security system.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Cryptography is playing an increasingly important role in the computing and telecommunications industry. The cryptographic schemes currently employed, however, are theoretically breakable given enough time and/or computing resources. Nevertheless, there exists one scheme, the One-Time-Pad, that is theoretically unbreakable given that it satisfies certain requirements. The One-Time-Pad, however, is challenged by serious constraints due to inherent deployment problems. The purpose of this thesis is to outline a pseudo One-Time-Pad-based security system whereby deployment requirements are satisfied while leveraging the inherent strengths of the One-Time-Pad encryption scheme.  The One-Time-Pad, also known as the Vernam Cipher, provides unconditional security regardless of the computational resources available. This state of unconditional security is also known as perfect secrecy, and the Vernam Cipher is the only scheme capable of making that claim. There are, however, several strict requirements that must be satisfied in order to guarantee perfect secrecy. The Vernam Cipher requires a truly random source of bits each of which undergoes an exclusive-or Boolean operation with the plaintext message. The problem of distributing a truly random One-Time-Pad to a remote location has severely limited the applicability of the Vernam Cipher for industrial, commercial, and personal use. A pseudo One-Time-Pad-based security system is one wherein a pseudo-random bit sequence is transformed into a cryptographically secure pseudo-random bit sequence, possessing all of the characteristics of the highly desirable truly random bit sequence. This proposed scheme is used in our distributed and secure implementation of the One-Time-Pad encryption scheme.


identifier: Vijayan, Usha  (1997) A user interaction language for accessing multimedia news documents.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The conventional news media like News Paper, TV, Radio, and internet provide news in bulk, of which only a certain limited topics may be of interest to an individual. Each of these media has some limitations in delivering the news in a personalized form. TV and Radio do not provide any control to the user in selecting a particular news, while the News Paper is not dynamic like TV or Radio. Internet has dynamism, good user control, and interactivity, but the available Internet browsers are not very user friendly in personalizing the news.  To overcome these limitations, an Electronic News Delivery System (ENDS), which delivers multimedia news documents that are personalized for each customer, is proposed here. The ENDS spreads over one Client and many Servers. The Client interacts with the user and collects the requirements while the Server stores the news documents. The system provides both Conventional News Delivery and Personalized News Delivery services.  To find a good language for communicating between User, Client, and Servers, a number of requirements were identified for the ENDS. Several existing query languages were studied to see whether any of them met these requirements, but none of them was found to be totally suitable for personalized news delivery. Therefore, a new domain specific language called the User Interaction Language (UIL) was developed in this work. A Graphical User Interface for the ENDS was also designed and implemented to collect the user requirements and to convert them to appropriate UIL query.


identifier: Vuthicholthee, Nattaphan  (1997) Stock market winners : Thailand evidence.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Of all the stocks listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) during 1990-1993, 120 of them had their stock prices double within a year. These firms share some common characteristics. These significant characteristics are changes in trading volume on the foreign board, and quarterly earnings changes.  The significant winners' characteristics are used to form the trading strategies that are applied to the stocks in the SET, excluding the winners, over the period of 1990-1993. Although these trading strategies underperform the SET index, the combined strategy improves the performance of one-criterion strategies in a quarter and a two-year scheme. On a two-screen strategy, the average CAR over a two-year holding period are $-$5.95 and $-$4.73 percent for a quarter and a two-year scheme, respectively.  The foreign investments do affect stocks on the SET. It boosts local trading of international stocks on the main board.


identifier: Wakeling, Faye  (1997) Voices in the struggle : the source of hope in a methodology of feminist liberative ethics.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis project involved two inter-related activities. The first activity was the collective writing of a work, "Hope is the Struggle--A Community in Action", by five women, each deeply involved in an impoverished community. They wrote of the sources of hope in their years of engagement for social transformation. Four women were long-time residents of Point St. Charles, one of the most impoverished neighbourhoods in Montreal. They know poverty first-hand and have been involved in different groups working for social change in the community. The author of the thesis has been engaged in community work over the past 14 years at Saint Columba House, an Outreach Ministry of the United Church. She initiated a process of discussion and collective writing about the forces that shape such a community and about the power structures from within and without that effect the struggles for social change. They have written about the place of women in this community and the factors that encourage victims of poverty to become empowered as agents of change. Together the five women reveal a new understanding of the meaning of hope in the midst of struggle. They were able to do so through dialogue and story telling about their daily lives, wrestling with ethical dilemmas they face and biblical critique from the underside. This work is included in its entirety in the thesis.  The second part consists of reflections and analyses of this initial collective writing. The thesis discusses ways in which this group engaged in collective reflections, which are in themselves liberative. It suggests new insights into the meaning of hope as integral to a methodology of "feminist liberative ethics". It focuses on the intersecting and circular processes of liberation, reflection and action in a lived community experience. From the starting point of the context of engagement in the struggle against oppression, new principles are introduced for a methodology that requires the participation of a community in all aspects of ethical and theological reflection on their own situation. Such a methodology arises from the conviction that ethics must be an active, engaged, process which requires the involvement of those whose lives are being analyzed. This necessitates an epistemological shift in the approach of the academia engaged in liberative ethics and suggests a new role for the theological ethicist in such a method.


identifier: Wang, Xiaohong  (1997) Characterization of surfactant adsorption at a liquid-liquid interface by drop volume tensiometry.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Surfactant characterization is important for many practical applications, such as the removal of hydrophobic contaminants from soils through surfactant-enhanced washing or flushing processes. Dynamic interfacial tension measurements can be useful in describing the adsorption behavior of surfactants at liquid-liquid interfaces. In this work, selected surfactants are tested at the mineral oil-water interface using a drop volume tensiometer. A model is developed to account for the neck formation in suspended drops under certain experimental conditions. The model relates apparent values of interfacial tension calculated from drops possessing necks to actual values. Dynamic interfacial tension measurements are then used to describe surfactant adsorption.  In many cases, surfactant adsorption can be described by either kinetic or diffusion-controlled models. A kinetic-controlled model is found to fit the dynamic interfacial tension data obtained for sodium dodecyl sulfate. Span 80 and Triton X-100 are found to fit diffusion-controlled models. For Span 80 dissolved in the mineral oil phase, the short diffusion time approximation is valid. For Triton X-100 dissolved in the aqueous phase, the long diffusion time approximation is valid. A dimensionless parameter relating adsorption time, $\rm t\sb{a},$ to a characteristic diffusion time, $\rm\tau\sb{D},$ is introduced in order to determine the general applicability of the diffusion approximations. The ratio $\rm t\sb{a}/\tau\sb{D}$ is found to be useful in characterizing diffusion-controlled adsorption.


identifier: Weinberg, Abbie  (1997) Identity politics in Canadian artwriting : C Magazine and Parachute, 1983-1996.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis attempts to determine where C Magazine and Parachute fit within international developments of theories on identity. Focussing on the period 1983-1996, the study analyzes articles published in these magazines and contextualizes them within theoretical and critical art discourse. Chapter One presents a history of "new art history" and explores the critical milieu from which these journals grew. It also outlines the specific histories of C Magazine and Parachute. Prefaced and contextualized by a brief history of international debates about essentialism, Chapter Two examines these magazines' publication of articles dealing with feminist issues. Foregrounding the developments of gay and lesbian studies and queer theory, Chapter Three explores the appearance in C Magazine and Parachute of articles that address issues of sexual identity. This study is framed by an ongoing discussion of Homi Bhabha's conceptualization of the double inscription of identity through performative action and pedagogical formation, as elucidated in his essay "DissemiNation," published in Nation and Narration.


identifier: Yazdanpanah, Mohammad J  (1997) Control of flexible-link manipulators using nonlinear H(infinity) techniques.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Most engineering systems encountered in practice exhibit significant nonlinear behavior. For control of systems exhibiting nonlinearities, the normal design procedure is to construct a linearized approximation of the process model followed by the application of a linear control methodology. This procedure, however, can yield unsatisfactory performance, especially when the system is highly nonlinear and undergoes large motions, that is, it operates over wide nonlinear dynamical ranges, as is often the case in the problems of attitude control, advanced aircraft control, and the control of robotic manipulators. Furthermore, most systems are seldom completely known and therefore, their mathematical models should include some uncertain parts. The control of an uncertain system is required to be robust with respect to modeling uncertainties. Robust control strives to characterize the uncertainty in the model of the plant and to evaluate the degrees of freedom left to achieve the control task within specified bounds.  This dissertation is concerned with the control of a highly complicated and nonlinear system, namely, a flexible-link manipulator. The general procedure taken in this regard is to develop, design and analyze nonlinear H P techniques applied to flexible-link manipulators.  For the purpose of robust control of an uncertain model of the flexible-link manipulator two types of modeling are studied. In the first type, uncertainty is due to parameter variations of the manipulator while performing a task or when its configuration is changing. The uncertainties considered in this regard may be L 2 bounded and/or constant. In the second type of modeling, a new look at, the notion of flexibility in robotic manipulators is presented. Based on this interpretation, flexible structures exhibit two kinds of behavior, one of which may be treated as a disturbance acting on the modeled dynamics.  For designing the nonlinear H P controller, the approximate polynomial solution of the Hamilton-Jacobi-Isaac (HJI) inequality for a general nonlinear system is derived. Also by exploiting the stability properties of perturbed systems, qualitative behavior of nonlinear H P controllers is considered.


identifier: Zghidi, Samia  (1997) Index participation units and the performance of index futures markets and index options markets.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: In response to the need for a simple financial instrument that enables retail investors to easily and quickly participate in the U.S. equity market and for a vehicle that facilitates basket trading by institutions, the American Stock Exchange introduced Standard and Poor's Depository Receipts (SPDRs) on January 29, 1993.  The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of the introduction of SPDRs on the pricing efficiency of S&P 500 futures market and S&P 500 options market. Using a measure of efficiency that is based on the signed difference between the observed futures price and the theoretical futures price as per the Cost of Carry model, we find that the positive mispricing is reduced when SPDRs are introduced. When the absolute values of the differences are used as the measure of efficiency, the results also show an improvement in the pricing efficiency of the futures markets. Using an ARIMA(4,0,4)-TGARCH(1,1) model, rather than the OLS model, provides us with a more precise test of the mispricing series and supports the findings above. Tests of pricing efficiency of the index options market are conducted by measuring the frequency and magnitude of violations of the no-arbitrage conditions as per the Put-Call Parity. Results from the index options market indicate that arbitrage opportunities do exist but no clear cut conclusion could be made regarding the effect of SPDRs on the index options market. When taking transaction costs into consideration, it is clear that both the frequency and the magnitude of arbitrage opportunities are reduced


identifier: Zhou, Youquan  (1997) CINDI : the virtual library graphical user interface.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The search for information on the Internet is often not an easy job for many Internet users. Because of the lack of a standard indexing scheme and an informative query interface, a Net search could have thousands of hits returned and the number of search misses is high. This thesis is part of the work to develop an Indexing and Searching System for the Internet called the CINDI (Concordia INdexing and DIscovery) system. It is aimed at providing a standard index scheme called Semantic-Header and informative query interface for users and providers of resources published on the Internet.  This thesis presents the architectural design of the CINDI system, the design and implementation of the client part of the expert system, and the design and implementation of the graphical user interface (GUI) for the CINDI system. As the interface is an important part for the quality of a software, it has been carefully designed and implemented in an effort to be easy to use, user friendly, and consistent. The interface has been implemented under the UNIX system using the Motif toolkit and C programming language.  The heart of the indexing system is the record called Semantic-Header that is kept for each item being indexed. The grammar of the Semantic-Header and that of the search query are also discussed in this thesis. An interface between the CINDI system and Netscape Navigator is also implemented.  Finally, some directions for future work related to CINDI are described.


identifier: Zoghaib, Rana  (1997) Index participation units and their effects on the Canadian market : evidence from new issues and their redemptions of TIPs.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study provides new evidence related to basket portfolio trading using the Canadian index participation units, TIPs. First, we determine the linkage between TIPs and the Canadian market as well as the US market. We show that TIPs are Granger-caused by the T35, the T300 and the S&P 500. Also, we find that the T35, which is the basis of TIPs, exerts a substantial impact on the T300; no relation was revealed between the T35 and the S&P 500. Second, we study the effect of issues and redemptions of TIPs on the prices of TIPs, the value of the underlying index, and the prices of the constituent companies in the context of the hypothesis of negatively sloped demand curves for equities. Not only do we uncover a positive price effect stemming from the issue of TIPs for both the constituent companies as well as the T35 Index, but we also document a stronger market impact for large as opposed to small issues. These results support the downward sloping demand curve hypothesis. In addition, we find that the abnormal returns are permanent thus supporting the imperfect substitute hypothesis as opposed to the price pressure hypothesis for new issues. The empirical evidence on the redemptions of TIPs does not support nor reject the downward sloping demand curve hypothesis. It is shown that, based on an information-cleansed sample, redemptions result in insignificant abnormal returns. Finally, it is found that the price of TIPs decreases (increases) following an issue (redemption)


identifier: Armstrong, Ann  (1997) Beyond Eden : cultivating spectacle in the Montreal Botanical Garden.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The Montreal Botanical Garden, a 180-acre complex comprised of over thirty outdoor and ten indoor landscapes located in the city's east-end, is the product of a Depression-era government funded Public Works project. Its founding director, preeminent botanist Frère Marie-Victorin, drew from and expanded upon four hundred years of western botanical studies and garden planning to realize the Garden. In this thesis, the factors which inspired him, particularly his perceived need of such an institution to fulfill the purposes of popular botanical education for the masses through attracting and instructing local and foreign visitors, and the provision of a place where people could commune with nature, are explored. In recent years, the function of the Garden as a tourist mecca has surpassed Marie-Victorin's original aims. The construction involved in creating "natural" and "cultural" spectacles is investigated in order to comprehend the extent to which this widely acclaimed and advertised sight/site reflects its ideological and physical locus within the city's urban fabric and history.


identifier: Boyle, B. Michael  (1997) Globalization and technology : the dual discussion.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: In recent years there have been two important changes among the myriad of political and policy initiatives that occur throughout the world. First, we have entered a new era in which national and foreign policy is no longer dominated by attention to monolithic Cold-War style opponents. This has brought about a new form of "globalization" and a push to engage the nations of the world as trade partners. Second, many commentators have noticed the ubiquity of advanced communications tools, most notably the internet. For the most part, however, these two new discussions rarely intersect in meaningful ways.  In fact, however, the drive to globalization is being fueled by the sorts of economies that are possible in a world in which such advanced communications tools exist. Likewise, the companies who have invested the most in building these communications tools also have a great interest in spreading their ubiquity: thus promoting globalization to an extent not seen in earlier portions of the century.  This paper has as its broadest aim to investigate how the two discussions are related. Making reference to the current popular and scholarly literature about the internet and about globalization, the essay describes how both discussions are weakened by the fact that although they supposedly describe revolutionary change, neither does so in a satisfactory manner. It is through the study of these two discourses and their relation to one another that the revolutionary potential of recent developments can be assessed.


identifier: Dolenko, Michael  (1997) Break free : building a critique of social marketing theory.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study develops a critique of approaches to persuasive social change known as social marketing. The focus is on social marketing's theoretical underpinnings of social change, motivation and media effects, and how these influence the development and implementation of social change communications campaigns. The work critically examines various assumptions present in social marketing writing, including: the idea of social change as a modernist, teleological process; the notion of human behaviour as rationally motivated; the view that consumer products serve only immediate material and psychological needs; and, the conception of communication as a linear process in which media audiences are passive recipients of information that generates predictable cognitive, attitudinal and behavioural effects. To show how theoretical shortcomings influence practice, elements of Health Canada's social marketing campaigns are examined. Theories of motivation and communication with psychological, "culturalist" and anthropological roots are presented as potential alternatives for reforming social marketing theories. The study concludes with an analysis of the institutional settings of Health Canada's social marketing campaigns. This analysis suggests that a complex of administrative factors can help explain the prominence of social marketing approaches to social problems, while simultaneously accounting for some key limitations of the practice.


identifier: Fenwick, Craig  (1997) Study of the highly oxidizing centers in the metmyoglobin-H2O2 reaction.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Metmyoglobin (MbFe III ) from horse heart forms an oxyferryl heme (Fe IV = O) and an unstable protein radical upon reaction with H 2 O 2 . Chemical modifications to the globin and heme have been reported as by-products of the reaction. Damage to the polypeptide was found to be linked to the Fe IV = O autoreduction process, with the extent of chemical modification increasing at lower pH. MbFe III was also found to demonstrate catalase-like activity after "priming" with 2 molar equivalents of H 2 O 2 . FTIR analysis of MbFe IV = O and MbFe III over the pH range 7 to 5.4 revealed minor changes in the amide I ' and II bands, indicating only small secondary structure changes. Thus, electron transfer pathways through the polypeptide to the heme are not expected to be perturbed by reaction with H 2 O 2 nor by pH changes.  Covalent modification of His48 of Mb was performed with three ruthenium complexes (a 4 LRu; a = NH 3 ; L = NH 3 , pyridine, isonicotinamide). The reduction potentials (Ru III/II ) of the Mb-bound complexes were determined to be 77, 330, and 400 mV for the a 5 Ru, a 4 PyrRu, and a 4 IsnRu derivatives, respectively.  The kinetics of Fe IV = O heme reduction in Mb by a 4 LRu II bound at the surface His48 were investigated using pulse radiolysis. The observed first-order rate constant (k obs1 ) decreased with increasing pH and reduction potential for the a 4 LRu centers. Rate-pD data obtained in D 2 O for the a 5 Ru derivative revealed the presence of an equilibrium isotope effect, and a pK a , of 5.7 (6.2 in D 2 O) was obtained for the acid-base group, which is assigned to the distal His64. A mechanism where protonation precedes ET provided a good fit of the kinetic data for the three a 4 LRu derivatives. Marcus theory analysis of the k ET (0.74, 1.8, 3.6 s -1 for L = Isn, Pyr, NH 3 ) extracted from the k obs1 's yielded a reorganization energy (n) of 1.8 eV for Ru II [arrow right] Fe IV = O ET in the a 4 LRu derivatives, but a n of 2.1 eV for the a 5 Ru derivative. From the latter, it is concluded that ET is strongly gated in the a 5 Ru derivative, and this is assumed to be the major reason for the low reactivity of Fe IV = O in Mb at high -x o .  The location of protein-based radicals formed in the MbFe III /H 2 O 2 reaction was investigated by forming stable derivatives at the sites of radical formation. The spin adducts formed between Mb and the spin trap 2-methyl-2-nitrosopropan (MNP) were found to be stable upon reduction with ascorbate. Peptide mass mapping and sequencing by collisionally induced dissociation revealed that Tyr103 and Lys42 were modified in the MbFe III /H 2 O2/MNP reaction at neutral pH, and at pH 5 distal His64 was also modified.


identifier: Fortin, Robert A. S  (1997) The possibility of judgement.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: The possibility of judgement

abstract: The possibility that one can use Kant's Critique of Judgement to establish a political discourse that is consistent with the existing normative function designed for aesthetics and teleology would also allow us to create a schema missing from judgement, since aesthetics and teleology are subject, object of judgement. To pursue this task, one return's to the incomplete final work of Arendt, 'On Judgement' in The Life of the Mind to create anew the premise (promise?) of her final opus. It shows that there can be an effective third direction to politics that is neither empirical nor absolutist (Ideological).  This thesis deal's with three, real or perceived, problems: (1) The Kantian system itself is unable to deal with the empirical world. (2) The system is not internally consistent. (3) The system will not respond to create the necessary normative functions in political discussion--the resulting new political system will not have the necessary moral normative functions to establish a system of discourse


identifier: Fuzessy, Christopher  (1997) Biculturalism in post-secondary aboriginal education : an Inuit example.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study surveys a group of first semester post secondary (CEGEP) Inuit students living and studying outside their home communities in the Montreal area. It sheds light on their social and academic adaptation to Southern Canadian post secondary education and society by addressing their own characteristics at the time of the research. The cultural identity of each student is analyzed and two subgroups of Inuit students are determined (Bicultural & Southern Canadian Mainstream). These two subgroups are compared to each other in terms of their demographic attributes, and social, academic and affective adaptation to Southern life and schooling. A model of the successfully adapted Inuit college student is presented that encompasses the social, academic and affective attributes possessed by this Inuk student. Results of the study argue in favour of the bicultural and bilingual model presented in the literature concerning Native and minority education and practiced by the Kativik School Board's dual mandate.


identifier: Glenn, Melissa  (1997) Functional dissociation between the hippocampal formation and perirhinal cortex : evidence for independent memory systems in the medial temporal lobe.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Current views about the functional organization of memory in the medial temporal lobe of the mammalian brain suggest that the hippocampal formation (HPC) and the perirhinal cortex (PRh) are serial components in a unitary memory system. Contradictory to this view, evidence from numerous studies with monkeys and rats suggest that there are at least two independent memory systems within the medial temporal lobe. It appears that the PRh is critically involved in object-recognition memory, but the HPC does not make a significant contribution to this type of memory. Spatial memory appears to rely on the integrity of the HPC. It is not clear what role, if any, the PRh has in supporting spatial memory. The aim of this thesis was to assess the validity of these two views about the functional organization of memory and the contribution of the HPC and PRh to object-recognition and spatial memory. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)


identifier: Grande, John K  (1997) Armand Vaillancourt's social sculpture.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: Armand Vaillancourt's social sculpture

abstract: As an artist committed to social and cultural change, Armand Vaillancourt considers his art to be a tool in generating social transformation. The monumental projects he has produced over the years, as much as his performances are not only an end product, but are equally vehicles for engendering controversy and social dialogue. Vaillancourt's image as an avant garde artist is parenthetical to his art which has seldom been looked at in any depth though it has generated a lot of media attention. His bois brules, and The Tree of Durocher St., reflected a search for interiority through materials. Quebec libre and Je me souviens were both abstract and monumental, but the aesthetic is structural yet the process embodies principles of speed and scale. The rapport between structure and materials, between architecture and monumental sculpture emerges at the same time as his political manifestations and happenings. Vaillancourt's perception of the role of the public monument is classical, in that it embodies values of permanence, but his political gestures advocate social change. This thesis presents a chronological overview of Vaillancourt's public sculpture, from The Tree of Durocher, his first, to his most recent, Song of the Nations.


identifier: Hinenoya, Kimiko  (1997) A sociolinguistic study of the effects of ethnocentrism and cultural traits on proficiency of Japanese speakers of English.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The poor outcome of ESL learning in Japan has been acknowledged by both foreign and Japanese linguists and ESL teachers for nearly a century. Attitudinal and affective factors such as ethnocentrism, Japanese cultural traits, and values and beliefs expressed through modern myths were conjectured by several linguists and researchers as a cause for this phenomenon.  Many attitude studies in the past have investigated the relationships between L2 learning and integrative and instrumental motivation, but there are few studies focusing on L2 learning, ethnocentrism and traits.  This study is a socio-linguistic investigation to determine whether or not ethnocentrism, Japanese cultural/personality traits, values and beliefs influence ESL learning among Japanese living in Montreal. These factors were investigated using a questionnaire that measures the degree to which Japanese subjects agreed with statements expressing ethnocentric views about Japanese culture and language, traits, proverbs and modern myths. The hypothesis is that these factors are negatively correlated with English proficiency.  The conclusion of this study offers some evidence supporting the hypothesis in some groups of subjects, but not in others. Such a study of social factors and L2 learning has limitations, but these results may have implications for teaching ESL to the Japanese.


identifier: Hooley, Louise  (1997) That place such a long way from here.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: That place such a long way from here

abstract: "This short novel is set in mid-town Toronto and details a crisis in the life of a young professional couple... The novel proceeds by offering the protagonist, Elizabeth Pendleton, increasingly broad chances to recognize the nature of her relationship with her lover, Nick, as well as with larger society... The novel treats issues of race, gender and class in its examination of what it suggests is the contemporary crisis in our understanding of civitas"


identifier: Hus, Yvette  (1997) Central auditory processing disorders in minority children.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Central auditory processing disorders (CAPD) constitute a neuroauditory syndrome which affects the lives of adults and children in profound ways. CAPD is often diagnosed in children who experience educational distress despite intact hearing and cognitive ability. The benefit of early diagnosis of CAPD is in the potential for implementation of an intervention program designed to ameliorate and minimize the negative effects of this syndrome.  Diagnostic and therapeutic instruments are almost exclusively constructed for children for whom English is a first language (L1). Consequently, children for whom English is a second language (L2) who are experiencing educational distress are excluded from the benefits of diagnosis and intervention for CAPD since their difficulties are usually blamed on their L2 status.  This study was designed to investigate the usefulness of the CAPD construct in the assessment of L2 children's educational distress, to explore the ability of current diagnostic instruments to distinguish those with CAPD in both L2 and L1 children, and to determine the effect CAPD has on those who are clinically diagnosed.  The study included 116 children, aged 8;0-11;11, with normal cognitive ability and peripheral hearing. Two groups were formed on the basis of identification of their mother's mother tongue, and its use in the home. The two groups differed significantly on oral language tests. The children were investigated for CAPD and in terms of educational distress variables.  Multiple regression analyses showed that CAPD or low central auditory system efficiency (CASE) was significantly correlated with low performance on oral language measures and academic distress in the L2 group. In the L1 group low CASE was significantly correlated with a psychosocial/behavioural variable and with low oral language test performance. Cluster and discriminant analyses identified educational performance clusters in both language groups. Low CASE was associated with clusters of children manifesting learning problems in the L2 group, but not in the L1 group. A multiple embedded case study profiled children with severe CAPD and demonstrated that while CAPD had a negative impact on the academic lives of individual children in both language groups, the problems of the L2 children were often more severe.


identifier: Huyer, Gregory  (1997) Specificity of SH2 domains and protein tyrosine phosphatases.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: A multicellular organism must be able to coordinate the actions of its cells in order to function effectively. As such, cells have developed mechanisms to sense and respond to changes in their environment and signals from other cells. One common mechanism by which signals are transmitted within cells involves protein phosphorylation. For example, signal transmission from many extracellular signaling molecules is initiated by receptors that are themselves protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) or have an associated PTK activity. SH2 domains and protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) play essential roles in transmitting these signals. SH2 domains are small domains of V100 amino acids that bind to phospho-tyrosine (pY) in the context of adjacent amino acids. and PTPs counteract the activity of PTKs by removing phosphates from tyrosine residues. Many SH2 domains and PTPs exist, yet in spite of significant overlap in the intracellular machinery of tyrosine phosphorylation signaling pathways. specificity of the different extracellular signals is maintained.  The goal of the work presented in this thesis was to explore the basis of SH2 domain and PTP specificity. In the first part, the SH2 domains of the PTP SHP-2 were characterized. The specificity of these SH2 domains was shown to involve two residues N-terminal to the target pY in addition to three C-terminal residues. A single residue of the SH2 domains was found to play a critical role in directing the specificity requirement for N-terminal residues. This unique binding specificity defines an additional class of SH2 domain binding with general implications for SH2 domain-protein interactions.  In the second part, PTP specificity was studied. First, the mechanism of inhibition of two non-specific PTP inhibitors, vanadate and pervanadate, was elucidated. While little was revealed regarding PTP specificity, different mechanisms of inhibition were uncovered for these inhibitors having important implications for their use. Second, kinetic studies with pY-peptide substrates were used to attempt to uncover specificity determinants for three transmembrane PTPs. Finally. a general peptide affinity selection technique that was initially explored with the SH2 domains of SHP-2 was refined to define the in vitro sequence selectivities of PTPs. This technology should aid in predicting potential in vivo targets for PTPs and in the development of specific PTP inhibitors.


identifier: LaPierre, Patrick  (1997) The philosophic soul of reform : Herbert Croly's ideal of progressivism.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: American historians have found that within the passionate reform movements that inundated America from the 1890's to 1917, there was a corresponding intellectual movement away from the rigid and abstract formal logic that had characterized nineteenth century thought. This social thought, stressing the limits of the rational and defining itself in opposition to metaphysics, a priori reasoning, and absolute truth, defined the ideology of the progressive era.  Herbert Croly (1869-1930) is commonly referred to as one of the leading progressive minds. His book The Promise of American Life (1909) is consistently cited, by historians, as a representative expression of progressive thought. Using this source and a number of his other writings, this thesis suggests that Herbert Croly's thought was, in fact, at variance with progressive currents. This thesis argues that Croly's idealist political philosophy was heavily influenced by Immanuel Kant's conception of individual freedom and Josiah Royce's idea of community. Croly then, rejected the trend toward the relative and experiential nature of truth and ethics, the strictly empirical nature of social knowledge, and process being exalted over the ideal


identifier: Legault, Raymond  (1997) Unconstrained handwritten numeral recognition : a contribution towards matching human performance.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Intense activity and significant progress have characterized the last decade in the field of the recognition of unconstrained handwritten numerals by computer. The diversity and ingenuity of the methods proposed are carefully reviewed at the beginning of this thesis and the results achieved are compared.  Despite important advances, the very high reliability of human recognition has not been matched by these approaches and our work is intended as a contribution towards bridging this reliability gap. In recent years, the combination of several recognition methods has been a very fruitful idea in this regard. Here we explore another avenue: overcoming the limits of single methods, particularly structural model-based methods, to deliver much more reliable classification on their own. Lessons are drawn from past work and all stages of the recognition process which are typical of this approach (preprocessing, feature extraction, and classification) are revisited.  Achieving higher levels of reliability and robustness in the feature extraction stage was seen as key to achieving our goal. Hence much of our research was devoted to the solution of this problem including a comparative study of several curvature feature extraction schemes, the detailed 'autopsy'of a feature extractor previously devised by this author, and the meticulous construction of a new extractor to circumvent identified weaknesses. Compared to a preceding effort at creating a numeral recognition system, our conception of the development of classification rules was also deeply revised. Much care is taken to distinguish all the (global or local) shape variants to be identified by the system and to tightly model each of these variants in a more refined and exhaustive manner. A special syntax and a development interface were designed to assist in this task.  Results for the CENPARMI database, from a partial classifier built upon these foundations, demonstrate the feasibility of creating a single-method numeral recognition system with a high recognition rate (around 90%) and a very low substitution rate. When applied to other databases, including some which incorporate markedly different writing styles, the very high reliability of the system is maintained


identifier: Levy, Michael S  (1997) Helminth communities of ring billed gulls (Larus delawarensis) collected along the St. Lawrence River and Estuary.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Twenty-nine species of helminths were found in 145 ring billed gulls collected in southern Quebec. No significant differences were observed in the helminth communities of gulls collected in May from four nesting sites (Montreal, Sorel, Quebec City, Les Pilliers), suggesting that infective pools are widespread along the St. Lawrence. Adults arriving in April had light infections. Infection levels and diversity increased during the nesting season, and over the course of the summer, due mainly to recruitment of helminths transmitted by fish. Communities in young gulls collected on the nesting island at Montreal displayed little diversity, and were dominated by Plagiorchis multiglandularis. Following dispersal from the colony, helminth diversity increased rapidly in young gulls. The communities in adults and juveniles were most diverse in August, at which time they were comparable. Based on the August collections, there seems to be little yearly variation in the helminth communities of adult and juvenile gulls, which tended to be more similar at the same time each year than they are at different times within a year. Infection levels and community diversity declined drastically in young gulls by November, apparently due to natural attrition of existing infections and the lack of recruitment of new ones. Ring billed gulls appear to sustain low levels of infections over winter, as suggested by the light infections seen on arrival. They quickly acquire a characteristic suite of helminth species that appears to occur commonly in gulls along the St. Lawrence.


identifier: Little, Michael J  (1997) Single label fluorescent derivatization of peptides.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: A one step method for the attachment of a single fluorescent label to peptides through their N-terminus is described. The method employs fluorescein-5-isothiocyanate as the label of choice and a lower than normal derivatization buffer pH that discriminates against $\varepsilon$-amino derivatization in favor of $\alpha$-amino derivatization provided that this group may act as an efficient nucleophile. A kinetic study was performed in order to identify the optimal derivatization buffer pH for $\alpha$-amino group selectivity, using $\rm N\alpha$-t-BOC-L-lysine and $\rm N\varepsilon$-t-BOC-L-lysine as model compounds for derivatization through $\varepsilon$-amino and $\alpha$-amino groups, respectively. The optimal pH was found to be 8.5. Six small peptides, Arg-Lys, Lys-Trp-Lys, Lys-Lys, Lys-Lys-Lys, Lys-Lys-Lys-Lys and Arg-Pro-Lys-Pro, were derivatized at pH 8.5 in an effort to corroborate the results of the kinetic study. It was found that this method of single label derivatization via buffer pH control was successful for peptides with fewer than four lysines residues.


identifier: Martinez-Perez, Amalia  (1997) Isolation and partial characterization of cDNAs encoding polypeptides that interact with the capB gene products of Dictyostelium discoideum.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The gene products of capB, p34 and p31, were previously isolated by co-purification with the cAMP binding protein CABP1 encoded by the capB homolog capA.  The GAL4 two-hybrid system was used to screen a Dictyostelium discoideum cDNA expression library to identify proteins that interacted with p34/31. The clones were tested to eliminate false positives. DNA sequencing analysis revealed that the cDNAs isolated encoded: p34/31; CABP1B, the smaller product of capA; TopA, a mitochondrial type II topoisomerase; and a previously unidentified polypeptide (clone 101) with homology to a bacterial ORF. It was also determined that the product of clone 101 interacted with the gene products of capA in the two-hybrid system.  The interactions between p34/31 and TopA, coupled with the results of previous mutation and localization studies, suggest a role for these polypeptides in mitochondrial function. Moreover the isolation of cDNAs encoding CABP1B and the detection of interactions between polypeptide 101 and the capA gene products may imply that p34/31 have more than one intracellular role.


identifier: Meroz, Elazar  (1997) Mathematical, philosophical, religious and spontaneous students' explanations of the paradox of Achilles and the tortoise.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Certain areas in mathematics seem to possess deep secrets. Such are the areas of mathematics that deal with the concepts of infinity. The concepts of infinity have always stirred great emotions and produced seemingly unsolvable paradoxes. One such paradox is Zeno's paradox of Achilles.  We begin our research by examining the times in which Zeno lived, the intellectual arguments of that time, and the reasons why Zeno formulated his paradoxes. We will also examine what effects this paradox had on the development of mathematics. This analysis will include Aristotle's formulation of the paradox and the general problems of actual infinity. The two views on the structure of matter and how the paradox is dealt with according to each view will also be covered. Next, we will examine various ways the paradox could be explained: From a mathematical point of view we will examine the paradox in terms of limits, transfinite numbers and through geometric proofs. Then we will examine some of the philosophical explanations, and how the two views on the structure of matter explain the paradox. Finally we will examine how the concept of infinity is dealt with in Jewish philosophy and what bearing this may have on the explanation of the paradox. We will conclude by listening to two pairs of students' spontaneous explanation of the paradox and examining if students background may have any affect on the way they explain and understand the paradox


identifier: Monk, Lisa  (1997) Beyond polarity : Campus-Community-Radio and new relations of power in radio broadcasting policy in Canada.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The first part of this study examines the academic and official (CRTC) discourse regarding the regulation of radio broadcasting in Canada from the 1920s to the present. It examines the limits of earlier historical frames through which radio broadcasting policy has been explored. It introduces Foucault's model of study and frame of analysis termed governmentality. The second part is an ethnographic examination of specific policy, programming and operations of campus-community radio station CKUT-FM (Montréal), and, as a related object, the policies and interventions of the National Campus-Community Radio Association (NCRA). It provides a critique of campus-community radio itself, and of the complex term, community. The third part is a detailed exploration of governmentality. This term refers to the process of thinking about, and practising government. One of its main components is the study of power relations. Conclusions are formulated in terms of future research and policy intervention in the area of FM radio regulation.


identifier: Moore, Donna L  (1997) New reproductive and genetic technologies in Canada : towards a policy that manages technology and reproductive rights.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: New reproductive and genetic technologies in Canada, the void of regulation and policy, and the federal government's policy making attempts, to date, are the focus of this paper. The unencumbered growth of new reproductive and genetic technologies (NRGTs) are influenced by a technological imperative and our society's increasing reliance on the notion of reproductive rights. The unfettered use of the NRGTs may proffer a dystopian and eugenic future to society and to those affected, personally and financially, by the use of the technologies. Various stakeholders, including feminist organizations, the medical and scientific communities, and social policy advocates have been concerned with the lack of policy in the field, for well over ten years. To address the issue of NRGTs, the Canadian government established a Royal Commission (which reported in 1993), and has begun to institute a three part policy process that includes a voluntary moratorium on some of the morally and ethically controversial practices, the proposed prohibitive measures of Bill C-47, and a proposed regulatory framework. Throughout the policy development process the Canadian public and stakeholders, including those who have an interest in the future use of these technologies, have been consulted. Ten years into process, a synthesis of common views amongst previously divergent stakeholder groups now seems to be emerging. This paper reviews, analyses and examines the major issues of technological determinism and reproductive rights pertinent to the issue, in an effort to determine their effect on the development of the federal policy regarding new reproductive and genetic technologies.


identifier: Mwembela, Aaron Absalom  (1997) Hot workability of magnesium alloys.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

title: Hot workability of magnesium alloys

abstract: For the alloy AZ91 (Mg-9.OAl-0.7Zn-0.13Mn) die cast specimens were subjected to torsion testing at 150, 180, 240, 300, 420 and 450C̕ at 0.05 0.5 and 5.0 s -1 The as-cast specimens exhibited hot shortness at 360C̕ and above; however in that domain, after prior thermomechanical processing (TMP) at 300C̕, they showed much improved properties (which were reported along with as-cast properties at 300C̕ and below).  For AZ31-Mn (Mg-3.2Al-1-1Zn-0.34Mn), AZ31 (Mg-2-8Al-0-88Zn-0.01Mn), AZ63 (Mg-5-5Al-2.7Zn-0.34Mn) and ZK60 (Mg-5.7Zn-0.65Zr-O-O1A]), the specimens were subjected to hot torsion testing in the range 180 to 450C̕ and 0.01, 0.1, and 1.0 s -1 . In the temperature range below 300C̕ flow curves rise to a peak with failure occurring immediately thereafter. Above 300C̕ the flow curves exhibited a peak and a gradual decline towards steady state. The temperature and strain rate dependence of the strength is described by a sinh-Arrhenius equation with Q HW between 125 and 144 kJ/mol; this indicates control by climb in comparison with creep in the range 200-400C̕. The alloy strength and activation energy declined in the order AZ63, AZ31-Mn AZ91, AZ31 and ZK60, while ductility increased with decreasing strength.  In working of Mg alloys from 150 to 450C̕, the flow curves harden to a peak and work soften to a steady state regime above 300C̕. At temperatures below 300C̕, twinning is observed initially to bring grains into more suitable slip orientations. At high T a substructure develops due to basal and prismatic slip, Forming cells of augmented misorientation first near the grain boundaries and later towards the grain cores. Near the peak, new grains appear along the old boundaries (mantle) as a result of dynamic recrystallization DRX but not in the core of the initial grains. As T rises, the new grains are larger and the mantle broader, enhanced DRX results in higher ductility. At intermediate T, shear bands form through alignment of mantle zones resulting in reduced grain sizes and higher misorientation. Dynamic recrystallization does not become general as in Cu or Ni, thus it does not markedly raise the ductility. Retention of the hot worked substructure, or the refined grains, improves the strength and ductility of the product.


identifier: Pal, Salma K  (1997) Definitions, interpretations and the scarce resource : Canadian refugee policy 1947-1993.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Refugees are a migration phenomenon which continue to challenge, frustrate and anger Western policymakers. To qualify as a Convention refugee, a person must fear persecution because of his/her race, religion, nationality or membership of a social group. The Convention refugee must also be outside of his/her country of origin and unable to receive protection from his/her national government. Canada became a refugee receiving country in the post World War II era. Today, she resettles approximately 25,000 Convention and humanitarian refugees on an annual basis. This thesis examines the evolution and growth of Canadian refugee policy from its modest beginnings to its modern philosophy and general direction.  This thesis is divided into two parts. The first is the Literature Review on the 'refugee' definition itself. The second part consists of an overview and analysis of Canadian refugee policy from 1947 to 1992. It concludes with a brief examination of Canadian policy towards Central America, a region whose history of political instability appeared to reach its zenith in the 1980's.


identifier: Rifkind, Candida  (1997) The burden of the body : selfhood and representation in the works of Dionne Brand.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The works of Dionne Brand constitute an ongoing exploration of the formation and representation of the self. In the poems of No Language is Neutral (1990) and Land to Light On (1997), the short stories of Sans Souci (1989), and the novel In Another Place, Not Here (1996), Brand develops a notion of subjectivity in which the interior self strives for full expression through the performances of its body. The self's ability to determine its corporeal performances, however, is regulated by social forces which 'read' bodies according to hierarchies of difference. This circumscription of performativity is particularly acute for Brand's Black female characters, whose bodies are regulated within the social sphere according to hierarchies of gender, race, class, and sexuality. Because their bodies are perceived as different and therefore 'other,' Brand's characters cannot simply assume performative agency, but rather must struggle to articulate their selfhood through bodily performances which evade dominant regulations. Ironically, the body is at once the site of regulation and of resistance. Brand's works locate subjectivity within the corporeal to emphasize that desires--whether for a whole self, for an other, for a home, or for full expression--transgress dominant regulations of their bodies. This study approaches the texts thematically to assert that Brand's representation of Black female subjectivity is a critique of the discursive limitations which regulate the Black female body, as well as a representation of the agency possible through various alternative bodily performances.


identifier: Savin, Cristian Emanuel  (1997) Signal estimation techniques using Lp-norm optimal stack filters with applications to image and video processing.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The class of median-related operators called the stack filters are well-known for outperforming linear filtering in many applications which involve restoration of signals corrupted with impulsive noise, when sharp edges are to be preserved. Various subclasses of stack filters, such as the rank order operators and the weighted median filters, show a great deal of promise in finding commercial applications in image processing and image sequence filtering for advanced television systems. Moreover, the stark filters being closely related to morphological signal processing, the theory of their design and implementation constitutes a very attractive framework for the development of algorithms for low-level machine vision. This thesis, therefore, is concerned with the problems of efficient design and implementation of stack filters. The focus is on exploring the possibility of using the L p norm optimality criterion for the design of stack filters, and on the development of hardware-oriented algorithms for the implementation of these filters.  The problem of designing optimal stack filters by employing a general objective function given as the L p norm of the error between the desired signal and the estimated one is addressed. This design problem is formulated as an optimization problem, in which a positive Boolean function is determined such that the L p norm of the error in signal estimation using stack filters is minimized. It is shown that the L p norm can be expressed as a linear combination of the responses of the positive Boolean function to all possible binary input vectors. Based on this error formulation, it is established that an L p -norm optimal stack filter can be determined as the solution of a linear program. It is shown that for the specific problem of restoring images corrupted with impulsive noise, the L p -optimal stack filters with p Y 2 are capable of removing the noise much more effectively and provide a better visual performance than achieved by the conventional minimum mean absolute error stack filters.  The time-area complexities of the conventional parallel and bit-serial algorithms for stack filtering depend on the number of grey levels of an input image (signal). In this thesis, two new hardware-oriented algorithms for multidimensional stack filtering, for which the time-area complexity depends on the size of the filter, are developed. The new algorithms achieve significantly increased computational efficiency compared to the conventional algorithms for stack filtering by evaluating the Boolean function at thresholds corresponding to the sample-values within the filter-window and by taking advantage of the fact that, in most image processing applications, many pixels appearing in a filter-window assume non-distinct values. In one algorithm, the output of the filter is determined iteratively by employing a divide-and-conquer strategy. This strategy is based on successively partitioning the filter window into two sets with elements larger and smaller than the current threshold level, respectively. The other algorithm uses a binary tree search method for stack filtering in conjunction with a technique of compressing the dynamic range of the window samples.  Motivated by the fact that in typical images, the details of the scene are locally situated, a hardware-oriented design and implementation of locally optimal mean absolute error rank order filters is developed and applied to the problem of intrafield deinterlacing of video signals.


identifier: Shiri-Varnaamkhaasti, Nematollaah  (1997) Towards a generalized theory of deductive databases with uncertainty.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Uncertainty management is identified as a challenging issue in databases [SSU91]. Logic database programming, with its declarative advantage and its powerful top-down and bottom-up query processing techniques has attracted the attention of researchers, and numerous logic frameworks with uncertainty have been proposed over the last decade. On the basis in which uncertainty is associated with the facts and rules in a program, we classify the approaches taken to uncertainty in these frameworks into the annotation based (AB) and implication based (IB). In the AB approach, certainties are associated with the atoms in the rules and facts, while in the IB approach, they are associated with the implications in the programs.  In this thesis, we attempt to address the aforementioned challenging issue. To this end, we take an axiomatic approach and study the relevant issues: (1) the language aspects, (2) query optimization, (3) the termination behaviors and data complexity of the bottom-up evaluations of logic programs with uncertainty, (4) the expressive power, and (5) the ease and efficiency of implementing such languages. Each of these issues is discussed in a chapter of this thesis, in that order. Although our focus in this study is on the IB approach, the insights provided and the lessons learned are useful in a more general context of deduction with uncertainty.  In order to study these issues in a framework independent manner, we first identify a number of "reasonable" properties which are normally satisfied by combination functions in programs with uncertainty. We will then propose a language, called the parametric framework , where the parameters are the combination functions defined on the underlying certainty lattice. The proposed framework uses multisets as the basis of the structure of the semantics, as opposed to using sets , which are often used.  This is the key point to the expressive power of our framework, which unifies and generalizes the IB approach to uncertainty. With this framework as a basis, we study the other relevant issues mentioned and establish various results. A main advantage of our axiomatic approach in studying the various issues in the thesis is that it makes the results applicable to a wide range of (IB) frameworks. Our top-down and bottom-up implementations of the parametric framework show that the ideas in the thesis are practical which lend themselves to an-easy-to-use and efficient "environment" for deduction with uncertainty at large


identifier: Shtevi, Abraham  (1997) Analysis of cis-acting elements of the rnrB gene of Dictyostelium discoideum.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The rnrB gene of Dictyostelium discoideum codes for the prespore specific small subunit of ribonucleotide reductase. The protein is expressed at two distinct times during the Dictyostelium discoideum developmental cycle; first at the onset of development (vegetative activity) and then again during late development at the slug stage (developmental activity). The $\beta$-galactosidase gene was used as a reporter gene and was fused to the noncoding area upstream of the rnrB gene. A series of $5\sp\prime$ and internal deletions were carried out in order to isolate the regulatory regions controlling gene expression. As well, primer extension was carried out on purified mRNA to determine the $5\sp\prime$ transcriptional start site of the rnrB gene.  Results indicate that vegetative and developmental activities are regulated by separate promoter regions. Vegetative expression was mapped to an A/T rich region spanning $-$213 to $-$136. Developmental activity was found to be regulated by two G/C rich boxes, Box A ($-$238 to $-$221) and Box B ($-$313 to $-$299). Primer extension analysis of the transcript mRNA indicated a single transcriptional start site located 115 bases upstream of the start codon


identifier: Stevens, Clifford  (1997) New Orleans to Bop and beyond : a comprehensive jazz instructional programme for secondary level students.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Jazz music has, in its short history, risen to become an accepted art form in western society. Many universities which a short while ago only offered courses in classical music now also confer degrees in jazz. However, at the secondary level, when many young musicians are beginning their studies in music, jazz is, at best, slotted in when convenient. In most cases, learning methods usually vary from instructor to instructor. This thesis offers a proposal for the development of an introductory jazz-related curriculum for secondary level students. It is based on a critical evaluation of past pedagogical techniques in the field. Two aspects are proposed, historical and performance. Students learn the history of each stylistic period and then learn to play in that style. Twenty grade 9 students participated in a 2-period learning experience where 2 lessons from the Early Bop module were taught. Findings indicated that on the average students increased their knowledge of this jazz period. Scores increased from 34 to 82 per cent from pre to post-test. Student attitude sampling indicated that 62.9 per cent enjoyed or highly enjoyed the jazz lessons. Sex differences were obtained.


identifier: Thanjavur, Karunananth G  (1997) Generic dynamic modelling and model-based trajectory tracking control of wheeled mobile robots (WMRs).  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis focusses on the dynamic modelling and on the systematic evaluation of model-based control schemes for trajectory tracking of Wheeled Mobile Robots (WMRs) for industrial applications. The research extends the theoretical and experimental work at the Centre for Industrial Control, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Concordia University on mobile robotics since 1982.  The methodology applies the Kane's approach to model WMRs. This approach uses the natural degrees of freedom and emphasises the system's non-holonomic nature, unlike schemes based on the Newton-Euler and Lagrangian methods. The novel 5-step procedure is applied to model WMRs with common wheel types and configurations for various loading and operating conditions. The dynamic loads on the wheels are obtained using 'virtual' speeds. The methodology is illustrated by deducing the dynamic equations of common WMRs.  The insight into the mobile robot's dynamic behaviour provided by the model is used for model-based trajectory tracking control. The performances of the Feed Forward and the Computed Torque schemes have been evaluated through simulations and with experiments using a differentially driven WMR.  The experimental results indicate that the inclusion of the dynamics in the closed control loop reduces tracking errors by an order of 50% in comparison with a conventional PD controller. Results also indicate the importance of accounting for the dynamic nature of wheel loads and of dynamic model parameters in the Feed Forward controller performance


identifier: Tsaprailis, George  (1997) Probing the redox-active residues in cytochrome c peroxidase.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The reaction of cytochrome c peroxidase (CCP) with H 2 O 2 results in compound I formation, where the two oxidizing equivalents of H 2 O 2 are stored as an oxyferryl heme and a Trp191 radical. Ferrocytochrome c normally reduces compound I back to the resting enzyme, but in the absence of exogenous donors, CCP can reduce up to 20 equivalents of H 2 O 2 . Compound I of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) does not form a protein radical, and is unlikely to store oxidizing equivalents on its polypeptide. The conformational states in denaturants of recombinant CCP [CCP(MI)], HRP and their CN-ligated forms were investigated to probe the structural basis of peroxidase polypeptide vs heme reactivity. Despite similar structures, the kinetic stabilities and conformational states of CCP(MI) and HRP were found to be significantly different.  The role of Trp residues as endogenous electron donors in yeast CCP, CCP(MI), and two active site mutants (W51F and W191F) was examined by protein steady-state fluorescence. Compound I and more highly oxidized forms were formed by adding 2, 6, and 20 equivalents of H 2 O 2 to the proteins in the absence of exogenous donors. Loss of protein fluorescence following protein denaturation in 8 M urea at pH 1.5 was correlated with Trp oxidation. The fluorescence data confirmed Trp191 radical formation in compound I, suggested that Trp5l becomes redox active when >2 equivalents of H 2 O 2 are reduced, and that V3, 4, 2.5 and 2 Trps were lost in CCP, CCP(MI), W51F and W191F, respectively, following addition of 20 equivalents of H 2 O 2 . Activity loss in the H 2 O 2 -oxidized proteins paralleled Trp loss, and correlated with their H 2 O 2 titers. SDS-PAGE revealed 40-75% crosslinking in H 2 O 2 -oxidized W51F, 0-35% in CCP and CCP(MI), and 30-35% in W191F.  On-line HPLC-ESI-MS analysis of proteolytic, digests of crosslinked W191F revealed that peptides T 6 (residues 30-48) and T 26 (residues 227-243) formed T 6 --T 6 and T 6 --T 26 crosslinks, suggesting that oxidation of exposed Tyr residues in T 6 (Tyr36, 39, 42) is necessary for crosslinking. H 2 O 2 oxidation of CCP(MI) in the presence of the spin trap, MNP, revealed that spin adducts were formed on peptides T 6 , T 21 (residues 150-155; Tyr153) and T 26 (Tyr229, 236). Tyr236 was identified as the major site of spin adduct formation in CCP(MI) by MS sequencing.


identifier: Webb, Heather  (1997) Cartographies of consciousness-raising : mapping out a feminist approach in the work of Marlene Creates.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Between 1987 and 1991, contemporary Canadian artist Marlene Creates (b. 1952) produced three separate "memory map" series of mixed-media assemblages consisting of black and white photographs, text, hand-drawn "memory maps" and in some instances, natural elements selected from the environment. The works present the stories, remembrances and recollections by elderly inhabitants of their experiences in and relationships to specific geographical locales. In these works Creates' employed an autobiographical approach to explore the intersections between experience, identity and the land(scape). The specific concerns and social function of these works will be discussed as informed by and concerned with feminist theory and practice. This will be undertaken in order to show that an underlying political strategy informs both the production and the reception of these works.


identifier: Xi, Youhao  (1997) Zero voltage switching flyback and forward converter topologies.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Advanced telecommunication and computer systems demand high efficiency and high power density, distributed power supplies. Both the flyback and forward converter topologies are good candidates for these applications, owing to their simple circuitry. These topologies, however, require practical performance improvements.  Improved zero voltage switching (ZVS) flyback and forward dc/dc converter topologies are developed in this thesis. They employ an auxiliary circuit, with only a few small components and switching devices, to achieve ZVS of the main switch. Steady state analyses are performed and show that the proposed topologies have the following merits: lossless switching of the main switch independent of the line and load conditions, no increase in conduction losses, simple power and control circuitry, and capability of operating in either voltage or current mode control.  The small signal analysis and closed loop stability of the proposed topologies are also derived. The resulting compensation required for stable operation is obtained and shown to be straightforward.  The steady state and small signal analyses are verified on a 50W prototype flyback converter switching at 200 kHz, and on a 100 W prototype forward converter switching at 300 kHz, respectively. Experimental results show that both the flyback and forward converters have about 5 to 7% higher efficiencies than the conventional hard switching converters for typical efficiencies of 70% and 85%, respectively. These topologies can therefore advantageously replace existing power supplies in advanced telecommunications and computer applications.


identifier: Younes, Imad-Roland  (1997) A software tool for providing suggestions for call management.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Telecommunication is fast changing. New products and services are constantly introduced. Due to competition in this field, the time gap between the conception of a product/service to its deployment should be cut as small as possible. In addition users do not like to make too much effort to learn about new product/services. A software agent that can monitor the actions of a user and make proactive suggestions would be desirable. It is in this context, the present report is developed.  One of the problems in the use of agents in Telecommunication is: "How to offer "appropriate" proactive suggestions?" For a suggestion to be appropriate, it should be consistent with the previous actions taken by the user, the suggestion should be event-based, and it should be timely-based. A software tool is developed as part of this major report so that it can be used in two different ways in solving this problem. The first way is for researchers to simulate an agent's competency for offering appropriate suggestions to end-users. The second way is for researchers to demonstrate to vendors how an agent can develop proactive suggestions to be offered to users.  The goal of the software tool developed in this report is for researchers to study different strategies in offering appropriate suggestions to end-users, and demonstrate their outcomes to potential vendors who might be interested in such a product. The software tool is called FATMA (Futuristic Automated Telecommunication Management Agent) and is implemented using CLIPS, C, and TCL/TK.


identifier: Zhang, Hai Bo  (1997) High frequency switching parallel processing topology for AC uninterruptible power supply.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis presents the description, analysis and design of a high frequency parallel processing ac uninterruptible power supply. Compared to the standard UPS system used today, the proposed system has higher efficiency, smaller size and less weight, this is due primary to the usage of a high-frequency switching topology.  The main power circuit configuration is shown to describe the steady state behaviour of the system in both ac line supply and battery backup modes of operation. A stability analysis is developed to describe the system behaviour against the load variation and the input disturbance. The detailed design of the output voltage control loop is carried out. A transient analysis is presented to describe the transition between the two operation modes of ac line supply and dc battery backup. From this analysis a fast switching transition control circuit is designed. A design procedure is illustrated to select the system components for a 300W UPS. The corresponding system performance such as efficiency is evaluated. All the theoretical results obtained in this thesis are experimentally verified.


identifier: Ahmadi, Majid  (1998) Aerodynamic inverse design of transonic turbomachinery cascades.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: An aerodynamic inverse design method for turbomachinery cascades is presented and is implemented in a finite volume method. In this design method, the mass-averaged swirl schedule and the blade thickness distribution are prescribed. The design method then provides the blade shape that would accomplish this loading by imposing the appropriate pressure jump across the blades and satisfying the blade boundary condition, the latter implies that the flow is tangent to the blade surfaces. This inverse design method is implemented using a cell-vertex finite volume method which solves the Euler equations on unstructured triangular meshes. A five-stage Runge-Kutta pseudo-time integration scheme is used to march the solution to steady state. Non-linear artificial viscosity is added to eliminate pressure-velocity decoupling and to capture shocks. Convergence is accelerated using local time stepping and implicit residual smoothing. The boundary conditions at inflow and outflow are based on the method of characteristics. The finite volume discretization method is validated against some standard cases of internal flow as well as linear cascades.  The inverse design method is first validated for three different cascades namely, a parabolic cascade, a compressor cascade and a turbine inlet guide vane. It is then used to obtain a shock-free design of an impulse transonic cascade and of the ONERA transonic compressor cascade. A parametric study has shown that the blade profile is rather sensitive to the prescribed loading distributions and that, in most cases, a smooth loading distribution results in a shock-free cascade design


identifier: Allardyce, Robin  (1997) Institutionalization and innovation of instructional television at Carleton University.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study is an exploration of a television based course delivery service and its role in bringing change to teaching and learning within a university environment. There are three primary questions for which answers are sought: whether the development of the service has caused change in instructional practices within the university; whether the service has been institutionalized as an innovation within institutional culture and practice and will be sustained as an innovation; and has this service, as a low-technology means of course development and delivery, a role to play in the transformation of the university to meet the needs of faculty and learners in the "new" millennium?  The investigation includes discussion of innovation and the factors affecting adoption of innovative practice and product. With these factors in mind, the growth of the service over a seven-year period is reviewed to determine what impact it has rendered and how faculty, students and administration have received it.  It is concluded that the instructional television service has impacted instructional practice on the campus across a diversity of disciplines. The service also appears to have been institutionalized, not as a particular technological design, but as a focus for those who may wish to utilize a tool at the moment or to adopt an innovative practice. On the third purpose, it is concluded that the television course delivery service will have a role to play in the future of the "new" university pursuant to consideration as to how strategies are designed and what resources are available to implement further innovations which will include the service.


identifier: Argyle, Jessica  (1998) Selective memory : ten short stories about avoidance.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This body of work is linked thematically rather than stylistically. I have used three kinds of short fiction to depict states of withdrawal and avoidance. Postcard or 'sudden fiction' employs a narrative short-hand and focuses on tone, voice and situation, often at the expense of plot and characterization, though not excluding either; the short tale or yarn, which is often an extended anecdote that is driven more by idea, situation and mood (the fantastical, the surreal) then by individual psychology or causality; and conventional realistic fiction, which explores character through that complex of social interrelations we have become accustomed to calling plot.  Some methods used to avoid facing loss are alcohol, religion, emotional and sexual affairs, cigarettes, cars, travel and even hobbies. Most of my characters perform tasks whose actions mimic participation, but whose true purpose is to shield them from emotions that are too painful to risk exploration


identifier: Arvanitogiannis, Andreas  (1997) Mapping the substrate for brain stimulation reward : new approaches to an old problem.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: A major goal for research on brain stimulation reward (BSR) is the identification of the directly-activated ("first-stage") neurons subserving the powerfully rewarding effect produced by electrical stimulation of the medial forebrain bundle (MFB). This objective was addressed by combining immunohistochemical, lesion, and behavioral methods. Immunohistochemical staining of the immediate early gene product, Fos, was used to visualize neurons activated by rewarding stimulation of the lateral hypothalamic (LH) level of the MFB. Production of Fos protein was increased ipsilateral to the stimulation electrode in subjects that had previously self-stimulated. Among the caudal diencephalic, midbrain and hindbrain structures with pronounced increases in Fos-like immunoreactivity ipsilateral to the site of stimulation were the arcuate nucleus, ventral tegmental area (VTA), central gray, pedunculopontine area (PPTg), parabrachial nucleus, and locus coeruleus. Among the forebrain structures showing a greater density of labeled neurons ipsilateral to the stimulating electrode were the septum, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST), medial preoptic area (MPO), substantia innominata (SI), lateral preoptic area (LPO), and LH. Several of these structures, the VTA, PPTg, LPO, SI, and LH, have been implicated in MFB self-stimulation by the results of pharmacological, psychophysical, electrophysiological, and lesion studies. To complement previous lesion studies implicating the LPO, SI, and LH in BSR, changes in selfstimulation of the LH and VTA were assessed following excitotoxic lesions of more medial structures, including the MPO and BST. Damage centered in the MEW had little or no effect on the rewarding efficacy of more caudal stimulation. Thus, neurons with cell bodies in the medial portion of the basal forebrain may make a smaller contribution to the rewarding effect of MFB stimulation than neurons in the lateral portion. To further probe the role that basal forebrain neurons play in self-stimulation I describe and test an extension of the matching law to relate behavioral performance to the intensity and rate of reinforcement. Analyzing performance in this three-dimensional space provides a means of distinguishing lesion-induced changes that are due to damage in the first-stage neurons and/or their efferents from changes that result from damage in neurons that modulate the rewarding effect of the stimulation.


identifier: Babiak, Todd  (1998) Interception : a novel.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: Interception : a novel

abstract: This is a novel about relationships, especially familial relationships, and is primarily concerned with issues of love and violence. The story revolves around Jeremy Leduc, the narrator, and his father, Glen Leduc, the Fire Chief in the fictional town of Seymour, Alberta. Jeremy is a 25 year-old university dropout and self defence instructor who returns to Seymour after the failure of both his martial arts school and his relationship with Ellie Donnelly, the lawyer he lived with for four years in Boston. In Seymour, he confronts his past and attempts to set up a framework for the future.  Issues of self-protection--including the fighting theory of interception--haunt Jeremy as he strives to discover how to interpret his world and how to achieve some sense of goodness within it. Outside of the Leduc family story and the flashbacks of Boston, the larger community of Seymour is explored. The house across the street and the events that occurred there, as well as the young people Jeremy encounters and re-encounters in the small Western Canadian town in the midst of Rodeo Days are of prime importance to the story. The novel is divided into seven parts and the present-tense action takes place over seven days.


identifier: Banks, Christopher  (1996) In the galleria of missing persons.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: In the galleria of missing persons

abstract: The title of my thesis is In The Galleria Of Missing Persons. It is a collection of prose narrative, and lyrical poems based on themes of identity and memory. Using memory as the primary lens for exploration, my intent was to focus on how 'identity' is multiplied or made other by major shifts in geographical place and chronological time. The structure of the thesis is divided into three numbered sections.  Formally, the poems are organized into free verse stanzas and prose blocks, and employ repetition, alliteration, rhythms of the speaking voice, and narrative in their construction. As the thesis progressed through its three sections, the poems openly engage my personal memories, ranging from early childhood recollections to more painful recent ones, and attempt to establish a link between memory and self-image. Essentially, the thesis is concerned with the fundamental paradox of memory retrieval, where memory is both artifact and artifice and what effect this paradox has on the construction of identity.  Most of the poems are autobiographical, in nature, although some fictional narratives and meditations are also included within the work. When I began this project, I viewed my own memories as a clutter of past lives lived by other people. In the Galleria of Missing Persons is my own personal attempt to reclaim some of these abstracted, past lives and so, hopefully, come to a larger understanding of the many conflicting personalities and unresolved voices still thrashing about inside me.


identifier: Barrafato, Anna  (1998) Inclusion at the early childhood level : supports contributing to its success.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study examined the extent to which supports such as school funds and resources, parental and teacher attitude, in-service training, and planning contribute to the successful inclusion of children with disabilities at the early childhood level. Participants were five (5) children with developmental, emotional or behavioural disabilities attending pre-school and their parents. Eight (8) inclusive and non-inclusive regular classroom teachers from two schools also served as participants. Direct observations of the children in their school settings were used to assess the extent of the children's social and academic integration. In addition, participating parents and teachers were interviewed about their perceptions and attitudes toward inclusive education. Participating teachers were also asked to complete two questionnaires, the Attitudes Toward Inclusive Education Scale (ATIES) and the Mainstreaming Questionnaire. Results demonstrated that overall the children were socially integrated and adjusted to their settings. All teachers and parents identified certain factors, which must be in place to successfully integrate children in regular classrooms. The importance of a teacher's aide, increased support services, appropriate in-service training for teachers and smaller class sizes were stressed. Implications for inclusive and non-inclusive settings are discussed.