identifier: Okhrati, Ramin  (2011) Credit Risk Modeling under Jump Processes and under a Risk Measure-Based Approach.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Having a precise idea of how information is used is a key element in studying credit risk models. This concept plays an important role in structural and reduced form models and most recently in information based models. In this thesis the relationship between these models and the idea of information, more specifically through filtration expansions, is studied in depth. Special attention is given to the study of intensity processes under different types of filtration expansions.

Credit derivatives are path dependent financial products. Therefore their analysis is based on the history of the underlying risky process. If the underlying process is allowed to have jumps, then this analysis is more challenging. This explains why, normally, risk management techniques for these products assume that the underlying process is continuous, the derivative is path independent, or the probability measure is risk neutral. In our model, in the context of a locally risk-minimization approach, the problems of pricing and hedging of defaultable claims are discussed without imposing any of the above assumptions.

The impact of risk measures in financial markets can no longer be ignored. Considering this, a methodological procedure based on risk measures is developed to gauge the credit quality of defaultable bonds in real bond markets. Through this process a new type of indicator is introduced that can be useful to detect inconsistencies in bond markets. This can be helpful in market integration applications.


identifier: Schügerl, Philipp  (2011) Semantic Web Enabled Software Engineering.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract:
Ontologies allow the capture and sharing of domain knowledge by formalizing information and making it machine understandable. As part of an information system,
ontologies can capture and carry the reasoning knowledge needed to fulfill different application goals. Although many ontologies have been developed over recent years, few
include such reasoning information. As a result, many ontologies are not used in real-life applications, do not get reused or only act as a taxonomy of a domain. This work is an investigation into the practical use of ontologies as a driving factor in the development of applications and the incorporation of Knowledge Engineering as a meaningful activity into modern agile software development. This thesis contributes a novel methodology that supports an incremental requirement analysis and an iterative formalization of ontology design through the use of ontology reasoning patterns. It also provides an application model for ontology-driven applications that can deal with nonontological data sources. A set of case studies with various application specific goals helps to elucidate whether ontologies are in fact suitable for more than simple knowledge formalization and sharing, and can act as the underlying structure for developing largescale information systems. Tasks from the area of bug-tracker quality mining and clone detection are evaluated for this purpose.


identifier: Oghabi, Giti  (2011) Verifying Web Services Using Probabilistic Model Checking.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Petkar, Harshad  (2011) Effects of Working Memory Demand on Performance and Mental Stress During the Stroop Task.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Demands on working memory are associated with mental stress, but little is known about the underlying connection between the two. The primary purpose of this study was to quantify individual mental stress, and to monitor heart rate variability (HRV) during high and low working memory (WM) demands influenced by Stroop interference. Another aim was to quantify the performance and response time during the Stroop task and observe their trends during high and low (WM) demands. Finally, the third goal of this thesis was to predict the relationship between mental stress and performance. To this end heart rate was recorded both at rest and while performing the Stroop task. High and low WM demands were obtained by increasing the level of Stroop interference. The response time and performance were calculated for each difficulty level of the Stroop task, as well as during high and low WM demand. The power spectral components HF, LF, LF/HF and the time domain Mean R-R (S), Mean HR (1/min), were used as the components of HRV in the analysis. The results indicated that all the components of HRV examined were sensitive to WM demands. The HF and Mean R-R (S) components decreased with an increase in WM demands from the baseline values. The Mean HR (1/min), LF and the LF/HF ratio increased with increase in demands. Overall, the results indicated a reduction in HRV when higher order cognitive tasks were performed. The response time increased with WM demands. The performance in the Stroop task was decreased with an increase in WM demands. The results also indicated that an increase in WM demand correlates with an increase in an individual‟s stress level, and a decrease in performance level.
The present thesis contributes to the ongoing analysis of human computer interaction in the laboratory environment, and its effects on the autonomic nervous system. It is recommended that future research be conducted at the workplace to better understand the relationship between human computer interaction and mental stress levels.


identifier: Ahmed, Osama Mohamed Haraz  (2011) Ultra-wideband Antennas and Components for Wireless Communication Systems.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology is rapidly developing as a high speed, and high data rate wireless communication mode. There are many challenges in dealing with this new emerging technology. One of these challenges is how to design an antenna ele-ment that can operate effectively in the entire UWB frequency range. Another big chal-lenge is to design UWB antenna beamforming systems including suitable UWB compo-nents such as feed networks, transitions, crossovers, hybrid couplers and phase shifters to meet the UWB requirements.
This thesis is primarily focused on designing UWB antenna elements and other microwave components for UWB wireless communications applications. The thesis starts with designing and implementing different new UWB disc monopole and hybrid anten-nas with discussions covering their operation, electrical behavior and performance. An-tennas are developed using microstrip technology to achieve low profile and compatibil-ity with printed circuit board (PCB) technology. Different techniques for obtaining a bandstop function in the 5.0-6.0 GHz frequency band to avoid interference with other ex-isting wireless local area network (WLAN) systems are numerically and experimentally presented. A UWB feed network prototype based on a modified two-section Wilkinson power divider is then developed. The designed feed network has been used in construct-ing two-element and four-element antenna arrays. The two-element antenna array has a total directive gain of about 5.5–8.5 dBi within the whole UWB frequency band while for the four-element antenna array, the achieved total directive gain is about 7.5–11.5 dBi.
Two different UWB slot-coupled microstrip-to-microstrip vertical transitions are also addressed. The proposed transitions utilize trapezoidal- and butterfly-shaped mi-crostrip patches at the top and bottom layers. The broadside coupling between microstrip-coupled patches is achieved by cutting a rectangular-shaped slot in the mid-layer ground plane. The designed transitions are used to develop 3dB/90° hybrid couplers with good return loss, insertion loss, coupling and isolation characteristics across the desired fre-quency range. Then two different 45° phase shifters are developed to be used in building 4 × 4 Butler matrices for UWB beamforming applications.
Finally, two compact and inexpensive multiple beamforming network (M-BFN) prototypes are developed. The developed microwave components using multi-layer mi-crostrip PCB technology are used to design 4 × 4 Butler matrices. These matrices avoid using any crossing lines or crossovers and exhibit large bandwidth for UWB applications. To validate the proposed design, experimental prototypes of the proposed 4 × 4 matrices are designed, fabricated and tested. A four patch antenna array is connected to these ma-trices to form multiple beamforming array systems. Simulations are carried out on these beamforming systems and the obtained radiation characteristics are also presented and discussed.


identifier: Lowinger, Roxana, Rachel  (2011) Sense of meaning in context: A study of meaning for past events in relation to future goals, and in relation to intrusions and personality over time.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Meaning making is a common response to many types of important life events, which individuals use to try to make sense of and gain benefits from difficult experiences. It has been traditionally associated with positive psychological and physiological outcomes (Affleck & Tennen, 1996). Nevertheless, the circumstances and mechanisms by which it becomes beneficial are less well understood. This thesis consists of three studies. The goal of Study 1 was to establish whether meaning and affect for a specific event reflect unique constructs and are independent of more global individual characteristics such as purpose and meaning in life. Study 2 then sought to identify the possible mechanisms by which sense of meaning for self-defining memories is associated with positive outcomes. This was accomplished by specifically focusing on the mediating effect of positive affect on self-efficacy and importance of goals. Lastly, to expand on the current understanding of the role of meaning making, Study 3 examined how sense of meaning changes over time, its relation to intrusions and avoidance, and its relation to personality factors.
	Individuals reported a self-defining event, the affect and sense of meaning associated with that event, as well as general indices of purpose and affectivity (Study 1). In addition, individuals rated a number of current goals and their sense of self-efficacy and importance for those goals (Study 2). Finally, individuals reported a traumatic event, their sense of meaning for that event as well as their affect, and their experience of intrusions and avoidance at three different points in time (Study 3). Individuals also completed a personality questionnaire.
Positive affect and meaning for self-defining events were correlated with one another, but not with more general indices of affectivity and purposefulness. Sense of meaning for memories was associated with more positive affect, which, in turn, was associated with more self-efficacy and importance of current life goals. Finally, sense of meaning tended to be stable over time and was associated both with more intrusions, and  extraversion and conscientiousness. Intrusions and avoidance tended to decrease over time and were associated with neuroticism. This thesis clarifies some of the functions of having a sense of meaning with regard to self-defining or negative life events, in a broader context than previously considered.


identifier: Lapierre, Angela Rose  (2011) Molecular Phylogeny of the Trematode Families Diplostomidae and Strigeidae.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Evolutionary relationships within the Strigeidae and Diplostomidae (Digenea: Diplostomoidea), which are cosmopolitan parasites of vertebrates, are poorly understood. In this study, the phylogenetic relationships of genera within these groups were studied using full small (SSU), partial large (LSU), and full internal transcribed spacer regions 1 and 2 (ITS) sequences of ribosomal DNA and partial sequences of cytochrome oxidase I (COI) from mitochondrial DNA. Sequences from nine diplostomid genera (18 species) and five strigeid genera (8 species) were analyzed using maximum parsimony and maximum likelihood methods. Markers were analyzed independently and in total evidence combinations and all molecular topologies indicated paraphyletic relationships. A maximum likelihood analysis of concatenated sequences of SSU, LSU, and COI produced a tree concordant with the fewest evolutionary changes based on a matrix of 32 morphological and life-history characters. The Strigeidae and Diplostomidae form two clades. A group comprising the diplostomids Diplostomum, Tylodelphys, Alaria, Fibricola and Hysteromorpha was basal to a paraphyletic clade in which the strigeids Apharyngostrigea, Apatemon and Cotylurus, were separated from other strigeids, Ichthyocotylurus and Cardiocephaloides by the diplostomids Ornithodiplostomum, Posthodiplostomum, Uvulifer and Bolbophorus. Metacercariae of the two clades differ in type, encystment and limebody enclosure; however no other characters differed in the two strigeid groups. These results provide further evidence that the classification of these groups needs to be reassessed.


identifier: Mendenhall, Zack  (2011) Disgust Cubed: the Effect of Pathogen, Moral, and Sexual Disgust on Product Evaluations, Avoidant Behaviour, and Attributions.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Hoteit, Imad  (2011) Computational Simulation of Gene Regulatory Networks Implementing an Extendable Synchronous Single-Input Delay Flip-Flop and State Machine.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: We present a detailed and extendable design of the first synchronous single-input delay flip-flop implemented as a gene regulatory network in Escherichia coli (E. coli). The device, which we call the BioD, has one data input (trans-acting RNA), one clock input (far-red light) and an output that reports the state of the device using green fluorescent protein (GFP). The proposed design builds on Gardner’s toggle switch, to provide a more sophisticated device that can be synchronized with other devices within or without the same cell, and which requires only one data input. We provide a mathematical model of the system and simulation results. The results show that the device behaves in line with desired functionality. Further, we discuss the constraints of the design, which pertain to ranges of parameter values. The BioD is extended via the addition of an update function and input and output interfaces. The result is the BioFSM, which constitutes a synchronous and modular finite state machine, which uses an update function to change its state, stored in the BioD. The BioFSM uses its input and output interfaces for inter-cellular communications. This opens the door to the design of a circular cellular automata (the BioCell), which is envisioned as a number of communicating E. coli colonies, each made of clones of one BioFSM.


identifier: Khalil, Fares / FK  (2011) CSR Identity - A Social Network Perspective.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

format: text text

abstract: There has been rampant research on the topics of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Organizational Identity (OI) but relatively little work done in combining both to understand how CSR affects an organization‟s members, particularly, their identification with OI. We follow a few studies that looked at a CSR Identity from a constructionist perspective which regards identity as a product of an inter-subjective process of reality construction (e.g. Humphreys & Brown, 2008; Lauring & Thomsen, 2009); but where our study differs is in taking a social network analytic approach as an initial attempt to theoretically and empirically explore the concept of a CSR Identity from a social influence standpoint (e.g. Salancik & Pfeffer, 1978). We develop and test a 2-component model of identification which consists of CSR Identity Perceptions & CSR Valuations as precursors to identification with a CSR Identity. Our analysis was two-fold where we (1) explored the link between CSR Identity Perceptions, Valuations, & Identification, and (2) used network analysis to test for social influence on organizational members‟ CSR Identity Perceptions & CSR Valuations. We adjusted the initial model based on our findings and some post hoc work indicating CSR Valuation to act as a mediator between CSR Identity Perceptions & Identification. Further, our results suggested that social influence acts on Identification through its precursors Identity Perceptions & Valuations, thus supporting a constructionist view of identity. Social influence was shown to operate mainly through group closure and informal centrality (power) on CSR Identity Perceptions & Valuations, and through brokerage on CSR Valuation. We conclude the paper with some interpretation of findings and a discussion of applications and limitations.


identifier: Wang, Zhe Ni  (2011) A Chinese-Canadian cross-cultural comparison of the relations between supervisors’ transformational leadership style and subordinates’ autonomous motivation.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Synthesizing the theories of transformational leadership (Bass, 1985; 1997) and self-determination (Deci & Ryan, 1985, 2000), this research investigated the mediating mechanism of the satisfaction of three basic psychological needs affecting the positive relation between managers’ transformational leadership (TFL) and subordinates’ autonomous motivation (AM) at work in two culture-specific samples from China and Canada. Cross-cultural comparisons were conducted to test if individual collectivistic values predicted autonomous motivation and if they positively moderated the relation between TFL and AM.
Hypotheses were tested using hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) which allows multi-level investigation in nested data. Two HLM models were analyzed in each sample, in which TFL was treated as an individual level variable (subordinates’ perception) and a group level variable (mean of subordinates’ evaluation). The results supported in both countries the positive relation between TFL and AM. In China, the satisfaction of the need for autonomy (marginally) and relatedness were found to mediate the relation between perceptions of TFL and AM. When testing for direct relations between basic needs satisfaction and AM, positive main effects for autonomy and relatedness need satisfaction were found in China. In Canada, besides the positive main effect of autonomy and competence need satisfaction on AM, relatedness also significantly predicted AM when autonomy was high. In addition, having high collectivistic value was related to higher AM but it did not significantly moderate the positive relation between TFL and AM in the cross-cultural comparison. Implications for management practice and limitations are discussed.


identifier: Hubbard, Sara-Marni  (2011) A National Threat: Eugenic Perspectives on Mexican Immigrant Labor in the United States During the Great Depression.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis explores developments that occurred in American eugenics during the late 1920s. Specifically, through looking at eugenic and medical literature, this research explores the shift in focus towards financial issues in American eugenics during the Great Depression. Like a great deal of American society, the American eugenics community came to frame many of their arguments through the lens of financial issues. At the same time, Mexican immigrants were the largest group of racialized Others entering the United States. Eugenicists aimed their new focus towards Mexican immigration and a great deal of eugenics literature highlighted how much Mexican immigration purportedly cost the white American public. In exploring how Mexican-American racial identities were constructed and re-framed by eugenicists and other members of the scientific community during the Great Depression, this thesis also considers the motivation for these developments and in doing so address a silence within existent historical literature on American eugenics.


identifier: Sulla, Erin  (2011) Examining Children's Attitudes Towards Disability After One Year in a Reverse Integrated Setting.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Ostiguy, Caroline  (2011) Interpersonal functioning in the offspring of parents with bipolar disorder: Developmental antecedents and relationship to cortisol levels.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Pearson, Andrea  (2011) The Now House Windsor 5 Project: A Social-Technical Analysis.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Ferraguti, Andrea  (2011) Galois representations attached to type (1,\chi) modular forms.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Shamekh, Mohammed  (2011) Processing and Characterization of Mg Matrix Composites Reinforced with TiC and TiB2 Phases using an In-situ Reactive Infiltration Technique.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Magnesium matrix composites are attractive for different applications especially in automotive and aerospace industries due to their superior specific properties. The main purpose of this work is to produce a new magnesium matrix composite reinforced with a network of TiC and TiB2 compounds via an in-situ reactive infiltration technique. In this process, the ceramic reinforcement phases, TiC and TiB2, were synthesized in-situ from the starting powders of Ti and B4C without any addition of a third metal powder such as Al. The molten magnesium infiltrates the preform of 3Ti-B4C by capillary forces. Furthermore, adding Mg or MgH2 powder with different weight percentages to the 3Ti-B4C preforms was used in an attempt to increase the Mg content in the fabricated composites. The results of the in-situ reaction mechanism investigation of the Ti-B4C and Mg-B4C systems show that the infiltrated magnesium not only infiltrates through the 3Ti-B4C preform and thus densifies the fabricated composite as a matrix metal, but also acts as an intermediary making the reaction possible at a lower temperature than that required for solid-state reaction between Ti and B4C and accelerates the reaction rate. The investigation of the in-situ reaction mechanism after adding Mg or MgH2 powder to the 3Ti-B4C preforms show that the reaction mechanisms are similar. However, the presence of the Mg or MgH2 in the preform accelerates the reaction rate making the reaction take place and finish in a shorter time.
Also, the results of the parametric study show that the processing conditions such as temperature, holding time and green compact relative density have a significant influence on the reaction mechanism and the fabrication of the composite.  Based on this work, it is recommended to fabricate the composite samples at 900ºC for 1.5 h and using a green compact of 70% relative density. The required equilibrium phases, TiCx and TiB2, formed in the composites with very small amounts of the residual Ti, boron carbide and intermediate phases such as TiB, Ti3B4 and MgB2. The fabrication of composites at these processing conditions avoids significant oxidation of Mg and formation of the ternary compound (Ti2AlC) in the cases of AZ91D or AM60B alloys composites, which can adversely affect the mechanical properties of the composites.
Furthermore, the results reveal that the percentage of reinforcing phases, when the optimal processing parameters are used, can be tailored by controlling either the green compact relative density or the weight percentages of Mg or MgH2 powder added to the 3Ti-B4C preform.
Microstructural characterization reveals a relatively uniform distribution of the reinforcing phases TiCx and TiB2 in the magnesium matrix. Mechanical properties of these composites such as elastic modulus, flexural and compressive strengths are greatly improved compared with those of the unreinforced Mg or Mg alloys. In contrast, the ductility of TiCx-TiB2/Mg composites is lower than that of the unreinforced Mg or Mg alloys. However, this lower ductility was improved by the addition of Mg or MgH2 powder in the preform. Secondary scanning electron microscopy was used to investigate the fracture surfaces after the flexural strength test. The composites show signs of mixed fracture; cleavage regions and some dimpling. In addition, microcracks observed in the matrix show that the failure might have initiated in the matrix rather than from the reinforcing particulates. Also, the results show that the hardness and the wear resistance of the composites are improved, compared with those of the unreinforced Mg alloy.


identifier: Tziritas, Mathew  (2011) APOS Theory as a Framework to Study the Conceptual Stages of Related Rates Problems.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
A study was done in an attempt to use the APOS theory of learning and teaching mathematics to develop and test a teaching cycle for the improvement of students’ conceptual understanding of related rates problems. “APOS” is an acronym that stands for Action, Process, Object, and Schema, and refers to both a theory of teaching and learning and a research methodology in mathematics education. “Related rates problems” refers to problems in Calculus that require finding the rate of change of one value, given the rate of change of a related value.
Part of APOS research methodology is a “genetic decomposition” of the concepts to be learned by the students in terms of the mental constructions that such learning requires. In the present study, the genetic decomposition focused on the mental constructions required for student success during the initial conceptual stages of related rates problems learning. The decomposition was constructed using the author’s knowledge of the subject. The genetic decomposition was used to construct an Action – Discussion – Exercise (ACE) teaching cycle which was then tested on two groups of students. Finally, students were asked to solve related rates problems during an individual interview with the author. Data from students’ involvement in the ACE cycle as well as their work during the interview process were then used to suggest changes to the genetic decomposition and the ACE cycle. These suggestions constitute the results of the study. Their purpose is to improve the starting point for further iterations of experimentation of teaching related rates problems.


identifier: Arzpeyma, Gilnaz  (2011) Application of Engel-Brewer and Miedema Semi-Empirical Models Combined with Entropy Models to Thermodynamic Modeling of Binary Systems.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Thermodynamic modeling of phase diagrams provides fundamental information for applications such as solidification, crystal growth, joining, solid-state reaction, casting, phase transformations and oxidations. CALPHAD method has been widely used to predict phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties. However, for systems with no or few experimental phase equilibrium data and/or thermodynamic properties, CALPHAD method cannot be applied. For these systems, predicting thermodynamic properties using theoretical and/or empirical formulae is of great interest. Engel-Brewer and Miedema tried to predict enthalpy of mixing based on electronic properties. Whereas, Faber, Guggenheim, Sommer and Wituciewicz formulated excess entropy of mixing.
In this study, Engel-Brewer method is used to calculate thermodynamic properties and phase relations for 5 binary systems and the results are compared with the experimental data from the literature. Then, Engel-Brewer method and Miedema model are applied to calculate enthalpy of mixing of 50 liquid and solid solutions and the results are compared with the experimental data from the literature. Analysis of the results indicates that the Engel-Brewer method is not robust, while Miedema model with some modifications is evaluated as an appropriate model to predict enthalpy of mixing of liquid and solid solutions. Moreover, the models of Faber, Guggenheim, Sommer and Wituciewicz are used to predict entropy of mixing of 50 liquid alloys and the results are then compared with the experimental data from the literature. A critical review of each of these entropy relations is presented and it is concluded that the Wituciewicz relation is the most appropriate model to predict entropy of mixing of liquid alloys. Finally, based on the current work, a combined Miedema-Wituciewicz model is suggested to parameterize Gibbs free energy of mixing for liquid solutions. This model can be used to predict thermodynamic properties and consequently, binary phase diagrams without relying on the experimental thermochemical data.


identifier: Cornellier, Bruno  (2011) La "chose indienne": Cinéma et politiques de la représentation autochtone dans la colonie de peuplement libérale.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Cette thèse constitue une réponse détaillée à une question qui, si d’apparence simpliste, n’en est pas moins politiquement lourde de conséquences: Comment se fait-il que le Canada puisse être représenté par des totems indiens à Walt Disney World ou bien par un inukshuk lors des Olympiades de Vancouver? La réponse : parce qu’il y a « quelque chose » d’Indien à propos de la nation – un je-ne-sais-quoi d’Indien. C’est-à-dire que si elle veut moralement survivre à son héritage colonial, la nation doit faire de l’indianité sa « chose » ; elle doit pouvoir désigner sans jamais l’identifier complètement cette qualité de l’indéterminé permettant au Canada et au Québec de se représenter dans l’indianité. Ainsi défini, le concept de la « chose » permet une lecture alternative des politiques de la représentation autochtone. Par le biais d’une analyse d’une série de films locaux et de leur réception critique à l’échelle nationale, cette lecture de l’Indien des cinémas québécois et canadiens se refuse à toute volonté de restituer dans la représentation « juste » une indianité réelle qui aurait été ou bien aliénée par les filtres déformants de nos habitudes de perceptions coloniales, ou bien mise sous silence et substituée par cet Indien « imaginaire » ou « du discours » continuant d’informer une panoplie d’interventions critiques. Témoignant de la centralité de la cinéphotographie dans le projet historique de documentation des différences raciales, j’explique alors comment le fardeau d’éducation que porte avec elle la production documentaire autochtone tient d’une conception selon laquelle la réhabilitation d’un certain savoir à propos de l’Indien – le « vrai » – permettrait à la nation libérale de faire l’expérience d’une intimité humaine avec une indianité qui serait commensurable avec cette « chose » que se donne le corps souverain chaque fois qu’il cherche à jouir de l’idéal citoyen d’une réconciliation à venir. Contre de tels usages du documentaire au service d’une sphère publique « déracialisée », je démontre enfin comment ces films pourront également servir à identifier et intensifier les zones d’incommensurabilité politique, ainsi que les différences irréconciliables, qui continuent de fracturer la fragile souveraineté de la colonie de peuplement libérale.


identifier: Liu, Wan Cen  (2011) Interviews with Nine Chinese Artists: Narrative research on Chinese art education during the 20th century.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
My thesis is a narrative inquiry based on the stories of the art learning of nine Chinese artists from different generations.  their art learning is considered a lifelong activity to be analyzed. My study, an analysis of this lifelong activity, focuses on how different social and cultural contexts affect individuals’ art learning when they first learn art, as they learn to become artists, and as they continue to learn art as artist. In order to understand the process of their art learning comprehensively, I have divided their art learning into three types: formal, non-formal and life art learning. The purpose of my study is to analyze how artists have learned art and how society has influenced their art learning in the past half century in China.
Based on the analysis of my interviews with the artists, I learned that, during the 20th century, Chinese art education in elementary and secondary schools did not play a primary role in relation to these artists’ art learning. Furthermore, in art classes after 1949, western style drawing has been dominant in the art classrooms of elementary and secondary schools in China. Students followed the adults’ ‘concept’ of realism instead of pursuing their own self-expressions. Individual originality and aesthetics were often ignored. I also found that the social and cultural contexts in which the interviewees lived deeply influenced their individual art learning. What and how they learned in their formal, non-formal and life learning differed depending on the economical, political, and cultural contexts. Moreover, according to the experiences of the participants in this study, school art education in China ignored the visual experiences in the everyday lives of students. The opportunities for informal and formal learning were generally distinct. It is important to note that although there were only three female artists in the study, they had fewer opportunities to learn art outside of school with their peer groups while all the male artists had such opportunities. However, the three female artists received non-formal art learning because one’s mother was an artist, one had a professional art tutor and one had opportunities to make art when she worked in the army. Finally, I found that the participants’ experiences of informal art learning played a more important role in their artistic creation than their formal training did.


identifier: Safari, Vida  (2011) A Systematic Approach to Evaluating Gaseous Filter Models.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Fang, Yun  (2011) Emerging Commercial Landscapes in Nanjing: Reciprocal Impacts between Caishi and Supermarkets.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Concentrating on eight Caishi (former farmer’s markets) and nearby Suguo supermarkets in the southern districts of Nanjing, China, the present study focuses mainly on the morphological, social and economic impacts of a new commercial landscape, the supermarket, on Caishi.

A documented overview of Nanjing’s commercial history and policies gives this research a theoretical background regarding Caishi and supermarkets and indicates the policies which have directed the transformation of Caishi and direction of supermarkets. Building a typology of three Caishi types, documenting the genesis of the Caishi landscape, investigating the production of each commercial landscape, analyzing Caishi’s geospatial relationships with nearby residential developments, supermarkets, other Caishi and adjoining commercial landscapes, provides an understanding of how shifts in political economy influence the built environment and market trends. The qualitative methods employed in the interviews section drew forth views and opinions based on the interviewees’ individual perceptions. The subsequent quantitative methods adopted in questionnaire analysis and economic data analysis allowed a more objective examination of relevant issues from the customer’s perspective and was complementary to the interviews. The results suggest dialectic between the social and economic dimensions of commercial landscape building and material and physical layouts.


identifier: Donato, Kimberly  (2011) The Role of Implicitly Primed Colour Cues on Product Evaluation.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Hadadian, Armin  (2011) Optimal Design of Magnetorheological Dampers Constrained in a Specific Volume Using Response Surface Method.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
In recent years, semi-active magnetorheological (MR) and electrorheological (ER) fluid technology based devices and systems have been developed and successfully utilized in many applications as valves, shock absorbers, dampers and clutch/brake systems. These promising devices have the adaptivity of the fully active systems to accommodate varying external excitations while maintaining the reliability and fail-safe features of the passive systems. Compared with ER based devices or systems, MR based devices have recently received special attention due to their high performance with minimal power requirements. Moreover MR fluids have significantly higher yield strength and are less sensitive to contaminants and temperature compared with the ER fluids.
The geometric optimal design of MR valves/dampers is an important issue to improve the damper performance, such as damping force, valve ratio and inductive time constant. Considering this, the primary purpose of this study is to establish a general design optimization methodology to optimally design single–coil annular MR valves constrained in a specific volume in MR damper. To accomplish this, first the damping force of MR damper has been modeled using Bingham plastic model. The magnetic circuit of MR damper has been analyzed using finite element method in ANSYS environment to obtain magnetic field intensity which can be subsequently used to obtain the yield stress of the MR fluid in the active volume where the magnetic flux crosses. Then the developed finite element model of the MR valve is effectively used to construct an approximate response function relating the magnetic field intensity to the identified design parameters in the selected design space using response surface method and design of experiment methodology.
Using the derived approximate relation for the magnetic field intensity in the MR damper model, the design optimization problem has been formulated using gradient based nonlinear mathematical programming technique based on the Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP) technique and also stochastic optimization technique based on the Genetic Algorithm (GA) to find optimal geometrical parameters of the MR valve in order to maximize the damping performance under given constrained volume.
Finally a PID controller has been designed to evaluate the close-loop performance of the optimally designed MR damper in a quarter-car suspension model.


identifier: Marinkovic-Forte, Branka  (2011) Tacit Knowledge: Painting, Thinking & Teaching: Video Data.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The following videos are part of an exploration into artistic knowledge, artistic process and teaching. Through their creation I have begun to create a bridge between my practice as an artist and studio teacher. They are the part of the data set for my arts-based thesis entitled: Tacit Knowledge: Painting, Thinking & Teaching.


identifier: Lambrinos, Angela  (2011) False Memories of UFO Encounters: An fMRI Investigation.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
The idea of ‘false memories’ for traumatic events has powered numerous controversies. For this reason, the present study was designed as an attempt to resolve this debate with the use of neuroscience by alleviating two major limitations that have hindered progress in the field: namely, a more specific and restricted definition of what constitutes a false memory; and alleviating concerns surrounding the lack of ecological validity of simulated cases by testing individuals claiming to have been abducted by space aliens.
Our objective was to determine whether fMRI could distinguish between a false and a real memory and to identify the neural processes associated with these memories. Personality traits and/or cognitive abilities related to incidences of false memory were investigated, as well as, brain activation during 4 memory recall conditions: 1) self false memory; 2) self real memory; 3) other false memory; and 4) other real memory. A sample of 12 men and women who identified themselves as UFO abductees were used in the fMRI part of this experiment with their UFO abduction memory as the ‘self false memory’ condition. Results revealed higher scores on all cognitive and personality measures for the UFO group. We found evidence that the processing of real and false memories is correlated with different patterns of brain activity. In addition, main effects of self-referential processing and memory type (unusual content versus usual) were also tested. The results indicated that self-referential responding was mainly associated to prefrontal and limbic activations whereas the successful retrieval of unusual content was associated to multiple regions of the brain including but not limited to bilateral prefrontal and occipital activations, and right anterior cingulate. Significant interactions were also observed in four right hemispheric regions: the lateral globus pallidus; the superior frontal gyrus; the parietal supramarginal gyrus; and the limbic lobe with increased activation specifically linked to the condition “self false memory”. Our findings extended the line of false memory research to unusual false memories and revealed additional activations associated specifically to this type of memory.


identifier: Grewal, Jasrobin Singh  (2011) Vibration and Thermal Analysis and Optimum Design of Viscoelastic Sandwich Beam.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Sandwich beam structures have many applications in various fields of engineering including especially in aerospace and transportation industries. Using the viscoelastic material as the core layer in these structures, one could include significant amount of damping with minimum impact on the total mass of the structure. In the current study, vibration damping analyses of the sandwich beam structure using the finite element formulations are presented. These formulations are developed based on the linear and non-linear displacement fields in the viscoelastic core layer. Results obtained from the present study were compared with those reported in literature and it is shown that the non linear displacement field exhibits more accurate damping response than the linear model. Parametric sensitivity analysis has been carried out to show the damping behavior of partially treated sandwich beam under different configuration.  Genetic algorithm is utilized in finding the optimum configuration to achieve the highest damping. Results show that for damping behavior of beam with the clamped-clamped boundary condition, the partially treated beam structure is more effective than the fully treated one. Also the effect of the heat dissipation in the damping layer of the beam on the damping performance of the viscoelastic material is investigated under the steady-state harmonic excitation. The generated heat has been taken into the consideration by implementing the finite difference formulation based on the irregular grids. Results obtained clearly indicate that the temperature gradient developed in the structure and hence the amplitude of the response increases after every cycle.


identifier: Aprahamian, Sima  (1989) THE INHABITANTS OF HAOUCH MOUSSA: FROM STRATIFIED SOCIETY THROUGH CLASSLESSNESS TO THE RE-APPEARANCE OF SOCIAL ClASSES.  PhD thesis, McGill University.

abstract:
This is a case study i based on f ieldwork
research carried out in 1980-1981 and 1986-1987 among the
inhabitants of Haouch Moussa (IAnjar) a Lebanese
Armenian community in the Bekala valley of Lebanon. The
study itself cons~itutes a reconstruction of the practices
and experiences (and their genesis) of the people in
question, as Lebanese and Armenians {and therefore, of my
own history as a Lebanese and an Armenian (and a woman)}.
The settlement itself was established in 1939 by Ar~ènian
refugees deported from their original habitat in Mount
Moussa, the Sanjak of Iskandaroun (Turkey). l\Then
relocated in the Central Bekala, the inhabitants initiated
a collectivisation experiment. However, it was brought to
an end shortly after Lebanese Independence. During the
following decades, while the socialist ideology has
persisted the individual households have at first become
petty commodi ty producers for a regional, national and
international market, and later through the dynamics ofpetty commodity production, capitalism, and the effects
of the civil war in Lebanon further transformations have
occurred. This thesis examines these transformations and
attempts to translate the dynamics of the reality of the
inhabitants of 'An jar into anthropological discourse.


identifier: Fahmy, Hany  (2011) Regime Switching in Commodity Prices.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

title: Regime Switching in Commodity Prices

abstract:
During the 1970's, the increase in the price of oil and many other commodities dominated macroeconomic discussions. In the late 1980's and early 1990's, commodity prices generally declined and not much attention was given to the topic. Currently, the surge in the price of oil and many other commodities, both in nominal and real terms, drew back attention to the issue.
This thesis follows the empirical approach in modelling nonlinear behavior of commodity prices. The approach was motivated by the observation that commodity prices tend to move together in groups in response to a common macroeconomic variable or group of variables. The thesis attempts to explain this phenomenon by, first, classifying commodity prices according to their recorded border prices (an issue that has been ignored in previous studies), and then by trying to find the best transition (threshold) variable that can explain this common dynamic in each group.
The observed nonlinearity in commodity prices is modelled using the smooth transition regression (STR) model with external threshold variables. The use of external threshold variables, in addition to the commonly used autoregressive lags of the dependent variable, is a theme that distinguishes this thesis from the majority of the studies in the regime switching literature. The STR model, which technically models regime switching in the conditional mean equation of the data generating process, is extended to model regime switching in the conditional variance. Both models (the STR in mean and the STR in variance) were fitted to the Grilli & Yang's (1988) commodity price index and to the individual price series forming the index.
Two external transition variables were found successful in capturing the regime switching dynamics of the commodity price index: inflation rate and the price of oil. Using both transition variables in the STR in mean and the STR in variance models, both models displayed the same dynamics in the limiting processes of the commodity price index. This result suggests that both models can be seen as substitutes when modelling nonlinearity in the commodity price index. As for the two transition variables, inflation was capable of capturing the early dynamics (between 1900 and 1950) of the commodity index whereas oil price captured the late ones (between 1980 and 2007). This result motivates the use of external threshold variables in regime switching models in general and, in particular, the use of inflation and oil price in the STR model when applied to an index of commodity prices.
More insight about the co-movement of commodity prices is gained by studying the individual price processes forming the index. However, it is worth noting that there is no single variable that is capable of explaining the behavior of all commodity prices. The way each price series is recorded and the history of the commodity's major exporter and importer is crucial in styding and modelling its dynamics.


identifier: Morales, Juan David  (2011) Numerical Simulations of Steel Frames Equipped with Friction-Damped Diagonal-Bracing Devices.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Among passive energy dissipation devices, friction dampers are used worldwide as means of increasing damping into structural building systems with the aim to reduce the seismic response.  These devices, added either in-line with diagonal braces, or at the intersection zone of X- and chevron-bracing and installed in moment frame buildings, can reduce the demand of the primary frame system, the interstorey drift, and control the damage of non-structural components as building envelope. Regarding to their mechanical behavior, friction dampers dissipate energy through the relative sliding of plates clamped with post-tensioned bolts, while slipping occurs along the length of the slotted hole.  This device reveals a rigid-plastic behavior defined by three phases such as: “stick-slip” before sliding occurs, “slipping”, and the “slip-lock” when the force in the device increases due to the bearing of the post-tensioned bolts.
Thus, the first part of this study is focused on establishing a computer model able to simulate the three-phase behavior of the friction damper installed in diagonal bracing by using OpenSees software framework.  In light of this, the Bouc-Wen material characterized by smooth transition from elastic to plastic was calibrated through parametric study and employed to characterize the first two behavioural phases mainly controlled by the slip-force and available slip-distance. In addition, earlier experimental studies conducted by Pall (1979) were used to control the calibration. To simulate the slip-lock phase exhibited due to bearing of post-tensioned bolts, gap-elements were added in parallel to the Bouc-Wen model. In addition, to complete the friction-damped brace model, the action in series of the elastic brace and the friction damper model is considered.
The second part of this study illustrates the behavior of the 4, 8 and 12-storey building designed as moderately ductile (MD) moment resisting frame structure accordingly to NBCC 2010 and CSA/S16-2009. The studied buildings are located in Montreal and are subjected to 15 simulated and historical ground motions scaled to match the uniform hazard spectrum. Herein, beams and columns were defined as nonlinear force-based beam column element with fiber section and Steel02 material. From analyses, the mean values of the following parameters: maximum interstorey drift, maximum drift angle and maximum beam rotation are computed.
The third part is designated to analyze the seismic response of MD-MRF structures equipped with friction-damped brace devices through numerical simulations of 4-, 8- and 12-storey building, using OpenSees. It is showed that the proposed hysteresis model for friction-damped brace responds well under dynamic loading and it is able to tune the response within the prescribed limits. Driving devices into bearing shows transitional changes consisted of decreasing damping and increasing stiffness.  When this phase is encountered, the MD-MRF might respond as a back-up system and as a re-centering system. It is revealed that the three-phase hysteresis model of friction damper developed in this study must be calibrated against experimental test results conducted under cyclic loading until failure is reached. Due to lack of experimental test results several assumptions were made.


identifier: Dagenais, Christian  (2011) Sales Performance in Call Centers.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: Sales Performance in Call Centers

abstract:
While extensive research has been done on sales performance, few studies have examined sales performance in call centers.  Despite rapid growth in the use of call centers as sales & marketing tools in Canadian companies, research into antecedents of sales performance in this type of environment has not evolved at the same pace.

This thesis will examine antecedents of sales performance in call centers from the perspective of the sales call center employee’s evolution within the organization.  Beginning with satisfaction with selection procedures, this study will trace the call center employee’s sales performance through organizational commitment and tenure in order to identify possible antecedents of their sales performance.

The study involved examining satisfaction with selection procedures organizational commitment, tenure and sales performance, within three sales call centers across Canada.  Results showed that previously established conclusions on the correlation between satisfaction with selection procedures, commitment and tenure could not be replicated; therefore the link between satisfaction with selection procedures and sales performance could not be demonstrated in this research model.  Results did confirm that, organizational commitment and tenure were strongly correlated to sales performance, although organizational commitment and sales performance showed negative correlations where prior research had found positive correlations.


identifier: Sexton, Kathryn A.  (2011) Distinct Negative Beliefs About Uncertainty and Their Association With Worry: An Exploration of the Factors of the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale and Their Correlates.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Intolerance of uncertainty, “a dispositional characteristic that results from a set of negative beliefs about uncertainty and its implications” (Dugas & Robichaud, 2007, p. 24), has been implicated in worry/generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Despite significant advances in our understanding of its role as a cognitive vulnerability for GAD, questions remain regarding its measurement and construct validity, as a reliable set of negative beliefs has yet to be identified. The goal of this research was therefore to discern the specific negative beliefs about uncertainty which result in intolerance of uncertainty. In the first study, the factor structure of the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale (IUS; Buhr & Dugas, 2002; Freeston et al., 1994) was re-examined in separate large non-clinical samples, and the association of these factors with GAD symptomatology was explored. A second study further examined the convergent, discriminant, and criterion-related validity of these negative beliefs about uncertainty, as well as their specificity, in relation to similar behavioural and cognitive constructs and to information-processing biases. To this end, the Ambiguous Situations Questionnaire (ASQ) was developed to further assess interpretive biases in specific ambiguous situations and to differentiate the cognitive, behavioural, and emotional reactions that characterize these distinct beliefs about uncertainty.

Two replicable negative beliefs about uncertainty were identified: 1) the belief that Uncertainty has Negative Behavioural and Self-Referent Implications, and 2) the belief that Uncertainty is Unfair and Spoils Everything. The first of these was specifically associated with indecisiveness, procrastination, the tendency to personalize negative situations, and with perceptions of specific ambiguous situations as having negative personal implications. This belief also showed stronger correlations with GAD analogue status, trait anxiety, somatic anxiety, and depressive symptoms. In contrast, the second of these beliefs was associated with a preference for order in the environment, with self-oriented and other-oriented perfectionism, and with perceptions of specific ambiguous situations as unfair and disruptive. Both negative beliefs about uncertainty were also associated with information-seeking, with negatively biased interpretations of ambiguous situations, and with pathological worry.

Collectively, these studies’ findings suggest that uncertainty is experienced as aversive by individuals who believe it negatively impacts their ability to function and who show a tendency to personalize these perceived difficulties. It is also experienced as aversive by individuals who believe it to be unfair, as it contradicts their expectations of structure in the environment and may be perceived as hindering elevated personal standards from being met. These findings further support the validity of this construct, and are consistent with a growing literature which suggests that intolerance of uncertainty contributes to information-processing biases and confers vulnerability to excessive and uncontrollable worry.


identifier: Hussain, Wasim  (2011) A Read-Decoupled Gated-Ground SRAM Architecture for Low-Power Embedded Memories.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
In order to meet the incessantly growing demand of performance, the amount of embedded or on-chip memory in microprocessors and systems-on-chip (SOC) is increasing. As much as 70% of the chip area is now dedicated to the embedded memory, which is primarily realized by the static random access memory (SRAM). Because of the large size of the SRAM, its yield and leakage power consumption dominate the overall yield and leakage power consumption of the chip. However, as the CMOS technology continues to scale in the sub-65 nanometer regime to reduce the transistor cost and the dynamic power, it poses a number of challenges on the SRAM design. In this thesis, we address these challenges and propose cell-level and architecture level solutions to increase the yield and reduce the leakage power consumption of the SRAM in nanoscale CMOS technologies.
The conventional six transistor (6T) SRAM cell inherently suffers from a trade-off between the read stability and write-ability because of using the same bit line pair for both the read and write operations. An optimum design at a given process and voltage condition is a key to ensuring the yield and reliability of the SRAM. However, with technology scaling, process-induced variations in the transistor dimensions and electrical parameters coupled with variation in the operating conditions make it difficult to achieve a reasonably high yield. In this work, a gated SRAM architecture based on a seven transistor (7T) SRAM bit-cell is proposed to address these concerns. The proposed cell decouples the read bit line from the write bit lines. As a result, the storage node is not affected by any read induced noise during the read operation. Consequently, the proposed cell shows higher data stability and yield under varying process, voltage, and temperature (PVT) conditions. A single-ended sense amplifier is also presented to read from the proposed 7T cell while a unique write mechanism is used to reduce the write power to less than half of the write power of the conventional 6T cell. The proposed cell consumes similar silicon area and leakage power as the 6T cell when laid out and simulated using a commercial 65-nm CMOS technology. However, as much as 77% reduction in leakage power can be achieved by coupling the 7T cell with the column virtual grounding (CVG) technique, where a non-zero voltage is applied to the source terminals of driver NMOS transistors in the cell. The CVG technique also enables implementing multiple words per row, which is a key requirement for memories to avoid multiple-bit data upset in the event of radiation induced single event upset or soft error. In addition, the proposed cell inherently has a 30% larger soft error critical charge, making its soft error rate (SER) less than the half of that of the 6T cell.


identifier: Davis, Heather  (2011) Art That Loves People: Relational Subjectivity in Community-based Art.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
This doctoral dissertation is an interdisciplinary investigation of contemporary community-based art practices.  I analyze the social and political implications of these practices as structures of radical democracy, as relations of collectivity that include the other-than-human, and for new understandings of subjectivity as relational. This work is based in communication studies, but also draws from cultural theory, philosophy, art history, social geography, political theory and feminist thought. Using a multi-method qualitative approach, including ethnographic practices of friendship as method and self-reflexive journal writing, I examine three cases of community-based art.
	The first is that of the international artists’ collective WochenKlausur who were invited to teach a ‘learning through doing’ class at Alfred University in upstate New York. The project was largely considered a failure, but one that revealed the specificity of WochenKlausur’s method, which is to create social interventions using principles of agonistic democracy, as articulated by Chantal Mouffe. I look at their practice to highlight how its replicability could be useful for alternative social infrastructures. For my second site I chose the exemplary historical project Flood by Haha, which involved the creation of a hydroponic garden in a storefront to grow vegetables for people living with HIV/AIDS. I argue that their project created a collective of humans and other-than-humans through their use of the hydroponic garden, a technological feature that revealed complicated systems of interconnection.  Deploying the philosophy of Gilbert Simondon and Brian Massumi, I articulate the importance of other-than-humans to collectivity and to understanding subjectivity as primarily relational. The third case is the Spiral Garden, an art-garden-play program for differently-abled and able-bodied children in Toronto, Ontario.  Here the concept and practice of friendship, developed using the philosophy of Georgio Agamben, Maurice Blanchot and Simon Critchley, introduces an open-ended structure of relation, creating affective ties while preserving difference in proximity.
	Situated within a broader analysis of community-based art, each of these case studies illustrates alternative structures for collective art practice that can be used as models for creating new relational modes amongst and across humans and other-than-humans as life-building gestures.


identifier: Islam, Kazi Moinul  (2011) Characterization of the Line Configuration in Wired Communication Networks.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis presents an algorithm to identify the full configuration of a wired transmission line from its frequency response. It is assumed that the line can have up to two bridged taps.  Each bridged tap divides the main line to two segments, and with two bridged taps there will be at most three segments in the main line.  Furthermore, each segment of the main line and the bridged taps can have three different gauges.  The problem of characterizing the line configuration is concerned with identifying each segment (main line segments and bridged taps) in terms of its length and gauge. The problem is solved in two phases: initialization and optimization. The algorithm can be used as single ended line testing, which means the line can be characterized by performing a simple test from the central office. Simulations demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed method.


identifier: Cicchetti, Umberto  (2011) Ibn Qutayba et l’islamisation de la science de l’interprétation des rêves en Islam; Suivi d’une traduction de l’oneirocriton d’Ibn Qutayba (m.276/889) et une présentation inédite du texte intégral arabe de l’oneirocriton attribué à Ibrāhīm B.'Abdullāh al-Kirmānī ( m.184/800).  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: C’est dans la tradition islamique que le plus grand nombre de manuels d’interprétation des rêves ont été composés. Il semble que les premières communautés de musulmans cultivaient un intérêt particulier à élucider leurs messages oniriques, le rêve étant parfois même considéré un mode de révélation. Nous ne savons que très peu à propos des origines et de la formation de la tradition textuelle d’interprétation des rêves en Islam. Dans cette thèse, nous présentons deux des plus anciens manuels d’interprétation des rêves rédigés en Islam, le manuel d’Ibn Qutayba (m.276/889) intitulé Ta'wīl al-rū'yā, traduit dans son intégralité en français, de même que le manuel d’interprétation des rêves attribué à Ibrāhīm B.'Abdullāh al-Kirmānī (m.184/800), dans son original arabe. Dans notre analyse du manuel d’Ibn Qutayba, nous démontrons, a priori, qu’il est authentique, puis considérant cette œuvre à la lumière des autres oeuvres qutaybiennes, nous dévoilons les procédés d’islamisation et d’arabisation mis en œuvre dans la rédaction de son manuel d’interprétation des rêves. En seconde partie, nous présentons le texte arabe d’un manuel attribué à Ibrāhīm B.'Abdullāh al-Kirmānī. Une comparaison entre le manuel de Kirmānī et celui d’Ibn Qutayba — qui cite ce dernier — semble confirmer l’authenticité du texte, de même que notre hypothèse du rôle qu’Ibn Qutayba exerce dans l’islamisation et l’arabisation de l’oniromancie. Notre étude invite à repenser les origines et la formation de la science de l’interprétation des rêves en Islam dans le plus grand contexte des sciences divinatoires du Moyen-Orient.


identifier: Kamthan, Pankaj  (2011) Representation of User Stories in Descriptive Markup.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
The environment in which a software system is developed is in a constant state of flux. The changes at higher levels of software development often manifest themselves in changes at lower levels, especially its activities and artifacts. In the past decade, a notable change has been the emergence of agile methodologies for software development.

In a number of agile methodologies, user stories have been adopted as a style of expressing software requirements. This thesis is about theory and practice of describing user stories so as to make them amenable to both humans and machines. In that regard, relevant concerns in describing user stories must be considered and treated separately.

In this thesis, a number of concerns in describing user stories are identified, and a collection of conceptual models to help create an understanding of those concerns are formulated. In particular, conceptual models for user story description, stakeholders, information, representation, and presentation are proposed.

To facilitate structured descriptions of user stories, a User Story Markup Language (USML) is specified. USML depends on the requisite conceptual models for theoretical foundation. It is informed by experiential knowledge, especially conventions, guidelines, patterns, principles, recommended practices, and standards in markup language engineering. In doing so, USML aims to make the decisions underlying its development explicit.

USML provides conformance criteria that include validation against multiple schema documents. In particular, USML is equipped with a grammar-based schema document and a rule-based schema document that constrain USML instance documents in different ways.

USML aims to be flexible and extensible. In particular, USML enables a variety of user story forms, which allow a range of user story descriptions. USML instance documents can be intermixed with markup fragments of other languages, presented on conventional user agents, and organized and manipulated in different ways. USML can also be extended in a number of ways to accommodate the needs of those user story stakeholders who wish to personalize the language.


identifier: Khoueiry, Boulos  (2011) Destination Cooperation in Interference Channels.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) techniques are used to exploit spatial diversity and to achieve high bit rates required for emerging multimedia applications. To achieve this spatial diversity, more than one antenna have to be collocated at the transmitter and/or receiver nodes and the separation between those antenna has to be more than half a wavelength to ensure that the signals will experience different channel fading coefficients. One major drawback of this technique which makes it almost impossible to implement on handheld devices is the dimension of these devices.
Cooperative communication can be used to achieve the diversity gains typical of MIMO without the need for multiple antennas on the mobile units. Diversity is attained through collaboration between nodes in the wireless network. In wireless communications, cooperative diversity improves throughput and reliability. To effectively combat multipath fading in wireless networks, we develop energy efficient protocols that employ some cooperation among receiving nodes.
Motivated by the very promising results of cooperative diversity for both uncoded and coded systems as well as the substantial demand for higher data rates; in this thesis, we investigate the 2-user and 3-user destination cooperation in interference channels. We develop a collaboration protocol for the 2-user and 3-user models which is based on the fact that the information presents at one destination node can help in increasing the chance of correctly decoding the previously not decodable information at another destination node. Furthermore, we introduce network coding in the 3-user model and we show that network coding achieves further substantial gain. We demonstrate that the 2-user case outperforms the baseline scheme using orthogonal channels by far. This is due to the cooperative communication. In the cooperative scheme, the receiver nodes in the first time slot, decode the received information from both sources while in the second time slot they cooperate. The scheme provides both diversity and coding gain. Furthermore, we show that an enhanced scheme which exploits the unused information available at each destination node improves the outage probability.
We present the simulation results of various scenarios that illustrate the efficiency of employing such techniques with and without channel coding. We show how the SNR required for obtaining a certain frame error rate varies with the distance between destination nodes. We also show a comparable analysis between the 2-user and 3-user destination cooperation in interference channels on one hand and the baseline orthogonal scheme on the other hand.


identifier: Xia, Rui  (2011) A Parametric Modeling Study of the Climate Change Impact on River Eutrophication and Water Quality.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
The potential impact of climate change on river eutrophication and ecosystems are emerging problems that are of great concern to international and domestic societies. Scientific research and developing methods to address these problems are challenging. This study aims to analyze the impact of climate change on algal bloom problems in large river systems by utilizing a parametric river eutrophication model that is established involving indicators of climate changes, hydrological regimes, water quality and nutrient loads. Specifically, the developed parametric modeling method is based on statistical and simulation methods including: Multiple Linear Regressions (MLR), Multiple Non-linear Regressions (MNR), Artificial Neural Network (ANN) based on Back-propagation (BP) algorithms, as well as an integrated river eutrophication model.

The developed modeling method has been applied to the Wuhan section of Han River, which is one of major freshwater sources in China. The predicted probability of algal bloom occurrence for the next 40 years by the method is used to identify the impacts of climate change and human activities on the formation mechanisms of river algal blooms under three scenarios. The principles of possible adaptation options are discussed in this thesis.

The modeling results indicate the temperature is one of the direct factors contributing to river eutrophication and the change of river water quality. It has also been recognized that the climate change, which can alter water temperature and hydrological regimes, in conjunction with human activities can significantly influence water quality and the river ecosystem. The present study is expected to give theoretical supports and directions for further relevant research.


identifier: Pechacek, Janet  (2011) Metabolic and evolutionary engineering of a xylose-fermenting strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Lignocellulosic biomass waste is an abundant renewable resource of sugars for fermentation to biofuel. Due to its high fermentation capability and tolerance to ethanol and inhibitors, Saccharomyces cerevisiae was chosen to engineer a strain able to ferment xylose to ethanol. Wild-type S. cerevisiae is not able to grow on xylose as a sole carbon source. In xylose-fermenting yeasts, xylose reductase reduces the sugar to xylitol, which is then oxidized to xylulose by a xylitol dehydrogenase. These two enzymes require different cofactors, which leads to a cofactor imbalance in wild-type cells attempting to utilize xylose. In order to bypass the two-step oxidoreductive isomerization reaction, the xylose reductase-encoding GRE3 gene was knocked out and the pathway was replaced with a xylose isomerase (XYLA) isolated from Piromyces sp. E2, to convert xylose directly to xylulose. To increase the flux of xylulose towards the pentose phosphate pathway, a second copy of the endogenous xylulokinase (XKS1) was constitutively expressed. This two-gene construct was chromosomally integrated into the GRE3 deletion strains and the resulting strain was able to grow aerobically on xylose as its sole carbon source. Anaerobic glucose-xylose co-fermentation experiments yielded increased growth as compared to glucose only cultures, but ethanol production did not increase. In micro-aerobic high cell density fermentation the strains successfully produced ethanol from xylose as its sole carbon source and from a mixture of glucose and xylose. Evolutionary engineering further improved the growth rate, ethanol yield and specific ethanol productivity of these strains.


identifier: McClure, Melanie  (2011) Benefits and Mechanisms of Group Living in the Nomadic Social Forager Malacosoma disstria.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
The present work has two main objectives; to determine the benefits and the mechanisms of group-living in M. disstria caterpillars. A combination of laboratory and field experiments showed that groups of M. disstria caterpillars can thermoregulate, that body temperatures achieved while basking in a group coincided with temperatures at which development rate is maximal for this species, and resulted in higher growth rates in the laboratory. Not only is collective thermoregulatory behaviour possible and advantageous in this species, it also drives much of the colony’s behaviour, in large part dictating temporal and spatial patterns of movement. The objective of the second section of the study was to determine if the gregarious habit of M. disstria caterpillars is advantageous against different invertebrate natural enemies as a function of group size and larval instar. We found that behavioural tactics in response to attacks were specifically tailored to the particular mortality agents acting on them and were more diverse and more effective for larger caterpillars. We also show that grouping benefits caterpillars through both the dilution of risk and group defences.
Synchronization of activity between individuals is necessary to derive the benefits that ensue from an aggregated lifestyle. Which individuals decide which activities to perform and when to perform them is therefore a fundamental question. The results of our study indicate that unfed caterpillars initiate foraging bouts and are more likely to lead locomotion. Consistent behavioural differences between individuals, if they exist, are therefore not necessary to explain task allocation and synchronisation during foraging in this species.
In conclusion, these findings suggest that group thermoregulation and protection from predation may be important selection pressures keeping larval colonies of M. disstria together. Like other groups of animals with self-organization, these caterpillars are able to make collective decisions as a result of individual behaviours in order to benefit from these advantages.


identifier: Zhang, Wei  (2011) A Scheduling Framework for a Heterogeneous Parallel Architecture.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Leonard, Thomas  (2011) The Political Experience of Ancient Greek Tragedy.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Mactabi, Roham  (2011) In Situ Health Monitoring of Adhesively Bonded Joints during Fatigue Using Carbon Nanotube Network.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Adhesive joints have widespread applications in aerospace and automotive industries, but predicting catastrophic failures during dynamic loads is very difficult due to the inaccessibility of the bonded interface. We have developed a new technique based on carbon nanotube (CNT) sensors that can monitor the bond integrity and is capable to predict failure well in advance. The conductive network inside the adhesive is very sensitive to crack initiation, propagation and delamination, therefore in-situ measurement of the bond resistance is capable of recording events that lead to failure. In 90% of the samples the change in bond resistance remains below 10% of the initial value up to approximately 80% of the fatigue life, and then the resistance increases rapidly due to crack propagation and interfacial delamination. As the increase in resistance typically occurs over a few hundreds to thousand cycles it is possible to define a resistance that corresponds to a safety limit before catastrophic failure. Moreover, the addition of 1 wt% MWCNTs inside the adhesive increased the joints shear strength and fatigue life by 10% and 20% respectively. The decrease in electrical resistance due to addition of only 0.5 wt% was more than 7 orders of magnitude.


identifier: Elsalfiti, Abdul Karim  (2011) Skin Friction of Micropiles Embedded in Gravelly Soils.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Micropiles are small in diameter (less than 300 mm) cast-in-place replacement piles, composed of steel reinforcement and placed or injected grout. They can withstand axial (compressive/tensile) and lateral loads, and work as components in a composite soil/pile mass or as small-diameter substitutes for conventional piles. Micropiles are used as underpinning elements to enhance bearing capacity of existing foundations and prevent excessive settlements.
They can also be used as foundations for new structures and land stabilization.
Micropiles are distinguished in providing innovative drilling and grouting techniques, which in return enhance load resistance. Reinforcement steel elements comprise to about 50 percent of the pile’s volume and is considered to be the main load bearing element, while the grout serves
to transfer the load to the surrounding soils.
To evaluate the skin friction of micropiles embedded in gravelly soils, a numerical model was developed using the geotechnical software program GEO5 for piles. The model was validated using existing field tests. Upon achieving satisfactory results, the model was used to generate 30
load tests that were performed on micropiles in three types of gravelly soils, ranging from Silty Gravel (GM) to Well graded Gravel (GW). Load-Displacement curves were then developed and carefully examined. The parametric factors and geotechnical properties that could affect the skin
friction were examined in a detailed manner. Present capacities measured from the Load-Displacement curves were then compared with existing design equations proposed by Reese and O’Neill, Hassan and O’Neill and Kulhawy. Based on all the information gathered, modifications to existing design equations were developed when needed to predict the skin friction for micropiles embedded in Gravelly Soils, while providing a marginal factor of safety.


identifier: Milosevic, Irena  (2011) The Roles of Safety Behaviour in the Cognitive-Behavioural Treatment of Anxiety Disorders.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Safety behaviour, which includes idiosyncratic strategies aimed at reducing anxiety and avoiding or averting perceived catastrophe, has been conceptualized in cognitive-behavioural models of anxiety disorders as having an anti-therapeutic, anxiety-maintaining function. There is substantial empirical support for its proposed negative effects in the context of exposure-based treatments for anxiety disorders. However, other hypotheses and findings suggest that incorporation of safety behaviour into such treatments might instead facilitate gains and/or enhance treatment acceptability. This research aimed to further understand the role of safety behaviour in the treatment of anxiety disorders. In Study 1, an experimental paradigm was used to examine the effect of ‘safety gear’ on belief change. Spider fearful participants were asked to evaluate the validity of a targeted negative belief about spiders during a brief session with a live tarantula while either using or not using protective gear during the session. The results demonstrated that negative beliefs declined equally and robustly in both groups after the session. Study 2 investigated treatment acceptability and preference as a function of safety behaviour use (judicious vs. discouraged) and treatment rationale (cognitive vs. extinction). Clinically anxious participants and undergraduate students provided acceptability ratings and preference ranks for four written vignettes describing a course of CBT for fear or anxiety. Treatment descriptions promoting judicious safety behaviour use received significantly higher acceptability ratings than those discouraging its use. Descriptions that presented a cognitive versus an extinction rationale were also rated as more acceptable. The most highly ranked treatment included judicious safety behaviour use under a cognitive rationale. The same pattern of results was observed in both participant groups. Study 3 involved the development and psychometric evaluation of a novel self-report measure of safety behaviour, the Safety Behaviour Inventory (SBI), using a large undergraduate student sample and a smaller sample of clinically anxious participants. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses and analyses of reliability and validity were conducted. Preliminary support was obtained for the discriminant and construct validity of a four-factor SBI. The combined results of these studies are discussed in terms of cognitive-behavioural theories and treatments of anxiety disorders, and future research directions are suggested.


identifier: Azar, Christian  (2011) A Virtualized Infrastructure for IVR Applications as Services.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Interactive Voice Response (IVR) applications are ubiquitous nowadays. Automated attendant, bank teller and automated surveys are a few of many applications requiring IVR capabilities. Cloud computing is a paradigm gaining a lot of momentum. It has three major service models: Infrastructure as a service – IaaS, Platform as a service – PaaS, and Software as a Service – SaaS. It offers also several inherent benefits such as scalability, resource efficiency and easy introduction of new functionality. However, very few, if any, IVR applications are offered today in cloud-based settings despite of all its potential benefits.
This thesis deals with IaaS. Accordingly, we propose a novel architecture for a virtualized IVR infrastructure that relies on RESTFul Web services. The architecture proposes IVR substrates that are virtualized, composed, and assembled on the fly to build IVR applications. As a proof of concept, we have implemented an IaaS prototype on which performance measurements have been done to evaluate our architecture concept. In addition, a simple proof of concept PaaS consisting of a graphical user interface (GUI)has been built to enable the development and management of simple IVR services in the SaaS layer.


identifier: Barrick, David D  (2011) I'll Take Care of You.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: I'll Take Care of You

abstract:
I’ll Take Care of You is a collection of stories set in (or near) Toronto and unified by the common theme of caretaking -- the tentative/ambiguous attempts of friends, counsellors, siblings, and parents to understand and act upon what is best for those in their charge. Using a number of first person voices (and one third person voice), I explore the fine line between helping and hurting an individual, the flexible dichotomies of childhood/ adulthood and childishness/maturity, and the nature of success and failure. The collection’s themes are best represented in a trilogy of stories about the Gillis family siblings: Madison, a freewheeling songwriter who has alienated her parents through her single-minded pursuit of her musical vision; Jill, the scientific child prodigy who loves her older sister and longs to restore harmony to her family; and James, a meticulous jazz guitarist who is jealous of Madison’s career, and eventually holds the power to facilitate or thwart his sister’s desire to make peace with the family.

Stylistically, I’ll Take Care of You is realist psychological fiction, influenced by Justin Cronin’s Mary and O’Neil -- a PEN/Hemingway Award-winning collection in the tradition of John Cheever and John Updike, but without the male-centric tone of those authors. Although it is not often explicitly evident, I’ll Take Care of You was also influenced by the domestic sequences of War and Peace, in which Tolstoy juxtaposes scenes of pain and happiness without either emotional tenor dominating or negating the other.


identifier: Valaee, Ali  (2011) SRAM Read-Assist Scheme for Low Power High Performance Applications.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Semiconductor technology scaling resulted in a considerable reduction in the transistor cost and an astonishing enhancement in the performance of VLSI (very large scale integration) systems. These nanoscale technologies have facilitated integration of large SRAMs which are now very popular for both processors and system-on-chip (SOC) designs. The density of SRAM array had a quadratic increase with each generation of CMOS technology. However, these nanoscale technologies unveiled few significant challenges to the design of high performance and low power embedded memories. First, process variation has become more significant in these technologies which threaten reliability of sensing circuitry. In order to alleviate this problem, we need to have larger signal swings on the bitlines (BLs) which degrade speed as well as power dissipation.  The second challenge is due to the variation in the cell current which will reduce the worst case cell current. Since this cell current is responsible for discharging BLs, this problem will translate to longer activation time for the wordlines (WLs). The longer the WL pulse width is, the more likely is the cell to be unstable. A long WL pulse width can also degrade noise margin. Furthermore, as a result of continuous increase in the size of SRAMs, the BL capacitance has increased significantly which will deteriorate speed as well as power dissipation. The aforementioned problems require additional techniques and treatment such as read-assist techniques to insure fast, low power and reliable read operation in nanoscaled SRAMs. In this research we address these concerns and propose a read-assist sense amplifier (SA) in 65nm CMOS technology that expedites the process of developing differential voltage to be sensed by sense amplifier while reducing voltage swing on the BLs which will result in increased sensing speed, lower power and shorter WL activation time. A complete comparison is made between the proposed scheme, conventional SA and a state of the art design which shows speed improvement and power reduction of 56.1% and 25.9%, respectively over the conventional scheme at the expense of negligible area overhead. Also, the proposed scheme enables us to reduce cell VDD for having the same sensing speed which results in considerable reduction in leakage power dissipation.


identifier: Shahriari, Shahrokh  (2011) Computational Modeling of Cardiovascular Flows using Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This dissertation presents the first attempt to verify the capability of smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH), a meshfree particle method, to simulate pulsatile flow in the cardiovascular system. Smoothed particle hydrodynamics has been extensively used to simulate astrophysical phenomena, free surface flows and transient start-up of the internal flows under constant driving forces at low Reynolds numbers. However, most of the fluid flow phenomena are naturally unsteady with moderate Reynolds numbers. In this thesis, first, a series of benchmark cases are conducted to address internal oscillating flows at moderate Reynolds numbers. The performance of the two most commonly used formulations to model the diffusing viscous term and the XSPH variant, proposed to modify the movement of the particles, is investigated. The relation between particle resolution and sound speed to control compressibility effects in SPH simulations and the spatial convergence rate of the SPH discretization are examined. Furthermore, a modified formulation for wall shear stress calculations is suggested and an approach to implement inflow and outflow boundary conditions in SPH is introduced. It is also shown how SPH simulations with different particle resolutions exhibit behaviors equivalent to a finite volume scheme of different accuracy orders for moderate Reynolds numbers. The application of SPH to cardiovascular fluid dynamics is extended by simulating pulsatile flow inside a model of the heart’s left ventricle and through normal and dysfunctional prosthetic mechanical heart valves. The SPH simulations result in the realistic calculation of the shear stress loading on the blood components and illustrate the important role played by non-physiological flow patterns to shear-induced hemodynamic events.


identifier: Gupta, Nikhil  (2011) Video Modeling and Noise Reduction in the Wavelet Domain.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Digital video has become vastly popular in the last decade and is fast replacing its analog counterpart in every walk of life. However, like analog video, digital video is also plagued with additive noise which degrades its quality and hinders its processing. Hence, it is imperative that the corrupting noise be removed from the digital video. Although there are several methods to achieve this, not many techniques preserve the quality and the detail content of the video while filtering the noise aggressively.

This thesis concentrates primarily on the problem of additive noise removal from video sequences in the wavelet domain. A new statistical model for the subband coefficients of the video sequence is proposed. The spatial as well as the temporal subband data has been modeled using a prior based on the generalized Gaussian distribution. Along with modeling the a priori distribution of the spatial subband coefficients, this model accounts for the motion which occurs between successive frames.

A novel spatio-temporal filter for video denoising that operates entirely in the wavelet domain is then proposed. For effective noise reduction, the spatial and the temporal redundancies that exist in the wavelet domain representation of a video signal are exploited. The use of discrete cosine transform (DCT) is proposed to reduce the redundancies in the temporal direction. After the application of the DCT, the coefficients in the different wavelet domain subbands for the original image sequence are modeled using a prior having a generalized Gaussian distribution. Based on this prior, filtering of the noisy wavelet coefficients in each subband is now carried out using a low-complexity wavelet shrinkage method that utilizes the correlation that exists between subsequent resolution levels.

Based on the proposed model, where the subband coefficients in individual frames as well as the wavelet coefficient difference occurring between two consecutive frames is modeled using the generalized Gaussian distribution, minimum mean squared error and maximum a posteriori Bayesian processors are proposed which estimate the noise-free wavelet coefficients in the current frame conditioned on the noisy coefficients in the current frame and the filtered coefficients in the past frame.

Based on the proposed statistical model, another novel noise reduction technique is proposed which exploits the spatial and the temporal redundancies that persist in the wavelet domain representation of the video sequence sequentially. The sequentially processed outputs of a Kalman filter and a spatial Bayesian filter are combined using an adaptive weighted averaging scheme.

The interscale dependencies in the subband representation of each frame are also modeled using a non-Gaussian bivariate distribution. The parameters for this bivariate distribution are estimated adaptively using the local correlations that exist between neighboring coefficients within each subband. Based on this bivariate distribution a shrinkage function is developed using the maximum a posteriori rule. To improve the performance of the filter, information from the adjacent frames is also incorporated in the shrinkage function.

Experimental results for all the presented algorithms show that the proposed schemes outperform several state-of-the-art spatio-temporal filters in terms of peak signal to noise ratio as well as visual quality.


identifier: Kliamenakis, Argiro  (2011) Understanding the Androgynous Brand.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: Understanding the Androgynous Brand


identifier: Hayreter, Alper  (2011) Production and Decay of $W_R$ Gauge Bosons in Left-Right Symmetric Models at the Tevatron and the LHC.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: In this thesis we study the production and decays of $W_R$ gauge bosons in several left-right symmetric models. We first use experimental constraints on the branching ratios of $b \to s \gamma$, $b \to c e {\bar \nu}_e$, and $B_{d,s}^0-\bar{B}^0_{d,s}$ mixing to restrict the parameter space of the model. We then analyze the branching ratios of $W_R$ and look for signals in $pp \to W_R\ t \to t ~(dijet)$ and show that the LHC could find a significant resonance for new gauge bosons. Finally, we analyze the top pair production and forward-backward asymmetry, and show that while the cross section at the Tevatron and the LHC are in agreement with the predictions of the model, the asymmetry observed at the Tevatron is inconsistent with LR model predictions, while the small asymmetry observed at the LHC is compatible with the model.


identifier: Changizi, M.Amin  (2011) Geometry and Material Nonlinearity Effects on Static and Dynamics Performance of MEMS.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract:
Nonlinear behavior of micro-mechanical systems is an interesting and little explored area of research. Although, micro-system technologies is new and fast developing area, there is little work carried out on modeling and simulation of MEMS devices which concerns their non-linear behavior. Nonlinear modeling of MEMS devices is based on observations related to the micro-systems performance which is often far away from linearity in MEMS devices.
There are two types of components that are extensively used in MEMS design: micro-beams (cantilever type) and micro-plates. Manufacturing as well as usage of these components are advantageous to MEMS applications. The main applications of such structures include micro-sensors and micro-actuators.
Large deflection of micro-cantilever beams under electrostatic force is studied. Pull in voltage as a phenomenon was widely studied in conjunction with MEMS. Large deflection of micro-cantilever beams under electrostatic field with the application of a voltage very close to pull in voltage is studied in this thesis and it is shown that pull in voltage provided by the nonlinear analysis is different from the one yielded by the linear analysis and more accurate when compared to the experimental values.
Large deflection of curved micro-cantilever beams sometimes encountered as AFM probes was studied to investigate the variation of sensitivity under large deflection of originally curved micro-cantilever beams. Results show that curved or straight beams experience same sensitivity which decreases with the increase of deflection.
Micro-plate pressure sensors are widely used in industrial applications. Deposition of several different layers creates residual stress in those layers. The residual stress is measured indirectly by Stoney equation. It is shown that Stoney equation yields under normal circumstances up to 40% error in the value of the predicted stress and the experimental results do not match any numerical analysis. An extraction method was developed to calculate the stress distribution in each layer based on the experimentally measured deflection.
  In summary, the work proves on few general configurations that the non-linear analysis of microstructures yields results that are closer to the results of the experimental investigations when compared to the ones yielded by the linear analyses.  Analytical solutions of the differential equations were sought using Lie symmetry method.


identifier: Garcia Rosero, Diego  (2011) Finite element mesh optimization using the partial p-adaptive method for stress analysis of underground excavations.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Savings in computational resources have become a main subject of study in geomechanics due to the complexity of the problems analyzed. This thesis develops and evaluates the performance of a partial p-adaptive mesh optimization method for stress analysis of underground excavations. The method uses transition finite elements in order to connect a mesh of quadratic (triangular or quadrilateral) elements with a mesh of linear (triangular or quadrilateral) elements. The analysis is performed using SIMFEM, a computer program that solves plane strain problems and is able to handle this type of mixed meshes. After the formulation of 4 types of transition elements (5-node, 7-node quadrilateral, 4-node and 5-node triangle), which were incorporated into the code, 57 models (including the analysis of a pressurized cavity) were run, analyzed and for some of the models, the results obtained were compared to commercial software, as to ensure the correct behaviour of these elements in a finite element mesh. A final application was performed modeling a continuum with two circular excavations, surrounded by a linear elastic material in a biaxial stress field, obtaining favourable results. The global stiffness matrix size was reduced by 85.4% and by 74.1% for the models using triangles and quadrilaterals respectively, as a result, the calculation times were considerably reduced. The average percentage of error with respect to the models without optimization, measured at eight critical points, was 0.15% and 2.63% in the case of triangular and quadrilateral elements respectively.