title: Improving Message-Passing Performance and Scalability in High-Performance Clusters

contributor:
Afsahi, Ahmad
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
High Performance Computing
Message Passing
Computer Clusters
Interconnection Networks

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-16 12:25:18.388

abstract:
High Performance Computing (HPC) is the key to solving many scientific, financial, and engineering problems. Computer clusters are now the dominant architecture for HPC. The scale of clusters, both in terms of processor per node and the number of nodes, is increasing rapidly, reaching petascales these days and soon to exascales. Inter-process communication plays a significant role in the overall performance of HPC applications. With the continuous enhancements in interconnection technologies and node architectures, the Message Passing Interface (MPI) needs to be improved to effectively utilize the modern technologies for higher performance.
After providing a background, I present a deep analysis of the user level and MPI libraries over modern cluster interconnects: InfiniBand, iWARP Ethernet, and Myrinet. Using novel techniques, I assess characteristics such as overlap and communication progress ability, buffer reuse effect on latency, and multiple-connection scalability. The outcome highlights some of the inefficiencies that exist in the communication libraries.
To improve communication progress and overlap in large message transfers, a method is proposed which uses speculative communication to overlap communication with computation in the MPI Rendezvous protocol. The results show up to 100% communication progress and more than 80% overlap ability over iWARP Ethernet. An adaptation mechanism is employed to avoid overhead on applications that do not benefit from the method due to their timing specifications.
To reduce MPI communication latency, I have proposed a technique that exploits the application buffer reuse characteristics for small messages and eliminates the sender-side copy in both two-sided and one-sided MPI small message transfer protocols. The implementation over InfiniBand improves small message latency up to 20%. The implementation adaptively falls back to the current method if the application does not benefit from the proposed technique.
Finally, to improve scalability of MPI applications on ultra-scale clusters, I have proposed an extension to the current iWARP standard. The extension improves performance and memory usage for large-scale clusters. The extension equips Ethernet with an efficient zero-copy, connection-less datagram transport. The software-level evaluation shows more than 40% performance benefits and 30% memory usage reduction for MPI applications on a 64-core cluster.

abstract: We are working with ParteQ to file a patent out of part of the thesis.

abstract: PhD


title: The Computational Power of Extended Watson-Crick L Systems

contributor:
Salomaa, Kai Jr
Computing

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

subject:
Formal Languages
Lindenmayer system
DNA Computing
Watson-Crick complementarity
recursively enumerable language
E0L system

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2010-12-06 18:29:23.584

abstract:
Lindenmayer (L) systems form a class of interesting computational formalisms due to their parallel nature, the various circumstances under which they operate, the restrictions imposed on language acceptance, and other attributes.  These systems have been extensively studied in the
Formal Languages literature.  In the past decade a new type of Lindenmayer system had been proposed: Watson-Crick Lindenmayer Systems.  These systems are essentially a marriage between Developmental systems and DNA Computing.  At their heart they are Lindenmayer systems augmented with a complementary relation amongst elements in the system just as the base pairs of DNA strands can be complementary with respect to one another.  When conditions and a mechanism for 'switching' the state of a computation to it's complementary version are provided then these systems can become surprisingly more powerful than the L systems which form their backbone.  This dissertation explores the computational power of new variants of Watson-Crick L systems.  It is found that many of these systems are Computationally-Complete.  These investigations differ from prior ones in that the systems under consideration have extended alphabets and usually Regular Triggers for complementation are considered as opposed to Context-Free Triggers investigated in previous works.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Genomic Characterization of Recurrent Chromosomal Aberrations in Retinoblastoma

contributor:
Squire, Jeremy A.
Pathology and Molecular Medicine

subject: Retinoblastoma Fish

abstract: Thesis (Master, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-18 16:59:40.965

abstract: Retinoblastoma is the second most common childhood intraocular malignancy and development of the tumour is initiated by bi-allelic loss of the RB1 gene. Bi-allelic RB1 loss may not always directly lead to malignant retinoblastoma.  Subsequent mutational events, specifically gain and loss of chromosomal regions harbouring key oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes, appear to underlie the progression of precursor lesions such as retinoma to retinoblastoma. Research thus far has implicated several cytogenetic aberrations in this sequence of molecular events, the two most recurrent and notable being the augmented copy number status of KIF14 and MDM4 on 1q and of DEK and E2F3 on 6p. A small subset of retinoblastoma exhibits high-level amplification of the MYCN gene on chromosome 2p and is characterized by pRb expression and aggressive histology. 1p36 deletion is also associated with MYCN amplification in neuroblastoma. Our project is testing the hypothesis that 1q and 6p gain and 2p amplification – defined by extra copies of KIF14 and MDM4, DEK and E2F3 and MYCN respectively, and 1p36 deletion – are biomarkers of retinoblastoma progression. This study reports the results of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded fluorescence in situ hybridization (FFPE-FISH) analysis of the aforementioned genes in two pre-constructed tissue microarrays (TMAs) comprising 270 retinoblastoma patient tumours. Results show 1q gain (3-10 copies) in 136/262 (52%), 6p gain in 127/262 (48.7%), MYCN gain in 18/265 (6.8%) and MYCN amplification (>10 copies) in 20/265 (7.5%) patient tumours. MYCN amplification was also observed in a sample which retained pRb protein expression. Additionally we have demonstrated statistically significant associations between 1q and 6p gain and MYCN amplification and 1p36 deletion. The large cohort and consequent statistical power of our results has enabled a better understanding of the M3 to Mn sequence of genomic aberrations in the progression from retinoma to retinoblastoma. Statistically significant associations between 1q and 6p, indicates synergy within these two regions of gain that would be particularly beneficial to tumours. Owing to the biological interactions among the proteins encoded by DEK, E2F3, KIF14 and MDM4, tumour cells manifesting both 1q and 6p aberrations would have a selective survival and proliferative advantage.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: System Identification Methods For Reverse Engineering Gene Regulatory Networks

contributor:
Mousavi, Parvin
Computing

subject:
system identification
reverse engineering
gene regulatory networks

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-18 20:47:36.458

abstract:
With the advent of high throughput measurement technologies, large scale gene expression data are available for analysis. Various computational methods have been introduced to analyze and predict meaningful molecular interactions from gene expression data. Such patterns can provide an understanding of the regulatory mechanisms in the cells. In the past, system identification algorithms have been extensively developed for engineering systems. These methods capture the dynamic input/output relationship of a system, provide a deterministic model of its function, and have reasonable computational requirements.

In this work, two system identification methods are applied for reverse engineering of gene regulatory networks.
The first method is based on an orthogonal search; it selects terms from a predefined set of gene expression profiles to best fit the expression levels of a given output gene.
The second method consists of a few cascades, each of which includes a dynamic component and a static component. Multiple cascades are added in a parallel to reduce the difference of the estimated expression profiles with the actual ones.
Gene regulatory networks can be constructed by defining the selected inputs as the regulators of the output.
To assess the performance of the approaches, a temporal synthetic dataset is developed. Methods are then applied to this dataset as well as the Brainsim dataset, a popular simulated temporal gene expression data. Furthermore, the methods are also applied to a biological dataset in yeast Saccharomyces Cerevisiae. This dataset includes 14 cell-cycle regulated genes; their known cell cycle pathway is used as the target network structure, and the criteria sensitivity, precision, and specificity are calculated to evaluate the inferred networks through these two methods. Resulting networks are also compared with two previous studies in the literature on the same dataset.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Adaptive Identification of Nonlinear Systems

contributor:
Guay, Martin
Chemical Engineering

subject:
Nonlinear System Identification
Adaptive Control

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemical Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-19 10:58:24.888

abstract:
This work presents three techniques for parameter identification for nonlinear systems. The methods presented are expanded from those presented in Adetola and Guay [3, 4, 5] and are intended to improve the performance of existing adaptive control systems. The first two methods exactly recover open-loop system parameters once a defined convergence condition is met. In either case, the true parameters are identified when the regressor matrix is of
full rank and can be inverted. The third case uses a novel method developed in Adetola
and Guay [5] to define a parameter uncertainty set. The uncertainty set is periodically updated to shrink around the true value of the parameters. Each method is shown to be applicable to a large class of linearly parameterized nonlinear discrete-time system. In each
case, parameter convergence is guaranteed subject to an appropriate convergence condition, which has been related to a classical persistence of excitation condition. The effectiveness of
the methods is demonstrated using a simulation example. The application of the uncertainty set technique to nonlinearly parameterized systems constitutes the main contribution of the thesis. The parameter uncertainty set method is generalized to the problem of adaptive estimation in nonlinearly parameterized systems, for both continuous-time and discrete-time cases. The method is demonstrated to perform well in simulation for a simplified model of a bioreactor operating under Monod kinetics.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Imidazolium Ionomer Derivatives of Poly(isobutylene-co-isoprene)

contributor:
Parent, J. Scott
Whitney, Ralph A.
Chemical Engineering

subject:
Brominated butyl rubber
Ionomers

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemical Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-27 11:52:54.442

abstract:
The allylic bromide functionality in brominated poly(isoprene-co-isobutylene) rubber (BIIR) reacted readily to nucleophilic substitution by imidazole-derivatives.  When reacted with the rubber, alkylimidazoles formed a stable non-thermoset ionomeric elastomer that has dynamic mechanical properties similar to those of vulcanizates; however, the strength is in its ion-pair aggregation.  Structural characterization of the polymeric products was accomplished by spectroscopy with comparisons to the model compound prepared from brominated 2,2,4,8,8-pentamethyl-4-nonene (BPMN).  Physical properties tests on the elastomers of varying ionic content (0-1 mol%) were done using solution viscosity and rheology, and demonstrated that small amounts of ionic functionality noticeably improved properties with a plateau of properties being attained as full conversion to ionic content was reached.

The reaction of imidazole with BIIR created a thermoset elastomer that formed an ionomer and thermoset after its second alkylation.  These materials provided excellent scorch protection and delayed curing at high temperatures, while still reaching good storage modulus.  Formation of an elastomer with a pendant imidazole group was also achieved; however, it did not perform as well as the free imidazole.

abstract: Patents pending in collaboration with Parteq and Lanxess

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: High flexion kinematics and kinetics for the improvement of artificial knee joints

contributor:
Wyss, Urs P.
Deluzio, Kevin J.
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Knee
Biomechanics
Joint Kinematics
Joint Kinetics
Tibiofemoral Joint Contact Forces
High Flexion

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-25 11:33:06.162

abstract: Total knee arthroplasty has been effective in reducing pain, but less so in restoring function, especially for activities requiring deep knee flexion.  The philosophy of this dissertation was that more functionally effective and optimally designed artificial knees could be created for high flexion activities, if the knee joint kinematics and joint contact forces applied during finite element testing, knee simulator testing, and fatigue testing were more physiologically accurate.  The objective of this work was to determine knee joint kinematics and contact forces that could be used in high flexion total knee replacement design and pre-clinical testing.  Knee kinematics were determined during high flexion activities for total knee replacement patients and asymptomatic subjects by tracking the motion of skin-mounted sensors.  In addition, a protocol was developed to determine the effect of soft tissue artefact on the accuracy of the skin-mounted sensor system in high flexion.  The ranges of motion determined for the studied activities can be used as a benchmark to measure the functional success of high flexion total knee replacements.  Tibiofemoral joint contact forces were estimated during high flexion activities of daily living using a simple, non-invasive, inverse dynamics based model.  The accuracy of the joint contact force estimates was investigated by comparing the estimated forces to in vivo forces measured directly using implanted instrumented tibial components.  The comparison showed that the model underestimates the measured axial joint contact force, most likely because the model neglects antagonistic muscle co-contraction.  The measured and modeled joint contact forces and the measured knee kinematics could be used to form industry standards for knee simulator and fatigue testing to ensure that the implants are being tested physiologically.  Healthy target populations can be studied using the methods outlined in this thesis to define testing standards for target populations:  Kinematics can be determined as they were in this work for a group of Middle Eastern subjects, and the non-invasive inverse dynamics based model (with some consideration for the underestimation of forces) could be used to determine the tibiofemoral joint contact forces that the implant might be subjected to during activities of daily living.

abstract: PhD


title: Planning In Ontario’s Far North: Preservation, development and culture in policy

contributor:
Whitelaw, Graham S.
Environmental Studies

subject:
community-based land-use planning
First Nation
Aboriginal
collaborative planning

abstract: Thesis (Master, Environmental Studies) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-25 12:37:47.676

abstract:
Growing development pressure in Ontario’s Far North has prompted northern First Nation communities, who have recognized these potential outcomes, to initiate community-based land-use planning.  In 2009 the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) announced Bill 191, An Act with Respect to Land-Use Planning and Protection in the Far North, to guide the planning process and promote a balance between conservation and development. The way the legislation develops and advances will be a determining factor in the degree of benefit to local communities.
This manuscript thesis explores the issues related to land-use planning in Ontario’s Far North, specifically the James Bay lowland region, through two articles.  Information collected through participant observation, an extensive multi-disciplinary literature review, interviews with key policy actors and review of transcripts from Standing Committee hearings was combined to inform the development of both articles.
The first article explores the landscape to highlight the abiotic, biotic and cultural features of the region.  This article provides a scoping exercise to begin to describe features that should contribute to the creation of the community-based land-use plans.
The second article critically examines the development of Bill 191 to guide land-use planning through policy, organizational and operational institutional levels from a First Nations perspective. Themes of power, social justice and participation in the planning process are central to the consideration of the emerging planning process.  This review reveals a process that, instead of initiating a new relationship between the government of Ontario and First Nations, has contributed to increasingly acrimonious relations between the two.

abstract: M.E.S.


title: Calpain 2 Activation, Autolysis, and Subunit Dissociation

contributor:
Davies, Peter L.
Biochemistry

subject:
Calpain
Activation Model
Autolysis
Subunit Dissociation
Mass Spectrometry
Chromatography
Calcium

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biochemistry) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-25 16:03:52.364

abstract:
Calpains are calcium-dependent, intracellular, multi-domain cysteine proteases involved in many physiological functions regulated by calcium signaling, including cell motility. How calpains are activated in the cell is still unknown because the resting intracellular concentration of Ca2+ is orders of magnitude lower than that needed for half-maximal activation of the enzyme in vitro.
   Several stratagems by which calpains might overcome this Ca2+ concentration differential have been proposed. It is possible that post-translational modifications like phosphorylation, or accessory proteins that bind to calpain, might facilitate the enzyme’s activation at lower than optimal Ca2+ concentrations. Autoproteolysis (autolysis) and subunit dissociation are two other proposed activation mechanisms that could release constraints on the calpain core by breaking the link between the anchor helix and the small subunit to allow the active site to form.
   By measuring the rate of autolysis at different sites in calpain, it was demonstrated that while the anchor helix is one of the first targets to be cut, several other potentially inactivating autolysis sites, particularly in Domain III, can also be cleaved within the first minute. Thus autolytic activation would go hand in hand with inactivation. By fractionating and identifying calpain 2 autolysis fragments, I show that the small subunit does not dissociate away from the large subunit, but is proteolyzed to a 40-45 k heterodimer of the penta-EF-hand Domains IV and VI. It is likely that this autolysis-generated heterodimer has previously been misidentified as the small subunit domain VI homodimer that would be produced by subunit dissociation. A calpastatin affinity column was constructed and used to capture recombinant calpain 2 from bacterial cell lysate. This affinity column provides a tool to screen for and capture calpain complexed to potential binding partners in the presence of Ca2+. Here I propose a model for calpain 2 activation in vitro that does not involve autolysis, subunit dissociation, or calpain activators.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Late Trecento Fresco Decoration of the Palazzo Datini in Prato

contributor:
Hoeniger, Cathleen
Art History

subject:
Francesco di Marco Datini
Prato
Trecento
Fresco
Niccolò di Pietro Gerini
Agnolo Gaddi
Palazzo
Merchant
Patronage

abstract: Thesis (Master, Art History) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-25 16:44:10.326

abstract:
Francesco di Marco Datini (c. 1335-1410) left his native city of Prato, near Florence, in about 1350 to become a successful merchant in Avignon, France.  He returned three decades later to decorate his newly built private residence in the historic center of Prato.  Under his patronage, frescoes of sacred and secular subject matter were executed in the residence from 1389-95.
The artists that have been concretely identified, or suggested, as working in the Palazzo Datini include: Arrigo di Niccolò, from Prato; minor painters Dino di Puccio, Jacopo d’Agnolo, and Agnolo; Florentine artists Tommaso del Mazza, Bartolomeo di Bertozzo, and Pagolino d’Ugolino; and the master artists Niccolò di Pietro Gerini and Agnolo Gaddi.
Many of the original frescoes were uncovered during renovations of the 1950s.  Those in the entry hall and ground floor rooms survive in varied condition.  This recovery is significant because the survival of large scale private works of this kind in Italy is rare.  Datini’s legacy also comprises hundreds of ledgers, account books, and thousands of personal and business letters dating from 1363 to 1410.  These are now contained in the Archivio Storico di Prato.
	Using the surviving visual and written material as a reference point, this thesis examines the contexts behind Datini’s choices as patron.  In particular, the influence of predominant values in merchant culture will be considered.  The frescoes are explored in comparison with the interior decoration in the palaces of contemporaries.  Precedence is given to residences in Florence and other urban centers in Tuscany.  Related paintings from Avignon are also considered, as Datini lived there for many years.  Visual parallels can also be drawn between the Datini frescoes and manuscript illuminations, among other sources.  The murals were influenced by Datini’s own interests, larger cultural values, and the painters, who derived from the Florentine tradition.
	This thesis seeks to examine the cultural and artistic environment in late Trecento Prato, Datini’s contact with the artists, the subject matter and style of the frescoes, and their reception.

abstract: M.A.


title: Effect of Tailings Mineralogy and Infiltration Water Chemistry on Arsenic Release From Historic Gold Mine Tailings

contributor: Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering

subject:
Arsenic
Mine Tailings
Laboratory Column Tests

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geological Sciences & Geological Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-27 14:26:06.13

abstract:
The existence of small-scale gold mining in Nova Scotia between 1868 and 1942 has resulted in many high arsenic (As) tailings areas in the province, some of which are near rural/urban areas and are used for recreational activities such as dirt bike racing and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding.  Because of the natural association of As with gold ore in the Meguma Terrane, processing of ore has resulted in As-rich mine waste that contains up to 2500 times more As than the Canadian soil quality guideline of 12 mg/kg.  These high As concentrations in combination with the recreational use of these sites creates a risk of human exposure.  The objective of this work was to investigate the effects of different cover options that might be used to mitigate the risk of human exposure.
Four tailings samples were selected to represent the geochemical variability from two tailings areas: Montague gold mines and Goldenville.  These samples were characterized and subjected to 29 weeks of column testing, in which each sample was leached with three different input solutions including synthetic rainwater (to simulate uncovered tailings exposed to natural acid rain), synthetic rainwater equilibrated with calcium carbonate (to simulate rainwater percolation through a crushed limestone cover), and a dilute organic acid solution (to simulate a vegetative cover).
Results of acid base accounting (ABA) tests indicate that samples have the potential to generate acid in the future (ratio of neutralization potential to acid potential is less than 2), though surface water at the sites is currently circum-neutral.  Acidic paste pH values (2.9) from a sample of As-rich hardpan indicate that a small volume of tailings at Montague are currently generating acid.
Results of column testing indicate that the cover types simulated by the input solutions had less of an effect on the out-flowing leachate chemistry than did the small volume of secondary As phases in each sample (scorodite, yukonite, hydrous ferric arsenate and hydrous ferric oxides).  For the majority of sample types, columns leached with an organic acid solution reported higher leachate As concentrations than were reported from columns leached with either the rainwater or carbonate-rainwater solutions.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: The presence and transport of human enteric viruses in fractured bedrock aquifers

contributor:
Novakowski, Kent S.
Civil Engineering

subject:
viruses in groundwater
fractured rock transport
virus transport

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-09 23:07:31.595

abstract:
Both onsite septic disposal systems and private drinking water wells are commonly utilized in rural areas of Canada.  The coexistence of septic systems and drinking water wells has the potential to greatly impact the quality of water obtained in these settings.  Human enteric viruses have been recognized as a potential source of groundwater borne disease, although the level of risk they pose and the processes responsible for their transport are poorly understood.  As a result of thin overburden, low storage capacity, and high groundwater velocities, fractured rock aquifers are potentially at highest risk to viral contamination. However, only limited research has been conducted to explore this concern.  The current study was conducted to investigate both the rate of occurrence of human viruses in fractured rock aquifers and the transport mechanisms acting in these settings.
A survey was conducted to identify the prevalence of human enteric viruses in three fractured rock aquifers located across Canada.  A total of 61 samples were collected from 28 wells drilled in aquifers in Ontario, Newfoundland, and British Columbia.  Molecular PCR techniques were utilized to determine virus presence.  Results showed that 37.7% of samples and 58.1% of wells were at some time positive for viruses.  Virus presence was found to increase with housing density and viruses were found to travel distances of at least 40 meters.  Poor correlation was found between the presence of viruses and traditional bacterial indicators.
A field-scale viral infiltration experiment was conducted to investigate viral transport behavior.  The bacteriophage ф-X174 and the fluorescent dye Lissamine FF were utilized as viral and solute tracers, respectively.  Tracers were applied to an exposed rock outcrop exhibiting fractures with known connection to two nearby wells.  Breakthrough was extremely rapid and the colloidal processes of decreased dispersion and slow-release kinetic sorption were identified.
This study has provided concrete evidence that viral contamination poses a significant threat to fractured groundwater aquifers in rural areas where onsite septic disposal practices are utilized.  The results observed in this study suggest that current set back distances and monitoring techniques may be inadequate to prevent exposure to human viruses.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Climate Change and connectivity: Are corridors the solution?

subject:
climate change
corridors
connectivity
biogeography

abstract:
An independent study project submitted to the School of Environmental Studies in partial fulfillment of the requirements of the Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Queen’s University
Kingston, Ontario, Canada
April 2010

abstract: This paper reviews the significance and use of conservation corridors at different geographic scales (local, regional and continental) as a conservation management tool to mitigate the effects of climate change on habitat and biodiversity. Species’ habitats are affected by habitat fragmentation, degradation, and now, climate change. The theory of island biogeography holds that the number of species within any given habitat patch exists in a dynamic equilibrium between extinction and colonization. Consequently, a general principle of biodiversity conservation has emerged stating that practitioners should try and connect habitat patches wherever possible. Conservation corridors are habitat strips connecting two main patches together because habitat fragmentation can disrupt natural population dynamics by reducing species dispersal and even causing local extinctions. Climate change will cause changes to mean annual temperature, precipitation patterns, the incidences of severe weather events, and the frequency and intensity of disruption regimes (ex: forest fires). The effects of climate change as well as habitat degradation and fragmentation will compromise species’ ability to adapt their habitat ranges to new climate. An analysis of case studies from the peer-reviewed literature shows that the implementation of corridors at broader scales would best mitigate the effects of climate change and maintain the integrity of ecosystem processes.

abstract: School of Environmental Studies


title: Contributing to the multi-stakeholder policy evaluation: Evaluating environmental assessments performed for infrastructure projects on the Oak Ridges moraine

subject:
Oak Ridges Moraine
Environmental Assessment

abstract: ENSC 501 April 2010

abstract: Infrastructure projects on the Oak Ridges Moraine have become an issue of interest for their role in facilitating further development in an area of environmental sensitivity. The Oak Ridges Moraine is a glacial landform, which stretches 160 km just north of the Greater Toronto Area in Southern Ontario. It is a multi-jurisdictional region composed of 34 municipalities and is protected under the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (2002) which restricts the types of activities that are allowed in certain designated areas. The local governments are required to implement the ORMCP through their official plans and decision-making. Infrastructure however is mandated through infrastructure master plans that do not have provincial oversight and have no clear requirement to implement ORMCP. Infrastructure projects are required to undergo environemtnal assessment. The purpose of this study is to contribute to monitoring the implementation of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan through an evaluation of infrastructure environmental assessments. The methodology used in this analysis was developed by Broughton (2008) using multi-source criteria. The criteria were used to assess two selected cases: the Leslie Street Class Environmental Assessment Bethesda Sideroad to Bloomington Road and the North Richmond Hill Elevated Tank and Yonge Street Watermain. Both of the cases complied with the majority of the criteria, however, a connection to broader issues identified in the literature such as growth was not established. The works presented will contribute to the next Monitoring the Moraine Status Report to be prepared by the Monitoring the Moraine Project.

abstract: School of Environmental Studies


title: Monitoring Material Modification using Inline Coherent Imaging

subject:
Laser machining
Metrology
Ablation
Imaging

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-29 16:01:38.048

abstract:
Laser machining is a commonly used method for materials processing.  Focusing laser energy onto a sample can lead to material modifications and achieve feature sizes on the order of micrometres.  However, designing a machining platform capable of producing high quality, repeatable, and accurate results is a key challenge because the final outcome can be variable, even when using fixed laser parameters.  Therefore, in order to understand and monitor the process, real-time in situ metrology is required.

In this work, a coherent imaging technique analogous to spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) was applied inline with a machining laser in order to monitor the cut development of various materials for industrial and biomedical applications.  Such inline coherent imaging (ICI) provides axial resolution on the order of ones to tens of micrometers as well as temporal resolution on the order of microseconds.

In stainless steel, the machining front was observed to have very different responses to pulsed lasers operating in different ablation regimes.  Applying shorter pulse duration with higher peak intensity led to more deterministic material removal with little relaxation between pulses, while longer pulses revealed periodic melting and refilling behaviour.  In addition, improvement of depth sensitivity to nanometre scales was explored by accessing phase information for Doppler processing techniques.

For poorly absorbing materials, ICI provides the ability to observe structures below the surface.  This is a very important characteristic for biomedical applications, such as guiding ablation in biological tissue.  By monitoring the ablation of bone tissue in real-time using ICI, the operator was able to terminate exposure from the machining laser 50 μm before perforation into a natural inclusion in the tissue.  ICI was able to anticipate the inclusion 176 ± 8 μm below the ablation front with signal intensity 9 ± 2 dB above the noise floor.  With added real-time depth control, many applications will benefit whether it is achieving higher precision cuts in industrial materials, or limiting the possibility of damaging organs at risk below the cutting surface in surgical intervention.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Assessing the role of integrated research and monitoring tools in remediation efforts at Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River basin areas of cencern: A case study of the Cornwall remedial action plan

subject:
remedial action plan
Cornwall
remediation

abstract: ENSC 501: Environmental Studies Independent Study; April 2009

abstract:
In accordance with the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, the governments of Canada and
the United States have agreed to support the remediation of 43 Areas of Concern (AOC) where
“failure [to meet objectives of the agreement] has caused or is likely to cause impairment of
beneficial use or of the area’s ability to support aquatic life.” A Remedial Action Plan (RAP)
has been created for each AOC that outlines how impairments are to be addressed. This research
report is focused on one such plan, the Bay of Quinte RAP, as a case study to explore the impact
of communicating research and monitoring on realizing the aims of the policy. Research
included a literature review encompassing existing works about Great Lakes RAPs and the Bay
of Quinte watershed, semi-structured interviews with project leaders and community
stakeholders and attendance at a research and monitoring forum. Findings indicate that tracking
trends, valuing monitoring, promoting stakeholder cooperation, collaborating with other RAPs
and informing management and decision making are key outcomes of shared science at the Bay
of Quinte. Lessons learned are instructive for any groups conducting ecosystem restoration or
management programs, particularly those involved in any of the 40 other RAPs still underway on
the Great Lakes.

abstract: School of Environmental Studies


title: An analysis of the determinants of microbial contamination of drinking water in First Nations communities of Northern and Southern Ontario

subject:
drinking water
microbial contaminants
Ontario
First Nations

abstract: ENSC 501: Independent Environmental Study; April 2009

abstract:
Well publicized cases of drinking water contamination in First Nations communities in
Ontario throughout the 1990s the first five years of the twentieth century have brought
the issue of drinking water contamination in First Nations communities to the public’s
attention. The most common form of drinking water contamination in First Nations
reserves is microbial contamination. While cases of drinking water contamination have
been reported in both northern and southern Ontario over the last decade and a half, it is
unclear whether the nature and/or severity of drinking water contamination differs
between First Nations communities in southern Ontario and more isolated communities
in northern Ontario. In this document the cause(s) and the extent of microbial
contamination of drinking water in two First Nations communities in southern Ontario
and two First Nations communities in northern Ontario are examined and compared. The
actions taken to address the drinking water contamination at all levels of government are
also examined and compared between the communities in northern and southern Ontario.
The results of this analysis suggest that while First Nations on southern Ontario appear to
be more prone to drinking water contamination due to development and population
pressure outside of the reserve, they have more access to political influence than do First
Nations in northern Ontario, where drinking water contamination was the result of poorly
designed or conceived drinking water systems and a lack of access to clean drinking
water. The results of the analysis also reveal that there is a need for both a reform of the
regulatory system for drinking water in First Nations communities and an increase in
funding to increase access to clean drinking water in First Nations communities.

abstract: School of Environmental Studies


title: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDES): Environmental exposrue assessment and evaluation of the role of PBDES in human thyroid dysfunction

subject:
polybrominated diphenyl ethers
PBDES
exposure
assessment

abstract: ENSC 501: Independent Study Project; April 2009

abstract: Flame retardants are ubiquitous protective compounds, large quantities of which are produced all over the globe. These chemicals are, however, gaining recognition as chemicals of concern due to their emergence in the environment. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), a type of brominated flame retardant, are showing up in natural media such as air, sediment, soil, as well as in the tissues of biota and humans. It is well established that PBDEs are persistent, bioaccumulative chemicals. This has led some researchers to compare PBDEs to PCBs, a previously banned persistent contaminant. The correlation between these two contaminants in terms of chemical structure, environmental transportation and storage, and bioaccumulative tendencies has raised a red flag about the future of PBDEs. Although some headway has been made into banning certain types PBDEs in North America and Europe, global production has continued. Increased demands for protective flame retardants over the past 25 years have meant more PBDE production; production trends are reflected in the continually increasing concentrations of PBDEs in the environment. The prevalence of PBDEs in environmental compartments is undeniable, but the risk they pose to the health of biota and humans is not as clear. This review examined the existing literature on PBDEs in a holistic manner. It was found that gaps in the research, in addition to a general lack of epidemiologic studies are limiting the scientific conclusions that can be drawn about the health effects of PBDEs.

abstract: School of Environmental Studies


title: Sustainability and balanced ecotourism management: Lessons from the whale watching in Laguna San Ignacio, Baja California Sur, Mexico

subject:
ecotourism
integrated management

abstract: ENSC 501: Independent Study Project; April 2008

abstract:
This paper examines ecotourism from an ecological, economic, and social perspective
and argues that integrated management provides more robust solutions that have a
greater overall benefit for the local community, such as at Laguna San Ignacio(LSI) in
the El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve of Baja California Sur, Mexico. Integrated solutions
recognize that there is a correlation between social and environmental injustice and the
market, as well as the need to implement solutions that will address them at the same
time. In many cases, the theory of ecotourism as sustainable development does not
translate as smoothly into “on the ground” results. An indicator-based conceptual
framework was therefore used to assess and identify some of the strengths and
weaknesses of the existing initiatives at Laguna San Ignacio, as well as some
recommendations for improvement. Future research should focus on developing new
strategies for ecotourism and sustainability in the community as well as how they can be
applied in other similar situations to achieve sustainable development.

abstract: School of Environmental Studies


title: Environmental impact of the oil and gas industry's consumption of water from the Athabasca River during the predicted water shortage for Canada's western prairie provinces

subject:
Water Consumption
Athabasca River
Oil
Gas

abstract: ENSC 501: Independent study project: April 2008

abstract:
Water consumption in Alberta continues to grow as demand from industry, agriculture and
municipalities increases. In future years, these sectors will be unable to consume the water needed to meet demand because of the projected decreases in water availability. Climate change is predicted to cause decreases in snow pack accumulation and result in continued retreat of glaciers, both of which will reduce the overall water quantity available downstream.
The oil and gas industry uses large amounts of water in their processes and facilities, some of which cannot be directly returned to the water cycle. This water is tied up in tailings ponds and Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) oil reservoirs, but most consumed water is returned to the water cycle through evaporation. This large consumption of water is concerning citizens in Alberta.
To address the potential water shortage and the concerns about the oil and gas industry’s use of water in the Athabasca Oil Sands, the Alberta Government, industry and other non-governmental organizations have developed various strategies, reports, legislation, allocation guidelines and
recommendations for the future.
This report provides information on the Athabasca River Basin and the Peace-Athabasca Delta, water legislation and allocation in Alberta, water consumption by the oil and gas industry, and potential environmental impacts of the oil and gas industry’s consumption of water. It presents
results of a secondary data analysis, which indicate current and future oil and gas projects, given an increase in water consumption and a decrease in the Athabasca River’s natural flow, will consume 1.86% of the Athabasca River’s natural flow. This report concludes by discussing the
information obtained through the literature review and results of the secondary data and analysis and by providing recommendations that would improve the sustainable use of water by the oiland gas industry, effectively balancing the environmental and economic needs of Alberta.

abstract: School of Environmental Studies


title: Looking for a Simplicity Principle in the Perception of Human Walking Motion

contributor:
Troje, Nikolaus F.
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
Simplicity Principle
Coding Theory
Representation
Walker
Point Light Display
Euler Angle
Principle Components Analysis
PCA
PLD
Caricature
Walker Space
Face Space
Distinctiveness
Identification
Norm-Based Multidimensional
Morphable
Biological Motion

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2010-10-29 19:16:39.943

abstract: The simplicity principle posits that we interpret sense data as the simplest consistent distal cause, or that our high level perceptual representations of stimuli are optimized for simplicity. The traditional paradigm used to test this principle is coding theory, where alternate representations of stimuli are constructed, simplicity is measured as shortness of representation length, and behavioural experiments attempt to show that the shortest representations correspond best to perception. In this study we apply coding theory to marker-based human walking motion. We compare two representation schemes. The first is based on marker coordinates in a body-centred Cartesian coordinate system. The second is based on a model of 15 rigid body segments with Euler angles and a Cartesian translation for each. Both of our schemes are principal component (PC)-based implementations of a norm-based multidimensional object space – a type of model for high level perceptual schemes that has received attention in the literature over the past two decades. Representation length is quantified as number of retained PC’s, with error increasing with discarded PC’s. We generalize simplicity to efficiency measured as error across all possible lengths, where more efficient schemes admit less error across lengths. We find that the Cartesian coordinates-based scheme is more efficient than the Euler angles and translations-based scheme across a database of 100 walkers. In order to link this finding to perception we turn to the caricature effect that subjects can identify caricatures of familiar stimuli more accurately than veridicals. Our design was to compare walker caricatures generated in our two schemes in the hope of finding that one gives caricatures that benefit identification more than the other, from which we would conclude the former to be a better model of the true perceptual scheme. However, we find that analogous caricatures between the two schemes are only distinguishable at caricature levels so extreme that identification performance breaks down, so our design became infeasible and no conclusion for a simplicity principle in walker perception is reached. We also measure a curve of increasing then decreasing identification performance with caricature level and an optimal level at approximately double the distinctiveness of a typical walker.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Conservationist interactions in two Central American biosphere reserves: A closer look at power relations , differing perspectives, and selective inclusion

subject:
biosphere
biological conservation

abstract: ENSC 501: Independent Study Project, April 2008

abstract: Biological conservation is a social practice that involves complex power relations and differing perspectives. In the past, a protectionist conservation approach, where conservationists restricted the access of local communities to natural resources, was very common. A community-based conservation approach, which allows local people to gain control over their natural resources and design sustainable management plans, is more often seen today. On biosphere reserves, conservation non-governmental organizations (NGOs), residents and government organizations negotiate how natural resources are consumed and preserved. A conceptual framework will be used that demonstrates how the political and historical context of a biosphere reserve shapes the power relations and perspectives between these actors. These power relations and perspectives then shape whether a protectionist or community based conservation approach is used on the biosphere reserve. Included in this conceptual framework is the idea that even when a community-based conservation approach is used, only a selective group of biosphere residents are included in negotiations. This conceptual framework was applied to the Bosawas Biosphere Reserve in Nicaragua and the Maya Biosphere Reserve in Guatemala, which were investigated through a comprehensive literature review. Due to the social context in which the biosphere reserves were set, a true community-based conservation approach can be seen in the Bosawas Biosphere Reserve while only a partial community-based conservation approach can be seen in the Maya Biosphere Reserve. In both cases selective inclusion of some biosphere residents over others can be seen leading to the conclusion that even a community-based conservation approach operates through restricting access to natural resources.

abstract: School of Environmental Studies


title: Kenya's cut-flowers: An unsustainable industry on Lake Naivasha

subject:
unsustainable
Kenya
cut-flowers
Lake Naivasha

abstract: Kenya‟s cut-flower industry has been praised as an economic success as it has provided jobs, income and infrastructure for the citizens of the country. Conversely, media coverage has criticized cut-flower production for causing negative environmental and social impacts. Cut-flower production in Kenya is concentrated on the southern shores of Lake Naivasha. The pressures of extraction are causing the naturally sensitive and variable lake to experience lake levels much lower than what the models had predicted. The cut-flower industry on Lake Naivasha has also been socially criticized for the poor working wages, the poor working conditions and the impacts of the increased population its employment attracts on the community of Naivasha. This paper looks into the economic, ecological and social implications of this industry, and assesses whether or not it is sustainable. The cut-flower industry‟s economic success is completely dependent on European markets, is not equitably distributed, and is vulnerable to business migration. Lake Naivasha is naturally sensitive to climatic changes and experiences much lake level variability. The increased unmeasured water extractions, habitat degradation and lack of adequate management exacerbates this situation. The civilians of Naivasha are suffering from a lack of infrastructure and security due to the population influx accompanying the cut-flower industry, without adequate wages or working conditions to access basic livelihood assets and high quality of life. For these economic, environmental and social reasons, it is determined that Kenya‟s cut-flower industry is not sustainable. Recommendations for mitigation of these impacts are given.

abstract: School of Environmental Studies


title: Assessment of the current biofuel industry in India and Canada

subject:
biofuel industry
India
Canada

abstract:
The biofuel industry is developing rapidly on a global scale, and both the Canadian and Indian government are currently increasing production of the renewable energy option. The industry has the potential to improve the rural economy, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and meet the country’s energy security requirements. The locally produced bioenergy can reduce dependence on foreign oil and provide the requirements for agricultural, industrial and household uses in urban and rural areas of the country. At the same time however, it has contributed to reduced food availability and an increase in food prices. The report looks at the current situation in both countries by investigating the available technology for conversion and its efficiency, and the biofuel resources available. It also investigates whether biofuels are a sustainable energy option by looking at their future potential in terms of the amount of energy that needs to be produced in future years and the area of land required to grow the biofuel crops. Finally, the
ii
environmental and socio-economic impacts of the biofuel industry are analysed. The two countries want to blend 5% ethanol with gasoline for vehicle use by 2010. Canada wants to achieve 2% of diesel requirements by increasing biodiesel development; India is aiming for 20% by 2012. Ethanol is predominately obtained from corn in Canada and both soybean and canola oil are being used as feedstock for biodiesel. In India, sugarcane molasses is utilized for ethanol and the government is also looking into using Jatropha Curcas seeds for biodiesel production on wastelands. Both countries have the potential of meeting future blending requirements but will require an increase in crop land area. The use of cellulosic ethanol derived from switchgrass and agricultural residues is being investigated but is not yet commercially available. The biofuel industry creates both positive and negative environmental and socio-economic impacts. Biofuels can mitigate carbon from the atmosphere through crop sequestration. However, deforestation and land use change in response to increased agricultural land requirements may increase GHG emissions over the long term. Furthermore, large quantities of water, land and chemicals are required to cultivate biofuel crops. In terms of social sustainability, the biofuel industry has the potential of creating employment opportunities in rural areas and can raise farm income. However, there are also socio-economic impacts through the competition of land required for food crops. The increase in grain prices is posing a threat to food security in many developing nations. The environmental and social sustainability issues need to be considered by policy makers when implementing the production of biofuels on a local and global scale.

abstract: School of Environmental Studies


title: Assessment of brownfield remediation and development in Kingston: Block D as a case study

subject:
brownfield
remediation
Block D
Kingston

abstract: A model is developed through the analysis of Block D, a brownfield in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. This location was the site of the Canadian Locomotive Company‟s “Locomotive Works”, and so is a site of significant contamination. Brownfield Policy is examined, and interviews are conducted with industry and political leaders, including the developers of the site, Ontario Minister of the Environment, academic expert, Manager of Brownfield and Initiatives with the City of Kingston and a member of the Sydenham Ward Tenants and Ratepayers Association (SWTRA). It is the combination of these analyses with archival research that provides the base of this document. The culmination of the results from the interviews allows for the development of a successful case study for brownfield remediation and development.

abstract: School of Environmental Studies


title: A Springboard to Victory: Shandong Province and Chinese Communist Military and Financial Strength, 1937-1945

contributor:
Hill, Emily M.
History

subject:
China - History
World War II
Communism - China
China. Shandong Province

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, History) -- Queen's University, 2008-10-02

abstract:
During the Sino-Japanese war of 1937 to 1945, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in Shandong Province in North China achieved an unnoticed but historically significant success in financial affairs. From that time onward, the CCP in Shandong not only controlled economic affairs within its territory, but also obtained access to territories under enemy occupation through manipulation of currency exchange rates and by controlling the trade in staple grains, cotton, salt and peanut oil. As a result, trade with occupied China and with the Japanese invaders became the principal source of revenue of the CCP in Shandong as early as the second half of 1943. By the time of Japan’s defeat in August 1945, about 80% of the CCP’s revenue in Shandong came from trade beyond the areas under its control. Moreover, the CCP in Shandong deliberately carried out a policy of controlled inflation to increase its financial power. The key to this achievement was the CCP’s success in establishing exclusive zones for its banknotes in August 1943. The exclusive use of CCP currency developed in the course of many years of armed conflict among Japanese, CCP and Nationalist (GMD) forces in the province. The CCP’s
ii
banknotes were backed by Communist military power and military success. From their first days, the banknotes were intertwined with the military power of the CCP in Shandong and the supporting administrative institutions that Party authorities established in the province. The establishment of exclusive currency zones reflected the maturity of the CCP’s party-state. Because external trade was their principal source of revenue, CCP leaders in Shandong lacked the incentive to carry out social reform in Shandong. Moreover, justifications for the CCP’s program of agrarian revolution as carried out elsewhere were not found in Shandong. Rather than seeking social and economic transformation, the CCP built up power with a view to achieving a favourable position vis-à-vis the GMD before the end of the war against Japan.

abstract: PhD


title: Investigating the Effects of Modeling and Imagery on Psychological Factors in the Context of a Hypothetical Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

contributor:
Law, Barbi
Latimer, Amy
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject: modeling, imagery, athletic rehabilitation, self-efficacy, scenario-based research

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-02 14:35:08.256

abstract: In 2009, 4.1 million Canadians over the age of twelve experienced an activity-limiting injury.  Of these injuries 35% occurred from sport or physical activity (Canadian Community Health Survey, 2009).  Although injuries occur most commonly in sport and exercise activities, it is difficult to study injured athletes with similar injuries all occurring within the same time frame.  Therefore, a scenario protocol was used in the study which described the occurrence of an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.  The purpose of this study was to compare a modeling, an imagery, and a control group on psychological factors related to a hypothetical injury.  Healthy athletes (N=86; M age = 22.06 years; SD = 4.37) who had no recent experience of an injury and had not experienced an ACL injury were included in the study.  At baseline, athletes read a scenario that described the occurrence of an ACL injury.  Participants then completed questionnaires including, demographic information, expected pain, task and coping efficacy, projected rehabilitation adherence, and movement imagery ability.  Within two weeks of completing the baseline testing, participants were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: control, modeling, or imagery.  Participants either met with the primary researcher or were sent a link via email in order to complete the follow-up.  At the beginning of the follow-up, all groups were given the scenario to read over.  Then participants were given the respective treatment.  The modeling condition consisted of a video of an athlete who described his experience of an ACL repair.  The guided imagery condition involved a recorded script that detailed the recovery process of an ACL injury.  The control condition only read the scenario.  Afterwards, participants completed the questionnaires involving expected pain, task and coping efficacy, and rehabilitation adherence.  Four separate 3 (group) x 2 (time) repeated measures ANOVAs and two ANCOVAs were conducted to examine between group differences in athletes’ perceptions of pain, task and coping efficacy, and rehabilitation adherence before and after the intervention was administered.  No group by time interactions were found for any of the dependent variables.  However, there were changes over time for pain, F(1, 81) = 5.97, p = .017, task efficacy, F(1, 79) = 193.23, p < .001, coping efficacy, F(1, 79)  = 11.16, p = .001, and frequency of adherence, F(1, 32) = 5.17, p = .03. Findings from manipulation check questions suggest that modeling and imagery could serve as pre-injury education tools for athletes to use if they are faced with an injury in the future.

abstract: M.A.


title: The Effects of Pre-operative Depression and/or Anxiety on Length of Stay of Cardiac Surgical Patients

contributor:
Johnson, Ana
Stuart, Heather
Community Health and Epidemiology

subject:
Depression
Anxiety
Cardiovascular Disease
Length of Hospital Stay

abstract: Thesis (Master, Community Health & Epidemiology) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-03 19:01:58.445

abstract:
Background:
Previous literature has found mixed results concerning the relationship between depression, and anxiety, and length of hospital stay among cardiac surgical patients.  Given the high prevalence of these psychiatric illnesses and cardiovascular disease in Canada, a better understanding of the relationship between these variables has the potential to influence medical and psychiatric outcomes for countless individuals.

Objectives:
The objectives of this manuscript style thesis are to (a) describe the prevalence of mild and moderate-to-severe symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders in a sample of cardiac patients (Manuscript 1) and (b) analyze the effects of these symptoms on post-operative length of stay while controlling for potential confounding variables (Manuscript 2).

Methods:
This secondary analysis used data collected from a consecutive series of consenting patients attending Foothills Hospital Pre-operative Assessment Clinic (August 1998-March 2002).  Patients completed the Zung Self-Rating Depression and Anxiety scales, and a questionnaire assessing potential confounders.  Manuscript 1: Prevalence values and 95% intervals were calculated for mild and moderate-to-severe depression and anxiety while logistic regression was used to determine predictors of these conditions. Manuscript 2: The relationship between symptoms of depression, anxiety and length of stay was analyzed using multiple linear regression.

Results:
Manuscript 1:  We estimated that moderate-to-severe symptoms of depression and anxiety were present in 10.66% and 3.42%, respectively.  Mild depression (21.90%) and anxiety (32.89%) were also present.  Common predictors of both conditions included sex, general health, and a recent myocardial infarction.  Depression was further associated with co-morbid illness, as was type of surgery with anxiety. Manuscript 2: Patients with depression experienced a significant increase in length of stay compared to mentally healthy patients.  Age, general health, type of surgery and education also predicted hospital stay, while anxiety did not.

Conclusions:
Manuscript 1:  The prevalence of depression and anxiety in our sample demonstrates the need to address the burden of psychiatric illness in this population.  Predictors of these disorders may assist in determining risk groups that would benefit most from psychiatric testing and interventions. Manuscript 2:  The elevated length of stay observed among patients with depression supports the implementation of screening and treatment in this population.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Education for Resiliency: An Examination of Risks in a Native American Youth Environment

subject: native aboriginal youth risks alcohol drugs crime society  rural urban resiliency

subject: Blackfoot  Kainai Alberta Canada

abstract: Doctor of Education thesis awarded in 2009 from Charles Sturt University. The author has given permission to the Queen's University Education Library to add this thesis to the publications held in QSpace so that it can be freely searched and disseminated on the Web and used for educational purposes.

abstract:
This thesis examines Blackfoot (Kainai) Native youth risks in contemporary society including alcohol, drugs, and crime.  The overall purpose of the thesis is to investigate and address environmental, social, physical, and mental issues associated with risks, in both their rural and urban environment for Kainai youth in Southern Alberta, Canada.  The research and fieldwork conducted observes Native American Peoples, specifically Kainai youth risks, and explores resiliency and factors contributing to resiliency in support of Native American youth.  Not only do
I examine the individual, but I examine multiple variables and connections, including the community, to guide my analysis.

My research framework is supported by Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of social realities - the ‘field’, ‘Habitus’, and ‘capital’.  The research undertaken considers the social, cultural, and economic realities existing in Native American communities and therefore investigates what values are associated with them and the rationale behind their construction.  More specifically, I examine Native American inter-generational traumas stemming from colonization violences, and, intragenerational traumas – Native American tendencies to incur self-violences and perpetuate continual cycles of violences.

The purpose of this thesis is to identify the social realities of risk to help develop resiliency in Native American youth in contemporary Native American environments.  Thus the research focuses not only on helping young peoples as individuals, but also on helping Native American communities and non-native communities to deal better with the consequences of colonization and assimilation practices of Native American Peoples (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) in the history of Canada.  My research aims to do the latter by showing how alternative social practices are needed in Native American communities, framed (in Bourdieu’s terms) within alternative social fields and alternative forms of social capital that support the formation, development, and maintenance of alternative dispositions in at-risk Indigenous young people – that is, an alternative Habitus for the young people involved.  This alternative Habitus will be one that sustains the resiliency of young Native American Peoples.


title: Algorithms for Sequence Similarity Measures

contributor:
Rappaport, David
Computing

subject:
Many-to-Many Matching
Algorithm
Matching
Minimum Cost
Circle
Line
Translation
Rotation
Sequence Alignment

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-08 20:48:18.968

abstract: Given two sets of points $A$ and $B$ ($|A| = m$, $|B| = n$), we seek to find a minimum-weight many-to-many matching which seeks to match each point in $A$ to at least one point in $B$ and vice versa.  Each matched pair (an edge) has a weight.  The goal is to find the matching that minimizes the total weight.  We study two kinds of problems depending on the edge weight used.  The first edge weight is the Euclidean distance, $d_1$.  The second is edge weight is the square of the Euclidean distance, $d_2$.  There already exists an $O(k\log k)$ algorithm for $d_1$, where $k=m+n$.  We provide an $O(mn)$ algorithm for the $d_2$ problem.  We also solve the problem of finding the minimum-weight matching when the sets $A$ and $B$ are allowed to be translated on the real line.  We present an $O(mnk \log k)$ algorithm for the $d_1$ problem and an $O(3^{mn})$ algorithm for the $d_2$.  Furthermore,  we also deal with the special case where $A$ and $B$ lie on a circle of a specific circumference.  We present an $O(k^2 \log k)$ algorithm and $O(kmn)$ algorithm for solving the minimum-weight matching for the $d_1$, and $d_2$ weights respectively.  Much like the problem on the real line, we extend this problem to allow the sets $A$ and $B$ to be rotated on the circle.  We try to find the minimum-weight many-to-many matching when rotations are allowed.  For $d_1$ we present an $O(k^2mn \log k)$ algorithm and a $O(3^{mn})$ algorithm for $d_2$.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Transnational Radicals: Italian Anarchist Networks in Southern Ontario and the Northeastern United States, 1915-1940

contributor:
McKay, Ian G.
History

subject:
Anarchism
Migration
Gender
Culture
Italian History
Radicalism
Transationalism
Canadian History
United States History

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, History) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-14 12:18:45.49

abstract: Previous studies of the left have tended to focus on groups or movements within the confines of national boundaries.  Yet the adherents of these organizations were often migrants who traveled to and lived in multiple states.  The Italian anarchist movement emerged during the latter half of the nineteenth century during the process of that country’s unification.  As the need for cheap labour in the industrializing nations of north-western Europe and North and South America grew, a mass exodus of migrants left Italy.   Among those migrants were anarchists who established networks that spanned continents and the Atlantic Ocean.  Wherever Italian anarchists settled they began to publish journals, engage in anarchist activism, and re-create the radical culture that had its roots in Italy.  This dissertation examines a portion of the transnational anarchist movement that existed in Canada and the United States between 1915 and 1940.  The themes explored in this work include the formation of these transnational anarchist networks, the divisions within the Italian anarchist movement and their repercussions, how transnational activism was conducted, and the culture these transnational radicals created.

abstract: PhD


title: Morphogenesis of Nanostructures in Glancing Angle Deposition of Metal Thin Film Coatings

subject:
Thin Film Deposition
Morphology
Crystallography
Growth Dynamics
Nanostructure
Metal Coatings

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2011-01-17 15:22:47.533

abstract:
Atomic vapors condensed onto solid surfaces form a remarkable category of condensed matter materials, the so-called thin films, with a myriad of compositions, morphological structures, and properties.
	The dynamic process of atomic condensation exhibits self-assembled pattern formation, producing morphologies with atomic-scale three-dimensional structures of seemingly limitless variety.
	This study attempts to shed new light on the dynamical growth processes of thin film deposition by analyzing in detail a previously unreported specific distinct emergent structure, a crystalline triangular-shaped spike that grows within copper and silver thin films.
	I explored the deposition parameters that lead to the growth of these unique structures, referred to as ``nanospikes'', fabricating approximately 55 thin films and used scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction analysis.
	The variation of parameters include: vapor incidence angle, film thickness, substrate temperature, deposition rate, deposition material, substrate, and source-to-substrate distance.
	Microscopy analysis reveals that the silver and copper films deposited at glancing vapor incidence angles, 80 degrees and greater, have a high degree of branching interconnectivity between adjacent inclined nanorods.
	Diffraction analysis reveals that the vapor incidence angle influences the sub-populations of crystallites in the films, producing two different [110] crystal texture orientations.
	I hypothesize that the growth of nanospikes from nanorods is initiated by the stochastic arrival of vapor atoms and photons emitted from the deposition source at small diameter nanorods, and then driven by localized heating from vapor condensation and photon absorption.
	Restricted heat flow due to nanoscale thermal conduction maintains an elevated local temperature at the nanorod, enhancing adatom diffusion and enabling fast epitaxial crystal growth, leading to the formation and growth of nanospikes.
	Electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction analysis, and comparisons to related scientific literature, support this hypothesis.

	I also designed a highly modular ultrahigh vacuum deposition chamber, capable of concurrently mounting several different pieces of deposition equipment, that allows for a high degree of control of the growth dynamics of deposited thin films.
	I used the newly designed chamber to fabricate tailor-made nanostructured tantalum films for use in ultracapacitors, for the Cabot Corporation.

abstract: PhD


title: Control of Dual-User Teleoperation Systems Design, Stability Analysis, and Performance Evaluation

contributor:
Hashtrudi-Zaad, Keyvan
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject: Teleoperation Stability Performance

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-22 18:38:05.142

abstract:
Teleoperation systems broaden human ability to perform a task in a real or virtual, local or remote environment.
An emerging application of  such systems is in dual-user teleoperation or haptic simulation systems in which two users collaboratively perform a task  in a shared real or virtual environment. Examples of this application are in human haptic guidance for rehabilitation therapy and medical surgical training. In such collaborative systems, users interact with each other and a user's decision is affected by the other user's decisions.
This interaction between users bring out the need for new control architecture design methods. In addition, the controller should maintain system stability and achieve desired performance under various operational conditions, including contact with a wide range of environments and being interfaced with two users displaying highly variable arm dynamics.

To this purpose, a class of shared control architectures
for human haptic guidance has been developed. The architectures feature a dominance factor that adjusts the supremacy of the trainer over the trainee in the execution of a task.
To tackle the stability issue, a novel robust stability analysis framework for unconditional stability analysis of multi-user teleoperation/haptic systems has been proposed.
In terms of performance these systems have been evaluated kinesthetically, referring to the dynamics felt by the users, or task-based, referring to the quantities that measure task efficiency and effort.
For kinesthetic performance evaluation of dual-user systems as opposed to the single-user systems, there are two users interacting with the environment and with each other.
In these systems it may be desirable for a user to not only feel the environment but also to sense the other user dynamics. Hence, some of the previously defined performance measures for single-user systems have been extended for dual-user systems. Furthermore, two novel performance measures for multilateral dual-user systems have been introduced.
Finally, to assess the task-based performance of the proposed architectures, a user study has been conducted for trajectory following tasks on a developed dual-user haptic simulation testbed under various environmental conditions, such as different environment geometries, environment view points and environment dynamics.

abstract: PhD


title: Development and Kinetic Analysis of Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Transition Metal Catalysts for the Cleavage of Phosphate Esters in Methanol

contributor:
Brown, Robert Stanley
Chemistry

subject:
kinetics
catalysis
physical organic chemistry
biomimetics

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-23 12:18:46.936

abstract: Described here are detailed kinetic studies probing the structural elements which are crucial for the catalytic activity of dinuclear Zn(II) complexes towards phosphate diester cleavage. First, two sets of dinuclear Zn(II) complexes (a member with and without a bridging oxyanion linker group) were synthesized and their ability to promote the cyclization of 2-hydroxypropyl-p-nitrophenyl phosphate, a common model for RNA, was compared. Kinetic studies indicated that the complexes without the oxyanion linker were more active in promoting the cyclization in methanol under pH controlled conditions at 25 degrees. Quantitative energetics analysis shows that the rate reduction is attributable to a decrease in the second-order rate constant for the cyclization reaction, which adds 3.7 and 6.5 kcal/mol of activation energy to the respective reactions mediated by the complex with the oxyanion linker. Secondly, we have investigated a series of dinuclear Zn(II) complexes that incorporate various substituents including hydrophobic and hydrogen-bonding ones. Analysis of the data at the pH optimum for each reaction indicates that the presence of the H-bonding groups and alkyl groups provides similar increases (at least an order of magnitude) of the kcat terms over the unfunctionalized complex. There is also no clear trend that H-bonding groups or the alkyl groups provide stronger binding to the substrate than the parent complex. We also describe here the preparation and kinetic analysis of a series of solid supported transition metal catalysts for the cleavage of P=O chemical warfare simulants and P=S pesticides. We report a kinetic study of a 1,10-phenanthroline:Zn(II) complex immobilized on macroporous polystyrene which is capable of accelerating the cleavage of G-agent and V-agent simulants in methanol at neutral and ambient temperature by up to one hundred thousand-fold. The materials are recoverable and can be recycled at least ten times. We have also devised a methodology for simple immobilization of an ortho-palladated dimethylbenzylamine complex on macroporous polystyrene and amorphous silica gel. We report the catalyst preparation and a detailed kinetic study of their catalysis of the methanolysis of five P=S pesticides at neutral and ambient temperature. The polymeric catalysts give over billion-fold acceleration compared to the uncatalyzed background reaction at the same pH.

abstract: PhD


title: Infectious Entanglements: Literary and Medical Representations of Disease in the Post/Colonial Caribbean

contributor:
Bongie, Christopher
English

subject:
Caribbean Literature
Disease
Postcolonial Culture
Colonial Medicine

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, English) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-24 21:35:20.277

abstract:
This study engages with select disease narratives of the Anglophone Caribbean through the lens of post/colonial theory, cultural criticism and the social history of medicine. Focusing on the biological image and metaphor of infection, as opposed to its more popular associations with hybridity and creolization in post/colonial theory, I argue that disease discourses facilitate more complex iterations of identity than the less dynamic, more static categories of ‘race’ (black versus white), cultural affiliation  (British, Indian, African or West Indian) or political identity (coloniser versus colonised) and propose a theory of infectious entanglements, by which I demonstrate and interrogate complex and transphenomenal representations of West Indian identity across ‘racial’, cultural and political boundaries. Primary texts include eighteenth- and nineteenth-century medical tracts on leprosy and tropical fevers; contemporary medical and cultural texts on HIV/AIDS; and works of fiction by writers such as Harold Sonny Ladoo (Trinidad/Canada), Frieda Cassin (Britain/Antigua) Lawrence Scott (Trinidad/Britain) and Jamaica Kincaid (Antigua/United States).
My literary, cultural and historical analyses of biological representations of leprosy, tropical fever and HIV/AIDS suggest that each disease facilitated the construction of multiple cordons sanitaires, whose conceptual boundaries intersected and overlapped in different ways. These points of entanglement, I demonstrate, are useful sites for interrogating post/colonial constructions of identity in light of the relative fluidity of some boundaries (such as changing ideas about who is infectious and who can become infected, as with HIV/AIDS and leprosy) and the hardening lines of others (such as intersecting ideas about tropical fever, pathogenic environments and the emergence of medical cartography). More importantly, such intersections sometimes revealed the entanglement of medicine and other organs of post/colonial authority in past and ongoing othering projects and their legitimising roles in the articulation of essential difference.
This dissertation is divided into three parts, each focusing on a particular disease that is iconic in post/colonial narratives about the Caribbean. Part 1 focuses on leprosy, Part 2 on tropical fever and Part 3, framed as a conclusion to this study, focuses on contemporary narratives of HIV/AIDS in the context of earlier narratives of leprosy and tropical fevers.

abstract: I am restricting this thesis for publication reasons.

abstract: PhD


title: An Augmented Virtuality Navigation System for Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

contributor:
Stewart, James
Computing

subject:
minimally invasive surgery
augmented virtuality
arthroscopic knee surgery

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-25 23:29:46.526

abstract:
Arthroscopic knee surgery can be challenging because there is no intuitive relationship between the arthroscopic image, shown on a screen above the patient, and the camera in the surgeon's hand.  As a result, arthroscopic surgeons require extensive training and experience.

This thesis describes a computer system to help improve target acquisition in arthroscopy by visualizing the location and alignment of an arthroscope using augmented virtuality.  A 3D computer model of the patient's joint (from CT) is shown, along with a model of the tracked arthroscopic probe and the projection of the camera image onto the virtual joint.

We performed a user study to determine the effectiveness of this navigated display; the study showed that for novice residents, the navigated display improved target acquisition. However, residents with at least two years of experience performed worse. For surgeons, no effect on performance was found.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Theory and simulation of separated boundary layers and turbulence induced secondary motion

contributor:
Pollard, Andrew
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject: Turbulent flows, Direct Numerical Simulations, Large Eddy Simulations, Turbulence modelling,  Turbulent Separated Boundary Layer, Secondary Motion, Theory of flow separation, Computational Fluid Dynamics

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-26 13:52:18.361

abstract:
Among the different types of flows encountered in practical applications, the physics of turbulent separated flows and turbulence induced secondary motion are not fully understood despite the large amount of previous experimental and numerical work.
The objectives of this work are to study theoretically and computationally the
conditions at the separation and reattachment point, the numerical simulation of turbulence induced secondary motion in non-circular ducts, and to provide a comprehensive test of different RANS models of these types of flow.
In a theoretical study of flow separation, a Lagrangian approach was first used to
derive an Eulerian criterion, which associates separation and reattachment points to a critical point in the eigenvalues of the Cauchy-Green tensor.
A turbulent separated boundary layer under the influence of an adverse pressure
gradient was simulated using DNS and LES techniques. A bootstrapping method
was used to obtain high fidelity results at a relatively high Reynolds number with
which the performance of some of the most commonly used eddy-viscosity turbulence
models was evaluated. The DNS and LES results were used to assess the consistency
of the different terms in the k−e , ζ −f , k −ω and Spalart-Allmaras models. Different
wall-modelling techniques were employed for the calculation of separated boundary
layers. The exact values of the modelled terms were calculated using the reference
DNS and LES dataset. These results were used for both a priori and a posteriori
tests. It was determined that the eddy-viscosity assumption works well, and that anisotropic effects are not significant in separated boundary layer.
For the secondary flow calculation in non-circular ducts, direct numerical simulations of turbulent flow in square and skewed ducts were carried out to determine
the effect of the duct (rhombus) included angle on both the mean and turbulence
energy budgets. Two skewed ducts, with included angles of 30 and 60 degrees, were
simulated. The capability of different turbulence models to predict the secondary
velocity field was investigated. Results obtained from a non-linear stress-strain constitutive relation was found to be fairly accurate for the flows at the range of Reynolds number considered in this study.

abstract: PhD


title: Implementation and Characterization of Cone Beam Computed Tomography Using a Cobalt-60 Gamma Ray Source for Radiation Therapy Patient Localization

subject:
Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Cobalt-60
IGRT
Radiation Therapy
Patient Localization
Imaging

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-30 13:40:07.61

abstract:
Cobalt 60 (Co-60) radiation therapy is a simple and reliable method of treating cancer by irradiating treatment volumes within the patient with high energy gamma rays. Medical linear accelerators (linacs) began to replace Co-60 units during the 1960’s in more developed countries, but Co 60 has remained the main source of radiotherapy treatment in less developed countries around the world. As a result, technological advancements made in more developed countries to deliver more precise radiation treatment that improves patient outcome have not been clinically applied to Co-60 machines. The medical physics group at the Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario has shown that these same technological advancements can be applied to Co-60 machines which would increase the accessibility of these modern improvements in radiotherapy treatment.
However, for these modern treatments to improve patient outcome they require more precise localization of the patient prior to therapy. In more developed countries, this is currently provided by comparing computed tomography (CT) used for treatment planning with images acquired on the linac immediately before treatment. In the past decade, cone-beam CT (CBCT) has been developed to provide 3D CT images of the patient immediately prior to treatment on a linac. This imaging modality would also be ideal for patient localization when conducting modern Co-60 treatments since it would only require the addition of an imaging panel to produce CBCT images using the Co-60 source.
A prototype Co-60 CBCT imaging system was implemented and characterized. Image noise, contrast, spatial resolution, and artifacts were studied. Algorithms to reduce the image artifacts were implemented and found to improve perceived image quality. The imaging system was found to have a ~1.8 mm high-contrast spatial resolution and the ability to detect 3 cm low-contrast soft-tissue structures in water. Anthropomorphic phantoms were also imaged and the observed anatomy in Co-60 CBCT images was comparable to kilovoltage CT. These results are comparable to clinically relevant linac-based CBCT using high energy X rays of similar energies to Co-60 gamma rays. This suggests that Co-60 CBCT should be able to provide the necessary images to localize patients for modern Co-60 radiation treatments.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: The Design of a Scanning Tunneling Microscope for Electroluminescence Studies

subject: STM Piezoelectric

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2010-12-10 22:40:50.481

abstract:
A conventional scanning tunneling microscope (STM) provides topographical and tunneling spectra information of atomic structures. However, the extremely small lateral dimension of the tunneling filament is also responsible for locally exciting photon emission with low-energy electrons. By combining an optical system to capture emitted photons with a conventional STM a powerful tool is realized. Optical, in addition to the geometrical and electrical, properties of atomic structures may be studied simultaneously at sub-Angstrom spatial resolution. This information could potentially be used as a means for chemically identifying individual molecules on surfaces. Furthermore, a complete understanding of luminescent molecules at the nanometer length scale could have implications with regard to nanoscale electronic devices.

This thesis presents an innovative design of a novel STM in conjunction with an optical system to study the electroluminescence of nanoscale objects. The STM features (1) a parabolic mirror as the primary optical component for photon capture, (2) simplified miniature piezoelectric actuated inertial z-motors and xy-positioning stage used to position the tunnel junction at the focal point of the parabolic mirror, (3) high photon collection efficiency equal to 0.90pi steradians and (4) capacitive displacement sensors monitoring the position of the tunnel junction in three-dimensions. This document reveals how the combination of these features makes this STM design superior to existing designs. The design of the STM, the importance of its features and the characterization of its performance are discussed in detail.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Studying the Mechanochemistry of Bimolecular Reactions Using Quantum Chemical Simulations:  Addition Reactions to Carbon-Carbon Double Bonds

contributor:
Mosey, Nicholas
Chemistry

subject:
Mechanochemistry
Quantum Chemistry
Density Functional Theory
Theoretical Chemistry

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-29 10:43:04.945

abstract:
Chemical reactions usually involve the conversion of reactants to products by
overcoming an energetic barrier. Most commonly, this process can be assisted by adding energy through heat (thermochemistry), light (photochemistry) or electric current (electrochemistry).
The fourth option is to overcome the reaction barrier through application of mechanical work, termed mechanochemistry. This method has received much attention from the scientific community in the last decade. Both theoretical and experimental studies have been performed, demonstrating the ability of mechanochemistry to activate reactions, with a strong focus on ringopening
reactions. The vast majority of studies have focused on unimolecular reactions involving
bond-rupture, which is very intuitively activated by the application of tensile stress. However, bimolecular reactions, which often involve bond formation as well as rupture, have received much less attention. In this thesis, we seek to change this by undertaking an in-depth study of
mechanochemical activation of addition reactions to carbon-carbon double bonds, which involve the formation of two single bonds while the double bond becomes a single bond. We observe that large barrier changes can be induced by applying external force to reactions of this type, and the magnitude of these changes can be controlled by the choice of alkene substrate. By studying the
changes induced in the geometry of the substrate, we are able to begin explaining the origins of the barrier reduction effect. In addition, by studying the contributions to the barrier change from mechanical work and the contributions from geometry changes, we discover that steric hindrance to a reaction can play a very significant role in the mechanochemical activation of the reaction.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: a goal based view of product evaluation

contributor:
Ashworth, Laurence
Management

subject:
goal
attribute
product evaluation

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Management) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-29 16:55:13.751

abstract:
Understanding how consumers evaluate products is of great interest to market researchers. Different approaches focus on how consumers compare, combine or process attributes (Bettman, Luce and Payne 1998, 2008; Chen and Chaiken 1999; Cohen, Fishbein and Ahtola 1972). While attribute evaluation is clearly central to these approaches, what makes particular product attributes influential to consumers’ overall evaluation of the product is not entirely clear. One of the central goals of the current work is to examine why certain product attributes are appealing or unappealing, and to explore the implications of this for product evaluation research, including work on choice and persuasion, and more focused investigations on the role of trivial attributes.
I structure this framework around two broad issues: First, I suggest that product evaluation is based on an attribute’s ability to fulfill a particular goal. Furthermore, I examine the specific processes by which activated goals influence the role of product features on the evaluation of the product itself. Specifically, I suggest that goals are more likely to influence the impact of product attributes on product evaluation when goals are activated and perceived to fit with the product.
Second, I focus on three product related features within the consumption environment that are likely to activate certain goals, especially extra-consumption goals (i.e. goals that are not directly relevant to the function of the product, but that may nevertheless exert an important influence on product evaluation). Those aspects include the context in which the product is evaluated (e.g. choosing between multiple products versus evaluating an individual product), product category associations (e.g. fair trade and coffee), and even specific features of the product being evaluated (e.g. shampoo with “eco-friendly” ingredients). These aspects can activate goals that influence the role of the product’s specific features on overall evaluation.

abstract: PhD


title: Gender Differences and the Influence of Social Support on Functional Decline in Older Persons Living With Heart Failure in Their Community

contributor:
Tranmer, Joan E.
Nursing

subject:
Social Support
Gender
Functional Well-Being
Heart Failure

abstract: Thesis (Master, Nursing) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-29 15:32:00.616

abstract: Background.  Heart failure (HF) is a prevalent chronic cardiovascular disease that is characterized by progressive functional decline.  Given the known links between high levels of support and positive health outcomes the objectives of this study were: 1) to determine the levels and patterns of social support, and related gender differences, 2) to determine the influence of support on functional outcomes as defined by a deterioration in physical function over 1-year following exacerbation of HF, and 3) to describe the effects of gender on social support in influencing adverse outcomes. Methods.  Data were obtained from a 1-year prospective cohort study that included male and female participants ≥ 65 years of age (n=435; 164 females; 271 males) with HF.  Participants completed questionnaires at baseline, 6 and 12-months containing clinical and demographic information and validated measures of 1) physical function, using derived scores from the Medical Outcome Study SF-12, and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ), and 2) social support using the Medical Outcome Study, Social Support Survey.  Results. Women were more likely to be single, widowed or divorced, living alone and earned less annual income compared to men (p < .01).  Women tended to report lower mean social support scores than men at all time points.  When controlling for clinical and demographic variables, being married (OR 12.2; 95%CI: 5.1, 19.2), living with someone (OR 13.6; 95%CI: 6.2, 21.0), and higher income (OR 0.08; 95%CI: .01, .15), were significantly associated with higher levels of social support at baseline. Although women reported significantly lower disease-specific (p= .01) and generic (p= .01) physical function scores, no significant gender differences existed in the proportion of men or women that experienced functional decline or death at 1-year of follow-up. In a multivariate logistic regression modeling, men with lower levels of social support were more likely to experience generic functional decline or adverse outcomes.  This was not the same for women. Conclusions.  Women, reported less social support and poorer functioning, but the impact of social support on functional decline was more pronounced in men.  Gender-sensitive management should be considered to optimize function for men and women living with HF.

abstract: MNSc.


title: Mother Russia and the Socialist Fatherland: Women and the Communist Party of Canada, 1932-1941, with specific reference to the activism of Dorothy Livesay and Jim Watts

subject: Gender Communism

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, History) -- Queen's University, 2010-11-30 21:57:57.33

abstract: This dissertation traces a shift in the Communist Party of Canada, from the 1929 to 1935 period of militant class struggle (generally known as the ‘Third Period’) to the 1935-1939 Popular Front Against Fascism, a period in which Communists argued for unity and cooperation with social democrats.  The CPC’s appropriation and redeployment of bourgeois gender norms facilitated this shift by bolstering the CPC’s claims to political authority and legitimacy.  ‘Woman’ and the gendered interests associated with women—such as peace and prices—became important in the CPC’s war against capitalism. What women represented symbolically, more than who and what women were themselves, became a key element of CPC politics in the Depression decade. Through a close examination of the cultural work of two prominent middle-class female members, Dorothy Livesay, poet, journalist and sometime organizer, and Eugenia (‘Jean’ or ‘Jim’) Watts, reporter, founder of the Theatre of Action, and patron of the Popular Front magazine New Frontier, this thesis utilizes the insights of queer theory, notably those of Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick and Judith Butler, not only to reconstruct both the background and consequences of the CPC’s construction of ‘woman’ in the 1930s, but also to explore the significance of the CPC’s strategic deployment of heteronormative ideas and ideals for these two prominent members of the Party.

abstract: PhD