title: Toward the structure and function of carbon-phosphorus lyase enzymes

contributor:
Zechel, L. David
Chemistry

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subject: structure and function

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2008-08-29 12:11:55.179

abstract: Organophosphonates are characterized by a very stable carbon-phosphorus bond. Eshcherichia coli and many other strains of bacteria possess a multi-enzyme system called carbon-phosphorus (C-P) lyase that enables these organisms to cleave the C-P bond of organophosphonates when inorganic phosphate is scarce in the local environment. Genetic studies have demonstrated that C-P lyase is encoded by the fourteen-gene phn operon, phnCDEFGHIJKLMNOP. However, the mechanism for C-P bond cleavage is still unclear. We have expressed, purified, and characterized phnP from this operon. PhnP is a phosphodiesterase which will hydrolyze both bis-(p-nitrophenyl) phosphate and 2’:3’-cyclic nucleotides as substrates. In collaboration with Dr. Zongchao Jia and Katarenya Podzelinska (Queen’s Biochemistry), we have crystallized phnP and solved the crystal structure at a resolution of 1.3 Å. The structure displayed similarity to zinc-dependent metallo-β-lactamase family proteins. However, phnP displays unique structural features with two metal binding sites per monomer: the active site containing potentially two manganese ions, and a ‘structural’ site coordinating one zinc ion. Potential active site residues were identified and corresponding point mutations were generated by site-directed mutagenesis. Studies based on the importance of these residues and the knowledge from our high resolution structure will help elucidate the mechanism of phnP as well as its function in the C-P lyase pathway. Furthermore, we performed a broad range of ligand screening for phnH, another key member from the C-P lyase pathway, by ITC experiments, co-crystallization and high throughput ligand screening. However, all the trials for the identification of the true physiological substrate for phnH proved unsuccessful. Although the mechanism of C-P bond cleavage by C-P lyase still remains unclear, we synthesized a fluorescently labelled organophosphonate (FPn) and utilized it for probing the in vivo degradation of the C-P bond by wild type E. coli and various mutants. Analysis by TLC and mass spectrometry demonstrated the production of the expected alkane product. With this promising fluorescent probe, potential intermediates and substrates can be identified for individual C-P lyase enzymes. Taken together, our studies on the C-P lyase pathway will contribute to elucidate the still unknown mechanism of the cleavage of the stable C-P bond.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Institutional Innovation for Better Skilled Immigrant Labour Market Integration: A Study of the Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC)

contributor:
Donald, J. Betsy
Geography

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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:
Urban Geography
Greater Toronto Area (GTA)
Labour Geography
Immigrants
Governance
TRIEC

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-06 13:54:23.707

abstract:
In this thesis, I undertake a study of skilled immigrant labour market integration in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) by examining the Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC). TRIEC is a relatively new governance institution in the Toronto city-region established to address barriers preventing immigrants from gaining meaningful employment in their fields.
Barriers include systemic discrimination, lack of credential recognition, and lack of Canadian work experience. TRIEC was created in response to a recommendation from the 2003 Toronto City Summit Alliance (TSCA) report Enough Talk. TRIEC is a multi-stakeholder organization that aims to engage employers to find solutions to address labour market barriers facing skilled
immigrants in the GTA. This thesis examines some of these labour market barriers and the work of TRIEC and poses the following research questions:
- What are the factors both impeding and facilitating the labour market integration of skilled immigrants in the GTA?
- Has the Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council model proven effective in terms of its impact on skilled immigrant labour market integration in the GTA?
- What are possible solutions for addressing the challenges that impede the labour market
integration of skilled immigrants in the GTA?
To answer these questions, this thesis draws on insights from immigration geography literature, statistical and policy data, as well as fifty-seven (57) semi-structured interviews with a variety of key stakeholders in the GTA. The results point to TRIEC as a potential model to emulate for
other large city-regions facing challenges with respect to labour market integration. In addition to highlighting TRIEC’s advantages, this thesis also provides recommendations at a more general
societal level for improving skilled immigrant labour market integration in Canadian city-regions.

abstract: M.A.


title: Urban Open Space: A Case Study of Msunduzi Municipality, South Africa

contributor:
Goebel, Allison
Environmental Studies

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subject:
Open Space
Urban Space
Urban Planning
South Africa

abstract: Thesis (Master, Environmental Studies) -- Queen's University, 2008-08-29 16:19:29.922

abstract: Increasingly, it is understood that in order to realize healthy cities the urban environment must include viable and accessible open space. In order for urban planning and development agencies to ensure the presence of open space within cities, it is necessary to understand what constitutes ‘quality’ open space and the impediments to its creation. The focus of this thesis is to further understand the issues surrounding planning and management of open space in the Msunduzi Municipality in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A case study of the Camps Drift Waterfront Project, a local open space area that is currently being developed, is investigated through both key informant interviews with relevant stakeholders and through a comprehensive survey of written information. The thesis reveals a further understanding of how open space is planned locally, the issues surrounding creating quality and accessible open space and the key areas for further research. Finally, this thesis highlights how the case study of Msunduzi can broaden the debates and concepts in open space theory and planning.

abstract: M.E.S.


title: Ultrafast Dynamics of Individual Air-Suspended Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube

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subject:
Carbon Nanotube
Optical Properties

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2008-08-29 13:10:49.045

abstract:
Thorough understanding of the electronic and optical properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) will no doubt benefit future technological applications. Since the discovery of band gap photoluminescence from isolated semiconducting SWCNTs, significant progresses in studying the optical properties of SWCNTs have been made (e.g. linear polarization along the tube axis for the absorption and emission of light, excitonic nature in SWCNT excitation). However, there are still several controversial parameters of SWCNTs (e.g. quantum efficiency, absorption cross section, radiative lifetime, and Auger recombination lifetime). With the advancement in SWCNT sample preparation, studies of SWCNT intrinsic properties have shifted from ensemble to a single tube level, in which the ambiguities in elucidating intrinsic properties posed by the assortment of different tube species can be minimized. By examining individual SWCNTs suspended in air, in contrast to micelle-encapsulated SWCNTs, we believe that the environmental effects can be reduced.

This thesis will demonstrate the capability of doing spectroscopy on a single semiconducting air-suspended SWCNT. In continuous-wave excitation, the photoluminescence excitation map and high resolution photoluminescence (PL) image of a SWCNT can be constructed, and PL polarization is proven. Quantum efficiency of 5% is experimentally estimated for (9,8) and (10,8) chiral SWCNTs. Pulse excitation allows us to study the intrinsic exciton dynamics of a SWCNT. To gain insight into exciton nonlinear decay processes, PL saturation in pump power dependence measurement is investigated and compared to the simulated results from stochastic models of exciton dynamics. Femtosecond excitation correlation spectroscopy with 150 fs time resolution is employed to time-resolve the PL of a single tube suspended in air.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Invisible Visible Minorities: The Experiences of Racial Minority Teacher Candidates on Practicum and in Teacher Education Programs

contributor:
Burney, Shehla
Education

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subject:
racial minorities
race
racism
whiteness
anti-racism
practicum
teacher education
critical race theory

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2008-08-29 13:21:55.632

abstract:
The experiences of racial minority teacher candidates are often unheard in teacher education programs considering that the student population is increasingly diversifying and the teaching population does not reflect this dynamic.  In a country that is internationally known for its multicultural practices, it is important to examine the experiences of racial minority teacher candidates in order to gain a better understanding of the ways in which issues of race and power persist in our education system.
     This qualitative study documents the experiences of a small group of racial minority teacher candidates who recently completed post baccalaureate teacher education programs at universities in Ontario, Canada.  With a particular focus on their practicum placements, the five participants were interviewed in order to bring to light their experiences of working and living in an education system that sustains, what has been called by critics, “a culture of whiteness.”
     Over the course of the interviews, the five racial minority teacher candidates reveal that the often covert and overt forms of racism are systemic to the education system. It became obvious that in many cases, the participants did not consciously recognize the racism they encountered while working, living, and learning within the education system. Considering a culture of whiteness that is endemic in schools, power relations were further jeopardized and imbalanced by their race.  Despite this, the participants also exhibited forms of resistance to the Eurocentric culture that is so deeply entrenched in the education system.  Through an investigation of these themes, this thesis offers implications for future racial minority teacher candidates and anti-racist educators.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Toxicity and metabolism of alkyl-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in fish

contributor:
Brown, R. Stephen
Hodson, Peter
Chemistry

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subject: Alkyl-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

subject: Toxicity to fish

subject: Metabolism of alkyl-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2008-08-29 14:18:10.308

abstract:
Alkyl-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (alkyl-PAHs) constitute more than 90% of the total PAHs in crude oil and are the main constituents toxic to fish. Little characterization of alkyl-PAHs has been reported and is needed to predict the effects of crude oil following spills.

The objectives of this thesis were: (1) to evaluate the toxicity of alkyl-phenanthrenes and alkyl-anthracenes to the early life-stages of medaka (Oryzias latipes) using the partition controlled delivery of toxicants (PCD); (2) to investigate the effect of light on alkyl-anthracene toxicity; (3) to further characterize the PCD method; (4) to better understand alkyl-PAH mechanisms of toxicity; and (5) to identify the major phase I and phase II alkyl-PAH metabolites in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and in medaka by both in vitro and in vivo methods.

It was determined that the toxicity of both series of alkyl-PAHs increased with the number of carbon substituents on the rings. Some alkyl-PAHs had EC50 values lower than the value from conventional semi-static exposure methods. These values were below the water solubility limit, consistent with the ability of PCD to correct for values from nominal concentrations above solubility. PCD provided stable concentrations for up to 17 days but could not always compensate for losses of alkyl-anthracenes by photodegradation.

Both series of alkyl-PAHs were toxic through different mechanisms that resulted from their physical and chemical properties. Alkyl-phenanthrenes such as 7-isopropyl-1-methylphenanthrene (retene) were more toxic to medaka embryos than phenanthrene. The appearance of blue sac disease suggested toxicity enhancement through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor pathway. Alkyl-anthracenes were toxic by narcosis in the absence of light and by phototoxicity in the presence of light. The photoproducts of alkyl-anthracenes were not toxic to fish.

The in vitro phase I metabolism by rainbow trout CYP1a enzymes and in vivo phase II metabolism in rainbow trout produced alkyl-anthracenes metabolites substituted mainly on the ring system. The phase II in vivo metabolites of alkyl-phenanthrenes in medaka larvae were substituted mainly on their alkyl chains. For all alkyl-PAHs, a predominance of glucuronide conjugates was identified in the phase II metabolites.

This characterization of the toxicity of alkyl-PAHs may contribute to predicting the toxicity of crude oil based on its composition.

abstract: PhD


title: Jaw Movement During Sleep

contributor:
Fitzpatrick, Michael
Physiology

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subject:
Mandibular movement
Jaw Movement
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Sleep
Upper Airway
Physiology

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2008-08-29 14:27:57.726

abstract:
Objective: We aim to improve our understanding of sleep physiology by describing the
changes in mandibular position during sleep in normal subjects. Methods: We developed
a novel method for mapping mandibular position simultaneously in three dimensions
(anteroposterior, vertical and lateral) using magneto-resistive sensors strategically placed
around 3 different moving joints on an external apparatus attached to the head and
mandible. Spherical coordinates derived from these sensors provided information of jaw
position in each of the three measurement planes. We assessed changes in jaw position in
twelve healthy subjects (6 male, 6 female) aged (mean ± SD) 23 ± 7 years, Body Mass
Index 22.5 ± 3.4 kg/m2, and with nasal resistance 3.24 ± 0.67 cmH2O/L/s by recording
mandibular position simultaneously with overnight sleep polysomnography. Results: Jaw
position was significantly influenced by sleep stage (p<0.001). The transition from wake
to light sleep (stage one) was accompanied by significant jaw closure and jaw protrusion
(p<0.05). As non-rapid-eye-movement (NREM) sleep deepened from stages 1 through
slow wave sleep (SWS), vertical jaw opening (p<0.05) and posterior jaw movement
progressively increased (p<0.05). REM sleep was associated with the greatest degree of
jaw opening of all sleep stages (p<0.05). Lateral jaw position was not significantly
different between sleep stages. Conclusion: This study describes, for the first time, an
accurate method of measuring changes in mandibular position during sleep in all three
dimensions. The observed changes during sleep in healthy subjects suggest a
simultaneous modulation of upper airway muscular tone, which may be important in the
understanding of upper airway occlusion in Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Characterization of a carbon radon filter and Radon detection

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subject: Radon HETS filter carbon

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2008-08-29 16:38:33.442

abstract:
Carbon filled columns were built and tested as prototype radon filters. The length of time taken for
a pulse of radon to travel from one end of the filter to the other was measured using nitrogen, and
then air as the carrier gas. Its dependency on two variables were investigated: temperature of the
tube and the flow-rate of carrier gas through the column. Using Height Equivalent to a Theoretical
Stage (HETS) the carbon was found to have a adsorption constant (ka) of 9.7 ± 1.7 L/g at STP,
and a binding energy value (Eb) of (30±1) kJ/mol. The radon concentration in the carrier gas was
measured using a silicon detector housed in a metal chamber with a charged collector plate. Most filter
tests measured Rn concentrations by measuring levels of the daughter atom 218Po. A
computer simulation was created for aspects of both the working detector chamber and a prototype
detector chamber. The charged fractions of 218Po and 214Po were calculated by comparing the
Monte Carlo simulation to data obtained from the detectors. The positively charged fraction of
218Po was found to be (80 ± 9)% and 214Po was (110 ± 180)%.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Channel Optimized Vector Quantization: Iterative Design Algorithms

contributor:
Alajaji, Fady
Linder, Tamás
Mathematics and Statistics

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subject:
Joint Source Channel Coding
Channel Otpimized Vector Quantization

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mathematics & Statistics) -- Queen's University, 2008-08-29 17:58:52.329

abstract:
Joint source-channel coding (JSCC) has emerged to be a major field
of research recently. Channel optimized vector quantization (COVQ)
is a simple feasible JSCC scheme introduced for communication over
practical channels.
In this work, we propose an iterative design
algorithm, referred to as the iterative maximum a posteriori (MAP)
decoded (IMD) algorithm, to improve COVQ systems. Based on this
algorithm, we design a COVQ based on symbol MAP hard-decision
demodulation that exploits the non-uniformity of the quantization
indices probability distribution. The IMD design algorithm consists
of a loop which starts by designing a COVQ, obtaining the index
source distribution, updating the discrete memoryless channel (DMC)
according to the achieved index distribution, and redesigning the
COVQ. This loop stops when the point-to-point distortion is
minimized. We consider memoryless Gaussian and Gauss-Markov sources
transmitted over binary phase-shift keying modulated additive white
Gaussian noise (AWGN) and Rayleigh fading channels. Our scheme,
which is shown to have less encoding complexity than conventional
COVQ and less encoding complexity and storage requirements than
soft-decision demodulated (SDD) COVQ systems, is also shown to
provide a notable signal-to-distortion ratio (SDR) gain
over the conventional COVQ designed for hard-decision demodulated
channels while sometimes matching or exceeding the SDD COVQ
performance, especially for higher quantization dimensions and/or
rates.
In addition to our main result, we also propose another
iterative algorithm to design SDD COVQ based on the notion of the
JSCC error exponent. This system is shown to have some gain over
classical SDD COVQ both in terms of the SDR and the
exponent itself.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Cognitive Predictors of Reading Achievement in Chinese English Immersion Students

contributor:
Kirby, John R.
Education

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subject:
Cognitive predictors
Reading achievement
English immersion
Chinese students

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-01 19:45:30.791

abstract: The cognitive processes underlying reading achievement in Chinese English immersion students are not yet clear. This study investigated the effects of phonological awareness (PA) and naming speed (NS) on reading achievement and explored the evidence for cross-linguistic transfer in Chinese English immersion students. In addition, the differences between immersion and non-immersion students on Chinese measures were examined. The participants were 135 English immersion students and 103 non-immersion students from Grades 2, 4, and 6 in mainland China. For English immersion students, English predictors proved to be strong predictors of English reading achievement at the three grade levels. However, the unique predictors of English reading achievement were English PA in Grades 2 and 4, but English NS in Grade 6. Chinese PA was a significant predictor of Chinese achievement, but only in Grade 2. There was little evidence of cross-linguistic transfer. With regards to the Chinese performance of the two groups of students, English immersion students demonstrated an advantage over non-immersion students in Grade 6, but no significant differences were found in Grades 2 and 4; these results suggest either the long-term effect of a bilingual program or a selection effect. Results are discussed in terms of theories of reading development, and suggestions are offered for overcoming the limitations of the present study in future research.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Characterization of Karyopherin Alpha's Relationship with SubH2Bv as Acrosome-Associated Proteins in Spermiogenesis

contributor:
Oko, Richard
Anatomy and Cell Biology

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subject:
Acrosome
Nuclear Targeting
Spermiogenesis
SubH2Bv
Karyopoherin Alpha

abstract: Thesis (Master, Anatomy & Cell Biology) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-02 16:11:17.429

abstract: Specialized in form and function, the sperm cell is a unique microsystem unto itself where in the cytoskeletal processes and structures of the somatic cell often find new purpose and characteristics within the sperm.  Unlike other cells in the human body, this unique cell polarizes and transforms itself from a line of germ cells to evolve into a functional, hydrodynamic haploid spermatozoon.  The success of fertilization is dependent on this haploid cell and its specially designed vesicular structure, the acrosome, which provides the leading edge of oocyte penetration.  To date, there is little insight into the mechanics of how acrosomic vesicles are successfully targeted and transported to the nuclear envelope and tether to its surface.  Our laboratory has identified a novel 15 kDa sperm specific histone variant, SubH2Bv, which possesses a distinct and functional nuclear localization signal (NLS) that associates with the acrosomic vesicle.  This study provides evidence that SubH2Bv’s bipartite NLS (an NLS with two basic domains linked together by 10-12 amino acid residues) is responsible for directing acrosomic vesicles to the nuclear envelope using the somatic import receptor, karyopherin alpha (Kap α).  Based on bipartite NLS-receptor conventions, where karyopherin alpha is known to specifically associate with this NLS-type, SubH2Bv would be the karyophilic cargo and karyopherin alpha would act as part of the underlying transport mechanism.  Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry characterized Kap α as a membrane-associated sperm protein that is co-localized with SubH2Bv around the proacrosomic granules and the acrosomic vesicle during spermiogenesis.  Their co-expression and co-localization, as demonstrated by immunolabelling, suggested a potential binding relationship that was confirmed by a His-tag-recombinant SubH2Bv-pull-down assay.  The co-developmental acrosomic expression of Kap α and SubH2Bv in haploid cells, combined with the pull-down evidence of their binding affinity, provides a compelling argument that these two proteins work in concert to traffic the acrosomic vesicles to the nucleus.  The exclusion of these two otherwise nuclear proteins from the nucleus, and their co-localization to the subacrosomal region in elongating spermatids, also implies a contingent role for SubH2Bv and Kap α in acrosomal docking,  that may involve the classical bipartite/Kap α nuclear import pathway.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Disciplining Divorcing Parents: The Social Construction of Parental Alienation Syndrome

contributor:
Hamilton, Roberta
Sociology

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subject:
supervised access
parental alienation syndrome
false allegations
Father's Rights Movement

abstract: Thesis (Master, Sociology) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-04 11:36:28.395

abstract: Using a social constructionist perspective, this thesis explores the development of the concepts of “parental alienation syndrome” and “false allegations” in the context of custody and access, as ‘social problems’. Following Joel Best’s framework for critically analysing social problems, it examines the life course of these concepts through an historical account of Canada’s divorce arena and recent changes to custody and access law. It analyzes the reasoning and motives of the major claimsmakers: the Fathers’ Right Movement, medical experts, the legal arena and the counter-claims of Feminist activists. It examines the role of the supervised access facilitator in the construction of the concepts as ‘social problems’. The theories of psychiatrist Richard Gardner are examined in particular, due to their pivotal role in the advancement of the claimsmakers’ goals. Finally, empirical studies are reviewed and analyzed, demonstrating how the concepts of “parental alienation syndrome” and “false allegations” have mutated and permeated the domain of divorce and access in Western society.

abstract: M.A.


title: Investigating the Interactions Between the Thiolate Ligand and Mutants of a Conserved Tryptophan in the Proximal Heme Pocket of the Oxygenase Domains of Endothelial and Staphyloccus Aureus Nitric Oxide Synthases

contributor:
Rafferty, Steven
Chemistry

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subject:
Nitric Oxide Synthase
Resonance Raman Spectroscopy
Aromatic Substitution
Heme-Ligand Interactions
Nitrite Assay

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-04 11:37:38.688

abstract:
The electronegativity of thiolate ligation in the hemeprotein nitric oxide synthase (NOS) proteins has been identified as an influence on autoinhibition in this enzyme.  The mutation of a conserved tryptophan residue, which hydrogen bonds to the coordinating thiolate ligand and therefore influences its electronegativity, to either phenylalanine or tyrosine has had various effects including heme loss and dimer disruption in the inducible isoforms, while hyperactivity occurs in the neuronal isoforms.  I have performed the analogous mutations in W180 of eNOSoxy, the endothelial isoform.  UV/visible and resonance Raman spectroscopy have demonstrated that the mutants experienced increased basicity of the thiolate due to loss of the hydrogen bond between the mutated residue in the absence of the cofactor (6R)5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin (H4B).  The mutants also displayed relative rates of NO2- production that were comparable to the nNOSoxy mutants, which is consistent with the nNOSoxy results.  The presence of H4B alters porphyrin planarity, which enabled hydrogen bonding to occur in W180Y, thus restoring thiolate basicity to that of wild-type eNOSoxy.  Reduced overall activities by the proteins suggest that H4B stabilizes the heme.
	The analogous W56 mutants of saNOS, a NOS oxygenase domain-like protein from Staphylococcus aureus (saNOS), have been previously characterized using resonance Raman spectroscopy.  These mutants also exhibit increased thiolate electronegativity over wild-type.  As the homodimers had already been investigated, saNOS was an ideal system in which to explore heterodimers.  Heterodimers were generated through the co-expression of one wild-type and one mutated subunit, enabling the examination of each subunit individually through resonance Raman spectroscopy.  The subunits of the resulting proteins were shown to have heme environments that resembled those of their corresponding homodimers.  The activity of saNOS did not vary significantly for the various W56 mutants, suggesting that saNOS catalysis may be unaffected by thiolate electronegativity.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Mammary Epithelial Cell-Specific Role of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR)γ in DMBA-Mediated Breast Tumourigenesis

contributor:
Nicol, Christopher J.
Pathology and Molecular Medicine

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subject:
Breast Cancer
PPARγ

abstract: Thesis (Master, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-04 11:45:16.472

abstract: Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer, and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths, among women world-wide. Improved understanding of breast tumourigenesis may facilitate the development of more effective therapies. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ is a transcription factor that regulates the genes involved in insulin sensitivity and adipogenesis.  In vitro and in vivo studies also suggest that PPARγ suppresses breast tumour progression; however, the mechanisms remain to be clarified.  In the current study, I investigated the mammary epithelial cell-specific role of PPARγ in 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-mediated breast tumourigenesis. Mammary epithelial cell-specific PPARγ knockout (PPARγ-MG KO) mice and their congenic, wild-type controls (PPARγ-WT) were treated with either DMBA alone or in combination with a PPARγ ligand (rosiglitazone)-supplemented diet, and followed for tumour formation. DMBA-mediated mammary tumour multiplicity decreased 4.5-fold among PPARγ-WT, but only 1.2-fold in PPARγ-MG KO mice upon co-treatment with rosiglitazone. Similarly, compared to respective DMBA alone groups, mammary tumour volumes were decreased, and onset was delayed, more among DMBA + Rosiglitazone treated PPARγ-WT versus PPARγ-MG KO mice. To assess whether DMBA could alter cell growth, in vitro studies using two human breast cancer cell lines were performed. Human MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with DMBA, rosiglitazone or both, and assessed for changes in proliferation, apoptosis and target gene expression. DMBA exerted minimal effects on proliferation; whereas, treatments induced apoptosis in MCF-7, and necrosis in MDA-MB-231, cells. The expression of MCF-7 PPARγ1 protein increased with all treatments, while MDA-MB-231 PPARγ2 protein and BRCA1 mRNA expression increased following rosiglitazone or co-treatment. This work advances our understanding of the mammary epithelial cell-specific role of PPARγ signaling in DMBA-mediated breast tumourigenesis, and supports a role for PPARγ activation in the suppression of breast tumour progression. These findings may assist with the development of more effective anti-breast cancer agents.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Tilting objects in derived categories of equivariant sheaves

contributor:
Roth, Michael
Mathematics and Statistics

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subject:
Algebraic geometry
derived categories

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mathematics & Statistics) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-04 14:42:25.099

abstract:
We construct classical tilting objects in derived categories of equivariant sheaves on quasi-projective varieties,
which give equivalences with derived categories of modules over algebras. Our applications include a conceptual explanation
of the importance of the McKay quiver associated to a representation of a finite group G and the development of a McKay correspondence for the cotangent bundle of the projective line.

abstract: PhD


title: Physical response of composite geomembrane / geosynthetic clay liners under simulated landfill conditions

contributor:
Brachman, Richard W. I.
Civil Engineering

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subject:
Landfill
Geosynthetic Clay Liner
Geomembrane
Protection

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-05 10:47:21.783

abstract:
The physical response of composite landfill liners consisting of a geomembrane on top of a geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) are examined under simulated landfill conditions.  The deformation and strains of a 1.5-mm-thick high-density polyethylene geomembrane and thickness and hydraulic performance of a nominally 7-mm-thick GCL are quantified when the composite liner was buried beneath 50 mm coarse gravel, at applied pressures up to 1000 kPa, with a firm sand foundation layer, and with and without a wrinkle in the geomembrane.
At an applied pressure of 250 kPa, with either no protection or conventional thick nonwoven needle-punched geotextile protection layers, the tensile strains in the geomembrane exceeded a 3% allowable limit and the GCL was reduced in thickness to as little as 2.2 mm from extrusion of bentonite beneath a gravel particle.  Whereas a 150-mm-thick sand protection layer limited strains in the geomembrane to 0.1% and prevented extrusion in the GCL so that deformation was from bentonite consolidation and not from extrusion.
A GCL with a thickness of less than 3 mm from extrusion was shown to be susceptible to failure from internal erosion of bentonite in the GCL at hydraulic head differences across the GCL between 1-10 m.  Conversely with the sand protection layer, the GCL could withstand a head difference of greater than 100 m without any evidence of internal erosion.  Further, the permittivity of an extruded 3.5-mm-thick GCL was found to be 4.5 times larger than a 7-mm-thick GCL that did not experience extrusion.

abstract: PhD


title: Reliability of Deterministic Optimization and Limits of RBDO in Application to a Practical Design Problem

contributor:
Kim, Il-Yong
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

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subject:
Optimization
RBDO
Structural Reliability
Safety Factor
FEA

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-05 10:51:26.273

abstract:
A practical engineering design problem is used to examine the over-conservativeness of designs obtained using deterministic optimization with worst-case parameter assumptions and a safety factor. Additionally, an attempted application of reliability-based design optimization (RBDO) demonstrates the limits of RBDO for practical problems. The design problem considered here is TESCO's Internal Casing Drive System (ICDS), which is used in feeding pipeline, or casing, into predrilled holes.
After developing a finite element model of the ICDS, experimental data is used to successfully validate modeling methods and assumptions. The validated model is then subjected to multiple analyses to determine an appropriate design configuration to be used as the starting point for optimization. Worst-case, safety factor-based design optimization (SFBDO) is then applied considering two and three design variables, and is successful in increasing the critical load of the ICDS, Pcrit, by 35% and 45%, respectively.
An efficient and recognized RBDO method, Sequential Optimization and Reliability Assessment, is selected for application to the design problem to determine an optimum design based on reliability. Due to the optimization formulation, however, SORA cannot be applied. The ICDS design problem represents a practical example that demonstrates the difficulties and limits in applying RBDO to practical engineering design problems.
To evaluate the over-conservativeness of worst-case SFBDO, structural reliability analysis is performed on the deterministic optimum designs. It is found that the value of Pcrit for both the two and three variable optimum designs can be increased by 53% while maintaining acceptable probability of failure, demonstrating the over-conservativeness of the worst-case SFBDO.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Evolution of Interphase and Intergranular Strain in Zr-Nb Alloys During Deformation at Room Temperature

contributor:
Daymond, Mark R.
Holt, Richard A.
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

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subject:
Zr-Nb Alloys
Deformation Mechanism
Interphase Strain
Intergranular Strain
Neutron Diffraction
Elasto-Plastic Self-Consistent Model
Beta Zr

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-05 13:51:30.42

abstract:
Zr-2.5Nb is currently used for pressure tubes in the CANDU (CANada Deuterium Uranium) reactor.  A complete understanding of the deformation mechanism of Zr-2.5Nb is important if we are to accurately predict the in-reactor performance of pressure tubes and guarantee normal operation of the reactors. This thesis is a first step in gaining such an understanding; the deformation mechanism of ZrNb alloys at room temperature has been evaluated through studying the effect of texture and microstructure on deformation.

In-situ neutron diffraction was used to monitor the evolution of the lattice strain of individual grain families along both the loading and Poisson’s directions and to track the development of interphase and intergranular strains during deformation. The following experiments were carried out with data interpreted using elasto-plastic modeling techniques: 1) Compression tests of a 100%Zr material at room temperature. 2) Tension and compression tests of hot rolled Zr-2.5Nb plate material. 3) Compression of annealed Zr-2.5Nb. 4) Cyclic loading of the hot rolled Zr-2.5Nb. 5) Compression tests of ZrNb alloys with different Nb and oxygen contents.

The experimental results were interpreted using a combination of finite element (FE) and elasto-plastic self-consistent (EPSC) models.  The phase properties and phase interactions well represented by the FE model, the EPSC model successfully captured the evolution of intergranular constraint during deformation and provided reasonable estimates of the critical resolved shear stress and hardening parameters of different slip systems under different conditions. The consistency of the material parameters obtained by the EPSC model allows the deformation mechanism at room temperature and the effect of textures and microstructures of ZrNb alloys to be understood.

This work provides useful information towards manufacturing of Zr-2.5Nb components and helps in producing ideal microstructures and material properties for pressure tubes. Also it is helpful in guiding the development of new materials for the next generation of nuclear reactors.  Furthermore, the large data set obtained from this study can be used in evaluation and improving current and future polycrystalline deformation models.

abstract: PhD


title: The I of the Storm:  An Assessment of Celebrity and the Social Construction of Hurricane Katrina

contributor:
Sacco, Vincent F.
Sociology

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subject:
Celebrity
Hurricane Katrina
Social Constructionism
Disaster

abstract: Thesis (Master, Sociology) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-08 15:45:08.895

abstract:
Recent theory on the role of celebrity in a contemporary context emphasizes the unique manner in which celebrity pervades public discourse.  This thesis examines the interrelationship between celebrity and disaster theory in order to evaluate the extent to which celebrity had access to public and media discourse about Hurricane Katrina.  Attention is also focused on the ways in which celebrity was manifested within this discourse.  Social constructionism is employed here as the theoretical lens through which celebrity and disaster merge.  With regard to methodology, qualitative elements of Altheide’s (1987) ethnographic content analysis are used to decipher the claims made by and about celebrity within the Katrina news media narrative.  In order to address questions of context, Fine’s (1997) adaptation of Smelser’s (1962) value-added model is used to identify some of the structural considerations from which these claims emerge.
From this examination, three substantive themes emerge: (1) Gabler’s (1998) celebrity theory offers a suitable approach to the examination of the intersection between celebrity and Hurricane Katrina; (2) Due to the character of this assessment, constructionist applications which consider not only the role of claims-makers but the structural context of claims-making activities provide the most comprehensive framework; (3) The pervasiveness of celebrity in the contemporary context, combined with the dissensus surrounding the Katrina event, allowed celebrities to adopt unique roles within the Katrina narrative.

abstract: M.A.


title: The Green Dining Room: The Experience of an Arts and Crafts Interior

contributor:
Helland, Janice
Art History

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subject:
Green Dining Room
British Arts and Crafts Movement
Victoria and Albert Museum

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Art History) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-07 21:35:05.076

abstract: Commissioned in 1865 for London’s South Kensington Museum (now the V&A), the Green Dining Room was conceived during an exciting period in Victorian Britain, when idealistic artists and architects elevated the status of the decorative arts in fine art circles, promoted the ideal of joy in labour, and sought beauty in the everyday.  The Green Dining Room is considered a quintessential example of an early decorative scheme by Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co., a collective of artists who helped to inspire Britain’s Arts and Crafts movement through their products and their principles of art manufacture.  It is adjoined by two other refreshment areas: one designed by James Gamble (a salaried employee of the museum) and the other by Edward Poynter (a promising young painter with an affinity for the decorative arts).  The three rooms manifest varied, even conflicting, opinions on the cultivation of design.  They indicate how different design professionals hoped to see their art progress.  However, the rooms were not simply artistic statements.  They were also functioning dining areas for the use of guests and employees of the museum.  By assessing the aims of the South Kensington administration, the ambitions of the designers who contributed to the museum’s fabric, and the impressions of Victorians who witnessed the results, I will illustrate how the Green Dining Room occupies a unique position in the history of nineteenth-century design reform.

abstract: I hope to publish a book, based on my dissertation, within the next year.

abstract: PhD


title: Scaling and Optimization of Polymer Bulk Homojunction Light-Emitting and Photovoltaic Cells

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subject:
polymer electronics
light-emitting electrochemical cells
photovoltaic
solar cell
light-emitting device
bulk homojunction

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-12 12:21:12.949

abstract: The polymer light-emitting electrochemical cell (LEC) is an alternative method for producing electroluminescence (EL) from conjugated luminescent polymers. The in situ electrochemical doping process that leads to a dynamic p-n junction makes the devices highly insensitive to device thickness and relatively insensitive to electrode materials. These characteristics make an extremely large planar configuration accessible for observing the cross-section of the device and watching it turn on dynamically. By cooling the device to freeze ionic motion, the junction can be stabilized and photovoltaic (PV) characteristics investigated. In the planar configuration, the p-n junction was found to make up a small fraction of the inter-electrode spacing. Enabled by the insensitivity to electrode materials, small metallic particles embedded in the LEC film led to a large number of p-n junctions that could be turned on in series and parallel. This alleviates the issue of low specific emitting area suffered by planar devices and leads to improved EL effciency as well as a high open circuit voltage (Voc) when operated as a PV cell. The bulk homojunction fabrication process has been optimized by segregating the metallic particles to eliminate large aggregates. A new technique to achieve highly uniform EL from large planar LECs is also presented here. By the evaporation of a thin gold or silver film on top of an LEC, independent islands form that act as doping initiation sites across the device width. A bulk homojunction is turned on in the top layer of the LEC with a high applied bias. Island diameters and spacings are several orders of magnitude smaller than the particles in previously-reported bulk homojunction devices. Both island and particle devices had their interelectrode spacings scaled down by at least a factor of 10. The successful scaling is a promising result for the possibility of a sandwich configuration bulk homojunction device. In the case of silver island devices, cooling a 50-micron wide device after turn-on resulted in a PV cell with an open circuit voltage of 8.3 V, several times the band gap of the luminescent polymer used.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Earthbag Housing: Structural Behaviour and Applicability in Developing Countries

contributor:
Hall, Kevin
MacDougall, Colin
Civil Engineering

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subject:
Earthbag
Humanitarian Engineering
Sustainability
Housing
Sri Lanka

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-10 16:29:45.005

abstract:
Global awareness of environmental issues such as climate change and resource depletion has grown dramatically in recent years.  As a result, there has been a surge of interest in developing alternative building techniques and materials which are capable of meeting our structural needs with lower energy and material consumption.  These technologies are particularly attractive for housing.  Much of the global demand for housing is currently being driven by economic growth in developing countries.  Additionally, natural disasters such as the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami have destroyed houses in many countries where limited economic wealth makes reconstruction a challenge.  This has resulted in shortages of permanent housing in these areas.
	This thesis explores the structural behaviour of earthbag housing under vertical compressive loading, in an attempt to broaden our quantitative understanding of this alternative building technique.  Furthermore, this technique is assessed, along with other alternative construction techniques, for suitability in southern Sri Lanka, an area heavily damaged by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
It was determined that the compressive strength of unplastered earthbag housing specimens meets or exceeds the vertical compressive strength of conventional stud-frame housing technology using a variety of fill materials, with the greatest strength being observed for soil-filled bags.
Furthermore, the results of observational research from a site visit to Sri Lanka in 2006, combined with resource availability data and interviews with Sri Lankan citizens, suggest that earthbag housing is a very promising technique for housing construction in the southern coastal region.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Reverse Engineering of Temporal Gene Expression Data Using Dynamic Bayesian Networks And Evolutionary Search

contributor:
Mousavi, Parvin
Computing

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subject: Reverse Engineering of Gene Regulatory Networks

subject: Dynamic Bayesian Networks

subject: Covariance Matrix Adaptation Evolutionary Search

subject: Gene Expression Analysis

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-09 11:35:33.312

abstract:
Capturing the mechanism of gene regulation in a living cell is essential to predict
the behavior of cell in response to intercellular or extra cellular factors. Such prediction capability can potentially lead to development of improved diagnostic tests and therapeutics [21]. Amongst reverse engineering approaches that aim to model
gene regulation are Dynamic Bayesian Networks (DBNs). DBNs are of particular
interest as these models are capable of discovering the causal relationships between
genes while dealing with noisy gene expression data. At the same time, the problem of discovering the optimum DBN model, makes structure learning of DBN a challenging topic. This is mainly due to the high dimensionality of the search space of gene expression data that makes exhaustive search strategies for identifying the best DBN structure, not practical.
In this work, for the first time the application of a covariance-based evolutionary search algorithm is proposed for structure learning of DBNs. In addition, the convergence time of the proposed algorithm is improved compared to the previously reported covariance-based evolutionary search approaches. This is achieved by keeping a fixed number of good sample solutions from previous iterations. Finally, the proposed approach, M-CMA-ES, unlike gradient-based methods has a high probability to converge to a global optimum.
To assess how efficient this approach works, a temporal synthetic dataset is developed. The proposed approach is then applied to this dataset as well as Brainsim dataset, a well known simulated temporal gene expression data [58]. The results indicate that the proposed method is quite efficient in reconstructing the networks in both the synthetic and Brainsim datasets. Furthermore, it outperforms other algorithms in terms of both the predicted structure accuracy and the mean square error of the reconstructed time series of gene expression data.
For validation purposes, the proposed approach is also applied to a biological
dataset composed of 14 cell-cycle regulated genes in yeast Saccharomyces Cerevisiae.
Considering the KEGG1 pathway as the target network, the efficiency of the proposed
reverse engineering approach significantly improves on the results of two previous
studies of yeast cell cycle data in terms of capturing the correct interactions.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Investigating the Spectral Energy Distribution within the Dwarf Irregular Galaxy IC 10

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subject: astronomy galaxies

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-09 12:20:52.184

abstract:
We present new submillimetre images of the dwarf irregular galaxy IC 10, taken
with the Submillimeter Bolometer Common-User Array, mounted on the James Clerk
Maxwell Telescope. Combining this new data with archival data from the 2MASS
survey, ISO, Spitzer IRAC and MIPS, and the VLA, we plot the observed spectral energy
distributions from 1.24 μm to 850 μm for two star forming regions within IC 10,
namely IC 10 SE and IC 10 NW. The spectral energy distributions were subsequently
modelled using a dust model with PAHs, and silicate and graphite dust grain components.
This is the first time that well-constrained spectral energy distribution models
of two individual regions within IC 10 have been presented. From our results, we find
that IC 10 SE and IC 10 NW share the same physical characteristics in most cases,
such as the gas-to-dust mass ratio, the mass fraction of PAHs comprising the total
dust mass, and the fraction of PAHs that are ionised. The most significant difference
is seen in the peak wavelengths of the SEDs, which are ~70 μm and ~45 μm for
IC 10 SE and IC 10 NW, respectively. From this we conclude that the primary dust
component within IC 10 NW is warmer than that of IC 10 SE, due to the hot young
stars at the heart of the star forming region within IC 10 NW having a larger heating
effect on the nearby dust than the interstellar radiation field. The similar environments of these two regions lead us to suggest that the star formation taking place within them was triggered by the same starburst, and that both stellar populations evolved together.
We also find that IC 10 has physical conditions that are common amongst other low-metallicity,
dwarf irregular galaxies, implying that IC 10 does not have an abnormal
interstellar medium in these regions.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: An Adaptable Context-Management Framework for Pervasive Computing

contributor:
Martin, Patrick
Computing

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subject:
pervasive computing
context management

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-09 14:51:30.242

abstract:
Pervasive Computing presents an exciting realm where intelligent devices interact within the background of our environments to create a more intuitive experience for their human users. We demonstrate enabling context-awareness through our creation of a standardized context-management framework. Our framework moves towards device intelligence by supporting context-awareness.

Context-awareness is what gives devices the ability to understand and exchange information about each other. Context information is used to determine device purpose, capabilities, location, current state, and other properties.

Several elements are required in order to achieve context-awareness, including a suitable ontology, a context model, and a middleware platform upon which to implement the context model. In this work, a complete context-management framework is presented and evaluated. We propose our own ontology specification and context model, and implement a middleware using the Web Services Distributed Management (WSDM) interoperability standard.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Experimental and Numerical Investigations into Optimal Partial Concrete Filling of FRP and Steel Tubular Poles

contributor:
Fam, Amir Z.
Civil Engineering

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subject: FRP, poles, tubes

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-10 22:38:37.671

abstract:
Glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP) tubular poles can be superior to conventional poles, in that they are lighter in weight and more durable. Thin-walled tubular poles, however, tend to fail in flexure by local buckling, before fully utilizing the high tensile strength of GFRP. Increasing the wall thickness would solve this problem, but at a significant material cost. A simple and economical solution is to partially fill the tube with concrete. The aim of this study is to establish the optimal length of concrete filling that is required to achieve the highest moment capacity at a minimum dead weight in cantilevered GFRP and steel poles.
The study comprises experimental and numerical phases. Six 3660 mm long and 220 mm in diameter GFRP tubes of 4.15 mm wall thickness as well as four 1855 mm long and 114 mm in diameter steel tubes of 3 mm wall thickness, were filled with concrete of varying lengths, ranging from zero to a 100% of the span. The tubes were tested to failure in cantilever bending. The completely filled tubes achieved nearly double the strength of the hollow ones. Furthermore, it was found that the optimal ratio of concrete filling length was 0.34 and 0.46 of the span, for the GFRP and steel tubes, respectively. This is defined as the minimum filling length required to achieve the capacity of the completely filled tube.
Numerical models have been developed to predict the behaviour of partially concrete-filled GFRP and steel tubes as well as the optimal filling ratio. The models incorporate other models developed for hollow and completely filled tubes and account for the slight non-linearity of multi-layer GFRP tubes, concrete, and steel plasticity. An important feature of the models is their ability to account for ovalization and local buckling of the hollow part of thin tube. The models were successfully validated and used in a parametric study to investigate the effects of key parameters, namely diameter-to-thickness (D/t) ratio, GFRP laminate structure and steel yield strength. It was shown that the optimal filling ratio increases as D/t ratio is reduced or as more GFRP fibres become oriented longitudinally. However, it was unaffected by the steel yield strength.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Covalently Bonded Protein Surfaces on Poly(Methyl Methacrylate): Characterization by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy

contributor:
Horton, J. Hugh
Chemistry

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subject: Chemistry Polymers

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-11 16:16:30.687

abstract: X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) have been used to characterize a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) surface with covalently attached proteins. Protein-terminated PMMA surfaces have possible applications as substrates for bio-reactive surfaces or biosensors. The PMMA surfaces were first aminated using hexamethyldiamine; the resulting –NH2 sites were reacted with the hetero-bifunctional cross-linker Sulfo-EMCS. The N-hydroxysuccinimide ester terminal and maleimide terminal groups of Sulfo-EMCS can react with surface amine groups and sulfhydryl-containing proteins respectively. A surface that has covalently bonded with such proteins is interesting, as it may be used to develop techniques to compare the mechanical properties of proteins that have similar functions, but different structures. This study characterizes Thermotoga maritima β-glucosidase 1 (TmGH1), which belongs to a family of proteins that facilitate hydrolysis of glucose-related monomers with retention of conformation. The resulting surfaces were characterized by XPS to monitor surface composition and coverage. Tapping and contact-mode AFM methods were used to image the surface and obtain force curves. Data that suggests the creation of a covalently bonded surface of TmGH1 on PMMA has been obtained, as well as force curves using dodecanethiol-terminated AFM tips that suggest specific unfolding events when a mechanical force is applied to TmGH1. These results have applications to the further investigation of protein folding and unfolding mechanisms of family GH1 proteins using AFM-related techniques.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Effectiveness of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy in Women with Provoked Vestibulodynia

contributor:
Pukall, Caroline F.
Psychology

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subject:
Clinical Psychology
Sexual Health
Vulvar Pain
Women's Health

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-12 11:04:06.501

abstract: Provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) is the most common form of vulvodynia affecting 12% of pre-menopausal women in the general population. It is commonly described as a sharp or burning pain at the entrance of the vagina in response to contact or pressure to the vulvar vestibule. PVD has negative impacts on sexual functioning, relationship adjustment, psychological well-being, and overall quality of life. Studies suggest that increased muscle tension in the pelvic floor of women with PVD may play an important role in maintaining and exacerbating their pain. Despite this finding, no prospective studies of pelvic floor physiotherapy (PFP) for PVD have been carried out. The purpose of the current study was to prospectively examine the effectiveness of a comprehensive PFP intervention in treating the physical and psychosexual components of PVD. Thirteen women with PVD completed 8 sessions of PFP. Women were assessed at pre- and post-treatment via gynecological examinations, vestibular pain threshold testing, structured interviews and standardized questionnaires measuring pain variables (pain during intercourse, McGill Pain Questionnaire, Pain Disability Index), cognitive variables (Pain Catastrophizing Scale, Pain Anxiety Symptom Scale-20, coping strategies), and sexual function (frequency of intercourse, Female Sexual Function Index). To-date, ten women have also completed a 3-month follow-up interview. Results indicated that vestibular pain thresholds significantly increased from pre- to post-treatment, indicating reduced pain sensitivity. As compared with pre-treatment, women reported significant reductions in pain intensity during the gynecological examination and during intercourse. Women also significantly improved on measures of negative pain cognitions and various components of sexual function. There were no changes with respect to mental health or quality of life. The treatment was considered to be successful for 10 (77%) of the 13 women and treatment satisfaction was rated very high. Predictors of successful treatment outcome at the follow-up period were a longer period of time in treatment and decreases in pain catastrophizing and pain-related anxiety. Results provide preliminary support for the effectiveness of PFP in treating the physical and psychosexual components of PVD. These findings indicate the need for large-scale, randomized studies of the effectiveness of PFP in comparison and in conjunction with other treatment options.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Force Velocity Control with Neural Network Compensation for Contour Tracking with Pneumatic Actuation

contributor:
Surgenor, Brian W.
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

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subject:
Force Control
Contour Tracking
Neural Network
Pneumatic

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-16 12:29:44.679

abstract:
Control of the contact force between a robot manipulator and a workpiece is critical for successful execution of tasks where the robot’s end effector must perform a contact operation along the contour of a workpiece.  Representative tasks include polishing, grinding and deburring.  Considerable research has been conducted on force control with electric robots.  By contrast, little research has been conducted on force control with pneumatic robots.  The later has the potential to be considerably cheaper.  However, the compressible nature of air as the working fluid and relatively high friction means pneumatic robots are more difficult to control.  The subject of this thesis is the design and testing of a controller that regulates the normal contact force and tangential velocity of the end effector of a pneumatic gantry robot while tracking the contour of a planar workpiece.  Both experimental and simulation results are presented.

A PI Force Velocity (FV) controller for contour tracking was designed and tested experimentally.  Three different workpiece edge geometries were studied: straight, inclined and curved.  The tracking performance with the PI FV controller was comparable to the performance reported by other researchers with a similar controller implemented with an electric robot.  This result confirms the potential of pneumatically actuated robots in force control applications.

A system model was developed and validated in order to investigate the parameters that affect performance.  A good match between experiment and simulation was achieved when the friction of the z-axis cylinder was modeled with a Displacement Dependent Friction Model (DDFM) instead of a Velocity Dependent Friction Model (VDFM).  Subsequently, a DDFM based friction compensator was designed and tested.  However, it was found that performance could not be improved even with perfect friction compensation, due to the effects of system lag.

Two Neural Network (NN) compensators were designed to compensate for both the lag and friction in the system.  Simulation results for straight and curved edges were used to examine the effectiveness of the NN compensators.  The performance of the PI FV controller was found to improve significantly when a NN compensator was added.  This result confirms the value of NN’s in control compensation for tracking applications with pneumatic actuation.

abstract: PhD


title: A Mechanistic Study in Methanol: Cleavage of RNA Models and Highly Stable Phosphodiesters with Dinuclear Zn(II) Complexes

contributor:
Brown, Robert Stanley
Chemistry

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subject:
phosphodiesters
methanol
dinuclear metal catalysis

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-12 13:09:42.427

abstract: Phosphoryl transfer reactions are vital to life. In response to the slow intrinsic rates of phosphoryl transfer, Nature has evolved a series of enzymes designed to accelerate these reactions and allow them to occur at biologically relevant rates. These metallo-enzymes are largely characterized by bi- or tri-nuclear active sites with effective dielectric constants that more closely resemble those of organic solvents than water. This project was designed to better understand the mechanisms by which metallo-enzymes cleave phosphodiesters with poor leaving groups.  The stability of the phosphodiester is central to the storage of genetic information in DNA and RNA. The cleavage of a series of more reactive RNA models, 2-hydroxylpropyl aryl phosphates 1a-g, catalyzed by a dinuclear Zn(II)2 complex of 53 in methanol was explored. A solution of 53:Zn(II)2:(-OCH3) was observed to accelerate the decomposition of 1a-g with rates that were 10^11-10^12-fold greater than the methoxidepromoted reaction at ss pH 9.47, approaching rate accelerations achieved by natural enzymes.  The remarkable activity of 53:Zn(II)2:(-OCH3) and 36:Zn(II)2:(-OCH3) towards the cleavage of 1a-g probed the study of the decomposition of diribonucleotides(3'->€™ 5')UpU and (3'->€™ 5'€™)ApC in methanol. The 53:Zn(II)2:(-OCH3)- and 36:Zn(II)2:(-OCH3)-catalyzed decomposition of UpU achieved k2 values of 1.21 ± 0.17 and (7.04 ± 0.99) x 10^-2 M^-1s^-1. The reactivity of ApC in the presence of these systems was unimpressive, however Zn(II) ions in ethanol resulted in the isomerization of 3'->€™ 5'€™)ApC to (2'->™ 5'€™)ApC providing support for the existence of a pentacoordinate phosphorane intermediate.  The pentacoordinate phosphorane was further explored through the reaction of 36:Zn(II)2:(-OCH3) with the cyclic phosphate 58 and 2-hydroxylpropyl methyl phosphate (59). In the presence of 36:Zn(II)2:(-OCH3) the rate of isomerization of 59/59a (kobs = (4.7 ± 0.5) x 10^-3 s^-1) exceeded that of expulsion of the methoxy group (kobs = 1.62 x 10^-3 s^-1), thus confirming the existence of a pentacoordinate phosphorane intermediate (60)and providing support for a two-step phosphodiester cleavage reaction.  The catalytic efficiency of 36:Zn(II)2:(-OCH3) towards the cleavage of stable phosphodiesters probed its application towards the decomposition of dimethyl phosphate (2) in methanol-d4. The exchange of OCH3 for OCD3 occurred with kcatmax = (2.27 ± 0.03) x 10^-6 s^-1.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Distribution of Serotoninergic and Noradrenergic Synapses on the Dendritic Trees of Spinal Motoneurons

contributor:
Rose, Ken P.
Neuroscience Studies

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subject: motoneuron serotonin norepinephrine synapses

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-29 09:59:38.799

abstract:
The currents generated by excitatory and inhibitory synapses on motoneurons can be amplified by noradrenalin and serotonin. Both of these neurotransmitters act, and interact, via the same Gq-protein second-messenger system to modulate L-type Ca++, persistent-Na+, and leak K+ channels on motoneuron dendrites. However, noradrenergic and serotonergic synapses only modulate nearby excitatory and inhibitory synapses, so their relative distributions play a major role in the regulation of the overall output of the motoneuron. Moreover, the relative proximity between noradrenergic and serotonergic synapses may allow their individual effects to combine nonlinearly when co-activated, thereby regulating the magnitude of the amplification. The goal of the present study is to determine whether the distributions of noradrenergic and serotonergic synapses are biased along motoneuron dendritic trees.

The dendritic trees of five intracellularly stained feline splenius motoneurons were reconstructed. On them were plotted the locations of noradrenergic and serotonergic contacts, as determined by immunohistochemistry. The distribution of noradrenergic contacts was moderately biased both dorsally and distally in all five cells. Serotonergic contacts on the same neurons showed a moderate ventral bias. These findings suggest that excitatory and inhibitory inputs located dorsally and/or distally are preferentially amplified by noradrenergic synapses. Also, those synapses which are located ventrally are favorably amplified by serotonergic synapses. Both serotonergic and noradrenergic contacts are strongly biased towards innervation along small diameter (<2μm) dendrites.

The relative distributions between serotonergic and noradrenergic contacts have also been analyzed for all five cells. There was a bias towards minimizing the distance between like contacts (NE to NE and 5-HT to 5-HT). This increases the likelihood of interaction within populations when contacts are co-activated. Conversely, the distances between neighbouring noradrenergic and serotonergic contacts (NE to 5-HT and 5-HT to NE) were biased towards greater separation. This decreases the likelihood of interaction between populations when contacts are co-activated.

In summary, these findings suggest that noradrenalin and serotonin, having different location biases along the dendritic tree, will amplify some synapses in a biased manner. Additionally, like synapses may work in a coordinated manner with respect to their relative proximity. Coordination between noradrenergic and serotonergic synapses is less likely.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: How Wide the We?  A Study of Canadian Multiculturalism and American Cosmopolitanism

contributor:
Kymlicka, Will
Philosophy

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subject:
political philosophy
multiculturalism
cosmopolitanism
Will Kymlicka

abstract: Thesis (Master, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-12 17:41:13.204

abstract: This paper looks at liberal multiculturalism through the lens of its cosmopolitan critics.  In particular I examine the arguments of four theorists who issue a variety challenges to the concept of state-sanctioned minority rights.  The first two of these theorists, K. Anthony Appiah and David Hollinger, offer cosmopolitan challenges to multiculturalist views on identity (Appiah) and historical critiques of the effects of racial and ethnic political claims-making (Hollinger).  My analysis attempts to show how these views are indicative of distinctly a American emphasis on race and immigration which inhibits them from a better appreciation of the Canadian experience with national minorities, one of liberal multiculturalism's main concerns.  The third theorist, Patchen Markell, presents a theory of incomplete individual agency the acknowledgment of which he argues is necessary for an adequate political theory yet remains unappreciated by proponents of recognition.  I attempt to show that while his concept is useful, it is simply misplaced to the arguments he wishes to criticize.  The fourth theorist whose work I examine is Seyla Benhabib.  She presents a more substantial account of what cosmopolitan minority claims might look like, relying on a postnational view of world affairs which eschews the state-centric approach of liberal multiculturalism.  I largely reject her criticisms, but I argue that this postnational vision is one that could have implications for liberal multiculturalism.  I finally offer a modest account of what these implications might be and where the terrain of this multiculturalist-cosmopolitan debate may be headed.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The role of the visual train ornament in the courtship of peafowl, Pavo cristatus

contributor:
Montgomerie, Robert
Biology

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subject:
sexual selection
animal communication

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-12 16:29:20.772

abstract: The peacock (Pavo cristatus) has long been considered the quintessential example of a sexually selected animal, and in the last two decades, peafowl have provided widely-cited evidence for female mate choice as well as the genetic benefits of mate preferences for ornamented males. However, previous studies have failed to reach a consensus with respect to the importance of various signaling modalities in peafowl courtship. In this thesis, I repeat two previous studies of peacock train morphology and I describe the use of light by males during their courtship displays, to clarify the role of visual signaling. I confirm previous reports that removing a large number of eyespots decreases male mating success, yet I find substantial variation in mating success among normal males that cannot be explained by eyespot number. I show that these two apparently conflicting results are not contradictory, since the removal treatment modifies males beyond the normal range of eyespot number. Next, I describe the two display behaviours used by males during courtship. When males perform their pre-copulatory “train-rattling” display, they are oriented at about 45° relative to the sun on average, with females directly in front. This directional pattern suggests that train-rattling is involved in the communication of a visual signal. The “wing-shaking” display, on the other hand, is performed with females positioned behind males, and is always elicited when a model female is positioned on the shaded side of a male. The wing-shaking display may therefore allow males to control female viewing geometry. These results indicate that mate choice in peafowl is complex, and that visual signaling is important despite recent claims to the contrary. Females may avoid males missing a large number of eyespots via a threshold-based mechanism, while choosing among full-trained males based on some other (possibly visual) cue.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Preschool-aged children’s adherence to style conventions in a simple game.

contributor:
Sabbagh, Mark A.
Psychology

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subject:
style convention
preschool

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-14 10:48:10.178

abstract: Style conventions are specialized ways of performing a given activity (e.g., dressing, eating, etc.) that have minimal practical significance, but play a crucial role in signaling ones membership or status within a particular social community. The primary goal of this study was to examine whether preschool-aged children would adhere to a novel style convention simply given information that the style was shared by others. A secondary goal was to investigate whether the way that the information about the style convention was framed would affect their adhering to that convention. Forty-eight five-year-olds and 48 three-year-olds were shown a novel apparatus and given a basket of yellow and orange balls. The simple game consisted of putting the balls into the apparatus, which made the apparatus light up. In a fully between-subjects design, half of the participants participated in the focal “convention” condition, in which they were then told that using one colour of balls was the norm. Half of the children in the convention condition received this information in inclusionary terms (ie. everybody uses orange), and half in exclusionary terms (ie. nobody uses yellow). Children’s performance in these focal conditions was compared with that of children who participated in control conditions in which the experimenter’s ball choice was explained by statement of her preferences (i.e. I like to use only orange/I don’t like to use yellow). The main finding was that when playing the game themselves, 3-year-olds were significantly more likely to systematically select target-coloured balls in the convention than in the preference control condition, whereas 5-year-olds did not show systematic performance in either. There was also a significant condition x frame interaction, whereby children were more likely to systematically select target balls in the preference exclusion frame than in the preference inclusion frame. These results show that explicit information about a shared style is sufficient to promote adherence to style conventions in 3-year-old children, though, perhaps not 5-year-olds. These findings are discussed with respect to the mechanisms that guide children’s acquisition of conventional forms across domains.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Developmental, but not activational, roles for estradiol and its receptor in paternal and sexual behaviour of Phodopus campbelli males

contributor:
Wynne-Edwards, Katherine E.
Biology

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subject:
animal reproductive physiology
behavioural neuroendocrinology

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-15 10:52:00.161

abstract:
The neuroendocrine basis of paternal behaviour is hypothesised to be homologous to that of maternal behaviour, with the expression of paternal behaviour resulting from the activation of estrogen-sensitive pathways in the brain. However, despite the fact that Phodopus campbelli fathers are highly paternal, previous studies have failed to identify an activational role for estradiol in the expression of this behaviour. The goal of this thesis was to exclude or define a role for estradiol in P. campbelli paternal behaviour.
In the first study, estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) expression was examined in three brain regions relevant to maternal behaviour (medial preoptic area, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and medial amygdala). Male and female P. campbelli and its close relative P. sungorus were sampled as sexually naïve adults, following mating to satiety, or as new parents. As predicted, new fathers of either species did not upregulate ERα expression in these brain regions. Mating also had no effect on ERα expression in males or females from either species. However, ERα expression was also not upregulated in any of the three brain regions in new mothers. Thus, it is possible that estradiol does not play a primary role in activating maternal behaviour in Phodopus females.
In the second study, P. campbelli males were administered the aromatase inhibitor letrozole at three different developmental stages (independence from the mother, testicular maturation, and sexually naïve adult) and tested for adult sexual and paternal behaviour. Aromatase inhibition during juvenile development resulted in diminished expression of adult paternal and sexual behaviour, suggesting that estradiol acts at critical periods in development to organize the paternal brain for subsequent behavioural responses. Treatment of sexually naïve adults did not alter male behaviour, which further supports previous evidence that estradiol does not activate paternal behaviour in P. campbelli males, although sexual behaviour in females is completely estradiol-dependent in this species. These findings suggest that the activational roles of estradiol in maternal and male sexual behaviour identified in the rat do not generalize to Phodopus, and imply greater species to species variation in the neuroendocrine control of these behaviours than previously suspected.

abstract: PhD


title: Tiersymbole Im Realismus. Die Schwarze Spinne, der Schimmelreiter Und Effi Briest Als Beispiele der Chiffrierten Wirklichkeit des 19. Jahrhunderts

contributor:
Arndt, Christiane
German

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subject: Realismus Tiersymbolik

abstract: Thesis (Master, German) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-15 11:26:19.721

abstract:
This thesis analyses the role of animal symbolism as a reflection on the zeitgeist of the 19th century. The three works Die schwarze Spinne (1842) by Jeremias Gotthelf, Der Schimmelreiter (1888) by Theodor Storm and Effi Briest (1895) by Theodor Fontane show how animals are used to convey what the stylistic restrictions of the epoch do otherwise not allow for.
The first chapter analyses the animal image of the “black spider.” The picture is a powerful tool to highlight patriarchal fear, local legends and beliefs of a small community in contemporaneous Switzerland. The second chapter represents the allusions of  animals such as a horse or a cat, which represent  suppressed human motions. Used in this way, they express the pessimism and alienation of humankind that is read as social criticism. The third chapter demonstrates an example of the virtuous character of a  dog through which the deep crisis of the society and humanity at that time is mirrored.
The use of the animal figures in Realism proves a deep connection of humankind to nature. The imagery generates new perspectives on the crisis of the  era, for which religious dilemmas, isolation and alienation of the individual in society are characteristic.

abstract: M.A.


title: Explaining Copyright: The Normative Implications of its Sociotechnical Construction

contributor:
Sismondo, Sergio
Philosophy

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subject: Copyright Philosophy Sociology Law

abstract: Thesis (Master, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-30 14:55:33.895

abstract:
The construction of copyright law can be causally explained by two possible types of explanation: dialectical explanations and material explanations. I argue that an adequate causal description of the copyright discourses of Western legal systems must incorporate a material explanation in order to account for many of the general and particular characteristics of the evolution of copyright. As a vast variety of contingent and interactive social and technical conditions have caused the evolution of copyright, we should expect a plausible material explanation to be multifaceted and multi-layered.

However, in addition to providing a causal sociohistorical description, a good legal explanation should also seek to include a normative account detailing the moral grounds of the law, or lack thereof. Dialectical explanations can be teleological: they can presuppose that the law is directed towards a perfect legal state and that it is essentially guided by a set of moral ideals. Material explanations, on the other hand, are essentially non-normative and do not explicitly address moral questions. But this does not entail the elimination of moral considerations from material explanations.

As I aim to show, we should not address the moral and sociohistorical elements of copyright legal discourses independently because they are causally connected: moral justifications have been rhetorically used by social actors to influence lawmaking processes, and conversely, changes in technical conditions have given rise to sociotechnical formations that enable and structure the norms of copyright. Given this, I propose that lawmakers should adjudicate and legislate from a broad and flexible standpoint. They should not attempt to merely apply old principles to new problems, but should comprehend new moral norms introduced by new conditions, and balance them against the older, more established principles enshrined in traditional intellectual property theories.

abstract: M.A.


title: The RET receptor tyrosine kinase: mechanism, signaling and therapeutics

contributor:
Mulligan, Lois M.
Pathology and Molecular Medicine

subject:
RET
Receptor Tyrosine Kinase
MEN 2B
Small molecule inhibitor
Thyroid Cancer
Beta-catenin

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-15 16:20:59.976

abstract:
The RET receptor tyrosine kinase has essential roles in cell survival, differentiation, and proliferation. Oncogenic activation of RET causes the cancer syndrome multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2), and is a frequent event in sporadic thyroid carcinomas. Multiple endocrine neoplasia 2B (MEN 2B), a subtype of MEN 2, is caused primarily by a methionine to threonine substitution of residue 918 in the kinase domain of the RET receptor (2B-RET), however the molecular mechanisms that lead to the disease phenotype are unclear. In this study, we show that the M918T mutation causes a 10 fold increase in ATP binding affinity, and leads to a more stable receptor-ATP complex, relative to the wildtype receptor. We also show that 2B-RET can dimerize and become autophosphorylated in the absence of ligand. Our data suggest that multiple distinct but complementary molecular mechanisms underlie the MEN 2B phenotype and provide potential targets for effective therapeutics for this disease.
In the second part of the study, we identified a novel β-catenin-RET kinase signaling pathway which is a critical contributor to the development and metastasis of human thyroid carcinoma.  We show that RET binds to, and tyrosine phosphorylates, β-catenin and demonstrate that the interaction between RET and β-catenin can be direct and independent of cytoplasmic kinases, such as SRC.  As a result of RET-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation, β-catenin escapes cytosolic downregulation by the APC/Axin/GSK3 complex and accumulates in the nucleus, where it can stimulate β-catenin-specific transcriptional programs in a RET-dependent fashion.  We show that downregulation of β-catenin activity decreases RET-mediated cell proliferation, colony formation, and tumour growth in nude mice.
Finally, we used a structure guided approach to identify and characterize a novel, non-ATP competitive, RET inhibitor; SW-01. We show that SW-01 provides significant RET inhibition in an in vitro kinase assay using purified RET. Moreover, RET phosphorylation is blocked, or dramatically reduced, in vivo in cells overexpressing active RET. We observe a significant decrease in cell proliferation and colony formation in RET-expressing cells in the presence of SW-01.  Together, our data suggest that SW-01 has potential as a novel RET kinase inhibitor with clinical utility.

abstract: PhD


title: The Death and Life of the Polis

contributor:
Miller, Jon
Philosophy

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subject:
aristotle's politics
ancient political philosophy

abstract: Thesis (Master, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-15 19:10:03.993

abstract:
Aristotle argues in Chapter 2 of Book I of the Politics that the polis exists by
nature. I argue that this notion of a natural polis, what I call the Naturalness Thesis, is fundamentally important to Aristotle's political philosophy. The Naturalness Thesis is discussed in only one place by Aristotle, and it is found alongside two further claims—the claim that humans are the most political animal and the claim that the polis is naturally prior to the individual. Together these three ideas constitute Aristotle's political naturalism. I begin by examining the relationship between the Naturalness Thesis and the
other two claims. I argue that the Naturalness Thesis is the central idea in Aristotle's political naturalism. I then proceed to defend the argument Aristotle gives in support of the Naturalness Thesis from David Keyt's critique of it. Keyt argues that Aristotle's argument is unsuccessful and that, furthermore, Aristotle himself has reason to believe
the polis exists by art rather than nature. Because of this, Keyt believes that there is a blunder in Aristotle's political naturalism. I argue that it is Keyt, and not Aristotle, who blunders. Keyt makes the mistake of interpreting Aristotle's account of the rise of the polis out of the village and household as an account of three distinct social arrangements. As I see it, Aristotle is instead suggesting that village, household, and polis are three
stages in the development (or growth) of one thing, namely the polis. That is, households
and villages are essentially the same (they contain the same form) as the polis, though
they are underdeveloped. Finally, I expound on the Naturalness Thesis by interpreting Aristotle's account of the rise of the natural polis from a number of perspectives. First, the account is sociobiological: Aristotle's polis is literally a naturally living thing.
Second, the account is historical: it alludes to other accounts of prehistory and reveals Aristotle's ascription to the theory of a perpetual rise and fall of civilization. Third, the account is ethical: it seeks to break down the distinction between nomos (=law) and phusis (=nature) to ground politics in nature.

abstract: M.A.


title: Motor Unit Number Estimates and Quantitative Motor Unit Potentials Analysis Associated with Motor Deficits in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

contributor:
McLean, Linda
Rehabilitation Science

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subject:
Electromyography
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

abstract: Thesis (Master, Rehabilitation Science) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-16 12:08:13.587

abstract:
The purpose of this study was to determine the utility of decomposition-based quantitative electromyography (DQEMG) in detecting signs of motor unit loss and collateral sprouting in compression neuropathy. In order to accomplish this, needle- and surface-detected motor unit potential (MUP) morphological features, determined by DQEMG, were used to determine evidence of collateral sprouting. Evidence of motor unit loss was measured using motor unit number estimates (MUNEs).
Six subjects with severe carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), eight subjects with mild CTS and nine healthy individuals with no known neuropathy participated in this cross sectional study. All subjects completed two phases of data collection: 1) an examination consisting of physical and electrophysiological tests to assess the presence and/or severity of CTS and 2) quantitative electromyography techniques to record MUNEs and MUP morphological characteristics. The needle-detected MUP parameters included peak-to-peak amplitude, duration and number of phases. The presence of satellite potentials was also investigated in the needle-detected MUPs. The surface-detected MUP parameters examined included peak-to-peak amplitude, duration and negative peak area. Kruskall-Wallace tests were used to determine group differences for all outcome measures.
The MUNEs were lower (p<0.017) in the severe CTS group as compared to those with mild or no CTS. This result suggests that individuals with severe CTS experience a decrease in the number of functioning motor units. Despite statistically similar surface-detected MUP morphology, there were significantly larger needle-detected MUP amplitudes (p<0.017) and satellite potentials (p<0.05) were present in the severe CTS group as compared to the mild CTS group and healthy control group. These findings suggest there is collateral reinnervation in individuals with severe CTS. The results of this study support the use of DQEMG in future studies of compression neuropathies as an effective means to document the progression of motor deficits.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Estimating Evacuation Vulnerability of Urban Transportation Systems using GIS

contributor:
Barber, Gerry
Treitz, Paul
Geography

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subject: Geography Evacuation

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-17 10:10:20.018

abstract:
The focus of this thesis is to estimate evacuation vulnerability in a non-specific evacuation context. Three measures were calculated to evaluate the evacuation vulnerability of locations within Frontenac County, Ontario: population/capacity ratios, link removal analysis and the composite vulnerability measure. By utilizing both population/capacity ratios, as typified by Cova and Church (1997), and link removal analysis, a composite estimate of vulnerability can be determined. The composite vulnerability measure integrates the population/capacity ratios and the link removal analysis to examine the effect of link unavailability on evacuation difficulty. Subsequently, a linear regression analysis is utilized to estimate these complex measures incorporating simple variables. These include population, road and dead-end densities. The advantage of a regression analysis is that it can be used in any situation and for any given area.
This research demonstrates that evacuation vulnerability of a network is of key importance for identifying which parts of a populated area may need plans put into place before the necessity of an evacuation occurs. Certain road configurations are shown to be more vulnerable than others, particularly neighbourhoods with a limited number of exits. Overall, the composite vulnerability measure identifies areas of increased and decreased vulnerability throughout Frontenac County. This regression analysis demonstrates a spatial pattern of calculated vulnerability values similar to those predicted based on the regression equation. Importantly, the regression analysis has demonstrated that it might be used to identify vulnerable areas in a simpler manner.

abstract: M.A.


title: Effect of Geometric Imperfections (Wrinkles) on the Circumferential Strength of a Composite Polymer Liner for Pressure Pipes

contributor:
Moore, Ian D.
Fam, Amir Z.
Civil Engineering

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subject:
Geometric Imperfections
Split-Disk Test
Wrinkles
Composite Polymer Liner
Circumferential Strength

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-16 22:38:10.234

abstract:
The relining of deteriorated gravity flow and pressure pipes with polymeric liners is now popular practice. In the water industry, health concerns and challenges associated with re-opening water services in a lined small diameter pipe have limited the use of liners. Sanexen Environmental Services Inc. in Montreal, Canada, manufactures a cured-in-place liner system which can restore water service connections after lining from within the pipe, using a remote controlled robot.

The installation of the liner within cast iron water pipes can result in the formation of geometric imperfections (wrinkles) as the external diameter of the liner often exceeds the internal diameter of the host pipe. Previous studies have suggested that the wrinkles have a detrimental effect on the structural performance of the liner. In this study, experimental and analytical investigations were conducted to evaluate further the effect of the wrinkles on the circumferential (hoop) strength of the liner.

The experimental investigation involved testing 33-25 mm wide ring samples of the liner with and without wrinkles, using the split-disk test method which is defined by ASTM Standard D2290. The laboratory tests were conducted to examine the effects on the response of the liner of loading rate, cyclic loading, and presence of different wrinkle configurations. A series of two-tailed Mann-Whitney statistical tests were conducted on the obtained test data. The analytical investigation examined the behavior of two of the three types of wrinkles observed in the liner using finite element models. The results from the models were evaluated using the experimental results.

This study confirmed that the wrinkles were a source of weakness in the liner as failure was initiated at the wrinkle in all the test samples. It also showed that their presence may or may not result in a reduction in the ultimate hoop tensile capacity of the liner depending on wrinkle pattern. The loading rate had no significant effect on the first cracking load of the resin within the wrinkle. However, lower ultimate hoop tensile capacities were observed at very slow loading rates. Under the 50-year cyclic loading, the resin within the wrinkle was susceptible to cracking while the jackets of the wrinkle remained intact.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Development and Application of Non-Tapered Electrospray Emitters for Nano-ESI Mass Spectrometry

contributor:
Oleschuk, Richard
Chemistry

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subject:
Nanoelectrospray
Nano-ESI Emitter

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2008-09-17 19:07:12.847

abstract:
Nano-ESI mass spectrometry is an attractive analytical technique due to its high sensitivity and small sample consumption, which is especially important for research areas such as proteomics. However, current nano-ESI emitters become a bottleneck for nano-ESI to be widely applied because of problems such as clogging, poor robustness, large flow resistance, and poor spray efficiency for highly aqueous solutions. The objective of this thesis study is to address the problems associated with tapered emitters and provide alternative solutions by developing advanced nano-ESI emitters. Two strategies that were explored to improve the clogging resistance and robustness while maintaining comparable electrospray performances include the development of emitters with larger apertures and multiple channels.
Following these strategies, five types of emitters were fabricated without tapering either internal or external diameters, which include a roughened open tubular emitter, a porous membrane-assisted emitter, a microstructured multiple channel photonic crystal fiber (MSF) emitter, a packed ODS bead emitter, and an entrapped ODS bead emitter. The successful transformation of MSF fibers to nanoelectrospray emitters demonstrates a new practical approach to expand the application of nano-ESI because of its availability, compatibility, precisely controlled channel dimensions, variety of channel patterns, and feasibility for surface modification.
The fundamental mechanism of non-tapered emitters was studied at nano flow rates. The fact that a plume of mist, instead of single Taylor cone, is generated from multiple channel emitters at nano flow rates suggests multiple Taylor cones may be formed. The calculated sensitivity gains from a MSF emitter compared to a single-tip tapered emitter are related to the number of the orifices containing on a MSF emitter.
The characterization of impacts of operational parameters on nanoelectrospray performances shows that non-tapered emitters are more robust and less dependent on the emitter’s fine positioning. It was also found that unlike tapered emitters, non-tapered emitters can be positioned ten times further from the orifice of a mass spectrometer, which is greatly beneficial to online sample manipulation and purification. Furthermore, the electrospray efficiency of spraying highly aqueous solutions (e.g. 90%) was greatly improved through the hydrophobic modification of a MSF emitter exit.

abstract: PhD