title: Effects of anxiety on perceptual biases for ambiguous biological motion stimuli

contributor:
Troje, Nikolaus F.
Psychology

subject:
perception
vision
biological motion perception
anxiety

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2014-07-25 13:45:16.077

abstract: Biological motion stimuli, depicted as orthographically projected point-light or stick-figure walkers, do not contain any information about their orientation in depth. The projections of such stimuli, therefore, provide the same visual information when oriented towards the viewer as when oriented away. Even though this is the case, naïve observers display a bias to perceive the facing-towards percept more often. Some researchers have speculated that this facing-the-viewer bias may exist for sociobiological reasons. That is, mistaking another human as retreating when they are actually approaching could potentially have more severe consequences than the opposite error. This theory implies that the facing-towards percept of a biological motion stimulus is potentially more threatening. Measures of anxiety and the facing-the-viewer bias should therefore be related, as researchers have consistently found that anxious individuals display an attentional bias towards more threatening stimuli. In our first experiment, we demonstrated that individuals with greater anxiety do indeed have greater facing-the-viewer biases, and that this relationship is mediated by inhibitory ability (Chapter 2). As our first experiment was correlational in nature, we next used a between-subjects design. We showed that physical exercise, which is known to reduce anxiety, also reduces the facing-the-viewer bias for full stick figure walkers, but not for bottom- or top-half-only stimuli (Chapter 3). In our final experiment, we manipulated anxiety more directly using progressive muscle relaxation and an anxiety induction task (Chapter 4). In the latter experiment, we found that relaxation had the same effect on facing-the-viewer biases that physical exercise had, while our anxiety induction task did not affect biases significantly. In Chapter 6, we discuss the importance of these findings in the context of understanding how anxiety affects our perception of our external environment.

abstract: PhD


title: Physical Activity Promotion in Mexican Healthcare Settings: From Knowledge to Action

contributor:
Lévesque, Lucie L.
Kinesiology and Health Studies

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:
Physical Activity
Mexico
Healthcare
Knowledge Translation

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-07-27 23:24:48.168

abstract:
The rising burden of physical inactivity among Mexican adults warrants population wide intervention strategies. The healthcare setting has been recognized as an appropriate place to implement such strategies. Although physician-delivered strategies have been shown to improve patient physical activity (PA), physician counselling, prescription and referral rates remain low. Guided by the Knowledge-to-Action framework, the purpose of this dissertation was to identify gaps in Mexican physician PA prescription practices, to identify a counselling tool for addressing this gap and to implement an intervention for improving physician counselling practices.
In study 1, the PA prescription behaviour of Mexican primary care physicians (N=633) and the psychosocial factors influencing this behaviour were explored. Findings showed that only 6% of physicians regularly prescribe PA and that their perceived ability to prescribe, as well as their own PA behaviour, explain this practice.
In study 2, the informational (e.g. signage), educational (e.g. posters) and instrumental (e.g. stairs) environments of 40 primary care clinics/hospitals in Guadalajara were assessed for their potential to promote PA. The Healthcare Environment Assessment Tool was developed to assess these environments (kappa=.81). Findings showed that the instrumental environment is encouraging, but the informational and educational environments could be improved.
In study 3, a theory-based training intervention to improve PA counselling practices among primary care physicians was developed and evaluated using the RE-AIM framework. The training strategy reached 305 primary care physicians (52% female, mean age 40 years), was effective for improving physicians’ psychosocial constructs in iii the short term and PA counselling practices in the long term, was successfully adopted and consistently implemented across the state of Jalisco and was institutionalized by the Jalisco Secretary of Health.
This dissertation demonstrates that knowledge translation efforts in Mexican healthcare settings are feasible and promising for promoting evidence-based PA promotion practices. This dissertation represents the first step in that direction and sheds light on potential approaches for facilitating such efforts.

abstract: PhD


title: Identification of genes involved in biosynthesis of the archaellin N-linked glycan of the archaeon Methanococcus maripaludis

contributor:
Jarrell, Ken F.
Microbiology and Immunology

subject: Microbiology Archaea

abstract: Thesis (Master, Microbiology & Immunology) -- Queen's University, 2014-07-28 12:09:50.04

abstract: N-linked glycosylation is a post-translational protein modification that occurs in all three domains of life. Methanococcus maripaludis archaellin proteins are known to be glycosylated by a tetrasaccharide composed of N-acetylgalactosamine, a di-acetylated glucuronic acid, a modified mannuronic acid with an attached threonine, and a novel terminal sugar. Disruption of the N-glycosylation pathway has consequences for archaella assembly and function. Genes located in two adjacent operons were targeted for study based on their annotations and proximity to mmp0350, which encodes a known acetyltransferase involved in biosynthesis of the second sugar of the tetrasaccharide. Mutants carrying deletions of mmp0351, mmp0352, or mmp0353 synthesized archaellins of lower apparent molecular weight compared to wild type archaellins, and are likely modified with only a 1-sugar glycan. These deletion strains were also non-archaellated. Deletion of mmp0357 resulted in archaellated cells whose archaellins were modified with a 2-sugar glycan as suggested by Western blotting and confirmed by mass spectrometry of purified archaella. Based on their gene annotations, M. maripaludis genes mmp0350, mmp0351, mmp0352, mmp0353, and mmp0357 are hypothesized to be functionally equivalent to the Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 wbp gene cluster (wbpABEDI) involved in converting UDP-N-acetylglucosamine to UDP-2,3-diacetamido-2,3-dideoxy-D-mannuronic acid for formation of lipopolysaccharide O5-specific antigen. This hypothesis is strongly supported by the successful cross-domain complementation of the final step of the P. aeruginosa pathway.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Durability Study on Concrete Bridge Decks With  Pultruded FRP Stay-in-Place Structural Forms

contributor:
Fam, Amir Z.
Civil Engineering

subject: FRP Durability

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-07-28 19:04:00.667

abstract:
This study consists of three phases examining the durability of concrete bridge decks with stay-in-place GFRP structural forms that completely replace the bottom reinforcing bars.  Phase I examines the effect of aggressive freeze-thaw (FT) cycles on strength of small scale decks. The concern has been whether entrapped moisture may cause ‘frost-jacking’ of the form.  Eleven specimens were built, each using two spliced flat GFRP plates with T-shape ribs, spanning the gap between girders. The study simulated various surface treatments of the form as well as unbonded and bonded lap splices. The decks were cracked before being saturated and subjected to up to 300 FT cycles at +5°C to -18°C core temperatures. Some specimens were thawed without being submerged and one specimen had perforated forms for drainage.  Subsequent testing to failure showed no reduction in ultimate capacity or stiffness, despite the 23% reduction in tensile strength of GFRP coupons from the same form, because failure was governed by punching shear.
Phase II compares the GFRP form tested in Phase I to another corrugated form, using short one way slabs to trigger a shear-bond failure.  Nine slabs with different surface treatments were fabricated and some were exposed to the same FT cycles. It was clearly shown that flat-ribbed forms are superior to corrugated ones, as no loss in strength occurred after FT exposure, whereas corrugated form-specimens lost 18-21%. This is attributed to the anchorage advantage provided by the T-shape rib embedment in concrete.
In Phase III accelerated aging of the two GFRP forms is studied in 3% salt solution at 23, 40 and 55oC for up to 224 days, using 170 coupons to establish tensile strength retentions. Data were assessed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). It was shown that the tensile strength retentions of both forms were similar and reduced from 77 to 63% as the temperature increased from 23 to 55°C. Results also showed that the polymer matrix is not fully degraded by the hydrolysis as no significant changes occurred in glass transition temperature. When data was fitted in the Arrhenius service life model, it showed that after 100 years, the ribbed form will suffer more deterioration than the corrugated one as the strength retentions at a location with annual mean temperatures of 10oC were 42 and 61%, respectively.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Relationships and the Limits of Reasonable Partiality

contributor:
Kumar, Rahul
Philosophy

subject:
action theory
ethics
non-reductionism
special obligations
moral philosophy
partiality
practical reason
relationships

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2015-01-09 09:35:20.116

abstract:
The problems associated with an overly impartial moral psychology are well discussed
in the literature on utilitarianism, consequentialism, and rational decision moral theory.
Criticisms of these approaches to morality center on how they invite us to think
in terms which alienate us from those things which matter to us most, our friends
and family, our special projects, and our personal integrity. To the extent that these
criticisms are successful, they recommend viewing morality and moral reasoning in
the context of personal concerns. This inquiry is an investigation into how to understand
the reasons of partiality as genuine reasons, and to determine, broadly, how to
understand reasonable partiality.
The account presented here has descriptive and normative elements. It is descriptive
of the grounds of special responsibilities and the restrictions on what relationships
are capable to support special responsibilities. It is normative insofar as it answers
questions regarding what relationships should support special responsibilities and
what significance they should have in comparison to other important considerations.
The primary focus is on how relationships do, and should, modify a moral agent’s
practical outlook. The practical relevance of relationships is modeled on a theory of
joint action, which sets out how joint actions modify an individual’s practical outlook
by making certain considerations necessarily salient.
The resulting position is primarily deflationary with regard to the conflict between
morality, on the one hand, and partiality on the other. The joint action presentation
reveals that relationships do not need to conflict with morality, but can, and should,
incorporate moral principles into the central aims and action sequences which are their
mainstays. Reasonable partiality is simply the form of reasoning that adequately recognizes the joint enterprises that compose a person’s relationship. Accordingly,
controversial acts of reasonable partiality, such as transfers of wealth, are categorized
as substantive positions within a theory of what counts as adequate recognition, not
necessary to all partiality

abstract: PhD


title: Three Essays on Leniency Policies

contributor:
Zabojnik, Jan
Economics

subject: leniency collusion

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Economics) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-25 20:46:52.17

abstract: This thesis presents three papers in Competition Economics. The unifying theme is leniency policies from an international perspective; that is, I investigate theoretically and empirically the design and effectiveness of leniency policies in major jurisdictions: U.S. Department of Justice's Antitrust Section, European Commission's DG-COMP and Canada's Competition Bureau. A corporation (or an individual) may be granted a lenient treatment in terms of financial fine and/or jail time by confessing its (his/her) information about the collusive activity. Such policies aim at deterring and forcing desistance of this illegal practice. According to some metrics, leniency policies are very effective tools. Other metrics result in more nuanced conclusions, as tested. Using a standard method in industrial organization research with firm-level data, I estimate the effect on corporations' behavior from the amendment in 1993 of the U.S. Corporate Leniency Program. One key element for understanding the mechanisms driving a corporation's application for leniency lies in the nature of the information transferred from the applicant to the competition agency. I claim that by making the lenient fine conditional on this information, a competition agency will receive higher quality information and promote a higher welfare standard. The accrued savings in prosecution resources justifies the benefit of this conditioning. Another key element is the interaction of corporate and individual leniency policies. I claim that a competition agency should align its resources with the leniency policies in place based on two variables: the degree to which collusion affects the worker and the profit margin of collusion over the competitive level.

abstract: PhD


title: Low Carbon Fuels in the Cement Industry: Biogenic Carbon Determination Methods and Quantification of Dioxins and Furans

contributor:
Matovic, Miodrag
Pollard, Andrew
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Biogenic Carbon
Dioxins and Furans
Low Carbon Fuel
Emissions
Cement
Stack Sampling

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-07-30 13:27:00.874

abstract:
This thesis examined the introduction and potential issues associated with the introduction of low carbon fuel (LCF) within the context of a project currently in progress at the Lafarge Bath plant.

An analysis considering the stack sampling methods for acquiring polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin (PCDD)(dioxin)/polychlorinated dibenzofuran (PCDF)(furan) samples was conducted. The variance of dioxin/furan data obtained from single train and simultaneous multiple train stack sampling methods was compared. Standard deviation as a function of concentration, and confidence intervals at the 95th percentile were determined. The relationships were plotted and superimposed upon one another to determine if one of the two methods was beneficial. Results indicated that there was a benefit from the use of simultaneous multiple train sampling for sample concentrations above 129 pg toxic equivalency (TEQ)/m3.

	To comply with regulations, facilities in Ontario, California and the European Union (EU) that emit above the reporting threshold must quantify and report their emissions. Biogenic-based carbon can be quantified and deducted from the reported greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for facilities in Ontario, the EU, and under the California Article 5 policy. Biogenic-based carbon is reported separately under the California MRR. The standard ASTM D6866, BS EN 15440, or ISO 13833 can be used to determine the ratio of biogenic-based, to fossil-based carbon.  The three standards incorporate a carbon-14 radioisotope analysis. ASTM D6866 and ISO 13833 analyze the flue gas emitted into the atmosphere and BS EN 15440 analyzes a solid fuel. Carbon emissions deductions as determined by life cycle assessment (LCA) are not permitted by these regulations.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: 4 Minutes of In-Class High-Intensity Interval Activity Improves Classroom Behaviour and Selective Attention in Elementary School Children

contributor:
Gurd, Brendon J.
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
Behaviour
Cognitive function
Physical activity

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-07-30 16:52:02.678

abstract: The inclusion of adequate physical activity time within schools is difficult when curriculum time is already saturated with a focus on skills that improve academic achievement.  Time-efficient physical activity solutions that demonstrate their impact on academic achievement related outcomes are needed to prioritize physical activity within the school curricula.  FUNtervals are 4-minute high-intensity interval activities that use whole body actions to complement a storyline. The purpose of this thesis was four-fold.  1) To develop a resource of classroom appropriate high-intensity interval activities (FUNtervals) 2) to examine the effects of FUNtervals on classroom behaviour and 3) selective attention in elementary school children and lastly 4) to determine whether classroom behaviour predicts changes in selective attention following FUNtervals. Over the past two years, two separate studies have compared FUNtervals (FUN) to No Activity (NA) days using observations of off-task behaviour and administration of the d2 test of attention. Results from the first study showed mean percentages of passive and motor off-task behaviour were significantly decreased in both the grade 2 and 4 classrooms following FUNterval activity (Grade 4: Passive, MNA =29% ± 13% vs. MFUN = 25% ± 13%, p<0.05, ES= 0.31; Motor, MNA =31% ± 16% vs. MFUN = 24% ± 13%, p<0.01, ES= 0.48); Grade 2: Passive MNA =23% ± 14% vs. MFUN = 14% ± 10v, p<0.01, ES= 0.74; Motor MNA =29% ± 17% vs. MFUN = 14% ± 10%, p<=0.01, ES= 1.08) with verbal off-task behaviour decreasing in the grade 2 class only (NA=8% ± 8% vs. FUN= 5% ± 5%, p<0.05, ES= 0.45).  The second study demonstrated that students made fewer errors during the d2 test of attention (% Error; MFUN=3.4% ±0.3% vs. MNA=4.4% ±0.5%, p= 0.001, ES= 0.26) following FUNtervals. Further, a significant relationship between baseline verbal classroom behaviour and changes in selective attention following FUNtervals was observed (EComm: R=.27, P=0.03; E%: R=.27, P=0.02; CP: R=.24, P=0.05).  In supporting the priority of physical activity inclusion within schools, FUNtervals, a time-efficient and easily implemented physical activity break, can improve both classroom behaviour and selective attention in elementary school children.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Stromal Role of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma in Breast Tumourigenesis

contributor:
Nicol, Christopher J.
Pathology and Molecular Medicine

subject:
Breast Cancer
DMBA
High-Fat Diet
PPARgamma

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-01 12:44:14.23

abstract: Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed female cancer, and kills 1 in 30 Canadian women, mostly from metastatic disease. Previous studies showed PPARγ decreases breast cancer progression, but due to the many mammary gland-associated cell types expressing PPARγ, each with unique signal patterns, the mechanisms required clarification. To define the mammary stromal role of PPARγ during breast tumourigenesis, cell-type targeted PPARγ knockout (KO) mice were generated, and studied using both chemical carcinogen (DMBA) and multi-risk factor DMBA + protumourigenic high fat diet (ProHF) models. PPARγ adipocyte targeted KO mice (PPARγ-A KO) were more susceptible to DMBA and DMBA+ProHF-induced mammary tumourigenesis than wild-type (PPARγ-WT) controls. In both studies, PPARγ-A KO mice had increased mammary tumour incidences and decreased latency. PPARγ-A KOs also developed more ovarian tumours when treated with DMBA+ProHF. Dietary supplementation with the PPARγ activator rosiglitazone (ROSI) rescued tumourigenic phenotypes in PPARγ-WTs more so than PPARγ-A KOs. Mechanistic studies unveiled untreated PPARγ-A KOs had significantly decreased BRCA1 expression in mammary stromal adipocytes, decreased circulating IL-2, IL-13 and MIP-1α, and increased serum leptin. BRCA1 regulates aromatase in adipocytes, IL-2, IL-13 and MIP-1α stimulate immune surveillance, and leptin promotes tumour cell proliferation and angiogenesis. These novel findings suggest that loss of PPARγ in mammary stromal adipocytes exerts both local and systemic protumourigenic signaling changes contributing to breast and ovarian tumourigenesis, and that use of ROSI may be beneficial to some patients. Since human use of ROSI is limited due to peripheral edema, which may stem from vascular endothelial cell (VEC) effects, PPARγ-VEC KO mice were used to unravel the mechanisms. In contrast to PPARγ-WTs, PPARγ-VEC KOs resisted extracellular fluid increases and plasma volume expansion in response to ROSI. FAK and VE-cadherin were also dramatically increased in PPARγ-VEC KO endothelial cell junctions compared to PPARγ-WTs. These studies directly unveil the mechanisms of TZD-induced edema and identify biomarkers to improve the therapeutic window for PPARγ agonists. In the long-term, these studies may help identify susceptible populations, and serve as the basis for novel treatments to prevent deaths among the 24,000 Canadians diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014.

abstract: Restricted to allow for time to publish 2 chapters.

abstract: PhD


title: Topology, Control, and Design of LLC Resonant Converters

contributor:
Liu, Yan-Fei
Sen, Paresh C.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
load sharing
switched-mode power supplies
current sensing
charge control
Resonant power conversion
transient response
interleaving

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-01 14:42:25.416

abstract:
Data centers and supercomputers have become the backbone to support today’s scientific researches, economic developments, and individual lives. The power consumption of data centers and supercomputers are enormously high, bringing the urgency of improving energy efficiency of the power conversion systems.
The LLC resonant converter emerged in recent years. As an element of the front-end AC-DC power conversion systems, it brought significant efficiency improvement and has been popularly deployed. However, surrounding the LLC topology there are still several problems unsolved, including: (a) interleaving problem, (b) current sensing problem, (c) poor dynamic performance problem, and (d) peak gain design problem.
The works in this thesis include several original ideas to solve above problems:
Firstly, an SCC-LLC topology is proposed, featuring constant switching frequency operation to solve the interleaving problem.
Secondly, theoretical analysis reveals that the constant frequency operation compromises the converter’s operation range to some degree. A new control strategy featuring variable switching frequency is proposed to achieve lower cost and better performance than its constant frequency counterpart.
Thirdly, upon solving the interleaving problem, it is recognized that existing current sensing methods bring inaccuracy to the load sharing performance, as well as low bandwidth to the current-mode control. A cycle-by-cycle average input current sensing method is proposed obtain per-cycle average input current based on sampling the resonant capacitor voltage, which is simple, accurate, with no delay, and virtually has no cost.
Fourthly, inspired by the cycle-by-cycle average input current sensing method, a Bang-Bang Charge Control (BBCC) method is proposed to achieve very fast dynamic performance. The feedback loop bandwidth can achieve 1/6 of switching frequency at all operation conditions.
Lastly, it is recognized that the design method of the LLC converter lacks an accurate and comprehensive mathematical solution. An accurate design algorithm is derived based on time-domain analysis to identify all the possible designs that provide the exact peak gain. The results of this algorithm will help identify the optimal design.
Simulation models are developed to prove the accuracy of the proposed theories and algorithms. Prototype circuits are built to demonstrate the advantages of the proposed circuits and control methods.

abstract: PhD


title: The Mammary Epithelial Contribution Of PPARγ In Breast Tumourigenesis

subject:
Knockout Mouse Model
Chemical Carcinogenesis
Breast cancer
Mammary Epithelial Cells
Mammary Secretory Epithelial Cells
PPARγ

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-01 14:15:35.432

abstract: Previous studies with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ heterozygous mice suggest PPARγ normally suppresses 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced breast tumour progression, but the mechanisms and cell types involved remain unknown. This thesis elucidates the mammary epithelial role of PPARγ during DMBA- and multi-risk factor (DMBA+protumourigenic high fat diet (ProHF))-mediated breast tumourigenesis. Studies were performed using nulliparous mammary epithelial (MG) cell- and postlactational mammary secretory epithelial (MSE) cell-targeted PPARγ knockout (KO) mice. Surprisingly, the first study revealed that PPARγ-MG KOs had decreased DMBA-induced mammary tumourigenesis compared to congenic wildtype (PPARγ-WT) controls. In contrast, cotreatment with a PPARγ activator was protective in PPARγ-WTs, but worsened breast tumour progression in PPARγ-MG KOs. In the second study, MSE-targeted PPARγ deletion generated a significantly increased protumourigenic mammary gland microenvironment and enhanced DMBA-mediated breast tumourigenesis, suggestive of critical epithelial-stromal cell crosstalk. Cotreatment with a PPARγ activator was protective in PPARγ-WT but not PPARγ-MSE KOs during DMBA- induced mammary tumourigenesis, suggesting critical antibreast cancer signaling within MSEs is PPARγ-dependent. In the third study, DMBA+ProHF treatment significantly increased primary breast tumourigenesis in PPARγ-WTs and lung metastases among PPARγ-MSE KOs. Cotreatment with a PPARγ activator was protective only among PPARγ-WTs. Collectively, these data unveil PPARγ expression and signaling in MG and MSE cells as a candidate prognostic and predictive biomarker for breast cancer, and add further support for the novel chemotherapeutic role of PPARγ activation for a subpopulation of breast cancer patients.

abstract:
Please note we are requesting the archival copy of this thesis file be restricted until such time as the remainder of his manuscripts are accepted for publication.

We understand that this will limit the archival copy of the thesis from placement in QSpace, Library and Archives Canada, and ProQuest, and restrict copies of the thesis submitted to the School of Graduate Studies from binding, microfilming or deposit in any library. We also understand this restriction has a maximum 5 year time limit, and will endeavour to release the thesis from restriction as quickly as possible.

abstract: PhD


title: Behavioral Profiles of Bullying and Victimization in Adolescents With Special Needs

contributor:
Kelley, Elizabeth
Psychology

subject:
Autism
Executive Function
Victimization

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-02 07:56:32.404

abstract:
The defining criteria of ASD include impairments in social interaction and communication, and repetitive or stereotyped behaviors (APA, 2000). Compared to typical developing (TD) children, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) spend more time alone and less time interacting in social situations (Humphrey & Symes, 2010). In addition, they report having few, if any, friends and are often excluded from the peer group (Wainscot, Naylor, Sutcliffe, Tantam, & Williams, 2008). Over the last decade a number of studies have emerged that consistently show that children and adolescents with ASD are at greater risk of victimization than their TD peers (Cappadocia et al., 2012; Humphrey & Symes, 2011; Little, 2002; Symes & Humphrey, 2010; Rowley et al., 2012; Van Roekel et al., 2010; Wainscot et al., 2008). Thus, the primary goals of the current research were: 1) to examine the involvement in types of bullying behavior by adolescent boys with ASD, and 2) to determine whether two factors, pragmatic language and executive functioning (EF), may contribute to the elevated risk of peer victimization experienced by this population.
	The first chapter of this dissertation provides a general introduction to the current research problem. The second chapter presents a manuscript that outlines the types and frequency of bullying behaviors experienced by adolescent boys with ASD in comparison to a group of special needs (SN) peers and a group of TD adolescents. It was found that adolescents with ASD reported more social isolation in comparison to the other two groups and more physical bullying than their TD peers. This chapter also highlights the agreement found between parental and self-reports of bullying behavior experienced by adolescents with SN.
	The third chapter presents a manuscript that investigates deficits in EF and pragmatic language as possible predictors of bullying behavior in adolescents with and without ASD.  Results revealed that EF was a significant predictor of physical, social, and verbal victimization for the adolescent boys with and without ASD. In the fourth chapter, research findings are discussed in the broader context of the existing literature. Implications, limitations, recruitment issues, and directions for future research are also addressed.

abstract: PhD


title: Ultrasound-based Tissue Typing Using RF Time Series: Clinical Feasibility Studies and Applications

contributor:
Mousavi, Parvin
Abolmaesumi, Purang
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
RF time series
Prostate cancer
Ablation
Tissue characterization

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-06 09:02:33.565

abstract:
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy, and the second leading cancer-related cause of death in North American men. If diagnosed early, PCa can be managed with a 5-year relative survival rate above 95%. The current standard for PCa diagnosis involves ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy; however, the biopsy procedure is not scaled to individual patients due to the lack of sensitivity and specificity of conventional ultrasound images. Previously, a tissue typing approach was proposed that uses ultrasound RF time series acquired from a stationary transducer and tissue position over a few seconds. The goal in this thesis is to present clinical feasibility studies and new applications using RF time series. We pursue this goal in the context of three studies involving: i) prediction of cancer for in vivo radical prostatectomy cases, ii) prediction of cancer following prostate biopsy, and iii) prediction of changes to the tissue following interstitial ablation therapy. Finally, in simulation and controlled laboratory experiments, we explore the rise of tissue temperature as a potential source of tissue typing information in RF time series.

In the in vivo clinical study involving prostatectomy cases, PCa likelihood maps are generated using a computer-aided intervention solution that takes advantage of ultrasound RF time series features. In a cross-validation framework, and by using an ultrasound to histology registration, an area under receiver operating characteristic (AUC) of 0.93 is achieved for PCa detection. We also provide cancer likelihood maps and predict the pathology of MRI-identified targets in biopsy cores with an AUC of 0.91. Using a new approach for fusion of RF time series data and without the need for exhaustive search in the feature space, we achieve comparable classification results with those obtained previously using a feature selection approach to characterize PCa in vivo. Moreover, the application of ultrasound RF time series imaging to differentiate ablated and non-ablated tissue results in the cross-validation accuracy of 84.5%, and an AUC of 0.91 for ex vivo data, and an accuracy of 85% for in situ data.

abstract: Versions of Chapters 3 and 5 of my thesis have been submitted for two journal papers. After completion of the publication procedure, I will be happy to release my thesis to be available for everyone.

abstract: PhD


title: The Role of Interleukin-17A in Inflammatory Bowel Disease-related Neural Plasticity

contributor:
Lomax, Alan E.
Physiology

subject:
Inflammation
Sympathetic nervous system
Enteric Nervous System
Neural Plasticity

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-06 16:04:51.661

abstract:
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract that cause impairments in GI functions, as well as structural and functional plasticity to the innervation of gut that regulates these functions. T helper-17 lymphocytes and interleukin (IL)-17A are crucial to the pathogenesis of IBD and intestinal inflammation. Recent studies in mice report that IL-17A promotes postganglionic sympathetic neurite outgrowth, inhibits voltage-dependent Ca2+ influx and likely contributes to neuroanatomical plasticity within the inflamed GI tract. We hypothesized that IL-17A contributes to sympathetic neuroanatomical remodelling in the colon of patients with IBD and is also capable of signalling to neurons of the enteric nervous system.
	Mucosal biopsy supernatants from patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) enhanced neurite outgrowth of mouse sympathetic neurons compared to supernatants from control patients. The enhanced outgrowth was abolished when a neutralizing IL-17A antiserum was added. Supernatants from patients with ulcerative colitis did not enhance sympathetic neurite outgrowth, but addition of the neutralizing IL-17A antiserum reduced outgrowth. Despite the growth-promoting effect of the inflammatory milieu from patients with CD, tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactivity, a marker of sympathetic axons, was reduced within inflamed regions of resected colon specimens from patients with CD compared to uninflamed regions and control patients without IBD.
	Since enteric neurons also express the IL-17 receptor-A, we examined the effect of IL-17A on myenteric neuron Ca2+ signaling and neurite outgrowth. Depolarization-induced Ca2+ signaling was doubled in IL-17A-treated neurons relative to controls. IL-17A also increased myenteric neuron neurite complexity, and promoted the proliferation of enteric glial cells. The enhanced neurite complexity was abrogated by the mitotic inhibitor cytosine arabinoside. Although the colons of mice with acute dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) colitis had an elevated amount of IL-17A, there was no difference in myenteric neuron depolarization-induced Ca2+ signaling. Myenteric neurons from mice with acute DSS colitis also had enhanced neurite outgrowth, but a reduction in glial cell proliferation compared to cultures from control mice. These findings suggest that IL-17A signals to the innervation of the gut and likely contributes to the effects of inflammation on these neural circuits.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Experimental Measurement and Computational Simulation of the Flow in the Queen’s University Low Speed Wind Tunnel

contributor:
Birk, Michael A.
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Low Speed Wind Tunnel
Computational Fluid Dynamics

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-08 16:31:57.799

abstract:
The undisturbed flow behavior in the Queen’s University Low Speed Wind Tunnel was investigated experimentally and computationally. The velocity profiles, turbulent parameters, boundary layer and corner effects were detailed by traversing the lower left quadrant of the wind tunnel with a seven-hole pressure probe and uniaxial constant temperature hot-wire anemometer. The research goal was to provide a complete reference data set as a comparison standard for future experimental work. The flow in the wind tunnel was verified using computational fluid dynamics in order to present the model requirements and inlet conditions required to accurately simulate the flow.
The experimental results indicated that the LSWT was capable of producing a mean axial flow speed of 30 – 31 m/s, dependent on ambient conditions and atmospheric wind speeds, in a 1 m2 test section. Measurements were collected under a variety of external weather conditions and it was determined that the average transient and spatial flow deviation from the mean was on the order of 1.5% and 0.5% respectively. The boundary layer thickness at the exit of the test section was found to be 10 cm above the floor and the corner effects were determined to extend 15 cm into the test section. The turbulent intensity reached 10% at the wall boundaries decaying to a constant uniform value of 3% in the center.
Computational simulations were performed for three specific sets of experimental data. The results indicated that the mean axial velocity was predicted with an average deviation of 0.5%. Solution results were extrapolated 1 m downstream from the contraction exit plane, averaged and used to provide reference inlet conditions to a simplified test section model. The turbulence model applied to the solution was varied; the Spalart-Allmaras, k-ε, k-ω, and the blended k-ω SST models were able to resolve the turbulent distribution and flow behavior in a comparable manner. The flow was predicted within the bounds of engineering accuracy, the discrepancy in the simulated and experimental mean velocity ranged from 0.4% to 0.02%.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Shock Ignition of N-Heptane With Supplemental Hydrogen

contributor:
Ciccarelli, Gabriel
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Hydrogen
Shock Tube
n-heptane
Ignition Delay

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-09-12 14:11:54.032

abstract: The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of adding molecular hydrogen to a mixture of n-heptane (surrogate for diesel fuel) and air on ignition delay time at prototypic post-compression diesel engine conditions. Ignition delay time data was measured using the reflected shock wave technique at a pressure of 20 bar (representative of part load engine conditions), for three fuel equivalence ratios (ϕ = 0.833, 1, 1.25) over a temperature range of 700 K to 1150 K. The ignition delay time data, obtained for all heptane-hydrogen fuel combinations and fuel-air equivalence ratios, is characterized by a negative temperature coefficient region between 800 K and 1000 K. This is shown to be consistent with known intermediate temperature large hydrocarbon molecular kinetics.  For prototypic diesel post-compression temperatures of less than 1000 K the addition of hydrogen to n-heptane-air, for all three equivalence ratios, resulted in an increase in the measured ignition delay time. This increase was the result of hydrogen acting as a diluent due to the relatively slow dissociation compared to heptane. Therefore, although hydrogen addition to the diesel fuel is expected to reduce soot, it will have a negative impact on the cetane number. However, the impact is expected to be very small as 20% hydrogen addition on average only increases the ignition delay time by 8%. For temperatures above 1000 K, the fast decomposition of hydrogen provides free radicals that speed up the n-heptane abstraction process that result in a reduction in ignition delay time. The ignition delay time prediction using a constant volume model with the Lund reaction mechanism [1] was satisfactory. There was a negative 50 K temperature shift in the computed ignition delay time, compared to the measured data that can be attributed to the zero velocity approximation of the constant volume model. For all three equivalence ratios the constant volume model predicted the increase in ignition delay time with hydrogen addition for temperatures below 1000 K, and the decrease for temperatures above 1000 K.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Mercury biotransport via migratory birds and food web biomagnification influenced by geospatial patterns

contributor:
Campbell, Linda M.
Biology

subject:
Mercury
Stable Isotopes
Aquatic Ecosystems
Geographic Information System
Bird Migration
Contaminants Biotransport
Trophic Transfer
Meta-analysis

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-12 15:58:00.135

abstract:
Intrinsic physico-chemical characteristics, trophic transfer and preexisting mercury (Hg) in aquatic ecosystems are ultimate drivers influencing accumulation and mercury concentrations ([Hg]) in organisms in a food web. Moreover, migration between aquatic systems is believed to greatly influence intraspecific [Hg] in fish-eating birds due to differential Hg accumulation during their annual migration cycle. Birds can therefore biologically transport Hg across long distances. Here, I investigated the geospatial variation of Hg pertaining to (1) Hg biomagnification in aquatic food webs, and (2) biologically-mediated transport of Hg via fish-eating birds through migration.
First, I examined total Hg (THg) and methyl Hg (MeHg) biomagnification rates in aquatic food webs by compiling data from 205 sites worldwide. There was an effect of latitude on THg and MeHg food web biomagnification rates. Biomagnification rates in freshwater sites increased with dissolved organic carbon and decreased with total phosphorus and atmospheric Hg deposition. These results suggest that Hg biomagnification rates are highest in cold and low-productivity systems.
Second, I examined the importance of migration on [Hg] in two migratory fish-eating bird species, the Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) and the Caspian Tern (Hydroprogne caspia) breeding in Lake Ontario. Temporal trends of [Hg] and stable isotopes of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) during birds’ annual migration cycle was determined by sampling breast feathers and blood in recaptured individuals. I found Hg carryover in bird tissues from winter to summer, which is indicative of biologically-mediated transport of Hg. Slow changes in [Hg] over time were found for individuals with high winter exposure, suggesting a slow depuration rate and a fast uptake rate. I characterized (1) overwintering habitats by combining stable isotopes of sulfur (δ34S), δ13C, and δ15N, and (2) overwintering areas using stable isotopes of hydrogen (δ2H) in winter feathers. High [Hg] were found in birds overwintering in habitats characterized by food webs supported by benthic and C4 primary production. Higher [Hg] were found in birds overwintering in southernmost locations. Winter feather [Hg] were related to [Hg] in fish based on bird spatial assignments.
Overall, these findings show that geospatial patterns and physico-chemistry are critically important to explain Hg biomagnification in aquatic food webs, and bioaccumulation and biotransport in fish-eating birds.

abstract: PhD


title: Dynamic Channel Selection in Cognitive Radio WiFi Networks

contributor:
Gazor, Saeed
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
CORAL
Cognitive Radio
WiFi
Dynamic Channel Selection

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-22 14:47:20.431

abstract:
Increased wireless network intelligence and interference awareness enabled by cognitive radio can lead to improved spectrum utilization and network performance. This thesis proposes a novel Dynamic Channel Selection (DCS) algorithm based around a cognitive radio platform developed by Communications Research Centre Canada (CRC). The proposed algorithm leverages the underlying cognitive radio platform to continuously monitor and dynamically adjust the channels of the network based on identified WiFi interference sources, thus relieving the network operator of having to manually configure and update the channels across the network.

In recent years, the widespread adoption and deployment of WiFi networks has led to congestion and interference issues as there are only three non-overlapping channels in the 2.4GHz band where the majority of WiFi networks operate today. The proposed algorithm can detect both intra-network and external interference allowing it to vary the networks channels thereby reducing congestion and increasing throughput. Three tailoring factors allow the algorithm to be customized for various network environments and reduce unnecessary channel changes. An extensive performance evaluation is presented with field experiments in both rural and urban environments as well as the network simulation software, ns-3. The results demonstrate significant improvement in terms of throughput, spectrum efficiency as well as robustness to variations in the interference. The main contribution of this work is a DCS algorithm that uses a weighted edge graph to autonomously monitor and adjust a WiFi networks channels based on a variety of interference sources. The algorithm outperforms the current state of the art DCS algorithm and is the first of its kind to be implemented in a large scale cognitive radio field deployment.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Unintentional Learning of Musical Pitch Hierarchy

contributor:
Cuddy, Lola L.
Troje, Nikolaus F.
Psychology

subject:
Unintentional Learning
Music Psychology

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-14 10:18:10.242

abstract:
It has been proposed that our knowledge about music is acquired passively, without intention, through exposure to music (Zatorre & Salimpoor, 2013). Research has shown that the mental tonal hierarchy of a listener, as assessed by the probe tone technique, often reflects the pitch hierarchy of the music to which the listener has been exposed (Castellano, Bharucha, & Krumhansl, 1984; Lantz, Kim, & Cuddy, 2013). The pitch hierarchy is reflected by the frequency with which each pitch class occurs, i.e., a first-order probability system. However, research concerned with the acquisition of statistical rules in music has only explored learning of second-order probability systems (Loui, Wessel, & Hudson Kam, 2010).
In a series of experiments, I aimed to explore the possibility of unintentional learning of musical pitch hierarchy, a first-order probability system. For this purpose, I assessed participants’ sensitivity to frequency information contained in brief excerpts of a novel musical system. I also assessed whether short exposure to a novel musical system would influence participants’ representation of pitch hierarchy, and whether participants would be able to distinguish the novel musical system from another musical system to which they were not exposed.
Participants with more music training exhibited higher sensitivity to frequency information contained in a novel musical system than participants with little music training. The sensitivity to frequency information was correlated with the amount of music training that participants had received. However, the mental representation of pitch hierarchy of participants with little music training was more influenced by the pitch hierarchy of the musical system to which they were exposed, whereas the mental representation of pitch hierarchy participants with more music training remained unchanged.
The results suggest that unintentional learning of musical pitch hierarchy is influenced by the amount of music training participants have received. Overall, these findings provide evidence supporting the third proposition of the Theory of Tonal Hierarchies in Music (Krumhansl & Cuddy, 2010), which states that listeners are able to quickly adapt to the tonal hierarchies of unfamiliar music.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Electromagnetic instrument tracking in computer-assisted interventions

contributor:
Fichtinger, Gabor
Hashtrudi-Zaad, Keyvan
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
Navigation
Electromagnetic tracking
Computer-assisted interventions

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-15 14:54:21.121

abstract:
Accurate localization of medical instruments with respect to patient anatomy is an integral part of computer-assisted interventions. Electromagnetic tracking is the primary choice, particularly for minimally invasive procedures subject to visual tracking occlusion.

However, electromagnetic measurements are susceptible to field distortion by magnetic and electrically-conductive objects, including medical imaging devices, equipment, and instruments. Furthermore, in the majority of applications it is infeasible to mount electromagnetic sensors directly on the distal end of the instruments (tool tip); thus, the sensors are placed at the proximal end to indirectly observe the tool tip. In this case, measurement orientation error as well as instrument deflection can lead to significant tool tip tracking error. In clinical environments, the resulting tracking error can be in the order of a few centimeters. Unless compensated for, this error may severely compromise the outcome of the procedure.

This research is aimed to alleviate the aforementioned electromagnetic instrument tracking limitations. We present advanced methods for dynamic field distortion compensation and deflection estimation. Specifically, we propose to integrate the motion model of the tracked instrument with the sensor observations and apply a simultaneous localization and mapping algorithm to both accurately estimate the pose of the instrument and create a map of the field distortion in real-time for dynamic calibration. Furthermore, for flexible instruments, such as needles, we propose deflection estimation methods that anticipate instrument bending during insertion into deformable tissue. These methods rely on statistical sensor fusion techniques to combine kinematic deflection models with the position measurements in order to reduce the estimation error caused by uncertainties inherent in electromagnetic measurements and in the quantification of deflection model parameters.

For field distortion compensation, we conducted experiments in the presence of ferromagnetic and conductive field distorting objects, then compared our results to alternative statistical fusion methods. For instrument deflection estimation, we evaluated the performance of our multi sensor fusion approach during simulated needle insertions and brachytherapy phantom experiments. We also performed sensitivity analysis for plausible intra-operative conditions. With reduced tracking error and improved deflection estimation, our approach is promising for reliable electromagnetic navigation in various image-guided medical interventions.

abstract: Part of the research is reported to ParteQ in order to obtain a patent.

abstract: PhD


title: Geochemical and Microbial Assessment of the Unconformity-Related Uranium Prospectivity of the Hawk Rapids Area, Southeastern Athabasca Basin, Canada

contributor: Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering

subject:
Hawk Rapids
Exploration Geochemistry
Methanogenesis
Microbial Oxidation
Athabasca Basin
Pyrolysis
Methanotrophy
Unconformity-Related Uranium Deposits

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geological Sciences & Geological Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-16 13:35:27.419

abstract:
Hawk Rapids is a uranium exploration project located in the southeastern part of the Athabasca Basin, in Saskatchewan, Canada. Geochemical and mineralogical assessments of drill core from Hawk Rapids were used to evaluate the possibility of an unconformity-related uranium deposit occurring within the area. The mineral evolution of this area spans the pre-Athabasca Basin period through diagenesis to post hydrothermal alteration events. Pre-Athabasca alteration is characterized by muscovite and clinochlore while early to late diagenesis is represented by early hematite, quartz overgrowths, dickite and illite. These events were followed by dravite, both in the basement and sandstone units, kaolinite, pyrite, minor coffinite, uraninite, and siderite, which mark the hydrothermal evolution of the area. Post-hydrothermal activity is marked by the late influx of meteoric water, which resulted in formation of late kaolinite.
	The alteration fluids at Hawk Rapids have three distinct isotopic compositions associated with these stages of evolution. The fluid in equilibrium with pre-Athabasca alteration minerals has an isotopic composition similar to that of modified seawater or low latitude meteoric waters. Basinal brines with a meteoric component characterize the fluid in equilibrium with illite, which represents the diagenetic mineral assemblage. The precipitation of dravite in the hydrothermal stage records a mixture of both basement modified and basinal brines.
	Radiogenic Pb leached from the drill core samples at Hawk Rapids was derived from both internal and external sources. The breakdown of uranium-rich heavy minerals such as apatite, zircon and monazite make up the internal sources while other uranium-rich sources such as possible proximal uranium deposits constitute external sources.
	Microbial methane production coupled with methane consumption (microbial methane oxidation) are the major microbial activities associated with unconformity-related uranium at Hawk Rapids. The activities of these microbes are most pronounced near the unconformity where there is secondary dispersion of uranium and associated pathfinder elements that serve as nutrients. This work shows that the integration of both geochemical and mineralogical data is an effective tool in evaluating the prospectivity of an area for possible unconformity-related uranium deposits.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Control of a Nonlinear Mach-Zehnder Interferometer for Regeneration Using Digital Signal Processing

contributor:
Cartledge, John C.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
Digital signal processing
Optical regeneration

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-18 10:30:18.346

abstract:
Transmission impairments degrade the quality of optical signals and limit the transmission reach. Phase modulated signals are susceptible to both amplitude and phase noises. Optical regenerators based on nonlinear Mach Zehnder interferometers (NMZIs) are able to suppress them both. To use a NMZI as a regenerator, the frequency of the pump signal must be kept close to that of the data carrier and the phase difference between the data and pump signals needs to be aligned with the phase transfer curve. A digital signal processing (DSP) based control method is proposed and demonstrated in this thesis.

The method uses a coherent receiver with DSP to estimate the frequency offset and phase difference between the input data and pump signals. A control signal is generated according to the estimation results for a frequency and phase shifter to adjust the pump signal. System performance of regenerators with the control method for 43 Gb/s DPSK signals is evaluated by simulation. The sampling rate of the analog-to-digital converter (ADC) in coherent receiver is 335.94 MSa/s, which largely reduces the complexity and cost. The simulations assume all the samples are obtained at bit centers for simplicity. The validity of this assumption is demonstrated.

Experimental 40 Gb/s DPSK signal is detected using an optical modulation analyzer (OMA). Signals are collected at an OSNR of 20.7 dB, corresponding to an error free condition. Frequency offset and phase estimation is performed using the collected data with both the fast Fourier transform (FFT) and moving average method at 40 GSa/s and the proposed method at 312.5 MSa/s. The two methods give results of minor difference. After frequency offset correction and interpolation, the experimental data are used as the input DPSK signals in the simulations to evaluate the system performance.

Cascadability of the regenerator with the proposed control method is demonstrated in recirculating loop simulations using both simulation and experimental DPSK signals. The experimental data are collected when no noise is added. The error free transmission distance is greatly increased by using the NMZI-based regenerators with the proposed control method.

abstract: PhD


title: Can sedentary time attenuate the acute effect of exercise on insulin action?

contributor:
Ross, Robert
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
Insulin action
Sedentary time
Physical activity
Exercise

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-20 10:18:55.674

abstract:
Impaired insulin action predicts the development of type 2 diabetes.  Evidence is growing that sedentary time (SED) is a risk factor for morbidity and mortality, independent of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels.  While it is clear from large-scale epidemiological studies that SED is associated with impaired insulin action, higher levels of evidence from intervention studies are sorely lacking.  The objective of the present investigation was to determine whether a pragmatic 1 hour increase in daily SED for 4 days could mask the acute effect of exercise on insulin action.
	The study enrolled 15 sedentary, abdominally obese men and women.  Participants completed 3 conditions, each of which was 4 days in length.  A counterbalanced randomized crossover design was used, in which participants served as their own controls.  In the baseline condition participants were instructed to maintain habitual levels of PA.  In the exercise condition participants were asked to perform 1 hour of supervised moderate-to-vigorous exercise per day.  In the exercise + sedentary condition participants completed 1 hour of moderate-to-vigorous exercise per day and were also asked to increase daily SED by 1 hour from baseline.  PA and SED were assessed using accelerometry.  Measurements of insulin action were obtained from an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) performed in the fasting state the morning after the 4 days of each condition.
	Unexpectedly, SED in the exercise condition decreased from baseline (9:28±0:45hr:min vs. 8:14±1:07hr:min, p<0.001), whereas SED was maintained at baseline levels in the exercise + sedentary condition.  The exercise and exercise + sedentary conditions were therefore renamed as ‘exercise – sedentary’ and ‘exercise’, respectively.  Insulin action was improved following the exercise – sedentary condition in comparison to baseline (1601±657pmol/L2h vs. 1181±419pmol/L2h, p<0.01).  An improvement in insulin action was also observed in the exercise condition by comparison to baseline (1601±657pmol/L2h vs. 1362±456pmol/L2h, p<0.05).  The improvement in insulin action following the exercise – sedentary condition in comparison to the exercise condition approached statistical significance but was not statistically significant (1362±456pmol/L2h vs. 1181±419pmol/L2h, p=0.058).
	These findings provide preliminary evidence in support of the notion that SED, in addition to the adoption of PA, may be an important behaviour to target for management of insulin action.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Mineral Asset Valuation Codes: Towards an International Standard

contributor:
Davidson, Jeffrey
Mining Engineering

subject: mining, valuation, evaluation, mineral economics, CIMVAL, VALMIN, SAMVAL, GN14, GN-14, GN 14, IVSC, IVS

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mining Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-19 12:53:40.057

abstract:
To facilitate an efficient process of asset price determination in minerals industry markets, participants require materially complete, accurate, and timely disclosure of information. The standardization of reporting related to mineral assets evolved out of a recognition of the need for such information. However, development of an international mineral asset valuation code has lagged behind similar efforts for technical reporting of reserves and resources.
A review of existing national mineral asset valuation codes in Australia, Canada, and South Africa indicated broad compatibility of these codes with respect to developing an international standard. The existing national codes provide a firm foundation on which to base a harmonized global standard, including valuation principles, common definitions, and code structure. While a previously existent standard, Guidance Note 14, developed by the International Valuation Standards Committee (IVSC) was withdrawn in 2010, the emergence of the International Mineral Valuation (IMVAL) Committee and a new IVSC Extractive Industries Expert Group in 2012, suggests new hope for a global standard.
A series of interviews were conducted in order to assess the viability of developing an international mineral asset valuation code, and to determine the current state of valuation reporting standards. Interviewees included market regulators, valuation professionals, representatives of minerals professional organizations, and other individuals identified as key persons in the development of mineral asset valuation codes. These interviews in combination with a review of existing valuation reporting codes and practices indicated that the industry would be best placed to adopt the International Valuation Standards (IVS) and develop an Extractives Industry Standard as well as an Extractives Industry Technical Paper to be incorporated into a subsequent edition of the IVS.
An analysis of the business case for an international mineral asset valuation code indicated the urgency of developing such a code. The severe access to capital constraints faced by the industry in 2013, in
combination with generally declining market conditions indicate a need to attract alternative forms of financing which would be better facilitated through improved reporting. The expansion of the market for valuation services and reduced regulatory compliance costs were also identified as key benefits.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Selective damage to and protection of enteric neurons in vitro in models of ischemia and reperfusion

contributor:
Blennerhassett, Michael G.
Neuroscience Studies

subject: Enteric Inflammation Hypoxia Neurons GDNF Ischemia ENS Reperfusion

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-19 13:31:24.434

abstract:
The dysregulation of motility typical in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) indicates involvement of the enteric nervous system (ENS). Indeed, animal models of IBD have demonstrated that intestinal inflammation is typified by the early loss of enteric neurons. It has been proposed that ischemia may occur in intestinal inflammation, due to the organization of splanchnic circulation combined with local inflammatory damage. Therefore, we hypothesized that the ENS experiences ischemic challenge in inflammation, which we investigated by probing for hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α (HIF1-α) in the 2, 4, 6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-model of colitis in adult rats. By Day 2 of TNBS-induced colitis, HIF1-α presence in the nuclei of myenteric neurons had significantly increased, indicating hypoxic challenge.
Despite the potential for ischemia to occur in inflammation, little is known about the impact of the resultant metabolic inhibition on enteric neurons. We further hypothesized that metabolic challenge would cause neuronal damage. Glucose deprivation, hypoxia and treatment with an electron transport chain (ETC) uncoupler caused neuron loss and axonal damage in in vitro co-cultures of myenteric neurons, intestinal smooth muscle cells and glia. Furthermore, we investigated the potential impact of subsequent reperfusion on myenteric neurons by resupplying glucose following a period of deprivation. Resupply of glucose was observed to cause acute neuron loss in vitro.
Lastly, if the ENS is damaged by ischemia and ischemia-reperfusion, it is then important to investigate methods of neuroprotection. In the CNS, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and HIF1-α have both been demonstrated to be neuroprotective during metabolic inhibition. In co-cultures, GDNF was observed to prevent neuron loss by an ETC uncoupler or glucose deprivation. Hypoxic preconditioning also protected against neuron damage in a HIF1- α dependent manner. We concluded that the ENS is vulnerable to ischemia and ischemia-reperfusion occurring in inflammation. Further, GDNF and HIF1-α can be neuroprotective during metabolic challenge.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Febrile Temperature Facilitates Degradation of Human Ether-a-Go-Go-Related Gene (hERG) Channels

contributor:
Zhang, Shetuan
Physiology

subject:
hERG
K+ channel
LQTS
Fever

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-20 16:47:53.471

abstract: The human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) encodes the α subunit of the rapidly activating delayed rectifier K+ channel (IKr), which plays an essential role in human cardiac repolarization. Dysfunction of hERG caused by genetic mutations or drug-mediated effects can lead to long QT syndrome (LQTS), predisposing affected individuals to cardiac arrhythmias, syncope, and sudden death. Recently, studies have reported roles for fever in triggering QT prolongation and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias in patients with congenital hERG mutations or in those with no familial or medical history related to LQTS. In contrast, cell culture at low temperature (27°C) can rescue mutation-related or drug-induced reduction in hERG expression and function in Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK) 293 cells stably expressing hERG channels. In this study, I investigated the hypothesis that hERG channel function is altered by increased temperature, the potential mechanisms responsible, and the role of such effect on fever-precipitated LQTS. Since hypokalemia (a low serum K+ concentration) accentuates hERG degradation and may occur concomitantly with fever, I also examined the effect of febrile temperature on hERG under low-K+ conditions. Using Western blot, electrophysiological, and immunocytochemical analyses, I found that culturing cells at febrile temperature (40°C) specifically reduced the expression and current amplitude of wild type (WT) hERG stably expressed in HEK293 cells. This reduction of cell-surface hERG is through accelerated degradation, mediated by extracellular K+: the K+ concentration to maintain half maximum of hERG conductance (EC50) was shifted from 0.5 mM at 37°C to 1.6 mM at 40°C after overnight cultures; and low K+-insensitive hERG mutations S624T and F627Y completely abolished both hypokalemia-and febrile temperature-induced reduction of IhERG. In neonatal rat ventricular myocytes, both febrile temperature and hypokalemia prolonged the cardiac action potential and selectively reduced IKr. Also, the in-vivo rabbit model showed that fever and hypokalemia induced in rabbits synergistically prolonged the QT interval on the electrocardiogram (ECG). These results indicate that febrile temperature may facilitate the development of LQTS through expediting hERG degradation, especially under conditions such as hypokalemia.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Identification of Retrieval-Trafficking of the Human Ether A-Go-Go-Related Gene Channel

subject:
Arrhythmia
Protein Trafficking
Cardiac Electrophysiology
Potassium Ion Channel

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-20 16:16:58.166

abstract: The human ether-a-go-go related gene (hERG) encodes the pore-forming subunit of the rapidly activating delayed rectifier potassium channel (IKr). A reduction in the hERG current causes long QT syndrome, predisposing affected individuals to a high risk of cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death. We previously reported that hERG channels in the plasma membrane undergo internalization under low K+ conditions. While studies have characterized the synthesis and degradation pathways that maintain the homeostasis of hERG density in the plasma membrane, whether internalization occurs under normal K+ conditions and whether internalized channels can be recycled to the plasma membrane are not addressed. Using patch clamp, Western blot and immunocytochemical analyses, we studied the retrieval trafficking of internalized hERG channels to the plasma membrane. Our data demonstrated that an enhanced internalization is accompanied by an increased rate of recovery of hERG channels to the plasma membrane. The increased recovery rate is not due to enhanced protein synthesis, since hERG mRNA expression level was not altered by low K+ exposure, and the increased recovery was not affected by the inhibition of protein synthesis using cycloheximide. Disrupting the trans-Golgi network with brefeldin A (BFA) blocked not only hERG maturation, but also the retrieval trafficking. Given these findings, we were interested to identify which Rab GTPase proteins were involved in this recycling pathway, since these proteins are known to regulate trafficking. Our study demonstrated that GTPase Rab11, but not Rab4, is involved in the retrieval trafficking of hERG channels. Furthermore, interfering with Rab11 function not only delayed hERG recovery after exposure to low K+ medium, but led to decreased hERG expression and function under normal culture conditions. We conclude that the retrieval trafficking plays an important role in the homeostasis of membrane-bound hERG channels.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Placentations: Agential Realism and the Science of Afterbirths

contributor:
Hird, Myra J.
Sociology

subject:
trandisciplinary
agential realism
sociology of science
science studies
Karen Barad
placenta

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Sociology) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-25 13:37:43.93

abstract: According to biological sciences, placentas are transient organs that are necessary for mammalian fetal development and produced by interaction of maternal and fetal cells, a process called “placentation.” The aim of this dissertation is to understand as well as elucidate effects of placentations. I employ an agential realist framework to do this analysis. As developed by Karen Barad, agential realism is a performative theory of the irreducible entanglement of matter and discourse that relates knowing and being as inseparable. Intra-action is the foundational operationalization of agential realism. Unlike interaction, which assumes that agential entities pre-exist their meeting, intra-action refers to the entanglement of mutually constituted agencies. Informed by this ‘onto-epistemology,’ I define placentation as the differential and entangled intra- and inter-species, intra- and inter-cultural, and intra- and inter-disciplinary production of placentas. This definition is ‘naturalcultural,’ presuming that nature and culture are not distinct realms occupied by distinct kinds of beings. Rather, such a duality is a performative effect of what Barad calls agential cuts enacted by the specific apparatuses that are employed to understand it. To understand placentation naturalculturally requires the breaching of disciplinary boundaries that relegate ‘culture’ as a topic proper to the social sciences and ‘nature’ to science. This dissertation breaches these boundaries, and in so doing opens up new avenues for thinking about placentations and their consequences. In order to empirically explore placentations, I interviewed and/or observed 31 scientists who study placentas, and reviewed scientific and other secondary sources. The main findings of this dissertation concern differences made by theorizing placentas in particular ways. Based on these findings, I argue that understanding placentations naturalculturally is not only a more accurate approach than the one predicating dominant scientific explanations, but also prompts new ethical, theoretical, and practical considerations concerning pregnancy, bioethics, environmentalism, health, and more.

abstract: PhD


title: Propagating HIV Risk: the Influence of Gender-Based Violence, Rape Myth Acceptance, Alcohol Use, and Demographics in the South Africa HIV/AIDS Epidemic

contributor:
Fergus, Stevenson
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
Rape Myth Acceptance
South Africa
Gender-Based Violence
Alcohol
HIV/AIDS

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-25 10:06:47.403

abstract: Gender-based violence (GBV) and rape myth acceptance (RMA) have received increasing attention as the Human Immunodeficiency Virus / Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) epidemic in South Africa continues to engage researchers, health care providers, and human rights activists. South Africa has among the highest rates of HIV/AIDS and violence against women worldwide. As such, investigations into the HIV/AIDS epidemic in South Africa have shifted from a concern solely with biological transmission risks to deconstructing the sociocultural context of HIV/AIDS. The current study sought to assess the potential relationship between GBV and RMA, and the impact of alcohol use, age, and employment on these issues. Problem drinking and alcohol, marijuana, and other drug use significantly increased the likelihood of all types of GBV perpetration but did not moderate the relationship between RMA and GBV. Men below the ages of 21 years had increasing levels of sexual GBV perpetration with increasing levels of RMA whereas the opposite was true for men over 22 years. Results also revealed that while students’ likelihood of psychological GBV perpetration was unaffected by RMA, employed males experienced an increasing likelihood of perpetration with increasing levels of RMA but unemployed males experienced decreasing likelihood of perpetration with increasing levels of RMA. The implications of prevention in the context of substance use and amongst younger boys and employed men are explored and have great potential for policy makers and practitioners tailoring current programming to slow the HIV/AIDS epidemic in South Africa.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Linear Object Registration for Image-Guided Interventions

contributor:
Fichtinger, Gabor
Computing

subject:
Registration
Coordinate Transformations
Surgical Navigation

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-25 10:35:42.122

abstract: Purpose: Image-guided interventions rely on registration of images, models, and surgical tools into a common navigation space. Point-set registration is commonly used to perform this registration, but requires well-defined landmark points to be present on these tools. In this thesis, a generalization of point-set registration is proposed to simultaneously register point, line, and plane landmarks present on surgical tools. This facilitates registration when point-set registration is not feasible. Methods: The proposed algorithm first determines correspondences between points, lines, and planes in the coordinate systems using a set of “reference” landmarks, then calculates invariant features in each coordinate frame for an initial registration, and finally optimizes the registration iteratively. Several forms of validation are investigated: registration of simulated data with a known ground-truth registration, phantom registration using a tracked stylus for registration to a model or a volume, and volume registration of a reconstructed ultrasound volume to a model. Validation accuracy is determined by comparison to a known ground-truth registration or using registration quality metrics such as target registration error. Results: For the simulated data experiments, the linear object registration was sufficiently close to the ground-truth registration in all cases given the level of noise. For real registration experiments, in all instances where accurate point-set registration was possible, the linear object registration was equally as accurate, and the difference between the two registrations was less than the fiducial localization error. When accurate point-set registration was not possible, the linear object registration was observed to be more accurate and more precise than point-set registration using approximate landmarks. Conclusion: The proposed linear object registration algorithm is a viable alternative when point-set registration cannot be performed. The algorithm has been developed as an open-source registration tool for practical use as a module for the 3D Slicer platform.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Prosthetic Hinge: Saints, Kings and Knights in Late Medieval England

contributor:
Pappano, Margaret
English

subject: Disability Saints Medieval Kings Knights Prosthetic Romace Hagiography Body Prosthesis

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, English) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-27 09:43:25.239

abstract: This project takes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from modern prosthesis theories, disability theory and studies, as well as psychoanalysis, to think again about prosthesis and prosthetic embodiment across the romance-hagiography axis. My dissertation explores the literary representations of three medieval social bodies and their experiences with prosthesis: the saintly body, the sovereign body, and the aristocratic/knightly body. The main objective is to show how the experiences of these differing social bodies with prosthesis challenge the ideology of the whole, normal, fleshly body, and, rather, offer the body as a malleable concept—as always already prosthetic. In my first chapter, I analyze the Life of Elizabeth of Spalbeek, written by the Cistercian Abbot Philip of Clairvaux in 1267, and translated into Middle English in the fifteenth century, which bears witness to the miraculous nature of the virgin Elizabeth’s somatic mysticism. I then turn to study the meaning of the hand (primarily) and foot in the body of a young child prince and martyr through the narrative of their loss and replacement in the vitae of Saint Melor. This chapter examines what I believe to be the earliest known medieval hagiographic representation of actual prosthetic body parts in the fourteenth-century Latin and Anglo-Norman vitae, composed in England, of the little martyr prince. I then conclude with a study of the formation of the knightly body and identity in the fourteenth/fifteenth-century Middle English romance of Amis and Amiloun, where I consider how the two titular knights’ bodies are constructed and connected vis-à-vis armour as prosthesis. Even though actual prosthetics did exist in the Middle Ages, I claim that, in literature, prosthesis is particularly elaborated in relation to these three social bodies, because it helps to reveal the ways in which these types of identities are imagined as tied into bodies or manifested through bodies. A saint’s body, a king’s body, and a knight’s body all have particular sociocultural ideologies attached to them that I believe prosthesis accentuates.

abstract: I would like to publish parts of my thesis.

abstract: PhD


title: A Mutation Analysis Based Model Clone Detector Evaluation Framework

contributor:
Cordy, James R.
Computing

subject:
Software Engineering
Model Clone Detection
Tool Evaluation
Model Driven Engineering

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-25 15:17:07.971

abstract:
Model-Driven Engineering is becoming increasingly prevalent and mature.  As
software projects developed through this methodology age, the need for analysis
of Model-Driven projects becomes imperative. One form of analysis is Model Clone
Detection, which involves finding similar or identical model fragments in a
given context. There are a number of techniques intended for Model Clone
Detection and for different types of models.
One hindrance to the growth of this field is the ability to objectively and
quantitatively compare different model clone detectors and settings of the same
detector.

In this thesis, our original contribution to knowledge includes a framework
utilizing Mutation Analysis to evaluate and compare model clone detectors.  It
is our proposition that, through distinguishing edit operations on models as
mutations, we can create such a framework.  In order to demonstrate the
plausibility of our framework, we develop a Simulink implementation of the
framework.

We begin by outlining our initial, qualitative, attempts evaluating our
Simulink model clone detector.  This includes challenges encountered
that are addressed by our framework. We outline the framework and describe each
step in its process in an example-driven manner through creation of a framework
prototype that works on Simulink model clone detectors.  We choose Simulink
because it is the most mature form of Model Clone Detection, it is of interest
to our industrial partners, and we previously created a Simulink model clone
detector. An additional contribution is a taxonomy of Simulink model mutations
intended to inject the various types of model clones, while still being
representative of realistic Simulink model evolution, which we verify through a
case study.  We run our Simulink framework prototype on leading Simulink clone
detectors to ascertain their recall and precision. We observe high recall for
Simone, lower recall for ConQAT because it is intended for only a subset of
clone types, and high precision for both tools.

It is our hope that having such a framework in place will help facilitate gains
in Model Clone Detection research as engineers in this area can now refine their
own tools and new detectors can be compared against existing ones.

abstract: PhD


title: A Tensegrity Based Structure Optimization Framework

contributor:
Blostein, Dorothea
Computing

subject: Tensegrity Unsupervised Framework Optimization

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-25 16:01:06.214

abstract:
This thesis presents a tensegrity based structure optimization framework. A tensegrity structure consists of rods (compressed elements) and elastics (tensile elements) connected into a stable structure. A tensegrity structure diffuses the forces applied to any one of its elements to the entire network of connected elements, making the whole of the structure flexible and strong.
This thesis focuses on structural optimization problems that are bound in the physical world and subject to real-world laws; examples include optimization of a bridge design and optimization of an electrical grid. The framework presented in this thesis exploits the properties of tensegrity networks as an efficient, powerful, low-level heuristic to steer the optimization.
The tensegrity modeling framework stipulates that a tensegrity model consists
of three components: an optimization goal (specifies the method by which the performance of an instantiation of the tensegrity model is evaluated), a graph specification (defines the properties of a tensegrity graph, including edge labels and attributes that can appear in this graph), and an adaptation rule set (specifies the change over time in the attributes of a tensegrity graph).
A tensegrity graph provides a versatile platform for structural modeling and optimization, because attributed nodes and edges can be used to satisfactorily represent the essential properties of a large variety of optimization problems. This is illustrated in the three examples: a detailed and instantiated model of fascia, a conceptual bridge model, and a model abstracting the intricacies of an electrical grid. The components of each model are very easy to modify, allowing for rapid prototyping and insight into the significance of the variables altered between prototypes. The framework is generic, allowing for models of varying degrees of abstraction while remaining intuitive and applicable to the structural optimization problems they represent.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Identification and characterization of ΔNp63 as a novel transcriptional target negatively regulated by TAZ in mammary tumorigenesis

contributor:
Yang, Xiaolong
Pathology and Molecular Medicine

subject:
Hippo Pathway
Cancer
ΔNp63
Transcriptional co-repressor
TAZ

abstract: Thesis (Master, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-25 16:31:03.469

abstract: The transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding domain (TAZ) is a key downstream component of the Hippo pathway that plays important roles in animal size control, stem cell renewal, differentiation and tumorigenesis. We and others have previously characterized TAZ as a transcriptional co-activator which regulates cell migration, invasion, proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying TAZ-mediated phenotypes as well as its implications in tumorigenesis are still not fully addressed. To identify the genes mediating TAZ function, we have performed DNA microarray screenings. Surprisingly, we have identified over 400 genes negatively regulated by TAZ. Further mRNA and protein quantification assays by qRT-PCR and western blot confirmed ΔNp63, a member of the p53 tumor suppressor family, as a significant downregulated target in TAZ-overexpressing MCF10A (MCF10A-TAZ) non-tumorigenic mammary cells. Moreover, luciferase assays have shown that TAZ regulation of the ΔNp63 promoter activity is mainly mediated by the TEA domain (TEAD) family of transcription factors. Interestingly, loss of TEAD abolishes TAZ-induced suppression of ΔNp63. We have further shown that TAZ interacts with other transcription factors, including the thyroid transcriptional factor 1 (TTF-1) to enhance ΔNp63 repression. Surprisingly, TTF-1-mediated repression was also compromised in TEAD-lacking conditions, thus elucidating a novel transcriptional complex for gene suppression.  Finally, we have shown that re-introduction of ΔNp63 into MCF10A-TAZ cells partially rescues TAZ-induced cell migration. Together, these findings have identified TAZ as a novel dual modulator of cellular gene expression, arguing against its sole role as a transcriptional co-activator. Future elucidation of the clinical implications of TAZ as a co-repressor of genetic transcription might contribute significantly to our better understanding of the roles of TAZ in breast cancer development, as well as illustrating novel strategies to target this signaling pathway for cancer therapies.

abstract: A great amount of data presented in this thesis will be used for publication purposes and shall remain publicly restricted until the manuscript has been successfully revised and accepted in a scientific journal.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Modeling Tensegrity Systems via Energy Minimization

subject:
Tensegrity
Energy Minimization

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-26 14:37:58.806

abstract: Tensegrity systems are a type of structural system relying on a balance of tension and compression forces to maintain structural soundness. These systems have a wide variety of applications ranging from architecture to biological modeling, art, and even space exploration. This thesis provides a flexible modeling platform for tensegrity systems, allowing exploration of a wide range of systems, including fractal and adaptive tensegrity systems. In order to provide the necessary flexibility for scientific exploration, this framework incorporates a hierarchical object definition structure. A hill climbing algorithm is provided for finding minimal potential energy states of these systems.  Extensive validation of the presented hill climbing algorithm shows that this algorithm finds global minima in $99\%$ of test cases. This framework employs a clear distinction between object definition, object sampling, and object optimization, to allow for a greater range of uses.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: A survey of police eyewitness identification procedures

contributor:
Lindsay, Roderick C. L.
Psychology

subject: Eyewitness Lineups Survey Police

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-26 12:32:41.812

abstract: Canadian (N = 117) and U.S. officers (N = 167) completed an online survey regarding their eyewitness identification procedures.  Chapter 2 compared current procedures with each country’s respective policy recommendations.  In some cases, policy recommendations were the same.  In other cases they were different.  Hypotheses were that where recommendations were the same, no between-country differences would be observed, and that where recommendations were different, between-country differences would be observed in line with recommended procedures.  Partial support for these hypotheses was found indicating that policies had some impact on procedures.  Chapters 3 and 4 examined lineup construction and administration practices (respectively).  Some reported practices are of concern since research demonstrates they may reduce witness accuracy, though caution is necessary in interpreting why certain practices may or may not be used as there are many possible reasons.  One of the most marked findings across all chapters was the great variability found in procedure both within and between countries, demonstrating that ‘typical’ police procedures vary considerably.  Major recommendations include policy mandates in order to achieve procedure consistent with best-practice recommendations, as well as provision of training materials in order to achieve such consistency.  This survey provides a needed update in the literature regarding current police practices and offers a rich data source to help stimulate further research in the field.

abstract: Needs to be restricted for purposes of protecting rights to publication of material from the dissertation.

abstract: PhD


title: Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship Modeling to Predict Drug-Drug Interactions Between Acetaminophen and Ingredients in Energy Drinks

contributor:
Akl, Selim
Winn, Louise M.
Computing

subject:
pharmacology
computer science

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-26 14:44:33.572

abstract: The evaluation of drug-drug interactions (DDI) is a crucial step in pharmaceutical drug discovery and design. Unfortunately, if adverse effects are to occur between the co-administration of two or more drugs, they are often difficult to test for. Traditional methods rely on in vitro studies as a basis for further in vivo assessment which can be a slow and costly process that may not detect all interactions. Here is presented a quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) modeling approach that may be used to screen drugs early in development and bring new, beneficial drugs to market more quickly and at a lesser cost. A data set of 6532 drugs was obtained from DrugBank for which 292 QSAR descriptors were calculated. The multi-label support vector machines (SVM) method was used for classification and the K-means method was used to cluster the data. The model was validated in vitro by exposing Hepa1-6 cells to select compounds found in energy drinks and assessing cell death. Model accuracy was found to be 99%, predicting 50% of known interactions despite being biased to predicting non-interacting drug pairs. Cluster analysis revealed interesting information, although current progress shows that more data is needed to better analyse results, and tools that bring various drug information together would be beneficial.  Non-transfected Hepa1-6 cells exposed to acetaminophen, pyridoxine, creatine, L-carnitine, taurine and caffeine did not reveal any significant drug-drug interactions, nor were they predicted by the model.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Effect of Exercise Test Modality on Dyspnea Perception in Obese Patients with COPD

contributor:
O'Donnell, E. Denis
Physiology

subject:
COPD
Obesity
Dyspnea
Exercise Test Modality

abstract: Thesis (Master, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-26 21:31:34.658

abstract:
Background: Obesity is becoming increasingly prevalent in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) but the physiological and clinical consequences of their combination remain poorly understood.  In particular, the impact of obesity on dyspnea and exercise intolerance in COPD is clinically pertinent but little studied and is the main focus of this thesis. Previous studies utilizing cycle ergometry have concluded that obesity does not convey either mechanical or sensory disadvantages during physical activity in COPD. However, it remains to be seen whether such advantages persist in COPD during weight-bearing walking when metabolic requirements are greater than during cycling
Aim: To examine contributors to dyspnea in obese COPD by comparing physiological and perceptual responses at similar work rates during the two exercise conditions where metabolic loading and respiratory muscle activity are distinctly different.
Methods: Obese (body mass index >30 kg/m2) patients were recruited with moderate to severe airflow obstruction (post-bronchodilator FEV1 30-79% predicted). We compared metabolic, ventilatory (breathing pattern, operating lung volumes, respiratory muscle function and electromyography of the diaphragm) and dyspnea (intensity and quality) during symptom-limited cycle and treadmill exercise protocols using a matched linearized incremental 10 W step rise in work rate.
Results: Cycle exercise was associated with reduced oxygen uptake, greater arterial oxygen saturation, earlier ventilatory threshold, greater neuromuscular efficiency and activity of the diaphragm, and less expiratory muscle activity compared to treadmill walking (p<0.01). However, ventilation, breathing pattern, operating lung volumes, global respiratory effort and electrical activation of the diaphragm were similar at comparable work rates across modalities. Accordingly, dyspnea intensity and quality were not different.
Conclusions: Our results indicate that, when the rise in work rate is standardized, dyspnea intensity and quality are independent of small inter-modality difference in metabolic acidosis and arterial oxygen saturation that could potentially influence efferent output from the central respiratory controller.  Moreover, altered afferent inputs associated with inter-modality differences in diaphragmatic function and expiratory muscle activity do not directly influence dyspnea at least when respiratory neural drive, breathing pattern and operating lung volumes are similar.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Empirical Studies on the Relation between User Interface Design and Perceived Quality of Android Applications

contributor:
Zou, Ying
Computing

subject:
User Interface Design
User-Perceived Quality
Mobile Applications

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-27 13:42:58.878

abstract:
The number of mobile applications has increased drastically in the past few years.
According to the statistics, it is estimated that 167 billion mobile applications will
be downloaded by 2015. However, some applications are superior to the others in
terms of user-perceived quality. User-perceived quality can be defined as the user's
opinion of a product. For mobile applications, it can be quantified by the number of
downloads and ratings. Earlier studies suggested that user interface (UI) design is one
of the major reasons that can affect the user-perceived quality of mobile applications.
UI design is relatively a complex concept by its nature. In this thesis, we try to
examine the affect of UI design on user-perceived quality by focusing on two different
aspects of UI, namely UI complexity and UI reuse. We carry out our case studies on
1,292 Android applications from the Android market (i.e., Google Play).
We find that our measurement of UI complexity quantified by the number of inputs
and outputs confirms the findings of previous studies on UI complexity. UI complexity
can affect the user-perceived quality, and we are able to provide guidelines for the
proper amount of UI complexity that helps an application achieve high user-perceived
quality. We observe that UI of mobile applications are widely reused among and across
different mobile categories. Frequently used UI elements with certain characteristics
can provide high user-perceived quality. Finally, we are able to extract practical UI templates with high user-perceived quality for developers to design UIs with high quality. Developers and quality assurance personnel can use our guidelines to improve the quality of mobile applications.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Spontaneous Combustion of Railway Ties and Asphalt Shingles

contributor:
Matovic, Miodrag
Pollard, Andrew
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Calorimetry
Guarded Hot Plate
Spontaneous Combustion
py-GC/MS
Pyrolysis
Biomass

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2014-08-27 13:36:33.129

abstract:
Many Low Carbon Fuels (LCFs) present unknown spontaneous combustion risks, which must be quantified before their use as fossil fuel replacements. Wood and coal spontaneous combustion is well understood; however, LCFs weather, and subsequent chemical changes could affect their spontaneous combustion properties. LCF spontaneous combustion could lead to accidental fires with possible loss of life, limb andproperty. The spontaneous combustion risks of two LCFs, discarded creosote-treated wooden railway ties and roofing asphalt shingles, were investigated with calorimetry and heat transfer experiments. Chemical changes due to weathering were studied with pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (py-GC/MS).
Creosote-treated wooden railway tie dust, roofing asphalt shingle particles, poplar wood pellets, and petroleum coke self-heating were studied with isothermal calorimetry. Railway tie dust and asphalt shingle heat transfer were characterized with a guarded hot plate. Petroleum coke self-heating was consistent with coal, while both poplar pellets and railway tie dust were found to be more reactive compared to oven test results of similar materials. The observed increase in reactivity was probably a result of significant moisture contenint in the pellet and railway tie dust. Critical conditions for spontaneous combustion were evaluated with the Frank-Kamenetskii parameter, assuming an ambient temperature of 40°C and constant moisture content. Kamenetskii calculations indicate that a 1.6 m cube of railway tie dust, or a 58 m cube of asphalt particles, would be unstable and combust.
LCF chemistry may have been affected by weathering, which would cause chemical changes that affect their spontaneous combustion properties. Therefore, railway tie wood and roofing asphalt shingle chemistry were investigated by identifying products of 250° and 550°C pyrolysis with py-GC/MS. Railway tie wood pyrolyzates did not show signs of weathering; in contrast, asphalt pyrolysis produced sulfur dioxide and many oxygenated species, which indicated that the asphalt was extensively oxidized.
Calorimetry showed that self-heating was primarily oxidative — the oxygen content of asphalt probably reduced its self-heating capacity. The railway tie wood was not extensively oxidized and it self-heated in a similar manner to “fresh” wood.

abstract: M.A.Sc.