title: Continuous relative phase variability of hand-held load carriage techniques: The effectiveness of a mover's assistive device

subject:
ergonomics
coordination
load carriage
continuous relative phase

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-01 21:43:33.045

abstract:
Professional furniture movers must carry objects of all shapes, sizes and weights. When carrying boxes between a house and the moving van, professional movers will carry boxes two different ways. The first way is holding the box in their hands in front of their body, and the second way is holding the box behind them and leaning forward so the box can rest on their backs while walking. The Mover’s Assistive Device (MAD) is an aid developed to decrease the effort of movers when carrying boxes and has been shown to reduce the amount of needed grip strength.
The goals of this research were to compare the effects of technique (carrying in front or behind the body) as well as the effects of using the MAD on the way movers coordinate their 1) legs and 2) trunk and hips. Movement was tracked using a camera system and reflective markers attached to the participants. In study 1 ten male participants completed the four different carrying conditions on a treadmill. The different segments of the leg did not change coordination patterns between the front and back carries, however, the coordination was more stable (similar across all steps) in the front carry. When participants used the MAD, their legs moved in a more coordinated motion than when they did not use the MAD, and is considered to be useful in maintaining balance and control while carrying a box. In study 2 thirteen male participants completed the four different carrying conditions on a treadmill. The trunk and the hips did not change coordination between the front and back carries, but they became more coordinated when participants were wearing the MAD. A more coordinated motion between the trunk and hips is suggested to be beneficial to low back health.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Imaging Spreading Depolarization in the Brainstem

contributor:
Andrew, David
Neuroscience 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: Spreading Depolarization

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-01 13:42:14.325

abstract: Within two minutes of global ischemia or focal stroke, a sudden loss of neuronal and glial membrane potential induces anoxic depolarization (AD) that propagates across gray matter of the cerebral hemispheres at 2-5 mm/min. It induces terminal neuronal damage, forming the initial ischemic core. In healthy gray matter, a milder version termed spreading depression (SD) does not cause tissue damage and generates the migraine aura, often a marching sensory deficit preceding the pain. AD and SD have been well studied in the cerebral and cerebellar cortices, but not the in the brainstem. We induced AD in coronal brain slices of mouse using oxygen/glucose deprived (OGD) saline. SD was induced by briefly elevating the extracellular K+ concentration. AD or SD propagation was imaged as a moving front of elevated light transmittance (LT) in cerebral and cerebellar cortices. Most ventral brainstem areas did not support AD or SD but in the dorsal brainstem some LT mini-fronts were observed in the superficial superior colliculus (SC), edges of inferior colliculus (IC), periaqueductal gray (PAG), tegmental nucleus (TN) and solitary nucleus (SolN). Their AD/SD characteristics were compared to those in the ‘higher’ brain regions. Although time of onset was not different, the present AD and SD propagated more slowly in brainstem gray matter. A non-specific glutamate receptor antagonist kynurenic acid (KYNA) successfully blocked the SD but not AD in PAG, TN and SolN. Two-photon laser scanning microscopy (2-PLSM) of live YFP+ mice brain slices showed that pyramidal neurons in ‘higher’ hippocamal CA1 irreversibly swelled and formed dendritic beads while neurons in the ‘lower’ mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus (Mes) of the midbrain-pons did not significantly swell or display any sign of injury.  Finally, dendritic beading was induced in intact mouse neocortex and hippocampus by cardiac perfusion with OGD saline or ice-cold saline. However, dendrites in the brainstem from the same mice showed no obvious beading. Taken together, our study supports the concept that most brainstem regions are comparatively resistant to AD/SD compared to the ‘higher’ regions of cerebral and cerebellar cortices.

abstract: We might want to publish excerpts

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Open Pit Mine Planning: Analysis and system modeling of conventional and oil sands applications

contributor:
Daneshmend, Laeeque K.
Blackwell, Garston
Mining Engineering

subject:
surface mining
oil sands mining
mine planning

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mining Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-02 17:52:18.223

abstract:
In the last decade mineable oil sands production in Canada has grown rapidly. Constraints on the planning and design processes employed by surface mining oil sands operations vary in distinct ways from other commodities mined by both hard and soft rock open pit methods.  The unique waste handling needs, including tailings disposal, of contemporary oil sands mining requires specific planning considerations.

It is the purpose of this research to analyze and document a conventional hard rock, metal mine planning system, and contrast this with the unconventional mine planning system used by oil sands mines.  Systems activity models of both the conventional and unconventional systems are developed in support of documenting and contrasting the two systems.

Constraints unique to oil sands mine planning are identified and their impact on the oil sands mine planning system are documented.  The impacts of challenging waste handling and storage requirements and a uniquely prescriptive regulatory environment defining mineable ore are identified as key constraints.

The research concludes with a proposal for a new planning system to better support the planning of oil sands mines.  The proposed system respects the unique waste management considerations in oil sands planning and revisits the current regulatory approach to ensuring resource recovery. The proposed system is compatible with traditional approaches to economic analysis in open pit planning, and with emerging best practices to manage technical and economic uncertainty, improve project optimization, and develop robust mine plans.

abstract: PhD


title: In Pursuit of Equality: Bringing Human Dignity to the Forefront of Section 15

contributor:
Sypnowich, Christine
Philosophy

subject:
Section 15
Human Dignity

abstract: Thesis (Master, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-02 11:09:56.411

abstract: While it is clear that section 15 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms should be read as prohibiting only of those violations of equality that amount to discrimination, it remains unclear how to determine what it means for a state to treat its citizens as equals, and more specifically, what constitutes discrimination. Thus, the idea of human dignity in section 15 the Charter has been, in many ways, groundbreaking in its recognition of the far-reaching impact of unequal treatment. There remains, however much scholarly dissension surrounding the concept’s meaning and use within section 15 equality jurisprudence. As a result, many have argued that the concept suffers from ambiguity and indeterminacy, thus creating an additional burden on equality claimants. This work advances the thesis that the concept of human dignity, understood in the objective sense as autonomy and self-determination, explains the nature and scope of the government’s obligation to show equal concern and respect, and offers us valuable guidance as to why certain types of unequal treatment are unfair and illegitimate. The concept can, I believe, help to delineate how equality is to be conceived, specified and realised under section 15 of the Charter. To make my case, I reject and show as flawed the Supreme Court of Canada’s interpretation and use of dignity in section 15(1) jurisprudence. Finally, in an attempt to demonstrate that the concept of dignity is relevant and necessary to an analysis of discrimination, I show that such a concept is in fact grounded in Sophia Moreau’s own illuminating account of the wrongs of unequal treatment.

abstract: M.A.


title: Inclusive Fitness on Evolutionary Graphs

contributor:
Taylor, Peter D.
Mathematics and Statistics

subject:
Inclusive Fitness
Mathematical Biology

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mathematics & Statistics) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-02 17:55:12.267

abstract:
The evolution of cooperative behaviours has received a large amount of attention in the literature. A recurrent result is that a spatial population structure often aids the evolution of cooperation. One such possible structure is a graph. Members of the population reside on vertices and interact with those connected by edges. The population changes over time via births and deaths and these changes are manifest in changing gene frequencies.

I am interested in the change in frequency of a cooperative allele and one way to calculate this is with the inclusive fitness effect. The inclusive fitness effect is the sum of the effects of a behaviour on the members of a population, each effect weighted by a measure of genetic relatedness.

In this thesis, I derive inclusive fitness theory in the context of evolutionary graphs.

I provide new ways of calculating components of the inclusive fitness effect and high-light remaining challenges posed by graph-structured population models.

abstract: PhD


title: Teaching of History in the post-Revolutionary Iran: The Ideological, Political and Cultural Discourses Embedded in a Secondary School Contemporary History Textbook

contributor:
Bruno-Jofré, Rosa
Education

subject:
Historical Thinking
teaching History

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-02 18:44:57.313

abstract: This study explores the way in which the Iranian Post-Revolutionary political and religious authorities subordinate the teaching of History to their political agenda by analyzing the political, ideological, and cultural discourses embedded in the secondary school history course book, The Contemporary History of Iran (Tārīkh-i Muʿāṣir-i Iran), which is a mandatory textbook in the Iranian education system.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Bodies, Deviancy, and Socio-Political Change: Judith Butler on Intelligibility

contributor:
Babbitt, Susan
Philosophy

subject:
Intelligibility
Socio-Political Change
Performativity
Deviancy

abstract: Thesis (Master, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-09 13:54:49.323

abstract:
In this thesis I contribute to arguments showing how the human body is much more than a vessel that enables us to experience the world through our senses. Our sense of embodiment and our embodied performances give meaning to and shape the world in which we live. I argue that our bodies are crucial to socio-political change and subverting discriminatory cultural assumptions and ideologies.
Deviant performances can cause us to be less than intelligible individuals. That is, according to Judith Butler, we become less than intelligible when we do not perform in such a way that meets certain cultural expectations. Dominant expectations are typically implicitly understood to be common-sense values. Unfortunately, many of our implicit values have embedded unjust prejudices that directly affect our thinking and behaviour. These discriminatory implicit values are couched in “the background.” Alexis Shotwell’s expansion of what John R. Searle terms “the background” is particularly useful to understand the political nature of implicitly held beliefs. These discriminatory assumptions couched in the background systematically oppress us. However, the prejudices of the background can be exposed through repeatedly performing our bodies in certain ways. Additionally, our performances can enable us to pool our intellectual resources together and live out the socio-political change we desire. In doing so, performances and identities that were once considered unintelligible can become intelligible and can alter cultural climates.

abstract: M.A.


title: The Principle of Procreative Beneficence is Eugenic, but so what?

contributor:
Schüklenk, Udo
Philosophy

subject:
Procreative Beneficence
Savulescu

abstract: Thesis (Master, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-08 22:23:59.333

abstract: In response to the possibilities for selection created by reproductive technologies like IVF and Prenatal screening, Julian Savulescu has argued that parents have a moral obligation to employ selective technology in order to have the best child that they can possibly have.  This idea, which Savulescu has called the Principle of Procreative Beneficence, appears reminiscent of historical eugenics. However, Savulescu has argued that this principle is not eugenic. In this paper I argue that there are good reasons to think that the Principle of Procreative Beneficence is eugenic. Specifically, I argue that this principle shares five common features with historical eugenics which justify the conclusion that it is eugenic. However, while I argue that this principle is eugenic, I argue that it is not morally problematic for that reason because the shared features of historical eugenics and the Principle of Procreative Beneficence, which justify the claim that the principle is eugenic, are not morally problematic.

abstract: M.A.


title: How Assessment Practices Influence the Academic Acculturation Process of International Graduate Students

contributor:
Cheng, Liying
Education

subject:
International Students
Assessment Practices
ESL
Assessment
Internalization
Second Language
Academic Acculturation
Language Skills
Graduate Students
Adjustment

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-09 17:43:27.833

abstract: Previous research studies have demonstrated that international graduate students experience various challenges adapting to academic situations within a new university community. This thesis reports on an interview study with six international graduate students who use English as a second language studying Master’s degree at one Canadian university. This study addresses the academic assessment and evaluation experience of international graduate students in the following four aspects: (1) their enjoyable and challenging assessment practices; (2) understanding of assessment expectations; (3) reflections on previous educational experience; and (4) psychological and physical factors in relation to assessment and evaluation. The findings indicate that these students’ experiences of assessment and evaluation procedures are varied and the academic acculturation process towards assessment depends on different yet interrelated factors: English language competence, cultural and educational awareness, and assessment literacy. All six research participants adapted to the host academic assessment practices and procedures fairly well despite the fact that they were not familiar with the expectations and requirements regarding assessment and evaluation at the beginning of their studies. These students learned about the host academic culture regarding assessment and evaluation through their own examination failure, instructors’ feedback, and peers’ observation. The findings also indicate that international graduate students need more coordinated support from university supportive services and easier access to information about assessment and evaluation expectations and requirements. Implications of the findings for effective learning and positive academic experience for L2 international graduate students, faculty and supportive staff, and for future research are discussed. It is suggested to organize workshops and seminars devoted to assessment literacy for international and domestic graduate students, instructors and supporting staff in order to enhance learning experience and outcomes.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Search and Information Frictions in Decentralized Markets

contributor:
Lloyd-Ellis, Huw
Head, Allen
Economics

subject:
Information Economics
Market Liquidity
Search Theory
Economics

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Economics) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-09 22:03:23.045

abstract: This thesis studies the importance and implications of information asymmetry in decentralized markets with search frictions. The first chapter provides an introduction and literature review. In the next chapter, I propose a model of the housing market using a search framework in which sellers are unable to commit to asking prices announced ex ante. Relaxing the commitment assumption prevents sellers from using price posting as a signalling device to direct buyers' search. Adverse selection and inefficient entry on the demand side then contribute to housing market illiquidity. Real estate agents that can facilitate the search process can segment the market and alleviate information frictions. In Chapter 3, I further study the importance and implications of the commitment assumptions embedded in directed search models. I eliminate commitment to take-it-or-leave-it trading mechanisms in a model of the labour market with worker heterogeneity and a matching process that allows for multiple firms to match with a single worker. When workers and firms cannot commit to ex ante offers, to an allocation rule, or to an ex post bargaining strategy, the equilibrium is necessarily inefficient. This is true for a broad class of protocols for wage determination, of which bilateral bargaining and Bertrand competition are special cases. Finally, Chapter 4 presents a theory of land market activity for settings where there is uncertainty and private information about the security of land tenure. Land sellers match with buyers in a competitive search environment, and an illiquid land market emerges as a screening mechanism. The implications of the theory are tested using household level data from Indonesia. As predicted, formally titled land is more liquid than untitled land in the sense that ownership rights are more readily transferable.

abstract: PhD


title: Development of High Capacitance Films for Electrical Energy Storage Using Electrophoretic Deposition of BaTiO3 on Ultrasonically Etched Ni

contributor:
Krstic, Vladimir
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Electrophoretic Deposition
Energy Storage
Barium Titanate
Zeta Potential
Advanced Ceramics
Capacitors

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-12 00:54:53.915

abstract:
High capacitance devices were developed using rapid electrophoretic deposition (EPD) of barium titanate (BaTiO3) on ultrasonically etched nickel (Ni) substrates. The microstructural and
electrical properties of films with varying thicknesses, sintering temperatures and substrate etching times were investigated to study their effect on the capacitance. Although increasing the capacitance was the primary goal, decreasing manufacturing costs and reducing environmental impact was also considered. After confirming the tetragonality and particle size of a 0.2 µm hydrothermal powder, it was dispersed in an aqueous-organic mixture of ethanol, acetone and water. A zeta potential of 50 mV was observed at the EPD pH level (6.8). Flocculation or coagulation was not likely in this situation. Therefore, mixing water with an organic solution was an effective method for reducing environmental impact while maintaining deposition quality. The presence of BaCO3 in the films was proven using X-ray diffraction. Other impurities
such as TiO2 and NiO were not detected. A significant variation in the average grain size was not observed for films with different thicknesses whereas films sintered at different temperatures displayed greater variation. A bimodal pore size distribution in the samples suggested that the powder was agglomerated after deposition due to a high deposition voltage (20 V). Rapid deposition times of 2 to 8 seconds offered a potential for cost reduction compared to longer
deposition times implemented in industry. Therefore the increased porosity was accepted. The dielectric constant of the films increased from 2900 to 6730 as the thickness increased from 17.75 µm to 47.5 µm. The dissipation factor decreased from 0.27 to 0.06 with increasing thickness. This behavior was attributed to a low dielectric constant interfacial layer and a higher dielectric leakage current at smaller thicknesses. The dielectric constant increased from 1700 to 6350 and the dissipation factor decreased from 0.23 to 0.04 as the sintering temperature increased from 1150°C to 1300°C. This was attributed to an increase in tetragonality with grain size and a decrease in porosity with sintering temperature. Finally, etching a substrate for 60 seconds increased its capacitance by 27.47% and using ultrasonic agitation further increased the capacitance by 8.75%.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Membrane Electrode Assembly Fabrication and Test Method Development for a Novel Thermally Regenerative Fuel Cell

contributor:
Peppley, Brant A.
Jessop, Philip G.
Chemical Engineering

subject: Hydrogenation

subject: Polybenzimidazole

subject: Thermally Regenerative

subject: High Temperature Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemical Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-12 10:00:58.854

abstract:
A test system for the performance analysis of a novel thermally regenerative fuel cell (TRFC) using propiophenone and hydrogen as the oxidant and fuel respectively was designed and built.  The test system is capable of either hydrogen-air or hydrogen-propiophenone operation.
Membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) were made using commercial phosphoric acid-doped polybenzimidazole (PBI) membranes and commercial electrodes.  Using Pt/carbon paper electrodes with a catalyst loading of 1mg/cm2 and a membrane with an acid doping level of 10.2 mol acid/mol of polymer repeat unit, a maximum performance of 212 mW/cm2 at a current density of 575 mA/cm2 was achieved for baseline hydrogen-air testing at 110°C.  Problems were encountered, however, in achieving consistent, reproducible performance for in-house fabricated MEAs. Furthermore, ex-situ electrochemical impedance spectrometry (EIS) showed that the phosphoric acid-doped PBI was unstable in the propiophenone and that acid-leaching was occurring.
In order to have MEAs with consistent characteristics for verifying the test system performance, commercial phosphoric acid-doped PBI membrane electrode assemblies were used.  At a temperature of 160°C and atmospheric pressure with hydrogen and air flowrates of 150 mL/min and 900 mL/min respectively a maximum power density of 387 mW/cm2 at a current density of 1.1 A/cm2 was achieved.  This performance was consistent with the manufacturer’s specifications and these MEAs were subsequently used to verify the performance of TRFC test system despite the EIS results that indicated that acid-leaching would probably occur.
The Pt catalyzed commercial MEAs achieved very limited performance for the hydrogenation of the ketone. However, the performance was less than but comparable to similar results previously reported in the literature by Chaurasia et al. [1].
For pure Pt catalyst loading of 1 mg/cm2, using a commercial PBI MEA operating at 160°C and atmospheric pressure, the maximum power density was 40 µW/cm2 at a current density of 1.3 mA/cm2.  A 16 hour test was conducted for these conditions with a constant 1 ohm load, successfully demonstrating the operation of the test system. The test system will be used in the development of better catalysts for ketone hydrogenation.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Re-Constructing Climate Change: Discourses of the Emerging Movement for Climate Justice

contributor:
Taylor, Marcus
Environmental Studies

subject:
Social Movements
Global South
Indigenous
Climate Justice
Peasant Farmers
Environmental Justice
Social Justice
Climate Equity
Discourse
Environmental Change
Historical Responsibility
Power
Climate Change
Resistance
Differential Impacts
Foucault
Social Equity
Social Constructivism
Discourse Analysis
Climate Debt
Ecological Debt

abstract: Thesis (Master, Environmental Studies) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-11 09:45:29.397

abstract: This thesis examines the discourses surrounding the subject of climate change, with particular emphasis on the discourse(s) of the emerging social movement for climate justice. Positioned within the social constructivist and critical research paradigms, the methodology involves a Foucauldian-inspired discourse analysis in which discourse is defined as a historically-situated, materially-embodied, and power-imbued set of statements and rules that comprise a unique and coherent representation of the world. A review of the climate change-related literature reveals four primary discourses on the phenomenon of rising greenhouse gas emissions: early scientific, climate modernization, climate change denial, and climate justice. The statements and rules of these four discourses, as well as the theoretical trends and sociopolitical, economic, and ecological factors affecting their historical development are described. A deeper analysis using 26 primary documents representing every major climate justice organization reveals that rather than a single coherent discourse, the climate justice movement encompasses four individual sub-discourses: global, peasant-oriented, Indigenous, and civil rights. Focussed on climate-related inequities in developing countries of the Southern Hemisphere, the global discourse constructs climate change as a problem of the structures and logic of the globalized capitalist economy. The peasant-oriented discourse emphasizes inequities to peasant farmers, and represents climate change as largely the result of industrialized agriculture and food systems. With specific concern for the wellbeing of Indigenous communities, the Indigenous discourse locates the cause of climate change in the “violation of the sacred” and the loss of harmony with Mother Earth. The United States-based civil rights discourse primarily emphasizes the rights and interests of African American communities and constructs climate change as a problem of externalized ecological costs and failure to incent a “green” economy. The relations of power between the four climate justice sub-discourses and the prevailing climate modernization discourse are tentatively explored on the basis of three indicators of strength (internal coherence, material foundations, and adaptive capacity), on which basis several questions related to discursive resistance are proposed as possible avenues of future research.

abstract: M.E.S.


title: From a Home in the Suburbs to a Retreat in the Wilderness: The Domestic Architecture of Frank T. Lent

contributor:
du Prey, Pierre
Art History

subject:
Summer Homes
Gananoque
Cranford, NJ
Frank T. Lent
Domestic Architecture
Colonial Revival
Cottages
Thousand Islands

abstract: Thesis (Master, Art History) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-12 14:16:06.91

abstract: The idea of home, the ownership of property, and the impact of the home on the moral character and identity of its inhabitants were important concepts in the late nineteenth century.  These views were perpetuated by a wide range of supporters including writers, religious leaders, social reformers, politicians.  Architects and developers became aware of these ideas and capitalized on the hopes and dreams of middle-class North America by designing, marketing and building the right kind of houses, but perhaps more importantly, by building them in the right location which most often meant the suburban areas around major cities. Architect and writer Franklin Townsend Lent (1855-1919) is but one of many architects practicing in North America who appreciated the contemporary consumers’ sensibilities, and their attachment to their homes.  Not only did Lent understand the importance of the concept of home, he was able to develop a design vocabulary that drew on the contemporary fascination with the American colonial period.  In addition, he appreciated the consumer’s desire for a beautiful home in the suburbs, and took advantage of this in his work in New Jersey notably on the development of a suburban neighbourhood called Roosevelt Manor.  Lent contributed to the built environment by designing and building many suburban houses, island and seaside cottages, and other structures.  He also wrote three books and several pamphlets that provide an understanding of his personal contribution to architecture in suburban American, and to the early development of resort architecture in the Thousand Island region of Upstate New York and Ontario, an area that has received very little scholarly attention.  This paper will focus on the domestic architecture of Lent in an attempt to construct an understanding of this unique contribution in the context of late nineteenth century and early twentieth century society by examining his published architectural writings, his advertisements, and some representative houses that he designed and built in the United States and Canada.

abstract: M.A.


title: Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit about Population Changes and Ecology of Peary Caribou and Muskoxen on the High Arctic Islands of Nunavut

contributor:
Treitz, Paul
Geography

subject:
Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit
Muskoxen populations
Nunavut Ecology
Peary Caribou populations

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-12 14:51:42.667

abstract:
Over the past 40 years, severe population fluctuations in Peary caribou (Rangifer tarandus pearyi) and muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus) living in the High Arctic of Nunavut has caused widespread concern. In order to better understand these fluctuations, patterns of population characteristics need to be examined. The best source for long-range information is from Inuit, who have interacted with these species on a regular basis over the long-term.

This thesis presents the collection and documentation of observations by Inuit to describe the population distribution of caribou and muskoxen. Interviewees also shared their understanding of factors contributing to changes in abundance, and information concerning the ecology of these species.
Interviewees from Resolute Bay have observed severe fluctuations in the abundance of caribou on Somerset, Prince of Wales, Russell, Cornwallis and Bathurst Islands and northern Boothia Peninsula. Interviewees from Grise Fiord indicated that changes in caribou populations on Devon and southern Ellesmere Islands have occurred but have not been substantial. Interviewees also indicated that the populations of muskoxen on Somerset, Prince of Wales, Devon and Southern Ellesmere Islands have increased, whereas muskoxen populations on Cornwallis and Bathurst Islands have been consistently low.
Overall, interviewees expressed that changes in caribou and muskoxen populations are normal. However, interviewees continue to be concerned with the possibility of negative impacts caused by significant human disturbance (e.g., petroleum exploration). They also suggest that factors such as weather, presence of forage and the handling of animals influence the distribution, abundance and health of caribou and muskoxen.
Interviewees also described the variability in the physical traits of Peary caribou throughout the High Arctic islands. Generally, from Boothia Peninsula to Bathurst Island the bones of caribou become smaller and their fur has a finer texture. On the islands north of Bathurst Island the features that are unique to Peary caribou become more pronounced. Interviewees also explained that overall, caribou are not negatively impacted by wolves and that a large abundance of muskoxen is often followed by the decline in the population of caribou in a specific area. The documentation of this information contributes to our understanding of two unique northern species, and has the potential to aid in shaping the management of human activities that may affect them.

abstract: M.A.


title: Borenium Cations as Catalysts for the Reduction of Organic Molecules and Mechanistic Investigations into their Mode of Operation

contributor:
Crudden, Cathleen M.
Mosey, Nicholas
Chemistry

subject:
Reduction
Hydroboration
Boron cations
Catalysis

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-13 08:48:37.506

abstract:
The generation and isolation of two novel borenium cations has been described. The observation that the reaction of the Lewis acid B(C6F5)3 and the Lewis base diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) with pinacol borane (HBpin) resulted in the activation of the B–H bond of  HBpin and formation of a stable borenium cation/borohydride salt. This stable salt was used as a catalyst in the hydroboration reaction. It was shown to catalytically reduce a wide array of substrates including imines, N-heterocycles, nitriles, and ketones using pinacol borane as the source of hydride. Another borenium ion, synthesized from trityl tetrakis-pentafluorophenyl borate, DABCO, and HBpin did not contain a nucleophilic borohydride counterion and it was isolated in the solid state. This salt was also found to reduce the same substrates with similar yields and reaction times.
The mechanisms of both of these catalysts were investigated and were found to be proceeding by a similar borenium catalyzed process. Quantitative analysis of the initial rates of each catalyst under identical conditions yielded rate constants on the same order of magnitude which strongly suggested that both catalysts operated via similar mechanisms. Stoichiometric experiments and isotope labelling using deuterated pinacol borane demonstrated that the nucleophilic counterion was not a kinetically relevant reducing agent under the reaction conditions. Furthermore, these reactions and the use of an isolable iminium ion as a hydride acceptor indicated that the hydride delivery agent was a DABCO•HBpin adduct. The DABCO•HBpin adduct was observed spectroscopically at ambient and subzero temperatures. Lastly, the rate of reduction using pinacol borane and [d1]-pinacol borane were significantly different and produced a high kinetic isotope effect (KIE = kH/kD = 6.6 ± 0.2). This high KIE strongly indicates that hydride delivery is the rate limiting step in the catalytic cycle. With this knowledge an asymmetric model is discussed and the beginnings of the development of an asymmetric borenium cation catalyzed process are described.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Chemoselective Suzuki-Miyaura Cross-Coupling of Substrates Containing an Aryl and a Secondary Benzylic Boronic Ester

contributor:
Crudden, Cathleen M.
Chemistry

subject: Chemoselective Suzuki-Miyaura

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-13 21:20:42.541

abstract:
The Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction has become extremely important in the area of industry and academia. The ability to cleanly cross-couple aryl, alkyl, or alkenyl boronic acids/esters with aryl, alkyl, or alkenyl halides to generate new C-C bonds has proven to be a versatile tool towards the synthesis of complex molecules. Over the past three decades, there has been an array of developments and accomplishments in this area of research including the joint awarding of the 2010 Nobel Prize in Chemistry to Suzuki, Heck, and Negishi.
Our group published the first successful example of the cross-coupling of chiral secondary benzylic boronic esters. The key components in this reaction were the incorporation of silver oxide and excess triphenyl phosphine. Silver oxide was required for the transmetallation step to occur. Remarkably, the reaction was not only effective for the coupling of these challenging substrates; it was also selective for the branched benzylic species in the presence of a linear alkyl boronic ester.
In order to further probe the selectivity of the aforementioned cross-coupling reaction, we have prepared a substrate that incorporates both an aryl and a secondary benzylic boronic ester. Since the secondary benzylic boronic ester requires specialized conditions for the cross-coupling to proceed, we have been able to employ this reaction to introduce two different substituents in place of the boron groups based solely on reaction conditions. Herein, we discuss the optimization and successful chemoselective/iterative Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling of a substrate that incorporates both an aryl and a secondary benzylic boronic ester without the need of protecting groups on the boron atoms.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Peer involvement in traditional and electronic bullying

contributor:
Craig, Wendy M.
Psychology

subject:
Bullying
Electronic bullying
Traditional bullying
Peer involvement
Peer roles
Bystanders
Adolescence

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-14 10:50:15.583

abstract: Bullying continues to be a significant problem for children and adolescents. Peers are often involved in bullying as bystanders. Through their actions or inactions, bystanders can support the bullying, or can stop it by defending the person who is victimized. The increasing use and availability of digital communications technology has provided an avenue for electronic bullying. Little is known about the role of peers in electronic bullying, nor about how peers behave across traditional and electronic bullying.  Using a developmental contextualism framework to examine how the peer group context and environmental contexts of bullying influence adolescent interactions, this group of studies aimed to identify and explore peer roles in electronic bullying, and to compare peer roles across traditional and electronic bullying contexts. The first study developed and validated an assessment of peer roles in electronic bullying, the Electronic Bullying Roles Questionnaire (EBRQ), based on the traditional bullying roles identified by Salmivalli and colleagues (Salmivalli, Lagerspetz, Björkqvist, Österman, & Kaukiainen, 1996). The second study examined the correspondence between peer bystander roles across traditional and electronic bullying environments. The third study examined peers who intervene in traditional and electronic bullying, by examining whether perceptions of the harmfulness of bullying would influence subsequent defending behaviours. Overall, our findings confirmed that peers are involved in electronic bullying, and that these electronic roles parallel the behaviours and characteristics associated with traditional peer roles. However, our findings also suggest that the unique features of the electronic environment can lead to inconsistencies in adolescent bystander behaviours across bullying contexts. This research has implications for understanding how the peer group behaves when witnessing bullying in both bullying contexts. In addition, this research illuminates some of the similarities and differences between traditional and electronic bullying. It is our hope that this research leads to a greater understanding of the factors related to peer participant roles in both bullying contexts. Understanding traditional and electronic peer roles may help to provide insight into the peer processes involved in bullying, which may in turn inform intervention efforts to encourage adolescents to defend others when confronted with bullying, no matter the context.

abstract: I am intending to publish the contents of the manuscripts in the near future in a commercial journal, and do not want it publicly accessible until I have had the opportunity to do so.

abstract: PhD


title: A Case Study of Social Justice Mathematics: The Experiences of Secondary Students and Preservice Teachers in Mathematics Teaching and Learning

contributor:
Colgan, Lynda
Education

subject:
Social Justice
Mathematics Education

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-14 16:18:44.922

abstract:
This case study described the experiences of secondary students and preservice mathematics teachers in the teaching and learning of social justice mathematics (SJM). Specifically, participants’ experiences in making connections among the mathematics curricula and the real world, perceptions about mathematics, and responses to an integrated curriculum approach were described. Students participated in SJM activities designed by preservice teacher participants: one component of a pre-existing extracurricular Social Issues Club at a high school in Southeastern Ontario. Mathematics activities, led by the researcher or one of the preservice teacher participants, were designed to complement the social justice issues that were being explored by the members of the Social Issues Club. Data were obtained through observations, questionnaires, focus group, individual interviews, written reflections, and artifacts. Results demonstrated that preservice teacher participants had unique professional and educational encounters prior to SJM that they connected to their SJM experience. Subsequent to this experience, preservice teachers suggested limited ideas about integrating curriculum into their future teaching practice beyond the content and contexts made familiar to them through SJM. With limited exposure to examples of curriculum integration identified by preservice teachers as a barrier, results suggest that preservice teachers need more opportunities to engage in mathematics curriculum integration.
Students showed an expanded view of connections between mathematics and the real world through their descriptions of the various ways in which SJM had helped them to apply mathematics concepts and understand the issues they were exploring. They enjoyed SJM’s collaborative mathematics learning approach and valued the opportunity to discuss the social issues about which they were concerned. Although the preservice teachers were confident about what they thought to be topics of interest for secondary students, there was a disconnect between students’ choices of contexts for mathematics learning and the beginning teachers’ assumptions about students’ interest. This finding suggests that there is a need to support preservice teachers to understand students’ interests in mathematics learning and that students’ opinion needs to be solicited. In addition, participants’ visions about enhancing mathematics teaching and learning through collaboration and providing students with autonomy allowed suggestions for the practice of mathematics teaching.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Characterizing Valproic Acid-Induced DNA Double Strand Break Repair

contributor:
Winn, Louise M.
Pharmacology and Toxicology

subject: pKZ1

subject: Valproic Acid

subject: RAD51

subject: XRCC4

subject: DNA Double Strand Breaks

subject: Homologous Recombination

subject: Non-Homologous End Joining

subject: Neural Tube Defects

abstract: Thesis (Master, Pharmacology & Toxicology) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-15 11:06:30.613

abstract:
The teratogenic effects of valproic acid (VPA) are well known, though its teratogenic mechanism remains unknown. VPA induces oxidative stress, which may lead to double strand breaks (DSBs) in DNA. Though the cell may repair this damage via homologous recombination (HR) and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), repair is not always error-free; genomic instability may arise from gene deletions, amplifications, rearrangements, and loss of heterozygosity. Such alterations may underpin VPAʼs teratogenicity. The present study evaluated VPAʼs ability to induce NHEJ and HR and characterized the changes in expression of two proteins key to HR (RAD51) and NHEJ (XRCC4).
Using pKZ1 transgenic mice (C57BL/6 genetic background), we sought to measure NHEJ events via X-gal staining. Although consistent staining was observed in adult male brain (positive control), no staining was observed in embryos 12 or 24 hours after in utero exposure to a teratogenic dose of VPA (500 mg/kg, maternal subcutaneous dose) on gestational day 9 (GD9).
To determine whether the lack of staining observed in embryos was due to low/absent expression of key DSB-repair proteins, we measured mRNA/protein expression of RAD51 and XRCC4 in C57BL/6, GD9-exposed embryos and maternal brain. One hour after treatment, XRCC4 was increased at the protein level in brain and embryo. RAD51 was not increased in embryos and not detected in adult brain. These data suggest that embryos do possess the protein mediators of NHEJ and HR and that VPA-induced changes in expression of XRCC4 may influence the type of repair pursued, potentially affecting DSB repair fidelity (accuracy).
Determination of fidelity of VPA-induced HR was attempted with the Chinese hamster ovary cell line (CHO33) using DNA sequencing; low template concentration and purity precluded successful sequencing of DNA from recombinant colonies and the assessment of fidelity.
Overall, these data demonstrate that the lack of X-gal staining observed in pKZ1 embryos is not due to an underexpression of at least one key protein in the NHEJ pathway. Furthermore, a VPA-induced change in the the type of repair pathway pursued by the embryo may have teratological implications.

abstract: Data not yet published.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: What and How University Student Leaders Learned in One Peer Education Program

contributor:
Rees, Ruth
Education

subject:
Higher Education
Learning Outcomes
Co-Curricular Learning
Peer Education

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-15 11:35:06.19

abstract:
The purpose of my study was to explore what and how university students learned from their experiences working as peer educators. In my study, I was only interested in investigating peer educators working in formal peer education programs within the post-secondary setting. I defined learning as “a comprehensive, holistic, transformative activity that integrates academic learning and student development” (italics in original, ACPA & NASPA, 2004, p. 2). I used a modified version of the CAS 2009 learning outcomes framework to understand what peer educators learned. Those six CAS learning outcomes are: knowledge acquisition, construction, integration, and application; cognitive complexity; intrapersonal development; interpersonal competence; humanitarianism and civic engagement; and practical competence.
I adopted a qualitative, descriptive, exploratory approach to the study of the content and context of peer educators’ learning. I selected participants for my study from a pool of peer educators of a student affairs’ learning assistance peer education program at a mid-sized Ontario university. I conducted face-to-face, in-depth interviews with seven peer educators.
My research revealed what peer educators in a single peer education program learned; it also provided insight into their experience of learning within the peer education program, i.e., how they learned. This study offers some insight into the potential for learning, as well as potential facilitators of learning, in the university peer educator role. The findings of my research indicate that the peer educators whom I studied learned in each of the six CAS learning outcomes. The facilitators of learning that these peer educators described in their interviews include learning from experience, interactions with others, reflection, and training. The findings of my study suggest that further research could be conducted, at various institutions as well as within and across peer education programs.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Smooth Complete Intersections with Positive-Definite Intersection Form

contributor:
Roth, Michael
Mathematics and Statistics

subject:
Algebraic Geometry
Mathematics

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mathematics & Statistics) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-15 13:19:42.654

abstract: We classify the smooth complete intersections with positive-definite intersection form on their middle cohomology. There are two families. The first family are quadric hypersurfaces in P(4k+1) with k a positive integer. The middle cohomology is always of rank two and the intersection lattice corresponds to the identity matrix. The second family are complete intersections of two quadrics in P(4k+2) (k a positive integer). Here the intersection lattices are the Gamma(4(k+1)) lattices; in particular, the intersection lattice of a smooth complete intersection of two quadrics in P(6) is the famous E8 lattice.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Subfornical Organ and Area Postrema Mediate the Central Effects of Circulating Leptin

contributor:
Ferguson, Alastair V.
Physiology

subject:
Blood Pressure
Leptin
Food Intake
Area Postrema
Circumventricular Organs
Subfronical Organ
Arcuate Nucleus
Obesity

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Physiology) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-15 14:57:15.387

abstract:
Leptin is an adipokine that acts centrally to regulate feeding behaviour, energy expenditure and autonomic function via activation of its receptor (ObRb) in nuclei in the central nervous system (CNS). This thesis investigates the involvement of two sensory circumventricular organs (CVOs), the subfornical organ (SFO) and area postrema (AP), in mediating the central effects of leptin using a variety of experimental approaches.
We first show that acute electrical stimulation of the SFO elicits feeding in satiated rats, supporting a role for this specialized CNS structure in the control of food intake. We then demonstrate, using RT-PCR, the presence of ObRb mRNA in SFO and, using whole cell current clamp electrophysiology, reveal that leptin influences the excitability of individual SFO neurons, causing both excitatory and inhibitory responses.  Furthermore, we find that leptin activates the same SFO neurons activated by amylin.
Given the association between obesity and hypertension and the well-established role of the SFO in cardiovascular regulation, we show that leptin microinjection into the SFO decreases blood pressure in young rats, effects that are abolished in leptin-resistant, diet induced obese rats, suggesting that leptin-insensitivity in the SFO of obese, leptin-resistant, individuals may contribute to obesity-related hypertension.
Our studies also show that the medullary AP expresses ObRb and that leptin influences the excitability of AP neurons. Furthermore, we show that leptin and amylin act on the same subpopulation of neurons in the AP.
Finally, our preliminary AP/SFO lesion studies reveal that animals with these lesions exhibit a profound decrease in body weight and food intake and no longer exhibit decreases in body weight in response to peripheral leptin administration.
In summary, the data presented in this thesis suggest the SFO and AP to be important in body weight homeostasis and in mediating the central effects of leptin. In addition, these areas appear to be important in the integration of multiple signals derived from peripheral sources. Furthermore, the fact that the SFO appears to be involved in leptin effects on both energy balance and cardiovascular regulation attest to the integrative nature of the SFO in the control of diverse physiological functions.

abstract: PhD


title: Where the Body touches the Spirit: the Role of Imagination in Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s 'Emile: or On Education' and Christoph Martin Wieland’s 'Geschichte des Agathon'

contributor:
Scott, Jill
Pugh, David
German

subject:
Enlightenment
Morality
Imagination
Christoph Martin Wieland
Jean-Jacques Rousseau

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, German) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-15 17:47:42.944

abstract:
This dissertation offers a re-evaluation of the role of the imagination in Jean- Jacques Rousseau’s 'Emile: or On Education' (1762) and Christoph Martin Wieland’s 'Geschichte des Agathon' (1794). My central claim is that both novels develop a pedagogy of the imagination in order to overcome the dilemmas of Cartesian dualism, that is, to form a beautiful soul in whom sensuality and reason, the body and the spirit, coexist in harmony. I demonstrate that both texts highlight the important but potentially damaging role played by the imagination in the development of religious thought, moral sentiments, and sexuality. The texts suggest that while a malformed imagination results in materialism, egotism, libertinism, and despotism, a well-formed imagination provides the foundation for natural religion, cosmopolitan enthusiasm, sentimental love, and a just political constitution. Consequently, I argue that for Rousseau and Wieland, harnessing the power of the imagination becomes the key to reconciling human nature and civil society.
     In addition to elucidating the role of the imagination in 'Emile' and 'Agathon', this dissertation also contributes to an understanding of the intellectual affinities between Rousseau and Wieland more generally. In preparation for the comparative reading of 'Emile' and 'Agathon', I survey Wieland’s private and public responses to Rousseau and contend that although the two authors differ significantly in their narrative and philosophical approach, they nevertheless share similar moral and political ideals. Both authors acknowledge the ability of the imagination to drive a wedge between the individual’s natural inclinations and moral duties, causing fragmentation of the self and society in turn. Yet the imagination, the motor of cultural progress, is not only the source of man’s alienation, it is also the remedy for his dividedness. If properly harnessed, the imagination can cease to be the cause of human depravity and become the basis of peaceful human relations, both at the level of the individual and that of society as a whole. In conclusion, I propose that the role of the imagination in forming the beautiful soul has consequences for the collective, and that we can read the moral constitutions of Emile and Agathon as negotiating the possibilities of various political constitutions, including that of a democratic state.

abstract: I would like to protect the rights to commercial publication.

abstract: PhD


title:
Eating Versus Selling Authenticity: Negotiating
Toronto's Vietnamese Culinary Landscape

contributor:
Kobayashi, Audrey
Geography

subject:
Authenticity
Race
Commodity Culture
Vietnamese
Food Geography
Toronto
Entrepreneurship

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-17 12:11:36.198

abstract: Despite the popularity of Vietnamese cuisine in Toronto, there is limited understanding of how this culinary cuisine is socially constructed through its consumption and production. This thesis research examines the production of Toronto’s Vietnamese culinary landscape with the aim of unpacking the discursive power relations between consumers’ and purveyors’ construction of authenticity through the processes of racialization. It also highlights the identities created through racialized consumption and production practices, and how such identity constructions are constitutive of Vietnamese culinary culture. To this aim, consumers were surveyed and in-depth interviews were conducted with owners and managers. Results from the fieldwork process demonstrated that both consumers and producers construct authenticity and images of Vietnamese culture for their own benefits but had different, and sometimes confounding, understandings of how such constructions are interpreted and practiced.

abstract: M.A.


title: Biomanipulation in two Ontario Precambrian Shield lakes: a multi-proxy paleolimnological analysis

contributor:
Smol, John P.
Paterson, Andrew M.
Biology

subject: Biomanipulation Paleolimnology

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-17 19:22:40.972

abstract:
Food web biomanipulations provide the means to partly control water quality problems (i.e. algal blooms) in lakes by altering internal ecological mechanisms. However biomanipulation mechanisms are complex and the results are often confounded through the interactions of various stressors. This study used paleolimnological approaches using the fossil remains of diatoms, Cladocera and Chaoborus indicators to explore the effects of past fish manipulations of two oligotrophic lakes (Mouse and Ranger lakes) located in south-central Ontario. A major focus was the temporal period associated with the most recent Dorset Food Web Piscivore Manipulation Project (1991-1997). The diatom assemblages recorded only subtle changes over time, with the most pronounced variation in the past decade, likely responding to recent warming and bottom-up processes. Following the smallmouth (Micropterus dolomieu) and largemouth (Micropterus salmoides) bass addition to Mouse Lake, the zooplankton and Chaoborus fossil record revealed that a reduction in planktivorous fish led to expected shifts in community size structure, but with changes apparently delayed by ~5-10 years. Primary production, as inferred from VRS chlorophyll-a concentrations, had been relatively stable for over ~200 years but increased significantly following the piscivore addition. A shift to larger, more efficient herbivorous zooplankton (i.e. Daphnia) may have been expected to suppress phytoplankton as they are able to filter food particles at a much faster rate and graze a wider size-range of algae compared to the less effective grazer, Bosmina. Additionally, changes to the lake system from climate warming may have uncoupled the trophic interactions, producing a mismatch in the timing of favourable environmental conditions in an algal-herbivore interaction. In addition, these oligotrophic lakes support algal communities often classed as being ungrazable, which would also substantially reduce grazer-mediated responses in the phytoplankton. Ranger Lake did not respond to reductions to piscivores as expected in terms of zooplankton and Chaoborus size structure. Larger-bodied Cladocera (i.e. Daphnia, Holopedium gibberum and Polyphemus pediculus) increased in abundance while small Bosmina species decreased markedly in the uppermost sediments. While some results of this study corroborated the expected effects of biomanipulation theory (i.e. species-specific shifts in size), the inconsistencies encountered highlight that other drivers (i.e. climate) are likely to
mediate the effects of biomanipulations, particularly in temperate lake systems experiencing multiple stressors.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Ghost in the Shell: A Counter-intelligence Method for Spying while Hiding in (or from) the Kernel with APCs

contributor:
Knight, Scott
Dean, Thomas R.
Computing

subject:
Asynchronous Procedure Calls
Reverse Engineering
Software Engineering
Computer Science

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-18 09:54:09.678

abstract:
Advanced malicious software threats have become commonplace in cyberspace, with large scale cyber threats exploiting consumer, corporate and government systems on a constant basis. Regardless of the target, upon successful infiltration into a target system an attacker will commonly deploy a backdoor to maintain persistent access as well as a rootkit to evade detection on the infected machine.  If the attacked system has access to classified or sensitive material, virus eradication may not be the best response.  Instead, a counter-intelligence operation may be initiated to track the infiltration back to its source. It is important that the counter-intelligence operations are not detectable by the infiltrator.

Rootkits can not only hide malware, they can also hide the detection and analysis operations of the defenders from malware. This thesis presents a rootkit based on Asynchronous Procedure Calls (APC). This allows the counter-intelligence software to exist inside the kernel and avoid detection. Two techniques are presented to defeat current detection methods: Trident, using a kernel-mode driver to inject payloads into the user-mode address space of processes, and Sidewinder, moving rapidly between user-mode threads without intervention from any kernel-mode controller.

Finally, an implementation of the explored techniques is discussed. The Dark Knight framework is outlined, explaining the loading process that employs Master Boot Record (MBR) modifications and the primary driver that enables table hooking, kernel object manipulation, virtual memory subversion, payload injection, and subterfuge. A brief overview of Host-based Intrusion Detection Systems is also presented to outline how the Dark Knight system can be used in conjunction with for immediate reactive investigations.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: A good and worthwhile life: The nature and impact of elementary teacher personal learning

contributor:
Upitis, Rena
Reeve, Richard
Wilcox, Susan
Education

subject:
Engagement
Phenomenology
Career Stages
Teacher Learning
Informal Learning
Lifelong Learning
Personal Learning
Curriculum
Elementary Education

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Education) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-19 08:38:23.555

abstract: This three-phase qualitative study examined the significance of personal learning in the lives of full-time elementary school teachers in Ontario, Canada. The research aimed to provide an awareness of the effects of engaged personal learning on teachers’ in-school practices and on student engagement in school. An online questionnaire was used as the initial exploratory tool. The questionnaire was completed by 87 Ontario elementary teachers, and results were stratified by age, gender, range of learning experiences, and career stage. The questionnaire was used to generate descriptive statistics, identify how elementary teachers pursue personal learning interests across different career stages, and gather open responses, in order to determine how teachers characterize their engagement in personal learning opportunities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eleven participants to characterize the teachers’ learning experiences, and to explore their views as to how their learning affected them personally and professionally. Classroom observations ensued with three of the interviewees. The data analysis indicated that the nature of personal learning varies across different career stages, and that such learning occurs most often in an informal setting. It also revealed the significance of learning opportunities that both challenge and extend knowledge in real-life contexts and/or that is social or collaborative in nature. Three themes—connections, self as learner, and vitality—emerged from the reported effects of teachers’ personal learning on their students and their classroom practice. The teachers’ passion for learning was evident in the many ways that they provide meaningful, collaborative, and challenging opportunities for their students in a very supportive and nurturing environment. Through the data collection and analysis, it became clear that some of the most profound learning experiences were not preplanned or intentional in nature, but arose as a result of life. In some cases, the participants did not consider these experiences to be learning—until they began to detail the effects that these experiences had on them, both as individuals and as educators. Suggestions for future research are offered to continue learning from teachers who take part in personal learning, and from the students that they teach.

abstract: PhD


title: An Automated Ultrasound Calibration Framework Incorporating Elevation Beamwidth for Tracked Ultrasound Interventions

contributor:
Abolmaesumi, Purang
Ellis, Randy E.
Computing

subject:
ultrasound elevation beamwidth
ultrasound slice thickness
probe calibration
image-guided surgery
tracked ultrasound

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-22 16:18:55.439

abstract:
Image-guided surgeries employ advanced imaging and computing technologies to assist the surgeon when direct visualization is inadequate or unavailable. As modern surgeries continue to move toward minimally invasive procedures, tracked ultrasound (US), an emerging technology that uniquely combines US imaging and position tracking, has been increasingly used for intraoperative guidance in surgical interventions.

The intrinsic accuracy of a tracked US system is primarily determined by a unique procedure called ``probe calibration", where a spatial registration between the coordinate systems of the transducer (provided by a tracking device affixed to the probe) and the US image plane must be established prior to imaging. Inaccurate system calibration causes misalignments between the US image and the surgical end-effectors, which may directly contribute to treatment failure. The probe calibration quality is further reduced by the "elevation beamwidth" or "slice thickness", a unique feature of the ultrasound beam pattern that gives rise to localization errors and imaging uncertainties.

In this thesis, we aim to provide an automated, pure-computation-based, intraoperative calibration solution that also incorporates the slice thickness to improve the calibration accuracy, precision and reliability. The following contributions have been made during the course of this research. First, we have designed and developed an automated, freehand US calibration system with instant feedback on its calibration accuracy. The system was able to consistently achieve submillimeter accuracy with real-time performance.

Furthermore, we have developed a novel beamwidth-weighted calibration framework (USB-FW) that incorporates US slice thickness to improve the estimation of calibration parameters. The new framework provides an effective means of quality control for calibration results. Extensive phantom validation demonstrated that USB-FW introduces statistically significant reduction (p = 0.001) in the calibration errors and produces calibration outcomes that are less variable than a conventional, non-beamwidth-weighted calibration.

Finally, we were the first to introduce an automated, intraoperative Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS) calibration technology for needle guidance in prostate brachytherapy. Our tests with multiple commercial TRUS scanners and brachytherapy stepper systems demonstrated that the proposed method is practical in use and can achieve high calibration accuracy, precision and robustness.

abstract: PhD


title: A Mathematical Model for the Devolatilization of EPDM Rubber in a Series of Steam Stripping Vessels

contributor:
McAuley, Kimberly B.
Chemical Engineering

subject:
parameter estimation
steam stripping
EPDM rubber
mathematical model

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemical Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-23 21:06:05.509

abstract: A steady-state mathematical model for the stripping section of an industrial EPDM rubber production process was developed for a three-tank process, and two four-tank processes. The experiments that were conducted to determine model parameters such as equivalent radius for EPDM particles, as well as solubility and diffusivity parameters for hexane and ENB in EPDM polymer are described. A single-particle multiple-tank model was developed first, and a process model that accounts for the residence-time distribution of crumb particles was developed second. Plant data as well as input data from an existing steady-state model was used to determine estimates for the tuning parameters used in the multiple-particle, multiple-tank model. Using plant data to assess the model’s predictive accuracy, the resulting three-tank and four-tank process B models provide accurate model predictions with a typical error of 0.35 parts per hundred resin (phr) and 0.12 phr. The four-tank process A model provides less-accurate model predictions for residual crumb concentrations in the second tank and has an overall typical error of 1.05 phr. Additional plant data from the three- and four-tank processes would increase the estimability of the parameter values for parameter ranking and estimations steps and thus, yield increased model predictive accuracy.

abstract: This thesis is to be restricted until there is verification from the industrial partner, Lanxess, that the document does not reveal any confidential information.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Development of Delivery Strategy for Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in the Treatment of Myocardial Infarction

contributor:
Flynn, Lauren E.
Amsden, Brian
Chemical Engineering

subject:
Adipose-Derived Stem Cells
Regenerative Medicine
Hydrogel Cell Encapsulation
Myocardial Infarction

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemical Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-24 23:54:37.126

abstract: Cell-based therapies involving adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) have shown promise in stimulating cardiovascular regeneration, including in the treatment of myocardial infarction (MI) and ischemic heart disease. However, previous studies involving the delivery of ASCs following MI have indicated that therapeutic efficacy has been limited by low survival and/or poor retention of the transplanted cells at the site of injury. To address these limitations, the goal of this thesis was to develop a more effective delivery strategy incorporating an injectable biomaterial combined with chemotactic growth factor delivery to enhance ASC retention within the gel. Working towards future in vivo analysis in a rat model, multilineage characterization studies confirmed that ASCs isolated from the epididymal fat pad of male Wistar rats could differentiate in vitro along the adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic lineages. Subsequently, the chemotactic response of the rat ASCs (rASCs) to varying concentrations of stromal derived factor-1 α (SDF-1α) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) was analyzed using a modified Boyden chamber assay. The results demonstrated that SDF-1α and HGF, at 20, 50, and 100 ng/mL elicited significant migratory responses under normoxic (21%) and hypoxic (5%) culture conditions. RT-PCR analysis was conducted to assess the expression of the two chemotactic growth factors and their associated receptors in the rASCs, and secreted SDF-1α protein expression was quantified by ELISA. Moving towards the development of the biomaterials-based delivery approach, the viability of rASCs encapsulated by photopolymerization in methacrylated glycol chitosan (MGC) hydrogels modified with various degrees of arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD)-peptide modification was examined. More specifically, rASCs were encapsulated in MGC hydrogels with 0%, 4%, and 7% RGD modification and cultured for up to 14 days. Viability staining results indicated that rASC viability was enhanced in the 4% and 7% RGD-modified MGC hydrogels in comparison to the MGC hydrogels with no peptide modification. Pre-loading the gels with 50 ng/mL of SDF-1α had no significant effects on cell viability over 14 days. Overall, the results demonstrate that peptide modification to promote cell adhesion within the MGC hydrogels is key to improving cell viability and thereby improving the therapeutic potential of ASCs.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Air Pollution and Health: Time Series Tools and Analysis

contributor:
Thomson, David J.
Mathematics and Statistics

subject:
Time Series Analysis
Generalized Additive Models
Air Health Indicator
Statistics
Epidemiology
Environmental Health

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mathematics & Statistics) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-26 14:32:00.678

abstract:
This thesis is concerned, loosely, with time series analysis. It is also, loosely, concerned with smoothers and Generalized Additive Models. And, finally, it is also concerned with the estimation of health risk due to air pollution.
In the field of time series analysis, we develop two data-driven interpolation algorithms for interpolation of mixed time series data; that is, data which has a stationary or “almost” stationary background with embedded deterministic trend and
sinusoidal components. These interpolators are developed to deal with the problem of estimating power spectra under the condition that some observations of the series are unavailable.
We examine the structure of time-based cubic regression spline smoothers in Generalized Additive Models and demonstrate several interpretation problems with the
resultant models. We propose, implement, and test a replacement smoother and show dramatic improvement. We further demonstrate a new, spectrally motivated way of
examining residuals in Generalized Additive Models which drives many of the findings of this thesis.
Finally, we create and analyze a large-scale Canadian air pollution and mortality database. In the course of analyzing the data we rebuild the standard risk estimation model and demonstrate several improvements. We conclude with a comparison of the original model and the updated model and show that the new model gives consistently more positive risk estimates.

abstract: Short restriction to allow the material from Chapter 5 to be published (via peer-review) in a cautious manner. The implications of the statistics in this thesis may have strong impact upon US and Canada environmental protection standards, and I wish to take care with the publication of the results. The likely length of restriction will be ~ 8-12 months only, and I will lift it as soon as the papers have passed peer review.

abstract: PhD


title: Experimental Evaluation and Modeling of a Solar Liquid Desiccant Air Conditioner

contributor:
Harrison, Stephen J.
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Liquid Desiccant
Solar Thermal Cooling
Solar Energy

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-29 16:34:02.906

abstract:
Air-conditioning systems driven by solar energy have can save primary energy and reduce peak power consumption, which is particularly important for utility providers in the summer months. Additionally solar cooling is a promising application of solar thermal technology since the cooling load is well correlated to the overall solar availability. Liquid desiccant air-conditioning, which uses a salt solution to dehumidify air, can be used in a thermally driven air-conditioning system and offers many benefits for solar applications including the ability to store solar energy in the form of concentrated liquid desiccant.
The current work focuses on the Queen’s University Solar Liquid Desiccant Cooling Demonstration Project. In previous work, a pre-commercial Liquid Desiccant Air Conditioner (LDAC) was installed and experimentally characterized using a gas-fired boiler to provide heat. As part of the current study a 95m2 solar array was added as a heat source. The Solar LDAC was tested for 20 days in the summer of 2012 to evaluate performance.
The solar LDAC was found to provide between 9.2kW and 17.2kW of cooling power with an overall thermal Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 0.40 and electrical COP of 2.43. The collector efficiency was 53%, and 40% of the required thermal energy was provided by the solar array.
	A model was developed in TRNSYS to predict the performance of the solar LDAC and simulation results were compared to the experimental results with reasonable accuracy. The validated model was then used to simulate the annual performance of the solar LDAC in Toronto, Ontario; Vancouver, British Columbia; and Miami, Florida. The highest performance was achieved in Miami, where an overall thermal COP of 0.48 was predicted.
	It is proposed that additional improvements be made to the system by replacing inefficient pumps and fans, adding desiccant storage, and improving the control scheme.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Characterization of the C. elegans PLM Mechanosensory Neurons at the L1 larval stage

contributor:
Chin-Sang, Ian D.
Biology

subject:
elegans
RNAi
Axon Guidance

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-29 11:31:54.764

abstract:
Axon guidance is the developmental process where developing neurons navigate their processes based on attractive and repulsive cues. C. elegans has been an instrumental model in the study of neurobiology with one of the key benefits being a relatively simple nervous system which comprises of only 302 neurons.  The Eph Receptors are a canonical class of axon guidance molecules and in C. elegans there is only Eph receptor VAB-1.  To understand axon guidance it is useful to study the mechanosensory neurons, and in particular a pair of neurons called the PLM (Posterior Lateral Microtubule).  In this thesis I undertook a series of projects involving new techniques, and identified gene products that may interact with VAB-1 in the PLMs.  I demonstrate that the use of the PLM Length and PLM/Body length ratio at the L1 stage offers an improved way of detecting axon guidance phenotypes.  I show proof of concept that use of a light induced cell ablation technique can help study the developing nervous system.
Further, I show that with the use of a tissue specific RNAi technique the role of lethal genes in axon guidance can be analyzed.  Finally I conducted a screen that identified new effectors of the VAB-1 signal transduction pathway.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Characterizing Population Genetic Structure and Inferring the Influence of Landscape Features on Gene Flow in a Temperate Snake Species

contributor:
Lougheed, Stephen C.
Biology

subject:
Conservation
Population Genetics
Hog-Nosed Snakes
Landscape Genetics

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-30 11:58:05.094

abstract:
Patterns of genetic diversity in natural systems are influenced by landscape heterogeneity over spatial and temporal scales. Certain natural or anthropogenic landscape features may facilitate or impede organism dispersal and subsequent gene flow. Characterizing the geographical distribution of genetic diversity and identifying the factors contributing to population genetic structure is imperative for maintaining functional connectivity between isolated populations across a fragmented landscape.
In this study, I combined genetic data and high-resolution land cover information to investigate patterns of population genetic structure in the threatened eastern hog-nosed snake (Heterodon platirhinos) at its northern range limit in Ontario, Canada. First, using putatively neutral microsatellite markers, I found evidence of genetic differentiation between two geographically disjunct regional populations: in the Carolinian region of southwestern Ontario, and along the eastern shoreline of Georgian Bay. Spatial and non-spatial Bayesian clustering algorithms also detected population genetic structure within each regional population. I found evidence of weak structure within Georgian Bay, roughly corresponding to regions north and south of Parry Sound. A genetic cluster at Wasaga Beach, located at the southern terminus of Georgian Bay, was highly differentiated from other populations, despite its geographic proximity to Georgian Bay. Excess homozygosity and reduced allelic diversity in Wasaga Beach compared to other sampled populations imply a population bottleneck event.
Secondly, I inferred the role of landscape features on eastern hog-nosed snake dispersal and subsequent gene flow in the Georgian Bay regional population. Using techniques derived from electrical circuit theory, I estimated pairwise resistance distances between individuals by assigning costs to landscape features that are predicted to impede hog-nosed snake movement: open water, wetland, settlement and agriculture, and roads. Landscape features did not influence genetic structure within Wasaga Beach. However, I found weak evidence for an effect of landscape features, particularly open water and roads, on gene flow in eastern Georgian Bay. This study is the first to examine potential factors driving population genetic structure of eastern hog-nosed snakes and provides an empirical foundation for future tests of demographic models and spatially explicit simulations of gene flow.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Orthogonal Security Defect Classification for Secure Software Development

contributor:
Zulkernine, Mohammad
Computing

subject:
Security defect classification
Software security

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-30 15:47:34.47

abstract:
Security defects or vulnerabilities are inescapable in software development. Thus, it is always better to address security issues during the software development phases, rather than developing patches after the security threats are already in place. In line with this, a number of secure software development approaches have been proposed so far to address the security issues during the development processes. However, most of these approaches lack specific process improvement activities. The practice of taking adequate corrective measures at the earliest possible time by learning from the past mistakes is absent in case of such security-aware iterative software development processes. As one might imagine, software security defect data provide an invaluable source of information for a software development team. This thesis aims at investigating existing security defect classification schemes and providing a structured security-specific defect classification and analysis methodology.
Our methodology which we build on top of the Orthogonal Defect Classification (ODC) scheme, is customized to generate in-process feedback by analyzing security defect data. More specifically, we perform a detailed analysis on the classified security defect data and obtain in-process feedback using which the next version of software can be more secure and reliable.  We experiment our methodology on the Mozilla Firefox and Chrome security defect repositories using six consecutive versions and milestones, respectively. We find that the in-process feedback generated by applying this   methodology  can help take corrective actions as early as possible in iterative secure software development processes. Finally, we study the correlations between software security defect types and the phases of software development life-cycle to understand development improvement by complementing the previous ODC scheme.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Modulation of short- and long-term plasticity in the rat auditory cortex

contributor:
Dringenberg, Hans C.
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
Synaptic plasticity
Auditory cortex

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-30 16:01:28.796

abstract: Plasticity of synapses is not static across the lifespan. As the brain matures and ages, the ability of neurons to undergo structural and functional change becomes more limited. Further, there are a number of modulatory factors that influence the expression of synaptic plasticity. Here, three approaches were taken to examine and manipulate plasticity in the auditory thalamocortical system of rats. Using an in vivo preparation, long-term potentiation (LTP) and paired pulse (PP) responses were used as measures of long- and short-term plasticity, respectively. First, the effect of intracortical zinc application in the primary auditory cortex (A1) on LTP was examined. Following theta burst stimulation (TBS) of the medial geniculate nucleus (MGN), juvenile and middle-age rats, but not young adults, showed greater levels of LTP with zinc application relative to age-matched control animals. Next, PP responses were examined between rats reared in unaltered acoustic conditions and those reared in continuous white noise (WN) from postnatal day (PD) 5 to PD 50-60 (i.e., subjected to patterned sound deprivation). Rats reared in WN demonstrated less PP depression relative to controls, indicating that WN rearing alters short-term thalamocortical synaptic responses. Furthermore, control males showed no change in PP response following LTP induction, indicating a postsynaptic locus of LTP, whereas increased PP depression following LTP induction was seen in WN animals, suggestive of a presynaptic involvement in LTP. Finally, differences in plasticity between male and female rats were investigated, and the result of early WN exposure on both sexes was examined. Males and females did not show consistent differences in LTP expression; however WN exposure appeared to affect LTP of females less than their male counterparts. PP responses were then compared between WN-reared males and females, and no difference was found. This indicates that short-term plastic properties of auditory thalamocortical synapses between the sexes do not differ, even though plasticity on a longer time scale following sensory deprivation does indicate some difference. Together, the experiments summarized here identify some of the important factors that contribute to the regulation of short- and long-term synaptic plasticity in the central auditory system of the mammalian brain.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: A Spatial Statistical Analysis to Estimate the Spatial Dynamics of the 2009 H1N1 Pandemic in the Greater Toronto Area

contributor:
Chen, Dongmei
Geography

subject:
Spatial Statistics
Spatial Dynamics
H1N1 Pandemic
Spatial Autocorrelation

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-30 17:41:28.445

abstract: The 2009 H1N1 pandemic caused serious concerns worldwide due to the novel biological feature of the virus strain, and the high morbidity rate for youth. The urban scale is crucial for analyzing the pandemic in metropolitan areas such as the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) of Canada because of its large population. The challenge of exploring the spatial dynamics of H1N1 is exaggerated by data scarcity and the absence of an immediately applicable methodology at such a scale. In this study, a stepwise methodology is developed, and a retrospective spatial statistical analysis is conducted using the methodology to estimate the spatial dynamics of the 2009 H1N1 pandemic in the GTA when the data scarcity exists. The global and local spatial autocorrelation analyses are carried out through the use of multiple spatial analysis tools to confirm the existence and significance of spatial clustering effects. A Generalized Linear Mixed Model (GLMM) implemented in Statistical Analysis System (SAS) is used to estimate the area-specific spatial dynamics. The GLMM is configured to a spatial model that incorporates an Intrinsic Gaussian Conditionally Autoregressive (ICAR) model, and a non-spatial model respectively. Comparing the results of spatial and non-spatial configurations of the GLMM suggests that the spatial GLMM, which incorporates the ICAR model, proves a better predictability. This indicates that the methodology developed in this study can be applied to epidemiology studies to analyze the spatial dynamics in similar scenarios.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Effects of Additional Sodium Bicarbonate on Extra/Intra Cellular Factors in a Continuous Flow Bioreactor for the Production of Tissue Engineered Articular Cartilage

contributor:
Guay, Martin
Urban, Jill
Wilkins, Robert
Chemical Engineering

subject: Extracellular Buffering Capacity

subject: Bioreactor Continuous Flow

subject: Pellet Biopsy

subject: Seeding Techniques: Monolayer, Pellet, Biopsy, Minced and Filter

subject: Intracellular Buffering Capacity

subject: Extracellular pH

subject: Cell Proliferation

subject: Extracellular Matrix Prodution and Accumulation(GAG and Collagen)

subject: Intracellular pH

subject: Large-Sized Engineered Constructs

subject: NaHCO3 Sodium Bicarbonate and CO2 Carbon Dioxide

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Chemical Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-30 19:19:32.026

abstract:
Articular cartilage has a low propensity for self-repair, due to which 27 million people are affected by osteoarthritis every year in North America. The current repair techniques used for cartilage defects possess flaws that reduce long-term clinical success. Tissue engineering carries with it the promise of engineering hyaline-like cartilage with physical and biochemical properties, similar to that of native cartilage.
This being said, the primary objective of my project was to engineer clinically relevant sized articular cartilage constructs. To achieve my objective, first, I investigated the effect of continuous culture on cartilaginous tissue growth. Constructs grown under continuous media flow significantly accumulated more collagen and glycosaminoglycan, and displayed a stratified morphology, similar to that found in native cartilage. The second goal was to further increase chondrocyte proliferation, and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. To achieve this, constructs were grown in a bioreactor with media supplemented with 14 mM sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). Constructs cultivated in the bioreactor with NaHCO3 supplementation exhibited a significant (p<0.05) increase in ECM accumulation (a 98-fold increase in glycosaminoglycans and a 25-fold increase in collagen content), cell proliferation (a 13-fold increase), and thickness (a 28-fold increase) compared to all other conditions (static and reactor without NaHCO3 supplementation).
The third goal was to engineer cartilage constructs with as little cells as possible, reducing donor site morbidity. From the results obtained, it was evident that the monolayer constructs outperformed all the other constructs (pellet, biopsy, and minced).
The final goal was to understand the underlying reason for the increased proliferation. First, I investigated if there were any differences present in intracellular pH (pHi) and intracellular buffering capacity. Second, I determined the role of extracellular pH (pHe) on cell proliferation. In an effort to accurately achieve this, I, for the first time, have reported on measuring pHi of chondrocytes while still in culture (2D and 3D cultures) using a confocal microscope. This study demonstrated the importance of extracellular environments, such as pHe, extracellular buffering capacity, and the presence of carbon dioxide and bicarbonate ions for chondrocyte proliferation.

abstract: PhD


title: Rodent Models of Schizophrenia-Like Symptoms Increase Polydipsia

contributor:
Beninger, Richard J.
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
MK-801
Schizophrenia
Polydipsia
Schedule-Induced Polydipsia
Amphetamine
Social Isolation Rearing

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-31 17:43:18.34

abstract:
Primary polydipsia, excessive drinking without known medical cause, continues to occur with a significant prevalence in psychiatric populations. While the etiology of polydipsia remains unknown, the fact that it is significantly associated with a diagnosis of schizophrenia has led some to postulate that the two may share common neurological pathophysiologies. Animal models of schizophrenia-like symptoms have focused on modeling the core behavioral and neurochemical features of the illness, like cognitive deficits and enhanced dopamine transmission. Here, we used three well-established models, including repeated amphetamine treatment, subchronic MK-801 (an N-methyl-D-aspartate [NMDA]-receptor antagonist), and post-weaning social isolation. We also examined a “double-hit” model, combining NMDA-receptor antagonism and social isolation. We paired these models to test the hypothesis that drinking will be enhanced in a paradigm of excessive drinking in the rat. In rodents, non-physiologic drinking can be induced by intermittent presentation of food (e.g., one sugar-pellet a minute) in the presence of a drinking spout to a hungry animal, termed schedule-induced polydipsia (SIP).
Animals pretreated with pharmacological or non-pharmacological models of schizophrenia-like symptoms showed significantly increased SIP, The “double hit” model did not further increase drinking above that of either social isolation or MK-801 treatment alone. A moderate amount of spontaneous polydipsia in the homecage of MK-801-treated rats was also observed and resulted in one death secondary to excessive drinking, a phenomenon also found in inpatients with schizophrenia. Following repeated treatment with AMPH, there was some evidence that over time, animals learned to drink increased amounts independently of the scheduled food presentation. This evidence suggests that the excessive drinking behavior observed in polydipsia associated with schizophrenia may have a learned component.
In summary, animal models of schizophrenia-like symptoms augmented SIP behavior, showing that polydipsia associated with schizophrenia may be modeled in rodents. As each model has been shown to modify dopamine transmission to some degree, the evidence suggests augmented SIP may reflect changes in dopamine transmission and dopamine may be the common link between polydipsia and schizophrenia. Further research is necessary to fully elucidate the mechanisms underlying SIP, polydipsia and schizophrenia.

abstract: PhD


title: Thermal Effects on Monitoring and Performance of Reinforced Concrete Structures

contributor:
Hoult, Neil A.
Green, Mark F.
Civil Engineering

subject:
Digital Image Correlation
Structural Health Monitoring
Distributed Fibre Optic Strain Sensors
Reinforced Concrete
Thermal Effects of Reinforced Concrete

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-31 11:08:32.631

abstract: Much of North America’s reinforced concrete infrastructure is reaching the end of its service life and careful inspection and assessment is required to ensure the appropriate capacity is maintained in these structures. The research conducted herein seeks to further the development of two new sensor technologies: fibre optic strain sensors and digital image correlation, which have the potential to provide comprehensive performance data for structures to a level of accuracy previously not possible. The research involves determining the accuracy of these sensor systems to monitor both strain and crack widths in reinforced concrete compared to conventional techniques, such as electrical resistance strain gauges. Preliminary work was also undertaken on correcting the sensor results for temperature. It was determined that temperature variations in the range of +21 °C  to  20 °C, result in significant strain errors for both sensor systems. Once the results obtained from the sensors systems are corrected for temperature, crack widths are monitored in four small-scale reinforced concrete tension specimens, and strain and crack width behaviour is monitored in four full-scale beams under four point bending. One of the major problems faced when using the digital image correlation technique is out of plane movement which results in significant error. Techniques to lower this error are addressed. In addition, obtaining a more robust understanding of the effects of temperature on crack widths, stiffness, strength and short term creep behaviour of reinforced concrete elements is explored to improve structural monitoring and numerical models used for analysis. Four full-scale beams, two at room temperature and two at  20 °C, were loaded to failure under four point bending. A comparison of the room temperature and low temperature test results show that the cracks tend to close up at lower temperatures in members that are free to expand and contract. This behaviour results in a potential increase in shear capacity for beams at lower temperatures. The low temperature beams also saw a minor increase in strength, but saw no noticeable increase in stiffness. Lastly, short term creep behaviour was reduced in the low temperature beams once the formation of ice occurred.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Part and Parcel: Irish Presbyterian Clerical Migration as the Key to Unlocking the Mystery of Nineteenth-Century Irish Presbyterian Migration to America

contributor:
Carson, James Taylor
Akenson, Donald
History

subject: Irish Transatlantic Migration American Ireland Ulster Ethnicity Scotch-Irish Ulster-Scots Presbyterian Religion Immigration Atlantic Cultural

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, History) -- Queen's University, 2012-10-31 16:08:27.855

abstract: This thesis traces the migration of Irish Presbyterian clerics to the Thirteen Colonies and the United States over the course of the years 1683 to 1901.  Further, it demonstrates that this clerical migration can be used in conjunction with what is already known about Irish Presbyterian migration to America in the eighteenth century to sketch the general shape and parameters of general Irish Presbyterian migration to the United States in the nineteenth century—something which seemed a near impossibility due to factors such as an absence of useable demographic data.  In so doing, it posits a solution to a problem that has bedeviled specialists in Irish-American immigration for thirty years: how to find and study Irish Protestant immigrants in the nineteenth century in a way which gives some idea of the overall shape and frequency of the phenomenon.  The following thesis is interdisciplinary and broad in the techniques employed, questions asked, and the literature it has consulted, incorporating much developed by historians of religion, ethnicity, culture, Colonial America, the United States, the Atlantic world, Ireland, and Britain in this study of emigration from Ireland and immigration to America.

abstract: My thesis supervisor, a senior editor at McGill-Queen's University Press, has insisted that this thesis be restricted.

abstract: PhD