identifier: Nongaillard, Antoine  (2009) An agent-based approach for distributed resource allocations.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Resource allocation problems have been widely studied according to various scenarios in literature. In such problems, a set of resources must be allocated to a set of agents, according to their own preferences. Self-organization issues in telecommunication, scheduling problems or supply chain management problems can be modeled using resource allocation problems.  Such problems are usually solved by means of centralized techniques, where an omniscient entity determines how to optimally allocate resources. However, these solving methods are not well-adapted for applications where privacy is required. Moreover, several assumptions made are not always plausible, which may prevent their use in practice, especially in the context of agent societies. For instance, dynamic applications require adaptive solving processes, which can handle the evolution of initial data. Such techniques never consider restricted communication possibilities whereas many applications are based on them. For instance, in peer-to-peer networks, a peer can only communicate with a small subset of the systems.  In this thesis, we focus on distributed methods to solve resource allocation problems. Initial allocation evolves step by step thanks to local agent negotiations. We seek to provide agent behaviors leading negotiation processes to socially optimal allocations. In this work, resulting resource allocations can be viewed as emergent phenomena. We also identify parameters favoring the negotiation efficiency. We provide the negotiation settings to use when four different social welfare notions are considered. The original method proposed in this thesis is adaptive, anytime and can handle any restriction on agent communication possibilities.  Keywords: Distributed problem solving, individual based reasoning, social networks, social welfare, information privacy.


identifier: Behbahani, Majid  (2009) On strongly regular graphs.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

title: On strongly regular graphs

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract: Strongly regular graphs are regular graphs with the additional property that the number of common neighbours for two vertices depends only on whether the vertices are adjacent or non-adjacent.  From an algebraic point of view, a graph is strongly regular if its adjacency matrix has exactly three eigenvalues. Strongly regular graphs have very interesting algebraic properties due to their strong regularity conditions.  Many strongly regular graphs are known to have large and interesting automorphism groups [23]. In [23] it is also conjectured that almost all strongly regular graphs are asymmetric. Peter Cameron in [7] mentions that "Strongly regular graphs lie on the cusp between highly structured and unstructured."  Although strongly regular graphs have been studied extensively since they were introduced, there is very little known about the automorphism group of an arbitrary strongly regular graph based on its parameters.  In this thesis, we have developed theory for studying the automorphisms of strongly regular graphs. Our study is both mathematical and computational. On the computational side, we introduce the notion of orbit matrices. Using these matrices, we were able to show that some strongly regular graphs do not admit an automorphism of a certain order.  Given the size of the automorphism, we can generate all of the orbit matrices, using a computer program. Another computer program is implemented that generates all the strongly regular graphs from that orbit matrix.  From a mathematical point of view, we have found an upper bound on the number of fixed points of the automorphisms of a strongly regular graph. This upper bound is a new upper bound and is obtained by algebraic techniques


identifier: Savigny, Gillian  (2009) Notebook M.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: Notebook M

abstract: The poems in this collection explore the similarities and differences between the ways a scientist and a poet approach language. To better demonstrate the ways scientists use words and control meaning, I have adopted the persona of a scientist in many poems. Sometimes this persona is specifically Charles Darwin, while in other cases it is simply someone with a scientific sensibility. Along the way, a third voice, more closely resembling a poet's, appears to assert language's imaginative potential.  The first section, consists of poems I have created out of a chapter from Darwin's Voyage of the Beagle , which deal with ideas of natural and artificial selection. The next section, ''Notebook M," explores the different relationships poetry and science have to metaphor, and the significant role metaphor plays in the theory of evolution in particular. "Zoobank" does the same for nomenclature, taxonomy, and anatomy, while the final section, "Old and Useless Notes," consists of poems I wrote before all the others. In a sense, these poems allowed me to write the later ones.  The move from section to section is occasionally jarring because of slight differences in theme and more significant differences in style. These shifts are meant to reflect the form of a notebook. Darwin used his notebooks as a space for experiment, speculation, and practice, and I have attempted to approach this thesis in the same way. I hope the end result possesses, in some small way, the same spirit of daring possibility that so inspired me in the original.


identifier: Benoit, Catherine  (2009) Alibis et mobiles : le style et les enjeux de l'interrogatoire policier dans les films et les séries télévisées de procédure policière.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Ce projet de recherche a comme sujet l'interrogatoire policier, abordé d'un point de vue cinématographique et criminologique. Cette approche interdisciplinaire vise à réaliser un portrait plus complet d'un sujet encore invisible dans le domaine des études cinématographiques, malgré l'essor considérable des séries télévisées et des films à caractère policier des dernières années.   L'interrogatoire, procédure policière cruciale de toute investigation criminelle, sera analysé ici selon plusieurs thématiques. Son appartenance au genre du police procedural nous amènera à l'aborder sous l'aspect de la fiction. Les fictions policières au cinéma, en littérature et à la télévision seront constamment mises en relation avec l'aspect criminologique. Dans la fiction comme dans la réalité, l'espace de l'interrogatoire sera étudié, c'est-à-dire le lieu dans lequel il se déroule (l'espace physique), son influence sur l'état psychologique des suspects (l'espace psychologique), ainsi que le genre dans lequel il se situe (l'espace générique). Également, d'un point de vue criminologique, les enjeux de l'interrogatoire policier seront étudiés : les méthodes, techniques et pratiques, ainsi que les avènements en recherches psychologiques et scientifiques seront abordés.


identifier: Wang, Zhikai  (2009) Computation and visualization of invariant manifolds.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: In this thesis, we start with the basic concepts of dynamical systems. Then we introduce the general types of problems that the well-known software package AUTO solves. AUTO uses a boundary value algorithm with Gauss collocation and pseudo-arclength continuation. These two features distinguish AUTO from other general ODE solvers for dynamical systems. In order to compute 2D solution manifolds, AUTO uses orbit continuation. With these tools, we study two famous problems, the Lorenz system and the Circular Restricted Three-Body Problem (CR3BP). We briefly discuss the basic bifurcation and stability analysis of general ODE systems. The numerical analysis of the two problems leads to the newest algorithm to compute the 2D stable manifold of the origin of the Lorenz system and the 2D unstable manifold of appropriate periodic orbits of the CR3BP. We utilize Python for the flow control of AUTO. We also implement two visualization packages, QTPlaut and MATPlaut. They make possible the processing of large quantities of AUTO solution data with the OpenGL graphical library, dynamic memory allocation and interpolation methods. We conclude with prospect for future research.


identifier: McRae, Paul  (2009) Translating the French renaissance into British romanticism : Henry Cary's The Early French Poets and the romantic argument against French classicism in the pages of the London Magazine.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This project addresses the circumstances surrounding the publication of Henry Francis Cary's The Early French Poets . It identifies three key elements that influenced the revival of the French Renaissance in Britain in the 1820s: the role of British Romantic periodicals and the London Magazine in fostering a discussion of Romanticism, the British Romantic conflict with French Classicism, and the Romantic appropriation of the past and the foreign. Cary's translations and criticism of the French Renaissance poets are analysed within the context of the London Magazine as part of the British argument against French Classicism.


identifier: Akiki, Mehdi  (2009) An Integrated framework for firewall testing and validation.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: In today's global world, most corporations are bound to have an Internet presence. This phenomenon has led to a significant increase in all kinds of network attacks. Firewalls are used to protect organizational networks against these attacks. Firewall design is based on a set of filtering rules. Because of the nature of these rules, and due to the rising complexity of security policies, an increasing number of mistakes are found in configurations. A reliable and automated technique for testing firewall configuration is becoming necessary to ensure the full functionality of the firewall.   In this thesis, a new approach to fully test a firewall has been developed using a white box approach that takes into account its inner implementation. Also--thanks to the information provided by the network information file--the environment where the firewall will be deployed is considered, ensuring a better accuracy and performance than previous work. Moreover, the method uses a combination of algorithms that remove common misconfigurations widely present in current firewall configurations [I] and guarantees a coverage that is greater than previous methods for generating test sets with a novel test set generation approach.   The developed framework is fully automated and contains the full steps to get testing done, from the parsing of the firewall file to the generation of the test set based on the actual configuration of the firewall to the correction of the error in the firewall file, avoiding all types of errors of omission and misconfiguration that occur during a manual configuration.   Keywords: Firewall, Policy Language, Conflict Free Rules, Rule Set, White Box Testing, Misconfiguration Errors, Configuration, Rule Update


identifier: Momy, Jennifer-Anne  (2009) A model for calculating return on educational value in the pharmaceutical industry.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: There is a need to further understand the value of continuing health education (CHE) and its effectiveness. Physicians report spending, on average 50 hours per year in CHE activities geared toward improving their performance and/or optimizing the outcomes of their patients (Davis, O'Brien, Freemantle, Wolf, Mazmanian, & Taylor-Vaisey, 1999). Despite this investment, studies have demonstrated a lack of effect on physicians' performance of current practice guidelines or gaps between real and ideal performance.   The findings of this study demonstrate that changes beyond knowledge transfer can occur as a result of didactic peer led group education despite barriers to application. The results of this research also illustrate the need to further investigate six key areas relating to measuring the return of CHE interventions within the pharmaceutical industry: 1) the evaluation of multiple CHE activities/interventions implemented as a concerted effort over time 2) the importance of clear identification of the types of practice changes and patient outcomes that are being targeted by CHE programs 3) the implementation of validated behavior and/or practice change instruments within CHE program assessment 4) a better understanding of the role that barriers to change play in the effectiveness of CHE programs 5) a better understanding of inter-disciplinary/interprofessional education and the specific needs associated with this type of educational intervention with regards to program design and implementation 6) the continuous refinement of models for calculating gains or losses from educational programs in an aim to consistently demonstrate the value of CHE within provider organizations


identifier: Ling, Hai Zhou  (2009) Towards the automation of vulnerability detection in source code.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Software vulnerability detection, which involves security property specification and verification, is essential in assuring the software security. However, the process of vulnerability detection is labor-intensive, time-consuming and error-prone if done manually. In this thesis, we present a hybrid approach, which utilizes the power of static and dynamic analysis for performing vulnerability detection in a systematic way. The key contributions of this thesis are threefold. first, a vulnerability detection framework, which supports security property specification, potential vulnerability detection, and dynamic verification, is proposed. Second, an investigation of test data generation for dynamic verification is conducted. Third, the concept of reducing security property verification to reachability is introduced.


identifier: Hasan, Syed Rafay  (2009) Inter-module Interfacing techniques for SoCs with multiple clock domains to address challenges in modern deep sub-micron technologies.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Miniaturization of integrated circuits (ICs) due to the improvement in lithographic techniques in modem deep sub-micron (DSM) technologies allows several complex processing elements to coexist in one IC, which are called System-on-Chip. As a first contribution, this thesis quantitatively analyzes the severity of timing constraints associated with Clock Distribution Network (CDN) in modem DSM technologies and shows that different processing elements may work in different dock domains to alleviate these constraints. Such systems are known as Globally Asynchronous Locally Synchronous (GALS) systems.  It is imperative that different processing elements of a GALS system need to communicate with each other through some interfacing technique, and these interfaces can be asynchronous or synchronous. Conventionally, the asynchronous interfaces are described at the Register Transfer Logic (RTL) or system level. Such designs are susceptible to certain design constraints that cannot be addressed at higher abstraction levels; crosstalk glitch is one such constraint. This thesis initially identifies, using an analytical model, the possibility of asynchronous interface malfunction due to crosstalk glitch propagation. Next, we characterize crosstalk glitch propagation under normal operating conditions for two different classes of asynchronous protocols, namely bundled data protocol based and delay insensitive asynchronous designs. Subsequently, we propose a logic abstraction level modeling technique, which provides a framework to the designer to verify the asynchronous protocols against crosstalk glitches. The utility of this modeling technique is demonstrated experimentally on a Xilinx Virtex-II Pro FPGA. Furthermore, a novel methodology is proposed to quench such crosstalk glitch propagation through gating the asynchronous interface from sending the signal during potential glitch vulnerable instances. This methodology is termed as crosstalk glitch gating. This technique is successfully applied to obtain crosstalk glitch quenching in the representative interfaces.  This thesis also addresses the dock skew challenges faced by high-performance synchronous interfacing methodologies in modem DSM technologies. The proposed methodology allows communicating modules to run at a frequency that is independent of the dock skew. Leveraging a novel clock-scheduling algorithm, our technique permits a faster module to communicate safely with a slower module without slowing down. Safe data communications for mesochronous schemes and for the cases when communicating modules have dock frequency ratios of integer or coprime numbers are theoretically explained and experimentally demonstrated. A clock-scheduling technique to dynamically accommodate phase variations is also proposed. These methods are implemented to the Xilinx Virtex II Pro technology. Experiments prove that the proposed interfacing scheme allows modules to communicate data safely, for mesochronous schemes, at 350 MHz, which is the limit of the technology used, under a dock skew of more than twice the time period (i.e. a dock skew of 12 ns)


identifier: Elfituri, Mohamed M. M  (2009) Distributed convolutional-based coding for cooperative systems.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Whenever size, power, or other constraints preclude the use of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems, wireless systems cannot benefit from the well-known advantages of space-time coding (STC) methods. Also the complexity (multiple radio-frequency (RF) front ends at both the transmitter and the receiver), channel estimation, and spatial correlation in centralized MIMO systems degrade the performance. In situations like these, the alternative would be to resort to cooperative communications via multiple relay nodes. When these nodes work cooperatively, they form a virtual MIMO system. The destination receives multiple versions of the same message from the source and one or more relays, and combines these to create diversity. There are two main cooperative diversity techniques for transmission between a pair of nodes through a multiple relay nodes: decode-and-forward (DF) and amplify-and-forward (AF) modes. In the DF mode, the signal received from the source node is demodulated and decoded before retransmission. In the AF mode, the relay node simply amplifies and retransmits the signal received from the source node. No demodulation or decoding of the received signal is performed in this case.  In encoded cooperative communication networks, the diversity of the system degrades significantly. This diversity degradation is attributed to the errors made at the relay nodes. Consequently, if better reliability is achieved at the relay nodes, the diversity may improve. or even may be preserved. as compared to the error-free case. In light of this, the objective of this thesis is to devise coding schemes suitable for relay channels that aim at improving the end-to-end performance of such systems.  In this thesis, we present a coding scheme suitable for cooperative networks where the source and relays share their antennas to create a virtual transmit array to transmit towards their destination. We focus on the problem of coding for the relay channels. While the relays may use several forwarding strategies, including AF and DF, we focus on coded DF relaying. We derive upper bounded expressions for the bit error rate (BER) assuming M -ary phase shift keying ( M -PSK) transmission and show that the proposed scheme achieves large coding gains and frill diversity relative to the coded non-cooperative case for a wide range of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of interest.  To improve the detection reliability further, we consider antenna/relay selection on the performance of cooperative networks in conjunction with the distributed coding scheme proposed. For simplicity, we assume that there is one relay that is equipped with n R antennas and only the best antenna is selected. For this scenario, assuming DF and AF relaying, we derive upper bounds on the BER for M -PSK transmission. Our analytical results show that the proposed scheme achieves full diversity for the entire range of BER of interest, unlike the case without antenna selection.  In the last part of the thesis, we consider the same system considered in the ideal case but now with system imperfections. In particular, we consider the case when the channel state information is estimated at all nodes involved in the transmission process. We derive upper bounds on the performance with imperfect channel estimation. Our results show that there is a performance degradation due to the presence of channel estimation error. However, the observations made in the case of ideal channel state information still hold for the non-ideal case.


identifier: Hajiaboli, Ahmad Reza  (2009) Fabrication and optical properties of periodic long range order nanoholes on metallic films.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Long range order periodic structures of subwavelength apertures on optically thick metallic films have been investigated for their anomalous optical properties. Light transmission through an array of nanoholes is surprisingly higher than the prediction of the classical diffraction theorem and there is a consensus that this would be attributed to the excitation of the surface plasmon modes, a collective oscillation of the electrons on the surface of the metal due to interaction with the incident electromagnetic field. Long-range-order nanoholes array systems, contrarily to the more commonly studied short range structures, would provide several distinct advantages but the challenging fabrication process for these systems would be a major obstacle to overcome for their realization. In this thesis, it has been shown that for the long range order nanostructures of nanoholes array the spectrum of the transmitted light through the holes still showed the signature of the maxima and minima found in the transmitted spectrum for short range order systems. Experimental analysis of the spectra of these structures is however greatly simplified due to the increased total light transmission. One of the important applications of these structures is biosensing. The theoretical calculations showed that the higher flux of energy through the long range order periodic structures potentially increases the sensitivity of the biosensors based on the extraordinary optical transmission phenomenon. Two lithographic techniques based respectively on Electron Beam Lithography (EBL) and Nanospheres Lithography (NSL) for the fabrication of long range nanohole structures have been introduced. Spectra analysis of the structures by numerical calculations based on the 3 Dimensional Finite Difference Time Domain (3-D FDTD) reveals that the primitive model of momentum matching is not sufficiently accurate to predict the transmission spectra features and hence should not be relied on as a design tool. Instead, the transmitted spectra are interpreted as resulting from a combination of scattering and resonance modes, namely localized surface plasmons resonance, Wood anomalies and Surface Plasmon Polaritons modes.


identifier: Kohzadi, Setareh  (2009) Automatic generation of upgrade campaign specifications.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The increasing reliance on computing systems has greatly impacted the customers' expectations from such systems; for which the need for reliable and highly available services has become an essential requirement. This has led service providers to seek for new ways to supply robust services in order to sustain their advantage in today's highly competitive markets.  A highly available system is defined as a system that is up and running 99.999% of the time. To gain such availability, a solution that has been widely employed is the usage of redundant components. However, solutions used in the past are proprietary and as a result applications had no portability from one platform to another.  The Service Availability Forum (SAF), a consortium of several computing and telecommunication companies, promotes standardized solutions for building highly available systems in which Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) building blocks can be used. The SAF middleware has many services each of which has a specialized role so that the whole middleware can manage the redundant components within the system to fulfill the service availability.  Like any other system, a SAF system may go through several upgrade and downgrade processes during its lifetime. Though due to the high availability requirement, a SAF system ought to be upgraded while ensuring minimum service interruption. Among the SAF middleware services, the Software Management Framework (SMF) is responsible for this live upgrade.  In order for the SMF to perform an upgrade the road map of this migration, which is known as the Upgrade Campaign Specification, should be provided. However, due to the number of entities involved in an upgrade campaign and the complexity of the relationships among these entities, manual calculation of various steps of an upgrade campaign specification is time consuming and error prone.  In this thesis, we have devised an approach for automatic generation of upgrade campaign specifications to upgrade redundant entities of SAF systems. We have categorized possible upgrade variations into three main scenarios which consist of manipulating current entities of the system, removing or adding new ones. For each scenario we have recognized different criteria that impact the service availability. For each criterion, according to the different upgrade methods introduced by SMF, we have devised solutions to minimize the service availability interruption during the course of an upgrade.  Finally, we have created a prototype tool that supports the generation of upgrade campaign specification algorithms for each scenario. We have applied our approach to a case study to demonstrate its applicability.


identifier: Lambert, Hélène  (2009) Dichotomie protéiforme : l'homme et les autres dans la littérature cyberpunk.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This document examines the situation of women in cyberpunk science fiction by looking at how women are represented in the Alien Quadrilogy and in the novel Babylon Babies written by Maurice G. Dantec. The cyberpunk movement has reinvented space as cyberspace; has it also reinvented its image of women? This thesis will examine where women stand and where cyborgs, clones and A.I. (artificial intelligence) stand in relation to the archetypal place occupied by men in our Western society for thousands of years. This is what is called in this work "proteiform dichotomy". The hypothesis is that the dichotomy that separates Man from Woman has not disappeared and that, moreover, it now assimilates cyborg, clones and A.I. with woman as opposed to Man which is still the standard to whom society refers to establish a norm.  Chapter 1 defines terms and notions, such as gender, archetype, cyberpunk, cyborgs, and hero and heroine. Chapter 2 gives a brief overview on the works which have been chosen to examine our hypothesis and explains why they have been chosen. Chapter 3 concentrates on two characters which are Ellen Ripley in Alien and Marie Zorn in Babylon Babies . The treatment of these two women is dissected and shows that, however modem cyberpunk films and novel are, their traditional treatment of women is very thinly veiled and that Man still remains the ultimate model compared to whom women are judged. This chapter also includes an analysis of the Alien Queen. Chapter 4 analyses the treatment of cyborgs, clones and A.I. and concludes that they too are compared to Man and therefore assimilated to women. Chapter 5 outlines the religious overtones found in both works studied.  Our conclusion is that despite their modernity, these works shows that whatever is NOT man, be it woman, alien, cyborg or clone is a dangerous "otherness" that is monstrous, abnormal, in one word an abomination.


identifier: Wang, Hongan  (2009) Design and implementation of biomimetic robotic fish Hongan Wang.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The study of biomimetic robotic fish has received a growing amount of research interest in the past several years. This thesis describes the development and testing of a novel mechanical design of a biomimetic robotic fish. The robotic fish has a structure which uses oscillating caudal fins and a pair of pectoral fins to generate fish-like swimming motion. This unique design enables the robotic fish to swim in two swimming modes, namely Body/Caudal Fin (BCF) and Median/Paired Fin (MPF). In order to combine BCF mode with MPF mode, the robotic fish utilizes a flexible posterior body, an oscillating foil actuated by three servomotors, and one pair of pectoral fins individually driven by four servomotors. Effective servo motions and swimming gaits are then proposed to control its swimming behaviour. Based on these results, fish-like swimming can be achieved including forward, backward, and turning motions. An experimental setup for the robotic fish was implemented using machine vision position and velocity measurement. The experimental results show that the robotic fish performed well in terms of manoeuvrability and cruise speed. Based on the experimental data, a low order dynamic model is proposed and identified. Together, these results provide an experimental framework for development of new modelling and control techniques for biomimetic robotic fish.


identifier: Vietgen, Peter Alexander  (2009) Teachers' reflections on museums, classrooms and technology.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Utilizing an action research based methodology, this qualitative investigation explores the teaching opportunities offered through a project designed to integrate actual and on-line curriculum components into a visual arts program. The study involved 2 visual arts teachers, 1 from Montreal and 1 from Toronto, who guided their respective grade 11 visual arts classes through a project involving 2 main components. Phase 1, the "actual" component, involved conducting a field trip to the local museum/art gallery (the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Art Gallery of Ontario), where the students were to view and select 1 art work from the museum's permanent collection towards which they felt a particular affinity. Back at school, the teachers assisted their students in the creation of their own art works, which were inspired by the pieces selected from the museum permanent collections. Once completed, phase 2, the introduction of technology, was introduced. This "on-line" component involved the creation of website links that contained an image of the student art work alongside an image of the museum piece which inspired it. These website links served as the vehicle through which an on-line exchange was conducted between the 2 grade 11 visual arts classes in Montreal and Toronto.  Through the writing of journals, recorded observations using field notes, and interviews conducted at 3 strategic points in the study, data were collected on behalf of the teacher participants to examine the teaching opportunities experienced through engagement in such a project. After a data analysis, themes emerged under 2 overarching categories: (a) museum/gallery field trips and (b) on-line communication/technology. In each of these 2 categories, subthemes emerged that revealed the complexities of the integration of such a project. These subthemes revolved around such issues as the role of the administration, the role of the school board, museum commitment, student commitment, teacher colleagues, technical support/availability, and the school timetable. This document highlights the reality of implementing such a curriculum project into 2 grade 11 visual arts programs.


identifier: Kim, Jae-Woo  (2009) Behavioural and ecological implications of predation risk in juvenile atlantic salmon (Salmo salar).  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Despite the wealth of laboratory studies, the effects of local predation risk on the behaviour and ecology of a prey species under natural conditions have rarely been examined. In Chapter 1, I tested the hypothesis that juvenile Atlantic salmon ( Salmo salar ) use both chemical and visual information to assess predation risk under natural conditions. Both young-of-the-year (YOY) and parr salmon exhibited antipredator responses when exposed to a chemical alarm cue and exposure to alarm cues influenced their response to a visual threat. While YOY and parr differed in the type and intensity of antipredator responses, both chemical and visual cues are used in an additive manner. In Chapter 2, I tested the prediction that YOY use chemical alarm cues to assess the predation risk of alternative habitats and decide where to settle over a two-week period following emergence. In seven similar reaches of Catamaran Brook, New Brunswick, I established three contiguous sections where I manipulated the perceived predation risk by releasing alarm cues versus a stream water control. The density of YOY decreased in risky sections and increased in control and untreated buffer sections, whereas the density of parr was not affected. Clearly, YOY salmon can assess and select habitats based on the perceived level of predation risk. If one assumes that predation risk is a cost, optimality models predict that territory size will decrease with increasing predation risk. In Chapter 3, I examined whether both acute and chronic predation risk influences the territorial behaviour of YOY. When exposed to a single dose of chemical alarm cue, YOY salmon decreased the number of switches between foraging stations, but did not change their territory size or foraging rate. When exposed to chemical alarm cue over a two week period, YOY salmon reduced the size of their territories, but did not change their foraging rate or number of switches. Clearly, YOY adjusted their territorial behaviour in response to both acute and chronic increases in perceived predation risk, but in different ways. Together, my results suggest that predation risk influences not only short-term (immediate) anti-predator behaviour, but is also an important component of habitat selection and shapes territorial behaviour over longer periods.


identifier: Madwar, Carolin  (2009) Studying biomolecular interactions using atomic force microscopy.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Many biological systems involve mechanical interactions and specific molecular recognition events that are essential for their function. Single molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) is a powerful and versatile atomic force microscopy (AFM)-based technique, which allows probing such interactions at the single molecule level, with piconewton sensitivity, thereby illuminating their dynamics as well as their structural and mechanical properties. A fundamental requirement in these studies is the immobilization of biomolecules between the AFM probe and the sample surface, preferably by a long flexible molecular spacer, such as poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). The goal of this project is to investigate the binding interactions in four distinct biomolecular systems at the single molecule level, using SMFS. A new amination strategy was used to attach a novel bifunctional PEG spacer containing amine- and thiol-reactive termini. Biomolecules under investigation were tethered to AFM tips by formation of covalent linkages to this versatile spacer. Various tests, including surface plasmon resonance and a UV-based enzyme assay, were carried out to evaluate and confirm AFM tip functionalization. SMFS of biotin/streptavidin yielded an average unbinding force of 59 pN at 4000 pN/s loading rate. SMFS of concanavalin A/mannose yielded an average unbinding force of 50 pN at loading rate of 6000 pN/s. SMFS of a de novo heterodimeric E/K coiled/coil yielded an average unbinding force of 41 pN at 7000 pN/s loading rate with a k off rate calculated to be 15.8 s-1 . SMFS of these biomolecular systems were not only successful and informative, but also provide exciting directions towards future applications.


identifier: Vee, Eli Drange  (2009) Regulation of ribonucleotide reductases in growth and development in the social amoebae Dictyostelium discoideum.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Growth and development are mutually exclusive phases of the life cycle of the cellular slime mould Dictyostelium discoideum . The amoebae grow as single cells and divide by binary fission until deprived of nutrients. Starvation forces the cells to initiate development where they organize into multicellular structures, each consisting of a spore head supported by a stalk. Prior to terminal differentiation, the prespore cells undergo a round of DNA synthesis, but it is not known whether this DNA synthesis takes place in the nucleus or the mitochondria.  Ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) converts ribonucleotides to deoxyribonucleotides and is the rate-limiting step of DNA synthesis. The expression of this enzyme has been temporally and spatially correlated with DNA synthesis and the expression may therefore be used as a marker for DNA synthesis. Dictyostelium is unusual among eukaryotes in that it harbours genes encoding two classes of RNR enzymes.  Using a short-lived Ý-galactosidase as a reporter, we have found the two subunits of the Class I RNR to be mainly expressed in prespore cells. The subcellular localisation of the RNRs was examined during growth and early development using fluorescent fusion proteins. While the subunits of the Class I RNR are spatially separated, the Class II enzyme resides in the cytoplasm. Using gene replacement strategy to examine functions, we have shown that the gene encoding the Class II RNR is not essential for Dictyostelium growth and development.


identifier: Hernandez, Giovanni  (2009) Role of dopamine tone in brain stimulation reward.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The experiments described in the present thesis address the specific role of dopamine (DA) tone in brain stimulation reward (BSR). The level of extracellular dopamine in the rat nucleus accumbens was measured by means of in-vivo microdialysis in rats receiving electrical stimulation of the medial forebrain bundle. The first experiments characterize changes in DA tone as a function of reward predictability and duty cycle under circumstances in which phasic release of DA, as measured by fast-scan cyclic voltammetry, has been reported to be absent (Garris et al., 1999).  The results obtained using several different reinforcement schedules suggest that DA tone reflects the duty cycle of the stimulation rather than the predictability of the reward. In contrast to the transient elevation observed when stimulation is delivered at short (1.5 s) inter-train intervals, stimulation trains separated by long (12 s) inter-train intervals can sustain a stable level of DA tone for up to two hours. This difference in the stability of DA tone has repercussions for the behaviour sustained by BSR, as measured by means of the curve-shift paradigm. When DA tone was measured under similar circumstances to those in the Garris et al. (1999) study, a robust increase in tonic DA release was observed, on each schedule tested, in sharp contrast to the transient changes in phasic DA release described by Garris et al. (1999). These results suggest that phasic and tonic DA release are under differential control. In an additional experiment, the reinforcement-mountain model and testing paradigm were used to determine the stage(s) of processing at which DA tone influences the pursuit of BSR. The mountain model relates pursuit of BSR to the cost and strength of the electrical stimulation. DA reuptake was blocked by continuous subcutaneous infusion of cocaine in a novel manner that avoids tissue damage. The 3D structure defined by time-allocation, reward cost and reward strength. always shifted rightward along the cost axis but rarely along the strength axis. This result implies that the leftward shifts seen in "rate-frequency" studies of the effect of cocaine on intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) are misleading: these effects are due to displacement of the diagonally oriented face of the 3D structure along the cost axis. The results demonstrate that DA tone exerts its influence at a later processing stage than originally proposed and long believed.


identifier: Winneke, Axel H  (2009) When eye meets ear : an investigation of audiovisual speech and non-speech perception in younger and older adults.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This dissertation addressed important questions regarding audiovisual (AV) perception. Study 1 revealed that AV speech perception modulated auditory processes, whereas AV non-speech perception affected visual processes. Interestingly, stimulus identification improved, yet fewer neural resources, as reflected in smaller event-related potentials, were recruited, indicating that AV perception led to multisensory efficiency. Also, AV interaction effects were observed of early and late stages, demonstrating that multisensory integration involved a neural network. Study 1 showed that multisensory efficiency is a common principle in AV speech and non-speech stimulus recognition, yet it is reflected in different modalities, possibly due to sensory dominance of a given task.  Study 2 extended our understanding of multisensory interaction by investigating electrophysiological processes of AV speech perception in noise and whether those differ between younger and older adults. Both groups revealed multisensory efficiency. Behavioural performance improved while the auditory N1 amplitude was reduced during AV relative to unisensory speech perception. This amplitude reduction could be due to visual speech cues providing complementary information, therefore reducing processing demands for the auditory system. AV speech stimuli also led to an N1 latency shift, suggesting that auditory processing was faster during AV than during unisensory trials. This shift was more pronounced in older than in younger adults, indicating that older adults made more effective use of visual speech. Finally, auditory functioning predicted the degree of the N1 latency shift, which is consistent with the inverse effectiveness hypothesis which argues that the less effective the unisensory perception was, the larger was the benefit derived from AV speech cues. These results suggest that older adults were better "lip/speech" integrators than younger adults, possibly to compensate for age-related sensory deficiencies. Multisensory efficiency was evident in younger and older adults but it might be particularly relevant for older adults. If visual speech cues could alleviate sensory perceptual loads, the remaining neural resources could be allocated to higher level cognitive functions.  This dissertation adds further support to the notion of multisensory interaction modulating sensory-specific processes and it introduces the concept of multisensory efficiency as potential principle underlying AV speech and non-speech perception


identifier: Constantinescu, Ioana R  (2009) Reading comprehension of syntactically and semantically complex sentences by adolescents with reading difficulties.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Fahmy, Mohamed  (2009) Integrated multiple-sensor methodology for condition assessment of water mains.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Considerable capital investment has been made in civil infrastructure systems across the globe including water mains. Currently, existing failure detection and location methods do not allow for quick reaction to failures. In addition, no unified standards are followed in condition assessment of water mains. Moreover, the decision by which water mains are inspected is currently carried out based on approximation and experience of decision-makers, which might be limited and may lead to overlooking suitable evaluation methods that might save time, effort and cost.  This research presents a methodology that contributes to different phases in the asset management of water mains. It enhances current practice in condition assessment of water mains and assists in setting up rehabilitation priorities. The methodology implemented is based on intensive literature review, evaluation of current methods, field investigation and experiments, and interviews with experts. The methodology considered augments two approaches currently used in condition assessment of water mains, which are proactive and reactive methods.  The developed methodology calls for designing a new decision support system (DSS) for selection of most suitable non-destructive evaluation (NDE) method(s). It consists of two components: 1) A Database management system (DBMS), and 2) an evaluation and ranking module (ERM).  These NDE methods are used for either detecting suspected leaks or measuring pipe wall thickness, the latter is employed to predict remaining service life of pipe being considered.  In case of suspected leaks, this study presents a newly designed automated system for detection of water leaks in underground pipelines and identifying their respective locations. The development of this system is based on using Thermography infrared (IR) camera in order to detect thermal contrast at the pavement surface due to water leaks at the most suitable time. The data obtained is analyzed in order to establish the relationship between the detected leakage area and the approximate location of leak. Prototype software developed in Visual C# environment is implemented in order to determine the location of leaks automatically.  Two deterioration models were designed and developed for estimating remaining useful life of water mains, and predicting annual breakage rate of water mains. The development of the two models is based on the analysis of real data collected from 16 municipalities in Canada and the US. The two models were developed considering two approaches, multiple regression analysis and Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) based on the most suitable subsets of selected factors. The final model was selected due to its reliability and better performance in comparison to other models.  The outputs of the deterioration models developed in this research were used, in addition to other deterioration factors that were not considered in existing models in order to develop a Decision Support System (DSS) for generating condition rating scale of water main being considered, and for prioritizing rehabilitation/ maintenance actions. The system is hierarchal in structure, and the condition-rating index is generated using Multi Attributes Utility Theory (MAUT). System validation was carried out by comparing its outcome with real case studies.  A prototype software application of the model presented in this research is implemented as a proof of concept to demonstrate the capabilities and essential features of the developed models.


identifier: Li, Xingli  (2009) The determinants of IPO-related Shareholder Litigation : the role of CEO equity incentives and corporate governance.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This paper empirically examines whether CEO equity incentives as well as other corporate governance mechanisms are related to the incidence of shareholder litigation. Our study differs from previous studies, which have largely focused on seasoned firms, by examining how CEO incentives at a firm's pre-IPO stage affect the incidence of IPO-related shareholder litigation. We examine a sample of 81 U.S. IPO firms (issued between 1997 and 2007) that are sued under Section 11 of the 1933 Securities Act within 3 years of their IPO and an industry-size-year matched sample of 81 control firms. We have assembled a novel, hand-collected data set that measures the lawsuit, corporate governance, and firm characteristics of these 162 firms. We report a significant positive association between the likelihood of securities fraud allegations and CEO equity incentives, which is consistent with the idea that there is a "dark side" to executive equity incentives. This association is robust to alternative model specifications, sample selection criteria, and estimation methods. In addition, we find that the risk of being sued is higher for firms whose board is dominated by insiders, whose CEOs are older, have a shorter tenure, or who founded the firm.


identifier: Dande, Shivangi Sanjay  (2009) Characterization of brain signals using the electroencephalagogram during the stroop test.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The study of mental stress is essential to elevate our understanding of the designer's cognitive approach during a creative design process. As the first step in this effort, this thesis focuses on the analysis of the electroencephalogram (EEG) signals of the subject during the stroop test. Computer based stroop test, consisting of six difficulty levels, was developed and used as a stressor. The EEG data was recorded on Fz, Cz, Pz and Oz channel locations. Average absolute power of alpha, beta, delta and theta bands at all the channel locations was calculated. The subject's average performance on the Stroop test was calculated based on his/her reaction time and incorrectness.  It was observed that the power of theta band is more dominant in the Fz channel. Since the theta band corresponds to the subject's mental/emotional stress, the present study suggests using the theta band in Fz location for further analysis during the design process. It was also observed that Alpha and beta powers, corresponding to the subject's vision, are more dominant in the Oz channel. A simultaneous comparison of the performances and of the theta power of different subjects suggested a direct relationship between the performance and the theta power. The present study demonstrates the potential use of theta power, after being quantified in terms of mental/emotional stress, in obtaining a correlation between the subject's performance and mental/emotional stress.  The present thesis laid a foundation for on-going analysis of designer's mental stresses during design related tasks, in Dr. Zeng's research group.


identifier: Acharya, Ashwin L  (2007) Modeling, fabrication and testing of OLED and LED fluorescence integrated polymer microfluidic chips for biosensing applications.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Zawadzki, Rafal  (2008) Application of silica based grout to pyrite bearing backfill : new approach to swelling of foundation aggregates due to pyrite oxidation.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Shabram, Ali  (2008) A nonlinear approach for characterization of viscoelastic materials with application in tactile sensing for robotics and minimally invasive surgery.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Jebelli, Nasrin  (2008) Heavy metal removal and dewatering of municipal biosolids using 3D electrokinetics.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Firoozrai, Arash  (2008) Study of aircraft structure during landing impact.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Nejati, Houshin  (2008) On investigation of contact models in DEM simulation of rockfalls.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Simulation of rockfall allows us to protect infrastructures and forests along rock slopes against the impacts of rockfall. In this thesis, a computer program based on 3D Discrete Element Method (DEM) is developed by the author for rockfall simulation and fundamental investigation of physics of a rockfall event. Each rock is modeled as a sphere and impact surfaces are generated by numbers of 3D triangles.   Contacts in DEM between objects are modeled using a mass-damper model. Different contact models of DEM produce different contact stiffnesses for springs and therefore different contact forces. Since contact forces have essential effect on dynamic behaviour of particles; hence a comparative study is performed to investigate the effect of each contact model on dynamic of rocks contacts. The five chosen contact models are: linear model, Hertz-Mindlin, Ng model, elastic-inelastic power function model and combination of Hertz model and Ng model (Hertz-Ng model).   Energy in linear, Hertz-Mindlin, Hertz-Ng and Ng model is dissipated using linear normal and shear dashpots. Also, the coefficient of restitution is a concept that defines the energy level of a rock after contact with a surface. To relate the concept of coefficient of restitution and damping ratio for each contact model, the correlations of damping ratio and coefficient of restitution are determined for contact of a spherical rock and horizontal wall as well as the correlation of coefficient of restitution and damping ratio for sloped walls for linear contact model.   An has developed a 2D elastic-inelastic power function for modeling of normal contact of rocks and surfaces. In this research, 3D modeling of this contact model is produced, and the effects of the input parameters on dynamic behaviours of a rock are studied and the correlation between transition force and coefficient of restitution is determined.   Finally, for a 3D slope, a sensitivity analysis is performed and the effect of seven input parameters on horizontal travel distance of a rock is investigated.    [ Show less ]  You have requested "on-the-fly" machine translation of selected content from our databases. This functionality is provided solely for your convenience and is in no way intended to replace human translation. Show full disclaimer  Neither ProQuest nor its licensors make any representations or warranties with respect to the translations. The translations are automatically generated "AS IS" and "AS AVAILABLE" and are not retained in our systems. PROQUEST AND ITS LICENSORS SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM ANY AND ALL EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY WARRANTIES FOR AVAILABILITY, ACCURACY, TIMELINESS, COMPLETENESS, NON-INFRINGMENT, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Your use of the translations is subject to all use restrictions contained in your Electronic Products License Agreement and by using the translation functionality you agree to forgo any and all claims against ProQuest or its licensors for your use of the translation functionality and any output derived there from. Hide full disclaimer Translations powered by LEC.


identifier: Su, Fan  (2008) A delay differential-algebraic equation approach for dynamic modeling and observer design with application to diesel engine particulate aftertreatment systems.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.


identifier: Kamya, Petrina R. N  (2009) Relationship between nucleic acid sequence, structure and function in terms of stabilizing interactions.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The relationship between nucleic acid (NA) sequence, structure and function is intricately connected to the stabilizing interactions (primarily hydrogen bonding and 1t-stacking) that occur between the monomeric subunits that constitute NAs. Therefore, detailed insights into the. nature of the stabilizing interactions would permit the full exploitation of the structure-function relationship in NAs. A complete understanding of the role of the stabilizing interactions in NAs involves the fulfillment of two requirements: 1) The ability to determine the electronic structure of the monomeric units (in terms of the electron density distribution as an observable) that make up the fundamental structure of NAs, which is possible through the use of quantum chemical calculations, and 2) The ability to characterize the electronic structure of these monomeric units in the context of realistic NA structures. Ideally, such molecular structures are determined experimentally. These two ideas are combined into a methodology that has been designed, tested and validated in the work presented here. The proof of concept culminates in the ability of the methodology to exploit the structure-function relationship in NAs through procurement of full stabilization profiles of host NA and guest (small molecule inhibitors to the function of the NA) complexes, where the potential inhibitors were designed on the basis of the stabilization profiles of the host and natural ligand complexes


identifier: Madani, Kaveh Moezzi  (2009) Stability analysis and controller design for switched time-delay systems.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: In this thesis, the stability analysis and control synthesis for uncertain switched time-delay systems are investigated. It is known that a wide variety of real-world systems are subject to uncertainty and also time-delay in their dynamics. These characteristics, if not taken into consideration in analysis and synthesis, can lead to important problems such as performance degradation or instability in a control system. On the other hand, the switching phenomenon often appears in numerous applications, where abrupt change is inevitable in the system model. Switching behavior in this type of systems can be triggered either by time, or by the state of the system. A theoretical framework to study various features of switched systems in the presence of uncertainty and time-delay (both neutral and retarded) would be of particular interest in important applications such as network control systems, power systems and communication networks.   To address the problem of robust stability for the class of uncertain switched systems with unknown time-varying delay discussed above, sufficient conditions in the form of linear matrix inequalities (LMI) are derived. An adaptive switching control algorithm is then proposed for the stabilization of uncertain discrete time-delay systems subject to disturbance. It is assumed that the discrete time-delay system is highly uncertain, such that a single fixed controller cannot stabilize it effectively. Sufficient conditions are provided subsequently for the stability of switched time-delay systems with polytopic-type uncertainties. Moreover, an adaptive control scheme is provided to stabilize the uncertain neutral time-delay systems when the upper bounds on the system uncertainties are not available a priori . Simulations are provided throughout the thesis to support the theoretical results


identifier: Motamedi, Ramin  (2009) Micro cantilever based rheology of liquids.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: In this work the objective was to extract the properties of high viscosity liquids using the vibrational response of the micro cantilevers utilized in the atomic force microscopes (AFM). Such an aim could not be achieved using thermal excitation of the cantilever because the energy given to the cantilever in this method is not enough to allow it to have a recognizable response. Instead we proposed the frequency sweep and step excitation techniques and we proved that they can be use<;l to overcome such a limitation. These two methods are considered as two specific types of the acoustic excitation technique. The application of acoustic excitation to the cantilever in liquid resulted in many spurious peaks in the response, which make it impossible to identify the original cantilever response. Therefore, the first step of this study was to understand the real factors leading to this effect and to improve the design of the fluid cell. After achieving such a goal, we focused on the extraction of the fluid properties by comparing the theoretical analysis with the experimentally obtained results. During our study we implemented the previously established theory for the frequency sweep and we managed to develop the theory for the step excitation technique by ourselves. We proved that although both methods are successful in analysing high viscosity liquids, the step excitation technique was better than the frequency sweep method mainly in having an exact theoretical solution rather than a solution in the form of a series. This enabled us to increase the accuracy of the theoretically obtained results by diminishing the truncation error. In addition, for determination of the fluid properties from the frequency sweep data, three different methods were proposed. These were to determine the properties of the fluids through the whole frequency range using the phase response or the amplitude response or by using both responses at each excitation frequency. Finally, we explained how to extend our work in order to serve for the studies being made on the non-Newtonian fluids and we also mentioned few guidelines to help in focusing such efforts to achieve the best results expected.


identifier: Aljanaideh, Omar  (2009) A stop operator-based Prandtl-Ishlinskii model for compensation of smart actuator hysteresis effects.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The positioning and tracking performance of smart materials actuators is strongly limited due to the presence of hysteresis nonlinearity. The hysteresis of smart actuators, employed in micro-positioning tasks, is known to cause oscillations in the open-loop system's responses, and poor tracking performance and potential instabilities of the close-loop system. Considerable efforts are thus being made continuously to seek effective compensation of hysteresis effects in real-time applications. In this dissertation research, a stop operator-based-Prandtl-Ishlinskii model (SOPI) is proposed as a feedforward compensator for the hysteresis nonlinearities in smart actuators. The complementary properties of the proposed stop operator-based model in relation to the most widely used play operator-based Prandtl-Ishlinskii model are illustrated and applied to realize the desired compensation. It is shown that the stop operator-based model yields hysteresis loops in the clockwise direction, opposite to that of the piezoceramic micro-positioning actuators. It is further proven that the stop operator-based model exhibits concave initial loading behavior, while the play operator-based model, used to characterize the hysteresis behavior, follows a convex initial loading relation between the output and the input. On the basis of these complementary properties, it is hypothesized that a stop operator-based Prandtl-Ishlinskii model may serve as an effective compensator for known hysteresis nonlinearity that is described 'by a play operator-based model. The proposed stop operator-based model is subsequently implemented as a feedforward compensator in conjunction with the play operator-based model describing a known hysteresis nonlinearity. The effectiveness of the proposed compensator is demonstrated through simulation and experimental results attained with a piezoceramic micro-positioning stage. Both the simulation and the experimental results show that the proposed stop operator-based model can serve as an effective feedforward hysteresis compensator. A methodology for identifying the stop operator-based model parameters is proposed using those of a known play operator hysteresis model. Relations between the stop and play operator based-model parameters are also derived in the order to facilitate parameter identification. Furthermore, the relation between the stop operator based Prandtl-Ishlinskii model and the inverse Prandtl-Ishlinskii model, which has been proven effective hysteresis compensator, is demonstrated.


identifier: Burr, Andrew  (2009) The values of retired adults : measurement issues, links to well-being, and the correlates of value change.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Research on values has focused almost exclusively on samples of university students and working adults and is significantly lacking for older, retired adults. The general focus of this dissertation is on extending research on values to older adults and to the post-employment stage of life using a sample of 433 recently retired individuals from the Montreal area. The dissertation is divided into three separate studies, presented as individual manuscripts. The first of these is focused on the structural and measurement properties of a widely used value questionnaire (the Portrait Value Questionnaire: Schwartz et al., 2001) that has seen little use with older adults. The second study examines how values, health, and money, independently and in combination, are longitudinally linked with affective well-being in retirement. The third study investigates subjective perceptions of value change compared to longitudinally-assessed value change over three years of retirement and the extent to which these different kinds of change are adaptive processes linked to positive and negative affect and meaning in life. The major areas of interest in the dissertation (values, retirement, subjective well-being, and value change) are reviewed in a general introduction, followed by the three manuscripts. Finally, an integrative discussion of the findings across the three studies is presented


identifier: Li, Ying  (2009) Typeface personality traits and their design characteristics.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Typography is a critical tool in visual communication. Selecting the appropriate typeface to express and communicate a message is very important. Since most studies on typeface design concentrate on typeface legibility and readability, this thesis focuses on the visual expression of typefaces and their design characteristics. The relationship between typefaces and their personality traits including legible, cheerful, fearful, creative, attractive, formal, sloppy, relaxed, friendly and confident are investigated.   A font survey about twenty four typefaces and ten personality traits is conducted and a series of statistical analyses are performed to discover the correlation between typefaces and their personality traits. As a result, the number of studied typefaces is reduced from twenty four to fifteen and these fifteen typefaces are categorized into four groups according to their personality traits and typographical features.   Typeface design characteristics, such as x-height proportion, ascender and descender proportion, font weight, stroke design, counter design as well as character space of these fifteen typefaces are studied in depth. Typeface design characteristics of four different groups are summarized.   In addition, the aesthetic design characteristics of studied typefaces are analyzed. The appropriate uses of each of the four groups are discussed.


identifier: Hershon, Tanya Ivy  (2009) More than מצתק : the consequence of finding a lost pun for the understanding of Genesis 21:9.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The presence of Hagar and Ishmael in the Abraham narratives has posed many difficulties over the years. This research examines the text of Gn 21 with an aim of addressing these issues through macro-syntactical analysis, literary structure and keen attention to translation and wordplays. It is shown that Hagar and Ishmael are important literary figures, tied into the book of Genesis through numerous literary devices. The key to reconciling their banishment lies in a previously overlooked pun in Gn 21:9.


identifier: Chow, Virginia  (2009) A matter of trust : the influence of a looker's past reliability on infants' gaze following and reasoning about beliefs.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The objective of the present thesis was to examine infants' understanding of other people's mental states, such as visual perception and beliefs. The first paper was designed to systematically investigate whether 14-month-olds would follow the gaze of a person to a target hidden behind a barrier when the person's perception was previously unreliable. Infants were first trained on a search task to either expect a person's gaze to be either reliable or unreliable. Then, their gaze following behavior was observed in a gaze following task during which an experimenter looked at a target in front (control condition) and in back of a barrier (experimental condition). In Study 1, infants were more likely to follow the gaze of the reliable looker than infants in the unreliable looker group. In contrast, no differences in gaze following were observed across groups in the control condition. In study 2, when a naïve experimenter administered the gaze following task following training with an unreliable looker in the search task, infants treated the naïve experimenter as though she was a reliable looker and were more likely to follow her gaze behind the barrier than infants in the unreliable looker group in the first study.   In the second paper, infants' ability to generalize their knowledge about the reliability of a person's gaze to another context was explored. This paper examined whether 16-month-olds' past experience with the reliability of what a person sees influences their expectation regarding where the person should look for a toy that was previously hidden. Results showed that only infants in the reliable looker group were surprised and therefore looked longer when the experimenter searched for the hidden toy in the incorrect location as compared to the correct location; whereas infants who were previously exposed to an unreliable looker looked equally long at both search locations. Taken together, these results demonstrate for the first time that infants as young as 14 months of age encode the identity of a person based on their past gaze reliability and use this information to decide whether or not to follow her gaze and implicitly attribute beliefs


identifier: Dabrowski, Alan  (2009) Home, green home : evolving the suburban image of home to a deeper ecology.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Since the 1980s, Montreal has been experiencing suburban sprawl off the island, in the form of neo-modern suburban development. Neo-modern suburbs are replacing both the local culture and natural ecosystems with a technocentric, Token Ecology - a modern symbolic representation of the natural environment. The purpose of this thesis is to find out how to change the technocentric image of ecological homes to a deeper ecological image. This thesis focuses on three central issues: (1) the three primary spaces that make up the habitus of the suburban home (2) the contradictory nature of the mind and action of the suburban image and lifestyle (3) the cultural infrastructures that affect the suburbanite's image.   As a case study twenty participants who are young parents or soon to be parents from the Western Suburbs of Montreal (West Island and The Vaudreuil-Soulanges Region) were used to explore the transition to a deeper ecological image. The results form my research have concluded that: (1) the underlying reason why young parents chose to move to the westerns suburbs is that it offers the three primary spaces while the city does not (2) the technocentric image of ecological homes and communities can be attributed to the image construction of popular media and (neo)modern design. The image projected is heavily technological and scientific, neglecting building typologies, biodiversity, consumption and lifestyle habits. (3) If the proper cultural infrastructures are implemented the chances of attain eco-communities are significantly greater.


identifier: Jamali, Ibrahim  (2009) Stock market volatility and monetary policy.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis comprises three essays. The first essay examines the effect of federal funds rate surprises on implied stock market volatility using U.S. data. While volatility is measured using two popular implied volatility indices (VIX and VXO indexes), different techniques are employed to measure federal funds rate surprises from federal funds futures data at the daily and monthly frequencies. We find that the surprises significantly increase volatility, even when timing uncertainty is accounted for. Consistent with the efficient markets hypothesis, we find that the expected component of a target rate change; as well as the target rate change itself, do not significantly affect volatility. Nonlinearities and asymmetries are explored in the response of volatility to the direction of the rate change and the sign of the surprise. The evidence of asymmetries and nonlinearities is found to be weak.   The second essay investigates the dynamic response of U.S. stock market variables to monetary policy shocks and the transmission of monetary policy shocks to the stock market using vector autoregressive models. We find that volatility is increased and excess returns are decreased contemporaneously due to a monetary policy shock but that the persistence of the effect depends on the model used. A daily analysis using conditional heteroskedasticity models confirms the results found with vector autoregressive models.   The third essay uses Canadian data to examine risk premiums and predictability in futures contracts (BAX futures) on short-term Canadian interest rates (Bankers' Acceptances). While evidence for a constant risk premium is found, the predictive regressions employed only uncover weak signs of predictability (and time-varying risk premiums) in returns on BAX futures. This result is confirmed by forecast efficiency regressions. Lastly, out-of-sample forecasting of Bankers' Acceptances returns is undertaken. Forecasting results reveal the superior predictive ability of the model exploiting the restrictions of economic theory in comparison to random walk, autoregressive and error correction models.


identifier: Ren, Hua Nan  (2009) Cloning, expression and characterization of novel fungal endoglucanases.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Global energy consumption is projected to double between 1980 and 2020. Furthermore, about 65% of present energy consumption is derived by burning nonrenewable fossil fuels that increase atmospheric levels of CO2 , the major greenhouse gas implicated in global warming. It is therefore important that carbon neutral alternative energy sources be developed. For transportation fuels bioethanol derived from renewable energy sources is considered among the most attractive alternatives. Presently, most bioethanol is produced from corn kernels and sugar cane sucrose, with the United State and Brazil being the world's major producers. Cellulose is another possible feedstock that can be used to produce bioethanol. Compared with the currently used feedstocks, cellulose is very abundant in nature and its use for biofuels production would not compete with the food or animal feed industries. In order to use cellulose for bioethanol production, the cellulose must be converted into the fermentable sugar glucose. Currently, the high cost of converting the cellulose into glucose is a major impediment to using cellulose as a feedstock for the production of bioethanol. The goal of my research was to address this issue by discovering new fungal enzymes that could improve the cellulose hydrolyzing efficiency of existing commercial cellulase systems. In this study I identified, cloned, functionally expressed and characterized six endoglucanases, AfumEgl2010, AnidEgl2020, FgraEgl2010, FgraEgl1020, FgraEgl2020 and NcraEgl2010. Three of these endoglucanases, AfumEgl2010, AnidEgl2020, FgraEgl2010, were characterized in detail in this study. Only AfumEgl2010 harbours a carbohydrate-binding module (CBM). All three of the endoglucanases that were subject to detailed characterization show highest activity at pH 5.0. The temperature optima of these three endoglucanases were determined to be 40°C, 60°C and 70°C. All of them were stable during 30 minutes pre-incubation at 60°C. The kinetic parameters of these three endoglucanases and four other endoglucanases, the Trichoderma reesei (T. reesei ) Eg2/Cel5A and ApulSEQ15654, StheSEQ13822, GtraSEQ630 (previously identified by undergraduate student Christopher St-Francois) were determined at 37°C and the pH optima of each endoglucanase. The Km values ranged from 2.0 to 29 mg/ml. The Vmax values ranged from 5.7 to 41 omole/mg/min. The degree of synergism when these endoglucanases were combined with the T. reesei Cbh1/Ce17A was also determined.


identifier: Li, TieMei (Sarah)  (2009) The governance of offshore firms : implications for financial reporting and firm value.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This study explores the quality of financial reporting, which is measured by earnings management, and the valuation of firms that operate in offshore financial centers (OFCs). First, I investigate whether offshore firms engage in more earnings management than non-offshore firms, and how the use of OFCs facilitates earnings management. Second, through an event study and other valuation methodologies, I analyze the short- and long-run value implications for firms that have transferred to, or set up affiliates or registered in OFCs. On the one hand, from an investor's perspective, an offshore fine can garner tax avoidance or deferral benefits, thus increasing its value. On the other hand, many OFCs have relatively loose legal regimes, flexible regulations, secrecy policies and the tolerant of economic crimes (Masciandaro (2006)). Under these conditions, investors may face increased risks of poor corporate governance and managerial expropriation of resources, which undermine a firm's value.   Using a large sample of 10,553 offshore firm-year observations in 21 OFCs from 1998 to 2007, compared to a non-offshore sample with 30,621 firm-year observations in 37 countries and jurisdictions, I find that offshore firms engage in more earnings management than non-offshore firms, with OFCs facilitating both accruals and real earnings management. Moreover, offshore firms are more likely to have higher value than non-offshore firms largely because of their tax benefits. However, the valuation gap between offshore and non-offshore firms has decreased significantly after a series of scandals involving OFCs, such as Enron and Parmalat, which have occurred since 2001, indicating that investors of offshore firms pay more attention to governance mechanisms instead of the tax avoidance benefits.   In addition, I document that an increase in offshore characteristics, which are measured by the Offshore Attitude Indexes, translates into offshore firms being more likely engage in accruals management rather than real earnings activities. In contrast, firm value is more likely to decrease. Finally, my analysis provides evidence that the enactment of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) has significantly reduced accruals management and firm value of offshore firms that are listed or cross-listed in the U.S. stock markets.   This study extends prior research on international financial reporting and firm value into new territory and provides novel insights into the interface between a firm's legal regime, its governance structures and its value and financial reporting quality.


identifier: Tao, Ye  (2009) Essays on time series econometrics and health economics.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: This thesis contains two different topics that investigate issues in time series econometrics and applied health economics.   The first chapter (joint work with Nikolay Gospodinov) proposes a bootstrap unit root test in models with GARCH(1,1) errors and establishes its asymptotic validity under mild moment and distributional restrictions. While the proposed bootstrap test for a unit root shares the power enhancing properties of its asymptotic counterpart (Ling and Li, 2003), it corrects the substantial size distortions of the asymptotic test that occur for strongly heteroskedastic processes. The simulation results demonstrate the excellent finite-sample properties of the bootstrap unit root test for a wide range of GARCH specifications.   Both the second and third chapters study the obesity epidemic in Canada in recent years. Chapter 2 focuses on changes in obesity prevalence of Canadian adults, while chapter 3 focuses on their BMI shift pattern among different BMI categories.   By applying the quantile regression to three health surveys conducted from 1978 to 2004, chapter 2 explores the effects of some widely used demographic, geographic, and socioeconomic factors, as well as lifestyle, on the body mass index (BMI). The results of this study show that, changes of BMI that are attributable to these factors differs at different points of the BMI distribution, and the importance of any given factor changes over time. The epidemic of obesity in recent years is more closely in related to lifestyle and socioeconomic factors than demographic factors. By applying the Markov chain analysis to the BMI for individuals from the longitudinal National Population Healthy Survey (NPHS), chapter 3 explores how the pattern of weight of Canadian individuals has shifted among six categories of BMI during the 1994/95-2006/07 period. Two policy implications are suggested by this study: first, the effort to prevent the occurrence of new obese cases seems to be much more effective than the effort to reduce the number of existing obese people, and second, health policies for reducing obesity should focus more on the physically inactive people and provide incentives for them to be more physically active.


identifier: El Barachi, May  (2009) Integrating Context-Awareness in the IP Multimedia Subsystem for Enhanced Session Control and Service Provisioning Capabilities.  PhD thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The 3GPP-defined IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) is becoming the de-facto standard for IP-based multimedia communication services. It consists of an overlay control and service layer that is deployed on top of IP-based mobile and fixed networks. This layer encompasses a set of common functions (e.g. session control functions allowing the initiation/modification/termination of sessions) and service logics that are needed for the seamless provisioning of IP multimedia services to users, via different access technologies. As it continues to evolve, the IMS still faces several challenges including: the enabling of innovative and personalized services that would appeal to users and increase network operators' revenues; its interaction with other types of networks (e.g. wireless sensor networks) as means to enhance its capabilities; and the support of advanced QoS schemes that would manage the network resources in an efficient and adaptive manner.   The context-awareness concept, which comes from the pervasive computing field, signifies the ability to use situational information (or context) in support to operations and decision making and for the provision of relevant services to the user. Context-awareness is considered to enhance users' experience and is seen as an enabler to adaptability and service personalization - two capabilities that could play important roles in telecommunication environments.   This thesis focuses on the introduction of the context-awareness technology in the IMS, as means to enhance its session control and service provisioning capabilities. It starts by presenting the necessary background information, followed by a derivation of requirements and a review of the related work. To ensure the availability of contextual information within the network, we then propose an architecture for context information acquisition and management in the IMS. This architecture leverages and extends the 3GPP presence framework. Building on the capabilities of this architecture, we demonstrate how the managed information could be integrated in IMS operations, at the control and service levels. Showcasing control level integration, we propose a novel context-aware call differentiation framework as means to offer enhanced QoS support (for sessions/calls) in IMS-based networks. This framework enables the differentiation between different categories of calls at the IMS session control level, via dynamic and adaptive resource allocation, in addition to supporting a specialized charging model. Furthermore, we also propose a framework for enhanced IMS emergency communication services. This framework addresses the limitations of existing IP-based emergency solutions, by offering three main improvements: a QoS-enhanced emergency service; a context-aware personalized emergency service; and a conferencing-enhanced emergency service. We demonstrate the use of context awareness at the IMS service level using two new context-aware IMS applications. Finally, to validate our solutions and evaluate their performance, we build various proof-of-concept prototypes and OPNET simulation models


identifier: Almey, Anne  (2009) Age-dependent effects of methylphenidate on locomotor sensitization and Netrin-1 receptor expression in the ventral tegmental area.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Repeated exposure to psychostimulants activates mesocorticolimbic dopamine (DA), resulting in an increased locomotor response to the same dose of drug, known as sensitization. Research has yet to establish whether locomotor sensitization differs based on the age when a stimulant treatment is administered. Netrin-1 is a guidance cue in the brain that has been implicated in stimulant-induced locomotor sensitization. Netrin-1 receptors, deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) and UNC-5, are expressed throughout the mesocorticolimbic system, and repeated amphetamine (AMPH) treatment alters levels of these receptors in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in an age-dependent manner. To investigate whether methylphenidate (MPH) treatment induces locomotor sensitization and changes in Netrin-1 receptor expression differentially across development, prepubescent and adult rats were administered MPH (2mg/kg) or saline twice daily, for 10 days. One or 4 weeks after treatment ended, rats were administered a dose of cocaine (COC; 10mg/kg) and sensitization was assessed. DCC and UNC-5 levels in the VTA were evaluated through Western blots. The results show that prepubescent rats tested 4 weeks after MPH treatment exhibit significant locomotor sensitization compared to saline controls. However, adults treated with MPH and tested 1 or 4 weeks after treatment, and prepubescent rats tested 1 week after treatment, did not exhibit sensitization. MPH treated rats from both age groups had no significant differences in DCC or UNC-5 expression in the VTA compared to saline controls. These findings indicate prepubescent MPH treatment induces locomotor sensitization, a behaviour that does not require changes in Netrin-1 receptor expression


identifier: Kircanski, Aleksandar  (2009) Cryptanalysis of symmetric key primitives.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: Block ciphers and stream ciphers are essential building blocks that are used to construct computing systems which have to satisfy several security objectives. Since the security of these systems depends on the security of its parts, the analysis of these symmetric key primitives has been a goal of critical importance. In this thesis we provide cryptanalytic results for some recently proposed block and stream ciphers.   First, we consider two light-weight block ciphers, TREYFER and PIFEA-M. While TREYFER was designed to be very compact in order to fit into constrained environments such as smart cards and RFIDs, PIFEA-M was designed to be very fast in order to be used for the encryption of multimedia data. We provide a related-key attack on TREYFER which recovers the secret key given around 2 11 encryptions and negligible computational effort. As for PIFEA-M, we provide evidence that it does not fulfill its design goal, which was to defend from certain implementation dependant differential attacks possible on previous versions of the cipher.   Next. we consider the NGG stream cipher, whose design is based on RC4 and aims to increase throughput by operating with 32-bit or 64-bit values instead of with 8-bit values. We provide a distinguishing attack on NGG which requires just one keystream word. We also show that the first few kilobytes of the keystream may leak information about the secret key which allows the cryptanalyst to recover the secret key in an efficient way.   Finally, we consider GGHN, another RC4-like cipher that operates with 32-bit words. We assess different variants of GGHN-Iike algorithms with respect to weak states, in which all internal state words and output elements are even. Once GGHN is absorbed in such a weak state, the least significant bit of the plaintext words will be revealed only by looking at the ciphertext. By modelling the algorithm by a Markov chain and calculating the chain absorption time, we show that the average number of steps required by these algorithms to enter this weak state can be lower than expected at first glance and hence caution should be exercised when estimating this number


identifier: Sakib, Meer Nazmus  (2009) Impact of optical transmission on multi-band OFDM ultra-wideband wireless system with fiber distribution.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The performance of MB-OFDM UWB over fiber transmission system is investigated considering optical modulation and demodulation impact. Theoretical analysis of the effect of fiber dispersion, optical transmitter and optical receiver response on system performance is carried out considering amplitude and phase distortion. Experiments are conducted and verified by our theoretical analysis and good agreement is obtained. It is found that RF modulation index of {598}4% is optimum for optical transmitter with Mach-Zehnder modulator, and optical receiver with Chebyshev-II response is the best for MB-OFDM UWB over fiber. It is also found that high received optical power is required for transmission of MB-OFDM UWB signal over fiber.   Theoretical analysis of the effect of fiber chromatic dispersion induced laser phase to intensity noise or relative intensity noise (RIN) on system performance is carried out. Experiments are also conducted to verify our theoretical analysis. Simulation is also carried out to show the relationship between RIN and center frequency of UWB bands. It is found that the parameters like laser output power, laser linewidth and fiber dispersion that control RIN, will critically affect the overall performance of a UWB over fiber system.   The performance of MB-OFDM UWB over fiber transmission system is also studied considering the effect of in-band jammers such as WiMAX, WLAN MIMO, WLAN and marine radar. Experiments were performed to show the effect of fiber transmission under various interferer power levels. It is found that in-band interferers can cause severe degradation in system performance if certain interferer to UWB peak power ratio is not maintained


identifier: Kapiga, Isabelle  (2009) Agents of change, colours of resistance : the socio-economic integration of Filipina live-in caregivers in Montreal.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: The current Canadian federal government's Live-in Caregiver program has contributed over the last few decades to the international migration of temporary workers to Canada, particularly those from developing world countries with struggling economies such as the Philippines. The majority of participants in the program are skilled women lured by the opportunity of permanent residency which they can apply for upon completion of two years of work as a live-in caregiver.   This is a direct result of the asymmetrical relations from past colonialism and corporate globalization between the developed world and the developing world. Inevitably the Filipino economy has become dependant on transnational corporations and created labour export policies propelling Filipinos to be regarded as a commodity within the global trade system.   These relations have allowed the Canadian government to capitalize on the economic inequalities between Canada and the Philippines. The program reflects how Canada's need for cheap and skilled labour influences whether it restricts or slackens its immigration policies in order to procure such immigrant female workers. Regulations such as the requirement for the women to live-in and stay with the employer stated on the issued work permit forces them into precarious and sometimes illegal situations, showing the program is restrictive, discriminatory and anti-woman. The majority of the migrant women in the Live-in Caregiver program (LCP) are visible minority women who are issued temporary status, lack labour rights and often encounter exploitative situations within their workplace.   Using an anti-racist feminist approach, this thesis will seek to explore how Canada's LCP has influenced the socio-economic integration and personal experiences of a sample of Filipina live-in caregivers in Montreal, Quebec. This thesis will initially review the available literature on how Canada's immigration policies have affected immigration trends over time. The current socio-economic outcomes for immigrant men and women who have recently arrived will be examined and compared to those of their Canadian-born counterparts. This will be followed by an assessment of the available literature that explores the contextual and explanatory macro-factors that have influenced the procurement of migrant women into the LCP such as Canada's ever-changing immigration laws and ideologies, as well as its historical and economic status.   With the use of in-depth qualitative research methods the focus will shift to a micro-level, analysing the personal experiences of a sample number of live-in caregivers within the LCP. A feminist approach is necessary to show how domestic work is devalued by the Canadian government which imposes its Eurocentric ideals and culture on these women whilst demoralizing them by denying them their basic human rights and violating their labour rights. The information gathered from the Filipina live-in caregivers will be analysed and discussed in detail. Based on the findings, the thesis will conclude with suggestions on how to change policies that affect the socio-economic outcomes of these women. Recommendations will be put forward that aim to improve their work and personal experiences as well as protect and empower them


identifier: El-Sawy, Tamer  (2009) Effect of retrofit strategies on mitigating progressive collapse of multistorey steel frame structures.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

abstract: In the past decades, there have been cases where buildings around the world have experienced partial or total collapse under extreme abnormal loading conditions. Although building collapse is a rare event, it may result in significant catastrophes and property loss when it occurs. In particular, the collapse of the World Trade Center in 2001 following the terrorist attacks has triggered increased interest in blast and progressive collapse resistant building design. The upgrading of steel frames building has thus become an important topic for researchers.   In this study, progressive collapse response was investigated using the Alternate Path Method (APM) recommended in the United States' General Service Administration (GSA 2003) and Department of Defense (DoD 2005) guidelines. Nonlinear dynamic analysis for progressive collapse is done as a precise tool for evaluation of the progressive collapse potential of building structures. The studied models were 18 typical floors, with 6 bays in the longitudinal direction, 3 bays in the transverse direction, where six cases of removed column scenarios were conducted.   The objectives of this study are to 1) investigate the effect of three retrofit strategies (by increasing strength and/or stiffness of the beams) on the response of steel frames for model of span 6m (reference model) subjected to GSA and DoD loads by studying three parameters (the chord rotation, tie forces and displacement ductility demand), 2) investigate the effect of variation of bay span on the three performance parameters by studying three models of different spans of 5.0, 7.5 and 9.0 m subjected to GSA load, and 3) propose equations for predicting the effect of retrofit strategy and bay span on the three performance indicators


identifier: Soifer, Elliott J  (2008) Reasonable for the right reasons.  Masters thesis, Concordia University.

title: Reasonable for the right reasons

abstract: In order for the Law of Peoples to be stable for the right reasons, Rawls must provide an unassailable explanation as to why decent hierarchical societies would adopt fair terms of cooperation and follow them willingly when what is reasonable for these societies and what is reasonable for liberal societies are arguably quite different. The reasonableness of hierarchical societies, where the internal design affords greater liberties and privileges for some over others, calls into question the moral commitments held by their representatives in the original position. In order for Rawls to validate the assumption of a commitment to equality for the representatives of hierarchical peoples, Rawls would have to assume that these representatives have a deep commitment to equality that supersedes all positions of privilege. The commitment to equality of these representatives in the original position is not a valid assumption and for this reason, the law of peoples is not stable for the right reasons and is in fact a modus vivendi .