title: THREE ESSAYS ON EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS AND EMERGING MARKETS

contributor:
Miu, Peter
Charupat, Narat
Qiu, Jiaping
Business Administration

subject: ETF, Emerging Market

abstract:
In this thesis the author investigate the overreaction effect of Asian country exchange traded funds (ETFs) to US stock market returns, trading strategies of  leveraged exchange traded funds (LETFs), and the regime switching behavior of emerging market sovereign credit default swaps.
In the Asian country ETF paper the author studies the overreaction effect of US investors towards US market return when they formulate Asian country ETF prices. The Asian country ETFs are special because when the ETF shares are traded in the US the underlying Asian stock markets are closed resulting in stale Net Asset Values (NAVs) of ETFs. This feature of Asian country ETFs offers a unique setting to study the relation between security price and market sentiment. With a dynamic contrarian trading strategy the author records economically significant abnormal returns over the buy-and-hold benchmark suggesting that US investors’ sentiment does lead to abnormal returns in the Asian country ETF market. The author also studies the correspondence of the abnormal return with US market sentiment index and finds that they are positively correlated. Furthermore the author documents asymmetric responses of overreaction in bullish vs. bearish market sentiment. The results pose significant implications for both the academics and practitioners.

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The LETF trading strategy paper is a joint work with my supervisor Dr. Peter Miu and my supervisory committee member Dr. Narat Charupat.  The authors investigate the market conditions that tip the balance between the market trending effect and the volatility drag in governing the performance of LETFs. The market conditions that promote a stronger former effect than the latter will result in a positive compounding effect, thus enhancing the profitability of a long LETF position at the expense of a short one. On the other hand, those market conditions that promote a dominating latter effect will result in a negative compounding effect, which benefits the short LETF position as opposed to the long position. To address our research questions, we conduct a series of simulation exercises by gauging the sensitivity of the LETF returns on key parameters of the return generating process of the underlying benchmark as represented by the GJR model. We first study the return distributions of a long strategy in a +3x LETF, a short strategy in a -3x LETF, and the pair strategy of a 50% short position in the +3x LETF together with a 50% short position in the -3x LETF, all on the same S&P 500 index. We examine different performance measures and study the risk-return trade-offs of LETF investment. We contribute to the literature by establishing the link between the performance of LETFs and characteristics of the return dynamics of the underlying benchmark through pinpointing the underlying drivers of the compounding effects to facilitate the decision-making process of LETF investors.
In the sovereign Credit Default Swap (SCDS) paper the author investigates the dependency of sovereign CDS spread change on a sovereign’s country specific fundamental, local, regional and macro global factors. Using Markov regime switching model the author reveals that in a tranquil state a sovereign market’s fundamental factors mainly determine the direction of the SCDS spread movement, while in a turmoil state the global factors become dominant. Cross sectional analysis to examine the behavior of the same explanatory variable on countries of different macroeconomic characters and reveal that more “open” countries are more integrated with the regional economies with the contagion effect being more salient in the bad state, and smaller countries with less diversified economies would be more affected a global crisis because economic links are more important for such countries than larger countries. Furthermore, it shows that the influence of rating is more significant for “closed” than for “open” countries, and the market sentimental effect of flight-to-quality magnifies in the bad state that US equity market return has the strongest influence for small countries indicating stronger economic ties of smaller countries to larger countries with diverse economies in the bad state.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Molecular Gas in Nearby Merging and Interacting Galaxies: the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) and the Antennae Galaxies (NGC 4038/39)

contributor:
Wilson, Christine
Physics and Astronomy

subject:
Astronomy
Astrophysics
Molecular gas
Star formation
Galaxies: NGC 4038/39
Galaxies: M51
Herschel SPIRE-FTS
ALMA
Photon Dominated Regions

abstract:
I present a spectroscopic study of the molecular gas in the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) and the Antennae Galaxies (NGC 4038/39) using data from the Herschel Space Observatory (Herschel) and the Atacama Large Millime- ter/submillimeter Array (ALMA). Using data from the Herschel Spectral and Photometric Imaging REceiver (SPIRE) Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS), I perform an excitation analysis to determine the physical characteris- tics (temperature, density, column density) of the cold and warm molecular gas across both systems. I do not find significant variation in the cold molecular gas across an individual system or between the systems. The warm molecular gas temperature is greater in NGC 4038/39 than in M51, while the density in both M51 and the nucleus of NGC 4038 is greater than the rest of the Anten- nae system. Both galaxies exhibit a similar fraction of warm to cold molecular gas. I compare Herschel SPIRE-FTS data to models of photon dominated regions (PDRs) to determine the strength of the background far ultraviolet field (G0) within both systems and find little variation across each system. I find that PDRs alone can explain the observed Herschel SPIRE-FTS data in both systems.
Using ALMA observations of dense molecular gas tracers in NGC 4038/39, I investigate the physical processes affecting the dense molecular gas. Ratios of various molecular gas tracers suggest that the contributions of mechanical heating relative to PDR heating are similar across the entire system. The dense gas fraction in the nucleus of NGC 4038 and the nucleus of NGC 4039
is higher than in the overlap region, which I attribute to an increase in the stellar potential within the two nuclei. Furthermore, I find evidence for an increased cosmic ray rate in the overlap region of NGC 4038/39 relative to the two nuclei, which I attribute to an increased supernova rate in the overlap region.
Most of the molecular gas in M51 and NGC 4038/39 is in the form of PDRs, while the increased temperature of the warm molecular gas in NGC
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4038/39 compared to M51 is likely due to an increase in the mechanical heating from both supernova and stellar winds and the ongoing merger. Furthermore, a comparison of these results to previous studies of the interacting galaxy M82 and the late-stage merger Arp 220 suggests that mergers and interactions have a greater effect on the warm molecular gas compared to the cold molecular gas. The results from this thesis help to further our understanding of the effects of merging and interacting galaxies on molecular gas, while helping understand differences between interacting galaxies and merging galaxies.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: OSL Dating of a Coastal Swift Creek Occupation at Harrison Ring, Bay County, Florida

contributor:
Rink, Jack
Geology

subject:
OSL
optically stimulated luminescence
geochronology
aluminum oxide dosimetry
dosimetry
north american archaeology
coastal archaeology
florida archaeology
microdosimetry

abstract: A total of 17 samples were collected for OSL dating from a Swift Creek archaeological site, known as Harrison Ring, which lies on the Tyndall Air force peninsula in northwest Florida. High-resolution vertical sampling conducted at 10 cm intervals from the surface was performed in order to determine the timing of occupation at the site, and to look for patterns in radiation dosimetry and post-depositional disturbance that can compromise OSL results. We find OSL ages determined using both 0.5 mm aliquots and single grains at the archaeological levels (approximately 1751 ± 339 years ago) to be consistent with the timing of early Swift Creek cultures on the Florida Gulf Coast. The ages we report are both consistent with radiocarbon dates taken at Harrison Ring, and those taken at other Swift Creek sites on the Gulf Coast. In general, we find OSL equivalent doses that show high overdispersion and skewness that we attribute to beta-microdosimetry and possible bioturbation in the profiles. We also present results from a test with a novel dosimetric technique employing Al2O3:C chips. By using Al2O3:C dosimeters, we find that large variability in beta dose rates exist in the sedimentary profile at Harrison Ring. By testing a combination of dosimetric techniques in a site with a well-constrained age, we find that the best agreement with independent age control exists when calculating ages using a beta dose rate from NAA/DNC and gamma dose rate from Al2O3:C dosimetry.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: Handover among multidisciplines in obstetrics: a mixed methods study of content and communication process

contributor:
Dore, Kelly
Health Sciences

subject:
handover, obstetrics
multidiscipline

abstract:
Background: Communication failures during handover has long been noted as a threat to patient safety.1  Breakdown in communication among health professionals is reported to account for up to 85% of hospital sentinel events.1   Lack of formal structure and training in handover methods 53 as well as modes of communication including nonverbal behaviors 59 have been reported to affect the quality of information exchange in handovers. 59  The objective of this mixed methods study is to conduct a detailed analysis of handover content among physicians and among nurses on a Birthing Unit and to examine communication processes within these groups in order to identify gaps in the process. This may provide a basis for future development of standardized approaches and training efforts.
Methods: A convergent, parallel mixed methodology was used. The sample in this study comprises the nurses and medical obstetrical team in a hospital Birthing Unit in Hamilton Ontario. Phase one of the study involved initial observations of handover, performing a Delphi to gain consensus on handover content and creating a handover assessment tool. Phase two involved reliability testing of the tool and in phase three, twenty five paired nurse to nurse compared to medical handovers were video recorded, scored and correlated to participant questionnaires.
Results: Gaps in handover content were identified; the nurses achieved a mean score of 10.24 items compared to physicians mean score of 9.02 (correlation 0.582, p <0.01). This showed statistically significant differences in the items mentioned among the two groups
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(t = 13.2,  p < 0.001). Nonverbal behaviors noted during handover observations revealed inconsistencies in conveying information, within and between the two groups. The findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of handover gaps, has implications to other health team practices and highlights the need for standardized processes, training and policy development.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: Our Hearts and Minds: (Post) Refugee Affect and the War in Viet Nam

contributor:
Goellnicht, Donald
English and Cultural Studies

subject: Refugees; Viet Nam War; Affect

abstract: Our Hearts and Minds examines how the “figure of the refugee”—as an analytic—both illuminates and complicates conventional understandings of nationhood, citizenship, and belonging, and in doing so, imagines alternative ways to think about history as well as socio-political formations to come. Through analyses of literary and cultural productions, my interdisciplinary project reconceptualizes “refugee” as a condition of subjectivity, as opposed to a legal category, a political anomaly, or a historical experience empty of rights and values. Taking the context of the War in Viet Nam, and the Southeast Asian diasporas that have resulted from it, as my case study, I focus on three affective categories—gratitude, resentment, and resilience—to explore how refugees remember, represent, and embody forced migration and its afterlife. Affect, I suggest, is an important means of turning to the bodies that migrate—its contacts, attachments, intensities, potentialities—as well as the forms of relationality and sociality that enable the refugee’s positioning in the world. Reading a range of texts including novels, short fiction, memoir, poetry, activist performance, and art videos, my research develops a critical framework for understanding refugee passages through the lens of feeling and embodiment, emotion and collectivity. This focus on affect departs from, and challenges, a field of refugee studies that take refugees as “objects of investigation” as well as popular modes of representation that characterize them as pitiful, identity-less mass. I center the textures of subjectivity and embodied experience, suggesting that rather than being restrictive and/or constrictive of diasporic lives, identities, and epistemologies, the refugee designation, or a sense of refugeeness, is valuable in making sense of entangled processes of war, migration, and diaspora. I contend that gratitude, resentment, and resilience are not only inevitable affective structures of American militarism overseas, they also illuminate the conditions of possibility crucial for the work of survival and memory-work in its wake.

abstract: Dissertation

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: A NEW MODEL FOR THE QUEBECIA TERRANE IN THE GRENVILLE PROVINCE AS A COMPOSITE ARC BELT: SM-ND EVIDENCE

contributor:
Dickin, Alan
Earth and Environmental Sciences

subject: geochronology, plate tectonics, grenville province, quebecia

abstract:
The Grenville Province represents a complex, highly metamorphosed orogenic belt at the southeastern margin of the Canadian Shield that is composed of different lithotectonic domains of various ages that have all been affected by the 1.0 Ga Grenville Orogeny. The present study focuses on one of the youngest regions, the Quebecia terrane, and through reconnaissance neodymium isotope mapping, investigates the extent of an old crustal block that predates the Grenville Orogeny.
	The Quebecia Terrane is found within Central Quebec and is a Mesoproterozoic arc terrane that was constructed around 1.5 Ga. Utilizing the Samarium-Neodymium dating method, previous research had identified a few isolated neodymium signatures of older crustal ages, and through reconnaissance mapping, several of these Paleoproterozoic crustal blocks are suggested to represent a single fragmented crustal panel. The study focused on more detailed mapping of these blocks in the areas of Baie Comeau, Forestville, Labrieville and Pipmuacan in Central Quebec.
The full extent and connection between the fragments has been mapped as a series of Paleoproterozoic crustal blocks extending longitudinally through the Quebecia terrane. These blocks are embedded within the younger terrane, suggesting that the old panel was incorporated sometime during the accretion of Quebecia to Laurentia. It is possible that the old panel broke off from older Laurentian crust and reattached during the accretion of the Quebecia terrane via strike slip tectonics, implying that the Quebecia terrane itself consists of more than one accreted unit. The present study found that the older neodymium isotope signatures were consistent with the Berthe Terrane in the Manicouagan region to the north, providing evidence for the origin of the older panel within Quebecia. However, by invoking a division of Quebecia into a north and south segment, this implies a Composite Arc Belt model for the Central Grenville Province.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: When Values Collide: Perceptions of Ethical Social Work in Neoliberal Contexts

contributor:
Aronson, Jane
Social Work

subject:
Social Work Ethics
Values in Social Work
Neoliberalism
Social Work Education

abstract:
Critical literature on social work ethics and practice in the current neoliberal context identifies the complex tensions generated for practitioners by the restructuring of increasingly residual public programs and by the market-modelled organizations in which they work. Pressed by employing organizations’ expectations to narrow and standardize their practice, social workers face collisions between their own values and the managerial and budget-driven requirements that dominate their organizational worlds. Building on the growing body of literature in this area, the research reported here examined how social workers articulate their own values and ethical commitments, understand the value collisions they experience, and work to navigate them in the interest of those they seek to serve.
A small qualitative study was conducted to explore these questions. In semi-structured interviews, five social workers were invited to share their experiences of ethical tensions generated in their organizational settings. The members of the sample all held social work degrees; their ages and length of practice experience ranged considerably and they spoke from experiences in a wide array of service sectors and settings.
Analysis of participants’ experiences illuminated the texture of their struggles and their efforts to covertly and overtly challenge or evade organizational requirements that were at odds with their values and their conceptualizations of good practice.   Their accounts point to the importance of politicized understandings of social work ethics. They also suggest the importance for social work education and professional development programs to foster dialogue on the complexities of ethical action and support the development of the analytical and practical skills that enable practitioners to find the ‘cracks’ in dominant neoliberal structures and create spaces for change.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Social Work (MSW)


title: Democracy and Judicial Review: Playing Waldron's Game

contributor:
Waluchow, Wilfrid
Igneski, Violetta
Philosophy

subject:
Democracy and Judicial review
commonwealth model
Gardbaum
Waldron
Waluchow
weak and strong form

abstract: The decision to adopt a formalized charter of rights is a momentous expression of a nations commitment to according and protection certain rights for its citizens.  They usually contain complex and ambiguous moral concepts about which people have good faith disagreements. This thesis examines and ultimately rejects the belief put forward by Jeremy Waldron that judicial review is only democratically justifiable if the power of the last word in the interpretation of statutes and charter rights belongs to the democratically appointed legislature instead of the appointed judiciary.  This thesis argues that a procedural conception of democracy is too limited and we would do better to base a justification of judicial review using a constitutional conception of democracy.  It matters less which party has the authority of the final say with respects to rights-determining decisions and more on whether or not the democratic principle of equal concern for all is satisfied. This thesis introduces the concepts of deference, constitutional conventions, and principles and argues that these, among other things, will inform the constitutional theorists about which powers are actually present in a practice of judicial review. Once the contours of the practice are filled out one can then begin to deliberate about whether a particular conception of judicial review has democratic justification.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: Age Relations and Care: Older People’s Experiences of Self-Care, Family/Friend Caregiving, and Formal Home Care

contributor:
Denton, Margaret
Sociology

subject:
Aging
Care and caregiving
Qualitative methods
Family
Home care and community services
Self-care

abstract:
This thesis examines the implications of age relations for older people’s negotiations of formal home care, family/friend caregiving, and self-care. Age relations constitute social processes, cultural discourses, and everyday practices that produce and sustain relations of inequality between and among people of different ages. Despite the overwhelming focus on care in the sociology of aging and in political discussions of aging societies, scholars have not clearly articulated how age relations shape, and are shaped by, experiences of later life care. Moreover, despite evidence that older people receive care from both formal care providers and family/friend caregivers—and that they continue to practise self-care when they receive care from others—we know little about the ways older care recipients negotiate the intersections that exist between these systems of care. Using data from a grounded theory study that involved qualitative interviews with 34 people aged 65 to 100 receiving home care in Ontario, this thesis considers how older people negotiate the intersections of formal home care, family/friend caregiving, and self-care, and how age relations can be used to understand experiences of later life care.
	Findings suggest that older care recipients attempt to strike a balance between self-care, formal home care, and family/friend caregiving, to access care that reflects their needs, preferences, and timelines. In doing so, they negotiate the tensions and contradictions that exist between the realities of impairment, illness, and care needs in later life; and the desire to remain self-sufficient and avoid “burdening” others with care needs. These findings provide insight into the everyday practices through which older people construct age relations in the context of care: when participants negotiate care arrangements, I suggest that they both reproduce and challenge the social processes and cultural discourses that are at the basis of age relations. Access to social and/or financial resources, however, had consequences for participants’ negotiations of care and of age relations.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Organic Field Effect Transistor Semiconductor Blends for Advanced Electronic Devices Including UV Phototransistors and Single Walled Carbon Nanotube Enhanced Devices

title: OFET Semiconductor Blends for Advanced Electronic Devices

contributor:
Zhu, Shiping
Wu, Yiliang
Chemical Engineering

subject:
SWCNT
Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Unsorted Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes
DPP-QT
OFET
Organic Field Effect Transistor
Printed Electronics
Phototransistor
UV Responsive
Organic Sensor
Printed Sensor
BTBT

abstract: Two major projects involving the use of solution processed blended semiconductors for organic field effect transistors (OFET) were explored.  The first incorporated unsorted single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) into a diketopyrrolopyrrole-quarterthiophene (DPP-QT) semiconductor to enhance the mobility of the OFET.  2 wt % SWCNT was found to be the optimal blend ratio, nearly doubling the device mobility (0.6 to 0.98 cm^2/V·s).  Beyond this ratio, the metallic content of the SWCNT’s dropped the on/off ratio below acceptable levels.  When source drain metals who’s work function poorly matched that of the DPP-QT semiconductors highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) were used, the SWCNT could dramatically reduce the charge injection ratio with best results achieved for Al, dropping the contact resistance from 10^5 to 45 MΩ.  The second project explored the addition of small molecule additives into a UV-sensitive semiconductor 2,7-dipentyl[1]benzothieno[3,2-b][1] benzothiophene (C5-BTBT) mixed with a polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) polymer binder.  We generated a C5-BTBT based phototransistor sensitive to UV-A light.  The HOMO and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of C5-BTBT and the various additives were measured and discovered to play a critical role in how the device operates.  We discovered if an additive has a LUMO lower in energy than C5-BTBT, it can act as a charge trap for a photogenerated electron.  Electron deficient additives were found to retain a trapped electron for an extended period of time, allowing the device to remain in a high current state for an extended period of time (>1 hour).  This provides an opportunity for the device to be used as an optical memory system or photoswitch.  The best system could detect UV-A with a Pill > 10^5 and a photoresponsivity of 40 A/W at a Pinc of 0.0427 mW/cm^2.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

abstract: An emerging field of electronics is the use of organic materials that can be solution processed, to reduce manufacturing costs and make new and interesting products.  Here we used unsorted carbon nanotubes blended into the semiconductor layer of a transistor, providing a bridge for the energy mismatch between the electrodes and the semiconductor.  This allowed us the freedom to choose different metals to act as our electrodes when making electronic devices.  Additionally through the correct choice of semiconductor, we added device functionality, making it responsive to UV-A light.  This produced a device that could act as a UV-A sensor, logic switch or memory device.  These devices are air stable and solution processable, a necessity if they are to be used in real world applications.


title: The Aerodynamic Excitation of Trapped Diametral Acoustic Modes in Rectangular Ducted Cavities

contributor:
Ziada, Samir
Mechanical Engineering

subject:
Self-Sustained Cavity Oscillations
Fluid-Resonant Feedback
Aeroacoustics
Diametral Modes
Acoustic Resonance
Trapped Modes

abstract: The excitation mechanism of trapped diametral acoustic modes within a rectangular cavity-duct system is investigated both numerically and experimentally. The asymmetry inherent within the rectangular geometry introduces a preferred orientation, ensuring the excited diametral modes remain stationary. Three separate cavities are manufactured and tested. This included two asymmetric rectangular cross-sections and one symmetric square cavity. Experimental results indicate that the aeroacoustic responses of the three cavities are dominated by the strong excitation of trapped diametral modes. Numerical simulations indicate that the resolved radial acoustic particle velocity distributions are non-uniform at the upstream separation edge where the formation of vortical structures is initiated. As the cavity became smaller, and more asymmetric, the trapped nature of the acoustic modes decreased with an accompanied increase in the radiation losses and reduction in pulsation amplitude. Observations of the aeroacoustic measurements show evidence of three unique modal behaviours. The first case is the independent excitation of a single stationary mode where specific circumferential sections of the shear layer were excited and initiating the formation of vortical disturbances. These circumferential sections, and distribution of disturbances, were akin to the excited mode shape.  The second case involved simultaneous excitation of two stationary modes. This suggested that the shear layer was exciting two modes simultaneously.  Neighbouring circumferential sections, at the initial region of the shear layer, were being excited independently and at different resonant frequencies. Finally, a spinning trapped acoustic mode was observed in the symmetric square cavity. Due to the spinning nature, the excited circumferential portions and formation of vortices were non-uniform and rotated with the spinning acoustic mode. This resulted in the formation of a three-dimensional helical structure.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: Recovery Behavior of Thermoplastic Shape Memory polyurethane Based Laminates after Thermoforming- Varied Modulus of Polyurethanes

contributor:
Thompson, Michael
Chemical Engineering

subject:
Thermoplastic shape memory polyurethane
Recovery behaviour
Thermoforming
Modelling

abstract:
In recent decades, a type of shape memory polymers (SMPs), namely thermoplastic shape memory polyurethane (shape memory TPU, using TPU for short) has drawn considerable attention for its excellent shape memory properties, versatile structure and good mechanical properties. Most recently, shape memory TPU films are envisioned as a replacement for automobile exterior and interior decorative applications in the forms of laminates through in-mold forming (IMF) process. However, for a better dimensional control of laminates during the IMF, the shape memory effect of laminates needs to be controlled such that its behaviour is only noted at the time of damage and is not an instigator of delamination.
In order to investigate the shape memory behavior of TPU based laminates after they had experienced normal processing such as by thermoforming, the influence of different properties were examined, including TPU film modulus, substrate used (polypropylene (PP) versus acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), ambient temperature and the extent of deep draw, on the recovery behaviour. The study included analyses through both experimental and modelling methods.
A novel thermo-mechanical cycling method was proposed to examine the shape memory property of the TPU based laminates under stretching/bending conditions more similar to thermoforming. Recovery based on this method was defined using new terms of angle recovery ratio and recovery rate. The new test examined recovery at 15oC, 45oC and 65oC; these ambient conditions were selected above and below the glass transition temperature of the TPU. Results showed that the final angle recovery ratio and recovery rate of deformed laminates based on a new commercial class of TPU shape memory polymer increased with its modulus from low to high. Substrates of higher modulus (ABS) lowered the final angle recovery ratio and recovery rate achievable for a formed laminate. Furthermore, increasing the ambient temperature increased both the final angle recovery ratios and recovery rates of formed TPU based laminates. As the extent of draw changed from 6 mm to 10mm, the final angle recovery ratios and recovery rates of formed laminates increased for all TPU films but this trend was reversed when the draw further increased beyond 10mm.
The laminate system was subsequently modelled using a linear viscoelastic (SLV) constitutive model to analyze the stress-strain relationship between the substrate and TPU film layers during recovery. A model parameter related to stress transfer across the interface of these two polymer layers was fitted to the experimental results with an excellent degree of fit. The model results fitted well with experimental data and showed that the final angle recovery ratios of formed TPU laminates were mainly dependant on the moduli of TPU and substrates layers as well as the stress transfer ratio through the adhesive layer (TR). The influence of the adhesive layer was not a trivial variable in the recovery nature of the laminate.  The influence of ambient temperature on the recovery behaviour of laminates was mainly due to the temperature-dependent and time-dependent Young’s modulus and relaxation time of both TPU and substrate layers. Higher relaxation times for the TPU layer or lower relaxation time for the substrate layer yielded a higher recovery rate for the laminate during the first five minutes of recovery.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)

abstract: Special classes of Polyurethanes exhibit a strong memory of their formed shape, and hence are called shape memory polymers. Films made of these polymers are envisioned as a replacement for decorative applications in automobiles if their forming behaviour is understood. This thesis project looked at how much of that memory was preserved as a laminate after thermoforming by looking at the effect of film stiffness, backing material used (polypropylene (PP) versus acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), ambient temperature and the extent of deep draw, using both experimental and modelling methods. Results showed that through using stiffer films, weaker substrates, high ambient temperature or an optimal extent of deep draw, recovery behavior of the shape memory polymer in these laminates can be improved, and vice versa.


title: EFFECT OF ADHESIVE ON THE SHAPE MEMORY BEHAVIOUR OF THERMOPLASTIC POLYURETHANE UNDER VARYING CONDITIONS

contributor:
THOMPSON, MICHAEL
Chemical Engineering

subject:
Shape memory polymer
Thermoplastic Polyurethane
Polymer Laminate
Adhesives

abstract:
Taking advantage of their inherent abrasion resistant, weather resistant, and outstanding mechanical strength, film-grade thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) are currently being used as paint protective films but are also being considered for paint replacement within the automotive industry. Special grades of TPU with shape memory behaviour offer an additional feature of self-healing to decorative coatings but there are concerns of shape fixity at service temperatures which are above their glass transition temperature (Tg).
In this study, the shape memory behaviour of a developmental TPU film with Tg around room temperature was investigated. In order to understand the shape memory behaviour, the TPU film was laminated to a rigid polymer substrate of either polypropylene (PP) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Three different acrylic based pressure sensitive adhesives were tested to bond the film to the substrate, namely a commercial high shear strength transfer tape and two solvent based adhesives of high and low shear strength that were manually cast. The influence of the adhesive was given significant attention as a variable of study in this thesis.
The characterization of all the polymeric films and substrates was based on a series of thermo-mechanical tests (tensile test, stress relaxation test, DSC and DMA). The adhesives were characterized by lap-shear test, peel test, and parallel plate rheometry. The results of material characterization were used to support the analysis and interpretation of shape memory behaviour.
The TPU based laminate was deformed by a matched mold thermoforming process with a pair of arched matched molds. The recovery behaviour of formed samples was quantified with a newly designed measurement method and the results were reported as recovery ratio and recovery rate. During recovery, the surrounding temperature was considered to be an important variable. The recovery behaviour of specimens was investigated in a controlled environment at setpoint temperatures of 15oC, 45oC or 65oC. No shape memory effect was found at 15oC (below TPU’s Tg), and yet both recovery ratio and recovery rate increased with temperature, from 45oC to 65oC (both above the TPU’s Tg). Since the recovery process was related to the elastic response of the hard segment phase within the TPU, the recovery stress was strongly related to strain conditions. By varying the draw depth into the mold from 6 mm, to 10 mm or 12 mm (8.86%, 15.90% or 19.88% strain, respectively), the recovery measurement results showed that the shape memory effect was weaker with lower strain as less recovery stresses were generated in the TPU film. With the draw depth of 10 mm, the highest recovery ratio and recovery rate were observed, and yet an inexplicable decrease in the recovery ratio and recovery rate occurred as the draw depth increased further from 10mm to 12mm. In regards to the influence by a substrate, TPU/PP laminate showed a more significant recovery behaviour than TPU/ABS laminates at both 45oC and 65oC. The elastic modulus of the substrate was found to have a key role on the recovery process; the recovery nature of formed laminate decreased with stiffer substrate.
Three adhesives with differing rheological and adhesion properties were tested to bond the TPU film to a substrate. The formed laminates with “strongest” adhesive (transfer tape) in terms of stiffness and adhesion strength showed the highest recovery ratio/rate over laminates made with “weaker” solvent cast adhesives, at both 45oC and 65oC. A finite element analysis (FEA) was employed to simulate the stress transfer within a multilayer structure bonded by a viscoelastic adhesive layer of varying stiffness; the simulated result showed that the relatively low stiffness adhesive could reduce the stress transfer efficiency within layers of a laminate. It suggested that more recovery stresses were transferred from TPU to substrate with a stiffer adhesive layer (transfer tape) and hence increased the recovery ratio and recovery rate. Therefore, adhesive with relatively low stiffness and adhesion strength could be a better choice to reduce the recovery effect of TPU laminate after forming. However, TPU was found to slide at the unsealed edge of formed laminate when the solvent based adhesives were used; the sliding behavior reduced the recovery by releasing stored recovery stress. In the case of HS and LS adhesives at high temperature (65oC), cohesive failure was observed when the edge of specimen was sealed led to a higher bending moment thus increased the recovery ratio over 24 hours investigations. Therefore, adhesives of weaker shear strength do not necessarily overcome the nature of shape recovery by the TPU when formed part shape needs to be preserved.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)

abstract: Nowadays, smart materials in particular shape-memory polymers have been widely used in the industrial and medical applications. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is one of the significant shape memory polymer groups. The two-phase morphology of a typical TPU gives a unique shape memory behaviour over a defined temperature range. However, this shape memory effect affects the shape fixity of formed TPU. In this study, a special-grade TPU film was laminated to a rigid polymer substrate using selected pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs). In order to investigate the effect of adhesive layer on the shape memory behaviour of this TPU based laminate, three PSAs with varying properties were applied. The laminate was thermoformed, quenched and processed in a temperature-controlled chamber with a designed recovery measurement method. The shape memory effect was observed at temperatures above the transition temperature of TPU, and this recovery effect was enhanced at higher temperature. Furthermore, the mechanical property of the substrate material was considered as a key factor on the recovery behaviour of the laminate; the recovery of the formed laminate was restricted with a stiffer substrate. The most significant discovery from the recovery results indicated that the shape memory effect was reduced with the adhesive with relatively low adhesion strength, however, the delamination of the laminate occurs with weaker adhesives.


title: Three Essays in Welfare and Health Economics: Social Choice, Health Capital, and Health Expenditure

contributor:
Hurley, Jeremiah
Haskell, Deirdre
Scarth, William
Magee, Lonnie
Health Policy

abstract:
This dissertation contains three chapters: one on social choice theory in the field of welfare economics; one that integrates health capital into endogenous growth theory in the fields of health economics and macroeconomics; and one that investigates health expenditure forecasting in the fields of health economics and economic forecasting.

The leading chapter titled “The Possibility of Anonymous Social Orderings Using Curvature of Indifference Hypersurfaces” is a theoretical analysis that concerns the aggregation of individual preferences into a social ordering. Working in a higher-dimensional economic environment where an indifference hypersurface is the level set of a utility function representing a preference relation, we relax the standard IIA assumption by introducing information regarding the curvature of the indifference hypersurface, which partly describes the shape of an indifference hypersurface. We show that, using curvature information, it is possible to construct a rational, anonymous social ordering function that satisfies a weaker version of IIA. The minmax-like definition of our social ordering function coincides with the Rawlsian difference principle under certain circumstances. The importance of this pure theorem is to show that the conditions for democracy can be weaker than many think.

The second chapter ``Health Capital and Endogenous Growth Theory" is an applied theoretical paper at the intersection of macroeconomics and health. It aims to unravel the competing effects of the health investment. Investing in health involves trade-offs such as short-term loss in consumption and the associated loss in welfare versus longer-term enhanced health, which directly improves the welfare and can potentially generate productivity gains that increase long-run consumption and welfare. This chapter examines an endogenous growth model of health investment in a two-sector economy. It explores, both analytically and numerically, the equilibrium shift and transitional dynamics after a once-for-all policy initiated by the government that reallocates labor from manufacturing to the health sector for the purpose of investing in health capital. We find that such a health investment policy improves health status in the long run, but harms the economic growth in both short and long term. The relative sizes of these competing effects depend on the specific health parameters of a country. Within the plausible range for the value of health relative to consumption, households gain welfare in the long run as long as the effectiveness of labor in health production is large. The health investment policy only makes households worse off if both labor is not productive in producing health and households value health relatively low versus consumption. For developed countries with publically-financed health sectors such as Canada where the productivity-enhancing effect of health is small, the investment in health improves welfare but harms economic growth. When these countries care welfare more than economic development, the substantial long-term gains in health and welfare are worth the short-term small pain in consumption and the long-term moderate harm in economic growth. The findings challenge the policy rationales of World Bank (1993) and World Health Organization (2001) in the sense that good health, though improves welfare, increases neither substantially the economic productivity of workers nor the economic growth rate of countries. The model itself serves as a sensitivity test for those in Van Zon and Muysken (2005), Hall and Jones (2007) in several ways. It is hoped that the relative simplicity of our model, compared to some recent models in the existing theoretical literature, can help close the gap between the formal academic work on this topic and the actual debates among policy makers in both developed and developing countries.

The third chapter “Forecasting Health Expenditure: Methods and Applications to International Databases” is an empirical piece in health economics. It examines a number of issues encountered when using standard health accounts data to forecast national health expenditures. In particular, it focuses on measurement issues, model specifications, and a comparison of performance indicators based on commonly used health accounts data from OECD. It assesses the performance of alternative forecasting methods based on three criteria --- accuracy, precision, and certainty. Based on these criteria, it assesses the performance of model specifications including univariate (i.e., health spending) and multivariate (e.g., macroeconomic factors), static (e.g., fixed effect) and dynamic (e.g., dynamic panel), and single-equation models (e.g., ARIMA) and system of equations (e.g., VAR). It uses the better-performing models to forecast health expenditures for individual countries. This analysis makes three contributions to the literature on forecasting health expenditures. First, with longer data series, in contrast to some previous papers on health expenditure projections, we obtain a result that is more conventional in the forecasting field --- econometric time series models and statistical smoothing models perform better than econometric panel data models. Second, a recent literature review of health expenditure forecasting suggests that with better computing power and more refined data, the future of forecasting is complicated micro models. But modeling and understanding the determinants of expenditure growth (whether using micro data or CGE macro models) require considerably more data and effort, and may still do worse with pure forecasting. This chapter confirms this. At the same time, it contributes to the call for more rigorous methods of forecasting, for more transparency, and for better assessment of performance. This analysis can inform both research and policy debate on budgetary planning and fiscal sustainability of health expenditure.

abstract: Dissertation

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: The Vibro-Impact Response of Heat Exchanger U-Bend Tubes with Flat Bar Supports

contributor:
Weaver, D.S.
Mechanical Engineering

subject:
heat exchanger U-tube
flat bar support
stiffness method
external force
modal energy dissipation
Fast Fourier Transform

abstract: A theoretical study has been conducted to investigate the effect of flat bars supports on the dynamic response of a heat exchanger U-tube. The tube is modelled using three dimensional, six degrees of freedom per node straight beam finite elements. A new method, the stiffness method, is introduced to compute the impact forces at the supports. It is compared with the previously used external force method. Modal analysis is employed to investigate the modal energy dissipation in the higher modes. Time response of the U-tube is analysed using a Fast Fourier Transform algorithm. The effects of clearance, excitation magnitude, and mode coupling through friction at the supports are investigated.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Engineering (ME)


title: A Trade Area Analysis for a Hamilton Restaurant Based on Delivery Records

contributor:
Reader, Steven
Geography

subject:
Chicago Style Pizza
delivery
population demand
Market Penetration Model
Intervening Opportunity Model
Spatial Interaction Model
trade area analysis
trade area

abstract: This research paper is submitted to the Department of Geography in fulfillment of the requirements of Geography 4C6.

abstract:
This study examined the trade area of a Hamilton restaurant in an attempt to determine the relevance of theoretical models in predicting trade areas based on delivery records. Through the use of four trade area models, a comparative study was devise for 'Chicago Style Pizza'
restaurant. The findings were based on delivery records. Since delivery records were used, the distance factor that is used in most models is eliminated. The models that were used were a population demand, Market Penetration Model, Intervening Opportunity Model and a Spatial Interaction Model. The use of a Geographical Information System was used to predict surface demands for the Market Penetration Model and the Spatial Interaction Model. It was determined that classical models of trade area analysis had only a slight relevance in delimitating the trade areas of the store in question when compared to the actual trade area of 'Chicago Style' based on delivery records.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Bachelor of Arts (BA)


title: NEUTRON SCATTERING STUDIES OF STRONG DYNAMIC CORRELATIONS IN UNCONVENTIONAL SUPERCONDUCTORS: LOOKING THROUGH THE HOUR-GLASS TO HYBRIDIZATION AND A SUPERCONDUCTING SPIN RESONANCE

contributor:
Gaulin, Bruce D.
Physics and Astronomy

subject:
Superconductivity
Magnetism
Neutron Scattering
Dynamics
Hybridization
Resonance
Spin Gap
Cuprates

abstract:
A series of neutron scattering studies of unconventional superconductors is presented.
These measurements are split into two parts. The first part considers the purely
magnetic scattering in low-doped $La_{2−x}Ba_{x}CuO_{4}$. This study is comprehensive and elucidates much of the doping and temperature dependence of the low energy magnetic
scattering in this system. It also clearly demonstrates that two dimensional incommensurate
magnetic order in this system forms at the expense of three dimensional
commensurate magnetic order. The remainder of the thesis is concerned with characterizing
and determining the physics underlying pronounced enhancements of the
inelastic scattering found to exist at 20 meV at equivalent two dimensional magnetic
zone centers in both $La_{2−x}Ba_{x}CuO_{4}$ and $La_{2−x}Sr_{x}CuO_{4}$. Arguments are presented to interpret these features as a result spin-phonon hybridization in 214 cuprate superconductors. The measurements also explore the temperature and doping dependence of these features, determining that the enhancements are largely insensitive to doping and only present parametric response at temperatures relevant for three dimensional
magnetic order in this system. In addition, the first evidence for a superconducting spin
gap in $La_{2−x}Ba_{x}CuO_{4}$ is presented. The implications of these findings are discussed.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

abstract: This thesis discusses a series of measurements using brand new state of the art facilities to re-examine the family of high temperature superconductors with the simplest structure. By taking advantage of these new facilities and applying their capabilities to a, relatively speaking, simpler material family, the goal is to try and learn more about what may be the cause of high temperature superconductivity - a magnetism based phenomenon with profound implications for energy efficiency, energy storage, diagnostic healthcare, quantum computing and much more. While many interesting effects were observed, two of the more important findings were observations that unify the physical descriptions of $La_{2−x}Ba_{x}CuO_{4}$ and $La_{2−x}Sr_{x}CuO_{4}$, as is necessary to have a truly universal understanding of high temperature superconductivity, and a detailed characterization we interpret as hybridization. It is clear from this work that any complete solution of superconductivity must also explain this part magnetic and part crystalline structural hybridization phenomenon.


title: A Statistical Framework for Distinguishing Between Aleatory and Epistemic Uncertainties in the Best- Estimate Plus Uncertainty (BEPU) Nuclear Safety Analyses

contributor:
Hoppe, Fred
Sermer, Paul
Mathematics and Statistics

subject:
Statistics
Uncertainty Analysis
Epistemic Uncertainty
Aleatory uncertainty
BEPU
BEAU
Decision making
Structural models
Extreme Value Statistics
Tolerance Limits
Data Adjustment and Assimilation Method

abstract:
In 1988, the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved an amendment that allowed the use of best-estimate methods. This led to an increased development, and application of Best Estimate Plus Uncertainty (BEPU) safety analyses. However, a greater burden was placed on the licensee to justify all uncertainty estimates. A review of the current state of the BEPU methods indicate that there exists a number of significant criticisms, which limits the BEPU methods from reaching its full potential as a comprehensive licensing basis. The most significant criticism relates to the lack of a formal framework for distinguishing between aleatory and epistemic uncertainties. This has led to a prevalent belief that such separation of uncertainties is for convenience, rather than one out of necessity.
In this thesis, we address the above concerns by developing a statistically rigorous framework to characterize the different uncertainty types. This framework is grounded on the philosophical concepts of knowledge. Considering the Plato problem, we explore the use of probability as a means to gain knowledge, which allows us to relate the inherent distinctness in knowledge with the different uncertaintytypesforanycomplexphysicalsystem. Thisframeworkis demonstrated using nuclear analysis problems, and we show through the use of structural models that the separation of these uncertainties leads to more accurate tolerance limits relative to existing BEPU methods. In existing BEPU methods, where such a distinction is not applied, the total uncertainty is essentially treated as the aleatory uncertainty. Thus, the resulting estimated percentile is much larger than the actual (true) percentile of the system's response.
Our results support the premise that the separation of these two distinct uncertainty types is necessary and leads to more accurate estimates of the reactor safety margins.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Automated Optimization of Multisensor - Multitarget Trackers

contributor:
Kirubarajan, Thia
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject: OPTIMIZATION

abstract: Almost every module or project needs to be optimized to get the best results and reduce costs. Multi-sensor, multi-input trackers require a huge number of parameters to run, which have an undefined or unknown to the output of the tracker. It becomes very difficult to manually initialize these parameters to get a good output and there was a need to automate the process of selecting the parameters, validating them and initialing the tracker. The optimizer built to cater for these issues uses heuristic genetic algorithms – Particle Swarm Optimization and Gravitational Search Algorithm to find the best solutions for the problem. The optimizer works with the help of a Parameter Evaluator (developed earlier) to study the output of the tracker and incorporate the multi objective (Pareto) aspect of the problem. The Optimizer can find solutions to any optimization problem if hooked to a corresponding evaluator or fitness function calculator. This feature makes the Optimizer not just another module to the tracker but an independent application that could be used for general purpose optimization solutions.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)


title: Two-Cents Worth? The Role of the Courts and the Administrative Decision-Making Process in the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada

contributor:
Flynn, Greg
Political Science

subject:
Judicialization
Refugee Determination
Discretion
Law and Politics
Immigration and Refugee Board
Administrative Tribunals
Accountability

abstract: The relationship amongst institutions has continued to play a pivotal role in shaping the nature of policies central to citizens and non-citizens alike. However, the phenomenon of influence and power that institutions constitutionally wield over one another in administrative agencies has been an increasing issue that is largely under-explored. More so, is the issue of installing legitimate regulatory mechanisms that ensure and preserve democratic values and practices that hold government agencies accountable. This study explores the relationship between judicial and executive institutions by examining the degree of influence the courts exercise in decisions in the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada. Using a precedent tracing approach, this study analyzes the presence and authority of Supreme Court decisions in the determination of refugee protection cases. As administrative bodies exercise a broad range of discretion and are loosely guided by ‘soft-laws’, it is unlikely that the courts would have a high degree of influence in such agencies due to an absence of obligation to do so. The shortage of judicial influence arguably offers a nuanced explanation to the inconsistent outcomes amongst board members and the absence of and requirement for a legitimate remedial mechanism.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: Exploring Mental Health Care Providers’ Experiences and Implementation of Cultural Competence

contributor:
Newbold, Bruce
Global Health

subject:
cultural competence
mental health
migrant health
newcomer health

abstract: This thesis aims to provide insight into how academic institutions teach health care professionals about cultural influences on mental health and clinical encounters, as well as how health care providers implement these ideas in their work. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with mental health care providers in Hamilton. Providers varied significantly in their definition and experience of cultural competence. Few providers had received training in cultural competence, and the experiences of those who had received such training were generally not congruent with what is described in the literature. While the literature describes a shift towards a skills-based paradigm, health care education appears to continue to focus on knowledge and attitudes. Many providers are more familiar with other frameworks for addressing cultural issues; however, these have important implications for quality and access to care for migrant and newcomer individuals.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: Characterizing Serial Order Processing in Working Memory and in the Language Domain

contributor:
Service, Elisabet
Neuroscience

subject:
working memory
vocabulary acquisition
serial order STM

abstract:
The present project aimed to characterize the role of serial order within the working memory and language domains by first addressing a) whether serial order processing is domain-general and then b) whether serial order processing underlies vocabulary acquisition. Experiment 1 revealed that order memory in the visuo-spatial domain is qualitatively similar to order memory for verbal memoranda by reporting visuo-spatial equivalents of two well-known effects in verbal STM for serial order, repetition inhibition (e.g., Crowder, 1968) and repetition facilitation (Crowder, 1968). The effects were, however, accompanied by critical differences that may be due to modality-specific processes. Experiment 2 directly investigated whether verbal and visuo-spatial STM rely on common ordering mechanisms using a delayed recall dual-task design that contrasted two types of visuo-spatial interference tasks during a concurrent verbal serial order memory task (digit sequence memory). The visuo-spatial tasks probed either serial order STM or non-serial order (item) STM. Serial-order specific interference effects with the concurrent verbal serial order STM task were found. In experiment 3, we replicated the investigations of Experiment 2 using a word-learning paradigm as a concurrent task in place of the verbal serial order STM task that was previously used. Again interference by a visuo-spatial STM task was found only when it required memory for serial order.
	In sum, the results suggest that verbal and visuo-spatial STM subsystems rely on common mechanisms for serial order processing. These in turn appear to communicate with domain-specific processing substrates involved in item-level memory representations. Furthermore, the results indicate that such domain-general serial ordering mechanisms are also involved in novel word-learning. Taken together, the present findings provide crucial constraints for modeling of order representations. They also offer insight into mechanisms shared by vocabulary acquisition and STM tasks.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: Crisis of Control: Occupational Health and Safety and Workers' Compensation in the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program (SAWP) and the Agricultural Stream of the Temporary Foreign Workers Program (TFWP)

title: Crisis of Control: OHS and Workers' Compensation in Canada's Migrant Agricultural Workers' Programs

contributor:
Lewchuk, Wayne
Work and Society

subject: occupational health and safety, workers compensation, migrant agricultural workers, seasonal agricultural worker program, temporary foreign workers program

subject: advocacy, repatriation

subject: Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program, SAWP, Temporary Foreign Workers Program, TFWP

abstract: While agricultural work is hazardous for all workers, migrant workers face additional challenges that make them more vulnerable than domestic workers. The lack of access to permanent immigration status in the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) and the agricultural stream of the Temporary Foreign Workers Program (TFWP) makes workers’ jobs hinge on retaining their employers’ favour and creates a particular type of job insecurity that overshadows their behaviour, decisions, and agency to assert their rights for safe and healthy workplaces and workers’ compensation. While researchers argue that the TFWP competes with the SAWP as employers search for the cheapest and most docile workers, less research has examined whether workers’ health and safety exposures and experiences differ within the two programs. Drawing primarily from interviews with advocates and system stakeholders and participant observation at advocate-organized events, this research will offer preliminary answers to discovering whether the programs pose different obstacles to improving health and safety and access to compensation that affect migrant workers’ experiences in Ontario before and after injury. The research will help gather information about possible avenues to improve the health and safety of migrant workers given how the two programs operate within both federal and provincial frameworks. Advocates’ experience assisting workers in both programs offers important insights about whether differences between the programs create particular vulnerabilities for some migrant workers.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)

abstract: This research identifies opportunities and barriers that migrant agricultural workers and their advocates face in improving occupational health and safety and access to workers' compensation in the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program (SAWP) and the agricultural stream of the Temporary Foreign Workers Program (TFWP). Through semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and document review, the research will help identify whether interplay between the programs causes additional vulnerabilities for some workers. The research will help gather information about possible avenues to improve the health and safety of migrant workers given how the two programs operate in a federal and provincial framework.


title: Toward a Recognition of National Histories: Rethinking Canadian Memory, History and Subjectivity through Memoir

contributor:
Chakraborty, Chandrima
English and Cultural Studies

subject:
cultural memory
Canada
pedagogy
history

abstract: This project considers the memoir as a space that offers multiple memories and histories, allowing the rethinking of a perceived meta-narrative of Canadian history. By reading marginalized voices and generational silences in Maria Campbell's Halfbreed and Joy Kogawa's Obasan as testimonies of alternate Canadian histories, this project challenges normative ideas of Canadian identity and history that privilege the colonial, Eurocentric subject. Further, I consider how including memoir in the pedagogical space combats normalized racism and "othering" in Canada. I argue that calling Canadian students to bear witness to memories deemed "forgettable" in a national context opens the possibility of rethinking notions of "Canadian" history and identity.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)


title: DESIGN AND VALIDATION OF AN IMPROVED HYBRID PNEUMATIC-ELECTRIC ACTUATOR

contributor:
Bone, Gary M.
Mechanical Engineering

subject:
Hybrid Actuator
Pneumatic-Electric
Pneumatic
Robotic Safety
Collaborative Robotics

abstract:
As collaborative robotics become more prevalent, it is desirable to improve the inherent robot safety, on a mechanical level, while maintaining good position tracking. One method is to replace the electric motor+gearing currently used with an alternate actuator which introduces less inertia, friction, and stiffness. A promising approach is the use of hybrid pneumatic-electric actuators (HPEAs). A first generation (GEN1), proof-of-concept, HPEA with low payload capacity and poor mechanical reliability was improved upon to produce the next generation of HPEA. The 2nd generation (GEN2) actuator developed in this work was designed to increase payload capacity and improve mechanical reliability while maintaining low inertia, low friction and low stiffness. The torque capacity was improved by 511% while increasing inertia by only 292%.
The majority of the system was modeled via relevant physical laws. The solenoid valves’ inverse model was provided by a black box artificial neural network (ANN), and the electric motor’s was empirical. The models were used to develop a position controller with an inner loop pressure controller based upon the ANN. An alternate (non-model-based) pressure controller was also developed to compare to the ANN based controllers. The system could operate as a purely pneumatic actuator, or as a HPEA.
Experimentally it was found that the position control based upon the two pressure controllers led to similar performance, but the ANN based were superior more often. The hybrid mode reduced the purely pneumatic mode position error for vertical cycloidal position tracking by approximately 55%. The GEN2 achieved lower position tracking errors as compared to prior works of other HPEAs as well as purely pneumatic actuator control publications. Compared to the GEN1, the GEN2 achieved better position tracking errors in both pneumatic and hybrid operation. The GEN2 will serve as a superior testbed for future HPEA control and collaborative robotics research.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Applied Science (MASc)

abstract: Robots which work directly with people are becoming increasingly numerous in industry as their costs decrease. As robots and humans work more and more closely there is a desire for the robot to be more inherently safe, by merit of the underlying mechanical design. Previous research resulted in a prototype hybrid pneumatic-electric actuator (HPEA) designed to improve inherent safety by merit of its low inertia, low friction, and low stiffness. This prototype proved successful, but was of low payload capacity and unreliable mechanical design. The goal of the research was to design, build, model, control, and validate a second generation HPEA, with a larger payload capacity and of more reliable mechanical design while maintaining low friction, inertia and stiffness. Furthermore the improved actuator should maintain or improve upon the good position trajectory tracking of the prior actuator. These goals were successfully achieved with the improved prototype developed in this work.


title: Determining the Size of a Galaxy's Globular Cluster Population through Imputation of Incomplete Data with Measurement Uncertainty

contributor:
Bolker, Ben
Mathematics and Statistics

subject:
Missing Data
Imputation
Predictive Mean Matching
Measurement Uncertainty
Globular Clusters

abstract:
A globular cluster is a collection of stars that orbits the center of its galaxy as a
single satellite. Understanding what influences the formations of these clusters provides understanding of galaxy structure and insight into their early development. We
continue the work of Harris et al. (2013), who identified a set of predictors that accurately determined the number of clusters Ngc, through analysis of an incomplete dataset.
We aimed to improve upon these results through imputation of the missing data. A
small amount of precision was gained for the slope of Ngc~ R_e*sigma_ e, while the intercept
suffered a small loss of precision. Estimates of intrinsic variance also increased with
the addition of imputed data.
We also found galaxy morphological type to be a significant predictor of Ngc in
a model with R_e*sigma_ e. Although it increased precision of the slope and reduced the
residual variance, its overall contribution was negligible.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: Feasibility of Developing Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Registry and Exploring the benefits of using EMS among Arabian Gulf patients presenting with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Data analysis and interpretation thesis of the RACE III registry (Gulf Registry of Acute Coronary Events: Primary PCI programs).

contributor:
Teo, koon
Thabane, Lehana
Schwalm, JD
Jolly, Sanjit
Medicine

abstract:
Abstract

Background
Practice guidelines strongly recommend the activation of emergency medical services (EMS) by patients with symptoms consistent with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Little is known about the EMS usage by patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in the Arabian Gulf region. We explored the feasibility of developing an EMS registry and the benefits of EMS use among Arabian Gulf patients presenting with STEMI.
Objective
For Arabian Gulf patients presenting with STEMI and enrolled in the Gulf Registry of Acute Coronary Events: Primary PCI programs (RACE III registry), how feasible and suitable the registry data are in terms of data completeness and an appropriate recruitment time interval (primary objective). Once the primary outcome is fulfilled, the secondary objective will be explored—namely, whether the use of EMS improves the provision of timely care, defined as door-to-balloon time <90 minutes or door-to-needle time < 30 minutes, or other clinical outcomes.
Methods
Analysis and interpretation of the RACE III registry were done by assessing data set completeness and exploring if EMS improved the provision of timely care or other clinical outcomes. We evaluated 574 STEMI patients recruited between May 2013 and May 2014 in six Arabian Gulf countries.

Results
For the primary outcome, we found that the study was feasible as only 0.7% of the variables of interest were missing and all patients were recruited over a one-year period. For the secondary outcome, EMS use was associated with the better delivery of timely care (EMS used 75.2% vs. EMS not used 49.7%; p<.001). The adjusted odds ratio for EMS use was 1.81(%95CI: 1.11, 2.96), suggesting that patients using EMS received timely care 1.8 times more than patients who not using EMS. EMS use was also associated with a lower risk for recurrent MI and hospital death compared to non-EMS use; adjusted OR was 0.29 (95%CI: 0.1, 0.87) for recurrent MI when EMS was used and OR was 0.26 (95%CI: 0.09, 0.81) for hospital deaths when EMS was used.
Conclusion
Our study demonstrated the feasibility of the RACE III registry to evaluate EMS use among Arabian Gulf patients presenting with STEMI. EMS use was associated with better timely care and improved clinical outcomes. Caution should be exercised in interpreting these finding due to the low number of study participants and the registry nature of the data.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: PARTICIPATION IN MICRO-FINANCE PROGRAMS AND WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING IN KARACHI, PAKISTAN:  AN INTERPRETIVE DESCRIPTION

contributor:
Tompkins, Catherine
Nursing

subject:
Women's mental health
Micro-finance
Pakistan

abstract:
Background.  In striving to achieve the UN Millennium Development Goals, Pakistan pledged to focus on eradicating extreme poverty for its population. The association between socio-economic status and health is well established. Micro-finance institutions provide access to credit for poor women where cultural and social constraints limit their opportunities for economic advancement. While involvement in a micro-finance program has been shown to reduce poverty, little is known about how this involvement impacts women’s mental health.
Objective.  The purpose of this qualitative study was; (a) to gain an understanding of how women conceptualize the meaning of their mental health; (b) to explore the impact of women participation in micro-finance programs on their mental health; (c) to determine how they promote their mental health; and (d) to obtain their recommendations for change to micro-finance institutions.
Methods.  Using interpretive description methodology, data were collected and analyzed through interviews with 32 urban-dwelling women who have been micro-finance loan recipients for a period of 1 to 5 years. A total of six micro-finance administrative personnel were also interviewed; five institutional documents were reviewed. Data were analyzed in the source language Urdu, following three main phases of content analysis methods, preparation, organization and reporting.
Results.  Women conceptualize mental health as being the presence of peace and the absence of tension. Participants relate this tension to absence of basic resources in their day-to-day living and lack of safety and security around the city. Women recognized micro-finance programs as being a major inspiration towards their flourishing mental health. Regular practice of religion, being resilient towards adversity and securing family respect through a consistent source of income and repayment of the loans were identified approaches to promoting mental health. In enhancing micro-finance programs further, the women recommended for them to initiate vocational training institutions and to provide opportunities for their children to seek education at affordable cost.
Conclusion. The women participants of this study represented “everyday women” of Pakistan, who thrive through their resilience and courage to mitigate poverty and to achieve peace. Combating obstacles to meet the basic needs, including access to education, would be a useful first step towards mental health promotion for Pakistani women. Financial services of micro-finance, along with provision of vocational skills training, “women-to-women” approach and modifications in policy would assist women to utilize their loan productively. Multiple stakeholders should work collaboratively for the promotion of mental health determinants. As nurses are now moving beyond the traditional roles and counteracting complex issues, this study identifies implications for research, education, and practice.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: The Effects of Irradiation on Inconel X-750

contributor:
Botton, Gianluigi
Griffiths, Malcolm
Materials Science and Engineering

subject:
Irradiation
Helium Embrittlement
Inconel X-750
Microscopy

abstract:
Inconel X-750 is a Ni-rich super-alloy with high strength and creep resistance. In CANDU reactors, it is used as tight fitting fuel channel annulus spacers (in the form of a spring). Unlike other reactor designs, the CANDU reactor has a high thermal neutron flux spectra, which, combined with the higher thermal neutron cross section of 58Ni results in an enhancement of the radiation damage and the internal production of helium and hydrogen. In recent years, it has been observed these spacers are losing ductility and strength following irradiation. The mechanical property evolution of these components is dependent on the irradiation temperature and dose. The primary degradation mechanism remains unclear, and thus provides the focus of this investigation. Inconel X-750 irradiated to these extreme conditions have never been examined prior to this research. The microstructural characterization included in this dissertation include: fractography, microstructural evolution and mechanical property evolution. The discussion of the microstructural evolution is focused on the characterization of helium bubbles. The bubbles form homogeneously in the matrix and aligned along sinks such as dislocations, grain boundaries and precipitates. Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) has been used to probe individual nano-sized bubbles to provide insights into the helium density, helium-to-vacancy ratio, and pressures through the use of a hard sphere equation of state (HSEOS). In addition to understanding the influence of irradiation on helium bubbles, the evolution of secondary strengthening precipitates, gamma prime, are of interest as these precipitates play an important role on the strength and creep resistance of the unirradiated material. The stability of these precipitates with irradiation is thus an important factor to consider with respect to the microstructural degradation. The microstructure is linked to the mechanical properties via microhardness testing on adjacent material. A major contribution to this field is an approach to utilize a focused ion beam (FIB) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to perform high
ii
resolution failure analysis of an intergranular fracture surface. Although this technique is not altogether revolutionary, the application of this approach towards post irradiation examination of heavily irradiated Inconel X-750 is unique. This approach provides direct evidence of likely degradation mechanisms, and provides insights for future post irradiation failure analysis for other applicable nuclear components. Working with ex-service material creates some complications with respect to known and unknown variables making it difficult to assess all factors responsible for material degradation. To compliment the program, a controlled proton irradiation program has been performed to gain additional insights into in the effects of irradiation on the microstructure and mechanical property evolution of Inconel X-750, due to the inability to perform controlled experiments with in-service reactor components. In addition to providing a detailed analysis of a CANDU component’s degradation, this study provides comprehensive information on irradiation damage processes applicable to other reactor core components.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)


title: The Post-Mortem Sanctions Against the Emperor Domitian: A Study of the Literary, Epigraphic, and Physical Source

contributor:
Beckmann, Martin
George, Michele
Classical Studies

subject:
Rome
Domitian
Empire
Damnatio memoriae
Portraiture
Art
Epigraphy
Flavian
Cancelleria Reliefs
Memory sanctions

abstract:
Following his assassination in September of AD 96, Domitian was penalized with post-mortem memory sanctions.  These kind of sanctions are often portrayed by both modern scholars and ancient historians as being implemented relatively uniformly in all of the cases of emperors who were subject to these sanctions.  This applies both to the actual body of sanctions which were implemented by the senate, and the enthusiasm with which the populace followed them. While there is some commonality in the levying of sanctions between all condemned individuals, it is important to understand the differences between them in order to comprehend how each was viewed in his own time.  In the case of Domitian, the senate punished him with heavy sanctions, and the people obeyed them.  However, there is not the same evidence of mob violence against his images by the people, which would prove a dislike for him outside of the political elite.  By investigating the evidence for these sanctions in the ancient literary sources, as well as the physical evidence from both inscriptions and sculpted likenesses, a more clear picture than previously presented can be created of the public perception of his reign.

Also, this thesis evaluates the kind of messages that Nerva wanted to send by the way in which he condemned Domitian.  Nerva’s history as loyal to the Flavians seems to conflict with his succession on the same day as the murder and the sanctions he put in place against his predecessor.  The way in which he chose to deal with the memory of his predecessor is demonstrative of his successful attempt at distancing himself from the previous dynasty.  Therefore, a study of the sanctions can both provide information about the perception of the condemned, which has since been lost, and also illustrate the policies of the next regime.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)

abstract: In Ancient Rome, when an emperor or political figure was assassinated, often the Roman senate would levy sanctions against anything which recalled the memory of the condemned individual, for example, inscriptions and portraits.  Some of these sanctions were voted for the emperor Domitian following his assassination in AD 96.  By examining the physical evidence of these sanctions in the case of Domitian, some information can be gleaned about the execution of this kind of legislation in general, and how it was specifically done in the case of Domitian.  By examining the ancient literary accounts, inscriptions, and sculpted likenesses of this emperor, the extent of these sanctions, as well as the motivations of those ordering them and carrying them out, can be established.  In particular, the motivations of his successor, Nerva, in establishing these laws and the sentiments of the people towards Domitian are considered.


title: NURSES’ EXPERIENCES OF INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE IN HOME VISITING

contributor:
Jack, Susan
Nursing

subject:
Nurse
Home-visiting
Nursing
Intimate partner violence (IPV)

abstract: In the United States, intimate partner violence (IPV) is the most common cause of non-fatal injury for women. The Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) is an evidence-based maternal and early childhood health program where nurse home visitors seek to develop therapeutic relationships and provide health promotion interventions with low-income, young pregnant women and first time mothers and their children, from early in pregnancy until the child’s second birthday. In this program, nurses have a responsibility to identify women exposed to abuse and provide supportive interventions. The purpose of this study is to understand the impact of this work on nurse home visitors’ professional and personal selves. A secondary qualitative content analysis was conducted using a sample comprised of 27 nurses, 18 community partners, and 4 nurse supervisors from an original case study by Jack et al. (2012) for the development of a nurse home visitation IPV intervention. Conventional content analysis and constant comparative techniques were used to code 8 nurse focus group transcripts and 43 transcripts from face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with the community partners and supervisors. Nurses identify that clients are exposed to multiple types of violence. These experiences increase the complexity of delivering the NFP home visitation program. Nurses also experience high levels of uncertainty related to how to respond to disclosures, and how to address IPV. The presence of IPV also significantly impacts many facets of the nurse-client relationship. At times nurses struggle with wanting to “fix” the client’s relationship with her partner; yet understand this is not a healthy response. Setting boundaries and clearly defining one’s role in this work is complex, and many nurses experience high levels of anxiety, worry and fear for their clients. Supervisors and community members confirm nurses’ experiences but also provide strategies for reflective supervision and community level support. Nurse home visitors are in a unique position to provide care for women exposed to IPV and recommendations are provided for nursing education, practice and research in this field.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: Havoc-making Heroines in Young Adult Dystopian Literature

contributor:
Grisé, Catherine Annette
English and Cultural Studies

subject: Young Adult Literature, Heroines, Action/Adventure, Romance, Dystopian, Gender, Genre

subject: The Hunger Games, Blood Red Road, Enclave, Divergent, The 5th Wave

abstract: This study explores the latent operation of Western gender norms in popular female-centred Young Adult (YA) dystopian texts. By examining adolescent female protagonists and the nature of their social havoc-making, this study investigates how reconstructed and recalibrated definitions of femininity ultimately re-inscribe a patriarchal status quo. The five havoc-making heroines under consideration are: Katniss Everdeen of Suzanne Collins’ “Hunger Games” trilogy, Saba in Moira Young’s “Dustlands” trilogy, Deuce in Ann Aguirre’s “Razorland” trilogy, Tris Prior in Veronica Roth’s “Divergent” series, and finally, Cassie Sullivan in Rick Yancey’s THE 5TH WAVE. Although these YA havoc-making heroines rebel against oppressive governmental regimes, I recognize the implicit and explicit construction of their bodies and their behaviours through male-influence. Their male counterparts play a large role in shaping how these heroines look and behave—they perform and appear as masculinized warriors and as feminized delicate beauties in accordance with the political and personal desires of male characters. Through such constructions, these contemporary havoc-makers demonstrate a collision of heroisms: they look and act as conventional action heroines and romance heroines. Including theoretical texts from the 1990s and onward that feature feminist scholarly writing on the textual and filmic representations of women—such as Dawn Heinecken’s THE WARRIOR WOMEN OF TELEVISION and Sherrie A. Inness’ TOUGH GIRLS—I investigate how these young heroines are shaped as per the genres of Action/Adventure and Romance fiction.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Arts (MA)

abstract: This study looks at depictions of Young Adult heroines in popular YA dystopian fictions. Works under consideration: Collins' THE HUNGER GAMES trilogy, Young's "Dustlands" series, Aguirre's ENCLAVE, Roth's DIVERGENT and Yancey's THE 5TH WAVE.


title: Development of Fabrication Process to Prototype a Novel Annular Thermoelectric Generator Design

contributor:
Cotton, James S.
Mechanical Engineering

subject: thermoelectric, annular, TEG

abstract:
The goal of this project is to develop a fabrication process for an annular thermoelectric module using a powder methodology that can potentially later be automated for high volume manufacturing. Prototypes were produced and experimentally tested to study and characterize thermal and effective Seebeck performance. Manufacturing procedure parameters were changed systematically to characterize the impact on key performance parameters and develop the fabrication process. Parameters investigated were sintering temperature, pressing pressure, oxide reduction and geometry.
A novel design for an annular thermoelectric generator geometry has been proposed. The new geometry utilizes more of the module material into power production making the geometry more efficient than the typical ring-structured modules similar to that proposed by Min & Rowe (2007). Experimental results tests highlighting only geometry differences showed V-shaped modules with higher effective Seebeck coefficient compared to ring-structured modules.
Experimental results showed the proposed V-shaped annular thermoelectric generator prototype with a Seebeck coefficient of 190.75 µV/K compared to (Min & Rowe, 2007)’s earlier ring-structured prototype measuring a Seebeck coefficient of 145 µV/K.
A numerical simulation model was created to compare electrical and thermal behaviour for different TEG module geometries. ANSYS Workbench® simulation results show that V-shaped TEG module outperforms the ring-structured design similar to Min et al.’s design by 7% to 9% under different conditions.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)


title: Duplicate Gene Evolution in a Tetraploid African Clawed Frog (Silurana)

contributor:
Evans, Ben
Biology

subject:
duplication
sex-biased gene expression
polyploidization
xenopus

abstract: By increasing genomic size, whole-genome duplication (WGD) is considered a major source of evolutionary innovation and speciation. We examined sequence evolution and expression divergence following WGD in a tetraploid African clawed frog (\textit{Silurana}). We hypothesized that the redundancy generated by WGD might allow for sex-specific and/or tissue-specific divergence, contributing to sexual dimorphism in this frog, and that such changes could be detected at both the expression and sequence levels. We investigated this hypothesis with a transcriptome-based approach, comparing both sexes across brain, heart and liver. We compared molecular evolution and expression divergence of duplicate gene homeologs to singleton genes and to an extant diploid relative, and identified genes with evidence for sex-biased expression. In doing so, we provide evidence for an allopolyploid mechanism of WGD and speciation in \textit{Silurana}. Additionally, we find that female-biased gene expression is more prevalent among duplicate genes than male-biased expression, particularly in brain where expression levels are highest. We similarly identified antagonistically sex-biased homeologs with indication of positive selection. Our results indicate that divergent evolution at both the sequence and expression levels following WGD favors the co-option of female-biased gene expression and may help resolve sexually antagonistic selection in this frog, thereby facilitating the evolution of sexual dimorphism.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)

abstract: Whole-genome duplication (WGD) is considered a major source of evolutionary innovation and a driver of speciation. By increasing genetic content and introducing redundancy, selective pressures are reduced and paralogous pairs diverge. We investigate how sex and tissue type contribute to duplicate gene divergence following WGD in a tetraploid African clawed frog. We find evidence for sex-dependent variation in sex-biased expression patterns of duplicate genes in brain, heart and liver, and evaluate how molecular evolution of duplicate genes accounts for expression divergence between sexes. This thesis provides a general framework for investigating sex-biased duplicate gene evolution in an amphibious tetrapod.


title: THE IMPACT OF VARIABILITY IN OBSERVATIONAL PRACTICE ON SKILL LEARNING: THEORETICAL AND APPLIED CONSIDERATIONS

contributor:
Lawrence, Grierson
Kinesiology

subject:
Observational practice
Health Professions Education
Motor Learning
Medical Education

abstract: There is strong evidence that certain neurophysiological processes link action and observation (Higuchi et al., 2012), which supports the idea that learning a motor skill is enhanced via skill observation (Hayes et al., 2010). Skill learning through observation is optimized when the observation includes a combination of expert and novice models (Rohbanfard and Proteau, 2011). The purported advantage lies in the two types of models’ dissimilar ability (Andrieux & Proteau, 2013). The novice model is characterized by larger margins of error that manifest as variable attempts. Increased variability has been shown to be beneficial in physical practice (Moxley, 1979). The purpose of the first study was to examine the observation of novice variability effect to explore whether it is Schmidt’s (1975) generalized motor programs or schema parameterization representations that is acquired when observing modeled performances. Participants engaged in an observational period in which they observed a criterion model with no variability, a model demonstrating absolute timing variability, a model demonstrating relative timing variability, or a model demonstrating variability in both relative and absolute timing. The results indicate that variability in relative timing information contributes to observational learning, which suggests that generalized motor programs are acquired through observation but not schematic parameterizations. The purpose of the second study was to apply the Rohbanfard and Proteau (2011) paradigm in the medical education context by exploring the impact of video-based observational practice on the clinical learning. First year medical students learned a common surgical skill by observing expert demonstrations of the skill, novice demonstrations, or demonstrations by both an expert and novice model. The study demonstrated a robust effect of observational learning in that all groups improved over time regardless of the type of model they observed.  Both studies highlight that an expert model may be the most beneficial when engaging in observational practice.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)


title: The Influence of False Feedback on the Action Specific Effect in Novice Motor Skill Performance

contributor:
Lyons, James
Kinesiology

subject:
motor learning
action specific effect
false feedback
false social comparative feedback
perception

abstract:
Recent golfing performance influences target size perception, regardless of long-term ability (Witt, Linkenauger, Bakdash, & Proffitt, 2008). Better performance was correlated to larger perceived golf hole sizes than poorer performance. The present thesis used falsified feedback for a mini-putting task to help determine the requirements of this effect.
  Participants in Experiment 1 viewed their true trial-by-trial performance, but after two blocks of trials, was given feedback in the form of comparison to others (i.e. social comparative feedback). Regardless of their true performance, those in the positive feedback group were told they performed better than others, and those in the negative feedback group performed worse. Target size perception was found to correlate with ratings of task difficulty as opposed to radial error. Because this correlation was not found before feedback manipulations were given, it was suggested that trial-by-trial performance was no longer a strong influencer on target size perception. Instead, the perceived difficulty of the task influenced it.
  The second experiment completely dissociated motor action from performance outcome. Occlusion goggles and a headset that played white noise activated such that participants were not able to view the resulting movement of their golf ball after their putter came into contact with it. The ball was secretly moved to a predetermined location – closer (positive feedback participants), or further (negative feedback participants). Target size estimations increased as the number of errors and difficulty ratings increased. This was contrary to Witt et al.’s (2008) findings.
  Since various limitations and confounds could be resolved by running these experiments in an open field, it would be valuable to run them again. This thesis sought to contribute to research by taking the first steps to investigating whether the action specific effect is driven by top-down or bottom-up processes.

abstract: Thesis

abstract: Master of Science (MSc)

abstract:
When performing well, targets (e.g. baseball, golf hole) are perceived as larger, and vice versa. Using a mini-putting task, this thesis investigated whether it was only true performance that can lead to this effect.
  In the first experiment, participants compared their own performance to the fake performance reports of others. How difficult they felt the task to be – instead of their own scores - affected their perceived hole size. In the second experiment, their golf balls were either secretly moved closer or further from the target (regardless of their actual scores). It was found that as the number of errors increased, the perceived target size also increased.
  This contributed to research by showing that comparing performance to others can change what one uses to judge performance, and that when visual results do not reflect ones actions, the bias in perceived target sizes can be eliminated, or reversed.


title: "I walk, Therefore I Am..."

title: Multiple Reflections on Disability and Rehabilitation

contributor:
Rosenbaum, Peter
Rehabilitation Science

subject:
disability
rehabilitation
Disability Studies
Rehabilitation Science
autoethnography
critical theory

abstract:
The term ‘disability’ is laden with medical origins and medical meanings, which contribute to
exclusion and oppression for persons labeled as ‘disabled’. Moreover, these processes are
amplified by constructing disability as an individual burden or personal tragedy. Medicalizing
disability keeps it a personal matter, a personal problem that needs to be treated, rather than
addressing the social processes that actually restrict or constrict the disabled person’s life.
Rehabilitation Science and my lived experience of disability and walking serve as contexts that
assist me as I explore how my subjectivity as a disabled woman and clinician helps me
understand the theoretical tensions of five key themes: independence, power, client-centred
practice, ableism, and the social model of disability in relation to disability and rehabilitation.
These themes offer me a way to analyze my experiences, and how I have come to access and
engage with Disability Studies literature in order to deepen my understanding of the critiques on
disability and rehabilitation. As an insider, my research explores three decades of personal
narrative. Through critical reflexivity as part of autoethnography, I work to increase my own
awareness and that of my readers on the tension and complexities with respect to disability and
rehabilitation.

abstract: Dissertation

abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)