title: Characterization of Ultrasound Elevation Beamwidth Artefacts for Brachytherapy Needle Insertion

contributor:
Fichtinger, Gabor
Computing

subject:
Prostate brachytherapy
Ultrasound section thickness

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-01 15:27:43.098

abstract:
Ultrasound elevation beamwidth is the out of plane thickness causing image artefacts
normally appearing around anechoic areas in the medium. These artefacts could also
cause uncertainties in localizing objects (such as a surgical needle) in the ultrasound
image slices. This thesis studies the clinical significance of elevation beamwidth artefacts
in needle insertion procedures. A new measurement device was constructed to
measure the transrectal ultrasound elevation beamwidth. The beam profiles of various
lateral and axial distances to the transducer were generated. It is shown that
the ultrasound elevation beamwidth converges to a point within its focal zone close
to the transducer. This means that the transrectal ultrasound images have the best
resolution within the focal zone of the ultrasound close to the transducer. It is also
shown that the ultrasound device settings have a considerable impact on the amount
of beamwidth artefacts. Needle tip localization error was examined for a curvilinear
transrectal ultrasound transducer. Beveled prostate brachytherapy needles were inserted
through all holes of a grid template orthogonal to the axial beam axis. The
effects of device imaging parameters were also investigated on the amount of localization
error. Based on the developed results, it was found that the imaging parameters
of an ultrasound device have direct impact on the amount of object localization error
from 0.5 mm to 4 mm. The smallest localization error occurs laterally close to the center of the grid template, and axially within the beam’s focal zone. Similarly, the
largest localization error occurs laterally around both sides of the grid template, and
axially within the beam’s far field. Using the ultrasound device with appropriate
imaging settings could minimize the effects of these artefacts. We suggest to reduce
the gain setting of the ultrasound device. This will reduce the energies assigned to
the off-axis beams and as a result, the elevation beamwidth artefacts are minimized.

abstract: I have submitted one chapter of the thesis to the journal of Medical Physics. It is accepted for publication but I would like to withhold the thesis up to 5 months from now to make sure the paper is published.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Experience of the Older Adult With End-Stage Renal Disease on Hemodialysis

contributor:
Buchanan, Diane
Nursing

rights: This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.

subject:
Hemodialysis
Experience
Older Adult
End-Stage Renal Disease

abstract: Thesis (Master, Nursing) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-15 13:02:28.548

abstract:
Background: The growth in the number of individuals with end-stage renal disease has implications in terms of both the health of individuals, especially older adults (aged 65 years and older), and the capacity of the health care system to provide adequate treatment needed by these patients. Much has been written regarding the pathophysiology of end-stage renal disease as well as how modern advances in technology have contributed to the ‘dialysis world’. However, the literature is sparse in relation to how older adults experience end-stage renal disease and the technological complexity of dialysis in their daily lives.
Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore the meaning of being hemodialysis-dependent for the older adult living with end-stage renal disease.
Method: A descriptive method using a qualitative interviewing approach was used. Systematic focused thematic analysis guided by the Crisis of Physical Illness conceptual model allowed for the findings to surface. Data sources included individual interviews, direct observation of participants and the hemodialysis unit, along with field notes. A purposive sample of nine participants was obtained from two different hemodialysis units, both operated by Kingston General Hospital. Data were analyzed using the Colaizzi method.
Findings: Five themes were identified by the participants: The Will to Live, Recognition of a Lifetime Commitment, Learning to Live with Technology, The Yin and Yang of Dialysis, and Transcending Dialysis.
Conclusions: End-stage renal disease and thrice weekly hemodialysis treatment have an impact on the daily life of older adults and their ability to cope with the changes. This study revealed that despite the restrictions of being on hemodialysis, all of the participants had the will to live and some expressed the need for further education using a variety of strategies that would meet the specific needs of this population. A more in-depth understanding of how older adults experience hemodialysis is needed to provide adequate care/resources for this special population.

abstract: Will discuss with Thesis Supervisor.

abstract: MNSc.


title: Students' Use of Metacognitive Skills While Problem Solving in High School Chemistry

contributor:
Klinger, Don A.
Education

subject:
Problem Solving
Science Education

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-06 21:09:42.036

abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate how purposeful metacognitive instruction affected students’ use of metacognitive skills and their abilities to solve complex chemistry problems. The pilot (n = 18 to 26) and study (n = 21) groups were enrolled in separate Ontario Grade 11 university preparation chemistry classes. A quasi-experimental intervention was implemented, using the pilot study as a control.  A Metacognitive Framework that outlined metacognitive skills specific to problem solving in chemistry formed the foundation for the intervention. Pre- and post-test self report questionnaires measuring students’ use of metacognitive skills (MCAI) and the problem solving tasks (i.e., PSTs) were used to measure the impact of the intervention. Data about students’ metacognitive and problem solving processes were also collected for the study group from: (a) think aloud pair problem solving (TAPPS) protocols, (b) an exit interview with the classroom teacher, (c) the students’ lab reports for two design labs, and (d) a survey of students’ use of the Metacognitive Framework.
	One way repeated measures ANOVA indicated that the pre- and post-test MCAI scores were not significantly different within and between the pilot and study groups. A comparison of the higher and lower achievement subgroups within the study group revealed that over time, the mean scores on the MCAI increased for the higher achievement group and decreased for the lower achievement group. One-way repeated measures ANOVA revealed that the post-test PST scores were significantly higher than the pre-test scores, and the groups differed significantly from each other with the study group scoring higher on both scores. While the statistical analyses revealed few differences, the teacher’s exit interview, TAPPS protocols, pre- and post-test lab reports, and student survey of the Metacognitive Framework indicated that the intervention supported students’ abilities to solve complex chemistry problems and use metacognitive skills associated with planning, monitoring, and evaluation.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Understanding treatment-resistant depression: The complicated relationships among neurocognition, symptoms, and functioning

contributor:
Bowie, Christopher R.
Psychology

subject:
symptoms
functional outcomes
neurocognition
treatment-resistant depression

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-07 11:55:40.708

abstract:
Background: Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) encompasses a segment of individuals with major depressive disorder who are severely ill in terms of chronicity, comorbidity, and prognosis.  Although functional impairment is a prominent and costly feature of treatment-resistance, very little is known about the factors that contribute to and maintain functional impairment in TRD.
Purpose: This study examined the relationships among neurocognition, symptoms, and functional impairment in TRD.  Specifically, I examined the neurocognitive impairments that relate to different symptom domains and to level of symptom severity, as well as the predictors of functional outcomes and real-world behaviour in TRD.
Method: Patients (N = 29) with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder were recruited from the Mood Disorders Treatment and Research Service at Providence Care Mental Health Services in Kingston, Ontario.  Data were collected during a baseline assessment for a neurocognitive enhancement therapy program.
Results:  Individuals with TRD show mild to moderate impairments across all neurocognitive domains, with a superimposed severe impairment in verbal working memory.  Verbal working memory significantly correlated with depressive symptoms and anxiety, such that increased verbal working memory capacity was related to more severe clinical symptoms.  Greater response inhibition significantly correlated with less anxiety.  Interpersonal competence was predicted by sustained attention and severity of depressive symptoms.  Adaptive competence was significantly predicted by age at baseline and set shifting.  Real-world work behaviour, interpersonal relations, and general satisfaction were predicted by the severity of depressive symptoms, whereas observed mood and anxiety predicted real-world recreational activity.
Conclusions: The current study pioneered some of the first data regarding the relationships among neurocognition, symptoms, and functional outcomes in treatment-resistant depression.  Verbal working memory appears to play an important role in the symptomatology of TRD.  Neurocognitive variables and depressive symptoms are important in predicting functional competence (what one can do) but only depressive symptoms predict functional performance (what one actually does in the real world). There may be additional intrinsic or extrinsic factors that mediate the relationships among neurocognition, symptoms, and functioning in TRD.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Multi-Objective Design Optimization of Electric Vehicle Battery Cooling Plates Considering Thermal and Pressure Objective Functions

contributor:
Kim, Il-Yong
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Coolant flow channel
Electric vehicle battery
Thermal management
Design optimization
Cooling plate
Temperature uniformity

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-07 16:24:14.6

abstract:
The current stimuli of climate change and rising oil prices have spurred the development of hybrid electric (HEV), and battery electric vehicles (BEV): collectively termed EVs. However, the battery technology needs much development: at the time of writing, the range of a BEV is too low to be practical in many situations. A critical limitation is the sensitivity of batteries to temperature: the heat generated during operation affects their performance and reduces the lifetime.

This study investigates battery cooling using cooling plates: thin rectangular fabrications inserted between battery cells. A coolant pumped through internal channels absorbs heat and transports it away from the battery. Previous studies of liquid heat exchangers have indicated that the geometry of the channels plays a significant role in the performance; however, there is a lack of rigorous numerical optimization applied to EV cooling plates.

By developing a numerical optimization framework utilizing parametric geometry generation and computational fluid dynamics, this research has investigated the characteristics of optimum cooling plate geometry with respect to three objectives: average temperature, temperature uniformity, and coolant pressure drop. By applying each objective separately, improvements of up to 70% have been made compared to a reference design. The influence of boundary conditions on performance and optimum design has been assessed, and multi-objective optimization has investigated the trade-off between competing objective functions.

Although care should be taken when extrapolating the results beyond the geometry and conditions in the study, some general design principles can be proposed. Objectives of average temperature and pressure drop can both be satisfied by a common design with wide cooling channels, but different characteristics are needed for temperature uniformity. Additional assessments have revealed that optimizations of temperature uniformity are especially sensitive to the boundary conditions, whereas the other objective functions are largely insensitive.

The optimization process developed in this work can be applied to any potential cooling plate design and will lead to gains in the targeted performance measure. In doing so, the performance of the EV will be incrementally improved, thereby advancing the day when an EV is not only an environmental choice, but also a practical choice.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Real Second-Order Freeness and Fluctuations of Random Matrices

contributor:
Mingo, James A.
Mathematics and Statistics

subject:
random matrices
central limit theorem
second-order freeness
free probability

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mathematics & Statistics) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-09 11:07:37.414

abstract:
We introduce real second-order freeness in second-order noncommutative probability spaces.  We demonstrate that under this definition, independent ensembles of the three real models of random matrices which we consider, namely real Ginibre matrices, Gaussian orthogonal matrices, and real Wishart matrices, are asymptotically second-order free.  These ensembles do not satisfy the complex definition of second-order freeness satisfied by their complex analogues.  This definition may be used to calculate the asymptotic fluctuations of products of matrices in terms of the fluctuations of each ensemble.

We use a combinatorial approach to the matrix calculations similar to genus expansion, but in which nonorientable surfaces appear, demonstrating the commonality between the real ensembles and the distinction from their complex analogues, motivating this distinct definition.  We generalize the description of graphs on surfaces in terms of the symmetric group to the nonorientable case.

In the real case we find, in addition to the terms appearing in the complex case corresponding to annular spoke diagrams, an extra set of terms corresponding to annular spoke diagrams in which the two circles of the annulus are oppositely oriented, and in which the matrix transpose appears.

abstract: PhD


title: Association between Proposed Quality of Care Indicators and Long-Term Outcomes for Men with Localized Prostate Cancer

contributor:
Groome, Patti A.
Brundage, Michael D.
Siemens, D. Robert
Community Health and Epidemiology

subject:
Quality Indicators
Radical Prostatectomy
Quality of Care
Radiation Therapy
Prostate Cancer

abstract: Thesis (Master, Community Health & Epidemiology) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-07 20:26:34.461

abstract: Background: We evaluated the validity of a set of 11 quality indicators for prostate cancer radiotherapy and radical prostatectomy by examining their association with outcomes. The selected indicators were: hospital volume, pre-treatment risk assessment, patient consultation with a radiation oncologist, appropriate follow-up care, leg immobilization during radiotherapy, bladder filling during radiotherapy, portal film target localization, use of nerve sparing surgery, operative blood loss, margin status and pelvic lymph node dissection. The selected outcomes were: cause-specific survival, disease-free survival, late morbidity (urinary incontinence, gastrointestinal and genitourinary morbidity), change in node stage from clinical N0 to pathologic N1, and margin status. Methods: Our study sample consisted of 1570 prostate cancer patients who were diagnosed in Ontario between January 1, 1990 and December 31, 1998 who received radical prostatectomy within 6 months of diagnosis (n=646), or curative radiotherapy within 9 months of diagnosis (n=924). Quality of care, outcomes, and potential confounders were measured using patient chart and administrative data. Regression techniques were used to evaluate the associations between quality indicators and relevant outcomes. Results: For patients treated surgically, hospital volume met our test of validity. Patients treated in the lowest volume hospital (0-1 RP/month) were at greater risk of prostate cancer death than patients treated in the highest volume hospitals (7+ RP/month) (HR=5.37 95% CI=1.23-23.46). For patients treated with radiotherapy, leg immobilization and bladder filling during radiotherapy met our test of validity. Patients treated without leg immobilization were more likely to experience urinary incontinence (RR=2.18, 95% CI=1.23-3.87) and genitourinary late morbidities (RR=1.72, 95% CI=1.16-2.56) than patients who received leg immobilization. Patients who were treated with an empty bladder were more likely to experience GU late morbidities (RR=1.98, 95% CI=1.08-3.63) than those treated with a full bladder. The remaining indicators did not meet our test of validity. Conclusion: Our results support the validity of one surgical quality indicator and two radiotherapy quality indicators. Explanations for our non-significant findings, including limited study power, data quality, our definition and measurement of indicators, and a true failure to predict outcome(s) are discussed, and recommendations for further research are presented.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Influence of direction and eccentricity on pro- and anti-saccade metrics

contributor:
Munoz, Douglas P.
Blohm, Gunnar
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
anti-saccade
sensorimotor transformation
vector inversion

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-08 16:31:18.398

abstract: The ability to process and respond to environmental cues requires the transformation of a sensory stimulus into an appropriate motor response, a process known as a sensorimotor transformation. The anti-saccade task can be used to investigate the ability of a subject to suppress a reflexive saccade towards a visual stimulus (pro-saccade) and generate a voluntary saccade 180° away from it.  Additional steps are involved in the anti-saccade sensorimotor transformation that do not occur in the pro-saccade, which may produce performance differences between pro- and anti-saccade metrics. We were interested in exploring these differences to gain insight on the mechanism of the sensorimotor transformation of the anti-saccade and to uncover any directional biases in saccadic performance. Two experiments were performed, one in which stimuli were presented at 20 angular positions with a constant eccentricity of 12°, and another using 18 possible eccentricities along the horizontal. Pro-saccades had faster SRTs and velocities, larger amplitudes, higher accuracy and less variation in their trajectories than anti-saccades. Pro- and anti-saccade performance was shown to exhibit a similar dependence on both saccade goal direction and eccentricity. Differences manifested as a generalized reduction in anti-saccade performance that can be described as a scalar multiple of pro-saccade performance at all locations. Possible causes of this reduced performance were speculated to be i) the involvement of higher cortical structures, ii) errors in the internal representation of the stimulus, iii) sensorimotor coordinate transformation inaccuracy, and iv) online updating of the motor plan and the speed accuracy trade off inherent to saccades. The results of this study are comparable to previous monkey and human studies however certain differences were found that require further investigation. Further investigation is also required to determine the validity of the possible causes of performance reduction in the anti-saccade task and their specific contributions.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Reading and Responding: Finding and Making Meaning in the Life Writing of Diasporic Iranian Jewish Women

contributor:
Tolmie, Jane
Gender Studies

subject:
Book Club
Women
Autobiography
Trauma
Jewish
Life-Writing
Iran
Cultural Production
Home
Migration
Trauma
Diaspora

abstract: Thesis (Master, Gender Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-08 22:54:33.728

abstract: This project investigates the English-language life writing of diasporic Iranian Jewish women.  It examines how these women have differentially imagined their diasporic lives and travels, and how they have in turn been imagined and accepted or rejected by their audiences.  In the first chapter, I use “home” as a lens for understanding three distinct life writing texts, showing how the authors write about what it means to have a home and to be at home in contrasting and even contradictory ways.  I show how, despite potential hegemonic readings that perpetuate unequal relationships and a normative definition of the ideal home, the texts are open to multiple contestatory readings that create spaces for new formulations and understandings.  In the second chapter, I look more closely at the intersections between trauma stories and the life writing of Iranian Jewish women, and I argue that readers use life writing texts about trauma to support an egocentric reconstruction of American democracy and dominance.  I also show how a critical frame for understanding trauma can yield interpretations that highlight, rather than ignore, relationships of power and privilege.  In the final chapter of the thesis, I present a case study of two online reading groups, and I show that communal reading environments, though they participate in dominant discourses, are also spaces where resistance and subversion can develop.

abstract: I hope to publish a portion of the thesis.

abstract: M.A.


title: Playing Soldier?: Combining Theatre and Theory to Explore the Experiences of Women in the Military

contributor:
Salverson, Julie
Cultural Studies

subject:
cultural studies
gender studies
military

abstract: Thesis (Master, Cultural Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-09 14:50:32.334

abstract:
This thesis explores the experiences of women in the military using narratives published by military servicewomen from Canada and the United States. The success of traditionally “female” bodies in combat-related trades in the military destabilizes the binary opposition between “male” and “female” in western society. Nevertheless, women are still excluded from identifying with the “soldier ideal” that is emphasized in western militaries and must make alternative “hybrid” identifications in order to articulate their understanding of their experiences in the military. Gender integration needs to be rethought in hyper-masculine military institutions. Since “hybrid” identities can be seen emerging in military servicewomen, members of the military have a unique opportunity to rethink the “soldier ideal” in order to make room for bodies that express gender identifications other than “male.” While military servicewomen adapt to their roles by generating “hybrid” identifications in the “Third Space” between the “soldier ideal” and feminine identities, military men are excluded from accessing the benefits of women’s “hybrid” identifications.
Men, women, and other emergent gender identities need to engage in a theatrical exploration of their experiences to investigate the possibility of generating new military ideals that resist social constructions that oppose gender integration. It is crucial that research about the experiences of women in the military involve bodies in order to acknowledge that these women experience resistance to their presence because their bodies visibly differ from the masculinised “soldier ideal.” Some of this experience cannot be articulated verbally. I work toward creating the conditions for bodies to engage with my research by combining a theatrical script with an accompanying analytic essay.

abstract: M.A.


title: Computed Tomography for the Non-Destructive Imaging of Cultural Heritage: X-Ray, Gamma and Neutron Sources

contributor:
Murray, Alison
Bevan, George
Art Conservation

subject:
Computed Tomography
Neutron
Gamma Ray
X-ray

abstract: Thesis (Master, Art Conservation) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-09 14:25:25.219

abstract:
X-ray and neutron computed tomography (CT) have been used successfully for the non-destructive imaging of artifact in art conservation.  These applications range from object investigations to the use of micro-focus CT for experimental studies.  While there is precedent for the use of CT in art conservation, the method is still limited in application partially due to restricted access to facilities and the high cost of producing publishable results.  The purpose of this study was to identify alternative CT methods including the use of different radiation sources and industrial imaging system.   Both investigations of the use of low-flux neutron CT at the Royal Military College in Kingston compared to high-flux neutron CT at the Advanced Neutron Tomography And Radiography Experimental System (ANTARES) at FRM-II in Garching, Munich and the use of megavoltage gamma ray computed tomography at Kingston General Hospital in Kingston successfully imaged the corroded metal artifacts.  The artifacts investigated were from the Diniacopoulos Collection at Queen’s University and were underwater concretions of L’Anse aux Bouleaux provided by Parks Canada.  This study also evaluated the Xradia XCT-400 for comparison to similar systems used in conservation.  This evaluation also provided successful images of corroded metal coins from the Diniacopoulos Collection for use in identification.
To address the issue of cost prohibitive image analysis programs, a workflow using the open-source software programs ImageVis3D, 3DSlicer and ImageJ was developed.  This workflow would enable researchers and conservators to produce publishable images and analyze the information in the CT data sets.   Additionally, this workflow addresses some common research questions that might arise during investigations that would guide conservators in optimizing their imaging parameters and image analysis.  The combination of the alternative radiation sources and the open-source workflow allows for greater accessibility of CT for conservators and researchers.  While the preliminary success of the study is promising, more research is needed to optimize the scanning parameters and image analysis through the use of phantoms and comparisons to traditional investigative methods in conservation.

abstract: M.A.C.


title: Addressing Challenges in Catalysis and Energy: Selective Grafting Functionality Onto Mesoporous Silicas and Organic Hydrides for the Regeneration of Ammonia Borane, a Hydrogen Storage Material

contributor:
Crudden, Cathleen M.
Chemistry

subject:
Hantzsch Ester
Hydride Transfer
Mesoporous Silica
Suzuki-Miyaura
Ammonia Borane
Regeneration
Organic Hydride
Selective Grafting

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-09 14:51:54.697

abstract:
Ordered mesoporous silicas have been shown to have a variety of useful applications ranging from adsorbents for containments to supports for catalysts. While these materials have received a good deal of attention in the literature there is still much opportunity for new technologies. We present research describing a novel approach to incorporate functionality onto the pore surfaces of these materials as well as a highly active catalyst for the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction.

Our approach to selectively graft functionality on to the pore walls of the mesoporous silicas SBA-15 and MCM-41 involves treating the materials loaded with a structure directing agent (SDA), with hexamethyldisilazane that passivates the external surface through silylation. Once the SDA is removed the mesopores can be functionalized selectively using standard methods. A test designed to look at the passivation layer is also described.

The catalyst developed is designated Pd-SBA-15-SH(g) and it is active for the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction. The activity, recyclability and leaching of Pd-SBA-15-SH(g) was found to be superior to related materials. A mechanistic analysis suggests the catalyst is a reservoir for soluble Pd metal.

A key challenge that is holding back wide scale application of ammonia borane (NH3BH3) as a hydrogen storage material for mobile applications is the dearth of regeneration strategies. Presented are our forays into the development of an organic hydride based regeneration strategy. The first phase of the project focused on the reaction between Hantzsch esters and B(C6F5)3. N-substituted Hantzsch esters were found to transfer hydride to boron in >90 % yield. Mechanistic analysis of the reaction suggests either a SET mechanism or a highly asynchronous transition state. A novel hydride transfer equilibrium promoted by B(C6F5)3 was observed and it operated at temperatures below -10 ºC.

N,N-ditertbutyl-dihydroimidazole is also an effective hydride donor to B(C6F5)3 as well as other Lewis acids that are more relevant mimics to those invoked in regeneration schemes. When the redistribution of B(SPh)3 is carried out with N,N-ditertbutyl-dihydroimidazole in the presence of NEt3 and CH2Cl2 at 50 ºC, BH2(NEt)3(SPh) is formed. CH2Cl2 functions as a thiol scavenger under the reaction conditions. 1-Octene trapping experiments provided indirect evidence for the formation of diborane, a critical component in the regeneration of NH3BH3.

abstract: PhD


title: A Study of How One Ontario School Board Used Peer Assisted Learning Strategies and Data-Informed Decision-Making to Address Reading Failure at Grade One

contributor:
Wade-Woolley, Lesly
Education

subject:
Early Intervention
Data-Informed Collaboration
Peer Assisted Learning Strategies
Progress Monitoring
Response to Intervention
Reading

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Education) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-13 10:03:09.664

abstract: In this mixed-methods study I report on a three-part investigation related to reading intervention at Grade 1 in one Ontario school board during the 2009-2010 school year.  First, I report the results that Peer Assisted Learning Strategies (PALS) had on the reading outcomes for all Grade 1 students (n = 436) in terms of sex, aboriginal status, and at-risk status.  Second, I use progress monitoring benchmark data to show how students unresponsive to instruction may have benefitted from additional instruction generated from monthly data-informed In-School Team meetings. Third, I report on educators’ perceptions of how monthly data-informed In-School Team meetings influenced their knowledge, confidence, and willingness to plan additional reading interventions for students persistently at-risk for reading failure.  Findings indicate that compared to previous years, when PALS was not used, students in this study made significantly greater gains in reading scores.  Boys made similar gains to girls, First Nations students made similar gains to non First Nations students, and at-risk students closed the achievement gap slightly with their typically-achieving peers.  For students who did not make adequate progress in reading throughout the year a logistic regression analysis of the data indicates that the best predictor of at-risk status is not a student’s sex or First Nations status, but their letter sound fluency and word identification fluency scores at the beginning of the school year.  Findings also indicate that the slope of improvement in reading scores for nonresponders begins to increase once In-School Team meetings begin.  Educators’ perceptions of how the monthly In-School team meetings influenced practice differed according to the perceived role that each held of his or her position, and according to the level of involvement, training, and access that each had to the data used in this study.  The more professional development that educators had in the theory, use, and application of progress monitoring data the more likely they were to report that they were willing to use it to inform their practice.  Likewise, the more access that educators had to the data in terms of collecting, viewing, and interpreting it, the more likely they were in reporting knowledge, confidence, and willingness to use it to plan additional interventions for students.

abstract: PhD


title: SimITK: Visual Programming of the ITK Image Processing Library within Simulink

contributor:
Abolmaesumi, Purang
Gobbi, David
Mousavi, Parvin
Computing

subject:
Language Wrapping
Dataflow Programming
Visual Programming
Image Processing

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-13 16:48:53.906

abstract: The Insight Segmentation and Registration Toolkit (ITK) is a long-established image processing library used for image analysis, visualisation, and image-guided surgery applications. ITK is a collection of C++ classes that can potentially pose usability problems for users without appropriate C++ programming experience. In order to remove the programming complexities and facilitate rapid prototyping, an implementation of ITK within a higher-level visual programming environment is presented: SimITK. ITK functionalities are automatically wrapped into "blocks" within the visual programming environment of MATLAB, Simulink, where these blocks can be connected to form workflows: visual schematics that closely represent the structure of a C++ program. The heavily C++ templated nature of ITK does not facilitate direct interaction between Simulink and ITK; an intermediary is required to convert respective datatypes and allow intercommunication. As such, a SimITK "Virtual Block" has been developed that serves as a wrapper around the ITK class responsible for resolving the datatypes used by ITK to native types used by Simulink. Part of this challenge surrounds the automated capturing and storage of the pertinent class information (name, inputs/outputs, acceptable datatypes, and allowed dimensionalities) that needs to be reflected within the final block representation. The WrapITK package, included with ITK, serves to generate initial class representations as complex eXtended Markup Language (XML) files that are consolidated and refined to organise the information into an easily accessible structure when extracting during wrapping. Once refined, the data are transferred into custom-written SimITK-templates - one template for each required filetype - through a series of custom-keyword substitutions that replace special keywords with appropriately retrieved XML information and/or programming code. The primary result from the SimITK wrapping procedure is the generation of multiple Simulink Block libraries. From these libraries, blocks are selected and interconnected to demonstrate case study examples: a 3D segmentation workflow using cranial-CT data and a 3D MRI-to-CT registration workflow. Suggestions for future development are included as well as several appendices containing a list of classes, code comparisons between ITK C++ and SimITK workflow, installation documentation (both user and developer), as well as example file templates used to integrate ITK within Simulink.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Health, Appearance and Fitness Practices: How Class and Gender are Represented in Four Young Women’s Understanding of Their Fitness Practices

contributor:
Adams, Mary Louise
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
Fitness Practices
Healthism
Health
Class
Body Image
Gender
Feminism

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-14 10:24:36.797

abstract: This thesis presents results from a qualitative study of how young women make sense of their fitness practices. Fitness practices related to diet and exercise are culturally linked to both appearance and health and tend to focus more on changing or maintaining the outside of body (appearance) rather than the inside (health) (Carlisle Duncan, 1994; Dworkin & Wachs, 2009; Smith Maguire, 2008).Young Canadian women are inundated with messages from both the public and private sectors about the imperative to be healthy. Many of these messages suggest that getting healthy will change our lives for the better.  Four university-educated, middle class, white women; the demographic which is most marketed to by the fitness industry (Rhode, 2010; Smith Maguire, 2008) were recruited to take part in a study about how they understand their fitness practices. My research involved a focus group and individual follow-up interviews with each of the four participants. Discussion topics included participants’ perceptions of the ideal body that applies to them and what participants saw their motivations and influences for their fitness practices to be.The data arising from the group shifted the project’s focus from “fitness” toward broader questions about what it means to be “healthy” in today’s culture. In the context of pervasive neoliberal notions of health, my analysis explores some lines of intersection between social class and fitness/health as they relate to discourses of physical capital (Bourdieu, 1978, 1996; Shilling, 2003, 2004) and healthism in today’s society (Crawford, 1980, 2006). My analysis reveals that many young women are negotiating a paradox in that they engage in fitness practices, despite their knowledge of feminist body image critiques.  The desire to build and convert physical capital and the intense pressure to appear “healthy” in the midst of a supposed “obesity epidemic” are strong motivators for the women’s fitness practice routines. The young women in my study are reifying a socially constructed hierarchy of bodies which favours thin bodies over fat bodies.

abstract: M.A.


title: Exploring the Use of Microstructured Fibres as a Stationary Phase Support for Open Tubular Liquid Chromatography

contributor:
Oleschuk, Richard
Chemistry

subject:
Microstructured Fibre
Chemistry
Chromatography
Capillary
Open Tubular
OTLC
HPLC

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-14 11:52:41.23

abstract:
With the rise of capillary HPLC systems, open tubular liquid chromatography (OTLC) has been garnering more attention due to the possible fundamental advantages of open tubular systems over conventional packed or monolithic systems. Performance has yet to reach its potential due in part to a variety of technical challenges, resulting in the need for very small injection volumes and sensitive detection. In this work, we have shown that with modern HPLC sample introduction and detection systems, along with careful fabrication of polymer stationary phases, that reverse phase open tubular liquid chromatography may be within reach.  We have shown that, with small diameter (i.d. 30m) open tubular columns, complex multi-component mixtures (EPA 610, in-house drug mixture) can be separated.  We have also shown that these columns are robust and can function over a wide range of flow rates (200-1000 nl/min), and may be useful for general reverse phase separation in the future.  However, currently, more stationary phase development and procedure refinement is needed.
    Microstructured fibres (MSFs), a relatively new class of optical fibre which confine light within fibres through a refractive index change caused by the use of parallel air channels running throughout the length of the fibre, are explored as a new support material for open tubular liquid chromatography. The fine channel structures of MSFs enable reasonable sample volumes to be used compared to conventional open tubular systems, while offering a similar plug-like flow profile through the fibre.  With current sample introduction and flow technologies, we have shown that the potential advantages of MSF columns is great even when simple C18 stationary phases are used; this was able to separate a four PAH mixture.   However, a distribution in channel sizes caused by current manufacturing standards and a limited ability to evenly deposit polymer stationary phases in the fibres has kept MSF columns from reaching their full potential.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: FES Kinase Signaling Promotes Mast Cell Recruitment to Tumours

contributor:
Craig, Andrew W.
Biochemistry

subject:
FES Kinase
Tumour Microenvironment
Protein Tyrosine Kinase
Mast Cells

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biochemistry) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-14 11:49:32.871

abstract: FES protein-tyrosine kinase (PTK) activation downstream of the KIT receptor in mast cells (MC) promotes cell polarization and migration towards the KIT ligand Stem cell factor (SCF). A variety of tumours secrete SCF to promote MC recruitment and release of mediators that enhance tumour vascularization and growth. This study investigates whether FES promotes MC migration via regulation of microtubules (MTs), and if FES is required for MC recruitment to the tumour microenvironment. MT binding assays showed that FES has at least two MT binding sites, which likely contribute to the partial co-localization of FES with MTs in polarized bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMCs). Live cell imaging revealed a significant defect in chemotaxis of FES-deficient BMMCs towards SCF embedded within an agarose drop, which correlated with less MT organization compared to control cells. To extend these results to a tumour model, mouse mammary carcinoma AC2M2 cells were engrafted under the skin and into the mammary fat pads of immune compromised control (nu/nu) or FES-deficient (nu/nu:fes-/-) mice. A drastic reduction in tumour-associated MCs was observed in FES-deficient mice compared to control in both mammary and skin tissue sections. This correlated with a trend towards reduced tumour volumes in FES-deficient mice. These results implicate FES signaling downstream of KIT, in promoting MT reorganization during cell polarization and for chemotaxis of MCs towards tumour-derived SCF. Thus, FES is a potential therapeutic target to limit recruitment of stromal mast cells or macrophages to solid tumours that enhance tumour progression.

abstract: We would like to publish these results in a journal before it is publicly accessible. Please withhold until we publish.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Gender, Christianities, and Neo/Liberal Hegemony: an Ethnographic Exploration of Gender Discourse in a United Church Women’s Group

contributor:
Dickey Young, Pamela
Cultural Studies

subject:
Protestantism
Discourse Analysis
Neoliberalism
Ethnography
Canada
Gender

abstract: Thesis (Master, Cultural Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-14 13:34:43.664

abstract: This thesis explores the potential for ethico-politically committed cultural critique in investigating lived experiences of gender in the hegemonic global north, where the neo/liberal rhetoric of sexual equality tends to portray issues of gender as already sufficiently addressed. It argues that the ideological roots of dominant gender discourses can be productively explored through the interrelated histories of Christianities and neo/liberalisms that have powerfully shaped mainstream Canadian society. Supported by an extensive body of literature bringing religious studies, feminist, and queer theory to bear on sociological and political questions, this rhetoric is investigated by applying critical discourse analysis to transcripts of interviews conducted over a year of participant observation with the members of a local United Church women’s discussion group. Findings suggest a complex set of attachments, rejections, and ambivalent attitudes toward those elements of feminism that have entered into the social, cultural, political and economic discourses that have become dominant in Canada. The discussion of results considers the forces which produced respondents’ general complacency with the status quo of gender equality along with their hesitancy to make judgments about the validity of competing claims regarding gender ethics. Analysis concludes by examining the implication of these attitudes for the prospects of gender justice movements, especially those conceived in terms of allyship and coalition-building at the intersection of different axes of identity and practice.

abstract: M.A.


title: The Search for Continental Security: The Development of the North American Air Defence System, 1949 to 1956

contributor:
English, Allan
Sokolsky, Joel
History

subject:
Canada-U.S. Relations
Continental Air Defence

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, History) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-14 14:08:14.101

abstract:
This dissertation examines the development of the North American air defence system from the beginning of the Cold War until 1956. It focuses on the political and diplomatic dynamics behind the emergence of these defences, which included several radar lines such as the Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line as well as a number of initiatives to enhance co-operation between the United States Air Force (USAF) and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). This thesis argues that these measures were shaped by two historical factors.
                                          The first was several different conceptions of what policy on air defence best served the Canadian national interest held by the Cabinet, the Department of External Affairs, the RCAF and the Other Government Departments (OGDs), namely Transport, Defence Production and Northern Affairs. For the Cabinet and External Affairs, their approach to air defence was motivated by the need to balance working with the Americans to defend the continent with the avoidance of any political fallout that would endanger the government‘s chance of reelection. Nationalist sentiments and the desire to ensure that Canada both benefited from these projects and that its sovereignty in the Arctic was protected further influenced these two groups. On the other hand, the RCAF was driven by a more functional approach to this issue, as they sought to work with the USAF to develop the best air defence system possible. Finally, the positions of the OGDs were shaped by more narrow priorities. For example, C.D. Howe and the Department of Defence Production sought to use these joint radar projects to build up the Canadian electronics industry. Canada‘s air defence policy in the 1950s, therefore, was a compromise between these various conceptions of the national interest.

The other major influence on this process  was the attitude of the Truman and Eisenhower administrations towards continental air defence. This dissertation will argue that most of the measures to improve the security of the continent emerged because of the efforts of the United States, but at the same time, the Americans‘ level of interest in these defences varied greatly over this period and ultimately were not sustained. Moreover, both these administrations had to overcome opposition from the USAF‘s senior leadership, which preferred an emphasis on the offensive nuclear forces of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) over improved air defences. This dissertation thus makes an important and original argument that contributes to the scholarly literature on the Canada-U.S. defence relationship during the early Cold War.

abstract: PhD


title: Learning to Live With Food Allergies: Negotiating Risk and Appropriating Expertise in Consumption Practices

contributor:
Hand, Martin
Sociology

subject: Risk Allergy Consumption

abstract: Thesis (Master, Sociology) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-14 14:03:42.479

abstract: This thesis presents a sociological framework for understanding food allergy. Food allergy is increasingly appearing on policy and media platforms in contemporary Western societies. Debates have emerged about the prevalence of food allergy and also about the “rights” of those experiencing food allergies in a number of public and private spheres. Food allergy is a specifically social phenomenon, emerging as a consequence of modernization processes. Additionally, the allergy “zone” is comprised of a number of actors and agents including the institutions of medicine, pharmaceutical companies, politicians, governments, lay actors and an array of medical technologies. Despite being an issue of major sociological significance, few empirical studies have explored the everyday experience of food allergy. Therefore, in order to understand the lived experience of food allergy, I construct a conceptual framework which draws upon theories of risk and social governance, the sociology of consumption and sociological studies of science and embodiment. These literatures shed important light upon how individuals negotiate and (de)construct the risks associated with their conditions. Drawing on data acquired from eight in-depth interviews with those who identify as food allergic, I argue food allergy need be understood as a form and practice of consumption. Thus, far from being passive subjects, this approach characterises individuals as being embodied and reflexive agents who actively deconstruct notions of risk and recurrently engage in practices of “edgework”. These actors negotiate the medical and scientific parameters of their conditions as well as the parameters and demands of consumer culture. Whilst these theoretical and conceptual frameworks are useful for understanding the experience of food allergy, I recommend further studies of food allergy acknowledge the diversity of actors/institutions involved in the discursive production and circulation of information about food allergy; specifically homeopathic and alternative practitioners and organizations. Additionally, I argue that future studies of allergy must acknowledge the fundamentally embodied experience of the condition and the consequences this has for its definition and experience. For the purposes of future studies of food allergy, I also suggest it would be worthwhile to further explore the ways in which individuals who experience food allergies and intolerances are enrolled and participate in biopolitical regimes.

abstract: M.A.


title: Australia’s Strategic Culture: An investigation of the concept of strategic culture and its application to the Australian case

contributor:
Nossal, Kim Richard
Political Studies

subject:
International Relations Theory
History of Australian Strategic Policy
Strategic Culture

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Political Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-15 11:17:19.326

abstract:
The notion that each state in the international system approaches matters of war and peace somewhat differently because they each possess a unique strategic culture is not a new or obscure one – but it nevertheless remains controversial. While some scholars dismiss the utility or practicality of examining states’ cultures when seeking to explain or predict those states’ patterns of strategic decision-making, even amongst those who accept that we should pay attention to cultural differences between states when carrying out strategic analysis there remains a frustratingly eclectic range of offerings from scholars regarding how best to do so. In short, significant uncertainty remains regarding both whether strategic culture should be used as an analytical tool and, if it is so utilized, how one should go about doing so.

This thesis therefore explores the concept of strategic culture in great detail, both theoretical and empirical. The opening three chapters examine why the more traditional rationalist/materialistic theories should not exclusively dominate strategic analysis, then the various existing strategic cultural offerings are considered and critiqued and, finally, a new conceptual model for strategic cultural analysis is proposed which draws from the hitherto largely neglected psychological and sociological literature. Both of these fields, it is submitted in Chapter 3, have spent more time and effort developing ways of understanding and analyzing culture than the field of IR has to date, and therefore the models and methods debated and developed in these fields should, it is argued, be ‘imported’ into IR to drive further strategic cultural research. The thesis then moves in the following six chapters to consider Australia’s strategic culture. The purpose of this part of the thesis is two-fold: first, it illustrates how the model offered in Chapter 3 works and, by implication, suggests how scholars may go about applying it to other cases. Second, and perhaps more importantly, the latter six chapters  explore the twists and turns of Australia’s substantive strategic decision-making over the course of the last century or more, thereby explaining how Australia’s strategic history can be understood from a cultural perspective.

abstract: I plan to alter the dissertation and publish it as a book. So, I would prefer not to have the 'raw' version publically available until I have completed such.

abstract: PhD


title: Aggregation and Redispersion of Switchable Latexes

contributor:
Jessop, Philip G.
Cunningham, Michael F.
Chemistry

subject:
switchable surfactants
redispersible
emulsion polymerization

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-26 13:18:33.905

abstract:
Amidine-based switchable surfactants can be used as stabilizers during emulsion polymerization and the resulting latexes can then be destabilized by the removal of CO2. High Tg polymers have been successfully redispersed, as shown by recovery of primary particle size (measured by light scattering methods), but an input of energy was required. Sonication was the first method used, but lower-energy methods such as rotor-stators and a blender have also been successful in redispersing aggregated latexes. Colloidal stability was found to be reversible for at least three aggregation/redispersion cycles, and redispersibility was retained after the removal of water and addition of fresh water. Stimuli-responsive polymer colloids with reversible colloidal stability may have many uses. The shipping of latexes, for example, would be easier and less energy intensive if the latex particles could be aggregated and the bulk of the water removed. The latexes would then have to be redispersed prior to use.
Switchable surfactants have also been used for the semi-continuous copolymerization of butyl acrylate and methyl methacrylate to form a high solids content (42 wt%), low-Tg latex. The latex can be destabilized with air and heat but cannot undergo redispersion because the low Tg polymer particles fuse upon aggregation. The copolymer, when dried at room temperature, formed a continuous film. Latexes with high solids content and low Tg’s are representative of latex paint formulations. Because the switchable surfactants have been shown to be successful in preparing these latexes, it is possible that they may be useful in the latex paint industry, for example as fast setting paints.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Introibo ad Altare Dei: El Greco's 'Espolio' in the context of post-Tridentine Spain

contributor:
Schütze, Sebastian
Art History

subject:
El Greco
early modern Spain

abstract: Thesis (Master, Art History) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-15 16:13:04.047

abstract:
In the vestry of the cathedral church of Santa Maria in Toledo hangs a large painting by El Greco entitled El Espolio, the ‘Disrobing of Christ’. Executed shortly after his arrival in Spain the painting marks a major stylistic departure from the artist’s earlier work and would command attention on that basis alone. The subject, while iconographically obscure, is, at another remove, utterly familiar as a Passion scene tied to a well known iconographical canon. Compositionally, the Christ figure predominates but the ‘legionnaire’ occupies a contrasting and almost equivalent space in his carapace of steel. These figures beg for further elaboration
I will argue that this painting can be read as a nexus between a reformed liturgy and a post-Tridentine programme of Church renewal in Spain allied to a monarchical programme of nación under Philip II (1527-98) that was essentially one and the same.
The salient questions needing a response are these: How, in a vestry, can we expect such a subject to have much impact beyond the very limited audience it was designed for? This is the crux of the matter in many ways. What in the painting suggests more than the straightforward analysis of the subject matter? What in the times suggests another reading of this great work of art?
The pursuit of the answers to these questions constitutes the driving force behind this investigation. Biography, the intellectual and artistic formation of the artist, are positioned with reference to the intellectual ferment of the period, the religious upheaval
iii
in Christendom, the advances in the understanding of the nation state. More specifically, the altered relationship between the monarchy and the church in Spain, following the Council of Trent (1545-63)will be shown to have a reflection in El Espolio.
El Greco’s work has mostly been treated as the product of a painter of the spirit, of religiosity, even of mysticism. El Espolio has been interpreted here within a broader frame of reference and the argument suggests our understanding of El Greco’s oeuvre has been somewhat narrow.

abstract: M.A.


title: Characterizing the Stimulus-Response Relationship Between Endothelial Dependent Flow Mediated Dilation and Shear Stress

contributor:
Pyke, Kyra E.
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
Threshold
Flow Mediated Dilation
Slope
Variability
Shear Stress
Handgrip Exercise

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-15 20:17:11.582

abstract: The vascular endothelium is a single layer of cells that lines the interior surface of our blood vessels. The endothelium plays a key role in vasoprotection and vasoregulation and its proper function is therefore essential to the maintenance of vascular health. The endothelial cells respond to the frictional force (shear stress (SS)) that occurs with an increase in blood flow. As a response, vasoactive substances are released, causing the artery to dilate, this is termed flow-mediated dilation (FMD). Endothelial cell function can be assessed by measuring the vasodilatory response to an increase in SS. Currently however, our ability to interpret the results of FMD assessment in order to make accurate judgements regarding arterial health is hindered by an incomplete understanding of the “dose-response” relationship between SS and FMD. The dose-response relationship is characterized by 1) the SS stimulus required to elicit an FMD response (threshold), 2) the magnitude of dilation for a given increase in SS (the slope of the SS-FMD relationship), and 3) the point at which further increases in SS no longer elicit dilation (the ceiling). The primary purpose of the current study was to characterize the magnitude and day-to-day variability of the parameters described above. N=20 males (mean 22-years). Brachial artery diameter (BAD) and blood velocity (BV) were assessed with echo and Doppler ultrasound. SS was estimated as shear rate (SR=BV/BAD). Subjects performed 2 incremental handgrip exercise trials on two separate visits (V1 and V2). CV=co-efficient of variation. The SS-FMD relationship was characterized by a shallow slope followed by an inflection point (threshold (T1)) and a steeper slope (pre vs. post T1 slope p=0.002). There was no difference between V1 vs. V2 in the SR-FMD slope or threshold (p>0.05), but there was considerable within-subject variability in the SR-FMD parameters: pre-T1 slope CV = 47.0 ± 33.1%; post-T1 slope CV = 55.3 ± 40.7%; T1 CV = 25.6 ± 6.3%. In conclusion, %FMD did not plateau with increasing SR, therefore no ceiling was identified. The inflection in slope may indicate the involvement of different or additional vasodilator mechanisms post-threshold.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Validation of the Lattice Boltzmann Method for Direct Numerical Simulation of Wall-Bounded Turbulent Flows

contributor:
Pollard, Andrew
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Lattice Boltzmann Method
Direct Numerical Simulation
Turbulence

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-15 23:24:09.968

abstract:
In this work, the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) was validated for direct numerical simulation (DNS) of wall-bounded turbulent flows. The LBM is a discrete-particle-based method that numerically solves the Boltzmann equation as opposed to conventional DNS methods that are based on the Navier-Stokes (NS) equations. The advantages of the LBM are its simple implementation, its ability to handle complex geometries, and its scalability on modern high-performance computers.

An LBM code was developed and used to simulate fully-developed turbulent channel flow. In order to validate the results, the turbulence statistics were compared to those calculated from a conventional NS-based finite difference (FD) simulation. In the present study, special care was taken to make sure the computational domains for LBM and FD simulations were the same. Similar validation studies in the literature have used LBM simulations with smaller computational domains in order to reduce the computational cost. However, reducing the size of the computational domain affects the turbulence statistics and confounds the results of the validation.

The turbulence statistics calculated from the LBM and FD simulations were found to agree qualitatively; however, there were several significant deviations, particularly in the variance profiles. The largest discrepancy was in the variance of the pressure fluctuations, which differed by approximately 7%. Given that both the LBM and FD simulations resolved the full range of turbulent scales and no models were used, this error was deemed to be significant.

The cause of the discrepancy in the pressure variance was found to be the compressibility of the LBM. The LBM allows the density to vary, while the FD method does not since it solves the incompressible form of the NS equations. The effect of the compressibility could be reduced by lowering the Mach number, but this would come at the cost of significantly increasing the computational cost. Therefore, the conclusion of this work is that, while the LBM is capable of producing accurate solutions for incompressible turbulent flows, it is significantly more expensive than conventional methods for simple wall-bounded turbulent flows.

abstract: PhD


title: Visual Discrimination Performance in Rats: Role of Acetylcholine and Synaptic Correlates in the Primary Visual Cortex and Hippocampus

contributor:
Dringenberg, Hans C.
Psychology

subject:
Acetylcholine
Learning and Memory
Attention
Primary Visual Cortex (V1)
Visual Discrimination
Visual Evoked Potentials
Hippocampus
Muscarinic Receptors
Scopolamine

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-16 13:50:24.045

abstract: The notion that learning and memory processes are highly dependent on central cholinergic neurotransmission has been widely accepted. However, studies documenting the importance of Acetylcholine (ACh) in attention have led some to suggest that attention impairments may underlie the deficits in learning and memory resulting from cholinergic disruptions. Using a visual discrimination task, I attempted to discern whether performance impairments by Scopolamine were predominantly due to the importance of muscarinic receptor integrity in attention, or memory consolidation in learning. Rats were trained in a visual discrimination task using a Y-shaped water maze apparatus. To successfully navigate to a hidden platform located in one of the two goal arms, rats learned to discriminate between 2 distinct visual cues, indicating the platform’s presence (CS+) or absence (CS-), respectively. Following task acquisition, testing continued using a combination of Regular trials (RT; both CS+ and CS- present) and Probe trials (PT; only one of the cues present). Results indicated that performance on PT was impaired due to greater task difficulty under conditions of reduced information, while Scopolamine (1 mg/kg) further impacted PT performance without affecting RTs. In a second experiment, PTs were administered with the platform present to provide reinforcement and a learning opportunity. Animals still exhibited poorer PT performance, but rapidly learned to rely on a single cue for accurate platform localization. Interestingly, this learning was not apparent under conditions of Scopolamine treatment (1 mg/kg), even though RT performance was completely unaffected. To examine experience-dependent changes in neuronal responding after visual discrimination learning, a subset of animals were anesthetised and visual evoked potentials (VEPs) in V1 and area CA1 of the hippocampus were recorded in response to CS+, CS-, and novel stimuli. In both the V1 and CA1, the VEP amplitudes elicited to familiar and novel stimuli were not significantly different. First, these experiments demonstrate the importance of the cholinergic system in sustaining visual attention and acquiring a new single-cue strategy. Furthermore, the null electrophysiology findings do not rule out the plastic response properties of the mature V1 and CA1, but remind us of the complex nature of memory encoding in the brain.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Production and Application of AlCl as a Reductant for Solar Grade Silicon Manufacture

contributor:
Davis, Boyd R.
Peacey, John
Mining Engineering

subject:
Metallurgy
Solar Grade Silicon

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mining Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-18 18:16:36.31

abstract:
Solar grade silicon is currently produced mainly through blending semiconductor grade silicon waste with metallurgical grade silicon. As the demand for solar cells continues to increase rapidly, soon demand will outstrip supply of semiconductor grade silicon waste. A process for producing solar grade silicon efficiently and without relying on other industries is needed. It is proposed to produce solar grade silicon of 6N purity (99.9999%) by reacting silicon tetrachloride with aluminum monochloride via the following reaction:
2 AlCl(g) + SiCl4(g)= Si(s) + 2 AlCl3(g)
Aluminum monochloride is proposed as the reductant for silicon tetrachloride because it is an extremely strong reducing agent and the reaction will produce all gaseous by-products. Additionally, the aluminum trichloride produced can be recycled to form more aluminum monochloride, which is produced by reacting aluminum metal with aluminum trichloride in the following reaction:
AlCl3(g) + 2 Al(l)= 3 AlCl(g)
High yields of AlCl have only been found above 1200°C, with very little AlCl present in equilibrium with Al and AlCl3 at lower temperatures. The high temperatures under which AlCl can be found in larger quantities makes it difficult to determine if the AlCl3 reacting with Al is actually producing AlCl as opposed to another subhalide such as AlCl2. Numerous IR spectroscopy studies have been undertaken to confirm that the reaction of aluminum trichloride gas with molten aluminum does produce aluminum monochloride, with all such studies confirming that this theoretical path is correct. Unlike previous studies, which pass the AlCl3 gas over molten aluminum, it is proposed to bubble the AlCl3 gas into the molten aluminum. This should increase yield of aluminum monochloride, which was not a priority in previous studies.
In order to achieve the project objectives a literature review of silicon manufacturing techniques as well as aluminum monochloride production was completed. Experiments to determine the rate of sublimation of aluminum trichloride were to be done in order to determine what temperature at which to sublime the aluminum trichloride. Aluminum trichloride was bubbled into aluminum metal to form aluminum monochloride with experimental conditions being varied to increase yield. Yield was determined through analysis of the reaction products, which was difficult due to the instability of aluminum monochloride, which dissociates at room temperature back into aluminum trichloride and aluminum metal. After the yield of aluminum monochloride was maximized, silicon tetrachloride was introduced into the reactor to react with the aluminum monochloride to form silicon metal.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Effects of Aging, Continuity and Frequency Difference on the Time Course of Auditory Perceptual Organization

contributor:
Johnsrude, Ingrid S.
Psychology

subject:
Auditory Scene Analysis
Aging
Hearing

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-20 10:50:27.01

abstract: Effective everyday hearing requires the auditory system to organize auditory input into perceptual streams corresponding to objects of interest. Changes in this process may be responsible for age-related deterioration in the capacity to effectively hear important sounds masked by background noise. Younger (18-25) and older (55+) adults with healthy hearing listened to 10-second intervals of a simple pattern of “ABA” tone triplets. The ABA patterns are used as a model of real-world auditory streaming, because they are initially perceived as one integrated stream, and over time are reorganized into two segregated streams. Participants performed a target-detection task designed to index their perceptual organization of the tones, which does not depend on potentially-biased, subjective judgment (Thompson, Carlyon, & Cusack, 2011). Complex tones with narrowly-spaced, unresolvable frequency components were used in this experiment to control for age-related decreases in frequency selectivity. Both groups demonstrated a capacity for segregating the A and B tones based on differences in harmonic spacing, as predicted. However, despite our acoustic controls the older adults showed significantly less segregation of the 6ST stimuli, indicating that there are additional age-related changes in auditory streaming, which make them less likely to segregate in response to harmonic spacing differences. Additionally, older adults showed significantly better overall performance on the task than younger adults, indicating that the age differences are not simply due to age-related deficits in task execution. The ABA intervals were presented either continuously, or with 5-second interruptions prior to each trial that have previously been shown to “reset” perceptual streaming back to an integrated percept (Cusack, Deeks, Aikman, & Carlyon, 2004). For both age groups interruptions preceding the ABA intervals were shown to be capable of resulting in decreased segregation, as predicted. Targets were presented at 4 time points (2, 4, 6, and 8 seconds) in order to test for age differences in the time course of streaming. In the results for the 8-semitone stimuli, we observed strong evidence for delayed build-up in older adults, in response to the Gap condition. However, this evidence was not statistically conclusive and future experiments are needed determine the effect’s validity.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Characterization of Electrochemically  Formed Coloured Passive Layers on  Titanium and Zirconium: Optical,  Surface and Corrosion Properties

contributor:
Beauchemin, Diane
Jerkiewicz, Gregory
Chemistry

subject:
Material Science
Electrochemistry

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-19 19:44:07.148

abstract: Electrochemically formed passive layers on titanium and zirconium, and their optical, surface and corrosion properties are presented.  With the use of higher applied AC voltages, the passive layers become thicker and more protective of the underlying metal, as determined from thickness measurements by scanning electron microscopy and focused ion beam instruments, as well as passive layer corrosion resistance measurements by electrochemical polarization curve and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry experiments.  The surface morphology of all samples was studied with atomic force microscopy, profilometry, visible light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and finally electron backscattered diffraction experiments.  The passive layers were found to be uniform in their surface structure with no cracks or fractures.  However, the samples prepared at VAC = 60-80 V showed defects, which were increasingly prevalent at higher VAC.  These defects are thought to be attributed to a process of localized electrochemical breakdown.  The aforementioned increase in corrosion resistance is in spite of the defects, which were observed for the samples prepared at VAC = 60-80 V.  Surface morphology, in relation to optical properties, was also investigated through reflectance spectroscopy measurements.  A correlation between grain colouration and light reflected from the sample surface was observed through measurements using visible light microscopy as well as near infrared ultraviolet visible reflectance spectroscopy.  These experiments showed a red-shift of wavelength maxima (λmax) values as voltages, and therefore thickness, were increased.  This is the reason that different colours are seen for different thicknesses; the red shift causes different wavelengths to be reflected constructively and destructively.  Overall, these passive layers are protective of an already remarkable metal and, with greater knowledge of their properties, their potential may be observed in a wide range of applications.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Chemoselective, Enantiospecific Cross-Coupling of Secondary Boronic Esters and the Stability of Mesoporous Silica Supports for Pd Catalysis

contributor:
Crudden, Cathleen M.
Chemistry

subject:
Cross-Coupling
Triarylmethanes
Mesoporous Silica
Secondary Boronic Esters

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-19 14:53:49.444

abstract:
The Suzuki-Miyaura Cross-Coupling of aryl halides and aryl boronic esters has become one of the most important and oft used C-C bond forming reactions in industry and academia alike. Recently, substantial effort has been invested in expanding this reaction to include alkyl boronic esters as coupling partners, though until recently, success has been limited to primary alkyl boronic esters. Secondary alkyl boronic esters, with the inherent possibility of being chiral, have proven to be more difficult to couple. As a means of expanding our program on the enantio- and regioselective hydroboration of styrene derivatives, we sought to develop conditions that could couple benzylic (secondary) boronic esters. Not only was the coupling to aryl iodides achieved in moderate to good yield with a commercially available (and relatively cheap) catalyst system and phosphine, but the coupling reaction proceeds with almost complete retention of the stereochemistry installed during the hydroboration reaction. Interestingly, these conditions leave primary (linear) alkyl boronic esters completely untouched. Further examination of the chemoselectivity of the reaction revealed that, despite being unable to cross-couple strictly aliphatic secondary boronic esters, our silver-mediated protocol was able to effectively cross-couple chiral allylic boronic esters in high yield and good regioselectivity.
The asymmetric syntheses of novel secondary boronic esters have also been developed to overcome the substrate limitations of the hydroboration reaction. Together with our effective cross coupling strategy, these novel chiral boronic esters have led to
the synthesis of exciting new classes of molecules, most notably, the asymmetric triarylmethanes.
Finally, the stability of mesoporous silica supports used in Pd catalysis was assessed. Though silica supports effectively reduce Pd-contamination in reaction mixtures to sub-ppm levels, their long-term reusability is hindered by material degradation caused by harsh reaction conditions. It was found that aqueous base, required for the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction, is responsible for silica degradation and the collapse of mesostructure. Interestingly, it was determined that the reaction itself had a protective effect on the material, with the boric acid side-product mitigating the deleterious effect of the base.

abstract: PhD


title: DESERVE: a Framework for Detecting Program Security Vulnerability Exploitations

contributor:
Zulkernine, Mohammad
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
Cross-Site Scripting
Buffer Overflow
Software Engineering
Vulnerability Monitor
Software Security
Runtime Testing
SQL Injection

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-19 19:04:28.423

abstract: It is difficult to develop a program that is completely free from vulnerabilities. Despite the applications of many approaches to secure programs, vulnerability exploitations occur in real world in large numbers. Exploitations of vulnerabilities may corrupt memory spaces and program states, lead to denial of services and authorization bypassing, provide attackers the access to authorization information, and leak sensitive information. Monitoring at the program code level can be a way of vulnerability exploitation detection at runtime. In this work, we propose a monitor embedding framework DESERVE (a framework for DEtecting program SEcuRity Vulnerability Exploitations). DESERVE identifies exploitable statements from source code based on static backward slicing and embeds necessary code to detect attacks. During the deployment stage, the enhanced programs execute exploitable statements in a separate test environment. Unlike traditional monitors that extract and store program state information to compare with vulnerable free program states to detect exploitation, our approach does not need to save state information. Moreover, the slicing technique allows us to avoid the tracking of fine grained level of information about runtime program environments such as input flow and memory state. We implement DESERVE for detecting buffer overflow, SQL injection, and cross-site scripting attacks. We evaluate our approach for real world programs implemented in C and PHP languages. The results show that the approach can detect some of the well-known attacks. Moreover, the approach imposes negligible runtime overhead.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: A Mixed Methods Investigation of the Needs, Experiences, and Fulfillments of Trans PERSONS Accessing Ontario Health Care Services

contributor:
Little, Margaret
Gender Studies

subject:
Health Care
Gender Studies

abstract: Thesis (Master, Gender Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-20 12:42:59.005

abstract: This study examined the societal factors and subjective beliefs that are hypothesized to be affecting the lives of trans persons accessing Ontario health care services. The purpose of this study was to uncover information pertaining to trans persons’ needs and fulfillments within Ontario’s health care system in order to discover what the specific health care needs of trans persons accessing health care services are as well as if they are alienated and/or systemically discriminated against when seeking medical attention. The research questions were addressed through a secure, anonymous, online questionnaire taking approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete. A small sample of 18 to 26 individuals who identified as trans, living in Ontario and have accessed, or are currently accessing, Ontario health care services were recruited through relevant list-servs and website postings. Participants accessed a variety of open-ended and closed questions concerning sociodemographics, sexuality, health care access experiences, and  health care needs. Qualitative results showed that access to Ontario health care is complicated by race, class and language for participants in this study. Experiences for trans persons with Ontario health care services varied from individual to individual; some reported no negative experiences at all, some have been refused services by the Center for Addiction and Mental Health’s Gender Identity Clinic, and some avoided health care services entirely due to discrimination from medical professionals.

abstract: M.A.


title: From Prometheus to Pistorius: a Genealogy of Physical Ability

contributor:
Beamish, Rob
Sociology

subject:
Technology
Cyborgy Theory
Disability
Posthuman
War
Military

abstract: Thesis (Master, Sociology) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-20 12:49:42.317

abstract: (Fragile Frames + Monstrosities)ModernWar + (Flagged Bodies + Cyborgs)PostmodernWar = dis-AbilityCyborged

abstract: M.A.


title: Debating 'Islamic Feminism': Between Turkish Secular Feminist and North American Academic Critiques

contributor:
Olwan, Dana
Gender Studies

subject: Feminism Islam

abstract: Thesis (Master, Gender Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-20 13:45:55.496

abstract: This project questions western hegemonic discourse about the non-western Other, specifically the Muslim woman subject, through a post-colonial critical point of view. It takes the debate on Islamic feminism, especially in North American academy as a departure point of a discussion relating that discourse to the western feminist arguments over the usefulness and nature of Islamic feminism. The project has two phases: One summarizes and discusses the Islamic feminism debate in North American academia while second takes secular feminism in contemporary Turkey as a field of study where the debates on Islamic feminism in North America resonate and are reproduced at the discursive level. The project analyzes the special volume of secular feminist journal Pazartesi on religion in order to ask whether a colonialist/orientalist discourse underpins the refusal to acknowledge Islamic feminism as a feminist endeavour for gender equality from within Islam for both the western academic community and secular feminist circles in Turkey.

abstract: M.A.


title: Triarylboron-Functionalized 8-Hydroxyquinoline and Their Respective Aluminum (III) and Diboron Compounds

contributor:
Wang, Suning
Chemistry

subject:
Four-Coordinate Boron
Triarylboron
Alq3
Sensing
OLEDs

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-21 08:43:10.543

abstract:
The purpose of this thesis was to develop the first examples of multifunctional triarylboron-functionalized 8-hydroxyquinoline, their respective aluminum (III) complexes, Al(1)3 and Al(2)3, and diboron analogues, B1 and B2. There was particular focus in investigating the electron accepting characteristics of these systems for potential use as electron transport materials (ETMs) in organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs).
The first part of the thesis will discuss the aluminum complexes. Through the introduction of the triarylboron moiety these derivatives of the well-known ETM tris(8-hydroxyquinoline)aluminum (Alq3) exhibited better electron accepting properties than the parent compound. Furthermore, the complexes were able to act as sensors and indicators towards soft Lewis acids such as CN- and hard Lewis acids such as F-, respectively.
First the structures of the compounds were investigated using COSY NMR, leading to the discovery that similar to Alq3 the new aluminum complexes possessed the commonly observed mer-isomeric form. Furthermore, their photophysical characteristics were investigated using UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopic measurements. The solid state fluorescence quantum yield of Al(1)3 (Φ=0.06) and Al(2)3 (Φ=0.02) were measured and compared to Alq3 (Φ=0.14). In order to better understand these results and gain insight into the electronic transitions of the aluminum complexes, DFT calculations were employed using the B3LYP/6-31G* level of theory.
The second part of the thesis will discuss the only examples of diboron-functionalized 8-hydroxyquinoline complexes to date, with one three-coordinate and one four-coordinate boron moiety. Based on CV measurements and DFT calculations, it was discovered that the LUMO of the diboron compounds were lowered substantially compared to their aluminum analogues discussed earlier. More interestingly, it was found that only B1 has any contributions to its LUMO from the triarylboron moiety, leading to the slightly stronger electron accepting ability of B1 compared to B2. Furthermore, these compounds were both able to act as sensors towards small anions such as F-.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Numerical Validation and Refinement of Empirical Rock Mass Modulus Estimation

contributor: Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering

subject:
Rock mechanics
Finite Element Numerical Modelling
Rock Mass Modulus of Deformation
Tunnelling

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geological Sciences & Geological Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-20 22:34:06.642

abstract:
A sound understanding of rock mass characteristics is critical for the engineering prediction of tunnel stability and deformation both during construction and post-excavation.  The rock mass modulus of deformation is a necessary input parameter for many numerical analysis methods to describe the constitutive behavior of a rock mass. Tests for determining this parameter directly by in situ test methods are inherently difficult, time consuming and expensive, and these challenges are more problematic when dealing with tunnels in weaker, softer rock masses where errors in modulus (stiffness) estimation have a profound impact on closure predictions.  In addition, rock masses with modest structure can be candidate sites for highly sensitive structures such as nuclear waste repository tunnels. For these generally stiffer rock masses, the correct modulus assessment is essential for prediction of thermal response during the service life of the tunnel.
Numerous empirical relationships based on rock mass classification schemes have been developed to determine rock mass deformation modulus in response to these issues. The empirical relationship provided by Hoek & Diederichs (2006) based on Geological Strength Index (GSI) has been determined from a database of in situ test data describing a wide range of rock masses with GSI values greater than 25 and less than 80. Within this range of applications there is a large variation in measured values compared to the predicted relationship and predictive uncertainty at low GSI values.  In this research, a practical range of rock mass quality, as defined by GSI, including "Blocky\Disturbed\Seamy" rock masses, "Very Blocky" and relatively competent rock masses are analyzed using discretely fractured numerical models. In particular the focus is on tunnel response. Tunnel closure in these simulations is compared to predictions based on modulus estimates.  The proposed refinement to the Generalized Hoek-Diederichs relationship is made on the basis of these simulations for tunnelling applications.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Design of Low-Voltage and Low-Distortion CMOS RF Integrated Circuits Using Volterra Analysis

contributor:
Saavedra, Carlos E.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
Linearity
Integrated Circuits

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-22 02:48:14.824

abstract:
Analog circuits that operate with low voltage supply headroom generally suffer from poor linearity performance, poor noise performance, etc. However, with the aggressive scaling of the supply voltage in Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technology and the advent of System-On-Chip (SOC) technologies, it is inevitable that these circuits are to be operated with low voltage supply headroom. In this thesis, three low-voltage Integrated Circuits (IC) for Radio Frequency (RF) communication systems are presented. They are all designed and fabricated with 0.13um CMOS technology. Their experimental verifications are performed on die with Coplanar Waveguide (CPW) probes.

The first circuit is an ultra-low-voltage low-power single-balanced $\times$2 subharmonic down-conversion mixer. A linearity analysis for the inductive source degenerated transconductor of the mixer is provided using Volterra series. This analysis provides a guideline for designing the inductive source degenerated transconductor with high linearity at the RF frequency of 8.6 GHz. The circuit achieves a conversion gain of 6.0 dB and an $IIP_{3}$ of -8.0 dBm at the RF frequency of 8.6 GHz while consuming 0.6 mW of DC power with the supply voltage of 0.6 V.

The second circuit is a low-voltage low-noise wideband down-conversion mixing frontend that consists of a Low-Noise Amplifier (LNA) and a passive mixer. The linearity analysis for the LNA, which is used as a transconductor, is analyzed using Volterra series. Through this analysis, the trade-off between noise cancellation and distortion cancellation is discussed. A simple distortion cancellation scheme that decouples the design guidelines from this trade-off is proposed. From 300 MHz to 1.2 GHz, the circuit achieves a conversion gain of 8.8 dB and a maximum $IIP_{3}$ of -0.8 dBm, while having less than 4.8 dB noise figure. The overall circuit consumes 24.0 mW of power with the supply voltage of 0.9 V.

The third circuit is a low-voltage low-noise wideband active balun. The linearity analysis for the active balun circuit is also analyzed using Volterra series. The design consideration involving noise cancellation and distortion cancellation is discussed through this analysis. A simple distortion cancellation scheme that aims at improving the linearity performance of the circuit with low-voltage supply constraint is proposed. From 300 MHz to 2.4 GHz, the circuit achieves an average voltage gain of 15.5 dB and a maximum $IIP_{3}$ of -1.7 dBm, while having less than 4.0 dB noise figure from 500 MHz to 3.0 GHz. The overall circuit consumes 15.8 mW of power with the supply voltage of 0.9 V.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: The Güegüencista Experience: Masquerade, Embodiment, and Decolonization in Early Twenty-First Century Nicaragua

contributor:
King, Samantha J.
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
Cultural Anthropology
Nicaragua
Habitus
El Gueguense
Latin American history
Folklore

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-21 08:53:02.248

abstract: This thesis is about exploring and theorizing about the contemporary meanings and (re)production of El Güegüense, a politically charged ancient Nicaraguan dance-drama.  The ethnographic affair revolves around the researcher’s experiences learning the Güegüense tradition at the Nicaraguan Academy of Dance in Managua. Utilizing “the apprenticeship” as methodology, which has perhaps most effectively been teased out in Loïc Wacquant’s (2004) Body and Soul, the researcher fleshes out under what circumstances one becomes a practitioner of the Güegüense tradition, what it means to be a cultural performer, and whether this ancient physical tradition still demonstrates and embodies its anti-colonial themes.  After conducting interviews with leading practitioners, the author utilizes the performance as a vector of knowledge and speaks not only to how the performance culturally manifests but also to how contested its meanings truly are, as well as the recent depoliticizing of the performance, which it is argued is a direct result of the state becoming involved with this ancient physical tradition.

abstract: M.A.


title: Socially Just Engineering: Power, resistance, and discourse at Site 41

contributor:
Hall, Kevin
Baillie, Caroline
Civil Engineering

subject:
engineering
Site 41
power (foucault)
social justice

abstract: Thesis (Master, Civil Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-21 12:37:46.28

abstract:
While engineers and their patrons have always claimed that technology has advanced the common good, I intend to show that more often than not engineers have been mercenaries for those at the center of knowledge, power, and wealth. Engineers design technology that marginalizes certain types of knowledge, people, and culture in favor of those at the center. Far from being a common good, engineered systems have advanced social and environmental inequity by being designed using exploitative social, political, and economic methods.

In response to the negative impacts of engineered systems, the mainstream engineering profession has committed in recent years to being much more socially and environmentally responsible. However, the discourse of responsibility adopted by the profession is narrow in scope as it does not recognize the context and process in which technology is designed. Seeking a different way, some engineering reformers are attempting to create different cultures in engineering, in which the technology designed by engineers not only minimizes damage but seeks to create more equity in our communities.

These new cultures have been articulated as Humanitarian Engineering or Peace Engineering or Social Justice and Engineering. A key component of these cultures is the concern for the needs of the marginalized whether in communities far away or close to us. While much has already been written about changing the education curriculum, little has been written about how engineers may design technology that values and advances knowledge, people, and culture at the margins.

This thesis will theorize as to how engineers may design technology in a socially just manner by articulating an engineering design theory based on power and resistance. This design theory is then validated through discourse analysis of a contentious engineering project, the Site 41 landfill in northern Ontario. I show through the analysis of engineering design discourse at Site 41 that dominant power relations created structures of oppression that marginalized non-experts, Aboriginal communities, and the environment. Alternative design methods that resist these oppressive structures such as participatory, ecofeminist, deep ecological, and decolonized design are proposed as a way for engineers to have worked more justly at Site 41.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Provoked Vestibulodynia: A Neuropathic Pain Condition?

contributor:
Pukall, Caroline F.
Psychology

subject:
Online Survey
Postherpetic Neuralgia
Vulvodynia
Psychosocial
Quality of Life
Neuropathic Pain
Pain Assessment
Provoked Vestibulodynia

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-21 16:25:34.216

abstract:
Provoked Vestibulodynia (PVD) is a common form of chronic genital pain, affecting approximately 12% of premenopausal women. Even though knowledge of vulvodynia has been present in the medical field for many years, it was previously thought to be of psychogenic origin and has never been thoroughly investigated for the purpose of pain classification. When investigating any pain condition, one of the most important distinctions to make is whether or not the pain is neuropathic. Even though this possibility has never been investigated in women with PVD, some have claimed that PVD pain contains elements of neuropathy, even treating this pain with medication created for neuropathic pain conditions. The purpose of this study was to use standardized measures and determine whether PVD may have a neuropathic component.
Women with PVD completed an online survey assessing various pain and psychosocial variables. Their responses were compared with those of pain-free controls and women experiencing an established neuropathic pain condition, post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). Women with PVD scored above established cut-offs on measures of neuropathic pain (NP). Further, for some NP measures there was no difference in scores between PVD and PHN women. Women with PVD also had similar psychosocial profiles as those with PHN, although women with PHN reported poorer health-related quality of life. Interestingly, the number of NP symptoms did not predict pain/psychosocial disturbance, or vary as a function of pain duration or intensity. Overall, these results lend support to the argument that PVD is a chronic pain condition. Further, these results indicate that women with PVD likely experience some form of NP. These results add to the understanding and classification of PVD, justifying further investigation, for example, via psychophysical testing and functional magnetic resonance imaging.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Attitudes Toward Germline Engineering

contributor:
Fekken, G. Cynthia
Psychology

subject:
Germline Engineering
Attitudes

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2011-09-22 11:27:06.734

abstract: Attitudes toward human germline engineering were assessed across three studies. In Pilot Study One, we evaluated participant familiarity ratings for a preliminary item pool consisting of potential targets of germline modification in order to screen out unfamiliar targets. The results were used to screen out 54 of 170 items. In Pilot Study Two, we used participant representativeness ratings to validate categorizations for the remaining items by removing items that were indifferently representative of specific goals (therapeutic or enhancing) and types (physical, cognitive, or personality) of germline modifications. The results also indicated that for many items, the distinction between cognitive and personality characteristics broke down, leading us to collapse these categories into a new type category based on general psychological traits. In Study One, we compared mean approval ratings for potential targets of germline engineering sorted according to the goal of modification (therapeutic or enhancing) and the type of characteristic being targeted (physical or psychological). The results indicated that approval was higher for therapeutic modifications than for enhancing modifications, and higher for modifications targeting physical traits than for those targeting psychological traits. A regression analysis showed that approval correlated positively with knowledge, Big Five Agreeableness, and negatively with perceived risk and female gender. Contrary to expectations, approval did not correlate with psychological essentialism or Big Five Openness. Implications and limitations are discussed.

abstract: M.Sc.