title: Characterization of isoform specific RET knockdown in cancer cell lines

contributor:
Mulligan, Lois M.
Pathology and Molecular Medicine

subject: Migration RET Cancer Isoforms shRNA Invasion

abstract: Thesis (Master, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-30 11:45:41.969

abstract: The REarranged in Transfection (RET) tyrosine kinase is an important signalling protein for the development of neural crest-derived tissues such as the enteric and sympathetic nervous systems. RET is constitutively activated in multiple human tumour types, such as thyroid carcinomas and some non-small cell lung cancers. RET has 3 distinct isoforms, RET9, RET43 and RET51, which are named after the lengths of their unique C-terminal tails. Here, we investigate the role of RET in the TT thyroid carcinoma cell line, where it is a driver of tumourigenesis, and in the MiaPaCa-2 pancreatic carcinoma cell line, where RET is not driving tumour initiation, but may nonetheless have a profound effect on tumour progression. We generated lentiviral constructs for shRNAs that target either RET9 or RET51 specifically, or a common region shared by all RET isoforms. TT and MiaPaCa-2 cells were transduced using these lentiviral particles to create stable cell lines containing knockdowns of total RET, RET9, or RET51. Using a variety of morphological and biochemical assays, we found that RET expression is critical for TT cell survival, and that both RET9 and RET51 play significant roles in driving cell proliferation in TT cells. Conversely, RET is not critical for MiaPaCa-2 cell survival, and RET knockdown had no effect on MiaPaCa-2 proliferation. MiaPaCa-2 cells instead underwent dramatic morphological changes, from their normal spindle-like mesenchymal appearance to an increasingly flattened and epithelioid character, in response to RET9, RET51 or total-RET knockdown. The observed morphological changes were coupled with significantly reduced invasiveness through matrigel towards a source of chemoattractant, suggesting a critical role for RET in mediating cell invasiveness. These results suggest that RET may not only drive tumourigenesis, but can also enhance disease progression when expressed in other tumour types. We predict that RET may play critical roles in perineural invasion in pancreatic cancers, a process where cells invade along peripheral nerve fibers by following an increasing concentration of chemoattractants secreted by nerve and glial cells. Thus, RET may be a valuable target to slow, or stop this process, which would have significant clinical implications in a wide variety of cancers.

abstract: The work described in this thesis is unpublished, and will be continued as a PhD project.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Automated Analysis of Load Tests Using Performance Counter Logs

contributor:
Hassan, Ahmed E.
Computing

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:
Performance Counter
Load Test

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-28 23:04:58.774

abstract:
Load testing remains the most integral part of testing and measuring the performance of Large Scale Software Systems (LSS). During the course of a load test, a system under test is closely monitored, resulting in an extremely large amount of logging data, e.g., Performance counters logs. The performance counter log captures run-time system properties such as CPU utilization, disk I/O, queues, and network traffic. Such information is of vital interest to performance analysts. The information helps them to observe the system’s behavior under load by comparing it against the documented behavior of a system or with expected behavior. In practice, for LSS, it is impossible for an analyst to skim through the large amount of performance counters to find the required information. Instead, analysts often use ‘rules of thumb’. In a LSS, there is no single person with complete system knowledge. In this thesis, we present methodologies to help performance analysts to 1) more effectively compare load tests to detect performance deviations, which may, lead to Service Level Agreement (SLA) violations and 2) provide them with a smaller and manageable set of important performance counters to assist in the root cause analysis of the detected deviations.
We demonstrate our methodologies through case studies based on load test data obtained from both a large scale industrial system and an open source benchmark system. Our proposed methodologies can provide up to 89% reduction in the set of performance counters while detecting performance deviations with few false positives (i.e., 95% average precision).

abstract: PhD


title: The Authority of Deontic Constraints

contributor:
Kumar, Rahul
Philosophy

subject: Constraints Authority Contractualism Deontology

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-29 10:37:45.739

abstract:
Non-consequentialists agree that Luke may not kill Lorelai in order to prevent Kirk from killing Richard and Emily. According to this view, Luke faces a deontic constraint: he is forbidden from killing Lorelai, even though doing so will bring about fewer killings overall. The justification of constraints, in my view, faces two challenges. First, constraints must meet the Irrationality Challenge: it needs to be demonstrated that there is nothing inconsistent about the claim that Luke should allow more killings to come about. And, secondly, a successful explanation of constraints must meet the Authority Challenge: we need to know why Luke’s reason not to kill Lorelai is normatively categorical.
This dissertation takes up different aspects of Authority Challenge. The first introductory chapter aims to motivate the question of authority as a pressing challenge to non-consequentialism. I argue that the violation of constraints is not just motivated by the thought that they are rationally inconsistent, but by the claim that their intuitive importance cannot be explained.
Chapters two and three take up the connection between the authority of constraints and their interpersonal character. In chapter two, I argue that Stephen Darwall’s account of the second-person standpoint cannot yield an account of constraints that satisfies the Authority Challenge and that T.M. Scanlon’s contractualism offers us a better way of accounting for the interpersonal significance of constraints. Chapter three argues that Frances Kamm’s inviolability approach cannot be reconciled with the intuitive distinction between acting wrongly and wronging someone. The arguments of this chapter are meant to demonstrate that in order for wronging to carry any normative significance, it must play a foundational role in our account of permissibility.
The fourth chapter argues that Moderate deontologists—those who posit a threshold on the killing of the innocent—cannot make sense of the intuitive authority of deontic constraints. The failure of Moderate deontology, I argue, reveals the overlooked appeal of Absolutism. The fifth chapter argues that the authority of restrictions extends to a prohibition on killing non-responsible threats. I argue that a prohibition on killing non-responsible threats accords with the demands of fairness.

abstract: PhD


title: Inertial Sensors for Kinematic Measurement and Activity Classification of Gait Post-Stroke

contributor:
Li, Qingguo
Brouwer, Brenda
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Stroke
Inertial Sensors
Activity Classification
Kinematics

abstract: Thesis (Master, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-29 12:42:05.505

abstract:
The ability to walk and negotiate stairs is an important predictor of independent ambulation. The superposition of mobility impairments to the effects of natural aging in persons with stroke render the completion of many daily activities unsafe, thus limiting individuals’ independence within
their communities. Currently however, no means exist for the monitoring of mobility levels during daily living in survivors after the completion of rehabilitation programs. The application of inertial sensors for stroke survivors could provide a basis for the study of gait outside of
traditional laboratory settings. The main objective of this thesis was to evaluate the performance of inertial sensors in measuring gait of hemiparetic stroke survivors through the completion of three studies. The first study explored the use of inertial measurement units (IMUs) for the measurement of lower limb joint kinematics during stair ascent and descent in both stroke survivors and healthy older adults. Results suggested that IMUs were suitable for the measurement of lower limb range of motion in both healthy and post-stroke subjects during stair ambulation. The second study evaluated the measurement of step length and spatial symmetry during overground walking using IMUs. A systematic error resulting in the underestimation of step lengths calculated using IMUs compared with those measured using video analysis was found, however results suggested that IMUs were suitable for the assessment of spatial symmetry between affected and less-affected limbs in stroke survivors. The final study evaluated the automatic classification of gait activities using inertial sensor data. Findings revealed that the use of a classifier composed of frequency-features extracted from IMU accelerometer and gyroscope data from both the affected and less-affected limbs most accurately identified gait activities from
post stroke gait data.
This thesis provides a first attempt at applying IMUs to the study of gait post-stroke.  Future work may extend the findings of these studies to provide a better understanding to rehabilitation professionals of the demands of everyday life for stroke survivors.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Fatigue, Quality of Life, Physical Function and Participation in Social, Recreational, and Daily Living Activities in Women Living with HIV: a Descriptive Study

contributor:
Wobeser, Wendy
King-VanVlack, Cheryl
Rehabilitation Science

subject:
Quality of Life
Physical Function
Fatigue
Social Participation
ADLs
Women with HIV

abstract: Thesis (Master, Rehabilitation Science) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-29 13:51:52.993

abstract:
Objective(s): The purpose of this study was to describe the impact of fatigue on quality of life (QOL), physical function, and participation in social, recreational, and daily living activities (ADLs) in women living with HIV.

Methods: HIV-infected women (n=15; age 44±8 years) were recruited from the Clinical Immunological Outpatient Clinic (CIOC) and the HIV/AIDS Regional Services (HARS) in Kingston. Four questionnaires were completed to obtain information on demographics, fatigue (HIV-Related Fatigue Scale, HRFS), QOL (Medical Outcomes Survey HIV Healthy Survey (MOS-HIV), and valued social, recreational and daily living activities. Participants then performed the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) to assess their physical function. Assessments were conducted in the CIOC or in a gymnasium at another location.

Results: Mean length of HIV infection was 12±5 years and 14 of the 15 women were on anti-retroviral therapy.  Seven of the 15 women did not have significant issues with fatigue on the HRFS. The other 8 reported that fatigue severely interfered with ADLs, socialization and mental functioning. QOL scores were significantly lower in the fatigued group compared with the non-fatigued group in 8 of 11 sub-scales of the MOS-HIV; the values being approximately 50% of  those in the non-fatigued group. Socializing with friends, walking, grocery shopping and cleaning were listed as activities in which participants experienced limitations. No significant differences were found between the fatigued and non-fatigued groups for the distance walked in the 6MWT or for the percent of predicted distance walked.

Conclusions:  Half of the women with HIV in this study reported that fatigue interfered with daily functioning and participation in day to day activities, impacting their QOL. These findings suggest that fatigue can be a major issue impacting QOL in this population; therefore, fatigue reduction should be one of the priorities of HIV-related medical management.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Alberta's Red Democrats: The Challenge and Legacy of Blairmore Communism, 1921-1936

contributor:
McKay, Ian G.
History

subject: Blairmore (Alta.) -- Politics and government -- 20th century

subject: Communism -- Alberta -- Blairmore -- History -- 20th century

subject: Left History

subject: Alberta History

subject: Canadian History

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, History) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-29 17:24:15.163

abstract: On Valentine’s Day, 1933 the citizens of Blairmore, Alberta elected a Communist town council and school board. “Alberta’s Red Democrats: the Challenges and Legacy of Blairmore Communism, 1921-1936” seeks not only to understand the Red administration that governed here during the mid-thirties, but also the community that elected it. It will be shown that the election of Mayor Bill Knight and his colleagues was neither a knee-jerk reaction to the protracted poverty of the Great Depression nor an alignment with the Communist Party of Canada as an act of desperation. The Red movement at Blairmore was deeply rooted in past experience, and as it came to fruition challenged what it meant to be a Communist in Canada.

abstract: I would like it restricted so as to better market the content for publication purposes.

abstract: PhD


title: An Exploration of Chinese International Students’ Resilience Through Their Experiences

contributor:
Freeman, John G.
Education

subject:
Resilience
Chinese Students
International Students

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Education) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-29 19:53:56.25

abstract: Much research about the adaptation of Chinese international students focuses on challenges and stresses they experience in their adjustment to the host country, a perspective that is largely negative and pessimistic (Yeh & Inose, 2003). Although resilience, highly congruent with positive psychology and broadly defined as successful adaptation to adversity, has been studied among several populations, it has not been widely applied to these students. This study employs the cultural-contextual theoretical framework of resilience to gain an understanding of the resilience of 16 Chinese international students by examining: (1) How do these Chinese international students view challenges? (2) What resources do these Chinese students view as helpful in overcoming challenges? (3) How have their individual identities been negotiated and transformed? (4) What are their subjective views of success? The interviews revealed four leading challenges for these Chinese international students across different contexts: English, loneliness, relationships, and academic challenges. The participants identified intrinsic and extrinsic, cultural, and contextual resources they perceived helpful and important for them in overcoming challenges. They additionally described their transformed identities in personal, social, and cultural dimensions. The study revealed students’ patterns of navigation and negotiation, and their personal views on success, views that were dramatically different from what they saw as traditional Chinese success. This study expands the conceptualization of resilience from a cross-cultural to a more contextual understanding. This understanding might be helpful to provide more efficient assistance, build more effective intercultural communication, or even design more updated intervention programs for Chinese international students.

abstract: To better protect the confidentiality of participants of this study.

abstract: PhD


title: The Production Methods of Neri di Bicci and the Prevalence of Cartoon Usage in Fifteenth-Century Florence

contributor:
Hoeniger, Cathleen
Art History

subject:
Neri di Bicci
Workshop methods
Florence

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Art History) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-30 02:57:55.312

abstract:
Florentine artist Neri di Bicci (1418-1492) was one of the most prolific and financially successful artists of the fifteenth century.  The hundreds of extant paintings from his workshop are a testament to his industry, which is further underlined by a close examination of the 798 entries he wrote between 1453 and 1475 in his account book, his Ricordanze.  The purpose of this dissertation is to analyse the monetary and social history in Neri’s Ricordanze in order to provide a framework for an exploration of the way that paintings were constructed in Neri’s workshop, and a close examination of the evidence concerning collaboration between Neri and his contemporaries.
This thesis determined that the repeated use of full-size paper patterns, known as cartoons, was a key aspect of Neri’s painting procedure.  Cartoon usage was established by overlaying scaled images of paintings in Photoshop, which demonstrated that the outlines of many of Neri’s figures and architectural designs were identical.  Analysing the price of Neri’s paintings also revealed trends which suggested that he used cartoons.  Half of the 224 objects described in the Ricordanze cost 30 lire or less, and the average of the 40 paintings between two and four square meters was 151 lire, less than half the regional average for paintings of comparable size.  Neri likely increased his profits by working faster than his contemporaries, since 15 of the 36 paintings with available completion times were finished in less than four months, and the overall average was seven and a half months.  Cartoons were also shared between Neri, his contemporaries (including Fra Filippo Lippi and Pesellino), and former assistants such as Cosimo Rosselli, Giusto d’Andrea, and Francesco Botticini, since similarities in figure size were discovered using Photoshop.
As a result of this study, we are left with a better understanding of fifteenth-century production methods and the movement of designs between workshops.  Furthermore, we know that Neri ran his business in a highly organized manner, and that cartoons were used extensively in order to produce a large volume of affordable paintings in order to meet the growing quattrocento demand for devotional objects.

abstract: publication

abstract: PhD


title: A Forest Kindergarten: How Four Children Experience Learning and Living Outdoors

subject:
Forest Kindergarten
Place-Based Education
Nature-Based Learning
Experiential Education
Emergent Learning
Environmental Education
Early Childhood Education
Forest School

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-30 10:33:49.614

abstract:
Children have the intrinsic drive to play and be outdoors, as well as the curiosity to explore the world around them (Louv, 2008). Connections and interactions with nature tend to be beneficial for children’s cognitive development, with outcomes ranging from improved cognitive functioning (Wells, 2000) to the development of important academic skills (Miller, 2007). Perhaps more significant though are the positive outcomes among nature, health, and wellbeing (e.g., Taylor & Kuo, 2009), along with the cultivation of environmental appreciation, empathy, and stewardship (e.g., Ewert et al., 2005). Many nature-based early years programs have been developed and adopted around the world, placing emphasis on fostering children’s experiences, interactions, and connections with the natural world. As this global early years phenomenon continues to build momentum, the need to investigate how children are experiencing these nature-based early years programs becomes more pertinent.
The purpose of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of four children’s experiences at a nature-based early years program located in a small town on the outskirts of an Eastern Ontario urban centre. Data were collected using qualitative methodology (observations, photographs, semi-structured interviews, and photo elicitation) and took place over a five-week period in the winter term. Data were analyzed using conventional qualitative means, through open coding and identifying categories and overarching themes (McMillan & Schumacher, 2010). Using Place-Based Education as the theoretical guide, data were explored using three main themes: lived experience; connections to place and to community; and learning, growth, and development. The findings from this research not only illuminate the children’s experiences at a nature-based early years program, but also provide the fertile ground upon which further examination and discussion can grow—an examination and discussion of the significance of nature-based learning as it relates to contemporary education.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Category Specificity and Prepotent Sexual Cues

contributor:
Chivers, Meredith L.
Psychology

subject:
Category specificity
Sexual orientation
Psychophysiology
Arousal

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-30 11:37:10.216

abstract: Marked differences have been found in men’s and women’s sexual response patterns, contingent upon their sexual orientation; opposite- and same-gender attracted men demonstrate greatest genital and self-reported arousal to their preferred stimulus type, whereas other-gender attracted women do not, and findings of same-gender attracted women have been mixed (e.g., Chivers, Seto & Blanchard, 2007; Chivers, Bouchard, Timmers, & Haberl, 2012). Given the complex nature of sexual stimuli that are used in research paradigms involving category-specificity of sexual arousal, however, it is often unclear to what extent contextual cues (cues other than the sexual actor’s sex characteristics; body movement, level of sexual activity, etc.) influence participants’ sexual response patterns. As such, the current study attempted to parse contextual cues from sexual stimuli and examined genital, self-reported, and continuous self-reported responses of same- and other-gender attracted men and women to prepotent sexual features (stimuli believed to elicit automatic sexual arousal: erect penises and vasoengorged vulvas), nonprepotent sexual features (flaccid penises and pubic triangles) and neutral stimuli (clothed men and women). All samples were found to exhibit a category-specific pattern of genital, self-reported, and continuous self-reported sexual arousal. Similarly, genital, self-reported, and continuous self-reported arousal was generally found to be greatest to “prepotent” sexual conditions. Limitations and implications are discussed.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Serine-451 phosphorylation of bacterial-type phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase by a calcium-dependent protein kinase links calcium signaling with anaplerotic pathway control in developing castor oil seeds

contributor:
Plaxton, William C.
Biology

subject:
PEPC
castor oil seed
calcium-dependent protein kinase
bacterial-type PEPC

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-30 14:23:39.648

abstract: Phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) carboxylase (PEPC) is a tightly controlled enzyme situated at a pivotal branchpoint of plant C-metabolism. Two physically and kinetically distinct oligomeric  classes of PEPC exist in the endosperm of developing castor oil seeds (COS). Class-1 PEPC is a typical homotetramer composed of 107-kDa plant-type PEPC (PTPC) subunits, whereas the 910-kDa Class-2 PEPC hetero-octameric complex arises from a tight interaction between Class-1 PEPC and distantly related 118-kDa bacterial-type PEPC (BTPC) subunits. BTPC functions as both a catalytic and regulatory subunit of the allosterically-desensitized Class-2 PEPC, which has been hypothesized to support massive PEP-flux to malate for leucoplast fatty acid synthesis. Previous studies established that BTPC: (i) subunits of COS Class-2 PEPC are subject to inhibitory phosphorylation in vivo, and (ii) at Ser425 and Ser451 within an intrinsically disordered region. This study focuses on characterization of the COS protein kinase (BTPC-K) that phosphorylates BTPC at Ser451. BTPC-K, having a native molecular mass of 63 kDa, was purified ~500-fold from developing COS endosperm. Its activity was absolutely dependent upon the presence of Ca2+ (Ka= 2.7 μM) and millimolar Mg2+. BTPC-K phosphorylated BTPC subunits of Class-2 PEPC strictly at Ser451 (Km= 1.1 μM), as well as histone type III-S (Km= 1.7 μM), but did not phosphorylate a BTPC S451D phosphomimetic mutant, native COS PTPC or sucrose synthase, or α-casein. BTPC-K displayed a broad pH-activity optima of pH 7.3, a Km for Mg2+-ATP of 6.6 μM, and marked inhibition by 3-P-glycerate and PEP. The possible control of BTPC-K by disulfide-dithiol interconversion was suggested by its rapid inactivation and subsequent reactivation when incubated with oxidized glutathione and then dithiothreitol. BTPC-K activity was insensitive to exogenous calmodulin, but potently inhibited by 100 µM trifluoperazine (a calmodulin antagonist). BTPC-K-mediated Ser451 phosphorylation of BTPC subunits of Class-2 PEPC inhibited BTPC activity by ~50% when assayed under suboptimal conditions (pH 7.3, 1 mM PEP with 10 mM L-malate). Overall the results of this study have led to the hypothesis that in vivo phosphorylation of COS BTPC at Ser451 is mediated by a dedicated calcium-dependent protein kinase (CDPK).

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The effect of hybridization on metabolism and hypoxia tolerance in sunfish

contributor:
Moyes, Christopher D.
Biology

subject: Hypoxia Metabolism Sunfish Hybridization

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-30 15:08:45.779

abstract: Hybridization between species has the potential to exert pleiotropic effects on metabolism. Reduced fitness in hybrids may arise through incompatibilities between nuclear- and mitochondrial-encoded subunits of the enzyme complexes of oxidative phosphorylation. In my thesis, I examined metabolic properties and hypoxia tolerance of bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), pumpkinseed (L. gibbosus), and their unidirectional F1 hybrids (male bluegill x female pumpkinseed). Electron transport system (ETS) complex activities were examined in isolated mitochondria of bluegill, pumpkinseed and hybrids. The specific activities (units per mg mitochondrial protein) of complexes I, II, and V were indistinguishable between groups; however, both complex III and IV showed indications of depressed activities in hybrid mitochondria. The nature of sequence differences in complex IV catalytic subunits (CO1, CO2, CO3) were minor, however the mtDNA-encoded subunit of complex III (cytochrome b) showed 8 differences between bluegill and pumpkinseed, several of which could have structural consequences to the multimeric enzyme and contribute to the depressed complex III catalytic activity in hybrids. I next examined hypoxia tolerance in bluegill, pumpkinseed and hybrids to see if metabolic disruption in hybrids would lead to a reduced ability to cope with this stress. Though no difference in critical oxygen concentration (Pcrit) was noted, the time to loss of equilibrium (LOE) in 0.8 mg O2 /ml suggests that hybrids and bluegills have a lower hypoxia tolerance than pumpkinseeds. Hybrids showed a unique independence between size and LOE time. Analysis of tissue metabolite levels during normoxia, after LOE, and after a short-term hypoxia exposure suggest that differences in hypoxia tolerance are not due to differences in starting metabolite levels or differential metabolite use during hypoxia exposure.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: An investigation of global citizenship education in one geography course: The students’ perspective

contributor:
Lewis, Magda Gere
Education

subject:
global citizenship education
global awareness
social justice
geography education

abstract: Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-30 16:23:30.774

abstract: Global citizenship education is becoming increasingly appreciated in Ontario as an important component of formal schooling. Although all disciplinary areas have a role to play in global citizenship education, geography, which is primarily concerned with the study of people, places, and environments at home and around the world, provides an especially important context in which to foster the values and attitudes often cited as important for global citizenship. The purpose of this qualitative study is to describe how seven secondary students in the province of Ontario make meaning of global citizenship through geography education. More specifically, this study investigates the way that Grade 12 students, who had recently completed the course titled, “Canadian and World Issues: A Geographic Analysis”, conceive of the concept of global citizenship, value its importance, and experienced its values within this course.  Qualitative data was collected through an analysis of the course curriculum and though interviews with seven students.  The interviews revealed four themes that were most apparent in how the students conceptualized global citizenship: global awareness, belonging, caring, and commitment to action.  It was revealed that the students’ personal involvement with the issues being studied helped them learn to be global citizens, as did the rich discussions of global issues they experienced in class.  Careful analysis of both the students’ conceptions of global citizenship and how they experienced global citizenship in the curriculum revealed an uncritical perspective – one which emphasizes acts of charity and volunteerism rather than a commitment to social justice.  In examining the participants’ perceptions of the value of global citizenship education as part of the curriculum, it was clear participants felt this was an important feature of geography education. In fact, since their perception was that they experienced global citizenship in this course exclusively, they attributed great value to the course and to geography education more generally. Overall, the findings are valuable to both teachers and teacher candidates seeking to better engage their students in global issues and equip them with global thinking strategies, and to curriculum developers wishing to effectively incorporate issues and topics concerning global citizenship within school curricula.

abstract: M.Ed.


title: Evaluation as a Mechanism for Integrated Knowledge Translation

contributor:
Shulha, Lyn
Education

subject:
knowledge translation
evaluation
primary care
integrated knowledge translation

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Education) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-30 16:48:36.698

abstract:
In the emerging field of knowledge translation (KT) evaluation is typically assigned the role of quality control, constructing judgments about the merit and worth of knowledge translation activities. To date however, there has been little, if any, record of attempts to use evaluation to facilitate knowledge translation. The purpose of this research was to examine the potential role of evaluation as a mechanism for integrated knowledge translation (IKT).
	This study was completed in two phases and employed a prospective multiple methods case study design. Phase one explored the context of primary care, the setting in which phase two was conducted. Phase two involved the implementation of an evaluation designed to facilitate knowledge translation; an evaluation of a Memory Clinic within a primary care setting in Ontario, Canada served as the case. The evaluation was participatory and used intentional strategies to support knowledge translation. A framework from the evaluation literature, Pathways of Influence, was used to examine the influence of the evaluation at the level of the individual, interpersonal and collective.
	This research provides the first known description of a KT-informed evaluation. At the level of the individual, a KT-informed evaluation influenced the individuals’ knowledge about the program, attitudes towards practice-based knowledge and clinical practices and processes.  At the team/interpersonal level the evaluation was seen to influence the team’s social norms, supporting the team in thinking beyond their disciplinary boundaries and to develop a shared vision and common language. The evaluation did not have influence at the level of the broader organization, however had diffuse impact on two external organizations.  Results of this study suggest that adding knowledge translation to the repertoire of evaluation purposes is a natural extension of the field.
	 Integrated knowledge translation is designed to engage individuals in the synthesis, exchange and ethically sound application of knowledge and the results of this study demonstrate that a collaborative evaluation approach promotes this interest in a potentially powerful way.

abstract: PhD


title: The Exclusionary Rule in Canada: Trends and Future Directions

contributor:
Stuart, Don
Law

subject:
Criminal Law
Charter
Section 24(2)
Remedy

abstract: Thesis (Master, Law) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-30 20:10:02.008

abstract:
The purpose of the research work outlined in this thesis is to determine what impact the new test for exclusion developed in Grant and Harrison has had on exclusionary trends in Canada, to assess this new three-factor approach and to provide recommendations for improvement. To this end, I conducted an empirical survey of section 24(2) cases rendered in 2012 across Canada. Based on the results of this survey, I describe the current trends for exclusion in relation to the three lines of inquiry and the Charter right at issue. I also examine the application of the test to varying types of evidence. The survey found a high rate of exclusion in the 73% range.

The survey results show that developing trends do not match the predictions made by the SCC in Grant about how exclusion would operate in relation to different types of evidence. For example, there was a higher than expected rate of exclusion for breath sample results. Moreover, there was a low exclusion rate for guns as compared to the high exclusion rate for other types of non-bodily physical evidence. The rate of exclusion for section 10(b) breaches was lower than expected given the importance of the Charter interests that section 10(b) protects.

The Grant rationale and the discretionary approach to exclusion are, in my view, generally satisfactory. However the test could be improved. As regards the first Grant factor, there was considerable variation in the assessment of the seriousness of the violation given the fact-specific nature of the inquiry. For greater consistency and transparency, the test, in future, should not incorporate the good faith doctrine. Police conduct should be assessed on the basis on a scale of intentionality ranging from negligent to deliberate conduct, rather than the current process of labeling police conduct as good or bad faith. Moreover, the doctrine of discoverability should be abandoned. The focus should be placed on the events that actually occurred rather than on whether police could have obtained the evidence by legal means.

abstract: LL.M.


title: Femme Theory: Femininity's Challenge to Western Feminist Pedagogies

contributor:
Little, Margaret
Gender Studies

subject:
Feminist Pedagogies
Femme
Gender Identity
Feminist Theory
Queer Theory
Intersectional Analysis
Femininities
Femme Theory

abstract: Thesis (Master, Gender Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-09 19:36:29.903

abstract: Contemporary Western feminist scholarship fails to explore the backdrop to the naturalization of feminine subjugation.  By analyzing the structures, histories, and theories of gender relations, this study dislocates femininity from its ascribed Otherness and, in doing so, demonstrates how empowered femininities have been overlooked or rendered invisible within gender studies.  Femme, as the failure or refusal to approximate the patriarchal norms of femininity, serves as the conceptual anchor of this study and is used to examine how femmephobic sentiments are constructed and perpetuated in contemporary Western feminist theory.  In part, this perpetuation is achieved through the pedagogical and theoretical exclusions from the texts chosen for gender studies courses, revealing a normative feminist body constructed through the privileging of identities and expressions.  Privileging of identities is demonstrated through the designation of literary space and in an overview of dominant theories, such as how the feminine subject is maintained as the object of critique and as not able to be “properly” feminist. This assessment of gender studies course texts reveals a limited understanding of femme and femininity that maintains these identities as white, middle-class, normatively bodied, and without agency.  Feminist theory demonstrates an embedded normative feminist subject, one marked by whiteness and body privileges.  By deconstructing the privileging of theories of the normative feminist subject, this study argues that gender studies has replicated feminist histories in which the politics and concerns of the white socially privileged subject are the first to be addressed.  While white femininity is present in hir Otherness and in critiques of hir femininity, the racially marked femme does not exist, even in absence.  The femme—as a queer potentiality—offers a way of thinking and re-thinking through the limitations of contemporary Western feminist theory and the paradoxical preoccupations with the absented femme.

abstract: Reserving right for commercial publication.

abstract: M.A.


title: Empirical Studies of Clone Mutation and Clone Migration in Clone Genealogies

contributor:
Zou, Ying
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
Clone Migration
Clone Mutation
Clone Genealogy

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-01 22:10:47.925

abstract:
Duplications and changes made on code segments by developers form code clones. Cloned code segments are exactly the same or have a particular similarity. A set of cloned code segments that have the same similarity with each other become a clone group. A clone genealogy contains several clone groups in different revisions and time periods. Based on different textual similarities, there are three clone types, i.e., Type-1, Type-2, and Type-3. Clone mutation contains the changes of clone types in the clone evolutions. Clone migration is known as moving cloned code segment to another location in the software system.

In this thesis, we build clone genealogies by clone groups in two empirical studies. We conduct two studies on clone migration and clone mutation in clone genealogies. We use three large open source software systems in both studies.

In the first study, we investigate if the fault-proneness of clone genealogies is affected by different patterns of clone mutation and different evolution patterns of distances among clones in clone groups. We conclude that clone groups mutated between Type-1 and Type-2 and between Type-1 and Type-3 clones have higher risk for faults. We find that modifying the location of a clone increases its risk for faults.

In the second study, we study if the fault-proneness of migrated clones is affected by clone mutation with different changes on clone types. We examine if the length of time interval between clone migration and the last change of the cloned code has an impact on the faultiness of migrated clones. Our results show that the clone migration associated with clone mutation is more fault-prone than the clone migration without clone mutation. We find that a longer time interval between clone migration and the last change makes the migrated clones more fault-prone.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Towards a B-Lymphoid Model of E2A-PBX1-Mediated Leukemogenesis: Evaluating the Impact of Hematopoietic Cell of Origin on the Transformation Properties of a Leukemogenic Transcription Factor

contributor:
LeBrun, David P.
Pathology and Molecular Medicine

subject: Hematopoiesis

subject: E2A-PBX1

subject: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

subject: t(1;19)

subject: Leukemia

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Pathology & Molecular Medicine) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-03 00:09:29.299

abstract:
The t(1;19) chromosomal translocation is present in 5% of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cases and leads to expression of the oncogenic transcription factor, E2A-PBX1. Although t(1;19) is exclusively associated with pre-B ALL in clinical cases, murine models produce myeloid or T-lymphoid leukemias, which are not representative of the clinical disease. In this work, we have advanced progress towards the development an E2A-PBX1-driven experimental leukemia model. We initially determined that lineage-negative (lin-) hematopoietic progenitors expressing E2A-PBX1 expression fail to repopulate the B-lymphoid lineage when transplanted into irradiated recipient mice. Furthermore, E2A-PBX1 expressing, lin- fetal liver progenitors (FLPs) fail to differentiate into B-lymphocytes ex vivo. The majority of E2A-PBX1-expressing FLPs manifested an immature phenotype and displayed stem cell factor (SCF)-dependency and enhanced self-renewal. Additionally, these cells retained myeloid potential upon transplantation or stimulation with granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). DNA binding was required for the differentiation block, suggesting that E2A-PBX1 target genes are incompatible with B-lineage specification. E2A-PBX1 FLPs had a stem cell like gene expression profile, including up-regulation of the leukemic transcription factors, Hoxa9 and Meis1. These findings explain why E2A-PBX1-driven bone marrow transplant models fail to generate B-lymphoid disease and suggest that future efforts in developing a model of E2A-PBX1-driven pre-B ALL leukemia should focus on expressing E2A-PBX1 subsequent to B-lymphoid commitment.
In an attempt to override the B-lymphoid differentiation block, we next expressed E2A-PBX1 in primary pre-B cells. E2A-PBX1 induced an apoptotic response in pre-B cells, which was consistent with previous observations. Since pre-B ALL induction requires secondary genetic events, we attempted to abrogate these E2A-PBX1-mediated effects by modulating expression of the Cdkn2a locus. Loss of Cdkn2a through deletion or Bmi1 overexpression failed to ameliorate the apoptotic response, suggesting that E2A-PBX1 mediated apoptosis occurs independently of Cdkn2a in murine pre-B cells. However, in the absence of Cdkn2a, co-expression of constitutively active MerTK or Ras attenuated the E2A-PBX1 mediated apoptosis.
Cumulatively, these results support the notion that t(1;19) occurs subsequent to B-lymphoid commitment and requires multiple secondary genetic lesions. Data presented in this thesis represents crucial initiating steps towards the development of a pre-B ALL model mediated by E2A-PBX1.

abstract: Thesis contains unpublished data.

abstract: PhD


title: Discovery, Personalization and Resource Provisioning of Mobile Services

contributor:
Martin, Patrick
Hassanein, Hossam S.
Computing

subject:
Mobile Services
Web Services
Cloud Computing
Mobile Computing

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-03 10:28:42.795

abstract: Mobile service provisioning is intended to serve interoperable functionality from mobile devices over the network.  The mobile service paradigm shifts the role of mobile devices from consumers to providers, opening up new opportunities for a multitude of collaborative services and applications ranging from sharing personal information to collaborative participatory sensing. Although many basic principles of the standard Web service approach continue to apply, the inherent limitations of mobile devices and broadband wireless access render the deployment of standard architectures in mobile environments inefficient. This research introduces two concepts that revolutionize mobile service provisioning: personal and cloud-assisted service provisioning. Personal services are intended to offer a range of user-centric data services to a limited set of consumers that are explicitly authorized by the user providing the service. Personal services facilitate prevailing trends such as social networking and mobile healthcare services, without compromising personal privacy. Cloud-assisted service provisioning bridges the gap between limited resources of mobile devices and increasing resource demands of mobile applications. This approach provides reliable and efficient mobile services, while alleviating the burden on limited mobile resources. Both approaches take advantage of the device's mobility and real time access to various context information. Experimental results reveal that personal services offer personalization based on the user's context and preferences, while cloud-assisted service provisioning, in addition to optimizing the consumption of mobile scarce resources, offers significant improvement to the reliability and availability of mobile services.

abstract: PhD


title: Self-Assembly of Dinuclear Complexes Featuring Aromatic and Aliphatic Walls

contributor:
Petitjean, Anne
Chemistry

subject:
Dinuclear Complexes
Self-Assembly

abstract: Thesis (Master, Chemistry) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-03 12:21:39.581

abstract:
The objective of my MSc thesis is to study the self-assembly process of macrocyclic complexes, as well as the properties that affect the obtained supramolecular architectures. The possibility of substrate recognition within the cavity of these complexes is also of interest. Preparation of three new ligands based on the triazole-pyridine chelating units connected through variable spacer groups, as well as the complexes formed with octahedral metal ions, are described herein.
The first ligand contained a naphthalene spacer region, which was longer than the previously examined xylene spacer. This extension increases the distance between metal ions in the complex, as well as the size of the cavity. More work is required to obtain the unsaturated double-stranded complex, which could potentially bind substrate molecules within its cavity. The triple-stranded saturated complexes with [Fe(H2O)6](BF4)2 and [Ni(H2O)6](BF4)2 both gave insight into the process of self-assembly.
The next two ligands were designed to probe the effect that increasing the length of an aliphatic spacer had on complex self-assembly. Both ethyl and propyl spacer units had been previously studied, so butyl and pentyl spacer groups were the natural next step to analyze. The length of the alkyl spacer was found to be very important in the nature of the obtained complex. As the length of the alkyl chain, and the corresponding flexibility increased, so too did the complexity of the resulting supramolecular architectures.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: The Role of Nerve Growth Factor During Chronic Inflammation of the Descending Colon In Vivo: a Novel Source for Nerve Growth Factor

contributor:
Kawaja, Michael D.
Neuroscience Studies

subject:
NGF
Dogiel Type II
p75
Inflammation

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-05 12:08:44.326

abstract: In these experiments, we primarily investigate the role and source of nerve growth factor (NGF) in peripheral tissues undergoing chronic inflammation.  It has been previously determined that there is a significant increase in the levels of NGF following prolonged inflammation of the urinary bladder or the colon, and the first of two projects discussed here mimics this increase with transgenic mice which ectopically produce NGF under control of the smooth muscle alpha-actin promoter.   It was determined by this increase that a p75-sensitive increase in sympathetic innervation occurs when an abundance of NGF is produced locally in the descending colon.  Sensory innervation in the colon was found to come from two unique populations, one of which increased following heightened NGF levels.  The urinary bladders of NGF overexpressing mice were determined to have an increase in sensory axonal density.  The second project described here features chemically induced colonic inflammation and observes the nervous and growth factor changes as a response.  Transgenic reporter mice are used to observe the cellular source of NGF in the descending colon, which unexpectedly was determined to be Dogiel type II (DgII neurons) based on morphological and chemical characteristics.  We report the increase in NGF mRNA and protein observed following a brief 5-day colonic inflammation, and note that there is no increase in axonal density observed.  The chemical inflammation did, however, induce an increase in axonal varicosities, used as a measure of axon damage.  Finally, a heterozygous null-mutation of NGF was made in a line of transgenic mice to observe changes in local sensory neurons, sympathetic innervation or NGF protein production, but no differences between the heterozygous null mutants and age-matched wild-type siblings were observed.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Interaction of Polymorphisms in the FKBP5 Gene & Childhood Adversity on the Cortisol Response to a Psychosocial Stress Task in Adolescents and Young Adults

contributor:
Harkness, Kate
Psychology

subject:
FKBP5
Childhood Adversity
Cortisol
Trier Social Stress Test

abstract: Thesis (Master, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-05 11:24:45.764

abstract: Childhood adversity is often associated with devastating physical, cognitive, and psychosocial outcomes, and is a major public health problem in terms of its prevalence and economic cost. Childhood adversity is associated with increased risk for psychopathology, as well as with dysregulation of the neurobiological stress response. An additional factor known to alter neuroendocrine functioning and increase psychopathology risk is polymorphisms within the FKBP5 gene. The goal of the current study was to examine the gene-environment interaction of childhood adversity and variation in the FKBP5 gene on the cortisol response to a psychosocial stress task (i.e., the Trier Social Stress Test). The final sample consisted of 90 depressed and non-depressed adolescents and young adults (11 - 21 years). Childhood adversity was assessed using the Childhood Experience and Abuse Scale (CECA; Bifulco et al., 1994), and was defined as the presence versus absence prior to 18 years of age of severe physical, sexual, or emotional abuse or neglect, witness to domestic discord/violence, or peer-perpetrated bullying. Participants were genotyped at the rs1360780 site of the FKBP5 gene and grouped according to whether they had at least one risk T allele (i.e., TT or TC genotype versus the CC genotype). Controlling for depression and anxiety psychopathology, I found a significant interaction of FKBP5 and childhood adversity status such that individuals with the FKBP5 risk allele (i.e., TT or TC genotype) and a history of childhood adversity showed a distinct cortisol response pattern characterized by decreasing cortisol from baseline and less cortisol output compared to individuals without childhood adversity. This relationship was specific to the experience of severe adversity and appeared to be strongest when adversity was defined as witnessing domestic discord/violence. These results are consistent with a diathesis-stress model in which the FKBP5 risk allele leaves individuals vulnerable to neurobiological dysregulation in the face of severe adverse experience in childhood. The implications of this research for understanding stress-related psychopathology and the limitations of this gene-environment interaction design are discussed.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Calibration of a Mobile-Gantry CT Scanner for Surgical Navigation

contributor:
Ellis, Randy E.
Computing

subject:
intraoperative imaging
computer-assisted surgery
direct navigation

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-05 12:53:08.994

abstract:
In image-guided surgical navigation, instruments tools are tracked by a position sensor and their locations rendered along with the patient's anatomy. Conventional methods require an invasive, time-consuming and potentially uncertain process of intra-operative registration of the images to the patient. In a direct navigation system, such an intra-operative registration is replaced with pre-operative patient-independent calibration in a process that determines the relationship between the coordinate frame of imaging equipment and the coordinate frame of the position sensor.

This dissertation presents a method for pre-operatively calibrating a direct navigation system that used an optical position sensor and a mobile gantry CT scanner. A custom bi-local calibration device was designed and manufactured, after which existing navigation software was augmented with components that used the pre-operatively determined transformation to provide image-guided surgical navigation. The resulting system was tested in an image-guided operating suite using plastic bone models. In the validation stage, the inherent error was less than 0.4 mm and the target registration error was approximately 1.6 mm for a ceiling-mounted position sensor and 0.7 mm for a portable position sensor.  This accuracy is consistent with the best intra-operative registrations reported in the literature and this calibration method may be useful in future surgical systems.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Homelessness, Stable Housing, and Opportunities for Healthy Aging: Exploring the Relationships

contributor:
Rosenberg, Mark W.
Geography

subject: Aging Geography Homelessness Health

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Geography) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-05 16:08:50.051

abstract:
This dissertation contributes to the existing literature on aging and health in human geography by exploring the relationships among homelessness, stable housing, and opportunities for healthy aging. Over the last 30 years, various social, economic, spatial, and political trends have reshaped Canadian society. These trends have resulted in a more complex, individualized life course in the 21st century, characterized by a greater number of delays and divergences as people adapt to the societal changes that have unfolded. Outcomes of such trends have been increasing rates of household financial problems, a greater incidence of absolute poverty, and growth in the homeless population. At the same time, Canada is undergoing demographic changes as the population ages and by 2030, it is estimated that approximately 25 percent of Canada’s population will be 65 years of age or older (Moore and Rosenberg, 2001). In this context, it is likely a greater proportion of the older population will have experienced homelessness in their life compared to previous generations (McDonald et al., 2006). Presently, academic research and public policy have failed to consider how people with histories of homelessness will fare in older age.
This dissertation addresses this unexplored area of research through the achievement of three broad objectives. First, the research contributes an original conceptualization of the long-term effects of homelessness on health and aging. Second, it explores how stable housing can improve homeless people’s opportunities for healthy aging. Third, the research provides a better understanding of how being homeless in earlier life can affect experiences of health and aging in later stages of the life course. The fieldwork to achieve these goals involved a structured survey (N=50) and interviews (n=29) with a sample of formerly homeless older people in Toronto, Canada. The findings reveal that older people with histories of homelessness are aging in a more disadvantaged context than the general older population. Various aspects of stable housing can improve health and offer a better opportunity for positive experiences of aging. However, formerly homeless people continue to face barriers to affordable, quality housing and other determinants of a healthy lifestyle in older age.

abstract: PhD


title: Irradiation induced damage in CANDU spacer material  Inconel X-750

contributor:
Yao, Zhongwen
Mechanical and Materials Engineering

subject:
Disordering
CANDU
Helium
Inconel X-750
Damage
Radiation
Cavity
SFT
Spacer
TEM

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-06 15:21:02.334

abstract: Inconel alloys are commonly used as structural materials in nuclear reactors. One of these alloys, the Inconel X-750, is a γ’ Ni3(Al, Ti) strengthened superalloy extensively used in the cores of reactors, such as spacers in CANada Deuterium Uranium (CANDU) fuel channels. Prior to their application in commercial reactors, accelerated irradiation tests had been conducted in liquid metal fast reactors. Results did not indicate any problem stemming from significant fast neutron irradiation. However, recently it has been found that the ex-service CANDU Inconel X-750 spacers became severely brittle after a lengthy exposure to reactor environment. The underlying mechanism remains unclear and thus forms the focus of this current investigation, predominantly through transmission electron microscopy (TEM). This dissertation unfolds with the literature review in Chapter 2, followed by presentation of novel techniques in Chapter 3 on the preparation of TEM samples from small reactor components, namely the spacers. Chapter 4 presents TEM characterizations of ex-service spacers removed from the reactors. To simulate neutron irradiation over wide temperature range in an effort to understand the damage mechanisms, heavy ion irradiations were conducted and reported in Chapter 5 and 6. Irradiations are found to significantly alter the stability of the primary strengthening phase γ’, a systematic experimental study of which is presented in Chapter 7. To fully understand the effects of transmutation produced helium on irradiation induced cavity and dislocation microstructures, TEM in-situ heavy ion irradiations with hot/cold pre-injected helium were conducted and reported in Chapter 8 and 9. Helium was found to play an important role in the irradiation-induced instability of γ’ in nickel-based superalloys, the discussion of which is presented in Chapter 10. As one of the most important defect structures induced from irradiation, the stacking-fault-tetrahedra, were dynamically observed and are described in a journal manuscript in Appendix A. In addition to broadening current understanding of material degradation mechanism for in-service CANDU spacer, this study also provides comprehensive information on irradiation damage in nickel based superalloys, irradiation induced lattice defects and phase instability in face centered cubic alloys, as well as helium’s effects on cavity formation, dislocation evolution, and phase transformation.

abstract: PhD


title: Evaluating the Role of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gama Coactivator-1 Alpha in Mitochondrial Biogenesis in Goldfish

subject:
PGC1
AMPK
Animal physiology

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-06 01:37:05.537

abstract:
The production of ATP is of the utmost importance to cell survival.  To maintain energy homeostasis, cells regulate mitochondrial content through the control of degradative and synthetic processes. Mitochondrial biogenesis is primarily controlled through a small number of transcriptional regulators, primarily nuclear respiratory factor-1 (NRF-1), NRF-2, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). DNA-binding proteins regulate genes encoding the machinery of oxidative phosphorylation.  In addition to these DNA-binding proteins, the coactivator PPAR gamma coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1α) is central to control of mitochondrial genes, so much so that it has been dubbed a “master controller” of energy homeostasis in mammalian muscle tissues. Though well studied in mammals, previous studies suggest that this NRF-1-PGC1α axis may be disrupted in fish. The response to treatments such as temperature and diet cause reciprocal effects on NRF-1 and PGC-1α. A serine-rich insertion into the NRF-1 binding domain of PGC-1α most likely disrupts this interaction.
	In this study I looked at the ability for the goldfish PGC-1α gene to interact with the PGC-1α binding domain of NRF-1. I have found that goldfish PGC-1α does not physically bind NRF-1, which would suggest that the PGC-1α-NRF-1 axis in fish is disrupted. To further explore the role of PGC-1α in fish we looked at the role of AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) to phosphorylate goldfish, zebrafish, and human PGC-1α. The results from this analysis show that AMPK in a zebrafish embryonic cell line (ZEB2J) have their AMPK activated by the AMPK activator AICAR. This response was shown to be both dose and time dependent. Transcript data was generated looking at typical AMPK responsive targets in the mammalian system. The target of ramapamycin (TOR) gene responded with a decrease as is expected in mammals. Hexokinase 2 (HK2), PGC-1α, and NRF-1 all decreased which is opposite of the typical mammalian response. COX7C a downstream target of the PGC-1α-NRF-1 axis did not respond to treatment. Indicating a disruption in the AMPK- PGC-1α-NRF-1 pathway.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Inclusive Post-Secondary Education: Stories of Seven Students With Intellectual Disabilities Attending College in Ontario, Canada

contributor:
Hill, Ann Marie
Education

subject:
Inclusive Post-Secondary Education
Disability Studies
Inclusion
Intellectual Disability

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Education) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-06 10:23:21.317

abstract: Post-secondary education is an aspiration for many students; however, students with intellectual disabilities are provided few opportunities to pursue this dream.  Current practices in the Ontario system of education frequently segregate and exclude students with intellectual disabilities from participation in the educational opportunities that are provided to non-disabled students.  These educational practices ultimately limit opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities, and as such, fail to provide sufficient credentials to these students so they can participate in post-secondary education or employment.  In recent years, alternative routes through post-secondary education across Canada, and in Ontario, have been emerging for students with intellectual disabilities.  Yet, these opportunities are not enshrined in government policies or post-secondary practice, and are only provided at the discretion of a handful of post-secondary institutions across Ontario.  The purpose of this study is to provide an understanding of the inclusive post-secondary education experience from the perspectives of students who were participating in inclusive college programs in Ontario.  Seven participants were recruited from two colleges in Ontario that provide an inclusive post-secondary experience for students with intellectual disabilities.  Through a disability studies framework, a qualitative phenomenological methodology was employed in this study to empower the participants to share their stories and hear their voices.  Three in-depth individual interviews using photo-elicitation were used to invite participants to offer a rich, detailed, first-person account of their experiences in inclusive post-secondary education.  Each participant’s unique story of their college experience is highlighted as a Student Portrait.  The main themes that emerged from the participants combined experiences were academic growth and development, interpersonal relationships and social networks, career development and employment potential, and self-determination.  Findings from this study provide evidence of the positive outcomes of participation in post-secondary education for students with intellectual disabilities, including an anticipated positive impact that would extend well into the futures of each participant.  This study highlights the need for post-secondary education reform to increase such opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities.

abstract: PhD


title: Detecting PDF Javascript Malware Using Clone Detection

contributor:
Dean, Thomas R.
Leblanc, Sylvain P.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
NiCad
Clone Detection
PDF
Security
Acrobat
Malware

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-30 11:50:15.156

abstract: One common vector of malware is JavaScript in Adobe Acrobat (PDF) files. In this thesis, we investigate using near-miss clone detectors to find this malware. We start by collecting a set of PDF files containing JavaScript malware and a set with clean JavaScript from the VirusTotal repository. We use the NiCad clone detector to find the classes of clones in a small subset of the malicious PDF files. We evaluate how clone classes can be used to find similar malicious files in the rest of the malicious collection while avoiding files in the benign collection. Our results show that a 10% subset training set produced 75% detection of previously known malware with 0% false positives. We also used the NiCad as a pattern matcher for reflexive calls common in JavaScript malware. Our results show a 57% detection of malicious collection with no false positives. When the two experiments’ results are combined, the total coverage of malware rises to 85% and maintains 100% precision. The results are heavily affected by the third-party PDF to JavaScript extractor used. When only successfully extracted PDFs are considered, recall increases to 99% and precision remains at 100%.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Irradiation induced damage in CANDU spacer material Inconel X-750

subject:
Spacer
TEM
Helium
Cavity
CANDU
SFT
γ’ precipitate
Disordering
Inconel X-750
Radiation damage

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Mechanical and Materials Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-06 15:33:04.893

abstract: PhD


title: A Component Ranking Framework for More Reliable Software

contributor:
Zulkernine, Mohammad
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject: Ranking Reliability Framework Software Component

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-09 23:08:02.035

abstract: Software components are meant to be reusable and flexible by design. These characteristics and others continue attracting software developers to adapt a component (typically designed elsewhere) into their systems. However, software components are also vulnerable to reliability and security problems due to existence of non-obvious faults. We believe that a systematic approach to detect failures of a component and prioritize components using such failures can help developers decide on appropriate solutions to improve reliability. In this thesis, we present a framework that can help developers in detecting and ranking component failures systematically so that more reliable software can be achieved. Our proposed framework can allow monitoring critical components within a system under instrumentation, detecting failures based on specifications and using failure data and input from developers to rank the components. The proposed approach provides information for developers who could decide if the reliability could be improved by trivial code modification or require advanced reliability techniques. A prototype is designed along with a number of failure scenarios to detect specific failure types within a component. Four major failure types (value, timing, commission, and omission) are detected and used to rank software components. We conducted an experimental evaluation using two subject systems to assess the effectiveness of the proposed framework and to measure its performance overhead. Our experimental results show that the approach can benefit system developers by prioritizing components for effective maintenance with a minimal overhead.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Finding Balance:  Determining The Relationship Between “Economic Development," Traditional Knowledge and Natural Resource Management in the Context of the Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq

contributor:
Day, Richard J. F.
Global Development Studies

subject:
Economic Development
Indigenous
Mi'kmaq
Traditional Knowledge
Nova Scotia
Natural Resource Management

abstract: Thesis (Master, Global Development Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-08 13:03:57.366

abstract: Indigenous societies discuss the importance of Mother Earth for their well-being and many are working to regain control of their lands and waters and how they are used. Critically, many state that land access strengthens culture and traditional (ecological) knowledge. In this research I tried to determine if the reality reflects the rhetoric, looking particularly at how the concepts of economic development and traditional knowledge interact with each other, and impact Indigenous resource management. The case study focused on the Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq, examining the process of management implementation at a macro level. Sixteen semi-structured interviews took place in nine of thirteen communities. The results illustrated that economic development is necessary for Mi’kmaq sustainability and community sustenance, but also economic development is a needed political tool to gain power with the state. Further, traditional knowledge is connected to land management. With the loss of this knowledge due to colonialism and a greater influence of mainstream western liberal thought, respect for the land is reduced and this impacts Indigenous resource management practices. These factors also negatively impact relations between individuals and within the community as a whole. For true (Mi’kmaq) sustainability, resource management strategies should be based on Mi’kmaq values and practices and be wary of capitalist tendencies.

abstract: M.A.


title: Environmental Reconstructions From Structures and Fabrics Within Thick Mudstone Layers (Fluid Muds), Tilje Formation (Jurassic), Norwegian Continental Shelf

contributor: Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering

subject:
Mud Transport
Tidal Sedimentology
Fluid Mud
Process Sedimentology

abstract: Thesis (Master, Geological Sciences & Geological Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-15 17:14:19.827

abstract:
The Jurassic Tilje Formation located on the Norwegian continental shelf contains many thick (>10 mm) and macroscopically homogenous mudstone layers. These mudstone layers are interpreted to have accumulated rapidly from “fluid-mud,” a highly concentrated aqueous suspension of fine-grained sediment. Fluid muds in the Tilje are recognized in tidal-fluvial channel, mouth-bar and distal delta-front environments. From detailed thin-section work it is clear that these mudstone layers are not homogenous. Three facies are observed: unstratified mudstone (UM), some of which contain “floating” coarse grains, planar-laminated mudstone (PLM) and cross-laminated mudstone (CLM). Each facies represents deposition at differing suspended-sediment concentrations (SSC) (UM−high SSC, PLM−low-moderate SSC and CLM−low SSC).
The thickest mudstone layers are always associated with underlying dune-scale cross-bedding, which has led to a proposed model where fluid mud can accumulate and is protected from the over-riding flow in the troughs of large dunes. This model is most relevant to tidal-fluvial channels where large dunes occur in the deepest water and in terminal distributary channels in mouth bars.
The vertical stacking of facies within a single mudstone layer allows reconstruction of changes of the near-bed SSC values and current velocities that reflect deceleration and acceleration of the tidal currents over the tidal cycle or waning wave energy following a storm. Based on repeating patters termed “vertical successions” and “succession combinations,” individual tidal cycles can be observed within single mudstone layers and the relative strength of subordinate and dominant currents can be
ii
inferred.
To aide in the understanding of how mud can accumulate over the complete range of SSCs, current velocities and grain sizes, a preliminary three-dimensional bedform phase diagram has been constructed for fine-grained sediment based on recent flumes studies. The phase diagram can be applied to mudrocks beyond the Tilje Formation.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Integrated Community Sustainability Planning: A Comparative Case Study

subject: ICSP sustainability

abstract: Many Canadian municipalities are partaking in integrated community sustainability (ICS) planning. ICS planning involves an inter-departmental, coordinated approach using various plans, partnerships, and public participation processes in order to achieve sustainability goals at the municipal level. However, the literature is weak regarding ICS planning implementation in mid-sized (population 50,000 – 500,000) Canadian municipalities. This report examines the facilitators and barriers of ICS implementation of two mid-sized municipalities; Kingston and Markham, using a comparative case study. An analytical framework consisting of 11 themes for implementation was developed from the literature. The framework was then used to analyze the data gathered from municipal policy documents, municipal committee meeting minutes, and semi-structured interviews with key municipal staff. Kingston uses an integrated community sustainability plan (ICSP) and emphasizes partnerships and internal staff education. Markham also uses an ICSP, but emphasizes embedding sustainability principles into their OP. All 11 themes in the analytical framework were addressed to some extent by each municipality in order to make ICS planning effective. Each technique has its benefits and drawbacks, such as funding and communication problems with Kingston’s approach, and pressure to develop along with other political pressures in Markham.

abstract: SSHRC


title: Conceptions of Contagion in Ancient Literature

contributor:
Lehoux, Daryn
Classics

subject:
Contagion
Ancient World
Ancient Literature
Disease Transmission

abstract: Thesis (Master, Classics) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-09 09:27:06.882

abstract: The “seeds of disease” theory that emerged in Europe during the Renaissance period was not an entirely novel concept at the time.  Humans were aware of the contagious properties of certain afflictions long before it was possible for them to observe the microorganisms responsible for disease transmission, and ancient authors had already speculated about the existence of imperceptible creatures as a cause of illness.  This thesis will show that through ancient literary works of every type permeates the recognition of disease contagion not only between humans, but also between animals of the same species, animals of different species and between humans and animals.  Chapter One will examine cases of intra-species infection, beginning with those that do not specify precisely the manner in which the illness in question is passed from one being to another.  Instances in which particular factors are noted as contributing to the spread of disease will also be presented, followed by examples highlighting the recognition of intra-species infection in animals.  Chapter Two will address the three varieties of inter-species infection of which ancient people were evidently aware: zoonosis, anthroponosis, and xenoosis.  Chapter Three will explore the prevalent belief among the ancients that uninterred corpses incited pestilences.  Chapter Four will discuss ancient views concerning the contamination of drinking water, as well as cases of deliberate infection with disease— ancient precursors to bioterrorism.  Chapter Five will feature numerous theories of ancient authors regarding the presence of disease-causing microorganisms in the air.  A variety of literary evidence will be examined throughout this paper and will prove that there was indeed a pervasive knowledge of disease contagion in the ancient world.

abstract: M.A.


title: Socio-cultural Conventionality and Children’s Selective Learning

contributor:
Sabbagh, Mark A.
Psychology

subject:
children's selective learning
conventionality

abstract: Thesis (Ph.D, Psychology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-09 15:46:10.013

abstract: Children’s rapid word learning skills has been the focus of many studies over the last three decades. These studies indicated that children are not only expert word learners, but they are also very selective when learning new words (Sabbagh & Henderson, 2013). Although many studies have shown children’s selectivity when learning words, still little is known about the motives behind children’s selectivity or the mechanisms by which this selectivity works. The major aim of the present dissertation is to advance the current understanding on children’s selective learning. In four studies, we explored whether preschoolers would learn new words or facts from speakers who violated a familiar non-linguistic socio-cultural convention. In Study 1, thirty-six 4-year-olds heard novel words either from a boy puppet who wore a skirt or a boy puppet who wore pants. When then tested for their memory of the words, children who heard the words from the skirt-wearing boy puppet were less likely to produce and remember the word-referent link after a brief delay. Study 2 showed that children learned new words from a skirt-wearing boy puppet equally well when the puppets presented the words slowly; thereby suggesting that violation of a well-established socio-cultural convention affects children’s learning especially under high cognitive load. By replicating the design of Study 1, Study 3 showed that children learned new words from a skirt-wearing boy puppet when the boy puppet gave an excuse for wearing the skirt, suggesting that it was the conventional violation and not simply the anomaly of a skirt-wearing boy that affected children’s learning in Study 1. Study 4 showed that children’s bias against learning from the skirt-wearing boy puppet did not extend to facts about the origins of the toys. Taken together, these results suggested that when acquiring conventional knowledge in learning situations in which their processing capacities are taxed, young children show selective learning from a speaker who follows the socio-cultural conventions of their community.

abstract: PhD


title: Modeling & Development of Wirelessly Coupled Loops for Chip-to-Antenna Communications

contributor:
Frank, Brian M.
Antar, Yahia M. M.
Electrical and Computer Engineering

subject:
CMOS
Microwave Passives
GHz
Wireless Coupling
Automotive Radar
Antenna-in-Package
Antenna

abstract: Thesis (Master, Electrical & Computer Engineering) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-09 21:55:06.971

abstract:
This thesis examines the use of two coupled loops as an alternative method of connection for high frequency signals between passive elements on microwave laminates and integrated circuits; replacing traditional interconnect methods such as wire bonds and solder bumps which require costly back end of line processing. The loops harness both electric and magnetic fields in order to create the interconnection, and can be placed around the perimeter of the IC; here they do not interfere with placement of the existing electronics on the chip, or occupy space which may be required for large components such as spiral inductors.
A parametric model for these coupled loops was developed in this thesis. This model allows for rapid initial dimension choice when provided a variety of different parameters such as the IC process geometry, and loop stack geometry. Once initial dimensions are obtained from the model, full-wave simulation can be used to finalize the design and examine effects of process design rules such as metal density requirements.
Following model development a prototype system, consisting of a two metallic loops (one located on a low-loss microwave laminate, the other on a 0.13 u m CMOS IC), was fabricated. These loops were then stacked in order to couple the signal from a planar antenna array (printed on the laminate) onto the IC. This antenna-to-chip system was simulated and measured to have center frequencies of 25 GHz and 23 GHz respectively, with a peak gain greater than 5 dBi at the beams broadside (8 dBi in simulation). These results agree quite well, with discrepancies arising primarily from the presence of adhesive between the loops. This adhesive wicked underneath the IC during assembly, which was not accounted for during simulation, but can easily be done so. The radiation pattern from the antenna was measured to have a HPBW of 16 degrees  in the elevation plane and 100  degrees in the azimuth plane. These correspond nicely with simulated results and produce a suitable system for automotive radar application; where harsh environments present difficulties to current interconnects such as wire bonds.

abstract: M.A.Sc.


title: Evaluating the Role of the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 UL21 Protein in Early and Late Events of the Viral Replication Cycle

contributor:
Banfield, Bruce
Microbiology and Immunology

subject: HSV-2

subject: UL21

abstract: Thesis (Master, Microbiology & Immunology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-10 16:20:32.162

abstract: The herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) UL21 protein is conserved between all members of the Alphaherpesvirinae subfamily. Although UL21 is essential for virus propagation in HSV-2, its function in viral replication is poorly understood. Cells infected with HSV-2 strains lacking UL21 exhibit an approximate two-hour delay in viral gene expression that cannot be explained by a defect in virus entry or capsid engagement with, or movement along, microtubules. However, we noted a defect in the ability of UL21 knockout (KO21) capsids to associate with the nucleus after infection. We found that the delay in viral gene expression was not directly due to the absence of UL21 insofar as cells stably expressing UL21 could not complement the delay in gene expression. We suggest that the KO21 delay in gene expression is due to alterations in virion composition and that in the absence of UL21, a key virion component required for the timely delivery of capsids to the nucleus fails to be packaged into virions. Interestingly, at late times after infection, levels of viral proteins in KO21 infected cells reach wild-type levels, indicating that a secondary function is responsible for the essential nature of UL21. We found that at late times post-infection KO21 infected cells accumulated capsids in the nucleus but these fail to reach the cytoplasm and mature into infectious virions. Thus, we hypothesize that the essential function of UL21 is to facilitate capsid trafficking from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. Moreover, the viral glycoproteins gD and gC were retained in the endoplasmic reticulum, and were under-glycosylated in KO21 infected cells. It is therefore possible that the absence of UL21 prevents the targeting of glycoproteins to the inner nuclear membrane, preventing the formation or function of the nuclear egress complex.

abstract: Supervisor has requested the thesis be restricted to permit the publication of data included elsewhere.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Realism and the Background of Goodman's Worldmaking

contributor:
Mozersky, Joshua
Philosophy

subject: worldmaking, Goodman, realism, anti-realism, ontological relativism

abstract: Thesis (Master, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-11 13:59:52.292

abstract: The work of Nelson Goodman has significantly impacted the philosophical landscape of the latter half of the twentieth century. In this thesis I critically assess Goodman’s later metaphysics, particularly his ontological relativism and multiple worlds hypothesis. I argue that, while Goodman’s view is interesting and important to philosophic thought, it critically fails as a tenable metaphysical position. This failure is twofold: first, Goodman’s argument for ontological relativism rests on the representational fallacy and is therefore unsound; and second his position, when considered as a self-standing metaphysical doctrine, is incoherent. My conclusion is that Goodman must admit some mind-independent structure of reality, otherwise his view should be rejected. However, while I do not argue for any specific form of realism, once some mind-independent structure is admitted, a general realist position becomes preferable to Goodman’s anti-realist, relativist, and constructivist view.

abstract: M.A.


title: Text2Plan: Testing the effectiveness of tailored text messages on planning for physical activity.

contributor:
Latimer-Cheung, Amy
Kinesiology and Health Studies

subject:
Text messages
Planning
Physical activity

abstract: Thesis (Master, Kinesiology & Health Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-10 19:03:41.566

abstract: Text messages can encourage people to carry out their plans, but it is unknown if text messages can encourage people to form plans. The primary objective of our study was to determine whether text messages could promote physical activity plan formation. We determined if text messages about planning increased planning more than text messages about physical activity. We examined whether messages tailored to suit the individual message recipient were especially effective in encouraging planning. Furthermore, we determined if planning was maintained over time. The secondary objective of the study was to determine whether text messages about planning could promote physical activity and strengthen the physical activity intention-behaviour relationship. Participants were inactive adults (n=239, Mage=30.7±4.8yrs) with access to email and text messaging. Participants received generic messages about physical activity, generic messages about planning, or tailored messages about planning. Each week for two months, participants were emailed a tool to plan their physical activity. Whether participants used this tool was assessed at baseline (T0), after one month of receiving text messages (T1) and after an additional month without text messages (T2). There were no differences in planning between groups that received messages about planning or physical activity at T1 or T2, ps>.05. More participants who received tailored text messages about planning made at least one plan by T1 than participants who received generic messages about planning, χ2(1)=3.889, p<.05. This difference did not persist at T2, p>.05. For all groups, planning was maintained from T0 to T1, ps>.05, but decreased from T1 to T2, McNemars χ2(1)>17.455, ps<.001. Physical activity increased over the intervention, ps<.05, but there were no differences in physical activity between groups over time, ps>.05. The strength of the intention-behaviour relationship did not differ between participants who planned and those who did not, p>.05. There seems to be little advantage to sending messages about planning relative to messages about physical activity for persuading planning behaviour. Regardless of content of the messages, planning may not be sustained over time.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Enabling Participation of Children with Developmental Delays and Disabilities at School: School-based Allied Health Professionals as a Resource for Teachers

contributor:
Villeneuve, Michelle
Minnes, Patricia
Rehabilitation Science

subject: Speech and Language Pathology

subject: Physical Therapy

subject: School Health Support Service Program

subject: Occupational Therapy

abstract: Thesis (Master, Rehabilitation Science) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-11 00:13:12.132

abstract:
Millions of dollars are spent annually in Canada providing school health support services (SHSS) to children with developmental delays and disabilities (DD) as an important support for inclusive education. However, there is limited information about how allied health professionals (AHP) work together with educators to integrate therapy strategies into educational programming for children with DD. This study examines the strategies AHPs, in Ontario perceived to be successful and are implementing with educators to support participation outcomes for children with DD in the primary grades. This study also describes AHPs’ vision for the future in order to improve their work practices to support participation of children with DD at school.
Recognizing that the literature on SHSS has emphasized challenges to providing services to children with DD and collaboration with educators; this study actively employed appreciative inquiry (Preskill, & Catsambas, 2006). Individual in-depth interviews with 15 AHPs (11 OTs, 1 PT, 3 SLPs) were conducted via face-to-face, telephone or video conference. Participants were asked to describe how they viewed participation at school for children with DD, their role in supporting it, the strategies they used to work with educators to support this participation and their vision for the future.
AHPs in this study viewed participation of children with DD at school as
 (a) being in the classroom to provide the opportunity for meaningful engagement with peers and (b) working on similar activities as peers to promote membership and belonging at school. Participants implemented their role to support participation of children with DD by providing equipment, modifying or adapting activities, educating and providing resources to educators. Successful strategies AHPs used to work with educators to facilitate participation of children with DD at school included: finding a key person, developing trust and rapport with an educator, engaging in shared planning with an educator, seeking feedback from educators about their recommendations and listening to educators regarding information about the child with a DD. AHPs also identified their vision for the future in supporting participation of children with DD. Their vision included being a resource to teachers, by consulting to a whole class and being a member of the educational team.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: A Hybrid Hole-filling Algorithm

contributor:
Rappaport, David
Computing

subject:
Triangle Mesh
3D printing
Hybrid Algorithm
Hole-Filling

abstract: Thesis (Master, Computing) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-11 23:45:08.591

abstract: A polygon mesh, or a 3D mesh, consisting of a collection of vertices, edges, and polygons in three-dimensional space, is the standard way of representing 3D objects. In practice, polygon meshes acquired from the 3D scanning process fail to meet the quality requirements for most practical applications. Mesh defects like holes, duplicate elements, non-manifold elements are introduced during the scanning process, which lowers the quality of the output meshes. In this thesis, we describe a complete mesh-repairing process that fixes all defects within a polygon mesh. This process is divided into two parts: the mesh-cleaning part and the hole-filling part. In the mesh-cleaning part, we describe the ways of repairing different types of mesh defects. In the hole-filling part, we discuss two main hole-filling approaches: the surface-based method and the volumetric. In addition, we present a hybrid algorithm by combining the surface-based approach and the volumetric approach. We compare the meshes created by different hole-filing algorithms and show that the new algorithm is a good alternative to the existing ones.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: A functional analysis of mitotic tyrosine phosphatases by site-directed mutagenesis

contributor:
Young, Paul G.
Biology

subject: cell cycle

subject: Cdc25

subject: Pyp3

subject: fission yeast

abstract: Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-12 14:40:40.384

abstract:
In Schizosaccharomyces pombe mitosis is initiated when Cdc25 tyrosine phosphatase dephosphorylates Cdc2 (Cdk1) and in turn Cdc2 kinase phosphorylates mitotic targets. Cdc2 is thought to phosphorylate and further activate Cdc25, forming a positive feedback loop between the two for robust entry into mitosis. Pyp3 tyrosine phosphatase is essential in the absence of Cdc25. Its role is thought to be in directly dephosphorylating Cdc2 under these conditions. Pyp3 also presents a link between cell division and growth. It interacts physically and genetically with the mRNA cap-binding protein eIF4E and is thought to play the same role as mammalian 4E-binding proteins. Pyp3 has a consensus TOS motif potentially enabling nutritional input from the TOR pathway into translation regulation. Since known 4E-BPs are not phosphatases, Pyp3 may act as a 4E-binding protein independently of its phosphatase activity.
Evolutionarily conserved Cdc2 phosphorylation sites in Cdc25 were substituted to non-phosphorylatable Ala, or to Glu as a phosphomimic. The T89E phosphomimic mutation creates an activated allele of Cdc25, cdc25-89w. It has a dominant semi-wee phenotype due to accelerated entry into mitosis. Pyp3 was mutagenized to remove the function of the phosphatase active site and also the putative TOS motif. The Pyp3 active site is essential for its role in cell cycle initiation. It is also essential for the genetic interaction with eIF4E, tif1. Removal of a putative Pyp3 TOS motif affects the Pyp3 localization to cytoplasmic foci following co-overexpression of eIF4E. Similar localization occurs in response to heat stress. These results make important contributions to the understanding of mitotic initiation, and link between cell growth and division.

abstract: The data presented here is being prepared for publication. Until this time the information is not to be accessible to the general public.

abstract: M.Sc.


title: Eternalism and the Passage of Time

subject:
eternalism
presentism
presentist theory
moving spotlight theory
block universe theory
temporal passage
A-theory
B-theory

abstract: Thesis (Master, Philosophy) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-12 21:21:29.147

abstract: This thesis considers the relationship between the ontology of time and the passage of time, and concludes that the best way to understand this relationship is found in the combination of eternalism with the view that the passage of time is an objective, irreducible fact about the spatio-temporal world.  The steps I take to reach this conclusion are as follows: first, I propose that eternalism is the best ontological basis from which to consider temporal passage; second, I argue that the moving spotlight theory, which attempts to reconcile eternalism with temporal passage, is an inadequate representation of the relationship between eternalism and temporal passage; third, I suggest that temporal passage is best understood as a mind-independent phenomenon.  I argue that eternalism is preferable to presentism insofar as presentism suffers from inconsistencies that eternalism both avoids and easily solves.  I then defend the rejection of the moving spotlight theory by an appeal to the incoherency of the moving now.  Finally, I dismiss mind-dependent temporal passage in favour of mind-independent temporal passage based on the irreducibility of temporal passage in and of itself.

abstract: M.A.


title: Hydrogen Sulfides Action in the Paraventricular Nucleus of the Hypothalamus

contributor:
Ferguson, Alastair V.
Neuroscience Studies

subject: Hydrogen Sulfide

abstract: Thesis (Master, Neuroscience Studies) -- Queen's University, 2013-09-13 10:51:34.585

abstract:
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a novel neurotransmitter that has been shown to influence cardiovascular function as well as other autonomic and endocrine functions by targeting a wide range of ion channels. Using whole-cell electrophysiology, I have investigated the potential role of H2S in the regulation of neuronal excitability in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), which is a central relay centre for autonomic and endocrine function.
In current-clamp recordings, sodium hydrosulfide hydrate (NaHS), when perfused onto PVN slices at various concentrations (0.1, 1, 10, and 50 mM),  elicited a concentration-dependent response relationship from the majority of recorded neurons, with almost exclusively depolarizing effects. Input resistance differences from baseline, and during the NaHS-induced depolarization, uncovered a biphasic response, implicating both a potassium (K+) and non-selective cation conductance.
In order to further investigate H2Ss effects on K+ conductances, we used both voltage- and current-clamp techniques to examine the effects of NaHS at either 1 or 10 mM on both the transient and sustained voltage-activated K+ currents in these neurons. We applied TEA+ (10 mM) to isolate the transient/rapidly inactivating current (IA) and 4-AP (5 mM) to isolate the sustained/delayed rectifier current (IK), and were able to show that both of these conductances were significantly reduced by H2S.  Finally, we were able to demonstrate, using current-clamp, that when 4-AP and TEA+ were applied together with NaHS, they were able to completely eliminate the previously observed NaHS-induced depolarization, and the effects on membrane potential reversed to show a small hyperpolarization.
These data highlight the potential role of H2S as a critical modulator of the voltage-gated repolarizing conductances, IA and IK, which in turn regulate neuronal excitability within the PVN. This can have a large impact on the way neurotransmitters and hormones such as vasopressin, oxytocin, corticotrophin-releasing hormone, and thyrotrophin-releasing hormone are released from the PVN, which influence a wide range of neuroendocrine and autonomic functions such as cardiovascular function, fluid balance, and food intake.

abstract: Chapter 2 of the thesis is going to be submitted for publication this month. With that said, the data has not been published anywhere else yet and should not be online prior to publication.

abstract: M.Sc.