VictorJuiz/thesis huggingface dataset:
Advancing Life Cycle Comparisons of Future Alternative Light-duty Vehicles
Keywords: Alternative fuels
Electric vehicle
Fuel economy
Life cycle assessment
Life cycle costing

The overall objective of this thesis is to systematically compare the life cycle energy use, air emissions and costs of future alternative light-duty vehicles in a more robust manner than is done in the literature. Models are developed using GREET (Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation), Autonomie vehicle simulation software, Vehicle Attribute Model, Air Pollution Emission Experiments and Policy (APEEP) analysis model, and Crystal Ball (Monte Carlo analysis). Four questions are investigated: • Should the transportation sector use ethanol or bio-electricity? Life cycle assessment results indicate that neither has a clear advantage in terms of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions or energy use. This finding is in contrast to those in the literature that favor the use of bio-electricity because this thesis develops pathways with comparable vehicle characteristics. • Do plug-in electric vehicles provide incremental life cycle air pollutant impact benefits over internal combustion engine vehicles using the same primary energy source? The results based on natural gas-derived fuels show that battery electric vehicles (BEV) may not provide benefits, in terms of climate change and health impacts, over hybrid electric vehicles (HEV). This can be attributed to the many sources of uncertainty and stringent tailpipe emissions regulations. • How can vehicles be designed to meet future CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) standards? Case study results for a reference vehicle show that the 66% increase in fuel economy targets between model years 2012 to 2025 can be met with a 10% vehicle price increase (lightweight HEV powertrain), 31% increase in 0-96 km/h acceleration time (smaller engine), 17% interior volume decrease (smaller body), or 94% driving range decrease (BEV powertrain), while other attributes are maintained. • How might CAFE standards affect the ability for non-petroleum vehicles to mitigate GHG emissions by displacing petroleum vehicles? Life cycle costing results indicate that there is a financial incentive for automakers to produce CNG vehicles that could emit higher well-to-wheel GHG emissions on a per kilometer basis than gasoline vehicles. This is permitted by CAFE standards because non-petroleum fuel incentives allow vehicles using CNG to be less efficient, and thus potentially more affordable, than those using gasoline.
Strange Dwellings: Inhabiting American Literary Modernism
Keywords: American literature
Critical Theory
Gender and Sexuality Studies
Modernism
Queer Theory

This dissertation probes the relationship between sexuality and the home in American literature from the early twentieth century, asserting forms of dwelling that challenge the values given to itinerancy and vagrancy in criticism on queer modernism. Within queer theory, which since its inception has prescribed an anti-social, anti-normative position, scholars have mined modernist texts for their transgressive potential. Indeed, modernist texts frequently exhibit precisely the qualities that American culture negatively associates with queerness: urbanism, exile, dislocation, disorientation, loss, and infertility. However, I argue that narratives of queerness that privilege anti-social behaviour risk occluding more granular discussions of the murky relationships that queer subjects have with ordinariness and normativity. The basic premise of “Strange Dwellings” is, therefore, that sexuality in American modernism indexes a range of concomitant concerns and anxieties, including a pervasive fascination with home. Affective ambivalence permeates many of the texts in this project, which simultaneously express profound nostalgia and strain toward new aesthetic, social, and political realities. While the home may find its form in the house, home is ultimately an affective state, I conclude, rather than a material space. I re-direct our attention to the ways in which modernist texts refuse to assimilate to traditional social and literary formations, and yet strive to recuperate and transform them. “Strange Dwellings” examines instantiations of the queer home in texts by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, Wallace Thurman, Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, Willa Cather, and James Agee. While my aims extend well beyond those of a revisionist project, I deliberately return to well-trodden critical ground in order to consider modernism’s fraught relationship to the peripatetic. Rather than pursuing questions of recovery or canonicity, I contend that the authors I take up envision their place within literary history by conceiving of place in physical terms. Just as their texts come to constitute forms of housing, writing serves as an act of homemaking. These authors mobilize form itself as a dwelling space, recasting the home as a site of endurance. In doing so, they treat writing as a practice with the capacity to aesthetically re-imagine the social.
Arthurus Redivivus: Arthurian Imitation in Early Plantagenet England, 1154–1307
Keywords: Chronicles
King Arthur
Medieval French Literature
Medieval Latin Literature
Plantagenet England
Political Propaganda

This dissertation is a diachronic study of when and how the first five Plantagenet kings of England and their opponents attempted to use the figure of King Arthur for political gain. Medieval chronicles, chivalric biographies and occasional poetry from the British Isles and Continental Europe constitute its raw materials. Fundamental to this work is the reconstruction of the ways in which the pseudo-historical Arthur existed in historical memory in the time and places under consideration. This study provides a history of Arthurian self-fashioning that is concomitantly a reception study on medieval understandings of Arthur. The ideological basis for the practice of Arthurian imitation is the myth of King Arthur’s return: the idea that the legendary sixth-century hero of the Britons would somehow rise again and ‘re- establish’ a great Western European empire based in Britain. Although it is commonly assumed that exspectare Arthurum was an indigenous belief of the Brittonic peoples of Brittany, Cornwall and Wales, this dissertation underscores that there is no evidence to sustain the position that the construct was either ancient or Brittonic in origin. The idea’s earliest attestation dates from 1125 and is a statement about Brittonic belief by a non-Brittonic writer. The central argument of this dissertation is that the Plantagenets, beginning with Henry II, exploited the myth of Arthur’s return in two ways. First, they advanced the idea that the Brittonic Celts mistakenly clung to a literal interpretation of exspectare Arthurum and were fruitlessly awaiting the return of the original King Arthur. Explicit analogies were drawn with the Jews awaiting their messiah; the purpose of this racist stereotype was to provide moral justification for Plantagenet expansion into Wales and Brittany. Second, the Plantagenets communicated that the myth should be understood figuratively and that they, by virtue of their insular crown and territorial possessions, were Arthur’s true successors. The monarchy’s exploitation of the Arthurian myth reached a highpoint with Edward I, after the reigns of John and Henry III, who, for political reasons, gave the myth less attention.
Controlling Electromagnetic Fields Using Periodic Structures: Gratings, Metamaterials, and Photonic Crystals
Keywords: Dirac Dispersion
Epsilon Near Zero
Grating
Leaky Wave Antenna
Metamaterial
Photonic Crystals

This thesis presents novel devices and techniques that enable new methods for enhancement, concentration, refraction, shaping, collimation, and directive beaming of electromagnetic fields. These unprecedented methods to control electromagnetic fields are achieved by exploring and harnessing the unique wave-interactions in periodic gratings, metamaterials, and photonic crystals, with emphasis on Epsilon-Near-Zero (ENZ) metamaterials and zero-index media. The presented solutions impact a wide variety of applications ranging from microwave to optical frequencies. A discovery of dramatic radiation enhancement of an invisible array of sources next to a sub-wavelength periodic metal strip grating is reported, both theoretically and experimentally. The phenomenon is first systematically theorized by introducing the `spectral impulse response' approach for the aperiodic excitation problem, followed by the `spectral array factor' approach for designing the near-field of array of sources. Such radiation enhancement has applications in sensing, detection, and accurate measurement of distance. The shaping and collimation of radiation of a simple dipole source near or buried inside a general anisotropic ENZ half-space is then systematically studied using the Lorentz reciprocity method. Various elliptic and hyperbolic anisotropic ENZ media are considered, showing how the air-side radiation can be enhanced and shaped using certain ENZs. A novel device and technique is proposed for collecting, refracting and concentrating incident waves into an area of high power concentration, at extremely short distances. This flat low-profile light-concentrator comprises a hetero-junction of anisotropic ENZ metamaterials (hyperbolic or elliptic), and is realized with plasmonic layered media at optical frequencies. By harnessing an extremely oblique refraction process in ENZs, the light-concentrator significantly outperforms the size requirements of existing thick high curvature lenses, useful in various applications (e.g. as microlenses). The hetero-junction can also serve as a thin beam-splitter and beam-shifter. Lastly, the Dirac Leaky-Wave Antenna (DLWA) is introduced for reliable and continuous scanning of directive leaky-wave radiation from photonic crystals. The DLWA is based on a zero-index photonic crystal with a Dirac-type dispersion at its Г-point. The DLWA solves the classic open broadside stopband in leaky-wave structures not only at microwaves, but for terahertz and optical frequencies, with feasible dimensions and low losses.
The Applicability of Kraichnan-Leith-Batchelor Similarity Theory to Inverse Cascades in Generalized Two-Dimensional Turbulence
Keywords: EDQNM closure
intermittency
non-Gaussianity
similarity theory
turbulence
two dimensional

This thesis examines how well Kraichnan-Leith-Batchelor (KLB) similarity theory describes turbulent inverse cascades in `generalized two-dimensional fluids', also known as ` turbulence' models. These models have varying relationships between the streamfunction and advected active scalar = (-)
Development of a Platform for Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering Endoscopy
Keywords: Biomarker
Endoscopy
Nanoparticle
Raman
SERS

Surgical resection or ablation remains the primary curative treatment strategy for most early-stage solid cancers and, as such, an enormous amount of effort has been dedicated to technologies that augment the vision of the surgeon to better `see' the margins of the tumor being removed. With our ever-expanding knowledge of the genetic changes which underpin malignancies, the idea of adding `biochemical vision' to the surgeon's decision making process should allow for clearer identification of margins, more complete resections with no residual tissue left in-situ, and consequent improvement in local recurrence rates. By performing such early-stage resections endoscopically, patients may benefit from lower morbidity rates as compared to traditional open approaches. Molecular imaging using surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanoparticles represents a platform which is well-suited for cancer detection in-vivo. It has already been established that SERS offers the ability to carry out multiplex assays far in excess of what is possible with fluorescence, that the SERS signal is detectable at concentrations far below what is resolvable with similar amounts of fluorophores, and that the SERS signal is temporally stable and does not photobleach over time. The work reported here demonstrates: 1) a method for reliably generating molecularly-targeted SERS nanoparticles suitable for in-vivo use, 2) a framework for detecting these SERS nanoparticles in-vivo, not using slow point-by-point spectroscopic screening, but rather by fast large-area widefield imaging, 3) results from widefield quantitative, multiplexed SERS imaging in-vivo using phantom models, 4) the first reported study showing widefield SERS imaging of antibody-targeted SERS nanoparticles in a murine xenograft tumour model and 5) proof-of-concept data showing widefield SERS imaging in-vitro using two clinically available endoscopy platforms. Together these results have demonstrated the potential utility of SERS endoscopy in cancer imaging and have established a roadmap to future clinical translation in specific oncologic fields.
Unsettling Migrants? The Impact of Internal Migration on Sons of the Soil Conflict in China and Indonesia
Keywords: China
conflict
Indonesia
migration
Sons of the Soil
violence

Recent instances of large-scale inter-provincial migration have resulted in open clashes between indigenous populations and migrants--i.e., `Sons of the Soil' (SoS) conflict--in several minority regions around the world. Yet, equally large population movements have been peacefully integrated elsewhere. Under what conditions does internal migration lead to SoS conflicts? Based on quantitative population data and over 100 interviews conducted in nine months of fieldwork in China and in Indonesia, I argue that large and consistent socio-economic and political Horizontal Inequalities (HIs) between migrants and locals is a key condition explaining why some minority regions erupt in SoS conflicts while others remain relatively quiet. Fearing demographically-induced socio-economic and political marginalization, local communities resort to violence against migrants when the latter appear to benefit disproportionately from their relocation at the expense of the local population -i.e. when they are "dominant migrants" with close connection to the State and its dominant ethnicity. However, any single dimension of HIs is unlikely to result in SoS conflict independently. It is the coalescing of various mutually-reinforcing HIs that render the situation most explosive. Yet, local people do not always act on these grievances and mobilize against migration. A favourable institutional context is necessary for migration-related tensions to transform into SoS conflicts. Alongside HIs, I contend that political liberalization influences the likelihood, frequency and intensity of SoS conflicts, as it affects internal migratory patterns and local people's abilities to organize or mobilize against migrants. As political liberalization also contributes to socio-economic and political inequalities between migrants and locals, it simultaneously tilts the balance of power between groups. By analyzing the different migration trajectories and how they relate to SoS conflict, this dissertation highlights the conditions transforming the otherwise peaceful internal migration into a violent process. The empirically-informed model herein developed puts migrant/local relations squarely at the center of our analysis, providing a more nuanced and disaggregated analysis of the different dimensions of their relations. While the empirical focus is on migration-conflict dynamics in China and Indonesia, the model developed provides important insights for countries with large-scale internal migration to minority regions.
Asymmetric Lactone Synthesis via Hydroacylation and Stereoselective Cyclic Peptide Synthesis via Hydrogenation
Keywords: Asymmetric catalysis
Cyclic peptide
Lactone
Rhoidum

Asymmetric transition metal catalysis has benefited human health by greatly facilitating access to natural products and therapeutic drugs. However, scientists continue to face challenges of developing more direct processes while minimizing the generation of unwanted wastes. As there is a high demand in the development of sustainable and atom-economical processes, the focus of my doctoral studies was to apply asymmetric catalysis in the development of conceptually unique and sustainable strategies for the synthesis of biologically important organic molecules. This dissertation includes: 1) the development of Rh-catalyzed enantioselective ketone hydroacylation as an atom-economical and general method for the synthesis of phthalide, 2) nickel catalyzed olefin hydroesterification for the synthesis of all-carbon quaternary stereocenters, and 3) a new synthetic strategy for preparing cyclic peptides using asymmetric hydrogenation.
Development of Electrochemical Immunosensors for the Detection of Clinically Important Biomolecules
Keywords: Adrenocorticotropic hormone
biosensor
electrochemical impedance spectroscopy
Electrochemistry
growth hormone

IUPAC defines “biosensor” as a device that uses biochemical reactions mediated by isolated enzymes, immunosystems, tissues, organelles or whole cells to detect compounds usually by electrical, thermal or optical methods. The objective of this thesis was to develop cost-effective, sensitive, and selective electrochemical immunosensors (biosensors using immunosystems as the biorecognition layer) for the detection of clinically important biomolecules. Immunoassays are frequently applied in medical, pharmaceutical and food industries. Our hypothesis was that “Immunosensors based on disposable screen-printed electrodes would allow the quantification of Legionella pneumophila, adrenocorticotropic hormone and growth hormone in biological samples”. In order to prove our hypothesis, we utilized different surface reactions to immobilize the biorecognition layers on electrode surfaces, and challenged our immunosensor in clinically relevant biological samples. There is an increasing need for sensitive, selective, and rapid detection platforms and the outcome of our work would address this demand. Herein, we reviewed the electrochemical principles and electrochemical techniques, also introduced screen-printed electrodes and surface characterization techniques (Chapter 1). Then, we introduced analytes including Legionella pneumophila, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and growth hormone, and the detection methods were explained with illustration (Chapter 2). The detailed protocols were described including reagents, experimental time, and instrumentation parameters (Chapter 3). We discussed the results for the detection of L. pneumophila bacteria in water samples, and compared the Nyquist plots with fluorescence microscopy images (Chapter 4.1). Then, we discussed the results of enzyme-immunosensors for detecting adrenocorticotropic hormone in plasma and blood samples. The alkaline phosphatase that was attached to adrenocorticotropic hormone could process substrates to form insoluble product that would precipitate on the electrode surface. This precipitation film significantly increased the charge transfer resistance, which enables ultrasensitive detection of adrenocorticotropic hormone (Chapter 4.2). Finally, we described the results of using EIS to detect rat growth hormone in plasma and blood samples (Chapter 4.3). We concluded that the development of immunosensors towards clinical and environmental assays was a lengthy process that would require further optimization studies and improvements (Chapter 5). As our hypothesis indicated, it is promising that these biosensors may soon be commercially available with the rapid advances in detection technologies.
Food Type Versus Amount Eaten As Impression-management Strategies After Ego Threats
Keywords: eating behaviour
impression-management

Decisions about type of food selected and amount of food eaten are influenced by numerous factors. The aim of this series of studies was to examine under which conditions impression-management techniques, specifically food selection or amount of food eaten, would be implemented after experiencing ego threats. A secondary goal was to determine whether female restrained eaters (dieters) and unrestrained eaters (non-dieters) utilized different impression-management techniques. A series of three experimental studies and two surveys were conducted in order to examine these aims. Experiment 1 found that female dieters, after experiencing an ego threat, selected a healthy snack more often than an unhealthy snack when under pressure to choose an unhealthy snack. The second experiment found that when participants were not under pressure to select a specific snack (healthy or unhealthy), both dieters and non-dieters chose a healthy snack more often after experiencing an intelligence threat. In Experiment 3 most participants chose a healthy snack except for the threatened dieters who chose the unhealthy snack more often in the private condition (ostensibly without the experimenter’s knowledge). The surveys supported the finding that men and women make judgments about others on the basis of type of food they select versus amount consumed. Overall, the present research suggests that if people have the choice of using type versus amount of food as an impression-management strategy, they will choose type. As well, dieters at times use different impression-management techniques than non-dieters do.
Theoretical Progress in Hyperhoneycomb Iridate β-Li2IrO3
Keywords: hyperhoneycomb
iridate
Kitaev
magnetism
spin liquid
spin-orbit coupling

Iridium-based compounds display a rich variety of physical behaviours that stems from the intricate interplay of many energy scales. In this thesis, we explore the consequences of this in some of the recent theoretical progress on the hyperhoneycomb iridate β-Li2IrO3. Beginning with ﬁrst principle calculations, we gain an understanding of the role of distortions, spin-orbit coupling, and the validity of the j_eff = 1/2 description. After studying some basic properties of the weakly interacting band structure, we proceed to the strong correlation limit by deriving an effective pseudospin model that highlights the importance of multi-orbital interactions in iridium-based compounds. We investigate in detail the various magnetic ground states of this model. Using the results obtained in the ﬁrst principle calculation, we ﬁnd that the model is able to reproduce the complex and unconventional incommensurate magnetic order found experimentally. Furthermore, we ﬁnd that β-Li2IrO3 is likely dominated by a ferromagnetic Kitaev exchange interaction, placing it near the exactly solvable spin liquid of the Kitaev limit. We explore one aspect of this three-dimensional spin liquid: that of its one-dimensional spinon Fermi surface. We ﬁnd that this Fermi surface is topologically stable and ensures the existence of gapless and dispersionless boundary states. We show that the Kitaev spin liquid is a rare example of a three-dimensional, strongly correlated phase with bulk excitations and protected gapless boundary excitations. In conclusion, we discuss some future directions in the study of β-Li2IrO3 and iridate systems in general.