VictorJuiz/thesis huggingface dataset:
Individualism and Audibility in Jazz: The Music of Bunky Green
Keywords: audibility
Bunky Green
canon
Individualism
Influence
Jazz

This dissertation explores questions of influence, individualism, style, and innovation in jazz and their stakes through the music of Vernice “Bunky” Green. Green is an American saxophonist who, I argue, has made a significant impact on the present-day jazz landscape, if not directly, then through the work of other prominent saxophonists like Steve Coleman and Greg Osby. In addition to exploring Green’s musical development and legacies, I discuss the stakes for his approach, which broke away from the dominant paradigm of alto performance established by Charlie Parker. Despite his many new contributions to saxophone soloing, Green was not embraced as an innovator in the eyes of many of his contemporaries, critics, or audiences. To better understand Green’s seemingly contradictory place in jazz history, I discuss his difficulties in getting support from record companies as well as other factors that would have contributed to his relative obscurity. I suggest that Green’s “inside/outside” concept of playing, placing him somewhere between bebop and free jazz, may have been one reason his music was difficult to market to a wide audience. In addition to discussing these concepts in a general manner, this dissertation provides commentary from Coleman, Osby, and others that point towards the too often overlooked importance of Green’s work and its influence on particular, but nevertheless, notable performers within today’s jazz community. Although Green has received some recognition from his collaborations with some of these performers, his work continues to be relatively unknown outside of a handful of jazz musicians and enthusiasts. My dissertation therefore contributes to a more complete picture of saxophone performance practices and history by looking at the work of a creative musician who has been overlooked by many musicians and most scholars and critics. Moreover, it points to the importance of engaging with the music and perspectives of jazz saxophonists who have been excluded from the canon of jazz writing and music. Beyond its importance for jazz historians, such attention to other jazz histories offers vast possibilities for young jazz musicians to diversify their musical practice and engender new directions in jazz.
Investigating Mathematics Teachers' Knowledge for Teaching and Their Learning Trajectories
Keywords: Learning trejectories
Mathematics teachers' knowledge

This study investigated three secondary mathematics teachers’ knowledge for teaching and their learning trajectories from their own schooling through their establishment as experienced teachers in their education system. Their current knowledge includes four categories: mathematics content, curriculum, students’ conceptions and misconceptions, and mathematics pedagogy. Three case studies were conducted through semi-structured research instruments and interviews. Other data such as prior and current official curricula and other materials related to teachers’ professional development were also collected. The findings also indicate that the process of teacher professional development is complex. Teachers learned from various formal and informal sources. The sources and motivation for the teachers’ professional development were: the school mathematics curriculum, their students, the content they taught, the school environment for professional development, their interests, and beliefs and value toward mathematics teaching and learning. The content of their teaching, and their students’ questions and challenges, helped them to reflect about their classroom practices and assisted the teachers in following various approaches to upgrade their knowledge. The findings indicate that there are five categories of professional knowledge for teachers: subject matter knowledge, curriculum knowledge, knowledge of students, mathematics pedagogy, and knowledge of professional development. Each has its subcategories. The categories and subcategories have their properties and some levels of bonds among others. Teachers’ knowledge for teaching is not static but is dynamic. The knowledge is shaped with the changes of school curriculum and teachers’ choice of approaches and learning directions for their professional development. Teacher’s subject matter knowledge is aligned with the curriculum, and the students’ prior learning. Mathematics pedagogical content knowledge is developed over many years of teaching. It depends on the approaches and directions of teachers’ professional development, what they teach and who they teach. Mathematics pedagogical content knowledge of secondary school mathematics teachers should include the alignment of elementary, secondary and post-secondary mathematics fundamental ideas, strategies, mathematics thinking and analysis structures of content. Teacher programs also need to provide approaches and directions of professional development. Inservice teacher programs need to entail teachers’ needs for subject matter and pedagogical content knowledge development in their educational system.
Improving Bayesian Optimization for Machine Learning using Expert Priors
Keywords: Bayesian Optimization
Deep Learning
Gaussian Processes
Machine Learning
Neural Networks

Deep neural networks have recently become astonishingly successful at many machine learning problems such as object recognition and speech recognition, and they are now also being used in many new and creative ways. However, their performance critically relies on the proper setting of numerous hyperparameters. Manual tuning by an expert researcher has been a traditionally effective approach, however it is becoming increasingly infeasible as models become more complex and machine learning systems become further embedded within larger automated systems. Bayesian optimization has recently been proposed as a strategy for intelligently optimizing the hyperparameters of deep neural networks and other machine learning systems; it has been shown in many cases to outperform experts, and provides a promising way to reduce both the computational and human time required. Regardless, expert researchers can still be quite effective at hyperparameter tuning due to their ability to incorporate contextual knowledge and intuition into their search, while traditional Bayesian optimization treats each problem as a black box and therefore cannot take advantage of this knowledge. In this thesis, we draw inspiration from these abilities and incorporate them into the Bayesian optimization framework as additional prior information. These extensions include the ability to transfer knowledge between problems, the ability to transform the problem domain into one that is easier to optimize, and the ability to terminate experiments when they are no longer deemed to be promising, without requiring their training to converge. We demonstrate in experiments across a range of machine learning models that these extensions significantly reduce the cost and increase the robustness of Bayesian optimization for automatic hyperparameter tuning.
Tensor product of preprojective algebras and preprojective structure on skew-group algebras
Keywords: Koszul algebra
Preprojective algebra
Skew-group algebra
Superpotential

We investigate properties of finite subgroups G < SL(n, k) for which the skew-group algebra k[x1, . . . , xn]#G does not have a grading structure of (higher) preprojective algebra. Namely, we prove that if a finite subgroup G < SL(n, k) is conjugate to a finite subgroup of SL(n1, k) × SL(n2, k), for some n1, n2 ≥ 1, n1 + n2 = n, then the skew-group algebra k[x1, . . . , xn]#G is not Morita equivalent to a (higher) preprojective algebra. One of the first examples of such a group G is (1/3(1, 2, 1, 2)), the cyclic subgroup of order 3 of SL(4, k) generated by the diagonal matrix. Motivated by this question, we study preprojective algebras over Koszul algebras. We give a quiver construction for the preprojective algebra over a basic Koszul n-representation-infinite algebra. Moreover, we show that such algebras are derivation-quotient algebras whose relations are given by a superpotential. The main problem is also related to the preprojective algebra structure on the tensor product Π := Π1 ⊗k Π2 of two Koszul preprojective algebras. We prove that a superpotential in Π is given by the shuffle product of superpotentials in Π1 and Π2. Finally, we prove that if Π has a grading structure such that it is n-Calabi-Yau of Gorentstein parameter 1, then its degree 0 component is the tensor product of a Calabi-Yau algebra and a higher representation-infinite algebra. This implies that it is infinite-dimensional, which means in particular that Π is not a preprojective algebra.
Cytoskeletal changes during classical activation of macrophages in 2D and 3D environments
Keywords: Classical Activation
Collagen
Cytoskeleton
Macrophage
Microtubules
Stathmin

As effector cells of the innate immune response, macrophages are capable of recognizing and eliminating pathogens during inflammation. Macrophages achieve maximal immunological potential by undergoing cellular activation. Classical activation of macrophages (M1) with interferon-Îł (IFNÎł) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) greatly enhances the immune response against intruding pathogens. We have previously revealed that stathmin association with microtubules (MTs) is considerably reduced in M1 macrophages using proteomics approaches. In this thesis, we demonstrate a LPS-dependent stathmin protein reduction in M1 macrophages. We also explored the functional roles of stathmin down-regulation by generating stable cell lines overexpressing stathmin-GFP. Stathmin-GFP overexpression impaired MT integrity and reduced activation-associated phenotypes. Furthermore, overexpressing stathmin-GFP inhibited complement receptor 3 (CR3)-mediated phagocytosis and cellular activation, implicating its pivotal inhibitory role in classical activation of macrophages. We next explored the role of the microenvironment in the classical activation of macrophages. Previous studies were predominately conducted on two-dimensional (2D) platforms. Consequently, we cultured macrophages in a more physiologically relevant microenvironment and examined the cellular activation and morphological changes. Our preliminary data suggested that M1 macrophages within 3D collagen matrices exhibited enhanced activation and unique adhesion complexes when compared to cells cultured on 2D platforms. Overall, our findings suggest that biochemical and physical cues provided by the extracellular matrix (ECM) modulate the morphological changes and immunological functions of macrophages.
Conservation and Biological Senescence in Polar Bears: Telomeres and Inuit Traditional Knowledge
Keywords: aging
biological senescence
Inuit
Polar bear
telomeres
traditional knowledge

Although noninvasive genetic surveys play an increasing role in monitoring polar bear population dynamics, genetic methods of identifying age await development. Telomeres––repetitive DNA sequences at chromosome ends––may indicate biological senescence and chronological aging. In some taxa, telomere length has been shown to decline with chronological age, but may vary with tissue, sex, and environmental variation and even within and among individuals of the same age. This thesis evaluates patterns of variation in telomeres as a function of chronological age by i) developing a telomere restriction fragment (TRF) assay in grizzly bears to examine how telomere length varies with age sex, and stress in this taxa and ii) using a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to determine how telomere length varies with tissue, age, sex, and population in harvested polar bears. I also examine iii) Inuit methods of identifying polar bear characteristics to enrich interpretations of these patterns and iv) Inuit perspectives of research and management for insight into long-term community-level monitoring. TRF assays in grizzly bears are able to detect age and sex effects on telomere length, yet these findings are inconclusive. Future work using a larger sample can confirm these relationships. For heart, muscle, and skin salvaged from polar bears, significant differences in telomere length occur among populations and these involve differences in age and sex in muscle and potentially skin. Telomeres will likely serve as a better indicator of biological versus chronological aging. Inuit across Nunavut continue to share methods in identifying sex, age, body size and health of encountered polar bears and their knowledge could inform polar bear surveys. Unfortunately, not all Inuit support current research and management practices, suggesting there is a need to improve collaborative relationships. Including Inuit in monitoring programs can highlight unique, novel methods of monitoring a high profile at-risk species.
Of Unreasonable Searches and Seizures: A Blueprint for a Constitutional Challenge to the Security of Canada Information Sharing Act
Keywords: information-sharing
search and seizure
section 8 of Charter
surveillance

This thesis scrutinizes the Security of Canada Information Sharing Act [“SoCIS”] through the lens of section 8 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Drawing an epistemological link between search and seizure principles and the domestic exchange of information, I argue that the SoCIS falls short of the safeguards demanded by section 8. By permitting the unremitting disclosure of information, the regime casts too wide a net, and risks the exchange of information about innocent Canadians – not unlike the cases of Maher Arar, Ahmad Elmaati, Muayyed Nureddin, and Abdullaah Almalki. When measured against jurisprudential standards and lessons from commissions of inquiry involving porous information-sharing dynamics, the absence of oversight or accountability in the SoCIS proves disproportionate to its overarching objective. Thus, it cannot be saved by section 1 of the Charter, and should be declared of no force or effect.
Construction of relative discrete series representations for p-adic GLn
Keywords: p-adic symmetric space
Relative discrete series
Representation theory

Let F be a nonarchimedean local field of characteristic zero and odd residual characteristic. Let G be the F-points of a connected reductive group defined over F and let θ be an F-rational involution of G. Define H to be the closed subgroup of θ-fixed points in G. The quotient variety H\G is a p-adic symmetric space. A fundamental problem in the harmonic analysis on H\G is to understand the irreducible subrepresentations of the right-regular representation of G acting on the space L2(H\G) of complex-valued square integrable functions on H\G. The irreducible subrepresentations of L2(H\G) are called relative discrete series representations. In this thesis, we give an explicit construction of relative discrete series representations for three p-adic symmetric spaces, all of which are quotients of the general linear group. We consider GLn (F) × GLn(F)\GL2n(F), GLn(F)\GLn(E), and UE/F(F)\GL2n(E), where E is a quadratic Galois extension of F and UE/F is a quasi-split unitary group. All of the representations that we construct are parabolically induced from θ-stable parabolic subgroups admitting a certain type of Levi subgroup. In particular, we give a sufficient condition for the relative discrete series representations that we construct to be non-relatively supercuspidal. Finally, in an appendix, we describe the relative discrete series for the space GLn−1(F) × GL1(F)\GLn(F).
Genes, behaviour, and thermal reaction norms in Caenorhabditis nematodes
Keywords: Behavioural genetics
Behavioural reaction norms
QTL
Quantitative trait loci
Thermal performance curves

Understanding how complex phenotypes like behaviour evolve requires that we determine the genetic contributions that get used by natural selection. Deciphering the genetic causes of differences in animal behaviour is challenging because behaviour phenotypes are strongly influenced by the environment, with phenotypic responses transduced through pleiotropic gene networks and the nervous system. My thesis simplifies these issues in behavioural genetics by working with a powerful genetic model animal system under tightly controlled laboratory environments that mimic natural environmental stimuli. I was able to quantify heritable natural variation in behaviour phenotypes among natural isolate strains of
Distributed Optimization of Sustainable Power Dispatch and Flexible Consumer Loads for Resilient Power Grid Operations
Keywords: Distributed Optimization
Game theory
Sustainability

Today's electric grid is rapidly evolving to provision for heterogeneous system components (e.g. intermittent generation, electric vehicles, storage devices, etc.) while catering to diverse consumer power demand patterns. In order to accommodate this changing landscape, the widespread integration of cyber communication with physical components can be witnessed in all tenets of the modern power grid. This ubiquitous connectivity provides an elevated level of awareness and decision-making ability to system operators. Moreover, devices that were typically passive in the traditional grid are now `smarter' as these can respond to remote signals, learn about local conditions and even make their own actuation decisions if necessary. These advantages can be leveraged to reap unprecedented long-term benefits that include sustainable, efficient and economical power grid operations. Furthermore, challenges introduced by emerging trends in the grid such as high penetration of distributed energy sources, rising power demands, deregulations and cyber-security concerns due to vulnerabilities in standard communication protocols can be overcome by tapping onto the active nature of modern power grid components. In this thesis, distributed constructs in optimization and game theory are utilized to design the seamless real-time integration of a large number of heterogeneous power components such as distributed energy sources with highly fluctuating generation capacities and flexible power consumers with varying demand patterns to achieve optimal operations across multiple levels of hierarchy in the power grid. Specifically, advanced data acquisition, cloud analytics (such as prediction), control and storage systems are leveraged to promote sustainable and economical grid operations while ensuring that physical network, generation and consumer comfort requirements are met. Moreover, privacy and security considerations are incorporated into the core of the proposed designs and these serve to improve the resiliency of the future smart grid. It is demonstrated both theoretically and practically that the techniques proposed in this thesis are highly scalable and robust with superior convergence characteristics. These distributed and decentralized algorithms allow individual actuating nodes to execute self-healing and adaptive actions when exposed to changes in the grid so that the optimal operating state in the grid is maintained consistently.
Qualified, Yet Denied: Life Experiences of Immigrant Medical Doctors After Denial of Medical Recertification in Ontario
Keywords: CanMEDS
History of Medicine
Immigrant Doctors
Immigration
Medical Recertification
Sociology/Social Justice

Canada’s non-discriminatory immigration policy, advanced medical research, ongoing need for doctors, and promises of transitioning immigrant professionals to professional jobs, attract many doctors from developing and non-English-speaking countries. Medical doctors arrive in Canada in anticipation of a better life and to continue their medical careers. However, the majority end up in underemployed low-wage jobs outside of medicine. They risk termination of their lifelong professional identity and status after arrival in Canada. Despite passing the Canadian medical exams and meeting the requirements for re-licensure, immigrant medical doctors (IMDs) face systemic denial of access to the profession. Foreign credentials, culture, and language are identified as ongoing barriers that set IMDs apart. This study explores the professional, personal, and social impacts on the lives of IMDs who are qualified for medical recertification in Ontario, yet denied opportunities for a license to practice medicine. I briefly ¬trace the history of the medical profession for a better understanding of how the profession was established, organized and regulated. I seek to understand how IMDs of visible minority backgrounds are viewed within the existing structure of the profession. Using a qualitative research methodology, I interviewed 15 IMDs from countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, South America, and the West Indies. Participants’ motivation for continuing to seek opportunities for medical recertification, after being denied, struggles and frustrations they face as desperate need for doctors continue to exist, are revealed in this study. I make recommendations for re-imagining and adapting IMDs’ foreign skills as a valuable contribution to the patient-care delivery in Ontario’s diverse population. I provide suggestions for change to resolve the prevailing IMD problem and including more IMDs in residency training and the medical workforce. Keywords: Immigrant doctors, IMDs/IMGs, Immigration, History of medicine, Medical recertification, CanMEDS, Anti-colonialism, Motivation, Governance, Social justice.
Simultaneous EEG-fMRI Study of Audiovisual Sensory Processing
Keywords: auditory
multivariate
sensory
Simulteneous EEG-fMRI
visual

Simultaneous acquisition of Electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) enables studying of brain function with high spatial resolution of fMRI and high temporal resolution of EEG. The complementary characteristics of the two modalities have made simultaneous EEG-fMRI into a rapidly growing neuroimaging technique with a wide range of cognitive and clinical applications. This thesis uses simultaneous EEG-fMRI to investigate the relationship between electrophysiological activity of the brain and the corresponding hemodynamic response during sensory processing of auditory and visual stimuli. Despite major improvements during the short history of EEG-fMRI, several technical and methodological challenges still remain. The main challenge in EEG-fMRI is the compromised EEG data quality. EEG data recorded inside the MR scanner is contaminated by artifacts caused by the MR magnetic fields. This thesis provides a comparative evaluation of the existing EEG artifact removal methods and proposes new analysis approaches to improve the EEG data quality. Another open question in the field of EEG-fMRI is the optimal choice of measures and techniques for data integration. This thesis proposes a new multivariate approach for EEG-fMRI data integration, which enables taking advantage of the full spectrum of the data available in two modalities. The proposed multivariate technique as well as conventional univariate methods are then used to explore the relationship between various aspects of the brainâ s electrophysiological activity (i.e. the transient evoked activity, oscillatory evoked activity and spontaneous oscillatory activity) and the associated hemodynamic response in auditory and visual cortices.