VictorJuiz/thesis huggingface dataset:
Networks of Power and Privilege: A Critical Discourse Analysis of the US Next Generation Science Standards
Keywords: actor network theory
critical discourse analysis
next generation science standards
science education
scientific literacy
STEM

Science holds significant power in shaping many of our everyday choices. Thus, it is important for science education to foster the development of scientific literacy for all students, so that they can navigate science-related issues in their daily lives. This study carries out a critical discourse analysis of the US Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) through an actor network theory framework to explore how the NGSS document is shaping the discourse of science education. The findings of this study show that the NGSS delivers a highly technocratic document that leaves little room for democratic engagement. It seems to place an emphasis on science education that is necessary for entry into STEM fields. The NGSS appears to have co-opted the notion of a “science for all” approach to push a neoliberal agenda of science education that serves to fuel the economic market and privileges a select few.
Unintentional Injury in the Rural Setting – the Development of an Instrument to Determine the Attitudes and Beliefs of Rural Community Members Towards Unintentional Injury
Keywords: Health Education
Health Promotion
Injury Prevention
Rural Health
Unintentional Injury

Rural Canada is home to at least 19 percent of Canadians. However, compared to people who live in urban areas, rural Canadians experience lower life expectancy and higher mortality rates and report less healthy behaviours. Unintentional injury is a particular problem. Health promotion initiatives in rural communities should be based on an understanding of the attitudes and beliefs of rural community members towards unintentional injury. The purpose of this study was to develop an instrument to measure these attitudes and beliefs. The instrument was validated for use with this population by experts in various fields and pilot tested with a sample of the intended respondents. A survey is now available for use with the rural population on a larger scale to assist in the design of a rural specific health promotion initiative that reflects the attitudes of the people it is intended to support.
Optimized Data Placement for Real-time Analytics on Semi-structured Data
Keywords: JSON
Vertical Partitioning

In this dissertation, we address the emerging demand for extending traditional relational support to semi-structured data, and for real-time data analytics. Semi-structured data (e.g.,JSON) poses new challenges with large numbers of attributes, sparse attributes and dynamic changes in both workload and data set. In this context, we design, implement and evaluate a novel technique for vertical partitioning of data for optimizing performance of main memory databases. Our partitioning algorithm enables JSON data storage in main memory relational databases by intelligently decomposing JSON objects into different tables. It also adapts to changes in workload and dataset by dynamically refining the current layout. Using the Nobench dataset for JSON data, we outperform Argo, a state-of-the-art data model that maps JSON into relational databases, by 15-30x. We also outperform Hyrise, a state-of-the-art vertical partitioning algorithm, by 1.6x for hybrid workloads with sparse data and perform as well as Hyrise for other workloads.
Investigating the Putative Mechanism and Functional Role of RGS5 Upregulation in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Following Statin Treatment
Keywords: Atherosclerosis
G-Protein Signaling
Neointimal Hyperplasia
Pleiotropic
Statins
Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell

RGS5 within vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is capable of inhibiting G-protein signaling involved in VSMC recruitment. Based on the suggested ability of statin to upregulate RGS5, we investigated whether RGS5 could mediate the pleiotropic effects of statins in VSMCs. Fluvastatin treatment of isolated VSMCs significantly increased the expression of RGS5, while downregulating RGS2, RGS3, and RGS16. However, these results were not observed ex vivo or in vivo within the aorta following fluvastatin treatment. Fluvastatin also upregulated PPARδ and PPARγ, demonstrated transcriptional regulators of RGS5 expression, in VSMCs. However, PPARδ and PPARγ antagonists did not block fluvastatin-induced RGS5 upregulation and their agonists did not increase RGS5 expression. Lastly, fluvastatin did not significantly reduce neointimal hyperplasia following femoral artery injury in RGS5 WT and KO mice. These results suggest that statins robustly upregulate RGS5 only in cultured synthetic VSMCs, with the physiological role of this pleiotropic effect remaining to be elucidated.
Design and Synthesis of Small Molecule Agonists Targeting Type I Interferon and Vitamin D Receptors
Keywords: Agonist
IFNAR
Interferon
vitamin D
Vitamin D receptor

Small molecule agonists were designed and synthesized for two receptor systems: (i) type I interferon-α/β-receptor (IFNAR), a heterodimeric cell-surface transmembrane receptor; and (ii) the vitamin D receptor (VDR), a nuclear membrane bound receptor. As part of the first project, 18 compounds were designed, carrying specific functionalities, and were synthesized targeting IFNAR. A candidate compound exhibited antiviral activities and induced interferon-inducible genes, implying their agonist-like interactions at the receptor. As part of the second project, synthetic strategies were investigated for the synthesis of three hit compounds as potential agonists of VDR to enable accessibility to target compounds. Three hit molecules belonging to the class of pyrimidines were synthesized. This thesis outlines the functional group modifications for exploring agonist activities using rational approaches.
Examining the Therapeutic Potential of Deep Brain Stimulation in a Preclinical Model of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Keywords: Animal Models
DBS
Deep Brain Stimulation
Extinction
Fear
PTSD

Considerable progress has been made in the understanding and treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). However, up to 30% of patients fail to achieve meaningful relief despite multiple treatment attempts. Animal models play an important role in the development of new treatment strategies. This thesis describes a preclinical model of PTSD in which animals displaying impaired fear extinction also exhibit behavioural and endocrine abnormalities similar to those described in PTSD. The model is then implemented to examine the translational potential of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for the treatment of PTSD. A frontline pharmacological intervention, Fluoxetine, is also tested using the model. Chronic DBS of the infralimbic cortex, but not acute DBS or chronic Fluoxetine, was shown to attenuate fear expression to a conditioned aversive cue and reduce anxiety behaviours in PTSD-like rats. These findings demonstrate the translational potential of DBS for the treatment of severe, intractable PTSD.
Queering Museums: Questions of Space, Affect, and the (Non)Normative
Keywords: affect
LGBTQ
museology
museum
neoliberalism
queer

This thesis proposes and utilizes the theoretical framework of ‘neoliberal museology’ to analyze the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR). Neoliberal museology enacts, what is termed as, ‘neoliberal affective rhetorics’ that seek to manage identitarian selves within a cohesive whole, which is demonstrated within the formation of museology over time, persisting within the contemporary embrace of inclusivity and diversity. Turning to queer-affect theory, the neoliberal affective rhetorics embodied in the Sara Ahmed’s ‘promise of happiness’ and Lauren Berlant’s ‘cruel optimism’ are illustrated within the CMHR’s constructed affective pathway in the institution both as a whole and in individual narratives, focusing specifically on the LGBTQ* identitarian representation. Ultimately, this project calls attention to the normalizing affective rhetorics of a brand new cultural institution, teasing apart one instance of contemporary museology in order to create grounds on which to consider differently than the dominant, than the normative.
SPARC Inhibits VEGF-mediated VEGFR2 Activation and Downstream Signaling
Keywords: HUVEC
SPARC
VEGF
VEGFR2

Angiogenesis is in part mediated by the interaction and cross-talk of endothelial cells with their surrounding extracellular matrix microenvironment. SPARC is a collagen- and growth factor-binding matricellular glycoprotein thought to modulate angiogenesis by binding VEGF. VEGF is a potent pro-angiogenic molecule that signals through two cell surface receptors, VEGF receptor 1 and 2 (VEGFR1 and VEGFR2). While pro-angiogenic properties of SPARC may be explained by its interference with VEGF-mediated activation of VEGFR1, the underlying mechanism behind its anti-angiogenic properties is unknown. My study demonstrates for the first time that SPARC binding to VEGF decreases VEGF-mediated VEGFR2 phosphorylation and activation of downstream effectors ERK, p38, and Akt. Moreover, I show that SPARC inhibits VEGF-mediated cell migration. Overall, my data suggest that SPARC exerts anti-angiogenic effects by inhibiting VEGF-induced VEGFR2 signaling. This study supports further investigation of SPARC as a potential therapeutic agent for pathological angiogenesis.
Nano-scale Colloid Particle Transport in Variable-aperture Sandstone Rock Fracture
Keywords: colloid transport
ionic strength
latex microsphere
sandstone fracture
variable aperture

Fractured rock aquifers are susceptible to contamination from septic tank leakage and municipal landfills due to the high conductivity pathways associated with rock fractures. The transport of virus-sized particles in sandstone fractures has not been previously investigated. Transport tests were conducted in an artificially fractured sandstone rock block with negatively charged carboxylate-modified latex microspheres of three sizes (0.02μm, 0.10μm, 0.50μm ϕ), positively charged amine-modified microspheres (0.05μm ϕ), and a conservative solute (〖Br〗^-). The tests were performed at two specific discharges (0.35mm.s-1, and 0.95mm.s-1), two total ionic strengths (5mM, 15mM), and two ionic compositions (〖Na〗^+and 〖Ca〗^(+2)). The 0.02μm particles were retained the most. The 0.10μm particles were retained the least. The 0.05μm particles were not retained under favorable attachment conditions. Increasing the specific discharge resulted in lower particle retention. Increasing the ionic strength increased particle retention, especially for the smaller colloids. Divalent electrolytes were more effective in retaining the particles permanently.
Statistical Arbitrage Using Limit Order Book Imbalance
Keywords: dynamic programming
limit order book
statistical arbitrage
stochastic optimal control

This dissertation demonstrates that there is high revenue potential in using limit order book imbalance as a state variable in an algorithmic trading strategy. Beginning with the hypothesis that imbalance of bid/ask order volumes is an indicator for future price changes, exploratory data analysis suggests that modelling the joint distribution of imbalance and observed price changes as a continuous-time Markov chain presents a monetizable opportunity. The arbitrage problem is then formalized mathematically as a stochastic optimal control problem using limit orders and market orders with the aim of maximizing terminal wealth. The problem is solved in both continuous and discrete time using the dynamic programming principle, which produces both conditions for market order execution, as well as limit order posting depths, as functions of time, inventory, and imbalance. The optimal controls are calibrated and backtested on historical NASDAQ ITCH data, which produces consistent and substantial revenue.
A Comparison of the Boldness and Exploratory Behaviours of the Native Virile Crayfish, Orconectes virilis
Keywords: Behaviour
Boldness
Exploration
Invasion
Invasive Species
Orconectes rusticus

Invasive species are a major threat to biodiversity and recognizing potential invaders is important for attempting to prevent their spread. There are a number of life history traits that can increase the likelihood that a species will become an invader including rapid growth and high fecundity; however, some behaviours like tendency to explore, boldness and activity can also play a role. In this study I performed several experiments to compare these behaviours in two crayfish species; I compared Orconectes rusticus, a successful invader in Ontario, with its native congener Orconectes virilis, and predicted that O. rusticus would be more active, exploratory, and bold. The results of an emergence test and a simulated predator attack showed that O. rusticus was more exploratory and bold, respectively. Reactions to a novel object showed a similar trend, but were not significantly different. The activity and exploration in an open field test were not conclusive.
An MDP-based Coupon Issuing System
Keywords: machine learning
probabilistic models
recommender systems

We present a system based on the work of Shani et al. [An MDP-based recommender system," Journal of Machine Learning Research, vol. 6, pp. 1265-1295, 2005], who showed that the recommendation process could be modeled as a sequential decision process and that a Markov decision process (MDP) provided an adequate representation of the process. The major addition to our system is that of coupons. Given a set of coupons, and an integer n > 0, our system will issue users a coupon every n purchases. This system determines the optimal coupon to issue each user by analyzing their purchase history and the potential profit made from issuing the coupon. We also present an additional method for determining transition probabilities, a method for updating the system in real-time, and a method for solving our system that is potentially more computationally efficient.
Wet Processing of Microalgae and Wastewater Biosolids and their use as Substrates for Anaerobic Methane Production
Keywords: Anaerobic Digestion
Biofuels
Biorefinery
Economics
Microalgae
Wastewater Sludge

Current microalgae cultivation techniques produce dilute cultures, and high dewatering costs have prevented commercialization of algal fuels. A model was developed to quantify the economic impact of algal biofilm systems. Based on reasonable cost and operating assumptions, biofilm systems can be competitive with current algal cultivation provided the cost-per-area of biofilm growth systems does not exceed 2.7 to 14.1 times the cost of conventional systems. Extraction processes for recovery bioproducts from algae and municipal sludge inevitably produce a fraction of residual biomass after the separation processes. Use of these extraction residues for anaerobic degradation was explored using lab-scale batch fermentations. A 33% and 20% reduction in methane productivity was observed from the sludge and algae extraction residues, respectively, relative to their raw, un-extracted substrates. These results indicate that methane yields from sludge and algae alkaline extraction residues are comparable to their respective raw substrates prior to extraction.
Cardiorespiratory exercise improves white matter microstructure and processing speed in childhood brain tumour survivors
Keywords: Cancer
Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Exercise
Paediatric
Processing Speed
White matter

Tumours of the central nervous system are the most common form of malignant brain tumour in the paediatric population. Childhood brain tumour survivors exhibit long-term impacts of radiation treatment on both brain structure and function, negatively impacting their quality of life. We employed a clinical intervention trial to investigate the effects of exercise on improving white matter microstructure and cognitive functions within this population. Using diffusion tensor imaging and a battery of cognitive tests, we have shown that 12-weeks subsequent to a 12-week (carryover effect) exercise program, improved microstructure is displayed within the inferior longitudinal fasciculus. The carryover effect of exercise also led to improved processing speed. Furthermore, exercising within a group setting was indicative of better WM and processing speed outcomes. Exercise improves brain microstructure and processing speed, and should be employed as a post-treatment intervention for childhood brain tumour survivors to ameliorate deficits caused by past radiation therapy.
The Uptake of Active Surveillance for the Treatment of Prostate Cancer in Ontario: Results of a Population-based Study
Keywords: Active surveillance
population-based
Prostate Cancer
Treatments

Active surveillance (AS) has been proposed as a treatment alternative to decrease the overtreatment rates associated with prostate cancer (PCa). However, the proportion of men being managed by this approach in Canada is currently unknown. Therefore, we sought to estimate the proportion of men being managed by AS in Ontario and the factors associated with its uptake. In our population-based study using administrative databases, men with localized PCa were identified using the Ontario Cancer Registry. We then identified how these men were treated. Multi-level mixed models were performed to evaluate the factors associated with being managed by AS. Our analysis confirmed our hypothesis that the uptake of AS increased over time. It also confirmed that the decision to proceed to AS was influenced by several characteristics. The validity of these results might have been affected by some of the study’s limitations. Further studies will be required to validate our findings.
Costing a Publicly Financed Dental Care Pprogram for Uninsured Low-income Ontarians: A Pilot Study
Keywords: Cost
Low-income
Public dental care

Objectives: To provide a costing framework for and to cost a publicly financed dental program for low-income uninsured Ontarians. Methods: The costing framework includes: 1. Specifying the terms for examining costs; 2. Describing the service baskets; and 3. Identifying resources for program delivery; measuring resource utilization; and attaching a monetary value to resources and services; and 4. Including additional costs. The robustness of the estimates was assessed using sensitivity analyses. Demographic and insurance data were sourced from national surveys. Utilization and expenditure data were sourced from existing local public programs. Results: Eleven of 36 public health units provided data. The cost of providing dental care to uninsured low-income Ontarians was $262 million per year. The cost was $299 million when including additional services for adults. Conclusions: While this study provides the approximate costs of a publicly funded program for uninsured low-income Ontarians, the lack of outcome data prevents a complete cost-effectiveness analysis.
The Colonization of Educational Lifeworlds: Habermas and the Communicative Process of Teaching and Learning
Keywords: colonization
communicative action
communicative rationality
Habermas
lifeworld

Jurgen Habermas’ twofold conception of society as both system and lifeworld is an effective conceptual tool to analyses the tension between teaching and learning in the public school classroom and the systemic organization of public education. Communicative action can be seen as an orientation point for pedagogical practice, and this necessitates conceptualizing the classroom as an educational lifeworld subject to systemic pressure. The example of standardized testing as a systems steering mechanism in U.S. public education is explored as a potential “colonization” of the educational lifeworld.
A Multi-port Power Flow Controller for HVDC Networks
Keywords: dc grid
dc power flow controller
HVDC

This thesis proposes a multi-port converter structure for high-voltage dc (HVDC) applications to facilitate power flow routing between multiple dc networks. Power flow control is achieved via the injection of incremental dc voltages between the networks, thus the converter structure is only rated for a fraction of the rated power and voltage of the connecting dc networks. There are four variants of the structure, each offering unique advantages for deployment. These variants, and the modules that comprise them, are presented. Simulation studies demonstrate three-port bidirectional power flow control between networks of similar voltage. The proposed converter structure is shown to route power between the networks using modules with power ratings on the order of 2-3% of the transmitted power. Thus, the proposed converter structure offers a highly cost-effective means of routing and controlling dc power flows within emerging HVDC grids.
Individual Differences and Domain Specific Innovativeness in Online Banking Adoption
Keywords: Difussion of Technology
Individual Differences
Innovativeness
Online and Mobile Banking
Technology Profile Inventory
User Centered Design

This thesis examines attitudes towards online banking in the United States through an online survey of over 300 participants recruited using the Mechanical Turk Crowdsourcing service. I begin by examining the communication preferences inventory (CPI) and validate the three factors that had been found in previous research and propose a shorter 12-item version of the CPI. I then examine predictors of domain-specific innovativeness in the adoption of online banking. The CPI and the TPI (Technology Profile Inventory) are both found to be more predictive than demographic variables, with the TPI being the more strongly predictive of the two. Implications for roll-out strategies for online banking are discussed and prospects for future research on this topic are also considered.
Arabinofuranosidase Characterization and Application in Regulating Xylan-Lignin Interactions
Keywords: Arabinofuranosidase
Enzyme
Glycoside Hydrolase
Lignin
Xylan

Xylan is the second most abundant biopolymer found in plant biomass and has a demonstrated potential to replace petroleum-based products in the materials industry. However, applications of xylan are hindered by the heterogeneous nature of xylan chemistry, as well as a limited understanding of interactions between xylan and other useful biopolymers. In this study three family 62 glycoside hydrolases (GH62) were characterized and preference for different -L-arabinofuranosyl (-L-Araf) substitutions of arabinoxylan was assessed. All three displayed arabinofuranosidase (Abf) activity and released -L-Araf substituents from O-2 and O-3 positions at similar rates. The effect of -L-Araf as well as 4-O-methyl glucuronic acid (MeGlcA) substituents in xylan on xylan-lignin interactions was assessed via quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D). Briefly, xylan adhered to lignin coated surfaces and enzymatic removal of -L-Araf or MeGlcA reduced this interaction.
Fault Ride-through Capability of Grid Integrated Solar Power Plants
Keywords: Fault Ride-Through
Photovoltaic
Solar Power
Volatge Source Converter

Decreasing costs and increasing efficiency of solar panels has led to the emergence of multi-MW Solar Power Plants (SPP). Grid codes now require an SPP to remain connected and provide reactive power support to the grid during a fault. This thesis implements the control system of a 9 MW SPP that provides Fault-Ride-Through (FRT) capability. The control system met the FRT requirements, i.e., rules set by FRT characteristic curve, injects a minimum 2% reactive current for every 1% change in the voltage at the Point of Common Coupling (PCC) and limits the current overshoot of the VSC switches to less than 20%. During a fault, the active power of the SPP is decreased and allows reactive power to be injected into the grid. Simulations verify that the SPP control system met the FRT requirements when providing FRT for symmetrical and asymmetrical faults.