VictorJuiz/thesis huggingface dataset:
Seismic Imaging of Shallow Carbonate and Shale Hosted Massive Sulphide Deposits: A Feasibility Study
Keywords: seismic
massive sulphide

Seismic imaging of shallow sediment hosted massive sulphides has not been studied in detail. In this research two shallow sediment hosted massive sulphide deposits (one deeper and larger than the other) were modeled and synthetic seismic data generated using a 2D elastic wavefield finite difference code. F-k filtering can be used to attenuating surface waves (conventional processing). This requires small trace spacing so that spatially aliasing of energy is avoided. An alternative to this involves avoiding the surface wave using an optimum offset window technique. Both of these approaches, attenuation and avoidance, produce a high amplitude image of the deeper larger orebody. For the smaller, shallower orebody, conventional processing produced only a weak image of the orebody. However, there is a significant amount of shear wave energy from this target, and therefore multicomponent geophones should be used to capture this energy.
An Argument against Immigration Detention in Canada
Keywords: immigration
detention

This thesis will provide an argument against the use of immigration detention for asylum seekers. The thesis will critically analyse the law and policy of immigration detention in Canada. It will argue that the current policy of immigration detention in Canada does not comply with international human rights and obligations. The current policy of immigration detention does not reflect the values enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedom, and the policy of mandatory detention should be abolished immediately. Immigration Detention should be a last resort, only enforced after alternatives to detention have been considered. There should be regular reviews of detention, equally applicable to all immigrants, and detention should last for as brief a period as possible.
Efficient Abstractions in Hierarchical Supervisory Control of Discrete-event Systems
Keywords: Dicrete-event systems
hierarhical control

In this thesis we study two problems in hierarchical supervisory control of discrete-event systems. The first problem is controller reduction, which is to find smaller abstractions of hierarchical controllers for easier understanding. The second problem is controller design, which is to find smaller abstractions of systems for high-level controller design. We employ natural projections to generate abstractions, thus incorporate the two problems into one optimization problem in which we try to minimize the size of the observable event set of the abstractions, subject to the constraints that the abstractions still achieve maximally permissive and nonblocking control. An optimal solution is proposed for the controller reduction problem, and a suboptimal solution is proposed for the controller design problem.
On the Benefits of Network Coding in Multi-party Video Conferencing
Keywords: Network Coding
Multi-party Video Conferencing

The widespread use of personal multimedia-rich devices and multi-party video conferencing have made face-to-face communication among multiple users a promising feature. This thesis presents a multi-party conferencing solution with network coding naturally embedded. Our fundamental goal is to study if network coding brings benefits to multi-party conferencing. In this thesis, we first review an existing network coded solution for multi-party conferencing. Then, this solution is evaluated in our framework of evaluating a new transmission protocol for multi-party conferencing. Also, an investigation is set up to dive into the bottlenecks of this network coded solution. Next, an improved solution targeting conferencing services is proposed by tackling the bottlenecks of the existing solution. Based on our experiment results, it is found that network coding does bring benefits in the context of multi-party conferencing.
Elite Athletes' Experiences of Athlete-centred Coaching
Keywords: Coaching
Elite Athletes
Athlete-Centred

Athlete-centred coaching is proposed to enhance performance (Lyle, 2002), develop life skills (Kidman &amp; Lombardo, 2010), and prevent athlete maltreatment (Kerr &amp; Stirling, 2008). Despite the consistent recommendation, very little is known empirically about athlete-centred coaching, the extent to which it is implemented, or athletes&rsquo; experiences with this style of coaching. The purpose of this study therefore was to examine recently retired elite athletes&rsquo; perspectives on their most athlete-centred coach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight male and female recently retired Olympians. The findings of this study provided mixed evidence for coaching behaviours characterized as athlete-centred coaching as defined within the literature. Specifically, at least half of the coaches did not use stimulating questions, one of the most central athlete-centred tenets. Explanations for the mixed findings are discussed and a continuum of athlete-centred coaching is proposed. Lastly, suggestions for future research and practical implications are presented.
The Influence of Tonality on Sight-reading Accuracy
Keywords: Music performance
Sight-reading
Tonality
Expectancies
Top-Down Processing

The present study investigated how knowledge of tonality is used in sight-reading by comparing sight-reading accuracy across three tonal constructs: major, minor and atonal. It was hypothesized that sight-reading performance would be the worst in instances with no tonal information, as participants would be unable to generate appropriate top-down expectancies to guide their sight-reading. To test this, twelve pianists sight-read major, minor and atonal versions of monophonic, homophonic and polyphonic excerpts. The results indicated that pianists performed the major excerpts with greater accuracy than the atonal excerpts. Furthermore, the errors made within the major excerpts were significantly biased towards diatonicism, and there was a global shift towards tonality in participants’ atonal performances, providing a clear demonstration of how pianists’ expectations might have contributed to their sight-reading performance. The diatonic bias was not found in the minor excerpts, suggesting that the minor hierarchy does exert as strong of an influence during sight-reading.
Sport and the Making of World Cities: A Case Study of South Africa
Keywords: Sport
Development
South Africa
Mega-events
FIFA World Cup
Physical education
Cities

This thesis explores two distinctive ways in which sport is deployed as a development strategy in South Africa, and specifically considers how sport may play a role in the configuration of the nation’s cities. First, a case study of the sporting mega-event, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, is presented. It is posited that this tournament was a speculative world-making strategy aimed at elevating host cities and the nation to world-class status. Second, a discourse analysis of South African policy documents regarding the reintroduction of physical education is performed. It is argued that despite the fundamental neoliberal elements of physical education, there is a possibility that if the government maximizes certain opportunities, it could be a way of forging ordinary cities that are based upon equitable access to sport for South African children. These assessments suggest that sport can play a role in both the spatial and symbolic development of cities.
Geographic Access to Breast Reconstruction and the Influence of Plastic Surgeon Availability
Keywords: Health services research
breast reconstruction

Background: We evaluated geographic patterns for immediate and delayed breast reconstruction (IBR, DBR) in Ontario. The influence of plastic surgeon availability on rates and service provision was determined. Methods: We examined IBR and DBR from 2002 through 2011 across Ontario counties. Regional availability of plastic surgeons was described. Geographic patterns were examined using funnel plots, random-effects models and migration indices. Results: Over ½ Ontario counties have no plastic surgeons. IBR ranged from 0 to 21.5% across counties and differences in plastic surgeon availability explained 41% of variation (p < 0.0001). For DBR there was less variation. 5/45 counties performed ¾ of BR, however rates among local residents were not highest. Interpretation: Nearly 1/3 of the population has limited access to plastic surgeons, contributing to low rates of BR. Geographic access is a major determinant of IBR but is less important for DBR, however service provision for both was highly regionalized.
The Influence of Body-related Envy on Psychophysiological Response of Stress In Young Women
Keywords: body image
emotions
stress
women's health

Body-related envy is an understudied emotion that may be linked with adverse psychophysiological outcomes such as stress (Smith & Kim, 2007). The purpose of this study was to explore body-related envy and psychophysiological response of stress among young adult females. Participants (N = 47; Mage = 21.6 ± 1.8 yrs) completed a weeklong assessment of phenomenological body-related envy, trait body image constructs and an acute laboratory stress-induction task. Findings support the hypothesis that negative body image constructs predict experiences of body-related envy (R2 = 0.17 - 0.54), and that envy can be reliability assessed using phenomenological ratings. Body-related envy was a significant predictor of psychological appraisals of stress (R2 = 0.24 - 0.31), but the proposed associations with physiological stress were not supported. Considering the adverse health outcomes associated with envy (Smith, et al., 1999) and stress (Anderson, 1998), this study has important implications for women’s psychological and physical health.
Less Talk, More Action: Ending the Futile Debate on a Canadian Securities Regulation to Focus on Resolving the Real Issues
Keywords: securities
regulation

It has been endlessly demonstrated that the provinces will stand in the way of successful negotiations towards a common or national securities regulator in Canada. While there are many flaws in the current regulatory system, there are aspects of a decentralized model that can be valuable, particularly in a country with such regional diversity. Moving forward, policy development should focus on strengthening the current system while realizing the political realities that persist. By retaining various aspects of a decentralized model, yet also cooperating with the federal government to overcome issues that a national regulator might have resolved, there is potential for Canada&rsquo;s system to prevail.
Southern African Climate Dynamics and Archaeology during the Last Glacial Maximum
Keywords: South Africa
paleohydrology
atmospheric circulation
Last Glacial Maximum
archaeology

There is little consensus on what forced the climate of southern Africa to change during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Because of southern Africa's latitudinal position, changes in seasonal precipitation can help resolve the influence of internal climate factors such as groundwater and external climate forcers such as large scale atmospheric circulation patterns. This paper presents a simple model of groundwater discharge based on permeability and topography in comparison with general circulation model precipitation results and paleoenvironmental proxy records. Results show that during the LGM the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) likely weakened and moved slightly further south while the westerlies likely expanded slightly northward, with no significant change in strength. The climate and groundwater results were compared to the distribution of LGM and pre-LGM archaeological sites. Results show that the Later Stone Age peoples of southern Africa were likely inhabiting a relatively wet environment rather than an arid one.
The Screening of Biomaterials to Support Long-term Growth and Maintenance of Human Embryonic Stem Cells in Xeno- and Feeder-free System
Keywords: Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Biomaterials
Extracellular Matrix Proteins
Design of Experiments
Long-term maintenance of pluripotency and self-renewal

Current feeder-free culture systems employing undefined Matrigel are still more effective in maintaining human embryonic stem (ES) cells than defined surfaces using extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. While the role of substrate stiffness in stem cell fate is becoming increasingly evident, all previous culture systems use ECM proteins on rigid polystyrene surfaces. Here, we used factorial designs to screen and evaluate combinations ECM proteins and substrate stiffness for their effect on short-term pluripotency and self-renewal. Using optimal conditions determined from our screening experiments, defined and near xeno-free culture systems maintained CA1 human ES cells for over 10 passages in Essential 8 (E8) medium. Under these conditions, we found that human ES cell self-renewal was greater on soft polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates than on rigid polystyrene dishes. The culture systems and screening tools developed in this project will help develop robust and defined xeno-free culture systems that incorporate both biochemical and biomechanical factors.
Hospital Wide Roll-out of Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Stepped Wedge Randomized Controlled Trial
Keywords: Antimicrobial Stewardship

The objective of this study was to determine the impact of an antimicrobial stewardship intervention in six non-intensive care services. A review of all patients on their 3rd and 10th day of broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy was conducted at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre using a stepped&ndash;wedge randomized design. The primary outcome was broad-spectrum antimicrobial utilization in the intervention period compared to the control period. Despite high volumes and uptake of stewardship recommendations, a non-significant reduction in targeted antimicrobial utilization was achieved; however, median length of stay of the patients included was ~4 days, limiting the ability of the intervention to make a significant impact on inpatient antimicrobial utilization. Careful consideration of the targeted patient population is, therefore, warranted when planning and implementing antimicrobial stewardship interventions. Future work may focus on intervening earlier in the course of therapy.
An Examination of Community-based Meal Programs for Homeless and Under-housed People in Five Canadian Cities
Keywords: food insecurity
community responses
homelessness
public policy

The provision of free or low cost meals is an integral component of community services working to address problems of poverty and homelessness in Canada. However, there has been little systematic examination of how they function relative to clients&rsquo; nutrition needs. The objective of this research was to investigate the scope and nature of meal programs by examining an inventory of charitable food provisioning activities, created between 2010 and 2011, in five Canadian cities. Of 290 agencies offering meal programs, 548000 meals were served every month. However, service scheduling varied throughout the week, and the majority of agencies were reliant on volunteer labour, donated food supplies, and experienced difficulties managing the current demand for food assistance. Findings from this study highlight the strengths and limitations of the current food provisioning system and a need to improve the capacity of agencies to respond to populations experiencing food insecurity in Canada.
Bioactive Chitosan Nanoparticles and Photodynamic Therapy Inhibit Collagen Degradation in vitro
Keywords: dentin
chitosan
nanoparticles
collagenase
photodynamic therapy

This study evaluated the ability of photodynamic therapy (PDT), chitosan nanoparticles (CSnp), or their combination, to inhibit bacterial collagenase-mediated degradation of collagen. Rat type 1 fibrillar collagen matrices were untreated or treated with 2.5% glutaraldehyde (GD), 2.5% GD followed by 1% CSnp, 1% CSnp, PDT, or 1% CSnp followed by PDT. Samples, except untreated controls, were exposed to Clostridium histolyticum collagenase. The soluble digestion products were assessed by hydroxyproline assay and the remaining adherent collagen was quantified by picrosirius red (PSR) staining. Collagen treated with CSnp, PDT, or a combination of CSnp and PDT, exhibited less degradation than controls. The abundance of posttreatment residual collagen correlated with the extent of degradation. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis showed that PDT treatment enhanced collagen cross-linking. Immunoblotting of sedimented CSnp indicated that CSnp and collagenase bound with low affinity. However, CSnp-bound collagenase showed a significant reduction in collagenolytic activity compared with controls.
Developing the Bladder Utility Symptom Scale: A Multiattribute Health State Classification System for Bladder Cancer
Keywords: Bladder Cancer
Quality of Life

Disease-specific (e.g. urinary) and generic problems (e.g. fatigue) impact health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of patients with bladder cancer (BC). A questionnaire addressing both sets of problems and generating utilities, a measure of overall HRQOL, is needed for this population. In consultation with 47 BC patients and 12 BC experts we created a novel HRQOL questionnaire for BC in a stepwise, iterative fashion with conceptual framework development, item generation, item reduction, question design and pilot testing. Patients and experts identified urinary problems, bowel problems, sexual problems, body image, pain, and decreased vigor as domains, which impact daily activities and impair HRQOL. Support from patients’ family and friends and their medical team were also paramount to HRQOL. The Bladder Utility Symptom Scale is a comprehensible instrument that was created to facilitate patient-oriented care and guide clinical policy by grounding guidelines, health resource allocation, and policy decisions in the expressed preferences of BC patients.
Social Regulation of Adult Neurogenesis in a Eusocial Mammal
Keywords: basolateral amygdala
eusociality
hippocampus
neurogenesis
social behaviour
piriform cortex

The present study examined social status and adult neurogenesis in the naked mole rat. These animals live in large colonies with a strict reproductive dominance hierarchy; one female and 1-3 males breed, while other members are subordinate and reproductively suppressed. We examined whether social status affects doublecortin (DCX; a marker for immature neurons) immunoreactivity in the dentate gyrus, piriform cortex (PCx), and basolateral amygdala (BLA) by comparing breeders to subordinates. We also examined subordinates removed from their colony and paired with opposite- or same-sex conspecifics for 6 months. Breeders had reduced DCX immunoreactivity in all areas, with BLA effects confined to females. Effects of housing condition were region-specific, with higher PCx DCX immunoreactivity observed in opposite- than same-sex paired subordinates regardless of gonadal status. The opposite pattern was observed in the BLA. Future work will clarify whether findings are attributable to status differences in stress, behavioural plasticity, or life stage.
The Impact of Intent in the Characterization Analysis of a Worker
Keywords: Tax
Employment

The Tax Court of Canada and the Federal Court of Appeal are regularly asked by taxpayers and the Canada Revenue Agency to determine whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor. The distinction has significant tax consequences. The analysis and various legal tests used by the courts to determine the characterization of a worker have been through significant transformations over the last 15 years. The analysis remained objective for several years. However, in 2002, courts began to consider the common intent held between the taxpayer and the worker when characterizing that worker’s status as either an employee or an independent contractor. Since its introduction, the courts have placed various levels of importance on this common intent in the characterization process. This paper seeks to quantify the varied emphasis placed by the courts on the intent held between a taxpayer and its worker.
Dentists' Views and Practice of Sedation and General Anaesthesia in Ontario
Keywords: Sedation
General Anaesthesia

This study investigated Ontario dentists' views and use of sedation and general anaesthesia (GA) (n=1076; 37.9% response rate). A mixed mode format offered mailed and web survey options. Study participants were 69.7% male, 83.0% general practitioners, practicing 0.5-42 years (mean 20.6 years), with 40.6% from cities &gt;500,000. 60.2% of respondents provided sedation. Dentists' underestimated patient interest in sedation/GA (66.8% vs. 43.9% not interested; 19.8% vs. 42.8% possibly interested; 13.4% vs. 12.4% definitely interested). Patients' preference for sedation/GA by service was also underestimated (p&lt;0.001) except for extractions. Barriers to care were cost (72.2%) for providers; lack of training (38.2%) and patient demand (25.3%) for non-providers. Dentists reported use of sedation highest for extractions (1.5% deep sedation/GA-5.7% nitrous). Dentists' also overestimated patients' level of fear (somewhat afraid 19.95 vs. 9.8%; very afraid 10.6% vs. 2.0%; terrified 6.0% vs. 3.5%). This study confirms differences between dentists' use and estimation of patient demand for sedation/GA.
Factors Influencing Physical Therapists’ Use of Standardized Measures of Walking Capacity Post-stroke across the Care Continuum
Keywords: physical therapist
standardized assessment tools
Guidelines
qualitative
Walking

Abstract Background. Physical therapists report inconsistent use of valid and reliable measures of walking post-stroke. Objective. To describe the methods physical therapists use to evaluate walking, reasons for selecting these methods, and the use of the evaluation results in clinical practice along the continuum of an organized system of stroke care. Methods. A qualitative descriptive study involving semi-structured telephone interviews of physical therapists in Ontario was conducted. A thematic analysis was performed. Results. Participants (n=28) used both standardized and non-standardized methods to assess walking. A hierarchy of factors influencing use of both methods was observed. Assessment results were commonly used for communication with other healthcare professionals or education of the patient. Conclusions. A variety of factors influence physical therapists to use standardized assessment tools. Future knowledge translation interventions should focus on these factors to improve the standardized assessment of walking post-stroke.
Distribution and Physiological Effects of Adipokinetic Hormone (AKH), Corazonin and AKH/corazonin-related Peptide (ACP) in the Kissing Bug, Rhodnius prolixus
Keywords: Insects
Neuropeptides

Rhodnius prolixus is a medically-important hemipteran that serves as a vector of Chagas disease. The distribution and physiological effects of three sequence-related neuropeptides, adipokinetic hormone (AKH), corazonin (CRZ) and AKH/corazonin-related peptide (ACP) have been investigated in R. prolixus. Immunohistochemistry revealed that AKH, CRZ and ACP are not co-localized but are found within a different subset of cells and processes within the central nervous system. Physiologically, CRZ significantly increased the heartbeat rate whereas AKH and ACP did not. AKH significantly increased haemolymph lipid levels whereas CRZ and ACP did not. There is no known function for ACP. Preliminary studies indicated that CRZ may be involved in gating of ecdysis.