VictorJuiz/thesis huggingface dataset:
Design of an Electrochemical Cell Cytosensor
Keywords: Engineering
Biomedical

A sensitive and simple cell counting method is necessary in many pathologies including HIV [1] and cancer [2]. Cell counting sensors are used in the clinic for diagnosis of leukemia [3] or HIV [4]. Furthermore, genetic analysis of these cells is crucial for better prognosis and diagnosis [5]. However, a simple method for cell counting that allows further analysis is still lacking. This study aims to design a sensor that counts cells in the complex matrix of cell media or in the presence of non-target cells. The chip designed uses the anti-EpCAM antibody to selectively count cells via differential pulse voltammetry. The device can selectively count prostate cancer cells in both complex media with serum and a mixed cell population with a sensitivity of 125 cells per sensor. A simple and sensitive cell cytosensor was designed that can be used to count cancer cells effectively.
Neo-Liberalism, the Islamic Revival, and Urban Development in Post-War, Post-Socialist Sarajevo
Keywords: Urban Geography
Political-Economy

This thesis examines the confluence between pan-Islamist politics, neo-liberalism and urban development in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. After tracing a history of the Islamic revival in Bosnia, I examine the results of neo-liberal policy in post-war Bosnia, particularly regarding the promises of neo-liberal institutions and think tanks that privatization and inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI) would de-politicize the economy and strip ethno-religious nationalist elites of their power over state-owned firms. By analyzing three prominent new urban developments in Sarajevo, all financed by FDI from the Islamic world and brought about by the privatization of urban real-estate, I show how neo-liberal policy has had unintended outcomes in Sarajevo that contradict the assertions of policy makers. In examining urban change, I bring out the role played by the city in mediating between both elites and citizens, and between the seemingly contradictory projects of pan-Islamism and neo-liberalism.
Ultracapacitor/Battery Hybrid Energy Storage Systems for Electric Vehicles
Keywords: Ultracapacitor
Battery
Electric Vehicle
Hybrid Energy Storage System
Light Electric Vehicle
Half-bridge Converter
DC-DC Converter
Quasi Resonant
Pulse Frequency Modulation
Variable Frequency Quasi-resonant
Zero Voltage Switching
High Efficiency
Power Mix Optimizer
Global Positioning System
GPS
Bi-directional DC-DC Converter
A2B
Project EVE

This thesis deals with the design of Hybrid Energy Storage System (HESS) for Light Electric Vehicles (LEV) and EVs. More specifically, a tri-mode high-efficiency non-isolated half-bridge converter is developed for the LEV based HESS applications. A 2 kW, 100 V interleaved two-phase converter prototype was implemented. The peak efficiency of 97.5% and a minimum efficiency of 88% over the full load range are achieved. Furthermore, a power-mix optimizer utilizing the real-time Global Positioning System (GPS) data for the EV based HESS is proposed. For a specific design, it is shown that at the cost of less than 1.5% of the overall energy savings, the proposed scheme reduces the peak battery charge and discharge rates by 76% and 47%, respectively. A 30 kW bi-directional dc-dc converter is also designed and implemented for future deployment of the designed HESS into a prototype EV, known as A2B.
Exploiting the Non-innocent Ligand Reactivity of Metal Bis-dithiolenes: Towards the Catalytic Synthesis of Chiral Thioether Ligands and other Synthetic Targets
Keywords: Dithiolenes
Chiral Ligand
Ligand Non Innocence
Asymmetric Catalysis
Platinum
Palladium
Hetero-Diels-Alder

Asymmetric catalysis is one of the most effective ways to control a target molecule’s stereochemistry. Through the development of a wide variety of chiral transition metal complexes, synthetic chemists are given the tools they need to synthesize the desired enantiomer of numerous compounds. This work focuses on exploiting the non-innocent ligand reactivity of metal bis-dithiolenes with multiple conjugated π systems in order to synthesize chiral ligands. Recent work has shown that platinum bis-dithiolene reacts with dienes stereoselectively to form a racemic mix of C2 -chiral thioether ligands. The present contribution will show approaches to synthesizing chiral dienes and organometallic complexes with potential applications for asymmetric allylic substitution reactions. Dienes with various chiral auxiliaries were reacted with platinum dithiolene and monitored through NMR spectroscopy. Attempts to synthesis palladium bis-dithiolene complexes, not previously seen in the literature were made, and the reaction of α-β unsaturated ketones with metal bis-dithiolenes was explored.
Evaluation of Oral Neutrophil Levels as a Quantitative Measure of Periodontal Inflammatory Load in Patients with Special Needs
Keywords: neutrophil
periodontal disease
special needs
inflammatory load
quantification
oral swab
gingival inflammation
diagnostics
hospital dentistry

Purpose: To validate and assess the feasibility of using an assay of oral neutrophils to measure periodontal inflammation in uncooperative patients with special needs. Methods: Periodontal examination and neutrophil counts derived from oral swabs were performed on patients with special needs having comprehensive dental treatment under general anaesthesia (GA). The conventional periodontal measurements were compared to neutrophil levels while patients were under GA, and later at their recall examination. Results: Forty-nine patients were assessed under GA and 30 (61%) returned for recall examination. Spearman’s correlation allowed for comparisons between periodontal parameters and oral neutrophil counts. Despite limited cooperation, it was possible to acquire neutrophils (using swabs) for all patients that presented for recall examination in the ambulatory dental clinic. Conclusions: Oral neutrophil levels correlated significantly with conventional parameters of gingival inflammation and may serve as a standardized method for clinical assessment of periodontal diseases in the special needs population.
Shape Optimization and Modular Discretization for the Development of a Morphing Wingtip
Keywords: morphing
wingtip
discretization
optimization

Better knowledge in the areas of aerodynamics and optimization has allowed designers to develop efficient wingtip structures in recent years. However, the requirements faced by wingtip devices can be considerably different amongst an aircraft’s flight regimes. Traditional static wingtip devices are then a compromise between conflicting requirements, resulting in less than optimal performance within each regime. Alternatively, a morphing wingtip can reconfigure leading to improved performance over a range of dissimilar flight conditions. Developed within this thesis, is a modular morphing wingtip concept that centers on the use of variable geometry truss mechanisms to permit morphing. A conceptual design framework is established to aid in the development of the concept. The framework uses a metaheuristic optimization procedure to determine optimal continuous wingtip configurations. The configurations are then discretized for the modular concept. The functionality of the framework is demonstrated through a design study on a hypothetical wing/winglet within the thesis.
Importing U.S. Establishment Clause Principles in Canada: Changing the Debate on Funding for Faith-based Schools in Ontario
Keywords: constitutional law
religion

Ontario is the only Province that publicly funds Roman Catholic separate schools, while providing no public funds to any other faith-based schools. This thesis explores the history, politics, past and current litigation surrounding Ontario’s education system. It looks at the education systems in other Canadian Provinces. I argue that focusing the debate around equality and fairness, and preventing the perceived establishment of the Roman Catholic Church in respect for multiculturalism will allow for an appealable solution. In many church and state cases, the Supreme Court of Canada made its decisions similar to the U.S. regarding the establishment of religion in public schools. This thesis suggests that Ontario should adopt a bilateral constitutional amendment that includes Establishment Clause principles similar to the U.S. Constitution. It concludes that the treatment of all faith-based schools equally, respects the historic rights of the Roman Catholic schools, and demonstrates a commitment to multiculturalism in Canada.
Identification and Characterization of Small Molecule Inhibitors of Polynucleotide Kinase 3'-Phosphatase
Keywords: polynucleotide kinase
small molecule inhibitors
DNA repair

DNA lesions arise constantly in cells and are repaired by a variety of DNA repair pathways. Polynucleotide kinase 3’-phosphatase (PNKP) aids repair by phosphorylating 5’-hydroxyl DNA termini and dephosphorylating 3’-phosphate DNA termini for the completion of repair by DNA ligases. This activity is critical in vivo because DNA breaks do not usually possess ligatable termini. PNKP knockdown sensitizes cells to several DNA damaging agents, including the topoisomerase I (TOP1) inhibitor camptothecin - analogs of which are being developed into chemotherapeutic drugs - because the resolution of stalled TOP1-DNA complexes requires processing by PNKP. We hypothesize that small molecule inhibitors of PNKP could bolster the effects of radio- and chemotherapies on cancer cells. I have identified eight compounds that effectively inhibit human PNKP and, with reduced potency, T4 PNK in vitro. These compounds act by reversibly inhibiting the substrate-enzyme interaction but they do not appear to sensitize U2OS cells to camptothecin.
Characterization of a Novel Dendritic Cell Population
Keywords: dendritic cell

Conventional DC (cDC) arise from circulating immediate precursors (pre-cDC), and are currently thought to be terminally differentiated. Here we show that cDC are capable of generating progeny that lost all characteristic features of cDC and aquired regulatory properties. Sorted bone marrow pre-cDCs were cultured on a stromal monolayer in the presence or absence of granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF). In the absence of GM-CSF, pre-cDC derived DCs gave rise to a homogeneous population of CD11clow MHClow cells (DC-regs) on day 8-10 of culture. DC-regs failed to up-regulate major histocompatibility complex class II (MHCII) and co-stimulatory molecules in response to DC maturation stimuli, were poor stimulators in T cell proliferation assays and suppressed T cell proliferation in cultures containing immuno-stimulatory DC. Co-transfer of DC-regs with DCs in vivo did not inhibit proliferation of T cells. These findings reveal the potential of DCs to generate a regulatory DC population with immunosuppressive properties.
Compensation for Wrongful Convictions: A Study towards an Effective Regime of Tort Liability
Keywords: wrongful conviction
compensation
civil liability
public authorities
no-fault liability
fault liability
miscarriage of justice

How would you feel if after having spent many years incarcerated for a crime that you did not commit and when finally you are released to a broken life where there is nobody to respond effectively to all the damages that you have and that you will continue to endure due to an unfortunate miscarriage of justice? In Canada, compensation for wrongful convictions is a legal issue which has yet to find a solution for those who the government has denied to pay compensation for and the damages such wrongful conviction brought to their lives. This thesis will analyze the legal problem of compensation for wrongful convictions in Canada from a tort law perspective and will present an alternative to the existing regime to serve justice to those who have been victims of miscarriages of justice.
A Topological Obstruction in a Control Problem
Keywords: Control Systems
Complex Specifications

The reach control problem (RCP) characterizes a control design approach, based on computer science notions of object triangulation, that has been extensively developed as a means of guiding the complete transient response of a system, entirely within a desired polytopic region of state-space operation characterized by linear constraints on its states. This thesis expands upon results achieved in the area of RCP problem solvability under continuous feedback, identifying new necessary conditions. It accomplishes this using algebraic topology constructs, mapping the reach control problem to an equivalent topological one to successfully demonstrate conditions under which topological obstructions are generated. These obstructions, which render the RCP unsolvable by continuous feedback are then used to characterize equivalent conditions necessary for solvability of the problem. This thesis also serves to formally demonstrate the substantial advantages of the RCP design approach over more conventional industry techniques, by solving real-world problems with complex specifications.
Efficient Frame Transmission For Scalable Video Streaming with Dependency Structure
Keywords: Video Streaming
Scheduling
Video transmission
frame selection
Virtual deadlines
display deadlines

Efficient transmission schemes are presented for streaming scalable video over a link with limited capacity. The objective is to select a transmission sequence of data units and their transmission schedule such that the overall video quality is maximized. For video with a single spatial layer, optimal transmission schemes are obtained for two general classes of hierarchical prediction structures, which include the popular dyadic structure. Based on a new characterization of the interdependence among frames in terms of trees, structural properties of an optimal transmission schedule are derived. These properties lead to the development of a jointly optimal frame selection and scheduling algorithm, which has computational complexity that is quadratic in the number of frames. Then, using the concept of virtual deadlines, an efficient sub-optimal scheme for the transmission of video with multiple spatial layers is proposed. Simulation results show that the proposed schemes substantially outperform two existing alternatives.
The Fortification of Salt with Iodine, Iron, and Folic Acid
Keywords: salt
fortification
iodine
iron
folic acid
folate
micronutrient

Micronutrient poor diets around the globe and in particular in the developing world cause deficiencies in iron and folic acid. This may be rectified by the incorporation of these micronutrients into currently running salt iodization processes. The objective of this project was to develop folic acid and iodine spray solutions to be ready for pilot scale testing and to investigate the stability of triple fortified salt containing iodine, folic acid and microencapsulated ferrous fumarate. The optimal spray solutions were buffered to pH 9 with a carbonate/bicarbonate buffer to stabilize folic acid and contained 1%-2% w/v folic acid and 1%-3% w/v iodine (as KIO3). They remained in solution and retained ≥80% of both micronutrients after 5 months of storage at 25ºC and 45ºC. Double fortified salt produced using these spray solutions retained 100% of both folic acid and iodine over a 5 month period when stored at ambient conditions. Unfortunately triple fortified salt did not sufficiently retain the micronutrients due to excess moisture absorption and inadequate encapsulation of iron.
Metabolic Responsiveness of a Novel GnRH-GFP Neuronal Cell Model
Keywords: Metabolism
Reproduction
Endocrinology
Hypothalamus

Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH), the master regulator of the reproductive axis, is hypothesized to play an essential role in directly sensing changes in energy levels to maintain fertility. There are a number of GnRH cell lines that have been utilized to study reproductive function; however these have been embryonic in origin and clonally derived. To investigate the cellular mechanisms underlying glucose responsiveness in GnRH neurons, we generated a novel GnRH cell line through immortalization, and fluorescent activated cell (FAC)-sorting of hypothalamic primary culture taken from a GnRH-GFP transgenic mouse. The mHypoA-GnRH/GFP neurons express a complement of markers of fully differentiated GnRH neurons. Glucose induces neuronal activation of mHypoA-GnRH/GFP neurons and glucose metabolism initiates an AMP-Protein Kinase (AMPK)-dependent mechanism to exert transcriptional and secretory control of GnRH. These findings support the use of this novel GnRH cell model for defining components involved in cellular and molecular action of glucose in GnRH neurons.
Effective Weld Properties for RHS-to-RHS Moment T-connections
Keywords: effective weld properties
rectangular hollow section
RHS-to-RHS moment T-connections
hollow structural section
Vierendeel truss
effective weld length
welding
robotic welding
automatic welding
gas metal arc welding

An experimental program was developed to test various unreinforced RHS-to-RHS 90° T-connections subject to branch in-plane bending moment with the objective of determining the effectiveness of the welded joint. Twelve unique test specimens were designed to be weld-critical and the results from the full-scale tests revealed that the current equation for the effective elastic section modulus for in-plane bending, S_ip, given in Table K4.1 of ANSI/AISC 360 (2010) is conservative. A modification to the current requirements that limit the effective width of the transverse weld elements is proposed, resulting in a safe and more economical weld design method for RHS-to-RHS T-, Y- and X- connections subject to branch axial load or bending moment. It is also concluded that the fillet weld directional strength enhancement factor, (1.00 + 0.50sin1.5Ө), should not be used for strength calculations of welded joints to square and rectangular hollow structural sections.
Investigating Supportive Care Needs of Parents of Children with Cancer: Is a Parent Support Group Intervention a Feasible Solution?
Keywords: childhood cancer
parents of children having cancer
supportive care needs of parents of children having cancer
parent support groups

PURPOSE: (1) Investigate supportive care needs and preferences of parents of children with cancer (2) Assess the feasibility and preliminary outcomes of a Parent Support Group Intervention (PSGI). METHODS: One-hundred and eight parents completed the Parent Support Survey (PSS). Data were utilized in the creation of a PSGI. The PSGI consisted of eight 1.5-hour sessions encompassing guided group discussion. As part of feasibility, acceptability, recruitment/retention and preliminary outcomes were assessed. Parents completed outcome measures assessing knowledge of disease/treatment management, community/hospital/family resources, perception of social support and feelings of distress/anxiety. RESULTS: From the PSS, 86/108 (80%) of parents expressed interest in a PSGI. Fourteen parents attended the PSGI only once and 14 parents attended the PSGI more than once. Outcome measure results depict favourable changes after group attendance. Recruitment and retention data highlight challenges. CONCLUSIONS: Information gained from this study will be used to improve planning and delievery of future PSGI’s.
Cost-effectiveness of Intermittent versus Continuous Androgen Deprivation Therapy in Advanced Prostate Cancer
Keywords: Economic evaluation
cost-effectiveness
prostate cancer

Background: Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) has known adverse effects (AEs). Intermittent (INT) ADT may reduce AEs, improve quality of life, and lower costs compared to continuous (CONT) treatment. Objective: To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of INT vs CONT ADT in men with advanced prostate cancer. Methods: A lifetime Markov individual simulation model was developed to evaluate the incremental cost per quality adjusted life month (QALM) of INT vs CONT ADT. Results: INT dominated CONT ADT (mean total costs $94,460 vs $109,431; mean total QALMs 47.0 vs 46.4). INT ADT resulted in less time on therapy (22.4 vs 56.8 months), fewer hip fractures (0.080 vs 0.093 per patient), and fewer total cases of sexual dysfunction (72.5% vs 87.0% of patients) and cardiovascular disease (38.7% vs 44.6% of patients). Conclusions: These results suggest INT ADT is cost-effective compared to CONT ADT however, differences were small. Additional research is required to confirm these findings.
Unlocking the Competitiveness of the Fee: Is Canadian Mobile Service Providers Charging a Fee to Remove the Software Lock after the Contract Expires Anti-competitive?
Keywords: competition
software Locking
mobile phones

Most mobile phones in Canada contain software that prevents the consumer from using the phone on multiple networks. This is known as a ‘software lock’, and is installed prior to the point of sale by the mobile service providers. As of 2011, all three large Canadian service providers have adopted a similar practice to charge a fee to remove the software lock from phones. This fee applies even after the consumer’s service contract with the provider ends. This thesis examines whether the practice of charging consumer a fee for removing the software lock after the contract expires is anti-competitive in Canada. Through examining economic theory and undergoing legal analysis, this thesis will argue that while the practice is clearly anti-competitive, it does not substantially lessen competition enough to be prevented under competition law. This thesis suggests that this industry practice should be prohibited through the passing of consumer protection legislation.
Role of Notch Signaling Network in Gene Expression Patterns of Angiogenic EC in 3D Matrix and 2D Confluent Monolayer
Keywords: Notch
endothelial gene expression

This study examined the differential gene expression patterns between endothelial cells (EC) from 2D monolayer and EC from angiogenic capillary-like network in 3D matrices. Our microarray analysis comparing 3D to 2D EC cultures detected upregulation of 854 protein-coding genes and downregulation of 863 genes. We show that Notch signaling pathway is highly regulated in angiogenesis, induced by change in ECM dimension. Notch target genes Hey1, HeyL, Hes1 and Hes4 transcription factors were upregulated in 3D angiogenic EC, which were confirmed with qRT-PCR. Moreover, we are the first to report enrichment of FoxS1 transcription factor mRNA during angiogenesis in 3D ECM. Next, we asked whether epigenetic mechanisms partly mediate cis-trans response in angiogenesis. Our sodium bisulfite sequencing analyses did not indicate a role for DNA methylation in the expression of key Notch signaling components. However, our pilot studies indicate a potential role for lncRNAs in controlling EC phenotype in angiogenic response.
Design of an Approach to Characterize CD11b Cre x LoxP BDNF Deletion in Mice: Implications for Neuropathic Pain
Keywords: BDNF
Neuropathic Pain

Background: An approach designed to characterize BDNF gene deletion within microglia of the dorsal horn of the spinal cord does not currently exist. Therefore, my goal was to develop methods to assess Cre- mediated BDNF deletion. To this end I designed and tested two different approaches focusing on the aspects of BDNF mRNA expression or genomic level gene deletion. Methods: Approach 1: BDNF messenger RNA was detected by in situ hybridization. Approach 2: BDNF gene deletion was detected by a positive signal semi-quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Results: In situ hybridization detected spinal BDNF and regional changes in BDNF mRNA following PNI in wild-type mice. The BDNF PCR detected Cre-mediated BDNF deletions in transgenic animals. Conclusion: Two approaches have been developed and initial tests of these approaches show promising results and will provide valuable tools for researchers investigating BDNF deletion in transgenic animals.