VictorJuiz/thesis huggingface dataset:
Consulting with teachers to develop and validate the Similarity Thinking Instrument

Twenty-one teachers from a variety of educational settings viewed a video presentation on generalization skills and the Similarity Thinking Instrument (STI). Subsequent to the presentation, the teachers participated in a semi-structured consultation session in which validity and application issues were discussed. A needs-assessment model was used to identify potential area of development for the instrument. A number of proposals were drawn up in relation to fitting the STI to the needs of potential users. The teachers' perceptions of the STI provided strong support for the validity of the STI as both an assessment and instruction tool. The discussions provided for an exchange of opinions on both conceptual and application issues with regard to dynamic assessment and instruction.
Studies of the effects of ethanol on platelet functions

There exists strong epidemiological evidence that moderate daily consumption of alcoholic beverages is associated with reduced morbidity and mortality due to coronary artery disease. It has been proposed that this protective effect of alcohol is mediated in part via an inhibitory action of ethanol on the functions of platelets, the primary cells involved in hemostasis and arterial thrombosis. We first studied the effects of ethanol, added acutely in vitro, on platelet responses to two physiologically relevant aggregating agents, thrombin and collagen. In the work described in Chapter 2, we examined the effects of acute ethanol on thrombin-induced secretion of the contents of the dense and $\alpha$-storage granules by human and rabbit platelets, and secretion of lysosomal contents from human platelets. We then studied, as described in Chapter 3, the effects of ethanol on (human and rabbit) platelet adhesion to collagen, and the subsequent secretion of dense granule contents and formation of thromboxane B$\sb2$ by the collagen-adherent platelets. In studies with collagen-adherent human platelets, we were also able to examine the effects of ethanol on signal transduction via two specific phospholipases (PL), PLC$\gamma$2 and cytosolic PLA$\sb2$ (cPLA$\sb2).$ Hypercholesterolemia (HC) is a primary risk factor for atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of coronary artery disease. In the work described in Chapter 4, we confirmed and extended some of the previous findings in the laboratory on the effects on platelet function of diet-induced HC, chronic administration of moderate ethanol to HC rabbits, and withdrawal of ethanol from the HC rabbits.
Genotype-phenotype correlative studies in familial colorectal cancer predisposition syndromes

It has been estimated that up to 20% of all colorectal cancer (CRC) cases occur due to genetic predisposition. Of these, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) likely account for 5-7% of all CRC. The remainder of familial CRC kindreds is atypical. The aim of this qualitative study was to analyze 31 such atypical families, registered at Mount Sinai Hospital Familial Gastrointestinal Cancer Registry, in order to assess if a proportion of them may be related to one of these syndromes. For this purpose, the strategy to screen these kindreds consisted of using the protein truncation test (PTT) assay to detect germline mutations in the APC, hMLH1 and hMSH2 genes. Seven out of 31 kindreds (22%) were demonstrated to harbour germline mutations in the APC gene; no mutations were detected in DNA mismatch repair genes. The APC mutations were distributed in three regions of the gene: the 5$\sp\prime$ proximal end, within exon 9, and the 3$\sp\prime$ distal end. These mutations correlated with the attenuated adenomatous polyposis coli phenotype. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
The optimum sulphate content in Portland cement

The addition of calcium sulphate to Portland cement clinker during milling prevents flash set of the cement on addition of water. However, in addition to controlling setting time, sulphate has also long been known to improve compressive strength and reduce drying shrinkage. Unfortunately, too much sulphate can result in detrimental expansive effects. Thus, the optimum sulphate content maximizes strength while minimizing expansion and shrinkage. This investigation studies the effects of incremental additions of sulphate on four cements of varying tricalcium aluminate and alkali contents. Optimum sulphate contents are determined based on maximum compressive strength, minimum expansion in water and minimum drying shrinkage. A relationship between porosity and compressive strength is found, but results from pore-size distribution and pore solution analyses are inconclusive. The current standard test method for optimum sulphate, ASTM C563, and the current CSA and ASTM limits on sulphate additions are evaluated. Finally, the use of empirical equations is examined.
Effects of glucose, fructose and sucrose on postprandial glucose and insulin responses

To investigate effects of glucose, fructose and sucrose on postprandial glucose and insulin responses, eight healthy subjects consumed 25, 50 and 100 g of glucose, sucrose and white bread and 25 and 50 g of fructose on separate occasions following overnight fasts. Postprandial plasma glucose responses areas (AUC) were significantly influenced by carbohydrate type (p $<$ 0.008) and dose (p $<$ 0.003). Mean glucose AUC for glucose, white bread, sucrose and fructose (all doses combined) were 219.6, 156.0, 125.7 and 11.3 mmolmin/L. Mean glucose AUC for 25, 50 and 100 g doses (glucose, sucrose and white bread combined) were 105.5, 166.8 and 228.9 mmolmin/L. Postprandial plasma insulin AUC was significantly influenced by dose (p $<$ 0.002). Mean insulin AUC for 25, 50 and 100 g doses (glucose, sucrose and white bread combined) were 6.6, 12.3 and 25.5 nmolmin/L. It was concluded that glucose, fructose and sucrose did not produce inappropriate insulin responses in normal subjects.
Interspecies analysis of the NCAM homophilic binding site

Previous studies have identified the sequence 243-KYSFNYDGSE-252 in the third immunoglobulin-like (Ig3) domain of chick NCAM as the homophilic binding site. Several reports suggest that the rodent NCAM Ig3 domain may not contain homophilic binding activity. To investigate these differences, a series of fusion proteins were created and tested in binding assays. A rat GST-Ig3 fusion protein showed negligible binding activity, confirming the absence of rat Ig3-mediated homophilic binding. Through the creation of chimeric fusion proteins in chick and rat Ig3, putative rat and human homophilic binding sequence have been identified. However, the rat sequence appeared to have a much lower binding affinity than the chick and human sequences. Further mutational analysis suggests that all NCAM species possess the amino acid residues necessary to mediate homophilic binding, but this ability may be hindered by neighbouring residues. We suggest histidine-244 to be responsible for disrupting Ig3-mediated homophilic binding in rat NCAM.
Investigation of the relationship between urban spatial structure and travel demand in the GTA

This thesis includes analyses to explore empirically the cross-sectional relationship between the physical dimensions of urban form and auto travel as a surrogate for energy use within the Greater Toronto Area, with particular emphasis on identifying variations in VKT as a function of variations in urban form attributes. A number of variables in the 1986 Transportation Tomorrow Survey (TTS) database were extracted to represent spatial structure and travel demand in the GTA. Attempts were made to define combination of physical distribution of activities over space such as density, degree of sprawl, accessibility to employment, self containment ratio, demographic characteristics, and transit use, to reflect the urban form of the GTA. Analyses were performed to test several hypotheses related to urban form and travel demand. Both population and employment density were found to be influential factors in determining travel demand. Also, both degree of sprawl and accessibility to the nearest employment node, explained to a great extent variation in vehicular travel demand. Also, both ratios of spatial match between employment opportunities and labour force, and self containment were found to be significantly influencing travel demand in the GTA. Stepwise regression technique was used to test the explanatory power of combinations of spatial structure variables to variation in travel demand. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
The metabolism of [1-¹§4C] linoleate in linoleate deficient rats

The purpose of this study was to characterize the metabolism and quantitative partitioning of (1-$\sp{14}$C) -linoleic acid (LA) among its metabolic endpoints which include (i) accumulation in structural and storage lipids, (ii) conversion to long chain products and (iii) $\beta$-oxidation, during pure LA deficiency (LAD) and subsequent LA supplementation. LA-deficient rats retain significantly more $\sp{14}$C in the liver (10% vs 4%) and brain (0.05% vs 0.01%) than the controls. During pure LAD, a greater proportion of (1-$\sp{14}$C) LA was retained in the liver n-6 PUFA pool, but as much as 14% was found in de novo synthesized non n-6 fatty acids and sterols. Within the n-6 PUFA pool LA-deficient rats incorporated a smaller proportion of $\sp{14}$C into arachidonic acid and retained a greater proportion in LA. Specific activity data showed that both the anabolic and catabolic pathways of LA metebolism are operating during pure LAD, but as a proportion of total activity, these metabolic routes are attenuated. Thus, there is a significant conservation of LA and a proportional reduction in carbon recycling during pure LAD. Furthermore, LA deficient rats respond rapidly and favourably to short-term LA supplementation as indicated by partial correction of fatty acid profiles of tissue lipids and $\sp{14}$C incorporation and turnover in tissue and liver lipids.
The rehabilitation of a concrete structure using fibre reinforced plastics

Cracks in concrete may become significant if they begin to compromise the strength, durability, or aesthetics of a structure. Prior to the undertaking of any repair procedure, the cause of cracking must be established. Typical steps that should be included in a condition survey are outlined to assist in the diagnosis process. As our nation's infrastructure continues to deteriorate, the need for more economical and more durable rehabilitation techniques has emerged. The use of Fibre Reinforced Plastics provides an attractive alternative to traditional rehabilitation techniques. The installation of these light-weight materials is less labour- and equipment-intensive. Fibre composites can also enhance durability as they prevent the passage of chlorides and other harmful chemicals. Finally, composites can considerably reduce the time that structures are taken out of service. Experimental results from short-term tests conducted on walls and beams indicate the effectiveness of carbon and glass composites for rehabilitating damaged structures.
An analysis of the changes in the bird communities of four forest habitats in Algonquin Park, Ontario from 1952-53 to 1995-96

In 1995-96, I repeated seven breeding bird censuses in Algonquin Park, Ontario which were originally conducted by N. Martin in 1952-53. The primary focus of my research was to investigate undisturbed, stable forest habitats in order to isolate the cause of any changes in the breeding bird populations. This involved an analysis of the vegetation changes over the past 45 years in four of the main forest habitats surveyed by Martin in order to compare the bird communities of 1952-53 and 1995-96. An analysis revealed that there were no major changes in the species composition or structure of the vegetation in any of the habitats; nor were there statistically significant changes in the overall populations of 22 Neotropical migrant, 12 short-distance migrant, or 7 resident species examined in this study. Within the undisturbed forests of Algonquin Park there were no significant differences between the 1952-53 and 1995-96 breeding bird populations.
Narrative in the spontaneous drawings of seven to nine year old boys

Qualitative research methodology was applied in this study to examine the narrative content in the spontaneous drawings of six boys seven to nine years of age, assess their personal interest in drawing, the images which they explored and the narrative strength of the drawings produced. Their drawings were counted and categorized using Kellman's (1995) classification system for children's narrative drawing and the images were examined to find clues as to the ways the boys used drawing to understand their world. Implications for Primary Education discussed particularly the importance of activities which encourage the development of narrative thought, visual, verbal and written, in Primary classrooms. Despite literature which indicated that narrative drawing interest decreased at the onset of the ability to create written narrative, all of the six boys displayed a continued interest in narrative drawing.
Dynamics of C¦3 and C¦4 productivity in northern mixed grass prairie

The northern mixed grass prairie is unique in that it encompasses the northern limit of C$\sb4$ contribution to production. Thus, this ecosystem may respond quickly to atmospheric and climatic change. It is difficult to predict the influence of these changes on this system, however, stable carbon isotope methods provide a means of elucidating the history of the $\rm C\sb3/C\sb4$ balance through isotopic analysis of soil organic matter profiles. The $\rm C\sb3/C\sb4$ productivity balance and temporal separation of C$\sb3$ and C$\sb4$ growth in Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan were measured directly and by extrapolation of relationships based on season-long sampling. The $\delta\sp{13}$C of the SOM indicated the past $\rm C\sb3/C\sb4$ balance, and the change in the $\delta\sp{13}$C of atmospheric CO$\sb2$ was incorporated into the interpretation of the SOM profiles, based on in-situ measures. The assumption of conservative transfer of the $\delta\sp{13}$C of plant material to the SOM proved valid for these sites. Grazing was not influential as a confounding factor on the $\rm C\sb3/C\sb4$ balance at the site. The pattern of change in the $\rm C\sb3/C\sb4$ balance, corrected for decreased atmospheric CO$\sb2$ $\delta\sp{13}$C, was one of increasing C$\sb3$ production (approximately 15%).
Observed minimum headways as an index of driver behavior

Developing a method to measure some aspects of drivers' behaviour using the data from inductive loop detectors would provide a powerful and very useful tool for managing road safety. Due to their characteristics, the observed minimum headways were studied to determine if they could be used to develop a method to measure drivers' behaviour. The data used in the analysis was collected using inductive loop detectors at two sites on Highway 400 in Ontario. It was found that there is some constancy in the observed minimum headways that can be used to monitor changes in driver behaviour. However, the observed minimum headways should be collected for a specific site, lane and time of day. A comparison between the different days for the same site, lane and time of day is then possible. Flow and truck percentages do not seem to have a noticeable effect on the observed minimum headways.
Software for the analysis of communication blackout behind normal and oblique shock waves for flight within the Earth's atmosphere

Flight vehicles flying at hypersonic speeds within the Earth's atmosphere are known to experience communication blackout, a phenomenon whereby the vehicle crew loses radio contact with the ground. This paper is geared towards the development of a software that allows the user to analyze the blackout behind normal and oblique shock waves as a function of altitude, freestream flight Mach number, shock wave angle, antenna location, signal frequency, signal amplitude, and an amplitude loss tolerance level.
RoboRaptor wildlife control ornithopter

This thesis describes the design, construction and testing of RoboRaptor: a petrol engine-powered, radio-controlled ornithopter for pest control duties. A test platform incorporating a flapping-mechanism was built, and used to wind-tunnel test three types of membrane-wings for optimum performance. Lift and thrust for a triangular wing, a variable-span wing, and a triangular wing of high aspect ratio were measured at different speeds, angles of attack, stroke angles and flapping frequencies. The results showed that the variable-span wing produced good lift but inadequate thrust, while increasing the aspect ratio of the triangular wing improved its lift. Increasing airspeed, stroke angle and flapping frequency all improved lift and thrust performance. The ornithopter was built by adapting the drivetrain and flapping-mechanism of the test platform. When completed, flight tests were carried out. RoboRaptor is not yet capable of sustained flight due to insufficient thrust.
Expression and purification of transmembrane segments 3 and 4 of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator

Structural characterization of the membrane-associated chloride channel encoded by the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene is expected to contribute substantively to our understanding and treatment of cystic fibrosis. Accordingly, we are examining the structure of CFTR, focusing on its transmembrane (TM) segments, in an effort to generate a molecular description of CFTR channel activity. To this end, we developed a novel His-tag/thioredoxin fusion expression system to allow for efficient production and purification of the hydrophobic TM segments of CFTR in soluble form in bacteria. Using this system, we have purified TM segments 3 and 4 of CFTR to near homogeneity, with a yield of 5-10 mg/L of culture. The system allowed cleavage of the TM segments from the leader peptide (fusion carrier protein), in vitro, while placement of an HA-epitope tag permitted sensitive detection of the TM peptides by immuno-blotting. Although designed specifically for the production of the TM segments of CFTR, this expression system should also permit routine expression and purification of other polytopic eukaryotic membrane proteins.
Influence of dietary saturated fat on macronutrient selection

Dietary saturated fatty acids (SFAs) mediate behaviour, in the absence of nutrient deficiency, beyond brain development, and at fat levels consistent with North American consumption. The present experiments examined the influence of SFA chain length on macronutrient selection and the roles of glucose and insulin in mediating this feeding behaviour. Rats fed medium-chain triglyceride oil selected more protein and less carbohydrate than rats fed three other fats (hydrogenated coconut oil, fully hydrogenated soybean oil (HSB), and soybean oil). HSB-fed rats selected differently from previously reported long-chain SFA-fed animals, however, HSB was insufficiently absorbed. Although glucose and insulin concentration did not differ among diet groups, measures of insulin sensitivity correlated with selection. These results suggest that SFA chain length may influence macronutrient selection, but the specific relationship between chain length and selection remains undefined. A decrease in insulin sensitivity leads to an increase in protein and a decrease in carbohydrate intake.
Effects of C- and N-terminal deletions on antiviral and ribosome-inactivating activities of pokeweed antiviral protein, PAP

Pokeweed antiviral protein (PAP), purified from pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) spring leaves, can inhibit protein synthesis in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. PAP also is known to have an effective antiviral property against a wide range of plant and animal viruses. To determine the effects of C- and N-terminal deletions on antiviral and ribosome-inactivating activities of the protein, PAP cDNA 3$\sp\prime$ and 5$\sp\prime$ end unidirectional deletions and si specific mutagenesis by PCR were conducted. Mutants were expressed in E. coli. Analysis of antiviral and ribosome-inactivating activities was performed using tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) local lesion assay and rabbit reticulocyte lysate in vitro translation system. Nucleotide mutations were verified by DNA sequencing. Results show that: (i) the antiviral and ribosome-inactivating activities decreased with an increase in the number of amino acids removed from the C-terminus. (ii) PAP becomes highly toxic when the 22 amino acids N-terminal signal peptide and further amino acids up to the tyrosine 94 were removed. This toxicity is evidenced by the absence of any bacterial clone. Further deletions of amino acids ($>$100 amino acids) resulted in a large number of bacterial colonies which expressed truncated non-toxic forms of PAP, and (iii) there is a correlation between ribosome-inactivating and antiviral activities.
Development of a novel serially multiplexed fiber Bragg grating sensor system using Fourier analysis

A novel serially multiplexed fiber optic Bragg grating sensor system is reported. The system effectively multiplexes fiber optic Bragg gratings arranged in pairs, where each pair forms the basic sensing element. Fourier analysis is used to distinguish individual sensors by identifying the 'frequency' of Fabry-Perot interference resulting from the interaction of partially coherent laser light with each grating pair, and relating this 'frequency' to a measure of the physical separation between the Bragg gratings. Strain resolution is accomplished by measuring the wavelength shift of each Bragg grating pair relative to its initial center wavelength. A computational model is developed to simulate the interaction of multiple sensor arrangements and accurately predicts the behavior of the prototype system. Spectral illumination for the system is provided by a highly tunable DBR laser diode. The laser control and data acquisition systems are designed and constructed specifically for this DBR laser, and their development is included as an appendix to the thesis. The performance of the completed prototype system is evaluated. Suggestions are made for a practical implementation of the multiplexed system in a variety of configurations.
The use of a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) for the removal of organics and nutrients when subjected to intermittent loading

A synthetic waste water has been treated with lab scale sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) operating in a mode designed to remove organics and nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus). These SBRs were subjected to starvation under differing operational conditions for between 58 and 117 days. The ability of an SBR to maintain its capability to remove organics and nutrients after periods of inactivity was determined. By not decanting the SBR at the end of the cycle preceding starvation, and allowing the SBR to remain quiescent during the starvation period, the retention of the treatment capability was substantial after 58 days at 22$\sp\circ$C. Survival of treatment capability is further enhanced by operating the SBR prior to starvation in a mode with an extended anoxic period (3.5 hr) during and after fill. Conversely the process survival is significantly reduced if the SBR is decanted after the last cycle preceding starvation, and is further reduced by mixing, and or aerating the remaining mixed liquor. Higher temperatures appear to reduce the process survivability.