VictorJuiz/thesis huggingface dataset:
A comparison study of group development, and rate, amount and depth of participation by gender, status and personality in a hybrid, face to face/online, course

Although much research has been devoted to comparing discourse from computer-mediated-communication (CMC) to that of face-to-face (FTF) communication, few studies compare discourse from both environments in a repeated measures study in which the same population participates in both environments. Courses that offer both FTF and CMC components are known as hybrid courses. Hybrid courses offer a unique opportunity for researchers to compare discourse in both environments by holding constant population, instructor and subject matter. The present study compares the communication of 19 graduate students in a hybrid course on the rate, amount and depth of communication by gender and personality. Results show: (i) Social communication is greater in a FTF environment. (ii) Participants submit fewer turns in CMC, but each turn is deeper than that seen in a FTF environment. (iii) Women and men participate equally in both environments. (iv) CMC does not decrease the amount of participation contributed by dominant members. (v) Introverts participate more in a CMC environment than in a FTF environment, but do not state a preference for the addition of a CMC component.
Artificial rearing alters c-Fos expression in the brain of juvenile female rats

This study investigated the effects of early-rearing experiences on maternal and social behaviors and the pattern of c-fos activation in associated neural sites in juvenile female rats. From days 4 to 20 of life, female rats were reared artificially, without a mother or with their mothers. On postnatal day 20 all animals were randomly assigned to one of four juvenile conditions. The juvenile rats were assessed behaviorally, on maternal or social tests, and then sacrificed for immunohistochemical localization of c-Fos. AR rats exposed to pups engaged in less pup-licking, and significantly more play behaviors. AR rats in social groups engaged in more agonostic behaviors towards playmates than MR rats. AR animals had significant reductions in c-Fos immunoreactivity in the medial preoptic area (MPOA), the parietal and piriform cortices. These results are discussed in terms of the various possible mechanisms that mediate the effects of early experience on juvenile behavior.
Improved decision making and management of uncertainty when using Iwao's sequential sampling plan in insect pest management

This thesis improves the decision making and management of uncertainty when using Iwao's sequential sampling plan in insect pest management. The objectives of the thesis were addressed in two interrelated parts. First, an approach was developed to select a mean-variance relationship for use in Iwao's sequential sampling plan. Using Monte Carlo simulation, four mean-variance relationships were evaluated on their ability to predict the true variance of the pest population at the decision threshold, a critical component of Iwao's sequential sampling plan. Factors such as the position of the decision threshold along the mean-variance relationship and the number of data points used to estimate the mean and variance played a role in the selection of the relationship. The results of the simulation found that generally that Iwao's mean-variance relationship estimated by <math> <f> m<sup><hsp sp="0.167"><sup><hsp sp="-0.167"><hsp sp="-0.167"> <hsp sp="-0.167"><hsp sp="-0.167"><hsp sp="-0.167"><hsp sp="-0.167"> *</sup></sup>=<g>a</g>+<g>b</g>m</f> </math>, provided the best prediction of the true variance at the decision threshold. Second, uncertainty in the decision threshold was incorporated into Iwao's sequential sampling plan using Monte Carlo simulation. The effect of uncertainty in the decision threshold was to dramatically reduce the accuracy of the sequential sampling plans when compared to sequential sampling plans where the decision threshold was treated as if it was known with certainty. Methods of mitigating the reduced accuracy are discussed. The approaches developed in this thesis provide the pest manager with valuable tools and approaches to improve pest management when using Iwao's sequential sampling plan.
Auxin signaling in apical-basal pattern formation of the Arabidopsis embryo

This study investigates the role of auxin in the development of apical-basal patterning of the 'Arabidopsis' embryo. Two specific aspects of auxin signaling have been looked at in detail: auxin transport and auxin perception. In order to address the role of auxin transport during embryogenesis, a method was developed to allow for the growth and maintenance of ' Arabidopsis' embryos 'in vitro'. Embryos were then subjected to the auxin transport inhibitor, NPA, and the consequences on embryo apical-basal patterning were assessed. Specific genes that encode transcription regulators of auxin-induced gene activity were also looked at. Mutations in the transcription factors, 'MP, NPH4' and the nuclear co-regulator, ' SHY2', result in altered auxin responsiveness of an individual. Single mutations in 'MP' cause defects in embryo axis and vascular strand formation. The phenotypes of 'mp;nph4' and ' mp;shy2' double mutants indicate overlapping and antagonistic gene function, respectively. As first steps towards further insight into the role of 'MP' in angiosperms, a 'MP:GUS' translational fusion construct was introduced into 'Arabidopsis' and partial sequences of 'MP' homologues from related plant species were determined. In addition, an auxin-inducible 'GUS' reporter construct was also introduced into 'Nicotiana tobaccum' with the intent to assess auxin distribution and activity in another plant species.
RNA polymerase II carboxy-terminal domain phosphatase

The form of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) that binds preferentially to promoters is not extensively phosphorylated on the carboxy-terminal heptapeptide repeat domain (CTD) of its largest subunit. The CTD becomes phosphorylated during or shortly after initiation and elongating RNAPII generally has a phosphorylated CTD. Prior to or following transcriptional termination, dephosphorylation of the CTD presumably must occur to regenerate the hypophosphorylated form of RNAPII that is capable of reinitiating transcription. This thesis examines the function of the CTD phosphatase Fcp1p in the yeast 'Saccharomyces cerevisiae'. In chapter 2, it is shown that Fcp1 is an unusual eukaryotic protein phosphatase that is required for dephosphorylation of the CTD 'in vivo ' and for transcription by RNAPII 'in vivo'. These results suggest that Fcp1p is the founding member of a new class of protein phosphatases and acts as a general transcription factor 'in vivo'. In chapter 3, affinity chromatography is used to study the binding of Fcp1p to TFIIB and the RAP74 subunit of TFIIF. Fcp1p binds in a similar way to both of these factors. RAP74 and TFIIB have a short region of homology and amino acid changes in this region affect the binding to Fcp1p. The genes encoding RAP74 and Fcp1p interact 'in vivo'. Fcp1p can activate transcription when artificially tethered to a promoter and this effect is largely dependent on binding to RAP74. In chapter 4, it is shown that yeast strains with mutations in ' fcp1' grow much worse when the gene encoding the major CTD kinase Kin28p is also mutated. In contrast, inactivation of another CTD kinase encoded by the 'SRB10' gene suppresses the temperature-sensitivity and the sensitivity to certain cell cycle checkpoint inducing drugs of ' fcp1' mutant strains. These results therefore suggest that Fcp1p and Srb10p have opposing roles 'in vivo'. In chapter 5, analysis of the phosphorylation state of the CTD reveals that reduced Fcp1p activity results in a increased amount of the largest subunit of RNAPII but this subunit is not incorporated into functional enzyme and is largely degraded at a higher temperature.
Ecological interface design for petrochemical processing applications

Each year, petrochemical companies in the US lose over $10B (US) to abnormal situations. These situations force human operators to manage complex processes when advanced automation can no longer maintain control. The goal of this thesis is to assess the feasibility of applying an interface design framework, Ecological Interface Design, to petrochemical processes. In keeping with this framework, an analysis of the physical and functional constraints which govern a simulated petrochemical plant has been conducted. This analysis has been employed in two ways. First, a comparative evaluation of the information content of the constraints analysis, the plant simulation, and information available in existing plants of this type has been conducted. Second, an ecological interface has been designed for the simulated plant. Taken together, the analysis, evaluation, and design steps affirm that Ecological Interface Design can be meaningfully applied to petrochemical processing.
Trilingualism by design?, an investigation into the educational experience of Kurdish children schooled in Denmark

This study involved an ethnographic investigation of a bilingual program designed to improve the academic success and promote the self-esteem of Turkish children in Denmark. Although listed as Turkish nationals, a significant proportion of students enrolled in the program were of Kurdish background and spoke Kurdish as a first language. Thus these children constituted a minority within a minority and the program entailed a trilingual experience for them. The data for the study included extensive classroom observation and document analysis together with in-depth ethnographic interviews with four educators who participated in the program. The program was also examined from the perspective of one female student who participated in the program. Although the educators who participated in the in-depth interviews expressed positive orientations towards both the program and the minority students, inconsistencies were observed between these good intentions and the actions of these educators. These discrepancies were examined in terms of constraints limiting educator agency and pressures exerted on these educators as a result of the prevailing societal discourse that was highly negative towards immigrant populations. Although the program was viewed as relatively successful for participating students insofar as they acquired or maintained Turkish and performed well in Danish, for the Kurdish children loss of L1 and Kurdish ethnolinguistic identity also resulted. This was not a case of 'trilingualism by design.' Rather, the children's Kurdish identity and trilingualism were veiled. Despite these findings and contradictory though it may seem, they gained an academic edge due to participation in the program. The investigation reinforces the centrality of issues related to power and identity in educational reform for minority language students. A focus on language alone is insufficient to understand the patterns of achievement and plan effective interventions.
Ethical expertise, physician performance in ethical decision making about serious surgery

Informed Decision Making (Informed Consent) is the autonomous authorization of a medical intervention by the patient. A valid informed consent requires an assessment of patient capacity, disclosure of treatment information, and patient's voluntariness. Disclosure involves effective flow of relevant treatment information from the physician to the patient. The type of information that was to be conveyed effectively and thoroughly during disclosures in this study included: patient's role in decision making process; nature of the proposed treatment; the relevant alternative options to having the proposed treatment; expected benefits and risks of the proposed treatment; uncertainties associated with the decision making process; and preferred treatment options. This project explored the communication between physicians and patients during the process of informed decision making. The objective of the research was to characterize the nature and completeness of decision making. Results demonstrated that most discussions about informed decision making were made after the mention of the specific problem and more decisions were made in discussing more complex medical situation. Results further demonstrated that most of the communication discussed clinical issues.
Economic evaluation of leflunomide in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

'Objective'. To comprehensively evaluate the pharmacoeconomic properties of leflunomide, a novel disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) to support reimbursement decisions by Canadian provincial decisionmakers. 'Methods'. The evaluation was performed using two different analytical approaches. The first was based on economic data collected prospectively in a North American trial in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) randomized to placebo, leflunomide or methotrexate, and the second was based on a 5-year simulation model comparing two treatment strategies, one including leflunomide. The model was supported by an independently conducted survey of US and Canadian rheumatologists and a systematic review of treatment withdrawals among patients on DMARDs. 'Results'. The survey confirmed methotrexate to be the treatment of choice without any clear alternative. Analysis of the literature confirmed that patients stay significantly longest on methotrexate. Although the economic consequences between leflunomide and methotrexate were similar, the higher drug costs of leflunomide imply an extra $147,437 per QALY gained compared to placebo (methotrexate: $12,226). Methotrexate is both less expensive than leflunomide and produces higher utilities (non-significant), but more patients on leflunomide achieve an American College of Rheumatology 20% response status at a cost of $66,000 per responder gained compared to methotrexate. The model also showed that adding leflunomide as a new option within a realistic sequence of DMARDs extends the time patients may benefit from DMARD therapy at a reasonable cost-effectiveness of $10,682 per responder gained and cost-utility of $18,474 per QALY gained. 'Conclusion'. This thesis shows that leflunomide has a place in the management of patients with RA and that it comes with a reasonable economic profile.
Revelations, classroom-based teacher development through student narratives

The professional development of educators has too often occurred in the absence of the students that they teach. Beyond matters of the curriculum, education is fundamentally about people and human interaction. Perhaps it is possible for professional development to take place in isolation, but it can be far more meaningful if the students are also involved in the teacher's exploration for greater self-knowledge and personal growth. Our words are light illuminating our experiences with the world. We reveal something of ourselves and our perceptions when we use words to create whether it be incidentally or through structured activities. Can meaningful classroom based professional development occur through the medium of Language Arts instruction? What revelations about one's practice can be exposed through the words of students? Regardless of how or why the words come to be, classroom based teacher development through student narratives imparts beyond knowledge--but REVELATIONS.
Theatre and the mob, drama and culture, 1880-1914

This thesis argues that debates about drama in the years between 1880 and 1914 are indicative of a change in the way that cultural categories were conceptualized. During this period, the drama became the focus of critical scrutiny as a genre associated with high cultural value and British identity. Specifically, its advocates hoped that a reinvigorated contemporary British drama could counteract the effects of commercialism and the predominantly economic focus of the growing entertainment industry. This critical enterprise was conflicted, both because critics did not share a common vision of what elements defined a high cultural drama, and because emerging mass culture appropriated elements of traditional high culture. The opening chapters of this thesis provide background for the debates, contextualizing developments in the nineteenth-tradition of Idealism. Subsequent chapters focus on discourse about the drama, including critics' on-going concerns to define an ideal audience among the middle class and with the effects of growing populism on criticism. The final chapter considers how debates impacted on attempts to found a national theatre. Throughout, this project focuses on the relationship between changing cultural categories and critics' interests in idealizing the middle class. By studying one cultural manifestation of the shift from an older cultural model divided between "high" and "low," to one that included a modern mass culture, this project connects middle-class identity with the emergence of modern mass culture.
Valuation of vulnerable European call options

We develop a simple model for valuing vulnerable options subject to default risk on the part of the option writer, which we refer to as the "variable default boundary" model. This pricing model allows for the presence of other liabilities in the capital structure of the option writer while recognizing that the growth in the value of the option itself may be a major source of financial distress. This model, retains the attractive features of Johnson and Stulz (1987) and Klein (1996) by linking the payout ratio, in the event of default, to the value of the option writer's assets and by explicitly allowing for correlation between the options writer's assets and the asset underlying the option. It also corrects a defect that occurs in most fixed default boundary models where the pricing equations do not assure that the payment to claimants upon default is no greater than the assets of the option writer. Our model also incorporates stochastic interest rates, using a Vasicek (1979) term structure model. An exact analytical solution to the variable default boundary model is not possible. However, we derive a simple approximate analytical solution, which depends on two parameters. We also develop an algorithm to estimate the optimal values of these parameters. Since Johnson and Stulz (1987) is a special case of our model the approximate analytical solution also provides an analytical solution to their model. Numerical examples compare the results of the approximate analytical solution to results derived from a Monte Carlo simulation. Comparisons to the results from the Black-Scholes-Merton model and the fixed default boundary model of Klein and Inglis (1999) are also given. Along with Klein and Inglis (1999), this thesis provides the only evidence of the importance of stochastic interest rates on the pricing and hedging of vulnerable European calls.
Achieving Software Quality Through Heuristic Transformations, Maintainability and Performance

This thesis proposes a general framework for evaluating and improving the quality of a software system. To illustrate how the methodology works, the thesis focuses on the software qualities of maintainability and performance. The Non-Functional Requirements (NFR) framework is adopted to represent and analyse the software qualities of maintainability and performance. Specifically, it analyses the software attributes that affect either quality, the heuristics that can be implemented in source code to achieve either quality, and how the two qualities conflict with each other. Experimental results are discussed to determine the effect of various heuristics on maintainability and performance. A methodology is described for selecting the heuristics that will improve a system's software quality the most.
A state of one's own, self-determination and the legal discourse of identity

This thesis argues that the right to self-determination as presently understood in international law is unsupportable in theory and unattainable in practice. It suggests that much of the current confusion surrounding the right stems from the flawed belief that it possesses a core of settled meaning, and that accordingly it is capable of being accommodated within the existing normative framework of international law. This thesis argues, however, that such accommodation simply is not possible because self-determination is fundamentally about identity, about the 'self'. It examines three competing and contradictory conceptions of the 'self'--the population of a sovereign state, the nation and the individual--and argues that none can claim to be the exclusive or authentic 'self', because identity, multiple and shifting, does not admit of stable and uncontested definition. This thesis suggests ultimately, that self-determination should be conceptualized, not as a right but as a discourse.
CFRP wraps for corrosion repair of reinforced concrete columns and corrosion monitoring

This experimental study is a part of an ongoing research project initiated by Lee (1998) and continued by Khajehpour (2001). This research is aimed at evaluating repair of large-scale reinforced concrete columns using carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets, in terms of establishing the effect of wraps on the corrosion of steel reinforcement. This project involves the construction and testing of six reinforced concrete columns, testing eleven columns remaining from the previous study. Four specimens were repaired with CFRP wraps. Testing included accelerated corrosion of both new and repaired specimens and natural corrosion of the reinforcement in five columns (including two repaired), and one prism specimen. It was found that corrosion activity temporarily increases after repair. After initial increase, the rate of corrosion becomes the same as in unwrapped columns or slightly lower. Columns subjected to natural corrosion expand less than before repair due to restraining effect of the wrap. Columns subjected to accelerated corrosion do not expand for sometime, after which they expand gradually.
Schizophrenia, elevated mRNA for calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II ß in frontal cortex

Calcium-calmodulin dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) plays an important role in neurodevelopment and neurofunction, especially in dopamine-rich areas known to be affected in schizophrenia. Its possible involvement in the etiology of this disease is supported by animal CaMKII knock-out studies which share many aspects of their phenotype with the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. This thesis examines the mRNA levels of CaMKIIß using a competitive RT-PCR technique in post-mortem frontal cortex brain samples from seven schizophrenia patients and from seven controls who did not have a psychosis-associated disease. CaMKIIß mRNA levels were found to be elevated in the schizophrenia patient group (P = 0.025). The average CaMKIIß mRNA level of the schizophrenia group and of the control group was (3.2 ± 0.4) * 10-7 and (1.61 ± 0.3) * 10-7 [mu]g CaMKIIß mRNA per [mu]g of total RNA, respectively. The most pronounced elevation was found within the young adult age groups, the age of schizophrenia onset.