VictorJuiz/thesis huggingface dataset:
A high-speed timing-aware router for FPGAs

Digital circuits can be realized instantly using Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), but unfortunately the CAD tools used to generate FPGA programming bit-streams often require several hours for large circuits. We contend that there exists a subset of designers willing to pay for faster compile times by having to use more resources on a given FPGA, a larger FPGA, or some decrease in circuit speed. This thesis focuses on the routing phase of the compile and proposes a new high-speed timing-aware routing algorithm. The execution speed of the new router is very fast when the FPGA contains at least 10% more routing resources than the minimum required by a circuit. For example, targeting a model of the Xilinx 4000XL FPGA, the routing time for a 250,000 gate circuit is 127 seconds on a 300 MHz UltraSPARC. The circuit delay is only 19% higher compared to a high-quality timing-driven router.
Regulation of the Ras exchange factor Ras-GRF2

The Ras GTPases play a pivotal role in cellular proliferation and differentiation and become activated in response to a variety of extracellular signals, including growth and differentiation factors, hormones, immune antigens and calcium influx. Ras requires the action of guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) in order to become GTP-bound, enabling it to transmit a signal to downstream signaling components. Ras-GRF2 (GRF2) is a calcium-responsive Ras exchange factor which contains many recognizable protein domains, including an ilimaquinone (IQ) motif and a destruction box (DB). The IQ motif of a homologous protein, Ras-GRF1, binds calmodulin (CaM) and it was postulated that this binding activated GRF1. I demonstrated that the role of calcium and CaM in GRF2 function is not the same as that proposed for GRF1. GRF2 does indeed bind calmodulin but the IQ motif is not the sole determinant of CaM binding, and mutant proteins that cannot bind CaM are still calcium-responsive. Interestingly, an IQ-deleted protein can activate Ras but cannot activate the effector molecular Raf. I postulate that exchange factors may play a role in determining effector interactions and therefore play a larger role than previously thought in Ras signaling. The varied responses to different extracellular signals that all activate Ras could be a result of the individual GEF that was activated upstream of Ras. Because the DB is a motif that targets proteins for ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, I examined the proteolysis of GRF2. I demonstrated that activated GRF2 is an unstable protein and that binding to Ras targets GRF2 for destruction. Deletion of the DB protects GRF2 from Ras-triggered degradation. I established that GRF2 is ubiquitinated 'in vivo' and that it becomes ubiquitinated only upon binding to Ras; downstream signaling is not required for this degradation, suggesting it is merely binding that triggers this degradation. Point mutants that cannot bind Ras are not ubiquitinated. GRF2 accumulates in a highly ubiquitinated state in the presence of proteasome inhibitors. I have reported the first evidence of 'in vivo' ubiquitination of a mammalian exchange factor and have provided a mechanism as to how the protein is targeted for proteolysis.
Multiple vs. single courses of antenatal corticosteroids for preterm birth

A single course of antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) decreases the risk of death, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and possibly intraventricular hemorrhage in babies at risk of preterm delivery. The effects on RDS are most significant if babies are born between 24 hours and 7-10 following treatment. As a result, many centers repeat courses of ACS every 7-10 days. Systematic reviews of studies in humans and animals show some benefits and risks for multiple courses of ACS. I designed multi-center randomized controlled trial to assess the effects of multiple vs. single courses of ACS on neonatal outcomes. A pilot study of this trial suggests a multi-center trial is feasible, but care should be given to the strategy for recruiting pregnant women.
Family burden and expressed emotion in the parents of adults with schizophrenia, a critique and empirical test of an integrated model

This study critiqued the dominant theoretical models of families and schizophrenia and empirically tested relationships between subjective family burden and expressed emotion (EE) of parents of adults with schizophrenia. Integration of the models is theoretically plausible, consistent with empirical evidence, congruent with dominant social work practice models, and has the potential to advance clinical practice. An integrated EE/family burden model was proposed and formed the basis of research questions. Exploratory secondary data analyses were conducted. The research tested whether the EE components, EOI and criticism, mediate relationships between parent subjective burden and each of patient social functioning, patient symptoms, parent knowledge about schizophrenia, and parent experience with schizophrenia. The results were indefinite. The findings that neither EOI nor criticism act as statistical mediators were inconclusive because of low statistical power for the tests. There were trends for associations between the EE components, subjective burden, and patient social functioning. Relationships between EE change and subjective burden change were tested. The results indicate that EE may explain, at most, a small part of subjective burden change. There was a trend for a relationship between EE change and subjective burden change. Among parents who were initially high EE, lower subjective burden was associated with subsequent change to low EE. EE was more likely to be stable than to change. Change from high to low EE was more common than change from low to high EE. The major limitations of the research design were the: (1) non probability sample; (2) small sample size and the associated low statistical power for many of the tests; and (3) the large number of univariate tests which increased the chance of Type I error. Thus, the findings must be interpreted with caution. Design features which compensate for weaknesses in the published research include: (1) use of a theoretical framework; (2) avoiding confounding in measurement; (3) preservation of sample size through the use of multiple imputation for ignorable missing data; (4) analysis of potential sample bias; and (5) use of multivariate statistical techniques.
A wide-tuning range transformer-based RF CMOS oscillator

In this thesis a method of producing a VCO with a wide enough tuning range, such that the correct centre frequency can be ensured, is presented. This is achieved without compromising the power consumption of the circuit. The work is novel in that a transformer is preferred to an inductor to help maximize this tuning range. The design was fabricated in a CMOS 0.18[mu]m technology, and has a frequency tuning range lying between approximately 2.0 and 2.8 GHz, drawing 20mA from a 1.8V supply. A staggered-tuning range was employed to minimize the effect of noise on the analog control voltage, so the control process is a dual one, with both analog and digital controls. The oscillator produces quadrature outputs which are essential for many transceiver systems. Two chips have been submitted for fabrication. The second design will be tested in November 2001.
Gene expression profiling of UV-induced skin cancer using cDNA microarray technology

Ultraviolet (UV) light represents a complete carcinogen, and it is implicated in causing the most prevalent form of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Previous studies have shown that UV can induce profound changes in cutaneous gene expression leading to immune suppression, which contributes to cutaneous malignancy. This research thesis was undertaken to establish the use of cDNA microarray technology for examining gene expression profiles in the skin. To establish the technique, we first examined UV effects on keratinocytes. Several UV-regulated genes were discovered including the endogenous angiogenesis inhibitor thrombospondin-1, which is potentially relevant to UV-induced carcinogenesis. To examine genes regulated in skin cancer more directly, biopsies from 50 BCC patients were analyzed by microarray. The differential gene expression data obtained for these patients, in addition to the in vitro UV-inducible genes, may promote further understanding of genetic processes involved in non-melanoma skin cancer.
Peel test for the study of the fibre polymer interface

Nine fibre-resin systems have been studied using peel test to measure the adhesion between fibres and polymers. SEM photos have been used to provide additional evidence on the failure of the interface. Four types of peelings were observed including poor adhesion, brittle fracture, ductile fracture and fibre damage. The "wings" in the good adhesion cases proved that the resistance to shear failure of the interface was very strong. The length of process zone, 'lP', was estimated, and the tensile displacements in the matrix underneath the fibre were also estimated. The displacements involved shear, and the fracture process was complex, involving different amounts of the three modes of fracture, at different points of the fibre circumference. Further work, more detailed analysis should be attempted, not requiring the assumption of linear change in [epsilon]'flex'.
The impact of downsizing strategies and processes on Ontario academic research libraries

This study investigates the patterns of organizational downsizing activities in the academic research libraries in Ontario between 1993 and 1997. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the organizational downsizing strategies and processes academic research libraries use to downsize and the impact the downsizing has on organizational outcomes both at the individual level (attitudes towards the job) and organizational level (organizational climate). Data were collected by a mail questionnaire survey. The study population consists of the professional employees (excluding Chief Librarians) in nine academic research libraries in Ontario. The academic research libraries selected for this study belong to the Canadian Association of Research Libraries (CARL). A total of 458 mail questionnaires were sent to the professional employees in the nine participating CARL member institutions. Three hundred and twenty-eight completed questionnaires were returned giving a response rate of 72 percent. A general conclusion from this study is that the strategies used to downsize affect employee attitudes toward their jobs as well as the organizational climate. We found that a workforce reduction strategy that relied primarily on attrition, early retirements, and regular retirements had a negative impact on both employee attitudes toward the job and organizational climate. In contrast, a systemic change strategy, which focuses on changing the culture of the organization, had a positive impact on both employee attitudes toward the job and organizational climate. The findings also suggest that much of what management does during the downsizing process itself has implications for how successful the efforts to minimize the negative effects for survivors, and ultimately the organization, will be. Our analysis identified three management processes in which organizations could intervene to alleviate the negative effects of downsizing on employee attitudes toward the job and organizational climate. We found that participation, communication, and transformational leadership behaviours had a positive impact on both employee attitudes toward the job and organizational climate. These processes involve employee participation in the decision-making regarding downsizing, the presence of timely, accurate, and complete communication during downsizing, and the demonstration of senior management commitment and support of the changes made during the downsizing.
A team development model based on Myers Briggs personality types and action research to improve team performance and participant satisfaction

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a team development model designed by the investigator could help organizations develop and sustain high performance teams. Specifically, does this model improve team performance and participant satisfaction? The model is based on action research and focuses on helping teams comprehend the complexities inherent in personality style differences, and on developing an approach to managing personality diversity. In order to determine the effect of this model on team performance and satisfaction, an experimental research design was formulated involving 118 participants. They were randomly assigned to the experimental and control conditions and participated in a series of experiential exercises and focus group discussions. After each experiential exercise, team performance scores were recorded and surveys to determine participant satisfaction were administered. Data were tested both quantitatively and qualitatively. The results from the quantitative data analysis revealed that the experimental groups' performance and satisfaction scores were greater than the control groups' scores and the results, in most cases, were statistically significant at the .05 and .001 levels. The qualitative data compiled from the focus group interviews revealed that the experimental and control groups showed marked differences in the following categories: change management, team development, valuing personality diversity, conflict management, and transference of learning. The implications of this model are numerous and demonstrate its applicability to various organizational settings in either self-directed or leader-facilitated teams. The model is an effective tool for developing not only an understanding of personality style differences and the impact they have on team functioning, but also developing strategies to manage the differences so that teams can function as high performers.
Response properties of human thalamic neurons to high frequency micro-stimulation

The mechanisms of the therapeutic effect of thalamic deep brain stimulation (DBS) are currently not well understood. The present study directly examined the effects of electrical stimulation in the ventrolateral thalamus on the firing of nearby neurons. High frequency micro-stimulation (100-333Hz; current 5-40uA) from either a nearby stimulating electrode (~250um) or directly from the recording electrode was found to produce a prolonged inhibition lasting up to 25s in 38 out of 74 (51%) cells. This inhibition was usually preceded by a short period of increased bursting activity (89%). Inhibition was observed in 29 of 36 (81%) neurons that had a bursting firing pattern and in 9 of 38 (24%) non-bursting neurons. These findings indicate that high frequency microstimulation in thalamus can hyperpolarize the cell membrane and inhibit the firing of thalamic neurons and that these effects may mediate the therapeutic effects of DBS.
Regulation of the GTPase-activating protein, p120[superscript]G[superscript)A[superscript]P, through its PH and CaLB domains

The Ras GTPases play a critical role in the regulation of cellular proliferation and differentiation. These proteins become activated in response to numerous extracellular signals including growth factors, hormones, components of the extracellular matrix as well as increases in intracellular calcium levels. Once activated, Ras binds to and transmits these signals to downstream effector molecules. Subsequently, Ras is returned to its inactive GDP-bound form through the actions of GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) which stimulate the weak intrinsic GTPase activity of Ras. P120GAP is a ubiquitously expressed GTPase-activating protein comprised of a variety of modular domains, all of which may contribute to its regulation and therefore Ras signalling. Because little is known of the role of the PH and CaLB domains of p120 GAP, I examined whether these domains played an integral part in its function. I have demonstrated that GAP not only functions to control the duration of MAPK activity in response to growth factor stimulation, but is also involved in the regulation of cell growth. Furthermore, I have shown that, unlike its ability to regulate MAPK activity or to associate with the RhoGAP, p190, GAP requires both its PH and CaLB domains to control cell growth. In addition, I have demonstrated that the PH domain of GAP directly interacts with RACK1 (receptor for activated C kinase) as well as PKC[epsilon] 'in vitro' whereas both the PH and CaLB domains are required for GAP to associate with RACK1 'in vivo'. Moreover, PH domains from various proteins display differential binding to RACK1. I have also shown that this is an ionic interaction and involves the N-terminal half of the PH domain. Evidence also suggests that this association may be regulated by serine/threonine phosphorylation as the exclusion of ser/thr phosphatase inhibitors to cell lysates greatly reduces the amount of RACK1 that associates with the PH domain. Since RACK1 localizes to different cellular sites in response to various signals and binds activated PKC, the PH and CaLB domains, by mediating the association with RACK1, may contribute to the subcellular localization of GAP and/or allow GAP to be regulated by PKC.
Minimization of dissolved nickel and cobalt slag losses at high matte grades

In the present work, laboratory converting tests were used to simulate industrial converting and determine the behaviour of nickel and cobalt. High temperature converting experiments were carried out with industrial flash furnace nickel matte melted in MgO crucibles at 1250°C. Three variables were investigated during and after converting to help minimize the amount of nickel and cobalt that reports to the slag as dissolved losses (nickel and cobalt oxide). The three variables used were oxygen concentration in the blast (during converting), breeze coke addition (during or after converting) and nitrogen injection stirring (after converting). The investigation found that the converting process in the laboratory simulated industrial results closely. The investigation also found that increasing oxygen concentration in the blast resulted in increased losses, coke addition during converting had little effect on losses, while both coke addition and nitrogen injection after converting resulted in decreased dissolved losses.
EVE, a CAD tool providing placement and pipelining assistance for high-speed FPGA circuit designs

As FPGAs push ever deeper into mainstream digital design, there is an increasing desire for high-performance circuits. This thesis describes a manual editor called EVE can assist a designer to perform manual packing, placement and pipelining of commercial FPGA circuits to achieve a meaningful increase in performance. This effort is inspired by Von Herzen's paper [VonH97] [VonH97a], which proposed the notion of an "Event Horizon"--a high-speed circuit design approach in which complete knowledge of the timing effect of every synthesis change is used. It is very laborious to implement circuits using this approach; therefore we try to augment manual design tools in order to make this Event Horizon methodology easier to perform. This thesis describes a first step in that direction, which focuses on placement, packing and pipelining. EVE provides an interactive environment that immediately reroutes and timing analyzes after each user circuit modification, giving an exact value for critical path delay. It can also suggest good placement positions and provide flip-flop insertion assist during pipelining. Experimental results show that EVE can achieve up to 18.8% and on average 12.7% speed increase on a set of eight Xilinx Virtex-E circuits of 250 or fewer LUTs.
On asymptotic likelihood inference, removing p-value singularities

Recent likelihood asymptotics initiated by Barndorff-Nielsen (1986) and Lugannani & Rice (1980) has developed two combining formulas, which are often called third order formulas, for computing 'p'-values and confidence coefficients with high accuracy. Fraser & Reid (1995) and many others have extended these results to very general contexts and extensively explored their applications to various statistical problems. These two formulas, however, have certain singularities near the maximum likelihood value. In this thesis we develop a theory for removing the singularities in a general statistical context using the tangent exponential model developed by Cakmak ' et al' (1998) and Abebe 'et al' (1995). In doing so, the asymptotic expansions of the signed likelihood ratio statistic and the standardized measure of departure are first obtained in terms of the standardized third and fourth derivatives of the log density and are then used to form a bridge for the 'p'-value functions in the neighborhood of the maximum likelihood value. The concept of a nonnormality measure is also developed and its implications to the singularity problems are discussed. In addition, its expressions for two types of tangent exponential model are related. We have also developed several alternative combining formulas for obtaining highly accurate 'p'-value and confidence interval. Unlike the Lugannani & Rice formula, these formulas are generally continuous at the extremes. Numerical studies are used to determine and compare the accuracy and reliability of the different combining formulas. These studies show that these new formulas outperform the existing ones in many cases.
Predicting home care expenditures in Ontario

This thesis addressed the issue of identifying an indicator(s) of need for home care services in Ontario. Specifically, the thesis assessed diagnostic-based and survey-based measures of need. An empirical model was estimated to predict the propensity for and intensity of home care utilization using the age, sex and 'needs' of the population, as well as, health care system factors. The goal of the thesis was to identify additional adjusters [beyond age and sex] that could be included in a geographically-based capitation funding formula to equitably allocate home care funds across Community Care Access Centres (CCACs) in Ontario. The survey-based measures of need that were independently associated with an increased probability of future home care use were age 75 and older; limitations in Activities of Daily Living/Instrumental Activities of Daily Living; poorer health status; and prior home care use. Similar prevalence of selected comorbidities was obtained from diagnoses found in administrative data and self-reported prevalence in Ontario's 94/95 population health survey. Diagnosis-based measures of need generated from the DCG/HCC models substantially improved the prediction of individual home care expenditures compared to a model with only demographic adjusters (8.0% versus 3.4%). A funding model that includes a measure of the burden of illness is administratively feasible, and would result in a more equitable distribution of funds among the CCACs than the current funding formula. Multi-level modelling revealed a substantial amount of variation (30%) in the propensity to provide home care is potentially explainable by contextual factors (health care system and societal factors). In particular, greater nursing home bed availability increases the likelihood of receiving home care, and the more women participating in the workforce decreases the likelihood of receiving home care. Very little variation in mean home care expenditures is potentially explainable by contextual factors. Further work is needed to explore other important contextual factors that can explain the variation in the propensity to provide home care across CCACs in Ontario. This study has shown that a more comprehensive funding formula should be considered if the objective of Canadian health funding policy is to equitably allocate resources to reflect the "needs" of the population.