17876 research outputs found
Sort by
Hannah Rogers letters, 1828-1863, n.d.
Get PDFHannah Rogers may have been related to the wealthy Boston merchant family of Daniel Denison Rogers (1751-1825) and his second wife, Elizabeth Denison Rogers (1763-1833).The collection consists of five letters. One letter is addressed to Miss H. [Hannah] Rogers, care of H.B. Rogers, Niagara Falls. It is dated at Boston, July 15, 1828 and is from Mrs. Upham. Mrs. Upham writes that she received a letter from Mrs. Pearson and Hannah’s mother noting that they were very happy and well at Hampton Beach, and how agreeable they find everything. She relays more news about common friends and acquaintances. The writer also notes that poor Edward Emerson is in the insane hospital as a maniac and is painfully conscious of his situation. It is said he had crowded into 2 years the studies of 10. He has a complaint in the heart that must soon terminate his existence. It is the most melancholy case she has ever known.
Another letter is signed “Hannah” and is addressed to Mrs. Elizabeth Livermore, Keene, N.H. The letter is addressed at Littleton, December 29, 1843. She writes about the death of Amelia, who left behind a six-month-old daughter, an update about Mr. White and his parish, and news of other friends and acquaintances.
The remaining three letters are not signed. One is dated at Boston, June 26, 1851 and is addressed to “my dear friends” from J. Pecham[?]. The writer notes that the excursion came off very well and thanks the recipient for her many kindnesses. The writer also hopes that they will keep the Niagara excursion in view and be laying their plans accordingly, and have a large number of their friends do the same. Another letter is addressed to Pamelia from Eliza and is dated at Staten Island, February 15, 1863. An envelope with a stamp is included. She writes about friends and acquaintances, the weather, and her activities. The remaining letter has no date and is not signed. The front reads “Letters from J.L.P. to S.A.P”. The reverse side contains notes about the qualities the writer was looking for in a house
Characterization of Negeviruses and insect virome interactions during co-infection in cell culture
Get PDFNegeviruses are a newly described taxon of insect-specific viruses (ISVs) that show potential to be used as a virus-based pathogen control strategy through superinfection exclusion. Due to its recent discovery, little is known about the biology of these ISVs or how they interact with the insect’s virome. It was recently demonstrated that both wild-type and genetically modified Negeviruses can inhibit the replication of Alphaviruses in mosquito cell culture. For Negeviruses to be used in wild mosquito populations they will have to compete with other viruses that infect mosquitoes, typically other wild-type Negeviruses and ISVs. Thus, I performed co-infection assays in different cell types to observe homologous and heterologous exclusion during virus infection. The cell lines used were Aag2 cells derived from Aedes aegypti, and C7/10 cells derived from Aedes albopictus. C7/10 cells have a dysfunctional RNA interference response, while Aag2 cells have a functional RNA interference pathway and pre-existing chronic infections with two ISVs: CFAV and PCLV. Homologous exclusion will be tested through additional infectious clones of Negeviruses that have fluorescent reporter genes inserted into their genome. Analyzing the growth trends of different Negeviruses in these cell lines allow us to determine which Negevirus isolates can establish infection in the presence of existing or co-infections with other viruses. Results demonstrated the successful cloning of PIUV ORF3 mScarlet, but with concerns regarding insert stability. The variability in outcomes during co-infection experiments was attributed to cell type differences, mainly RNAi competency, and pre-existing infections. Fitness variations were observed among the viruses, with NEGV isolates and LORV demonstrating higher fitness. These findings contribute to our understanding of Negevirus biology and highlight the importance of further research to overcome the challenges encountered in cloning and characterization of the behavior of these viruses
Anti-Masonic party broadsides, 1830-1835
Get PDFThe Anti-masonic party’s origins can be traced back to the 1826 disappearance of William Morgan. Morgan was a bricklayer in western New York who supposedly wrote a book divulging the secrets of the Masonic order, thereby breaking his vow of secrecy to the Freemasons. His disappearance led to rumours that he was murdered by the Freemasons. Since many professionals such as businessmen, judges, and politicians were Masons, some members of the public began to believe that these professionals favoured one another and that the Masonic order was an elitist group. This led to a general distrust of the Freemasons and the belief that those critical of the Masons would be eliminated. It was believed that the Masons would use their professional offices to obstruct any investigation into such disappearances.
The Anti-masonic party was considered America’s first third party. It was also the first political party to develop a platform for voters and the first to hold a national nominating convention. The party had some success in the 1828 election but their popularity declined throughout the 1830s. Many Anti-masons joined the Whig party instead and by 1840 the party was no longer a national organization.Two Anti-Masonic party broadsides, 1830s. The first broadside it titled “A Disclosure” and contains Samuel Anderton’s account of the murder of Captain William Morgan. It is dated at Boston, March 15, 1830 and is taken from the Anti-Masonic Christian Herald. It begins “On Monday last (the 15th of March), Mr. Samuel G. Anderton of Boston, a Knight Templar, voluntarily appeared before a Notary Public and Justice of the Peace in the City, and in presence of several members of the State Committee and other Citizens assembled, made solemn oath to the following statement—disclosing a most barborous MURDER, of which he was an eye witness, in a Royal Arch Chapter of Freemasons! Immediately on the receipt of this document, several members of the Investigating Committee in Boston, to whom he was less known, took measures more fully to inquire, and satisfy themselves as to the character of Mr. Anderton, and particularly as to such facts, stated by him, which might be known here. They found upon inquiry a mass of evidence in support of his testimony…” This is followed by a numbered list of evidence substantiating Anderton’s claim. The affidavit of Samuel J. Anderton is also included.
The second broadside is titled “Supplement to the Watchman and State Gazette” and announces the Anti-Masonic party’s meeting on October 19, 1835 in which they laid out their political views. It is written that “The Antimasons of Vermont, having deemed it necessary to make their opposition to Freemasonry political, and to organize a party for that purpose, have, in prosecuting the purpose of their organization, been brought into conflict with two other parties in the State…the Antimasons of Vermont would not have been true to themselves or their country, if they had failed to investigate them, and to make the result of their investigation, to some extent, the basis of their political action. They have, accordingly, freely examined the great questions involved in the present administration of the National Government. Its principles and policy have been made by them the subject of frequent deliberation, and their views have been frequently expressed in resolutions and addresses of their representative bodies. These views are well known; and would, under ordinary circumstances, need no reiteration. But inasmuch as the time approaches when the Antimasons of Vermont will be called on to act in an election deeply involving the welfare of the whole country, and in which their attachment to the principles they have avowed will be put to a severe trial, it would seem to be fitting they should re-examine those principles, and decide whether they will, with the firmness and constancy of Antimasons, and carry them out in the approaching contest. This is followed by a list of 17 resolutions made at the meeting. It is signed in print by Silas H. Jenison
Adaptive Logging System: A System Using Reinforcement Learning For Log Placement
Get PDFThe efficient management of software logs plays a key role in software development, as it allows for the examination of runtime information for post-execution analysis. Given the significance of logs and the possibility that developers may not possess the necessary knowledge to make informed logging decisions, it is important to have a robust log-placement framework that supports developers. Prior attempts to address this challenge have proposed various frameworks, however, these frameworks are either limited to a single logging objective or rely on methods that exhibit poor cross-project consistency. This study introduces a novel performance logging objective to capture and reveal performance bugs, and presents an adaptive software logging approach based on reinforcement learning, which can adapt to multiple logging objectives. This framework is not limited to a specific project and shows superior cross-project accuracy
CHARACTERIZING INTRA-ANNUAL XYLEM CELL FORMATION AND CIRCADIAN CYCLE DYNAMICS OF JACK PINE (PINUS BANKSIANA) IN THE NORTHERN BOREAL FOREST, YELLOWKNIFE, NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
Get PDFXylem cell formation and stem radial fluctuations for jack pine in Yellowknife, NT were assessed during the 2017 season. The characterization of the timing of the onset of xylogenesis reactivation, period(s) of rapid cell development, and termination of seasonal stem growth were recorded over the estimated growing season. Two methods, microcores and automatic point dendrometers were used to better understand what the characteristics of a growth season looks like for jack pine at its northern limit within the boreal forest. It was demonstrated that onset of cell development at the study site “Treeville” occurred once temperatures had exceeded the 4-5ºC temperature threshold, the period of rapid growth was observed around June 21 for all phases of xylogenesis, aligning with the timing of annual longest photoperiod during summer solstice. It is demonstrated that jack pines in this region are much slower growing, with cell development at ~0.28 cells/day during the period of rapid growth, and site wide average of ~13 cells. Precipitation was highly correlated with the observation of the SRI phase throughout the season, most notably in the period prior to cell wall-thickening. A multi-year cell development assessment indicated a relationship with June precipitation, demonstrating lower cell counts in years with low June precipitation. Cell growth was recorded to end in late August, although some trees demonstrated cells in developing phases into early September. Overall, results suggest (1) strong relationship between the onset of jack pine wood formation when temperatures exceed established thresholds for growth, (2) demonstrated that the period of rapid growth aligns with longest daylength June, and (3) annual cell count is controlled by June precipitation
Feasibility study using remote sensing technologies to improve zonal vineyard management
Get PDFThe primary purpose of this research was to examine the feasibility of using remote sensing data to improve efficiency of zonal vineyard management. To achieve this goal, correlation analysis between the significant vineyard management variables and different remote sensing data analysis tools were undertaken. The variables included leaf water potential, soil moisture, canopy size, vine health, vineyard yield, and fruit composition, which further impacts wine quality. The remote sensing data analysis tools included normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and other indices extracted from electromagnetic reflectance data of grapevine leaves and canopies. In each site, sentinel vines (i.e., 72-81) were identified in a grid form. GPS-based geolocation was carried out for six Cabernet Franc vineyards in Ontario's Niagara wine country.
Even though remote sensing data analysis tools were not associated with several other important variables for quality grape production, this research still confirmed that remote sensing data analysis has significant potential to differentiate specific zones of canopy size, water stress, yield, some superior fruit compositions, and the resulting wine sensory attributes within a single vineyard site. This study also confirmed that the mechanism of plant defense systems against biotic stress could have impacts on the spectral behaviour of grapevine leaves and hyperspectral remote sensing technologies could be applied as a tool to identify the spectral behaviour changes due to stress.
Overall, this study verified the feasibility of remote sensing technologies to enhance the efficiency of vineyard management in the correlation of data from various remote sensing data-analysis techniques and viticulturally important variables for plant health and growth, and fruit and wine quality. As a first step to develop a site-specific crop management (SSCM) model for vineyard management, it also proposes future research opportunities to test and develop an efficient vineyard management decision making model
Physical activity and exercise experiences among people with Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada
Get PDFPhysical activity and exercise are recommended as part of treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) or Parkinson’s disease (PD). Rates of physical activity are low in these groups, and the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions affected almost every aspect of life. The purpose of this thesis was to understand and interpret the perceptions and experiences of physical activity and exercise during and following the COVID-19 pandemic and the corresponding restrictions, among individuals with mild-to-moderate MS or PD in Canada, to understand the impact on overall well-being. The study was guided by interpretative phenomenological analysis and reflexive thematic analysis. Eleven participants (4 males, 7 females; 4 people with MS and 7 with PD) each completed two interviews online focusing on physical activity and exercise behaviours (interview 1) and perceived outcomes of physical activity and exercise changes related to symptoms, physical health and functioning, psychological and emotional health, social functioning, and overall well-being (interview 2), over the span of the pandemic. Two themes were generated: 1) “It truly was a COVID-19 bubble:” The influence of isolation and restrictions in Canada; and 2) Managing MS or PD during COVID-19: “Exercising was essential.” For most participants, physical activity declined due to COVID-19 restrictions, which in turn was associated with an increase in symptoms and a decrease in physical activity and exercise. Three participants described little change to their frequency of physical activity, although often the mode and intensity changed. Two participants described how COVID-19 restrictions lifted barriers, leading to more frequent engagement in physical activity and exercise during lockdowns specifically. Participants also described how COVID-19 and its restrictions contributed to the progression of their diseases and the impact on daily routines and psychological motivation. Findings highlight the need to provide accessible, motivating, and sociable exercise for individuals with MS or PD, in situations where in-person exercise is not feasible. In particular, developing technology to allow for exercise closer to in-person experiences, aiming to increase stamina, full-body movement, and balance
THE SYNTHESIS OF SILICON-MODIFIED LIPIDS AND THE INVESTIGATION OF THEIR SURFACE PROPERTIES
Get PDFThis work outlines the synthesis of three novel silatrane-functionalized lipids and the
exploration of their capacity to undergo spontaneous particle formation in aqueous environments.
The chemoenzymatic synthesis of the lipids required 1,3-diacylglycerides of octanoyl, lauroyl,
and palmitoyl acyl chains to be coupled with 1-(3-aminopropyl)silatrane using 1,1’-
carbonyldiimidazole and succinic anhydride. These short, medium, and long-chain models were
then subjected to dynamic light scattering analysis after vortexing for 15 minutes in
concentrations of 15 mg/mL and 30 mg/mL ultrapure H2O. Previous research has demonstrated
that hybrid siloxane phosphocholines that possess a disiloxane moiety appended onto a single tail
of many biologically relevant double tail phosphocholines are capable of spontaneously forming
vesicles of 100 nm in diameter without the need of extrusion or other forceful techniques at these
concentrations. For a direct comparison, the chemoenzymatic synthesis of two medium chain
hybrid siloxane phosphocholines and a dynamic light scattering analysis of all six previously
studied hybrid siloxane phosphocholines were conducted. At concentrations of 30 mg/mL in
ultrapure H2O the six-hybrid siloxane phosphocholines spontaneously formed particles ranging
from 97.1 nm to 364.3 nm in diameter, but only the medium chain silatrane derivative formed
particles of 200 nm in diameter while the short and long chain silatranyl-lipids required extrusion
for particle formation. Attempts were made to further expand the library and synthesize silatranefunctionalized phospholipids using a phosphate to couple the tails to the silatrane rather than
succinic anhydride. Despite the various trials, the intermediates were observed to rapidly
decompose via 31P NMR, 1H NMR, and TLC, likely due to their hydrolytic instabilit
The Role of Retinoic Acid in the Formation and Modulation of Invertebrate Electrical Synapses
Get PDFCommunication between cells in the nervous system is dependent upon structures known as synapses. Synapses are broadly characterized as either chemical or electrical in nature, owing to the type of signals that are transmitted across them. Factors that can affect chemical synapses have been extensively studied. However, the factors that can influence the formation and modulation of electrical synapses are poorly understood. Retinoic acid, a vitamin A metabolite, is a known regulator of chemical synapses, yet its capacity to regulate electrical synapses is not as well established. Preliminary evidence from the central neurons of both invertebrates and vertebrates suggests that it is also capable of regulating the strength of electrical synapses. In this study, I provide further insights into how retinoic acid can act as a neuromodulator of electrical synapses. My findings suggest that retinoic acid is capable of rapidly altering the strength of electrical synapses in a dose- and isomer-dependent manner. Further, I provide evidence that this acute effect might be independent of either the retinoid receptors or a protein kinase. In addition, I provide novel findings to suggest retinoic acid is also capable of regulating the formation of electrical synapses. Long term exposure to two isomers of retinoic acid, all-trans-retinoic acid and 9-cis-retinoic acid, reduces both the proportion of cell pairs, and the average synaptic strength between cells that form electrical synapses. In summary, these investigations provide novel insights into the role that retinoids play in the both the formation and modulation of electrical synapses in the CNS
Three Papers on Patient Experiences with Symptom Persistent Lyme Disease in Canada
Get PDFThis dissertation consists of three empirical papers on patient experiences with symptom persistent Lyme disease in Canada. Lyme disease infection rates are rising across the country, a phenomenon attributed to climate change and the northern migration of ticks. The focus of this dissertation can advance knowledge in this area by addressing a gap in the current academic literature (a lack of patient voices). It is important that researchers continue to seek representation of patients’ embodied experiences in health research to advance equity and inclusion in healthcare. Study 1, an autoethnographic study, explores one researcher’s embodied experiences with co-occurring identities as a researcher, health professional, and patient living with chronic illness (symptom persistent Lyme disease). Study 2, a case study, explores the experiences of one young person, who is a patient with symptom persistent Lyme disease in Canada through collaborative research. Study 3, a qualitative study utilizing descriptive exploratory methodology, explores mothers’ experiences with symptom persistent Lyme disease in Canada. The findings from all three papers suggest that the government and public health agencies across the country should, on an ongoing basis, endeavor to advance public education on the risks of tick-borne illnesses. Further, the findings from each paper suggest that health professionals would benefit from continued education and training on tick-borne illness, and that ongoing collaboration between health professionals can be beneficial in the care and treatment of patients’ persistent Lyme disease symptoms. Finally, this dissertation highlights the benefits of collaborative healthcare (between alternative and Allopathic medicine) and may inform policy and decision-making focused on the prevention and treatment of Lyme disease in Canada