An integer-valued polynomial is a polynomial with rational coefficients that takes an integer value when evaluated at an integer. The binomial polynomials form a regular basis for the Z-module of all integer-valued polynomials. Using the idea of a p-ordering and a p-sequence, Bhargava describes a similar characterization for polynomials that are integer-valued on some subset of the integers. This thesis focuses on characterizing the polynomials that are integer-valued on the Fibonacci numbers. For a certain class of primes p, we give a formula for the p-sequence of the Fibonacci numbers and an algorithm for finding a p-ordering using Coelho and Parry’s results on the distribution of the Fibonacci numbers modulo powers of primes. Knowing the p-sequence, we can then find a p-local regular basis for the polynomials that are integer-valued on the Fibonacci numbers using Bhargava’s methods. A regular basis can be constructed from p-local bases for all primes p.

In discrete mathematics, a convex space is an ordered pair (V,M) where M is a family of subsets of a finite set V , such that: ∅ ∈M, V ∈M, andMis closed under intersection. The elements of M are called convex sets. For a set S ⊆ V , the convex hull of S is the smallest convex set that contains S. A point x of a convex set X is an extreme point of X if X\{x} is also convex. A convex space (V,M) with the property that every convex set is the convex hull of its extreme points is called a convex geometry. A graph G has a P-elimination ordering if an ordering v1, v2, ..., vn of the vertices exists such that vi has property P in the graph induced by vertices vi, vi+1, ..., vn for all i = 1, 2, ...,n. Farber and Jamison [18] showed that for a convex geometry (V,M), X ∈Mif and only if there is an ordering v1, v2, ..., vk of the points of V − X such that vi is an extreme point of {vi, vi+1, ..., vk}∪ X for each i = 1, 2, ...,k. With these concepts in mind, this thesis surveys the literature and summarizes results regarding graph convexities and elimination orderings. These results include classifying graphs for which different types of convexities give convex geometries, and classifying graphs for which different vertex ordering algorithms result in a P-elimination ordering, for P the characteristic property of the extreme points of the convexity. We consider the geodesic, monophonic, m3, 3-Steiner and 3-monophonic convexities, and the vertex ordering algorithms LexBFS, MCS, MEC and MCC. By considering LexDFS, a recently introduced vertex ordering algorithm of Corneil and Krueger [11], we obtain new results: these are characterizations of graphs for which all LexDFS orderings of all induced subgraphs are P-elimination orderings, for every characteristic property P of the extreme vertices for the convexities studied in this thesis. / Graduate / 0405 / rachela@uvic.ca

Context represents any knowledge obtained from Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) about the object being monitored (such as time and location of the sensed events). Time and location are important constituents of context as the information about the events sensed in WSNs is comprehensive when it includes spatio-temporal knowledge. In this thesis, we first concentrate on the development of a suite of lightweight algorithms on temporal event ordering and time synchronization as well as localization for WSNs. Then, we propose an energy-efficient clustering routing protocol for WSNs that is used for message delivery in the former algorithm. The two problems - temporal event ordering and synchronization - are dealt with together as both are concerned with preserving temporal relationships of events in WSNs. The messages needed for synchronization are piggybacked onto the messages exchanged in underlying algorithms. The synchronization algorithm is tailored to the clustered topology in order to reduce the overhead of keeping WSNs synchronized. The proposed localization algorithm has an objective of lowering the overhead of DV-hop based algorithms by reducing the number of floods in the initial position estimation phase. It also randomizes iterative refinement phase to overcome the synchronicity of DV-hop based algorithms. The position estimates with higher confidences are emphasized to reduce the impact of erroneous estimates on the neighbouring nodes. The proposed clustering routing protocol is used for message delivery in the proposed temporal algorithm. Nearest neighbour nodes are employed for inter-cluster communication. The algorithm provides Quality of Service by forwarding high priority messages via the paths with the least cost. The algorithm is also extended for multiple Sink scenario. The suite of algorithms proposed in this thesis provides the necessary tool for providing spatio-temporal context for context-aware WSNs. The algorithms are lightweight as they aim at satisfying WSN's requirements primarily in terms of energy-efficiency, low latency and fault tolerance. This makes them suitable for emergency response applications and ubiquitous computing.

In discrete mathematics, a convex space is an ordered pair (V,M) where M is a family of subsets of a finite set V , such that: ∅ ∈M, V ∈M, andMis closed under intersection. The elements of M are called convex sets. For a set S ⊆ V , the convex hull of S is the smallest convex set that contains S. A point x of a convex set X is an extreme point of X if X\{x} is also convex. A convex space (V,M) with the property that every convex set is the convex hull of its extreme points is called a convex geometry. A graph G has a P-elimination ordering if an ordering v1, v2, ..., vn of the vertices exists such that vi has property P in the graph induced by vertices vi, vi+1, ..., vn for all i = 1, 2, ...,n. Farber and Jamison [18] showed that for a convex geometry (V,M), X ∈Mif and only if there is an ordering v1, v2, ..., vk of the points of V − X such that vi is an extreme point of {vi, vi+1, ..., vk}∪ X for each i = 1, 2, ...,k. With these concepts in mind, this thesis surveys the literature and summarizes results regarding graph convexities and elimination orderings. These results include classifying graphs for which different types of convexities give convex geometries, and classifying graphs for which different vertex ordering algorithms result in a P-elimination ordering, for P the characteristic property of the extreme points of the convexity. We consider the geodesic, monophonic, m3, 3-Steiner and 3-monophonic convexities, and the vertex ordering algorithms LexBFS, MCS, MEC and MCC. By considering LexDFS, a recently introduced vertex ordering algorithm of Corneil and Krueger [11], we obtain new results: these are characterizations of graphs for which all LexDFS orderings of all induced subgraphs are P-elimination orderings, for every characteristic property P of the extreme vertices for the convexities studied in this thesis. / Graduate / 0405 / rachela@uvic.ca

The study reported here, constitutes a full review of the major geological events that have influenced the morphological development of the southeast Queensland region. Most importantly, it provides evidence that the region’s physiography continues to be geologically ‘active’ and although earthquakes are presently few and of low magnitude, many past events and tectonic regimes continue to be strongly influential over drainage, morphology and topography. Southeast Queensland is typified by highland terrain of metasedimentary and igneous rocks that are parallel and close to younger, lowland coastal terrain. The region is currently situated in a passive margin tectonic setting that is now under compressive stress, although in the past, the region was subject to alternating extensional and compressive regimes. As part of the investigation, the effects of many past geological events upon landscape morphology have been assessed at multiple scales using features such as the location and orientation of drainage channels, topography, faults, fractures, scarps, cleavage, volcanic centres and deposits, and recent earthquake activity. A number of hypotheses for local geological evolution are proposed and discussed. This study has also utilised a geographic information system (GIS) approach that successfully amalgamates the various types and scales of datasets used. A new method of stream ordination has been developed and is used to compare the orientation of channels of similar orders with rock fabric, in a topologically controlled approach that other ordering systems are unable to achieve. Stream pattern analysis has been performed and the results provide evidence that many drainage systems in southeast Queensland are controlled by known geological structures and by past geological events. The results conclude that drainage at a fine scale is controlled by cleavage, joints and faults, and at a broader scale, large river valleys, such as those of the Brisbane River and North Pine River, closely follow the location of faults. These rivers appear to have become entrenched by differential weathering along these planes of weakness. Significantly, stream pattern analysis has also identified some ‘anomalous’ drainage that suggests the orientations of these watercourses are geologically controlled, but by unknown causes. To the north of Brisbane, a ‘coastal drainage divide’ has been recognized and is described here. The divide crosses several lithological units of different age, continues parallel to the coast and prevents drainage from the highlands flowing directly to the coast for its entire length. Diversion of low order streams away from the divide may be evidence that a more recent process may be the driving force. Although there is no conclusive evidence for this at present, it is postulated that the divide may have been generated by uplift or doming associated with mid-Cenozoic volcanism or a blind thrust at depth. Also north of Brisbane, on the D’Aguilar Range, an elevated valley (the ‘Kilcoy Gap’) has been identified that may have once drained towards the coast and now displays reversed drainage that may have resulted from uplift along the coastal drainage divide and of the D’Aguilar blocks. An assessment of the distribution and intensity of recent earthquakes in the region indicates that activity may be associated with ancient faults. However, recent movement on these faults during these events would have been unlikely, given that earthquakes in the region are characteristically of low magnitude. There is, however, evidence that compressive stress is building and being released periodically and ancient faults may be a likely place for this stress to be released. The relationship between ancient fault systems and the Tweed Shield Volcano has also been discussed and it is suggested here that the volcanic activity was associated with renewed faulting on the Great Moreton Fault System during the Cenozoic. The geomorphology and drainage patterns of southeast Queensland have been compared with expected morphological characteristics found at passive and other tectonic settings, both in Australia and globally. Of note are the comparisons with the East Brazilian Highlands, the Gulf of Mexico and the Blue Ridge Escarpment, for example. In conclusion, the results of the study clearly show that, although the region is described as a passive margin, its complex, past geological history and present compressive stress regime provide a more intricate and varied landscape than would be expected along typical passive continental margins. The literature review provides background to the subject and discusses previous work and methods, whilst the findings are presented in three peer-reviewed, published papers. The methods, hypotheses, suggestions and evidence are discussed at length in the final chapter.

Doctor of Philosophy / Computerised Provider Order Entry (CPOE) systems provide clinicians with the ability to electronically enter hospital orders for laboratory tests and services. CPOE is able to integrate with hospital information systems and provide point of care decision support to users thereby making a potentially significant contribution to the efficiency and effectiveness of care delivery. The evidence of the impact of CPOE systems on pathology services is not extensive and insufficient attention has been paid to their effect on organisational and communication processes. This thesis aimed to investigate the implications of CPOE systems for pathology laboratories, their work processes and relationships with other hospital departments, using comparative examinations to identify the tasks they are involved in and the particular needs the laboratories expect to be filled by the new system. This longitudinal study of a CPOE system was carried out over three years using multiple cases from a hospital pathology service based at a large Sydney teaching hospital. Multi-methods using quantitative and qualitative data were employed to achieve triangulation of data, theory and methods. The findings provide evidence of a significant 14.3% reduction of laboratory turnaround times from 42 to 36 minutes when laboratory data for two months were compared before and after CPOE implementation. The findings also reveal changes in the pattern and organisation of information communication, highlighting transformations in the way that work is planned, negotiated and synchronised. These findings are drawn together in a comprehensive organisational communication framework that is highly relevant for developing a contingent and situational understanding of the impact of CPOE on pathology services.

Cette thèse a pour objet l'étude des oxydes lamellaires NaxVO2. Différentes phases ont été obtenues qui diffèrent dans l'empilement des feuillets [VO2] : O3-NaVO2, P'3-Na0.56VO2 et P2-Na0.73VO2. Ces trois matériaux ont fait l'objet d'une étude électrochimique en batterie sodium couplée à la diffraction des rayons X in situ afin de comprendre les transitions structurales qui se produisent en fonction de la composition. Une superstructure apparait à Na1/2VO2 pour les trois types d'empilements. Cette composition a pu être obtenue par synthèse potentiostatique. La caractérisation structurale montre qu’à cette composition les trois polytypes présentent une mise en ordre Na+/lacune et suggère la présence de clusters d'ions vanadium. De cette organisation particulière résulte un comportement inhabituel des propriétés physiques. Ce travail démontre les corrélations électroniques importantes dans cette famille de matériaux et ouvre la voie à de futures études en physique et chimie du solide. / This thesis is about the study of the lamellar oxides NaxVO2. Several phases have been obtained with different stacking of the [VO2] sheets: O3-NaVO2, P’3-Na0.56VO2 and P2-Na0.73VO2. These three materials have been the subject of an electrochemical study in sodium batteries coupled with in situ X-ray diffraction in order to understand the structural transitions taking place as a function of the composition. A superstructure appears at Na1/2VO2 for the three stackings. This composition has been obtained by potentiostatic synthesis. The structural characterization shows that at this composition the three polytypes present a Na+/vacancy ordering and suggests the presence of clusters of vanadium ions. An unusual behaviour of the physical properties is observed as a result of this peculiar organization. This work demonstrates the important electronic correlations in this family of materials and paves the path to future studies in solid-state chemistry and physics.

Orientador: Sérgio Roxo da Fonseca / Banca: Marcos Simão Figueiras / Banca: Aloysio Augusto de Campos Netto / Resumo: A Polícia Militar do Estado de São Paulo é uma Instituição organizada hierarquicamente, segundo critérios de disciplina militar. Foi criada em 1831. Trata-se, portanto de um órgão da administração pública com competência constitucional para desenvolver serviços de policiamento ostensivo. É composta por agentes públicos chamados de servidores públicos militares que desenvolvem atos no sentido de promover a segurança e a ordem pública. O tema O princípio da legalidade no controle dos atos administrativos na Polícia Militar, amparado pelo Direito Administrativo, tem como objetivo demonstrar como o princípio da legalidade, exerce papel limitador dos atos administrativos, colaborando com o fortalecimento e concretização dos postulados do Estado de Direito. Estudou-se o início histórico da sociedade e conseqüente evolução até origem do Estado, demonstrando-se a sua finalidade e suas funções, numa evolução do Estado de Polícia no rumo do Estado Democrático de Direito. Da estrutura do ordenamento jurídico, diante de toda a Administração Pública, emergem os princípios constitucionais como marcos necessários a serem observados por todos os agentes públicos. Ao longo dos anos, a corporação foi criticada por entender-se que seus administradores exerciam suas atividades conforme suas vontades. Propugna-se no sentido de que esse entendimento apresente-se submetido à legislação vigorante. Na conclusão, demonstrou-se que a Polícia Militar exerce sua atividade amparada pela Constituição e pela lei. O presente trabalho pretende ser suscetível de causar efeitos no meio acadêmico como também no âmbito corporativo, contribuindo assim com uma reflexão eminentemente teórica com forte sentido na vida prática. / Abstract: The Military Police of the State of São Paulo is an institution hierarchically organized, according to military discipline criteria. It was created in 1831. It is, therefore, an organ of public administration with constitutional competence to develop ostensive policing services. Public agents, called military public employees, who develop acts in order to promote the public security and public order, form it. The theme: The legality principle in the control of administrative acts in Military Police, supported by Administrative Law, has as its purpose to demonstrate how the legality principle performs a limiting function in administrative acts, collaborating with the strength and concretion of the postulates of the State of Law. The historical beginning of the society and the consequent evolution to the origin of the State were studied, demonstrating their purposes and functions in the evolution of the State of Police towards the Democratical State of Law. The constitutional principles, as essential signs to be observed by every public agent, emerge from the structure of juridical ordering, in the face of public administration as a whole. The corporation was criticized along the years because it was understood that its administrators performed their activities according to their will. It is advocated that this understanding is submitted to the effective Law. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that the Military Police performs their activities supported by the Constitution and the Law. The present paper intend to be susceptible of causing effects in the academic as well as in the corporative spheres, contributing to an eminently theoretical reflection with a strong meaning to practical life. / Mestre

abstract: Virtue was a concept of paramount importance in the American founders' republican thought. Without virtue, there could be no liberty, no order, no devotion to the common good, and no republican government. This dissertation examines the concept of virtue at the American founding, particularly virtue in the political thought of Mercy Otis Warren (1728-1814). The most important female intellectual of the Revolutionary generation, Warren wrote passionately about liberty and the beauty of republican ideals. Most important to this study, she consistently advocated the central place of virtue in a free and well-ordered republic. I argue that Warren incorporates three distinct philosophical threads - classical, bourgeois-marketplace, and Christian ideals - in her conception of virtue. I first analyze how Warren uses each of these three threads of virtue throughout her writings. I then examine how she synthesizes these individual threads into a single, cohesive conception of virtue. I argue that Warren consistently merges these ideals into a conception of virtue that she employs to address three pressing political problems of her day: How to motivate reluctant colonists to seek independence; how to check various forms of corruption spreading among the people; and how to counter corruption arising from commercial growth in the new nation. Modern political theorists often argue that these three threads, especially the classical republican and Christian ideals of virtue, are irreconcilable. My analysis shows that to divorce virtue from Christianity in Warren's conception is to rob it of its corrective vigor within republican government. I argue that what Machiavelli and Rousseau wrote out of republican virtue Warren writes back in. In Warren's political thought, virtue serves as the foundation for a stable enduring political system, provides the necessary informal ordering principle for the emerging republic, and offers the means by which the new nation could achieve its millennial destiny. / Dissertation/Thesis / Ph.D. Political Science 2011

Statistical depth functions became well known nonparametric tool of multivariate data analyses. The most known depth functions include the halfspace depth. Although the halfspace depth has many desirable properties, some of its properties may lead to biased and misleading results especially when data are not elliptically symmetric. The thesis introduces 2 new classes of the depth functions. Both classes generalize the halfspace depth. They keep some of its properties and since they more respect the geometric structure of data they usually lead to better results when we deal with non-elliptically symmetric, multimodal or mixed distributions. The idea presented in the thesis is based on replacing the indicator of a halfspace by more general weight function. This provides us with a continuum, especially if conic-section weight functions are used, between a local view of data (e.g. kernel density estimate) and a global view of data as is e.g. provided by the halfspace depth. The rate of localization is determined by the choice of the weight functions and theirs parameters. Properties including the uniform strong consistency of the proposed depth functions are proved in the thesis. Limit distribution is also discussed together with some other data depth related topics (regression depth, functional data depth)...