Flexible regression models for functional neuroimaging

Current practice for analysing functional neuroimaging data is to average the brain signals recorded at multiple sensors or channels on the scalp over time across hundreds of trials or replicates to eliminate noise and enhance the underlying signal of interest. These studies recording brain signals non-invasively using functional neuroimaging techniques such as electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG) generate complex, high dimensional and noisy data for many subjects at a number of replicates. Single replicate (or single trial) analysis of neuroimaging data have gained focus as they are advantageous to study the features of the signals at each replicate without averaging out important features in the data that the current methods employ. The research here is conducted to systematically develop flexible regression mixed models for single trial analysis of specific brain activities using examples from EEG and MEG to illustrate the models. This thesis follows three specific themes: i) artefact correction to estimate the `brain' signal which is of interest, ii) characterisation of the signals to reduce their dimensions, and iii) model fitting for single trials after accounting for variations between subjects and within subjects (between replicates). The models are developed to establish evidence of two specific neurological phenomena - entrainment of brain signals to an $\alpha$ band of frequencies (8-12Hz) and dipolar brain activation in the same $\alpha$ frequency band in an EEG experiment and a MEG study, respectively.

Dealing with the devil: a critical and creative look at the diabolical pact

This thesis is comprised of three parts: a critical dissertation, a creative work of fiction and a bridge piece that connects the two. The critical work is an examination of the Devil as a satirist in Faustian bargains. Through the usage of the Devil as a literary figure, his character has become a more secular being: a trickster rather than evil incarnate—a facilitator of sin rather than its originator. In the tragicomedy of pacts with the Devil, he acts as a mirror, reflecting mankind’s foibles and vanity, while elevating the reader in the process. The thesis considers the language, tone, purpose and conceits of several versions of the story. While the focus is primarily on American Literature, the influence of English, Scottish, French and German folklore and fiction are recognized as an essential component of the theme’s evolution. In the bridge piece, the pact with the Devil is literalized in a modern context; a corporate business of reaping souls is theorized in which techniques of persuasion are streamlined into an effective formula. Whether immersive or expository in approach, the portrayal of the supernatural depends on the literary principles of science fiction and fantasy in order to manipulate the reader and allow irrational concepts to obey rational laws. Such theories are cited to support how the Devil functions as a believable character. The novel, Could Be Much Worse, relates the story of an egocentric boss and his dependable employee, a scout who disguises himself as a taxi driver and seeks candidates who may succumb to temptation. Passengers’ monologues of desperation and pathos are interspersed throughout the protagonist’s day-to-day narrative. At times, the work is experimental, utilizing irregular storytelling techniques, alternative forms and conceits. Light-hearted, but nonetheless poignant, the story serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the tedium of a bureaucratic job in a transmundane existence.