Innovative Projects Realized

Optimization of Real-time Bidding System via Automatic Detection of Performance-related Defects

Design an efficient way to store and organize the large amounts of data required by our real time bidding application. Data such as campaign information, campaign assets (images, links, html) campaign targeting settings, and campaign optimization data could be arranged for fast access and processing inside the RTB application. Efficient storage and processing methods are required in order to allow the bidder to store in excess of 1000 campaigns and yet still be able to bid in impressions in the order of milliseconds. Possible storage and optimization methods involve using bit strings to store campaign information in a way that allows logic operations (eg AND/OR/XOR) to process many campaign simultaneously with little compute power.

Novel approaches to stimulate regeneration in the retina

Vision loss caused by retinal degeneration remains untreatable, posing a significant medical challenge. Unlike mammals, certain vertebrates like fish and frogs possess a remarkable regenerative ability in their retinas, mediated by Müller glia—specialized support cells that can proliferate and replace lost neurons. In mammals, however, Müller glia fail to regenerate neurons after injury, instead undergoing gliosis and remaining inactive. Our research aims to uncover why mammalian Müller glia lack regenerative capacity and to explore strategies for reactivating their ability to generate neurons. Specifically, we focus on the role of the zinc finger transcription factor Casz1, which influences temporal identity during retinal development. Interestingly, we found that Casz1 expression increases in mouse Müller glia after injury but not in regenerative fish. Using a conditional knock-out (cKO) model, we observed that Müller glia lacking Casz1 in mice begin to transdifferentiate into neuron-like cells, suggesting that Casz1 inhibits regeneration in mammals. Collaborating with Dr. Ryan MacDonald (UCL, UK), we will investigate whether forcing Casz1 expression in zebrafish Müller glia impairs their regenerative abilities. By identifying Casz1 as a key factor in mammalian Müller glia behavior, our work will provide crucial insights for developing therapeutic strategies to restore vision.

Sales Analytics and Dashboard Development

Sycodal Electrotechnique Inc specializes in making intelligent robotics technologies accessible to small and medium-sized businesses through innovative solutions. This project will help Sycodal improve its sales strategies and decision-making processes via a comprehensive sales data analysis and the development of interactive dashboards.

Trend Emergence and Evolution Prospection using Machine Learning in Fully Developed Insurance Claims

This Mitacs Business Strategy Internship project unites Intact Insurance’s extensive insurance data and industry expertise with Western University’s Banking Analytics Lab’s advanced skills in deep learning, actuarial science, and data analysis. The project’s goal is to build an unsupervised deep learning model for detecting significant changes in claim patterns, surpassing the limitations of traditional change-point detection methods. This will enable Intact to proactively manage risks, optimize premium calculations, and respond more effectively to emerging threats. The intern will gain hands-on experience in developing and validating this model over real-life data lakes at the partner institution, significantly enhancing their skills in deep learning, data analysis, and the application of these techniques to real-world insurance problems. The collaboration brings together the complementary strengths of both partners; Intact provides real-world data, business context, and industry mentorship while Western University offers advanced research expertise and computational resources for model development and validation, creating a strong foundation for future collaborations.

Évaluation des caractéristique hydrauliques de différents biochars

Le projet consiste à utiliser une source bio carbonée de charbon, issus de résidus de coupe de bois, afin de s’en servir comme substrat pour un système de traitement des eaux par marais filtrant. L’objectif du projet se décrit en deux volets. Le premier sera de tester les capacités hydrauliques de différents biochars, afin de valider leurs capacités et leur compatibilité au sein d’un massif filtrant. Le second volet sera de valider les propriétés hydrauliques de ce biochar une fois colonisé par des bactéries, qui permettront le traitement des eaux usées. Il sera visé de confirmer que même s’il y a colonisation du biochar, il n’y a pas de risque de colmatage à court et moyen terme.

Intelligent control strategies for the Industrial Internet – Phase 1

The overall research aims at conducting studies that use high volume data and analytics in order to provide realtime process optimization and optimal control to processes that are to be controlled in preparation for the industrial environment. These investigations is the first stage or Phase 1 associated with creating the mechanism to have machines learn, learn form each other and make intelligent decisions, using a framework of sensor(s) connectivity and cloud-based computing as part of the industrial internet. As more data become available, the framework to use this data to improve system productivity and efficiencies becomes critical to sustaining growth and continued innovation. This research has this general theme that combines technical expertise of Eigen Innovations Inc. and UNB researchers, to innovate and derive solutions that will have significant impact on the future of machine operations and their intelligence. The scope of this work is large, and hence the research is divided into several projects that target specific work, when combined will have the base of advanced control via the industrial internet.

Cooperative Real-Time Direct-to- Satellite IoT Connectivity

This research project aims to establish cost-effective and reliable internet connectivity for critical applications in remote areas through Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, leveraging innovative cooperative resource-sharing and optimization techniques to improve connectivity and response times.

Astrochemical study of para- and ortho- water with carbon ions

Astrochemistry is the study of chemical reactions and processes that occur in space, helping us understand the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the universe. Scientists mainly rely on remote observations, using light to analyze molecules in space, which reveal important details about the conditions in different cosmic regions. However, experimental studies on chemical reactions in space are limited, so researchers increasingly use theoretical models to fill in the gaps.

This project focuses on studying how different forms of water (called nuclear-spin isomers) react with carbon ions in space. By using advanced models and simulations, the research predicts reaction rates in two types of interstellar clouds: dense and diffuse. This will help us compare how the rotational states of molecules affect the chemical makeup of these space environments.

The findings will improve our understanding of how molecular rotation influences chemical reactions in space and refine models used in astrochemistry. Ultimately, this work contributes to uncovering the chemical processes that may underlie the origins of life in the universe.

Piloting a coach education workshop to foster quality participation among para-athletes in Nova Scotia

This research project aims to answer whether a parasport coach workshop can lead to positive changes in coaching behavior, increase coaches’ confidence, and improve the sport experiences of adult parasport athletes in Nova Scotia. With the support of Sport Nova Scotia and the Canadian Sport Institute Atlantic, the project will test a pilot workshop that, if successful, could be expanded across other provinces. As parasport participation grows, there’s a need for coaches who can foster high-quality experiences for athletes with physical disabilities. This project not only advances parasport coaching practices but also strengthens community health and well-being by promoting physical activity for people with physical disabilities. By helping Sport Nova Scotia create quality parasports programs, this project supports their vision for an active, inclusive province that benefits athletes, families, and communities.

Characterization of 2D Nanomaterials Synthesized via Compressible Flow Exfoliation (CFE)

The project focuses on advancing the production of high-quality, cost-effective two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, such as graphene, hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), by optimizing the Compressible Flow Exfoliation (CFE) process. This innovative technique has the potential to replace costly fabrication techniques, significantly reducing production costs without compromising material quality. Through this collaboration, the project integrates cutting-edge experimental methods to refine production processes and material characterization. The outcomes are expected to benefit academic research, industrial applications, and technological innovation in nanotechnology.

Cutting edge treatments meets ancestral wisdom; A study of the Sacred Circle Wellness Incorporated Indigenous Ketamine Program.

We will be looking at the feasibility and acceptability of a healing program that incorporates Ketamine medicine sessions with First Nations healing practices. The intern will be helping give surveys to the participants. The partner organization will benefit by learning how they can improve the program, and the intern will benefit by gaining experience in a field they are passionate about.

Cardiovascular function, inflammation, and exercise: potential role of anti inflammatory supplementation to optimize health and performance

Additional research is required to fully understand the effects of a powerful antioxidant Curcumin on the short and long term impact of exercise. Previous studies have demonstrated other antioxidants can potentially slow recovery and reduce benefits of exercise. However, there is lacking information regarding the effects of Curcumin on cardiovascular health and exercise performance. The intern will be responsible for collecting and interpreting various physiological measurements from participants, where half will be randomly chosen to consume the supplement, while the other half will be given a placebo. The participants will not be made aware of which product they will be receiving. This study will provide the partner organization with a greater understanding of the potential of this product. It will also permit them to develop a more strategic marketing plan that will allow consumers to make an informed decision based on newly acquired knowledge with regards to this supplement.