title: Morphological and molecular variation in Codium fragile, an invasive green macroalga in Atlantic Canada

contributor:
Kusakina, Jelena (author)
(Dadswell, Michael) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2004

abstract: Since the first collection in 1989 from Mahone Bay (NS), the highly invasive green macroalga 'Codium fragile' has been spreading in Atlantic Canada and has become established along the coasts of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. Considerable morphological variation had been found between plants from different collection sites. This variation may be caused by the presence of different subspecies, or by phenotypic plasticity of one of the subspecies. Morphometric and molecular investigations were performed on 'Codium' collected from seven sites of Maritime Canada and one from Maine to evaluate these hypotheses. Based on both mucron length and ISSR markers, plants separated into three groups, suggesting multiple introductions of 'C. fragile' into Canada. One group, currently growing on eastern shore of Nova Scotia and near the coast of New Brunswick, is clearly ssp. 'tomentosoides' that likely originates from the United States. A second group, growing in Malpeque Bay (PEI), is possibly an asexual variant of ssp. 'atlanticum', another invasive subspecies of ' C. fragile'. A third group, found in Caribou Harbour only, is an intermediate in terms of both mucron length and molecular data, suggesting a hybrid of ssp. 'tomentosoides' and ssp. 'atlanticum'. The origin of this intermediate group remains to be established.

abstract: Biology


title: Community services and asset mapping: the needs of depressed urban women

type: Text Dissertation/Thesis

contributor:
Denney, Jennifer Christine (author)
(Horvath, Peter) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

rights: The author grants permission to the University Librarian at Acadia University to reproduce, loan or distribute copies of my thesis in microform, paper or electronic formats on a non-profit basis. The author retains the copyright of the thesis.

subject: LE3 .A278 2005

abstract: The aim of this study was to examine the perceptions of community service providers concerning depression in women. The resources and services offered by the volunteer and non-profit community organizations within Halifax Regional Municipality were also assessed. Representatives from 30 volunteer and non-profit organizations were interviewed to gain knowledge about their perceptions of the causes, prevention, and treatment of depression in urban women and the services they could offer to women in their community. The interviews were tape recorded and subjected to content and thematic analyses. The results from this study demonstrate that participants view the causes of depression and the prevention of depression from an environmental perspective. However, participants viewed treatment services corresponding more with a traditional medical/deficit model. Possible explanations for the contradiction between causes and treatment services are discussed. The results from this study confirmed that the resources offered by the community organizations are more compatible with an environmental model and the participants are willing to participate in a community project to assist depressed women.

abstract: Psychology


title: User modelling for an adaptive system: an intelligent email client

contributor:
Fu, Ching-Lung (author)
(Silver, Daniel L.) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2006

abstract: This research explores problems of email filtering as an application of Machine Learning and User Modelling. The main objective of this thesis is to create a prioritization model that identifies high priority emails. The hypothesis is that this produces a user model that can filter out spam email through the assignment of low priority values to offending messages and rank legitimate emails in terms of their importance for higher user productivity. The secondary objective of this thesis is to create a categorization model that classifies incoming messages to existing email folders. The success of the prioritization model, developed by a Back Propagation neural network, depends on a user's dictionary that provides a unique input feature representing the user's interests. The categorization model is implemented as a Multiple Task Learning neural network and the most probable three folders are recommended to the user. A new method, called 'k'-fold Chronological Cross-Validation (CCV), is proposed that realistically evaluates the effectiveness of email filtering by taking into consideration the temporal nature of email messages. An intelligent email client prototype is developed based on the proposed method. Empirical studies on two large corpora of email messages demonstrated the success of the methods.

abstract: Computer Science


title: David Foster Wallace's stories of the mediated self

contributor:
Tysdal, Daniel Scott (author)
(Davies, Richard) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2006

abstract: The popular assessment of David Foster Wallace's short stories as innovative is best contextualized by determining both his representational strategy and its aesthetic ground. In order to counter two forms of American, postmodern nihilism---the tyranny of unremitting irony and the apathy of un-reflexive minimalism---Wallace writes stories of the mediated self. Depicting the mediating force of, alternately, an internal feeling, an external power, or an intruding event, Wallace reveals the complexity of the forces that inform the self, a complexity the ironist's attacks and the minimalist's detachment ignore. Wallace dramatizes mediation through character interaction and inscribes it formally through the insinuation of the mediating force on the narratorial perspective. Close analysis of an octet of Wallace's stories demonstrates the relation between his aesthetic foundation (the desire to counter nihilism) and his innovative works, and provides the basis for rereading the creative and theoretical labour of Wallace's short story predecessors.

abstract: English & Theatre Studies


title: Filtering compressed XML streams

contributor:
Demmings, Brian John (author)
(Muldner, Tomasz) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2007

abstract: 'Information Filtering' is the problem of extracting data we desire from a corpus of data. The task of 'filtering' depends heavily on the format of that corpus. For example, the corpus may be a stationary relational database, flat-file, collection of files, or, in the case of a news feed, may be continually 'streamed' to clients. In this research, we examine the problem of filtering data from a continual ' stream' that has been compressed with an 'online', XML-conscious compressor. We introduce a filtering system that leverages the format of compressed XML streams to provide 'subscription-oriented ' filtering of the data contained in the stream. Additionally, the system provides 'persistence' by efficiently storing the ' compressed' results in relational tables, allowing subscribers to received filtered content even if they are disconnected when filtering occurs. These features make our system useful in applications where XML data is continually streamed such as news-feeds, scientific document notification services or in XML routing applications.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Bridging research utilization and knowledge transfer: towards an understanding of knowledge in the workplace

contributor:
Shaughnessy, Krystelle (author)
(Leiter, Michael) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2007

abstract: Despite recent interest, little has occurred to respond to calls for cross-cutting activities in knowledge utilization subfields. The current study draws on research utilization and knowledge transfer to begin bringing subfields together. The current study tests a model integrating knowledge transfer and research utilization factors into the areas of worklife model of burnout. Nurses in Atlantic Canada completed questionnaires assessing their perceptions of organizational culture, attitudes towards research, knowledge transfer behaviours, congruent values, and professional efficacy. Using EQS software, the Hypothesized structural model was analyzed resulting in good model fit. Organizational culture and attitudes towards research predict knowledge transfer behaviours and congruent values that further predict professional efficacy. A multi-group model analysis did not support an interaction between attitudes and organizational culture. The model supports integrating individual and organizational factors of knowledge transfer. The findings have implications for research and interventions focused on improving knowledge transfer and professional efficacy.

abstract: Psychology


title: An analysis of the effects of mitochondrial DNA polymorphisms on sperm motility and the evolution of a male associated sperm protein, lysin, in marine mussels (Mytilus sp.)

contributor:
Jha, Mamta (author)
(Stewart, Donald) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2007

abstract: Some families of bivalves have an unusual mode of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) transmission called doubly uniparental inheritance (DUI), characterised by the presence of two gender-associated mtDNA genomes that are transmitted either through males (M-type mtDNA) or females (F-type mtDNA). In Mytilid mussels, an F type occasionally invades the male route of inheritance, referred to as a "role reversal" event, and is thereafter transmitted as a new M-type. Phylogenetic studies have demonstrated that the new or "recently masculinized" M-types may eventually replace the older or "standard" M-types over time. To investigate whether this replacement process could be due to an advantage in sperm swimming behaviour, differences in various motility parameters between ' Mytilus edulis' sperm with either the standard or recently masculinized M-type were analysed. Sperm with recently masculinized M-type mtDNA showed a significant increase in curvilinear velocity and average path velocity when compared to sperm with standard M-type, which could explain the evolutionary replacement of standard M-types by recently masculinized M-types in Mytilid mussels. To investigate whether there is support for the hypothesis that masculinization events may be associated with population divergence leading to speciation, a male associated sperm protein, lysin, was examined in male 'M. edulis' and male 'M. trossulus' mussels containing recently masculinized M-type or standard M-type mtDNA. The lysin protein was chosen because rapid divergence of lysin driven by positive Darwinian selection has been observed in other marine invertebrate species. However, no clustering of lysin alleles, specifically the exon 5 region of the gene, corresponding to mitotype was observed so the hypothesis of incipient speciation within 'M. edulis' was rejected.

abstract: Biology


title: Morphology, reproductive strategy, and genetic diversity of the rare Atlantic coastal plain flower, Sabatia Kennedyana (Fern): variation across the species range and in anthropogenically disturbed habitat

contributor:
Sutton, Jolene T (author)
(Good-Avila, Sara) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2007

abstract: Morphology and genetics of the threatened plant, 'Sabatia kennedyana ', were examined in Nova Scotia, Massachusetts and North Carolina. From north to south, sexual characters increased in size and number, but relative investment in asexual traits was least in Massachusetts. For all locations, nuclear-DNA polymorphism was high for rare plants. Much higher chloroplast diversity in Nova Scotia than the U.S. demonstrates that northern populations harbor ancestral diversity. Nova Scotian chloroplast data also revealed isolation-by-distance, evidence of long-term stability and indication that these populations did not result from northward post-glacier range expansion. Instead, plants existed within glacial refugia near Nova Scotia and Massachusetts, while Carolinian populations resulted from expansion. Within Nova Scotia, comparisons of undisturbed versus anthropogenically-disturbed sites suggested that variation in morphological and genetic polymorphism estimates were not influenced by disturbance. However, regression slopes of relatedness against distance revealed that intra-population spatial genetic structuring was deteriorating in disturbed shoreline habitats.

abstract: Biology


title: Energy efficient data gathering using spanning trees for wireless sensor networks

contributor:
Islam, Obidul (author)
(Hussain, Sajid) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2008

abstract: With the advancement of micro-sensor and radio technology, wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are deployed in various applications. In a continuous monitoring application, sensors gather information and transmit the sensed data to the base station in a periodic manner. In each data gathering round, a node generates a data packet and transmits it to the base station, or to another node; the data packets received from neighboring nodes can be aggregated. The lifetime of the WSN is defined as the time (rounds) until the base station receives data from all sensors in the network. In a data gathering round, the single best routing tree consumes lowest energy from all nodes but assigns more load to some sensors. As a result, the energy resources of the heavily loaded nodes are depleted earlier than others, which reduces network lifetime. This thesis proposes two multi-hop routing algorithms for a homogeneous network to maximize the network lifetime. The first proposed algorithm uses a greedy approach (Energy Efficient Spanning Tree, EESR) while the other uses a genetic algorithm (GA). The proposed algorithms generate balanced and energy efficient data aggregation trees for WSNs. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithms outperform the traditional data aggregation algorithms in terms of extending network lifetime. Moreover, the results show that the greedy approach (EESR) performs better when the base station is placed outside and genetic approach performs better when the base station is placed inside the network field.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Re/locating the Mushuau Innu of Utshimassits in the Canadian press, 1993-2002

contributor:
Landry, Deborah D. (author)
(Bowen, Kurt) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2003

abstract: This thesis explores the re/presentation of the Mushuau Innu of Utshimassits (Davis Inlet) within mainstream Canadian English newspapers from 1993 to 2002. Qualitative and quantitative methods of content analysis are used to examine two daily papers: The 'Globe and Mail' and the 'Telegram '. Using an analysis influenced by the language and ideas of Foucault, this research illustrates that newspapers act as both a tool of colonization and a point of resistance by opening discursive spaces where alternate narratives may be presented, yet at the same time be restricted by the identical mechanisms of power that form these spaces. Through an extensive examination of the mainstream news coverage of the Mushuau Innu, this research demonstrates how the intersection of text and images, the reliance on subjective adjectives, the re/construction and expunging of history, and unbalanced sourcing contribute to the negative re/presentation of the Innu. Media re/presentations of women within the community are especially distorted by framing techniques used within news accounts, particularly in reference to issues of substance use. Although the attention placed upon the community opens up a discursive spaces in which the plight of the community can be discussed, I contend that, within mainstream news accounts, the Mushuau Innu are limited to negative racialized roles that fail to challenge mainstream patriarchal and ethnocentric ideologies.

abstract: Sociology


title: Dispersal of neonate Blanding's turtles (Emydoidea blandingi) in Nova Scotia

contributor:
Smith, Duncan A. (author)
(Herman, Tom) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2004

abstract: The Blanding's turtle population in southwestern Nova Scotia is at the northeastern limit of the turtle's range and climatic tolerance; the population is small, disjunct and appears to have low recruitment. This study was conducted in 2000 and 2001 at two locations in southwestern Nova Scotia: Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site (KNPNHS) and McGowan Lake (ML). A total of 160 neonate turtles from 34 nests were tracked using non-toxic fluorescent powder; twenty-eight were also tracked using passive transponders and harmonic radar. Tracking time ranged from 1 to 23 days. Movement data were analyzed using circular statistics, fractal analysis, a straight-line index and an S-PLUS model to determine what factors may influence movement. Data indicate that neonates do not move in a correlated random walk. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

abstract: Biology


title: Summary writing skills of first-year university students

contributor:
McGonnell, Melissa (author)
(Symons, Sonya) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2004

abstract: The summary writing skills of 58 first-year university students were examined in the context of the writing experiences they reported in high school, their self-regulatory efficacy for writing and the use of computer source documents. Overall, the summaries written by the students were of poor quality. The majority of the sentences they wrote were grammatically incorrect and the students had difficulty determining which information was relevant and necessary for inclusion in their summaries. As well, students included copied text in many of the sentences they wrote. This tendency was not related to whether the text to be summarized was read on a computer or as a printed document. Students reported little feedback about their writing assignments in high school. High school writing experiences were related to students' self-regulatory efficacy for writing. Neither high school writing experiences nor self-regulatory efficacy for writing were correlated with quality of the written summaries. Results are discussed in terms of their implication for high school instruction, university success, and the development of writing curricula.

abstract: Psychology


title: Effects of experimental manipulations of brood sizes and flea (Ceratophyllus idius) load on nestling condition, begging vocalizations, and parental effort in tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor)

contributor:
Hainstock, Meagan Heather (author)
(Shutler, Dave) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2005

abstract: Parental effort can be strongly tied to energetic demands of a brood. In this two-year study, I experimentally manipulated brood size and flea (' Ceratophyllus idius') load in tree swallow ('Tachycineta bicolor ') nests to determine the influence of these variables on parental effort, nestling begging vocalizations, and nestling condition. Parental effort (feeding and defence) and begging vocalizations (length, rate, and amplitude) were measured when nestlings were 8, 10, and 12 days old, and nestling condition (mass and structural size) was measured when nestlings were 12 days old. Parental feeding rates increased with brood size, but per capita feeding rates decreased with brood size. Also, brood begging rates increased, while average nestling mass decreased, with brood size. These results may indicate that, because parents did not compensate for increases in brood size, nestlings in enlarged broods were of poorer condition and therefore begged for more food. However, parents did not appear to base feeding rates on variation in begging calls, so further investigations of this signalling system in experimentally manipulated broods may be warranted. Although no variables were significantly related to flea load, flea manipulations did not result in higher flea loads than in control nests. Therefore, before further studies of this host-parasite system are undertaken, the population dynamics of 'C. idius' in nest boxes should be resolved.

abstract: Biology


title: Towards a new methodology for preaching at funerals

contributor:
Holmes, James Peter (author)
(Wilson, Paul Scott) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2006

abstract: The purpose of this thesis is to develop a methodology for preaching at funerals in a manner that is both faithful to the Christian gospel and responsive to the sensitivities of the culture and times in which we live. The first chapter contains a theological examination of the Christian hope in the face of death. In this chapter it is concluded that the funeral sermon is faithful to the gospel when the preacher seeks to proclaim the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead as the basis for hope and comfort in the face of death and grief. It is through the resurrection of Christ that we can experience eternal life, and that we look forward to relief from sufferings and to reunion with those who have gone on before us. In the second chapter, a comparison is drawn between a collection of sermons that were published in 1884, and a collection of sermons from the early years of the 21st century. The research involved in contrasting the sermons in these two collections is quantitative by nature because the differences, such as the length of the sermon, the number of scripture references contained in the sermon, and the number of references to the person of the deceased contained in the sermon, were measurable. In comparison with the earlier era, today's preacher has far less time during the funeral service in which to offer his or her sermon. Further, the advent of the memorial service, the change of venue, and the reduction of infant mortality, have all had a role in ushering in a more celebratory mood at funeral services in the early 21st century. These forces then combine to make addressing the topic of death less desirable at the modern funeral service. This presents a particular challenge, because the research also concludes that those who identify death as the enemy are more likely to successfully proclaim the hope of the resurrection. In contrast with the funeral congregations in the late 18th century, today's funeral congregation also seems Biblically illiterate. Today's preacher makes far fewer references to scripture in the body of the sermon than his/her counterpart one hundred and twenty years ago. Further, the sermons of the earlier era were bereft of references to the life or character of the deceased, while today's sermons are often infused with the same. All of these changes present significant challenges for the preacher seeking to effectively communicate the Christian hope in the funeral sermon. In the third chapter, qualitative research in the form of interviews and questionnaires with both funeral directors and clergy are examined and analyzed in the hope of discovering strategies to help clergy respond to the challenges of preaching at funerals. The fourth chapter explores the use of imagination and metaphor as important literary tools in the proclamation of the gospel. It is concluded that imagination is an important aspect of faith, and further that metaphor is a resurrection-like device which enables the preacher to raise the hearers to higher levels of understanding. Today's funeral congregation is usually unfamiliar with the scriptures and with the traditions of the church. It is therefore difficult to hold their attention by exegeting certain Biblical texts. In chapter five it is concluded that, at times, the preacher must seek to base the funeral sermon on an exegesis of the deceased. It is the clergy's task to seek out metaphors or stories from the life of the deceased which will enable the effective proclamation of Christ's resurrection.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: MOOIDE: a LambdaMOO programming support for FCVW

contributor:
Gong, Jing (author)
(Tomek, Ivan) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2006

abstract: As collaboration over Internet increases dramatically, more and more collaborative social and educational activities require an efficient, reliable and easy-to-use software environment. To address this issue, earlier work at Acadia University has led to the development of a collaboration environment, FCVW (Federated CVW), based on the successful CVW (Collaborative Virtual Workspace) environment. The underlying language that defines the whole FCVW virtual workspace is the LambdaMOO programming language which allows run-time enhancement of the existing FCVW. To utilize the run-time programmable feature of the LambdaMOO programming language, this thesis implements an Integrated Development Environment (IDE), called MOOIDE, within the existing FCVW framework. In addition to basic functions of an IDE, MOOIDE features a simple code management tool that provides support for concurrent programming activities such as version control and a help system that provides user-modifiable help content. The conclusion of thisthesis is that the architecture of FCVW is a workable foundation for IDE construction and MOOIDE is proven to be an efficient and reliable development tool for collaborative code development with the LambdaMOO programming language.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Applied Quaternary geology and till geochemistry of the Loch Lomond Region, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

contributor:
Isenor, Fenton Murdoch (author)
(Spooner, Ian) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(McClenaghan, M. Beth) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2000

abstract: Southeastern Cape Breton Island is host to several former industrial mineral and base metal mines discovered by traditional prospecting methods, but present exploration is hampered by a complex glacial history. Late Wisconsinan ice advances resulted in the deposition of five distinct tills. The basal grey till (LL-1) is a compact, fine-grained till found in local depressions. The regional red till contains 10-30% clasts and 20-30% clay and was deposited by an eastward ice advance (LL-2). Northward (LL-3) and southward (LL-4) ice flows were responsible for two hybrid tills that formed in part through inheritance and overprinting. The local stony till was formed by a southeasterly ice-flow event (LL-5) and contains 35-75% angular local clasts and less than 10% clay. The southern half of the study area is dominated by 50 m high bedrock-cored till ridges. Inter-ridge areas are overlain by organic deposits and glaciofluvial sediments which provide anomalous geochemical values. Samples were collected at 3-5 km spacing and the <0.063 mm fraction was analyzed. Till geochemical patterns are complex as a result of lithological repetition, complex glacial history and numerous mineralization types. Detailed analysis of sedimentology resulted in the recognition of individual tills at geochemical sample sites. Till pebbles could be used to help delineate bedrock boundaries. Additional sampling of the regional red till could be conducted in the Loch Lomond valley for as yet undetected mineralization located west of the study area. Complex Ba patterns require a subtle sampling strategy for future exploration. The local stony tills in the Mira Hills are recommended as the best stratigraphic target to delineate Cu (Au) values in rocks of the Stirling Group.

abstract: Earth & Environmental Sciences


title: Predator and prey population dynamics and distribution: effects of predation and competition

contributor: McKnight, Julie L. (Julie Lynn) (author)

contributor: (Bondrup-Nielsen, Soren) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2001

abstract: The landscape in which common weasels ('Mustela nivalis vulgaris '), and field voles ('Microtus agrestis') live and weasel dispersal ability affect population dynamics in Kielder Forest, Northern England. Grassed clear-cuts (the primary habitat for voles and weasels) within Kielder are not 'islands' but in fact habitat patches that are highly connected by linear features. It is possible that the mobility of common weasels in Kielder Forest may cause decreased amplitude of the vole population cycle. Small mustelids should not experience increased energetic cost and/or mortality when dispersing to exploitable patches because they are not moving through unsuitable, non-prey habitat. My findings suggest that connectivity between suitable habitat patches and specialist predator dispersal ability are important variables that require consideration when researching the impact of predators on small rodent dynamics. A bait station database was used to identify carnivore associations in the Cape Breton Highlands, NovaScotia. Carnivore abundance and distribution may be influenced by interference and resource competition. Species association patterns were used to infer interspecific interactions. Red fox (' Vulpes vulpes') were absent from bait stations with either coyotes ('Canis latrans') or lynx ('Felis lynx'). It may be that red foxes were not present in these areas due to different habitat preferences, active avoidance of areas where lynx or coyote are abundant, or high predation of foxes. A positive species association was found for red fox and short-tailed weasel ('Mustela erminea'). This positive association may be the result of high niche overlap between foxes and weasels. It is likely that interspecific interactions, especially interference competition, shape the carnivore community of the Cape Breton Highlands. Further research is required for red foxes, as they may be severely affected by competition.

abstract: Biology


title: Lithogeochemistry and hydrothermal alteration of the Halfmile Lake South Deep Zone: a volcanic hosted massive sulphide deposit, Bathurst Mining Camp, New Brunswick

contributor:
Mireku, Lawrence Kwabena (author)
(Stanley, Cliff) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2001

abstract: The Halfmile Lake South Deep zone (HMLSDZ), Bathurst Mining Camp, New Brunswick, was discovered by Noranda Inc (Exploration) as a result of a 3-D seismic survey. Mineralization consists of Pb-Zn-Cu and hosted by an overturned Lower Tetagouche Group volcano-sedimentary package. Epiclastic rocks are interbedded with subordinate fine-grained felsic pyroclastic rocks that dominate the structural hangingwall. Locally crystal rich felsic tuffs and subordinate epiclastic rocks comprise the immediate structural footwall. This sequence was intruded by quartz-feldspar porphyritic intrusions and cut by intermediate to basaltic dykes. The host rocks to the deposit have suffered sub-greenschist facies metamorphism, polyphase deformation, and are variably hydrothermally altered. The host rocks can be geochemically discriminated using trace element ratios such as Zr/TiO2, Nb/TiO2, 'etc'. These ratios indicate that four volcanic compositions existence at the HMLSDZ: rhyolite, dacite, andesite, and basalt. The aphyric and feldspar quartz phyric volcanic rocks are rhyolitic and dacitic in composition whereas the epiclastic rocks are predominantly dacitic. Pearce element ratio (PER) diagrams, molar element ratio (MER) diagrams, and petrographic examination demonstrate that hydrothermal activity involved muscovite, chlorite, and minor carbonate formation. A lateral and vertical zone (200-300 m) of intense alteration is developed in the immediate structural hangingwall to the HMLSDZ. This alteration halo is characterized by additions of Fe, H and variable K, and losses of Na and minor Ca, due to hydrothermal activity. Results from this study demonstrate that metamorphism and deformation have not significantly obscured hydrothermal alteration signatures.

abstract: Earth & Environmental Sciences


title: The individual is everything or the world is nothing: morality and regionalism in the novels of David Adams Richards / by Michael David Allison

contributor:
Allison, Michael David (author)
(Quema, Anne) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2001

abstract: In response to those who have been content to apply the terms "regional" and "regionalist" to David Adams Richards's fiction, this study is intended to demonstrate how the misuse of such terms leads to a reductive interpretation of Richards's works. In the course of demonstrating how Richards does and does not fit the description of a regionalist, the study outlines how he is primarily interested in the conveyance of a simple, universal sense of morality. The thesis brings out this moral standpoint by examining his representation of families, nature, and social institutions. It is argued that Richards's regionalism grows from his moral standpoint. This study focuses upon three novels, 'Blood Ties' (1976), ' For Those Who Hunt the Wounded Down' (1993), and 'Mercy Among the Children' (2000). These texts provide a representative sample of Richards's published works to date. This study uses these texts to outline a progression by which Richards moves from a brand of regional association built upon a connection to the region's geography and culture to a form of association determined by the political separation of the region from that which surrounds and influences it. Directly connected to this movement from one brand of regionalism to another are the shifts from subjectivity to objectivity in narration, as well as the shift from generality to specificity of regional detail. Despite these shifts, a simple form of morality remains paramount in Richards's works. Moreover, in an age when such concepts as nationalism and even regionalism are being questioned, Richards appears as a new voice, which calls for a movement forward by prescribing a lifestyle guided by a "Golden Rule" approach to existence.

abstract: English & Theatre Studies


title: The significance of ancestral islands: Highland Scottish and regional identity in the works of Margaret Laurence and Alistair Macleod

contributor:
Butler, Tanya L. (author)
(Eustace, John) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1999

abstract: The process of negotiating personal identity in a Canadian context is a complex one. It inevitably draws on many sources for identity markers, two of which include identification with a particular region and identification with a particular ethnic heritage. This thesis explores the constructed identities found in the fiction of two contemporary Canadian authors, Margaret Laurence and Alistair MacLeod, by focusing on the regional and ethnic identities represented in their texts. Laurence and MacLeod share an interest in a particular ethnic identity; the legacy of the Scottish Highlands figures prominently in most of their fictional works. But whereas Laurence explores this Highland heritage in fiction set primarily in western Canada, MacLeod explores a similar motif in short stories set in the Atlantic Provinces. Their similar tendencies to explore Highland Scots heritage in specific regional settings have, however, resulted in very different critical approaches to their works. Critics tend to read MacLeod'sexplorations of the Highland motif as a function of his regionalist bent, while they see Laurence's explorations of the same heritage as a function of a nationalist bent, despite the strong regionalist elements of her work. This thesis compares the ways in which Highland Scots heritage functions as a source of cultural identity in Laurence's final novel, 'The Diviners ', and MacLeod's collected short fiction. It explores the tensions within and between the regional identities that arise out of this identification with the Highland Scots tradition in these texts and seeks to compare their respective regional visions as they are represented in. relation to the Canadian nation.

abstract: English & Theatre Studies


title: God-talk in the media age: John Hick's theology of religions and western christianity

contributor:
Duffy, Eric (author)
(Forsman, Rodger) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1999

abstract: This paper offers an analysis of John Hick's Theology of Religions. The introduction establishes the need for Christian theologians in North America to engage in inter-religious dialogue. The first chapter traces the experiences which gave rise to Hick's hypotheses, and brings out the salient points by showing how he has relied on the work of five scholars in particular: Wilfred Cantwell Smith, Ludwig Wittgenstein, Thomas Aquinas, William James, and Immanuel Kant. The second chapter describes Hick's treatment of religious truth claims as a sound foundation for discussion of the conflicts between the different propositions put forward by the great world faiths. The third chapter provides an overview of Hick's Christology, and looks at his attempt to recast the ways in which religious myth and metaphor are understood. In the conclusion, the argument is made that Hick's Theology of Religions is ultimately based in a Christian conception of the divine; and that this makes his work as important for ecumenical Christian dialogue as it is provocative regarding the relationships between the great world faiths.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Rites vs. rights: the case of female genital mutilation

contributor:
Wright, Melisa (author)
(Conley, Marsh) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1999

abstract: Female Genital Mutilation or FGM as it is commonly referred to is a painful and dangerous procedure whereby part or all of the female child's external genitalia are excised. FGM is a practice that affects about 130 million women in 28 African countries, North America and Europe making it one of the world's major public health problems amongst females. In light of this fact, this thesis purpose is to illustrate the how this practice is a blatant violation of human right by providing painful and explicit details of the variety of severities of this procedure along with painful interviews of women who have undergone this procedure at tender young ages. By presenting all the details in a concise manner, this thesis had made it very clear that Female Genial Mutilation is a persistent cultural trait that any efforts to eradicate this practice goes well beyond the scope of this thesis to a much global level. However, this thesis is just one dent in the human rights discourse that will not permit this dreadful practice to be shrouded in a cloud secrecy. We as the international public must join in the fight to dismantle the walls of silence surrounding this practice.

abstract: Politics


title: Wounds women wear: validating the effects of emotional abuse

contributor:
McNenly, Kelly (author)
(MacKinnon, David) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1999

abstract: This study examines the phenomenon of emotional abuse and reviews the influences that have shaped its existence. The voices of two survivors speak to this issue through in-depth interviews. Symbolic interactionism provides the framework for understanding this phenomenon as interpreted by the participants. The prevalent question of why women stay in these relationships is explored by considering the influences of symbols, language and perspective in relation to how women are able or unable to act as agents of change. A deeper understanding of emotional abuse serves to validate its impact and to initiate processes for improving the plight of women and the wounds they wear.

abstract: Education


title: Experiential learning in ministry

contributor:
Hicks, W. Bruce (author)
(Welton, Michael) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Ashley, Maxine) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2000

abstract: This thesis-project explores the experiential learning processes of a small number of seasoned pastoral ministers to assess how this learning has affected their vocational identity and their perception of ministry itself. The theoretical foundation for the study is in adult education and examines concepts of experiential and transformative learning, processes of meaning-making and the social construction of the self, as well as the centrality of narrative and autobiography in personal learning. Theological reflections focus on the social and historical conditions of learning in the Christian community, the narrative structure of faith, and the contributions of both narrative and biographical theology to an understanding of Christian identity and change. The research methodology used is qualitative case study guided by Mishler's narrative approach to research interviewing. Five participants were interviewed with an attempt at gender equity and variety in denominational attachment. Results reveal the intense relationship between personal change, vocational identity, and ministerial practice. The study demonstrates the extent to which lifelong themes were translated into ministerial practice, how trauma impacted the learning process, and the contribution of faith to learning. A depth of reflectivity is demonstrated throughout pastoral ministry producing changes in self-understanding and the understanding of ministry.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: An intelligent voice-driven intranet search engine (AIVDISE)

contributor:
Aboulkhasam, Salaheldin Ali (author)
(Trudel, Andre) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2000

abstract: The volume of website information accumulates rapidly, and thus, search engines are indispensable. The main user demand from the search engine is to efficiently retrieve accurate and relevant results. This thesis presents a new and improved search engine called Intelligent Voice Driven Intranet Search Engine (AIVDISE) which accepts natural language queries. AIVDISE can be used to search a personal or business website, e.g. Acadia's website. As input, AIVDISE can accept both spoken and typed English language sentences. Together with a number of uniquely powerful search engine technologies, AIVDISE can deliver the accuracy people want from their intranet search engine without the need for expert training in search techniques.

abstract: Computer Science


title: YAVO: on-line trading system using mobile agents

contributor:
Chen, Yao (author)
(Muldner, Tomasz) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2000

abstract: This thesis describes YAVO, an on-line trading system using mobile agent technology. The YAVO system assists end-users selling and buying goods or services through mobile agents on the Internet. A system administrator creates trader accounts and distributed agent marketplaces through the Web. An authorized trader then sends an agent to an agent marketplace to buy or sell specific goods or services based on user-specified strategies. The YAVO system is modeled on Voyager, a full-featured agent-enhanced distributed computing environment. Java Servlets are used as a bridge between the Web client (a browser) and the back end servers (Java Web Server and Voyager Server). Persistent storage on the Java Web Server is provided through JDBC (Java Database Connectivity).

abstract: Computer Science


title: Software visualization tools for Java

contributor:
Sampson, Stephen Filson (author)
(Giles, Rick) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2000

abstract: The field of software visualization exists to facilitate both the human understanding and effective use of computer software. This thesis surveys over twenty modern software visualization systems to acquire information about the current state of software visualization systems. This knowledge is then used in the design and implementation of a new system called Steve's Software Visualizer (SSV). SSV is a program visualizer. SSV has all the functionality of a debugger, for example, setting break points, a call stack and evaluation of variables. SSV also uses generic software visualization tools: Seeview, Classview, Textview. These tools can be operated interactively by the user, or viewed passively as an animation. By using all three views in combination, certain aspects of the software can be "visualized". This is not possible through traditional text based debugging methods.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Mental illness: towards an understanding of the experience of treatment and diagnosis

contributor:
Coates, Rosanne Margaret (author)
(MacKinnon, David) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2000

abstract: This thesis investigates and describes the experience of three individuals in the process of being diagnosed and treated for a mental illness. Essentially, the study was interested in how one defines and understands his or her 'life-world' within the context of a mental illness and how this affects one personally and professionally. Three individuals, one female and two males, ranging in age from 18-34 years were recruited into the study by contacting local psychiatrists. A qualitative methodological framework combined phenomenology, which explores lived human experiences, with hermeneutics, which seeks to explain how meaning is constructed, in examining the phenomenon of mental illness. A series of tape-recorded interviews using a semi-structured interview format provided the participant's data. In describing the experience of diagnoses and treatment of a mental illness, participants identified a number of issues: self-concept; stigma; fears; losses and frustrations; isolation and relationship dynamics; and insights and awareness. In personal reflections regarding the interview process, participants described the interviews as a positive experience, gaining benefits such as new insights, awareness, and a sense of closure with their illness. Implications regarding a phenomenological approach to the practice of counseling are discussed.

abstract: Education


title: A personal description of small group facilitation

contributor:
Cook, Susan (author)
(Foster, James) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2000

abstract: This thesis contains a description of my personal experience as a facilitator of a small goal-setting process known as Discovery and a self-evaluation guide for group facilitators. The story also includes a detailed description of the ongoing process of self-evaluation in between and during the seven-week sessions. The analysis outlines five growth themes extracted from the story, time, facilitator focus, ambiguity, self-talk, and skills. Also included in the analysis chapter is a description of the interaction between anxiety and the five themes. The self-evaluation guide, developed from the story and the participant's feedback, is for neophyte group facilitators who have previous knowledge about group facilitation skills and group process.

abstract: Education


title: The director and the theologians: a theological conversation of religious themes in the films of M. Night Shyamalan

contributor:
Bolton, Chad W. D. (author)
(Brackney, William) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2008

abstract:
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Acadia Divinity College


title: CO_2 concentration may interact with photoreceptors to alter seedling elongation under the litter layer

contributor:
Gupta, Suman (author)
(Reekie, Edward) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2008

abstract: To explore the physiological mechanisms by which CO2 and light interact to control seedling elongation, 'Sinapis' and photoreceptor mutants of 'Arabidopsis' ('phyA, phyB, phyA&B, cry1, cry2, crv1&2', and 'zeaxanthin'), and their corresponding wild-types (ler-0, ler-2, and col) were grown under continuous darkness, red or blue light, and in ambient or elevated CO2. The zeaxanthin mutant exhibited altered hypocotyl inhibition in both light and darkness, but there was no difference in its response to elevated CO2 from its wild-type. Neither 'Arabidopsis' nor 'Sinapis' responded to elevated CO2 in blue light, but there was a response to CO2 by 'Sinapis' and the 'Arabidopsis ' wild-types in darkness and red light. In red light, 'phyA, cry1, cry2', and 'cry1&2' did not exhibit hypocotyl elongation in response to elevated CO2, implying points of interaction between CO2 concentration and the photoreceptors. The physiological mechanism for how this occurs is uncertain. To understand the ecological context for this interaction, a field study measured quantity and quality of light filtered through the litter layer of several different communities, and through dead versus live leaves from individual species. The CO2 concentration beneath the litter from these same sites was also sampled. In general, dead leaves transmitted more red and less far-red light than live leaves. Percent transmittance through leaf-litter was reduced significantly, while R:FR remained high. The elevated levels of CO2 found in the litter may alter seedling growth to stimulate seedling elongation despite a relatively high R:FR ratio.

abstract: Biology


title: Homer and the New Testament

contributor:
Wright, Adam Zachary (author)
(Evans, Craig) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2008

abstract:
Abstract not supplied.
Acadia Divinity College


title: The United Baptist Association: facing a new millennium

contributor:
Cook, David Vaughn (author)
(Gardner, Harry) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(MacRae, Andrew) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1997

abstract: The purpose of this thesis is to show that United Baptist Associations have a meaningful and necessary role to fulfill in the future ministry of United Baptists in Atlantic Canada. Any study of the Church universal, local or associational ought to be grounded in the Biblical record and built on a strong theological foundation. For this reason, the thesis examines these areas before proceeding to their application to a contemporary situation. In addition to this area of examination, a summary of the emergence of Baptist Churches and a study of the history of Baptist Associations, particularly in Atlantic Canada, provides additional information from which to draw conclusions later in the thesis. The concluding section of the thesis presents a role and structure that can be authenticated through the earlier research. It also includes some suggestions regarding the relationship of the United Baptist Association to the United Baptist Convention.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: The effects of human land development, landscape characteristics, and prey density on the spatial distribution of wolves, Canis lupus, on the north shore of Lake Superior

contributor:
Krizan, Peter (author)
(Harrington, F.H.) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1997

abstract: This study investigates the influence of infrastructure (roads, power lines, and railways), landscape parameters (rivers, lakes, clearcuts, and forest cover type), prey densities (moose, Alces alces), and the presence of garbage dumps on habitat use, home range sizes, and travel patterns of wolves (Canis lupus) on the north shore of Lake Superior, Ontario. Wolves neither avoided nor preferred roads but used them according to their availability. Road densities in the core areas of two packs which fed seasonally at a garbage dump exceeded the most commonly reported road density threshold of 0.60 km/km$\sp2.$ Although roads appear to aid in travel of wolves, they also increased human access and human-caused mortality. Lakes and clearcuts were found not to influence habitat use. Conifer cover type dominated the study area and home ranges of the packs but wolves were located more often in mixed forest cover. Rivers were used by the wolves as travel corridors in winter. Moose densities in the overall study area and in the pack home ranges were near or below 0.20 moose/km$\sp2,$ often considered as the minimum prey density to sustain a viable wolf population. Four of the five packs failed to reproduce during the period of the study, one wolf starved to death, and three died of diseases. These results support the validity of this prey density threshold. The consumption of garbage was observed for two packs during the winter. Wolves that used the garbage dump traveled shorter distances than wolves which fed on moose. The additional food supply of the dump and less energy expended in travel seemed to enhance the reproductive success of one study pack, but also exposed the wolves to higher mortality risks. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

abstract: Biology


title: Caregiver perceptions of stress and burden: the role of the relationship in the assessment process : a social exchange model

contributor:
Atkinson, L. P. Suzanne (author)
(Auger, Jeanette) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1998

abstract: The overall purpose of this research is the creation of a home care related assessment approach that includes the recognition of the perceptions of the primary caregiver, as well as an increased understanding of the quality and nature of the relationship between the caregiver and the recipient. A framework of gerontological social exchange theory was employed in the analysis of data obtained from thirteen interviews containing both structured and unstructured components. General findings indicate that, with the necessary increase in informal caregiving due to aging populations and shrinking public resources, enhanced knowledge of how the nature of relationships affect the perceptions of need, stress, and burden will be pivotal in the successful provision of limited support services in the future.

abstract: Sociology


title: Women versus the counterrevolution: relating Marcuse to contemporary feminism

contributor:
Gibbs, Brock Henry (author)
(Pyrcz, Greg) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1996

abstract: This thesis explores the thought of Herbert Marcuse and it relates aspects of this thought to contemporary feminism. It identifies Marcuse's Freudianism in order to explicate Marcuse's notion of domination and the "new sensibility". The thesis situates this exploration in the context of current technological developments. These notions of domination and the "new sensibility" are examined directly in chapter two, but are, as well, to be found throughout the thesis. Chapter three examines Marcuse's concept of the counterrevolution and shows how it is relevant to the various stages of the women's movement. Chapter four examines some of the changes that have taken place within feminism and discusses the shortcomings of identity politics. Chapter five examines how Marcuse's theory has been criticised by "object relations" theorist Nancy Chodorow. The sixth chapter relates Marcuse's work to the feminist theory of Julia Kristeva, illustrating their similarities. The thesis concludes that in order for the women's movement to remain vital, it should engage in identity politics only as a political means with the ultimate goal being to completely transform society. Identity politics for its own sake is, in Marcuse's language, counterrevolutionary.

abstract: Politics


title: Idealism and identity: George Grant and Charles Taylor confront the modern dilemma

contributor: Meynell, Robert Alexander Shotton (author)

subject: LE3 .A278 1998

abstract: This thesis discusses the communitarian political philosophies of two prominent Canadian thinkers, George Grant and Charles Taylor. Cultural fragmentation is considered a crisis because it is difficult to construct a state which reflects the diversity of interests and identities. The collapse of morality is feared because without a moral order there is no bulwark against tyranny. The philosophical debate regarding this crisis has resulted in the establishment of two factions, communitarians and individualists. Grant and Taylor analyze Canada's crisis of identity in light of this larger philosophical dilemma. Both ground their analyses in significant ways in the philosophy of G. W. Hegel and both conclude by advocating state protection of cultural groups. Their prescriptions are based on the importance of providing a moral context within which justice can be nourished. The author suggests that Grant and Taylor are mistaken in their championing of cultural communities. Rather he construes humanity as a complex web of interacting diverse cultural influences. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

abstract: Politics


title: Industrial development and urbanization of Pictou County to 1900

contributor: (Longley, Ronald Stewart) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1962

abstract: History & Classics


title: A narrative inquiry into counsellor education: two lives in evolution

contributor:
Winterhalt, Ruth A. (author)
(Shields, Carmen) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1998

abstract: This thesis is a personal journey: in these pages I speak about my life, and question how my past experience informs my work as a counsellor. This thesis is also about my participant's life and his parallel but different journey to become a counsellor. My purpose is to inquire into how counsellors know, understand and empathize with others, and to look at how personal lived experience impacts on counselling practice. My methodology is narrative. I believe that social science is the study of human experience which is recovered and embodied in narrative form. My method is to gather autobiographical material on my participant and myself, and to reconsider these reconstructed experiences in the present. I gathered my participant's life story in a series of open-ended, conversational, taped interviews; and I wrote my own stories of lived experience. This material became the data for my inquiry. This thesis is the story of how two counsellors make sense of their lived experience and how they translate that experience into an ability to work with people. For me, the sharing of our stories is a celebration of our dialogue, interaction, and connection. The insights for other counsellors are found in the stories.

abstract: Education


title: Anti-aging messages in our society: case studies from Nova Scotia

contributor:
Crosby-Fraser, Wendy (author)
(Powers, Ann Marie) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2000

abstract: This thesis was a preliminary study which sought to examine how eight Nova Scotia women interpreted feminine anti-aging messages prevalent in our culture. If, how, and to what extent these messages were acted on was also of interest. Attempts were made to gain a more complete understanding of current socio-cultural norms concerning feminine aging. Some of the questions addressed included whether cultural constructions about female appearance placed pressure on women to conform and, if so, how these ideologies manifested themselves in the daily lives of the women interviewed. This thesis also generated questions for future research such as: how chronological age might influence susceptibility to anti-aging messages and how a lesbian identity might buffer the impact of anti-aging messages.

abstract: Sociology


title: Movement dynamics of the forked fungus beetle, Bolitotherus cornutus Panzer (Coleoptera: tenebrionidae)

contributor: (Bondrup-Nielsen, Soren) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2000

abstract: I used Capture-Mark-Recapture methods to measure and model movement in the forked fungus beetle, 'Bolitotherus cornutus' Panzer (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Age, sex, and mode of movement (whether by walking or flying) were explicitly treated. The objectives of the study were to examine the movement abilities of the different sexes, the teneral and adult stages of the forked fungus beetle life cycle, and also to look at whether the beetles are walking or flying over the scale examined. An experimental model system constructed of patches of logs hosting the fungus 'Fomes fomentarius' (Polyporaceae) was used to follow the movements of 'B. cornutus'. Additionally, an experiment was done to explore the ability of the forked fungus beetle, 'Bolitotherus cornutus', to detect its fungal host, 'Fomes fomentarius' by chemosensory methods. A choice-test was conducted using a tube with 'F. fomentarius' at one end, and 'Coprinus atramentarius' (Coprinaceae) at the other. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

abstract: Biology


title: Charles Taylor and the distinction between the sciences

contributor:
Cousins, James Andrew (author)
(Pyrcz, Greg) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2000

abstract: Charles Taylor is one of modern philosophy's brightest lights. He has written on a myriad of political, sociological, and philosophical themes; however, Taylor's concern with the philosophy of the social sciences has been the tie that has held together his diverse anthology of scholarship. The objective of this thesis is to examine critically Charles Taylor's contribution to the philosophy of the social sciences. For this purpose, Taylor's hermeneutic approach to the study of human phenomena is discussed and distinguished from logical empiricism, the post-empiricism of Thomas Kuhn, and the universal hermeneutics of Richard Rorty. A focal point of the thesis is Taylor's commitment to the duality of science and his attempts to preserve the so-called Diltheyan distinction. The thesis also examines and ultimately rejects the Kuhnian suggestion that a tripartite division of science would be more adequate than Taylor's dichotomy.

abstract: Politics


title: Black bears (Ursus americanus) in northeastern Labrador

subject: LE3 .A278 2001

abstract: Ten black bears in the Voisey's Bay area of Labrador were studied in 1996 and 1997 using GPS and VHF radio telemetry. GPS collars recorded location and movement activity, but did not operate as long as expected. The short life span of the GPS collars was attributed to battery malfunction. General observations of bear ecology included information on feeding habits, den sites, den entry, spring emergence, reproduction, demographics, morphology, and daily activity. Age structure of captured subjects suggests an older population and female reproductive histories as determined through analysis of cementum annuli suggest delayed sexual maturity. Minimum Convex Polygon (MCP) home ranges were calculated and analyzed to determine if location sample sizes were adequate to estimate home range. Sample size was considered adequate for 2 subjects and borderline for 3 others. Post translocation point removals at discreet time intervals following each translocation event were used to determine if translocation inflated home range estimates. It appeared that translocation did significantly effect home range estimation for several subjects. Habitat selection for 3 adult females was analyzed using Chi-square goodness of fit. Two of the females preferred forested areas, although visual observations suggest that black bears use the barrens and forested areas, similarly. Funding for the study was provided by the Voisey's nay Nickel company.

abstract: Biology


title: Narrating friendship: reciprocal relationships between persons with and without developmental disabilities in l'Arche

contributor:
Pottie, Colin (author)
(Sumarah, John) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2001

abstract: Interpersonal connections, friendships, and belonging play important roles in a person's emotional and physical well-being. However, recent studies reveal that persons with developmental disabilities often live with few connections and friendships, within unwelcoming communities. This qualitative study enters this relatively unexplored area of friendships between persons with and without developmental disabilities by interviewing existing friendship dyads in the intentional community of l'Arche. By examining friendship narratives in context, this research endeavours to describe these friendships, interpret factors that foster or inhibit their development, and identify communal influences on the relationship. Data was collected on 4 friend dyads through semi-structured, in-depth interviews of the friends together, and by participant observation during a commonplace event. Analysis of the friendship narratives yielded 19 themes that fell into 3 categories. A composite dialogue between 2 of the friends is offered to vividly portray the relationship and how the friends interacted.

abstract: Education


title: The effects of seed size on seedling growth response to elevated CO_2 in four conifer species

contributor:
Jones, Trevor A. (author)
(Reekie, Edward) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2001

abstract: Four species of conifer were studied at both the interspecific and intraspecific levels to examine how variation in seed size affects early seedling growth response to elevated CO2. Elevated CO2 affected the large-seeded 'Picea abies ' more positively than the small seeded 'Picea rubens'. Differences in growth responses of the 'Picea' were likely due to differences in relative growth rate (RGR) within the first two weeks of growth. Elevated CO2 did not affect the growth of the ' Pinus' species. Intraspecific variation in seed size did affect growth, but there was no evidence of intraspecific differences in seed size on growth response to elevated CO2 in any of the four species studied. Contrasting growth responses to elevated CO2 of seeds of different size, at the interspecific and intraspecific levels, are explained in terms of seed reserves and the ratio of energy to mineral nutrient reserves within the seed. Specifically, if energy reserves are increased to a greater extent than mineral nutrients as seedsize increases, the CO2 response will decrease.

abstract: Biology


title: An ace in the hole: living in the aftermath of the gynaecological gaze

contributor:
Henderson, Karla J. (author)
(Auger, Jeanette) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2003

abstract: The incidence of removing ovaries and uteri is excessive in North America. To better understand this trend, this thesis studies the relationship between women and gynaecologists through a theoretical application of dialectical phenomenology informed by Foucault, Goffman, Marx, Smith, and Szaz. First, feminist literature is used as a vehicle to critique medical and gynaecological literature to follow the history of gynaecology and how women have figured into its practices. This critique of the literature is supplemented with oral histories from women who have had experiences within gynaecology that call its justification of standard practices into question. Through a theoretical combination of these histories--of women affected by gynaecology and of gynaecology itself--this thesis shows that the treatment of women by gynaecologists may often reflect the discipline's history of pathologizing women; it also shows a trilogy of countercultures to these practices is under construction: (1) at the level of individual women who are speaking out against some gynaecological intervention, (2) within a growing number of feminist and popular press media, and (3) within medicine and gynaecology.

abstract: Sociology


title: Automated event recognition for video surveillance systems

contributor:
Jin, Wei (author)
(Oliver, Leslie) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2003

abstract: Video surveillance systems need capabilities that go beyond simple recording and retrieving by date and time. Automated event recognition and scene understanding are becoming increasingly important to deal with the explosion of surveillance system data and the shortage of security personnel to analyze it. This thesis provides an overview of automated event recognition approaches for single stationary video camera surveillance systems. The motion detection module analyzes raw video and provides moving "blobs". The object tracking module tracks moving object, gives each object a unique identification and provides object properties. The event recognition module detects all kinds of events based on object properties and relationships among objects. Atomic events are defined to represent states of objects at an instant in time. Most atomic events can be detected directly from object properties. Several atomic events compose a basic event that represents change of state of an object during a very short period of time, usually less than one second. Complex events describe scenarios that usually happen over a longer period of time. A complex event is composed of several sub-events that may be basic events or other complex events. A deterministic finite state machine (DFA) is chosen to recognize complex events by matching object behavior with predefined complex event models. Besides video surveillance, the approaches described in this thesis can also be used to broader areas, such as scene understanding and image analysis.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Curriculum matters: a grounded analysis of drug education in public primary and junior high schools in the Bahamas

contributor:
Anderson, Tonya Jenique (author)
(Kitchin, Heather) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2003

abstract: This thesis examines the Health and Family Life Education Curriculum administered to primary and junior high school students in public schools in the Bahamas. The main methods employed for this thesis are grounded theory and content analysis. The results of the content analysis reveal that curricular videos mainly focus on the method of persuasion accompanied by themes such as the role of peers, the power of choice, the importance of making good decisions, the importance of getting the facts about drugs and encouragement not to use drugs. The overall theme of the Health and Family Life Education Curriculum, however, is 'don't use drugs'. Grounded analysis reveals that in the Health and Family Life Education Curriculum there is an interaction and juxtaposition of concepts, addiction models, and messages familiar to various discourses on drugs which contribute to the complexity of the curriculum, the flexibility of the curriculum, the priority of the curriculum and the main foci of the curriculum. Borrowing from various implicit models of drug use and addiction, the Health and Family Life Education Curriculum does not present students with clear explanations or definitions of 'disease' and 'habit', thus conflating the concepts. It is found that the curriculum examined for the study serves ultimately to maintain social order and reflects heavily upon the "just say no" campaign, generated in recent years in the United States.

abstract: Sociology


title: Reproductive polymorphism in the lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium Aiton)

contributor:
Myra, Marina T. D. (author)
(MacKenzie, Kenna) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Vander Kloet, Sam) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2004

abstract: The sweet lowbush blueberry ('Vaccinium angustifolium' Aiton) is both phenotypically and genotypically polymorphic. This study investigates the genomic polymorphism of the lowbush blueberry in a reproductive context, by comparing RAPD molecular markers of known selected clones with a variety of reproductive indices, including berry yield, seed set, and pollen viability. Clones tended to segregate into either good berry producers or good pollen producers which suggests that an unknown evolutionary mechanism may be pushing the lowbush blueberry towards the separation of female floral function from male floral function. Maintenance of polymorphism in 'V. angustifolium ' can be attributed to the longevity of clones and the rarity of successful seedling recruitment. RAPDs gave an excess of polymorphic bands and the average similarity was only 20%. Nonetheless, RAPDs successfully segregated the selected lowbush clones into high and low yielding groups. This shows that RAPD analysis may be a viable technique for the selection of wild seedlings with good reproductive traits for transplant into new or poor lowbush blueberry fields.

abstract: Biology


title: Volunteering in the new millennium: a Marxist political economy approach

contributor:
Elliott-Lopez, Vicki Laurel (author)
(Auger, Jeanette) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2004

abstract: Volunteerism is declining at record rates. At the same time, Canadians are feeling more time crunched than ever before. This thesis situates the challenges facing the volunteer sector within the capitalist economy and explores the correlation between volunteerism and the world of work. By drawing upon existing data and literature from both the field of volunteerism and the field of work, I am able to illustrate the overwhelming circumstantial evidence that reveals a direct correlation between changes within the political and economic spheres of society and the decline in the volunteer sector. Through a critical analysis of existing research utilizing the fundamental principles of Marxist political economy, I demonstrate why espoused recommendations for volunteer recruitment and retention will not work in today's society. I follow with my own recommendations for change, asserting that struggles which are relegated to any one sphere of society will not result in any significant change; we must unite our struggles and fight capitalism at its core.

abstract: Sociology


title: The effects of ballistic impact of littorinid shells on the erosion of a cohesive clay bed

contributor:
Patterson, Shelley M. (author)
(Daborn, Graham) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2001

abstract: The stability of intertidal sediments may be greatly influenced by the presence of organisms associated with the sediment surface. This study examined the effects of empty 'Littorina littorea' (Mollusca: Gastropoda) shells on the erosion of a cohesive clay bed subjected to increasing current velocities in an annular mini-flume. Empty littorinid shells were collected from the shoreline near the Queen's Wharf at Fort Anne, Nova Scotia and cleaned prior to use in the study. Experiments were conducted to examine the effects of shell size and shell number on the erosion threshold and erosion rate. Effects due to shell size were examined by placing seven different sized shells (ds = <3 to 22mm) separately into the mini flume and recording the resulting suspended sediment concentrations occurring at seven different velocities. Similarly, the effects due to shell number were examined by placing from 1 to 7 shells of the 10-12mm shell size class into the mini-flume. Each experiment was recorded with VHS, and the tapes were examined to identify times when shells began to roll (intermittently or continuously) or to saltate (i.e. leave the bed). (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

abstract: Biology


title: Distributed programming using CORBA services

contributor:
Hasan, Shafiul (author)
(Muldner, Tomasz) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2003

abstract: Common Object Request Broker Architecture, CORBA is an architecture that provides platform, language, and location transparency thereby supporting distributed heterogeneous systems. It also provides a number of services such as Naming, Trading, Notifying. Recently, many vendors started to add implementations of various services to the basic implementation of CORBA. This thesis describes the design and implementation of a distributed dynamically configurable system, called Research Topic Finder (RTF), which uses the following three CORBA Services: Naming, Trading and Notification. RTF can be used to search for research topics advertised by faculty members. It can also be used for setting up notifications for registered listeners who use different networked computers. Since Sun Microsystems has recently added various Java services, this thesis also provides a brief comparison of CORBA Services and corresponding Java services.

abstract: Computer Science


title: An integrated scheme of real-time multi-camera tracking for video surveillance

contributor:
Yuan, Kaimin (author)
(Oliver, Leslie) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2003

abstract: In many surveillance applications, multiple video sensors are employed in a cooperative sensor network to provide extended coverage of the monitored site and multiple perspective views of interested targets. This thesis presents an integrated system framework and related algorithms to track moving objects in the monitored site covered by such a sensor network. Three different tracking scenarios, namely single-camera tracking, stereo camera handoff and wide-area tracking, are tackled. Object tracking in a single camera is performed using adaptive background subtraction followed by a heuristic region correspondence strategy. Stereo camera handoff is accomplished using geometric constraints between the coordinate system of the two stereo cameras. Wide-area tracking, i.e., tracking objects from one camera to another, non-overlapped camera is performed utilizing an illuminant-invariant colour-based object appearance modeling/matching algorithm. An integrated system framework is designed for the sensor network involving two main components, the Sensor Processing Unit (SPU) and the Central Control Unit (CCU).

abstract: Computer Science


title: Relationships between ubiquinone content, respiration rate, and lipid peroxidation among five etiolated seedling species and etiolated seedlings of two differentially chilling-sensitive species during low temperature exposure

contributor:
Munro, Kathleen D. (author)
(Kristie, David) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2004

abstract: Ubiquinone or Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) functions primarily as an electron carrier in the electron transport chain of the mitochondria of plants and animals. The molecule contains a benzoquinone head group and a long isoprenoid tail that anchors the molecule in the membrane. Secondary roles in plant tissue, such as antioxidant activity, have been proposed for ubiquinone. This study examines the potential relationship between respiration rate, lipid peroxidation and ubiquinone content during the development of five species of etiolated seedlings and during low temperature exposure of two differentially chilling-sensitive species. Respiration rate may be an approximate indicator of the ubiquinone content of different types of plant tissue. Ubiquinone content differed between species, and levels within each species varied significantly over the course of the experiment. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

abstract: Biology


title: The integration of psychosynthesis and focusing as a way of addressing the spiritual as personal transformation in the counselling process

contributor:
Doiron, Susan (author)
(Sumarah, John) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Brookes, Anne Louise) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2004

abstract: The purpose of this thesis is to explore, describe and analyze critically spirituality as personal transformation in the counselling process through the conceptual framework of Psychosynthesis and the therapeutic process of Focusing. Both are informed by my narrative inquiry and a review of the relevant literature. I have used a qualitative approach that employs narrative inquiry. When I began this thesis journey, I had made some assumptions centered around three central transformational questions that I assumed others were striving to discover about themselves. Through the literature reviewed and my experiences as a counselling intern, I discovered that others were indeed striving for answers to these fundamental questions. There are two things I have discovered in this thesis journey around psychosynthesis and focusing--one is the integration of the two models--not before done and secondly, I have simplified the approach and implementation of the application of these models as it relates to personal transformation in the counselling process. Finally, I have rediscovered my vocation in this thesis journey and the tremendous need that exists to do this important personal transformational work as a counsellor. The challenge now is to find ways to meet this need.

abstract: Education


title: Women outdoor leaders: a narrative study

contributor:
Reid, Heather (author)
(MacKinnon, David) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2004

abstract: This narrative study explores how four women have come to know themselves as leaders in the outdoor context. Using a variety of media, four women, myself included, corresponded over a period of six months, sharing our stories and definitions of leadership. Initial and final interviews were conducted and email was the method of correspondence. This thesis has evolved as a story, grounded in a narrative approach and built on a foundation of existing literature. This study includes reflection on these women's past experiences, an indication of their present mindset, and incorporates where they see themselves in the future. The story, which represents the lives of four women, has several things to teach. In terms of outdoor leadership, it validates that women are unique and their stories need to be told as individual, rather than comparable journeys. It presents an alternative to applying one definition of leadership and examines leadership as an individual process for the four women involved. Through narrativeinquiry, I consider these women's development as outdoor leaders within the context of their lives. I suggest that the power of the story lies with its ability to move readers. As a final product, this thesis is an example of how creativity can capture the essence of lived experience, in this case, the lived experience of four women on their paths to developing as outdoor leaders.

abstract: Education


title: Security in Web services

contributor:
Luo, Zhonghai (author)
(Muldner, Tomasz) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2005

abstract: With the fast growth of Internet-based distributed applications and the associated increase of computer crime opportunities, security is now recognized as one of the most fundamental issues for the computer industry. Web Services is an emerging model of Web-based applications, which makes the interconnection, communication, and interoperability among different devices and applications more convenient. Because Web Services applications run over the open, untrustworthy Internet, security for Web Services is a necessity and should be deployed to provide service providers and service requestors with quality of protection. This thesis first reviews fundamental security technologies and Web Services. Then, it describes the design and implementation of security extensions for a very widely used Web Services platform, Glue. These security extensions enable Glue-based Web Services applications to perform hybrid encryptions on messages and utilize XKMS services to locate/validate certificates. An online bookstore system is created as a proof-of-concept illustration of how to build a secure Web Services application based on the Glue platform and its security extensions.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Groundwater vulnerability to potential contamination in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

contributor:
Blackmore, Amanda L. (author)
(Webster, Tim) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Rivard, Christine) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2006

abstract: The Geological Survey of Canada, in conjunction with various partners, has been undertaking a groundwater characterization project in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia for the past three years. This thesis contributes towards this project through the modelling of groundwater vulnerability in the Annapolis Valley region. The groundwater vulnerability modelling utilized the concept that the degree of potential vulnerability to contamination can be mapped as a function of selected hydrologic conditions. A regional view of the vulnerability to potential contamination of groundwater resources within the Annapolis Valley was modelled using the DRASTIC methodology. This index-overlay method included the seven hydrogeologic parameters of Depth to water, net Recharge, Aquifer media, Soil media, Topography, Impact of the vadose zone, and hydraulic Conductivity, and was programmed using object modelling available in ArcGIS. Several groundwater vulnerability scenarios were determined to take into account issues with data quality, data quantity, and potential hydrogeologic conditions variability. The resulting groundwater vulnerability for both bedrock and surficial aquifers was examined for each scenario and compared. This exercise indicated that the vulnerability model produced by the DRASTIC method can be significantly altered by seemingly minor variations in data precision and accuracy for discreet parameters. Some of those parameters that have the highest impact in the results (net recharge, depth to water, and impact of the vadose zone) commonly exhibit low dataset precision and accuracy, which is an important consideration in the establishment of groundwater protection and monitoring programs. Vulnerability results vary according to, and within, each geological unit, although generally surficial units are significantly more vulnerable than bedrock units. The bedrock (Wolfville and Blomidon formations) and surficial (sand and gravel) units believed most promising in terms of aquifer quantity and quality were found to be the units potentially most vulnerable to contamination.

abstract: Earth & Environmental Sciences


title: "That is not dead which can eternal lie": horror and terror in the fiction of H. P. Lovecraft

contributor: Rhodenizer, Darrell Thomas Douglas (author)

subject: LE3 .A278 2006

abstract: In 'Supernatural Horror in Literature', H. P. Lovecraft suggests that weird fiction evokes fear through "cosmic horror," a blending of horror and terror characterized by a profound dread of external forces and a collapse of the laws that humanity perceives to govern nature. His own works, however, are more ambiguous. By employing the theories of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung, psychologists operating contemporaneously with Lovecraft, it becomes apparent that Lovecraft evokes fear through the return of the repressed, both at the personal and cosmic levels. This return of the repressed typically relies on ethnocentric and anthropocentric concerns to evoke horror, but the author's growing engagement with the philosophy of cosmic indifferentism led him to (haltingly) reject such concerns, thus divesting the repressed of its power to horrify. In its place, Lovecraft's later fiction relies on the sublime fear of a cosmos too vast to be understood. The external forces emerge not as sources of horror, but as avenues to appreciating a non-anthropocentric, mechanistic universe. Although Lovecraft died at the peak of his creativity and his philosophies never attained an unambiguous unity, it seems that, in practice, Lovecraft's cosmic fiction does not conform to the ideal of cosmic horror espoused by his treatise, but rather tends toward the characteristics of sublime terror proposed by Ann Radcliffe a century earlier.

abstract: English & Theatre Studies


title: The Lord's Supper and High Calvinism at Saint Matthew's Presbyterian Kirk, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

contributor: (Killacky, Christopher) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2007

abstract: The thesis project 'The Lord's Supper and High Calvinism at St. Matthew's Kirk' is first, a theological review and inquiry into historical Reformed thought on the sacrament of the Lord's Supper and secondly an application of Reformed theology on the Lord's Supper in a practical way within Saint Matthew's Kirk. Two key Reformed theologians, John Calvin and Ulrich Zwingli developed two distinct views of the Lord's Supper which are considered to be Reformed. Their distinctive theologies upon this subject are explored, compared and contrasted with one another as well as various competing theologies as found in Lutheranism and Roman Catholicism in order to highlight their similarities and differences with regards to the Supper. Also, it was crucial to study their theological position in light of the Reformed confessions which emerged both in their life time and in the decades following their deaths. The goal was to identify, if possible within the body of Reformed thought, a singular authoritative theological position on the Lord's Supper. This exploration concluded that Calvin's view of the Lord's Supper is predominating in the Reformed confessions examined. What is more, The Scot's Confession of 1560 is the most robust expression of Calvin's influence upon a nation which embraced the Reformed faith. The confession clearly holds forth that where the sacrament is rightly observed both the presence of Christ and his grace is made evident and bestowed upon his people. The thesis further submits that the evangelical Presbyterians of southwest Scotland came as close as possible to maintaining this unity in what became known as the 'sacramental seasons'. The spiritual formation of the people was always building toward a service of Word and Sacrament (for practical reasons they could not celebrate it weekly) for it was in these services the work of Christ within the body of Christ is most evident. This pattern of worship serves as a template for what should be normative in Christian worship. For many reformed pastors and theologians, beginning with John Nevin until today, there is a conviction that the service of Word and sacrament must be held as a unity. The benefits of this service will be a congregation which is more actively participating in their union with Jesus Christ as individuals and a body. The project aspect of this exploration into the Lord's Supper seeks to advance the corporate and individual spiritual formation of the communicants who attend Saint Matthew's. Communicants will be urged to actively commune with Christ and to integrate this experience with their fellow members at church, within homes and work will have a deeper sense of Christ working within them and their church. This will be accomplished through a weekly Preparatory Service, communion, home liturgy, and home visitation to communicants' unable to attend worship on Sunday. A test group working at The Saint John Regional Hospital will also participate in a chapel communion in an attempt to integrate Christ into their work routine as well. Evaluations of these ministries will be done through surveys and written and taped interviews with participating communicants.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: The women's ordination movement and related disputes within the Roman Catholic Church

contributor:
Baumann, Britt (author)
(Thomson, Tony) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2007

abstract: This thesis is about the Roman Catholic women's ordination movement in the context of other contemporary problems facing the Roman Catholic Church, specifically, the perceived priest shortage, mandatory celibacy for priests, reproductive rights, homosexuality, the sexual abuse crisis and the debate concerning priestly ordination for women. The attitudes of Roman Catholics toward these problems are explored through secondary analysis of Canadian statistical data and qualitative interviews. Chapter IV provides a typology of six North American Roman Catholic theological attitudes based on a review of major doctrinal disputes within the Church and personal interviews performed by the author in 2006. Participants were asked questions concerning the shortage of priests, ordination for women, priestly celibacy, homosexuality and reproductive rights. Their answers could be categorised according to their theological views and by their involvement within Roman Catholic lay movements. All respondents believed it is their responsibility to instruct the hierarchy on social issues. Chapter V discusses the internal debate within the Roman Catholic women's ordination movements. Some ordination activists seek to protect the hierarchical form of church governance, while others call for deconstruction of that hierarchy. Furthermore, the sensational "River Ordination Movement" has caused further strain due to the resulting excommunications and Vatican pressure on progressive lay movements. As debate intensifies, the focus of the women's ordination movement is evolving from a liberal feminist movement to a radical feminist movement as prescribed by theologians Elisabeth Schssler Fiorenza and Rosemary Radford Reuther at the 2005 Women's Ordination Worldwide international conference in Ottawa, Canada.

abstract: Sociology


title: Songbird space use and movement in heterogeneous landscapes vary with landscape structures and spatial scale

contributor:
Leonard, Tina Deanne (author)
(Taylor, Phil) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Warkentin, Ian G.) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2007

abstract: Understanding how individuals respond to landscape heterogeneity is crucial to the study of landscape ecology. I investigated how landscape structure at multiple scales influenced space use and movement patterns of habitat specialist male northern waterthrushes ('Seiurus noveboracensis') and generalist male blackpoll warblers ('Dendroica striata') in Newfoundland over two breeding seasons using radiotelemetry. Waterthrush territory area and movement rates were influenced by landscape-scale forest harvest, suggesting an influence of broad-scale structure on habitat use through territorial resource availability. Relationships between blackpoll home range area and forest harvest at neighbourhood and landscape scales varied between years, while movement rates were influenced by local-scale structure. Blackpolls appear to respond to factors influencing food availability. This study indicated species- and scale-specific responses to landscape structure and the potential for disturbance to modify passerine behaviour. Both a habitat specialist and generalist appear to be resilient to moderate levels of anthropogenic disturbance in naturally-heterogeneous boreal forest landscapes.

abstract: Biology


title: Fallen away: post-lapsarianism in Tolkien's Saga of jewels and rings

contributor:
Barootes, Benjamin S. W. (author)
(Whetter, Kevin) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2007

abstract: This thesis focuses on the themes of loss and recovery in Tolkien's Saga of Jewels and Rings, that is, 'The Lord of the Rings' and ' The Silmarillion'. Sadness and regret are woven into the very fabric of the story. 'The Lord of the Rings', barring several instances of analepsis and glimpses of lands and times far off, is set in the Fading Years. The Elves wane as Men wax; they "diminish and go into the West." The magic of ancient times ebbs; strength and power dwindle. This loss and fading is manifold--geographic and luminescent, individual and global, stylistic and generic--but the primary site is language. Language is the ultimate inspiration of Tolkien's tales and forms the backbone of his world. It is also the means by which Aragorn, the returning king, restores the fallen world. The theoretical basis of the present work arises from the tension between cyclical and linear time and history. Keystone works include Northrop Frye's ' Anatomy of Criticism', Giambattisa Vico's 'The New Science ', Tom Shippey's 'The Road to Middle-earth' and ' Author of the Century', and Verlyn Flieger's 'Splintered Light: Logos and Language in Tolkien's World'. My study reconciles these varying concepts and criticisms. It delves into the mythology to examine how Tolkien's world experiences decay and how this lapsarianism is imagined by the peoples of Middle-earth.

abstract: English & Theatre Studies


title: The complete mitochondrial genome of the bivalve mollusc, Argopecten irradians: an analysis of the sequence, gene order, and phylogenetic content

contributor:
Petten, Mark Garry James (author)
(Snyder, Marlene) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2007

abstract: The purpose of this study was to sequence the mitochondrial genome of a North American species of scallop and examine it in a phylogenetic context. The mitochondrial DNA of the bay scallop, 'Argopecten irradians', has been completely sequenced. The entire length was determined to 16221 by long and to code for 12 proteins, 22 tRNAs, and 2 rRNAs. The 'atp8 ' gene was noted to be absent from the genome as in other bivalves. An additional 'trnM' was not located in the genome, a feature noted in other sequenced bivalves. The gene order is unique among molluscs with few shared gene boundaries when compared to other molluscs. The genome was found to be AT-rich (56.93%) and within the range previously noted for other sequenced molluscs. After obtaining the sequence of 'Argopecten irradians' a phylogenetic analysis of existing bivalve ribosomal RNA genes was conducted. Numerous trees were produced, most in agreement with established phylogenies. Bivalve phylogenies generated from protein coding and gene order data deviated from established phylogenies. The possible reasons for this and the implication for phylogenetic studies are discussed.

abstract: Biology