title: Determining habitat use by black bears (Urus americanus) based on vegetation characteristics in a forested region in southwest Kings County

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

subject: LE3 .A278 2019

abstract: Biology

abstract:
The forested area of southwest Kings County, Nova Scotia, is heavily influenced by logging and forestry practices, which has a large effect on wildlife habitat use and wildlife behaviour. Black bears (Ursus americanus) have an omnivorous diet which
allows them to inhabit many different habitats with varying home ranges, in order to source the variety of food needed to survive. Black bears rely on many food sources including fruits, nuts, colonial insects, green vegetation and many more depending on the season, causing larger home ranges if food is scarce. This study set out to see if any habitat haracteristics promoted overall, female and male black bear presence in southwest Kings County. The habitat characteristics collected were horizontal cover percent, vegetation percent and vegetation abundance, as well as basal area per hectare and tree richness. Using a quadrat, a robel pole and a relascope the habitat characteristic measurements were obtained. Sixty-six scent stations were used to collect habitat characteristics, with eight sampling locations within. Deciduous tree count and vegetation percent using a logistic regression were significant towards female bear presence. An analysis of deviance for generalized linear model fits, using a Chi-square test for goodness of fit was used, and showed that the inner area for female presence logistic regression model as significant. No significance was found for total and male bear presence using
α = 0.05. All non-significant trends were thought to be due to adequate abundance of the habitat characteristics throughout the whole study area. All significant and non-significant trends produced from the data collected in summer 2018, due to the small sample sizes, will only be used for future hypothesis building until a larger data set is acquired and trends are strengthened.


title: Memories of the coming out experience in parents and their adult children

type: Text Dissertation/Thesis

contributor:
Northcott, Jill (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Holmberg, Diane) (Thesis advisor)

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 2019

abstract: Psychology

abstract:
Coming out, or revealing oneself to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, etc. (LGBTQ+) can be highly stressful, due to fear of parental disapproval or rejection. Previous research has shown that both parental approval and disapproval can predict the identity formation, mental well-being, and physical health of LGBTQ+ youth. Previous studies of the coming out experience have assessed the experience from the adult child’s perspective, and occasionally the parent’s perspective, but never from both simultaneously. The current study examines how the memories of the coming out experience from both the adult child and a parent predict the psychological well-being and internalized homophobia of the adult child. Fifty
adult child/parent pairs completed an online survey that collected qualitative and quantitative memories of the coming out experience, as well as data pertaining to the mental health and internalized homophobia of the adult children. Polynomial regression with response surface analysis was used to analyze both perspectives simultaneously as predictors of the adult child’s mental health and internalized homophobia. No significant results were found, but there were interesting trends shown in the results that will be discussed.


title: The role of stereotype vulnerability and belongingness on university students' commitment to their academic major

contributor:
Weagle, Brianna (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Newman, Randy Lynn) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2019

abstract: Psychology

abstract:
The current study examined factors that are involved in university students’ commitment to their academic major, with specific interest in exploring the role of stereotype vulnerability and belongingness in women’s persistence in their studies. Women represent the majority of university students in Canada, but they are still underrepresented in fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) due to a combination of recruitment and retention issues. The current study found that women report being more vulnerable to stereotypes than men, and that women in STEM majors report higher rates of vulnerability than women in non-STEM majors. Unexpectedly, increased vulnerability to stereotypes was found to increase one’s academic commitment. Stereotype vulnerability was shown to mediate women in STEM majors’ commitment to their academic major. Interestingly, the more vulnerable women were, the more committed they were to their major. This seemingly counterintuitive finding seemed driven by the negative costs women associated with withdrawal from their major. While belongingness was associated with higher levels of commitment, its role as a mediator
between gender and commitment was not significant.


title: Screening microbial volatile organic compounds produced by streptomyces bacteria for their potential as a new Drosophila suzukii repellent

contributor:
Discher, Adam D.L. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Hillier, Kirk) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2019

abstract: Biology

abstract:
Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is an invasive species of fruit pest in much of the world. Females have a errated ovipositor that allows them to deposit their eggs beneath the skin of ripe and ripening fruit such as grapes, raspberries, and blueberries. This is problematic because, as D. suzukii larvae develop, they feed on the flesh of these fruits making them unmarketable for sale and causing significant economic losses worldwide. The objective of this study was to investigate microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) produced by Streptomyces bacteria for their potential in controlling D. suzukii. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to characterize the MVOC profiles of nine
Streptomyces bacteria. Additionally, gas chromatography-electroantennography and two-choice behavioural bioassays were used to determine the physiological and behavioural effects that these MVOCs had on D. suzukii. Analysis of the volatile compounds released from preparations of nine Streptomyces species cultured in soy flour mannitol broth allowed for their MVOC profiles to be described. Additionally, it was found that the preparations of two of these Streptomyces
species–S. avermitilis and S. coelicolorA3(2)–repelled D. suzukii whereas preparations from the other seven species either attracted D. suzukii or had no significant effect. This information will allow for future studies to focus on the Streptomyces
bacteria that produced MVOCs that repelled D. suzukii when developing a new approach to managing D. suzukii damage.


title: Modification and evaluation of a game-like prism adaptation protocol for use in electroencephalographic studies

contributor:
Stirling, Kathryn (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Champod, Anne Sophie) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2019

abstract: Psychology

abstract:
Spatial neglect is a debilitating neurological condition that is common after stroke. Currently there is no standardized treatment protocol for spatial neglect but prism adaptation (PA) has shown promise as a treatment modality. Peg-the-Mole (PTM) is a standardized game-like PA protocol that has been shown to induce shifts in attention equivalent to typical PA procedures while being more engaging and requiring less equipment. The present study evaluated the effectiveness of a modified version of PTM for future use in electroencephalography (EEG) studies. Fifteen healthy young adults alternated between wearing 15-degree right-shifting prism goggles and sham (i.e., clear) goggles to allow for repeated adaptation and de-adaptation while using PTM. Proprioceptive, visual, and functional outcome measures were administered before and
after PTM to assess after-effects and confirm adaptation. Participants exhibited significant after-effects on the proprioceptive and visual tasks (p< .05) but not on the functional task (p> .05). These findings will help further the development of PTM and facilitate future EEG studies with the goal of understanding the neuromechanisms underlying the effects induced by the procedure..


title: Diversity of fungi isolated from Kingsport, Nova Scotia intertidal mudflat sediment

contributor:
Reicker, Jacob (author)
(Walker, Allison) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2019

abstract:
Coastal and open ocean ecosystems rely on understudied marine fungi for their role as the primary decomposers of plant material, including wood and other organic debris. Some fungal enzymes responsible for degrading the lignin and cellulose components of plant tissues are capable of metabolizing hydrocarbon components of crude oil. As contamination of aquatic communities during transportation and storage of crude oil remains a persistent issue, the need for reliable remediation strategies increases. Marine fungal species native to the Bay of Fundy are underexplored. Fungi were collected from the Kingsport and Wolfville Harbour intertidal zones of the Minas Basin, Nova Scotia using sediment coring along transects (Kingsport, Nova Scotia) and wood block bait trap collection methods (Wolfville Harbour and Kingsport, Kings County, Nova Scotia). Fungi cultured from sediment were identified via ITSrDNA barcoding. Twenty-two morphologically distinct cultures were obtained from Kingsport intertidal sediment, yielding 13 species from 9 ascomycete genera. Differences in species identified between early and late summer 2018 collection dates were not observed, nor were differences in cultured fungal assemblages with sediment collection depth. Fungi of interest include the cosmopolitan
Pseudeurotium bakeri, known to survive high levels of diesel fuel contamination, and the yeast Candida sake, known to survive in Antarctic waters and used as a biocontrol agent against apple disease. Of the 13 species identified, only K. lactis
and C. sake have been previously recorded in the Minas Basin, Nova Scotia. Future research includes evaluating the enzymatic and surfactant abilities of candidate strains which may assist in the breakdown of marine and coastal crude oil contaminants.

abstract: Biology


title: Analyzing visual attention and facial affect in response to adult attachment stimuli

contributor:
Mason, Autum (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Leslie, Kenneth) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Psychology

abstract:
This study seeks to explore how activating the attachment system leads to changes in implicit behavioral response that can be detected using modern biometric measures. The present study examined eye-tracking and facial affect coding responses to attachment-related stimuli from the Adult Attachment Projective Test (AAP). Participants (N=54) also completed questionnaires to determine their unique level of attachment anxiety and avoidance as well as depressive symptoms. Biometrics collected were average fixation duration, fixation rate per minute, average pupil dilation, blink rate (EBR), average blink duration, average distance
from the screen, average time spent looking at faces, average revisits to faces, facial expression response (joy, disgust, sadness, anger, contempt, surprise, fear) and facial expression valence (positive, negative). Most of the biometric measures showed no association with scores of attachment measures and depression. However, there was a significant negative correlation between EBR and attachment avoidance: participants who scored higher on avoidance blinked less when looking at the attachment stimuli. Previous research suggests two possible interpretations: 1) that EBR can be a proxy for dopamine levels in the brain (Jongkees & Colzato, 2016) and so avoidant participants find the AAP pictures less rewarding, and 2) that EBR is reduced during high cognitive load, and the avoidant participants have a higher cognitive load because they are
engaged in repressing their emotional expression while also creating their narratives. These findings suggest that stand-off measures of implicit response can provide  information about attachment style, and that
EBR is a biometric measure that warrants further study.


title: Designing and testing a social media framework for higher education

contributor:
Williams, Rebecca (author)
(Sears, Donna) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract:
The following thesis examines the performance of Acadia University’s Instagram account using a social analytics software, then applying the results to a modified framework designed to understand the building blocks of higher education institutions (HEIs) on social media. This framework is based upon two previous studies and was modified in order to appropriately represent elements of the social media environment that are
important to HEIs and relevant on Instagram. These elements are as follows: identity, sharing, perceived reputation, groups, presence, conversations, and relationships. Previous studies have found that the social media pages of HEIs are lacking in structure and strategy. This study was conducted to gain a level of understanding of the previous literature, followed then by primary data collection using an Instagram analytics software with regard to Acadia University’s account to measure its relative success based on the framework compared to competitors. A range of tools were used within the software to measure each block of the framework, such as measuring the effectiveness of types of posts based on visual cues. This assessment of Acadia’s use of Instagram demonstrated that the adapted framework proposed in this thesis is useful in evaluating social strategy as it pertains to HEIs. The results highlight Acadia University’s strengths, such as holding a good perceived reputation as well as facilitating groups between related accounts on Instagram. However, the institution did not perform well in terms of presence or the relationships built between its own official account and others. Future research could examine the results of utilizing a social analytics tool and the designed framework on social media platforms other than Instagram, or on measuring the data for a longer period of time (e.g., a complete academic cycle).

abstract: Business


title: Snailed it: effects of petroleum-based and biodegradable microplastics on tissue structure and fecundity in the Eastern mudsnail Tritia obsoleta

contributor:
Hewins, Benjamin (author)
(Gibson, Glenys) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract:
Microplastics are anthropogenic pollutants that are ubiquitous in marine environments. These minute plastic fragments are often defined as any plastic fragment <5mm, which enter the ocean directly or indirectly. Microplastics have been recorded in a variety of marine habitats such as in deep oceanic trenches, estuarine and coastal bays, and Arctic sea ice. They directly affect marine biota includingplanktonic a lgae, benthic
invertebrates, fish, whales and birds. I used the Eastern mudsnail Tritia obsoleta to study tissue-level changes in digestive tubules following ingestion of microplastics or biodegradable microplastics. Fecundity of T. obsoleta was also analyzed by recording the number of viable embryos per egg capsule following plastic exposure. Plastics were collected from a local beach and ground into microplastic granules and fibers. Polylactic Acid (PLA) was also processed to determine if biodegradable plastics elicit similar effects on tissues as do non-bio plastics. Plastics were added to the biofilm diet of  T. obsoleta in concentrations representative of those found in estuarine environments, including control (no plastic), low exposure (5 particles/kg sediment), and high exposure (150 particles/kg sediment), and also an extreme level (5,000 particles/kg), which more closely emulates concentrations used in other studies. After a one-month exposure, hepatopancreas histology was compared using PAS-AB, Gomori’s One-Step Trichrome, and Hematoxylin and Eosin, as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Fecundity was decreased in the extreme groups relative to field samples. Additionally, significant differences were detected in the number of mature and
immature hemocytes in snails exposed to high and extreme levels, and a significant decrease in height of digestive cells occurred at high and extreme concentrations. This study suggests that high concentrations of
microplastics in surface sediments affect the structure of the digestive tubules, fecundity, and the number of hemocytes in this highly abundant estuarine species.

abstract: Biology


title: Microcredit and its impact on developing areas

contributor:
Huang, Ben (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Davis, Andrew) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Economics

abstract:
Microcredit became one of the most prominent tools for poverty elimination in the 1990s. However, there are doubts as to whether microcredit can really generate positive effects in developing regions. This thesis is an
extension of the meta-analysis examining this question from Chliova et al. (2015). By synthesizing 59 quantitative findings, this research uses regression analysis to find whether research conditions affect the effect size of microcredit interventions in developing areas. My results show that higher corruption levels, lower economic status, rural areas and microcredit organizations operating without the support of government are associated with larger effect sizes in developing areas. Microcredit generally has greater effect in more challenging conditions.


title: The discursive construction of the Trump impeachment: delegitimation strategies and moral panic on Hannity

contributor: (Rondinelli, Elisabeth) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract:
This paper explores the discursive tactics employed by Fox News, centered around an analysis of the television program Hannity. My research consisted of the transcription and coding of six episodes of the program.
All data revolving around the impeachment of president Donald Trump was recorded. Through a discourse analysis of these transcripts, I explore two main questions. The first is, what kinds of discursive tactics are utilized to maintain support for Trump? The second question is, what is the intended purpose of these tactics? By using a framework of moral panic and moral regulation, I theorize that Hannity utilizes discursive tactics of othering, which serves to deviantize any group or individual who detract from the show’s Trump-biased narrative. Once a group or individual is deviantized, their actions and opinions become delegitimated.
This serves to the credibility of Hannity’s narrative that Donald Trump was wrongfully persecuted by a partisan stunt.

abstract: Sociology


title: The copycat identity in a neocolonial Bahamas

contributor:
Colebrook, Bobbeth (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Viriasova, Inna) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Politics

abstract:
When the 2015 Junkanoo Carnival festival made its debut in the Bahamas, it seemed as if the native Bahamian cultural festival Junkanoo had been perverted into a culture that was unrelated to the Bahamia n identity.
The decision to diversify the tourism product in this way led to a marginalization of native Bahamian culture. The tourism industry’s decision provoked an inquiry into the Bahamian identity. On the surface, Bahamian identity appears to be copied from other cultures. Copying other cultures results from the neocolonial ultimatum to participate in globalization while suffering a marginalized identity over risking not surviving in a world of
global capitalism. Therefore, the Copycat identity is formed through neocolonial processes. The Bahamian tourism industry facilitates neocolonialism and the Copycat identity by producing neocolonial relationships and manipulating Bahamian culture to reflect the values of the neocolonizer –the tourist. After unveiling the neocolonial effects on Bahamian culture and identity, it is seen that the Copycat identity is merely a Junkanoo identity in which the Bahamian adapts to and acquires the music, dance, and artistry. Like the festival, the Junkanoo identity reflects the authentic identity of the Bahamian as opposed to the neocolonial identity. The Calypsonian Cyborg makes it possible to shift from the Copycat identity to the Junkanoo identity through the process of decolonization. Challenging and questioning the Bahamian situation also make it possible to decolonize and achieve a true Bahamian identity.


title: The relationship between corporate sustainability and post-merger financial performance

contributor:
Whalen, Breton R. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(MacLean, Stephen) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Business

abstract:
Growing concern around the effect corporate sustainability has on firm performance has individuals questioning their investment decisions and firms questioning their buying decisions. The ‘ESG Spotlight’ study done by Sustainalytics titled ‘ESG Compatibility: A Hidden Success Factor in M&A Transactions’, Systainalytics looked at how the compatibility of firms in terms of sustainability affected the success of a merger (Vezer & Morrow, 2017). Findings showed that in their sample, ESG compatible deals outperformed ESG incompatible deals by an average of 21% on a five-year cumulative return basis. In 2007, Fred Bereskin, Seong K. Byun, Michah S. Officer and Jong-Min Oh studied the effect corporate culture similarity has on merger decisions and post-merger performance (Bereskin, Byun, Officer, & Oh, 2017). They found that firms with greater corporate culture similarities were more likely to merge and produced greater synergies post-merger.
This research looks at the relationship between corporate sustainability, using Thomson Reuters Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) scores and post-merger financial performance. The companies that were used during this study were taken from the Standard and Poor’s 500 Index. Companies were used in the study if they completed a merger between January 1st, 2009 and December 31st, 2018 with six quarters of viable data pre and post-merger. Specifically, this study looks to test the correlation between the ESG score of an acquiring company and post-merger financial performance to see if sustainable firms have greater success in integrating another firm into their business. One regression incorporated a crisis dummy variable to control for the years 2009, 2010 and 2011 to eliminate changes in performance that were theresult of the 2008 financial crash. After controlling for firm size and deal value, results show that there is a positive relationship between a firm’s ESG score pre-merger and their XVTobin’s Q value post-merger. This data supports the current research question that there is a trend between corporate social responsibility and financial performance.
There is a trade-off when it comes to corporations looking to evolve and develop sustainable business practices. Whether it be implementing new sustainability teams into the business or changing over products and production machinery to a more sustainable option, it all comes with a cost. This increase in cost might not be realistic for all businesses, especially ones that don’t know what the payoff will be. I hope that this research encourages businesses to incorporate ESG data into their decision-making process when looking to purchase another firm or when being acquired by another firm. This research shows that there is a risk when it comes to purchasing firms when you are not sustainably compatible and that it can be mitigated by incorporating ESG thresholds for both the acquiring company and the acquired company. Corporations should not ignore the fact that being more sustainable leads to greater returns post-merger. Moving forward, there is a lot of room for further research on this subject. As the literature review shows, there is a gap in research around mergers and acquisitions and corporate sustainability. Completing this study using European firms would be interesting as Europe is very advanced compared with the United States when it comes to corporate sustainability. It would also be interesting to flip the study and look at the ESG scores of the companies being acquired and if this has any effect on financial performance post-merger or the premium paid by
the acquirer.


title: Like, comment, and consume: the role of the political consumer on Instagram

contributor:
Douglas, Charles (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Brickner, Rachel) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Politics

abstract:
Political participation is considered a foundation for an operational democracy, yet, voting numbers in both Canada and the United States are on the decline, which some attribute to  a lack of political involvement by citizens. However, as our understanding of political participation expands, internet use, including social media, can also be included in this expanding form of participation, and because of this, many argue that participation is not in decline, but has instead only taken new forms. Social media use (sharing pictures,videos, and information) has created a way for consumers to interact and voice their opinions and concerns
with the brands directly. The political consumer is an individual who uses their money to either support (buycott) or to punish (boycott) companies because of their company policies or practices. Through the interaction of companies and political consumers on social media, this thesis argues that that on a social media platform that is strictly visual, as Instagram is, the political consumer is more interested in their own views than attempting to mobilize others to engage in boycotts or buycotts. This research incorporates the theory of political consumerism to understand the role of the political consumer on Instagram and investigates the relationship between the consumer and outdoor and athletic wear brands–Nike, adidas, Patagonia, The North Face, and Fjallraven.


title: The vertical zonation of some Crustose lichen species in Bay of Fundy littoral zones of Nova Scotia

contributor:
Vail, Cole A. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Walker, Allison) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Biology

abstract:
The littoral zone of the Bay of Fundy has an abundant array of life within the varied and extreme bounds of the ecosystem. One particular facet of this ecosystem is the community of lichens. The crustose and macro-
algae, accompanied by the lichen populations, make up the primary producers and are a vital food source for other organisms. Despite harsh conditions provided by wave action, salinity, UV exposure, as well as various other abiotic and biotic pressures, lichens account for much of the substrate cover in the littoral zone. One family in particular, the Verrucariaceae, represents one of only three families of lichens present between the supralittoral and sublittoral zones of the Bay of Fundy. This family’s life habits are versatile, with endosubstratic to superficial thalli on a myriad of substrates belonging to a cosmopolitan assortment of habitats. I documented the vertical zonation and general ecology of several members of this family of lichens in the littoral zone from seven sites along Nova Scotia’s coast. Specimens were identified using DNA barcoding of the ITS and LSU regions, as well as morphology to provide novel biodiversity data for the Bay of Fundy. I found vertical zonation was notstrongly cor elated with species placement in the littoral zone in relation to mean low tide, but rather a range of biotic and abiotic factors likely affected the distribution of the few key species determining lichen community composition. All transects showed low lichen species diversity, and a moderate amount of evenness of species distribution.


title: Native fish populations in Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site in response to the introduction of the invasive Chain pickerel Esox niger Lesueur, 1818

contributor:
Brake, Courtney A. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Avery, Trevor) (Thesis advisor)
(Reid, Darrin) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Biology

abstract: Esox niger Lesueur, 1818, commonly known as Chain pickerel, is an understudied species that has recently invaded most of the freshwater ecosystem of Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site (hereafter Kejimkujik) . Based on local knowledge it is hypothesised that the introduction of this predator will cause a dramatic decline in the abundance of all other aquatic species currently living in freshwater lakes and rivers. Monitoring of native species was an important step to allow for further understanding of how Chain pickerel affect native species after introduction. Alaska Fish Traps were mainly used during monitoring, angling and electrofishing were also used to capture Chain pickerel. Chain pickerel were found to be the largest, or nearly so, of all fish species in Kejimkujik. Chain pickerel are likely the reason for declines in abundances of many fish species, and a decrease in abundances of smaller individual fish.


title: Synthesis of novel naphthalene-based 14-AZA-12-oxasteriod analogues

contributor:
Whalen, Daniel (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Jha, Amitabh) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Chemistry

abstract:
Steroids  have  interesting  and  complex  biological  functions  in  humans.    Recently, synthesis  of heterosteroids   have generated   great   attention   because   of   their interesting   biological   and pharmacological  activities.    Therefore,  synthesis  of  heterosteroids  molecules  is  of  interest  to synthetic  chemistsin  this  study.  A  transition-metal-free  3-step  synthetic  pathway  to  produce  a heterosteroid
was  utilized.    This  pathway  involves  a  cascade  reaction  of  1-(1-hydroxyalkyl)-2-aminonaphthalenes  with  levulinic  acid  for  a  tandem  C-N  and  C-O  bond  formation to  lead  the synthesis of an amide. ESI-HRMS was conducted on several intermediate and final compounds to determine their exact masses. In total, 6 novel 14-aza-12-oxasteroid analogues were synthesized and were characterized by 1H and 13C{1H} NMR spectroscopies. X-ray crystallography was used to determine the structure of one of the final products.


title: The future of audit in the age of blockchain

contributor:
Stubbs, Desmonique L. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Wang, Yinglei) (Thesis advisor)
(Feltmate, Ian) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Business

abstract: Blockchain is a highly sophisticated form of mathematics and technology, most popular for its decentralized, public, and immutable digital ledger. In 2008, blockchain was introduced to the world as the technology behind the cryptocurrency, Bitcoin. Today, there are hundreds of other applications for the technology, particularly in areas like financial services and supply chain management. Key accounting industry players are currently preparing for the mainstream adoption of blockchain in the assurance practice. This research study seeks to expand on existing literature, by examining how blockchain will modify the audit process and the auditor’s roles and responsibilities. Further, it will explore ways auditors may gain confidence over the blockchain ecosystem. This study interviewed two accounting professionals with extensive backgrounds in audit and/or blockchain. Interviewees were asked several questions to gain insight into their understanding of the technology and its potential impact on the audit world. Additionally, 18 articles published by Chartered Professional Accountants (CPAs) and accounting bodies were used in the text mining portion of this study. Text mining helped the researcher to identify prevalent opinions throughout the articles and establish a working theory. After coding the articles, nine broad themes were established: audit technology, data, system, transactions, process, business, information, services and network. The most interesting finding from the data was that where existing literature praised blockchain for making absolute assurance possible, interviewees were not as optimistic. Both participants agreed that the technology enables auditors to provide a higher quality report but maintained that absolute assurance over financial statements remains out-of-reach. This thesis provides evidence that many of the auditor’s responsibilities will become automated through blockchain, with the focus being shifted to areas that require professional judgement and skepticism.


title: Self-fashioning as mythmaking in 1 Henry IV, the Winter's Tale, and MacBeth

contributor:
McClean, Emily (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Slights, Jessica) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: English & Theatre Studies

abstract: This thesis explores the processes through which characters’ identities are constructed in William Shakespeare’s 1 Henry IV, The Winter’s Tale, and Macbeth. I extend Stephen Greenblatt’s Renaissance Self-Fashioning by asserting that individuals fashion themselves for the purpose of exerting power over thos e around them. I also argue that the frequent allusion to classical myth in these plays urges us to understand the creation of identity as a process of mythmaking. This thesis contends with specific allusions toclassical myths, the ways in which Shakespearean characters define themselves, and the systems of power that operate within their respective plays in order to construct a clear argument about the nature of self-fashioning.


title: Romantic relationship disapproval as a predictor of perceived closeness with social network members

contributor:
Gillian, Sarah R. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Holmberg, Diane) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Psychology

abstract:
The present study examined how perceived disapproval of romantic relationships by social network members (friends or family members) predicted closeness of the relationship between the target person involved in the romantic relationship and the corresponding social network member (SNM). Seven hundred and three participants who were currently in romantic relationships receiving disapproval completed a comprehensive online survey examining basic demographics, closeness of relationship with the selected SNM at three different time points (i.e., before any perceived disapproval, at the point of strongest perceived disapproval, and
currently), and perceived strength of the SNM’s disapproval. The study further investigated whether levels of perceived disapproval and perceived closeness varied by relationship type (i.e., visibly marginalized relationship vs. non-marginalized relationship) or SNM type (i.e., friend vs. family member). Using a Mixed ANOVA grouping three types of visibly marginalized relationships (i.e., age-discrepant, mixed-race, or same-
sex) together, a significant main effect of time on closeness with SNMs was found, such that closeness dropped substantially when disapproval was detected, and recovered slightly afterwards,but only for those who experienced lower levels of perceived disapproval, and not nearly to original levels. The pattern of change in closeness was moderated by both strength of the SNM’s disapproval and SNM type. Relationship type was not found to be a significant predictor of closeness with SNMs. However, follow-up analyses comparing same-sex and mixed-sex relationship types revealed a significant interaction between time and relationship type. Implications and theoretical explanations for such findings were discussed.


title: Lights, camera, fate versus action: human agency and external persuasion in film adaptations of MacBeth

contributor:
MacDonald, Selena (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Slights, Jessica) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: English & Theatre Studies

abstract:
This thesis examines three film adaptations of Macbeth and determines whether the characters are depicted as having full control over their own decisions or if they are being pressured by external influences. Through careful analysis of Justin Kurzel’s Macbeth (2015), Rupert Goold’s Great Performances: Macbeth (2010), and Billy Morrissette’s Scotland, PA (2001), I argue that each unique reading of Macbeth provides a new take on the play’s pivotal question: do people have control over their own lives? In Chapter One, the three adaptations are examined through the lens of the protagonist, as I answer whether or not Macbeth’s agency is altered by the witches, the dagger, or Banquo’s ghost. Chapter Two analyzes the depiction of Lady Macbeth in the films, as I unpack the adaptations’ readings of how much control Lady Macbeth has over her own decisions. Finally, Chapter Three examines setting in the three films and how it plays an important part in how much agency the characters have over their lives. In Kurzel’s adaptation, Macbeth is a character who has plenty of agency while those around him have very little. In Goold’s film, agency is something that is lost and won as the level of control that characters have changes as the film progresses. In Morrissette’s adaptation
, there is a middle ground in which characters have agency yet still feel pressure from external sources on their decision-making.


title: The barriers immigrants face when searching for employment in Halifax, Nova Scotia

contributor:
Mckenzie, Shae E. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Dye, Kelly) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Business

abstract: The objective of this research was to take an extensive look into the barriers that immigrants face when searching for employment in Halifax, Nova Scotia. A qualitative study was done to assess the barriers that occur when immigrants are searching for employment. Seven newcomers partook in interviews, lasting between 60 and 90 minutes, conducted by the lead investigator, Shae McKenzie. Their perspectives provided information about what they experienced when searching for employment in the defined region of Halifax, Nova Scotia. The experiences of the participants had many similarities and themes emerged. It is anticipated that this information, coupled with pre-existing research, can provide a framework for the development of policies and programs to ensure a smoother transition for immigrants upon arrival.


title: Characterisation of volatile compounds released from the epidermal microbiome of green frogs (Rana clamitans) infected with hepatozoon blood parasites

contributor:
Liu, Simo (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Smith, Todd) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Biology

abstract:
Previous studies found that Culex territans mosquitoes prefer to feed on green frogs (Rana clamitans) with high infections of Hepatozoon blood parasites, compared to those with low infections or those that were
uninfected, and that mosquitoes were more attracted to certain species of cultured bacteria isolated from the skin of green frogs. Our working hypothesis was that differential communities of bacteria on the skin of
frogs with high infections produced volatile compounds that are attractive to mosquitoes that vector this parasite. The first objective was to isolate culturable bacteria from the skin of green frogs at three different
Hepatozoon infection levels (uninfected (0%), low (<1.5%) and high (>1.5%), and identify them using 16S small subunit ribosomal ribonucleic acid (SSU rRNA) sequences. Significant differences in the number of culturable bacteria per frog were not found between the infection levels. Frogs featured bacteria that were restricted mostly to their infection level, and infected frogs featured more pathogenic bacteria than uninfected frogs. The second objective was to determine the diversity and abundance of volatile compound from whole frogs and bacteria using dynamic headspace and solid phase microextraction (SPME), that were analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Significant differences were found when comparing volatiles produced from frogs at each infection level, with a higher abundance and diversity of volatiles from
infected frogs than uninfected frogs. The third objective was to record neurophysiological responses of C. territans to volatiles from whole frogs using gas chromatography-electroantennographic detection (GC-EAD).
Although C. territans have strong responses to standard compounds (e.g., ethanol, acetoin, and geosmin), responses to volatiles from frogs could not be recorded due to experimental challenges.


title: Local recruitment and movement in Corophium volutator: an intertidal tug of war

contributor:
Scholten, Sydney (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Gibson, Glenys) (Thesis advisor)
(Boates, Sherman) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Biology

abstract: Coastal ecosystems are sustained by recruitment of individuals into existing communities. Corophium volutator, a keystone species in the Bay of Fundy, is an essential food source for migratory birds and fishery species. We hypothesized that recruitment of juvenile C. volutator is influenced by the presence of individuals of the same species. We examined recruitment into established communities under tidal conditions simulated in the mesocosms at the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre. Juveniles recruited to areas with adults of the same species, with low recruitment if only sediment was available. Larger juveniles appeared to displace smaller juveniles. Males were highly motile and moved to areas with higher densities of females. Contrary to the literature, we found interactions among females is key, as large females easily displaced smaller females from their tubes (video analysis). Thus, recruitment of C. volutator is strongly influenced by intraspecific interactions, which was not previously known.


title: Food or friend?: does social context affect foraging ability in the air-breathing, mangrove rivulus fish kryptolebias marmoratus?

contributor:
Wilson, Taylor (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Currie, Suzie) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Biology

abstract:
Animals  often  make  decisions  to  move  or  stay  in  their  environment  because  of  food availability. At the same time, they are interacting with other individuals of the same or different species; this is an animal’s social context. It is likely that there are trade-offs in feeding when social context changes.  To  address  this  possibility,  I  used  the  amphibious  mangrove  rivulus  fish  as  a model to determine if social context influences feeding. My experiment examined feeding ability where  an  individual  fish  was  tested:  1)  in  isolation  and  2)  exposed  to  a  mirror.  I  predicted  that when  fish  were  exposed  to  their  mirror  reflection,  they  would  be  slower  to  respond  to  prey compared to isolated fish because of territoriality and aggression. My data support my prediction in  that  socially  stimulated  fish  were  significantly slower
to  catch  prey  than  fish  in  isolation, suggesting that there are trade-offs in feeding and social behaviour. If the presence of other fish is affecting foraging ability, it can be detrimental in are as of low food ability, or limited space.


title: Investigating the feasibility of the Canadian assessment of physical literacy for children with disabilities

contributor:
Strachan, Teagan (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Seaman, Roxanne) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Kinesiology

abstract:
Only nine percent of Canadian youth are currently meeting the recommended 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day. This number only drops for children with disabilities due to their predisposed difficulties with motor skills and coordination. This study sought out to determine the feasibility of the Canadian Assessment of Physical Literacy (CAPL) for children with disabilities. Eleven participants with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome (DS) and Global Developmental Delay (GDD) underwent the CAPL testing alongside two typically developing participants. The participants completed the Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run, the Canadian Agility and Movement Skill Assessment and the plank assessment of torso strength in order to determine their physical competence domain score. A qualitative case study approach was utilized to conduct a thematic analysis which highlighted themes within the data. These included adaptations that could be made to the CAPL protocol based on the considerations of Cairney et al.’s (2019) holistic approach to physical literacy in the cognitive, affective and physical domains. More specifically, the results showed that all participants who had their domain score calculated were
placed in the beginning category based on the CAPL standards. It also showed that the participants with disabilities had difficulties concentrating on multi step instructions, the DS group displayed hypotonia on the sit and reach task, the participants had difficulties withthe timing factor of the tasks and that the CAPL testing protocol did not fulfill their three innate psychological needs which in turn impacted their engagement in the tasks. Given these results, it can be suggested that adaptations should be made to the protocol to individualize the testing procedure to allow each child to experience success. In conclusion, this study determined that physical literacy testing is feasible for children with varying disabilities when modifications are in place to meet their unique needs.


title: Redefining second-person narration demonstrated through the address function in Jay McInerney's Bright Lights, Big City

contributor:
Giesen, Theodore (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Cunningham, Richard) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: English & Theatre Studies

abstract:
The purpose of this thesis is to demonstrate my new definition for second-person narration through Jay McInerney’s novel Bright Lights, Big City. The definitions of second-person narration provided by scholars Suzanne Keen, Brian Richardson, and Matt DelConte seemed not entirely satisfactory, so I decided to create my own. This new definition hinges on the presence of the address function which invites the reader to insert themselves as the subject of literary address.
The first chapter of this thesis compares and contrasts first-, second-, and third-person narration, but this is difficult to do without a complete definition of second-person narration. With second-person narration put to the side, I examine what both first- and third-person narrations “are” and what they “do,” focusing on the effect each have on the reader. The second chapter lays out my new definition for second-person narration and details several different subcategories based on which diegetic planes the narrator, narratee, and protagonist operate on. This chapter explains how the address function fits into each kind of second-person narrative. The final chapter applies this new theory to Bright Lights, Big City, demonstrating how the address function is present throughout. In addition, I contemplate the effects the address function has on my own reading experience as I work my way through the novel.
After showcasing the power of second-person narration, I conclude this thesis by asking the readers and writers to give second-person narratives a chance. Rather than dismissing second-person narration as a gimmick or writing experiment, we should take into consideration its capabilities. It is a fun, creative, and thought-provoking narrative style that deserves dedicated attention.


title: Surf’n bake: exploring the sensory characteristics of seaweed composite bread

contributor:
Lamont, Timothy (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(McSweeney, Matt) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Nutrition & Dietetics

abstract:
Seaweeds have been eaten in the diets of coastal cultures for centuries; however, consumption of seaweeds has seen limited interest in Western diets due to undesirable sensory characteristics, and a lack of familiarity and accessibility. Apart from healthful bioactive metabolites, seaweeds are good sources of fibre, protein, minerals, and have a low-fat content (mainly mono or polyunsaturated). The objective of this study was to investigate if brown seaweed, Ascophyllum nodosum, or red seaweed, Chondrus crispus, could be feasibly added to bread. Additionally, to determine how, if at all, brown or red seaweed altered the sensory properties of whole-wheat bread. The two seaweeds were incorporated into separate batches of whole wheat bread by percentage weight flour at 0% (Control), 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%. The samples were presented to
consumers (n= 54(M= 20, F= 34) and n= 64(M= 16, F= 48) to determine the sensory characteristics and the overall liking of the breads. A. nodosum and C. crispus breads were acceptable at 4% and 2% levels, respectively. The attributes of no aftertaste, soft and chewy, drove consumer liking of whole wheat bread, while attributes dry, dense, strong aftertaste and saltiness detracted from liking. The significance of this
project is to demonstrate the acceptability of seaweed in a Western population, which may lay groundwork to encourage and promote the consumption of seaweed or to exemplify seaweed incorporation into foodstuffs.


title: Investigating the effects of storyline programming in a municipal day camp setting

contributor:
Weld, Tineke (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Warner, Alan) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Community Development

abstract:
Summer camp is a common facet for North American youth. As numbers of day camps steadily increase, it is important to assess their quality and establish conditions and resources that can raise program quality for the benefit of participants. This study examines the use of the storyline framework, a program design element that involves an engaging plotline and evolving characters, in the context of a municipal day camp in the Town of Kentville, Nova Scotia. The study used multiple methods, including staff focus groups and a four-week field observation, to better understand the current experience for day campers, identify elements that
impacted program quality, and explore the effects of a storyline day camp program on campers’ achievement of the program objectives. The results indicate that design and delivery elements including use of characters, choice between activities, reflection, detailed program planning, and staff enthusiasm created a better experience for campers. Program quality hinged on staff’s understanding and delivery of intended content. This study found that with sufficient resources and enthusiastic delivery, storylines provide an avenue for day camps to deliver engaging and meaningful content to campers, and prove to be a valuable framework to consider in camp program design.


title: Sub-lethal effects of mercury in Leach's Storm-petrels (Oceanodroma leucorhoa)

contributor:
Bryan, Safyha V.J. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Shutler, Dave) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Biology

abstract:
Mercury occurs in food webs both naturally and from human inputs. Methylmercury is toxic, and bioaccumulates and biomagnifies in food webs. Leach’s Storm-petrels (Oceanodroma leucorhoa) are an abundant seabird in the North Atlantic, and their diets and tissues can have high levels of mercury. I tested for sublethal associations among blood mercury, feather mercury,
haemoglobin, and blood glucose in breeding storm-petrels. Results from a sample of 26 birds suggested blood mercury concentrations were not associated with levels of haemoglobin (r= -0.28, p = 0.27) or glucose (r 0.23, p = 0.24). Similarly, feather mercury was not a significant predictor of blood glucose (r = 0.13, p = 0.52) or haemoglobin (r = -0.03, p = 0.88). However, I detected higher mercury in storm-petrel feathers than in blood, consistent with predictions that birds shunt toxic heavy metals to inert feather tissues during moulting, reducing body burdens.


title: “Trying to find a modern way” to be Christian and feminist: religious practices and acts of resistance among queer, feminist Christian women

contributor:
MacKenzie, Sami (author)
(Seamone, Donna) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract:
In this thesis, I represent the life histories and acts of resistance among three queer, feminist Christian women to understand how they persist as modern practitioners of Christianity. In a moment of time where Christianity, in the West, has become largely synonymous with conservativism, I assert that young, queer, feminist women remain in Christianity as a direct act of resistance—they stay because they belong and refuse to be excluded from Christian practice by structural barriers or by individuals who seek to oust them from the religion on the basis of gender, sexuality, or sociopolitical values.
To do so, I first present the life histories of three young women and convey how the predominant themes of their life histories—stories of resistance, devotion, hardship, and courage—manifest as acts of resistance to exclusionary structures within the Christian tradition. This use of life history as an ethnographic method prioritizes the voices of the three women involved in the study. I then analyze their experience and present the various acts of resistance they perform. This analysis provides insight into how these women: engage with sociopolitical matters in the church; undertake the process of identity management while moving between
secular and non-secular spaces; navigate media’s portrayal of Christianity; address ultra-conservativism in their communities; and, how one consultant seeks to revitalize her relationship with Christianity, in response to these barriers and challenges leading her to question her Christian identity.
These stories represent the larger movement of revitalization occurring within Christianity, with queer, feminist women petitioning for their right to be included in a religion they maintain has always been a welcoming, accepting tradition to which they naturally belong.

abstract: Women's & Gender Studies


title: Investigating language representations and sensorimotor learning in bilingual speakers

contributor:
Bobbitt, Sarah (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Lametti, Daniel) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Psychology

abstract: Studies  of  language  representations  in  bilingual  individuals  thus  far  have  produced conflicting reports; many patient/case studies suggest languages are represented independently, while imaging and  behavioural  studies  show  mixed  results  with  age  of  acquisition  and  proficiency  level differentially  impacting  representations.  The  present  study  employed  an  experimental  model  of sensorimotor  learning  in  speech  using altered  auditory  feedback  to  investigate  the  relationship between  speech  production  and  language  representations  in  a  group  of 20  adult English/French bilinguals. To induce sensorimotor learning, participants produced full sentences in either English or  French  while  altered  auditory  feedback  was  applied  to  their  vowel  sounds  in  real  time. All participants produced English sentences in one session and French sentences in the other. Before and after learning, a transfer test involving the production of isolated words in both English and French assessed vowelproduction in the absence of auditory feedback (i.e., speech was heavily noise masked). The amount of speech motor learning within each language was measured as well as the degree of transfer of the adaptation from one language to another. Results indicated equal amounts  of  learning  in  English  and  French  and  equivalent  transfer  between  and  within  both languages. The present study suggests that, in bilinguals, speech motor learning acquired in the context of one language is broadly applicable to a second language. The work supports the idea that the motor programs used to communicate language are shared in the bilingual brain.


title: Suicide in the face of existential dread: a goal-regulation perspective on suicide ideation

contributor:
DeGrace, Sarah (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Hayes, Joseph) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Psychology

abstract:
Research on the problem of living and dying has found  that people reduce death-anxiety by pursuing meaningful life goals. However, when people lose hope for achieving these goals, they may feel that their life lacks purpose and begin to withdraw from the broader goal to remain alive.  The current study investigated whether conditions known to produce this life-withdrawn state also promote thoughts about suicide. Accordingly,
71 Acadia University students were asked to think about death (vs. control) and were assigned to a condition that helped or hindered their ability to affirm meaning in their lives. Finally, they completed an implicit measure that gauged the extent to which suicidal thoughts become activated. I hypothesized that individuals who were reminded of death and subsequently had meaning defenses blocked would exhibit increased implicit suicide ideation. Further, I expected this effect would be exacerbated among participants with dispositionally low psychological wellbeing. Results showed no significant effects or interactions. However, the final sample size was smaller than planned, and the pattern of results were the reverse of expectations. Discussion focuses on methodological limitations, alternative theoretical perspectives, and avenues for future research


title: Explainable artificial intelligence for image classification via feature prediction and localization

contributor:
Hiltz, Justin J. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Silver, Daniel L.) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Computer Science

abstract:
Artifcial neural networks (ANNs) are state-of-the-art systems for image classifcation tasks. Despite having superior performance to other machine learning tools,  ANNs are unusable in some applications due to their lack of explanation of predictions.  Currently, prominent explanation tools produce heatmaps which, in essence, show where the network is focusing. This thesis investigates an alternative method for adding explainability to applications of image classifcation by taking a more human-like approach of identifying the features of classifed objects within the images.  The theory is that this method will also help classifcation
accuracies, alongside adding an explanation.  Experiments using various multiple task learners have shown promising results indicating that it is possible to classify and localize objects and  their  features  in  a  single  model.   Certain  network  architectures  also  prove  capable  of at least maintaining (and in certain cases improving) performance after consolidation.  The top-performing system provides explanations that are useful for the average input example and areas that require additional improvements are discussed.


title: Synthesis of novel heteropolycyclic systems via mannich reaction

contributor:
Fraser, Kaela (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Jha, Amitabh) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Chemistry

abstract:
Heterocycles are  known  for  their  use  in  agricultural  industries,and  drug  design  in  the  pharmaceutical industry. They can be found in nature in structures such as coenzymes and vitamins. They have also been
used as antioxidants. It is imperative to design novel heterocyclic systems in short synthetic pathways to minimize time and costs, but also to maximize efficiency in the synthetic scheme.The purpose of this research is to design a synthesis for a heterocyclic system, which allows for multiple bond formation in a single step. By rational design, analogues of a tetracyclic framework were investigated that employ Mannich reaction on 2-naphthols with t-butyl carbamate, deprotection of the carbamate group, followed  by  one-pot  N/O-acetal  and  amide  formation  reactions  with  a  keto-acid.  Seven  heterocyclic analogues  were  synthesized  with  the  same  bearing  tetra/pentacyclic  framework,  by  varying  the  phenol, aldehyde and keto-acid. The novel analogues were purified using column chromatography and methanol washes. NMR
spectroscopy and HRMS were used for characterization.


title: Parents' perceptions of the role of sport participation in the development of their child's social capital: an examination of soccer in rural Nova Scotia

contributor:
Skinner, Kaileigh (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Shields, Chris) (Thesis advisor)
(Warner, Alan) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Community Development

abstract:
Background: Social capital is an important indicator of well-being. Existing evidence shows that sport can remove social barriers, allowing for social capital development. There remain gaps in understanding how parents perceive this, particularly in the context of rural Canada. The current study worked to better understand how rural Nova Scotian parents conceptualize their youth’s social capital developed through sport.
Methods: Data was collected from parents of youth participating in soccer in a rural Nova Scotia community. Surveying (n=86), semi-structured interviews (n=12), and a network mapping exercise were used to gain understandings on how children developed social capital through sport. Results: Parents understood the importance of social capital their kids developed. This motivated parents to enroll their youth in team sports. Parents understood their youths network development as semi-autonomous, understanding they controlled most of it, but not all. Parents also understood that sport allowed for social capital development beyond geographical boundaries. Conclusion: The current study allows for a greater understanding on parent’s perceptions of their youth’s social capital developed through soccer. Sport was seen as a beneficial avenue youth can utilize to develop social capital. This may be particularly important for youth living in small, rural communities.


title: The prolonged effects of acute aerobic exercise on executive function in healthy older adults

contributor:
Weare, Kaitlyn (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Mekary, Saïd) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Kinesiology

abstract:
Older adults aged 65 and over are the fastest-growing age group in Canada and are expected to represent a quarter of the population by 2036. Aerobic exercise is a crucial and inexpensive modality that can be used to prevent or slow the progression of age-related declines in cognition. Acute bouts of aerobic exercise (AE) have been shown to positively effect executive functions (EF) although the optimal modalities are unknown. Previous research has observed effects of acute AE on cognition for up to 2 hours. The aim of this study is to explore the extent to which an acute bout of moderate-intensity continuous exercise (MICE) versus high-
intensity interval training (HIIT) improves EF in older adults after exercise. It was hypothesized that after one session of MICE and HIIT training, both protocols will improve cognition, where improvements are more
significant in the HIIT protocol. It was also hypothesized that cognition would be greater 45 minutes after (T45) exercise cessation compared to 0 minutes after (T0). Twenty-four older adults (men= 10, women= 15; mean age= 68 ± 5 years) completed a MICE and HIIT session on the cycle ergometer to which they were assigned in a randomized and counterbalanced order. A color-words Stroop task was completed pre- and post-exercise to measure reaction time (RT). Reaction time improved significantly in both HIIT (1372 ± 212 ms vs 1230 ± 210 ms, p < 0.01) and MICE (1372 ± 212 ms vs 1253 ± 245 ms, p < 0.02) protocols directly after exercise. However, in the executive component of the task (Stroop 4), HIIT RT continued to improve 45 minutes after exercise, creating a statistically significant difference between both interventions (p < 0.04). These results indicate that, while both protocols can improve EF, HIIT may be a more effective modality as it is able to prolong improvements in EF in older adults. Additionally, this suggests that exercise intensity plays an important role in modulating the effect of acute aerobic exercise on EF in older adults.


title: Layer-by-layer deposition of graphene oxide and phosphomolybdic acid as catalyst layers in a water splitting bipolar membrane system

contributor:
Steeves-Vigneault, Kameron A. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Freund, Michael) (Thesis advisor)
(Tong, Anthony) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Chemistry

abstract:
Water splitting is a means of producing hydrogen fuel from water, a potential clean source  of  energy.  Bipolar  membranes  facilitate  the  separation  of  water  molecules  into incompatible  regions  of  high  and  low  pH,  allowing  evolution  of  hydrogen  and  oxygen under acidic and basic conditions, respectively. To further aid this, catalyst layers can be added  via  layer-by-layer  deposition  to  the  bipolar  membrane  system  to  facilitate  water dissociation.
Graphene  oxide  and  phosphomolybdic  acid  were deposited  via  layer-by-layer deposition, and these layers were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The completed membranes  with  catalysts  were  then  evaluated. A  custom  H-cell,  with  galvanostatic potentiometry, was used to evaluate the efficiency of these produced bipolar membrane systems.  The potential across the membrane relative to applied current density was used to  determine  the  overpotential  above  the  theoretical  minimum  potential  for  water dissociation, and thus catalyst efficacy.
Graphene oxide proved to be an effective catalyst. It can be readily deposited via layer-by-layer  deposition,  and a theoretical efficiency was approached in  terms  of overpotential  at  five  layers  of  graphene  oxide
deposited  within  a  bipolar  membrane system.  The  efficacy  of  the  experimental  system  was  close  to  a  commercial  standard membrane used as a baseline. This research will lead to more efficient bipolar membranes for producing hydrogen fuel.


title: Athletes' perceptions of clique identity and cohesion within interuniversity sports teams

contributor:
Coffey, Monique (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Shields, Chris) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Kinesiology

abstract:
The abundance of research into team cohesion reflects its importance for both performance and providing psychological benefits within sports teams. Although it is widely accepted that various variables affect overall team cohesion, not all variables have gained equal attention. The presence of cliques and isolates within teams are two of such variables which have been acknowledge as having potential impact on overall team
environment but have received little attention. This is concerning as cliques have been identified in the literature as being inevitable and having the potential to negatively impact the overall environment of the team.
Furthermore, social isolation within a team has been shown to have a negative impact on the emotional state of those isolated. As such, the purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of clique members and isolates within varsity athletic teams.
A sample of 76 male and female varsity athletes from football, soccer, rugby and hockey teams completed a one-time questionnaire where athletes gave perceptions of their team environments and clique environments within their team. A sample of 6 athletes was for a one-time semi-structured interview related to their perceptions as clique members and isolates within sports teams.
Results showed significant correlations between ingroup ties and ingroup affect, and other positive group variables. Clique members, compared to non-members, had significantly higher perceptions of ATG-S, ATG-T, social identity and ingroup affect. Cliques were described as resulting from athletes’ time as a member of a team and common interests between team members. Social isolation was primarily seen to occur from personal characteristics of team members which were perceived to not fit with those of other members of the team. The findings point to the need to manage cliques so that they may positively contribute to team environment.


title: Playing tape: creative record production approaches of contemporary singer-songwriters

contributor:
Cann, Jonathan (author)
(Hennessy, Jeff) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract:
The advent of recording technology has had a drastic yet often unseen influence on music in all its forms. It has changed the way musicians compose, perform, and listen, and has influenced how the world at large perceives and consumes music. However, musicians in turn have exerted influence over the medium itself, manipulating the various editing and enhancing functions of the record production process to create new musical material. This mutually influential relationship between the musician and record production has evolved with each new advancement in audio recording technology, and is becoming increasingly accessible with the development of affordable digital recording devices and software. As a result, more musicians are exploring creative production methods and incorporating them into their music. In some cases, songwriters and composers are using the production process to bring new depth and meaning to their works by reflecting those ideas in the music recordings themselves.
This thesis explores this phenomenon through a combined approach of research and auditory analysis. Firstly, it establishes a basis for the claim that music production is itself a creative field alongside music composition through research on the process of music recording. Secondly, it examines three case studies each consisting of an album by a contemporary singer-songwriter: The Bearer of Bad News by Andy Shauf;
22, A Million by Bon Iver; and Introduce Yerself by Gord Downie. Each case study consists of an overview of the artist’s career and general style established through research, followed by an in-depth analysis of select tracks from each album that showcase creative production technique, and an argument based on the production of the entire album.

abstract: Music


title: The world beyond the "Brochure": international students and the multicultural branding of Acadia University

contributor:
Gofwan, Nendelmwa (author)
(Masoumi, Azar) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: The  purpose  of  this  research  is  to  expose  the  shortcomings  of  multiculturalism  as  a branding  tool  for  the  purpose  of  international  student  recruitment.  In  this  research,  I  use  semi-structured  interviews  to  center  the  voices  of  international  students.  I  examine  if  these  students' perceptions  of  Canada  and  Acadia  as  multicultural  spaces  match  their  lived  experiences.  My findings  suggest  that  international  students  at  Acadia  University  lack  adequate  support  and struggle with feelings of non-belonging. General student services routinely neglect international students.  Moreover,  despite  consistent  tuition  increases,  adequate  resources  have  not  been allocated to international student services. In conclusion, multiculturalism is a misleading branding tool that does not reflect the reality of student life at Acadia.

abstract: Sociology


title: Sex and sport differences in hip and knee mechanics during single and double leg drop jump landings: relevance to non-contact ACL injuries

contributor:
Cooke, Nicholas (author)
(Landry, Scott) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract:
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a primary stabilizer of the human knee. Injuries to this ligament are typically the result of decelerating movements such as sudden change in direction or landing from a jump.
Injury to this ligament is common among athletes, especially those competing in multidirectional, team sports. Rupture to the ACL typically results in costly surgical reconstruction and a lengthy rehabilitation. Additionally, athletes who sustain ACL injuries are at an increased risk for reinjury and premature osteoarthritis development. Roughly 70% of ACL injuries occur from non-contact mechanisms and female athletes are at a 2 to 8 times greater risk of injury than their male athlete counterparts post puberty. Biomechanical  differences are known to exist between athletes of various sport backgrounds, however, to date there are no studies that have examined biomechanical differences across groups of athletes from different sport backgrounds. The purpose of this study was two-fold. Firstly, this study aimed to determine whether athletes from different sport backgrounds (field or court) have altered biomechanics when performing both the single and double leg drop jump tasks. Secondly, this study aimed to identify biomechanical differences of the lower extremity between male and female athletes during the drop jump tasks. The hypotheses for the current study were: a) field and court sport athletes would not differ biomechanically; b)female athletes would demonstrate lower levels of hip and knee flexion, as well as increased knee abduction angles compared to male athletes; c)female athletes would have greater knee extension moments during landing; d) female athletes would demonstrate greater frontal plane knee excursions compared to males. A total of 98 athletes aged 12-28 who were involved in cutting and jumping sports participated in the current study. Participants were divided into four groups based on sex and sport background (field or court): field female (n=27, age=18.0±2.7 years); court female (n=29, age=17.9±3.0 years); field male (n=27, age=18.0± 3.0 years); court male (n=15, age=18. 1±4.3 years). A 12-camera motion capture system and three force plates were used to capture joint angles and moments of the hip and knee as well as frontal plane knee excursion distance during both a double and single leg drop jump protocol. Two-way ANOVAs (p<0.05) were performed on joint angles, moments and frontal plane knee excursion to test for a sex (male vs. female), sport (field vs. court), or interaction effect. Bonferroni corrected pairwise comparisons were performed if any interaction effects were found. Results showed that male athletes exhibited greater internal knee extension moments than their female counterparts during both single and double leg drop jumps. No significant differences were observed for either flexion or adduction angles of the hip and knee based on sex. Additionally, field sport athletes demonstrated increased hip and knee flexion angles during both the single and double leg landing task. Court sport athletes demonstrated greater knee frontal plane excursion than their field sport counterparts. These
differences suggest that sport background influences biomechanics during single and double leg drop jump tasks which could potentially affect ACL injury risk of these groups. The results of this study expanded on the knowledge regarding biomechanical differences between male and female athletes that could predispose females to ACL injury. Furthermore, previously unknown kinematic differences in drop jump landing strategies between field and court sport athletes were identified.

abstract: Kinesiology


title: The physiological effects of massage therapy in active older adults

contributor:
Pullin, Elizabeth A. (author)
(Mekary, Saïd) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2019

abstract:
The aging populations in Canada and Nova Scotia are on the rise and with this there is a greater dependence on the federal and provincial health care systems. The growth in older populations create a demand for more health care workers, doctors, nurses and rehabilitation therapies such as massage therapy, physiotherapy and occupational therapy, all areas where there is an increased need for workers. In addition, there is a higher need for long-term care facilities, nursing homes and independent living facilities, all of which have bed shortages.
These increased demands require not only additional funding but additional workers. To lessen this impact on the system and workers, improving the older populations independence and health status will lead to, if anything, a longer period for
those individuals to not require those services.
Physical activity in aging populations has shown to improve cognition, physical strength, balance, and positively affect independence. If physical activity on its own can lead to preventative measures, then in combination with non-invasive therapies there is potential that it could additionally enhance quality of life and independence.
Massage Therapy, when performed properly by a trained therapist, can provide non-invasive manual therapy that can lead to increased range of motion and decrease pain. If, massage therapy was applied in onjunction with physical activity there is potential to reduce the rate of decline in these populations, improving quality of life and lessening the impact on the health system

abstract: Kinesiology


title: Identification and characterization of protease activities and potential protein biomarkers in the epidermal mucus of the Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus)

contributor:
Murphy, Anna (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Stokesbury, Michael) (Thesis advisor)
(Easy, Russell) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2018

abstract: Biology

abstract:
Atlantic sturgeon are anadromous fish that spend much of their marine phase in near-shore environments. Atlantic sturgeon are listed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as “Near Threatened”, and in Canada are designated as “Threatened” by the Committee on the Status  of Endangered Wildlife  in Canada (COSEWIC). In Canada, Atlantic sturgeon support small commercial  fisheries in the  Saint John  River New  Brunswick and the St. Lawrence  River, Quebec.  In  the  marine  environment,  Atlantic  sturgeon  are susceptible  to  anthropogenic stressors including bycatch
from marine fisheries and interactions with coastal engineering projects such as tidal power developments. These stressors can cause physiological and behavioral changes in the  fish that can negatively impact their viability.  Because they are commercially important, and are also of conservation concern, it is critical that we understand stress responses of Atlantic sturgeon to better understand the effects of increased industrial activity in the coastal zone. This study uses a  proteomic  approach  to  identify  and  characterize  protease  activity and putative novel  protein biomarkers  in  the  epidermal  mucus  of  Atlantic  sturgeon.  Changes  in  protein  profiles  caused  by bycatch and surgery stress were investigated using 1D SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry (MS).  Proteolytic activity was identified and characterized using zymography, providing information on the classes of proteases that are associated with stress-related events. Samples were collected from Atlantic sturgeon in Minas Basin after capture by brush weir and otter trawl, as well as after surgical implantation of
a V16-69 kHz VEMCO acoustic tag. By identifying potential protein biomarkers of stress, this study is an  example  of a  non-
invasive  method  for  measuring stress in  the  Atlantic sturgeon, while also providing insight into their innate immune response and potential evolutionary history. Understanding the defense mechanism and expression of non-specific factors can be used to improve conservation regulations, as well as contribute to the limited scientific literature on the stress response of Atlantic sturgeon.


title: A True account of multiple remediations and their empathizing efforts: examining the expansion of perspective in the In Cold Blood narrative

contributor:
Foote, Josh (author)
(Saklofske, Jon) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2019

abstract: This thesis will examine the necessity of the remediation process to consider the In Cold Blood narrative, which began with Truman Capote’s novel and continued in Richard Brooks’ film In Cold Blood, Bennett Miller’s film Capote and Joe Berlinger’s documentary series Cold Blooded: The Clutter Family Murders.  This thesis will argue that assembling these textual witnesses creates a more comprehensive–but still incomplete – understanding of the original events and works to empathize with those involved in the case. While Manuel Rebuschi and Marion Renauld contend that the novel distorts real -world events to create a complex examination of multiple perspectives that clarifies one’s understanding of the original events, this thesis extends their argument to also include film and television. Considering Jay David Bolter and Richard Grusin’s concept of the value of the remediation process illustrates the affordances and constraints of each medium. These affordances and constraints demonstrate the necessity of viewing multiple works together to create a more complex and inclusive narrative that counters the lack of empathy that is promoted by the jury’s verdict.

abstract: English & Theatre Studies


title: Examining evidence for the integrated neural representation of self theory using Cyberball

contributor:
Milligan, Brandi (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Price, Lisa) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2019

abstract: Psychology

abstract:
One hundred and seventy-nine undergraduate university students participated in a two-stage study that examined evidence for the Integrated Neural Representation of Self Theory (DiTommaso & Price, 2017) in conditions of inclusion and ostracism.  The theory states that individuals who have high caregiver sensitivity in childhood develop an integrated brain that is able to cope successfully in situations of distress, even when an attachment figure is physically unavailable to provide support.  Individuals with inadequate caregiver sensitivity do not possess an integrated brain and, as such, experience difficulty coping during distress.  The study examined the differences in coping in individuals with high caregiver sensitivity (HCS) versus low caregiver sensitivity (LCS) in conditions of exclusion and ostracism through a game of Cyberball.
Cyberball can be programmed to include or exclude participants, and has been shown to be effective in provoking perceived ostracism.  Physiological changes and self-report measures were analyzed.  Results showed no significant physiological changes for participants, but did show some significant and marginally significant differences on self-report measures of affect, resilience, stress, and needs satisfaction.  Strengths and limitations are discussed in detail.


title: The last straw: an exploratory study of receptivity to the movement to ban single-use plastic straws

contributor:
Caroline, O'Connor (author)
(Higgitt, Ryan) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2019

abstract:
With a look at Marxism, ecofeminism, and existing literature, I seek to discover what factors influence the receptiveness of
students at Canadian universities to the movement to ban single-use plastic straws, with a specific focus at whether
socioeconomic status plays a role. Through a questionnaire, data collected from 433 students at Acadia University is analyzed to determine potential factors may influence one’s attitudes, behaviours, and opinions towards the natural environment and the movement to ban single-use plastic straws. The results from the questionnaire reveal that although socioeconomic status may not play a vital role, gender, academic majors, and financial means influence a students’ receptiveness to the movement to ban single-use plastic straws and behaviours towards the natural environment.

abstract: Sociology


title: Family roles and sympathy casseroles: a sociological study examining the changes in the family after parental loss

contributor:
Teichman, Samantha E. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Auger, Jeanette) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2019

abstract: Sociology

abstract:
In the event of a death, there is a Western tradition to visit the family to give condolences; this is commonly paired with comfort food like casseroles, soups and sweets. However, the casseroles do not last forever, ultimately leaving the family to reorganize the family roles in an attempt to regain functionality. This research specifically explored the functions of the family dynamics after experiencing the death of parent. Through a feminist lens, this study investigated the reorganization of family rolesin food, domestic and emotional labour through semi-structured interviews with Acadia students who have
experienced the death of a parent. The findings highlighted the association between the ease of re-assigning roles depending on whether the death was anticipated or sudden; as well as that even in times of grief, the division of labour in the home remained gendered as women of the family were more likely to step in to maintain functionality. In addition,
this research demonstrated how Western traditions related to death can negatively impact the grieving process.


title: Design and application of optical spectroscopy and imaging systems for the study of materials

contributor:
Liem, Brett (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Robertson, Michael) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Physics

abstract:
Two experimental setups were designed and used to study a wide variety of materials. The first setup consisted of an automated excitation spectrometer to record emission and excitation spectra. The second setup was an automated two-dimensional scanner that used a fiber-optic cable along with a spectrometer to record a spectrum at every pixel across the surface of a sample. For each experiment, a specific set of LabVIEW programs were designed to acquire, characterize and analyze the data. Applications of the two experimental setups and LabVIEW programs included the investigation of the changes in the absorption spectra obtained from rat brain slices due to living vs. dead cells in the tissue, changes in the open-circuit potential produced at various locations on a solar cell, the transmittance of paint at different wavelengths and the luminescence
of different coloured Crayons. The rat brain slices did not show any changes in the absorption spectra because of the life state of the cells, but only the magnitude of the average absorption changed when there were changes in the thickness of the rat brain slice. A two-dimensional map of solar cell open-circuit potential was measured, and it was observed to be less efficient at producing a potential at the grain boundaries where the magnitude of the potential dropped in agreement with values from simulations presented in the literature. The transmittance of paint increased as the wavelength increased at least up to 1700 nm for all eight colours of paint investigated, thereby allowing pencil lead beneath the paint to be observed. The scanning spectroscopy setup was able to successfully record the luminescence signal from Crayons, which was an achievement due to the weakness of the signal compared to reflection or transmission experiments. In addition, a function was added to the LabVIEW acquisition program so that a plot of theemission spectrum for any pixel in the two-dimensional image could be viewed by clicking on the pixel; a very useful utility when creating image subsets from specific ranges of wavelengths or ratios of ranges of wavelengths. In summary, the research conducted resulted in a set of great tools that will aid design and analysis of similar experiments in the future.


title: The impact of training related improvements in motor articulation on audio-visual speech perception

contributor:
Thompson, Caleb (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Lametti, Daniel) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Psychology

abstract:
There have been longstanding debates over the validity of “Motor Theories of Speech Perception.” Do motor systems contribute to speech perception in every-day speech? Does motor adaptation lead to changes in
audio-visual speech perception? The study examined whether motor learning would lead to a change in audio-visual speech perception. Thirty-two Acadia University students participated in two tasks: an Audio-Visual speech perception task and a Motor Training task. The speech perception task measured participants’ ability to distinguish between the phonemes PA and TA when paired with either a video of PA or TA being articulated, or a still image. The Motor Training task had participants learn to rapidly and accurately produce word strings made up of words in which the consonant was articulated using the lips (e.g., “pie poe paw pea bye bow baw bee”) or the tongue (e.g., “die doe daw dee tie toe taw tee”). Critically, auditory feedback of speech was blocked during motor training. Audio-visual (AV) speech perception was measured before and after the motor training task. An improvement in word string production with training was observed, but training-related changes in speech perception were not significant due the lack of a significant relationship between the type of motor training group (either lip or tongue produced words) and changes in AV-speech perception.


title: What does it mean for youth to live in a climate emergency?: perspectives and experiences of living and searching for meaning in existential times

contributor:
Beddoe, Caroline (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Biro, Andrew) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Environmental & Sustainability Studies

abstract:
The narrative of a climate emergency has increased exponentially as a term to describe the state of climate change, its repercussions, and the need for action. Thousands of political jurisdictions worldwide have declared a state of climate emergency. Young people have taken to the streets, fighting no longer just for their futures but for their current lives, and for all life on Earth. Inspired by this tumultuous context, this research seeks to explore the concept and condition of a climate emergency, moving beyond scientific and political usages and understandings, to gain more insights into other dimensions of a climate emergency
as, interconnectedly, an affective discursive term, a lived reality, and a conceptual challenge. This research asks: What does it mean for youth to live in a climate emergency? Youth voices are often overlooked, yet youth are now the “future generations” environmentalism had been trying to preserve. This research shares findings and stories from a group of youth on their perspectives, experiences, and emotions as they negotiate their realities and seek meaning in an emergency. This research seeks to broaden understandings of life in a climate emergency, creating an inclusive narrative that validates youth’s experiences and emotions, and providing an impetus for action. Sharing circles were conducted with 12 youth, in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, to hear their stories. For these youth, living in a climate emergency means experiencing intense emotional and
psychological states (anger and frustration, anxiety and fear, depressive states, guilt, helplessness, hope and gratitude, overwhelm, and sorrow and grief), having these emotions dismissed, having their everyday lives profoundly affected, and having their futures shaped and stolen. This research also prompts reflection on new conceptualizations and narratives of life in a climate emergency. Overall, this emergent research imbues the climate emergency discourse with more meanings, and has normative implications for social and political change.


title: Sex differences in lower extremity kinematics during dynamic jump landing tasks following neuromuscular fatigue of the hip extensors and knee flexors

contributor:
Klein, Cassidy Johanna Dana (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Lattimer, Lauren) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2020

abstract: Kinesiology

abstract:
Introduction:  Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries often occur during the deceleration phase of movement where the knee is close to full extension. In the sagittal plane, females tend to land with reduced hip and knee flexion. Neuromuscular fatigue has been hypothesized to cause injury to the lower extremity, particularly to the ACL. A common observation during fatiguing contractions is that activation of antagonist muscles increases progressively, which reduces the net torque the agonist can produce. During the stance phase of landing, hip extensor and knee flexor muscles contract eccentrically to counteract the external hip and knee flexion moments. Rationale:  Weakness of the hip extensors results in altered landing strategies where females rely on the quadriceps to help with joint stability. Decreased hip flexion has been associated with higher knee extensor moments and females tend to have greater knee extensor moments and decreased hip extensor moments compared to men. Decreased torque producing ability of the hip extensors and knee flexors could further highlight sex differences. The purpose of this study was to investigate kinematics following neuromuscular fatigue and determine if sex differences exist in sagittal plane joint movements. Methods:   Nine female (mean age 22.3 ± 3.4 years) and seven male (mean age 21.3 ± 2.6 years) participants completed a series of hop tests including the triple hop for distance (THop) and single leg drop jumps (SJump) pre and post-fatigue protocol. A 3D motion capture system was used to measure hip and knee kinematics for single leg tasks at IC, MAX and MEAN angles during the stance phase of landing and were compared pre and post fatigue. Surface EMG sensors were applied to various muscles of the lower limb and measured muscular activity during the stance phase and muscular activity at IC. The fatigue protocol consisted of consecutive effort to failure eccentric knee extensions and eccentric and concentric hip extensions. Separate two-way repeated measure MANOVAs were used to identify sex and time differences in lower extremity kinematics and muscular activation patterns. Results:   Through kinematic analysis, findings include significant effects of fatigue on hip flexion angles (p=0.01), and knee flexion angles (p=0.039) during the THop test. There was a significant effect of sex found during hip flexion angles (p=0.033). A significant interaction effect of fatigue and sex on hip flexion angular velocity was seen during the SJump (p=0.03). Males experienced greater knee
flexion angular velocities post-fatigue, whereas, females experienced a decrease in hip flexion angular velocities. In terms of muscle activity, significant findings were found for the GM and the ES. A significant sex effect was found during the THop for GM (p=0.053). A significant interaction effect of time and sex was seen in ES activation during the THop (p=0.023). Males had greater activation of the ES post-fatigue, whereas females had greater activation of the GM post-fatigue. Discussion:  Landing with decreased hip and knee flexion angles increases the risk of injury to the ACL. By examining kinematic and muscle activation patterns, sex differences pertaining to injuries were observed. Following fatigue, females decreased flexion at the hip and knee. This suggests that fatigue of the lower limb decelerators causes females to land in positions which mimic those that cause ACL injury, which in turn heightens their risk of injury. The muscular activity results support these findings, as females experienced increased activation of the GM post-fatigue. Since the GM is
a hip extensor, it prevents females from being able to adequately flex at the hip upon landings. Importance:  Fatigue had a larger impact on female landing kinematics compared to males, highlighting fatigue of the posterior chain musculature as a potential risk factor for lower extremity injury. These findings could be applied in both rehabilitative and injury prevention settings.


title: The take-away: a gender-based assessment of the NS Liberal Government’s public sector policy change

contributor:
Gillis, Hunter (author)
(Brickner, Rachel) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2019

abstract:
The objective of this thesis was to examine how the Nova Scotia Liberal Government’s economic and labour policies undervalue work traditionally done by women through the Government’s treatment of public sector unions. Since the Liberal Government came into power in 2013, they governed on a mandate that
prioritized balanced budgets, and have passed legislation that either limited the ability for workers to strike—for example, by deeming them essential—or by curtailing their bargaining power by placing a cap on wage increases.
In order to determine the impact of the NS Government’s economic and labour policies, this thesis examined three case studies. The first being Bill 37, or the “Essential Health and Community Services Act.” The second case analyzed Bill 148, the “Public Services Sustainability Act,” and the third and final case study analyzed an amendment made by the McNeil Government to an Act titled the "Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act."
In reviewing these case studies, I have found that a gender-based analysis of economic and labour policy is necessary. Because even when the impacts are inadvertent, without focusing on the gendered impact of policy, governments run the risk of negatively affecting women. And without critically examining the priorities of government—such as the need to balance budgets by cutting the public sector—we may inadvertently uphold patriarchal structures of the political economy.

abstract: Politics