title: Synthetic studies towards molecular recognition of guanosine quadruplexes

contributor: Etkin, Nola (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Lund, Dawna (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Martin, Sharon (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 105 electronic application/pdf

subject: Chemistry, Organic

abstract: The telomere is a guanine-rich region of DNA located at its termini. Each time a DNA molecule is replicated, the telomere gets shortened. Cell death occurs after a telomere has been shortened to a critical length. The telomere may, however, be re-lengthened by the action of the enzyme telomerase. It has been found that in many cases of cancer, the level of telomerase in the cells is extremely high when compared to normal cells. The telomeric region may be linear, or may adopt higher-order structures such as the G-quadruplex. When the telomere is in G-quadruplex form, telomerase is unable to bind to the region and re-lengthen it. By designing molecules that can recognize the G-quadruplex and bind to them, therefore stabilizing them, it is theorized that telomerase inhibition may occur.

abstract: Through the use of computational methods, an oligomer has been designed to recognize the minor groove of a G-quadruplex. The oligomer has a recognition unit of an aminopyridine group and a peptide nucleic acid (PNA) backbone. The synthetic route to the monomers required for solid-phase synthesis of this oligomer is described in detail.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 43-02, page: 0538.

abstract: Adviser:  Barry Linkletter.


title: Tea with an angel:  An epistolary/narrative examination of Helen Marie Paquet's diaries

type: Text Dissertation/Thesis

contributor:
Paquet, Trina (author)
(Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 94 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Biography
Literature, Canadian (English)

abstract: Helen Marie Paquet, a Prince Edward Island woman and relative by marriage, wrote diaries for more than 23 years. In 2002, Helen Marie Paquet died and left behind 35 notebook-long diaries rich in stories and events. This thesis examines these diaries and highlights five themes that represent a life revealed. I respond to her revealed life through a series of creative letters and diary entries that themselves tell a story.

abstract: To study my own evolving relationship with Helen Marie Paquet, I use methods common to autoethnography. To respond to her diaries, I use an epistolary/narrative form. In using this form, my goal was to create an analysis as original and accessible as the diaries themselves. While I do not examine a difference in the cultures of Paquet and myself, I do create in the epistolary/narrative analysis and responses a fictive culture of its own. Through creating this culture in this form, I demonstrate an imaginative way to mediate between primary materials and research materials. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 44-03, page: 1153.


title: Teacher-librarians and teachers:  Partners in the collaborative curriculum development process

contributor:
Arsenault, Angela (author)
Doiron, Ray (Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 134 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Library Science
Education, Curriculum and Instruction

abstract: This research study explored, tracked, and presented findings of how the Collaborative Program Planning, Teaching and Evaluation process was used for curriculum development in an elementary school in Prince Edward Island, Canada. A teacher-librarian, two classroom teachers, and a technology teacher used the CPPT model to develop, implement, teach, and evaluate two resource-based learning projects within a school library program. Through an action research approach, the study employed several data collection tools: participant and direct observations, interviews with four educators and eight students, curriculum document analysis, and a researcher's reflective journal. Key findings resulting from observations and interview transcripts are reported under the following themes: CPPT Process: Planning Sessions, Implementation and Teaching of Projects, and Evaluation/Assessment, Benefits and Barriers to the CPPT Process, Student Learning, Information Literacy, The Role of the Teacher-Librarian, and Student Interviews. Discussions and the implications for education and teacher collaboration highlighted the curriculum leadership role of the teacher-librarian.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 44-03, page: 1100.


title: Teachers' beliefs about global education in grades 3 and 6 in Prince Edward Island

contributor: Turnbull, Miles (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 133 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Education, Bilingual and Multicultural
Education, Elementary

abstract: This is a quantitative study, the main goal of which is to provide insight into grade 3 and 6 teachers' beliefs about global education in Prince Edward Island (PEI). A review of the literature looking at paradigms of global education, teacher belief systems, the Atlantic Canadian curriculum and obstacles to global education is presented. A mail-out questionnaire was used to collect data about teacher experiences and beliefs about global education in Prince Edward Island. Three research questions were addressed: What are the beliefs around global education held by elementary teachers in Prince Edward Island and what factors might play a role in shaping these beliefs? What topics that reflect a global perspective do elementary teachers in Prince Edward Island currently address in their classrooms? What are the perceived obstacles in implementing global education in Prince Edward Island? In total, 111 teachers responded to the mail-out questionnaire which yielded an acceptable response rate of 54%. There was wide recognition of the importance of global education amongst participants, but a minority of participants felt that they were applying global education in their teaching to a great extent. Helping teachers to develop a deeper understanding of what global education means is needed. Professional development opportunities, curriculum development and current, accessible teaching resources are recommended in order to support teachers in facilitating learning from a global perspective in Prince Edward Island.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 47-06, page: 3148.


title: Teachers' beliefs and practices concerning the use of French and English in grade 7 late French immersion

contributor: Lees, Jessie (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 157 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Education, Bilingual and Multicultural
Education, Teacher Training

abstract: This is a qualitative study, the main goal of which is to provide insight into three Grade 7 late French immersion (LFI) teachers' perspectives on their use of the target language (TL) and of their students' first language (L1); the researcher himself is one of the three participants. A review of the literature for and against L1 use in second language teaching is presented. Pre- and post-interviews were conducted, along with classroom observations and follow-up interviews using stimulated recall techniques. Two research questions were addressed: What are the beliefs and practices of three Grade 7 LFI teachers regarding TL and L1 use? What factors shape LFI teachers' belief systems and practice concerning their use of the TL and the students' L1? All three teacher-participants provided students with exposure to large amounts of rich TL input and opportunities to communicate in the TL. However, while one of the three teachers used the TL almost exclusively, the other two believed that they could enhance student comprehension of TL input and TL production by using the students' L1 in certain situations. A re-thinking of the current TL-only guidelines in LFI is recommended and a model for professional development is proposed through which teachers can develop a personalized yet pedagogically-principled approach to TL and L1 use.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 45-03, page: 1196.


title: Teachers' perceptions of how scheduling impacts their relationships with students

contributor: Brookes, Anne-Louise (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 136 electronic application/pdf

subject: Education, Administration

abstract: This qualitative research explores the impact of intermediate school schedules on the relationships that are formed between teachers and students. The purpose of this study was to examine selected intermediate level Prince Edward Island teachers' experiences of the ways timetabling affect their interactions and relationships with students and their perceptions of themselves as successful educators. The study considers that relationships between teachers and students may be fragmented and thus impacting the teachers ability to respond to challenges of learning and discipline. It examines the impact of the schedule on overall school climate, teacher stress and anxiety, and teaching methods. Nine intermediate school teachers were interviewed using semi-structured, open ended questions. Data was broken down into segments or themes that were compared across each interview. The study provides insights to administrators and teachers into the way that the use of time can profoundly impact the experience of teaching and learning.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 44-03, page: 1094.


title: Teaching at the top of the world: An autobiographical inquiry

format: 216 electronic application/pdf

subject: Education, Bilingual and Multicultural

abstract: After a brief discussion on the research methodology used, this narrative is divided into three main sections. Part 1 is the personal account of the author's arrival and subsequent experiences as a teacher, principal and community member in Ausuittuq, Nunavut. A detailed description of the community and full school program is offered. Part 2 explores the varied strategies and teaching methodologies implemented at Aqiatusuk School over the 4-year period. The reasons for choosing these particular strategies and interventions are discussed. Attention is given to the themes of language and culture, artistic expression, and school-community partnerships. The implications for successful teaching in this unique, cross-cultural environment are explored. An analysis of the school program within the Inuit cultural context is given throughout the chapters of Part 2. Part 3 serves as the “conclusions” section to the thesis. It summarizes some possible answers to the question of what factors promote student success in a small, K–12 Inuit community school. Some of the challenges faced by northern educators are also explored. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 41-02, page: 0349.

abstract: Adviser: Fiona O'Donoghue.


title: Terminal sequences of genome segments A and B of six infectious bursal disease isolates

contributor: Beauregard, M. (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Fuentealba, C. (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Markham, R.J.F. (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 138 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Biology, Microbiology
Agriculture, Animal Pathology

abstract: Highly virulent, pathotypic and antigenic variant strains of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) are emerging causing significant levels of mortality in young chickens. Better understanding of the genome organization of IBDV, its molecular diversity and pathogenicity is essential in developing strategies for effective control of infectious bursal disease in poultry. A novel method of PCR amplification across ligated 3$\sp\prime$ and 5$\sp\prime$ end junction of viral RNA strands was developed in order to determine the terminal sequences of segmented dsRNA genome of IBDV. Genome segments A and B of six IBDV strains OH, SK9, QC-2, IN, SK140a and GLS representing the two serotypes were studied. PCR amplification across 3$\sp\prime$-5$\sp\prime$ ligated junctions was carried out using two primers, one from available known 5$\sp\prime$ sequence and the other from available known 3$\sp\prime$ sequence bracketing the unknown terminal sequences. For segment A, a PCR product of size approximately 155 bp for strains OH, IN and SK140a, 230 bp for strain GLS and approximately 265 bp for strains SK9 and QC-2 were obtained. For segment B, almost identical 260 bp PCR products were obtained for all the six IBDV strains. The PCR products were subsequently cloned and sequenced by the dideoxy-chain termination method using T7 DNA polymerase. Segment A of strains OH, SK140a and IN and segment B of all six strains of IBDV are proposed to begin and end with conserved pentanucleotide sequences GAACC- and -GGUCU, respectively. The genome segment A of IBDV strains GLS, SK9 and QC-2 have only GAA- and -CU of the consensus sequences. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 34-03, page: 1103.

abstract: Adviser: F. S. B. Kibenge.


title: Tethering of ANS Based Fluorescent Probes to Cyclodextrin Hosts with Potential Applications as a Fluorescent Sensor

contributor:
Veenhuis-MacNeill, Stephanie (author)
Wagner, Brian (Thesis advisor)
Etkin, Nola (Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 91 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Chemistry, Organic
Chemistry, Physical

abstract: The ultimate goals of this Masters project were to synthesize a reusable, fluorescent molecular sensor and to evaluate its potential effectiveness. The molecular sensor was to be synthesized from an anilino naphthalenesulfonic acid (ANS) based fluorescent probe and a β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) host, either natural or modified. As a means of enhancing the effectiveness of the molecular sensor, it was determined that there should be a very large difference in intensity in the "on" and "off" positions, thus making it very easy to identify the sensors position.

abstract: Intermolecular studies were conducted involving several different ANS based fluorescent probes and dimethyl-β-CD and β-CD. It was identified that 2-toluidino 6-naphthalenesulfonic acid (2,6-TNS) would be the most effective probe to use due to its strong affinity to form inclusion complexes with β-CDs and the very large increase in fluorescence emission intensity upon inclusion.

abstract: Several synthetic techniques were investigated. Attempts were made to brominate 2,6-TNS and to protect the amine group of 2,6-TNS to be followed with further work to brominate the protected 2,6-TNS. These attempts were unsuccessful.

abstract: Attempts were also made to modify the CD before attaching the probe. These attempts were made with β-CD. Investigations were made into attaching an alkyl chain, which would act as the tether between the host and guest molecules, onto the larger secondary rim of β-CD, but attempts to do so were unsuccessful. Investigations were also made into modifying the primary rim of β-CD. β-CD was successfully mono-tosylated.

abstract: The mono-tosylated β-CD was reacted with 2,6-TNS and evidence suggests that the host and guest molecules are tethered via a single carbon alkyl chain.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 50-04, page: 2460.


title: The English Academic Preparation Program at the University of Prince Edward Island An Exploratory Case Study

contributor: Miller, Tess (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 166 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Education, Language and Literature
Education, Bilingual and Multicultural
Mineralogy

abstract: The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) English Academic Preparation (EAP) program is designed to assist non-native English speakers (NNES) upgrade their English proficiency levels through language intensive classes. Successful completion of the UPEI EAP program gives students unconditional admission to pursue an undergraduate degree at UPEI. This program has enabled UPEI to admit more students than traditional admission standards that required applicants to have a designated language proficiency score.

abstract: This M.Ed thesis set out to explore whether the UPEI EAP program is adequately preparing students for academic study at UPEI and contributing to students' overall experience at the university. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed in this exploratory case study. Qualitative data collection and analysis methods were used to review the program's original business proposal, conduct a one- on-one interview with the EAP Program Coordinator, and complete student focus groups. Quantitative methods were used to review and analyze EAP end-of-term course evaluations completed between 2004 and 2008. Findings revealed four themes that focused on the EAP environment, level of difficulty of EAP courses, student satisfaction, and program policies. The mixed methods analysis found that the UPEI EAP program appeared to be successful at creating an environment that fostered linguistic, social, cultural, and personal growth and providing a foundation for EAP students to grow as learners. However, the UPEI EAP program could likely benefit from re-assessing the level of difficulty of its courses to ensure that they are at par with first year credit-based courses and meeting students' learning needs. Furthermore, reviewing program policies and the current admissions policy may further enhance program accountability.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 50-04, page: 2071.

abstract: Adviser: Miles Turnbull.


title: The Environmental Pre-History of Prince Edward Island 1769--1970: A Reconnaissance in Force

contributor:
MacIntyre, Colin Allen (author)
MacDonald, Edward (Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 185 electronic application/pdf

subject:
History, Canadian
Environmental Studies

abstract: Academic analysis of the historical interaction between humans and the environment has been extremely limited on Prince Edward Island. The following thesis is one of the first studies to utilize Island Studies research methodologies to examine Prince Edward Island as a case study in environmental history. Prince Edward Island's "islandness" plays a significant factor in this history because any environmental changes are amplified by the compression of the limited geographical area of the Island.

abstract: The main question revolves around how Islanders' attitudes have evolved toward the environment. Before a conscious environmental movement began in the 1970s, Islanders have had concerns over the environment. These early concerns over the environment generally revolved around conserving natural resources that had economic value as opposed to preserving the environment for the sake of nature. However, there were some surprising examples of individuals who were ahead of their time as far as understanding the importance of preserving the environment. Thus, if such awareness toward environmental issues did not emerge in an organized way until the 1970s, this thesis examines changing attitudes over time, to create a "pre-history" of environmental concerns.

abstract: The thesis is organized chronologically and thematically. The introduction describes the research method, environmental history historiography, the importance of conservation law in environmental history, Island Studies research methods, and the idea of garden and Eden mythologies effecting legislation on islands. Chapter One reviews the impact of the Aboriginal and French impact to the environment, because their limited footprint justifies why the study focuses on the British Colonial and post-Confederation periods. Chapter Two outlines the impact that the British settlement era had on the Island's environment. Chapter Three covers changing environmental attitudes from the post-Confederation period to the Second World War. The final chapter covers postwar environmental impacts until the watershed of the Comprehensive Development Plan in 1970.

abstract: The thesis examines the evolution of attitudes toward the environment on Prince Edward Island through one major research method: the provincial government's legislative records. The Journals of the Legislative Assembly provided the bulk of the research material because they contain records of the legislation and government reports. Researching environmental related legislation is often the most fundamental research method in environmental history because it can be used to illustrate when and why humans became concerned for regulating and protecting the environment.

abstract: This thesis adds to the historiography of Prince Edward Island by expanding environmental history scholarship. Aside from geographies, natural history articles, forestry research, and works by Alan MacEachern focusing on National Parks and the Institute of Man and Resources, environmental history has been limited on Prince Edward Island. However, Prince Edward Island has a long history of trying to protect the environment, which was accelerated by "islandness" and limited geographical area. It is hoped that this thesis will add historical perspective to policy makers working on sustainable development in the future.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 50-04, page: 2155.


title: The Parker Report and beyond: Upheaval and change in the history of the Prince Edward Island Teachers' Federation

contributor: Timmons, Vianne (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 100 electronic application/pdf

subject: History, Canadian

subject: Education, History of

subject: Sociology, Industrial and Labor Relations

abstract: The Prince Edward Island Teachers' Federation represents the approximately 1500 teachers who are employed in the public school system in the province. This thesis traces the history of this organization; touching briefly on events that encompass a period of nearly a century and a half and more specifically on the period of the mid 1960's to the early 1970's. This period marked a critical era in the historical development of the Prince Edward Island Teachers Federation.

abstract: As a result of dissatisfaction with some of the membership as to the efficicancy of the organization; a movement began rallying for change in the organization. This led to the commissioning of a report in 1967 by Dr. Tom Parker of the Nova Scotia Teachers' Union on the present operation and future potential of the PEITF. Despite the fact that, by his own admission, Parker's Report was not exhaustive, its implications were far reaching and led to a period of significant upheaval and change in the history of this organization; the details of which are the basis of this thesis.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 40-04, page: 0833.

abstract: Adviser: Anne Louise Brookes.


title: The Reid Index in healthy cats

contributor: Lopez, Alfonso (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Hanna, Paul (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Sims, David (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Cawthorn, Els (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Kibenge, Fred (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 89 electronic application/pdf

subject: Biology, Veterinary Science

abstract: Asthma is a prevalent respiratory disease in humans and a similar condition has been reported in cats. It is difficult to diagnose feline asthma because the signs are often mistaken for other pulmonary or cardiac diseases, and the gross and microscopic lesions are subtle. The bronchial gland to bronchial wall ratio, also known as the Reid Index (RI), is commonly used to confirm asthma and chronic bronchitis in humans but this method has never been validated in cats. The objectives of this investigation are to establish the normal RI in healthy cats, and investigate the effect of bronchial sectioning and lung lobe on RI. The lungs of forty one clinically healthy cats obtained from P.E.I. Humane Society were examined at postmortem and fixed in formalin. Preselected sections of the right apical, right intermediate, right accessory, right diaphragmatic, left apical, and left diaphragmatic lobes were examined microscopically and the lungs were further classified as having no microscopic lesions or having minor lesions. Bronchi were cut either longitudinally or transversely and the RI was determined by linear measurement using J-image software (IJ) or by two-dimensional measurement using point count stereology (PCS).

abstract: Results showed that the RI in healthy cats is 61% ± 11.8 (using the mean of individual measurements in both groups of lungs with and without minor lesions, measured by linear measurement, and cut either longitudinally or transversely on bronchial view that have cartilage and cartilage was excluded) which is notably higher than the 40% reported for healthy human lung. There were minor but significant differences among lung lobes within the group of lungs with no microscopic lesions (p = 0.034) and group of lungs with minor lesions (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the lungs with no microscopic lesions and lungs with minor lesions (p < 0.946). There was a significant difference between the right intermediate lobe in the group of lungs with no microscopic lesions and the right intermediate lobe in lungs with minor lesions ( p = 0.029) with a higher RI in the group with minor lesions. The average, of gland to wall ratio in all lobes except RIN lobe in the group of lungs with no microscopic lesions, cut longitudinally and measured by linear measurement was 50.44 ± 0.359.

abstract: The correlation between linear measurement and two-dimensional measurement was poor when cartilage was included in the measurements. Linear measurement and bronchial cross sections had more variation than two-dimensional measurement and longitudinal sections. Minimum of 12 measurements per cat (taken from different lobes) and a minimum of 15 measurements per lobe are needed to obtain a meaningful RI.

abstract: It was concluded from this investigation that the feline bronchial glands have a notably higher RI than human. Using the right intermediate lung lobe for RI calculation in cats should be avoided. Two-dimensional measurements should be preferred over linear measurements and longitudinal sections of the bronchial tree should be chosen over cross sections of bronchi. The least amount of variation in the RI is found when two-dimensional measurements are made in longitudinal sections. For a practical RI method, it is recommended to use the longitudinal sections measured by linear measurements in bronchial areas without cartilage. The measurements should be made in bronchial areas that do not contain cartilage or if present, cartilage should be excluded from the calculations.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 50-04, page: 2293.


title: The Significance of Place in Textual and Graphical Representation: The Mi'kmaq on Lennox Island, Prince Edward Island, and the Penobscot on Indian Island, Maine

contributor:
Augustine, Patrick J. (author)
(Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 195 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Folklore
Geography
Native American Studies

abstract: This research examines representations of indigenous identity and islandness rooted in place. The significance of this qualitative study is to enlarge human discourse on the semiotic interpretations of symbols in indigenous island cultures. If geography helps to shape identity, then identity, in turn, helps to shape place. This is a field study of signs and symbols used by the Mi'kmaq and Penobscot to represent their identity. Nissology assists in determining sense of place and in examining constructed textual and graphical representations of islandness. Documented photographs are examined through a bi-focal lens that is socio-cultural and socio-political. Elements of cultural and historical descriptions are identified in street signs, tourism and corporate signs, photographed on or in close proximity, to Lennox Island, Prince Edward Island, and Indian Island, Maine. Significations of identities are based on these visual images "catalogued, studied, distilled, and sorted into themes" (Harper, 1994). Ethnographic content analysis of the images is used to deconstruct the importance of the elements contained within each photograph. This is followed by image-based analysis of the two data sets and then compared. Findings indicate a complexity of multiple and hybrid identities used in different contexts depending on the interpretant.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 50-04, page: 2170.

abstract: Adviser: Suzanne Thomas.


title: The application of multiple intelligences theory in the elementary music classroom:  More than just music

contributor: Gabriel, Martha (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Brookes, Anna-Louise (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 199 electronic application/pdf

subject: Education, Music

abstract: This is a qualitative action research study which aims to increase the understanding of how music instruction, based on Howard Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences, affects student self-knowledge, and thus potentially offers a methodology that identifies and satisfies at least some of the learning needs of school children. Reflective journal entries, semi-structured interviews, and a researcher's log triangulate the data. The participants are Grade 3 students from an urban community and the project is based on a six week instructional module framed around each participant's strongest intelligence. The results clearly outline that individual student learning needs are met by incorporating a set of centres in the music room, one for each of Gardner's eight intelligences. The results also describe students who are engaged in their work, show respect and camaraderie, and enjoy the learning process. Professional concerns are addressed such as the transfer of a multiple intelligence approach into other subject areas and regular elementary classrooms, time considerations for this type of transformation, and the paradigm shift in learning and teaching that is required for educators to succeed in this method of instruction.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 44-03, page: 1119.


title: The association between Campylobacter jejuni infection and Guillain Barre syndrome

contributor: Markham, R.J. Frederick (Thesis advisor)

contributor: Cawthorn, Rick (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Morrison, Maggie (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Ikede, Basil (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Saleh, Tarek (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 111 electronic application/pdf

subject: Biology, Veterinary Science

abstract: Infection with Campylobacter jejuni, a common enteric pathogen, may be one of the major causes of Guillain Barrd Syndrome (GBS), a neurological disease of humans. Antibodies produced in rabbits against different  Campylobacter jejuni strains, commonly incriminated in Guillain Barrd Syndrome (GBS) were tested in two experimental systems to quantify their effects on peripheral nerve function and neurons. The effect of these antiserum antibodies on peripheral nerve function was determined (in vivo) in Sprague-Dawley rats using electrophysiological measurements of the femoral nerve prior to injection of antiserum (Day 0) and on Days 2, 7, and 14 after injection. The results indicated that serum antibodies against certain strains of C. jejuni affect peripheral nerve function and react immunologically in particular neural cell lines. To test the effects of these antibodies on neurons, 7 cultured human neural cell lines were evaluated for reactivity with 7 different anti-C. jejuni sera by indirect immunofluorescence. To determine the prevalence of GBS and possible sources of organisms associated with GBS in Maritime Canada and to assess whether certain strains of C. jejuni  are significantly associated with GBS, a retrospective study of GBS patients and suitable controls was completed. Differences in 10 patients and matched control groups were analysed. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 42-02, page: 0540.

abstract: Advisers: F. Markham; H. Hariharan.


title: Determinants and improvements of calf parasite load, growth and behaviour on smallholder dairy farms in Kenya

contributor: VanLeeuwen, John (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Gitau, George (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Heider, Luke (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: McKenna, Shawn (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Greenwood, Spencer (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: McClure, J. Trenton (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Orsel, Karin (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: VanLeeuwen, John (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Greenwood, Spencer (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Proudfoot, Katy (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 260 application/pdf

abstract:
This thesis research involving 187 heifer calves on 150 zero-grazing smallholder dairy farms in two Kenyan counties was designed with the following specific objectives: 1) to describe and determine animal- and farm-level factors associated with time-to-onset and fecal counts of strongyle-type eggs and coccidia oocysts (prospective cohort study); 2) to evaluate the effects of practical and affordable calf housing improvements on average daily gain (ADG) in weight during pre- and post-weaning periods (randomized controlled trial); 3) to determine the effect of environmental and comfort improvement on lying and
sucking behaviours (randomized controlled trial); 4) to estimate the economic effects of implementing the low-cost housing enhancements and management changes in objectives 2-3 when raising a 15-month heifer (partial budget analysis). For objectives 2 and 3, intervention farms (n=75) received calf housing improvements that included: 1) filling of floor holes if on the ground or repairing wooden slats if on an elevated floor; 2) introduction of rubber mats on the lying area; 3) ensuring a floor gradient for drainage; 4) attaching a rubber nipple on the wall of the calf pen; and 5) patching leaking roofs, along
with training on youngstock management. Up to six bimonthly farm visits were used to collect animal- and farm-level data, such as accelerometer readings for lying behaviours, heart girth for ADG of weight, and rectal fecal samples for McMaster floatation. For objective 1, Incidence risks of strongyle-type and coccidia over the study period were 28.3% (53/187) and 87.7% (164/187), respectively. For infected calves, median time-to-onset for strongyles and coccidia was 78 (interquartile-range: IQR 38-117) and 43 (IQR 29-92) days, respectively. In the final Cox proportional hazard (PH) model for strongyles, breed (Ayrshires and Jerseys) and weaned calves had a greater hazard of infection than Friesians and preweaned calves, respectively. Calf tethering outside the pen sometimes was associated with a higher hazard of strongyle infection. In the final Cox PH model for coccidia, calves with watery and/or hemorrhagic diarrhea had a higher hazard compared with those with hard or soft feces. Weaning status and birth weight (kg) were time-varying covariates, leading to increased hazard over time. In the final mixed-effects negative binomial (MeNB) model for strongyles, weaned animals had higher counts than those still on milk. In an interaction variable, the predicted strongyletype egg counts increased with longer duration of farm operation when herd size was less than five cattle but decreased when herd size was more than five. In the final MeNB model for coccidia, calves sometimes tethered outside their pens had higher counts than those continuously enclosed in the pen. Calf pen floors with either scant manure or moderate slurry had higher predicted counts than those on a clean pen floor. Calves with watery or hemorrhagic diarrhea and fed fresh Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) had higher counts compared with soft or hard feces and those not given fresh Napier, respectively. In an interaction variable, calves experiencing diarrhea and raised on elevated slatted floors had lower oocyst counts compared with those having diarrhea but not on elevated floors. In conclusion, the identified management practices associated with onset and counts of gastrointestinal parasitism should be considered in control efforts. For objective 2, Median pre-weaning and post-weaning ADGs were 0.307 and 0.487 kg/d, respectively. In the final pre-weaning model (p<0.050), factors positively associated with ln ADG were calf age at first acaricide application, and total number of calf pens, while factors negatively associated with ln ADG included calf mortality risk over the last five years and calf age at first free access to water. In an interaction term, for calves from parity 3+ dams, ADG was lower when milk was fed twice/day than thrice/day, with no difference in calves of lower parity dams. In a second interaction term, ADG was similar by principal farmer gender at higher levels of education, but significantly lower for female than male principal farmers when only primary education was achieved. In the final post-weaning model, housing improvements increased ADG by 5.6%. Other factors positively associated with post-weaning ADG were feeding of calf pellets, wheat bran,
maize bran, and hay. Calf age at first introduction of concentrate, calf mortality risk over the last five years, and principal farmer age were negatively associated with ADG. In an interaction term, ADG was high when there were fecal coccidia oocysts and when calves had visual or physical contact with their dams, but low when fecal coccidia cysts were present, and these dam-calf connections were absent. In a second interaction term, ADG increased with more calf pens for female principal farmers, while remaining low for male principal farmers. In conclusion, while controlling for other factors of ADG, making affordable calf housing improvements enhanced ADG, particularly during the postweaning period. For objective 3, The daily lying times and lying bout durations, over the visits, averaged 12.6-16.9 hr/d and 67.9-86.7 min/bout, respectively, while the median for the frequency of lying bouts was between 30-46/day. Provision of rubber nipples for nonnutritive sucking lowered proportions of cross-sucking, self-sucking and object-sucking behaviours slightly but not significantly. In the final mixed-effects linear regression model on daily lying time, superficial lymph node enlargement, body condition score and use of
wood shaving/sawdust/crop waste as beddings had positive associations. In contrast, group housing and rubber mat use had negative associations. In an interaction term, lying time was significantly higher for calves on clean versus dirty floors if the age was <190 days but this difference diminished significantly in older animals. In a second interaction term, the daily lying time was lower for calves raised in pens with leaking roofs, regardless of the level of the calf-pen floor. However, when the roof was intact, daily lying time increased and was higher on elevated slatted floors compared with non-elevated floors. In the final mixed-effects linear regression model of the natural logarithm of frequency of lying bouts, the use of a rubber mat, number of years of experience in dairy farming, and calf body weight had negative associations. In contrast, body condition score had a positive association. In an interaction, the frequency of daily lying bouts was lower on clean floors than dirty floors, irrespective of tethering status, but when the floor was dirty, the lying bouts were higher for calves not tethered than those sometimes tethered. Increased lying time, the possibility to perform appropriate lying postures, and the ease to get up and lie down are desired indicators of positive welfare states and should be encouraged. We conclude that the comfort improvements enhanced the welfare and lying experience of heifer calves on smallholder dairy farms. For objective 4, the net financial return of undertaking the housing and
management improvements (objective 2) was positive at Ksh 6,594 (USD 65.94) per heifer, primarily based on having a larger heifer at 15 months, reduced bedding and medical care costs, and lower risk of death. Also, there was a reduction in age at first introduction of concentrate, rise in the amount of concentrate offered to calves at weaning, and increase in the age of calves at first deworming and acaricide application. We conclude that calf housing improvements and on-farm training on calf care are costeffective and improve management and animal welfare perceptions of farmers. Farmers and animal health personnel should reassess calf housing and other calf management activities including parasite control, and utilize improvements that should
cost-effectively enhance not only calf comfort but also productivity measures such as ADG


title: Exploring code switching in early number sense activities

contributor: Turnbull, Miles (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Anderson, Ann (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Gabriel, Martha (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Turnball, Miles (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Anderson, Ann (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Moffatt, Lindsay (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Thom, Jennifer (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 263 application/pdf

abstract:
Previous research indicated that teachers have a fundamental role in teaching the proper
language of mathematics, also known as the mathematics register (Pimm, 1978). However, little
is known about how educators use language to communicate and mediate mathematics during
the early years of schooling. This multiple case study explored three educators’ use of languge as
they taught number sense in their classrooms, as well as their views and understanding of
mathematics education. During a month spent collecting data at each of the three sites, the
preschool, kindergarten, and grade 1 educators were involved in an initial interview, five
videotaped teaching sessions, and a recall interview after the video sessions. Discourse analysis
was utilized to explore language use (Gee, 2014). Findings indicate that educators code switched
to the mathematics register (a) when they talked about numbers, number words and counting; (b)
to revoice students’ ideas; (c) to explain student and teacher actions; (d) to provide new math
information; and (e) when they chose between two terms that belonged to the math register.
Findings also demonstrated that educators viewed the language of mathematics as an outside
entity and that they preferred to avoid the use of the mathematics’ register, and relied instead on
protoquantitative terms, everyday terms, and words that denoted action to communicate and
mediate mathematics to young students.


title: The integration of critical thinking: An evaluability assessment of the PEI Grades 1-3 integrated curriculum

contributor: Guo-Brennan, Linyuan (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: MacDonald, Ronald (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Guo-Brennan, Linyuan (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Wiebe, Sean (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Malin, Pamela (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 232 application/pdf

abstract: The PEI Department of Education and Lifelong Learning (DELL) introduced a new integrated curriculum (IC) pilot for Grades 1-3 in 2019 that is focused around the development of core competencies. This thesis is the culmination of the first phase of a longitudinal mixed methods study that plans to track teachers and students throughout their experiences of utilizing this new IC to find out if this integrated approach to education is more effective at developing students’ global competencies. There are three research questions addressed by this thesis, including: (a) To what extent does the PEI IC affect students’ global competencies? (b) To what extent do students' global competencies affect literacy and numeracy? (c) What are the teachers’ needs for implementing the new Integrated Curriculum and engaging students in deep learning? This study used qualitative and quantitative data from interviews, observations, and surveys to conduct an Evaluability Assessment (EA) of the PEI IC pilot program in order to answer these research questions. It was found that a critical thinking conceptual framework was capable of analyzing the development of global competencies (GCs), and through the PEI IC the competencies found to be most relevant were self-awareness, open-mindedness, and authentic learning. As a result, a new framework of GCs was developed to reflect the context of the PEI IC. It is recommended that this new framework supplement or replace the Council of Atlantic Ministers of Education and Training (CAMET) competency framework currently being used.


title: Young children representing numbers: Implications for teaching

contributor:
Arias de Sanchez, Gabriela (author)
Gabriel, Martha (Thesis advisor)
Doiron, Ray (Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)
(Examination Committee Member)

format: 173 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Education, Mathematics
Education, Early Childhood

abstract: This qualitative study explored the responses and strategies used by children ages two to five when prompted about numbers and numerals. This study, based on a socio-constructivist framework, was intended to facilitate discussion among early childhood educators and to challenge current mathematical practices in early childhood education.

abstract: The children participated in a whole class session and in an individual session which were videotaped. The whole class session involved all children from each age group: a 2-year-old class; a 3-year-old class; a 4 year old class, and a 5 year old class). During this session children were asked to count and to locate numerals in the class environment. The individual sessions involved 16 children (two boys and two girls) from each age group. Children responded to three different tasks: a Symbolic Response Task (SRT), a Printing Response Task (PRT), and a Reading Response Task (RRT). The SRT purpose was to observe children's strategies and responses when prompted to use any type of symbolic representation other than oral language. The PRT focused on exploring children's numeric representation after being presented with three boxes that contained different amounts (3, 9, and 14). The RRT purpose was to observe children's reading responses in reference to their own numeric notations.

abstract: From a pedagogical perspective, several themes emerged from the observations. Themes such as the role of rote counting, children's one-by one understanding of sets, and children's emotional responses toward reading numerically are discussed. Implications for teaching are suggested based on the children's responses.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 48-06, page: 3274.


title: Surveillance and control of enzootic bovine leucosis in Atlantic Canada

contributor: Erskine, Ron (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Keefe, Greg (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Rodriguez, Juan-Carlos (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Stryhn, Henrik (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Bartlett, Paul (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Stryhn, Henrik (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Heider, Luke (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Hurnik, Dan (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 226 application/pdf

abstract:
This research included four studies investigating bovine leukemia virus (BLV) in Atlantic Canada (New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island). The current herd-level prevalence of BLV in dairy herds in Atlantic Canada was determined in the first study. The within-herd prevalence was estimated based on testing bulk tank milk for anti-BLV antibody levels. A risk assessment and management program workbook was designed and implemented using a subset of dairy herds in Atlantic Canada to investigate management factors associated with the BLV estimated within-herd prevalence. Herd-level prevalence for BLV was high with at least 88% of dairy herds in Atlantic Canada containing at least one BLV-seropositive cow. Farms with a history of diagnosing clinical disease associated with BLV infection, as well as farms where calves received colostrum from cows of unknown BLV status, were more likely to have an estimated within-herd BLV prevalence of at least 25% compared to herds without a history of clinical disease or herds where calves did not receive colostrum from BLV-unknown or BLV-infected cows. The second study investigated the variability between bulk tank milk samples from the same herd collected over different sampling intervals, as well as the variability between samples collected from different farms. Farms in the Canadian Maritimes (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island) participated. Samples from 2013 were collected at 1-month intervals and those from 2016 were collected at 3-month intervals. Samples were analyzed for the presence of anti-BLV antibodies and estimated within-herd prevalence was calculated for each herd. The most variability was seen in samples collected from different herds, and the least variability was seen in samples
from the same herd collected at 3-month intervals. This information can help in designing sample collection intervals for disease monitoring or control programs. The third study investigated the age group of calves, heifers, and adult cows in which BLV was first identified. Most previous research has focused on adult cows, but calves and heifers are also able to become infected with BLV prior to entering the milking herd. Blood samples were collected from 6 pre-weaned calves, 6 weaned heifers, and 6 breeding-age heifers on 56 dairy farms in Atlantic Canada, and a questionnaire was administered to farmers asking about age-specific management factors for these three age groups as well as for adult cows. The majority of farms had BLV first identified in either the adult milking herd or in pre-weaned calves. Management factors associated with the age group where BLV was first identified included the number of times weaned heifers were regrouped after weaning, the type of fly control used in breeding-age heifers, the use of foot-trimming implements in breeding-age heifers, and whether the farm purchased bred heifers. The final study investigated the utility of commonly available, cost-effective diagnostic tests to predict proviral load (PVL) in BLV-seropositive cows. It is suspected that cows with a higher PVL are a higher infection risk to naïve cows than those with a low PVL. Currently there is no commercial test for PVL in cows, and so blood and milk were collected from 339 BLV-seropositive cows as well as basic demographic information. PVL was determined using qPCR, and blood was also used for determining anti-BLV antibody levels and for performing complete blood counts. Milk samples were analyzed for standard components by the regional dairy herd improvement agency, as well as having anti-BLV antibodies measured. The milk antibody level, as well as blood lymphocyte count, were significantly associated with increasing PVL.


title: Investigating the effectiveness of a causal MBSE software tool in modelling conceptual CubeSat data

contributor: McSorley, Grant (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Fortin, Clement (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Krouglicof, Nicholas (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Bressan, Nadja (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Knoll, Dominik (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Peters, Wayne (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 166 application/pdf

abstract: The ongoing societal need for more complex electromechanical products has resulted in a parallel increase in challenges with managing product lifecycle data. Product Lifecycle Management and Systems Engineering are fields that were created to address these issues, but they are constantly needing to adapt to rapidly evolving engineering practices. To address these issues, this research explores the concept of using the SAPPhIRE Model of causality as a potential framework for structuring conceptual design product data. Previous literature had found the Model effective in representing the information of in-service and testing phases of the product lifecycle; however this work was limited to abstract textual descriptions of data with no consideration of the types and nature of the files. To expand on this literature, it was decided to tailor this research towards the conceptual design process, as it offered large cost impact on the product lifecycle, and would serve as a useful benchmark and reference for future work within the product development process. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of the SAPPhIRE Model in supporting the conceptual design of CubeSat nanosatellites. The UPEI CubeSat design project offered access to a database that included all the product data, allowing for preliminary SAPPhIRE Models to be created and evaluated for their ability to both represent critical product data, and to maintain the rich depiction of causality. It was found that the models were able to effectively portray the product data without the need for extensive alteration of either SAPPhIRE, or the raw design files. A software tool, OPAL, was then created based on these models to allow for an empirical study to further investigate the utility of the SAPPhIRE Model. It allows users to view and access their design data using a GUI based on SAPPhIRE. To evaluate the research question, engineering students participated in a study where they would carry out typical conceptual design activities using OPAL and provide feedback regarding its effectiveness. The three major activities were the retrieval of design data, the use of subsystem domains and semantics, and the management of iterations. Results showed strong evidence of the effectiveness of OPAL; Students found that the consistent layout of SAPPhIRE for all of the subsystems in tandem with the GUI, streamlined the retrieval and tracking of design data. Qualitative feedback suggested modifying SAPPhIRE elements to aid understanding, and implementing functions such as a search feature. It was concluded that the SAPPhIRE Model has high potential for success in conceptual design, and should be further explored. Future work in this line of SAPPhIRE research should expand on the functionalities of OPAL, perform case studies concurrently with the design process, and explore the rest of the product development process.


title: Development of management zones for site-specific fertilization in potato fields

contributor: Zaman, Qamar (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Esau, Travis (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Acharya, Bishnu (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Zaman, Qamar (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Esau, Travis (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Cheema, Mumtaz (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Ahmadi, Ali (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 80 application/pdf

abstract: Soil variability and the resultant lower potato tuber yield can be mitigated through precision agricultural practices. This study has quantified variability of soil and crop properties, identified significant factors responsible for fluctuations in tuber yield, and delineated management zones (MZs) for site-specific soil fertility characterization of potato fields through proximal sensing of fields. The field experiments were conducted during potato growing seasons of 2017 and 2018 in the region of Souris alongside the La Pierre Lane in Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada. Grids of 25 m x 25 m were established, and soil was sampled from each grid and analyzed for soil chemical properties. Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR), DualEM-2 sensor, and GreenSeekerTM were used to collect each grid’s moisture content (θ), horizontal coplanar geometry (HCP) of the apparent ground electrical conductivity, and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), respectively, at various plant growth stages during the cropping seasons. The soil samples were collected from the same grids to determine soil organic matter content (SOM), pH, Lime Index (LI), phosphorous (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), cation exchange capacity (CEC) and %P/Al (P aluminum ratio) using standard methods. Potato tuber yield was collected manually from 0.91 x 3 m strips at the same grids. Results suggested that most of the parameters had moderate to high variability in both fields. Tuber yield was high in both fields due to high HCP, θ and SOM. Results from semivariograms revealed that the selected soil and crop properties showed a low, moderate, and high spatial dependence within the fields. Tuber yield had highly significant (p < 0.001) correlations with HCP, θ, SOM, and P during first sampling in the beginning of the growing season. However, during the second sampling, the tuber yield was significantly correlated with HCP, θ, NDVI, SOM, P, and K. Stepwise regression (through backward elimination at α = 0.01) excluded the low important variables, namely P and K, leaving HCP, θ, SOM, and NDVI as the most influential variables for tuber yield. Stepwise regression shortlisted the major properties of soil and crop that explained 71 to 86% of within-field variability. The cluster analysis grouped the soil and crop data into three zones, termed as excellent, medium, and poor, at a 40% similarity level. The coefficient of variation and the interpolated maps characterized least to moderate variability of soil fertility parameters except for HCP and K, which were highly variable. The results of multiple means comparison indicated that the tuber yield and HCP were significantly different in all MZs. The significant relationship of HCP and yield suggested that the ground conductivity data can be used to develop MZs for site‐specific fertilization in potato fields like those used in this study. The soil and crop variability data helped establishing MZs that can facilitate site-specific precision nutrient management for improving soil fertility and optimizing potato tuber yield. Moreover, this study suggested that managing the crop inputs based on HCP, θ and NDVI has significant potential to enhance tuber yield. The delineation of MZs has been suggested as a solution to mitigate adverse impacts of soil variability on potato tuber yield.


title: Development of natural bio-links for neural cell bioprinting applications

contributor: Tasker, Andrew (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Gill, Daphne (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Hsiao, Amy (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Akbari, Mohsen (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Hammell, Larry (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 113 application/pdf

abstract:
Tissue engineering has played an exceptionally important role in addressing the increasing need for suitable tissue and organ replacements over the past few decades. Successful engineering of tissues that physiologically mimic their native counterparts relies on design and fabrication of temporary templates known colloquially as scaffolds. Scaffolds are commonly made of porous, biocompatible and often biodegradable biomaterials that enhance the cell and tissue growth and functionality. Among many scaffold engineering techniques, three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting is commonly used due to its ease of use and high speed of fabrication. In 3D bioprinting, a suspension of biomaterial, also known as bio-ink, is deposited in a layer-by-layer fashion to create the desired scaffold geometry according to a computer-aided design. An ideal bio-ink must be both “biocompatible” and “printable”: it must not impede the cell and tissue growth and it must retain the user-defined spatial arrangement following deposition from the printhead. It has been proven that all-natural bio-inks have high biocompatibility and reduced toxicity during degradation. Chitosan, starch, and agarose have all been used either on their own or as a blend
with other natural and synthetic polymers to create high performance bio-inks. The binary mixture of chitosan-starch and N,O-Carboxymethyl Chitosan (NOCC)-agarose have not been investigated for bioprinting applications of neurons. The objectives of this thesis are: 1. Investigate the suitability of starch and chitosan blends for cell seeding bioprinting applications; 2. Investigate the suitability of NOCC and agarose (ex. AG20NC80 = 20% agarose and 80% NOCC) blends for cell embedding bioprinting applications. To achieve objective 1, the printability and biocompatibility of chitosan and starch blend bio-inks
were investigated using a systematic framework. To consider the effects of flattening of filaments following deposition, the conventional framework was revised. Varying compositions of chitosan and starch blends were used to print scaffolds to grow neuron cells, and printability, cytotoxicity and cell viability for each scaffold were monitored. It was observed that, although increasing the potato starch content contributes to better printability of the bio-ink, more chitosan must be added to achieve higher biocompatibility. Therefore, a compromise in printability and biocompatibility must be made when starch and chitosan blends are used for scaffold fabrication. To achieve objective 2, the suitability of bio-inks composed of pure NOCC, pure agarose and their binary blends for applications in 3D bioprinting was investigated. The loss and storage moduli of each bio-ink were characterized, and it was observed that increasing the NOCC concentration enhances the rheological properties. The printability number for each bio-ink was determined and compared to the rheology results. The printability calculation was in agreement with the rheological studies. It was observed that while increasing the agarose concentration leads to a decrease in the rheological and printability properties of the bio-inks, it leads to an increase in cell viability. Therefore, when mixtures of agarose and NOCC are used, a balanced mixture of AG40NC60 is a suitable bio-ink in terms of biocompatibility as well as printability. With further development, these bio-inks could be used for a wide range of applications in the field of tissue engineering. In particular, in the long term, the scaffolds developed in this thesis can be used to create in-vitro models of the blood brain barrier (BBB). These models have the potential to be used for drug testing and consequently save the lives of many people who suffer from neurodegenerative diseases.


title: Heroes and hooligans: Men's experiences of resilience and belonging in posttraumatic stress disorder recovery

contributor: MacQuarrie, Colleen (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Doiron, Jason (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Thompson, Jim (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: MacQuarrie, Colleen (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Doiron, Jason (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Thompson, Jim (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Montelpare, William (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 328 application/pdf PUBLISHED

abstract:
Resilience and belonging are frequently linked to positive outcomes in studies of
posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and recovery. To explore the trajectories of resilience and
belonging in the lived experiences of men who have endured severe trauma and have engaged in
lives or occupations involving aggression and dominance, in-depth interviews were conducted
with four participants in two groups: military veterans and criminal offenders. The interviews
were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). This thesis examines how
environmental and institutional discourses and conventions are experienced and given meaning
as individuals struggle to negotiate pathways from acute symptom experiences of posttraumatic
stress. First, the analysis demonstrates that chronic and complex forms of PTSD result from
adaptive responses to moral injury and the destruction of character. Second, the analysis shows
that, like PTSD recovery, resilience is less a character trait than a process of struggles to find
meaning and hope, including posttraumatic growth. Third, belonging is not considered by all
participants as an essential pathway to recovery, although connections are deemed important.
Findings are discussed in light of implications for research and for health care service provision
in correctional, military, educational, and community institutions.
 Keywords: posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), resilience, belonging, recovery, military,
criminal offenders, boyhood sexual abuse, interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA)


title: Chemoattractant G protein-coupled receptors in human mast cells

contributor: Saleh, Tarek (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Kibenge, Fred (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Kulka, Marianna (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Hartwig, Sunny (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Markham, Fred (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Bate, Luis (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Kulka, Marianna (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Markham, Fred (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Rodriguez-Lecompte, Juan (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Gordon, John (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 214 application/pdf PUBLISHED

rights:
In presenting this thesis in partial fulfilment of the requirements for a
postgraduate degree from the University of Prince Edward Island, I agree that the
Libraries of this University may make it freely available for inspection. I further
agree that permission for extensive copying of this thesis for scholarly purposes
may be granted by the professor or professors who supervised my thesis work,
or, in their absence, by the Chair of the Department or the Dean of the Faculty in
which my thesis work was done. It is understood any copying or publication or
use of this thesis or parts thereof for financial gain shall not be allowed without
my written permission. It is also understood that due recognition shall be given to
me and to the University of Prince Edward Island in any scholarly use which may
be made of any material in my thesis.

abstract:
Mast cells are crucial effector cells in host defense and immunoregulation. They
are equipped with an impressive array of receptor systems which allows them to rapidly
respond to pathogen-associated signals. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) mediate
mast cell activation and mediator release in response to various stimuli. The effects are
differential; while some GPCR can induce chemotaxis, adhesion, degranulation and
mediator release, others can stimulate chemotaxis and adhesion but not degranulation.
Signaling through GPCRs can also modulate antigen-mediated activation of mast cells.
The effect mediated via a GPCR depends on the G protein it couples with. Signal
transduction via Gαi initiates cell activation, whereas Gαs downregulates cell activation.
My thesis investigated the roles of novel stimulatory and inhibitory GPCRs in human
mast cells. I hypothesized that human mast cells express both stimulatory and inhibitory
chemoattractant GPCRs which differentially activate mast cells but chemotaxis pathway
itself remains conserved. For the first sub-hypothesis, expression and function of FPRL1
receptor in human mast cells was investigated. I showed that Laboratory of Allergic
Diseases 2 (LAD2) human mast cells expressed cell surface FPRL1. Stimulation of
LAD2 cells with a novel α-cationic antimicrobial peptide, pleurocidin, induced mast cell
chemotaxis, adhesion, degranulation and production of lipid mediators, cytokines, and
chemokines. The effect was sensitive to pertussis toxin, indicating that FPRL1 mediates
stimulatory signaling in human mast cells via Gαi protein.
In the next sub-hypothesis, expression and function of C5a receptors, C5aR and
C5L2, in human mast cells was investigated. While C5aR is a known Gαi-coupled GPCR
in human mast cells, the signaling mechanism for C5L2 is unknown. My data showed
that LAD2 human mast cells express cell surface C5L2 but not C5aR. C5a activated
LAD2 cells to migrate, adhere and produce cytokines and chemokines. The effects were abolished in mast cells in which C5L2 expression was knocked-down using lentiviral
C5L2 shRNA. Moreover, the effect of C5a on cell adhesion was pertussis toxindependent,
indicating that C5L2 mediates stimulatory signaling in human mast cells via
Gαi proteins.
In the final sub-hypothesis, function of C3a receptor, C3aR, in human mast cells
was investigated in conjugation with adenosine receptor signaling. Stimulatory signal
transduction through Gαi-coupled C3aR in human mast cells is well-established. To test
the expression and function of inhibitory GPCRs, adenosine receptors were utilized. I
showed that while adenosine did not activate human mast cells by itself, it inhibited C3amediated
activation of human mast cell adhesion, chemotaxis, degranulation, and
chemokine production. An A2A receptor specific agonist, CGS 21680, blocked the
inhibitory effect of adenosine, indicating that Gαs-coupled adenosine receptor exert
inhibitory effects on Gαi-coupled GPCR activation in human mast cells.
Overall, my thesis research provides crucial information on the effects of novel
chemoattractant GPCRs in human mast cells. While these receptors differentially
modulated various human mast cell functions either positively via Gαi-coupled GPCRs or
negatively via Gαs-coupled GPCRs, chemotaxis remained conserved and occurred via a
Gαi-dependent signal transduction mechanism.


title: Assessment of the anti-obesity efficacy and mechanism of a traditional Chinese herbal formula

contributor: Wang, Yanwen (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Zidichouski, Jeffrey (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Zhang, Junzeng (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Sweeney-Nixon, Marva (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Gottschall-Pass, Katherine (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Wang, Yanwen (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Gottschall-Pass, Katherine (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Chisholm, Jeffrey (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Chan, Catherine (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 268 application/pdf PUBLISHED

rights:
In presenting this thesis in partial fulfillment of the requirements for a postgraduate
degree from the University of Prince Edward Island, I agree that the Libraries of this
University may make it freely available for inspection. I further agree that permission for
extensive copying of this thesis for scholarly purposes may be granted by the professor or
professors who supervised my thesis work, or, in their absence, by the Chair of the
Department or the Dean of the Faculty in which my thesis work was done. It is
understood that any copying or publication or use of this thesis or parts thereof for
financial gain shall not be allowed without my written permission. It is also understood
that due recognition shall be given to me and to the University of Prince Edward Island in
any scholarly use which may be made of any material in my thesis.

abstract:
Obesity has become an increasingly common health condition over the last
several decades. It has been estimated that this largely preventable disease affects over
one billion people worldwide and that its prevalence will have doubled by the year 2030.
Currently, obesity is the leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide and is predicted
to become the biggest public health problem of the century. For the treatment and
management of obesity, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has become an increasingly
attractive form of alternative/complementary medicine. This trend is also occurring in the
face of a weight-loss product market largely typified by mediocre long-term efficacy and
safety concerns, and an increasing global desire to seek out and develop safe and
efficacious products from natural sources. This thesis aimed to assess the anti-obesity
efficacy and mechanism of the traditional Chinese herbal formula, Liuwei Dihuang
(LWDH), using both in vivo and in vitro approaches.
An in vivo study using obese-prone rats treated by twice-daily oral gavage with
LWDH showed the body weight- and food intake-lowering efficacy of the product, which
also favourably affected body fat composition. Subsequent biochemical analyses revealed
the lipid-lowering, as well as leptin- and insulin-sensitizing efficacy of LWDH, in
addition to its beneficial effects on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress and
adiponectin production. Liver function testing, assessed by measuring liver enzymes
levels in the serum, revealed no adverse side effects of LWDH in rats under the
experimental conditions of this thesis.
The potential anti-obesity mechanisms of action subsequently investigated
included regulation of appetite and/or fatty acid metabolism. Using collected ileal and
hypothalamic tissues of LWDH-treated obese rats, and cell lines representative of the gut
and brain treated with an ethanol extract of LWDH, gene expression results did not
strongly support appetite regulation as a body weight-lowering mechanism of action of
the product. Further investigation into this potential mechanism is, however, highly
warranted. Both gene and protein expression results using liver and muscle tissues, and
cells lines representative of the liver and muscle, supported the notion that beneficial
effects on fatty acid oxidation/synthesis may represent a potential body weight-lowering
mechanism of action of the product, especially in muscle tissue and cells.
Overall, results from this thesis demonstrated the potential of LWDH as a natural
agent against obesity and several associated complications, particularly through
beneficial effects on fatty acid metabolism.


title: Stepping stones to the New World: Islandness and migration from Southeastern Ireland to Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island and the Miramichi of New Brunswick 1700 - 1850

contributor: MacDonald, Edward (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Moran, James (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Campbell, Claire (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 231 application/pdf PUBLISHED

abstract:
The purpose of this case study is to investigate the role islands play in their own
colonization and settlement by human societies. It examines the early nineteenth century
colonization by Southeastern Irish of two islands – Newfoundland and Prince Edward
Island – and a section of the mainland, the Miramichi River Valley of New Brunswick. The
aim of this nissological (study of islands) examination is to increase the knowledge of the
history of the Atlantic portion of British North America and the role islandness
(characteristics of islands) played in this history. As Ian Ross Robertson warns, the history
of an island cannot be understood without considering the role of the history and heritage
of the ethnic groups that settled there.1 Furthermore, it cannot be understood without also
studying the interactions of the settlers with their island environment or in their mainland
environment.
The methodology is to isolate the role of islandness by establishing the parameters
of a “controlled” retrospective historical study based on the research of John J. Mannion.2
He examined the cultural transfer and adaptation of Southeastern Irish immigrants to
Newfoundland Island, the Miramichi River Valley and an area near Peterborough, Ontario.
This current study expands his methodology to Prince Edward Island and the additional
role of islandness in the settlement of the three study areas. (The area near Peterborough is
not included in this current study.) Following a chapter on Ireland, each study area has its
own chapter, taking a brief look at the natural history of each study area and its history of
European settlement with the focus on the Southeastern Irish in the first half of the
nineteenth century. This includes an examination of the initial pattern of settlement, a brief
description of the ethnic and social makeup of the study area and then a short focus on the
elite controlled, resource-based economy of each study area. The final chapter makes
comparisons of the study areas and draws conclusions about the effects of islandness on
them. My thesis will attempt to show the actual effects of islandness on the historical
development of the study areas.
The significance of the inclusion of the Miramichi is that it acts as a control for the
hypothesis: that for the Southeastern Irish migrants, the immigration experience,
settlement patterns, ethnic and social makeup, and elite controlled primary resource
economy on the islands, differed from their compatriots on the mainland, precisely
because they had settled on islands with characteristics of islandness. By examining
migrants who emigrated from the same place, for the same reasons, by the same means and
about the same time period we are performing a controlled experimental study. The major
conclusion to this research is that in fact the evidence does support the hypothesis -
islandness did have an impact on the evolution of the settlement of the islands


title: Evaluation of diagnostic tests for detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) at the herd-level and cow-level

contributor: McClure, J Trenton (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Keefe, Greg (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: McKenna, Shawn (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Barkema, Herman (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Greenwood, Spencer (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Stryhn, Henrik (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: VanLeeuwen, John (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Davidson, Jeff (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Greenwood, Spencer (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Spangler, Liz (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: VanLeeuwen, John (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Wells, Scott (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 226 application/pdf PUBLISHED

rights: In presenting this thesis in partial fulfilment of the requirements for a graduate degree from the University of Prince Edward Island, the author has agreed that the Robertson Library, University of Prince Edward Island, may make this thesis freely available for inspection and gives permission to add an electronic version of the thesis to the Digital Repository at the University of Prince Edward Island. Moreover the author further agrees that permission for extensive copying of this thesis for scholarly purposes may be granted by the professor or professors who supervised the author’s thesis work, or, in their absence, by the Chair of the Department or the Dean of the Faculty in which the author’s thesis work was done. It is understood that any copying or publication or use of this thesis or parts thereof for financial gain shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission. It is also understood that due recognition shall be given to the author and to the University of Prince Edward Island in any scholarly use which may be made of any material in the author’s thesis.

abstract:
The purpose of this research was to evaluate herd and cow-level Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) diagnostic tests within non-infected and low to moderate within-herd prevalence MAP-infected herds. Specific objectives were to estimate herd-level sensitivity and specificity of environmental culture and milk ELISA, determine predictors influencing herd test characteristics, evaluate cow-level test characteristics and between-test agreement of commercial milk ELISAs, and quantify additional diagnostic information gained from repeating a milk ELISA test.
A longitudinal study was conducted between May 2009 and February 2011 on 34 dairy herds from Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. Environmental manure samples were collected every 3 mo, and cow manure and milk samples were collected from all lactating cows in the herd every 6 mo. Pooled fecal culture was used to establish MAP herd status. Individual fecal culture from cows within positive fecal culture pools was used to determine apparent within-herd MAP prevalence. Cow and environmental manure samples were cultured in a broth system, with confirmatory PCR targeting the hspX gene. Milk samples were analyzed using 3 commercial milk ELISAs. For herd-level statistical analyses, pseudogold standard methods were applied (herd reference: repeated pooled fecal culture). For cow-level test characteristics, pseudogold standard methods (reference: fecal culture) and latent class analyses were performed. Generalized estimating equation models accounted for repeated measures.
Herd sensitivity of environmental culture was 71%, and specificity was 99%. Herd sensitivity of 3 milk ELISAs ranged from 56 – 63%, and herd specificity from 80 – 96%. Herd sensitivity of both environmental culture and milk ELISA improved as within-herd MAP prevalence increased. However, environmental culture sensitivity was higher at lower within-herd prevalence than herd milk ELISA tests, indicating environmental culture is a more appropriate test to detect low-prevalence herds. The proportion of positive samples within an environmental culture set was positively associated with within-herd MAP prevalence, establishing that environmental culture provides an estimation of within-herd prevalence for further risk management decisions.
Evaluation of cow-level milk ELISA results revealed between-test agreement was low for positive ELISA tests. Cow-level milk ELISA sensitivities ranged from 28 – 35%, and specificities from 99 – 100%, and were not different for pseudogold standard methods or latent class models. Likelihood ratios indicated that cows with ELISA results in the uppermost quantitative category had a greater likelihood of MAP fecal shedding, necessitating specific management strategies for these cows. When a milk ELISA test was repeated 12 mo later, sensitivity increased from 26% for the initial test only, to 45% for the combined tests, while specificity decreased minimally. A repeated milk ELISA test substantially improves the probability to detect a MAP-infected cow, and should be considered for a herd control program.
Development of effective herd and cow-level paratuberculosis testing programs is essential for the implementation of a successful MAP control program. Our herd-level analyses provide an estimation of the impact of within-herd prevalence on herd test characteristics, which will assist in selection of appropriate herd tests. Our cow-level ELISA analyses provide test characteristics of commercially available ELISAs, and extend the use of ELISA results beyond a single dichotomous outcome. Consideration of our quantitative ELISA results and interpretation of repeat ELISA tests will further improve management recommendations for the development of successful MAP control programs.


title: Semi-synthesis of a biologically inspired library of sesquiterpene derivatives, from the lipophilic marine natural product (+)-β-gorgonene

contributor: Kerr, Russell (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Etkin, Nola (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Linkletter, Barry (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Bethell, Richard (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Kerr, Russell (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Etkin, Nola (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Linkletter, Barry (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Bethell, Richard (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Derksen, Darren (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Pearson, Jason (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 259 application/pdf PUBLISHED

rights: In presenting this thesis in partial fulfillment of the requirements for a postgraduate degree from the University of Prince Edward Island, I agree that the Libraries of this University may make this thesis freely available for inspection and give permission to add an electronic version of the thesis to the Digital Repository at the University of Prince Edward Island. Moreover the author agrees that permission for extensive copying of this thesis for scholarly purposes may be granted by the professor or professors who supervised my thesis work, or, in their absence, by the Chair of the Department or the Dean of the Faculty in which my thesis work was done. It is understood any copying or publication or use of this thesis or parts thereof for financial gain shall not be allowed without my written permission. It is also understood that due recognition shall be given to me and to the University of Prince Edward Island in any scholarly use which may be made of any material in my thesis.

abstract:
Natural products and their mimics have a high probability of engaging with biological targets. Hence, natural products have historically been a valuable source of medicines. They continue to inspire the synthesis of biologically relevant compound libraries, useful for drug discovery. Over 50 % of the small molecule drugs approved in the last 30 years are natural products or natural product derived. Sesquiterpenes are widespread in nature and exhibit a range of notable biological activities including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and lipid lowering activity. Therefore, sesquiterpene frameworks are suitable templates for biologically relevant screening libraries.
Inspired by selected natural bioactive sesquiterpenes, we have transformed a highly lipophilic, non-drug-like, marine natural product (+)-β-gorgonene, available as a by-product from the purification of pseudopterosins, into a library of more drug-like derivatives. Several semi-synthetic techniques were employed to attach suitable structures such as substituted aromatics and heteroaromatics to the gorgonene scaffold to increase its drug-likeness and probability of exhibiting biological activity. Each compound synthesized was chemically characterized, analyzed for drug-likeness and screened for PTP1B inhibition (potential therapeutic target for treatment of type 2 diabetes), antimicrobial activity and cytotoxic properties. With the goal of incorporating the desired substructures in a minimum number of steps, a 2+3 dipolar cycloaddition reaction was used to attach selected motifs to the gorgonene framework via an isoxazoline linker. The series of synthesized isoxazoline derivatives included decahydroazulene and cyclopropane-containing compounds. Several members of the isoxazoline-containing collection displayed selective inhibition of the PTP1B enzyme and others exhibited modest cytotoxic activity.
Another family of gorgonene analogues was synthesized through a dione containing intermediate, a product of the ozonolysis of gorgonene. Carbonyl chemistry was then used to incorporate aromatic moieties into the structure such as the aldol reaction and nucleophilic addition. Gorgonene was observed to undergo an intramolecular Alder-ene reaction when catalyzed by FeCl3 or BF3 and produce novel tricyclic sesquiterpene-like hydrocarbons. A hydroboration/oxidation strategy highlighted the tendency for the 1,5-diene system to react intramolecularly to form additional five- and six-membered rings. A glycosyl-containing derivative was synthesized through a dihydroxy-gorgonene analogue. Biotransformation was used as an additional strategy to selectively oxidize synthetically inaccessible carbons on gorgonenes saturated decalin backbone to facilitate further transformations. Incubation of gorgonene with Bionectria ochroleuca resulted in the production of a novel trihydroxylated sesquiterpenoid.


title:
Evaluating renewable energy options for small islands using emergy methodology: A case study of
coconut biodiesel in the Fiji Islands

contributor: Nagarajan, Palanisamy (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Novaczek, Irene (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Nagarajan, Palanisamy (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Novaczek, Irene (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Vaitilingom, Gilles (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 119 application/pdf PUBLISHED

rights:
In presenting this thesis in partial fulfilment of the requirements for a graduate degree from the
University of Prince Edward Island, the author has agreed that the Robertson Library, University
of Prince Edward Island, may make this thesis freely available for inspection and gives
permission to add an electronic version of the thesis to the Digital Repository at the University
of Prince Edward Island. Moreover the author further agrees that permission for extensive
copying of this thesis for scholarly purposes may be granted by the professor or professors who
supervised the author’s thesis work, or, in their absence, by the Chair of the Department or the
Dean of the Faculty in which the author’s thesis work was done. It is understood that any
copying or publication or use of this thesis or parts thereof for financial gain shall not be
allowed without the author’s written permission. It is also understood that due recognition
shall be given to the author and to the University of Prince Edward Island in any scholarly use
which may be made of any material in the author’s thesis.

abstract:
The Pacific Island Countries including the Fiji Islands are heavily dependent on imported petroleum fuels
for their energy needs. This is a major cause of environmental vulnerability as well as economic
vulnerability due to high and volatile crude oil prices. A combination of Demand Side Management
(DSM) to reduce energy consumption and optimize usage, and Renewable Energy Technologies (RET) to
substitute fossil fuels can reduce their vulnerability. DSM consists of Smart Grids, Energy Efficiency and
Storage, while RETs substitute fossil fuels by harnessing solar, wind, small hydro, biomass, geothermal
and ocean energies. Comparative costs of electricity from RETs show that most of them are cheaper
than the typical price of electricity in Pacific island countries.
Nearly half of Fiji’s electricity is generated using petroleum fuels that can be substituted by biodiesel
produced from locally grown coconuts. To evaluate the sustainability of coconut biodiesel, two different
Environmental Accounting methods have been used: i) Emergy Analysis, and ii) Embodied Energy
Analysis. Emergy Analysis is a holistic methodology that integrates all major inputs from the human
economy and those coming ‘free’ from the environment, to evaluate complex systems. Emergy
Performance Indicators for coconut biodiesel are: i) Emergy Yield Ratio is 1.32 indicating a low ability to
exploit local resources efficiently; ii) Environmental Loading Ratio is 8.57 implying that biodiesel
production causes significant environmental or ecosystem stress; and iii) Emergy Index of Sustainability
is 0.15 indicating a low contribution to the economy per unit of environmental loading and a very high
degree of environmental stress per unit of Emergy yield. Embodied Energy Analysis is a complimentary
methodology that accounts for only the commercial energy (in kgs oil equivalent) required directly or
indirectly to provide all the inputs (goods and services) for the entire biodiesel production process.
Embodied Energy Performance Indicators are: i) Energy Return on Energy Invested is 2.47 which means
that it is not worth the effort in energetic terms; and ii) Carbon dioxide Emissions during the production
of coconut biodiesel is 1.38 kg CO2 per kg biodiesel showing that biodiesel is not climate neutral.
This thesis adds to the growing body of knowledge that uses Emergy Analysis to evaluate sustainability
of biofuels and other renewable energy options in a holistic manner. This is the first time in reported
literature that Emergy Analysis has been used to determine the sustainability of coconut biodiesel. The
Emergy and Embodied Energy performance indicators clearly show that coconut biodiesel is not a
sustainable alternate source of energy for the Fiji Islands.


title: Analysis of past concussions and current health measures: Long term impacts of concussion on cognitive, emotion and general health scores in a cohort of adults 40-65

contributor: Montelpare, William (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Doucette, Tracy (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Baker, Joe (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Montelpare, William (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Doucette, Tracy (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Baker, Joe (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Harper, Therese (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Hsiao, Amy (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 99 application/pdf PUBLISHED

abstract:
Not only is there a higher prevalence of concussion in junior, amateur and professional sport, but
societal knowledge about concussion is greater than ever before. Current concussion research
looks to prevent, manage and treat concussions. Little research has been done on the long-term
impacts of previous concussions on adults relative to quality of life, cognitive decline, current
health status or psychological well-being. Based on previous research on impacts of concussion it
is anticipated that there will be a relationship between older adults with a history of concussion
and scores on measures of cognitive functioning. As such the purpose of the present study was to
predict cognitive failures using The Cognitive Failure Questionnaire (CFQ) in a sample of
individuals drawn from the general population to determine the influence of concussion history,
self-reports of measures of perceived health and quality of life and sex. Data were collected using
a web-based survey in the general population of individuals, aged 40-65 years. Five surveys were
presented to the general population with varying response rates that ranged from 108 to 130
respondents, respective of each survey. The results indicated that scores on the Cognitive Failures
Questionnaire were predicted differently by reporting characteristics on the Short Form Health
Survey 36 (RAND SF 36) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) for individuals that
reported history of previously diagnosed concussion. The results indicated that scores on the
Cognitive Failures Questionnaire were predicted differently by reporting characteristics on the
RAND SF 36 and the PHQ for individuals that reported history of previously diagnosed
concussion. These results are intriguing in that they suggest that while not necessarily causal,
there appears to be a relationship between concussion history and reporting on quality of life and
perceived health surveys.


title: An examination of factors associated with physical activity among youth in Prince Edward Island

contributor: Murnaghan, Donna (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Bryanton, Janet (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Leatherdale, Scott (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Murnaghan, Donna (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Bryanton, Janet (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Rodgers, Wendy (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 77 application/pdf PUBLISHED

abstract: Background: The youth population of Prince Edward Island (PEI) is one of the least active in all of Canada (Colley et al., 2012). The social factors that influence youth physical activity (PA) behaviours are not well understood. There is a body of evidence which suggests there is a relationship between social influences and higher levels of PA; however little is known about the specific influential factors themselves. The purpose of this study was to identify if social factor variables selected based on the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) and applied post-hoc, were associated with PA as defined by the 2010 CPAGL, in grades 5 to 12, and whether the resulting behaviour was affected by school level and gender (Janssen & LeBlanc, 2010). Methods: The study consisted of secondary data analysis of the Physical Activity Module of the School Health Action, Planning, and Evaluation System (SHAPES) PEI project, which collected self-report data from 4833 students in 58 schools across PEI. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the variance between gender and within school level, as well as the strength of the association between social factors on youth PA. Results: There was a significant relationship between students meeting the 2010 CPAGL and the number of peers who were physically active. Students’ level of self-efficacy was significantly associated with meeting the 2010 CPAGL, as was students’ overall perceptions of the relationship between academic performance and participation in PA; additionally, male students were found to be significantly more likely to meet the 2010 CPAGL. Conclusion: The findings support the social cognitive concept that peer influence impacts PA behaviour. The findings also support the importance of self-efficacy to youth being engaged in PA. A more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the school policies and youth behaviour may assist in the development of effective interventions to support increased levels of PA.


title: The utilization of EMS by children and youth with mental health complaints

contributor: Zhang, Michael (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Goldstein, Judah (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Zhang, Michael (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Goldstein, Judah (Examination Committee Member)

contributor: Carter, Alix (Examination Committee Member)

format: electronic 120 application/pdf

abstract: Children and youth Emergency Department (ED) and hospital based MH (MH) service use is increasing in Canada and the United States. This may extend to the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) setting. Our objective was to describe trends and characteristics of EMS utilization by children and youth with MH complaints