title: Classification via reconstruction using a multi-channel deep learning architecture

contributor:
Wang, Ti (author)
(Silver, Daniel L.) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: Deep learning is a sub-area of machine learning which uses stacked layers of Restricted  Boltzmann Machines (RBM), a type of stochastic associative arti cial neural network,  to develop multi-layer generative models. In previous work, Deep Belief Networks, a  supervised approach of deep learning architecture (DLA), has been used to achieve  two-channel learning in practical problems. In this research, our goal is to achieve  multi-channel learning with purely unsupervised DLAs.  We develop an unsupervised multi-channel DLA which is composed of an RBM  associative memory network and multiple stacked RBM sensory channels. It learns  associative representation from two or more input channels, meant to simulate hu-  man sensory modalities, such that input at one channel will correctly generate the  associated response at the other channels and vice versa. In this way, the system de-  velops a form of supervised classi cation model meant to simulate aspects of human  associative memory.  Empirical studies show that an RBM with back- tting can perform as well as a  Boltzmann machine with less training time. Non-paired examples can improve over-  all performance of a multi-channel DLA. An unsupervised DLA with back- tting is  able to achieve multi-channel associative learning if it has su cient computational  capacity. Unsupervised DLA models are shown to perform at the same level of ac-  curacy as equivalent supervised back-propagation networks, and they have a better  ability to di erentiate representative features from noise. The empirical results pro-  vide con dence that unsupervised DLAs are able to build su ciently accurate models  for multi-channel situations.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Interrelations of mother-child relationship harmony, maternal personality features, and history of childhood trauma in high psychosocial risk families

type: Text Dissertation/Thesis

contributor:
Webster, Anna (author)
(Symons, Doug) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

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

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: The present study addressed the relations between an adult’s history of childhood trauma, their personality functioning, and the quality of relationships they have with their own children. Participants were eleven mothers and their 2-to 7-year old children, who were seen during a laboratory visit and then again during a home visit. Measures consisted of observations of maternal sensitivity and child-parent attachment security and self-report measures of affective lability, borderline symptomology, and history of childhood maltreatment. In addition, adults were engaged in a story-telling task, and transcripts were coded for indicators of borderline symptoms. This research found a positive correlation between maternal sensitivity and attachment security, negative relations of these relationship indices with affective lability and particularly anger, but no relations between relationship indices and neither borderline symptoms nor history of childhood maltreatment. The narrative task, however, contained many indicators of borderline symptoms and abuse for those participants who scored high on these respective self-report measures. These findings suggest that there are a number of challenges for high psychosocial risk mothers in terms of their own trauma history, personality functioning, and relationship harmony with their own children.

abstract: Psychology


title: In the cold and near the edge: Hypoxia tolerance, seasonal site fidelity, and communal hibernation in a peripheral population of wood turtles (Glyptemys insculpta)

contributor:
White, Travis Brian (author)
(Herman, Tom) (Thesis advisor)
(Avery, Trevor) (Thesis advisor)
(Pulsifer, Mark) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: Herein, I examine two aspects of overwintering ecology of wood turtles (Glyptemys insculpta) in Nova Scotia, Canada. The research was conducted in a region that supports a large population of G. insculpta despite being located near the northeastern edge of the species’ range. Using radio telemetry, I monitored turtles across two consecutive winters to investigate microhabitat properties that are critical to hibernation in G. insculpta. The sample population overwintered in a range of habitats; some different from those reported elsewhere in the species’ range. Conventionally, wood turtles rely on highly oxygenated rivers, and have been previously described as hypoxia-intolerant. Data from this study indicate that wood turtles are capable of surviving dormancy in hypoxic oxbows. Accordingly, I propose that G. insculpta is a hypoxia-tolerant species, and further hypothesize that a diversification of overwintering strategies may allow the local population to adapt to environmental stochasticity associated with life at the edge of the species’ range. I also examined communal hibernation and seasonal site fidelity and show the first known accounts of male-female congregating, mating, and synchronized spring emergence in G. insculpta, and suggest that communal hibernation is linked to increased mating opportunities. Using historical telemetry data for a subsample of mutual turtles, long-term patterns in seasonal site fidelity revealed that among adult females, differing life history strategies may exist. Although migratory females are often viewed as outliers by decision makers, the survival and genetic contribution of these ‘risk takers’ may be critical to local populations, and ultimately effect evolution of the species. Above all, the findings have implications for conservation in that they warrant a new definition of critical overwintering habitats for G. insculpta, and highlight why the dismissal of outlying seasonal movement data can result in inadequate protection of corridors between hibernacula and nesting sites.

abstract: Biology


title: Movement ecology of songbirds during fall migration in southwestern Nova Scotia

contributor:
Woodworth, Bradley K. (author)
(Taylor, Phil) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: How migratory songbirds negotiate barriers they encounter en route can have important implications for a successful migration. I monitored departure decisions and movement behaviours of three songbird species during fall migration at the northeastern edge of the Gulf of Maine using an automated telemetry array stretching 350 km from southwest Nova Scotia to southern Maine. Nearly half of birds radio-tagged in southwest Nova Scotia temporarily relocated within the landscape before continuing migration on a later night. Of 47 migratory flights recorded, 57% were oriented across the Gulf of Maine, whereas the other 43% were oriented northwest, away from the barrier. Fifteen individuals were later detected flying over the Bay of Fundy and/or coast of Maine, 145-340 km west-northwest of southwest Nova Scotia. Local weather conditions explained some variation in the timing and direction of migratory flights, whereas temporary relocations were more likely a response to poor coastal stopover conditions.

abstract: Biology


title: Dyadic coping, attachment styles, and well-being: The implications of the type of coping encouraged by one’s partner

contributor:
Finkelstein, Andrea Leigh (author)
(Holmberg, Diane) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: The current study examined the association between adult attachment styles and  the way in which one encourages one’s relationship partner to cope with stress.  Additionally, the association between the coping strategy one partner encourages the  other partner to use, and the stressed partner’s psychological and relational well-being,  was examined. Couples (N = 199) completed an online survey, evaluating coping  strategies encouraged, as well as measures of attachment, and relational and  psychological well-being. Analyses were conducted using a statistical macro for SPSS  called Process (Hayes, 2012), which allowed for path analyses of both moderation and  mediation models, as well as combinations of these two models. Although there was little  evidence of mediation or moderated mediation, results suggested that the type of support  encouraged was associated with the support giver’s attachment style, and the type of  coping encouraged by the support giver was associated with the support seeker’s  psychological and relational well-being.

abstract: Psychology


title: A critique of John Milbank's Theology and Social Theory

contributor:
Andrea, David Joel (author)
(Brackney, William) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: My  purpose  in  writing  this  thesis  is  to  critique  John  Milbank’s  claims  in  Theology  and  Social  Theory  (1990),  which  are  to  the  effect  that  secular  social  theory  is  founded  upon  religious  principles,  which  if  true,  opens  the  possibility  of  a  theological  critique  of  secularism  from  a  Christian  perspective.  The  method  by  which  I  shall  do  this  is  by  extracting  the  main  lines  of  his  thought  while  subjecting  them  to  critical  remarks  by  others  and  myself  where  necessary.  Theology  and  Social  Theory  will  be  the  main  text  for  exegeting  Milbank,  but  some  of  his  other  writings  will  be  engaged  when  applicable,  and  the  writings  of  the  people  he  interacts  with  will  be  used  to  flesh  out  and  corroborate  Milbank’s  account.  My  conclusion  is  that  Milbank  has  made  an  important  contribution  to  contemporary  theology  because  he  forcefully  shows  that  Christian  theology  can  reassert  itself  as  an  intellectually  respectable  discipline  capable  of  providing  its  own  understanding  of  reality  and  its  own  solutions  to  problems  of  contemporary  life.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: (Sur)passing judgement: An argument for judges' contribution to democratic representation in the process of judicial review

contributor:
Rogers, Charlotte (author)
(Ramsay, Marc) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: Within legal political philosophy, arguments for and against judicial review are generally differentiated by their approach to democracy. Objections emphasise that the institution precludes citizen participation in political decision-making, while defences claim it protects the fundamental rights necessary for an operational democracy. Both approaches are undermined by the reality that there is no universal agreement within most societies on whether participation or other fundamental rights are most crucial to democracy. Consequently, this thesis takes a different approach to defending judicial review. It evaluates the judiciary’s representative qualifications and establishes the “synecdoche model” to demonstrate how judges’ non-elected status actually allows them to operate as part of the people in a way that is somewhat uncharacteristic for legislators. On these new grounds, judicial review is shown to be democratically legitimate: By reflecting the national consciousness rather than appeasing the potentially transient majority, judicial review protects rights against legislative infringement.

abstract: Politics


title: Multi-scale habitat selection and fledging success of Black-backed and American Three-toed Woodpeckers in managed forest landscapes

contributor: (Villard, Marc - André) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: Timber harvesting alters the distribution of habitat types across a landscape, typically  replacing old forest stands with younger ones and reducing amounts of dead wood. In  northern New Brunswick, Black-backed and American Three-toed Woodpeckers are  expected to be especially sensitive to forest management due to their dependence on dead  wood. For this study, I 1) quantified the characteristics of habitat selected by these  woodpeckers during the breeding season; 2) related nest success of these species to those  habitat characteristics; and 3) investigated differences in habitat selection and nest  success between the two species. Results suggest that these two woodpecker species  select recent cut at finer scales and mature forest at broader scales, and that the selection  of this habitat leads to greater nest survival. I recommend the retention of potential nest  substrates within cutblocks and emphasize the importance of maintaining the larger  blocks of older forest required as foraging habitat.

abstract: Biology


title: New high and low resolution numerical models of the tidal currents through the Digby Neck passages

contributor:
O'Flaherty-Sproul, Mitchell (author)
(Karsten, Richard) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: Nova Scotians require electricity to be generated from renewable sources, and tidal  power can play a role in ful lling this desire. Understanding the energetic tidal  currents in the Bay of Fundy is a necessary step in implementing tidal power systems.  Numerical models are a vital tool to increase our understanding. This thesis describes  a high-resolution numerical model of Grand Passage, Petit Passage, and Digby Gut,  which will be used for the characterization of the turbulent   ows found there.  This thesis describes the development process used to create two grids for use in  a numerical model. In the Finite Volume Coastal Ocean Model (FVCOM) the grids  (one with a resolution of 15 meters and the other with a resolution of 125 meters) are  combined with high resolution bathymetry and coastlines to create accurate models.  Both 2D and 3D simulations are run for time periods of a few days to 40 days. The  model results were validated against data collected from multiple Acoustic Doppler  Current Pro ler (ADCP) deployments that were part of the South West Nova Scotia  Tidal Energy Resource Assessment. The models do an excellent job of predicting tidal  elevation and basic tidal   ow. The 15 meter resolution model also predicts intra-tidal    uctuations in the   ow at the correct locations and times. However, the magnitude of  the   uctuations are generally too large, which can drastically increase the maximum  speed modelled at a given location. In Digby Gut, where the bathymetry was of  lower quality, the simulated tidal currents did not compare as well to the observed  data. An analysis of the residual   ows in Grand Passage was completed. The spatial  structures seen in the numerical model are linked to the timeseries data. The same  behavior is observed in the observations indicating coherent spatial structures exist  in Grand Passage.  The thesis illustrates that high-resolution numerical modeling can be used to pre-  dict the   ow in an energetic, dynamic   ow environment. Further, it shows it is  possible to use a high-resolution numerical model to glean insight about physical pro-  cesses of tidal   ows. Finally, the thesis concludes that increasing the accuracy of the  modeled turbulence and   uctuations remains an important next step.

abstract: Mathematics & Statistics


title: Reflections of nature in the mirror of capitalism: The commodification and consumption of nature in Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie Dillard

contributor:
Jackson, Karen (author)
(Shields, Chris) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2010

abstract: This study examines the way in which Annie Dillard’s engagement with nature in Pilgrim at Tinker Creek reflects many of the distinct structures and values of the capitalist modes of production. Contrary to critics who see her approach as offering a progressive analysis of the human-nature relationship, the thesis argues that Pilgrim at Tinker Creek re-stages the reifying processes of production and perception basic to capitalist modes of production. The capitalist critiques of György Lukács, Fredric Jameson, and Jean Baudrillard form the theoretical underpinnings of this study. Through the work of these theorists it is shown how Dillard constructs nature as a commodity and subsequently consumes it. The works of Wallace Stevens, Wendell Berry, and Gary Snyder are used to represent productive literary counterpoints to Dillard’s mode of engagement with nature.

abstract: English & Theatre Studies


title: A strategy for training Atlantic Canada leaders for short-term mission

contributor:
McDonald, Michael William (author)
(McMullin, Stephen) (Thesis advisor)
(Committee member)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

format: electronic electronic

subject: LE3. A278 2013

abstract: Short-term mission is a growing phenomenon in North America, including  Atlantic Canada, but is there a training method that will make it more effective?  This thesis examines a theology of short-term mission, responds briefly to the  major concerns of the critics and considers a proper definition of this subject matter. It  also explores the benefits of short-term mission, while recognizing a need for further  training, partnerships and cultural sensitivity. A detailed biblical analysis of short-term  mission in scripture is provided. The research explores the present situation among  Baptists in Atlantic Canada and the data are interpreted to determine implications.  Finally, intentional courses of action are offered for training youth leaders in  Atlantic Canada to be effective in leading their youth ministries in short-term mission.  This calls for important standards of excellence within the suggested training modules.  The survey among youth leaders at the Springforth 2012 youth ministry  conference in Moncton, New Brunswick provides a deeper insight into the type of  training required to further develop the youth leadership among Baptists in Atlantic  Canada and to secure the legacy of the young people within those churches.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Conceptualizing and operationalizing honesty and integrity in postgraduate medical education

contributor:
Hazelton, Lara D.K. (author)
(Sargeant, Joan) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: The teaching and learning of professionalism is recognized as an important component of medical education in Canada at both the undergraduate and postgraduate level. The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada has developed a competency framework which guides postgraduate specialty training in a number of areas including professionalism. This thesis draws upon qualitative interviews with Residency Program Directors in major Royal College specialties at medical schools in Canada, seeking to understand how respondents operationalize and conceptualize honesty and integrity, key components of professionalism as defined in Royal College documents. Findings indicate that honesty and integrity are seen as integral to professionalism, but are often difficult for Program Directors to define. Honesty is understood primarily as truth-telling, while integrity is seen as more as a trait of the individual. Uncertainty exists as to whether honesty and integrity can be taught and learned in residency, or whether they are immutable. Implications for the teaching and learning of professionalism in postgraduate medical education are explored.

abstract: Education


title: Perceptions and understanding of activity messages: Is there a difference between 'exercise' and  'physical activity'?

contributor:
Farmer, Suzanne (author)
(Shields, Chris) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: Despite policy and messaging efforts at both a national and local level, physical inactivity  is a public health problem. The content of activity messages has received little  examination in relation to their effectiveness. This study explores public understanding  of the terminology used, either ‘physical activity’ or ‘exercise’, and how these terms may  influence social cognitions associated with behavior change. Phase one employed both a  multivariate analysis and a thematic content review of 184 adults’ responses to an online  questionnaire. Phase two reviewed interview responses from three experts regarding  their interpretation of the terms ‘physical activity’ and ‘exercise’, and how their  understanding influences promotional efforts. Results showed no overall effect of  terminology on social cognitions, and only 31% of questionnaire respondents indicated  that the two behaviours were different. This confusion was further evidenced in the  commonalities between interpretations of the terms. Experts all indicated ‘physical  activity’ as the terminology of choice due to it being a more inclusive term. Overall, this  initial research shows that the public does not clearly understand the difference between  ‘physical activity’ and ‘exercise’, and hence, the choice of terminology in activity  promotion does not appear to be a crucial one.  Keywords: physical activity, exercise, messaging, promotion, social cognitions

abstract: Psychology


title: Antennal sensilla morphology and olfactory physiology of the brown spruce longhorn beetle, Tetropium fuscum (Fabr.) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)

contributor:
MacKay, Colin Andrew (author)
(Hillier, Kirk) (Thesis advisor)
(Sweeney, Jon) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: Tetropium fuscum (Fabr.) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), is an invasive forest pest from  Europe, established in Nova Scotia, Canada, since at least 1990. Semiochemical-baited traps  are used to monitor its spread and research trials using pheromone-mediated mating  disruption show good potential for its control. The two main objectives of this project were  to compile a morphological survey of the sensilla present on the antennae of T. fuscum, and  to create a response profile for 13 antennally-active compounds using single sensillum  recording (SSR) following identification of olfactory sensilla. The third objective was to test  the attraction of T. fuscum to linalool in field trapping experiments. We observed nine  different morphological types of sensilla on the antennae of T. fuscum: three types of sensilla  chaetica (SC), sensilla trichodea (ST), two types of sensilla basiconica (SB), grooved peg  sensilla (GP), thick-walled sensilla (TW), and Böhm bristles (BB). Males and females did  not differ significantly in number or distribution of any morphological sensilla types except  for SC1. Based on ultrastructure, SC1 were proposed to be contact chemoreceptors, and SB  and ST were determined to be the olfactory receptors. Single sensillum recordings were  obtained from 102 sensilla and grouped into 49 physiological types based on the compounds  that elicited a response. The male-produced aggregation pheromone, fuscumol, accounted  for 25% of all responses on its own, and 43% of all responses total. Males and females did  not differ significantly in the number of sensilla that responded to fuscumol, either alone or  with other compounds. There were no clear distinctions between sensilla that responded to  host volatiles (HVs) and those that responded to non-host volatiles (NHVs) as has been  observed in other insects. Linalool elicited responses in the greatest number of physiological  sensilla types. Despite the number of sensilla that responded to linalool, racemic linalool and  (R)-(-)-linalool did not significantly increase trap catch either on their own or in combination  with the standard T. fuscum trapping lure. There have been very few SSR studies done on  cerambycids, and our investigation was the first to test pheromone components as well as  HVs and NHVs.

abstract: Biology


title: Context-aware driver assistance system

contributor:
Alghamdi, Wael Yousef Mohammad (author)
(Shakshuki, Elhadi) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2012

abstract: In the last few years, significant improvements have been made in the area of vehicular communication systems. In fact, vehicle-to-vehicle communication is considered a key concept for keeping roads safe. An efficient implementation of these systems is necessary to ensure the safety of driving situations and to reduce the rate of collisions. This thesis proposes a Context-Aware Driver Assistance System that links drivers with the physical environment surrounding them. This is achieved by developing a vehicular warning system that assists drivers to avoid collisions and improve their response times. The proposed system architecture consists of a set of components to process the user’s request, and to provide responses and advices when needed. These components include communication, knowledge exchange, knowledge update, and context-history. Also, the proposed system includes other processes such as context-history manipulation, hazard detection, and hazard detection control. Over all, the main goal of the proposed system is to reduce the number of car accidents and improve driver’s decisions. The NXT Robotic environment is used to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed system.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Web census iPad application

contributor:
Kashian, Azadeh (author)
(Trudel, Andre) (Thesis advisor)
(Benoit, Darcy) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 . A278 2012

abstract: The World Wide Web has become a virtual world beyond our computer screen that  occupies much of our time. Although we know how this virtual space can be used, we do  not know what it looks like. In this thesis, we present the first iPad application to  visualize the distribution of publicly accessible web servers across the IP address space.  The application is comprised of three sub-systems: database, web service and iPad  App. The database is stored on an Acadia University server, and the web service is a  connecting layer between the database and the iPad App. Due to the size of the Web, we  were faced with significant problems during the implementation of this project. The main  issue was the size of the full resolution map, which cannot be displayed on a standard  computer screen. To address this issue, we first reduced the resolution of the graph by  mapping multiple adjacent IP addresses to a single pixel. Then, we designed three level  views in the iPad App that represent different sizes of the map of the Web.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Synthetic studies on benzo-fused five-membered N/O heterocycles

contributor:
Chou, Ting-Yi (author)
(Jha, Amitabh) (Thesis advisor)
(Jha, Mukund) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2012

abstract: Numerous benzo-fused five-membered N/O heterocycles serve as skeletal frameworks in many commercially important compounds and natural products. This thesis deals with three types for benzo-fused five-membered heterocycles: indoles, isoindoles and benzofurans.  In Chapter 1 of this thesis, we report a simple synthesis of mono-, di- and triacetylated derivatives of indoles starting from indolin-2-ones in two steps. First, the indolin-2-one moieties were triacetylated by acetic anhydride in the presence of DMAP. Subsequently, enzyme-catalyzed mono-deacetylation yields 1,3-diacetyl-2-hydroxyindoles, whereas use of mild basic conditions results in double deacetylation producing 3-acetyl-2-hydroxyindoles.  In Chapter 2, synthesis of 5-substituted 6,6a-dihydroisoindolo[2,1a]quinolin-11(5H)-ones via [4+2] imino Diels-Alder cyclization from N-aryl-3-hydroxy-isoindolinones and N-vinyl lactams under Lewis acid-catalyzed anhydrous conditions is reported. Non-cyclized products were formed when N-(2-substituted-aryl)-3-hydroxy-isoindolinones were used with N-vinylpyrrolidone under identical conditions.  In Chapter 3, a green methodology to synthesize 2,2-dialkyl-2,3-dihydrobenzofurans from cheaply and abundantly available phenols and 2,2-dialkylacetaldehydes under microwave conditions is reported. This one-step conversion has several advantages such as very short reaction time, solvent-free conditions and use of an economical catalyst.

abstract: Chemistry


title: Geophysical modeling in the Cabot Strait - St. George's Bay area between Cape Breton Island and southwestern Newfoundland, Canada.

contributor:
Zsámboki, Louis (author)
(Barr, Sandra) (Thesis advisor)
(Dehler, Sonya A.) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2012

abstract: Magnetic and gravity data from northeastern Cape Breton Island, southwestern Newfoundland, and the intervening Cabot Strait area were compiled, and a series of maps displaying magnetic (filtered total field, first and second derivative, and downward continuation) and gravity (Bouguer anomaly onshore, free-air anomaly offshore and horizontal gradient) information was generated using UNIX-based GMT software. With further constraints from previously published seismic reflection interpretations and detailed maps of onshore geology, six 2D subsurface models were generated with GM-SYS 4.2 2D modeling software. Based on geophysical signatures, anomalies in the offshore were matched to onshore faults, rock units, and pre-Carboniferous terranes. The Cabot Fault separates Grenvillian basement to the northwest from peri-Gondwanan Aspy/Port-aux-Basques/Exploits basement to the southeast. The Cape Ray Fault merges with the Cabot Fault so that Notre Dame subzone rocks do not extend into the Cabot Strait area. Linear magnetic anomalies extending from the Port-aux-Basques subzone in southwestern Newfoundland to the Aspy terrane of Cape Breton Island are inferred to be a result of orthogneissic plutons in Aspy/Port-aux-Basques/Exploits basement rock. Magnetic halos in the Cabot Strait appear to be caused by Silurian-Devonian plutons like those in the Burgeo Batholith. The Aspy-Bras d’Or terrane boundary is located north of the Ingonish magnetic anomaly which was resolved into five components representing Late Neoproterozoic dioritic and granodioritic plutons of the Bras d’Or terrane and the Ingonish Island Rhyolite. The Bras d’Or terrane can be traced to the Grey River area in southern Newfoundland. A model in the Bay St. George sub-basin showed Grenvillian basement characteristic of the Humber Zone, overlain by the salt-bearing Codroy Group and clastic Barachois Group.

abstract: Earth & Environmental Sciences


title: Population dynamics and morphological variation of the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes rubricosa Bangs) on Prince Edward Island

contributor:
Curley, Frances Rosemary (author)
(Dodds, Donald) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1983

abstract: Red fox populations were studied on Prince Edward Island from 1972 to 1980. Fur harvesters, mainly trappers, contributed 2,147 carcasses for tabulation of sex, age and placental scars. Subadults composed 63.5% of the total sample, and recruitment rates were similar in six of eight years. Litter size averaged 5.22. Low indices of productivity were correlated with competition in a high density population and low prey densities in a low density population. Approximately 18% of adult females were barren and preharvest mortality of juveniles, cause unknown, averaged 23%. Sex ratios were even overall, but males were prevalent among subadults and there were more females among adults. There was no indication of increased vulnerability of any sex or age class at any time during the harvest season. Increased reproduction did not prevent a population decline when harvest pressure was high. Limited land mass and lack of ingress of subadults to P.E.I. increases the impact of human mortality to foxes. Mange and rabies are absent and there was no evidence of disease in foxes, although distemper occurred in racoons and skunks. Peaks of conception and whelping in ranched foxes were March 1 and April 22 respectively, and few wild or ranched vixens appeared to breed before February 1. Aging foxes through epiphyseal closure of the humerus was most reliable. Red foxes on P.E.I. are large, and have 15% melanistic mutants.

abstract: Biology


title: Cheloniochronology of the NS Blanding's turtle: Analysis of plastral growth increments and climate correlation.

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

subject: LE3 .A278 2012

abstract: In this study, I developed a novel approach to better understand growth and  climate variables influencing growth in the endangered Blanding’s turtle (Emydoidea  blandingii). Using growth increments on plastral scutes, we were able to determine that  the Nova Scotia Blanding’s turtle’s plastron increments are forged annually, that in their  12 scutes, the sets of rings in each pair of scutes are symmetrical while the 6 sets of pairs  are asymmetrical, and that they fit a Von Bertalanffy growth model. Using  dendrochronology software, I used techniques and software common to the discipline of  dendrochronology and dendroclimatology to illustrate that plastron growth increments  crossdate well, are positively influenced by the previous year’s May temperature and  current year’s August temperature, and negatively influenced by the previous year’s  October temperature. Plastron growth-rings were not significantly influenced by  precipitation. This information will be useful for further research in modelling climate  change impacts on growth, for paleoenvironmental reconstruction, for fluctuating  asymmetry studies and to better understand the relationship between growth, clutch size  and hatchling success.

abstract: Biology


title: The Biblical Jubilee

contributor:
Pyke, G. Daniel (author)
(Wooden, Glenn) (Thesis advisor)
(Committee member)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2012

abstract: As people shaped by the narrative of Scripture, we must likewise use Scripture to frame our understanding of the world around us. World Vision reveals that the food crisis in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia is affecting twelve million people. Increasing food and fuel costs, on-going conflicts, a lack of investment in small farmers and live-stock rearing, land degradation, and recurring rain failure all combined to ripen the region for a severe famine.1 Canadian Baptist Ministries estimates that nearly half of the children in the world live in poverty; excluded from essential services like water, basic health care, adequate schools and protection. In extreme cases, their childhood is ripped away from them and they must struggle each day to survive.2 Coffee is one of the most profitable and most traded commodities on the planet, second in trade only to oil and gas; but conventional coffee growers only receive 3 cents from a $1.50 cup of coffee sold in North America. Ninety percent of coffee’s profits go to traders and retailers.3 In January 2009, the Fredericton Food Bank served 669 families; by January 2011, that number had climbed to 895.4 These numbers represent the millions of people in our world that struggle to meet their basic needs. However, the numbers allow us to separate ourselves from the individuals. By focusing on the numbers, we become distanced from the reality that these are people created in the image of God (Gen 1:27), people who need release from oppression and injustice, people who need release from cycles of debt and poverty, and people who need to experience the hope that Yahweh calls his people to provide. While the numbers above reflect the reality of a broken world, the Biblical narrative points God’s people to respond. This thesis will explore a component of the Biblical narrative that calls for a release-proclaiming response.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: A personal meeting scheduling agent

contributor:
Hossain, S M Mozammal (author)
(Shakshuki, Elhadi) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2012

abstract: Scheduling meetings while trying to accommodate many individual agendas is time-consuming and problematic. As such, there has been ongoing research to automate the scheduling process. This thesis views meeting scheduling as a strategic agreement problem. In a strategic environment, negotiation strategies play a crucial role in concluding the negotiation process and bringing a collaborative win-win result that satisfies all parties. This thesis proposes a software agent for scheduling meetings and also proposes a negotiation protocol for the proposed agent. The agent is designed to assist users to make rational decisions and select appropriate negotiation strategies to avoid or resolve meeting conflicts automatically. The proposed agent is designed using a model-based and goal-based methodology which communicates with other agents using the proposed negotiation protocol. The proposed negotiation protocol is designed by using the Simultaneous Response Protocol. The Naïve Bayes model of Maximum Likelihood Estimation is used for evaluating meeting invitations and making decisions which is subject to user preferences, participants’ status, past experiences and schedule availability.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Beyond institutions: Youth corrections in Ontario under the Youth Criminal Justice Act

contributor:
Robertson, Katherine (author)
(Thomson, Tony) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2012

abstract: Youth justice has been controversial in Canada since the first Juvenile Delinquents Act from the early 1900s. When Canada introduced the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) in 2003, one of the primary changes was the movement to de-institutionalize young offenders. The purpose of this research was to examine the availability and assess views on the effectiveness of community and institutional programming that is available to pre- and post-conviction young offenders with a particular focus within Ontario. Statistics show that the numbers of youth being incarcerated is down since the promulgation of the YCJA, and the use of alternative sentences for young offenders appears to have increased. In both Canada and Ontario, of those admitted to correctional services, a smaller number and percentage were being admitted to secure custody as well as open custody facilities. Those who are spending time in custody facilities tend to be youth who are serving slightly longer sentences than the demographics show from the years prior to the YCJA.  Open-ended interviews with correctional staff in Ontario revealed many innovative programs that assist youth who are involved in criminal activity. Themes identified in the interviews include: public perceptions, defining and determining effectiveness of the programs, funding, development and implementation of new programming, and deinstitutionalization. Across all the interviews there is considerable support for keeping the majority of youth offenders out of the facilities, making concessions for exceptions to that rule who need it both for the safety and security of themselves and the public, and for those who benefit from the structure provided within such facilities.

abstract: Sociology


title: Atlantic sturgeon in the inner Bay of Fundy during summer: Population characteristics and local and transboundary movements:

contributor:
Wehrell, Sierra Anne (author)
(Dadswell, Michael) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: The aggregation of Atlantic sturgeon in Minas Basin is only recently studied and the marine migration of the species is poorly understood. During the summers of 2004-2010, 1186 Atlantic sturgeon were captured and 665 were marked with external tags. The length range of measured Atlantic sturgeon was 458mm-2380mm FL but mostly lengths <1800mm FL were caught. The average weight the sturgeon was 23.5kg and a weight-length relationship of LogW=3.32LogFl-5.71, R2=0.949 was determined. A fin ray was removed from 299 sturgeon for aging. Ages ranged from 4-54 years. A von Bertalanffy growth model predicted a slow growth rate and large maximum size (K=0.01, L∞=520.9cm FL). Total annual mortality (A) for the aggregation was 9.5-10.9%. Twenty-two marked sturgeon were recaptured during this study and valid population estimates for the aggregation each year were 6307-11153 sturgeon. Atlantic sturgeon tagged in Minas Basin that have been recaptured during the same year suggest a clockwise migration pattern during summer from the north to the south of the Basin. Long distance recoveries of tagged sturgeon in subsequent years after tagging have been from the Saint John River, N.B. (19), one off the coast of Cape Cod, MA., and one off of Gaspe, QC. Atlantic sturgeon tagged elsewhere and recaptured in Minas Basin during 2007-2014 include two from the Penobscot River, ME, and two from the Hudson River, NY.

abstract: Biology


title: Communicating hope and optimism: Support mechanisms for beginning teachers

contributor:
Beaudry, Patricia Ann (author)
(Corbett, Michael) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: Although many school jurisdictions have adapted the first-year experience and provide coaching for beginning teachers, review of current literature reports a high turnover of novice teachers who leave the profession within the first few years of teaching. This is a huge loss to the individuals themselves, the teaching profession, and the education system. This research study examined a current induction program in place for beginning teachers at a private school in Alberta where there is a significant turnover rate among beginning teachers each year. Four teachers were selected for case studies. My initial findings suggest that participants placed emphasis on program quality that included mentoring and practical support from their current administration team. In this thesis, I argue that what is important is the form and quality of induction that helps first-year teachers develop their skills and eases their transition from student to professional teacher.

abstract: Education


title: Spatial ecology, behaviour and critical winter habitat of the endangered ivory gull (Pagophila eburnea) in the Canadian high Arctic

contributor:
Spencer, Nora Catherine (author)
(Mallory, Mark) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: The ivory gull (Pagophila eburnea) is an endangered seabird that spends its entire year in the Canadian Arctic environment. In the past three decades, threats from various sources have contributed to an apparent >70% decline in the breeding population. As outlined in the Canadian ivory gull recovery strategy, information on annual movements is critical to obtain information of where and when they move as well as how they use these sites during breeding and non-breeding seasons. In 2010, satellite transmitters were attached to 12 ivory gulls on Seymour Island, NU providing up to four breeding seasons of tracking data. This is the first quantitative, multi-year tracking study conducted for the ivory gull in Canada, analyzing annual movements, distribution and critical habitat. Analysis of migratory behaviour revealed great individual variation of fall migratory route selection (with the surprising observation that the Greenland coast was not used), where travel was slow. In spring, gulls migrated quickly back to the breeding area using only Davis Strait. Data from Norwegian ivory gull satellite tracking as well as a Canadian at-sea seabird observation database were used to augment data from Canadian ivory gull satellite tracking data, with the goal of comparing winter distributions of ivory gulls from different populations and through time. Kernel density estimates (KDE) suggested that Davis Strait is critical winter habitat for Canadian and international populations. On average, Canadian ivory gulls preferred ≥50% sea ice concentration and were rarely found out over open water. Sea ice plays a large role in both migratory movements as well as determining winter habitat for this species. In winter, ivory gulls likely use breeding hooded seals (Crystophora cristata) as a main food source and by association follow and scavenge from polar bears (Ursus maritimus) in Davis Strait. I recommend that this area be considered for critical habitat and consequently protected for the ivory gull (both Canadian and international birds) for the monitoring and recovery of this endangered species.

abstract: Biology


title: Relationships, emotional distress, and caregiving helplessness in high-risk mother-child dyads

contributor:
Wilson, Katherine E. (author)
(Symons, Doug) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: The present study examines the interrelations of depression, caregiving helplessness, and  relationship indices in a sample of high psychosocial risk female caregivers and their  young children (n=20). Attachment security, maternal sensitivity, and overall relationship  harmony were based on home observations, and measures of depression, affective  lability, and caregiving helplessness were self-report. The Adult Attachment Projective  was used to determine adult attachment representation. Contrary to the first hypothesis,  depression was not significantly negatively related to relationship measures, except when  analyses were restricted to moderately depressed caregivers or those with children at least  four years-old. The second hypothesis, that caregiving helplessness would mediate the  relations between depression and relationship measures, was supported. Contrary to the  third hypothesis, there were no differences between unresolved and resolved caregivers  on any measures. There was some evidence that dismissing caregivers reported less  emotional distress than preoccupied caregivers. The implications of these findings are  discussed.

abstract: Psychology


title: A distinct twenty-first century Pentecostal hermeneutic

contributor:
Purdy, Harlyn G. (author)
(Wooden, Glenn) (Thesis advisor)
(Committee member)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: This thesis argues for a distinct Pentecostal hermeneutic that utilizes several  interpretive methodologies and a quadradic strategy. Chapter one argues for the  legitimacy, and necessity, of a distinct Pentecostal hermeneutic on the basis of academic  activity and challenge, a changed world environment, and the need for Pentecostals to  make a theological contribution to the Christian Church. To lay a foundation and identify  Pentecostalism’s ethos for the proposed hermeneutic chapter two traces Pentecostalism’s  roots. Chapter three lays a biblical foundation by examining Acts 2 and 15, Matthew  1:23, John 10:34-36, and Jude. The early Pentecostal hermeneutics, especially that of D.  Wesley Myland, are examined in chapter 4 to establish a starting point for the  hermeneutic argued in the thesis. Chapter five argues that a distinct twenty-first century  Pentecostal hermeneutic must engage interpretive methodologies that enable meaning  and meaningfulness to emerge through a dynamic interaction between text and  interpreter. This thesis argues that a legitimate role for the traditionally dominant  historical-grammatical method must be limited. Chapter six presents the quadradic  strategy that embraces a dynamic interaction between Scripture, Spirit, Community, and  Trained Leader. This strategy allows for meaning and significance to emerge as text,  Spirit, and interpreter engage in creative interaction so that original/authorial intent no  longer has absolute control over meaning. Scripture’s primacy is maintained and  Scripture and community establish appropriate limitations on the interpreter’s creative  imagination. A Bachelor level course to teach the proposed hermeneutic forms an  appendix.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Comparitive growth and movement analysis of headstarted Blanding's turtles (Emydoidea blandingii) at Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site of Canada

contributor:
d'Entremont, Nicole Denise (author)
(Mockford, Steve) (Thesis advisor)
(Smith, Duncan) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: With an estimated population of 350 adults, the population of Blanding’s turtles in Nova  Scotia is listed as Endangered both federally and provincially. Headstarting is used in  Nova Scotia as part of the recovery program and is designed to improve the survivorship  of turtles at an early life history stage. In 2009 and 2010, the largest Blanding’s turtle  headstarting effort to date in Nova Scotia was undertaken with eggs collected from  Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site (KNP). These eggs were incubated  and hatched at Oaklawn Zoo, Aylesford, Nova Scotia, and the hatchlings were  subsequently raised in captivity for two years. A total of 154 headstarted turtles were re-introduced  into KNP during the summers of 2011 and 2012. A total of 29 headstarted  turtles released at Atkins Brook were tracked using radio telemetry to study growth and  movement. For comparative purposes, 7 wild incubated turtles were also collected and  tagged for radio tracking. Turtles were tracked weekly from April to November 2012 to  collect movement data and were measured the first week of every month. For the purpose  of analysis, turtles were divided into 4 groups: 2009-headstarts, 2010-headstarts, wild  (3yrs), and wild (5-7). A pairwise comparison found a difference in movement rates  between groups. Wild (5-7) turtles were found to have higher movement rates than all  other groups (P < 0.1 for all cases). Headstarted and wild (3yrs) had similar movement  rates. An ANCOVA test found no significant difference (F = 0.534, df = 3, P = 0.660) in  growth rates of headstarted and wild turtles. These results suggest that headstarted turtles  are able to adapt to the wild successfully, but further study on the long-term survival of  headstarts will be important to determine the overall success of the headstarting program  in Nova Scotia.

abstract: Biology


title: Generalizing mutual clusters: A measure of cluster compactness

contributor:
Alobaidan, Khatoon (author)
(Chipman, Hugh) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: Previous work (Chipman & Tibshirani, 2006) introduced the idea of a mutual cluster  (MC) as a group of points that are closer to each other than to any other outside points.  An MC can be characterized in terms of its diameter (the maximum distance within a  group) and the nearest outside distance (distance to points outside the group). In this  thesis, we study the properties of a mutual cluster and generalize the original de nition of  an MC. New computational methods are developed. We start by relaxing the de nition  of an MC, using the \decision ratio" ( ), the ratio of the nearest outside distance to the  diameter. The decision ratio will give information about the separation between clusters.  A simpli cation of the mutual cluster algorithm, classic.MC, is developed to work with  a particular group of points, rather than as part of a bottom-up hierarchical clustering.  We then propose a new technique to de ne a mutual cluster. This technique is based  on quantiles and data depth. It checks whether a given group of points is an MC, and  calculates a modi ed decision ratio ( ). This method was introduced to be less sensitive to  sample size and outliers. Illustrative examples are used to compare both methods. Lastly,  we conduct a designed experiment to study the e ects of: sample size (n), dimension (p)  and the separation between cluster means ( ), and to evaluate the performance of the  decision ratios   &  .

abstract: Mathematics & Statistics


title: Atlantic Sturgeon Acipenser oxyrinchus seasonal habitat occupancy and survivorship in Bay of Fundy, Canada

contributor:
Beardsall, Jeffrey W. (author)
(Stokesbury, Michael) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: Atlantic Sturgeon are highly migratory anadromous fish spending a large proportion of their adult life at sea. Despite Atlantic Sturgeon’s potential for commercial exploitation very little is known about their marine ecology. Bycatch data suggest they occupy depths up to 100m in the Gulf of Maine, but fishery-independent depth distribution observations have not been reported for Atlantic Sturgeon in high-northern latitudes. I used pop-up satellite archival tags to observe two consecutive years of Atlantic Sturgeon marine depth distribution in the Bay of Fundy. Data indicated that Atlantic Sturgeon spend >90% of summer in depths <10m. Depth varied from 0m to 120m during autumn and spring migration months. Atlantic Sturgeon overwintered at depths between 40m and 100m in the Bay of Fundy. Gaining an understanding of Atlantic Sturgeon marine ecology is important for protecting migration corridors and aggregation areas. Overfishing as well as habitat degradation and fragmentation have decreased many Atlantic Sturgeon population abundances to a fraction of their historical levels. Canadian and American federal laws mandate live-release of Atlantic Sturgeon bycatch in marine waters, but very little is known of the fate of those fish after release. Trawl fisheries have the greatest incidence of Atlantic Sturgeon bycatch, but post-release survival has not been studied in these fisheries. I used acoustic telemetry and physiological data to measure survival rate and stress after 60-minute trawl tow in a Minas Basin summer fishery. Data indicated post- release survival is at least 94%, which is sufficiently high. Blood lactate was increased in trawl-captured fish with handling time being a significant factor for increasing blood lactate. Minimizing time-on-deck for Atlantic Sturgeon bycatch should be a priority to mitigate physiological stress and improve chances of post-release survival.

abstract: Biology


title: The view From within: Toward a social critique of Nova Scotia’s retreating welfare state

contributor:
Pickering, Murray (author)
(Powers, Ann Marie) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: Over the past 20 years in Nova Scotia, the number of people on Income Assistance (welfare) has fallen dramatically and the rates have declined in real dollars. The explicit policy goal of the Department of Community Services is to support and encourage —often through punitive measures—social assistance recipients to enter or re-enter the workforce as quickly as possible. The deleterious effects of this ‘work-first’ approach have been subject to extensive quantitative and qualitative study in many jurisdictions across Canada and the USA.  This new approach to social assistance is contiguous with the changes in the labour market in Nova Scotia, which has seen average wages and job security decline, while profits and income inequality rise. Absent, is a coherent social critique to this neo-liberalization of employment and unemployment. Without critique--without a means to comprehend and collectively combat the social basis of individual suffering--individuals are left with inadequate individual solutions to socially created problems.  The purpose of this study is to listen carefully to the critical insights for reform articulated by some citizens of rural Nova Scotia who have extensive experience as Income Assistance clients of the Department of Community Services. The goal is to contribute to the creation of a new social critique rooted in the insights and experience of the most socially excluded citizens of rural Nova Scotia.

abstract: Sociology


title: Employment for people with disabilities in Nova Scotia: From the perspectives of service providers and individuals with disabilities

contributor:
Duffett, Emily M. (author)
(Thomson, Tony) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: This thesis examines the barriers to employment for people with disabilities in the province of Nova Scotia from the perspectives of service providers and individuals with disabilities. In response to the Federal report “Rethinking disAbility in the Private Sector,” this thesis uses the researcher’s involvement in an annual Inclusive Education and Employment Symposium to explore the barriers that are present within the political and economic system that limits the opportunities for employment for people with disabilities. From focus group data with Symposium organizers and conversations with Symposium participants with disabilities, I have examined five key issues that were found to be systematic barriers to employment for individuals with disabilities. These are employers’ attitudes, financial barriers and disincentives, lack of community and government participation, individual insecurities because of lack of qualifications and experience as well as continued discouragement, and lack of knowledge about available programs and services. Recommendations for improvement are presented at the end as potential ways to combat these concerns.

abstract: Sociology


title: International volunteerism: A case study of experiences and impacts

contributor:
Campbell, Robin (author)
(Warner, Alan) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .278 2013

abstract: International volunteering engages people all over the world and demonstrates  large impacts in the lives of volunteers when they return home. While numerous studies  have documented significant impacts and some have broadly categorized the nature of the  volunteer experiences, little work has examined the relationship between the nature of the  experiences and the impacts. This interpretive case study of the Nova Scotia-Gambia  Association (NSGA) examines and conceptualizes the relationship between the  experiences and impacts for both recent and past volunteers. It explores the process of  international volunteering through interviews, participant observations, and surveys. The  study assesses the strength of the NSGA volunteer program in developing positive  experiences and impacts while also identifying strategies to keep their international  volunteers continually engaged with the organization after completing their international  project. Results and interpretations are presented in two formats: a scholarly article to be  submitted for publication and a program evaluation to be submitted to the Nova Scotia-  Gambia Association Board of Directors.

abstract: Community Development


title: Distribution of the American eel, Anguilla rostrata, in saline waters of North America

contributor:
Poirier, Luke A. (author)
(Avery, Trevor) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Cairns, David) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2013

abstract: Despite intense conservation interest in the American eel (Anguilla rostrata), there exists no robust data source from which to assess population status of this panmictic species. To address a key information need, eel distribution in saline waters was evaluated by compiling eel count and presence/absence data from 25 saline (i.e. brackish and salt water) surveys involving ca. 238,000 data points between 1959 and 2012. Surveys on the east coast of Canada indicated a virtual absence of capture of American eels in open saline waters; however, US surveys had varied and higher numbers of eels. Eel captures were classified based on exposure to the sea as defined in a habitat atlas compiled by Cairns et al. (2012) that examined preferred eel habitat compiled from eel fisheries data. Trends showed that the majority of eels occupy sheltered and semi-exposed saline waters; in particular, those waters of large bays and sounds in the USA. Mean depths and kilometers-to-land indicate that eels prefer shallow, near-shore waters. Preliminary Poisson, Negative Binomial, and binary models were constructed to explore relationships between eel numbers and exposure categories including continuous variables of depth, kilometers-to-land and latitude. Model fit, data sensitivity, and the effect of zero inflation were examined. Both trend analyses and modeling, in their current state, provide significant evidence of broad spatial and temporal habitat usage in saline environments by the American eel, and identify sheltered coastal waters and semi-exposed bays and sounds as primary saline habitat. The analysis presented here provides a methodology for investigating temporal and spatial questions such as habitat usage for other geographically widespread organisms that suffer from a lack of data.

abstract: Biology


title: Leadership formation in the global context

contributor:
Lehtonen, Teemu J. (author)
(Brackney, William) (Thesis advisor)
(Committee member)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: This Doctor of Ministry thesis was written as a documentation of a development  program and its evaluation. The new service developed was an online theological semi-nary  for Christian leaders in developing countries.  Philosophical foundations for the program development were explored first. The  history, nature and goals of theological education were investigated, and it was concluded  that a quality theological education aims at building ability for theological thinking. This  way, an extended theological education program may advance development of indige-nous  and self-theologizing churches. Theologically and practically the best approach for  carrying out a program for Christian leadership formation is based on ideas of theological  education by extension (TEE).  The new service was developed for ESL/EFL students (English as a second or for-eign  language), and thus, a vast repository of educational materials became available and  could be utilized with ease. The service was delivered on Moodle learning platform, and  it was promoted mainly through Google advertising.  The analysis of student data proved that the new service made theological educa-tion  more accessible to the target group. Students' typical rationale for studying theology  was the need to update their Biblical-theological knowledge and to learn skills for effec-tive  ministry. Thus, the new educational opportunity was a meaningful option for appli-cants.  Analysis showed also that online courses were relevant to students, and they en-gaged  with reflective thinking. As a negative finding, limited access to internet and tech-nology  was a serious constraint for many students. For that reason, interactive power of  online education was not fully exploited. In any case, the majority of applicants got going  with their studies, and expressed consistent learning results and development of profes-sional  skills, eventually making a difference in their ministry context and community.  Findings of the study can be utilized for further development of alternative models  in occupational education, as well as assessing options for alternative ways to carry out  leadership formation programs in a rapid church growth and multiplication setting.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Having ado with Lancelot: A chivalric reassessment of Malory's champion

contributor:
Brillinger, Jesse Michael (author)
(Whetter, Kevin) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2010

abstract: his thesis advocates an approach to Malory's Morte Darthur that is focused on the  presentation of knights and chivalry. The thesis argues that a study of the Morte  which considers the historical practice of English knighthood offers a unique  approach to understanding Malory's text and the treatment of Lancelot.  The thesis offers an overview of fifteenth‐ century English knighthood and  considers the Morte alongside other medieval works concerned with chivalry such  as the alliterative Morte Arthure and the Awyntyrs off Arthure. Taking Malory's  Pentecostal Oath as the standard for chivalry in Le Morte Darthur, the thesis  reassesses the status of Lancelot's knighthood. Particular attention is given to  chivalric virtues and the ways in which chivalry is compromised by Lancelot's  involvement with Guinevere, both Elaines, and with Urry. The thesis concludes that  a sustained chivalric critique reveals Lancelot as a flawed hero torn between love  and the stringent demands of chivalry.

abstract: English & Theatre Studies


title: Upholding the Haudenosaunee Great Law of Peace or defying Canada’s rule of law?: An examination of English-Canadian newspaper depictions of the April 20th, 2006 police raid of a reclamation

contributor:
Gracey, Anthony R.J. (author)
(Sacouman, Jim) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2010

abstract: This thesis examines English- Canadian newspaper depictions of a police raid of the Haudenosaunee Reclamation Movement that was successfully thwarted by the latter. The movement is comprised of members of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy of the Grand River seeking to reclaim Kanonhstaton, a tract of land among many in southern Ontario that has been unlawfully dispossessed from the Confederacy. Although the movement is a political one, English- Canadian newspapers depicted it as criminal in nature thereby justifying the failed raid. It can be shown that said newspapers constructed a criminalized portrait of the movement through the use of repetition of similar words with negative connotations so as to create emphasis, or a preferred reading of the movement as criminals, while strategically silencing the important context of the movement‘ s motivation for action. Arguing that these preferred readings and strategic silences are ideological attempts to justify acts of coercive violence by the Canadian state, this work suggests that left unchecked and unchallenged they will only serve to strengthen the system of colonialism in Canada.

abstract: Sociology


title: The biology of the amphipod Corophium volutator (Pallas) in the Western Minas Basin, Nova Scotia

contributor:
Gratto, Gary William (author)
(Bleakney, J. Sherman) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 1979

abstract: The amphipod Corophium volutator (Pallas) was studied at six intertidal transects, five in the Minas Basin and the sixth on the Minas Channel. Samples were taken every four weeks from May 1977 to October 1978 along transects at Kingsport, Starrs Point, Evangeline and Avonport. Transects at Scots Bay and White Water were only sampled from May to August in 1977 and 1978. The densities along transects were compared to each other and to similar time periods at the same transect when such data were available. The greatest densities occurred at Avonport, peaking at 20,000 to 22,000/m2 in 1977 and 1978. Males comprised from 8.5% to 18% of the population throughout the year. Egg-bearing females were present from April to October in 1978 with the greatest percentage, 56%, occurring in May. Three cohorts a year were evident on size-frequency histograms. Two were present for only a two to three month period in summer and produced the third cohort in August. The latter cohort overwintered and produced two successive cohorts, in June and July of the following year. Growth rates ranged from 0.06 mm/week in winter to 0.21 mm/week in spring and 0.38 to 1.34 mm/week in summer and early autumn. Yearly production of 21.64 g/m2 was calculated using IBP method 2 (Crisp, 1971). The production to biomass ratio was 2.64.

abstract: Biology


title: Geology and mineral occurrences in the Faribault Brook area, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

contributor:
Tucker, Mattew A. (author)
(Barr, Sandra) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LA3 .A278 2011

abstract: The Jumping Brook Metamorphic Suite (JBMS) is located in the western part of the Aspy terrane near Cheticamp, Cape Breton Island. In the Faribault Brook area, the JBMS hosts numerous volcanogenic massive sulphide-type occurrences and hence has been an exploration target for more than 100 years. Geological mapping and core logging carried out in the summer of 2007 focused on the JBMS in the Faribault Brook area, where the unit consists of the (1) Faribault Brook metavolcanic (FBMV) unit, composed mainly of metabasalt, with minor felsic volcanic and metasedimentary/ metatuffaceous rocks, (2) Barren Brook schist (BBS), mostly medium- to coarse-grained metasedimentary rocks with minor amounts of felsic metavolcanic rocks, and the Dauphinee Brook schist (DBS), fine- to medium-grained metasedimentary rocks. Based on a locally demonstrable intrusive relationship with the ca. 550 Ma Cheticamp Pluton and related diorite, as well as previously reported U-Pb ages of ca. 551 and 546 Ma for detrital zircon in the BBS and DBS, the JBMS is considered to be Late Neoproterozoic in age. Known mineral occurrences are mostly associated with silicified metarhyolite and mafic metavolcanic rocks of the FBMV unit, and with Silurian rhyolite porphyry. The metabasalt of the FBMV unit locally preserves pillow structures and is characterized by depletion in light rare-earth elements indicative of N-MORB affinity. The chemical characteristics combined with the quartz-rich and turbiditic characteristics of associated sedimentary rocks suggest deposition in a back-arc basin setting. The age of the Jumping Brook Metamorphic suite suggests that no directly correlative units are known in the Aspy terrane or Bras d’Or terranes, but such rocks may occur elsewhere in Ganderia in the New River terrane in southern New Brunswick and in central Newfoundland.

abstract: Earth & Environmental Sciences


title: Foraging semipalmated sandpipers Calidris pusilla L.  and their major prey Corophium volutator (Pallas)  on the Starrs Point mudflat Minas Basin

contributor:
Boates, John Sherman (author)
(Smith, P.C.) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3. A278 1977

abstract: Semipalmated Sandpipers, Calidris pusilla (L.) and their predominant prey, the amphipod Corophium volutator (Pallas)   were studied on a macrotidal mudflat ( 6 km2 ) at Starrs Point (45o08'N, 64o22'W), Minas Basin during summer in 1978, 1979 and 1980. The sandpipers stop in this area and store energy prior to a presumed non-stop flight to wintering areas as distant as South America. Bird densities attained     over 300/ha and numbers of C. volutator exceeded SO,OOO/m2 locally. Aspects of the amphipod's biology examined include size, energy content, abundance, distribution and behaviour. Collected birds provided information on origins, sex ratio, flight range, fat content and diet. Their distribution, abundance, feeding behaviour and the effects of predation upon C. volutator were also studied. The effects of ingestion rate, prey size and time available for daylight feeding were considered in relation to energy intake, expenditure, fat deposition, and length of stay.    Sandpipers fed where their amphipod prey were most abundant. Semi-diurnal tides appeared responsible for behavioural changes of both predation and prey and this factor and the differences in feeding conditions (e.g. daylength and prey availability) contributed greatly to the large cyclic variation in the amount of energy ingested. Fat seemed to be deposited most rapidly over spring tides. Evidence suggesting that the timing of migration is influenced by the same factors was also obtained.

abstract: Biology


title: The doctrine of the cross: A conversation between St. Augustine and John Calvin

contributor:
Heffernan, Robert James (author)
(Brackney, William) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2011

abstract: This thesis explores the convergences and divergences between St. Augustine and John Calvin‟s doctrines of the cross. Although many suggest that Calvin was essentially Augustinian, this paper investigates that assumption. Through an examination of their respective contexts and influential belief systems, the foundational principles and key concepts of their respective doctrines of the cross are surveyed. While appreciating each theologian‟s theological heritage, the author interacts with Augustine and Calvin‟s teachings on the cross before having them interact with each other. As a result, a three-way conversation occurs about the cross of Christ that enables the author to gain insights about the cross from two of the greatest theologians in the history of Western Christianity. At the same time this dialogue reveals the uniqueness of Augustine and Calvin‟s own beliefs on this critical subject to the Christian faith. In conclusion, Calvin is fundamentally Augustinian; however, he goes beyond Augustine at points while also introducing the justice of God into his doctrine of the cross that Augustine did not highlight.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: A call to wholeness: Exploring the contribution of yoga to counsellor education

contributor:
Pittoello, Sarah Ruth (author)
(Sumarah, John) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2011

abstract: The contributions of yoga to counsellor practice and development were explored through  an eight-week yoga course with students in Acadia University’s Master of Education,  Counselling program. Within a phenomenological framework, data was collected from a  series of surveys, focus groups, and in-depth interviews, and the personal reflections of  the researcher. This exploration of the contribution of yoga to counselling education  revealed a call to holistic practice characterized by three interrelated aspects: the form  and structure of practice, present-centered experience, and the fruits of the practice  experienced by the participants, both personally and in their work as counsellors. The  personal reflections of the researcher were shared to complement those of the participants  and further explore the phenomenon. This study was concluded by a discussion of the  phenomenon and the implications of this research to counselling practice, counselling  education and other health-related and helping professions.

abstract: Education


title: Headstarting Blanding’s turtles (Emydoidea blandingii) in Nova Scotia: An investigation of artificial incubation, captive-rearing, and release to natural habitats

contributor:
Arsenault, Lilianne Marie (author)
(Herman, Tom) (Thesis advisor)
(Mockford, Steve) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2011

abstract: The artificial incubation of eggs and headstarting, the captive rearing of hatchlings collected from the wild and their subsequent release to natural habitats, have been used to address the decline of turtle populations. Although, these conservation practices are manipulative and remain controversial, little is known of their effectiveness. This thesis provides an evaluation of the headstarting program for Blanding’s turtles in Nova Scotia by 1) comparing the post-release survival, growth, and movement patterns of headstarted and wild juveniles, and 2) examining the effects of incubation temperature on hatching success, hatchling morphology, and post-hatching growth and their implications for the headstarting program. Headstarted and wild juveniles had similar survival, growth, and movement patterns following release. These findings suggest that headstarted juveniles were able to adapt to release environments and display behaviours similar to those of wild juveniles. However, the post-release analysis presented here is not sufficient to determine the success of the headstarting program for Blanding’s turtles in Nova Scotia. The ultimate goal of headstarting is to increase juvenile recruitment; however, this can only be assessed once headstarted juveniles reach sexual maturity (17-24 yr for Blanding’s turtles in Nova Scotia). All temperature treatments examined here (27.0, 28.0, and 28.5 0.4°C; 28.5, 29.0, 29.5, and 30.0 0.7°C) yielded high hatching success and high post-hatching survival. Therefore, these incubation environments appear suitable for headstarting Blanding’s turtles in Nova Scotia. Fluctuating temperature and near-constant mean temperature influenced hatchling size; however, these effects disappeared by 19 months of age in captivity. Therefore, mean and fluctuating incubation temperature do not appear to affect size at release. Future research should examine the effects of mean and fluctuating temperature on other fitness-related traits

abstract: Biology


title: Base station controlled intelligent cluster-based routing in wireless sensor networks

contributor:
Jiang, Yifei (author)
(Hussain, Sajid) (Thesis advisor)
(Zhang, Haiyi) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2011

abstract: This research aims to design an intelligent energy-e cient routing protocol for a large-  scale Wireless Sensor Network used in a radio-harsh environment. In this research, we  extend and further improve preliminary work on genetic algorithm-based hierarchical  cluster-based routing. The scalable and dynamic topology of a network in a harsh  environment may result in an incomplete graph. A graph becomes incomplete when a  source node selected by the base station has no direct communication link with other  selected source nodes. Therefore, in this work, Dijkstra's algorithm performed at the  base station is utilized to achieve such conversion by generating a complete graph  based on the clusters produced by a genetic algorithm. In addition, an aggregation  method executed on each cluster-head and base station is used to reduce redundant  data. Simulation shows that our proposed protocol has better results in terms of  energy load balancing and energy saving.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Extending the XML compressor Exact with lazy updates

contributor:
Fry, Christopher W. J. (author)
(Muldner, Tomasz) (Thesis advisor)
(Giles, Rick) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2011

abstract: Extensible Markup Language (XML) is a commonly used format for storing struc-  tured data in a cross compatible manner that is also human readable. Unfortunately,  XML stores data using a large amount of redundancy; thereby creating  les larger  than needed. Many XML compressors are specially built to compress XML data.  These compressors have the advantage of reducing the size needed to store XML  data, but the downside is that a compressed XML  le must  rst be decompressed in  order to make changes to it. This thesis outlines a proposed method for updating  compressed XML data while only partially decompressing a  le, which should greatly  speedup the time taken to make changes to a compressed XML  le. The implementa-  tion of the compressed XML updater, called Exact, was tested and the results showed  that Exact performed faster than Qizx, the best known updater of non-compressed  XML documents, by between 348% and 2,730% depending on the document and the  number of updates. Therefore, Exact meets our goal of maintaining a strong com-  pression ratio, as compared to other XML compressors, while providing fast updates  of compressed XML.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Exploring the relationship between Aboriginal ecotourism and community-based development in Haida Gwaii, Canada

contributor:
Whitney-Squire, Kelly (author)
(Colton, John) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2010

abstract: This thesis assesses the effect of historical events on Aboriginal ecotourism and  community-based development in Haida Gwaii, Canada. The establishment of the  Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site in 1988 precipitated  changes in how ecotourism is managed at the islands-wide and community levels. These  changes placed the community in a greater position of power in managing and  controlling development and effectively changed the relationship between Aboriginal  ecotourism and community-based development. The community has used this new  relationship to develop ecotourism products and services that reflect the spiritual,  traditional, and cultural values of the people.  The purpose of this study was to better understand the relationship between  Aboriginal ecotourism and community-based development. Using a case study  approach, qualitative data were gathered in the form of interviews, field journals, and  participant observation. The results of the two month field visit indicate that the key  components of the relationship are: (a) commitment to the community; (b) economic  factors; (c) role of continuity; (d) stakeholder impact; and (e) the role of the Haida  Heritage Centre and the Haida Gwaii Museum. The principle conclusions reflect the  Haida’s approach to community development, the importance of art and language to  ecotourism, and continuity as a driver of Haida culture. The use of the term  “Aboriginal” in this thesis was based on its use in the current literature.

abstract: Kinesiology


title: Development and application of indices of coastal zone eutrophication

contributor:
Ryan, Scott A. (author)
(Roff, John) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2008

abstract: Within this thesis I systematically develop an index of coastal marine eutrophication for the Atlantic coast of Nova Scotia, Canada. A nitrogenphosphorus nutrient-space diagram was constructed, and marine reference condition boundaries established using a combination of Redfield ratios and 90th percentile winter nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations (<60m depth) for an offshore reference area. Allowing the use of seasonal data within the index, the inverse relationship between nutrients and phytoplankton biomass was  accounted for using an amalgamation of the Redfield ratios and the coastal carbon-chlor a ratio. Freshwater nitrogen criteria were then incorporated into the index enabling its application to low salinity estuarine environments. Although presently developed for the Atlantic coast of Nova Scotia, regional calibration  should allow the index to be applied globally. Used in conjunction with a model of eutrophication susceptibility, I feel that a robust framework of coastal zone eutrophication could be established.

abstract: Biology


title: Harsh realities: Maintaining indigenous values in the face of poverty an analysis of the government of Nunavut and the Nisga'a Lisims government

contributor:
Francis, Ryan (author)
(Alexander, Cynthia) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2010

abstract: Indigenous nations in the 21st century are faced with an unfortunate reality: how to maintain Indigenous values and improve their socio- economic position in society. Faced with increasing pressures by national and foreign governments, private sector industries looking to extract natural resources on Indigenous lands and community members in desperate need of employment, Indigenous governments must make difficult choices between values and poverty. This thesis will explore the Government of Nunavut and the Nisga‘ a Lisims Government‘ s struggles to accommodate these two choices. More importantly, the data will demonstrate that because the federal government has reneged on its commitment to provide long- term financial investments necessary for service delivery, the Inuit of Nunavut and the Nisga‘ a Nation have been unable to maintain n their Indigenous values, and as a result, have not been able to improve their quality of life.

abstract: Politics


title: A diary study of dyadic coping in romantic relationships

contributor:
Hobson, Kristina (author)
(Holmberg, Diane) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2010

abstract: Fifty- four couples completed a series of background measures and a five day diary study examining attachment in romantic relationships and coping with daily stressors. Partners were randomly assigned to the roles of support- seekers ( reporting on their own daily stressors) and support- givers ( reporting on coping with their partner’s stressors). The first aim of this study was to add to the literature examining associations between support- seeker attachment dimensions ( i. e., attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance) and coping strategies. Secondly, the study sought to explore the relationship between support- seekers’ coping strategies and support- givers’ well- being, as moderated by support- givers’ attachment styles. Findings suggest that seeking more support from one’s partner as a strategy for coping with stress is positively associated with attachment anxiety, and negatively associated with attachment avoidance. As support- seekers engaged in more emotion- focused coping, fearfully and securely attached support- givers showed increased psychological and relational well- being, while dismissing and preoccupied individuals reported decreased well- being.

abstract: Psychology


title: Movement rates, movement patterns, and home ranges of endangered Blanding's turtles (Emydoidea blandingii) in Nova Scotia.

contributor:
Kydd, Peter Martin (author)
(Herman, Tom) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2010

abstract: Blanding’s turtles ( Emydoidea blandingii) are endangered in Nova Scotia, and listed locally as either threatened or endangered throughout most of their range. Understanding movement and home range dynamics enhances the ability to make informed recovery decisions. I employed GPS technology to increase our understanding of movement and home ranges of 22 Blanding’s turtles in Nova Scotia. In 2007 and 2008, GPS loggers were attached to the carapaces of Blanding’s turtles in Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site of Canada. These loggers successfully documented 2198 point locations, which include the entire active season of 6 turtles and the nesting routes of 14 turtles. Female home range sizes were larger than reported for other populations, while those of males were within the range of those reported elsewhere. Four home range estimators, minimum convex polygon ( MCP), nearest neighbour convex hull ( NNCH), and two kernel area density estimators ( KA) differed significantly. Movement rates ( m/ day) were significantly affected by site, sex, time of day, and time of year, ranging from 208 to 448 m/ day, with females moving at a higher rate than males. The highest movement rates occurred between 04: 00 and 08: 00, whereas the lowest occurred between 20: 00 and 04: 00. The highest movement rates for both males and females occurred in June and July. Temperature, mean daily temperature, and atmospheric pressure had significant positive associations with movement rates, while total daily precipitation had significant negative associations. Successful use of these GPS loggers with Blanding’s turtles suggests a role for this technology in the recovery of other species at risk, particularly those whose size does not permit the use of existing technology.

abstract: Biology


title: Range-wide distribution of mercury in Rusty Blackbirds (Euphagus carolinus) and factors contributing to methylmercury bioavailability at Northeastern wetland breeding sites

contributor:
Edmonds, Samuel Trower (author)
(O'Driscoll, Nelson) (Thesis advisor)
(Committee member)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2011

abstract: Mercury contamination has been proposed as a contributing factor to the ongoing population decline of the Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus). This thesis examines mercury concentration in the species across its range to (1) identify the seasons and regions with the greatest exposure to the species, and (2) determine if mercury represents a realistic threat to the species’ health. Water and potential diet were collected from wetlands with breeding pairs in the region with the greatest mercury exposure—the Northeast—to identify those environmental mechanisms that promote the bioavailability of methylmercury (MeHg).  Mercury burdens to the Rusty Blackbird were assessed using blood and flight feather samples non-lethally collected from across their winter range in the United States and from the east-west limits of their breeding range in Canada and the United States—from the Maritimes provinces and New England states and from across Alaska. Samples from breeding regions had blood mercury concentrations at least an order of magnitude greater than winter Rusty Blackbirds (0.07 μg g-1 Hg) suggesting the dominant exposure period for the species is during the spring and summer. Additionally, Rusty Blackbirds breeding in the Northeast (0.94 μg g-1 Hg) had blood mercury concentrations > 3× that of Alaskan birds (0.26 μg g-1 Hg). Feather mercury concentrations were also greatest in the far eastern breeding range (8.26 μg g-1 Hg) and were similar in all other regions (2.30 μg g-1 Hg), further implying that the Northeast has the highest mercury exposure across the species’ range. xiv  Overall, both blood and feather mercury concentrations for the Northeast exceeded estimated adverse effects levels for the species (1 μg g-1 blood-Hg; 5 μg g-1 feather Hg) supporting the case for mercury as a contributing factor in the population decline for this region.  Water, invertebrates, and blood from adult Rusty Blackbirds were collected at Northeastern wetlands for MeHg and total-Hg analyses, along with six additional water column parameters (dissolved organic carbon [DOC], pH, dissolved oxygen [DO2], conductivity, redox potential, and temperature). Multiple stepwise regression analyses were used to identify the water variables associated with MeHg production and bioavailability. Water variables significantly related to MeHg concentrations for eight taxa, including invertebrates and bird blood, were DO2 (mean part correlate = –0.38), pH (–0.20), and DOC (–0.20). Redox potential (part correlate = 0.76) and DO2 (–0.80) were the strongest significant parameters related to MeHg production (water %MeHg). Of four assumed prey taxa, MeHg concentrations of three were significantly correlated with bird blood-Hg concentrations: Araneae (r2 = 0.49, p = 0.03), Ephemeroptera (0.84, 0.001), and Trichoptera (0.34, 0.05), with Odonata not correlated (0.01, 0.75). An estimated MeHg biomagnification factor of 19 for breeding Rusty Blackbirds was developed using these four prey, with a bioconcentration factor from water MeHg to bird of 10 x 106. An environment having a high bioavailability of MeHg in combination with the species’ high trophic position best explains elevated Hg concentrations in this regional population. xv

abstract: Biology


title: Interfaith dialogue: Charity. A case for convergence in the Muslim and Christian faith traditions

contributor:
Nickerson, Dennis B. (author)
(Brackney, William) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2011

abstract: This dialogical thesis is about interfaith dialogue – primarily between the  Muslim and Christian faith communities within the province of Nova Scotia,  Canada. Christian and Muslim religions make up half of all the world religions.  In Canada Christianity has been the predominate religion throughout its history.  That demographic is beginning to shift, with Islam as the fastest growing faith in  Canada, and Christianity continuing its decline in numbers since the end of WWII.  Canada’s culture is diverse and pluralistic, and heavily depends upon immigration  to maintain its population growth and workforce. Canada has a strong record on  Human Rights and embraces its rich diversity which makes it culturally distinct on  the world stage. This creates a golden opportunity for Muslims and Christians in  Canada to lead the way in effective interfaith dialogue. An understanding of the  theologies and practices of charity in the Muslim and Christian faith traditions is a  significant bridge that promises to lead to lasting peace, effective dialogue, and a  joint working relationship with one another. If done properly, effective interfaith  dialogue between the Christian and Muslim faith communities could potentially  influence and change public policy for the alleviation of poverty within the  broader communities they co-inhabit.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Confronting insecurity: Investigating the processing of emotional support in romantic relationships

contributor:
Fizell, Samantha (author)
(Price, E. Lisa) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2011

abstract: The present study examined attachment and the impact that focused attention has on processing emotional support. Eighty-six female participants were guided through an imagined stressful scenario. Half of the women listened to an audio-recorded message of support, pretending it was from their intimate partner. The others listened to the same message, but were encouraged to focus specifically on signs of unconditional support. The women completed measures to assess their mood and satisfaction with their relationship, and their perceptions of the support received. Their behaviour was also videotaped and coded. The data were analyzed using a series of independent samples t-tests to compare well-being and behaviour across conditions. The magnitudes of partial Pearson correlations between attachment style, well-being, and behaviour were compared in each condition. Results suggest possible interactions between attachment and the various measures dependent on condition, which would have implications for therapies fostering more secure intimate connections in couples.

abstract: Psychology


title: Domain name census

contributor:
Luo, Peng (author)
(Trudel, Andre) (Thesis advisor)
(Benoit, Darcy) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2011

abstract: This thesis studies the relationships between .com and .net domain names and their  IP Addresses. These domain names represent 50% of all the domain names on the web.  The .com and .net domain names were obtained from VeriSign. Note that VeriSign  provides domain names without their IP Addresses. Various methods of collecting IP  Addresses of domain names are discussed. The chosen method is implemented, and the  results are stored in a domain name database and then analyzed. The relationships  between domain names and associated IP Addresses are studied. The IP Addresses in the  domain name database are compared to the IP Addresses of a recent Web Census to  determine if the Web Census missed any servers. A sample of 200 IP Addresses of  missing web servers from the Web Census database is randomly chosen and browsed  manually to determine the reasons for their absence. The error rate of the Web Census  database is then estimated.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Landscape, place and belonging in John Steffler's The Grey Islands

contributor:
Gilbert, Alexandra Katherine (author)
(La Rocque, Lance) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2010

abstract: In this thesis, I analyze John Steffler’s The Grey Islands through  postmodernism, contemporary cultural theory, and pastoralism. In Chapter One, I  place The Grey Islands in the context of the contemporary Canadian long poem,  articulating the role of the lyric style within this literary form. The speaker’s shift in  awareness regarding his own identity in the context of community and the natural  landscape is foregrounded, providing a means to contextualize the typically  postmodern idea of an individual not having a fixed identity. Chapter Two  demonstrates the inherent flaws in the speaker’s ideology through several  contemporary cultural theorists, emphasizing issues with consumerism, modernism  and the ensuing placelessness that is the basis of contemporary ecocritical theory. In  Chapter Three, I investigate the speaker’s perceptions of landscape and rural  communities in the context of the pastoral ideal, foregrounding his understanding of  the community as existing within, and depending upon, the natural landscape.

abstract: English & Theatre Studies


title: Energy efficient virtual backbone using dominating sets for wireless sensor networks

contributor:
Shafique, Mubashsharul I. (author)
(Zhang, Haiyi) (Thesis advisor)
(Hussain, Sajid) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2010

abstract: This research work aims at designing a virtual backbone to provide energy-efficient  communication in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). WSNs need virtual backbones  to support in-network data transmission. In an industrial process control, where sensors are part of a control loop, it is not desirable to deplete all the energy resources  of a sensor node. The aim of this work is to delay the First Node Death in a WSN by  constructing a CDS-based backbone for energy efficient communication. We propose  mr-CDS algorithm, which is based on a distributed algorithm called r-CDS. We focus on three key aspects in our design: (a) a realistic weight matrix, (b) asymmetric  communication links between pairs of nodes, and (c) a role switching technique to  prolong the lifetime of the CDS backbone. We simulate mr-CDS and r-CDS algo-  rithms for performance evaluation. Our simulation model has the following features:  nodes have different initial energies, nodes can use different transmission power levels,  communication links are asymmetric, and networks have variable densities. The sim-  ulation results show the efficiency of the mr-CDS algorithm for both sparse and dense  networks in terms of network lifetime and packet loss. We also implement mr-CDS  in the TinyOS operating system for future testing in real environment.

abstract: Computer Science


title: An examination of the associations of self-determination and self-regulation variables with psychological well-being

contributor:
McColl, Vanessa (author)
(Horvath, Peter) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2010

abstract: The present study explored the relations among self- determination, self- regulation, and psychological well- being. Undergraduate university students listed their most important intrinsic goals as well as their most important intrinsic goal for the academic term. Additionally, students completed measures of self- determination, self- regulation, and psychological well- being. Several kinds of self- determination variables and self- regulatory self- reinforcement variables were associated with autonomous regulation and controlled regulation. The effect of autonomous regulation on psychological well- being appeared to be partially mediated by perceptions of freedom and goal progress on specific intrinsic goals. Results also showed that the effect of controlled regulation on psychological well- being was mediated by a low degree of perceptions of freedom. Results are discussed in terms of how theories of self- determination and self- regulation might be integrated in their explanations of the behavioural antecedents of psychological well- being. Implications for treatment and suggestions for future research are also discussed.

abstract: Psychology