title: Empowerment: equipping in empowering leadership practices for transformation in the East Preston United Baptist Church of Nova Scotia

contributor:
Porter, LeQuita Carol Hopgood (author)
(McNally, John) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

abstract:
This research evolved from a series of Leadership Sessions at the East Preston United Baptist Church (EPUBC) which began in November, 2010. In these sessions, the need for formal  training  in  Leadership  was  identified. This  Thesis explores the  efficacy  of  the Church  equipping with  education  and training, in  the best practices  of  Empowering Leadership, for transformation in the Church. A four-month collaborative qualitative action research project was conducted with core leaders of the Church. The research revealed that Leaders not  only  need  Leadership  education  and  training,  but  they
also need to  be practically equipped, encouraged and empowered through confidence-building support.
The Empowering  Leadership  practices  identified  by  Kouzes  and  Posner  in  their global research, as described in their book, The Leadership Challenge®, were selected to guide the Church’s equipping efforts in  five  exemplary  leadership practices. Leaders are trained to operate at their “personal best,” using all of their gifts, and to equip and empower others to turn “shared values into action.”  Through  training in  these  practices, ministry assignments,  and  feedback,  the  EPUBC  Leadership  Team  has  risen  to  a  higher level  of engagement and empowerment in their Leadership practices.
The  biblical  mandates  of  servant  leadership,  humility,  utilization  of  gifts,  and  the priesthood of all believers, provide support for the Church providing this type of education. This concept  is also  theologically connected to the  Doctrines of Creation  and Humanity, the  Trinity,  and  the  Church. Further,  the  notion  of  liberation,  as  espoused  in  Black Liberation  and  local  Black  Church  theology,  is  advanced  in  the  participative and customized nature  of  Empowering  Leadership.  The  Church  plans  to  carry forward the practices of Empowering Leadership to be used by all.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Preaching tomorrow today: preaching In a postmodern context

type: Text Dissertation/Thesis

contributor:
Gallant, Leo F.J. (author)
(Morrison, Barry) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

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

subject: LE3 .A278 2005

abstract:
Modern  culture  is  always  changing.    The  preacher  preaches  in  a  post-modern culture to an emerging church.  Therefore we have to “Preach Tomorrow, Today.”  Though culture  is  changing  and  shifting  the  message  of  the  Gospel  is  the  same  yesterday,  today and forever.  New methods and styles are being introduced as the next great breakthrough in preaching and therefore need to be evaluated in the light of what has come before.
In  this  thesis  I  have  examined  a  number  of  components  that  are  important  to preaching.  The  first  chapter  overviews  preaching  to  a  postmodern  reality.    The  second chapter treats preaching in a visual culture.  The third chapter shows how imagination may be used in preaching.  Chapter four considers the importance of embodiment in preaching.  The  final  chapter  explores  the  intergraded  preaching  model  of  Kenton  Anderson  for  the preparation  of  the  sermon.    The  appendices  evaluations  which  have  been  completed  by members of Aenon Baptist Church.
Use  of  the  intergraded  preaching  model  had  a  positive  impact  on  the  preacher  in the preparation and delivery of the sermon.  The evaluations indicated a greater degree of sermon relevance and application to the congregation.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Identity crises: is there a role for deacons in 21st century  Convention of Atlantic Baptist Churches?

contributor:
Hanley, Perry Wayne (author)
(Jackson, Richard) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2008

abstract:
Robert E. Naylor in the opening chapter of his book, The Baptist Deacon, asks the following question; “Are deacons needed now?” Citing issues such as a changed world, misunderstood office and leadership tensions, Naylor recognized the traditional deacon - pastor model in Baptist churches is being strained and in some cases replaced.   What is eye opening is that he was writing fifty years ago!
In this thesis, the writer has examined the deacons’ office to its present day application. The first chapter deals with the  scriptural underpinnings and principles of leadership in general, and the eldership or deaconship specifically. The second chapter examines how the Church interpreted this role up to and including the Reformation. The third chapter explores the birth of Baptist office of deacon and seeks to understand its context within Baptist culture. The fourth chapter explores the document trail that leads to the 1905/06 Statement of Union, specifying how Atlantic Baptists have interpreted the role of deacons.
The fifth chapter describes the thesis project whereby three comparably sized congregations were examined in relation to a change in their diaconal or organizational structure. The sixth, seventh and eighth chapters are three case studies of different leadership models.  The final chapter offers a proposed approach to how churches may wish to address the deacon’s role today.
This paper utilizes the New American Standard Bible as the default translation for all Scriptures. The case studies provided the researcher with greater clarity and insight into the thought processes of the churches and their leaders as they wrestled with the deacon role and relevance.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Leading while leaving: the role of a departing pastor in preparing a church for a healthy pastoral transition

contributor:
Lohnes, Peter George (author)
(Randolph Legassie) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2008

abstract:
The  transition  from one pastoral  leader  to another can have a profound impact on a church’s immediate and long term future. Research indicates that the key determinant to the  congregation’s  experience  through  this  period  is  the  manner  in  which  the  pastor leaves  the  congregation.  This thesis  project  examines the  role  a  departing  pastor  has in helping a church experience a healthy transition to a new pastoral leader.
Recently  resigned  pastors and representative  lay  people  from  ten pastorates were interviewed  during  the  pastors’ departure  period. The  interviewer  sought  to  explore  the dynamics  of  the  experience,  gain  a  better  understanding   of  the   process,  and  seek principles  to  assist   pastors  leading   congregations  into  similar  periods  of  leadership
change. These interviews were  evaluated and processed in light of previous research and literature on the subject, as well as biblical examples of leadership transitions.
Chapter  One  explores  why  pastors  choose  to  leave  their  churches  and  how  the reasons for their departure can  affect the  final period  of ministry. Chapter Two examines how  pastors  communicate  their  departure  to  the  ongregation.  Chapter  Three  examines how a pastor personally  and professionally  deals with the transition so he/she is then able to effectively serve during the final stages of a ministry.
Chapters  Four,  Five  and  Six  examine  three  areas pastors  should  address  during their final  period of ministry: relationships (i.e. ministry to the grief process), Ministries (i.e.  ensuring  the  church’s  ministries  are  sustained  through  the  transition  period),  and Future  Considerations  (i.e.  encouraging  and  assisting  the  congregation  towards  a  new
pastoral relationship). Chapter Seven encourages pastors to  consider their congregations’ perspective and to help them plan for a healthy transition process.
Leadership  transitions   are   both   organizational   and  emotional.   They  require intentional,  thoughtful  and  strategic  leadership if  they  are  to  be  completed  in  a  healthy manner.  Even as they leave,  pastors who are  concerned  to  fulfill  their calling  to build  up the body of Christ will seek to give their churches the final gift of a good farewell.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Generating accurate virtual examples for lifelong machine learning

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

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
Humans gain knowledge through lifelong learning.  The same approach can be applied for machine learning.  And thus lifelong machine learning, or LML, is an area of  machine  learning  research  concerned  with  similar  persistent  and  cumulative  nature of learning.  The objective of a LML system is to consolidate new information into an existing machine learning model without catastrophically forgetting the prior information.  One approach is to perform task rehearsal where examples of the new task  are  interleaved  with  examples  of  the  prior  tasks  during  training.   This  avoids the loss of prior knowledge while integrating in the new knowledge.  However,  this approach requires saving old training examples.  Our research focuses on this retention problem of LML for creating a network of knowledge consolidation through task
rehearsal without having to retain training examples from prior tasks.  We investigate two approaches of generating virtual examples adhering to the probability distribution of the prior task examples’ from an existing network model.  We find out that the reconstruction error of the training data given to a trained model developed using Restricted Boltzmann Machine can be successfully used to generate accurate virtual examples from the reconstructed set of a uniform random set of examples given to the trained model.  These virtual examples can be used in rehearsing the prior task knowledge while consolidating new task examples.  We demonstrate that the virtual examples perform better in transferring knowledge to the consolidation of a new related task compared to a set of uniform random examples.  We also define a measure for  comparing  the  probability  distributions  of  two  datasets  given  to  a  trained  network  model  based  on  their  reconstruction  MSEs.   We  demonstrate  the  viability  of this measure for evaluating the accuracy of the generated virtual examples based on their adherence to the prior task examples’ distribution.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Relations of adult attachment using the Adult Attachment Projective Picture System, maltreatment history, depression, and childhood behaviour problems in a very high-risk sample

contributor: Meisner, Jacqueline Marie Phyllis (author)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
Research has examined relations between adult attachment, history of childhood maltreatment, depression, and child behaviour problems. This study examines these relations in a very high-risk cohort of 22 parents and their 2- to 7-year old children. Adult attachment classifications were examined using the Adult Attachment Projective Picture System (AAP), which is a relatively new measure argued to be sensitive to relationship trauma that classifies adult attachment. In this study, no parents were classified as secure, five as preoccupied, four as dismissing, and 13 as unresolved. In addition, parents reported on their own history of childhood maltreatment, depression, and offspring childhood behaviour problems. A risk model approach was used with clinical cutoffs identifying the presence or absence of problems, and cumulative maltreatment calculated as the number of areas of maltreatment scored above cutoff. Results were that adult attachment
classifications differed significantly in cumulative maltreatment history, with dismissive parents reporting low levels of
maltreatment and preoccupied parents reporting the highest levels. However, contrary to predictions, there was no significant difference between attachment groups in either depression severity nor childhood behaviour problems. The results therefore suggest that even in a small sample, preoccupied and unresolved attachment classifications are related to a maltreatment history compounded by significant levels of depression in some cases, but dismissing attachment is associated with low levels of these risk factors. Investigating these factors in a high-risk sample highlights the very high level of risk in these parents in terms of unresolved attachment, maltreatment history, and depression, and supports propositions that the AAP is very sensitive to trauma history.

abstract: Psychology


title: Towards a formative leadership program in a Catholic school

contributor:
Ford, Paul Gordon (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(McLeod, Don) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
Catholic schools in Ontario are rapidly facing the prospect of being rendered unnecessary to the public interest, unsustainable as autonomous educational institutions, and unable to hold on to their distinctiveness and formative practices in the absence of the religious orders. Of the three prospects, the third is more likely the biggest challenge
to longevity because it is a major challenge from within the larger Catholic educational and faith communities. External challenges to Catholic school survivability take a second place to those from within.
Although an exhaustive discourse of wait and see if the inevitable will happen, has permeated Catholic education in Ontario, some stakeholders are partially complicit in the movement towards denominationally-free education.
The complexity of the issues demands a comprehensive set of investigative tools. This researcher uses a mixed-method approach of qualitative and quantitative data, guided by an appreciative lens, to show the challenges facing Catholic secondary school student formation in Ontario. The primary concern is how the formators will continue the process of student formation begun by the founding religious order in this one school.
This researcher argues that the moral, political, and socio-cultural defense of the Catholic schools will indeed remain with a next generation of Catholic secondary school students, who will need equipping to articulate the vision and distinct character of the Ontario experience. What one Catholic school in Toronto is doing to assure this continuity, figures prominently in the argument for stronger formative practices rather than weaker ones.
The absence of religious orders in the Catholic schools, the diminishing influence of the Catholic Church, and the general lack of conviction of many Catholic educators about one distinct identity, must be mitigated by even stronger and more youthful voices who are adequately faith-formed. Opportunities for these young evangelizing persons to share the Church’s missionary efforts and to champion any future cause for distinctive Catholic Christian vision needs to be intentionally and intuitively done in a lay-led formative process.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Attachment and support processes in cardiac rehabilitation

contributor:
O'Bertos, Shea (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Holmberg, Diane) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
The present study examined a moderated mediation model of the potential relationships between dyadic attachment styles, partner support styles, and cardiac patient progress. Questionnaires measuring attachment styles (anxiety and avoidance) and support styles (autonomy support, active engagement, overprotection and active engagement) were administered to 46 couplesparticipating in a 10-week cardiac rehabilitation program. Patient progress was assessed based on program attendance and aerobic endurance. Partners’ attachment styles were hypothesized to predict their support
styles, which were, in turn, hypothesized to predict patients’ progress, depending on their own attachment styles. Hypotheses were tested using Pearson correlations and a computational path analysis tool called PROCESS. Although limited evidence of moderated mediation was found, many components of the model were supported. The patterns of results that arose warrant further investigation, and may serve as a tentative guide for future research aiming to inform and enhance couple-oriented cardiac rehabilitation.

abstract: Psychology


title: Molecular evolution and in silico analysis of the mitochondrial genome of the hermaphroditic swan mussel, Anodonta cygnea (Bivalvia: Unionoida)

contributor:
Chase, Emily E (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Stewart, Donald) (Thesis advisor)
(Breton, S.) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
Doubly uniparental inheritance is a fascinating phenomenon that still holds many mysteries. Two major components currently being explored are (1) novel proteins encoded by the mitochondrial DNA of male and female dioecious species (M-and F-type respectively) and of hermaphroditic species (H-type), and (2) the generally fast rate of evolution of these types of mitochondrial DNA and their different relative rates. These two components are explored herein and prefaced with a thorough literature review of freshwater mussels (order Unionoida), which includes the study species, Anodonta cygnea. Complete mitochondrial DNA of A. cygnea is sequenced and an in silico analysis is conducted on the subject and novel open reading frames (ORFs) of other members of order Unionoida. Relative rates of cox1 mitochondrial DNA within each mitotype are also explored. The complete mitochondrial DNA of A. cygnea consists of 13 protein coding genes, 2 rRNA, and 22 tRNA, and is 15,607 base pairs long, and contains a translocated portion of nad5. Based on in silico analysis, we conclude that the number and topology of transmembrane domains in F-ORFs are maintained across species, and that these contain
signal peptides with corresponding signal cleavage sites. We suggest that H-type mitochondrial DNA is evolving at a slower rate than the F-type and discuss these results in the context of the arenas hypothesis.

abstract: Biology


title: Misplaced: Youth with mental disorders in the Canadian criminal justice system

contributor:
Levy, Brittany (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Moore, Barbara) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
The purpose of this research is to examine perceptions of agents in the social and justice systems, in the treatment of youth with mental disorders and crime. The problem is the justice system is reactive in its structure, there has to be a crime
committed before an individual can seek the treatment and supports within. However, this is a multi-faceted issue. This highlights the idea that more resources for mental health should be found in community programs emphasizing prevention and early intervention initiatives. The literature reveals that positive intervention would be more constructive if placed within early intervention or prevention initiatives, such as school, where most children can be reached. Another conclusion of this research is that more collaboration between social and justice systems is needed. This insight was gained through
qualitative interviewing of social and justice agents and two areas of field observation.

abstract: Sociology


title: Attachment, burnout, and civility in hospital co-workers at Two Time points

contributor:
Clahane, Erin K. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Leiter, Michael) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract: This thesis probes the existence of a moderating relationship of attachment anxiety on the paths between incivility/civility and burnout. 77 employees of a Western Canadian hospital completed a questionnaire (Maslach Burnout Inventory – General Scale, Straightforward Incivility Scale, Civility Scale, Short Work Attachment Measure) at two time points, approximately six months apart. Analyses tested whether paths from the independent variables of co-worker and/or supervisor incivility at Time One to dependent variables of cynicism, exhaustion, and/or professional efficacy at Time Two were moderated by attachment anxiety. Analyses failed to demonstrate the majority of expected associations. However, they revealed the relationship of exhaustion and cynicism with civility was negative for those lower in attachment anxiety and positive for those higher in attachment anxiety. They also revealed that the relationships between cynicism and exhaustion and attachment anxiety were negative for those lower in attachment anxiety and slightly positive for those higher in attachment anxiety

abstract: Psychology


title: Field relations, petrology, and tectonic setting of mafic rocks in the northwestern Aspy terrane, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada

contributor:
Shute, Jonathan (author)
(Barr, Sandra) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
Geological mapping, U-Pb (zircon) dating, and petrographic and geochemical studies in the Chéticamp area of the northwestern Cape Breton Highlands have demonstrated that mafic rocks there include five different components: (1) variably metamorphosed and deformed dioritic (and tonalitic) rocks of the Ordovician Georges Brook and South Branch Corney Brook plutons emplaced in a continental margin subduction zone; (2) gabbroic (to dioritic rocks) of the bimodal ca. 372 Ma Salmon Pool pluton; (3) metamorphosed basaltic rocks of the mid-to Late Cambrian Faribault Brook Formation that
likely formed in a back-arc setting; (4) metagabbroic rocks intruded into the Faribault Brook Formation; and (5) amphibolitic rocks of mid-Silurian age intruded into pelitic, psammitic, and orthogneissic rocks of the Pleasant Bay Complex.  Chemical similarity of the metagabbroic rocks in the Faribault Brook Formation to the higher-grade amphibolite in the Pleasant Bay Complex suggests that these mafic rocks may be related and formed in a mid-Silurian rifted arc. The mafic rocks lack the anomalous depletion in the light rare-earth elements (REE), Nb, Hf, and Ta that characterizes mafic metavolcanic rocks in the Faribault Brook Formation. The original contact between the Pleasant Bay Complex and Faribault Brook Formation is obscured by the Western Highlands shear zone and the ca. 373 Ma. Salmon Pool pluton. Gabbroic and dioritic rocks in the Salmon Pool pluton have similar chemical characteristics to the basaltic rocks of the Fisset Brook Formation, and both plutonic and volcanic rocks were emplaced in a post-tectonic extensional setting. The documentation of arc-related Cambrian and Ordovician rocks strengthens the evidence of correlation of the Aspy terrane with the Exploits terrane of
Newfoundland and New Brunswick.

abstract: Earth & Environmental Sciences


title: “Wait a minute, there’s a sister in there?”: the untold stories of Riot Grrrl critics and revolutionists

contributor:
Ross, Katherine (author)
(Liinamaa, Saara) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract: Feminist academia understands Riot Grrrl as a vital outlet for community support, sisterhood and activism; nonetheless, accounts of racial, class and sexual discrimination by the white, middle class front-runners of the movement have surfaced in the last decade. The hyper-masculine, mainstream US punk subculture struggled with racial and gender diversity, which was the key factor for the creation of Riot Grrrl feminism. In this thesis, I argue that, like its parent culture, Riot Grrrl follows similar hierarchical power structures. I use narrative analysis and standpoint theory to organize the stories of activists through eight semi-structured interviews. Each participant’s relationship to the Riot Grrrl movement is unique and the interviews articulate how they have tailored and rejected dominant ideas and philosophies of Riot Grrrl, and how they highlight concerns relative to them. The study concludes that poor executions of well-intended philosophies can hinder its original purpose. Diversity and inclusion should be vital parts of feminist ideology.

abstract: Sociology


title: Independent hydropower production in British Columbia and the impacts to white water kayakers: Ashlu Creek case study

contributor:
Neville, Michael John (author)
(Colton, John) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
This  thesis  assessed a small-scale  Independent  Power  Project  (IPP) on Ashlu Creek, British Columbia. An interpretive approach was used to examine the relationship between  independent  hydropower  production  and  water-based recreation, as  RoR  (Run-of-River) projects often require similar gradient and flow regimes as those that are sought after by advanced whitewater kayakers, often referred to as ‘creekers’ or ‘creekboaters.’ Key  issues  included outdoor  recreation
and  its benefits,  conflict,  the  role  of  community engagement  in  addressing  conflict,  and  the  evolution  of  the regulatory  environment  that relates to IPP development in British Columbia.
The results of the study indicated : 1) that creekboaters’ needs are very specific to the sport,  2)  mitigation  efforts reasonably maintained kayaking  on  the  Ashlu,  3) mitigation  efforts  did  not  take  into  account  all  sections  of  the  bypass  reach  adequately, 4) more communication can help alleviate some negative impacts, 5) more can be done to reduce impacts on other rivers.

abstract: Community Development


title: Paul's "walking" metaphor and Galatians 5:16

contributor:
Horton, Tyler Aaron (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Zacharias, H. Daniel) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
This study examines Paul’s “walking” metaphor as expressed by περιπατέω in Gal 5:16. The physical basis of this figurative extension is shown to be the act of movement by the motion of stepping either as unmarked for departure or destination or as marked against them. Paul is using περιπατέω to express the active, ongoing, mundane process of living rather than depicting life as a journey. This is a neutral term for going about human life and thus needs further qualification be the key thematic ethical marker as Paul uses it. It is demonstrated that the use of this verb is the same across the Pauline corpus.
This thesis argues that the background for the metaphor is the literal-for-figurative use of περιπατέω that is common to both Jewish and Greco-Roman literature. An application of these findings to Gal 5:16 shows that Paul is calling the Galatians to go about their lives by the empowering presence of the Spirit, although the issue of exactly how this can be done is not overtly addressed

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: John 6:51–59 and the Eucharist

contributor:
Millington, Joseph (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Zacharias, H. Daniel) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
The intension of this study is to determine the viability for interpreting John 6:51–59 as a Eucharistic passage. Scholarship is divided on the topic because of the Fourth Gospel’s omission of the Lord’s Supper in the upper room prior to the death of Jesus. However, this omission does not mean that the Evangelist was anti-sacramental. In fact, what is shown in this study is that the Fourth Gospel has an abundance of sacramental imagery. Even though theological inquiry may be ascertained, the purpose of this study is to create the foundation through using the biblical data for further theological postulation.

The method that is applied is an exegetical study of John 6:51-59 in comparison with other New Testament texts connected with the Eucharist. Chapter one explores the immediate and broad context of John 6:51–59 while conducting a detailed commentary of the passage of study. This is supplemented with a brief discussion on symbolism in the Fourth Gospel. Chapter two is concerned with surveying sacramental imagery in the Fourth Gospel with the purpose of supporting a Eucharistic interpretation of the passage of study. Chapter three surveys various New Testament text that contribute to an
understanding of the Eucharist. These texts are compared linguistically through finding common words and phrases. Chapter four concludes the study with a comprehensive summary of the previous chapters and possible theological theories as to why Eucharistic imagery is present in John 6:51–59.

Through the research provided, it is determined that John 6:51–59 is best understood as a Eucharistic text that highlights the importance of the Eucharist for the Christian community of the Evangelist.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: The architecture of participation: Examining the role and function of a rule of life in a Christian congregational setting

contributor:
Reinders, Philip Frank (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Robbins, Anna) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
This thesis explores the ministry potential of a rule of life to assist the formation of Christians into a people of God, cultivating a robust Christian identity and vocation, lived as a community and rooted in the realities of the God’s triune life. It seeks a ressourcement of the Christian tradition of corporate spiritual formation found in a common or shared rule of life. Along with a biblical and theological study, a qualitative study was conducted to investigate the role and function a rule of life might play within an urban, Canadian congregational setting. The results of this study indicate a positive impact on the spiritual formation of research participants.

The thesis outlines biblical foundations for a rule of life, noting defining themes and contours of a rule of life, showing a discernible composition of rhythms, relationships and renunciations. It sketches out historical-theological touchstones, looking at the post-apostolic church, monasticism, John Calvin, current ecclesial practices literature and the work of  James K.A. Smith’s Cultural Liturgies project. It includes a qualitative action research project, involving research subjects who participated in a shared rule of life for a two month period. The thesis concludes by outlining a ministry model for implementing a rule of life within an urban congregational setting. The ministry model incorporates an ordered spiritual community living a rule of life within, as part of, and for the sake of a given congregation, along with a congregational practice-based program of spiritual formation that mirrors the rule of life.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: The influence of probiotics on symptoms of ADHD and anxiety in childhood in a crossover experimental design

contributor:
Williams, Amanda Jane (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Potter, Susan) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
Research supporting the use of probiotics to treat psychiatric conditions is rapidly accumulating. However, their effect on
childhood anxiety has not been explored, and no clinical trials investigating their effectiveness in treating ADHD symptoms exist. The current experiment explored the effects of probiotics on symptoms of anxiety and ADHD in children by randomly
assigning participants to consume probiotics and placebo in a repeated measures design. Intervention phases were each four weeks in duration, counterbalanced, and separated by a washout period. Children and parents completed questionnaires measuring anxiety and ADHD symptomology before and after each intervention phase. Contrary to the hypotheses, a decrease in ADHD symptoms during Phase 1 occurred in both conditions, and probiotics did not reduce children’s self-reported anxiety more than placebo. However, parents reported significant declines in anxiety symptomology during the probiotic phases only, suggesting that probiotics may provide some benefits for childhood anxiety.

abstract: Psychology


title: Effects of probiotics on memory, ADHD, and anxiety in children

contributor:
Bazinet, Patrick A. (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Potter, Susan) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
There is increasing interest in how the gut microbiome affects cognitive, emotional, and behavioural function via the gut-brain axis. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Anxiety are among the most prevalent psychological disorders experienced by children. Probiotic supplementation is beneficial for gut health and may subsequently impact central nervous system function. The current double-blind placebo controlled trial examined the effects of probiotic supplementation on symptoms of ADHD, Anxiety, and Memory in 48 children. Probiotics were expected to outperform a placebo in reducing symptoms and improving memory function. Although these hypotheses were generally not supported in the main results, exploratory analyses demonstrated a pattern of improvement in ADHD symptoms and memory in a subsample (n= 36) of participants who were not taking stimulant medication. This unexpected finding suggests that
probiotic supplementation may be a beneficial first-line treatment for ADHD prior to the introduction of stimulant medication.

abstract: Psychology


title: Amphibian conservation monitoring using radio frequency identification (RFID) technologies: Local movements, habitat use, and population estimates.

contributor:
Dornan, Robin Gail (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Avery, Trevor) (Thesis advisor)
(Smith, Todd) (Thesis advisor)
(Milton, G. Randy) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
The focus of this study was to assess movement of amphibians around and through a culvert constructed underneath an expressway near Antigonish, Nova Scotia. The culvert was placed to maintain habitat connectivity of a small stream and a wetland upstream, which flow into Antigonish Harbour further downstream. Amphibians, including frogs and tadpoles, were individually tagged using either individually-coded Visible Implant Alpha tags (VIA) or Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tags to describe and quantify movement patterns, primarily to determine if they traversed the culvert. Secondarily,
habitat use and other demographic information of local populations of anurans was gathered and analyzed. Monitoring was accomplished using four capture methods: hand-capturing using nets, trapping with minnow traps, and recording PIT tags via RFID antenna arrays and a portable backpack antenna. Observations or a scanner were used to identify individuals that were caught with nets or in minnow traps. Eight antenna arrays were set up along the stream to monitor movement. A backpack scanner was used to systematically search within the stream, culvert, adjacent terrestrial passageway, surrounding wetlands and wooded area between areas that other methods may not have covered. In total, 235 amphibians
were tagged over 2015 and 2016, and 133 different individuals were recaptured at least once. Five green frogs used the culvert in 2016. The portable backpack reader detected anurans in areas that were not previously monitored using minnow traps and hand-capturing methods, whereas antenna arrays allowed for monitoring over long periods.

abstract: Biology


title: A "morbid attrait to beauty" elements of aestheticism in J. D. Salinger's Glass fiction

contributor:
Robinson, Amy Lynn (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Narbeshuber, Lisa) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
This thesis examines the ways that J. D. Salinger’s later short fiction focusing on his Glass family characters draws on elements of Nineteenth-Century aestheticism as a means of claiming that the artist occupies a privileged spiritual position. Over the course of his Glass family stories, Salinger develops a coherent philosophy of art that emphasises individual
experiences of the beautiful giving meaning to life and art as the means by which these transitory experiences can be given permanence. Via the American Transcendentalist tradition, Salinger gives religious significance to the aesthetic impulse, producing a religion of art out of a love of beauty that posits the artist as a spiritual “seer” (SI 105) and art as a mystical calling. Although this spirituality has often led to interpretation of Salinger’s later work as religious, Salinger diverges from the democratic and levelling elements of American transcendentalism, asserting the spiritually privileged position of the artist while simultaneously contradicting the generally agnostic character of aestheticism, merging the universalistic and individualistic religious faith of the transcendentalists with aestheticism’s fixation on the beautiful. This transforms the artist who pursues aesthetic experience into a “God-seeker,” an aesthetic saint who locates the divine in the actualization of their artistic vision.

abstract: English & Theatre Studies


title: Post-fledging movements and nocturnal flight behaviour of blackpoll warbler and yellow-rumped warbler in the gulf of maine region evaluated using automated radio telemetry

contributor:
Cormier, Dominic (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Taylor, Phil) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
Preface
This thesis is written in four parts. The first is a brief introduction, followed by two chapters formatted as journal articles, complete with their own abstracts. The final chapter presents some additional discussion material and a brief concluding paragraph. All supplementary material is presented in one appendix following the final chapter.

Abstract for Chapter 2:
For migrant songbirds, fine-scale movements during the post- fledging period reflect the need to optimize their occupied habitat to meet food requirements and avoid predation. Broad-scale post-fledging movements also occur but are poorly understood.  They are hypothesized to aid in the development of navigational abilities, to allow individuals to prospect for future breeding territories, or to be the initiation of migration  Using an automated radio telemetry array, I compared broad-scale post-fledging movements of hatch-year and adult Blackpoll Warblers (Setophaga striata) and “Myrtle”
Yellow-rumped Warblers (Setophaga coronata coronata), two closely related species with contrasting life-history strategies (long-distance migrant vs. short-distance migrant) breeding in sympatry. Individuals of the two species were affixed with VHF radios on offshore islands in Nova Scotia and tracked across the entire Gulf of Maine region for up to 72 days after fledging. Departure date and five movement metrics (daily probability of initiating a flight, distance of daily displacement, total displacement, net displacement, and straightness of path) were determined and assessed within the context of two
hypotheses for broad-scale movements: commencement of migration and regional exploration. Hatch-years of the two species exhibited very different behaviours. Myrtles departed their breeding grounds later, made fewer regional scale flights, and were more directional in their movements compared to blackpolls. They had a higher net and total
displacement than blackpolls, even though daily flight distances were similar. Myrtle movements generally terminated along the Atlantic US coast, whereas blackpoll movements terminated throughout the region. These results are consistent with the 8 hypothesis that hatch-year blackpolls are exploring their natal region on a broad-scale and that myrtles are simply leaving the region in the initial stages of migration. Between adult and hatch-year blackpolls, there were no differences in total or net displacement, daily flight length, or the straightness of their path throughout the region, although adults did depart later and move less frequently than hatch-years. Species differences may be related to their respective migratory strategies (long-distance vs. short-distance), where the need to acquire information during post-fledging for navigational purposes is higher for blackpolls than myrtles. Age-related differences may be ascribed to experience.

Abstract for Chapter 3:
Nocturnal flight behaviour in migratory songbirds is influenced by a variety of intrinsic and extrinsic factors including wind conditions. Songbirds select nights to fly with supporting tailwinds for migratory flights. This selection process id further
influenced by age, cloud cover, fuel load, geography, and time constraints. During the post-fledging period, the long-distance migrant Blackpoll Warbler engages in extensive (> 500 km) regional movements in a series of nocturnal flights, but what if anything influences wind selection during this period is unknown. Using automated telemetry and
environmental track annotation services to give spatially and temporally accurate weather variables associated with nocturnal flights, I assessed the relationship between weather conditions and nocturnal flights during the post-fledging period. I hypothesized that adults are less time-constrained than hatch-years (because they have prior knowledge of the region, thus limiting the need for exploratory flights for learning purposes) and predicted that adults would make more efficient use of winds aloft relative to hatch-years.  I hypothesized that under optimal migration theory all individuals become more energy-constrained as they approach migratory departure. I predicted that wind support would increase as the season progressed. Third, I hypothesized cloud cover would impede an individual’s ability to navigate during nocturnal flight, thus affecting wind support aloft. Adults favored more supportive wind conditions aloft than did hatch-years, and all
individuals flew with more supportive wind conditions as the time of migratory departure approached. However, during September, adults favored less supportive winds (negative 44 wind support) compared to hatch-years (average wind support remained near zero) contrary to my predictions, suggesting that time-constraint is not the only factor affecting
wind support. Adults, with both better orientation abilities and previous knowledge of the local landscape relative to hatch-years, may be willing (or able) to fly in less favorable tailwinds because they are more goal-orientated in their movements and with a greater ability to compensate for wind drift to maintain a desired course. There was a small trend of increased wind support with an increase in cloud cover, and on the most overcast nights (cloud cover > 75%), all flights had positive wind support. This suggests that individuals may allow for wind drift in lieu of actively navigating in overcast conditions.

abstract: Biology


title: Interval estimation in risk analysis with nonquantal data

contributor:
Saputra, Dewi Tanasia (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Peng, Jianan) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract: In the literature of low-dose risk assessment, Piegorsch et al.  (2005b) proposed five approaches to construct simultaneous confidence bounds with nonquantal data and they recommended Akahira’s Cornish-Fisher expansion method.  In this thesis, a generalized confidence interval method proposed by Weerahandi (1995) is used to construct simultaneous confidence bounds for low-dose risk assessment when sample sizes arelarge.  We apply small sample asymptotic methods (signed log likelihood ratio and modified signed log likelihood ratio) to obtain interval inference for risk assessment. Simulation studies are conducted to compare their performances based on the coverage probability.  The application of the proposed methods is demonstrated by a real data example

abstract: Mathematics & Statistics


title: Confidence calibration in early year university students: A mixed methods study of factors mediating the relationships among exam item complexity, student knowledge and confidence in that knowledge

contributor: Good, Kimberley Patricia Miriam (author)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
People, in general, tend to	overestimate their own knowledge	and	abilities. Being overconfident as a student may lead to unmet expectations and poor outcomes.  The purpose of	this	study was to	examine	confidence calibration	 (agreement	between	 correctness	and	confidence in answers) in first year	university students. Gender differences	were of interest.	All   students	 enrolled in an introductory psychology course at	 Dalhousie University (Halifax NS, Canada) in	fall  2015 (n=922)
were invited	to provide confidence	ratings (using Likert scales) to their	answers	to allexam questions,	participate in an online survey, and to attend focus groups. Gender differences	were found only in exam 1	(females	were underconfident).
Higher performing groups	of students became more	under confident as the semester progressed, while the lowest performing  students	were relatively overconfident and did not improve their calibration. These results suggest that under-confidence	may	 offer an	advantage for students, and that overconfidence	may in fact, be counterproductive.

abstract: Education


title: Towards a biblical theology of mission to Arabic speaking Muslims: Lessons from the Lebanese evangelical churches' work with Syrian Muslim refugees 2011-2014

contributor:
Ghiz, Michael Joseph (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Das, Rupen) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
This  thesis  seeks  to  develop  a  Biblical  Theology  of  Mission  to  guide  the Lebanese Evangelical  Churches (LEC)  in  their  mission  to Syrian  Muslim  Refugees (SMRs).  The Scriptures unfold the redemptive mission of God as being fulfilled through the mission of the Servant of the Lord, Jesus, who is ruling over all. The church’s mission is to continue Christ’s  mission,  as  Jesus  works  through  His  Spirit  empowered  people,  who  are  to  be  a light to the nations as they obediently preach the powerful Gospel and demonstrate God’s love in works of mercy. The LEC must look to Jesus, His Word, and the guidance of the Spirit for their strategies and methods of mission to SMRs. Jesus and the Apostle Paul are
our models for bringing the good news of salvation to the nations. We must be careful not to adopt methods that distort the Gospel or are deceptive and syncretistic. Interviews with LEC working amongst SMRs showed that before the start of the Syrian war in 2011 there was no strategy and very little mission to Muslims as they focused instead on evangelizing
nominal Christians. LEC pastors often conflicted with Western workers who evangelized Muslims with methods that the LEC believed were more contextual, but did not see much fruit either. SMRs who fled to Lebanon came to LEC for help, and they
responded with relief and outreach programs. This demonstration of love and truth resulted in many SMRs attending  church  and  coming  to  faith  in  Christ.  The  data  collected  from  the  interviews shows the secret of the present harvest was neither the strategies nor the methods of the church or Western missionaries. It appears, rather, to be a season of harvest by the Lord himself, who sovereignly drew SMRs to himself.  The findings of this study will be shared with  LEC to  discuss  what  Christ  is  teaching  us  through  our  experience  of  working  with SMRs and  through  the  Word  of  God.  We  will  pursue  Christ-driven  and  Spirit-given strategies and methods as we face challenges and opportunities of mission to SMRs and all Arabic speaking Muslims.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Monitoring mammal movement through a wildlife underpass and culvert in Antigonish, Nova Scotia using remote camera sensing

contributor:
White, Stephanie Nicole (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Avery, Trevor) (Thesis advisor)
(Milton, G. Randy) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
Nova Scotia is gradually expanding its 100-series highways in response to public safety concerns. Highway expansion intersects with ecologically sensitive habitats, disrupting wildlife movement in the area. To mitigate highway impacts on animals, a wildlife underpass fitted with an atrium, and culvert were installed along with four kilometers of fencing and four one-way control gates. Remote camera sensing was used to monitor mammal activity levels through the passageway and culvert during the construction period of the highway. Activity was quantified through remote camera trapping (remote image capture) and was used to relate variables (i.e. fencing, light intensity, lunar cycle, and seasonal patterns) to wildlife
movement. The wildlife underpass light intensity levels were manipulated by covering the atrium for periods unsynchronized with the lunar cycle.

Cameras captured a total of 362,566 images during 13,960 camera trap days (number of cameras x number of days deployed) and revealed that 11 species used the wildlife underpass and 3 species used the culvert. The most frequent mammals to traverse the wildlife underpass were Porcupine, Erethizon dorsatum (30% of the overall wildlife activity), and
Snowshoe Hare,  Lepus americanus (42%). After fencing was installed, bears accounted for 8% of activity, having never used the wildlife underpass before fencing was present. Mammal activity in comparison with wildlife underpass light intensity changes, indicated increased activity during darker conditions. The relationship of construction activities with mammal activity showed mixed results with some species increasing and others decreasing activity levels. Further research over a
longer study period would build a clearer picture of drivers of mammal activity levels. The findings herein contribute to a baseline for future wildlife crossing structure design in Nova Scotia

abstract: Biology


title: Effects of a probiotic supplement on anxiety and mood balance in adults

contributor:
Mitrovic, Natasa (author)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)
(Potter, Susan) (Thesis advisor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2017

abstract:
Recent research has implicated the gut-brain axis (the link between the gut microbiome and brain functioning) as a potential factor in the etiology of anxiety and negative mood. It has been demonstrated that disturbances in the gut microbiome can produce anxiety-like symptoms in mice, and that probiotics can restore balance to the gut microbiome while also positively impacting behaviour. A few studies have extended these findings to humans with mixed results, highlighting the need for more research.  The current study examined the effects of probiotics (L.helveticus and B.longum)
on symptoms of anxiety and low mood in adults. Participants (n=110) consumed a probiotic or a placebo for five weeks. The mood and anxiety outcome measures included the Profile of Mood States (POMS-2), Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R), Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI-3), Hospital Anxiety Scale (HADS-A), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), and
State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), completed pre and post intervention. Participants in the probiotic condition improved
significantly on the Phobic Anxiety subscale of the SCL-90-R, compared to the placebo condition. However, overall, both
the probiotic and placebo groups improved significantly on most measures of anxiety and mood, with little difference between conditions. Exploratory analyses revealed non-significant trends that were in the hypothesized direction; specifically, participants in the probiotic group who were also taking psychotropic medication or seeing a mental health professional (a small subsample of the participants) showed greater improvements in anxiety and mood symptoms
than those in the placebo condition. Further research examining probiotics as a supplementary treatment to more conventional treatments is needed to confirm these observations.

abstract: Psychology


title: Engaging the senses to occasion thin space and transformation

contributor:
McNabb, Kimberlynn (author)
(Janzen, Carol Anne) (Thesis advisor)
(Committee member)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

format: electronic electronic

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: Congregational life in mainline worshiping communities could be described as comfortable, as worship space is crafted in favoured architecture styles, with likeable decor, liturgies, and hymns. Particularly in Western culture, the thrust of church services is geared to thinking, not feeling or the participation of one’s senses. This paper explores engaging the sensate senses to create moments where barriers are dropped and people can open themselves to an encounter with God. The hope is that the encounter fosters a new way of living and precipitates transformation. Through five sensory events executed during worship, followed up by theological reflection circles, a congregation bears witness to the role that sense and reflection play in encountering thin space and the transformation of one’s perceived thoughts. One will notice that elements of surprise and actions of discomfort led to deeper struggle in meaning-making and reflection -- producing profound ‘Aha’ moments. The experience has left the congregation with a desire to participate in sensory events and reflection circles on a regular basis -- realizing that encountering God is a lifelong affair. Leaders who apply this work will focus on creating space wherein boundaries are broken and individuals or whole communities are presented with the uncomfortable so as to encounter the Holy.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: The role of pastoral example in the formation of Christian virtue

contributor:
Bielby, David (author)
(Brackney, William) (Thesis advisor)
(Committee member)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: Christian spiritual formation has deep pockets. Our biblical inheritance provides  the original and central story that animates and infuses the entire formational journey.  We are also the beneficiaries of nearly two millennia worth of theological reflection that  bear witness to the notion that the Christian mind has always sought to reinforce the why  of spiritual formation, and, only slightly less important, to understand the how.  Each age has garnered rich guidance. Within this overabundance, we may be  slow to realize the greatest human channel of spiritual formation: the person. Not the  ‘celebrity,’ nor even the ‘expert,’ as helpful as he or she may be, but the person. The  formational journey is relational and this thesis will demonstrate that the pastor’s person  has the potential to offer a significant and beneficial model to those in the congregation.  Firstly, this thesis presents New Testament evidence that imitative spiritual  formation bears the imprimatur of God. Following that, it will trace this tradition through  two thousand years of church practice. Then, through surveys and interviews,  contemporary congregants are invited to share their experience of pastoral example.  After that, the thesis reports on a ministry project that the author used to start the  conversation about imitative spiritual formation with his current congregation. Finally, a  conclusion about the entire experience is offered.  The appendices will contain the survey forms and resulting data, along with the  sermon manuscripts and personal letters used by the author to begin the dialogue. They  will demonstrate that when a pastor engages in imitative spiritual formation by providing  an imperfect-but-progressive Christian example before anything else he or she does, both  pastor and people can be changed.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Classifying motion using radio waves and machine learning

contributor:
Schaffner, Scott (author)
(Zhang, Haiyi) (Thesis advisor)
(Silver, Daniel L.) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: Over the past three decades it has become increasingly apparent that the global  population is aging. A larger elderly population and fewer medical professionals  have placed an increasing burden on professionals and families. The most common  injury su ered by the elderly is falls. Numerous solutions that allow a fall victim  to call for help are available, but current solutions require some interaction by the  user to operate and care for the devices. This work investigates the use of machine  learning to analyze radio waves to determine if patterns emerge in the signal that  can be used to di erentiate between fast and slow motions, and then using the same  principles to detect when a person falls or lays down. We present a system that  consists of two antennas to transmit and receive radio waves, software to extract  relevant data from the waves, and a machine learning system to classify motions that  requires no interaction by the elder. Our solution is capable of classifying falls with a  90% accuracy when classifying the falls of one person, and 73% accuracy when using  multiple participants. We conclude that received signal strength alone cannot be used  to create an accurate model, but other characteristics of radio waves potentially o er  better results and are left for future investigations.

abstract: Computer Science


title: A search for significance a study into the reasons why the adult children of members from the Brooklyn and Liverpool United Baptist Churches quit participating

contributor:
Hopper, Steven Brooke (author)
(Wilson, Robert) (Thesis advisor)
(Committee member)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: The Liverpool and Brooklyn Baptist Churches have experienced growth over the  past four years. The increase has primarily been a result of conversions and to a lesser  degree transfers of membership. Surprisingly the church has benefitted very little from  biological growth. Children, who were brought up in the church, attended its programs  and were baptized at a young age, are choosing not to be involved as adults. Their  decision to not return to church is a disturbing trend and needs to be reversed.  Research gathered from interviews with eight individuals, who attended one of  the two churches as children but no longer regularly attend as adults, showed that with  the exception of one person, all left church in their mid-teens. This decision was based  more on rebellion than any other factor. Unlike their decision to leave, their reason for  not returning was well thought out. They have serious reservations about attending a  church that, from their perspective, is not active enough in meeting the social needs of  local residents. Their rationale for not returning, for the most part, was unique when  compared with other literature.  The biblical and theological testimony shows that the church should practice a  holistic mission that involves displaying social responsibility and concern for Christian  witness. Practicing this intertwined mission means that the two churches will need to  broaden their vision. By following a specific plan they can change their culture and place  themselves in a better position to retain their youth.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: The relationship between attachment style and cognitive processing of emotionally supportive material

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

subject: LE3 .A278 2014

abstract: The current study explored the relationship between attachment style, focused attention, and how people process emotional support. Participants were asked to read a supportive message, pretending it was from their romantic partner. Half of the participants were encouraged to focus on the supportive content, while half read the message naturally. Participants’ eye movements were monitored as they read in order to assess what elements of the message they were focusing on. After, participants completed measures that assessed relationship and emotional well-being. Results showed that more anxiously attached participants spent longer reading the message in the focused attention condition as compared to those lower on anxious attachment. Participants higher on attachment avoidance experienced decreased relationship well-being in the focused attention condition, compared to those lower on avoidance. Findings suggest that attachment style and focused attention play a role in the perception of support, which, in turn, can predict well-being.

abstract: Psychology


title: Petrology and lithogeochemistry of host rocks to the Bisha and Harena Cu-Zn-Au volcanic hosted massive sulphide deposits, Eritrea

contributor:
Massawe, Ronald J. (author)
(Peng, Jianan) (Thesis advisor)
(Committee member)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2012

abstract: The Bisha mining camp is hosted by the Neoproterozoic Western Nafka Terrane  of the Arabian-Nubian Shield in western Eritrea, and contains four volcanic hosted  massive sulphide deposits (Bisha, Harena, Bisha NW and Hambok). The largest deposit  (Bisha) contains 27.3 M tonnes in measured and indicated categories in three zones: an  oxide zone of 4.8 M tonnes with 7.0 g/t Au and 30 g/t Ag; a supergene zone of 7.5 M  tonnes with 4 % Cu, 0.7 g/t Au and 32 g/t Ag; and a hypogene zone of 15.0 M tonnes  with 6 % Zn, 1 % Cu, 0.7 g/t Au and 48 g/t Ag. Hydrothermal alteration, metamorphic  recrystallization, and deformation have made it difficult to identify the primary volcanic  compositions and textures of the host rocks to these deposits, and to correlate units across  the district.  Lithogeochemical data, constrained by petrographic observation, have been used  to assist in geological mapping. Conserved elements were used to identify volcanic  compositions and to trace lithologies in cross-section. Molar element ratios were used to  investigate compositional controls in mafic, intermediate and felsic rocks, to identify the  different forms of hydrothermal alteration, and to quantify their alteration intensities.  Results indicate that the Bisha and Harena VHMS deposits do not occur at the  same stratigraphic level. Nevertheless, the hangingwalls to both of these deposits are  muscovite altered and the footwalls exhibit chlorite alteration. A new style of  hydrothermal alteration, aluminous alteration, has been identified and occurs in the  immediate footwall to the Harena VHMS deposit. This alteration style represents the  most intense hydrothermal alteration observed in the camp.

abstract: Earth & Environmental Sciences


title: Test for monotonic trend with seasonal effects in time series data

contributor:
Abebe, Elizabeth (author)
(Zhang, Ying) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2016

abstract:
Observational values may be recorded on a daily, weekly, monthly or quarterly basis over
a certain time period.  One way of detecting trend in seasonal time series data is to apply
the  seasonal  Mann-Kendall  test  statistic  on  the  data  set.   The  current  method  of  this
test statistic assumes that the data over time are serially independent while taking into
account the autocovariance between seasons.  In this thesis, we instead assume that the
underlying process of the data has some form of time dependence within seasons.  We used
the bootstrap method, both the block and the autoregressive sieve (AR-sieve), to capture
these time dependence patterns.  We relied on the theory of U-statistics when stationary
time  series  data  follow  weakly  dependent  processes,  so  that  an  approximation  to  the
limiting distribution of the seasonal Mann-Kendall test statistic could be obtained.  Based
on this approximation, the method developed was applied to real-world applications.

abstract: Mathematics & Statistics


title: Synthetic studies on 1,3-diketones leading to novel curcumin analogs

contributor:
Alharbi, Salma Attiah (author)
(Jha, Amitabh) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2016

abstract:
This thesis is divided into four chapters. Chapter 1 presents a short review  on the most  recent  studies on curcumin  and  its  analogs,  including  the  studies  from  the  Jha research group.  The diverse medicinal properties of curcumin itself
reported in the recent years are reviewed.  Although  curcumin  has  shown  great  potential  in  treating various diseases,  It  has  not  been  approved  as  a clinical drug candidate because  of  its  poor pharmacokinetics.  The  recent  methods  developed  to  solve  this  problem are briefly described.  The biological   and   other properties   of   synthetic   curcumin analogs (diarylheptanoids and monocarbonyl derivatives) reported in the recent literature are also presented. To build the background and to highlight the purpose of the study reported in this  thesis,  this  review  details  the  past  research  activities  on design, synthesis and bioevaluation of various synthetic curcumin analogs in the Jha research group.

Chapter  2  reports  the  design,  synthesis,  and  characterization  of symmetrical diarylheptanoids as a new series of synthetic curcumin analogs. Sixteen novel (E,E)- 2,7-diarylidenedecalin-1,8-diones    were successfully synthesized ,    purified and fully characterized by  spectroscopic  means. Structure  of  one  compound  in  the  series  was unambiguously confirmed by single crystal X-ray crystallography. It is expected that the introduction   of   a   cyclic   structure from decalin-1,8-dione   to   the   diarylheptanoid framework  of  curcumin  would  result  in  a  better  binding  of  the  compounds  with  the receptor. Evaluation of biological activities of this series of compounds is underway, and the results will be reported in due course.

Chapter  3  reports  the  design,  synthesis,  and  characterization  of  unsymmetrical diarylheptanoids as another series of synthetic curcumin analogs. Eleven (E,E)-1-benzyl-xiii3-arylidene-5-(3-arylacryloyl)piperidin-4-ones were successfully synthesized,  purified and completely characterized by  NMR  and  HRMS  data. Because of  the  presence  of  a tertiary lkyl basic N atom, the poor pharmacokinetics of these analogs can be overcome by synthesizing the corresponding acid salts (e.g. hydrochloride salt). Also, it is expected that  the  introduction  of  a  cyclic  structure from piperdine-4-one  to  the  diarylheptanoid framework  of  curcumin  would  result  in  a  better  binding  of  the  compounds  with  the appropriate receptor. These compounds have   also   been   submitted   for   biological evaluation in the laboratories of our collaborators.

Design,   synthesis,   and   characterization   of symmetrical   and   unsymmetrical ferrocene-based   curcumin  analogs as   nother   new  series  of redox-active synthetic curcumin analogs is presented in Chapter 4 of this thesis. Five ferrocene-based curcumin analogs were successfully synthesized from ferrocenecarboxaldehyde  and appropriate β-diketones. These   were   purified   and   completely   characterized   by   spectroscopic techniques. It is expected   that   he   introduction   of   a ferrocene   moiety to   the diarylheptanoid  framework  of  curcumin  would  result  in  enhanced  iological  activity  as shown by other ferrocene containing bioactive molecules.

abstract: Chemistry


title: A document exploring system on LDA topic model for Wikipedia articles

contributor:
Tong, Zhou (author)
(Zhang, Haiyi) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2016

abstract:
Organizing and exploring millions of documents, papers and other text information becomes a challenge for researchers and publishers.  As machine learning techniques are quickly developed and widely used, a new text mining method called topic model was proposed in 2003.  The topic model is based on Latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) and has drawn much attention since it was introduced.  LDA topic model is a probabilistic model, which can process text documents and exhibit hidden topics.  Compared to other document processing methods working on content directly, the LDA topic  model  processes  documents  to  topic  distributions.   The  results  are  easier  to understand, categorize and compare.  Most importantly, topics make more sense to humans than structured machine formats.

In the thesis, we briefly introduce the background knowledge of LDA topic model and its working principles.  Then we deeply explain how to apply LDA topic model to a text corpus by doing experiments on Simple Wikipedia documents. The experiments include all necessary steps of data retrieving,  pre-processing,  fitting the model and evaluations.   The  result  of  the  experiments  shows  the  LDA  topic  model  working effectively on document clustering and fnding similar  documents.  Meanwhile, based on LDA topic model, we propose a document exploring system which allows users to organize and explore the documents by topic where related documents are easier to fnd and access.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Plant and aquatic invertebrate diversity in agricultural riparian zones, the the Tri-brook watershed, Annapolis Valley, in repsonse to disturbance by cattle

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

subject: LE3 .A278 2016

abstract:
This   study   examines   biodiversity   and   water   quality   in   riparian   zones   within   an agricultural landscape  in  the  Tri-brook  Watershed,  Annapolis  Valley,  NS.  Specifically, the location of the zone in the watershed (distance from source), density of cattle adjacent to  the  streams,  fencing  cattle  from  the  zone,  disturbance  by  cattle  as  it  relates  to  the Intermediate   Disturbance   Hypothesis,   and   the   Riparian   Health   Assessment   were investigated. Data on plant diversity was obtained from 1m2 plots adjacent to the riparian zone;  the  CABIN  protocol  was  used  for  the  aquatic  invertebrate  diversity  and  percent Ephermeroptera,  Plecoptera  and  Trichoptera,  and  analyses  for  total  Nitrogen  and
Phosphorus  was  done  on  water  samples  collected  within  the  streams.  Plant  diversity appeared  to  decrease  within   riparian  zones  with  increase  distance  from  the  source whereas total Nitrogen increased. There were no relationships found with cattle density.  There  were  potential  effects  of  fencing  cattle  out  of  the  stream  on  plant  diversity.
Disturbance from cattle appeared to follow the Intermediate Disturbance Hypothesis, that is  plant  diversity  appeared  to  be  highest  at  intermediate  disturbance  by  cattle  within  the riparian zone. There was a potential increasing relationship found for the Riparian Health Assessment and plant diversity in 2008. In future studies, increased sample size should be
considered. Future studies should also include a larger variety of cattle densities in order to  determine  if  cattle  density  plays  a  role  in  biodiversity  and  water  quality.  Cattle disturbance should be studied further to accurately categorize levels of disturbance

abstract: Biology


title: Who am I? An autoethnographic exploration of effects of being diagnosed with a mental illness

contributor:
Smith, Julia Rebecca Victoria (author)
(Yallop, John Guiney) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: When I was sixteen years old I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Ever since  the diagnosis I have tried to distance myself from the label and become “normal.”  However, for this thesis I chose to unpack and study my experiences, thoughts, and  feelings of being labeled with a mental illness. I explore this topic by using a qualitative  method: autoethnography. This method investigates my experiences to gain insight into  the complexity of cultural situations as well as to create a thick description of my  individual experiences. For the purpose of my research  I focus on: how I internalize and  externalize bipolar disorder, how this label alters my view of my self, and how different  worldview lenses shift what realities I see. I hope that through this thesis the personal  impact of being diagnosed with bipolar disorder will be highlighted and richer  understandings will be generated regarding the effects of diagnosis.

abstract: Education


title: A Statistical Perspective on Calibration of Computer Models with Tidal Power Application

contributor:
Balzer, Andrew (author)
(Karsten, Richard) (Thesis advisor)
(Ranjan, Pritam) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract:
The Bay of Fundy has the world’s highest tides, which is why in-stream turbines will be placed in the Digby Neck region for tidal energy. Placing turbines in the water requires accurate observations of water ﬂow, but these observations are expensive and time consuming to collect. FVCOM is a computer model that simulates tides and tidal currents in the Bay of Fundy. The goal of this thesis is to calibrate the bottom friction parameter of FVCOM so that its velocity output best matches physical observations. However, because simulations can take days or weeks to run, it is not feasible to run the computer model many times, which makes calibration diﬃcult. An objective function is formulated that evaluates the discrepancy between the observed and model run harmonic constituents. A sequential design is used to ﬁnd a value of bottom friction that minimizes the objective function, with a minimal number of additional model runs. At each step of the sequential design, Gaussian process model ﬁtting is used to emulate the objective function, and then an expected improvement criterion is used to determine the next bottom friction value which the model will be run with. A cycle of calibration is established through this approach that determines an optimal value of bottom friction. Once the cycle of calibration is established, ways of improving the process are considered. Sources of uncertainty in the objective function formulation are incorporated through a noisy sequential design, which leads to a similar optimal value of bottom friction as with the deterministic approach. A sensitivity analysis is conducted on the weights of the harmonic constituents and different locations in the objective function. An alternate weighting scheme is proposed based on the sensitivity of the weights, which signiﬁcantly aﬀects the optimal value
of bottom friction.

abstract: Mathematics & Statistics


title: Development of ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complexes containing π-expansive functional ligands as photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy

contributor: Puthanveettil Maliakal, Tariq Sainuddin (author)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: Twelve mononuclear bis-heteroleptic [Ru(N-N)2(LL’)]2+ complexes were synthesized in 30–90% yields. These ruthenium complexes were characterized by 1H NMR, 1H–1H COSY NMR, electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (+ve mode), and high-resolution mass spectroscopy. The preliminary in vitro photobiological data for HL-60 cells were obtained as a first step towards establishing the structure–activity relationships. Ruthenium-based diimine complexes have great potential in cancer treatment as metallodrug photosensitizers (PSs) for photodynamic therapy (PDT), a highly selective method that uses light to activate an otherwise nontoxic prodrug to destroys tumors and tumor vasculature and invoke an immune response. Briefly, the light absorption by a PS produces an excited state of the PS that can interact with oxygen to generate cytotoxic singlet oxygen (1O2) or other cytotoxic reactive species. Existing PSs are mostly organic compounds that work by generating only singlet oxygen when activated with red light. Consequently, they are not effective PDT agents for some of the most aggressive cancers. In contrast, metal-based PSs such as ruthenium possess diverse excited-state configurations that can participate in oxygen-independent photoprocesses and some with near-infrared activation. These features enable PDT to penetrate deep into the tissue and destroy hypoxic tumors, representing the most malignant and drug-resistant neoplasms

abstract: Chemistry


title: Multi-modal learning using an unsupervised Deep Learning Architecture

contributor:
Iqbal, Mohammed Shameer (author)
(Silver, Daniel L.) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: An unsupervised Deep Learning Architecture (DLA) is developed that is capable of  learning multiple modalities and associating them with each other. As humans, we  learn by associating the information we receive through di erent sensory channels like  vision and hearing. To build an intelligent system that can learn in a way similar to  humans, it is necessary for the system to learn multiple modalities and then associate  them. The DLA uses several layers of Restricted Boltzmann Machines, an unsuper-  vised algorithm, to learn hierarchical features of the data. Deep learning systems  have achieved state-of-the-art results in many  elds, such as image classi cation and  speech recognition. However, most of them are speci c to one modality, like image or  audio, and fewer e orts have been made on building a system that can handle multi-  ple modalities. Multi-modal systems developed in the past use a supervised learning  algorithm called back-propagation, which prevents them from scaling to a larger num-  ber of modalities. The multi-modal DLA developed in this thesis uses a variation of  the back- tting algorithm which allows the system to scale linearly in the number of  modalities. The system tested has four modalities: image, audio, classi cation and  motor. The DLA learns to associate features of all four modalities and is able to  successfully reconstruct the remaining modalities when presented with as few as one  modality. Due to the widely varying nature of the audio signal, the DLA reconstructs  other modalities the least well when audio is presented as input. The reconstruction  improves when additional modalities are presented along with the audio input. A  publicly available website has been developed to demonstrate the multi-modal DLA's  ability to generate associated modalities from any one modality.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Protective effects of creativity on meaningfulness and psychological well-being

contributor:
Jones, Hillary (author)
(Horvath, Peter) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: Meaningfulness has been positively associated with well-being (Ben-Ari, 2011; Frankl,  1966; Park & Gutierrez, 2013). What can be done to enhance meaningfulness, however,  remains unclear. Meaningfulness is achieved through perceiving predictability in the  relationships between objects in one’s life (Proulx & Inzlicht, 2012). Given that creativity  is understood to be something that is novel and effective (Runco & Jaeger, 2012), the  process through which an individual makes meaning is arguably a creative process. The  novel interpretation of the event returns the individual to a state of meaningfulness, which  is effective in fostering well-being. The current study experimentally tested the two-step  hypotheses that creative engagement will increase meaningfulness, which is predicted to  enhance well-being. Fifty-two undergraduate participants, 85% of whom were female,  were randomly assigned to either a creative group, in which they designed a t-shirt, or  control group, in which they copied a t-shirt design. After engaging in a mortality  salience task, participants completed measures of meaningfulness, anxiety, mood, and  worldview defensiveness. Results supported the proposed two-stage model of Protective  Creativity, with creative engagement increasing meaningfulness, which was related to  measures of well-being, particularly anxiety and positive affect. This study suggests  creativity and its effects on meaningfulness and well-being may provide a low-cost,  highly accessible, time-efficient means through which individuals can become better able  to face inevitable adversities in life.

abstract: Psychology


title: Petrology and tectonic setting of plutonic rocks in the Chéticamp  area, western Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada

contributor:
Slaman, Lisa Rose (author)
(Barr, Sandra) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: Geological mapping, U-Pb (zircon) dating, and petrographic and geochemical studies of plutonic rocks in the Chéticamp area have resulted in a revised geological map of the region. The former “Chéticamp pluton” has been shown to consist of three units: Grand Falaise granodiorite, Pembroke Lake monzogranite, and Chéticamp River tonalite. The Chéticamp River tonalite is Cambrian (ca. 492 Ma) and unrelated to the older (ca. 567 Ma) Grand Falaise and Pembroke Lake units. The MacLean Brook granodiorite and Lavis Brook quartz diorite, located south of the Pembroke Lake monzogranite and previously assumed to be Devonian and Neoproterozoic, respectively, are both Early Silurian (ca. 440 Ma) and constitute a cogenetic bimodal suite. The undated Upper Fisset Brook quartz diorite may be related to the Chéticamp River tonalite, and both likely intruded the Jumping Brook Metamorphic Suite. A small area of syenogranite (age ~419 Ma) at French Mountain is the youngest unit included in this study. In spite of their diverse ages, all of the plutonic units studied have petrographic and chemical characteristics consistent with calc-alkaline affinity and emplacement in a volcanic-arc tectonic setting, indicating a long history of subduction-related magmatism in the area. The Grand Falaise and Pembroke Lake units are chemically similar to ca. 575-550 Ma Andean-type plutons that are characteristic of the Bras d’Or terrane, indicating the presence of underlying old and evolved continental crust and supporting the interpretation that they may be a fragment of the Bras d’Or terrane. The younger Lavis Brook and MacLean Brook plutons show similarity to Silurian igneous units of the Aspy terrane, and may be further evidence of a Silurian arc and back-arc system. How and when these units became juxtaposed in their present configuration remains uncertain.

abstract: Earth & Environmental Sciences


title: Restoring creational goodness

contributor:
Van Leeuwen, Gerald Thomas (author)
(Moriah, Lionel) (Thesis advisor)
(Committee member)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: To summarize, the theme of this thesis is as follows: God’s “ministry” is rooted in his  heart of compassion and grace and is directed toward the goal of restoring goodness in  his creation. The church, as God’s treasured possession, kingdom of priests, and holy  nation, is called to have the same motivation and goal.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Rap artists in the African-Nova Scotian community: "Speaking on my past, my present, and where I wanna be"

contributor:
Gerhardt, Alyssa (author)
(Thomson, Tony) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: This thesis investigates the role of rap music in the African-Nova Scotian context  by examining Black rap artists’ experiences growing up in various local communities and  their views on the contemporary rap scene. This study also provides an understanding of  racial, gender and class dimensions of the rap subculture, and how Black participants  view their music and experiences. There is an absence of scholarly attention paid to  African-Nova Scotian culture and the contemporary rap scene; this study combines the  two topics. This study provides a basis for further research on African-Nova Scotian rap  music and the contemporary Nova Scotian rap scene. The sample consists of six  participants who are a part of the African Nova Scotian community; there is an equal  representation of female and male participants. A qualitative semi-structured interview  research method was utilized, which took place between April 2014 and December 2014.  The findings of this study indicate that participants use rap as a means of creative  self-expression that is influenced by their life narratives and community experiences.  Experiences of participants in the Nova Scotia rap scene are diverse. There is a consensus  that the scene is fragmented and there is a desire for a collective movement. Women are  marginalized in the scene. They experience challenges as artists that their male  counterparts do not; such as, an emphasis on appearance over artistry, and unhealthy  competition with other female rappers. The majority of participants do not view race as a  significant component of the music, while others critically contemplate its role. Class is  viewed as an important aspect in regard to the financial costs of producing music, and  offering different perspectives to the music.

abstract: Sociology


title: Karl Barth's kenotic dogmatics

contributor:
Butler, Scott Allan (author)
(Brackney, William) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: Swiss theologian Karl Barth played a key role in the development of Protestant Christian  theology in the twentieth century. This purpose of this thesis is to investigate the links  between Christology and method in Barth’s dogmatics. It examines the theologian from  an historical perspective in his transition from the liberal Christian tradition through his  dialectical period and into his substantial prolegomena to the Church Dogmatics. Paying  special attention to Immanuel Kant, Friedrich Schleiermacher, and Ludwig Feuerbach,  the second chapter contrasts Barth’s dogmatic method as based in faith and prayer with  the anthropocentric principles of the Enlightenment. The final chapter gives shape to the  Swiss theologian’s integrated doctrines of revelation and reconciliation by looking at  God’s acts and disposition in Christ. In it I argue that dogmatics is Christological  specifically as it reflects the content and character of the kenotic – obedient servant –  Christ. I suggest, finally, that Barth’s kenotic Christ correlates with the prohibitive name  he found in Anselm’s Proslogion: ‘that beyond which no greater thing can be conceived.’

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Recovering Christian hospitality in end of life care: Honouring the Mi’kmaq people in death and dying

contributor:
Orton, Debra Garnita (author)
(Hancock, Maxine) (Thesis advisor)
(Committee member)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: Chapter  1  introduces  hospitality  as  a  common  thread  between  three  cultures  that  meet  at  the  cross  roads  of  care  in  Nova  Scotia:  the  hospital  culture,  Judeo-‐Christian  culture,  and  the  Mi’kmaq.  Next,  Chapter  2  looks  at  the  difficulties  inherent  in  maintaining  quality  of  life  during  end  of  life  care  for  Aboriginal  peoples.  Chapter  3  discusses  methodology  and  data  collection  and  explains  the  project’s  use  of  grounded  theory  in  ethnography.  Chapter  4  presents  the  analysis  and  results.  Incorporating  the  theme  of  hospitality  into  a  new  model  of  spiritual  care-‐giving  practice  is  the  topic  of  Chapter  5.  The  proposed  model  will  broaden  the  conceptual  base  and  revise  the  working  model  of  spiritual  care  and  counseling  in  cross-‐cultural  health  care  settings  so  that  it  can  flourish  more  fully  within  the  diverse  communities  served  by  xii  Valley  Regional  Hospital.  It  will  reflect  the  current  trend  in  population  change  and  suggest  a  way  to  attend  to  the  diversity  in  spiritual  and  cultural  life  accompanying  these  changes.

abstract: Acadia Divinity College


title: Preliminary findings from a sensitivity-based intervention for families with maltreatment histories

contributor:
Smith, Kathleen H. (author)
(Symons, Doug) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: The present thesis examined the effectiveness of a home- and sensitivity-based  intervention for families with a history of maltreatment. Participants were 19 parents and  their two to eight year-old children; nine of these parent-child pairs were assessed before  and after an eight-week intervention protocol. Assessments included home observations  of parental sensitivity and attachment security, as well as parent-report measures of their  own trauma histories, emotional distress, child behaviour problems, and mental health.  The hypothesis that sensitivity would improve from pre- to post-intervention was  supported in the present study and while attachment security and affective lability  showed non-significant trends towards improvement, there were no other significant  changes. Contrary to predictions, parents’ own trauma histories were not related to  intervention effectiveness, but qualitative examinations of response to treatment  suggested that certain parental personality factors and psychopathologies were related to  reduced intervention effectiveness. Finally, intercorrelations of pre-intervention measures  from all 19 families suggested that various indices of positive family functioning appear  to cluster together. In sum, the present study provides preliminary evidence that a brief  sensitivity-focused family intervention can improve parenting behaviours in high-risk,  maltreating families in a rural community. Implications of these findings are discussed.

abstract: Psychology


title: Transfer learning of image classification with deep learning architectures

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

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: Deep learning architectures have advanced the state-of-the-art in many machine learn-  ing applications such as computer vision, speech recognition, and natural language  processing. However, deep learning architectures, like other machine learning meth-  ods, cannot work well if there is a limited amount of training data. Transfer learning  aims to use existing knowledge of previously learned tasks to help the learning of a  new task; this can speed up learning and increase accuracy. Transfer learning  ts well  in deep learning architectures because of unsupervised feature learning, development  of a rich hierarchy of features, and greater plasticity created by unsupervised learn-  ing. Pretraining is a form of transfer learning even for single task learning. In this  research, we compare several methods for transfer learning using deep learning archi-  tectures, especially Deep Belief Networks. These include representational, functional  and combined transfer. The domain of handwritten digits is used to train and evaluate  these methods using reconstruction cross entropy, classi cation accuracy, and speed  of learning. Empirical studies show that DBNs can develop better hidden node fea-  tures, have better reconstruction cross entropy, and better classi cation accuracy than  backpropagation networks. The most e cient (requires less time to train a model)  DBN transfer learning method is representational transfer, and the most e ective  (best classi cation accuracy and reconstruction cross entropy) DBN transfer learning  method is functional transfer. Context sensitive multitask learning in DBNs produce  better models compared with alternative transfer learning approaches. Combined  transfer in DBNs can produce more accurate models than representational transfer  and can learn faster than functional transfer approaches. However combined transfer  produces less accurate models than functional transfer approaches on their own.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Measuring the accuracy of a high speed port scanner to perform web census

contributor:
Azam, Md Saroer-E (author)
(Trudel, Andre) (Thesis advisor)
(Benoit, Darcy) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: The high-speed port scanner, ZMap, was used to conduct an Internet-wide scan of  Port 80 in an attempt to determine the size of the Web. The size of the Web was  estimated from the number of Web servers found during the high-speed scans of IPv4  addresses. The focus of the research was to see if an accurate census could be made in a  reasonable amount of time using ZMap. The metrics for determining the success of this  research were a decrease in time needed to perform an Internet-wide scan, compared to  historical attempts, and a comparison between scan data collected in this research with  data collected by Rapid7 Labs to test for accuracy of the ZMap scans.  ZMap was used in combination with a program named Banner. Banner sent HTTP  GET requests to confirm and count the number of Web servers. An optimal scan speed of  1000 pkts/s by ZMap and 3000 concurrent connections made by Banner improved the  performance and accuracy of an Internet-wide scan such that the scan time decreased by a  factor of 5 compared to historical attempts.  Comparing data from several small-scale scans of a local Class B network and  data from Rapid7 Labs, Project Sonar, revealed no significant differences between the  two data sets. Any noted differences were attributed to the dynamic nature of the Web,  and the local Class B network scans were deemed to have a high level of accuracy.  This thesis research showed that the scan speed was substantially faster and more  accurate than previous Web census techniques. Therefore, ZMap is recommended as a  high-speed port scanner for future Web census research.

abstract: Computer Science


title: Patterns in the movement and distribution of Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) in Minas Basin and Minas Passage

contributor:
Keyser, Freya M. (author)
(Redden, Anna) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: Minas Passage (Bay of Fundy, NS) is a migratory pathway for many fish species and is  also the site of tidal in-stream energy conversion (TISEC) device testing. The impact of  this development on fish moving in the area is unknown. Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis),  a recreationally fished, anadromous species, is of concern due to its migratory use of  Minas Passage and designation as “endangered” by COSEWIC (2012). In this study,  acoustic telemetry was used to identify spatial and temporal movement and distribution  patterns of Striped Bass in near-shore waters of Minas Basin (summer and fall) and in  Minas Passage (summer, fall and winter) during 2011-2013. Striped Bass (0.38 – 0.87 m  fork length, FL) were tagged on the Stewiacke River spawning grounds (n=27), and in  the Southern Bight of Minas Basin (n=58); 99% of tagged Striped Bass were detected by  at least one acoustic receiver. Striped Bass tagged in the Southern Bight tended to remain  in that area throughout the summer-fall foraging period, while Stewiacke-tagged Striped  Bass showed no site preference in Minas Basin. Fifty-four percent of all tagged Striped  Bass were detected in Minas Passage over a total of 250 days during the two-year study  period. Ninety-nine of these detection days were during the cold winter months (<5°C  water temperatures), when activity levels would have been reduced. Striped Bass were  typically detected throughout the upper 50m of the water column in Minas Passage, with  diel vertical migration more evident during the summer-fall foraging period than during  winter. Travel rates of Striped Bass through Minas Passage exceeded known critical  swimming speeds, indicating that travel was current-assisted. These findings inform risk  assessment, FORCE’s environmental effects monitoring program, and management of  Striped Bass in the Bay of Fundy.

abstract: Biology


title: Detecting and assessing trends in harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) presence in and near the force test site

contributor:
Porskamp, Peter H. J. (author)
(Redden, Anna) (Thesis advisor)
Acadia University (Degree grantor)

subject: LE3 .A278 2015

abstract: Current tidal energy development activities at a test facility, Fundy Ocean  Research Centre for Energy (FORCE), in Minas Passage, a high flow site in the upper  Bay of Fundy, include examination of potential effects of tidal turbines on commonly  occurring harbour porpoises, Phocoena phocoena (Linnaeus, 1758). Prior visual  observations and passive acoustic monitoring (using C-PODs) of harbour porpoise were  conducted over multiple years in spring, summer and fall. The present study focused on  filling the winter and early spring seasonal gap in baseline data. Harbour porpoise  presence (detected via echolocation clicks) was assessed at established monitoring sites  in and near the FORCE test area during December 2013 – June 2014. Descriptive results  indicated that harbour porpoise use Minas Passage year-round but with low presence  during the winter months. The full multi-year dataset was used to develop a new  statistical model (GAM/GEE) of spatio-temporal trends in harbour porpoise use of the  FORCE area. It showed two seasonal peaks in harbour porpoise presence with the largest  peak in late spring (June) and a second in the fall (October). It also showed trends with  diel cycle (greater activity at night), tidal height (greater presence near high tide), tidal  velocity and flow direction. Instrument performance tests were also conducted and  included assessments of hydrophone performance using tethered buoys and a stationary  instrument platform, tests of hydrophone shrouding, and assessments of hydrophone  detection range at FORCE. These studies have implications for both tidal energy  development and conservation of harbour porpoises. They will inform best practices in  monitoring harbour porpoises at high flow sites and will enhance our ability to detect  potential effects on harbour porpoises of turbine installation and operation at FORCE.

abstract: Biology