Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection

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    Chromophoric dissolved organic matter in the Athabasca Oil Sands Region, Alberta, Canada

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Blanchard, Dane Alexander, Thesis advisor (ths): Aherne, Julian, Thesis advisor (ths): Gordon, Mark, Degree committee member (dgc): Aherne, Julian, Degree committee member (dgc): Gordon, Mark, Degree committee member (dgc): Dang, Huy, Degree committee member (dgc): Koprivnjak, Jean-François, Degree committee member (dgc): Mangal, Vaughn, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM), a chemically diverse family of organic compounds defined by their ability to absorb ultraviolet and visible light, is a critical constituent of numerous environmental systems, including freshwater lakes. Industrial operations in the Athabasca Oil Sands Region (AOSR, Alberta, Canada) are major sources of acidic inorganic gases and organic… more

    The biogeochemical effects of non-industrial wood ash application on ecosystem regeneration in central Ontario

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Bewsh, Victor Michael, Thesis advisor (ths): Watmough, Shaun A, Degree committee member (dgc): Sager, Eric PS, Degree committee member (dgc): Watkinson, Autumn D, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Decades of sulphur and nitrogen deposition acidified forest ecosystems across northeastern North America causing declines in pH and exchangeable base cation concentrations, negatively affecting biota. To assist natural recovery, researchers are investigating using alkaline soil amendments such as wood ash. However, much remains unknown about its use. This thesis evaluated the effects of… more

    Sexual Selection, Sex Allocation and Stochasticity: A Study of Mating Patterns in Sagittaria latifolia

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Kwok, Allison, Thesis advisor (ths): Dorken, Marcel E, Degree committee member (dgc): Freeland, Joanna R, Degree committee member (dgc): Nol, Erica, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Diversity of flowers in flowering plants is understood to facilitate mating success, and yet understanding the relationships between plant sexual diversity and mating patterns remains a challenge. In this thesis, I used Sagittaria latifolia, an aquatic plant with unique sexual systems, to investigate relationships between plant sexual diversity, mating patterns, and reproductive success… more

    Dissolved organic matter composition as a driver of greenhouse gas emissions in lakes

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Lau, Vincent, Thesis advisor (ths): Tanentzap, Andrew, Degree committee member (dgc): Emilson, Erik, Degree committee member (dgc): Stock, Naomi, Degree committee member (dgc): Moorthy, Arun, Degree committee member (dgc): Braga, Lucas, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Climate-driven permafrost thaw releases microorganisms and dissolved organic matter (DOM) into northern lakes, where their interactions with microbial communities and seasonal processes shape greenhouse gas emissions. In a factorial experiment mixing DOM and microbes from thermokarst ponds and lakes, we found that both DOM and microbial identity strongly influenced degradation. Lake… more

    Shki Kinoomaagozi - New Learning Re-Imagining Special Education For Indigenous Children

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Knott Fife, Shelley, Thesis advisor (ths): Bell, Nicole, Thesis advisor (ths): Iannacci, Luigi, Degree committee member (dgc): Brunette-Debassige, Candace, Degree committee member (dgc): Wall, Barbara, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This dissertation focuses on the special education of First Nation students in Ontario. The primary researcher is an Anishinaabekwe with decades of experience in special education. Taking an Indigenized qualitative research methodology drawing on the Two-Eyed Seeing Framework (TESF) and Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) exploring disability discourse, this study explores what '… more

    Understanding Poverty Among Black Immigrants in Toronto, Canada

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Larbi, Albert, Thesis advisor (ths): Firang, David, Thesis advisor (ths): Sethi, Bharati, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This research explored how systemic barriers contribute to poverty among Black immigrants in the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area (CMA). Using a qualitative approach, I explored how factors like race, immigration status, and other identity factors shape Black immigrants' experiences in the employment and housing markets and healthcare system, consequently predisposing them to… more

    Changes in Pain Sensitivity in the Amygdala Kindling Model of Temporal Lobe Epilepsy

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Xiao, Evana, Thesis advisor (ths): Fournier, Neil M, Degree committee member (dgc): Paquette, Sebastien, Degree committee member (dgc): Dotta, Blake, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Pain conditions occur at an increasing rate alongside people with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and can include chronic headaches, migraines, and neuropathic pain. In order to begin to understand the concurrence, this experiment aimed to investigate the effect of long-term amygdala kindling, a model of TLE, on the affective and nociceptive components of pain in rats. Formalin-induced… more

    Method Development of Compound Specific Isotope Ratio Measurement of Methylmercury in Sediment by Multicollector - ICP - MS

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Willsie, Adelheid, Thesis advisor (ths): Hintelmann, Holger, Degree committee member (dgc): Canario, João, Degree committee member (dgc): Dang, Huy, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This work presents a new online method using gas chromatography coupled to the multicollector-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer for methylmercury (MMHg) isotope ratio measurement. An extraction method using distillation was developed that effectively extracted MMHg from up to 5 grams of sediment, imparting no isotope fractionation on MMHg during extraction. Isotope ratios from… more

    Rare earth and trace element geochemistry in Ontario agricultural soils

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Wetzl, Ruby J., Thesis advisor (ths): Thompson, Karen A., Thesis advisor (ths): Dang, Huy, Degree committee member (dgc): Watmough, Shaun, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Agriculture may result in soil disturbances, including contamination by rare earth elements (REE) and trace elements (TEs) from agricultural inputs (e.g. fertilizers, pesticides). Regulations concerning agricultural inputs currently do not consider TE background concentrations, concurrent use of inputs, and emerging contaminants. Therefore, they may not sufficiently protect against TE… more

    Naturalizing Naturalization: Accounting for Naturalization in Ecology and Ecological Management

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Weissflog, Nicholas, Thesis advisor (ths): Sager, Eric PS, Thesis advisor (ths): Whillans, Thomas H, Degree committee member (dgc): Beresford, David V, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This thesis presents a case of the aquatic plant species Fanwort (Cabomba caroliniana) significantly naturalizing in Kasshabog Lake in bays where it had been invasive. This significant naturalization presents major implications for invasive species management and invasion biology because the naturalization of invasive species is a phenomenon that has been largely omitted from study… more

    Behavioural Responses of Nocturnally Stranded Seabirds Toward Artificial Light, and Implications for Rescue Programs

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Brown, Taylor Marie, Thesis advisor (ths): Burness, Gary, Degree committee member (dgc): Davy, Christina, Degree committee member (dgc): Mastromonaco, Gabriela, Degree committee member (dgc): Wilhelm, Sabina, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Globally, fledglings of more than 50 seabird species are vulnerable to stranding in human settlements near their colonies as they leave their nests for the first time. This phenomenon has been attributed to attraction toward and disorientation by artificial light at night (ALAN). Grassroots rescue programs find more birds in illuminated locations than in dark ones, but it is unclear to… more

    Totí:lthometel: Weaving Educators' Perspectives Into a Teacher Evaluation Tool at Seabird Island Community School

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Bruce, Jason, Thesis advisor (ths): McCaskill, Don, Degree committee member (dgc): Desmoulins, Leisa, Degree committee member (dgc): FitzMaurice, Kevin, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This study aimed to develop a culturally responsive teacher framework and evaluation tool for educators at Seabird Island Community School (SICS) and other Stó:lō First Nations community schools in British Columbia. Drawing from the perspectives of educators at SICS, the research sought to provide direction for wise pedagogical practices and establish effective evaluation methods rooted… more

    Factors Affecting Nest Survival and Nest Site Selection for the Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes)

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Brown, Courtland Weston, Thesis advisor (ths): Nol, Erica, Thesis advisor (ths): Christie, Katie, Degree committee member (dgc): Smith, Paul A., Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>The Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes) is a steeply declining shorebird that breeds across boreal North America. I studied nest survival in Anchorage, Alaska, USA and Churchill, Manitoba, Canada and nest site selection factors in Churchill. Nests were monitored at each site and daily nest survival rates (DSR) were calculated based on a maximum likelihood approach. Overall nest survival… more

    Intergenerational Mnoomin (Wild Rice) Gathering and Well-Being

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Burns, Heidi, Thesis advisor (ths): Skinner, Mark, Degree committee member (dgc): Sherman, Paula, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Mnoomin (Wild Rice) is an important ecological and spiritual Being, and a highly nutritious food source with deep spiritual and cultural kinship to Anishinaabeg. Gathering and processing Mnoomin engages the whole body, mind, and spirit, providing access to culturally nutritious food/s that also sustain a healthy environment. However, settler colonialism has disrupted these practices,… more

    What caring for a child who died was like for me: My experience of pediatric patient death as a new graduate nurse

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): McLean, Meghan, Thesis advisor (ths): McIntosh, Michele, Degree committee member (dgc): Poole, Jennifer, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>I utilized analytical autoethnography to analyze and interpret my own experience of what caring for a child that died was like for me within the academic and institutional culture that I was educated and trained in (Chang, 2008). Themes of lack of preparedness, relationships, loss and emotion, death denial, and lasting impacts and growth were identified. Pediatric death and dying… more

    Habitat patch size and breeding site quality drive relative abundance of Ambystoma salamander larvae

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): McDonald, Jordan, Thesis advisor (ths): Hossie, Thomas J, Thesis advisor (ths): Murray, Dennis, Degree committee member (dgc): Wilson, Chris, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Amphibian biodiversity is in global decline, driven primarily by habitat loss and fragmentation arising from landcover alteration. For pond-breeding amphibians, larval abundance should be governed by aquatic breeding site quality, surrounding terrestrial habitat characteristics, and proximity to neighbouring populations. If safeguarding salamander populations is a priority, conservation… more

    Boxing and the Third Place: Mapping Community and Urban Revitalization in Early Twentieth Century Winnipeg

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): McKeown, Matthew F, Thesis advisor (ths): Sheinin, David, Degree committee member (dgc): Hatton, Nathon, Degree committee member (dgc): Wright, Robert, Degree committee member (dgc): Kidd, Bruce, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This study considers the impact of urban revitalization through community engagement and the promotion of activities, in particular boxing in early twentieth century Winnipeg. It details the development of a multiethnic amateur boxing league which arose in the city during this period, using both qualitative and quantitative sources and a series of maps. This research shows how spaces in… more

    The Impact of Unit Design on Family Experiences in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Kingston General Hospital

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): McGregor Hughes, Hillary Marie, Thesis advisor (ths): Gilmer, Cyndi, Degree committee member (dgc): Braithwaite, Suzanne, Degree committee member (dgc): Sims, Jaime, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>The involvement of families in the care of their infant in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) may be influenced by the unit environment (O'Brien et al., 2013). The purpose of this study is to explore the influence of the open pod NICU through the research question: What is the impact of unit design in the NICU at Kingston General Hospital (KGH) on the lived experiences of… more

    Playing the End: Tensions of the Apocalypse in Digital Games

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Yang, Yaochong, Thesis advisor (ths): Mitchell, Liam, Thesis advisor (ths): Epp, Michael, Degree committee member (dgc): Manning, Paul, Degree committee member (dgc): Lamarre, Thomas, Degree committee member (dgc): Pendleton Jimenez, Karleen, Degree committee member (dgc): Synenko, Joshua, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This research examines the digital game through the subject of the Apocalypse, both in its literal revelatory form and its colloquial disaster form. To accomplish that, it employs Louis Althusser's concept of structural causality as a springboard for a structure-based interrogation of interlocked systems. Drawing a comparison between Ian Bogost's definition of black-box… more

    Comparative Analysis of Financial Distress Prediction Models: Evidence from African Industries

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Ackuayi, Stephen Makafui, Thesis advisor (ths): Cater, Bruce, Thesis advisor (ths): Parker, James, Degree committee member (dgc): Cater, Bruce, Degree committee member (dgc): Parker, James, Degree committee member (dgc): Pollanen, Marco, Degree committee member (dgc): Kam, Eric, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Accurately forecasting financial distress in companies is crucial in the turbulent economic conditions of our time. This study highlights the potential benefits of incorporating qualitative data into financial distress prediction models. The study assessed the relative effectiveness of traditional distress prediction models against integrated models, determined which variables… more

    Modeling and Clustering of Climate Change Variables in Canada

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Adenuga, Alex, Thesis advisor (ths): Burr, Wesley, Degree committee member (dgc): Shin, Hwashin H, Degree committee member (dgc): Takahara, Glen, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Climate change is a global challenge with profound environmental, health, andsocio-economic implications. Canada's diverse geography offers a unique lens to study
    localized climate trends. This thesis models and clusters climate variables, focusing
    on temperature trends, using Bayesian hierarchical models and clustering techniques
    to uncover regional patterns and health impacts.… more

    Guru/Prophet: An Affective Analysis of Reactionary YouTube Content

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Etherington, Jordan Lee, Thesis advisor (ths): Mitchell, Liam, Degree committee member (dgc): Epp, Michael, Degree committee member (dgc): Downing, Steven, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This dissertation sought to examine how reactionary influencers on YouTube are able to create 'gateways' towards audience tolerance and even desire to enact violence against marginalized groups, particularly those groups relating to gender performance. for the purposes of YouTube moderation. This dissertation uses the perspectives of affect theorists Ahmed, Berlant, and Tomkins… more

    Microplastic Contamination in the Canadian Arctic, Iqaluit, Nunavut

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Evans, Kelly, Thesis advisor (ths): Aherne, Julian, Degree committee member (dgc): Jantunen, Liisa, Degree committee member (dgc): McKenna-Neuman, Cheryl, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Microplastics are intricate plastic particles (&lt;5 mm in length) with complex chemical mixtures that are pervasive globally. Nonetheless, our understanding of microplastic contamination in the Canadian Arctic is limited. Therefore, this thesis aimed to investigate the concentration and characteristics of microplastics in and surrounding the community of Iqaluit, Nunavut. Our… more

    Selkirk First Nation Community Safety Officer Program

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Fenno, Jason Georg, Thesis advisor (ths): Newhouse, David, Degree committee member (dgc): La Barge, Armand, Degree committee member (dgc): Dockstator, Mark, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>The Selkirk First Nation (SFN) community safety officer (CSO) program in Pelly Crossing, Yukon, was established in 2019 to better respond to SFN citizen needs and fill the operational gaps of the RCMP. The SFN CSO program offers a unique example of a decolonized, Northern Indigenous community led CSO program operating in the Far North rooted in self-determination and self-governance… more

    An Ontario Heathen Community's Cultural Selection Criteria

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Elson, Logan, Thesis advisor (ths): Lohmann, Roger I, Degree committee member (dgc): Haines, Helen, Degree committee member (dgc): Morin, Eugene, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This thesis analyzes the processes and rationales of ritual creation among contemporaryGermanic Neopagans (Heathens). It is based on ethnographic fieldwork from May–
    September, 2023 at Raven's Knoll, a campground near Eganville, Ontario that hosts
    Heathen festivals. I identify selection criteria used to determine which cultural practices
    to adopt, adapt, or omit from rituals. I… more

    A Novel Approach to Investigating Stress-Pain Hypersensitivity

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Johnston, Kirkland, Thesis advisor (ths): Fournier, Neil M, Degree committee member (dgc): Smith-Chant, Brenda, Degree committee member (dgc): Tobin, Stephanie W, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>It is well known that pain can heighten sensitivity to stimuli that signal threat in most species. In rodents, exposure to predator odor, such as 2,5-dihydro-2,4,5-trimethylthiazoline (TMT), induces anxiety and alters pain sensitivity. This study explored the effect of predator odor stress on mechanical pain sensitivity in a rat model of acute inflammatory pain induced by suboptimal… more

    What's it Take to Get a Novel Metaphor Around Here? Exploring Potential Contributors to Novel Metaphor Production

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Johnston, Kiera, Thesis advisor (ths): Im-Bolter, Nancie, Degree committee member (dgc): Agostino, Alba, Degree committee member (dgc): Arsalidou, Marie, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Metaphors are a ubiquitous component of communication, which are either conventional (familiar) or novel phrases. Metaphors are useful for discussing abstract concepts such as emotions that can be difficult to discuss literally, and as such benefit social relationships (Nippold et al., 2017). Research on contributors to novel metaphor production is limited and previous methodologies have… more

    Running the Yellow Light: Consent Negotiation Strategies Amongst BDSM versus non-BDSM Practising Individuals

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Johnson, Jessica R, Thesis advisor (ths): Humphreys, Terry P, Thesis advisor (ths): O'Hagan, Fergal T, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Prevailing rates of sexual violence have necessitated research on sexual consentcommunication to remedy these issues. Research has found that individuals possess sophisticated
    knowledge of consent, and that discrepancies between people's attitudes and behaviours are
    resulting in sexual violence and compliance behaviours. The BDSM community–with its greater
    diversity and effective… more

    Breaking Bread: Socialization and the Ritualization of Power, Prestige, and Social Norms through Food in High Medieval England

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Johnson, Alexis Marie, Thesis advisor (ths): Elbl, Ivana, Degree committee member (dgc): Harris-Stoertz, Fiona, Degree committee member (dgc): Hurl-Eamon, Jennine, Degree committee member (dgc): Carlin, Martha, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Food in high medieval England (1066–1315) was central to socialization. It played a key role in social gatherings, both through fasting and feasting. The thesis examines the symbolic and functional roles of food rituals across lay, ecclesiastical, monastic, noble, and royal groups, highlighting the ways in which food served as a means of socialization and a tool for asserting power,… more

    Electroactive Supramolecular Systems for Informed Electrochemical Sensor Development

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Quintero Arias, Carlos, Thesis advisor (ths): Martic, Sanela, Degree committee member (dgc): Keske, Eric, Degree committee member (dgc): Thompson, Karen, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>In an effort to improve upon existing analytical methods, electrochemical sensors offer portable, cost-effective alternatives to traditional lab-based techniques. Recent advances in supramolecular chemistry offer a unique alternative to achieve high selectivity while also benefitting from facile scaling for mass production. Thus, by incorporating host-guest chemistry with electrochemical… more

    Controlling the Radical Polymerization of Polyacrylamide from the Surface of Activated Carbon for Flocculation Applications

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Reyes, Kyle Matthew Dabu, Thesis advisor (ths): Vreugdenhil, Andrew J, Degree committee member (dgc): Keske, Eric, Degree committee member (dgc): Zenkina, Olena V, Degree committee member (dgc): Adronov, Alex, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>The oil sands industry is producing large volumes of tailings waste reaching 2 billion cubic meters by 2034 In this study, the industrial standard flocculant, high molecular weight PAM, was grafted from the surface of activated carbon (AC). This material was designed to increase the flocculant's hydrophobicity and density. Different molecular weight PAM was grafted from AC with… more

    "Let's do something really revolutionary": Towards care-full relations of cannabis access in Ontario post-legalization

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Cullingham, Sarah Catherine, Thesis advisor (ths): Skinner, Mark, Degree committee member (dgc): Changfoot, Nadine, Degree committee member (dgc): McClelland, Alex, Degree committee member (dgc): Doll, Agnieszka, Degree committee member (dgc): Penner, Devin, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>A new regime governing cannabis production, distribution, and access came into effect across Canada in 2018. With the passing of the Cannabis Act (2018) a new legal cannabis industry began taking shape across the country, with specific manifestations at the local and provincial levels. In this study, I take up the standpoint of people who use cannabis and explore how access is organized… more

    Variable Sensitivity of Growth Rate to Calcium Limitation and Sodium Chloride Toxicity Tolerance Among Populations of Daphnia pulicaria from Kawartha Highland Lakes

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Cook, Sarah Katelyn, Thesis advisor (ths): Frost, Paul C, Degree committee member (dgc): Shafer, Aaron BA, Degree committee member (dgc): Hossie, Thomas J, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Calcium (Ca) limitation and sodium chloride (NaCl) toxicity tolerance are potential controllers of Daphnia populations. D. pulicaria neonates collected from 14 Kawartha Highland lakes were exposed to 6 Ca concentrations (0.5-5.0 mg Ca L-1) over 6 days. We did not find differences in maximum mass-specific growth rate or half-maximum thresholds between source lakes. Growth rates were… more

    DNA methylation and phenotypic variation in three North American large mammals

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Czajka, Natalie, Thesis advisor (ths): Shafer, Aaron B.A., Thesis advisor (ths): Northrup, Joseph M., Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>DNA methylation (DNAm) is a useful indicator of phenotypic expression and diversity, and can potentially inform adaptations to environmental changes. This thesis uses epigenetic techniques to investigate the mechanisms underlying phenotypic variation in white-tailed deer, black bear, and mountain goat, with a particular focus on age and body size. In the second chapter, we aimed to… more

    Connecting Entanglement Entropy Growth and Local Integrals of Motion in the Disordered Fermi-Hubbard Model

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Nokhostin Helm, Ahad, Thesis advisor (ths): Wortis, Rachel, Degree committee member (dgc): Atkinson, Bill, Degree committee member (dgc): Gaspari, Franco, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>We study a one-dimensional Fermi-Hubbard model with disorder in charge and spin degrees of freedom. We calculate the time dependence of the entanglement entropy. While previous research on disordered interacting systems has typically focused on systems with either charge or spin, our model enables us to explore the interplay between charge and spin in shaping the behavior of entanglement… more

    Optimized Large Language Model for Hate Speech Detection

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Obinwanne, Uchechukwu Emmanuel, Thesis advisor (ths): Feng, Wenying, Degree committee member (dgc): Alam, Omar, Degree committee member (dgc): Xu, Simon, Degree committee member (dgc): Parker, James, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Recent developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly Large Language Models (LLMs), have provided powerful tools for Natural Language Processing (NLP) tasks like sentiment analysis. However, their fine-tuning and deployment present challenges, specifically in terms of computational efficiency and high training costs. To address these challenges, this work applies optimization… more

    Performance of Time Series Interpolation Algorithms in the Presence of Noise

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Niksefat, Roxana, Thesis advisor (ths): Burr, Wesley Dr, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>The spectral properties of time series data reveal underlying processes but require complete datasets, often unavailable due to missing values and irregular sampling.This thesis uses a computational simulations framework to evaluate the perfor- mance of the Hybrid Wiener Interpolator [3], a novel method designed to reconstruct nonstationary time series data, thus making said data… more

    The phytochemical therapeutic potential of Doliocarpus dentatus Red and White Ecotypes: Metabolomics, phytohormone profiles and Antioxidant Properties

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Smith, Ewart Anthony, Thesis advisor (ths): Emery, Neil NE, Thesis advisor (ths): Narine, Suresh SN, Degree committee member (dgc): Martic, Sanela SM, Degree committee member (dgc): Kisiala, Anna AK, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>The study examines the phytochemical and phytohormone profiles of two ecotypes of Doliocarpus dentatus (Capadulla) from Guyana with an emphasis on their potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the context of erectile dysfunction. The research concentrates on the red and white ecotypes, which are visibly differentiated by the colouration of their inner and outer bark; moreover… more

    The Localization and Functional Characterization of a DNAJC5-like Protein in Dictyostelium discoideum

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Singh, Jagjot, Thesis advisor (ths): Huber, Robert, Degree committee member (dgc): Bates, Holly, Degree committee member (dgc): Rafferty, Steven, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>DNAJC5, an HSP40 member, supports synaptic vesicle release and protein folding byactivating HSP70 ATPase activity. In humans, it localizes to presynaptic terminals and
    endomembrane compartments that are involved in protein trafficking. Mutations in DNAJC5
    cause CLN4 disease, a rare adult-onset Batten disease. Dictyostelium discoideum, a model for
    neurodegenerative research, encodes a… more

    Examining Environmental Inequality in Peterborough/Nogojiwanong, Ontario through Photovoice

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Simmons, Kevanya, Thesis advisor (ths): Rutherford, Stephanie, Degree committee member (dgc): Changfoot, Nadine, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This thesis explores environmental justice in Peterborough/Nogojiwanong, Ontario, focusing on how marginalized communities—including Indigenous peoples, people of colour, and low-income groups—experience and respond to environmental harm. Using Participatory Action Research and Photovoice, 22 co-researchers shared their lived experiences shaped by colonialism, systemic racism, and other… more

    Living with Lyme Disease Symptoms: Experiences and Adaptive Practices

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Sirohi, Naina, Thesis advisor (ths): Omar, Abeer, Thesis advisor (ths): Wahid, Rasha, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Lyme disease (LD), caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, presents major diagnostic and treatment challenges due to its diverse symptoms and often ambiguous progression. Despite growing awareness, many patients face misdiagnosis, dismissal, and inadequate care—especially in North America, where brief treatment guidelines may fail to address persistent symptoms. This qualitative study used a… more

    Working-While-Parenting at Trent - A Photovoice Study of Trent Working-Parent Experiences

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Slater-Meadows, Angela, Thesis advisor (ths): Buccieri, Kristy, Degree committee member (dgc): Rapaport, David, Degree committee member (dgc): Chivers, Sally, Degree committee member (dgc): Pendleton Jimenez, Karleen, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Many middle-class families, according to Whiteman (2023) find it challenging to manage unless both parents contribute financially through employment. I chose to become a professional because I'd wanted better employment options. My academic research interests soon had me wondering what working-while-parenting experiences were like for other professionals. The overarching topic of my… more

    Imagining the Possibilities of Care in Old Age: Perspectives of Older Filipino Care Workers

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Hart, Alana, Thesis advisor (ths): Hande, Mary Jean, Degree committee member (dgc): Ballantyne, Peri, Degree committee member (dgc): Damasco, Valerie, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Filipino immigrant care workers play a critical role in Canada's eldercare systems. Yet, little is known about their aging experiences and eldercare desires. This thesis draws on a qualitative study that employed a life history narrative approach (Brotman et al., 2020) to conduct five in-depth, semi-structured interviews with older Filipino immigrants (ages 59-80) employed in Canada… more

    Development of Models for Air Pollution-Related Public Health Assessment: Application of Long Short-Term Memory Neural Network for Short-term Exposure Effect

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Han, Huawei, Thesis advisor (ths): Burr, Wesley, Degree committee member (dgc): Parker, James, Degree committee member (dgc): Shin, Hwashin, Degree committee member (dgc): Chan-Reynolds, Michael, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This thesis develops an Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural network model to assess the relationship between ambient air pollutant exposure and public health risks, accommodating both linear and nonlinear associations with distributed lags.The research makes three key contributions. First, Maximal Information Coefficient (MIC) methods identify the most relevant air pollutants and their… more

    Genetic, Genomic and Diet Diversity: Insight into the Persistence and Vulnerability of Muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus)

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Prewer, Erin, Thesis advisor (ths): Kyle, Christopher J, Degree committee member (dgc): Donaldson, Michael, Degree committee member (dgc): Shafer, Aaron, Degree committee member (dgc): Saville, Barry, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Molecular and genomic tools provide a deeper understanding of the ecology and evolution of species and their capacity to adapt to changing selective pressures, where diversity is presumedly linked to higher fitness and evolutionary potential. Molecular tools can also illustrate how historical processes affect contemporary genetic variation to predict how current population trends may… more

    Psychological Adjustment and Psychological Flexibility Following Sport-related Concussion

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Pownall, Emma, Thesis advisor (ths): Brown, Liana E, Thesis advisor (ths): O'Hagan, Fergal, Degree committee member (dgc): Brenner, Ingrid, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>An athlete's psychological response to a sports-related concussion may influence thesuccess of recovery and return to play. This exploratory study explored how athletes
    psychologically respond to concussion, using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to
    examine the role of psychological flexibility in recovery and return to play. Thirty
    athletes who experienced a concussion in the past… more

    An Assessment of YESAB (Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board): Implementing the Spirit and Intent of the Umbrella Final Agreement's Chapter 12, What Works, What Doesn't, and the Forces That Shape the Development Assessment Process

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Baranik, Lauren Alexandra, Thesis advisor (ths): Nicol, Heather, Degree committee member (dgc): O'Donoghue, Mark, Degree committee member (dgc): McCartney, Leslie, Degree committee member (dgc): Dunaway, Finis, Degree committee member (dgc): Slowey, Gabrielle, Degree committee member (dgc): FitzMaurice, Kevin, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This is a community-based research project investigating the ability to meet a vision of co-governance. This dissertation investigates the effectiveness of the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board (YESAB) as a treaty-implementing institution under Chapter 12 of the Umbrella Final Agreement (UFA). The UFA, a modern treaty between Yukon First Nations (YFNs), Canada, and… more

    Host Population Immunogenetics in a Changing World: Signatures of Selection in the Context of Endemic and Invasive Diseases in Wildlife

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Baecklund, Tristan Mackenzie, Thesis advisor (ths): Kyle, Christopher J, Degree committee member (dgc): Donaldson, Michael, Degree committee member (dgc): Shafer, Aaron, Degree committee member (dgc): Brown, Glen, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Heterogeneous environments impose discordant selective pressures on natural populations, where disparate biotic/abiotic factors and variable population connectivity, yield mosaic patterns of genetic variation on the landscape. The ability to maintain or change genetic mosaics of populations becomes key to persistence, as species increasingly need to adapt to rapidly changing… more

    Axes of diversity and their implications in the unisexual Ambystoma complex

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Bare, Evan, Thesis advisor (ths): Murray, Dennis, Thesis advisor (ths): Hossie, Thomas, Degree committee member (dgc): Bogart, Jim, Degree committee member (dgc): Wilson, Chris, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Measuring biodiversity has become increasingly complex as biologists and ecologists have gradually learned more about how biotic systems are structured and interact. Given the wide range of tools, techniques and approaches now in use to quantify biological diversity, it is useful to consider different "dimensions of diversity" to classify these measurements and provide context… more

    Functional Role of 97R in Host Cell Modulation during Frog Virus 3 Infection

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Bansal, Lakshika, Thesis advisor (ths): Brunetti, Craig R, Degree committee member (dgc): Tobin, Stephanie, Degree committee member (dgc): Yee, Janet, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Frog virus 3 (FV3) belongs to the genus Ranavirus within the Iridoviridae family.Its 105,903 base genome encodes 98 open reading frames (ORFs), including ORF 97R, a
    putative apoptosis regulator sharing 31% structural similarity with the anti-apoptotic Bcl-
    2 family protein, myeloid cell leukemia 1 (Mcl-1). 97R contains a BH1 domain,
    implicated in apoptosis regulation, and a predicted C-… more

    Cytokinin-Producing Methylobacterium as Biological Control Agents of Phytopathogens

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Palberg, Daniel Michael, Thesis advisor (ths): Emery, R. J. Neil, Degree committee member (dgc): Stock, Naomi L, Degree committee member (dgc): Morrison, Erin, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Methylobacterium spp., a dominant and functionally conserved group of plant-associated bacteria, have long been recognized for their roles in promoting host growth, stress tolerance, and phytohormone modulation. This body of work collectively repositions Methylobacterium not only as a plant growth-promoting genus but also as a promising agent of microbiome-mediated crop protection.… more

    Environmental contamination associated with artisanal gold mining in Guyana

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Osborne, Chetwynd Carlos, Thesis advisor (ths): Watmough, Shaun A., Degree committee member (dgc): Eimers, Catherine, Degree committee member (dgc): Hintelmann, Holger, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>A meta-analysis revealed that while there is often a greater degree of contamination of soils and sediments with metals, contamination by mercury (Hg) is a large concern owing to its toxicity at low concentrations. The case study in Guyana characterized Hg and concentrations of other metals (As, Cd, Co, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in soil and sediment within gold mined areas. Metal… more

    Tamil Canadians Caregiving Experiences Caring for Older Adults with Dementia at Home

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Parama Thayanithi, Sumathi, Thesis advisor (ths): Omar, Abeer, Degree committee member (dgc): Wahid, Rasha, Degree committee member (dgc): Cable-Williams, Beryl, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This study examines the experiences of Tamil Canadian caregivers providing home care for older adults with dementia, highlighting their unique challenges. Grounded in a social constructivist and phenomenological approach, the qualitative research explores the influence of social, cultural, and familial expectations on caregiving roles. Semi-structured interviews with ten Tamil Canadian… more

    Transnationalism and Newcomers' Settlement Process in Canada: A Case Study of African International Students in Peterborough.

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Owusu, Samuel Okyere, Thesis advisor (ths): Firang, David, Degree committee member (dgc): Sethi, Bharati, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>The successful settlement of international students is important to their academic success as well as their integration into the host community. This thesis attempts to investigate the settlement needs and experiences of African international students in Peterborough, Canada, from a transnationalism perspective. Surveys were used to collect data from 351 students. A chi-square tests and… more