Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection

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    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

    Effects of a Topographical Gradient on Food Availability, Nest Site Selection, Nest Initiation, and Nest Success for Two Small, Low Arctic Breeding Bird Species

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Bonnett, Sarah, Thesis advisor (ths): Nol, Erica, Thesis advisor (ths): Smith, Paul A, Degree committee member (dgc): Nol, Erica, Degree committee member (dgc): Smith, Paul A, Degree committee member (dgc): Brown, Glen, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Climate change affects birds' reproductive ecology by altering breeding timing, distribution, and habitat suitability. Snowmelt patterns complicate these changes affecting habitat availability and suitability for birds and their arthropod prey. Snow varies as a function of both large-scale climate patterns and local-scale topography. I used elevational gradients as a proxy for local… more

    Guidance for Healthcare Professionals when Caring for People Who Use Drugs: A Perspective from Persons Who Use Drugs: A Scoping Review

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Brandsma, Julia, Thesis advisor (ths): Woodend, Kirsten, Thesis advisor (ths): Thibeault, Catherine, Degree committee member (dgc): King, Carolyn, Degree committee member (dgc): Churipuy, Donna, Degree committee member (dgc): Bedore, Christopher, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Individuals who use drugs face stigma in healthcare, leading to poor health outcomes and limited treatment access. This scoping review aims to provide healthcare professionals with key evidence needed for delivering acceptable care from the perspective of those who use drugs. A Lived Experience Advisory Panel determined what contributions represented the perspective of people who use… more

    Rethinking Assessment: Students' Experiences, Learning Approaches, and Motivations in University Exams

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Bodrug, Thomas Edward, Thesis advisor (ths): Keefer, Kateryna K, Degree committee member (dgc): Peters, Kevin R, Degree committee member (dgc): Celestini, Ann M, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This thesis aimed to explore students' perspectives on university exams in two studies. Using a phenomenological approach, Study 1 recruited 10 senior undergraduate students to participate in semi-structured interviews. A thematic analysis revealed key themes related to exam purpose, effectiveness, fairness, and emotional responses. These insights informed the development of a… more

    Stand at Attention! Examining Postural Effects on Attention

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Bolzon, Jenna M, Thesis advisor (ths): Chan-Reynolds, Michael G, Degree committee member (dgc): Brown, Liana E, Degree committee member (dgc): Treccani, Barbara, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Office workers consistently report greater productivity in the workplace when standing compared to sitting (Chambers et al., 2019; MacEwan et al., 2015; Mantzari et al., 2018). In contrast, laboratory studies report inconsistent evidence that posture (sitting vs. standing) affects cognitive performance, usually operationalized as selective attention (Caron et al., 2020; 2022; Rosenbaum… more

    The Lie We Tell: Educational Barriers of Refugee Students

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Iftikhar, Simal, Thesis advisor (ths): Handlarski, Denise, Thesis advisor (ths): Iannacci, Luigi, Degree committee member (dgc): Pendleton Jimenez, Karleen, Degree committee member (dgc): Berrill, Deborah, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This study examines the lived experiences of refugee students in the Canadian education system and how the barriers they face have influenced their learning and identity. This qualitative study employs critical discourse analysis to bring visibility to the educational experiences of five participants who completed high school in Canada and explores their experiences with resettlement and… more

    Small-scale Agriculture: A Means for Community Connecting with Agriculture

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Hourie, Samantha, Thesis advisor (ths): Beresford, David, Thesis advisor (ths): Sager, Eric, Degree committee member (dgc): Bowness, Evan, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Small scale farming at the homestead or hobby farm scale provides opportunities for members of the public to visit farms, see livestock, and engage directly with how their food is produced. This scale is often dismissed as or minor importance, yet the biosecurity of larger farms makes these small farms often the only ones that the public can visit. My research explores whether… more

    Statistical and Machine Learning Methods for Quantum Measurements with Single Photon Emitters

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Stone, Dylan, Thesis advisor (ths): Bradac, Carlo, Degree committee member (dgc): Atkinson, Bill, Degree committee member (dgc): Agarwal, Nisha, Degree committee member (dgc): Sadaf, Sharif, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>With wide applications ranging from quantum communication and metrology to biomedicine, single photon sources in solid-state hosts have become a major area of study. Here, we focus on three applications: nanothermometry, optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR), and second order autocorrelation. We present novel statistical and machine learning (ML) approaches to extract information… more

    Exploring the Impact of Acute Stress on Previously Acquired Contextual Fear Memory

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Thiyagarajah, Javishaa, Thesis advisor (ths): Fournier, Neil, Degree committee member (dgc): Lehmann, Hugo, Degree committee member (dgc): Marks, Wendie, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Stress can significantly affect neurobiological processes crucial for learning and memory. While repeated stress enhances fear memory, it impairs memory retrieval. In most studies, however, stress exposure typically preceded fear and extinction learning. Thus, the impact of previously acquired memories formed before exposure to stress is not well understood. The goal of this thesis is to… more

    Environmental Remediation Applications of Chemically Activated Tropical Hardwood Waste

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): France, Hamant Edward, Thesis advisor (ths): Vreugdenhil, Andrew J, Degree committee member (dgc): Martic, Sanela, Degree committee member (dgc): Narine, Suresh, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Innovative strategies to manage copious waste streams by upcycling feedstocks to valorized products which are then used in environmental remediation applications is an attractive circular economy model. This thesis explores this approach using waste wood generated from the milling of Chlorocardium rodiei (greenheart), a tropical hardwood species abundant in Guyana. We evaluate the… more

    Inorganic and Organic Carbon Dynamics of a South-Central Ontario Forest After the Application of Non-Industrial Wood Ash

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Foley, Kaylen, Thesis advisor (ths): Watmough, Shaun, Degree committee member (dgc): Power, Ian, Degree committee member (dgc): Thompson, Karen, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Forests play a critical role in the global carbon cycle, acting as carbon sinks that remove and store an estimated 0.4 to 4.1 Pg of atmospheric carbon annually. However, historical acid deposition and timber harvesting have disrupted nutrient cycles, leading to nutrient-deficient soils that hinder tree growth, particularly for sugar maple (Acer saccharum), a keystone species in Ontario… more

    Differentiate and Conquer: Associations Between Self-Other Differentiation and Adaptive Capacity in Clinic-Referred and Typically Developing Adolescents

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): French, Alisa, Thesis advisor (ths): Im-Bolter, Nancie, Degree committee member (dgc): Bickle, Korri, Degree committee member (dgc): Eastabrook, Jennifer, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This study investigates associations between self-other differentiation (the ability to distinguish and coordinate the self and other perspective during social problem-solving) and specific ego functions (reality testing, judgement, sense of reality, object relations, and synthetic-integrative function) from a cognitive perspective in two groups of adolescents aged 12 to 18 years. One… more

    An in vitro characterization of the novel binding properties of the Giardia TATA-binding protein

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Freitag, Kieran, Thesis advisor (ths): Yee, Janet, Degree committee member (dgc): Brunetti, Craig, Degree committee member (dgc): Huber, Robert, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>The TATA-binding protein (TBP) is a key regulator of eukaryotic transcription initiation. The TBP homolog from Giardia intestinalis (gTBP) is highly divergent among all TBPs; notably lacking three of the four phenylalanine residues to unwind double- stranded DNA. I show that gTBP preferentially binds to single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) in two modes based on sequence and protein concentration… more

    Effect of mfsd8 deletion on the secretome and transcriptome of Dictyostelium discoideum

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Gray, Joshua, Thesis advisor (ths): Huber, Robert J, Degree committee member (dgc): Saville, Barry, Degree committee member (dgc): Martic, Sanela, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Mutations in the CLN7 (MFSD8) gene, causes CLN7 disease, a subtype of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. MFSD8 is a lysosomal transmembrane protein that transports chloride across membranes. Experimentation regarding Dictyostelium discoideum revealed that mfsd8 deficiency altered lysosomal enzyme activity. During starvation, the aggregation of mfsd8¬¬- cells was delayed, and cells formed… more

    Adsorption of Naphthenic Acids from Oil Sand Process-Affected Water (OSPW) using Synthesized Activated Carbon

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Nazari, Elmira, Thesis advisor (ths): Vreugdenhil, Andrew A.V, Degree committee member (dgc): Easton, Brad B.E, Degree committee member (dgc): Slepkov, Aaron A.S, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This thesis explores the remediation of naphthenic acids (NAs) from oil sands process-affected water (OSPW) using activated carbon (AC) derived from petroleum coke (PC) chemically activated with potassium hydroxide. The research aims to identify the most effective method for the adsorptive removal of NAs by optimizing the use of economically viable KOH quantities and to apply Fourier… more

    Challenging the Stereotype of the Idealized Victorian Mother through the Acknowledgement of Maternal Mental Health in Christina Rossetti's Sing-Song: A Nursery Rhyme Book

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Mungham, Laura, Thesis advisor (ths): Bailey, Suzanne, Degree committee member (dgc): Bode, Rita, Degree committee member (dgc): Steffler, Margaret, Degree committee member (dgc): Bruusgaard, Emily, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>In this thesis I argue that Sing-Song: A Nursery Rhyme Book (1872) disrupts conventional narratives of the idealized maternal role in the Victorian era, "the angel in the house" by confronting and giving a voice to the often overlooked realities of maternal suffering. Rossetti accomplishes this by fostering the conversation regarding the challenges inherent in motherhood. Sing-… more

    Effect of Polarization on the Band Structure at a Charged Domain Wall in Ferroelectric Materials

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Nasir, Maryam, Thesis advisor (ths): Atkinson, William WA, Degree committee member (dgc): Bradac, Carlo CB, Degree committee member (dgc): de Haan, Hendrick, Degree committee member (dgc): Ramachandran, Ganesh GR, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p> The interplay between electron charge, spin, and ferroelectric polarization is under-explored for conducting ferroelectric domain walls (DWs). DWs are interfaces that separate regions
    (domains) within a material that have different orientations of spontaneous polarization.
    We investigated the electronic band structure of t2g electrons, confined to 90° charged do
    main walls (CDWs) in… more

    Exploring End-User Accessible Microsatellite and Microhaplotype Nanopore Sequencing with the Oxford Nanopore's MinION Device

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Clarke, Ella, Thesis advisor (ths): Wilson, Paul, Thesis advisor (ths): Manseau, Micheline, Degree committee member (dgc): Smith, Derek, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Microsatellites and microhaplotypes are genetic markers that, through DNA amplicon sequencing, generate genotypes to distinguish between individuals from wildlife populations. Here, these markers were sequenced in caribou (Rangifer tarandus) specimens using Oxford Nanopore's MinION DNA sequencer for the first time. Microsatellite loci previously sequenced with an Illumina MiSeq were… more

    Environmental and Genetic Factors Influencing Trait Variation in White-Tailed Deer

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Cars, Brooklyn Shirley, Thesis advisor (ths): Shafer, Aaron BA, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Trait variation in wild populations is shaped by the interaction of genetics and the environment. Given these interactions, this thesis explored trait variation in white-tailed deer from two angles: one focused on broad-scale environmental factors, the other on fine-scale genetic mechanisms. The first chapter investigated how climate and habitat variation influence antler size,… more

    Playing a Dangerous Game: Games and the Development of Stereotypes in Moral Panics from 1976-1999

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Burton, Joseph Mitchell, Thesis advisor (ths): Elton, Hugh, Thesis advisor (ths): Keefer, Katrina, Degree committee member (dgc): Mitchell, Liam, Degree committee member (dgc): Synenko, Joshua, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Beginning in the 1970s, games went from being trivial and innocuous elements of childhood culture to major touchstones of North American popular culture. Games came to symbolize the dangers of a rapidly shifting technological and cultural landscape. This led to a series of moral panics that were centered upon these new, often complex, and increasingly realistic games that were apparently… more

    Genomic Perspectives on the Evolutionary History of North American Cervidae: Ancient DNA, Demographic Collapse and Hybridisation

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Kessler, Camille Pauline, Thesis advisor (ths): Shafer, Aaron B. A., Degree committee member (dgc): Foote, Andrew D., Degree committee member (dgc): Spzak, Paul, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Since the mid-Pleistocene, evolutionary histories of North American species were shaped by extreme climatic oscillations involving major range and habitat shifts at a rapid pace. The peopling of the continent and the subsequent human colonisation waves created further pressures affecting North American faunal and plant populations. Cervidae (deer family) are a diverse group which arrived… more

    Exploring the pandemic and post-pandemic challenges of older voluntarism in a regional health centre

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Katey, Daniel, Thesis advisor (ths): Skinner, Mark, Degree committee member (dgc): Russell, Elizabeth, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>While hospitals were seen as high-risk zones during the COVID-19 pandemic, little is known about how older hospital volunteers and volunteer-based programs navigated that period. Using the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) in Ontario, Canada as a case study, this thesis research explores the pandemic and post-pandemic challenges of older voluntarism in a regional health care… more

    The biogeochemical fate of rare earth elements in aquatic ecosystems

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Kernaghan, Ashlyn, Thesis advisor (ths): Dang, Huy D, Degree committee member (dgc): Fortin, Claude, Degree committee member (dgc): Watmough, Shaun, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Rare earth elements (REEs) are in high demand globally for the green transition and high technologies. The growing demand leads to their release into aquatic ecosystems from various point and non-point sources, which creates urgency to investigate their fate and enrichment. This thesis further investigates the biogeochemical fate and REE uptake mechanisms throughout aquatic ecosystems.… more

    Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit in Elementary Life Science Education: Stories from the Kivalliq

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Kaluraq, MARJORIE Kaviq, Thesis advisor (ths): Elliott, Paul, Degree committee member (dgc): Bell, Nicole, Degree committee member (dgc): Furgal, Chris, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>This study examined how to incorporate Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit [Inuit knowledge] into elementary life science teaching in Nunavut. Interviews were conducted with Kivalliq teachers and elders to understand what teachers have done to incorporate Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit into their practice and interviewed elders to understand what Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit is, how it was shared, and used… more

    Psychometric Properties of a Short Coping Measure: An Investigation of the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations – Short Form (CISS-SF)

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Van Elswyk, Amy, Thesis advisor (ths): Parker, James D. A., Thesis advisor (ths): Summerfeldt, Laura J., Degree committee member (dgc): Parker, James D. A., Degree committee member (dgc): Summerfeldt, Laura J., Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>Objective: The Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS) is a widely used measure of trait coping that was developed to assess three basic coping styles: task-oriented, emotion-oriented, and avoidance-oriented coping. This thesis examined the psychometric properties of a short form for the CISS (CISS-SF). Method: Data from a large longitudinal sample of adults were used to conduct… more

    When Parents Phub: Investigating its Relationship with Children's Digital and Problem Behaviours

    Year: 2025, 2025
    Member of: Trent University Graduate Thesis Collection
    Name(s): Creator (cre): Vandendort, Tiana, Thesis advisor (ths): Liu, Mowei, Degree committee member (dgc): Blair, Karen L, Degree committee member (dgc): Liu, Pan, Degree granting institution (dgg): Trent University
    Abstract: <p>In today's digital era, smartphone use is having a profound effect on family life. There is growing concern about parental phubbing, which occurs when parents ignore their children in favour of using their phones. This study examined how parental phubbing was associated with children's problematic media use (PMU), and problem behaviours (internalizing, externalizing,attention)… more