3MT® Western Regionals 2021

Ahmad Karimi

Abstract

Poly Vinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) nanofibres are hydrophobic, durable, flexible, and biocompatible materials that have been utilized in various today’s electronics, biomedical, chemical, and mechanical engineering areas. Some of the bio-applications of PVDF nanofibres are in protective clothing, tissue engineering, and membrane technologies. However, the PVDF hydrophobicity feature has limited its applications in areas such as filtration and wearable/implantable devices. One of the most effective and widely used approaches to enhance hydrophilicity characterization of PVDF nanofibres is oxygen plasma treatment. To avoid polymer/fibres damages and obtain an effective modification, plasma parameters such as oxygen ratio, treatment time, and power must be carefully researched. In this research, the above-mentioned parameters are investigated thoroughly to find an optimum condition to obtain hydrophilic PVDF nanofibres.

Whitney Blaisdell

Abstract

Researchers have been warning us for decades that we are immersed in a steep decline of play, and that as this decline continues, we will continue to see devastating results for human beings. Researchers are linking some of the increasingly alarming rates of mental health diagnoses in both adults and children with play deprivation. This three-minute thesis offers a brief understanding of both play and the current state of play, before describing the current study on barriers and facilitating factors to play. The methodologies (autoethnography, grounded theory, and action research) are described. I offer an overview of some of the community by-products of the research and describe the final grounded theory of how it appears one can (re)claim play.

Ada Chukwudozie

Abstract

The right to Indigenous self-determination is a right that is inherent in all Indigenous communities and it is a right that is undeniable. Nonetheless, with the advent of colonization came a marginalization of Indigenous peoples in Canada and their systems of self-governance and self-determination, limiting the possibilities of practicing these systems of governance and economies in today’s society. As such, the contemporary reality facing Indigenous peoples in Canada today is that what governance structures and models they do have are grounded largely on the principles of global capitalism– one driven by values that both contradict Indigenous cultures and traditional values and actively seeks to erode them. My paper aims to explore the idea of sustainable self-determination and the concept of true reconciliation using the “land back” argument which provides a real opportunity for the implementation of sustainable Indigenous self-determination when analyzed against the framework of consent-based jurisdiction and Indigenous reclamation.

Kristina Molin Cherneski

Abstract

My thesis examines the history of privacy in 19th-century Britain by studying people who look like they have no privacy, like servants who lived in other people’s houses, and people who lived in communal situations where they shared living and sleeping space. Using diaries, letters, magazines and cartoons, I look at when people lacked privacy, how they asserted it when they could, how they protected it if they had it, and when they chose to give it up. People protected their privacy in multiple and subtle ways. They hid things in their limited personal spaces, sewn into clothing or stuffed under floorboards. They challenged strangers who seemed too snoopy. They asserted their need for time to be alone. People protected their privacy as a way to express themselves as individuals, even in communal living situations and where social realities meant that they were always around and often serving other people.

Claudia Rodriguez Diaz

Abstract

The goal of this research is to investigate the neurobiological mechanisms in the hippocampus (HPC) supporting new spatial learning with familiar information. Long term potentiation (LTP) is believed to be responsible for learning at the molecular level. This occurs when calcium ions enter the post-synaptic neuron via multiple ion channel control systems. One of the ion channel control systems include N-methyl–D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Consensus in the field suggests that NMDA are crucial for LTP and new learning to occur however, our lab and others have found differing evidence. Showing that learning can still occur when NMDAR function is blocked. I propose The Calcium theory of new learning to explain these results. NMDARs in the HPC rapidly encode a complex representation of the environment. Once this representation is formed new learning can occur within that representational framework. Therefore, new learning in a familiar environment requires less calcium for the learning to occur. However, in novel environment an entirely new representation must be rapidly formed, which requires all available calcium via NMDAR and other ion channels control systems like voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs). My hypothesis is that the disruption of new learning with familiar information is dependent on a blockade of both NMDARs and VGCCs.

Kate Dunn

Abstract

Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus infecting the liver and resulting in greater life years lost than any other infectious disease in Canada. Indigenous communities face higher incidence as well as lower treatment uptake. Wisdom seeking work incorporates Indigenous perspectives from Knowledge Holders and Elders on traditional liver wellness into the pathway for Hepatitis C care. Working within Indigenous Methodologies while respecting traditional protocol, spending time fostering relationship and facilitating heart listening. Open-ended interview style conversations regarding traditional wellness approaches through perspectives, story and memories. Resulting shared knowledge will be respectfully and reflectively co-analyzed with participants. Hepatitis C key messages from a culturally relevant perspective will be shared back for wide dissemination within Indigenous communities using visual media through DocuStory format. This work has potential to influence creation of culturally relevant resources impacting provincial policy while incorporating wholistic and traditional wellness approaches to Hepatitis C and liver health.

Kristi Gordon

Abstract

Invasive species pose a significant threat to the livelihood of British Columbia (BC) ranchers. Spotted knapweed (Centaurea stoebe), in particular, can reduce native plant diversity, form dense monocultures and overwhelm the native seed bank. Integrated rangeland management strategies are therefore needed to suppress weeds and restore ecological function as a whole. Recent research suggests that short-duration, light to moderate grazing may aid in restoring rangelands. This research is located in Merritt, BC, and tests management-intensive, extensive, and targeted cattle grazing practices for their ability to improve semi-arid rangeland site characteristics, including the control of C. stoebe. Targeted cattle grazing was effective in controlling C. stoebe seed production; cattle reduced the number of mature seeds by 88% and seed heads by 79%. Research results will generate targeted cattle grazing protocols for C. stoebe control, and we will assess whether intensive grazing practices can create productive invasive-free rangelands in BC’s Southern Interior.

Laura Janiaski

Abstract

Anthropogenic pollutants represent a new threat to human health due to their rapid increase in the environment. Microplastics have become one of the most concerning environmental issues, being found in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems as well as in drinking water and seafood. Although humans are exposed to microplastics, the effects on human health are unknown. My research assessed the health effects of microplastics on mice after four and sixteen weeks of oral exposure and after a 4-week recovery period. Microplastics were found in the intestinal wall, spleen and liver, suggesting that these particles can cross the gut barrier. Although no histopathological alterations were observed, microplastics affected the expression levels of genes related to inflammation and tissue injury repair. Overall, long exposure had worse adverse effects compared to short exposure, and the effects were partially reversed after the recovery period. These findings shed light on the microplastic risks to human health.

Nolan De Leon

Abstract

Circular ribonucleic acids (circRNAs) are new and promising biomarkers for the diagnosis of prenatal health problems by providing information about the baby’s development in the mother’s womb. Recently, we demonstrated that circRNAs can identify congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH); a devastating birth defect that leads to underdeveloped lungs, high blood pressure in the lungs, and a hole in the diaphragm. These same circRNAs can predict if a baby with CDH would benefit from prenatal surgical therapy, which improves their chances of survival. BaseScope™ is a technique that can visualize and measure circRNA expression in tissue biopsies. Recently, our lab adapted BaseScope™ to detect circRNAs in liquid biopsies such as amniotic fluid, allowing for fast and specific analysis of circRNA expression. Our goal is to confirm the differences in circRNA expression between the amniotic fluid of healthy babies and CDH babies with our new BaseScope™ liquid biopsy protocol.

Em Lim

Abstract

Nutrients can be hard to come by in the ocean, but despite the fact that cold marine waters are often high in nutrients, some of the highest biodiversity is found in nutrient-poor tropical coral reefs. These reefs survive because of nutrient cycling: animals eat primary producers like seaweeds, then fertilize the water with their nutrient-rich pee, which bolsters the growth of more primary producers. Despite the widespread assumption that nutrient cycling is less important in nutrient-rich waters, empirical tests for global patterns are lacking. I am conducting a meta-analysis of published literature to assess the effect of animal provisioned nutrients on primary productivity in marine ecosystems. I will use the data from each paper to calculate and compare the average effect of animal pee on primary producers between nutrient-rich, and nutrient-poor waters. This research will strengthen our understanding of the many ways animals can affect primary productivity.

Ella Parker

Abstract

What happens when high school students are engaged in monitoring their lands and waters? Research suggests that school-based monitoring programs with real-world impacts foster more meaningful learning experiences. In response, this project aims to co-design water monitoring tools with students, teachers and decision-makers to investigate and test potential avenues for school-based monitoring to inform decision-making. Taking an action research approach this project focuses on the case study of the “Koh-Learning in our Watersheds” program on Saik’uz First Nation Territory (Vanderhoof, British Columbia, Canada). Research activities have included establishing a mentorship group of older students to collaboratively design and trial a water quality monitoring plan for younger classes. Interviews with students, teachers and decision-makers were then conducted to learn about the potential pathways to inform decision-making. With these findings we hope to offer new recommendations for how to connect, youth, land and water, and decision-making.

Chantal Rytz

Abstract

As part of their transition process, transgender women (assigned male sex at birth with woman gender identity) can use gender-affirming estrogen therapy to reach their desired levels of feminization. However, this therapy may affect their cardiovascular health, and the effects of it may depend on the dose, route of administration and duration of time on estrogen. My research aims to determine the cardiovascular implications of gender-affirming estrogen therapy, with the goal of improving the understanding and management of the cardiovascular health of transgender women.

Robyn Thomas

Abstract

Parents, as family caregivers of a child with medical complexity, face tremendous challenges in the care of their child. Despite a growing number of children with medical complexity in Canada, current health services are often unable to meet the holistic needs of these families. Many family caregivers caring for their child in-the-home or in rural communities experience barriers in accessing care, challenging isolation, and grief. This thesis aims to critically discuss the unmet needs experienced by family caregivers throughout their child’s illness trajectory.

From there, a potential model of volunteerism to improve the quality of life of these families will be explored. This thesis aims to promote family-centered and community-based healthcare approaches in Canada.

Ryan West

Abstract

Ryan is a teacher and professional learner who lives and works in Old Crow, Yukon—the traditional territory of the Vuntut Gwich’in First Nation. Using the metaphor of Athabaskan fiddle music, Ryan’s work critically explores the gap between Eurocentric and Indigenous learning systems in Canadian schools in effort to address the existing inequities between the two. Through the story of Athabaskan fiddle music, his work suggests that in order to better meet the needs of today’s learners, we need to change our language around learning and begin to reconsider the purposes, values, and the outcomes of education.

Jiun-yi Zullo

Abstract

Occupational disappointment is a novel concept in emergency nursing, defined as a feeling of disheartenment with career choice in this group of nurses who enter the profession to help others. It results from prevalent, unaddressed verbal abuse in the emergency department directed towards nurses from patients and/or their visitors. In the limited literature published, it is shown to be conceptually different from nursing burnout syndrome and compassion fatigue, yet it can lead to negative effects for nurses and their patients. A qualitative descriptive methodology was used in this research study to yield a straight description of occupational disappointment. Six emergency department nurses were interviewed to explore the questions: What are the concerns of nurses about occupational disappointment? What are nurses’ responses towards occupational disappointment? From an emic perspective, nurses in this study discussed the prevalence of occupational disappointment in emergency nursing culture and offer their concerns regarding this pervasive issue.

Sarah Chan

Bio

Sarah Chan (MA) is a musician & writer, teacher, social advocate, yoga toddler (RYT-200), and mother of two.

Sarah created and Chairs the Dentons Make Your Mark program at United Way, a youth activation program for student leaders. She also co-Chaired United Way’s campaign cabinet for three years from 2016-2018. As a social advocate with a deep understanding of Edmonton’s charitable sector, Sarah currently sits as a director on both the CN and Telus Community Giving Boards, in Edmonton.

Sarah has been a mentor with BGCBigs for the past 7 years. She is an Honorary Patron for YESS; An advocate for the Edmonton Public Library; And, a Member of the Mentor team at Peter Lougheed Leadership College.

Sarah was named Top 40 Under 40 by Edify Magazine in 2015. She is also the recipient of a philanthropy award in Community Enrichment, from the Association of Fundraising Professionals in 2020.

In 2021, Sarah co-published the anthology Midlife, from phone call to finished product in 4 months, with Jhenifer Pabillano, as a COVID project. It features 27 contributors, past friends from The Gateway student newspaper, reflecting on midlife.

Ryan Jespersen

bio

Ryan Jespersen hosts Real Talk, Canada's most-listened-to daily news podcast. You may also recognize him as the Edmonton Oilers' in-game host (back when we were allowed to gather in groups of 18,500!). Ryan's been named one of Alberta's 50 Most Influential People by Alberta Venture, and was on Avenue Magazine's inaugural list of Edmonton's Top 40 Under 40. You can find Ryan on Twitter and Instagram @ryanjespersen, and subscribe to Real Talk via ryanjespersen.com

Dr. Scott Ketcheson

Bio

Dr. Scott Ketcheson is an Assistant Professor and NSERC Canada Research Chair in Hydrological Sustainability at Athabasca University. As a field hydrologist, Dr. Ketcheson studies the movement of water between forests, wetlands and streams in northern Alberta. His research program uses both traditional hydrological techniques and innovative sensor networks to gain a better understanding of how headwater catchments work and their importance for keeping water flowing through streams and rivers within the lower Athabasca River Basin.

Colleen Powell

Bio

Colleen Powell is the mayor of the Town of Athabasca. Colleen moved to Athabasca in 1985 with her husband Rick when he was hired as a researcher at Athabasca University. Both her and her husband have come to love the town and the university and are proud Athabascans. Colleen worked for 14 years for the faculty association at AU and during that time was elected to Town Council. This will be Colleen’s sixth term on Council, a job she encourages everyone to try.

Prior to coming to Athabasca, Colleen worked and lived in Ghana, England, and Lesotho and also spent a year in the Netherlands.

Meaghan Sullivan

Bio

Meaghan manages the GSA office. Her role involves providing guidance and supporting the graduate student leaders of Athabasca University. She is the co-chair of the annual Athabasca University Graduate Student Research Conference and has over 15 years of leadership experience. Meaghan joined AUGSA in 2018. Prior to AUGSA, Meaghan’s career path progressed through the private, municipal government, and education sectors. With a background in information technology, she focused on IT client support, business transformational services, and technology training services. During her IT career, her love for adult education became prominent when tasked with building and managing a technology training branch to support and lead enterprise-wide IT projects and systems. She holds an MBA and post-baccalaureate diploma in management from Athabasca University. She is currently pursuing a second master’s degree, Master of Education (Post-Secondary Studies), from Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN).

Dr. Mickey Vallee

Bio

Dr. Mickey Vallee is an Associate Professor and SSHRC Canada Research Chair in Community, Identity and Digital Media. A specialist in acoustic ecology, Vallee uses sound-based methods to dig deep into the meanings of community in voice and the vibrational atmosphere of place. This set of methods has taken him into the field with bioacoustics scientists, community centres with Parkinson’s choirs, everyday interactions with computerized voice assistants, among other places. Currently, he is researching communication in our new pandemic “maskscape”, noise intrusion in the new home workspace, and the possibility for a personhood of sound. What binds these empirical disparities is a consistent posthuman philosophical framework that seeks out the variety of ways that beings live affirmatively with themselves, their communities, and their environments.