research creative activity showcase

Figurative study by Leanne Snellen

SHOWCASEResearch & Creative Activity

2012.2013

MacEwan University Provost's MessageMacEwan University is an undergraduate institution with a passion for excellence in teaching and learning. And an important part of our commitment to excellence in undergraduate education is the way in which the outstanding scholarship of our faculty is integrated into the learning experiences of our students. In this showcase you will discover why, at MacEwan University, we believe that research and creative activity need not wait until graduate school or be the purview only of "research-intensive universities." For us, research and creative activity is an everyday reality. New and important knowledge is created and communicated here at MacEwan every year as a collaborative adventure of discovery, integration and engagement. I encourage you to read about the many innovative research initiatives that make MacEwan University such an exciting place for our faculty, staff and students to work, study and learn together.

Dr. John Corlett Provost and Vice President, Academic

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AcknowledgmentsMacEwan University is thrilled to celebrate some of the incredible scholarly and creative achievements of our students and faculty featured in this publication. The shared abstracts are from presentations made throughout the year at the university's annual faculty and student research and creative showcase series. All schools and faculties participate, with a wide range of disciplines represented. These are just a few examples of the excellent work being accomplished by the MacEwan University community, many of which demonstrate our commitment and connection to the community.

We thank external collaborators for their contributions to these projects and welcome community organizations, industry and other academic institutions to contact us and explore potential partnerships.

Additional thanks to the Golden Key International Honour Society, USRI Committee members, and various MacEwan University staff, students, and faculty for their contributions to showcase events and support developing this publication.

A special thanks to Syncrude for sponsoring, in part, the Annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase week.

Join us at City Centre Campus from January 27 through 31, 2014 for the next Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase Week, and throughout the year for our faculty speaker series Scholars 'n Snacks.

Details posted at MacEwan.ca/Research

Meghan Abbott, Research Officer 780-633-3265 [email protected]

mailto: [email protected]

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AbstractsFaculty of Arts & Science

ArtsFacultyBoulianne, Dr. Shelley Sociology ...........................................................1Online and engaged: An experiment related to online news and political interest

Buchanan, Dr. Dave English ................................................................ 2Travels with a tricycle: The Pennells and early cycle-travel literature

Falconer, Dr. Rob Humanities - History ................................................. 3Community, conflict and control: The social meaning behind petty crime in later 16th-century Aberdeen

Jung, Dr. Sandy Psychology .................................................................. 4Child pornography possessors: Comparisons and contrasts with contact and non-contact sex offenders

StudentsBlake, Jessica Bachelor of Arts (Honours), Psychology ............................... 5Sexual experience and sexual awareness: The relationship between Attitudes, Awareness, Attraction and Sexual Openness

Calderon, Joanna Bachelor of Education TransferSupporting global cultural diversity with selective social media .............................................. 6

Transformation assessment in a learning community to foster student leadership: Methods of transformative assessment .....................................................................7Earley, Claire Bachelor of Arts, Anthropology ........................................... 8Starch grain analysis of organic residue from 18th-century Inuit soapstone vessels in northern Labrador

Haje, Bruno Bachelor of Arts (Honours), Sociology .................................... 9Prevalence of aggressive and dangerous driving behaviors among university students

Ratay, Anna Bachelor of Arts, Sociology ..................................................10Integration barriers faced by immigrants to Canada

Reedman, Amy Bachelor of Arts, Anthropology ....................................... 11Ethnohistory and archaeology in northern Labrador

Schmidt, Alyssa Bachelor of Arts (Honours), Psychology ...........................12Multimodal contributions to emotion processing in children with autism

Wiwad, Dylan Bachelor of Arts (Honours), Psychology ..............................13The effects of previously established biases on novel song preference

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ScienceFacultyAaquist, Dr. Orla Physical Sciences - Physics ..........................................14A low-cost cosmic ray detector using new technology materials

Anton, Dr. Calin Computer Science ....................................................... 15Generating hard satisfiable instances

Beltaos, Dr. Elaine Mathematics and Statistics .......................................16Algebra and modern physics

Digweed, Dr. Shannon Psychology and Biological Sciences ...................... 17Who's your neighbour? Acoustic cues to individual identity in red squirrel (Tamiasciurius hudsonicus) rattle calls

Hamilton, Dr. Trevor Psychology ........................................................18An alteration of cellular memory by neuropeptide Y

Indratmo, Dr. Computer Science ..........................................................19A visual analytical tool for mapping stock market data

Locky, Dr. David Biological Sciences .................................................... 20The challenge of managing a keystone ecosystem: Cumulative impacts in a peatland-dominated landscape in Alberta, Canada

Lorimer, Dr. Shelley EngineeringPart I: The evolution of a first-year engineering transfer program: 1995-2010 ..............................21

Part II: StrengthsQuest for engineers ..................................................................... 22Withey, Dr. Jonathan Physical Sciences - Chemistry .............................. 23The end of drug discovery?

StudentsAnnich, Natasha Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ......................... 24Bioacoustic analysis of amphibian breeding calls to compare their use of natural and borrow pit wetlands in northern Alberta

Bain, Tamara Bachelor of Science, Computer ScienceSegmentation techniques on geophysical images (with Ruben Estevez) ....................................25

Statistical methods for segmentation of geophysical images (with Ruben Estevez) ......................... 34Bokenfohr, Brock Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ....................... 26The effectiveness of commercial products at controlling (Aiptasia spp.) in captive coral reef systems

Bourgeois, Leanne Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ......................27A discounted threat: Environmental impacts of the livestock industry

Buchwald, Ian Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ............................ 28The effects of a marl seep on freshwater phytoplankton and zooplankton communities in Long Lake, Alberta

Collette, Julie Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ............................. 29Eugregarine parasitism in the Saffron-winged Meadowhawk (Sempetrum costiferum) and Lake Darner (Aeshna eremita) at Hermitage Park, Edmonton, with an assessment of possible fitness costs

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Crosland, Brett Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences........................... 30The relationships between Monocystis ventrosa (Apicomplexa: Monocystidae) infection and immune activity in Red Wigglers; Eisenia fetida (Annelida; Clitellata)

Doyle, Ashley Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ..............................31Inactivation of ergot (Claviceps purpurea) using thermophillic anaerobic digestion process

Edmunds, Benjamin Bachelor of Science, Physical Sciences ..................... 32Antibiotic degradation in cattle manure during the thermophilic anaerobic digestion (TAD) process

Estevez, Ruben Bachelor of Science, Computer ScienceEncodings of subgraph isomorphism to SAT and their influence of SR-SGI ................................ 33

Segmentation techniques on geophysical images (with Tamara Bain) ......................................25

Statistical methods for segmentation of geophysical images (with Tamara Bain) ........................... 34Huybregts, Lauren Bachelor of Science, Physical Sciences ........................35Catalyst optimization for the synthesis of renewable waxes from camelina oil

Kamanos, Krystal Bachelor of Science, Physical Sciences ......................... 36Enantioselective total synthesis of (R)-(-)-complanine

King, Kelcey Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ................................37Compartment specific expression of SC00608 in Streptomyces coelicolor

Lekas, Ariel Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ................................ 38Fecundity of Northern redbelly dace (Phoxinus eos) and finescale dace (Phoxinus neogaeus) (Pisces: Cyprinidae) and their all-female asexual hybrids in Northern Alberta

Lindsay, Cameron Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ...................... 39Identification of wingless in the embryonic development of Amblyomma hebraeum

Lutsky, Michael Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences .......................... 40Construction of EGFP transcriptional fusion products for analysis of gene expression in S. coelicolor

Mazurok, James and Tiedmann, Kyle Bachelor of Science, Physical Sciences.......................................................41Development of a porous layer open tubular (PLOT) platform for quantitative environmental analysis

Mome Etindale, Karl-Yvan Bachelor of Science in Engineering Transfer ... 42The role of fluid modifiers in the enhanced recovery of oil in reservoirs

Orr, Brett Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ................................... 43Analysis of heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Edmonton snow storage facilities

Schmidt, Danielle Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ....................... 44Identification and sequencing of wnt5 and wnt6 genes in embryos of the ixodid tick, Amblyomma hebraeum

Sharp, Justin and Warkentin, Amy Bachelor of Science in Engineering Transfer.............................................. 45Tackling academic integrity online: Creation of automated assignment/exam software for distance learning

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Steed, David Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ............................... 46Site-directed mutagenesis of the DNA repair enzyme, polynucleotide kinase/phosphatase from Caenorhabditis elegans

Wiesmann, Christina Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ..................47Inactivation of hormones using the thermophilic anaerobic digestion process

Yip, Daniel Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences ................................. 48The effect of eugregarine infection (Gregarina niphandrodes) on mate selection behavior of the Yellow Mealworm Beetle (Tenebrio molitor)

School of BusinessFacultyElbarrad, Dr. Sherif and Ilter, Dr. Cenap Accounting ......................... 50Murabaha–an Islamic financial tool and the challenges vis a vis the International Accounting Standards

Wei, Dr. William Bachelor of Commerce, Institute of Asia Pacific Studies .... 51HRM practice within Chinese MNCs

Wong, Dr. Leo Bachelor of Commerce....................................................52The impact of sustainability curriculum on student outcomes

StudentsGuay, Travis with Ellison, Marisa; Halabi, Ehab; Lamoureux, Taylor; and Murdock, Brett Bachelor of Commerce, International Business ...........53Cool Sweat in Brazil

Guay, Travis Bachelor of Commerce, International Business ..................... 54Public-private partnerships

Mesluk, Amanda Bachelor of Commerce, Management ............................55The impact of the adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance practices on firms’ performance and its relation with executive compensation: The case of Canadian companies

Schwanke, Dee-Ann Bachelor of Commerce .......................................... 56The labyrinth: Barriers for women to executive positions

Faculty of Fine Arts & CommunicationsFacultyGarfinkle, Dr. David Theatre Arts ....................................................... 58A quantitative study of the comprehension of discrete "emotives" as portrayed by an actor in theatrical communication

Korda, Dr. Andrea Art History ........................................................... 59Printing and painting the news: A case study of new media practices in Victorian London

Matejko, Agnieszka; Edwards, Jannie and Lysay, Bob Fine Art and Design Studies ................................................................... 60Resonance: Urban Wind

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Potter, Gerry Professional Writing, Communications ................................61Rabbits & Monsters

Santa-Balazs, Hoyne Fine Art ............................................................ 62Stories from the dark side of desire: Criminal aesthetes, opportunistic collectors, and remedies for culture crime

Takach, Geo Bachelor of Communication Studies .................................... 63Visually redefining Alberta: A study in polarized, resource-based economies

StudentsButorac, Sabina Fine Art"C" Panorama .......................................................................................... 64 Playing games and making fun–Maurizio Catellan ........................................................ 66da Silva, Sean Bachelor of Communication Studies ...................................67Communication breakdown: The media effects on Ecuador's environment

Miklas, Ania Daniela Fine ArtThe destruction and rebirth–the art of Anselm Kiefer ..................................................... 68 Self–the historical and conceptual approach to portrait painting .......................................... 69Pluim, Derek Neil Bachelor of Communication Studies ............................ 71Building pressure: Buried costs of the Northern Gateway Pipeline

Snellen, Leanne Fine ArtFigurative studies ........................................................................................72

Marina Abramovic ........................................................................................74

Faculty of Health & Community StudiesFacultyKato, Dave Physical Education ..............................................................76Determination of the ability to perform activities of daily living in people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Rogers, Robert Holistic Health Practitioner ............................................77Medicinal mushrooms of North America

StudentsAntunes, Joana; Lee, Jessica; Peters, Taylor and Rendflesh, Jena Bachelor of Science in Nursing ............................................................... 78Learning leadership: MacEwan students using creativity and collaboration to promote unity and pride in their Nursing program

Chauhan, Anupama Bachelor of Science in Nursing ................................79A guide to home care referral

Riou, Nicole Massage Therapy ............................................................. 80Massage therapy for essential tremor: Quieting the mind

Faculty of Arts & Science

Research & Creative Activity Showcase 2013

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Online and engaged: An experiment related to online news and political interest

Youth’s low level of political engagement creates concerns about the health of our democratic system. This research examines whether new media, specifically online news sources, can address low levels of political interest among youth. Experiments were conducted in 2010 and 2011 exposing a random sample of first-year MacEwan University students to a variety of online news sources.

Unlike other experiments in the field, the experimental

manipulation reflects the varied ways in which online

news sources reach Internet users e.g., use of traditional news organization websites,

news forwarded through social networks, and use of a variety of other non traditional news

sources.

Interest in local politics increased significantly for youth who were exposed to the news sources compared to youth who were not exposed. In addition, compared to prior use, political interest increased significantly after news source use. The results affirm the potential of online news sources to stimulate youth’s interest in politics. Hence, these findings provide support for the argument that the Internet could become a tool to mobilize youth to become involved in politics.

About the researcherDr. Shelley Boulianne (PhD,

University of Wisconsin-Madison) is an assistant professor

in sociology at MacEwan University. Her research focuses

on the role of the Internet in civic and political engagement and on

strategies to increase response rates to web surveys.

Dr. Shelley Boulianne, Sociology

MacEwan University

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Travels with a tricycle: The Pennells and early cycle-travel literatureIn London during the 1880s and ‘90s, the American creative duo of Elizabeth Robins Pennell (writer) and her husband Joseph Pennell (illustrator and writer) established reputations as pioneering cycle-travel writers (and illustrator, in Joseph’s case). During the cycling boom of the late 19th century, the Pennells travelled extensively in England and Europe by tandem tricycle, and later bicycle. Their five illustrated books and dozens of illustrated magazine articles about their journeys comprise some of the earliest cycle-travel literature.

These works attracted a significant readership and

positive critical reviews in their day and helped invent the idea

of leisure cycle travel.

In fact, these works are considered by some cycling historians to be some of the best works of cycle-travel writing ever produced, sharply penned and beautifully illustrated. However, the Pennells’ cycle writing has been largely forgotten, their books having been out of print for years.

Dr. Buchanan’s research involves creating a new scholarly edition of the Pennells’ first two cycle-travel books, A Canterbury Pilgrimage (1885), which traces the route of Chaucer’s pilgrims from London to Canterbury, and An Italian Pilgrimage (1886), their account of a cycle journey through Tuscany, in the hopes that the Pennells’ general message—that cycling

is “the most delightful manner of getting about and seeing a country, of taking a holiday”—still speaks to many readers today. As well, he explores the journals of Elizabeth Robins Pennell, focusing on the unique collaborative nature of the Pennells’ creative process, and on Elizabeth’s conflicted position as a reluctant late-19th-century “new woman.”

About the researcherDr. Dave Buchanan is a member of the

department of English at MacEwan University, where he teaches 18th-

century literature, as well as courses on creative non-fiction and travel

literature. His current research involves early cycle-travel literature of the 1880s

and 1890s. He is a semi-serious cyclist who enjoys bicycle writing almost as

much as bicycle riding.

Dr. Dave Buchanan, English


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Community, conflict and control: The social meaning behind petty crime in later 16th-century AberdeenDespite the efforts of a generation or so of historians practicing the “new social history,” most studies of early modern communities paint a picture of power concentrated in the hands of the few, communities defined by the elite alone and social space rigidly fixed. Frequently, such studies focus on the dichotomous relationship between those who “possess” authority and those who attempt to undermine it; the former group acknowledged as having been ordained by God to hold their power while the latter construed as simple malcontents. Such identifications of monopolies of power diminish the contributions made by all members of the community in actively or passively establishing authority, constructing regulations, defining group boundaries, affinities and loyalties, and maintaining social order. It is not always the most fruitful method of inquiry to start from the premise that those on the margins are without any influence within the community dynamic. Conversely, there is a danger of giving too much agency to the disenfranchised and investing their actions with meanings that were likely unintended. There must be a middle ground.

Over a period of roughly 60 years (1540-1600), the Council Register and Baillie Court Books

record nearly 2,000 individual convictions for a variety of crimes that included statute breaking, petty theft, destruction of property and acts of verbal and physical assaults.

These accounts shed light on the social interactions of a community at work, play and prayer and the regulatory systems in place that governed proper behaviour and attempted to instill in the inhabitants of the burgh the idea of “good neighbourliness.”

This research argues that 16th-century Aberdonians prevented from exercising formal political power used petty crimes as a ‘weapon’ for settling disputes and a tool for negotiating power and space.

The monograph, Crime and Community in Reformation Scotland: Negotiating Power in a Burgh Society (London: Pickering and Chatto, 2012) contends that through an analysis of the negotiation of social power and space inherent in petty criminal acts and the prosecution of petty criminals, a clearer understanding of the complexities of burgh society in 16th-century Scotland emerges.

About the researcherRob Falconer completed his PhD on crime in 16th-century Aberdeen at the University of Guelph in 2005 and joined MacEwan University in 2006. Dr. Falconer's research has included the areas of crime and gender, household crime, and Scottish urban history. He is currently working on his second monograph: a comparative study of criminal activities in Aberdeen (Scotland), Norwich (England) and Bayonne (France).

Dr. Rob Falconer, Humanities (History)

MacEwan University

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Child pornography possessors: Comparisons and contrasts with contact and non-contact sex offenders

The advent of the Internet has facilitated a dramatic increase

in the number of individuals accessing and possessing child pornography, and a

corresponding increase in referrals for assessment and

treatment.

Questions remain regarding whether child pornography possessors are similar to or different from other types of sex offenders, and whether or not assessment and treatment

protocols for contact and non-contact sex offenders are appropriately applied to child porn offenders.

The present study compared 50 child pornography offenders, 45 non-contact sex offenders, and 101 contact child molesters. Results indicated that the three groups were more similar than different; however, child pornography offenders were distinguished by greater academic and vocational achievement, fewer childhood behavior problems, and by select relational variables. Recidivism rates were low for all groups.

About the researcherDr. Sandy Jung is an associate professor in the department of Psychology at MacEwan University and a forensic psychologist with Alberta Health Services in Edmonton, Alberta. Her research focuses on the excuses and denial patterns of sexual offenders and the characteristics of child pornography offenders. Her clinical practice has been in the field of assessment, treatment, and risk management of violent and sexual offenders.

Dr. Sandy Jung, Psychology


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Sexual experience and sexual awareness: The relationship between Attitudes, Awareness, Attraction and Sexual OpennessSexual behavior is a dynamic aspect of human life that is influenced by experience, awareness, ideas, beliefs, culture and society. Many different explanations are used to explain the desire to engage in sexual behaviors that are statistically uncommon. This study explored the occurrence of unconventional sexuality as a product of the interaction between sexual awareness and sexual experience. Responses from a sample of university students and swingers were compared. This included measures on Sexual Awareness, Sexual Experience, Attitudes Towards Unconventional Sexuality, and Sexual Orientation.

The results showed that swingers had more sexual experience, higher sexual

awareness, and were more open to unconventional sexuality.

Swingers were significantly more likely to be bi- or homosexual, and less likely to be heterosexual or asexual than students. It is unlikely that demographic differences could account sufficiently for the results of this study.

Faculty mentorMelike Schalomon has a PhD in neuroscience from the University of Alberta and has been a faculty member in MacEwan University's department of Psychology since 1996. Dr. Schalomon's area of expertise is behavioural neuroscience. Her current research focuses on learning and memory in zebrafish, with a secondary research interest in biological aspects of human sexuality.

Jessica Blake

Bachelor of Arts Psychology (Honours)

Graduation 2012

MacEwan University

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Supporting global cultural diversity with selective social media

The availability and ease of use of social media enables educators to include cultural diversity as a powerful learning resource beyond what could be achieved with prior generations of learners. This unprecedented access to the global community has the potential to promote global citizenry by communicating through rich multimedia outlets at the speed of light. This research explores the integration of social media in second language curricula to achieve several of the objectives outlined in the Alberta Education

(Spanish Language and Culture, 2007) Spanish as a Second Language Program of Study using the traditional pen pal learning activity.

The use of pen pals to communicate with students

from different parts of the world is a tried and true method of

second language development.

However, use of penpals has historically been time-consuming and comprised of static media. Social media has transformed this learning activity by making communication instantaneous, interactive and engaging. The goal of this research is to provide a pedagogical context and rationale for the integration of social media into second language learning.

ReferencesSpanish Language & Culture (9-Year Program) Grade 4 - 12. (2007).

Retrieved July 8, 2013, from http://www.learnalberta.ca/ProgramOfStudy.aspx?lang=en&ProgramId=774260#.

Faculty mentorSharon Bratt holds a PhD from Simon Fraser University and teaches in the areas of human-computer interaction and instructional technology. Dr. Bratt's research areas include topics related to the research, development and integration of technology in education.

Joanna Calderon

Bachelor of Education Transfer

Completion 2015

http://www.learnalberta.ca/ProgramOfStudy.aspx%3Flang%3Den%26ProgramId%3D774260%23

http://www.learnalberta.ca/ProgramOfStudy.aspx%3Flang%3Den%26ProgramId%3D774260%23


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Transformation assessment in a learning community to foster student leadership: Methods of transformative assessmentStudent teachers learn about learning and teaching assessment methods and their value through classroom activities and lectures.

Beyond the formative and summative characteristics of

teaching assessment, there has to be a transformative aspect.

While formative and summative assessment is teacher-directed, transformative are learner centered and have the holistic benefit of helping students grow and mature.

Transformative assessment is still developing, but through journal writing, conferencing and student presentations, students can take ownership of their learning and reveal creative parts of their personalities, actively engage with

teachers as a leader rather than being passive receptacles of teaching.

An example of an elementary classroom team project with students using online conferencing and presentation tools is explored.

Faculty mentorRick Bjarnason (BA, BEd, MEd) retired from the Edmonton Public School Board after a 35-year career as a teacher, department head and administrator. He has been a sessional instructor at MacEwan University for six years and works with the University of Alberta as a university facilitator for student teachers completing their Bachelor of Education. Rick is also a member of the Alberta Attendance Board, which works with schools, families and students to deal with poor attendance issues.

Joanna Calderon

Bachelor of Education Transfer

Completion 2015

MacEwan University

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Starch grain analysis of organic residue from 18th-century Inuit soapstone vessels in northern LabradorLittle research has been published regarding the analysis of starch grains in relation to Inuit diet and plant utilization. This research will attempt to fill a gap in Inuit plant use while adding to the comprehensive archaeological knowledge of the 18th century Oakes Bay site (HeCg-08) on Dog Island, northern Labrador.

Carbonized food residue recovered from 13 soapstone vessel fragments retrieved from Dog Island were subjected to starch analysis according to various accepted methodologies, including those outlined by Horrocks (2005) and Boyd & Surette (2010). The results were compared to a reference collection created from 10 economically important plant species that were likely to have been used by the Inuit in antiquity, and two European imports.

Results were limited as starch granules in the organic residue may have been gelatinized in antiquity by high heat. More tests should be conducted on the associated soils to potentially

identify more starch granules. This study will compliment, and contribute to, recent research done on Inuit archaeobotanical remains, including macro botanicals and phytolith analysis (Pigford 2008; Zutter 2009).

ReferencesBoyd, M., & Surette, C. (2010). Nothernmost Precontact Maize in

North America. American Antiquity, 75(1): 117-133.Horrocks, M. (2005). A combined procedure for recovering phytoliths

and starch residues from soils, sedimentary deposits and similar materials. Journal of Archaeological Science, 32, 1169-1175.

Pigford, A. (2008). Inuit plant use: Phytolith analysis of soapstone residues. Senior Honors Paper. Department of Anthropology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.

Zutter, C. (2009). Paleoethnobotanical contributions to 18th century Inuit economy: an example from Uivak, Labrador. Journal of the North Atlantic: Archaeologies of the Early Modern North Atlantic 1, 23-32.

Faculty mentorDr. Cynthia Zutter is an anthropology faculty member of MacEwan University who has spent the majority of her career participating in field work and disseminating research information related to the Inuit of northern Labrador and the Circumpolar Region. Her research interests include Archaeology, Palaeoeconomy and Palaeoethnobotany and Archaeobotany as well as Gender studies in Anthropology.

Bachelor of Arts Anthropology

Graduation 2011

Claire Earley

This research was funded by a Research Development Initiatives Grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)


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Prevalence of aggressive and dangerous driving behaviors among university studentsAggressive and dangerous driving is a major problem on North American roads. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of aggressive and dangerous driving behaviours among university students. Aggressive driving included acts of aggression with the intent to physically, psychologically or emotionally harm those within a driving environment, for example, tailgating and acts of road rage (Hennessy & Wiesenthal, 2002). Dangerous driving consisted of unsafe driving acts not meant to inflict harm on others, but nevertheless put other road users at risk, for example, illegal lane changing, excessive speeding and operating a cell phone while driving (Bone & Mowen, 2006).

Results showed that 85 per cent of respondents used verbal

aggression through negative comments while 81 per cent

glared at other drivers and called names under their breath.

Using a vehicle to express anger was the next most common form of driver aggression. Eighty-six percent of subjects reported driving faster to express their anger, 31 per cent admitted to tailgating as a means of venting and 30 per cent purposely blocked another driver with their vehicles when angered. For dangerous driving, participants sent text messages while stopped at a light (57 per cent), sent texts while driving (40 per cent) and reported eating while driving (33 per cent). In addition, a sizeable portion reported speeding (54 per cent) and switching lanes in order to exceed the speed limit (47 per cent).

Participants – 298 MacEwan University students recruited from the Psychology Subject Pool – completed a secure online survey using Sona Data Management Software.

ReferencesBone, S.A., & Mowen, J.C. (2006). Identifying the traits of aggressive

and distracted drivers: A hierarchical trait model approach. Journal of Consumer Behaviour, 5, 454-464.

Hennessey, D.A., & Wiesenthal, D.L. (2002). The relationship between driver aggression, violence, and vengeance. Violence and Victims, 17(6), 707-718.

Faculty mentorDr. Diane Symbaluk teaches third- and fourth-year research methods courses in MacEwan University's department of Sociology. She is an experienced researcher in the sub-disciplines of social psychology, criminology and educational pedagogy. Her most recent publication is an introductory sociology textbook, titled Sociology in Action: A Canadian Perspective (2013) co-authored with Dr. Tami Bereska.

Bruno Haje

Bachelor of Arts Sociology (Honours)

Graduation 2013

MacEwan University

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Integration barriers faced by immigrants to CanadaAs a multicultural society, the study of immigration is of utmost importance to Canada. Growth in the immigrant population from 2001 to 2017 alone is expected to rise from 5.4 million to between 7.0 and 9.3 million people (Bélanger, 2005). Integration can be challenging for many reasons: “newcomers encounter difficulties in coping with culture shock, social isolation, emotional loneliness, cultural understanding, language, communication, and even the weather. The three major challenges reported…language and communication, employment, and family dynamics” (Stewart, 2003). As of 2010, Edmonton received 4 per cent of the immigrants that came to Canada (Edmonton Social Planning Council, 2011).

Edmonton is increasing in size and diversity as time progresses, and thus the

effective or positive integration of newcomers is essential.

Determining the city's available settlement services is imperative to uncovering needs and finding solutions to reduce integration barriers.

This study aims to uncover barriers to integration faced by the Somali-Canadian community in Edmonton.

Data was collected through online research of numerous governmental and non-governmental organizations that provide services to immigrants. Specific case studies of major Canadian cities and the role of the media as a main actor in public discourse on immigration and immigrants is also discussed.

References

Bélanger, A & Malenfant, E.C. (2005). Ethnocultural diversity in Canada: Prospects for 2017. Canadian Social Trends (79): 18-21.

Edmonton Social Planning Council. (2011). Tracking the Trends 2011: Edmonton’s Increasing Diversity. 11th ed. Edmonton, AB: ESPC.

Stewart, M. J. (2003). Immigrants and refugees: Perspectives on supportive policies, programs, and practices. In Eighth International Metropolis Conference. (Vienna, Austria).

Faculty mentorDr. Fiona Angus is a faculty member in MacEwan University's department of Sociology. She is a qualitative researcher and teaches courses on ethnic/minority relations, sociology of sport, and sociology of work.

Anna Ratay

Bachelor of Arts Sociology

Graduation 2013


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Ethnohistory and archaeology in northern LabradorThe socio-economic and cultural influences initiated by the presence of Moravian Christians on the northern Labrador Inuit in the mid- to late 18th century are substantial factors somewhat overlooked in current literature. The Brethrens’ ability to infiltrate the Inuit population would not have been successful without the mediation of an influential local Inuit woman. Mikak, the wife of Tuglavina, a prestigious Inuit middleman and trader (Williamson, 1964), was held in high regard during initial colonization by the English and the Moravians and her story is only partially known through compiled ethnohistories and journal entries (Gosling, 1910; Pearson, 1978; Stopp, 2009; Taylor, 1983, 1984; Williamson, 1964). During this period of history, documentation of women, especially aboriginal women, was very rare, making Mikak even more fascinating.

This project is a two-fold collaborative effort with Amelia Fay, PhD candidate at Memorial University, St. John’s, N.L. First, to add further interpretation to the life history of Mikak; especially her role in establishing Inuit trading

relationships with Europeans and fishermen in southern Labrador, as well as to try and discern possible trading of foreign food items. Second, this background information will contribute to the understanding of the archaeological site of Khernertok, the suggested site of Mikak’s sod house residence in 1776 on Black Island, Labrador (Fay, 2011). Trade records and analysis of local vegetation will assist in interpreting archaeobotanical remains recovered during the 2011 field season and will highlight how the local Inuit used plants daily for medicines, food, fuel and bedding.

ReferencesFay, A. (2011). Searching for Mikak: Archaeologist Uncovering Story

of First Labrador Inuit Woman to Earn a Place in Recorded History. Labrador Life 5(4), 22-25.

Gosling, W.G. (1910). Labrador: Its Discovery, Exploration, and Development. A. Rivers. 574.

Pearson, A.A. (1978). John Hunter and the women from Labrador: The story behind a picture. Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England 60(1), 7-13.

Stopp, M.P. (2009). Eighteenth Century Labrador Inuit in England. Arctic 62(1).

Taylor, J.G. (1983). The two worlds of Mikak, Part I. The Beaver 314(3), 4-13.

Taylor, J.G. (1984). The two worlds of Mikak, Part II. The Beaver 314(4), 18-25.

Williamson, A. (1964). The Moravian Mission and Its Impact on the Labrador Eskimo. Arctic Anthropology 2(2), 32-36.

Faculty mentorDr. Cynthia Zutter is an anthropology faculty member at MacEwan University who has spent the majority of her career participating in field work and disseminating research information related to the Inuit of northern Labrador and the Circumpolar Region. Her research interests include archaeology, palaeoeconomy and palaeoethnobotany and archaeobotany as well as gender studies in anthropology.

Amy Reedman

Bachelor of Arts Anthropology

Graduation 2014

MacEwan University

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Multimodal contributions to emotion processing in children with autismChildren with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) typically have social and communicative impairments, as well as behavioural abnormalities. Moreover, studies have found that children with ASD have difficulties recognizing emotion, which may contribute to their difficulties in social and communicative functioning. Many have explored this deficit using static facial expressions and brief verbal cues rather than dynamic stimuli which capture more realistic social-emotional communication. The purpose of this study was to examine the multimodal contributions to emotion recognition in children with ASD in comparison to typically developing (TD) children of ages 4-6 and 7-12 years.

Performance of groups under auditory, visual, and auditory-visual conditions was examined using a computerized game format. Preliminary results show age-related improvements in overall accuracy within the TD group, and a tendency to perform better in visual and

auditory-visual conditions in comparison to the auditory condition. In addition, TD children were more accurate at identifying emotion when the sentence content was consistent with the intended emotion compared to when there was no emotion content in the sentence.

The current sample of children with ASD performed similarly to

age-matched TD children.

Additionally, children with ASD benefited more from auditory-visual presentations compared to the single modal conditions.

Faculty mentorDr. Tara Vongpaisal is a developmental psychologist and principal investigator of the Child Development Laboratory at MacEwan University. She specializes in children’s developing auditory skills with a focus on music and speech perception in children with hearing loss and in children with autism spectrum disorders.

Alyssa Schmidt


Graduation 2012

This research was awarded a grant from MacEwan University's Undergraduate Student Research Initiative.


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The effects of previously established biases on novel song preferenceThis study aims to provide some insight to the broad question of how people form their preferences for certain styles of music. There are many different theories as to why and how people develop certain preferences, most of which focus on personal and cognitive factors without taking into account our environment. This specific study aims to add another dimension to these models: previously established biases.

Specifically, do previously established biases, namely

preferred radio stations, influence whether or not

someone develops a preference for a certain song or type of

music?

Researchers gave participants a novel song to listen to. Before hearing the song, the researcher informed each participant that the song was

being considered for his or her favorite (like condition), least favorite (dislike condition), or a fictional radio station (the control group). After listening to the song, participants filled out a questionnaire assessing preference for the song and the JAMIN scale. The JAMIN scale assesses the role of music in one's life as well as how much an individual intertwines music into their personal identity.

The working hypothesis was twofold: (a) participants in the like condition will rate the song significantly higher than the control condition, while participants in the dislike condition will rate the song significantly lower than the control condition; and (b) the effect will only carry through for individuals high on the JAMIN, with individuals low on the JAMIN showing no effect. Initial data confirms both of these hypotheses.

Faculty mentorRodney Schmaltz received his PhD at the University of Alberta in 2007. He is an assistant professor in the department of Psychology and founder of a social psychology and music research program at MacEwan University. Dr. Schmaltz's research focuses on the social and applied psychology of music.

Dylan Wiwad


Graduation 2013

Dylan begins graduate studies for his MA in psychology in Fall 2013.

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A low-cost cosmic ray detector using new technology materialsIn collaboration with the Centre for Particle Physics at the University of Alberta, Dr. Orla Aaquist and students in the department of Physical Sciences at MacEwan University are designing and testing a low-cost cosmic ray detector using new-technology materials.

When complete, an array of 250 detectors will be built and assembled at CERN, site of the

Large Hadron Collider (LHC), in Switzerland.

This array will work in coincidence with the LHC’s ATLAS experiment (which is currently searching for the Higgs Boson and other exotic elementary particles) to study high energy cosmic ray showers. These are generated by ultra-high energy cosmic particles from deep space that collide with atomic nuclei in Earth’s atmosphere to produce extensive air showers of exotic particles, similar to that created in the LHC beam line. Since February 2011, students have tested a prototype of this detector using standard materials: a high voltage photomultiplier tube to detect Cherenkov light from distilled water and scintillation from solid scintillation plastics. Now, students have

replaced the solid scintillator and water with a new, inexpensive, non-toxic scintillation fluid (linear alkyl benzene, LAB, doped with the organic fluor 2,5-diphenyloxazole, DPO), and they have replaced the photomultiplier tube with a low-cost silicon-based photo detector (SiPMT) and a waveshifting fibre optic cable that guides the scintillated DPO light to the SiPMT. The focus of this study is the testing of this detector and its impending deployment at CERN.

About the researcherDr. Orla Aaquist has been teaching physics and

astronomy at MacEwan University for the past 13 years. He has a Bachelor of Education from Queen's

University and a master's and PhD in astrophysics from the University of Calgary. Since 2010, he has

been working in the field of cosmic ray research with the expressed aim of getting MacEwan

University physics students involved with meaningful undergraduate research.

Dr. Orla Aaquist, Physical Sciences

Photograph Views of the LHC tunnel sector by Maximilien Brice © 2009 CERN

This research contributes to ATLAS experiment.


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Generating hard satisfiable instances

This research focuses on generating hard satisfiable instances for the Satisfiability Problem (SAT).

Satisfiability is a fundamental problem in computing

science with many practical applications, ranging from

formal verification of hardware and software to finding the best

route for mail delivery.

The last decade witnessed impressive progress of Satisfiability solvers resulting from the Satisfiability Competition, a permanent competition between finding new, challenging instances and designing efficient solvers able to tackle the challenges. Organized in conjunction with the main Satisfiability conference, the Satisfiability Competition states that finding new challenging benchmarks is one of its main purposes.

Over the last five years, Dr. Anton has proposed and investigated several ways of generating hard satisfiable instances of Satisfiability, based on random instances of Subgraph Isomorphism problem. The resulting generators were submitted to the Satisfiability Competition. The competing solvers needed long running times to solve these instances which shows that these instances are empirically hard. Besides generating hard satisfiable instances these models have other interesting properties, such as easy-hard-easy pattern of evolution, exponential growth of empirical hardness and the ability to differentiate between state-of-the-art SAT solvers. These features recommend the models as viable generators of satisfiable SAT benchmarks.

About the researcherCalin Anton obtained a PhD from the

University of Alberta in 2005, completing his thesis Structure and Randomness of

Satisfiability. Since 2008 he has been instructing in the department of Computer

Science at MacEwan University. His research interests reside in the general

areas of empirical algorithms and artificial intelligence; more specifically he studies

heuristic search and the Satisfiability Problem.

Dr. Calin Anton, Computer Science

MacEwan University

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Algebra and modern physics

High energy physics is the study of sub-atomic particles (e.g., electrons). A current popular yet controversial area of this field is string theory, which aims to reconcile quantum theory (the physics of the very small) with general relativity (the theory of the very large).

String theory states that elementary particles are actually

tiny vibrating strings.

According to theory, different particles are given by different kinds of vibrations of the string, just as different notes on a guitar are given by different kinds of vibrations (frequencies) of the

guitar string. Modern string theories include both open and closed strings. Closed strings are small loops, or circles. For example, the graviton – the hypothesized particle responsible for the force of gravity – is a closed string. Open strings are tiny intervals, or threads. The photon, the particle responsible for light, is an open string. Each end of an open string is attached to a membrane, called a D-brane – the D is after German mathematician Johann Peter Gustav Lejeune Dirichlet (1805–1859) – or just a brane. These branes have tension and carry charge, similar to electric charge. Dr. Beltaos discusses her current research which uses algebraic methods to calculate brane charges.

About the researcherElaine Beltaos received her PhD in

mathematics from the University of Alberta in 2009. Since then, she has

been a member of the department of Mathematics and Statistics at

MacEwan University. Dr. Beltaos's expertise is in Lie theory, an area of algebra. She is especially interested

in the applications of her field to theoretical physics.

Dr. Elaine Beltaos, Mathematics and Statistics


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Who's your neighbour? Acoustic cues to individual identity in red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) rattle calls

North American red squirrels often produce a loud territorial rattle call when conspecifics enter or invade a territory. Previous playback experiments suggest that the territorial rattle call may indicate an invader's identity as squirrels responded more intensely to calls played from strangers than to calls played from neighbours. This dear-enemy effect is well known in a variety of bird and mammal species and functions to reduce aggressive interactions between known neighbours. However, although previous experiments on red squirrels suggest some form of individual differentiation and thus recognition, detailed acoustic analysis on potential acoustic cues in rattle calls were not conducted. If calls do function to aid in conspecific identification in order to mitigate aggressive territorial interactions, individual recognition cues should

be acoustically represented. This research provides a detailed analysis of acoustic cues to identity within rattle calls.

A total of 225 calls across 32 individual squirrels from Sheep River Provincial Park, Kananaskis, Alberta, were analyzed with discriminant function analysis for potential acoustic cues to individual identity.

Initial analysis of all individuals revealed a reliable acoustic

differentiation across individuals.

A more detailed analysis of clusters of neighbouring squirrels was performed and results again indicated a statistically significant likelihood that calls were assigned correctly to specific squirrels. In other words, squirrels have distinct voices that should allow for individual identification and discrimination by conspecifics.

About the researcherDr. Shannon Digweed is a joint faculty member in the departments of Psychology and Biological Sciences. She received her PhD in Evolution and Behaviour from the University of Lethbridge in 2009. Dr. Digweed's research is in the areas of animal communication and behaviour, and explores how the acoustic or physical structure of animal sounds are shaped in important ways by their function in a variety of mammalian species, including red squirrels and wood frogs.

Dr. Shannon Digweed, Psychology and Biological Sciences

This research was completed in collaboration with Dr. Drew Rendall, University of Lethbridge, and Teana Imbeau, MacEwan Biological Sciences graduate (2012).

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About the researcherTrevor Hamilton obtained a PhD in neuroscience from the University of Alberta, where he performed intracellular recordings in live brain slices. At MacEwan University his research involves the investigation of learning and memory in zebrafish through the creation of novel memory paradigms and manipulation of the memory trace with pharmacological compounds.

An alteration of cellular memory by neuropeptide Y

This research shows how the part of a brain cell (neuron) that receives information (dendrite) is capable of adjusting its response to specific patterns of input.

It is this alteration in how a brain cell responds to input that is the basis of how memories are

formed and forgotten.

This study used a specialized form of electrophysiology (the recording and stimulation of electrical currents from single, live brain cells, still intact in slices of rat brain) to artificially induce patterns of action potentials (the signal that triggers communication between neurons) while recording the response of the receiving

brain cell. Specifically, two to three electrodes were inserted into one single brain cell to record how input causes change in different sections of the cell. This input mimics what could happen normally in an intact animal. By measuring the electrophysiological response and simultaneous calcium imaging, the effects of the application of neuropeptide Y (NPY), a substance that exists naturally in our brains and is released by specific neurons, was observed.

NPY decreased calcium influx in neocortical pyramidal neurons (highly evolved brain cells in the cortex) in a specific part of their dendrite that receives input from other regions of the cortex. Furthermore, NPY prevented a form of cellular learning, called long-term depression (LTD) that occurred in the same cells when NPY was removed.

This work demonstrates that LTD is prevented when calcium influx is decreased in a specific part of the dendrite, and NPY can perform this action.

The research will help explain how memories are stored in the cortex and how specific situations (that would cause NPY to act) prevent memory storage.

Dr. Trevor Hamilton, Psychology


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A visual analytical tool for mapping stock market data

Analyzing large amounts of data is a complex task performed in many fields. Without a tool, however, people have difficulties extracting and recognizing useful information from the data. This project provided a case study of how information visualization can assist people in

data analysis and exploration. In particular, this project developed a visual analytical tool to help users explore stock market data. The tool used a self-organizing map (Kohonen & Honkela, 2007) to analyze stock prices over a period of time, group similar stocks, and visualize the results on the map. The tool revealed several clusters of companies, showing the structure of the stock market.

This visualization can serve as a starting point for the user to do further research about a

particular company.

The strengths and limitations of this approach are discussed, as well as its potential applications in various domains.

ReferencesKohonen, T. & Honkela, T. (2007). Kohonen network. Scholarpedia,

2(1) : 1568.

This research was completed with the help of Joel Joseph, computer science student.

About the researcherPrior to working at MacEwan University,

Dr. Indratmo completed a PhD in computer science and taught computer

science courses as a sessional lecturer at the University of Saskatchewan. His

research interests cover multidisciplinary areas of social computing, information

visualization and human-computer interaction.

Dr. Indratmo, Computer Science

MacEwan University

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The challenge of managing a keystone ecosystem: Cumulative impacts in a peatland-dominated landscape in Alberta, CanadaWorldwide, governments face the challenge of balancing wetland conservation with appropriate economic development.

These challenges exist in Alberta, Canada, a region with

an abundance of peatlands, lucrative natural resources

and an unprecedented rate of industrial development.

This research reviews the state of the science on Alberta’s peatlands, including historic and potential impacts, mitigation initiatives, policies and management, and offers science-based recommendations.

Wetlands are Alberta’s keystone ecosystem. They are inextricably linked by function to the province’s aquatic and terrestrial environments. This is particularly true in northern Alberta where 93 per cent of the province’s wetlands, primarily peatlands (peat-producing), are found. Only since the inception of large-scale

conventional oil and gas activity, oil sands development, forestry and peat harvesting has the state of Alberta’s peatlands become an issue.

The extent of potential cumulative impacts on peatland impairment and loss are unknown. However, the effects will be potentially high given that the region contains the world’s third largest petroleum deposits within a matrix of 60 per cent peatlands.

While novel wetland reclamation, restoration and construction initiatives are being developed, a progressive wetland policy no longer exists, and management and planning initiatives have not kept pace with development. Strong functional linkages between peatlands and other landscape features suggest that the effects of Alberta’s industrial activities are being exported outside of the province. At this juncture, Alberta has the unique opportunity to become a leader in wetland science, policy and practice, and set a precedent for effective and balanced wetland conservation and management in Canada, and elsewhere.

About the researcherDavid Locky received his PhD in environmental

biology and ecology from the University of Alberta in 2005. His research interests and

expertise include a wide range of topics related to wetland and aquatic ecology, including

wetland classification and valuation, wetland plant diversity and ecology, anthropogenic

impacts to wetlands, treatment wetlands, and wetland policy and practice.

Dr. David Locky, Biological Sciences


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Part I: The evolution of a first-year engineering transfer program: 1995 – 2010The history and evolution of the one-year engineering transfer program at MacEwan University that prepares students to complete a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.Sc.) degree at another university is discussed.

As the engineering transfer program has grown from 33

students to over 200 students in 15 years, there have been

considerable “growing pains.”

The experience gained through this evolutionary period could be useful to other institutions going through similar growth. Many facets of the university transfer program (e.g., bootcamp) have been incorporated into other engineering programs. Likewise, our program has adopted educational activities similar to other institutions. In all cases, these changes were made to enhance the engineering education of students and ultimately lead them to successfully complete an engineering degree.

The educational activities developed over the last 15 years have seen various measures of success. Some have continued and been enhanced while others were discontinued or modified. These activities include a one-week bootcamp, extra engineering tutorials, development of an engineering club to facilitate tours, engineering/math student assessment exams, a student night and a variety of other activities that enhance the student experience. All of these activities constitute what might be called the “engineering educational experience,” which is paramount to improving learning.

Other essential elements for the success of the program include: 1) developing a strong rapport with students and to receive constant feedback regarding their achievement after transfer takes place, 2) maintaining close relationships with faculty at the transfer institution so the education keeps a strong sense of continuity after transfer, and 3) fostering a cooperative rather than competitive relationship with the transfer institution.

About the researcherDr. Shelley Lorimer is the chair and an instructor of the Bachelor of Science in Engineering transfer program at MacEwan University. She is a graduate of the University of Alberta in mechanical engineering and a registered professional engineer with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA). Prior to her career at MacEwan University, Dr. Lorimer worked for several years in industry as a research engineer and a consulting engineer. Research interests include engineering pedagogy and simulation of oil recovery processes from oil sands.

Dr. Shelley Lorimer, Engineering

MacEwan University

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Part II: StrengthsQuest for engineersThe Gallup organization has a considerable body of literature on strengths and their use as a mechanism for enhancing self-understanding and improving team performance. Gallup's online strengths assessment tool, Clifton StrengthsFinder® was identified by the researcher as a possible useful educational tool for engaging students and as a research tool in analyzing the first-year engineering educational experience. As a result, StrengthsFinder® was introduced as a part of the curriculum for the first-year course “An Introduction to the Engineering Profession.”

This initiative has evolved into an ongoing longitudinal study examining the StrengthsFinder® talent themes of first-year engineering students, to determine whether or not each engineering group possesses a unique talent theme signature. The results presented in this study are for two similarly sized student groups and span a three-year period. Whether or not this information can quantitatively improve the teaching practices of engineering instructors remains to be determined.

The collection of data and use of this assessment tool have

already qualitatively affected the educational process of students

that were involved.

Results to date show a “strengths” signature, or a dominant set of talent themes, typical for the engineering student groups considered in this study. For both study groups, a dominant talent theme “competition” emerged in the top five signature themes of ~ 30 per cent of each of the two groups. Furthermore, eight key talent themes were common in the top 10 talent themes for both groups: “achiever,” “adaptability,” “analytical,” “competition,” “deliberative,” “futuristic,” “learner” and “restorative.” Based on this study, it would seem that the problem-solving based curriculum is well-suited to the common StrengthsFinder® themes of first-year engineering students.


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The end of drug discovery?There is great need for new drugs for treatment of the diseases of the 21st century, yet there has been a tremendous shortfall.

The productivity of the drug industry is in decline. From

Alzheimer’s to obesity, the new drugs that we need are not

materializing.

As traditional descriptions and definitions of diseases are broken down into much clearer subsets of mechanisms, the idea of a tablet which treats the entire population vanishes. Smarter and more specific drugs are required; drugs that work on a much more specific sub-set of patients. The drug development process requires a change: better collaboration, between industry and academia, and between drug companies. Resources need to be pooled. No single organization can do it on their own. Big pharmaceutical companies are very capable of doing drug discovery but they are often interested in buying into it at a later stage. The research described will focus on early stage drug development to serve discovery in the pharmaceutical industry. This involves

the preparation of focused libraries of small molecules through parallel synthesis in order to improve hit rates during the screening process which underpins all of drug discovery. Through rational design, parallel synthesis has the potential to accelerate the drug discovery process, leading to much needed new medicines.

About the researcherJonathan Withey has an MA and D.Phil. in organic chemistry from the University of Oxford. His research at MacEwan University focuses on organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry.

Dr. Jonathan Withey, Physical Sciences

This research is being done in partnership with ChemRoutes Corporation.

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Bioacoustic analysis of amphibian breeding calls to compare their use of natural and borrow pit wetlands in northern AlbertaBorrow pits that exist along roads, as by-products of anthropogenic development, may progress over time to serve as wetland habitats for amphibians and other animals (Rausch and Kershaw 2007; Hugron et al. 2011). The objective of this study is to evaluate the abundance of amphibian species at both well-established and newly-developed borrow pit sites in relation to a natural wetland site through the use of bioacoustic analysis of amphibian breeding calls.

According to the National Wetlands Working Group (1997) a wetland is defined as a body of water that lasts long enough to promote aquatic processes and exhibits poorly drained soils, hydrophytic vegetation, and a variety of biological systems modified for a wet environment. A natural wetland is studied to provide a baseline of expected conditions and naturalization goals. Bioacoustics is used to monitor the breeding calls of the wood frog (Lithobates sylvaticus), boreal chorus frog (Pseudocris maculata) and western

toad (Anoxyrus boreas). Song Scope™ software is used to analyze the sound files recovered from each site and uncover the call intensity of the separate species along with the presence/absence of calls within each recording. This study is only a small analysis of a much larger investigation. The evidence evaluated in addition to other studies has the potential to influence the means as to which development of borrow pits occurs to promote the growth of wildlife habitats.

ReferencesHugron S., Andersen R., Poulin M. & Rochefort L. (2011). Natural

plant colonization of burrow pits in boreal highlands of eastern Canada. Botany 89: 451-465.

National Wetlands Working Group. (1997). The Canadian Wetland Classification System. Wetlands Research Centre, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.

Rausch J. & Kershaw G.P. (2007). Short-term revegetation performance on gravel-dominated, human-induced disturbances, Churchill, Manitoba, Canada. Arct. Antarct. Alp. Res. 39: 16-24.

Faculty mentorsMrinal Das received his PhD in zoology from the University of Alberta. His research interests and expertise are in vertebrate evolutionary biology with special emphasis on taxonomy, systematics, anatomy and natural history of fishes and amphibians.

David Locky received his PhD in

environmental biology and ecology from the University of Alberta. His research interests and expertise include a wide range of topics related to wetland and aquatic ecology, including wetland classification and valuation, wetland plant diversity and ecology, anthropogenic impacts to wetlands, treatment wetlands, and wetland policy and practice.

Natasha Annich

Bachelor of Science Biological Sciences

Graduation 2013

Natasha is currently completing a Master of Science in biological sciences at the University of Alberta.



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Segmentation techniques on geophysical imagesImage segmentation is the process of separating portions of a digital image using a variety of mathematical-based computer algorithms. In a large variety of fields, numerical data can be read into a matrix and represented as an image. It is often useful to separate different portions of these images from each other to learn more about the data. Doing so may allow us to recognize features, count structures, or find boundaries. In geophysics, magnetic data can provide us with information about a region’s physical properties.

Unfortunately, deposits outlined in a magnetic survey often

overlap, so each individual feature found in a geophysical magnetic survey needs a clear

boundary defined.

Starting with numerically simulated data, this study experimented with a variety of mathematical algorithms with varying degrees of success. Two of the frequency domain image processing algorithms – Fourier’s Transform and Daubechies Wavelet Transform – had excellent success on segmenting the almost orthogonal components of the numerically simulated data. However, when applied to the field data, these techniques were not as successful at segmenting parallel components. This shows the need of considering several approaches for studying complex field data, such as the level set method for Gaussian mixtures algorithms.

Faculty mentorCristina Anton has a PhD in applied mathematics from the University of Alberta and a PhD in probability and statistics from the Center for Mathematical Statistics of the Romanian Academy. Her research interests include the asymptotic study of random dynamical systems, numerical methods for stochastic differential equations, and various statistical methods for signal processing. Dr. Anton primarily considers applications from aeronautics, but has also worked with medical and economical data.

Tamara Bain and Ruben Estevez

Bachelor of Science Computer Science

Graduation 2013

This research was funded in-part by a College and Community Innovation Program Applied Research and Development Grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).

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The effectiveness of commercial products at controlling Aiptasia spp. in captive coral reef systemsCaptive coral reef systems are an important asset in the propagation of many coral reef organisms that are currently being threatened by bleaching events. The sea anemone that belongs to the genus Aiptasia can be a hardy pest that is difficult to remove and has harmful effects on a captive coral reef system (Schlesinger et al., 2010).

There are many methods described through anecdotal

events that may be used to remove Aiptasia spp., but there

is little scientific evidence to support them.

A test of the effectiveness of commercially available products will be conducted to examine the benefits of the application of chemical products to treat Aiptasia infestations. A test of two commercially available products will

be conducted and compared to a control to determine the effectiveness of the individual products. Then they will be compared to each other to determine which product is more effective. This project is significant because it is helping to aid in the understanding of the control of Aiptasia places on many other tropical reef organisms, specifically threatened coral species.

ReferencesSchlesinger, A., Kramarsky-Winter, E., Rosenfeld, H., Armoza-Zvoloni,

R. and Loya, Y. 2010. Sexual Plasticity and Self-Fertilization in the Sea Anemone Aiptasia diaphana. PLoS ONE. 5(7) : e11874

Faculty mentorDr. Ross Shaw has taught at MacEwan University for 12 years. His research interests are in marine biology, recently focusing on captive and wild coral reef systems. Recent projects include family relationships (phylogeny) of coral species in collaboration with the Hawaiian Institute of Marine Biology, and Aiptasia propagation and removal.

Brock Bokenfohr


Graduation 2013


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A discounted threat: Environmental impacts of the livestock industryThis research provides an overview of the environmental effects of the livestock industry.

Current industry practice, specifically the proliferation of

concentrated animal feeding operations as the primary means of production, has

left far-reaching ecological consequences in its wake.

Animal agriculture is implicated in numerous environmental threats, including rising greenhouse gas emissions (particularly through release of nitrous oxide and methane, in addition to carbon dioxide), overconsumption of water for both live animals and feed crops, and decreased water quality. Furthermore, localized pollution owing to significant animal waste has contaminated many regions and compromised human health. Alterations of land use and the resulting loss of biodiversity are also of major concern. The problem has expanded as

developing countries’ demand for these products grows – however, the issue has tended not to be a focal point of environmental debate. This includes environmental destruction wrought by current practices and recommendations for reducing the environment toll at both the individual and systemic level.

Faculty mentorDon MacDonald is a sessional instructor in the department of Physical Sciences. He teaches courses related to the environment and resources. Prior to teaching, he had 15 years’ experience as a research geologist and about 15 years’ as an environment and climate change policy advisor with the Alberta government.

Leanne Bourgeois


Graduation 2013

Read the complete article: https://journals.macewan.ca/index.php/earthcommon/article/view/56

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The effects of a marl seep on freshwater phytoplankton and zooplankton communities in Long Lake, AlbertaLong Lake in northern Alberta, near Athabasca, has a unique marl seep that introduces calcium carbonate into the lake. The seep caused a shallow circle in the middle of the north section of the lake.

It is thought that this unique habitat will cause differences in phytoplankton and zooplankton

abundance and diversity.

The plankton distribution pattern was investigated to determine if there are spatial horizontal distribution patterns in freshwater plankton. Water chemistry and physical property tests were run at 20 sampling locations and divided into four test areas, where plankton tow samples were taken. A Simpson’s diversity index was used to compare the plankton communities

between the test areas as well as between specific species present.

The diversity indices showed some variation, but the species distribution was more conclusive with two species of phytoplankton differing between the marl seep and the other test locations. The deep section of the lake also showed variations, while having the lowest diversity and two species unique only to that area of the lake.

Faculty mentorDavid Locky received his PhD in environmental biology and ecology from the University of Alberta. His research interests and expertise include a wide range of topics related to wetland and aquatic ecology, including wetland classification and valuation, wetland plant diversity and ecology, anthropogenic impacts to wetlands, treatment wetlands, and wetland policy and practice. Dr. Locky is a practicing Professional Wetland Scientist and Professional Biologist.

Ian Buchwald


Graduation 2013


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Eugregarine parasitism in the Saffron-winged Meadowhawk (Sempetrum costiferum) and Lake Darner (Aeshna eremita) at Hermitage Park, Edmonton, with an assessment of possible fitness costsDragonfly parasites frequently include eugregarines (Phylum Apicomplexia), although only a small percentage of dragonfly species have been surveyed for these obligate monoexous parasites (Roberts & Janovy, 2009). The objective of this study is to determine the presence, and when present, the effects of gregarines in two dragonfly species from Alberta: (Adonta: Ansioptera), Sympetrum costiferum (Hagen) and Aeshna eremita (Scudder).

Previous odonate-gregarine studies have suggested a range

of effects on whether gregarines are harmless or pathogenic to

their hosts.

In this study, the relationship between gregarine

prevalences and intensities will be compared throughout species and time. Relationships between gregarine abundance and host fitness parameters will be determined. Host fitness parameters measured will include: body length, abdomen length, hind-wing length, wing condition and wing load (maturity). Findings may suggest if host population and/or host fitness parameters are significant explanatory variables related to possible gregarine parasitism in these dragonfly species. Dragonflies prey on pest insects, such as mosquitoes, so research that studies possible pathogenic effects on dragonfly populations is important (Corbet, 1980).

ReferencesCorbet, P.S. (1980). Biology of Odonata. Annual Review of

Entomology 25, 189-217.Roberts, L.S. and Janovy Jr. J. (2009). Foundations of parasitology

(8th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill Publishers.

Faculty mentorMichael Stock received his M.Sc. and PhD from the University of Alberta. He is a faculty member in MacEwan University's department of Biological Sciences. Dr. Stock specializes in zoology, parasitology and wildlife diseases.

Julie Collette


Graduation 2013

MacEwan University

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The relationships between Monocystis ventrosa (Apicomplexa: Monocystidae) infection and immune activity in Red Wigglers, Eisenia fetida (Annelida: Clitellata)

One part of immune response includes the products of

antimicrobial proteins that assist in neutralizing antigens in

invertebrate body cavities.

In this study, antimicrobial proteins in response to Monocystis ventrosa infection in Red Wigglers (Eisenia fetida) will be analyzed.

Coelomic fluid will be extracted from worms, centrifuged, and then tested for antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Antimicrobial activity of coelomic fluid will be analyzed using Mueller-Hinton agar plates cultured with Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis in Disk Diffusion Test. Each pair of seminal vesicles will be removed using forceps to make squash preparations in insect saline, which will then be

viewed under a compound microscope (Reinhart & Dollahon, 2003, p. 711).

Little is known about Monocystis infection in E. fetida; therefore, the results of this study may answer basic questions about infection parameters and also whether this protozoan is harmful to E. fetida.

ReferencesReinhart, M. & Dollahon, N. (2003). Responses of coelomocytes

from Lumbricus terrestris to native and non-native eukaryotic parasites. Pedobiologia 47 : 710-716.

Faculty mentorMichael Stock received his M.Sc. and PhD from the University of Alberta. He is a faculty member in MacEwan University's department of Biological Sciences. He specializes in zoology, parasitology and wildlife diseases.

Brett Crosland (L) with Dr. Stock


Graduation 2013


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Inactivation of ergot (Claviceps purpurea) using thermophillic anaerobic digestion processErgot is a harmful fungus that infects grains such as barley, wheat and rye, causing a significant loss of profit for producers in Alberta. So far, there are neither seed treatment methods nor pesticides to control its recurrence, nor are there safe procedures to dispose of ergot-infected grains after elevating. The potential for thermophilic anaerobic digestion (TAD) as an alternative way to kill ergot and dispose of infected grains safely was investigated.

Materials and Methods: 1.25 grams of ergot scelerotia (seeds) from wheat were placed into a lab-scale TAD reactor (50 millilitre digestate) and non-TAD controls (H2O). The reactors and the controls were kept at 55 C and 22 C for 28 days. Samples were taken at 0, 2, 7, 14 and 28 days to examine ergot survival using culture on agar for identification and in broth for enrichment. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was applied to confirm the culture positives by using specific primers for NADPH oxidase, a critical enzyme in ergot lifecycle. Biogas from each group was measured using gas chromatography (GC).

Results: Growing fungi was observed in most of non-TAD controls cultured at both 55 C and 22

C. Fewer growth was seen in TAD placed at 22 C. However, there was no visible fungus growing in active TAD at 55 C in all time points. COX1 gene encoding NADPH oxidase was detected in most of culture positives, verifying that fungi grown were from ergot placed in the groups. Biogas production and methane content in biogas were increased in active TAD with ergot compared to TAD-only control. Preliminary results showed that ergot did not survive in active TAD process even after a short period of incubation (two days). TAD will be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to inactivate ergot and ergot-infected grains. Further, it can be used to generate renewable energy.

Faculty mentorJonathan Withey has an MA and D.Phil. in organic chemistry from the University of Oxford. His research at MacEwan University focuses on organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry.

Ashley Doyle


Graduation 2014

This research was funded in-part by a College and Community Innovation Program Innovation Enhancement Grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).

This research was completed with the support of Dr. Tiejun Gao and Dr. Sheila Li, who assisted in developing the research topic and provided ongoing advice and support to the project. Student Christina Wiesmann assisted in conducting experiments.

This research was made possible with support from Himark bioGas Inc.

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Antibiotic degradation in cattle manure during the thermophilic anaerobic digestion (TAD) process

The aim of this project was to determine the degradation

levels of both hormones and antibiotics in cattle manure

during the thermophilic anaerobic digestion (TAD)

process.

TAD is an ongoing process at Growing Power Hairy Hill, a biogas plant located just north of Vegreville, Alberta. In this presentation,

the overall process of TAD will be explained, including conditions, and purpose. Second, the methods of sampling will be outlined. Most important, the methods of extraction, along with both quantitative and qualitative identifications using the high performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometer will be explained. Finally, the conclusion will discuss the implications of the results, including the importance of the TAD process in the biogas plant to promote sustainable, environmentally sound energy in the agricultural sector.


Benjamin Edmunds

Bachelor of Science Physical Sciences

Graduation 2014




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Encodings of subgraph isomorphism to SAT and their influence of SR-SGIThe Satisfiability Problem (SAT) consists of deciding whether a given Boolean formula, in conjunctive normal form (CNF), can be satisfied by assigning different Boolean values to its variables. The problem has many practical applications such as model checking, automatic test pattern generation, combinational equivalence checking, planning in artificial intelligence, automated theorem proving, and software verification.

In the SAT world there are two main directions of research: one that tries to create hard

instances of Satisfiability, and another that tries to produce

better solvers for SAT.

This study is a continuation of previous research by Dr. Calin Anton about generating hard SAT instances using random subgraph isomorphism.

The goal of the project is to investigate if the main characteristics (the easy-hard-easy pattern and exponential growth of the empirical hardness) of SAT encoded subgraph isomorphism instances are independent of the SAT encoding method used. The preliminary results indicate that this is the case.

Faculty mentorCalin Anton obtained a PhD from the University of Alberta in 2005, completing his thesis Structure and Randomness of Satisfiability. Since 2008 he has been instructing in the department of Computer Science at MacEwan University. His research interests reside in the general areas of empirical algorithms and artificial intelligence; more specifically he studies heuristic search and the Satisfiability Problem.

Ruben Estevez


Graduation 2013

MacEwan University

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Statistical methods for segmentation of geophysical imagesA magnetic survey is one of the most popular techniques for the fast mapping of large areas in geophysical and environmental studies. The survey consists of mapping one or more components of the earth’s geomagnetic field in order to analyse the magnetic field anomalies. The magnetic anomalies mapped by this method can be used generally as an aid to geological mapping, or for specific purposes, such as estimating basement topography and depth in oil exploration and the estimation of magnetic polarization anomalies in mineral prospecting.

The segmentation of these survey images give information

on the exact position of deposits of natural resources

underground.

In this study, in addition to the use of frequency domain method based on Fourier’s Transform

or Daubechies Wavelet Transform, statistical methods were used to segment magnetic images of the ground. Intensity inhomogeneities often occur in real world images, and this presents difficulties to segment images due to overlaps between the ranges of the intensities in the regions to be segmented. To overcome this difficulty, a level set method with bias correction was applied. Alternatively, an approach based on a Gaussian mixture model was implemented. Although promising results are obtained with each of these approaches, a more complex mixture model incorporating more dependencies seems necessary.

Faculty mentorCristina Anton has a PhD in applied mathematics from University of Alberta and a PhD in probability and statistics from the Center for Mathematical Statistics of the Romanian Academy. Her research interests include the asymptotic study of random dynamical systems, numerical methods for stochastic differential equations, and various statistical methods for signal processing. Dr. Anton primarily considers applications from aeronautics, but has also worked with medical and economical data.

Ruben Estevez and Tamara Bain


Graduation 2013

This research was funded in-part by a College and Community Innovation Program Applied Research and Development Grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).


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Catalyst optimization for the synthesis of renewable waxes from camelina oilMany chemical processes are made possible or enhanced by the use of catalysts to initiate or drive the reactions involved. Catalysts in the same phase as the reactants are termed homogeneous while heterogeneous catalysts are in a phase different from that of the reactants. Heterogeneous catalysis often involves the immobilization of a catalyst (often an acid, base or enzyme) onto a solid support to be used in the reaction solution.

Using solid heterogeneous catalysts can reduce materials and processing costs, allow for greater control of the reactions taking place, and help to limit negative environmental impacts and safety concerns.

This study looked at a number of commercial, lab-made and enzymatic catalysts, and compared their effectiveness in promoting free fatty acid-based esterification reactions for the

production of wax esters from plant oils. Acid value titration was used to determine the per cent conversion of fatty acid into ester product. Small-scale reactions using the various catalysts were followed by scale-up of the most promising catalyst reactant combinations. The lab-made sulfuric acid-activated carbon catalyst was found to be effective in the esterification of free fatty acid derivatives of camelina oil to novel wax ester products. The tribological properties of the produced wax esters were characterized using a rheometer and differential scanning calorimetry.

This project was driven by the belief that plant oil-based waxes produced sustainably using renewable catalysts may find use as environmentally friendly alternatives to the petroleum-based waxes currently used as industrial lubricants, coatings and plastics additives and in commercial cosmetics and personal care products.

Faculty mentorDr. Samuel Mugo graduated from Jomo Kenyatta University in Kenya with a Bachelor of Science (honours) in 2000. He obtained a PhD in chemistry from Memorial University in Newfoundland in 2006, performed research at Queen's University in Ontario from 2007-2008, and since has been teaching at MacEwan University. Dr. Mugo has an interest in environmental and analytical chemistry and is currently researching developed micro-reactors for more biofriendly syntheses of products for bioindustry.

Lauren Huybregts

Bachelor of Science in Physical Sciences

Graduation 2015

MacEwan University

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Enantioselective total synthesis of (R)-(-)-complanineA route is described for the enantioselective synthesis of (R)-(-)-complanine. An organocatalytic, asymmetric oxyamination of a homoconjugated all-Z-dienal intermediate provides versatile and efficient access to the natural product.

(-)-Complanine is an organic chiral amide secreted by the marine fireworm, Eurythoe

complanata, which was isolated and identified by Kazuhiko

Nakamura in 2008.

Processing amphipathic properties due to its characteristic unsaturated carbon chain and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-derived trimethylammonium substructure, (-)-complanine causes inflammation by binding to Protein Kinase C (PKC) in the presence of calcium (Ca2+) and tissue plasminogen activator (TPA); this binding to PKC triggers phosphyorylation of cascade signal molecules

which induce inflammation as part of the organism’s defense mechanism. The total synthesis of (-)-complanine was effected using a series of environmentally benign, catalytic reactions in which a preliminary substrate, 5,8-Undecadiyn-1-ol, was constructed using two readily available and relatively inexpensive reagents, 5-hexyn-1-ol and 1-bromopent-2-yne. The subsequent skipped diynol underwent partial dehydrogenation via Lindlar catalyst yielding a novel skipped dienol, which was then oxidized to produce a novel skipped dienal. Direct proline-catalyzed a-aminoxylation allowed the asymmetric addition of oxygen to alpha carbon; production of the skipped diene diol intercepted the existing route leading to the synthesis of (-)-complanine, allowing completion of the synthesis.


Krystal Kamanos

Bachelor of Science in Physical Sciences

Graduation 2013

Read the published article:Kamanos, K.A.D. & Withey, J.M. (2012). Enantioselective total

synthesis of (R)-(-)-complanine. Beilstein Journal of Organic Chemistry, 8 (1), 1695-1699.



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Compartment specific expression of SC00608 in Streptomyces coelicolorThe Streptomyces family of bacteria is of high economic importance to humans as they industrially produce medically and agriculturally important compounds such as antibiotics and fungicides.

Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2) is used extensively for Streptomyces research as it is more genetically manipulable than its relatives. It has a relatively large, linear chromosome predicted to encode a high number of regulatory genes (Bentley et al., 2002). However, the roles of many regulators remain “hypothetical” and “putative” according to the Streptomyces genome database. SCO0608 is one of these putative regulatory genes with unknown function. This research intends to further SCO0608 understanding by determining where in the colony and when during development it is expressed using Enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein (EGFP).

Using methods outlined in Sun et al. (1999), and the plasmid plJ8660, the promoter of SCO0608 will be amplified from S. coelicolor template DNA before being cloned into plJ8660 in front of, and in control of the EGFP gene.

This recombinant plasmid, introduced into S. coelicolor and EGFP expression will be viewed using fluorescence microscopy. Therefore, when EGFP is expressed in S. coelicolor colonies, it is a result of the SCO0608 promoter being transcribed in that specified location at that particular time in development. It is expected that SCO0608 will be expressed either during antibiotic biosynthesis or sporulation, resulting in EGFP expression in either the substrate mycelia or aerial hyphae respectively.

This research will characterize SCO0608 and its role in S. coelicolor’s development. Any discoveries may translate to related genes in the economically important Streptomyces species, leading to possible industrial strain improvement (Harcombe, 2009).

ReferencesBentley, S., K. Chater, A. Cerdeno-Tarraga, G. Challis, N. Thomson, K.

James, D...Hopwood, D. (2002) Complete genome sequence of the model actinomycete Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2). Nature 417, 141-147.

Harcombe, K. (2009). Defining the role of BldG in morphological and physiological differentiation in Streptomyces coelicolor. (Unpublished doctoral dissertation). University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.

Sun, J., G. Kelemen, J. Fernandez-Abalos & M. Bibb, (1999) Green fluorescent protein as a reporter for spatial and temporal gene expression in Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2). Microbiology 145: 2221-2227.

Faculty mentorKimberly Harcombe has a PhD in microbiology and biotechnology from the University of Alberta, and has expertise in the fields of microbiology, bacterial genetics, and molecular biology. Her research focuses on the genetics of antibiotic production and life cycle progression in the soil bacterium Streptomyces coelicolor, a model organism for industrial antibiotic production.

Kelcey King


Graduation 2013

Kelcey is currently pursuing a Master of Science in biology at Memorial University of Newfoundland

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Fecundity of northern redbelly dace (Phoxinus eos) and finescale dace (Phoxinus neogaeus) (Pisces: Cyprinidae) and their all-female asexual hybrids in Northern AlbertaNorthern redbelly dace (Phoxinus eos), finescale dace (P. neogaeus), and the asexual hybrid P. eosneogaeus coexist in many parts of their distributional range throughout North America.

An assessment of each group’s relative fitness would help facilitate understanding of the underlying mechanisms allowing their continued coexistence and variable success.

This project looked into the fecundity of both parental species and the hybrids from various lakes and water bodies in northern Alberta. The data was collected by meristic and morphometric analysis and dissection of alcohol-preserved specimens located at the Royal Alberta Museum, and was compared with a similar study performed on specimens from lakes located in southern Alberta (Mee, 2011).

This study provides more insight into the phenomenon of hybridization and the relative fitness of asexual hybrids by comparing results from different geographic locations. Results will

either support a uniformity of fecundity and fitness of hybrid and parental Phoxinus throughout the northwestern range of their distribution or suggest variable fecundity of differing clonal lineages as a result of hybrid vigour, or contrastingly, the greater success of sexual reproduction. Similar studies have found that, when adjusting for body size, fecundity is not significantly different between the two parental species and the hybrid. As such, the results of this study should display similar findings.

ReferencesMee, J. A. (2011) Understanding the coexistence of sperm-

dependent asexual species and their sexual hosts: the role of biogeography, mate choice, and relative fitness in the Phoxinus eos-neogaeus (Pisces: Cyprinidae) system. (Unpublished doctoral dissertation). University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.

Faculty mentorMrinal Das received his PhD in zoology from the University of Alberta. His research interests and expertise include vertebrate evolutionary biology with special emphasis on taxonomy, systematics, anatomy and natural history of fishes and amphibians.

Ariel Lekas


Graduation 2013

Ariel is currently completing a law degree at the University of Calgary



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Identification of wingless in the embryonic development of Amblyomma hebraeumThis study aims to outline the expression of the wingless (wg) gene during the development of Amblyomma hebraeum.

A. hebraeum is a hard-bodied tick (Ascari: Ixodidae) commonly known as a vector for African tick-biting disease in humans.

Wg is a member of the Wnt gene family, a family of genes that encode a highly conserved group of signaling molecules. In arthropods, Wnt is known to play roles in axis elongation and segmentation (Murat et al., 2010). However, Wnt’s exact role in ticks is not known. The wg gene is known to participate in segment polarity in other arthropods such as Drosophila melanogaster (Murat et al., 2010).

To identify wg in A. hebraeum, degenerate primers were developed from wg homologues in other arthropods (Ixodes scapularis, Achaearanea tepidoriorum and Drosophila melanogaster). Using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) these

primers were used to generate double-stranded complementary DNA (cDNA) from messenger RNA (mRNA) collected from various embryonic stages of A. hebraeum. cDNA was sequenced using BigDye terminator v 3.1 sequencing kit. Both degenerate and non-degenerate primers were created from the cDNA sequences and were used to further expand the partial nucleotide sequence.

The nucleotide sequence currently stands at 618 base pairs which correspond to part of a 205 amino acid protein. Further expansion of the 3’ poly T tail and 5’ Adapter is being implemented in conjunction with RT PCR techniques. Following the complete sequencing of wg, highly sequence-specific primers will be applied to several stages of A. hebraeum development to view the times wg expression occurs during A. hebraeum development.

ReferencesMurat, S., Hopfen, C., & McGregor, A.P. (2010). The function and

evolution of Wnt genes in arthropods. Arthropod Structure & Development, 39, 446-452.

Faculty mentorKevin Friesen received his PhD in biology from the University of Alberta in 2003. His research is focused on physiology and egg development in hard ticks. Current research projects include establishing an artificial feeding system for ticks, and identifying some of the genes involved in regulating embryo development.

Cameron Lindsay


Graduation 2013

MacEwan University

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Construction of EGFP transcriptional fusion products for analysis of gene expression in S. coelicolorStreptomyces coelicolor A3(2) is a model organism for the study of soil dwelling Gram-positive bacteria, most notable for producing natural antibiotics. Streptomyces are filamentous bacteria showing unique multicellular growth, including antibiotic producing substrate mycelia and spore producing aerial hyphae.

Much work has been done to characterize specific genes but a great deal is still unknown. The purpose of this work was to isolate promoters for three genes of known spatial and temporal expression from S. coelicolor and fuse them to an enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) gene, producing a set of transcriptional fusion products to serve as probes for the location and timing of gene expression. The three promoters isolated correspond to genes bldG, sigF and redD. SigF functions in spore maturation and is active in developing spore chains. RedD occurs in mature substrate mycelia and is required for regulation of antibiotic production (Sun et al. 1999). bldG functions as a regulator for maturation and differentiation and is present in all tissues (Bignell et al. 2005).

Isolation of promoters was performed using chromosomal DNA from Streptomyces and specifically engineered primers for PCR. Promoters were ligated into plasmid containing EGFP gene and plasmids were transfered into E. coli for replication. Purified plasmids containing the transcriptional fusion products will be conjugated into Streptomyces and visualized under fluorescent microscopy. The three products constructed here will be used as controls to compare to similarly constructed products using unknown promoters. Two products, one known and one unknown, will be inserted into Streptomyces and novel spatial and temporal characteristics will be studied and assigned to unknown genes.

ReferencesBignell, D., K. Tahlan, K. Colvin, S. Jensen & B. Leskiw, (2005).

Expression of ccaR, encoding the positive activator of cephamycin C and clavulanic acid production in Streptomyces clavuligerus, is dependent on bldG. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. 49, 1529-1541.

Sun, J., G. Kelemen, J. Fernandez-Abalos & M. Bibb, (1999). Green fluorescent protein as a reporter for spatial and temporal gene expression in Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2). Microbiology 145, 2221-2227.

Faculty mentorKimberley Harcombe has a PhD in microbiology and biotechnology from the University of Alberta, and has expertise in the fields of microbiology, bacterial genetics, and molecular biology. Her research focuses on the genetics of antibiotic production and life cycle progression in the soil bacterium Streptomyces coelicolor, a model organism for industrial antibiotic production.

Michael Lutsky


Graduation 2013


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Development of a porous layer open tubular (PLOT) platform for quantitative environmental analysisThe use of porous polymer monoliths has become widespread in chemical applications, especially in the area of chromatography and chemical separation. Uniquely fabricated polymers which have been formed only on the interior walls of silica tube leave an open hole in the center (PLOTs), allowing for faster separations than their cored counterparts (monoliths).

Many previously cited methods for PLOT formation did not

seem to work well and ended in the fabrication of a monolith.

This study resulted in the development of a facile PLOT formation method. More usefully, it demonstrated the application of the developed PLOT platforms for analysis of degradation products of petroleum and for food analysis applications. Further, it demonstrates how the researchers have integrated PLOT platforms in tiny microchips for on-site environmental analysis.


James Mazurok (R) and Kyle Tiedmann (L)

Bachelor of Science Physical Sciences

Graduation 2013

MacEwan University

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The role of fluid modifiers in the enhanced recovery of oil in reservoirsWith billions of barrels of oil in reserves, oil and gas remain an important industry in Alberta. In addition to its oilsands, Alberta has reserves of crude oil deep underground.

To improve the removal of crude oil reserves, water can be

injected in one well, pushing the oil into another.

Although this method removes a majority of the oil, some remains attached to porous rock surfaces. This project investigates the addition of modifiers to the injected water for enhancing oil removal.

Simulations of this process were done via computer modeling using a computational fluid dynamics software package called OpenFOAM. Investigators explored situations where select modifiers made the oil unstable, detaching from rock surfaces. Results of the study begin to show definite regions where oil becomes unstable and detaches from rock surfaces.

Faculty mentorAfter receiving his PhD from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in 2004, specializing in thermal hydraulics in nuclear reactors, Dr. Jeffrey Davis worked on the Phoenix Mars Mission. In 2010, Dr. Davis joined the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Transfer program at MacEwan University as a sessional instructor. Currently, his research focuses on the numerical modeling of instabilities which develop between two fluids, with applications to both the energy and health sector. Additionally, he is involved with research in software development for educational purposes.

Karl-Yvan Mome Etindele

Bachelor of Science in Engineering Transfer

Completion 2012


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Analysis of heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Edmonton snow storage facilitiesEdmonton has several sites throughout the city where snow collected from streets during winter is stored.

Collected snow is melted into storage ponds and the water is

returned to the environment.

The sand used to create traction on the streets is also deposited at these storage sites as it is mixed in with the snow. The sand is separated from the pond water and sediment cleaned and recycled for use in future winter seasons. The purpose of the study was to analyze the water and sediment for heavy metals and organic compounds that could be potentially dangerous to living organisms and the environment.

With the assistance of the Edmonton Waste Management Center of Excellence, water

and sediment samples from various locations throughout four snow storage sites for Edmonton were collected and analyzed through the use of inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The ICP was used to analyze the concentration of heavy metals and the GC-MS was used to determine the levels of specific polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) within the samples. The results of the study show that heavy metals and organic compounds were either not present or levels were within safe environmental limits.

Brett Orr



Graduation 2015

This research was made possible with support from AACTI and Edmonton Waste Management Centre of Excellence

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Identification and sequencing of wnt5 and wnt6 genes in embryos of the ixodid tick, Amblyomma hebraeumTicks are ectoparasites, obligate blood feeders and vectors of disease. Embryos of the ixodid (hard) tick, Amblyomma hebraeum, are being studied in this research. The wnt gene family encodes a highly conserved group of signaling proteins that play a role in several developmental events in animals (Kuhl, 2010). Wnt genes are expressed during early embryogenesis, and these genes help regulate several different developmental processes (i.e., in arthropods wnt genes have a role in axis elongation and segmentation). In the tick, the role for wnt genes is currently unknown.

The objective of this study was to identify and sequence wnt5 and wnt6 genes in A. hebraeum embryos using degenerate primer polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and then to compare these found sequences to those of closely related organisms. Messenger RNA (mRNA) was isolated from a range of frozen embryos and then was used to create complementary DNA (cDNA) by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction

(RT-PCR). Degenerate primers were developed using wnt 5/6 homologues in different organisms (Ixodes scapularis, Achaearanea tepidariorum, and Drosophila melanogaster) and then were used to amplify wnt5 and wnt6 specified cDNA. A band of approximately the right size (~400 base pairs) for wnt5 was amplified and observed after the second strand synthesis reaction. Currently, these bands are being purified further for sequencing comparison with other organisms.

Further research will need to be done to find out more specifically when a particular wnt gene is being expressed during embryogenesis. This research will contribute more knowledge towards tick embryogenesis, which is lacking at present. It looks at whether or not wnt gene expression occurs during the 60 to 70 days that a tick embryo takes to go through embryogenesis.

ReferencesKuhl, M. (2010). Wnt Signaling in Development. New York, USA:

Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers

Faculty mentorKevin Friesen received his PhD in biology from the University of Alberta in 2003. His research is focused on physiology and egg development in hard ticks. Current research projects include establishing an artificial feeding system for ticks, and identifying some of the genes involved in regulating embryo development.

Danielle Schmidt


Graduation 2013


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Tackling academic integrity online: Creation of automated assignment/exam software for distance learningWith worldwide accessibility of the internet increasing daily, educators are realizing the potential of distance learning in a global environment. Challenges, however, arise from the issue of course accreditation and with issues of academic integrity when large groups of students are involved.

For distance learning to be viable, suitable teaching and

testing materials must also be available.

The objective of this study was to generate a software package that is able to create assignment and/or exams (with full solutions) automatically. This would allow students to receive unique assignments and reduce the potential of cheating. To accomplish this goal, software was programmed in C++ and the resulting assignment/exam was outputted in portable document format (PDF). The results of this project are currently being used in a first-year engineering mechanics course.

Faculty mentorsDr. Ken Fyfe has a PhD in mechanical engineering from University of Waterloo specializing in acoustics, vibration and signal processing. A professor at the University of Alberta in mechanical engineering for 14 years, Dr. Fyfe left to form a start-up company, Dynastream, which was sold in 2006. He currently teaches in the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Transfer program at MacEwan University and is involved in randomizable problem research.

After receiving his PhD from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in 2004, specializing in thermal hydraulics in nuclear reactors, Dr. Jeffrey Davis worked on the Phoenix Mars Mission. In 2010, Dr. Davis joined the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Transfer program at MacEwan University as a sessional instructor. Currently, his research focuses on the numerical modeling of instabilities which develop between two fluids with applications to both the energy and health sector. Additionally, he is involved with research in software development for educational purposes.

Justin Sharp and Amy Warkentin

Bachelor of Science in Engineering Transfer

Graduation 2012

MacEwan University

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Site-directed mutagenesis of the DNA repair enzyme, polynucleotide kinase/phosphatase from Caenorhabditis elegansThe DNA of all living organisms is subject to constant bombardment by damaging agents, such as ionizing radiation or reactive oxygen species. To safeguard their DNA, cells have evolved complex systems that recognize and repair DNA damage. Defects in DNA damage response pathways are associated with neurological diseases, cancer or pre-dispositions to cancer.

The enzyme polynucleotide kinase/phosphatase (PNKP)

plays a crucial role in the repair of a specific type of DNA

damage: DNA strand breaks.

This study explores the function of PNKP in the model organism, Caenorhabditis elegans,

by combining site-directed mutagenesis with biochemical characterization of the enzyme. In this project, a series of mutations was introduced into C. elegans PNKP, and the resulting mutant proteins were overexpressed and purified. These proteins are now available for biochemical studies, to be carried out in the near future.

Faculty mentorPrior to joining the department of Biological Sciences at MacEwan University, Dr. Nina Bernstein conducted research in structural and molecular biology applied to DNA repair. In the lab of Dr. Mark Glover at the University of Alberta, she studied the structure and function of the DNA repair enzyme, PNKP (polynucleotide kinase/phosphate) from human or mouse. Dr. Bernstein is continuing this research at MacEwan University, focusing on PNKP in model organisms, such as Caenorhabditis elegans or Drosoplila melanogaster.

David Steed


Completion 2013

Transfered to the University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine, graduation date 2016.


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Inactivation of hormones using the thermophilic anaerobic digestion processCattle and hog manure from concentrated feeding practices contains a variety of hormones that can potentially disrupt life in ecosystems contaminated with manure runoff (Hanselman, Graetz, & Wilke, 2003). Finding a practical way to clean up these environmental disrupting compounds (EDCs) is a challenge.

Thermophilic anaerobic digestion (TAD) is an environmentally friendly way to treat manure while producing “green” renewable energy (Himark bioGas Inc., 2012). This study was completed to increase understanding of whether hormones can be degraded by TAD.

Materials and methods: a representative range of hormones were added to a lab-scale TAD reactor along with a number of appropriate controls. Reactors were sampled periodically, by extracting the hormones and their derivatives and subjecting them to high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Biogas (carbon dioxide and methane) production was also measured.

Results: There was no difference in biogas production from the TAD reactors with or without hormones, indicating that the presence

of hormones did not interrupt healthy TAD processes. Analysis of hormone degradation is currently being completed. The current results are inconclusive as to whether or not TAD had a significant impact on hormone degradation.

If hormones can be degraded by the TAD process, TAD could be adapted as a practical and cost-effective approach to reducing the environmental impact of hormones from livestock manure.

ReferencesHanselman, T.A., Graetz, D.A., & Wilke, A.C. (2003). Manure-borne

estrogens as potential environmental contaminants: a review. Environ Sci Technol. 37, 5471-5478.


Christina Wiesmann


Graduation 2014



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The effect of eugregarine infection (Gregarina niphandrodes) on mate selection behavior of the Yellow Mealworm Beetle (Tenebrio molitor)The relationship between eugregarine protozoan parasites and their hosts is controversial and problematic. Some consider it to be pathogenic (Valigurova et al., 2009), but others claim it may be mutualistic (Rodriguez et al., 2007).

The objective of this study is to determine the effect of infection

of the gregarine, Gregarina niphandrodes, on the beetle

Tenebrio molitor, by analyzing behaviour and mate choice.

An analysis of mate preference by female T. molitor, when given the option of uninfected or infected males, may shed light on the nature of this relationship. Female beetles will be allowed to mate with either infected or uninfected males

under controlled conditions. Trials will be recorded and analysed to detect any preference. Preference will be determined based on number of copulation attempts, number of courtship attempts, and time spent by females near each male. Preference for an infected individual may suggest that the relationship between G. niphandrodes and beetles is mutualistic, while preference for non-infected males may suggest a parasitic association.

ReferencesRodriguez, Y., Omoto, C.K., & Gomulkiewicz, R. (2007). Individual

and population effects of eugragarine, Gregarina niphandrodes (Eugregarinidia: Gregarinidae), on Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Environmental Entomology 36, 689-693.

Valigurova, A., Michalkova, V., & Koudela, B. (2009). Eugregarine trophozoite detachment from the host epithelium via epimerite retraction: Fiction or fact?. International Journal of Parasitology 39, 1232-1242.

Faculty mentorDr. Michael Stock is a faculty member at MacEwan University in the department of Biological Sciences. He received his M.Sc. and PhD from the University of Alberta. He specializes in zoology, parasitology and wildlife diseases.

Daniel Yip


Graduation 2013

Daniel Yip was awarded "Best Poster Presentation" at the Prairie University Biology Symposium (PUBS) at the University of Winnipeg for his related presentation "Eugregarine Infection (Gregarina niphandrodes) Reduces Mating Success in the Yellow Mealworm Beetle (Tenebrio molitor)."

He is currently completing a Master of Science in biological sciences - ecology at the University of Alberta.

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Murabaha–an Islamic financial tool and the challenges vis-a-vis the International Accounting StandardsThis research compares an Islamic finance tool named “Murabaha” with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as the Quran prohibits usury/interest ("riba" in Arabic).

Three parties are involved in a Murabaha transaction: a

customer, a supplier and an Islamic financial institution

(IFI).

The process: A customer selects a supplier based on the best available market price (net realizable value) and selects an IFI for the best profit margin. Customers sign a purchasing contract from the IFI at a price that includes the IFI’s profit margin. The supplier then sends the goods to the customer (per IFI’s instruction) and invoices the IFI. The IFI pays the supplier and prepares a second invoice with a profit margin

to send to the customer. The customer pays the IFI invoice at an agreed maturity. The profit margin charged by the IFI creates the argument of interest or profit margin.

This research explores Murabaha through the eyes of IFRS. It discusses the inventory value in terms of International Accounting Standards (IAS) 2-Inventories; IAS 23-Borrowing Costs; and IAS 16-Property, Plant and Equipment. The researchers conclude when the goods purchased are not qualified assets for interest-profit margin capitalization, the profit margin on these goods should be eliminated and reflected in the profit and loss account. Whereas, if the goods are qualifying assets then no adjustment is needed since the interest-profit margin will be reflected in profit and loss in arrears either by depreciation expense or cost of goods sold.

About the researchersCenap Ilter, assistant professor of accounting, has a PhD as well as CPA and CMA designations. Dr. Ilter has 22 years of industry and 11 years of teaching experience. His areas of expertise are inflation accounting, dual currency reporting, corporate social responsibility, Islamic finance and accounting fraud.

Sherif Elbarrad is an assistant professor of accounting and chair of the Accounting & Finance department. He has a PhD, CPA, and more than 28 years of teaching and professional experience. Dr. Elbarrad's areas of expertise include financial and managerial accounting, IT implementations in accounting, effect on accounting information on stock markets and Islamic finance.

Dr. Sherif Elbarrad and Dr. Cenap Ilter, Accounting


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About the researcherWilliam Xiaojun Wei obtained a PhD in international economics from the

University of Limerick in Ireland. He completed a post-doc at Richard

Ivey School of Business, University of Western Ontario. His research interests

are in international business with a focus on FDI.

HRM practice within Chinese MNCsThis research examines a range of theoretical perspectives used to explain the dynamics involved in the human resource management (HRM) transfer process. The research links macro with micro aspects of analysis to provide a rounded picture of the evolving process of transferring HRM practices.

Through a case study of one Chinese multinational

company (MNC), the researcher demonstrates that the

construction of HRM practices in subsidiaries is a relational

process of interaction between individual entities and social

structures.

A framework integrating the factors of system, society, dominance, corporate strategy and inter-firm relationship is given.

Dr. William Wei, Bachelor of Commerce, Institute of Asia Pacific Studies

MacEwan University

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About the researcherLeo Wong graduated with a PhD in

marketing from the University of Alberta and is an assistant professor

at MacEwan University's School of Business. He teaches and researches

new business concepts that are aligned with socially responsible thinking

and ethical decision-making, working with a generation of students who will

shape our sustainable world.

The impact of sustainability curriculum on student outcomes

This study examines the effect on educational and private outcome of embedding sustainability curriculum into an introductory level business course.

As post-secondary institutions increasingly pay attention to and integrate sustainability-

related content into course curriculum, it is uncertain

whether students benefit directly from those changes, and

if so, how.

It can be argued that post-secondary institutions are responding to marketplace demands on this new skill set and that career opportunities will improve as schools align with this perspective. However, it is unclear what the impact of sustainability curriculum is on outcomes such as student learning, course satisfaction, instructor evaluations, personal beliefs and lifestyle changes such as adopting sustainability behaviours.

This research looks at learning outcomes, personal beliefs and sustainability behaviours in particular, over a multi-year period.

Dr. Leo Wong, Bachelor of Commerce


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Cool Sweat in Brazil Cool Sweat is an innovative sport towel which becomes cooler as it becomes wet from absorbing sweat. It is a mock product designed for a course project in international marketing. Specifically, the course includes a group project where students apply their contextual knowledge by launching a product of their choice in a foreign market. An international marketing strategy for Cool Sweat in Brazil was developed.

Extensive research was carried out for creating this innovative product idea, Cool Sweat, and for developing a marketing strategy specific to Brazil. The project was formed on the basis of capitalizing on the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil.

The product idea is a variation of the current Extreme Cooling

Towel, a sport towel that once wetted, becomes cool to the

touch.

Throughout the project a range of questions emerged that needed to be addressed. Issues explored included international market evaluation, opportunity assessment, mode of entry, pricing, promotion, distribution and break-even analysis. Information was gathered from government websites, the World Bank and Export Development Canada websites, and an interview conducted with a Brazilian native.

The results of the project clearly indicated that the marketing strategy for Cool Sweat should reflect the business environment in Brazil.

Faculty mentorDr. Makarand Gulawani is an assistant professor of marketing at MacEwan University. His teaching and research interests are in international marketing.

Travis Guay (L), Taylor Lamoureux, Brett Murdock, Ehab Halabi (R), and Marisa Ellison (C)

Bachelor of Commerce International Business

Graduation 2013

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Public-private partnershipsThis case study focuses on a Calgary-based private company, Alta Injection Molding (AIM) and its cooperative agreement with SAIT Polytechnic. The main objective of the study is to encourage other post-secondary institutions to become involved with local businesses so students and industry leaders can share knowledge, resources and networks.

The importance of this project is to illustrate to other academic

institutions and businesses that benefits exist for both

parties, and such cooperative agreements should be

supported.

It is hoped that a model can be developed from the AIM and SAIT partnership for other businesses and institutions to follow and create their own success stories. Information has been

gathered from company websites, Statistics Canada, telephone interviews and in-person interviews. This case study should provide a rich example to academic institutions and businesses in Alberta of the challenges and rewards of public/private cooperative agreements.

Faculty mentorDr. Michael Roberts is a graduate of the Richard Ivey School of Business. His academic research has focused on corporate strategy and he is currently writing a report for the Government of British Columbia under the Ministry of Forests, which analyses the decade-long cooperative initiative of public/private market development for Canadian wood products in China.

Travis Guay

Bachelor of Commerce International Business

Graduation 2013


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The impact of the adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance practices on firms’ performance and its relation with executive compensation: The case of Canadian companiesSustainability is a way for businesses to move into the future with less risk and uncertainty. There is little dispute today that the 2008 financial crisis was caused mainly by excessive risk taken by executives. This problem was created by the introduction, mostly in the 90s, of compensation schemes that reward executives with stock options. These provisions create an incentive for executives to take on more risky activities in order to maximize the stock return in the short term. On the other hand, there is also little dispute that the world needs a shift in terms of business practices towards a more sustainable business model. If these are times of transition, maybe companies need to review executives’ compensation schemes in order to create a different incentive: for executives to adopt sustainable business practices.

In line with this belief, the goal of this project is to research a firm’s ability to be innovative and achieve financial performance through the adoption of high standards of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles.

Specifically, the objective of the showcased research is to assess whether there is a relationship between firms’ ESG strategies and their profitability. The other objective of the project is to analyze the relationship between a firm’s executive and board of directors’ compensation schemes in relation to the firm’s decisions on environmental sustainability.

Faculty MentorDr. Eloisa Perez is an assistant professor in the Finance and Accounting department. She completed a Bachelor of Business Administration from EAESP-EGV in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and after working several years in the financial departments of multinational companies, returned to graduate school to complete an MBA and a PhD in Finance from the Autonomous University of Barcelona, Spain. Dr. Perez's research is primarily in the areas of corporate governance and its impact on firm value, and public governance and the use of public budget.

Amanda Mesluk

Bachelor of Commerce Management

Graduation 2013


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The labyrinth: Barriers for women to executive positionsWomen’s advancement in the corporate workplace has taken significant strides over the last century. Research demonstrates, however, that despite an increased presence of female employees in mid-management positions, executive positions continue to be male-dominated.

Women are underrepresented in areas of governance,

directorship and executive leadership. This seems to

contradict the apparent momentum of the promotion of

women.

Why does this misrepresentation remain and what are the obstacles that women face in becoming top leaders of organizations across North America? This research unveils some of the hidden barriers that stubbornly exist for women in business. It reviews research that demonstrates why gender inequality is difficult

to recognize, the systems that perpetuate it, the complexities of how society views it and the ways women respond to it.

By knowing the interplay between external and internal obstacles, women who wish to assume positions of leadership can more easily navigate the labyrinth of gender inequality, and their male colleagues can recognize the untapped opportunity that women hold. There are corporate, social and economic benefits of allowing women to fairly advance to positions of power. Recognizing and removing barriers is vital to the strength of our companies, social networks and jurisdictions.

Faculty mentorDawit Isaac has a BA in economics and management, Masters of Divinity and a Masters of Business Administration in community economic development and leadership. He is interested in organizational and personal leadership development.

Dee-Ann Schwanke

Bachelor of Commerce

Graduation 2013

Faculty of Fine Arts & Communications

MacEwan University

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About the researcherWith an MA from New York University in performance studies, and a PhD from the University of Washington in theatre history and dramatic criticism, Dr. Garfinkle has taught oral interpretation, public speaking, play analysis and theatre history, and is a master teacher of yoga, speech and performance skills. His research interests explore affect in theatrical communication, performance ethnography and feminist historiography, and he is a specialist on gender and rhetoric in restoration drama, and on hysteria in modern drama.

A quantitative study on the comprehension of discrete “emotives” as portrayed by an actor in theatrical communicationThe portrayal of emotion by an actor is called emotive behaviour, and three universally recognized emotives from a 17th century dramatic text were selected for this project.

This quantitative study investigates the rate of

comprehension by an auditor, who listens to a set of discrete

audio samples, to determine the correct emotion from five

possible choices.

Dependent variables include the years of professional actor training (none, one to two years, three to five years) and the level of theatre-going experience of the auditor (never, occasional, regular, often). The hypothesis is that an actor should be able to communicate a specific emotive to an attentive auditor more than 65 per cent of the time.

For each emotive sample, the auditor listens to four variations: a neutral/standardized text

with a neutral delivery, a historical text with neutral delivery, the neutral text with an emotive delivery, and last, the historical text is repeated with an appropriate emotive delivery. These distinctions help us to compare the impact of the semantic meaning from that of the emotive content, for some will interpret an emotion from the words alone, while others will need both the words and the emotive emphasis in the vocal delivery for comprehension. The auditor then rates the selected emotive by perceptual features such as intensity, definiteness and clarity.

The results reveal that the experience level of actor training is not a statistically significant factor, for some people can communicate an emotion well, regardless of their training. Further results indicate that certain specific emotives, such as anger, are easier to recognize than others, such as love. The study makes a contribution to the educational assessment of actor training programs, and offers a baseline for future comparisons of the use of emotion in different historical eras of drama.

Dr. David Garfinkle, Theatre Arts


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About the researcherAndrea Korda received her PhD in art history

from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2010. Her dissertation, “Printing and Painting the

News in Victorian London: The Graphic and Social Realism,” examined the relationship between painting and illustrated news in 19th-century London. Dr. Korda's research interests are in

Victorian art and visual culture, with a particular interest in the new media of the period.

Printing and painting the news: A case study of new media practices in victorian LondonThis research addresses the relationship between the illustrated newspaper, a new medium that emerged in Victorian London, and the older medium of painting, by taking an illustration from the Illustrated London News and a painting by Luke Fildes as prime examples.

When the world’s first illustrated newspaper, the Illustrated London News, was launched in 1842, the editors promised that the

newspaper would supersede its predecessors with its immediacy

and accessibility, allowing viewers to get closer to “the

thing itself.”

The illustrated newspaper was presented as an improvement of its non-illustrated counterpart, but it was also promoted as a new and improved version of painting.

Artists Luke Fildes, Frank Holl and Hubert Herkomer responded to this challenge and sought to rival the apparent immediacy of the newspaper with their large-scale paintings, exhibited at the Royal Academy of Art in the 1870s. Fildes, Holl and Herkomer are known for narrative paintings featuring the urban poor, first conceived as illustrations for the newspaper, the Graphic. Though many contemporary critics dismissed the paintings as misguided choices of subject matter, their paintings can be understood as attempts to go beyond the capabilities of the newspaper. The strong responses that the paintings generated demonstrate that they provoked intensely immediate and affecting experiences for viewers, and suggest that painting may have been able to rival the news illustration’s immediacy after all. Though Fildes, Holl and Herkomer are often dismissed as sentimental Victorian painters, this research argues that they participated in a wider discourse about Victorian media by seeking to assert the continued importance of painting in the face of new media’s challenges.

Dr. Andrea Korda, Art History

MacEwan University

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Resonance: Urban WindResonance: Urban Wind is a three-dimensional, multi-disciplinary video installation inspired by wind in the city and explored through the integration of sound, video and poetry. One cannot see wind in and of itself; we only see and hear how it moves through space – ushering in storms, dervishing leaves and garbage, stealing hats and umbrellas. Just as invisible as wind and big weather patterns, but just as powerful, are the systems that shape how people in the city exist. The city’s vulnerable – street people, the homeless – are deeply affected by big systemic forces of poverty and social policy. In the city, wind becomes a metaphor for homelessness, for the often invisible, systemic forces that shape the way street people move through the back alleys, the edges and borders of the urban landscape.

The work is not polemical; rather, is a confluence of moving images, sound and poetry that captures some of the elusive beauty, power and mystery of wind. Everything moves with the wind: bottle pickers drift through alleys; shadows

of flags and walkers interplay on sidewalks; flocks of starlings and leaves lift into the sky.

The work invites viewer engagement beyond a two-dimensional video poem or static concrete poetry on the page.

Sheer screens which hang like layered curtains allow images

to penetrate, creating three-dimensional “alleys” in which

viewers can venture.

Poetic text literally blows off the screen. As people walk through the installation, they create moving shadows which become unique additions to the work. Their bodies become surfaces onto which projected images fall, and viewers are inside the percussive sound of wind. The totality of the creative experience builds on the layered suggestions of the work’s central metaphor – resonance – an aesthetically, socially and existentially layered experience.

About the researchersAgnieszka Matejko is a video-based artist whose work addresses social and community issues. She has coordinated numerous community collaborations with her students, including the 2011 "TapeWorks!" installations at the University of Alberta Hospital and the "MacEwan Student Garden" project on Stony Plain Road. She holds an MFA in sculpture from the University of Alberta.

Jannie Edwards (Emeritus) is an award-winning poet and collaborator on several multi-disciplinary creative projects. She taught creative writing, composition and literature for over 25 years at MacEwan University.

Bob Lysay is a videographer with over 30 years of experience as a teacher of motion image and as a collaborator in artistic and documentary video projects. His collaboration with Agnieszka Matejko, The Space Between You and Me, which explores the complexities of the lives of youth with Tourette Syndrome, continues to be exhibited.

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About the researcherGerry Potter is a playwright, screenwriter and director. He holds an MFA from the University of Alberta and an honours degree in English from Carleton University. He founded four theatre companies, including Workshop West Playwrights’ Theatre and Rising Sun Theatre, and a film and theatre company, Peregrine Productions. He has worked as a journalist and is a member of Edmonton’s Cultural Hall of Fame. Research interests include screenwriting, directing, creativity and dramaturgy.

Rabbits & MonstersRabbits & Monsters–written, directed and produced by Gerry Potter–is a fictional film shot on high-definition video.

The film–a dark, poetic comedy–explores the way

fear may lead to aggression, and the role of imagination in aggravating or, alternatively,

defusing fear.

In the film, Petr, a writer-illustrator of graphic novels for youth, is caught up in his art when a call comes: he’s late picking up his daughter, Joss, after school. He races across town, getting more aggressive and reckless as he goes, driven

by visions of monsters menacing his daughter. Meanwhile, a mob chases an ex-con sex offender, a cab driver writes poetry, Joss chases a rabbit, and all converge, with surprising results.

The film was recently screened at the 2012 Edmonton International Film Festival and is being entered for possible screening at other festivals. Production of the film involved several other MacEwan University instructors and graduates, and will be of help in the understanding and teaching of screenwriting and film production.

Gerry Potter, Professional Writing (PROW), Communications

MacEwan University

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About the researcherHoyne Santa-Balazs has a BFA in art and design

and an MA in the history of art and visual culture. She teaches on a wide variety of topics about

western art ranging from prehistory to modern art and contemporary art issues. Hoyne's own research

interests concern the relationship between art and the law, the ownership of art and the ethical issues

of collecting, the protection of cultural property in conflict zones, and the repatriation of cultural

treasures considered from both historical and contemporary international perspectives.

Stories from the dark side of desire: Criminal aesthetes, opportunistic collectors, and remedies for culture crimeCrimes against art at perilous times such as war, perpetrated by victors or opportunistic vandals, have a history as long as the history of warfare. The practice had its critics as far back as Polybius and Cicero, both of whom argued for a special consideration to be accorded to objects of art and culture on the basis that they constitute a unique category different from goods legitimately seized as part of the routine in warfare. Eighteenth-century treaties that first attempted to formally resolve the fate of plundered works of art were operating with this special consideration in mind, although they still dealt with the return of plundered art as part of broader war reparations.

Although there have been significant national and

international developments during the post-WWII period,

the obstacles in the way of protection and repatriation

continually present new and complex challenges.

By analyzing a series of recent case studies, this research compares various contemporary models for the repatriation of cultural property, and considers some of the key issues that underline the manner in which the various cases in question have been resolved.

Most successful repatriation cases fall outside the direct application of legal remedies but are, nonetheless, still informed by current national and international legal frameworks. The most common successful resolutions fall into one of three categories: the application of international law and formal interstate treaties; informally negotiated agreements between parties restoring works of art to their place of origin; and extra-judicial binding arbitration models such as the UK's Spoliation Advisory Panel which, while operating in the spirit of international agreements, bypass actual court involvement.

The case studies are considered in the historical context in which the repatriation of art as a separate category among remedies emerged, and shows how each of the competing models has its roots in the historical development of the concept and role of cultural property.

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About the researcherGeo Takach is a senior writer, speaker,

filmmaker and instructor who has taught in MacEwan University’s Communications

program since its inception in 2000. He is a PhD candidate in communication and culture at the University of Calgary, focusing on how

place-identity is constructed and contested visually in resource-based economies. His

primary research interest is in environmental communication.

Visually redefining Alberta: A study in polarized, resource-based economiesIn an age in which we communicate and construct reality increasingly through images, visual representations of a place carry profound currency, influencing everything from its international reputation and balance of trade to its citizens’ identity and social and economic well-being. A case in point is Alberta, site of the world’s largest industrial project and second-largest recoverable source of oil, the bituminous (also called “tar” or “oil”) sands. On one hand, images broadcast by the provincial government and the oil industry—soaring mountain peaks, verdant forests, golden grain fields—further a longstanding tradition of pristine landscapes used to beckon investors, settlers and tourists to the province. But a growing body of documentary films and environmental advocacy videos depicting the devastating costs of exploiting the tar sands—scarred landscapes, toxic tailings ponds, oil-soaked duck corpses—are tarring Alberta’s status and economic prospects.

This dramatic visual duality leaves little room for dialogue,

let alone compromise, in a province long plagued by

rampant political and electoral apathy.

Yet filmmakers can help redefine Alberta in a way that engages a broader audience than do the polarizing practices in the visual battle to represent the province in the global public sphere today. Drawing on both eco-criticism and its emerging filmic flank, eco-cinecriticism, this presentation offers a case study for resource-based economies in suggesting factors that could produce more realistic, balanced and forward-looking imagery aimed at transcending Alberta’s stunning visual binary and ultimately, at moderating the extreme polarities in the conflict between the dominant economic model and its unsustainable and perilous ecological price.

Geo Takach, Bachelor of Communication Studies

MacEwan University

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"C" PanoramaThe project objective for this work was to carry forth a completely independent work based on the student's own ideas and research, and to execute it successfully with the guidance of the instructor. The project was graded on concept and execution, originality and creativity, sophistication, and how well the student adhered to the project plan they come up with.

The initial concept for this work originated in an interest in creating a painting that provides an experience that goes beyond the expected two-dimensionality of traditional painting. Traditional two-dimensional media are moving steadily toward greater viewer/consumer interaction (3D movies, touch screens and immersive gaming), and the artist was prompted to use a similar approach to painting.

In the 19th century, artists used a panorama as a way of allowing the viewer to be immersed in the

scene portrayed.

This piece utilizes the large scale and horizontal orientation of the panorama, but introduces a cylindrical structure that allows only one viewer at a time to enter the work. The piece was assembled from 11 separate 1 x 3-foot frames, banded together by a specially designed wood and hardwood frame. The frame forms a semi-complete cylinder that allows one person at a time to experience the painting by entering through a cut-out in the frame.

Faculty mentorLeslie Sharpe holds an MFA in computing for the arts from University of California, San Diego and a BFA in painting from University of Alberta. She has been an artist in residence at P.S. 1 Institute of Contemporary Art (New York), The Banff Centre, Visual Studies Workshop (Rochester, NY), and the Artists in the Park Program at Ivvavik National Park in the Canadian Arctic. Sharpe has shown her work internationally and her research focuses on space and place, and histories or technologies of human or animal presence, particularly in Canada’s north and coastal regions.

Sabina Butorac (L) with Leslie Sharpe

Fine Art

Graduation 2013

"C" Panorama by Sabina Butorac

MacEwan University

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Playing games and making fun–Maurizio CatellanThe construction of meaning in artwork is explored in this project through the example of Maurizio Cattelan, looking through the lens of postmodern theory. Maurizio Cattelan is an Italian artist whose work is often seen as a joke and his public persona is interpreted as being a parody of what society expects an artist to be. Cattelan acts as a joker, playing tricks on his audience (dressing up like a Disney-type mascot of Picasso) or on his gallery managers (he duct-taped one to the wall for several hours). Because of this wild-child personality, his sculptures and other artworks are usually understood as a parody of art.

The kind of personality an artist portrays to the world is highly

influential in the way that we interpret their work.

The artist constructs a public image through the way they act in front of media and viewers, and the way we understand this projected image skews the way we receive his work. Similarly, the way that critics view his work can influence our opinion as well. If the artist seems to be the kind of person one does not take seriously, then their work can be reduced to the value of a joke – a kind of visual pun that has little lasting impression.

Faculty mentorHoyne Santa-Balazs has a BFA in art and design and an MA in the history of art and visual culture. She teaches on a wide variety of topics about western art, ranging from prehistory to modern art and contemporary art issues. Her own research interests concern the relationship between art and the law, the ownership of art and the ethical issues of collecting, the protection of cultural property in conflict zones, and the repatriation of cultural treasures considered from both an historical and from contemporary international perspectives.

Sabina Butorac

Fine Art

Graduation 2013


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Communication breakdown: The media effects on Ecuador’s environmentThe Earth is changing at an accelerating rate, so it is important that humans consider their role in the process and remain humble to its activities. When examining environmental issues, it is implausible to link every event to human behavior, but it is not prudent to dismiss human involvement all together.

Environmental communication is an essential part of any

society; it informs the population of new occurrences

around the globe.

The ways environmental issues are presented to and perceived by the public have increasingly influenced decision-making and continue to affect the way people live their lives. What role

do media outlets play in the environmental awareness of their audience? This research study demonstrates the role of communication in the environment, and the various ways it can be distorted or controlled. It is critical that the public is aware of their own nation's actions and reactions to the environment, including their own personal footprint within it. With media playing an essential role in the environmental awareness of its citizens, as well as their attitude towards conservation, it is imperative that these systems of communication are regulated and controlled in order to eliminate manipulation.

Faculty mentorLucille Mazo, BA, M.Ed., PhD (candidate) has taught at MacEwan University since 1994 in the areas of English and Communication. Her research interests focus on two areas: 1) relationship between learning and communication styles, and 2) communication of environmental issues. Lucille is the managing editor of Earth Common Journal, a student-driven journal that communicates and publishes student research articles concerning sustainability, conservation and global warming.

Sean da Silva

Bachelor of Communication Studies

Graduation 2014

Read Sean's complete article: https://journals.macewan.ca/index.php/earthcommon/article/view/67

https://journals.macewan.ca/index.php/earthcommon/article/view/67


MacEwan University

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The destruction and rebirth–the art of Anselm KieferAs part of the class Contemporary Art Issues, students are required to submit a research report and present findings in a 30-minute presentation. This research was inspired by contemporary German artist Anselm Kiefer's work. Everything he produces/creates relates to his personal experience, his interests, his ideas, his beliefs, his philosophy on life as an artist and as a human being.

Borrowing from national identity, mythology, alchemy,

Jung’s theory, tradition and religion, Kiefer creates work

that has much deeper meaning than it presents.

The research revealed how atrocities of World War II and the Holocaust influenced the postwar culture and art in Germany as well as how and why Anselm Kiefer became and remains one of the most prominent contemporary artists in the world. When moving towards more conceptual and contemporary art, Kiefer and his art became strong influences on how to approach new forms of art and where to look for an inspiration.

Faculty mentorHoyne Santa-Balazs has a BFA in art and design and an MA in the history of art and visual culture. She teaches on a wide variety of topics about western art ranging from prehistory to modern art and contemporary art issues. Her own research interests concern the relationship between art and the law, the ownership of art and the ethical issues of collecting, the protection of cultural property in conflict zones, and the repatriation of cultural treasures considered from both an historical and from contemporary international perspectives.

Ania Daniela Miklas

Fine Art

Graduation 2013


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Self–the historical and conceptual approach to portrait paintingLeonardo Da Vinci, Albrecht Dürer, Rembrandt, Vincent Van Gogh, Picasso, Andy Warhal–since the 15th century and the introduction of mirrors, artists have modeled for themselves in their own works of art. Whatever the reason, nearly every artist, in every medium has attempted the exploration of self.

The objective of the self-portrait project was to produce an image

not only resembling the artist, but also to show the psyche.

The purpose of the research of portraiture paintings in art history was to understand why and how to create a self-portrait in modern day. Although the "likeliness" of the artist was required for the project, it was the conceptual approach that strongly influenced the final result.

A self-portrait is intended to grasp identity. As paintings of the Old Masters provided vast technical and ideological background, the self-portrait study eventually revealed a sense of personal history. Analysis of family, childhood, interests, passions and emotions forced the artist to study their own personas, both physical and emotional. The 3 x 4-foot painting (acrylic paint on canvas) blended traditional painting methods based on Renaissance and Baroque art with a personal theme of career progress from a model to an artist.

The project was an opportunity to see beyond the image in the mirror and begin to search into the soul.


Fine Art

Graduation 2013

Ania Daniela Miklas (R) with Leslie Sharpe

Self-portrait by Ania Daniela Miklas


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Building pressure: Buried costs of the Northern Gateway PipelineAn analysis of the proposed benefits and likely consequences of the planned Northern Gateway Pipeline was conducted. Examination was conducted through the use of peer-reviewed, third-party reports and supplemented by current events reported in the media. The conclusion of this review considers the Northern Gateway Pipeline to be a far greater liability than a benefit to the people of Alberta and British Columbia.

The promises of job creation account for a small minority of the population being employed

for a relatively short duration of time.

Furthermore, the wealth generated by the pipeline project is not equally distributed to the people of Alberta and British Columbia. Unsupported claims have been made by industry of “sustainable communities” which amount

to little more than large one-time payments to charities and other organizations across North America. Furthermore, some findings suggest health complications may develop in individuals employed in the oil industry. Ultimately, this researcher believes the Northern Gateway Pipeline should be canceled.

Faculty mentorLucille Mazo, BA, M.Ed., PhD (candidate) has taught at MacEwan University since 1994 in the areas of English and communication. Her research interests focus on two areas: 1) relationship between learning and communication styles, and 2) communication of environmental issues. Lucille is the managing editor of Earth Common Journal, a student-driven journal that communicates and publishes student research articles concerning sustainability, conservation and global warming.

Derek Neil Pluim

Bachelor of Communication Studies

Graduation 2014

Read Derek's complete article: https://journals.macewan.ca/index.php/earthcommon/article/view/52



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Figurative studiesLearning to paint from observation is the foundation of any painting program. Second-year fine art students are given projects in the study of the human figure, both in traditional and non-traditional media. Drawing the human figure is different than painting it.

The human body, from a painting point of view, is a series of planes, almost facet-like, that fit within an anatomical framework. Knowledge of anatomy of the underlying bone structure, landmarks and fleshy musculature is paramount for accurately describing a human form. Initially introduced in first-year drawing classes, this study is expanded in year two to include the angular planes described with paint. Painting the directly observed human figure, students complete a series of small gestural paintings which describe the essence of the pose. These gestural studies, which are later used as informative references for larger, finished compositions, can be very beautiful and strong paintings in their own right.

Taking small studies and enlarging and expanding on

them is a process that uses all the information gathered

about the described form. Then, decisions are made about

composition, lighting, colour, space and detail.

It is a skill that takes practice to achieve success. Artists often continue to include the study of the human form in their ongoing body of work.


Leanne Snellen (R) with Leslie Sharpe

Fine Art

Graduation 2013

Figurative study by Leanne Snellen

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Marina Abramovic Choosing a contemporary artist to complete a research presentation on can be a little like taking a leap off a blind ledge; you just never know how far you will go before you land. Researching Marina Abramovic was like taking a blind leap. Research began blindly, without knowing anything of performance as an art form, and initially questioning whether it was truly “art.” Curiosity and comprehension grew as stories emerged about daring performances done before her 10 p.m. curfew in her native Yugoslavia (Richards, 9); collaborative "relational" performances with Ulay, her partner and lover (Abramovic and Iles, 194); and her evolving sense of “presence,” an elusive sense of connection, in the moment, having “direct energy exchanges” with the spectators drawn to her performances (Richards, 43). Abramovic captivates more than curiosity with her

underlying search for connection, timelessness and energy.

A discussion of Abramovic’s personal history is necessary to understand her work and internal motivation. Performance art and its evolution alongside Feminism is discussed to help understand Abramovic’s timely appearance and success in the art world. Also explored is the eminence of Abramovic’s “energy exchanges” and “presence” as she describes her recent performances.

ReferencesAbramovic, M., & Iles, C. Marina Abramovic Untitled. Grand Street

No.63, Crossing the Line 63. Winter (1998): 186-194. Richards, M. (2010) Marina Abramovic. New York: Routledge.

Faculty mentorHoyne Santa-Balazs has a BFA in art and design and an MA in the history of art and visual culture and has been teaching art history at MacEwan University since 2000. She teaches on a wide variety of topics about western art, ranging from prehistory to modern art and contemporary art issues. Her own research interests concern the relationship between art and the law, the ownership of art and the ethical issues of collecting, the protection of cultural property in conflict zones, and the repatriation of cultural treasures considered from both an historical and from contemporary international perspectives.

Leanne Snellen

Fine Art

Graduation 2013

Faculty of Health & Community Studies

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About the researcherDave Kato is a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Alberta. He is acting chair in the Physical Education department and has been at MacEwan University for 15 years. His research focus is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and activities of daily living (ADL). Other areas of research interest include treatment of sport injuries using cryotherapy and strength training.

Determination of the ability to perform activities of daily living in people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)This study was undertaken to determine the effect of aerobic fitness versus muscular fitness in predicting the ability of people with COPD to perform activities of daily living (ADL).

Exercise rehabilitation for COPD patients has traditionally focused on aerobic training, however, it is unclear as to whether aerobic fitness or muscular fitness is more important in the performance of ADL in this population.

If muscular fitness is shown to be of value in ADL performance, then the incorporation of resistance training into COPD rehabilitation programs would be warranted.

Twenty-three participants from a pulmonary rehabilitation program were recruited. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2 peak) was used as the measure of aerobic fitness and was determined from a symptom-limited graded exercise test on a treadmill. Throughout the exercise test, expired air was analyzed using a metabolic measurement system. VO2 peak was defined as the highest VO2 observed during the test. Muscular fitness was determined from two tests: the chest press and leg press. For the chest and leg press, loads were set at 30 per cent and 50 per cent of body weight respectively (Baechle & Earle, 2009). Repetitions

were performed at a cadence of 30 reps/min until patient fatigue or two consecutive errors. Volume was calculated by multiplying sets x reps x load. The dependent variable (i.e., ability to perform ADL) was estimated from patient performance on the Continuous Scale Physical Function Performance test battery (CSPFP-10) which includes 10 everyday tasks that progress from easy (personal tasks), to moderate (household tasks), to difficult (mobility tasks) (Cress, J.K., Moore, & Schenkman, 2005). The intensity and pace of each task was determined by the patient and quantified by a combination of time, distance or weight moved. Performance on each of the tasks was scored on a 0 to 100 scale and used to calculate a Global Score. Global Scores below 57 have been used to classify patients as low-functioning with an increased probability of becoming dependent. A correlation and regression analysis was performed.

ReferencesBaechle, T. R., & Earle, R. W. (Eds.). (2009). Essentials of Strength

Training (3rd ed.). Champaign IL: Human Kinetics.Cress, M. E., J.K., P., Moore, T. L., & Schenkman, M. L. (2005).

Continuous-scale physical functional performance test: validity, reliability, and sensitivity of data for the short version. Physical Therapy, 85, 323-335.

Cress, M. E., & Meyer, M. (2003). Maximal voluntary and functional performance levels needed for independence in adults aged 65 to 97 years. Physical Therapy, 86(January), 37-38.

Dave Kato, Physical Education


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Medicinal mushrooms of North America

Medicinal mushrooms are a largely unexplored area in biomedicine. They have great potential for both preventative health and as adjunct therapy for chronic, auto-immune and degenerative diseases.

This research looks at the wide scope of human clinical trial

outcomes and the potential use of these natural products as we move towards a holistic model

of health and wellness.

In The Fungal Pharmacy: The Complete Guide to Medicinal Mushrooms and Lichens of North America, a beginning exploration of various medicinal uses of mushrooms is explored.

For example, reishi, shiitake and turkey tail are recommended to optimize immune function while undergoing chemotherapy and radiation for various cancers.

This small contribution is an attempt to bring broader awareness to the importance of fungi and the role they play in the health of our planet. Medicinal mushroom uses for human, plant and animal health are remarkable. Their role in cleaning up our increasingly toxic planet and optimizing Gaia's immune system are yet to be fully realized. The use of fungi in the form of essential oils, homeopathy and even vibrational essences, as well as their more traditional usage in decoction, powder or tincture form is also included.

About the researcherRobert Rogers, B.Sc., RH (AHG), is a professional herbalist and amateur mycologist. He instructs herbology and flower essences at MacEwan University, and is an assistant clinical

professor in family medicine at the University of Alberta. He is author of 14 books on plants and fungi of boreal forest,

including his latest The Fungal Pharmacy: The Complete Guide to Medicinal Mushrooms and Lichens of North America published by North Atlantic Books, Berkeley,

California.

Robert Rogers, Holistic Health Practitioner

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Learning leadership: MacEwan students using creativity and collaboration to promote unity and pride in their nursing program

Learning leadership involves incorporating teamwork skills, pooling individual strengths, exercising creativity and working from a foundation of values.

The final assignment for an introductory nursing course in the BScN Program at MacEwan University required first-year student groups to create a coat of arms. The purpose of the assignment was to provide students with an opportunity to exercise creativity and collaborative skills to integrate course content in

a way that reflected what the students valued in nursing.

One group of students had in mind the objective to create an emblem much like traditional school of nursing pins, that would instill pride and a sense of unity in nursing students studying at MacEwan University. The Latin motto that the students selected for the coat of arms, “Knowledge, Passion, and Integrity,” was central to their concept of nursing.

They carefully chose symbols, colors and music that incorporated the motto with the values of the BScN program to create an end product–a power point presentation of the coat of arms–that had quality, meaning and relevance to their development as nurses.

In this presentation, the students describe the assignment and the group process involved in creating it.

Faculty mentorBarb Tarnowski, BFA (Visual Arts), B.Sc., MN, RN, currently teaches clinical and theory courses in the MacEwan University BScN program. Barb's clinical nursing background includes practice and teaching in the areas of burn care, plastic surgery, and general surgery/medicine. Her scholarship and research areas of expertise center on creativity in nursing and the integration of arts in nursing education.

Joana Antunes (Bottom Right), Jessica Lee (Top Left), Taylor Peters (Top Right) and Jena Rendflesh (Bottom Left)

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Graduation 2015


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A guide to home care referralMedical and surgical clients in hospitals often have complex needs post-discharge that require ongoing coordination amongst different agencies such as nursing, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, respiratory therapy, social work and personal care. Nurses and other health care personnel are often involved in the arrangement and coordination of such agencies.

A complete and thorough home care referral is essential

to ensure a more efficient transition on discharge,

continuity and quality of care that the client receives at

home, and minimization of risks for complications or re-

hospitalization.

The objective of this project was to create a tool that would assist staff members responsible

for completing the referral from hospital-to-home-care process to make sound decisions about clients' post discharge needs, determining appropriate home care services, and completing the Home Care Referral Form as thoroughly as possible.

“A Guide to Hospital-to-Home-Care Referral” in the form of poster and pamphlet was developed to provide easy access to the information required to complete the process. The outcome of the initial trial for this project on one unit at the Grey Nuns Hospital was an improved understanding and planning of the home care referral with fewer errors or omissions in the process. Feedback from staff using the guide indicated that it was simple, precise and easy to follow. The guide was so successful that, with minor revisions, plans have been made to adopt the guide as a training tool for the Home Care division of Alberta Health Services.

Faculty mentorBarb Tarnowski, BFA (Visual Arts), B.Sc., MN, RN, currently teaches clinical and theory courses in the MacEwan University BScN program. Barb's clinical nursing background includes practice and teaching in the areas of burn care, plastic surgery, and general surgery/medicine. Her scholarship and research areas of expertise center on creativity in nursing and the integration of arts in nursing education.

Anupama Chauhan (L) with Barb Tarnowski

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Graduation 2012

This work was completed with the help and support of project coach, France Goudreau from Covenant Health.

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Massage therapy for essential tremor: Quieting the mindEssential Tremor (ET) is a neurological disorder causing rhythmical shaking of part of the body. The condition is known to have an inheritable tendency and can present in more than one family member, known as familial tremor. Treatment of the disorder is commonly by way of prescription medication. ET is progressive and in its mildest form can be sensed and/or observed when performing simple motor skills or activities of daily living.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of massage therapy on the severity of ET using an activity-based rating scale and pre- and post-treatment. The study period included five consecutive weekly sessions. The subject, a 63-year-old female, indicated her hands and head as the primary areas affected by ET. The treatment aim was to reduce sympathetic nervous system firing; therefore, the massage techniques implemented were relaxation-based. Methods included Swedish massage, hydrotherapy, myofascial release, diaphragmatic breathing, remedial exercise

education and affirmative symptom management recommendations. Drawings of an Archimedes spiral for comparison pre- and post-treatment provided an objective, visual representation of tremor intensity affecting fine motor control. Goniometric measurements were taken to mark changes in cervical range of motion.

The results showed a decrease in tremor intensity after each session; demonstrated by improved fine motor skills.

The client also reported an increased functionality in cervical range, which was documented during the first and last visits.

The results suggest that tremors, symptomatic to ET, can be eased through initiatives that encourage a parasympathetic response. Massage therapy has shown to be a valuable method of treatment for ET. Tremor severity can present in an irregular pattern due to subjective individual triggers; therefore, further controlled research is required to lessen the variability between subjects and to validate these findings.

Faculty mentorJeff Moggach is a practicing massage therapist and chair of MacEwan University's Massage Therapy program. Jeff has a Master of Arts and maintains currency in the massage therapy field through workshops and evaluating research. His blend of education and clinical experience grounds his interest in research involving the therapeutic effects of massage therapy, as well as massage therapy education.

Nicole Riou

Massage Therapy

Graduation 2012

Thank you to MacEwan University students for contributing feature on-line articles on student projects. Articles can be found at MacEwan.ca/News

By Aaron Wannamaker, Professional Writing Student Research provides helping hand, January 31, 2013

By Tracey L. Anderson, Professional Writing Student Biology student's research experience invaluable, January 11, 2013

By Lorelie Betke, Professional Writing Student Artist draws on her past for inspiration, January 7, 2013

By Danica Erickson, Public Relations Student From small explosions to big discoveries, November 15, 2012 A vision to help people see, July 26, 2012 Research explores emotion reasoning in children, June 25, 2012

At MacEwan.ca/Research:

By Landis Donahue, Bachelor of Applied Communications in Professional Writing Oh, the Places You'll Go, February 5, 2013

http://macewan.ca/wcm/MacEwanNews/index.htm

http://macewan.ca/contribute/groups/public/%40web/%40research/documents/document/usri_2013_gala_article.pdf

MacEwan UniversityResearch Services (7-266)PO Box 1796Edmonton, AB T5J 4S2CANADA

MacEwan.ca/Research

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