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Peano theorems for Pedjeu–Ladde-type multi-time scale ttochastic differential equations driven by fractional noises
No full textThis article was originally published as: Ponosov, A. & Idels, L. (2025). Peano theorems for Pedjeu–Ladde-type multi-time scale ttochastic differential equations driven by fractional noises. Mathematics, 13(2), Article 204. https://doi.org/10.3390/math13020204This paper examines fractional multi-time scale stochastic functional differential equations that, in addition, are driven by fractional noises. Based on a specially crafted fixed-point principle for the so-called “local operators”, we prove a Peano-type theorem on the existence of weak solutions, that is, those defined on an extended stochastic basis. To encompass all commonly used particular classes of fractional multi-time scale stochastic models, including those with random delays and impulses at random times, we consider equations with nonlinear random Volterra operators rather than functions. Some crucial properties of the associated integral operators, needed for the proofs of the main results, are studied as well. To illustrate major findings, several existence theorems, generalizing those known in the literature, are offered, with the emphasis put on the most popular examples such as ordinary stochastic differential equations driven by fractional noises, fractional stochastic differential equations with variable delays and fractional stochastic neutral differential equations
Plant Community Responses to Long-Term Seasonal Bison Grazing in the Dry Mixed Grassland of Saskatchewan
No full text2025The Great Plains of North America have undergone significant alterations since the arrival of European settlers. Therefore, the remaining grasslands are considered a high conservation priority. While it is known that Plains bison (Bison bison bison) are a keystone species, it is not fully understood how plant communities respond to seasonal bison grazing. This study investigated plant community responses to long-term dormant and growing season bison grazing as well as an ungrazed control. The study took place in the dry mixed grass ecoregion of Saskatchewan, Canada and analysed species diversity, evenness and richness; bare ground cover; and indicator species in three treatment areas. The results show there is a statistically significant difference in plant community response to seasonal bison grazing. Notably, species diversity, species evenness, and bare ground cover all occur at higher levels under dormant season grazing. These findings could inform results-based bison grazing management strategies
Measuring the Impact of Integrating iRest Yoga Nidra Meditation and Coaching Success
No full text2025AbstractThis study explored integrating iRest Yoga Nidra meditation into coaching sessions for recent graduates of the CEC Program at Royal Roads University and their clients. Statistical analysis revealed significant improvements in coaches' ability to embody a coaching mindset and foster trust and safety, key competencies outlined by the International Coaching Federation (ICF). The thematic analysis highlighted meditation’s calming effect on the participants' nervous systems, increased self-awareness, and improved communication dynamics. Meditation also facilitated deeper engagement with challenging topics, strengthening coach-coachee relationships and enhancing the overall coaching experience. Although the study was limited by a small sample size (n = 11 pairs), findings indicate that a 12-minute iRest meditation practice positively impacts coaching outcomes, supporting previous research on mindfulness in professional settings. This pilot study provides a foundation for future research examining the broader applicability of meditation in coaching across diverse populations.
Keywords: mindfulness, meditation, coaching, self-awareness, iRest Yoga Nidra
Is fentanyl in everything? Examining the unexpected occurrence of illicit opioids in British Columbia’s drug supply
No full textThis article was published as: Wallace, B., Shkolnikov, I., Kielty, C., Robinson, D., Gozdzialski, L., Joshua, J., Margolese, A., Gonzalez-Nieto, P., Saatchi, A., Abruzzi, L., Zarkovic, T., Gill, C., & Hore, D. (2025). Is fentanyl in everything? Examining the unexpected occurrence of illicit opioids in British Columbia’s drug supply. Harm Reduction Journal, 22, Article 28. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12954-025-01189-wIllicit opioids, including fentanyl, are linked to unprecedented levels of overdose in Canada and elsewhere. The risks associated with illicit opioids can include high potency, unpredictable concentration and the unexpected presence in other drugs. Within this context, we examine drug checking data to better understand the presence of illicit opioids such as fentanyl in other drugs and possible ways to interpret these results.This project was made possible through funding from Health Canada’s Substance Use & Addictions Program (SUAP), the Vancouver Foundation, BC Ministry of Health, and the Island Health Authority
From Polarisation to Pluralism: An Action Research Study at Artisan
No full text2025In an era of increasing division and polarization, this study explored how members of a local faith community, Artisan Church, can engage more effectively in difficult conversations. Using engaged action research––including a World Café and interviews––the study examined current engagement approaches, challenges, and enabling factors to support constructive dialogue and community belonging. Findings revealed diverse approaches to difficult conversations, with key enablers including curiosity, relational security, and self-awareness. Challenges include defensive postures and difficulty discussing identity and trauma. Many participants expressed a desire to strengthen their ability to navigate these discussions further. The study suggests creating a culture of openness, reducing emotional intensity, and building confidence to engage in difficult conversations can improve engagement and outcomes. Training in curiosity, empathy, and nonjudgment may also provide valuable support. These insights offer faith communities and other groups practical ways to foster conversations that bridge differences
Graduate student space use patterns and recommendations
No full textThis study explores how campus spaces allocated for graduate students at Vancouver Island University (VIU) can be optimized for better efficiency, accessibility, and inclusivity. Adopting a mixed-methods approach, the research delves into usage patterns and key factors that shape graduate students' choices in utilizing specific spaces and identifies what factors help in creating accessible environments that encourage collaborative learning. The purpose of the study is to develop strategies that enhance graduate student satisfaction and success and align with VIU’s institutional priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 4, and 11. Data were gathered through online surveys and discussion groups to capture diverse insights into how spaces and resources are utilized. Building on established research in academic space design, this study addresses the challenge of harmonizing sustainability goals with the practical needs of higher education institutions. It examines aspects such as why students choose or avoid certain spaces, levels of satisfaction, and the impact of informal study areas on student experiences. While findings indicate that improvements in spatial design and online resources can boost student satisfaction, they may not directly influence study habits or collaborative activities. Through both statistical and thematic analysis, the study identifies significant trends and relationships, deepening our understanding of graduate students' experiences and preferences of space usage at VIU and offers well-informed recommendations for enhancing the usability and inclusivity of campus spaces, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of the graduate student community
Teenagers' perspectives on using personal digital devices in the classroom: A mixed-methods analysis of screen use for education in British Columbia
No full textPosterIn 2024, the BC Government introduced a new policy banning personal digital devices (PDDs) In classrooms. Similar bans are being introduced across Canada. These policies have stirred debate about the role of technology In the classroom. This study focuses on one particulu aspect of that debate: teenagers' perspectives about PDD use
Igniting your strengths: Resilience education for paid on-call firefighters
No full textResearch poster presented at the 2025 Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment conference, May 7-8, 2025 in Regina, Saskatchewan.The main purpose of the research was to design, develop, and test a health promoting resilience education programme for volunteer/POC firefighters.Research supported by WorkSafeBC through the Innovation at Work program, & Vancouver Island University Centre for Scholarship, Research and Creative Activity through the Explore grant
Ideological Violence and Social Change in Canada and the United States from the 19th Century to Present Day
No full text2025In recent years, Canada and the United States have revised national security and public safety priorities to address the domestic threat of extreme social violence that emerges from social, political, and religious views and beliefs that challenge the social order. An imminent threat, extreme ideological views, and movements can inspire like-minded individuals by promoting an idealized social order through enduring stereotypes that elevate their status, sometimes through violence. Developed using a pragmatic approach, this study addresses these views and movements when they devolve into violent acts. A socio-historical exploration, this study explores social change and Canadian and American historical elements from the 19th century to the present day, linking them with ideological and ideologically themed violence. In order to address the research question, does social change influence rates of ideological violence?, Norbert Elias’s civilizing theory and Cas Wouters’s seven social balances (Wouters, 2014) are employed to illustrate the social change of the time period. Further, it introduces the analytical concept of ideological themes, where causality cannot be immediately confirmed, to resolve recently formed definitions, such as mixed and composite ideologies. Laying the groundwork for future study areas, the findings propose an applied approach to developing social policies that foster social change that may curtail the destructive aspects of individual and group ideologies
Alignment and Impact: A Comparative Analysis of NATO’s Women, Peace, and Security Policies and National Action Plans in Canada, Poland, and Greece
No full text2025In 2000, United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 was created, demonstrating a collective global commitment towards women’s rights in conflict. This watershed moment resulted in nine subsequent resolutions labelled the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda, which numerous regional organizations and countries have adapted for themselves. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) released their first policy on WPS in 2009 and numerous additional policies, 25 of which are included within this comparative policy evaluation analysis. The primary mechanism, as dictated by UNSCR 2242, at the member-state level for WPS implementation is the National Action Plan (NAP). This study examines how NATO's WPS policies are reflected in the National Action Plans (NAPs) of member states, focusing on Canada, Poland, and Greece due to their varied political ideologies. This research shows a substantial alignment of policies between the member states and NATO, reinforcing a Western normative discourse