IslandScholar
Not a member yet
16367 research outputs found
Sort by
Exploring coastal bird communities in relation to off-bottom oyster aquaculture in two productive areas of Prince Edward Island
No full textPrince Edward Island’s bays and estuaries support large bird communities and a robust aquaculture industry. In recent years oyster aquaculture, particularly off-bottom culture, has been growing in a variety of sites around the island. This is relevant to coastal birds, as oyster leases overlap with sites known as Important Bird Areas (IBAs). Hence, the aim of this thesis was to address knowledge gaps surrounding the use of off-bottom culture in Important Bird Areas. Specifically, this thesis explored the variation in numbers and diversity of coastal birds in two IBAs, Orwell Bay and Malpeque Bay,describing aspects of their behavior and monitoring shifts in their food sources. Within these two areas, a total of fourteen research sites were established and classified as follows: aquaculture sites or those with active off-bottom oyster leases within them, nearby-sites or those with off-bottom oyster culture within 250 m, and control sites which had no aquaculture within a 500 m radius. At each site, from April to November in 2020 and 2021 weekly bird surveys were conducted to monitor bird composition, density, and behaviour. Bird behaviour focused on four species chosen for their consistent presence across research sites, as well as their contribution to the dissimilarity between research sites. Macroinvertebrate samples were collected bi-weekly and used as indicators of food sources for shorebirds. These samples were collected along transects over the shoreline of each site using a sediment corer and a sweep net for sediment and vegetated bottoms, respectively. Invertebrates (>500 microns) were counted and linear regression was used to assess the relationship between invertebrate densities and density and diversity of birds. The overall bird diversity observed over both field seasons was 33 species in aquaculture sites and 28 in both nearby and control sites. The average number of birds per survey in aquaculture sites was 113 in 2020 and 72 in 2021. In comparison, nearby sites had an average of nine birds per survey in 2020 and 13 birds per survey in 2021, whereas control sites had 36 birds per survey in 2020 and 18 birds per survey in 2021. Multivariate analyses identified significant differences in bird species composition between locations (Orwell versus Malpeque Bay) and particularly among research sites (aquaculture versus nearby and control sites). With regards to behaviour, comparisons focused on four of the most abundant species, Ring-billed gulls (Larus delawarensis), Willets (Tringa semipalmata), Blacked-bellied plovers (Pluvialis squatarola), and “Peeps” (Calidris sp.). These comparisons showed that birds spent a higher proportion of the time loafing (resting) in sites with aquaculture when compared to sites without. With regards to food availability, the number of invertebrates in sedimentary and vegetated bottoms was very variable but seemingly higher in aquaculture sites. In fact, a significant albeit “modest” (relatively low r-value) relationship was found between the number of invertebrates in the sediment and both the total density (r=0.441, p=0.021) and diversity of coastal birds (r=0.410, p=0.034). Overall, the results of this thesis show strong temporal and spatial variation in coastal bird numbers and diversity, with higher values of both variables in aquaculture sites. Such results seem related to higher availability of physical structures (floating oyster bags) for bird resting, making oyster leases attractive (beneficial) to a variety of coastal birds. The outcome of linear regressions showed a significant relationship between one food indicator and bird numbers and diversity, although these relationships were not very strong and so should be taken with caution. Alternatively, oysters are known to improve the quality of surrounding habitats, potentially benefitting invertebrate abundances. However, further research is needed to confirm if that indirect effect contributes to explain the overlap of oyster leases and a rich variety of coastal birds in this area
Current trends in biochar application for catalytic conversion of biomass to biofuels
No full textUnder the circumstances of serious environmental challenges and energy crises, it is of utmost importance to produce fuels and chemicals from renewable biomass and organic wastes. Biochar as a bioproduct from thermochemical conversion of biomass has attracted exponential research interest in recent years due to the abundance of its precursor (biomass resources) and its adaptability in different chemical reaction systems. Undoubtedly, it is essential to attain an in-depth understanding of the physiochemical properties and functionalization of biochar catalysts to further improve their catalytic activity, selectivity and stability in the reactions. However, until now, only a few reports are accessible on the use of biochar as a catalytic support material and/or a standalone catalyst in thermochemical biomass conversion to produce high-quality biofuels. Thus, the key objective of this review article is to summarize and discuss the latest progress in biochar production, modification, activation and functionalization by understanding its physical chemistry, composition and application in catalytic processes. This review article provides insights into the thermochemical and hydrothermal production of biochar as well as the engineering and process optimization aspects for value-added biofuel production and decarbonization.Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI
Urban-rural differences in cardiac arrest outcomes: A retrospective population-based cohort study
No full textBackground
Approximately 10% of people who suffer an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) treated by paramedics survive to hospital discharge. Survival differs by up to 19.2% between urban centres and rural areas. Our goal was to investigate the differences in OHCA survival between urban centres and rural areas.
Methods
This was a retrospective cohort study of OHCA patients treated by Nova Scotia Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in 2017. Cases of traumatic, expected, and noncardiac OHCA were excluded. Data were collected from the Emergency Health Service electronic patient care record system and the discharge abstract database. Geographic information system analysis classified cases as being in urban centres (population > 1000 people) or rural areas, using 2016 Canadian Census boundaries. The primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge. Multivariable logistic regression covariates were age, sex, bystander resuscitation, whether the arrest was witnessed, public location, and preceding symptoms.
Results
A total of 510 OHCAs treated by Nova Scotia Emergency Medical Services were included for analysis. A total of 12% (n = 62) survived to discharge. Patients with OHCAs in urban centres were 107% more likely to survive than those with OHCAs in rural areas (adjusted odds ratio = 2.1; 95% confidence interval = 1.1 to 3.8; P = 0.028). OHCAs in urban centres had a significantly shorter mean time to defibrillation of shockable rhythm (11.2 minutes ± 6.2) vs those in rural areas (17.5 minutes ± 17.3).
Conclusions
Nova Scotia has an urban vs rural disparity in OHCA care that is also seen in densely populated OHCA centres. Survival is improved in urban centres. Further improvements in overall survival, especially in rural areas, may arise from community engagement in OHCA recognition and optimized healthcare delivery
From social perception to shared control on a mobile robot: fusion, integration, and filtering
No full textSocial perception and safe navigation are the main requirements for deploying a mobile robot in a human-populated environment and turning it into a human-aware mobile robot. To date, we are still lacking social perception and reasoning systems capable of dealing with various human intentions and behaviors in human-populated environments. The primary objective of this thesis is to develop a novel, reliable, real-time social perception system for real-life dynamic environments by integrating solutions of learning-based and model-based techniques. Our secondary goal is to extend the social perception toward robot navigation and control by developing a shared autonomy framework allowing the user to encode social preferences into the autonomous control of the robotic system. To achieve these goals, four sub-objectives were defined. First, we proposed a reliable, robust, accurate, and real-time human tracking system using 2D LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). This sensor is one of the standard sensory devices on a mobile robot, providing ranging data which can be used for human detection through leg patterns. However, leg detection-based human tracking is less reliable due to 2D range constraints and occlusion caused by obstacles, especially in dynamic environments. Therefore, we integrated the learning-based leg-detection technique with our proposed model-based Social dynamic confidence (SDC) factor, generated based on human social norms, dynamics, and consistency features for increasing the quality of human tracking in cluttered and crowded environments. The results showed 45% and 24% improvement in runtime and multi-object tracking accuracy against the state-of-the-art in occluded environments. Secondly, we proposed a human trajectory tracking framework that integrates 2D LiDAR leg detection and a 3D camera deep learning-based human detection technique named YOLO (You Only Look Once). We proposed the Human-Oriented Global Nearest Neighbor (HOGNN) data association, inspired by social studies from Hall’s proxemics model, to improve scan-to-track pairing accuracy. The parallel Kalman filter structure is employed for tracking, providing real-time feedback for HOGNN to reduce false positives of the camera-based and laser-based human detection. A fused social dynamic confidence parameter is generated to analyze the reliability of each tracked person. This parameter combines
the SDC factor of the proposed leg tracking system with the dependability of the YOLO to increase the reliability of the human tracking system. The third objective is to develop a probabilistic model based on human state information and social characteristics to determine people’s intentions toward other individuals, human groups, and the robot itself. The intention modeling is then used for social reasoning and decision-making of socially aware mobile robot. Implementation results showed over 74% intention estimation accuracy even in challenging situations like sudden changes in people’s motion or people passing closely. Finally, we presented a road map for encoding human social preferences into the human-in-the-loop mobile robot control system from shared to full autonomy; through the integration of model-based and learning-based methods. To provide more natural autonomous obstacle avoidance behavior during human navigation, smooth obstacle avoidance learned from human demonstrations based on accurate sensory data supervises human teleoperation. The proposed online user-customizable arbitration function enhances the user’s control over the shared system to achieve the desired robot navigation. This ability is complemented by incorporating human perception, decision-making, and action into the robot’s autonomy through learning from the demonstration of personal skills and social preferences in the loop of robot autonomy mode. These autonomous behaviors are also supervised by the safety block, and the user can do transition between the shared control to full autonomous modes. The framework was implemented on two robotic platforms and demonstrated promising results in enhancing human social preferences in the robot control system
Fluorescence-Based Investigations of 1,8- and 2,6-ANS with Pillar[n]arene, Calix[n]arene, and Cyclodextrin Hosts in nonaqueous solvents
No full textThe properties and host-guest inclusion complexes of pillar[n]arene, calix[n]arene, and cyclodextrin hosts were investigated in various nonaqueous solvents via fluorescence spectroscopy in a comparative binding study. Comparing the inclusion abilities of these families of macrocyclic hosts is particularly interesting as pillar[n]arenes and calix[n]arenes are less frequently used in the literature but have chemical similarities, and cyclodextrins are the most popular family of hosts. The hosts used in this project were chosen based on their solubility in nonaqueous solvents, and include dimethoxypillar[5]arene (DMPill[5]), calix[6]arene (CX6), 4-tert-butylcalix[6]arene (t-CX6), calix[4]arene (CX4), triacetyl-b-cyclodextrin (triAc-CD), and heptakis(2,3,6-tri-Omethyl)-b-cyclodextrin (triMe-CD). Two polarity-sensitive fluorescent probes were used as guests: 8-anilino-1-naphthalenesulfonic acid (1,8-ANS) and 2-anilino-6-
naphthalenesulfonic acid (2,6-ANS). These structural isomers have distinct shapes due to their different substitutions, with 1,8-ANS being bulkier than the more streamlined structure of 2,6-ANS. As a result of their unique shapes, binding of 1,8-ANS and 2,6-ANS was expected to be different with the different families of hosts based on the size and shape of the host cavity, among other factors. Fluorescence titrations were performed in nonaqueous solvents to monitor the formation of inclusion complexes and to determine the binding constant(s), K, for the various systems. With each of the hosts and in each the nonaqueous solvents used, 1:1 inclusion complexes were successfully formed with 1,8-ANS and 2:1 inclusion complexes were formed with 2,6-ANS. The nonaqueous solvents used in this project were acetone (ACE), acetonitrile (ACN), tetrahydrofuran (THF), and chloroform (CHCl3). Fluorescence enhancement was observed for both 1,8-ANS and 2,6-ANS upon inclusion inside each host in all solvents, with the exception of 2,6-ANS in THF where fluorescence suppression was unexpectedly observed. DMPill[5] displayed the strongest binding abilities of 1,8-ANS in the majority of the nonaqueous solvents compared to the other hosts used. On the other hand, none of the hosts displayed stronger binding abilities than the others when 2,6-ANS was used as the guest molecule. Thermodynamic studies of 1,8-ANS with DMPill[5] and CX4 were also conducted to further compare pillar[n]arene and calix[n]arene hosts by determining the thermodynamic properties involved in their inclusion processes. Based on the results of this thesis, it is clear that binding of these ANS guests does not depend on any one factor alone, but rather a combination of inter-related factors. The factors affecting the binding of
1,8-ANS and 2,6-ANS by these families of hosts include solvent polarity, specific solvent-solute interactions, host cavity shape and size, host flexibility (specifically, the ability of a host to undergo conformational changes), guest shape and size, and available driving forces for inclusion in nonaqueous solvents. Overall, this project greatly expands upon research surrounding the formation of inclusion complexes in nonaqueous solvents, as well as comparisons of the binding of two ANS isomers by different families of macrocyclic hosts
Knowledge, attitudes and influencers of cat owners in North America around antimicrobials and antimicrobial stewardship
No full textObjectives
The primary aims of this study were to determine preferences of North American cat owners when they are prescribed an antimicrobial for their cat with regard to cost, method of administration and the importance of antibiotics for treating infections in people, and to establish baseline knowledge, attitudes and influencers of cat owners on antimicrobial resistance and stewardship.
Methods
An online questionnaire was used for data collection from two cat-owner groups: US cat owners and Canadian cat owners. Participants were queried on antimicrobial resistance and stewardship, and their preferences for their own cat when prescribed an antimicrobial, with respect to cost, method of drug administration and the importance of a drug for treating infections in people. Responses were evaluated through conjoint analysis and Likert-type questions. Data were analyzed using descriptive and analytic statistics.
Results
A total of 630 complete responses were included in the final analysis. Cost (37%) and method of administration (38%) were of similar participant preference when assessed using conjoint analysis. The importance of a drug for treating infections in people was lower priority (21%). The majority of cat owners preferred an antimicrobial that was ‘very important’ in treating human infections. A low proportion (21%) of participants responded that antimicrobial use in pets posed a risk to humans. Participants with a university education were more likely to respond that antimicrobial use in pets was a concern for people (31%; P <0.001).
Conclusions and relevance
Cat owners prioritize antimicrobial cost and method of administration equally. Few cat owners recognized the human antimicrobial resistance risks associated with antimicrobial use in pets.Ontario Veterinary College Pet Trus
The entrepreneurs: Dairy farmer perspectives on finding an industry solution for the surplus calf issue—A participatory case study
No full textCurrent systems for managing surplus dairy calves are wrought with ethical and animal welfare concerns. Resolving complex problems in the dairy industry requires engagement from dairy farmers and other stakeholders. The main objective of this case study was to pilot a novel methodology to deepen our understanding of how dairy producers envision the future of surplus calves in Atlantic Canada, including identifying who they felt were important to speak to as they discussed this topic. A second objective was to understand the perspectives of a key group the producers requested to speak to, representing a variety of dairy industry partners, including veterinarians, genetics companies, and animal welfare scientists amongst others (referred to as the allied industry) on the future of surplus calves. To reach these objectives, we used an inclusive participatory approach that, to our knowledge, has not yet been applied to the surplus calf issue. This approach included a series of five participatory group discussions with volunteer dairy farmers from Atlantic Canada; the allied industry group was invited to two group discussions. Participants discussed the feasibility of creating a dairy beef system as a potential solution to the surplus dairy calf issue. During the discussions, participants were encouraged to make requests to speak to individuals that would help them design a dairy beef system. Audio-recorded transcripts were subjected to inductive qualitative content analysis where short descriptors were assigned to pieces of the discussion relevant to study objectives. Four key themes from the discussions included: (1) challenges with surplus calf production on the dairy farm, such as a lack of knowledge about what type of calf would be desired by the marketplace, (2) the role of leadership and partnership in the creation of a dairy beef system, including the need to overcome communication barriers between different stakeholders, (3) post-farm gate aspects of surplus calf production, including the desire to cater to a local market, and (4) ensuring that the proposed system is economically and socially viable. Knowledge gained from this type of participatory engagement can help stakeholders align their goals to resolve complex issues such as surplus calf management.Maritime Beef CouncilSocial Sciences and Humanities Research Council Insight Gran
Engaging Canadians in evidence-based communication about vaccines: a scoping review protocol of immunisation support programs in Canada
No full textObjective To identify, characterise and map the existing knowledge about (1) immunisation programmes that provide evidence-based support about vaccines to Canadians and reduce barriers to vaccination; and (2) barriers and facilitators to the delivery of immunisation support programmes. Introduction Vaccine hesitancy is a complex issue that has significant repercussions for the health and safety of Canadians. Engaging in evidence-based communication about vaccines can reduce vaccine hesitancy and increase participation in immunisation programmes. Methods The Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews will be used for this scoping review. A comprehensive keyword search strategy was developed and translated for six electronic databases on 19 November 2021: CINAHL via EBSCOhost, APA PsycINFO via EBSCOhost, Academic Search Complete via EBSCOhost, Scopus, Medline via EBSCOhost and EmCare via Ovid. We will identify unpublished literature by searching websites listed in CADTH’s Grey Matters checklist and other relevant sources in January 2022. Two independent raters will screen and extract data from identified material. Data will be presented in a tabular form. Inclusion criteria We will consider Canadian programmes that target the general public and exclude papers targeting health professionals. Our review will not limit by vaccine type and will consider any intervention that aims to inform individuals about immunisation. Our primary concept involves mapping the characteristics of programmes (eg, programme description, delivery format) and our secondary concept will examine barriers and facilitators to programme delivery.Public Health Agency of CanadaImmunisation Partnership Fun
Potential drivers for the re-emergence of canine leptospirosis in the United States and Canada
No full textCanine leptospirosis is an important zoonotic disease in many countries. This review examines potential drivers for increased diagnoses of canine leptospirosis in the United States and Canada, using the epidemiologic triad of agent-environment-host as a template. Leptospira spp. are classified into more than 250 serovars, but in many laboratories only 6 are routinely tested for in serologic agglutination tests of canine sera. Leptospiral infections in dogs may potentially go undetected with unemployed or currently employed diagnostic methods. Disease transmission from infected reservoir hosts usually occurs via urine-contaminated environmental sources such as water. Direct contact between infected and susceptible individuals, environmental factors such as climate changes in temperature and/or rainfall, and increasing number and urbanization of reservoir hosts may greatly increase dog exposure risks. A dog’s lifestyle may influence exposure risk to leptospirosis, but vaccination based on proper identification of circulating serogroups dramatically reduces post-exposure infections. Regrettably, resistance to vaccination by veterinarians and dog owners leaves a large number of dogs at risk for this zoonotic disease
Communication skills training and assessment of food animal production medicine veterinarians: A component of a voluntary Johne's disease control program
No full textIn food animal production medicine (FAPM), the success of control programs for infectious diseases that have serious animal health and economic consequences frequently rely on the veterinarian's effective communication and producer adherence to veterinary recommendations. However, little research has been conducted on communication skills of practicing FAPM veterinarians. During this study, we developed a communication training workshop intervention to support the Atlantic Johne's Disease Initiative. Seventeen FAPM veterinarians across 10 clinics practicing within Maritime Canada participated in a pre-post intervention study design. Communication skills were evaluated utilizing 3 assessment tools; an objective structured clinical exam (OSCE), standardized client feedback, and an instrument designed for veterinary participants to assess their self-efficacy. Study results showed that before training, communication skills of participating veterinarians had limitations, including skill deficits in communication tasks strongly associated with increased adherence to veterinary recommendations. Based on the 3 assessment tools, communication skills of participating veterinarians improved with the training provided. Significant increases were detected in pre- to postintervention self-efficacy percentage scores, OSCE percentage and global scores from expert raters, and OSCE percentage and global scores from standardized client feedback. These improvements emphasize the importance of communication skills training specific to FAPM.Dairy Farmers of Prince Edward IslandDairy Farmers of Nova ScotiaDairy Farmers of New BrunswickDairy Farmers of Newfoundland and LabradorAgriculture and Agri-Food Canad