30921 research outputs found
Sort by
Pre-HIV circulating T cell profiles as predictors of HIV acquisition and early disease progression
No full textHeterogeneity exists in HIV susceptibility, with some individuals more susceptible and others resistant despite multiple exposures. Factors including genetics and immunological variables, contribute to this varying risk. Previous research highlighted a link between higher pre-HIV α4ꞵ7hi CD4+ T cells and increased HIV acquisition and faster disease progression among South African women. However, contrasting results emerged in different populations, raising questions about α4β7's role as a predictor of HIV. Additionally, genetic variants were identified in CD101 which correlated with heightened risk of HIV. We sought to validate these findings considering the impact of demographic variables and investigating the predictive role of additional immune subsets. We also aimed to assess immune phenotype correlating with CD101 variants and their role in HIV risk.
Pre-HIV PBMCs from different cohorts, HVTN 503 and PP/COS, were analyzed, comprising of heterosexual participants from South and East Africa, respectively. Genotype data for CD101 variants were available only for PP/COS and the participants categorized based on their variant’s status. Flow cytometry was used to quantify immune cells in a blinded fashion and analyzed statistically to establish correlations with HIV.
The association between α4ꞵ7hi expression and HIV acquisition exhibited variability between cohorts, with opposite trends observed. Sub-group analysis revealed differences in association by sex and country. α4ꞵ7hi frequency inversely correlated with peak VL in PP/COS (r = -0.38, p=0.024), whereas in HVTN 503, it inversely correlated with mean CD4/CD8 ratio (r = -0.32, p=0.042) and predicted rapid CD4 decline (aHR=2.72, 95% CI=1.13–6.58, p=0.026). Likewise, Th17 cells were associated with faster CD4 decline (aHR=4.18, 95% CI=1.36–12.84, p=0.013) in HVTN 503. CD101 variants were associated with altered levels of CD101-expressing T cells, which potentially mediated their relationship with increased HIV acquisition.
Our data suggest that α4ꞵ7hi and Th17 CD4+ T cells may predict HIV progression more consistently. The predictive value of these HIV-susceptible cells may be contingent on the characteristics of the studied population, and this should be carefully considered when defining their roles in HIV infection. Lastly, we provided an immunologic link between CD101 genotype and phenotype to better understand the relationship between CD101 variants and HIV risk.October 202
Effect of time on concentration-dependent interdiffusion coefficient in Cu-Ge alloy system
No full textDiffusion controlled processes offer a number of advantages in a wide range of material and metallurgical processes which include phase transformations, sintering and surface treatments. Thus, the subject of diffusion has garnered considerable scholarly interest in recent times. Isothermal interdiffusion coefficients are critical parameters that significantly influence material performance evaluations and analyses used to characterize these processes. In the literature, there is the general assumption that this parameter is solely a function of temperature and concentration. However, previous studies also suggest that time has an effect resultant of the diffusion-induced stresses evident within systems.
This research work experimentally verifies the time effect on concentration-dependent interdiffusion coefficient in a copper-germanium- (Cu-Ge) binary system at different temperatures. In calculating this parameter for this system, a recently developed fully explicit numerical diffusion model-coupled with the forward simulation method is employed to avoid the inherent shortcomings of conventional models such as the Boltzmann-Matano, Sauer Freise, Wagner, and Hall methods.
The obtained results which are attributable to the concept of diffusion-induced stress show time variations in interdiffusion coefficients under isothermal conditions. These findings contradict the widely accepted notion that interdiffusion coefficients depend solely on concentration and temperature. Moreover, the commonly expected direct proportionality between diffusion kinetics and temperature as predicted by Arrhenius behavior may not hold true for all time durations.February 202
Three essays on managerial traits in corporate outcomes
No full textThis dissertation explores how leadership identity and traits—particularly in the context of family involvement and CEO humility—affect corporate outcomes including firm performance, innovation, and financing costs. The three essays use a behavioral and information-based perspective to examine how non-financial dimensions of leadership affect organizational and market outcomes, thereby contributing to the debates in corporate finance, organizational behavior, and strategic management.
The first essay examines the concept of family firm identity, defined as the magnitude of alignment and integration between family values and business objectives. Drawing on agency theory, this study investigates how family firm identity affects firm performance and the information environment. Using textual analysis to construct a novel measure of family firm identity, the essay finds that a stronger identity is associated with lower firm performance, an effect driven by reduced analyst coverage and increased forecast dispersion. These results suggest that identity-based characteristics can amplify Type II agency problems and impair the flow of information between the firm and external stakeholders.
The second essay studies the individual level by analyzing the role of CEO teachability, an important dimension of humility, in promoting corporate innovation. Using a difference-in-differences (DID) method around CEO transitions, this essay provides causal evidence that teachable CEOs—those are open to feedback and new ideas—significantly improve both the quality and quantity of innovation outputs. The findings show that teachability enhances organizational mechanisms such as teamwork and inventor inflow, demonstrating how executive personality traits can shape a firm’s innovation culture and long-term competitiveness.
The third essay extends the analysis of CEO humility to external financial outcomes, specifically the cost of debt. While humility has been shown to foster positive internal dynamics, this study reveals a potential external cost: firms led by humble CEOs tend to incur higher borrowing costs. This effect is mediated by analyst expectations, suggesting that humility may be perceived as a sign of caution or lack of assertiveness, thereby lowering market expectations and increasing lenders’ perceptions of risk. These findings highlight the tension between the internal benefits and external interpretations of leadership traits, particularly in capital markets shaped by implicit leadership theories and stereotypes.2019-2020: Canadian Credit Mgmt Foundation Ph.D. Fellowship 9,600; McGiverin Fellowship 9,800
2022-2023: Duha Family Graduate Scholarship in Business 1,000October 202
The effect of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum infection on Cannabis sativa
No full textKnown to infect more than 600 plant species worldwide, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is a necrotrophic fungal pathogen, and the causative agent of white mold. With recent infection reports documented across North America, Cannabis sativa is known to be susceptible to Sclerotinia infection. Resulting from legal constraints associated with C. sativa, little is known about the Cannabis-Sclerotinia pathosystem, particularly in how the plant responds to pathogen attack at the cellular and molecular levels. Our anatomical study revealed initial infection and degradation of the epidermis and cortical parenchyma, followed by widespread infection of the vascular phloem. Dual RNA sequencing of the C. sativa cola provided a detailed transcriptomic profile of this pathosystem directly at the site of infection over time. Differential gene expression analysis revealed large-scale transcriptional shifts resulting from rapid infection. Gene ontology term enrichment identified processes associated with plant defense and signal transduction cascades during C. sativa infection while processes associated with redox control and sugar catabolism were enriched in the S. sclerotiorum pathogen. Taken together, this study revealed transcriptional reprogramming in both the host plant and fungal pathogen associated with floral infection in space and time.October 202
Adjustment orientations of expatriate spouses: a qualitative exploration of coping mechanisms and resource dynamics
No full textAs global mobility expands, the success of international work assignments increasingly depends on the well-being and adjustment of expatriate families, particularly accompanying spouses. While traditional research has focused on expatriate employees and conceptualized adjustment as a linear, stage-based process (e.g., U-curve models), this study conceptualizes spouse adjustment as a complex, context-sensitive process of navigating resources and demands.This qualitative research investigates the question: How do expatriate spouses adjust and cope during international assignments, and what individual, relational, and contextual factors shape adjustment orientations over time? Drawing on 17 publicly available blogs, the study uses reflexive thematic analysis to capture lived, longitudinal narratives of adjustment across diverse cultural and family contexts. Eight data-driven coping mechanisms were identified across four domains: Emotional and Psychological (e.g., Cognitive Reframing), Social and Relational (e.g., Network-building), Identity and Career (e.g., Reinvention), and Practical and Digital (e.g., Digital tools). These strategies clustered into three overlapping, dynamic adjustment orientations—Stabilization (defensive resource preservation), Reintegration (selective role and identity recovery), and Transformation (expansive reinvention). The study advances an orientation-based, trigger-driven process model: contextual inputs (sociocultural setting, family structure, employment flexibility) shape resource appraisal; through Iterative
Adjustment Learning (IAL), feedback cues and concrete triggers (for example, peer validation, first role success, or acute shocks) prompt either capability building within the current orientation or switches between orientations. This reframing moves beyond linear, stage models and explains why spouses on similar timelines diverge. The model yields actionable implications for international human resource management and for designing supports for globally mobile families.October 202
The mental health of frontline workers in Canada; a grounded theory study
No full textThe mental health of frontline workers in Canada suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this current study sought to help discern how to better support workers now and under future comparable circumstances. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 41 public safety personnel and healthcare workers, collectively referred to as frontline workers, from across Canada. The themes that emerged included: 1) frontline workers are facing many mental health challenges (e.g., unresolved trauma, psychological stress injuries, moral distress, burnout, suicidality); 2) mental health supports (e.g., at various levels - family, psychoeducation, peers, policies) are crucial for supporting workers; 3) there are important interactions between mental health and organizational stressors (e.g., chronic staff shortages, stigma, bullying, sanctuary trauma); and, 4) there are key differences of experiences across diverse social locations (e.g., gender, Indigeneity, class). A theoretical model of multi-level recommendations was generated to contribute to forging a way forward, including humanizing service delivery organizations, embedding mental health literacy into workplace training and culture, and prioritizing mental health knowledge as a driver of policy decision-making.October 202
Understanding the wellness & health of lived experience staff: what works for what hurts and what’s missing?
No full textThis research examines workplace inequalities experienced by lived experience staff—survivors of child sexual abuse (CSA) employed in the CSA sector. Despite their deep empathy and unique insights, lived experience staff face heightened exposure to indirect trauma, including burnout and vicarious trauma, due to the overlap between personal recovery and professional responsibilities. Their wellness needs are frequently overlooked, reflecting broader systemic inequities within trauma-intensive workplaces.
Using a qualitative design guided by a Two-Eyed Seeing approach, this study draws on Mino-pimatisiwin and a dual feminist lens to center Indigenous and non-Indigenous voices. Participants define wellness as a holistic balance—mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual—shaped by culture, community, and relationships. Findings highlight that inadequate supervision, epistemic injustice, lack of culturally safe spaces, and colonial organizational practices hinder wellness and contribute to professional harm.
This study responds to gaps in Canadian research and provides recommendations for improving workplace equity. These include trauma-informed leadership, culturally grounded supervision, peer connection, flexible benefits, and organizational policies that affirm lived experience as a form of expertise. The research advocates for workplace models that promote sustainability, justice, and collective healing.
By centering lived experience voices, this research challenges existing paradigms and calls for a reimagining of workplace wellness grounded in relational, anti-oppressive, and decolonizing practices. The findings offer guidance for practitioners, policymakers, and organizations addressing inequality in the helping professions.My sincerest gratitude goes to 1) Rise Above Bursary; 2) Building Manitoba Scholarship; 3) Soroptomist Graduate Scholarship; 4) Women’s Health Research Foundation; 5) Carolynne Boivin Award (RESOLVE Manitoba); and 6) University of Manitoba Faculty of Social Work Endowment Fund.October 202
Ludic pedagogy and The Classroom Story: exploring classroom engagement through comics-based research self-study
No full textThe central question guiding this work is how arts-based, narrative-driven pedagogy can foster creativity, agency, and engagement in the classroom. Rather than positioning students as research subjects, this work has a focus on the teacher-researcher’s evolving understanding of practice, possibility, and professional identity. The researcher integrates analysis and expression through the creation of comics. Comics-based research (CBR) as a self-study methodology is employed to critically reflect on and reimagine classroom practice. Grounded in arts-based research (ABR), CBR offers a creative, multimodal approach to inquiry and expression that aligns with the author’s teaching philosophy and long-term pedagogical exploration. Connected with Ludic Pedagogy, The Classroom Story is a role-playing, story-driven approach to teaching. It allows the author to investigate, in a sustained manner, how imaginative, collaborative, and multimodal playful learning environments have shaped their own growth as an educator. By presenting the research analysis in comic form, this thesis offers educators an accessible and visually compelling resource for professional reflection and pedagogical innovation.October 202
Critical teacher leadership as transformative professionalism: Inquiry and (inter)action via a methodological bricolage
No full textThe predominant focus of educational leadership research has largely fixated on an individualistic ‘heroic’ interpretation, emphasizing the solo actions exercised by those in formal positions of authority. This conceptualization, underpinning both research and praxis, has been problematized for being non-dialogical, reifying hierarchical power structures, and being both contradictory to and incongruent with social justice. To authentically enact meaningful social change in our educational institutions, it is essential to advance the emancipatory grassroots ‘bottom-up’ leadership initiatives of students, teachers, and corresponding community members. Utilizing a methodological bricolage, I co-engaged in participatory research methods alongside my teacher colleagues to co-facilitate various critical teacher leadership practices throughout the 2022/2023 school year. Through our dialogical (inter)actions, leadership initiatives manifested in a plethora of contexts to address varying situational needs (e.g., via critical pedagogies, committee work, mentorship, etc.). To interpret this phenomenon, I generated a novel conceptualization of critical teacher leadership drawing upon the distributed perspective on leadership, critical theory and emancipatory grassroots leadership, and transformative professionalism. Data collection and generation methods for this methodological bricolage included photoVOICE, individual and group reflection discussions, and a document analysis of Manitoba legislative, policy, and resource education documents. The thematic analysis of the textual transcriptions of these data sources revealed our perceptions on how critical teacher leadership practices positively impacted our school communities, empowered our own and others’ professional agency, and fostered student engagement and collegial relationships. However, we also navigated complex social and/or structural barriers that impeded our initiatives, including a sense of occupational isolation and silencing, invisibilization of leadership, (micro)aggressive collegial resistances, and feelings of exhaustion and demoralization. These findings illuminate how new insights into how critical teacher leadership intersects with the core tenets of transformative professionalism, practices predicated upon autonomy, exercising knowledge, activism, professional learning, collegial interactions, and ethical conduct. This study also generates new perspectives on the inherent tensions within teachers’ transformative professionalism, as teachers strive to advance their own individual agency and occupational autonomy through emancipatory leadership practices, but are simultaneously governed via organizational infrastructures.February 202
Being me: the neonatal intensive care unit care experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ parents in Canada
No full textBackground: The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) provides family-integrated care to sick and/or premature newborns, which involves a collaborative, inclusive, and empowering approach to caring for the whole family. However, for parents and families who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+, the cis-heteronormative care environment of the NICU can present challenges to achieving this care ideal. Beyond this, 2SLGBTQIA+ parents are also at risk of experiencing discrimination and bias in this setting, which has the potential to negatively impact their experiences, health, and well-being. Currently, the experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ parents receiving care in the NICU are largely absent from the literature, with none to date that focuses exclusively on this topic.
Purpose: The purpose of this phenomenological study is to explore the lived NICU care experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ parents in Canada, with the aim of informing NICU care practices and programs that improve the experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ families receiving this care.
Method: Using van Manen’s phenomenology, this qualitative study utilized semi-structured interviews supplemented with journey maps. 4 2SLGBTQIA+ parents who have had an infant in an NICU in Canada were interviewed, and thematic analysis was conducted. Allen and Mendez’s Model of Hegemonic Heteronormativity guided this study.
Findings: In accordance with van Manen’s existenstials of lifeworld, themes shed light on parents’ Lived Body (Disrupted Body), Lived Time (Warped Sense of Time), Lived Relations (Complex Connections), and Lived Space (You are Safe Here – Or Not). Parents experienced many common NICU stressors and joys, but with an added layer of challenge and connection arising from their 2SLGBTQIA+ identity. The overarching Lived Meaning theme, Being Me, notes the importance of recognizing parents’ individuality and unique 2SLGBTQIA+ identity in their NICU care. Participants’ care recommendations center on enhanced 2SLGBTQIA+ visibility and awareness throughout the NICU. Special considerations, alongside standard family care practices in the NICU, are recommended to improve the experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ families receiving this care and promote family well-being.
Implications: Findings from this study provide new knowledge that may be used to inform NICU care practices and programs to improve the experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ families receiving this care.October 202