30921 research outputs found
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When private self-compassion goes public: effects of social media self-disclosure
No full textBoth practicing self-compassion and sharing difficult experiences with trusted others to feel less alone in suffering can help individuals decrease their negative affect (Masaviru, 2016; Neff, 2003). When completed privately, self-compassion exercises can partly reduce negative affect following a shame-recall exercise, and self-disclosure literature suggests that sharing private information with a select few can benefit the individual. Social media’s popularity has brought together public disclosures, and discussions of difficult experiences. Contrary to the traditional use of social media in which users seek approval from their audience (Pinkerton et al., 2017; Sheldon & Newman, 2019), social media users are beginning to share posts about their imperfections while being self-compassionate. This research examined whether it is beneficial for university students to use social media to publicly engage in typically private practices of self-compassion. I hypothesized that those who wrote about difficult experiences with self-compassion in a public manner would experience higher negative affect, less emotional relief, and greater desire for reassurance than those who wrote in this way privately. To test this hypothesis, in Study 1 I developed and evaluated an embarrassment-recall task because sharing of embarrassment can be especially helpful in reducing this uncomfortable emotion (Leary et al., 1996). Participants in Study 1 rated their affect before and after an embarrassment-recall and a self-compassion induction. Study 2 included two independent projects: Study 2a used online questionnaires to examine correlations of participant traits and social media behaviours, while Study 2b used the embarrassment task from Study 1 to consider how variations in the expectations of privacy (private vs. public) for self-compassionate writing affected how participants evaluated their self-compassionate writing and whether they endorsed hopes related to reassurance-seeking. Participants imagined re-reading or sharing their writing on social media and then rated their hopes and affect.
Study 1 demonstrated that the novel embarrassment recall task performed comparably to the existing shame recall tasks in that negative affect reduced at a similar rate for both types of recall following a self-compassion induction, forming the basis for Study 2. Study 2a demonstrated that higher trait self-compassion and lower reassurance-seeking were related to social media posting behaviour. Study 2b demonstrated that participants who imagined posting their writing to their social media had few hopes for their writing, whereas those who wrote privately were hopeful that their writing would benefit them in multiple ways. The discussion considers how the results help to broaden our understanding of social media, self-compassion, and provide new experimental methods for advancing self-compassion research.October 202
Enhancing physical activity: autistic perspectives on co-designing applications
No full textPeople with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often do not engage in the recommended levels of physical activity compared to their neurotypical peers. Although these patterns are more pronounced in adolescence and adulthood most of the research has focused on the experiences of children. Using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis and co-design methodology, the current study explored the experiences of adolescents and adults (N = 4) by conducting a series of workshops and asking participants about their physical activity engagement. It also introduced two physical activity applications, Move Improve and Exercise Buddy and asked participants to provide feedback and general guidance about what app features they found useful. Participants were also asked to share their experiences being part of a co-design study. The primary goals of this research were to elucidate the experiences of individuals on the spectrum when using apps designed to improve physical activity. Given the unique methodology employed, it also aimed to understand autistic perspectives on codesign research methods. Finally, the research intended to explore barriers and facilitators of physical activity from those on the spectrum. Findings from the current study highlighted the need for app customization features and detailed research outlines to facilitate both app engagement and research participation.Research ManitobaOctober 202
Development of the 10-question household foodwork interactional assessment questionnaire (FIA-Q10)
No full textAbstract Background Public health nutrition recommendations and clinical dietary interventions emphasize eating healthy food at home, implicitly requiring household foodwork. Household foodwork is defined as the physical and mental tasks a household does for eating meals and snacks. Because no tools exist to measure it, how much time people spend doing household foodwork and the foodwork barriers they experience remain unknown. The objective of the present research was to develop the first stand-alone household foodwork assessment tool. Methods Through informal interviews with partners with lived experience, clinicians, and researchers, a literature review, a stakeholder meeting of advisors, and a two-round electronic Delphi process including face/content validation by expert panelists (n = 21), we developed the 10-question household foodwork interactional assessment questionnaire (FIA-Q10). An optional accompanying module was developed to collect self-identified demographic data to provide context for understanding how social-structural positionality factors may interact to influence foodwork. Results The FIA-Q10 assesses the domains of household composition, frequency of eating at home, special diets within a household, foodwork stress intensity, foodwork barriers, desired supports related to foodwork, and time use for foodwork. The FIA-Q10 measures time use for four subdomains of foodwork among individuals and their households: (1) planning, (2) getting, (3) preparing/cooking, and (4) cleaning up food. In the second Delphi round, the FIA-Q10 scored 95% for language appropriateness, 67% for visual appropriateness, 95% for relevance, 95% for representativeness, and 95% for distribution. Suggested improvements were implemented. All Delphi panelists (100%) reported they would consider using the FIA-Q10. Conclusions The FIA-Q10’s development is the first step towards a standardized assessment of foodwork, enabling examination of challenges in foodwork that may impact nutrition and nutrition equity. Future research will focus on FIA-Q10 validation in multiple populations
Typha Growing Media
No full textThe indoor floricultural industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its reliance on current unsustainable resources, such as peat and coco coir, for use in soilless potting mixes. Typha, commonly known as cattails, may represent a more sustainable alternative for the cultivation of ornamental plants and flowers. Its suitability is further justified by the local availability, quick grow time, and harvesting benefits of these wetland plants in Manitoba.
Three distinct growing media have been designed by subjecting existing shredded Typha plants to specific combinations of three processing methods. These methods have individually been shown to mitigate the challenges with previously tested Typha-based media, as cited in literature, such as a low water holding capacity and high nitrogen immobilization. The benefits of each are as follows:
• Composting, to increase the available nitrogen for plant uptake,
• Milling, to reduce the particle size, and
• Pasteurizing, to eliminate pathogens.
The proposed Typha Media Designs incorporate these processing methods to investigate their unique benefits. The three Media Designs are as follows:
1. Media Design 1 (MD1): [REDACTED]
2. Media Design 2 (MD2): [REDACTED]
3. Media Design 3 (MD3): [REDACTED]
Verification of the success of each Media Design was assessed by 11 passing criteria, or technical specifications, selected based on the properties of peat and other commonly used growing media. None of the three Media Designs passed all criteria; however, [REDACTED] showed the greatest overall improvement when compared to unprocessed, shredded Typha. Alongside the verification testing, germination and grow trials were performed to further validate the results, utilizing a peat-perlite mix as the control. In the germination trials, media containing [REDACTED] performed best with higher numbers of germinated plants. Varying trends were observed in the grow trials. The trial conducted in a vertical hydroponic wall, which accommodated the media in net cups with a diameter of two inches, exhibited the best results in [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] , while the other, conducted in a greenhouse, displayed better outcomes in [REDACTED].
Moving forward, further research into composted Typha-based media is recommended, including testing growth in larger commercial plant pots, [REDACTED], an assessment of a flower’s full growth cycle solely in Typha-based media, and a full project cost-benefit analysis to ensure economic viability. The results from technical specification testing, germination trials, and grow trials show that, while this Typha-based media does not entirely replicate peat, it may be a viable option for use as a soilless growing media. Testing based on the proposed recommendations will further the success of this media as it nears entry into the market as a local and sustainable growing media for floriculture growers
Critical analysis of peer engagement in HIV testing and prevention within Black, African, and Caribbean communities in Manitoba, Canada
No full textAfrican, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) populations are overrepresented among new Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infection (STBBI) cases in Canada. Manitoba has the second-highest rate of new HIV diagnoses in Canada. Peers have become increasingly important in the context of the HIV care cascade, serving to connect individuals and communities to HIV prevention, treatment, and related services. They play a crucial role in addressing disparities in HIV testing, prevention, and treatment access for communities by supporting individuals in navigating the healthcare system and overcoming bureaucratic obstacles and access barriers. Many studies have explored the impact of peer navigation in engaging communities in HIV prevention and treatment. However, no research has examined the acceptability of peer navigation among ACB communities in Canada and the power dynamics in the relationship between peer navigators and community members seeking HIV services.
This Master of Social Work thesis focuses on peer navigation within the context of HIV among ACB communities in Manitoba. The study explored the discourses surrounding peer navigation and the power dynamics between peer navigators and ACB community members in Manitoba. The study utilized a qualitative community-based participatory research approach and harnessed the insights of ACB community members through the Community Guiding Circle (CGC), consisting of ten ACB community members. The research included a secondary analysis of data from the Ubuntu-Pamoja study, with participants recruited through agencies serving ACB communities, social media, and word-of-mouth. Thirty-three interviews were analyzed to identify key themes and fulfill the established research objectives. Data analysis employed thematic analysis using critical, intersectional-feminist, and Afrocentric theories. The methodology included two member checks to ensure the research process remained relevant to the needs of ACB communities in Manitoba.
The ACB community's perspectives on peer support in HIV services uncovered a complex interplay of trust, knowledge, professionalism, culture, lived experiences, and gender dynamics.
These elements influence the community's preferences for peer navigators in HIV-related services. The findings underscored the importance of integrating well-trained, culturally aligned peer navigators within the community. The study also revealed that power dynamics between peer navigators and community members seeking HIV services are nuanced and complex, involving trust, expertise, shared identity, and lived experiences.
Attention must be given to the perspectives and experiences of ACB community members concerning peer navigation and the power dynamics between peer navigators and those seeking HIV services. This consideration is crucial for policy reforms and future research within Black communities in Manitoba. This study enhances our understanding of sexual health service delivery for Manitoba's ACB communities. It supports developing a more inclusive HIV response plan/policy and health promotion efforts. Additionally, it establishes a solid platform for health agencies to promote and enhance strategies for HIV prevention and testing within ACB communities.Tri-Agency Top-Up Award for 2023-2024May 202
Linear and nonlinear characterization of particulate composites using microstructure-free finite element modeling
No full textParticulate reinforced composite materials, particularly metal-matrix based alloys, represent a group of materials widely used across various industrial and engineering sectors due to their unique advantages, such as isotropic properties and ease of manufacturing. The effective properties of particulate composites are primarily determined by the properties and volume fractions of the constituent phases. Effective properties refer to the macroscopic properties of composites resulting from the interaction of their phases. Characterizing these effective properties is a crucial step in designing high-performance particulate composites. However, existing methods face fundamental limitations, especially in the nonlinear characterization regime. In this thesis, the recently developed microstructure-free finite element modeling (MF-FEM) approach is extended to characterize the linear properties of three-phase particulate composites and the nonlinear properties of two-phase particulate composites. The main advantages of MF-FEM include: cost-effectiveness compared to experimental methods; greater reliability than analytical models; and circumventing the complexity of modeling intricate microstructures required in traditional finite element methods. MF-FEM predictions of effective properties closely align with experimental results, particularly in cases where phase materials exhibit significantly mismatched properties. This study demonstrates that MF-FEM is a reliable and cost-effective tool for designing particulate composites.Research Assistantship offered by the advisor and GETS Awards from the University of Manitoba.February 202
PERCEPTION, EFFICACY, AND TREATMENT OUTCOMES OF POINT-OF-CARE SYPHILIS TESTING IN CANADA AND THE UNITED STATES: A LITERATURE REVIEW
No full textIntroduction: Syphilis is a preventable sexually transmitted infection that causes systemic manifestations in the absence of appropriate treatment. The rise in infectious syphilis cases across Canada over the past several years has brought forth accessibility concerns for traditional serological laboratory testing. Despite the recent approval of rapid syphilis testing for use in professional settings by Health Canada, point-of-care syphilis testing remains underutilized.
Objectives: This study investigates current literature on rapid point-of-care testing as an initial screening measure for infectious syphilis. The aim of this review is to explore the perception, field performance, and treatment outcomes of rapid syphilis testing in Canada and the United States to determine the utility of shifting toward point-of-care screening in Canada.
Methods: A literature search using Google Scholar and PubMed databases identified articles examining the field performance of rapid syphilis testing in Canada and the United States in the last 24 years (2000-2024). Five primary research articles satisfied the inclusion criteria and were included in this review.
Results: Five observational studies found rapid syphilis testing was generally well-accepted, highly specific with few false positives and negatives, and significantly reduced time to treatment compared to serological laboratory standards. Sensitivity and predictive value were variable; however, sensitivity improved with rising RPR titers.
Conclusion: This review suggests that point-of-care testing is adequate as an initial screening measure for infectious syphilis but should be supplemented by traditional serological laboratory testing. The inability of treponemal tests to discern infectious syphilis from a previously treated infection is a key limitation of currently available rapid tests. Given the ease of test administration and the low burden of overtreatment with benzathine penicillin G, future studies should investigate the utility of point-of-care syphilis screening in resource-limited communities in rural and northern Canada
fMRI-compatible robotic wrist rehabilitation manipulandum: design, prototyping, and implementation
No full textNeurological rehabilitation is crucial for those with stroke or spinal cord injuries. These conditions often lead to upper extremity motor impairments. Such impairments make rehabilitation necessary for daily activities. Robotic rehabilitation devices come with engaging interfaces, showing promise in sustaining patient engagement. They offer encouragement for addressing upper extremity motor challenges.
The contributions of this thesis lie in developing an MRI-compatible three-degree-of-freedom (3-DOF) robotic manipulandum, designed for enhancing neurological rehabilitation exercises that focus on the wrist and forearm. Seamlessly integrated with an existing rehabilitation interactive computer game, the robotic rehabilitation device can dynamically provide assistance or resistance based on the control mode during the game play.
This robotic device prioritizes compatibility with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) as a core feature. fMRI enables brain scanning to provide insights into brain activity during rehabilitation exercises and potentially transform rehabilitation strategies. The device's 3D-printed mechanism, special sensors, and pneumatic actuators ensure MRI compatibility.
The developed robotic device underwent trial runs by ten healthy subjects to demonstrate its viability and identify potential areas for improvement, to enhance its effectiveness and fulfil its purpose more effectively in the future. The findings highlighted that two assistance modes notably enhanced user performance, whereas two resistance modes posed significant challenges. This work paves the way for practical deployment in real-world neurological rehabilitation scenarios, offering personalized and effective strategies for sustained patient rehabilitation.October 202
Access to land and nature as health determinants: a qualitative analysis exploring meaningful human-nature relationships among Indigenous youth in central Canada
No full textBackground
Human relationships with and connections to nature and the “land” are a commonly accepted Social Determinant of Health. Greater knowledge about these relationships can inform public health policies and interventions focused on health equity among Indigenous populations. Two research questions were explored: (1) what are the experiences of meaningful human-nature relationships among Indigenous youth within central Canada; and (2) how do these relationships function as a determinant of health and wellness within their lives.
Methods
Drawing from three community-based participatory research (CBPR) projects within two urban centers in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, the integrated qualitative findings presented here involved 92 interviews with 52 Indigenous youth that occurred over a period of nine years (2014–2023). Informed by “two-eyed seeing,” this analysis combined Indigenous Methodologies and a Constructivist Grounded Theory approach.
Results
Our integrative analysis revealed three cross-cutting themes about meaningful human-nature relationships: (1) promoting cultural belonging and positive identity; (2) connecting to community and family; and (3) supporting spiritual health and relationships. The experiences of young people also emphasized barriers to land and nature access within their local environments.
Discussion
Policies, practices, and interventions aimed at strengthening urban Indigenous young peoples’ relationships to and connections with nature and the land can have a positive impact on their health and wellness. Public Health systems and healthcare providers can learn about leveraging the health benefits of human-nature relationships at individual and community levels, and this is particularly vital for those working to advance health equity among Indigenous populations
Participatory Forest Management in Sri Lanka: is it a myth or reality?
No full textParticipatory Forest Management (PFM) has gained attention as a potential solution for sustainable forest conservation and community empowerment. However, its implementation often faces challenges and criticism. This study aims to critically examine the concept of PFM in the context of Sri Lanka, exploring whether it represents a myth or a reality on the ground. Using a secondary qualitative study method including review of literature, published government documents, and community organization reports, in addition to thematic analysis, this research evaluates the genesis of PFM, the role of community in PFM, and ways and means of improving PFM in the Sri Lankan context.
The findings reveal the complexities and nuances of PFM implementation in Sri Lanka. While there are instances of successful community involvement and positive outcomes, challenges such as inadequate stakeholder engagement, unequal power dynamics, limited resource allocation, lack of community consultation and engagement, and lack of tenure security persist. The research uncovered inconsistencies between the policies regarding PFM and the practical implementation of these initiatives. This disparity raises questions regarding the efficiency and sustainability of PFM strategies in Sri Lanka. By acknowledging and addressing these challenges, policymakers and stakeholders can work toward enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of PFM initiatives, ultimately contributing to more resilient and equitable forest ecosystems in Sri Lanka.October 202