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A Comprehensive Framework for UVGI Air Disinfection: Novel Irradiance Correction, Multi-Lamp Characterization, Dual-Wavelength Synergy, and Sustainability Assessment
No full textThis thesis presents an evaluation of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) technologies for in-duct air disinfection, with a focus on wavelength-specific performance, irradiance characterization, and sustainability in HVAC systems. A validated experimental framework was developed to characterize ultraviolet (UV) irradiance fields using four monochromatic sources: 222 nm far UVC excimer lamp, 254 nm low-pressure mercury (LP-Hg) lamp, 265 nm UVC LEDs, and 365 nm UVA LEDs. To address directional limitations of irradiance measuring sensors, a novel correction factor was introduced to account for angular detection bias. This method reduced overestimations of up to 30%, with a maximum validation error of 18% observed at farther distances from the 254 nm lamp. The framework was further extended to scalable characterization of UV LED-based configurations using single-module measurements and geometric extrapolation.
Environmental sensitivity tests showed that UV lamp performance varied significantly under different airflow and temperature conditions. The 254 nm LP-Hg lamp demonstrated marked thermal sensitivity, with irradiance output increasing by 18% between 25 °C and 35 °C, but decreasing by up to 20% with rising air velocity (0.5–2 m/s). In contrast, the 222 nm excimer lamp and both UV LEDs exhibited minimal sensitivity to environmental fluctuations, offering greater operational stability for dynamic ventilation scenarios. Irradiance measurements were coupled with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of particle trajectories to estimate spatially resolved UV fluence under practical HVAC duct conditions.
Experimental UVGI inactivation tests were conducted using airborne Escherichia coli as a model organism at three airflow rates (29.05, 52.16, and 79.00 m³/h), 25 °C air temperature and 40% RH. UV rate constants (k) were derived for each monochromatic wavelength exposure, revealing the\nhighest inactivation at 265 nm (k = 1.151 m²/J), followed by 222 nm (k = 0.480 m²/J) and 254 nm (k = 0.420 m²/J). UVA at 365 nm alone did not result in measurable inactivation even at fluences up to 225 J/m², confirming its limited standalone germicidal effect in air disinfection. Disinfection efficacy was strongly influenced by bioaerosol particle size. Smaller particles (0.65–2.1 μm) showed higher log reduction values compared to larger ones (2.1–7.0 μm), primarily due to reduced internal UV shielding and more uniform energy penetration. This highlights the importance of particle size considerations in system validation and dosage modeling, particularly for airborne microbial targets with variable morphology.
To investigate the potential of multi-wavelength strategies, dual-wavelength configurations combining UVA (365 nm) with each UVC source (222 nm, 265 nm and 365 nm) were tested under both simultaneous and sequential exposure modes. Simultaneous exposure and UVC followed by UVA resulted in no additional effects, suggesting no photochemical interaction beyond independent action. However, sequential UVA pre-treatment followed by UVC exposure produced significant synergistic enhancement in E. coli inactivation across all tested combinations. This synergy is perhaps attributed to UVA-induced impairment of microbial repair pathways, protein synthesis, and outer membrane damage, which sensitize cells to subsequent UVC damage. These findings provide strong evidence that wavelength sequence plays a critical role in UVGI efficacy and offer mechanistic insight for optimizing UV LED based multi-wavelength designs.
Finally, a comparative operational life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted to evaluate the sustainability of each lamp technology in achieving a 3-log microbial reduction. Metrics included energy consumption, operational & total cost, and equivalent CO₂ emissions. The 254 nm lamp emerged as the most sustainable and cost-effective for continuous-use HVAC applications, while
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the 222 nm lamp offered exposure safety. The UVC 265 nm LEDs has configurational advantages at the expense of higher power and component costs.
In summary, this work provides a robust and scalable methodology for irradiance characterization, inactivation performance assessment, and environmental evaluation of UVGI systems under realistic HVAC conditions. It identifies critical engineering factors, such as lamp type, airflow, particle size, and wavelength sequencing, that influence air disinfection outcomes, and offers practical design insights for the deployment of energy-efficient, effective, and sustainable in-duct UVGI technologies
Improvement in 3D Printability and Functionalities of Fava Bean Protein Isolates by Cold Plasma Technology
No full textPlant-based proteins have gained significant popularity in different forms, such as supplements or ingredients in food products. Different plant proteins, such as fava bean protein isolates (FPBI) are being explored for their use in the food industry. Fava beans are an excellent choice as they feature a high protein content and thrive in Canadian climates. FBPI have great potential in the food industry; however, they tend to have poor functionality, resulting in challenges for their application in the food industry. The research featured in this thesis aims to improve the FBPI functionalities by utilizing two different cold plasma treatments, including direct and indirect methods. Two different sources of sustainably extracted FBPI were used in this research. FBPI samples were first mixed with water to create a protein suspension. For indirect cold plasma treatment, the FPBI were mixed with plasma-activated water to induce physicochemical modifications on the protein. For direct cold plasma treatment, FBPI were mixed with water before applying continuous cold plasma treatment directly on the protein suspension. The cold plasma treatments resulted in major changes in FBPI protein secondary structures, as well as improvements in their 3D printability, gel texture, and rheological properties. The cold plasma treatments also modified the color of the protein gels to varying degrees. The findings in this research demonstrated that cold plasma treatments are effective in improving FBPI functionality, which further supports their potential applications in the food industry. With improved functionality, FBPI can be utilized in food formulations, improving food nutrition and ultimately sustainability
Genetic Diversity and Evolution of Puccinia striiformis in Canada
No full textStripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), poses a significant threat to global wheat production. Additional forms of this pathogen affect barley and other grasses, complicating management efforts. This thesis presents a comprehensive analysis of the Canadian Pst population by integrating field surveys, virulence characterization, and genomic studies to understand both temporal evolution and host-associated variation. Disease surveys conducted in southern Alberta from 2020 to 2023, together with samples from eastern Canada, indicated that climatic conditions significantly influence the prevalence of Pst. Cool and humid years promote disease development, whereas extreme heat and dryness suppress outbreaks. Predominant North American races (C-41 and C-17) remain widespread, yet isolates from Quebec display greater race diversity, indicating ongoing adaptation. The breakdown of key resistance genes, such as Yr6, Yr7, Yr10, Yr17, Yr18, and Yr27, alongside the continued effectiveness of Yr1-highlights regional differences in virulence dynamics. Virulence patterns were influenced by regional variation in wheat differential sets, underscoring the need for expanded resistance screening. In addition, barley stripe rust isolates exhibit virulence on several Yr genes in the wheat host, raising concerns about the emergence of novel pathotypes. For the first time, a mutation in the CYP51 gene (Y135F) was identified in Canadian P. striiformis isolates collected from barley and foxtail barley. This mutation, previously reported in Chinese and New Zealand Pst isolates, had not been previously documented in North America. Its occurrence in Canada suggests selection pressure from repeated fungicide applications, necessitating further investigation into fungicide tolerance in stripe rust populations. Comprehensive genomic analyses of P. striiformis isolates collected from 1984 to 2023 provided insights into the evolutionary history of the pathogen lineages in Canada. We conducted Simple-sequence repeat (SSR) genotyping and mating-type allele analyses for this population to trace changes in the lineages over time and region. We found a transition from the old lineage PstS0, which was predominant in Canada and the USA pre-2000, to PstS1-related lineages post-2010. Lineage analysis of four isolates collected between 2000 and 2010 identified two isolates as belonging to the South African lineage and two as PstPr (a probable recombinant). The South African lineage, distinguished by its unique Pst_b1*-HD, Pst_b1-HD, and Pst_b2-HD alleles, likely contributed to the incursion of heat tolerant virulent races in the early 2000s. In contrast, PstPr was previously suggested to be a new recombinant lineage in Canada derived from a hybrid between the pre-existing PstS0 lineage and an European lineage. However, based on the MAT alleles carried by the pathogen population in this study, we demonstrated that this lineage is indeed a hybrid, but likely between PstS0 and a South African lineage. We also suggest that PstS1-related lineages likely result from a recombination between PstS1 and other lineages, probably PstPr. In addition, isolates collected in 2022 and 2023 from eastern Canada appear to belong to a novel lineage, designated here as PstC2022, with the presence of Pst_b8-HD. This is likely a recombinant lineage between PstS1 and a foreign lineage, possibly from East Africa, Europe, China or Pakistan. The PstC2022 lineage was also confirmed with the variants callings, which revealed distinct genetic clusters corresponding to collection periods and lineage classifications rather than geographic origin, highlighting the pathogen’s capacity for long-distance dispersal. Genome analysis confirmed that Pst has an open pangenome structure, characterized by a small core gene set and a large number of accessory genes. This genome structure suggests gene flow and adaptive potential. A high percentage of transposable elements, particularly Copia, Gypsy, and Helitrons, may play a crucial role in driving genome variation. Collectively, our findings provide a comprehensive overview of the dynamic nature of P. striiformis populations in Canada over the past 40 years, highlighting significant changes in stripe rust virulence and lineage evolution. By generating extensive genomic data for pathogen collections made over four decades, we offer a valuable resource for the research community to investigate pathogen evolution, including shifts in virulence and adaptation. These results of this study underscore the importance of continued pathogen surveillance, particularly on non-wheat hosts, alongside studies evaluating fungicide tolerance and genetic variation to trace pathogen incursions and local adaptation. Such efforts are crucial for guiding resistance breeding strategies and mitigating the ongoing threat of stripe rust in wheat and barley production
Transforming Lignin into Value-Added Materials: A Dual Approach to Biopolymers and Biochar Production
No full textLignin is the most abundant natural source of aromatic compounds on Earth. It comprises three primary lignin-phenol units: p-coumaryl alcohol, coniferyl alcohol, and sinapyl alcohol. Lignin's unique structural characteristics make it a promising renewable feedstock for producing a variety of value-added chemicals. Approximately 70 million tons of lignin are used annually in the pulp and paper industry, primarily for energy generation. Redirecting lignin from low-value applications such as energy recovery to high-value chemical production could substantially enhance the economic viability and sustainability of biorefineries. However, unlocking the lignin’s full potential requires overcoming challenges such as structural complexity, recalcitrant nature, repolymerization reactions, low solubility in water and organic solvents, purity challenges, and product separation. One of the key strategies for lignin valorization is depolymerization. This process involves breaking the complex interunit linkages within the lignin structure to generate a range of aromatic compounds and lower molecular weight fragments. In a comprehensive valorization approach, the depolymerization of lignin yields various fractions, including monomers, oligomers, and a carbon-rich byproduct known as char. Each of these fractions holds significant potential for further application, contributing to the overall enhancement of lignin's value. Nevertheless, effective depolymerization remains challenging due to lignin’s tendency to undergo recondensation, leading to structural rearrangement. Consequently, a significant objective is to identify methods that maximize the yield of low molecular weight compounds.
This thesis focuses on the valorization of kraft lignin through depolymerization techniques. We conducted comprehensive studies on the depolymerization of lignin using isopropanol and formic acid, employing two different depolymerization methods. The general background is presented in the literature review, and the results are discussed in four data chapters as follows: The first study explored the feasibility of microwave-assisted depolymerization of kraft lignin in isopropanol and formic acid without a metal-based catalyst. Parameters such as temperature, residence time, and lignin dosage were evaluated in the lignin conversion to lower molecular weight compounds. The temperature and lignin dosage emerged as the most critical factors influencing yield and molecular weight. The methodology employed facilitated the extraction of oligomers from kraft lignin under mild reaction conditions. Remarkably, in just 30 minutes at 140 °C, the lignin’s molecular weight was reduced from 10,177 g/mol to 1,477 g/mol. In the second study, the bio-oil derived from the initial depolymerization was used to partially replace petroleum-based polyols in the synthesis of polyurethanes. The bio-oil's lower molecular weight and reduced polydispersity enhanced its compatibility and reactivity, enabling up to 60 wt.% substitution of the commercial polyol. This study demonstrated the feasibility of lignin-derived products in creating higher-value materials. The third study focuses on the solid residues from the lignin depolymerization process, which include the unreacted lignin and several condensed structures collectively referred to as biochar. Rather than discarding this byproduct, it was repurposed as an adsorbent material for removing heavy metals from aqueous solutions. The low-temperature depolymerization preserved many oxygen-containing functional groups, enhancing biochar’s adsorption capacity. The final study explored an alternative depolymerization method using a Parr reactor at temperatures ranging from 200 to 270 °C and reaction times of 2, 4, 6, and 8 hours. This approach showed that lignin could be fragmented into even lower molecular weight compounds, producing high-quality monomers such as guaiacol, catechol, vanillin, and other minor compounds. Overall, this research endeavor led to the development of two strategies for kraft lignin depolymerization techniques, indicating that the reaction conditions and heating methods play a crucial role in lignin cleavage. In addition, the practical applications of the resulting products, bio-oil and biochar, highlight the potential to create new materials that enhance lignin utilization and offset process costs. Collectively, the findings support a promising pathway for lignin valorization, with implications for economic viability and the advancement of renewable chemical platforms
Characterizing the Impact of SF3B4 and Mutant Forms on pre-mRNA Splicing
No full textEukaryotic genes adopt a split structure where interrupting introns are excised and coding exons are joined to produce a meaningful message for protein translation; a process known as pre-mRNA splicing. Splicing is carried out via two consecutive transesterification steps catalyzed by the humongous spliceosome. The spliceosome consists of a dynamic collection of RNAs and proteins forming distinct uridine-rich particles; the snRNPs, in addition to other auxiliary protein complexes, depending on the splicing stage the pre-mRNA is at. Five snRNPs assemble in a step-wise manner on a pre-mRNA molecule through multiple protein-protein and protein-RNA interactions either between conserved sequences within introns and splicing elements, or, between different splicing factors. Early steps of splicing involve the recognition of the 5' and 3' splice sites by U1 snRNP and U2 snRNP, respectively. SF3B, a U2 snRNP subcomplex plays an important role in tethering the U2 snRNA to the branch sequence in an imperfect duplex bulging the branch adenosine out of the interaction. The SF3B subunits, including SF3B4 and SF3B2, shield the branch adenosine until the spliceosome is ready for the first catalytic step of splicing. The U4/U6•U5 tri-snRNP joins the spliceosome subsequently to prevent a premature formation of the spliceosome’s active site. Through a series of conformational transitions, the exons are brought in close proximity and the branch adenosine is primed for the 1st nucleophilic reaction. The SF3B complex dissociates from the spliceosome right before the 1st step of splicing. Eventually, at the end of a splicing cycle, all splicing elements are recycled and readied for the next round.
Initially, spliced introns were thought to be immediately debranched and degraded following a splicing cycle, however, growing evidence attributes multiple and variable roles to introns. Recent reports attributed the survival of baker’s yeast under stress, particularly starvation, to introns accumulation either in their unspliced or spliced forms. It was theorized that introns\nmediate the abovementioned effect by sequestering spliceosomes, thus, downregulating RPGs transcription through the TOR pathway. This would contribute to conserving cellular energy and directing it solely towards survival in such harsh conditions. SF3B4 was one of the proteins that were found complexed to accumulating spliced introns probably protecting them from endonucleases.
SF3B4 is an essential protein factor for human health and viability. SF3B4 impairment has been implicated in various disease states ranging from cancers to acrofacial dysostosis disorders including Nager syndrome. Nager syndrome is a rare mostly sporadic disorders characterized by SF3B4 haploinsufficiency in ~ two thirds of the identified cases. This thesis investigates SF3B4 mutant forms including a newly identified variant, I84R, in a Nager syndrome patient. Also, it outlines a biochemical approach to confirm such a challenging diagnosis with features shared among a wide range of disease forms. We were also able to crystallize the L28P SF3B4 mutant in complex with an essential peptide fragment of SF3B2. Both proteins feature an extensively interacting interface. Although the mutation was not completely detrimental to the structure, it reduced the complex’s thermal stability.
In vitro splicing assays show that a pre-mRNA substrate, MMS2, appears to splice more efficiently in baker’s yeast extracts harbouring the Q24P SF3B4 mutation (equivalent to human L28P) gown in minimal media to saturation compared to wild-type. This was specifically observed for 1st step splicing, conforming to SF3B4’s detachment from the spliceosome immediately prior to actual splicing catalysis.
Altogether, these findings improve our understanding of the SF3B4 role in splicing and possibly, other cellular functions
Calvin Kruger - Abstract 10 - Innovate Conference 2025
No full textUltrasound-guided intravenous (UGIV) insertion is commonly used in emergency settings for patients with challenging veins. Numerous training programs exist and understanding the factors affecting success and clinical outcomes remains essential. This study assesses a UGIV training program at a large academic hospital to identify improvement areas and insights into the
learning process
Hannah Brooks - Abstract 20 - Innovate Conference 2025
No full textChildren with medical complexity (MC) are among the highest users of emergency department (ED) services in Canada. Parent experiences when seeking ED care for their children with MC are multifaceted, often influenced by the complexities of their child’s conditions, parent expectations and information needs, and the perceived urgency of their child’s acute health situation
The effect of low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on orthodontic tooth movement: a preliminary study
No full textINTRODUCTION
Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound (LIPUS) has been introduced as a promising adjunct in orthodontic care, with growing evidence suggesting it may accelerate tooth movement, reduce unwanted side effects of orthodontic treatment (specifically orthodontically induced tooth root resorption [OITRR]), and potentially can enhance bone remodeling. LIPUS delivers mechanical stimulation to periodontal tissues, which has been shown to increase cellular activity and promote localized bone metabolism. These biological effects make LIPUS a potential, non-invasive option for improving orthodontic outcomes. This study evaluated the clinical effects of daily LIPUS application, delivered by the LIPUS Aevo System™ (SmileSonica, Inc., Edmonton, AB, Canada), a home-based medical device on OITRR, bone density and treatment duration in patients treated with clear aligners. METHODS
This prospective and retrospective hybrid study included participants who are treated orthodontically using Invisalign ™ system. Participants were divided into three groups: a control group (Invisalign only), a 10-minute LIPUS- treated group, and a 15-minute LIPUS- treated group. All patients were treated at a private orthodontic clinic in Edmonton, Alberta. Participants in the LIPUS-treated groups used the Aevo System device daily during treatment, with usage monitored digitally through a mobile application. A minimum usage (adherence to the protocol [instructions]) rate of 67% was required for inclusion in the final analysis. Root resorption was assessed using before and after treatment cone-beam computed tomographic radiographs (CBCT) scans, measuring the distance from the pulp horn to the root apex of anterior maxillary teeth in standardized sagittal views. Bone density was assessed in the maxillary and mandibular regions by analyzing standardized axial slices at five specific sites, measuring the average Hounsfield units represented in grayscale values. The degree of dental crowding was quantified using Little’s Irregularity Index, measured on mandibular casts before and after treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA for between-group comparisons and repeated measures ANOVA for within-subject bone density changes.
RESULTS
A total of 15 participants were included in the final analysis. Root resorption was significantly lower in both LIPUS groups compared to controls, with the 15-minute group showing the least resorption (p = 0.001). Maxillary bone density showed a general increase in the LIPUS groups, while the control group showed decreased bone density; however, these differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.7). Mandibular bone density decreased in all groups, though the reduction was more pronounced in the control group (p = 0.5). All groups showed a reduction in anterior crowding, as measured by Little’s Index, but there were no significant differences between groups.
CONCLUSION
Within the limitations of this study, the use of LIPUS as an adjunct to clear aligner therapy was associated with a significant reduction in root resorption and favorable trends in maxillary bone density. These results suggest a potential protective effect of LIPUS on dental and periodontal structures during orthodontic treatment. While improvements in bone density and alignment were not statistically significant, the biological trends observed support further investigation. LIPUS may represent a valuable, patient-friendly addition to aligner-based orthodontics, particularly in reducing treatment side effects. More extensive, long-duration studies are needed to validate these initial results and fully assess the clinical benefits of daily LIPUS use. Also, furhter studies with larger size are recommended to support this study results or otherwise recommend other results compared to this study results
Influence of spatiotemporal dynamics of sea ice and individual effects on the population ecology of polar bears in Hudson Bay
No full textUnderstanding factors that influence the population ecology of species is challenging but essential to provide insights into life history and critical for their conservation and management, particularly for species affected by climate change. Climate change is rapidly altering ecosystems throughout the world; however, the Arctic region is warming 4x faster than anywhere else on the planet. Ice obligate species such as polar bears (Ursus maritimus) rely on sea ice for their survival and are thus sensitive to environmental change and can provide important insights into the Arctic marine ecosystem. In this dissertation I investigated the influence of spatiotemporal dynamics of sea ice and individual effects on the population ecology of polar bears in Hudson Bay, Canada. To assess the spatiotemporal dynamics of sea ice in Hudson Bay, I evaluated trends in the spatial distribution of remnant ice over time from 1980-2019 and assessed temporal patterns of ice duration at two different spatial scales. I then assessed the influence of these ice metrics on survival of male polar bears using a long-term dataset from western Hudson Bay for three age classes, subadult (1-4 years old), prime (5-19 years old), and senescent (20+ years old). I found that the interannual variation in the spatial distribution of remnant ice was high in Hudson Bay but that there was no trend over time. Sea ice duration declined significantly over time resulting in a longer ice-free period. Prime-aged adult males had lower survival during the earliest ice retreat dates in Hudson Bay.
Polar bears occupy a remote and harsh environment throughout their range and intraspecific interactions and their consequences for population dynamics are poorly understood. I documented an observation of infanticide by an adult male polar bear on the sea ice in Hudson Bay followed by a second observation of an adult female that was lactating and in breeding condition without the presence of cubs. I discuss theoretical motivations for such behaviour and explore why the sexually selected infanticide hypothesis may be applicable to polar bears because of their life history and impacts of climate change on populations. Next, I evaluated changes in pregnancy rates for polar bears over time and used a generalized linear model to assess the effects of age, mass, and sea ice conditions on this key reproductive parameter. I found that pregnancy rates declined through time and increased in their interannual variation. The most important predictors for pregnancy rate were mass and age, where heavier bears and females in their prime (5-19 years old) were more likely to be pregnant. The age of first breeding increased after 1990 with fewer 4-year-old bears classified as pregnant compared to the previous decade. I assessed the costs of reproduction for female bears, temporal changes in sex ratios, and factors influencing offspring survival using mark-recapture data from 1980-2019. I found a cost of reproduction for female polar bears, which resulted in lower survival for females with cubs and was compounded by environmental effects. The adult sex ratio in the study area was female-biased with a nonlinear relationship through time. The operational sex ratio followed a similar pattern except it was male-biased and associated with higher variance. Cub survival was influenced by sea ice conditions, maternal age and body mass indicating a complex interaction from multiple factors influencing the population dynamics of polar bears. Lastly, I assessed the movement, survival and abundance of polar bears across Hudson Bay using genetic biopsy sampling in relation to both sea ice and harvest from 2017-2024 using multistate mark-recapture models where 3 distinct geographic areas represented states in the model. I found that the spatial distribution of remnant sea ice in Hudson Bay influenced movement between states for adult males, with higher rates occurring for adjacent areas. I documented higher movement rates between subpopulations than previously reported with possible higher survival rates for bears in a geographic state with a lower vulnerability of harvest. This research provides insights into factors that influence the population ecology of polar bears and demonstrates the value of long-term research for understanding both environmental and individual effects on the population dynamics of an apex predator in the Arctic marine ecosystem
Illusions, Ideology, and the Contradictions of Language Education Unlearning towards Developing Critical Revolutionary Praxis
No full textThe tension explored in this thesis lies between the purported goals of English as an Additional Language (EAL) education—to support newcomer students’ integration and success—and its often unacknowledged role in reproducing systemic inequities and social hierarchies. In this study, I focus on critically examining the ideologies embedded within EAL policy and practice, deconstructing how these shape student experiences, perpetuate inequitable outcomes and connect to broader social relations of power including white supremacy, settler colonialism, and capitalism. Overall, my research question is: How and for what purpose do EAL policies and practices, often framed through deficit perspectives and notions of ‘Otherness’, function to reproduce and maintain dominant social hierarchies and relations of power, despite aiming to support student inclusion and success? To pursue this question, I have undertaken a theoretical analysis, weaving together critical reflections on my own experiences as an EAL teacher with reviews of research literature and critical adult education theory, moving iteratively through layers of inquiry to deconstruct the problem. Drawing theoretically on Marx’s theory of consciousness and historical dialectical materialism has allowed me to analyze the dialectical contradictions inherent in EAL education, uncover the ideological abstractions that mask systemic inequalities, and connect everyday classroom practices to the reproduction of white supremacy, settler colonialism, and capitalist social relations. My hope is that this analysis prompts a deeper interrogation of our complicity in systems of oppression and inspires collective action toward transforming language education into a site of genuine equity and liberation, rather than dispossession