MSpace

MSpace is the University of Manitoba’s Institutional Repository. The purpose of MSpace is to acquire, preserve and provide access to the scholarly works of University faculty and students within an open access environment.

 

Communities in MSpace

Select a community to browse its collections.

Recent Submissions

No Thumbnail Available
Item
Open Access
Integrative exploration of taste genetics, oral microbiome, and socioeconomic factors in early childhood caries
(2025-07-14) Khan, Mohd Wasif; Liu, Xiao-Qing (Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences); Schroth, Robert (Preventive Dental Science); Drögemöller, Britt (Biochemistry and Medical Genetics); Long, Quan (University of Calgary); Hu, Pingzhao; Chelikani, Prashen
Early childhood caries (ECC) refers to dental cavities or decay in children less than 72 months of age. Nearly half of the children are affected by ECC globally, which can reach up to 98% in some disadvantaged communities. ECC is multifactorial in nature, with various etiological factors, including the microbiome, socioeconomic factors (SEF), and host genetics. Among host genetic factors, taste receptors are crucial as they modulate host taste preference and may also play a role in interactions with microbial species through innate immune responses. To address whether host genetics can influence oral microbes, this study investigated the association of taste receptors with ECC and the dental plaque microbiome. Furthermore, we explored the role of various SEF in ECC and their impact on the oral microbiome. We also assessed interkingdom associations through species co-occurrence. For this analysis, data were collected from children’s parents or caregivers for socioeconomic and behavioral information, along with dental plaque and buccal swab samples for microbiome and 55 taste-related gene sequencing, respectively. Sequencing was performed using next-generation sequencing, with data analyzed using QIIME2 for microbiome and GATK pipelines for variants in taste-related genes. Various analytical, statistical, and machine learning tools in R were employed for the analysis. Our results indicate that SEF, specifically the Socioeconomic Factor Index (SEFI) and rural-urban status, are highly associated with ECC status. We found a strong correlation between the fungal species Candida dubliniensis and the bacteria Neisseria bacilliformis in ECC. Through integrative machine learning-based prediction of ECC, the bacterial species Streptococcus mutans and the fungi Candida dubliniensis, a bitter taste receptor variant TAS2R60-rs35195910, along with SEFI and rural-urban status, emerged as top markers. We also evaluated the generalizability of machine learning based ECC prediction using previously published ECC microbiome studies. In conclusion, we identified microbial markers that are highly associated with ECC and the potential interactions among them. Although taste genetic markers did not influence ECC-associated microbial species, they were associated with other species in the dental plaque microbiome. Lastly, due to the complex role of multiple factors, we recommend integrating multiomics data analysis in future ECC-related studies. These findings help us understand the etiological landscape of ECC and identify susceptible individuals, enabling personalized therapeutic approaches and preventative strategies.
No Thumbnail Available
Item
Open Access
How firms prioritize the dynamic trade-off theory and funding horizon theory: investigating the impact of cash needs on adjustment speed toward leverage target
(2025-06-21) Mollazamani, Mahdad; Liu, Mingzhi (Accounting and Finance); Qiu, Yetaotao (Accounting and Finance); Au, Shiu-Yik
This study explores how firms adjust their capital structure in response to short- and long-term cash needs, examining the dynamic trade-off and funding horizon theories. While liquidity constraints may temporarily push firms away from target leverage, they ultimately rebalance, supporting the dynamic trade-off theory. However, adjustment speed varies with cash need severity, as greater liquidity constraints delay rebalancing. The findings highlight financial frictions’ role in capital structure decisions, showing that cash shortages create persistent barriers to optimal leverage. This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating how liquidity constraints shape firms’ leverage adjustments and financial decision-making.
Thumbnail Image
Item
Open Access
Rolling Bearing Early Fault Detection Method Based on Feature Clustering Fusion Degradation Index
(SpringerOpen, 2025-06-23) Xu, Xiangyang; Wang, Haotian; Liang, Xihui; Zhao, Chuan; Ren, Ziyuan
Abstract The research on rolling bearing early fault detection is mainly focused on degradation index extraction and adaptive setting of alarm threshold. The mainstream methods are to extract degradation indicators based on adaptive features and set adaptive alarm thresholds based on the Shewhart control chart. However, the adaptive feature extraction method does not consider the correlation between features, and the Shewhart control chart is not sensitive to small fluctuations caused by early faults. In this study, a rolling bearing early fault detection method based on a feature clustering fusion degradation index is proposed. The multidomain statistical features are extracted to form the initial feature set, and the improved hierarchical clustering algorithm is combined with the feature evaluation index to select features to form a preferred feature subset, to ensure the richness of index information and reduce redundancy. After the construction of the degradation index, to suppress the interference caused by nonstationary and abnormal shocks in early fault detection, the accurate evaluation method and anomaly determination strategy of control chart parameters are studied, and an improved exponential weighted move average control chart is designed to monitor the degradation index. The effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method are verified by public data sets. This research provides a rolling bearing early fault detection method, which can provide comprehensive degradation indicators, eliminate interference caused by random anomalies and running in periods, and achieve an accurate detection of early bearing failures.
Thumbnail Image
Item
Open Access
Publisher Correction: Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated food allergy
(BMC, 2025-06-25) Bégin, Philippe; Waserman, Susan; Protudjer, Jennifer; Jeimy, Samira; Watson, Wade
Thumbnail Image
Item
Open Access
Changes in psychiatric admissions in the first year of COVID-19 in Ontario, Canada
(BMC, 2025-06-03) Betini, Gustavo S.; Yu, Dorothy; Perez, Edgardo; Sareen, Jitender; Perlman, Christopher M.; Hirdes, John P.
Abstract Background Several studies showed strong evidence that the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted mental health service use, with changes in emergency department visits, and psychiatric hospital admissions. It is not clear, however, whether the pandemic caused an increase or decrease in use of services for people with different diagnoses and symptoms. Methods We used data from all individuals admitted to psychiatric units in Ontario, Canada (259,620 individuals) from January 1st 2015 to December 31st, 2020 and compared the number of admissions, length of stay, symptoms, and clinical characteristics of this population in 2020 to the average of those who were admitted between 2015 and 2019. Results Total number of admissions declined sharply (44%) during the first lockdown period but returned to pre-pandemic levels within about 2 months. This trend, however, was not observed for all types of mental health problems. Admissions for symptoms such as risk of harm to others and addictions were consistently higher after the first wave in May 2020 compared to the same month in the previous 5 years, while symptoms such as social withdrawal, and depression were consistently lower. Conclusion Taken together, these results suggest that the impact of the pandemic on the use of mental health services were symptom-specific, which is likely a result of the heterogeneity of mental health problems within this population. This variation in the changes in psychiatry admissions for patients with different clinical profiles should be considered when preparing for future service interruptions.
Thumbnail Image
Item
Open Access
“Farmer/Herder” conflicts and the prospects of local peacebuilding: The case of Agogo in the Asante-Akyem North municipal assembly of Ghana
(2025-07-08) Peterson, Maame; Senehi, Jessica (Peace and Conflict Studies); Albert, Isaac (Peace Security and Humanitarian Studies, University of Ibadan); Byrne, Sean (Peace and Conflict Studies); Muller, Adam
This study investigates the complex dynamics of farmer/herder conflicts in Ghana, particularly focusing on the role of identity in these disputes. Unlike other West African countries where conflicts are primarily driven by resource scarcity, Ghanaian conflicts between indigenous farmers and Fulani herdsmen are significantly influenced by issues of identity and the perceived non-indigeneity of the Fulani. This study examines how being labeled as an “Other” impacts the socioeconomic opportunities for Fulani herdsmen and explores the link between citizenship rights and these conflicts. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study utilizes individual interviews and group observations in Agogo—an area with a pronounced history of frequent conflicts between Fulani herdsmen and local farmers. By applying identity theories and critical and emancipatory peacebuilding frameworks, the research analyzes participants’ lived experiences and the broader implications for peace and security. The study also highlights the crucial roles of women and youth in peacebuilding efforts within Agogo. It incorporates recommendations and practical strategies proposed by the participants themselves, including both farmers and Fulani herdsmen. These recommendations stress the need for designated areas for farming and pastoral activities, enhanced cross-cultural dialogue, and peace education initiatives. For the people of Agogo, peace encompasses not just the absence of violence but also social and economic development, access to amenities, and overall well-being. This research provides valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of farmer/herder conflicts in Ghana and offers participant-driven strategies for strengthening peacebuilding efforts. The key findings include deep-rooted tensions over land use, water access, and crop destruction by cattle, which fuel hostility between farmers and herders. Further, prejudicial “othering” of the Fulani herdsmen and media stereotypes exacerbate mistrust, while the exclusion of farmers, youth, and women from land distribution decisions intensifies grievances. The study also found that gender-based violence contributes to fear and insecurity in Agogo. The findings also reveal generational differences in peacebuilding approaches and highlight how varying views on conflict resolution, patriotism, and community values contribute to ongoing tensions. Additionally, challenges like corruption, ineffective leadership, and inconsistent policies are identified as obstacles to effective peacebuilding.
Thumbnail Image
Item
Open Access
Investigating evaluation and effects of partnered rehabilitation research: a mixed methods approach
(2025-04-25) Tittlemier, Brenda J.; Woodgate, Roberta L. (College of Nursing); Li, Linda (College of Rehabilitation Sciences); Finlayson, Marcia (Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University); Sibley, Kathryn M.; Cooper, Juliette
Background Findings from rehabilitation research may be under-utilized in part because of how they are produced, which may impact health outcomes or the economic costs of the healthcare system. An approach which could enhance the use of rehabilitation evidence is for researchers to partner with knowledge users (e.g., clinicians, policymakers, or decision makers) throughout the research process. This approach, known as partnered rehabilitation research, has potential to increase the uptake of rehabilitation research by aligning research designs and processes with knowledge users’ priorities and values. Studies on partnered rehabilitation research have reported on characteristics of the partnerships, strategies, and methods to involve knowledge users, when to involve knowledge users, factors affecting the partnerships, impacts, and outcomes. However, little is known about how partnered rehabilitation research was evaluated and its effects on knowledge use. Evaluation is important to confirm short, medium, or long-term effects of partnerships, ensure integrity of the partnering process, confirm assumptions of this approach, and assess how partners work together. Considering the importance of evaluation and knowledge gaps about the effects of partnering, my overarching research question was, “how has partnered rehabilitation research been evaluated and what are its effects on the research process and outcomes?” Methods I used an explanatory sequential mixed method design, underpinned by a pragmatic lens, to conduct a cross-sectional online survey followed by interviews. Individuals were eligible for either study if they were researchers or knowledge users who had experience in partnered rehabilitation research. I used non-probability convenience and snowball sampling to recruit participants to the survey. The survey was conducted in July 2023. I analyzed and reported survey findings descriptively. I situated the interviews in a qualitative descriptive study and used purposive and snowball sampling to recruit participants. The interviews were completed early 2024. I analyzed the findings inductively and deductively and reported results thematically. I kept field notes and used member checking and thick description to enhance trustworthiness. I integrated results from the survey and interviews via narrative weaving and presented them in a stand-alone chapter. Results Participants from the survey (n = 14) and interviews (n = 13) were predominantly female (n = 24, 89%) and white (n = 21, 78%). No survey respondents were knowledge users, but six (46%) interview participants were. Many survey respondents indicated the partnership will be/ had been evaluated (n = 8, 56%). However, no interview participants evaluated the partnerships. Most survey respondents (n = 10, 71%) perceived partnering significantly influenced the research questions, and interview participants discussed how partnering resulted in clinically applicable research questions. Many survey respondents (n = 9, 64%) believed the partnership significantly influenced research outcomes such as the production of useful research findings or evidence-informed clinical decision making (n = 8, 57%). However, interview participants offered few insights and examples of how and when partnering enhanced evidence uptake in clinical decision making. Conclusion Findings from the survey and interviews suggest that partnering influences the research process and research outcomes. However, there was discordance specific to findings about evaluation of partnered rehabilitation research. Many survey respondents evaluated the partnering process, but no interview participants did. Findings from this mixed methods study confirm some assumptions about partnered rehabilitation research, however; more research is needed to substantiate the effects of partnering and extent of evaluation in partnered rehabilitation research.
Thumbnail Image
Item
Open Access
Regulation of oxidative stress and inflammation in gut health
(2025-06-26) Jin, Shunshun; Nyachoti, Martin (Animal Science); Lin, Francis (Physics and Astronomy); Jha, Rajesh (University of Hawaii at Manoa); O, Karmin; Yang, Chengbo
The gastrointestinal tract plays an essential role in maintaining overall health. It is vulnerable to oxidative stress that disrupts intestinal integrity, promotes inflammation, and impairs nutrient absorption. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between reactive oxygen species production and antioxidant defense. Glutathione (GSH) is a potent endogenous antioxidant that plays a crucial role in maintaining redox homeostasis and protecting intestinal cells from oxidative damage. The mechanisms by which oxidative stress affects gut health remain poorly understood. This research aimed to examine the impact of oxidative stress on gut health and the underlying mechanisms; and to explore whether dietary fiber and probiotics could alleviate oxidative stress and improve gut health. Study Ⅰ evaluated the effects of high- and low-fiber diets on intestinal oxidative stress in growing-finishing pigs. Compared to the low-fiber diet, the high-fiber diet significantly reduced intestinal oxidative stress biomarkers and improved growth performance. Study Ⅱ examined the effect of E. coli infection on intestinal oxidative stress and the mechanisms involved in post-weaning piglets. E. coli infection is a major cause of post-weaning diarrhea in piglets. E. coli infection suppressed nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling, reduced glutathione-synthesizing enzyme expression, and depleted serum and intestinal GSH level, decreased tight junction protein expression, increased intestinal permeability and elevated proinflammatory cytokines expression. Antibiotic treatment alleviated these effects. Supplementation with GSH restored Nrf2 expression, reduced proinflammatory cytokine expression, and mitigated epithelial oxidative damage. Study Ⅲ investigated the effects of probiotic Bacillus licheniformis HG76 on E. coli-induced oxidative stress in post-weaning piglets. The probiotic restored serum and intestinal GSH levels and nuclear Nrf2 expression, upregulated glutathione-synthesizing enzymes expression, and reduced lipid peroxidation. It also enhanced tight junction protein expression and lowered proinflammatory cytokine expression. In conclusion, these studies demonstrate that oxidative stress contributes to intestinal dysfunction by suppressing Nrf2 activation and GSH biosynthesis, leading to impaired gut health and growth performance. Dietary fiber and probiotics can enhance antioxidant capacity and maintain intestinal redox balance, thereby serving as effective strategies to mitigate oxidative damage and improve gut health in swine production.
Thumbnail Image
Item
Open Access
Sustainable extraction technology using Deep Eutectic Solvents for producing fava bean protein isolates with improved functionalities
(2025-07-05) Hetti Hewage, Anuruddika; Aluko, Rotimi (Food and Human Nutritional Sciences); Malalgoda, Maneka (Food and Human Nutritional Sciences); Kontogiorgos, Vassilis (University of British Columbia); Bandara, Nandika
The fava bean is a nutritionally rich protein source, making it an ideal choice for producing protein ingredients. The limitations of conventional plant protein extraction methods have driven increasing interest in novel, sustainable green extraction technologies. Therefore, the main objective of this research study was to develop a novel protein extraction method using Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) for producing fava bean protein ingredients with improved functionalities. First, the DES system was optimized for the protein extraction variables using the response surface methodology (RSM). The optimum conditions achieved indicated that the DES could produce a significantly higher protein yield (~65%) with similar protein content (~92%) to the conventional alkaline method (AE). It was revealed that DES extraction was also less prone to protein denaturation than AE. Owing to these properties of DES-extracted fava bean protein isolates (DES-FBPI), the functional properties, solubility, and emulsifying and foaming properties were greatly improved. Interestingly, the DES method produced high-quality proteins with significantly higher (>75%) protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS), compared to the conventional methods. Moreover, the integrated approach, including ultrasonication and enzymatic pre-treatment-assisted DES protein extraction, further showed a significant increase in protein yield with improved functionality. Although DES is highly viscous, the addition of water in the DES system (0-100% wt%) demonstrated significantly reduced viscosity, thus significantly increasing protein yield. The alteration of physicochemical and structural changes of DES induced by the water substitution led to significant differences in the structure-functional properties of the extracted proteins, tailored to a specific food application. From the food application perspective, the behavior of fava bean proteins in the DES system is crucial when determining protein functionality, including gelation. In particular, the gelling capacity of DES-FBPI was a distinguishable characteristic, producing a strong, firm gel comparable to commercially produced soy proteins. Hence, DES extraction offers a valuable opportunity to replace soy-based foods with fava bean proteins as a potential strategy to reduce soy allergenicity. Overall, DES extraction presents a viable alternative to conventional methods, offering green benefits with potential scalability at the industrial level to upgrade the utilization of fava beans in value-added food formulations.
Thumbnail Image
Item
Open Access
Critical embodiments and peacebuilding: Disability experiences in Northern Ireland
(2025-06-09) Dean, Calum; Hansen, Nancy (Disability Studies); Senehi, Jessica (Peace and Conflict Studies); Davidson, Gavin (Education and Social Work, Queen's University Belfast); Byrne, Sean
This study explores the lived experiences of disabled people in Northern Ireland as they relate to peace and peacebuilding. Northern Ireland has undergone 27 years of peacebuilding since the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement in 1998 which followed 30 years of violent conflict known as the Troubles. Disability is intrinsically tied to violence through the production of impairment and debility, further disabled people face disproportionate harm during violent conflict. However, disabled people are marginalized from peace processes and peacebuilding, as well as within the study of violent conflict and peacebuilding in Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS). This restricts their experiences of peace in society and exacerbates ableism and disablism as well as their manifestations into barriers in the everyday lives of disabled people. This study’s findings elicit that despite the development of a negative peace in Northern Ireland, disabled people have experienced few tangible benefits in their everyday lives from the last 27 years of peacebuilding. It argues that first, disabled people are a resource for peace and peacebuilding in Northern Ireland with particularly adept ways of addressing social divides while working towards increasing disability and social justice. Second, it argues that the lived experiences of disabled people in Northern Ireland emerge as critical disabled embodiments that produce particular epistemological and ontological knowledge and ways of being that illuminate and challenge social inequalities in society. Both as a resource for peacebuilding and through critical embodiments, disabled people and disability activism facilitate the development of peace materially and deeply, at the structural and cultural roots of inequality that materialize into violence.