It has been hypothesized that depression can be both a risk factor and a consequence of oral diseases. Tooth loss leads to discomfort, pain, and functional limitations which could lead to disability and, subsequently, to handicap. However, the association between depression and edentulism has not been established yet. Data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) Cycle 2.1 were used to examine the association between edentulism and depression in community-dwelling Canadians 45 years of age and older. Separate logistic regression models were developed for dentate and edentulous groups as well. Different regression selection methods were implemented and the area under the ROC curve was used to select models with the highest predictability. Analysis showed that edentulism was not associated with depression. For the edentulous group, oral/facial pain was the only oral health factor predicting depression, whereas avoiding smiling or laughing, dry mouth, oral/facial pain predicted depression in the dentate individuals.

Maintaining balance is controlled by two different processes: feedforward and feedback control. Feed-forward control is used prior to performing voluntary movements whereas feedback control is used to correct for unexpected perturbations. Studies suggested that age-related changes in postural responses may contribute to increased risk of falls in older adults. To address whether Tai Chi training can induce improved patterns of feed-forward control, voluntary arm elevations during standing were performed. Compared to age-matched controls, smaller displacements of the center of pressure were found among older adults who practice Tai Chi. This may suggest adapted feed-forward control induced by training. To investigate feedback control, perturbations were applied while walking with various arm constraints. Context-dependent modulation in response amplitude was found with changing levels of postural threat in older adults, comparable to young adults. Delayed onset latencies and frequent inhibition of Soleus may suggest less effective balance strategies employed in older adults, and an increased risk of falling. / Rehabilitation Science

Thesis (Ph.D.). / Written for the School of Information Studies. Title from title page of PDF (viewed 2008/02/12). Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (PhD) -- Australian Catholic University, 2006. / Submitted total fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. Bibliography: p. 315-338. Also available in an electronic format via the internet.

Thesis (D. Min.)--Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO, 2007. / Abstract. Includes annotated bibliographical references (leaves 205-211).

Project (D. Min.)--Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, 1982. / Abstract and vita. Includes bibliographical references (leaves [170]-174).

Project (D. Min.)--Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, 1982. / Abstract and vita. Includes bibliographical references (leaves [170]-174).

Thesis (D. Min.)--Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, 1995. / Abstract and vita. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 157-166).

Thesis (M.D.E.)--Athabasca University, 2004. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 161-168). Also available online.

Thesis (Psy.D.)--Carlos Albizu University, 2005. / Adviser: Richard Gaudet. Includes bibliographical references.