identifier: Lynch, Jacqueline S. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Lynch=3AJacqueline_S=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1999) A study of the relationships among parents' reading beliefs, parents' gender, grade three students' reader self-perceptions, reading achievement and gender.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study investigated the relationships among parents' reading beliefs (self-efficacy and achievement-related beliefs) grade three students' reader self-perceptions (self-concept, social feedback, physiological states, observational comparison, and progress) and their reading achievement (alphabet, meaning, and conventions). The gender of parents and children and its relationship to parents' reading beliefs, children's reader self-perceptions and reading achievement was also examined in this study. This study consisted of 66 students and 92 parents involved in an early family literacy project for approximately one year. The study was conducted in a rural area in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. -- There were three instruments used in this study: a Questionnaire for Parents, a Reader Self-Perceptions Scale (RSPS) (Henk & Melnick, 1995), and a standardized reading test (Test of Early Reading Ability-2 - TERA-2). The Pearson-Product-Moment Method and t-tests were used to determine relationships in the data and to identify significant differences in scores on the instruments. -- Significant positive and negative relationships were found between aspects of mothers' and fathers’ reading beliefs and children's reader self-perceptions. Gender was an important variable in this study. Specifically, a significant positive relationship existed between mothers’ self-efficacy for children's reading achievement and girls' self-concept as reader. Significant negative relationships existed between mothers' achievement-related beliefs and boys' self-concept as reader, fathers' self-efficacy and boys' perceptions of parents' regard for their reading, and fathers' self-efficacy and boys' and girls' perceptions of their reading relative to other students. There was only one significant relationship between parents’ reading beliefs and children's reading achievement. This relationship was a negative one. Mothers' achievement-related beliefs negatively related to boys' alphabet scores on the standardized reading test. There was a significant difference in mothers' and fathers' self-efficacy beliefs for boys' reading achievement. Mothers had stronger beliefs in their ability to improve boys' reading achievement. -- In this study children's self-perceptions as readers significantly related to their reading achievement. Boys' and girls' perceptions of progress positively related to their ability to construct meaning on the reading test. As well, girls' perceptions of their reading in comparison to other students related to their alphabetic knowledge on the reading test (TERA-2). Significant differences favoring females were found in children's reader self-perceptions and their reading achievement. Girls had significantly higher perceptions of feedback from significant others. Scores measuring children's internal feelings experienced while reading were significantly higher for girls. In addition, girls had significantly higher alphabet scores on the reading test. -- This study has shown that parents’ reading beliefs, parents' gender, children's reader self-perceptions, reading achievement and gender, were significantly related. The findings of this study provide a basis for understanding factors related to young children's reading achievement. This study also provides insight into the role parents' beliefs play in young children's perceptions of their reading abilities and children's reading achievement.


identifier: Reid, Scott (Michael Scott) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Reid=3AScott_=28Michael_Scott=29=3A=3A.html>   (1999) A case study of the impact of the use of information technology on teachers work at the high school level.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract: This study provides new images of teachers who are pioneers in the use of information technology in the classes they teach. This study looks at teachers at a high school which is a leader in using information technology in the classroom. The findings indicate that most of the teachers participating in this study were enthusiastic about the possibilities that information technology holds for classroom use. Examples are given of how information technology is impacting on teachers' work and attitudes, professional development, professionalization. intensification, discipline, and students views of the world. Teachers insights on the future of teaching and acceptable use of technology were also examined. Ten issues were identified which could determine the success or failure of the use of information technology in High Schools. These include: maintenance, inequalities, security of school information, cost and need for training, information overload, pace of change and stress, plagiarism, control by big business, finding good software, and do the benefits outweigh the disadvantages.


identifier: Cai, Jingjing <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Cai=3AJingjing=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Contaminants removal from natural gas using dual hollow fiber membrane contactors.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Hollow fiber membrane contactors are advantageous in natural gas processing where the required equipment foot-print is small. This is due to the larger available gas-liquid contactor area, a greater mass transfer coefficient and higher removal efficiencies. Traditionally, the hollow fiber membrane contactors used for gas-liquid contacting were designed to have separate absorption and regeneration system, which may not be practical for offshore application due to limited space. A dual membrane concept is proposed in this work which combines the contactor and stripper into one unit operation. In this design, the gas flows through the porous membranes immersed in a solvent; the solvent strips the gas of the contaminant. Nonporous membranes with a sweep gas flowing or under low pressure in the same shell, partially regenerate the solvent by stripping the contaminant out. In addition, baffles were introduced into the dual membrane module to increase the mass transfer by minimizing shell-side bypass and increasing liquid velocity. The proposed modules and an ordinary single hollow fiber membrane contactor were modeled using partial differential equations based on a single-component absorption scheme. A numerical model based on mass balance was developed to predict the performance of the dual contactor modules and also concentration change in both gas and liquid phase in the modules. -- Simulation results show that the nonporous membranes in the dual hollow fiber membrane contactor can partially regenerate the solvent during the absorption and result in a better gas removal efficiency than the ordinary module. In addition, the baffles were proved to increase the mass transfer by minimizing shell-side bypass and increasing liquid velocity. The predictions of the developed numerical model were found to be in good agreement with the previous experimental results presented by Dindore et al (2005).


identifier: Li, Xiangwen. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Li=3AXiangwen=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Analysis and compilation techniques for HARPO/L.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Coarse grained reconfigurable architecture (CGRA) is a reconfigurable architecture that uses word-width processing elements, and provides custom designed reconfigurable datapath units (rDPUs) as basic logic units. It combines some strength of both software and hardware to provide an easy to develop, and highly efficient platform. In this thesis, I make contributions to the development of an object oriented language, HARdware Parallel Object Language (HARPO/L), which is suitable to describe the parallel execution of hardware, and hence can be compiled directly to CGRA platform. -- This thesis will mainly concentrate on the front-end of the HARPO/L compiler, to address technical issues arising from some of the unique characteristics of our language. This thesis will develop a formal mathematical representation for HARPO/L, to help verify the semantics of the language. It will also develop a method to identify synchronization problems in shared variable access, and to simplify the implementation of atomicity in language. Furthermore, in addition to the research work in this thesis, a compiler front-end is also implemented in JAVA to compile the plain text source code to typed abstract syntax tree (AST). We will also discuss some techniques involved in implementing such a compiler front-end.


identifier: Balasubramanian, Balamurugan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Balasubramanian=3ABalamurugan=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Design and implementation of a digital neural processor for detection applications.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The main focus of this research is to develop a digital neural network (processor) and hardware (VLSI) implementation of the same for detection applications, for example in the distance protection of power transmission lines. Using a hardware neural processor will improve the protection system performance over software implementations in terms of speed of operation, response time for faults etc. The main aspects of this research are software design, performance analysis, hardware design and hardware implementation of the digital neural processor. The software design is carried out by developing an object oriented neural network simulator with backpropagation training using C++ language. A preliminary analysis shows that the inputs to the neural network need to be preprocessed. Two filters have been developed for this purpose, based on the analysis of the training data available. The performance analysis involves studying quantization effects (determination of precision requirements) in the network. -- The hardware design involves design of the neural network and the preprocessors. The neural processor consists of three types of processing elements (neurons): input, hidden and output neurons. The input neurons form the input layer of the processor which receive input from the preprocessors. The input layer can be configured to directly receive external input by changing the mode of operation. The output layer gives the signal to the relay for tripping the line under fault. Each neuron consists of datapath and local control unit. Datapath consists of the components for forward and backward passes of the processor and the register file. The local control unit controls the flow of data within a neuron and co-ordinates with the global control unit which controls the flow of data between layers. The neurons and the layers are pipelined for improving the throughput of the processor. The neural processor and the filters are implemented in VLSI using hardware description language (VHDL) and Synopsys / Cadence CAD tools. All the components are individually verified and tested for their functionality and implemented using 0.5 μ CMOS technology.


identifier: Daly, Nora F. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Daly=3ANora_F=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Deirdre and the destruction of Emain Macha : Jungian archetypes and Irish drama.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis is a Jungian investigation of the dramatic treatment of the Deirdre legend at the birth of the Irish Renaissance. At the turn of the century, George Russell (A.E.), William Butler Yeats and John Millington Synge appreciated the potential cultural value of Irish archetypes inherent in the story of Deirdre and the destruction of Emain Macha. Though each of these dramatists interpreted the archetypal image of Deirdre in different ways, their three plays emerge as socio-cultural commentaries on contemporary Irish society. An archetypal investigation of these Deirdre versions elucidates each dramatists concern with the future of Irish culture, and their belief in the power of a pagan symbol to act as a beacon to guide the country in its quest for cultural unity. -- This paper begins with a detailed explanation of the oldest surviving Deirdre text entitled "Longes Mac N-Uislenn" from The Book of Leinster. Also discussed is "Oidheadh Chloinne Uisnigh" from the Glenmasan manuscript, for this text is pivotal in the legend's development. The next section is an exposition of Jung's theory of archetypes and how they apply to the Deirdre legend in general. -- Chapters three, four and five are commentaries on how Russell, Yeats and Synge used the archetypes inherent in the Deirdre legend to further their own personal agendas. I will argue that these dramatists did more than simply reintroduce Deirdre to Dublin audiences; rather they used her archetypal image to write cautionary tales. Their plays demonstrate how contemporary sectarian and political agitation could only lead to a modem, if metaphoric, "destruction of Emain Macha."


identifier: Smith, Tamara H. L. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Smith=3ATamara_H=2E_L=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2009) De novo DNA methyltransferases in zebrafish development.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: DNA methylation is a critical component of gene control, and is maintained by a family of of enzymes called the DNA methyltransferases. Methylation of CpG sequences promotes the formation of stably condensed, repressed chromatin. This process is important during development where DNA methylation is thought to have a role in lineage determination, X-chromosome inactivation, imprinting, and silencing of endogenous parasitic elements. -- Our aim is to examine the role of methylation in gene silencing during vertebrate development using the zebrafish as a model. To this end we have identified and isolated a number of de novo DNA methytransferase (dnmt3) gene sequences from the zebrafish (Danio redo) and determined the relative expression levels of each during a variety of developmental stages. The zebrafish has six de novo DNA methyltransferase genes as opposed to the three found in mammals. In order to characterize the roles of the dnmt genes we have performed knockdown analysis by morpholino injection. In addition we have treated embryos with a methylation blocker, 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine in order to examine effects of overall methylation disruption. Based on results from both of these approaches, we conclude that normal methylation is critical to notochord differentiation and development. Other processes where methylation may be relevant include heart, and central nervous system (CNS) development. Preliminary microarray experiments suggest a number of genes that are directly or indirectly regulated by methylation that may be pursued for further investigations of DNA methylation. -- This work will not only allow us to use the zebrafish to examine the role of methylation in vertebrate development, but also develop it as a well-suited model for examining diseases related to abnormal methylation.


identifier: Bashforth, Arden Roy <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Bashforth=3AArden_Roy=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Descriptive taxonomy, biostratigraphic correlation and paleoenvironmental reconstruction of an upper carboniferous macrofloral assemblage, Bay St. George Basin, Southwestern Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A diverse, well preserved macrofloral assemblage (herein termed the Blanche Brook Assemblage), which is characterized by large tree petrifactions of cordaitean affinity and an array of adpressed foliage that includes lycopsids, sphenopsids, ferns, pteridosperms and cordaiteans, has been recovered from coal-bearing strata of the Upper Carboniferous Barachois Group of the Bay St. George Basin, southwestern Newfoundland. The locality constitutes part of the northernmost onshore extent of the Maritimes Basin of eastern Canada, which developed on the southern margin of paleoequatorial Laurentia and is included in the Europe Paleoarea of the Euramerian Paleokingdom. Although the fossil site was initially investigated in the late 1800's, the present study comprises the first comprehensive taxonomic description and biostratigraphic correlation of the macrofloral assemblage, and provides an interpretation of the depositional environment and paleoecotogical conditions under which the flora flourished. -- Recovery of very well preserved cuticles exhibiting fine epidermal cellular details from adpressed cordaitean and pteridosperm foliage reflects the fact that fossiliferous strata have experienced very little deformation or burial metamorphism, and supports earlier claims that rocks in the northern part of the Bay St. George Basin and on Port au Port Peninsula are thermally immature. Paleoecological evidence and homotaxial biostratigraphic comparison of selected adpressed macroflora with other localities in the Europe Paleoarea (e.g., Maritimes Basin, western and central Europe, midcontinental North America) indicates that the assemblage is middle to late Bolsovian in age, which corroborates ages determined earlier from palynological studies. -- Fossiliferous and associated rocks in the stratigraphic succession are here subdivided and assigned to one of seven sublithofacies, each of which represents a distinct depositional environment characterized by its sedimentology and stratigraphy, vertical and lateral relationships with other sublithofacies, and plant fossil assemblages. The strata appear to record sediment accumulation in a coarse grained meandering stream system that occupied a narrow alluvial plain and was characterized by poorly developed levee/backlevees that were consequently overtopped or breached during frequent flood events. The distribution and relative abundances of taxa within each sublithofacies, including miospores recorded from associated coal seams, have been integrated with previously interpreted habitat preferences known for flora represented at the fossil site. This has resulted in construction of a working paleoenvironmental model for the Blanche Brook Assemblage, which indicates that there was considerable habitat partitioning and even competition for ecological niches between members of the five main plant groups in response to ecological preferences of each taxa. In particular, there is evidence for interspecific habitat partitioning within the medullosan pteridosperms occupying the floodplains and leveeftacklevees, while competition may also may existed between certain medullosan pteridosperms and sigillarian arborescent lycopsids for drier edaphic substrates in these habitats. Likewise, clastic swamps were inhabited by an array of flora, the composition of which depended on the rate of peat versus clastic sediment accumulation that resulted from frequent incursions of sediment-laden floodwaters.


identifier: Hayley, Michael <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hayley=3AMichael=3A=3A.html>   (2007) Biochemical analysis of toposome, a protein mediating membrane-membrane interactions in the sea urchin egg & embryo.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The yolk granule is the most abundant membrane-bound organelle present in sea urchin eggs and embryos. The major protein component of this organelle, major yolk protein/toposome, accounts for approximately 50% of the total yolk protein and has also been shown to be localized to the embryonic cell surface. Biochemical and cell biological analysis in several laboratories have defined a role for toposome in mediating membrane-membrane interactions. -- In this study we have examined calcium-toposome interaction. Increasing concentrations of calcium resulted in an increase in alpha helical content from 3.0 to 22.0%, which occurred with an apparent dissociation constant (calcium) of 25 μM. In parallel experiments, toposome binding to liposomes required similar concentrations of calcium; an apparent dissociation constant (calcium) of 25 μM was recorded. Endogenous tryptophan fluorescence measurements, both in the presence and absence of liposomes, demonstrated that toposome tertiary structure was sensitive to increasing concentrations of calcium with an apparent dissociation constant (calcium) of 240 μM. Toposome-driven, liposome aggregation demonstrated a similar calcium-concentration dependence. Interestingly, the secondary structural change was required to facilitate toposome binding to bilayers while the tertiary structural change correlated with toposome-driven, membrane-membrane interaction. -- We also showed that the thermal denaturation profile of toposome is dependent upon calcium. Following a calcium-induced change in secondary structure, toposome was increasingly resistant to thermal denaturation. However, the calcium-induced change in tertiary structure rendered toposome more susceptible to thermal denaturation when compared to toposome following the secondary structural change. We also performed chymotryptic digestions in the presence of varying concentrations of calcium. The calcium-induced, secondary structural change had no effect on the chymotryptic cleavage pattern. Similarly, following the tertiary structural change, the chymotryptic digestion profile again remained unchanged. Interestingly, the chymotryptic digestion pattern of toposome bound to phosphatidylserine liposomes did vary as a function of calcium concentration. -- In an effort to define the nature of the calcium binding sites on toposome, we investigated the interaction of this protein with various metal ions. Calcium, Mg²⁺, Ba²⁺, Cd²⁺, Mn²⁺ and Fe³⁺ all bound to toposome. In addition, Cd²⁺ and Mn²⁺ displaced Ca²⁺, prebound to toposome. -- Also in this study we have expanded the analysis of toposome-membrane interaction by probing for toposome-induced changes to the lipid bilayer. Solid-state ²H-NMR allowed us to define the nature of the association of toposome with the bilayer. We found that this protein interacts peripherally with the membrane and that this interaction is facilitated by the calcium-driven secondary structural change in toposome. In addition, we also examined the toposome-bilayer interaction using atomic force microscopy. In the absence of added calcium little or no binding of toposome occurred. In contrast, the calcium-induced secondary structural change caused significant binding of toposome to the bilayer. Following the calcium-induced tertiary structural change no further binding of protein to the bilayer was observed. -- We utilized immunogold labeling to define the subcellular localization of toposome in the sea urchin egg and embryo. In the unfertilized egg, toposome was found on the entire cell surface as well as stored in two different compartments, the yolk and cortical granules. Mitochondria and lipid vacuoles were not labeled. Label continued to be detected in the yolk granules and on the cell surface throughout development. -- Collectively, these results provide a structural basis for a previously described role for toposome in mediating biologically relevant, membrane-membrane interactions. Calcium was found to induce two calcium concentration-dependent structural transitions in toposome: the first structural change was required to facilitate toposome binding to the membrane, while the second structural change enabled this protein to drive membrane-membrane adhesive interactions.


identifier: Michaud, James <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Michaud=3AJames=3A=3A.html>   (1998) Deconstructing the representation of AIDS in poetry.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In poetry written about AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the contraction of the disease is continually divulged by explaining to which group the poet, as speaking subject, or the subject, as the individual about whom the poem is written, belongs. A homosexual, as subject or speaking subject in AIDS poetry, confesses the means of contraction of HIV to be gay sex. An intravenous drug abuser, as subject or speaking subject in AIDS poetry, confesses the sharing of syringes as the means of contraction. The subject or speaking subject's position within a socially-defined community or an identity group continually reaffirms the belief that AIDS only affects certain already-marginalized groups. Read individually, poems about AIDS continually marginalize the experience of those infected by failing to acknowledge the universality of AIDS from which, as Jacques Derrida explains, no human is ever safe (Derrida, 20). In my thesis, I will argue that the poetic representation of AIDS is informed by identity issues that resist universalizing the experience of AIDS.


identifier: Soulliere, Colleen Evelyn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Soulliere=3AColleen_Evelyn=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Anti-predator behaviour of maternal caribou (Rangifer tarandus) in west-central Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Caribou (Rangifer tarandus) calf survival largely depends on the physiological condition and behaviour of the mother, and her resulting ability to provide her calf with nourishment and protect her calf from harm. Calf mortality in Newfoundland's insular herds has increased dramatically in recent years, concurrent with a change in predator guild. Passive (vigilance) and active (response to disturbance) aspects of maternal anti-predator behaviour in the Gaff Topsail herd, west-central Newfoundland, were studied to gain an understanding of their implications for calf survival. -- The group-size effect on vigilance was only observed for adult female caribou engaged in foraging behaviour, indicating a foraging-vigilance trade-off exists (foraging increased and vigilance decreased when competition for local resources increased). Time-activity budgets did not differ between females with calves and those without; however, maternal caribou fed more intensely and were less frequently vigilant. When disturbed, maternal caribou were usually the first individuals to run and, particularly during the peri-calving season, separated from and ran further than other group members. -- Consistent with other evidence, this study supports the hypothesis that Newfoundland's insular caribou are currently facing nutrient stress. The reduction of vigilance in favour of foraging may additively contribute to predation vulnerability of calves. Aspects of maternal caribou response to disturbance indicate low levels of perceived safety but may increase calf vulnerability to stalking or coursing predators.


identifier: Dawood, Nabil Farah A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Dawood=3ANabil_Farah_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Behavior of steel reinforced concrete panels subjected to direct tension.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Cracking of massive concrete structures like offshore and nuclear power plants structures is an important issue in designing and maintaining such structures. The low tensile strength of concrete can destroy the structural aesthetics and expose steel reinforcements to severe environmental conditions, leading to corrosion of reinforcement and other deterioration. -- The present research investigation ultimately aims to investigate the general behavior of steel-reinforced normal- and high-strength concrete panels subjected to uniaxial and biaxial direct tension loading taking into consideration the effect of the set of parameters that have the most significant effect on the cracking response. This investigation includes experimental, theoretical, and numerical modeling phases for the cracking response. -- The experimental study incorporates the effect of some important parameters such as the concrete strength, bar diameter, bar spacing, concrete cover, and reinforcement ratio on the cracking response of concrete panels. To conduct the current experimental investigation, a special test setup was designed and fabricated. The loading system was equipped to make it possible to simultaneously apply loads in both directions. Results of the experimental work will be presented in terms of cracking behavior (cracking load, crack spacing, crack width, and crack pattern and the mode of failure), stresses and strains in concrete and steel reinforcement before and after cracking. -- Compared with NSC panels, HSC panels showed lower strains and greater tension stiffening response at a given load level thanks to the corresponding improvement of the bond between the reinforcing steel bars and the high strength concrete matrix. The panels tested under biaxial loading conditions showed lower concrete tensile strength and tension stiffening response, compared with the panels subjected to uniaxial loading conditions. This reduction in the tensile strength of concrete panels subjected to biaxial loading was found to be equal to 5% - 15%. The reduction of the tension stiffening contribution of concrete between cracks due to applying the axial into biaxial direction became more significant as the reinforcing bar diameter was increased. -- An analytical study was conducted to study the bond characteristics between concrete and steel reinforcing bars. Also, a practical and new analytical model, which is capable of predicting the crack spacing of orthogonally reinforced concrete plate panels, was developed. Afterwards, this study developed a model for evaluating crack widths for thick reinforced concrete plates subjected to in-plane axial loading. The calculation procedure was supported by an evaluation of existing test data. -- Finally, the nonlinear analysis of reinforced concrete plates using the damage plasticity model was performed. The tension stiffening model developed in this study was implemented to simulate the cracking response of the concrete. The numerical results show reasonable accuracy in predicting the behavior of steel-reinforced concrete panels.


identifier: Panting, Lynn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Panting=3ALynn=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Broken world, fragmented being : Marcel and the embodied aesthetic.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Brokenness saturates the finite realm that is human-being. The lion's share of twentieth century thinkers have responded to brokenness by tending towards violence and nihilism. In contrast, French Christian existentialist and playwright, Gabriel Marcel, does not. Marcel offers that brokenness is the threshold of human experience, not its totality. Marcel offers brokenness as the loving threshold of human experience, not its meaningless conclusion. My thesis attempts to locate Marcel in the dialogue of twentieth century philosophy and aims to point to his thought as a viable alternative to brutality and ego.


identifier: Kelso, Julia <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kelso=3AJulia=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Death and real estate : a study of the impact of death beliefs on real estate values.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The purpose of this thesis is to examine the means by which death beliefs impact home-purchasing decisions; specifically in terms of the decision whether or not to buy a house in which a death has taken place. This is achieved by approaching the subject from several angles including legal issues, emotive reactions to residing in close proximity to a recent death, a comparison of haunted house imagery in popular culture with the expressed beliefs and fears of my informants, feelings about shared space between the living and the dead, and the power which rumour can exert on a property's value in response to these beliefs. -- The means used to investigate this subject includes interviewing real estate agents-primarily in St. John's, Newfoundland--as well as a number of persons who are actual or potential home-owners as to their experiences, feelings and thoughts on the issue of living in a home where one or more persons have died. In the case of real estate agents interviews concentrated on the sale of such homes, as well as real estate agents feelings about this topic. In addition to interviews, I have explored the literature available on the questions of death, belief, haunted houses and ghosts, among other topics, including an exhaustive study of the state of both US and Canadian Real Estate Industries in regards to the problem of property which has been "psychologically impacted" or "stigmatized" by deaths or other non-material events. -- While there exists a growing awareness in the United States and Canada of the issue of stigmatized property and those things which can introduce such a stigma, there is not an equal growth of understanding of the beliefs of buyers. While the concept of "caveat emptor"-buyer beware-is being replaced by disclosure laws in both countries in regards to physical problems, the concept is only newly being applied to psychological damage. This thesis examines the extent of folk-belief which supports disclosure developments in real estate law.


identifier: Saif, Sadia. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Saif=3ASadia=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2009) An integrated approach for assessing human health risk in process facility.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Chemical process industries are often prone to undesired incidences and accidents. Release of toxic chemicals is one of such incidences which may lead to human health hazard resulting in potential loss in process facility. In order to prevent these unwanted health effects process safety management programmes (PSM) are adopted. Process safety management involves a systematic evaluation of hazards and necessary measures to mitigate them. Continuous monitoring and effective approaches for risk modeling may prevent these catastrophic situations. The present study is conducted by developing the methodology to assess the human health risk in process facility using quantitative methods, available data and standards. -- Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) is a process of identifying and evaluating the risk. The application of QRA in process facility involves development of methods and techniques to assess and minimize the risk as well as to help analyzing the undesired incidences together with the related consequences. Two types of approaches of QRA are presently being used for human health risk assessment. One is deterministic approach and the other is probabilistic approach. Probabilistic approach provides better estimates in certain cases where uncertainties are involved. -- Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA) is a reliable method to quantify human health risk. This involves characterization of human health risk considering the uncertainty and variability of exposure parameters. Probabilistic analysis allows to gather information about the range and likelihood of exposure and helps decision makers to take further decision. In addition to that, Bayesian probability analysis has also been used for developing a risk model to characterize the human health risk. -- In this thesis an integrated approach to assess human health risk is described and applied for past and current exposure data directly extracted from secondary sources. First, the hazards were identified and represented based on chronic studies. Again, the mixed chemical exposure is analyzed using two established statistical methods and available epidemiological information. Two exposure-response models are developed applying these data. Subsequently, the toxicity of the chemicals are assessed applying BMD approach to derive the toxicity values, the toxicity score of the chemicals as well as a safe exposure level for workplace using experimental animal data. And, finally a risk model has been developed to quantify the human health risk applying the Bayesian Monte Carlo Analysis. This  risk model predicts risk using past and current exposure data. The past exposure data is the mortality data of worker from the Clydach Wales nickel refinery and the current exposure considers the high risk operations (High temperature operations and feed preparation) in process facility.  The risk model compares the human health risks from past and present nickel exposure. The sensitivity report is represented using the risk models and Advanced Monte Carlo Simulation of Latin Hypercube Sampling (LHS) which describes the relative importance of exposure parameters quantifying risk.


identifier: Browne, Jennifer M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Browne=3AJennifer_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1999) An internship report including an evaluation of the student work and service program at Memorial University.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This report describes a twelve week internship at The Centre for Career Development at Memorial University of Newfoundland. The following chapters will describe the goals and objectives of the internship, relate the measures that were taken to achieve the desired outcomes and describe a qualitative research study on the current Student Work and Service Program (Memorial University component). Chapter One provides an overview of activities that provided the intern with valuable insight into the field of career development. The remaining chapters explore low-income student parents' experiences on post secondary campuses with Chapter Two highlighting current literature on this student population, as well as a history of the Student Work and Service Program and how it has evolved to its current condition. Chapter Three describes a qualitative research study on the Student Work and Service Program (SWASP) that was conducted by the intern. This research explored the feelings of seven participants in SWASP and attempted to determine if it was achieving its original goals and objectives. Finally, Chapter Four provides a conclusion on the topic, as well as recommendations for the program and further research.


identifier: Tite, Heather <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Tite=3AHeather=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Constructing vulnerability: a feminist analysis of Health Canada's population health strategies.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In recent years, the activities of Canadians have become a major focus of Health Canada and other regulatory agencies, and significant resources have been allocated to examining and modifying people's lifestyles and behaviour patterns. Diet, fitness, exercise, friendship patterns, sexual behaviour, educational experience, drug and alcohol use, community involvement, political behaviour, and so on, have all fallen under intense scrutiny. This scrutiny has resulted in the creation of a multitude of programmes, policies and interventions designed to target specific 'vulnerable populations' and limit what are seen as 'high risk' behaviours. In particular, the perceived links between gender, risk and vulnerability have become key concerns of both policy makers and feminist researchers and activists in the field of health care. Indeed, many feminist researchers and activists have applauded this population health approach as a practical tool for reducing gender disparities in health status. Unfortunately, despite this growing interest, the political ramifications of targeting specific 'vulnerable' populations and 'at-risk' behaviours in the context of health and health care have not been given sufficient scholarly attention. Through an interrogation of the publicly accessible population health documents produced by Health Canada this grounded theory study investigates (1) how the definitions of vulnerability and risk have evolved over time, as demonstrated by the public documents produced by Health Canada, and to what extent these terms are gendered, (2) to what extent health promotion can be seen as a political act that affects women, and, (3) what sort of power relations valuations of lifestyles and behaviours create between citizens, between citizens and the State, and particularly between women and the State. The overall concern of this thesis is to explore the implications that the population health approach has for women with regard to their expectations for full membership in the polity. The findings suggest that, far from being a 'common-sense' approach to removing health disparities, the population health approach has severe political implications for women and other vulnerable populations. A key finding of this study is the link between the development of the population health approach and the expansion of an active federal presence in the management of health and health care in Canada. In this context, the categories of vulnerability and risk appear more as a means of expanding federal regulative practices than as a component of a social justice project. Thus, this grounded theory study argues that the use of predefined categories of vulnerability and risk, the negative valuations of behaviours and lifestyles that are embedded within these categories, and the persistent link between vulnerability, risk and targeted populations operate as a subtle exclusionary process wherein women, and other identified vulnerable populations are disenfranchised.


identifier: Banzhaf, Pia <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Banzhaf=3APia=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Das Streben nach Erkenntnis als Weg zur Selbsterlösung in Hermann Brochs Tierkreis-Erzählungen.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Ein Interpretationsversuch der Tierkreis-Erzählungen Hermann Brochs auf dem Hintergrund seiner gnostischen Gedankenwelt enthüllt uns Brochs einzigartige Stellung innerhalb der zeitgenössischen Kunst. Brochs zunächst hermetisch erscheinende Dichtung wird im Spannungsfeld von Suche, Erkenntnis und Erlösung verständlicher. Platonische Gleichnisse, gnostische Denkfiguren, und psychoanalytische Motive geben sich in diesen Erzählungen die Hand. Brochs besondere Sprache verbindet sie zu einem farbigen Teppich und hebt durch seine Erzählweise die Zeit auf. Im Kontrast mit anderen Künstlern der Avantgarde seiner Zeit wird deutlich, dass Broch kein weltflüchtiger Dichter ist, sondern dass seine Dichtung Ausdruck seines Ringens mit der ihm selbstgestellten Aufgabe ist, zur Erlösung der Menschheit beizutragen. -- Taking into account the author's gnostic beliefs, an interpretation of Hermann Broch's Tierkreis-Erzählungen reveals his singular position among his contemporaries. Although Broch's literature seems hermetic at first, it opens itself to the reader in the dynamic triangle of search, knowledge, and salvation. In these novellas, platonic allegories, gnostic thought patterns, and psychoanalytical motives are intricately intertwined. They create a rich mythical tapestry in which Broch essentially suspends time through his particular narrative style. In contrast to other avant-garde artists and thinkers of his time, Broch does not wish to flee the world. Instead, his works bring to light his ongoing efforts to save the world.


identifier: Hancock, Amanda Jane <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hancock=3AAmanda_Jane=3A=3A.html>   (2010) An exploration of HIV testing policy and services through a social justice lens.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluate the congruence between HIV testing policies and everyday testing practices in a small urban centre in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). Social justice principles were used to explore the challenges associated with anonymous testing in a small urban centre and how current service delivery practices may be affecting "at-risk" populations and other test seekers who require a higher degree of confidentiality. Framed within a constructivist epistemology, qualitative description was used to determine data collection and analysis strategies. The findings are presented within an expanded social determinants of health framework, which emphasizes health inequalities as a driver of poor health outcomes. Data were collected from four testing sites using individual interviews and a document review of policy-related documents. A reflexive journal was logged throughout data collection and used for verification during analysis, which included thematizing, diagramming and coding. -- The applicable legislation was the Communicable Diseases Act, which requires name based reporting. Participants interpreted anonymous testing as being illegal according to this legislation. Findings demonstrated a history of offering anonymous testing at all testing sites and present-day practices that fit the definition of anonymous testing, but were referred to in official policy and understood by participants as being non-nominal. An alternate definition of anonymous testing is proposed where contact information is not requested or recorded and pre- and post-test counseling is delivered face-to-face. Redefining the provision of HIV testing services in this way supports the call to increase the visibility of social justice in Canadian public health policy. Eighteen recommendations are offered to guide this legislative and policy change.


identifier: Marland, Alexander J. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Marland=3AAlexander_J=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1998) Constituency campaigning : a review of the literature and a case study of Ottawa Centre, 1997.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study assesses the effectiveness of traditional campaign activities known as constituency campaigning. It comprises a comprehensive review of the literature and a single-district case study. -- The literature review incorporates scientific conclusions with an assessment of practitioners' beliefs. Because few examinations of constituency campaigning have been conducted in Canada, conclusions are also drawn from British and American research. The investigation considers the effects of traditional activities such as canvassing and literature distribution, while investigating variables such as incumbency, personal voting, marginal contests, and technological innovations. The section is organized as a series of propositions, which are diversely supported by evidence in the literature. -- The case study includes a descriptive overview of the 1997 federal election contest in Ottawa Centre, and four waves of structured interviews with a representative panel of voters. This is supplemented by qualitative data collected from the panel, candidate interviews, and an assessment of candidate returns. The analysis concludes that although local newspapers indicated an intense constituency contest, local issues were not significant in determining voter choice. Local campaign effort also had little demonstrable effect, and the least active campaign was most rational from a cost-benefit standpoint. -- However, Ottawa Centre was not a close contest. The final chapter argues that local campaign efforts were likely to be more rational in marginal districts across the country in 1997 and other elections.


identifier: Hogan, Joanne <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hogan=3AJoanne=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Deductive reasoning in Euclidean geometry : an intermediate level unit.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Proof has traditionally been the touchstone of mathematics. It is at the heart of mathematics as students explore, make conjectures, and try to convince themselves and others about the truth or falsity of such conjectures. Reasoning is a necessary component if proving is seen as explaining deductively. By its nature, proof should promote understanding and as such can be a valuable part of the curriculum. Yet students and teachers often find the study of proof difficult, and a debate within mathematics education is currently underway about the extent to which proof should play a role in mathematics. A reexamination of the role and nature of proof in the curriculum is needed. -- This project is designed with the purpose of creating occasions for deductive reasoning while following the provincial curriculum objectives as outlined for intermediate mathematics students in Newfoundland and Labrador. It builds upon the two documents produced by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM): the Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics (1989) and the Professional Standards for Teaching Mathematics (1991). -- The project consists of a unit plan for Euclidean Geometry at the intermediate level. It stresses a method of teaching deductive reasoning that highlights student involvement and teacher facilitation. A case has been made for establishing a classroom atmosphere that encourages students to explore and investigate geometry problems, to ask questions, to engage in divergent thinking, and to use logical reasoning to develop convincing arguments (NCTM, 1992). This project capitalizes on the opportunities such topics provide to bring deductive reasoning into the intermediate mathematics class. The aim is to offer teachers a resource that supports the instruction of deductive reasoning in their own classrooms.


identifier: Roberts, Kara D. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Roberts=3AKara_D=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Assessing the impact of an exposure-based intervention on elementary students' liking, willingness to try and tasting of three new fruits.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study sought to assess elementary students' liking, willingness to try and tasting of three fruits introduced through their school's breakfast program. Students (n=325) from seven schools completed pre-tested questionnaires asking if they liked and were willing to try three test fruits [time 0]. These questionnaires were repeated eight weeks later [time 1]. Students were then offered each fruit 1x/week for eight weeks. Students completed the same questionnaires after this intervention [time 2] and after a 10 week follow-up period [time 3]. Fifty-seven percent (571/1002) of students returned signed parental/guardian consent forms. Of these students, 57% (325/571) completed all four sets of questionnaires. Although no significant increases in liking and willingness to try the test fruits were found, trends suggest the intervention may improve school children's tasting of the fruits offered. Recommendations from this study may be useful when designing future research of this nature.


identifier: Bolger, Gregory S. (Gregory Shane) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Bolger=3AGregory_S=2E_=28Gregory_Shane=29=3A=3A.html>   (2008) An extension of aversive racism theory: are Asian students judged guiltier of academic misconduct than their caucasian counterparts?  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Dovidio and Gaertner's (2004) aversive racism theory was tested on a sample of students (96.5% Caucasian) at Memorial University of Newfoundland. A Pilot study (Study 1) revealed no aversive racism against Asian targets. In Study 2, first-year social science students (128 women, 63 men, 3 of gender unspecified) made judgments about the guilt of a Caucasian, an Asian, or an 'International student' target featured in one of three scenarios prejudged as Low, Moderate, or High in level of academic dishonesty. Participants judged the Asian target as guiltier of academic dishonesty than the Caucasian target in the Moderate and High-guilt scenario conditions. The significant differences found here are, however, to be interpreted cautiously. Given that nine planned comparisons were performed on the data, the possibility of Type I error is greatly increased. There is no conclusive evidence that aversive racism was found in the sample of students surveyed in this research.


identifier: Doyle, Mary Ellen <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Doyle=3AMary_Ellen=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Coping with stress: the counseling psychology internship.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This is a qualitative research study that investigates the manner in which five Masters of Education, Counseling Psychology students, Faculty of Education Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN), experienced and coped with stress during their internship. The study asks the following questions: what are the causes of stress, how does stress manifest itself, and what do interns do to cope with stress? -- The interns listed a variety of stressors. The lists can be generally placed under stressors from outside the internship and stressors inside the internship. It was surprising to discover the extent of the stress experienced by the participants during their internships as all interns experienced high levels of stress for a prolonged period of time. Manifestations of stress included many physical and emotional symptoms. Coping strategies ranged from de-stressing by engaging in communication with a significant other to taking a day off when the stress level was at its highest.


identifier: MacNeil, Tammy Maria <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/MacNeil=3ATammy_Maria=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Appropriating Plath: reclaiming the role of author in Ted Hughes's Birthday letters.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The 1998 publication of Birthday Letters by Ted Hughes marked the first time the poet had publicly addressed his marriage to American poet Sylvia Plath. In writing Birthday Letters, Hughes drew on the breadth of his poetic career, from the nature imagery of his early work to the shamanistic methods of poetic creation of his middle career to the translation of existing works that dominated the last decade of his life. Elements of each of these areas of interest can be found in the collection which functions as a creative translation of Plath's work. In particular, by openly borrowing material from Plath's Ariel , Hughes is able to enter into a dialogue with the source text and regain some measure of authorship over the story of his own life.


identifier: Handrigan, Grant <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Handrigan=3AGrant=3A=3A.html>   (2008) An investigation into the biomechanical characteristics and physiological cost of three standardized pulling tasks.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The purpose of this study is to measure energy expenditure and trunk kinematics while performing three standardized pulling tasks. It is hypothesized that as the height of pulling increases (handle height) energy expenditure and trunk kinematics will change to reflect this. In order to accomplish this research twelve female and seventeen male subjects from a university aged population participated in the study. The subjects were instructed to pull at three heights (hip, shoulder, eye) at a rate of ten pulls per minute, for a period of 10 minutes (one hundred total pulls). The load was fixed at 15% of the subject's absolute body mass. Based on previous research, subjects were instructed to assume a standardized fixed foot position. This was performed in order to control the foot positioning while performing the pulling task. Statistics . The data set was verified to satisfy assumptions inherent with a repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Where main effects existed, a Bonferroni pairwise comparison was performed to determine significance. Results . Statistical significance was obtained for energy expenditure, sagittal displacement and twisting velocity. Hip pulling energy expenditure was lower than shoulder and eye pulling energy expenditure (7% and 11%, respectively, p< 0.05). Finally, twisting velocity at hip and shoulder pulling were 30% and 36% (p< 0.05) than twisting velocity at eye pulling. Hip pulling involves less sagittal displacement than shoulder (p=.004) and eye (p=0.001) by 37% and 46%, respectively. Conclusion . Physiological data indicate that all three heights of pulling are characterized as 'light' work and a slight increase in energy expenditure was apparent as the pulling height increased. This change in trunk kinematic movement strategies from a predominantly twisting motion at hip height to a forward/backward flexion at eye height leads to an increase in energy expenditure in inexperienced individuals.


identifier: Porter, Leon K. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Porter=3ALeon_K=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1998) Critical reflective thinking in Euclidean geometry for grade nine mathematics students.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The vision of the mathematics classroom that is presented in the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics (1989) has inspired many of us to want to change the way in which we teach. Indeed, the NCTM has said that many of the mathematics classrooms need to change as transmission models of teaching no longer fit what we know about the teaching and learning process. Learning is no longer viewed as a passive exercise and many have come to believe that students must think, be mentally active, generate meaning, and construct their own understanding. -- This however, is not a sudden realization as Dewey (1933) and Polya (1957), for example, have both recognized the power of reflection and the need for purposeful critical thinking. Polya (1987) noted that as teachers what we need to teach is purposeful thinking (Dossey, 1988). Polya (1987) also claims that such thinking can be identified with problem solving (Taback, 1992). John Dossey, the President of the NCTM, has stated that the knowledge, skills, attitudes and purposeful thinking discussed in Polya's publications of 1945,1954 and 1962 have provided the foundation for their work as a Council (Dossey, 1988). Thus, this change called for by the NCTM is not so much of a new initiative in theory as it is in practice. -- Likewise, this project is grounded in similar theory and signifies a shift away from the transmissive practices of the past. It signifies a shift towards a more transformative way of thinking and away from textbook learning, rote memorization and the mastery of traditional school subjects through traditional methodologies.  This project is not a research paper but is instead an alternate unit of Euclidean Geometry which requires an alternate teaching style. It is something that other teachers can lay hands on and use in their classroom as a means of promoting critical reflection and higher order thinking skills. While this unit may represent a transition in approach it does reflect the changes called for - and the standards of - the NCTM (1989) and the Intermediate Mathematics Curriculum Guide (1995) Thus, it is the general purpose of this unit to implement those changes in an environment of cooperative learning. The unit will introduce students to the dynamics of group structure, encourage students to reflect and employ a problem centred discovery approach to mathematics. -- As Vermette (1994) states, "cooperative learning is a powerful and engaging strategy worthy of thoughtful implementation by all high school teachers" (p.38). Conard (1988) goes even further and suggests that cooperative learning methods are important not only for academic achievement but also for our survival as human beings in a complex world. Indeed, several cooperative learning models have been developed for use as teaching tools however, the model employed in this unit resembles what Sharan and Sharan (1990) describe as group investigation. -- The unit is based on critical reflection, problem solving and communication and thus literature reviews are provided for each. There is also a literature review on the process of change as this unit does represent a change for both student and teacher. Chapter Three, titled Methodology, provides a brief description and analysis of the unit whereas Chapter Four is the complete unit itself. The project then concludes with reflections on my experiences with the unit and suggestions for prospective users.


identifier: Zargar, Amin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Zargar=3AAmin=3A=3A.html>   (2009) An operation-based approach to the communication of spatial data quality in GIS.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Spatial data used in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are prone to uncertainties that can undermine their usability. Improving the GIS users' awareness of these uncertainties requires improvements in the management and communication of the quality information provided with spatial data. Current tools for communicating data quality information in commercial GIS are rudimentary, and alternative tools--mainly developed and applied in academia--remain to be implemented in commercial GIS.  -- This work develops an alternative operation-based approach to the communication of quality information in GIS. Communicating quality information is studied in the context of GIS operations. A review of GIS operations, one of the main components in GIS applications is performed. Based on the study of GIS operations and quality information, a conceptual link is established between the two components. Using this link, a system is designed to retrieve and communicate applicable quality elements to GIS users. The designed system is then implemented as a prototype in a commercial GIS software, and its usefulness is tested among GIS users.


identifier: Kuefler, Brent William Andrew <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kuefler=3ABrent_William_Andrew=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Continuity and change : Moose Cree relationships with geese.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis examines the continuity that exists within an Aboriginal hunting tradition when confronted with changing social, economic, and cultural conditions. Through a study of the goose hunting practices of the Moose Cree First Nation of Moose Factory, Ontario I argue that Aboriginal hunting practices can change materially but still remain culturally important and consistent with traditional beliefs. Through an analysis of data collected through interviews with goose hunters and participant observation, I show that members of the MCFN have a 'logic of engagement' with geese premised upon an ideology of respect for geese as non-human persons. Changes that affect goose hunting are incorporated into hunting practice in ways that allow the MCFN to maintain respectful relationships with geese. This logic of engagement is learned by children through a process of apprenticeship on the land where they learn and come to embody the cosmologies and environmental philosophies of the MCFN.


identifier: Fatemi Booshehri, Seyed Mehdi <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Fatemi_Booshehri=3ASeyed_Mehdi=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Concurrencey in DES and A class of hybrid systems : theory and computation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis explains the general concurrency of discrete event systems (DES), and then extends it to hybrid systems. To this end, firstly, a theoretical extension with n-ary structure is considered for the concurrency of a group of DES in the presence of specifications. A new concept (called map) is then introduced to meet a particular class of specifications, which are based upon both events and states. The map will be used to develop the n-ary synchronous product composition to a new composition rule, called accommodating synchronous product (ASP), which can implement the mentioned class of specifications. -- Moreover, the DES concepts will be extended to a class of hybrid dynamical systems, whose concurrency is allowed to happen exclusively in the logical part. In such systems, a continuous dynamics (a physical behaviour) generates an event which then is passed to a DES to cause a transition (if any). -- In the last part, a MATLAB-based software has been developed as the testbed for the theory and algorithms described throughout the thesis. The software has been designed with the consideration of object-oriented design, vectorization, and compatibility with standard DES software. Based on its structure and a variety of different methods, it can be used for manipulating and exploring both concurrent DES and concurrent hybrid systems. Finally, the concepts presented in the thesis will be demonstrated in an extensive computational example solved by the software.


identifier: Fay, Amelia E. M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Fay=3AAmelia_E=2E_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Creating a community archaeology in Nain.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Community-based approaches have become increasingly common within the discipline of archaeology, employing a variety of different research methods. This thesis explores how a community archaeology framework can be adapted and applied to research involving the community of Nain in northern Labrador. With increased interest in the north, the newly appointed Torngat Mountains National Park Reserve (2007) and recently formed Nunatsiavut Government (2005), Nain is experiencing an influx of researchers and government interest due to its location as the northernmost community in Labrador and its prominence within Nunatsiavut's structure. As such, Nain is an ideal community in which to explore the potential for future involvement in archaeological research and collaboration with university researchers. -- This thesis presents the results of interviews with community Elders and general opinions on the practice of archaeology in the region and future involvement with the community. The creation of a website, North of Nain Archaeology, provides information on current researchers and their projects within the region and will hopefully increase interest in the potential for collaborative projects in the future.


identifier: Chafe, Roger <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Chafe=3ARoger=3A=3A.html>   (2008) An examination of three types of health care resource allocation decisions.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: There is increased focus, both in Canada and internationally, on the processes by which health care resources are allocated. This study examines a set of resource allocation decisions to determine how these decisions are currently being made and identify the specific concerns decision makers have about resource allocation in these areas. Specifically, the project examines how decisions involving endovascular coiling, MRIs, and powered upper limb prostheses are made in three Canadian provinces: Alberta, Newfoundland, and Saskatchewan. The overall aims of the project are: 1) to identify how these decisions are currently made, 2) to compare how these decisions are made in the different service areas and in the different provinces, and 3) to recommend ways to improve current allocation processes. -- With its focus on complex allocation processes, the project adopts a case study approach. The cases were developed using 43 key informant interviews and reviews of existing materials. The study found that many of the reforms proposed in the academic literature are often difficult to apply in real world situations, due to the multiple levels of decision makers, the transferability of decision making authority across decision makers and institutional history. -- Given that the processes for allocating resources are often developed through and in response to the unique history and culture of the institutions in question, it is also difficult to develop decision aids that are applicable over a wide range of sites. Maintaining established and familiar processes, even those not consistent with the types of decision aids recommended in the academic literature, may be the most efficient way of allocating resources for many organizations. The main implication of these conclusions is that improving the processes for allocating resources is likely going to require more institutionally-specific and area-of-care-specific reforms than researchers in this area have previously proposed.


identifier: Obradovich, Shannon Grace <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Obradovich=3AShannon_Grace=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Bottom-up forcing of growth and condition changes in Northwest Atlantic capelin (Mallotus villosus) during the 1990s : evidence from feeding indices.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: I investigated the persistence of changes in the biology of capelin (Mallotus villosus) of the northern Grand Banks ecosystem, in relation to the food web and other species. Comparisons of condition, size, and diet for capelin from the northern Grand Banks, northeastern Scotian Shelf and northern Gulf of St. Lawrence demonstrated that a lack of large zooplankton (euphausiids) in the Grand Banks capelin diet, following the cold period of the early 1990s, resulted in reduced growth (i.e. stunting) and condition. Examination of diet and stable isotope signatures of capelin and northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis) revealed no evidence of significant overlap in prey consumption. Thus, the increase in the abundance and distribution of pandalid shrimps during the 1990s likely did not contribute to the changes in capelin biology and feeding. All evidence pointed to bottom-up, not top-down, forcing of changes in capelin biology.


identifier: Owolabi, Gbadebo Moses <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Owolabi=3AGbadebo_Moses=3A=3A.html>   (2001) Crack identification procedures in beams using experimental modal analysis.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Identification of defects in structures and components is an important aspect in decision making about their repair and retirement. Failure to detect the faults has various consequences, and they vary based on the application, and importance of the structures, and components. -- In recent years, significant efforts have been devoted in developing non-destructive techniques for damage identification in structures. The work reported in this thesis was on the experimental investigations of the effects of a crack on beams with fixed and simply supported end conditions, with a view to detecting, quantifying and determining its extent and location. Two sets of aluminum beams were used for this experimental study. Each set consisted of seven beams, the first set had fixed ends, and the second set was simply supported. Cracks were initiated at seven different locations from one end to the other end along the length of the beam for each set, with crack depths ratio ranging from 0.1d to 0.7d (d was the beam depth) in steps of 0.1, at each crack location. Measurements of the acceleration frequency responses at seven different points on each beam model were taken using a dual channel frequency analyzer. The measured responses were curve-fitted using a STAR Structural Analysis Software package running on a PC. The results obtained were tabulated, plotted, and discussed in this thesis. -- The damage detection schemes used in this study depended on changes in the first three natural frequencies, the abrupt changes in slopes of the mode shapes near the crack location and changes in the peak amplitudes of the mode shapes. From the observations made, a method was suggested for locating the extent and position of the crack. The fundamental principle of this technique is the fact that the dynamic response of a structure changes when it is damaged. Measurements of these changes can be used as a diagnostic tool when the relationships between the dynamic properties of a structure change, and the damage is established analytically or experimentally. -- The experimental results obtained were compared with theoretical results obtained in an earlier study and found to compare very well.


identifier: Pérez, J. M. (José M.) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Pe==0301rez=3AJ=2E_M=2E_=28Jose==0301_M=2E=29=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Associations among selected physico-chemical parameters and Simuliidae (Diptera) from 23 lake-outlet sites in Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The association between anthropogenic inputs, often the result of human activity within a watershed, and the structure of the simuliid community were investigated. The environmental analyses showed statistically significant regional and site differences related to the chemical stream variables, but the approach used showed no statistically significant differences in the physical stream variables, except for proximate vegetative cover and physical disturbance scores. The site differences in St. John's were attributed to urbanisation, but the site differences in the other regions could not be associated to specific environmental variables. -- Simuliids were selected for study because they have a passive filter-feeding stage which is susceptible to disturbances associated with increased human activities within a watershed and natural disturbances associated with stream processes. These relationships were investigated using 21 environmental variables correlated to pooled taxa richness, pooled taxa abundance, and final-instar head capsule size using univariate and multivariate statistical methods. -- The biological analyses showed no statistically significant differences in the pooled taxa richness and pooled taxa abundance per region. However, there were statistically significant site differences in the pooled taxa richness and pooled taxa abundance. These differences were correlated to SO₄²⁻, K⁺, Zn²⁺, and Cu²⁺ concentrations. The multivariate analyses, which statistically grouped chemical, physical, and biological variables into composite variables, showed a negative correlation between principal components Environmental Factor III (SO₄²⁻ and Cu²⁺ ion concentrations) and Presence/Absence Factor I (absence of Simulium decorum, S. tuberosum, Eusimulium canonicolum, Stegoptema mutata, and Prosimulium mixtum/fuscum complex). Principal component Environmental Factor III was also negatively correlated to principal component Abundance Factor I (scarcity of P. mixtum/fuscum complex, Cnephia omithophilia, and Simulium tuberosum, and Simulium vittatum). Principal components Environmental Factor II (stream order, average velocity, substrate type, and stream width) and Environmental Factor V (physical disturbance score) were positively and negatively correlated to principal component Abundance Factor II respectively (abundance of Simulium venustum/verecundum complex and E. furculatum, and scarcity of E. craigi/caledonense complex). Final-larval instars of S. vittatum had significantly larger mean head capsules than St. mutata than P. mixtum/fuscum complex. Final-larval instars collected from sites located in the lower reaches of a watershed had smaller mean head capsules compared to final-larval instars collected from the upper reaches which were more variable in size. The pooled taxa richness, pooled taxa abundance, and final-larval instar size of simuliids were useful in detecting environmental differences among regions and sites. However, it was difficult to distinguish among regions and sites with low-to-moderate or variable environmental conditions as in the case of Bonavista, Random Island, and Come-by-Chance.


identifier: Brown, Tanya <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Brown=3ATanya=3A=3A.html>   (2007) Benthic biology of two near-shore arctic locations, and potential impacts of sea level change, coastal erosion, and climate change.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Near-shore benthic communities can undergo shifts in abundance and biodiversity in response to climate change especially changes in surface temperature, productivity, and geomorphology. One of the most dramatic effects is habitat modification: coastal erosion lead to increased deposition of sediment. Factors driving coastal erosion include isostatic sea-level rise and a variety of climatic change impacts, including reduced sea ice cover, increased summer rainfall, increased thawing of permafrost, and eustatic sea-level rise. -- Benthic communities were studied in two near-shore Arctic locations (Sachs Harbour and Gjoa Haven) associated with different degrees of coastal erosion. Sachs Harbour has a submergent shoreline with locally rapid coastal erosion. By contrast Gjoa Haven has an emergent shoreline with very little to no coastal erosion. Grab and drop-video were used to conduct benthic surveys of the two locations and detailed habitat maps were produced. Species richness was significantly greater in Gjoa Haven than in Sachs Harbour. Species composition differed greatly among locations and varied significantly among substrate types for grab and depth classes for video. Shallow (<10 m) mobile sand sheets with low biodiversity were the dominant habitat sampled in Sachs Harbour. Gravelly-sand or mud substrates (10-20 m) with high cover of macroalgae had the greatest biodiversity in Gjoa Haven. Macroalgae beds were found throughout the Gjoa Haven study area providing abundant food and shelter to benthic fauna. This high diversity is due to the heterogeneity of the substrate. Lastly, Gjoa Haven's sediment starved near-shore environment makes for a stable environment compared to Sachs Harbour near-shore environment, which receives a continuous supply of sediment as a result of coastal erosion and runoff. -- This study establishes a detailed baseline for two near-shore Arctic locations. Given the rapidity with which the Arctic ecosystems are changing this study will be valuable in designing future studies of biodiversity, and will enable detection of future climate driven change in near-shore arctic environments.


identifier: Harlick, Stephanie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Harlick=3AStephanie=3A=3A.html>   (1998) Cruelty towards children in Theban traditional tales.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Children frequently appear as characters in Greek traditional tales, usually as the objects of cruel treatment. The purpose of this thesis is to identify some of the more important tales which involve cruelty towards children, to examine the role of children in these tales, and to consider the relationship between adults and children in them. The ultimate goal is to identify the main function or functions of children in the tales. -- This thesis concentrates on those stories which center around Thebes, a place rich in traditional tales. Stories from other places are discussed where appropriate and which demonstrate that the acts of cruelty towards children were common throughout Greek traditional tales. -- The introductory chapter outlines the purpose of the thesis, and the scope of the investigation is set out through a classification of various types of cruelty towards children that occur in the tales. The tale of Niobe, who is portrayed by several authors as suffering endlessly, is used as an example to demonstrate cruelty towards children. -- The tales which are discussed in this thesis have been divided into three classifications, to each of which a chapter is devoted: 1) the abduction of children; 2) the abandonment and exposure of children; and 3) the murder of children. The analysis identifies different kinds of sources for each tale (e.g. tragedy, comedy, epic, drama, philosophy, mythography, the visual arts). Variations within the same tale that are important for this study are also considered. Conclusions which the evidence reveals concerning the role of children in Theban traditional tales are then drawn.


identifier: Maddigan, Darryl <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Maddigan=3ADarryl=3A=3A.html>   (2009) A licence for survival: exploring structure, agency and power within Newfoundland and Labrador's shellfish processing industry.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Following the 1992 cod moratorium, many fishing dependent communities on Newfoundland's Avalon Peninsula were forced to switch prey species in an attempt to achieve some measure of economic and social recovery. Many turned to harvesting shellfish, however, the shellfish industry provided fewer employment opportunities than the ground fishery, and subsequently, there was an increased demand for licences to process the newly targeted species. -- This thesis utilizes a case study to examine the process through which crab licences are allocated in Newfoundland and Labrador. More specifically, I conduct a sociological inquiry into how the licencing system operates by exploring the complex interplay between structure, agency, and power within the relationships of the system's three major players; communities, processing firms, and the provincial government. -- Utilizing an approach to structure, agency, and power similar to that of Anthony Giddens, Peter Berger, and Michel Foucault, as well as studies into small scale fishery survival, I propose a power hierarchy among the major social actors with communities at the bottom and the provincial government at the top. Position in the hierarchy is determined by the constraining and enabling effects of the social structure as well as each group's ability to access the social and cultural resources inherent to membership in their particular group. Additionally, I assert that the inability of communities to improve upon their position in the hierarchy is due in part to the persistence of clientelistic tendencies within the fishing industry.


identifier: Ryan, Trina Catherine <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ryan=3ATrina_Catherine=3A=3A.html>   (2001) Children with disabilities need protection too! : a module to improve investigative practices of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary when interviewing children with disabilities.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Children with disabilities are faced, on a daily basis, with challenges and obstacles that affect their quality of life. As a consequence of their disabilities, they are often reliant on others to provide basic care. It is this relationship that society as well as the disabled child assumes is with a caregiver who is trustworthy and responsible. Unfortunately, current statistics reveal otherwise and too many children with disabilities have been subject to abuse. -- In today's society, children with disabilities are recognized as having equal rights and are protected under the same laws as everyone else.  However, these laws and the agencies that protect children have not adequately recognized that children with disabilities require adjustments and understanding to make sure that they are protected. One cannot assume because a child has a disability that they are not capable of understanding or communicating what they are feeling or what they may have experienced. The purpose of this module is to provide information about children with disabilities and to develop an understanding of what types of strategies may be utilized when interviewing a child with a disability. The strategies provided will assist police officers designated to conduct interviews with these children to be cognizant of the best approach to use with a child with a particular disability. The module is expected to be used as an insert for the current training manual used by the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary.


identifier: Belbin, Thomas James <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Belbin=3AThomas_James=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Characterization of a gene encoding an RNA-binding protein (rbpA) in the cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7942.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Many species of cyanobacteria possess genes whose products are highly similar to the RNP family of RNA-binding proteins found in eukaryotes. This work describes the characterization of rbpA, one of two RNA-binding protein {rbp) genes now known to exist in the unicellular cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7942. This gene codes for a protein of 107 amino acids. It contains a single RNA Recognition Motif (RRM) as well as an auxiliary domain rich in glycine residues. -- Mutation of the rbpA gene by insertional inactivation using the spectinomycin resistance omega cassette resulted in a temperature-sensitive phenotype with an altered pigment composition when compared with the wild type organism. This phenotype was not observed in a control mutant, in which the omega cassette was inserted outside of the rbpA gene. Complementation experiments demonstrated that it was possible to rescue the phenotype of the "knock-out" mutant by insertion of a wild type copy of the rbp A gene into a neutral site in the cyanobacterial genome. -- The function of cyanobacterial RNA-binding proteins is not known. A histidine-tagged form of RbpA (HeRbpA) was purified using metal chelate affinity chromatography. RNA binding experiments demonstrated that this protein showed a preference for poly(A), poly(G) and poly(U) RNA but not poly(C). This specificity did not appear to be significantly affected by removal of the auxiliary domain. Overall, work presented here suggests that the RbpA protein may affect content of the phycobilisome components in the photosynthetic apparatus. It also appears to be a protein which is required for growth at lower temperatures.


identifier: Baker, Krista Frances <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Baker=3AKrista_Frances=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Changing context, changing opportunities: the effect of political opportunity structures on the political evolution of the Roman Catholic church in Poland and Slovenia, 1992-2005.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The sweeping social, political, and economic changes that occurred over the period from 1992 to 2005 in Poland and Slovenia tested the Roman Catholic Church with a new structure of opportunities for and constraints upon political activity. The aim of this study was to discover how this shifting political opportunity structure affected the Church's ability to take part in the post-Communist political process. The relatively volatile nature of Polish politics, combined with a religiously adherent, yet somewhat skeptical, society presented the Polish Church with a political opportunity structure that was often variable, yet predominantly favourable for the Church. This allowed the Church to make considerable political gains. In contrast, the Slovene Church faced a remarkably different context than its Polish counterpart. A relatively stable political system and openly skeptical Slovene society presented few openings to the Church to attain a significant influence in politics and, aside from a few state concessions in the early 2000s, the Church was shut out of politics.


identifier: Koven, Mikel J. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Koven=3AMikel_J=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1999) An ethnography of seeing : a proposed methodology for the ethnographic study of popular cinema.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Cinema is a symbolic manifestation of cultural identity based on the experience of that identity. Generally, social scientists have relied on the ethnographic documentary tradition in film to explore issues related to cultural experience. Film studies scholars have tended to emphasize issues surrounding the representation of ethnic individuals rather than the construction of ethnic identity in popular film. This study will bring together the advantages of social science and film studies approaches, while focusing more intensively on the development of a culturally responsive approach to film. -- As a case study, this thesis focuses on an exploration of Jewish cinema. Through fieldwork at the Toronto Jewish Film Festival, I examine the participatory nature of Jewish film culture. By interviewing some of those members of the Toronto Jewish communities attending that festival, a characterization of Jewish cinematic aesthetics was constructed based on the narrative motifs, demands of verisimilitude, and their vernacular taxonomies. Taken holistically, these aspects create an ethnographically informed study of a group's popular cinema. -- If we can deconstruct films, which members of specific communities have produced, and examine the ways in which those films are then reincorporated back into their respective communities, we have made a crucial step toward understanding cinema from an emic perspective. What this thesis asks is whether gaining access to a community's worldview is possible, to describe the cultural vitality of the community, by means of the group's popular cinema.


identifier: Xu, Meng <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Xu=3AMeng=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Characterizing the initial state of cantilever sensors.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Cantilevers are ultra-sensitive sensors capable of detecting a variety of physical and chemical phenomena. Due to the construction of the sensor, the cantilevers are often pre-bent prior to using them as actual sensors. In order to properly interpret further cantilever deflections due to sensing events, it is important to understand the initial states of the cantilever. Also it is imperative to establish the initial orientation of the cantilever chip with respect to the horizontal. In this work, a new model to measure the initial orientation of the chip has been developed using the standard optical beam deflection system. Using reference chips inclined at 2°, 3.5°, and 5°, the proposed method was shown to be successful. A new method was also developed to measure the initial curvature based entirely on the vertical motion of the incident laser. Results compared to optical images showed our method to be successful. Lastly, based on our ability to measure the angle of inclination of the chip, we have successfully modified the “Rotating Method” developed previously in our group.


identifier: Yatiyana Vidana Arachchilage, Janak Kamil <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Yatiyana_Vidana_Arachchilage=3AJanak_Kamil=3A=3A.html>   (2000) Chitosan as an edible film for protection of seafood quality.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Preservation of seafood quality against oxidation of highly unsaturated lipids, autolysis reactions and microbial activities is important. Chitosan, a deacetylated form of chitin, has been identified as a versatile biopolymer for a broad range of food applications. However, very little information is available about the use of chitosan as an edible coating material for preservation of seafood quality and virtually nothing is known regarding the effect of viscosity of chitosan on its preservative efficacy for seafood. Effect of chitosan coating for extension of shelf-life of two different fish species, Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) as a lean fish, and herring (Clupea harengus) as a fatty fish, was evaluated during a 12-days storage at refrigerated temperature (4 ± 1°C). Three chitosan preparations from snow crab (Chinoecetes opilio) processing wastes, differing in viscosities and molecular weights, were prepared and used in this study. The apparent viscosity of chitosans was dependent on the deacetylation time of their chitin precursors and were 14, 57 and 360 cP for samples prepared over a 20, 10 and 4 h period, respectively. -- Prepared chitosan samples were used as edible coating material on the surface of the fish muscle and the quality of the coated samples were monitored. This was achieved by monitoring relative moisture loss (%) and peroxide value (PV), conjugated dienes (CD), 2-thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) and headspace (HS) volatiles, all which are related to lipid oxidation. Furthermore, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), trimethylamine (TMA) and hypoxanthine (Hx), which are related to chemical spoilage, as well as total plate count (TPC) related to microbial spoilage were monitored. A significant (p ≤ 0.05) reduction in relative moisture loss, by 37, 29, 29, 40, and 32%, over that of uncoated cod samples was observed for those coated with 360 cP chitosan after 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 days of storage, respectively. Chitosan coating significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced lipid oxidation, chemical spoilage and growth of microorganisms in both fish model systems compared to uncoated samples. The preservative efficacy and the viscosity of chitosan were inter-related; the efficacy of chitosans with a viscosity of 57 and 360 cP was superior to that with a 14 cP viscosity. -- In another study, antioxidant efficacy of different viscosity chitosans in cooked comminuted herring and cod systems was investigated. Oxidative stability of treated fish species was determined and compared to those treated with conventional antioxidants such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) at a level of 200 ppm. Progression of oxidation was monitored by employing peroxide value and TBARS tests. In general, all chitosans exhibited varying antioxidant activities in both types of fish model systems investigated. Formation of hydroperoxides and TBARS in herring samples containing 200 ppm 14 cP chitosan was reduced after day-8 of storage by 61 and 52%, respectively. -- The mechanism of action of chitosan coating for extension of shelf-life of seafood appears to be due to chelation of metal ions contained in fish muscle proteins, controlling of gas exchange, particularly oxygen, between fish meat and the surrounding environment, and bactericidal effect of chitosan itself. Edible superficial chitosan coatings provide supplementary and sometimes essential means to control physiological, microbiological and physicochemical changes in seafood products. The active edible chitosan coatings may thus be extended to new fully adapted superficial or internal applications for seafood products.


identifier: Noel, Valerie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Noel=3AValerie=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Catastrophizing: a predictor of depressive symptoms in children.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Drawing from the hopelessness theory of depression, the purpose of this study was to determine whether consistently inferring pessimistic consequences (i.e. inferring consequences as being catastrophic - referred to as catastrophizing) is predictive of concurrent depressive symptoms in children. Catastrophizing, depressive symptoms, and anxious symptoms were assessed in a non-clinical sample consisting of 158 third-, fifth-, and seventh-grade children. Inconsistent with expectations, catastrophizing was found to be predictive of depressive symptoms only in younger children and not older children. Younger children did not appear to catastrophize more frequently than older children. As predicted, this study did provide preliminary evidence suggesting that catastrophizing is a stronger predictor of depressive symptoms in children who exhibit elevated levels of both anxious and depressive symptoms than those who do not exhibit this combination of symptoms. Results from the third- and fifth- grade samples provide moderate support for the generalizability of hopelessness theory to childhood depression; however, results from the seventh-grade sample were inconclusive as low internal consistencies of the catastrophizing measures were found in this age group. Future studies might be advised to consider seventh-grade participants as comprising an adolescent sample rather than a child sample, and thus consider using measures developed for adolescents or adults with this age group.


identifier: Shadkami, Farzad <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Shadkami=3AFarzad=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Advances in thermochemolysis: targeted applications in analysis of plant biomaterials.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Thermochemolysis (or thermally-assisted hydrolysis/methylation) is a unique in situ technique for analysis of a wide range of biomaterials, in their natural form, from plants material. It involves derivatization of analyte functional groups concurrent with mild thermal fragmentation of biomaterials and selective base-catalyzed cleavage of ester and ether bonds rather than the harsh thermal fragmentation and decomposition which is the case during the traditional pyrolysis. This thesis has targeted a number of special applications, all involving the chemical profiling of complex and different samples using trimethylsulfonium hydroxide (TMSH). Application of thermochemolysis-TMSH for the chemical profiling of needles of ozone fumigated pine trees showed that the concentrations of 3-hydroxybenzoic and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acids, useful as ozone damage markers, decreased with increased ozone dosage. It also revealed that the resin acids, anticopalic, 3-oxoanticopalic, 3β-hydroxyanticopalic and 3,4-cycloanticopalic acid were prominent in the ozone-sensitive pine; however, only anticopalic acid was present in the ozone-tolerant clone. In another application, the chemistry of the antioxidant catechin was investigated under thermochemolysis conditions wherein both fully and partially methylated catechin in addition to a base-catalyzed epimerization product (i.e. methylated epicatechin) were identified. The polymeric structures of catechin-containing condensed tannins were also examined by thermochemolysis. A novel two-step methylation   technique   (TMS-diazomethane   followed   by   thermochemolysis)   was developed which allowed for the observation, for the first time, of a dimeric catechin at MW = 540 amu. -- A direct thermochemolysis solids injector device was constructed allowing the use of an injection port (instead of a pyrolyzer) for thermochemolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The analytical usefulness of this thermochemolysis device was tested in direct comparison to a microfurnace pyrolyzer. It exhibited a similar chromatographic result for the thermochemolysis of standard catechin. Further, it was shown that this solids injector was suitable for real sample analysis containing a wide range of compounds including small phenolics, fatty acids, diterpene resin acids and flavonoids. In addition, chemical analysis of lignin macromolecules was investigated using the same direct thermochemolysis solids injector. This research work was the first to observe new dimeric thermochemolysis products (sylvatesmin and yangambin). These two lignin markers can be used to differentiate hardwood lignins from softwood lignins.