identifier: Younes, Eyad Ahmad <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Younes=3AEyad_Ahmad=3A=3A.html>   (2017) New organic π-conjugated system using dithiafulvenes and tetrathiafulvalenes and building blocks.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis describes a systematic study of new functional π-conjugated organic materials. The detailed investigations can be summarized in two research themes. The first theme deals with the design and synthesis of redox-active conjugated co-polymers using tetrathiafulvalene vinylogue (TTFV) and pyrene as repeat units. TTFV has been known to be an excellent π-electron donor and shows intriguing conformational switching properties associated with its redox reactions. Pyrene is a widely used organic chromophore with rich photophysical and supramolecular properties. The newly designed TTFV-pyrene co-polymers have been found to show redox-activity and stimuli-responsive aggregation behaviour in organic solvents. Their electronic and supramolecular properties have been elucidated by various spectroscopic and microscopic analyses (e.g., CV, UV-Vis, GPC, and DLS). In addition, the conformational properties of the co-polymers were modeled by molecular mechanics (MM) simulations to provide theoretical explanations for the obtained experimental data.
In the second research theme, efforts have been dedicated to the development of new π-extended analogues based on pentacene-5,7,12,14-tetraone. By introducing redox-active 1,3-dithiole groups via Wittig-type olefination, a highly π-extended TTF analogue was created, and its structural, electronic, and redox properties were investigated by NMR, UV-Vis absorption and electrochemical analyses in conjunction with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Pentacene-5,7,12,14-tetraone was also subjected to selective olefination and cross-coupling reactions to yield a new class of pentacene-based π-conjugated systems functionalized with geminal enediyne and 1,3-dithiole groups. The electron-donating and accepting effects exerted by the enediyne and dithiole units deliver intriguing structural and electronic properties, as well as redox activities which were systematically investigated by experimental and theoretical analyses. The bis(enediyne) substituents also provided synthetic access to novel carbon-rich cross-linked polymers and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) through transition metal-catalyzed cross-coupling and cyclization reactions.


identifier: Etaati, Saeedeh Niktab <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Etaati=3ASaeedeh_Niktab=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Sharpening the sword and rounding the shield: online jokes and the vernacular response to political reform in Iran.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract:
This thesis is an ethnographic study of Iranian political jokes: a hybridized genre of
folklore which intersects in both online and oral spheres where it is created and shared. It
specifically explores the emergence and growth of politicized humorous cellphonelore, which I
term “electionlore”, during and after the 2016 February elections in Iran. Analysing different
joke sub-cycles in this electionlore, I argue that these jokes serve as a powerful tool for my
informants to construct their own “newslore” (Frank 2011) and make manifest what I term and
define “vernacular politics” through which they were mobilized and unified in their political
activism. I diverge from the theory of “resistance jokes” (Powell and Paton 1988; Bryant 2006;
Davies 2011) and propose a new framework for studying political jokes in countries in suspense
between democracy and dictatorship: jokes as an effective and strategic form of reform and
unquiet protest.


identifier: Schmidt, Tomas Araya <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Schmidt=3ATomas_Araya=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Bait experiments toward developing a profitable, sustainable, and efficient snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio) fishery in the Barents Sea.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The development of a new and modern snow crab fishery in the Barents Sea has necessitated significant research and development in sustainable fishing practices. Large offshore fishing vessels from Norway currently face a number of challenges related to baiting traps efficiently, the need to reduce labour requirements, minimizing health risks for fishermen, and the need to find affordable baits with good catching performance. This thesis documents two at-sea field experiments designed to address some of these challenges. The first experiment was a comparative fishing study aboard the R/V Helmer Hanssen in February 2016 to investigate the performance of plastic jar and mesh bag bait protection devices. Results revealed that mesh bags decreased CPUE by 73% when compared to plastic jars. The second experiment was a comparative fishing study aboard the M/S Northeastern in May/June 2016 to investigate the catching performance of alternative baits from harp seal and minke whale fishery by-products in comparison to traditional bait (i.e., squid). Results revealed that baits consisting of seal fat and seal fat with skin produced catch rates comparable to squid, while all of the other experimental baits decreased mean CPUE considerably (up to 97%).


identifier: Khademabolfazli, Mohammadreza <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Khademabolfazli=3AMohammadreza=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Dithiafulvenyl functional pi-conjugated oligomers and polymers: synthesis, characterization, and applications.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This PhD thesis was aimed at design and synthesis of new functional organic polymers and macromolecules using 1,4-dithiafulvenes (DTFs) and tetrathiafulvalene vinylogues (TTFVs) as molecular building blocks. Despite enormous synthetic difficulties encountered at the initial stage of this work, reliable synthetic methodologies based on Suzuki coupling, phosphite-promoted olefination, and oxidative dithiafulvenyl dimerization reactions were successfully established, which led to the accomplishment of three research projects.
The first project investigated a series of bis(DTF)-end-capped fluorene derivatives which were prepared and subjected to a one-pot iodine-promoted oxidative polymerization to yield π-conjugated co-oligomers containing tetrathiafulvalene vinylogue and fluorene repeat units. The resulting π-oligomers were characterized to take either acyclic or cyclic molecular structures, depending on the π-conjugation length of the monomer used for the polymerization. Electronic and electrochemical redox properties were examined by UV−vis spectroscopic and cyclic voltammetric analyses, while the supramolecular interactions of the π-oligomers with single-walled carbon nanotubes were investigated by UV−vis−NIR and Raman spectroscopy. In the second project, DTF end groups were linked to the 1 and 8 positions of a pyrene core directly or via phenylene bridges to afford redox-active pyrene derivatives. Upon oxidation, the 1,8-bis(DTF)pyrene underwent stepwise electron transfers to form radical cation and dication species, whereas the phenylene-extended bis(DTF)pyrene derivative was cyclized into a macrocyclic trimer through sequential DTF oxidative coupling reactions in solution and in the solid state. The structural, electronic, and supramolecular properties of the pyrene-based macrocycle were investigated using various spectroscopic techniques and molecular modeling studies. In the third and last project, redox-active DTF groups were attached to dendritic oligo(phenylene vinylene)s, which contain a non-planar, twisted anthraquinodimethane core. The ability of these π-electron rich molecules to bind with nitrobenzene and its derivatives was demonstrated, and their electrochemically generated polymer thin films were tested as efficient sensors for nitrobenzene.


identifier: Dutta, Sujan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Dutta=3ASujan=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Numerical modeling of large deformation behaviour of offshore pipelines and risers in soft clay seabeds.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Deepwater oil and gas development activities have increased significantly in the last few
decades to meet the global demand for energy. One of the key components of these
developments is the oil and gas transportation pipeline. Deepwater pipelines are often laid on the
seabed and may vertically penetrate into the seabed sediment (primarily clay) or remain
suspended in the case of uneven seabed profiles. Partially embedded pipelines might displace
laterally during operation due to changes in internal pressure and temperature. The displacement
of the pipeline depends on soil resistance, which is also related to the initial embedment. The
suspended pipelines might also be impacted by soil blocks moving out from submarine
landslides. Moreover, in deepwater, steel catenary risers (SCR)—a long pipe of 150–600 mm
typical diameter—are often used to transport hydrocarbon from the seabed production system to
floating production facilities. The interaction between soil, water and pipes (partially embedded,
suspended or SCR) involves significant large deformations, which cannot be modeled properly
using traditional Lagrangian-based finite element (FE) techniques and therefore improved
numerical modeling is required for safe and economic design.
In the present study, simulations of the large deformation behaviour of deepwater pipelines
and SCRs are performed using two numerical approaches. First, simulation is performed using
the Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) approach available in the Abaqus FE software. In CEL,
the soil is modeled as an Eulerian material that flows through the fixed mesh and therefore
numerical issues related to mesh distortion at large displacements are avoided. Simulations are
performed for undrained loading conditions implementing a strain-rate and strain-softening
dependent undrained shear strength model for clay in Abaqus CEL through user subroutines. For
partially embedded pipelines, numerical simulations are performed for vertical penetration and subsequent lateral displacements. In addition, dynamic penetration of the pipeline into a
deepwater soft clay seabed is simulated. The penetration and lateral resistances are compared
with the results of previous physical model tests, and numerical and analytical solutions.
Recognizing the limitations of Abaqus CEL and other FE modeling techniques to simulate
the role of water, ANSYS CFX—a finite volume software—is used in the second approach for
numerical modeling. A technique is developed to implement strain-rate and strain-softening
dependent undrained shear strength of clay in ANSYS CFX. The comparison between
penetration resistances obtained from CEL and CFX shows that the latter approach can simulate
the effect of water in the cavity formed behind the pipe when it penetrates to a sufficiently large
depth into the clay seabed, with a transition between shallow and deep failure mechanisms.
In the SCR–seabed–water interaction modeling, in addition to undrained remoulding, the
reduction of undrained shear strength due to other factors such as water entrainment is
considered using “shear wetting”. Cyclic degradation of penetration and uplift resistance,
development of suction under the riser during uplift, and the formation of a trench are
successfully simulated for a large number of cyclic motions near the seabed, where a significant
shear strength reduction occurs, as reported from physical model tests.
The impact force on suspended offshore pipelines by submarine landsides is also simulated
using both Abaqus CEL and ANSYS CFX. The development of forces on the pipe with its
penetration into the soil block shows that the trapped water behind the pipe influences the failure
mechanisms and magnitude of force. The suction in the trapped water and flow of free water
through the channel formed behind the pipe is simulated using ANSYS CFX. Based on a
comprehensive parametric study with calibration against a series of centrifuge test results, a set
of empirical equations are proposed to calculate the impact force on suspended pipelines.


identifier: Fleming, Christiana Kate MacDougall <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Fleming=3AChristiana_Kate_MacDougall=3A=3A.html>   (2017) A social work exploration of distress in childbirth.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Emerging evidence suggests childbirth is often experienced as a distressing life
event. Currently there is very little social work literature regarding childbirth, and the
non-obstetrical focused childbirth literature from other disciplines often ignores or
pathologizes the experiences of those who express distress in relation to childbirth. Social
work’s silence in this area contributes to the continued uncritical acceptance of dominant
childbirth discourses, and the oppression and marginalization of those whose experiences
are outside dominant understandings of childbirth.
This study was carried out in response to this void in the social work knowledge
and practice base. It used a feminist narrative inquiry and analysis to explore the question,
“What are individuals’ experiences of distress in childbirth?” Using a conceptual
framework consistent with a commitment to human rights and social justice, this study
paid specific attention to how experiences of distress are produced through an analysis of
discourse, power/knowledge, agency, and the body.
Fifteen women were interviewed for this study. Their individual interviews were
examined for themes related to intrapersonal experience, interpersonal experience,
culture, and structural/institutional domains. The results of this study show how
oppressive, gender-based discourses can interact with mechanisms of power and
associated ideas of agency, to create distress among women during childbirth. Interpreted
themes pertaining to Discourse were: (1) Good Mothers, (2) Good Mothers and Good
Patient, (3) Women as Over-dramatic, (4) Women as Diva, and (5) Women as Heterosexual. With respect to themes identified within Power/Knowledge, I uncovered:
(1) Disciplinary Power, (2) Regimes of truth/Subjugated Knowledge, and (3) Resistance.
The participants demonstrated the various ways in which their identities and social
locations affected their birth experiences. The themes pertaining to Gender and
Intersections of Identity were: (1) Women as Invisible or Secondary, (2) Invisibility of
Whiteness and Other Privileged Identities, (3) Exceptions of the Invisibility of Privilege,
and (4) Awareness of Marginalization. The participants who had problematic childbirth
experiences took up the concepts of Distress and Emotion variously, and I interpreted the
themes within this section as: (1) Hormones, (2) Distress as a Sign Something Has Gone
Wrong, (3) Distress as Normal and Helpful, (4) Emotional Pain and Distress as Pathology
and Mental Illness, and (5) The Language of Trauma.
The participants’ narratives also disrupted the dominant view of birth stories.
Themes in Childbirth and Narrative included: (1) Narratives Reflecting the Nonlinear
Structure of Childbirth, (2) Inclusion of Previous Birth Stories in the Narratives, (3) Use
of Narrative Devices in Childbirth Stories, and (4) Iterative Knowledge Production
Additionally, the findings of this study shed light on the theme of Emotional
Labour and Caring Work as it related to the work birthing women undertook during
childbirth, and explored the often conflicting and polarized expectations of women and
views of childbirth that birthing women navigated during childbirth. Interpreted themes
related to Polarities were: (1) Medical (with interventions) and Natural (no interventions)
Childbirth, (2) Expecting Women to Make Decisions versus Not Allowing Women Input
into Decisions, (3) The Homework Paradox, and (4) Breastfeeding. The findings of this
study also point to factors that might lessen the effects of distress in childbirth. Themes identified in How to Help were: (1) Recognize that Childbirth is a Regular Event that is
Special; (2) The Importance of support from Others including a discussion of the themes
of; (a) Community and Partners, (b) Relationship with Physicians, and (c) Angels Among
us; and (3) Someone to Talk To.
The findings of this study are positioned within the emerging field of human
rights in childbirth as it fits within the guiding principles of the International Federation
of Social Workers. As social work is concerned with improving human rights of all
people, these findings have implications for a broad range of social work practice, theory,
and research.


identifier: Salami, Younes <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Salami=3AYounes=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Multiple contingency analysis of power systems.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Power system security and reliability has a higher priority in power system operations. Power systems are exposed to any failures due to their structures. Preventing any unscheduled outage from happening within the power system is impossible, but analyzing possible outages in order to predict their consequences is essential. Contingency analysis is an important tool in evaluating power system security. It models any single or multiple outages to predict power system state variables after them. By analyzing and preparing for outages, their consequences can be contained.
The N-1 contingency which models any single outages of a power system is studied. A DC power flow is used to identify critical single line outages, and the selected critical contingencies are evaluated in detail by an AC power flow. A DC power flow performance in estimating line active power flow is evaluated by an appropriate index. It is shown that a DC power flow has an acceptable performance in contingency analysis.
The main goal of this study is to identify critical double line outages whose outage will lead to line flow violations in a power system. This is defined as N-2 contingency analysis. Evaluating all possible N-2 contingencies is a huge burden computationally. Identifying important double line outages without evaluating all N-2 contingencies by either an AC power flow or DC power flow is possible. Screening algorithms are used to identify critical outages based on line outage distribution factors and N-1 contingency analysis. The results are compared to the ones obtained from full AC power flow. It is shown that these algorithms are able to identify a very high percentage of the double line outages that result in line flow violations.


identifier: Borshchova, Iryna <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Borshchova=3AIryna=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Vision-based automatic landing of a rotary UAV.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
A hybrid-like (continuous and discrete-event) approach to controlling a small multi-rotor unmanned aerial system (UAS) while landing on a moving platform is described. The landing scheme is based on positioning visual markers on a landing platform in a detectable pattern. After the onboard camera detects the object pattern, the inner control algorithm sends visual-based servo-commands to align the multi-rotor with the targets. This method is less computationally complex as it uses color-based object detection applied to a geometric pattern instead of feature tracking algorithms, and has the advantage of not requiring the distance to the objects to be calculated. The continuous approach accounts for the UAV and the platform rolling/pitching/yawing, which is essential for a real-time landing on a moving target such as a ship.
A discrete-event supervisor working in parallel with the inner controller is designed to assist the automatic landing of a multi-rotor UAV on a moving target. This supervisory control strategy allows the pilot and crew to make time-critical decisions when exceptions, such as losing targets from the field of view, occur. The developed supervisor improves the low-level vision-based auto-landing system and high-level human-machine interface.
The proposed hybrid-like approach was tested in simulation using a quadcopter model in Virtual Robotics Experimentation Platform (V-REP) working in parallel with Robot Operating System (ROS). Finally, this method was validated in a series of real-time experiments with indoor and outdoor quadcopters landing on both static and moving platforms. The developed prototype system has demonstrated the capability of landing within 25 cm of the desired point of touchdown. This auto-landing system is small (100 x 100 mm), light-weight (100 g), and consumes little power (under 2 W).


identifier: Majidi, Pasha <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Majidi=3APasha=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Stoichiometry and carbon dioxide yields from ethanol and methanol oxidation in electrolysis and fuel cells.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
With the heavy demand for sustainable fuel sources instead of fossil fuels, fuel cells employing alcohols are becoming more attractive. The high theoretical efficiency (97%) of direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs) based on proton exchange membrane (PEM) technology together with the high energy density and availability of bioethanol make DEFCs important as power sources. However, the low faradic efficiency of DEFCs, the poisoning of the anode by adsorbed carbon monoxide (COads) during ethanol oxidation and crossover of fuel from the anode to the cathode are major issues in DEFCs technology.
The main purpose of this research was to improve the faradic efficiency of DEFCs. Therefore, different potential waveforms were applied to an ethanol electrolysis cell with aqueous ethanol supplied to the anode and nitrogen at the cathode, in order to increase the yield of carbon dioxide and therefore increase cell efficiency relative to operation at a fixed potential.
Also, we have developed a novel electrochemical method to measure the average number of electrons generated during oxidation of ethanol to carbon dioxide. The method is based on quantitative oxidation of fuel that crosses through the membrane to avoid the errors that would otherwise result from crossover. It is useful for rapid screening of catalysts, and allows performances (polarization curves) and n-values to be determined simultaneously under well controlled transport conditions. This method was also used for determination of n values for a cell in anode polarization mode and a real fuel cell.


identifier: Draisey-Collishaw, Rebecca <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Draisey-Collishaw=3ARebecca=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Curating Canadianness: public service broadcasting, fusion programming, and hierarchies of difference.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
“Fusion programming” is an approach to music broadcasting that was employed by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) during the early years of the twenty-first century. It’s understandable as a response to systemic and systematic pressure to be “more multicultural.” It was about the artistry of musicians and entertainment of audiences, but fusion programming also served a didactic purpose for producers and listeners, participating in the production, elaboration, reinforcement, and/or deconstruction of existing cultural systems. Producing fusion programming involved bringing a minimum of two musicians/musical groups from different genres, languages, styles, scenes, and cultures into the same CBC-sponsored venue for the expressed purpose of performing together and discussing the challenges of collaboration. Performances, in many cases, were posited as “multicultural,” “cross cultural,” or “a collision of cultures,” and conversations framing the music often referenced diversity, multiculturalism, and difference, effectively mapping musicians’ positionality within Canadian society and geography.
This study uses “ethnographically grounded” content analysis of archival broadcasts (principally via radio) of fusion programming to raise questions about the discursive limitations of multiculturalism imposed by the ways in which policy concepts were operationalized during the first decade of the twenty-first century. Beginning with the principles, rights, and responsibilities defined in the Multiculturalism (1988) and Broadcasting (1991) Acts, I use case studies drawn from centres across Canada and broadcast via multiple CBC platforms and media lines in order to explore the CBC as a system of communication. I then focus on Fuse, the longest running example of fusion programming, examining how approaches to mediation and curation both celebrate and silence particular voices. I suggest that that while cross-cut with contradictions and resistance to totalizing narratives—particularly when the experiences of live audiences are taken into account and regional variants of fusion programming are considered—fusion programming privileged a very limited understanding of “Canadianness.” Instead of promoting an understanding of multiculturalism based on principles of social construction and integration into a shared civic culture based on liberal humanist principles, production contexts and assumptions about what counts as normal functioned to shore up the status quo; the potential for a more equitable sense of belonging embedded in existing legislation remains limited by existing discursive realizations.


identifier: Hussein, Emadeddin A A <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hussein=3AEmadeddin_A_A=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Design of renewable energy system for a mobile office/hospital in an isolated rural area.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis proposes a standalone hybrid generation system by combining solar and wind energy with provision of a battery storage bank and diesel generator for back up usage. This thesis has discussed the optimization, sizing, and operational strategy of hybrid renewable energy system, which results in a minimum cost. Detailed AutoCAD drawings used in Energy3D and BEopt modeling which has been done for every component of the hybrid power system. The system dynamic model and simulations presented here was done in Matlab/Simulink, which is fast accurate software that includes dynamic and supervisory controllers. The proposed controller algorithm observes the available surplus/missing power in the system and regulates PV/Wind-Turbine and charging/discharging of the battery bank to maintain a stable system frequency. The simulation results obtained from Matlab/Simulink show that the overall hybrid framework is capable of working under the variable weather and load conditions.


identifier: Sajid, Zaman <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sajid=3AZaman=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Economic risk analysis and environmental life cycle assessment of bio-energy systems.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Being depletable, scarce, hostile to the environment and non-renewable in nature, petroleum-based fossil fuels are diminishing much faster than a decade ago. These scarcity concerns, negative environmental consequences and the gradual depletion of petroleum fuels have led to explore alternate, inexhaustible and renewable energy resources. One promising energy resource is biofuel, which is produced from renewable biomass feedstock. The reasons for sustainability and viability of biofuels are that they are economically feasible to produce and have positive environmental impacts. Since biofuels research is quite diversified, the sustainability and viability of biofuels face many challenges. This thesis investigates existing and future technological and knowledge challenges and proposes new methods to improve bio-energy sustainability both economically and environmentally. The economic viability of biofuels is associated with biofuel cost estimation, the revenue earned, and the profit gained. This research evaluates the cost risk escalation and identifies the key cost factors associated with the economic viability of biofuels. To achieve this objective, this research presents an innovative methodology to perform probabilistic economic risk analysis of biofuel, and particularly biodiesel. Being stochastic in nature, the proposed methodology addresses the shortcomings of traditional biodiesel process economics and provides flexibility to deal with uncertainty in biodiesel process economics. The environmental aspects covered in this research are environmental impacts caused by all inputs to the biodiesel production process, including biomass feedstock, fresh or recycled materials and energy streams and outputs such as biodiesel, by-products and waste materials discharged into the soil and air.
To address the influences of potential risks on biodiesel production and its environmental impacts, this thesis presents a new approach to perform probabilistic economic modelling, qualitative and quantitative risk assessment of biodiesel key performance indicators (KPIs) and life cycle assessment (LCA) of biodiesel fuel. Interpretive structural modelling (ISM) is used to model causation behaviour of the biodiesel process, operations and design risk factors. The basic premise of ISM is that qualitative interdependent relationships among various risk factors are achieved through experts’ opinions and a scientific approach. This thesis develops an objective risk analysis approach to integrate ISM and uses a Bayesian network (BN) to define the relationship and the strength of relationship among various cost related risk factors and studies their impact on biodiesel process economics.
Addressing global environmental issues and considering the vital need of edible oil for food, this thesis also presents the LCA of biodiesel being produced from inedible oils and waste cooking oil (WCO) and performs the investigation using a systematic approach of life cycle thinking. The negative environmental consequences of biodiesel fuels on climate change (global warming), ecosystem quality and human health are explored in detail. The study also identifies the total environmental impacts of using these biomass feedstocks. A comparative LCA study of technological processes identifies which biodiesel production process has the most and the fewest ecological impacts and energy requirements.
Finally, this research develops advanced methods for biodiesel process economics such as process value at risk (VaR), to be used in assessing the performance of biodiesel systems. The stochastic modelling process and interdependence of a BN format help to investigate the most significant risk factors in the biodiesel process and
operations. The results facilitate the decision-making process for new product development (NPD) and process development, especially at a large industrial scale.
Applications of the proposed economic risk assessment framework along with an LCA study help to develop effective biodiesel policy-making by describing scientific uncertainties related to process economics and the environmental impact of biodiesel production technologies. In another arena of application, this thesis helps to develop a strategic decision-making process for supply chain management of biomass feedstock as well as biodiesel. It also enhances the biodiesel process-based risk informed decision-making process by incorporating techno-economic and life cycle accounting decisions.


identifier: Churchill, Landon A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Churchill=3ALandon_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2017) I believe in a thing called emotion: effects of valence on memory monitoring and performance.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: It is generally well known that emotion can benefit memory; however, much less is known about how emotion influences metamemory. The current thesis examined how list composition and emotion influences individuals’ metamnemonic judgments and performance in a free recall task. Participants studied lists of words that varied in emotional valence and made immediate judgments of learning (JOLs) after each word. Valence was manipulated in a mixed-list design in Experiment 1, and a pure-list design in Experiment 2, while arousal was held constant. It was expected that valence would affect participants’ JOLs and recall performance, but only in Experiment 1. Consistent with this, emotional words were given higher JOLs and were recalled better than neutral words in Experiment 1, while no such differences were observed in Experiment 2. Results suggest that the metamnemonic effect of emotion is limited to mixed-list designs, and likely depends on participants’ beliefs about how emotion influences memory.


identifier: Pitts, Paul <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Pitts=3APaul=3A=3A.html>   (2016) Characterization of appetite-‐regulating factors in platyfish, Xiphophorus maculatus (Cyprinodontiformes Poeciliidae) and cunner, Tautogolabrus adspersus.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The regulation of energy in fish, like most vertebrates, is a complex process that involves a number of chemical signals originating and networking in different parts of the brain and throughout the body. These signals include anorexigenic hormones that suppress feeding and hunger [e.g. cholecystokinin (CCK) and cocaine-‐and amphetamine-‐regulated transcript (CART)] as well as orexigenic peptides that stimulate feeding behaviour and food intake [e.g. orexin and neuropeptide Y (NPY)]. Platyfish, Xiphophorus maculatus, are freshwater viviparous fish found in tropical waters from South America to northern Mexico. Although these fish have been the object of numerous physiology and behavioural studies, very little is known about the endocrine mechanisms regulating their feeding. In order to elucidate the role of these peptides in the regulation of feeding, we examined the effects of peripheral injections of CCK and orexin on feeding behaviour and food intake. Injections of CCK decreased both food intake and searching behaviour, while injections of orexin increased searching behaviour but did not seem to have an effect on food consumption. In order to better characterize these peptides, we performed tissue distribution and gene expression studies. Tissue distribution studies show that CCK, CART, NPY and orexin all show a widespread distribution in brain and several peripheral tissues, including intestine. In addition, we compared the expression of these peptides in brain and gut between fed and 10-‐day fasted platyfish using qPCR. Fasting caused decreases in both CCK and CART mRNA expressions in the brain and a decrease in CCK expression in the intestine. There was also a significant increase in orexin mRNA expression in the brain as a result of fasting. Cunners, Tautogolabrus adspersus, are cold-‐water oviparous (egg laying) marine fish that can be found from Northern Newfoundland to all along the coast of the western North Atlantic. In cunner, fasting for 10 days caused a decrease in CCK in the brain, and a significant increase in orexin expression in the brain. Fasting had no significant effect on either NPY or CART expression. Furthermore, fasting had no effect on the expression of the peptides studies in the intestine. We also compared the expression of these peptides as a result of fasting in males and females of both species. In platyfish, there was no significant gender specific differences found in the expression of the peptides. In cunner, females showed a significantly higher NPY expression in the brain than males, although this was unique to NPY. The widespread distribution and the fasting-‐induced changes in expression of these peptides suggest that they might have several physiological roles in platyfish, including the regulation of feeding.


identifier: Wang, Xiunan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Wang=3AXiunan=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Global dynamics of some vector-borne infectious disease models with seasonality.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Vector-borne infectious diseases such as malaria, dengue, West Nile fever, Zika fever
and Lyme disease remain a threat to public health and economics. Both vector life
cycle and parasite development are greatly influenced by climatic factors. Understanding
the role of seasonal climate in vector-borne infectious disease transmission
is particularly important in light of global warming.
This PhD thesis is devoted to the study of global dynamics of four vector-borne infectious
disease models. We start with a periodic vector-bias malaria model with constant
extrinsic incubation period (EIP). To explore the temperature sensitivity of the
EIP of malaria parasites, we also formulate a functional differential equations model
with a periodic time delay. Moreover, we incorporate the use of insecticide-treated bed
nets (ITNs) into a climate-based mosquito-stage-structured malaria model. Lastly,
we develop a time-delayed Lyme disease model with seasonality. By using the theory
of basic reproduction ratio, R0, and the theory of dynamical systems, we derive
R0 and establish a threshold type result for the global dynamics in terms of R0 for
each model. By conducting numerical simulations of case studies, we propose some
practical strategies for the control of the diseases.


identifier: Clarke, Bridget <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Clarke=3ABridget=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Feminism is necessary: interning with the St. John's Status of Women Council on the FemFest NL organizing committee.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Throughout my twelve-week internship with the St. John's Status of Women Council, I
held the Coordinator role on the FemFest Newfoundland and Labrador Organizing Committee.
FemFest NL was a four-day community feminist festival, celebrating and highlight feminisms in
Newfoundland and Labrador from August 25-28, 2016. Safety, accessibility, and inclusion were
primary goals shaping my work on the FemFest NL Organizing committee, and my internship as
a whole. I will report on the successes and challenges of these goals, of doing committee work,
and of community organizing with a non-profit feminist organization.


identifier: McGuire, Andrea <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/McGuire=3AAndrea=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Hitchhiking in an age of suspicion: work techniques and personal experience narratives of hitchhiking in Newfoundland and Cape Breton.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In recent decades, the popularity of hitchhiking in North America has undoubtedly
declined. Nonetheless, the tradition persists—albeit residually—as people continue to
hitchhike in both community based (short-distance) and long-distance contexts. This
thesis draws on interviews with hitchhikers based in Newfoundland and Cape Breton,
who have hitchhiked and picked up hitchhikers from the 1960s to the present day.
Hitchhiking strategy is considered through the framework of occupational folklore, and
the use of such strategies for fostering trust is discussed. This thesis also examines
hitchhiking personal experience narratives from a folkloristic standpoint, questioning why
these narratives are often assessed as “good” (i.e., engaging) narratives, while analyzing
how hitchhiking personal experience narratives might convey values and ideas about
trust. Although a range of trusting attitudes is documented, the interviewed hitchhikers
are generally positive about their experiences; many connect hitchhiking with a
deepening sense of empathy, and exhibit counter-hegemonic attitudes towards reigning
“cultures of fear.” While considering the influence of gender, location, and historical
context, this work aims to demonstrate the connection between hitchhiking folklore and
trust, on both an individual and societal level. By examining hitchhiking as a narrative
resource, rite of passage, and source of empathy, this thesis also shows how hitchhikers
may derive meaning from and situate their experiences in the greater context of their
lives.


identifier: Campbell, Stephen <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Campbell=3AStephen=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Development of idealized practices for photoacoustic spectroscopy.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is an experimental technique used
to characterize materials based on molecular vibrations. Infrared light is absorbed by
the sample which excites molecular vibrations. Based on the specific vibrations it is
possible to determine the composition and information related to structural ordering.
Photoacoustic FTIR spectroscopy (FTIR-PAS) combines FTIR with acoustic detection
of the infrared absorption. My thesis work focused on investigating FTIR-PAS
scan parameters to further develop FTIR-PAS as a quantitative materials characterization
method. Based on those results I presented a set of best practices for data
collection. I then investigated size related effects on the PAS measurement by applying
those best practice parameters to silica spheres. Overall signal intensity increased
with decreasing particle size, which has been previously reported. No peak position,
shape or relative intensities changes were found. These insights were used to evaluate
previously collected calcite data and support previous conclusions that observed
effects were related to sample and detection method differences.


identifier: Ayre, D. Craig <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ayre=3AD=2E_Craig=3A=3A.html>   (2017) A generalizable mechanism of CD24 signalling and its ability to specifically alter the biogenesis of B cell extracellular vesicles.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
CD24 is a variably glycosylated, glycophosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored cell surface
protein. Its expression is dynamic during cellular differentiation and ligand interaction.
While several decades of research have established that CD24 engages in many cell-type
specific functions in many cases the ligands of CD24 are unknown, and researchers have
relied on the use of antibodies to mimic ligand binding. Furthermore, as a GPI-anchored
protein, CD24 must rely on in cis signalling partners, however little has been elucidated
on the cell membrane-proximal signalling activities of CD24. Therefore, the work
presented in this thesis presents a more comprehensive examination of CD24 expression,
and function in multiple cell types, followed by an in-depth analysis in immature B
lymphocytes. In B cells, CD24 is known to mediate the induction of apoptosis. To predict
in cis and in trans partners of CD24, an analysis of CD24 mRNA expression, and its
potential ligands was performed. In some tissues, such as B cells, an association was
identified between CD24 and putative ligands, including Siglec-2. In other tissues, no
significant associations were identified. Our previous investigation suggested that CD24
is involved in vesicle trafficking, Consistent with this, CD24 surface protein expression
was shown to be dynamic within 1 h of Ab stimulation in WEHI-231 immature B cells
and in ex vivo primary immature B cells. I found CD24 promotes the generation of
plasma membrane-derived microvesicles (MVs). These MVs transported CD24 between
cells. MVs also carried a variety of nucleic acid cargo, identified by RNA-Seq, and
protein cargo as determined by mass spectrometry and flow cytometry. The incorporation
of these cargos into MVs was variably influenced by CD24 stimulation. Overall, these data suggest that MVs generated in response to CD24 play a role in regulating
mitochondria, and immune cell activation. Finally, a unifying hypothesis on the function
of CD24 is presented herein, proposing its role as a moderating rheostat of cellular
signalling rather than a de novo signalling receptor. Together, this work has significantly
advanced our understanding of CD24 in B cells, and may provide insight for studies in
other cell types or in diseases such as leukemia.


identifier: Rolls, Wyn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Rolls=3AWyn=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Invertebrate abundance and food sources within riverine-estuarine systems along the west coast on the island of Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Understanding natural patterns and processes underlying the structure and function of biotic communities remains a central aim of ecology. However, there is a paucity of information related to the distribution patterns and community structure of biota that inhabit the transitional zone between rivers and estuaries in boreal estuarine systems. Moreover, the influence of climate change on these patterns is still poorly understood. To better elucidate these patterns this study focused on selected aquatic invertebrates within four boreal riverine-estuarine zones located along a south to north gradient in western Newfoundland, Canada. Samples of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera species were collected from each zone and identified to determine whether there was an expected decrease in number of species with both increasing latitude and increasing salinity. A decrease in the number of species with latitude was not observed. Within riverine-estuarine zones a negative correlation was evident between number of species and salinity. Aquatic insects and one amphipod species were collected from Salmon River and categorized into functional feeding groups. These invertebrates, along with biofilm, particulate organic matter, and various terrestrial and aquatic plants were analyzed for carbon, nitrogen, and hydrogen stable isotopes. Hydrogen isotope values were useful as a supplement to carbon in determining sources of energy being utilized by the functional feeding groups. However, the hydrogen isotope values were not distinct between functional groups and therefore, cannot be used in conjunction with nitrogen isotopes to determine trophic levels.


identifier: Little, Maxwell L. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Little=3AMaxwell_L=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2017) A unified probabilistic assessment of wind reserves for islanded microgrids.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis presents an analytical and numerical framework for the unified probabilistic assessment of wind reserves with a focus on the applications of wind generation in islanded microgrids. A multivariate nonparametric kernel density estimation algorithm is proposed to generate probabilistic models of a site’s wind resource, electrical demand and the performance of installed wind generation. These models are numerically combined to evaluate the capability of wind generation to act as a dynamic reserve by predicting its performance when used for demand response, secondary generation and frequency regulation in an islanded microgrid. The proposed modeling framework captures multivariate cross-correlation, nonstationary environmental and load behavior, as well as multimodality in their underlying probability distributions. A case study is conducted using field data from Cartwright in order to validate the proposed algorithms. The case study results include probabilistic predictions of wind generation effectiveness for varying load profiles and generation capacity. PLEXIM simulation software is used to implement a model microgrid to demonstrate the integration of wind generation and its regulatory capabilities. The proposed algorithm has applications in power system planning and operation, and it provides probabilistic data for use in energy management and optimization of microgrids.


identifier: Okusipe, Obafemi McArthur <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Okusipe=3AObafemi_McArthur=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Implementation and evaluation of biodiversity conservation policies in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The prevalence and variety of biotic elements, such as flora and fauna and the processes related to them in an environment, may be perceived as a natural occurrence but their sustenance and survival may not entirely be ascribed to natural processes, especially amidst human interactions. Biodiversity loss is a topical issue that has generated concerns over the last few decades leading to the establishment of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD) in 1992.
The research aimed to provide a framework for assessment which would contribute towards the reduction of biodiversity loss. The research is empirical in nature and adopted secondary data sources. It examined existing biodiversity management policies, particularly local approaches (coordination and monitoring of biodiversity development management), proposed a local biodiversity information system for monitoring and reporting and identified how best practices in the United Kingdom (UK) can be replicated in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), Canada. The research objectives include reviewing NL and Canadian biodiversity strategies, investigating local initiatives and actions for effective local policy coordination (biodiversity mainstreaming) and monitoring (biodiversity profiling) performance and developing a local biodiversity information system.
The research identified the main drivers of biodiversity loss, best practices and suggested solutions to biodiversity conservation challenges. The research concluded that the absence of a provincial biodiversity strategy and action plans, the lack of biodiversity policy coordination, monitoring and of a reliable biodiversity information system have resulted in the status and trend of biodiversity loss and inefficient biodiversity conservation in NL.


identifier: Ahmed, Redwan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ahmed=3ARedwan=3A=3A.html>   (2017) New insights on the long-run relationship between economic growth and environmental quality.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: One of the widespread debates in the field of environmental economics that started at the beginning of the 1990s concerns the relation between environmental pollution and economic growth. This research aims to investigate the most likely pattern of the long-run relationship between CO₂ emissions and economic growth, identify the factors that drive CO₂ emissions and propose policy recommendations for reducing CO₂ emissions. The study utilizes panel data on seven variables – per capita CO₂ emissions, GDP per capita, energy consumption, human population, trade openness, financial development and corruption in 65 countries over 51 years, from 1960 to 2010. Employing graphical tool and econometric techniques such as panel unit root test, panel cointegration test, FMOLS (Fully Modified Least Squares) estimates, Granger causality and IAA (Innovative Accounting Approach) analysis, the study finds that the most likely pattern of the relationship is a sigmoid curve showing that a country’s per capita CO₂ emissions increase when the country transitions from a low-income status to a middle-income status to a high-income status. Also, the study documents that the potential factors driving global CO₂ emissions are economic growth, financial development, energy consumption and corruption. An appropriate combination of emissions standards, pollution tax on fossil fuel based energy sources, anti-corruption strategies, socio-environmental standards for global trade, mass education and awareness about the adverse effects of CO₂ emissions on the environment and human health are potential policy measures.


identifier: Abraha, Beraki <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Abraha=3ABeraki=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Measuring the acute effects of two aerobic exercise training methods on cortical excitability in people with chronic stroke.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Background: Aerobic exercise (AE) upregulates neurotrophins and alters brain excitability post-stroke. Using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) we compared the acute effects of moderate intensity continuous exercise (MICE) versus high intensity interval training (HIIT) on cortical excitability in patients with chronic stroke.
Methods: Participants completed 25 min MICE (60 % VO₂ max) and HIIT (80 % VO₂ max / 40 % VO2 max), one week apart, matched for workload. Before and after exercise, subjects underwent neuronavigated TMS (figure of eight coil) followed by testing of pinch, grip strength and dexterity.
Results: Short interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) decreased in the less affected hemisphere following MICE (22.03 % (11.14) to 30.5 % (20.63), p = 0.04), while there was no change following HIIT (25.22 % (14.97) to 32.19 % (22.04) (p=0.186). Pinch strength in the affected hand was also significantly lower following MICE.
Conclusion: MICE may be superior to HIIT in acutely influencing neural networks of a non-exercised muscle.


identifier: Shortall, Chris <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Shortall=3AChris=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Queering baccalaureate nursing education in Canada: a survey and qualitative content analysis of curriculum and policy documents.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Lesbian Bisexual Gay Transgender Intersex and Queer (LBGTIQ, See: Appendix A)
health and wellness data is largely ignored in policy domains. One way to redress
the deleterious health effects of institutionalized cisgenderism and heterosexism is
to train health professionals to be sensitive and knowledgeable about health and
wellness issues that are known to greatly affect sexually and gender diverse people
(aka: LBGTIQ). Studies have found that there is no standardization of sex and
sexuality content in health professional education in North American universities.
The present research focuses on the relative inclusion of sexuality and gender
diversity health and wellness information in Canadian English language
baccalaureate nursing curriculum and curricular policy. This research, informed by
documented health and wellness experiences of LBGTIQ people, situated in the
academic discipline of Applied Health Services Research, is a unique critical queer
theoretical analysis of survey data and policy texts. The data for this research was
collected from a nationwide survey of nursing school administrators in 2013, is
scaffolded against LBGTIQ health and wellness literature, as well as nursing
education policy. Surveys were returned from 17/76 institutions in Canada and the
results show that LBGTIQ content in baccalaureate nursing curriculum in Canada is
nominal, imperfect, and unregulated at best. Faculty were concerned about their
own personal and professional ability to teach in the area of sexuality and gender
diversity and less concerned with curricular policy advocacy in the area. After
qualitative content analysis was performed on 52 educational policy documents in
nursing, there revealed a need for inclusive policy development in the area of
LBGTIQ subjectivities. The research found that while Canadian English language
baccalaureate nursing curricular policy allows for an expanded notion of gender
diversity that may give space to transgender people, queer, intersex, and other nonheteronormative
notions of gender identity, it lacks clear position statements in the
area of sexuality and gender diversity to be able to achieve inclusion in curriculum.
The result is invisibility; haphazard inclusion; ill-defined policy with no directive
from the national, provincial/territorial professional organizations. It was noted that
the change in licensing exam might have affected the situation during the course of
this research. Several recommendations are lobbied towards structuring LBGTIQ
health and wellness curricular inclusion at the various levels of policy and pedagogy
in baccalaureate nursing curriculum in Canada and a call for the nursing profession
to pay attention to the political nature of policy.


identifier: Wang, Shiyao <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Wang=3AShiyao=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Augmented reality as a telemedicine platform for remote procedural training.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Traditionally, rural areas in many countries are limited by a lack of access to
health care due to the inherent challenges associated with recruitment and retention
of healthcare professionals. Telemedicine, which uses communication technology to
deliver medical services over distance, is an economical and potentially effective way to
address this problem. In this research, we develop a new telepresence application using
an augmented reality (AR) system. We explore the use of the Microsoft HoloLens to
facilitate and enhance remote medical training. Intrinsic advantages of AR systems
enable remote learners to perform complex medical procedures such as Point of Care
Ultrasound (PoCUS) without visual interference. This research uses the HoloLens
to capture the first-person view of a simulated rural emergency room (ER) through
mixed reality capture (MRC) and serves as a novel telemedicine platform with remote
pointing capabilities. The mentor's hand gestures are captured using a Leap Motion
and virtually displayed in the AR space of the HoloLens. To explore the feasibility
of the developed platform, twelve novice medical trainees were guided by a mentor
through a simulated ultrasound exploration in a trauma scenario, as part of a pilot
user study. The study explores the utility of the system from the trainees, mentor,
and objective observers' perspectives and compares the findings to that of a more
traditional multi-camera telemedicine solution. The results obtained provide valuable
insight and guidance for the development of an AR-supported telemedicine platform.


identifier: Esswie, Ali Abdulmawgood Ali Ali <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Esswie=3AAli_Abdulmawgood_Ali_Ali=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Blind CSI acquisition for multi-antenna interference mitigation in 5G networks.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Future wireless communication networks are required to satisfy the increasing demands
of traffic and capacity. The upcoming fifth generation (5G) of the cellular
technology is expected to meet 1000 times the capacity that of the current fourth
generation (4G). These tight specifications introduce a new set of research challenges.
However, interference has always been the bottleneck in cellular communications.
Thus, towards the vision of the 5G, massive multi-input multi-output (mMIMO) and
interference alignment (IA) are key transmission technologies to fulfil the future requirements,
by controlling the residual interference.
By equipping the base-station (BS) with a large number of transmit antennas, e.g,
tens of hundreds of antennas, a mMIMO system can theoretically achieve significant
capacity with limited interference, where many user equipment (UEs) can be served
simultaneously at the same time and frequency resources. A mMIMO offers great
spatial degrees of freedom (DoFs), which boost the total network capacity without
increasing transmission power or bandwidth. However, the majority of the recent
mMIMO investigations are based on theoretical channels with independent and identically
distributed (i.i.d) Gaussian distribution, which facilitates the computation of
closed-form rate expressions. Nonetheless, practical channels are not spatially uncorrelated,
where the BS receives different power ratios across different spatial directions
between the same transmitting and receiving antennas. Thus, it is important to understand the behavior of such new technology with practical channel modeling.
Alternatively, IA is known to break the bottleneck between the capacity of the
network and the overall spectral efficiency (SE), where a performance degradation
is observed at a certain level of connected user capacity, due to the overwhelming
inter-user interference. Theoretically, IA guarantees a linear relationship between
half of the overall network SE and the online capacity by aligning interference from
all transmitters inside one spatial signal subspace, leaving the other subspace for
desired transmission. However, IA has tight feasibility conditions in practice including
high precision channel state information at transmitter (CSIT), which leads to severe
feedback overhead.
In this thesis, high-precision blind CSIT algorithms are developed under different
transmission technologies. We first consider the CSIT acquisition problem in MIMO
IA systems. Proposed spatial channel estimation for MIMO-IA systems (SCEIA)
shows great offered spatial degrees of freedom which contributes to approaching the
performance of the perfect-CSIT case, without the requirements of channel quantization
or user feedback overhead. In massive MIMO setups, proposed CSIT strategy
offered scalable performance with the number of the transmit antennas. The effect
of the non-stationary channel characteristics, which appears with very large antenna
arrays, is minimized due to the effective scanning precision of the proposed strategy.
Finally, we extend the system model to the full dimensional space, where users are distributed
across the two dimensions of the cell space (azimuthal/elevation). Proposed
directional spatial channel estimation (D-SCE) scans the 3D cell space and effectively
attains additional CSIT and beamforming gains. In all cases, a list of comparisons
with state-of-the-art schemes from academia and industry is performed to show the
performance improvement of the proposed CSIT strategies.


identifier: Graves, Allison <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Graves=3AAllison=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Soft serve: a collection of stories.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

title: Soft serve: a collection of stories

abstract:
In Wal-Mart and McDonald’s, on Tinder and on the highway, standing on the
edge of the CN tower and the top of Signal Hill, this collection of short stories
questions how people navigate the places that ultimately make them feel lost.
Exploring the often strange confusion and boredom that seeps into the everyday
of modern life, this book negotiates this affective dualism by weaving subverted
existentialism into casual speech. In this collection, I explore the realm of
superficial acquaintance between person and place that plays contrast to
moments of sincerity laid bare. Within and around such quotidian spaces, I ask:
What is the significance of the attendant feelings? Where do those feelings direct
us? Do they teach us something? Do they have the capacity to make us think
differently? In this book, I comment on how these landscapes can reflect both the
banality and intensity that so often marks our lives.


identifier: Hou, Shaoxiong <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hou=3AShaoxiong=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Mixed volumes and anisotropic potentials.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This PhD-thesis, comprizing five chapters deals with some topics combining potential
theory and convex geometry through studying the mixed volumes and the anisotropic
potentials, whence their applications in information theory and elliptic PDEs.
Chapter 1 is the introduction and overview for the whole dissertation. Chapter
2 studies a mixed volume induced by the anisotropic Riesz-potential including its
reverse Minkowski-type inequality. It turns out that such a mixed volume is equal
to the anisotropic Cordes-Nirenberg-capacity. Two restrictions on the Lorentz spaces
are characterized. Besides, we also prove a Minkowski-type inequality and a log-
Minkowski type inequality as well as its reverse form.
Chapter 3 investigates a mixed volume from the anisotropic potential with natural
logarithm as a better complement to the end point case of the mixed volumes
from the anisotropic Riesz-potential. An optimal polynomial log-inequality is not
only discovered but also applicable to produce a polynomial dual for the conjectured
fundamental log-Minkowski inequality in convex geometry analysis. Moreover, the
star body with respect to the origin is characterized in terms of anisotropic potentials
over the Euclidean spaces.
Chapter 4 establishes an interpretation of a functional type of mixed volume, the
f-divergence via the Orlicz addition of measures. Fundamental inequalities, such
as a dual functional Orlicz-Brunn-Minkowski inequality, are established. We also
investigate an optimization problem for the f-divergence.
Chapter 5 characterizes the embeddings of associate Morrey spaces to Cordes-
Nirenberg spaces and Cordes-Nirenberg spaces to Morrey spaces and hence produces
the embedding chain. The trace of Riesz-Cordes-Nirenberg potentials, i.e., the boundedness
of the Riesz operator mapping Cordes-Nirenberg spaces to the Radon measure based Campanato space, is also established with both sufficient and necessary conditions.
Consequently, the regularity of an elliptic equation living on the Cordes-
Nirenberg spaces can be characterized by means of the Campanato spaces.


identifier: Swaminathan, Viswanathan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Swaminathan=3AViswanathan=3A=3A.html>   (2017) CD24 is required for gene expression, but not glucose uptake, during adipogenesis in vitro.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
CD24 is a cell surface receptor that actively regulates lipid accumulation in
adipocytes in vitro. The goal of this project was to determine how CD24 regulates lipid
accumulation. Glucose is a key substrate for de novo lipid synthesis but I found that the
knockdown of CD24 did not alter glucose uptake during adipogenesis. Instead, it
regulated the expression of 134 genes as determined by DNA microarray analysis. I
validated the changes to four of these genes during adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes
in vitro. I also found that these genes were dysregulated when primary cells
from inguinal, but not epididymal white adipose tissue from CD24 knockout mice that
were induced to undergo adipogenesis ex vivo. These data suggest that CD24 is necessary
for select gene expression, but not glucose uptake, during adipogenesis. This new
knowledge could help understand the regulation of lipid accumulation in adipocytes, and
to develop alternative treatment strategies for obesity and lipodystophy.


identifier: Collins, Brandon <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Collins=3ABrandon=3A=3A.html>   (2017) The influence of shoulder position on corticospinal excitability of the biceps brachii.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The objective of this thesis was to examine corticospinal excitability (CSE) of the elbow flexors during two shoulder positions (0° shoulder flexion and 90° shoulder flexion) during rest and during an active state (10% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC)). Ten recreationally active males participated in two randomized experimental sessions (Day 1: n=10, Day 2: n=8) with 4 experimental conditions; 1) 0° shoulder flexion with biceps brachii at rest, 2) 0° shoulder flexion with biceps brachii at 10% MVC, 3) 90° shoulder flexion with biceps brachii at rest and 4) 90° shoulder flexion with biceps brachii at 10% MVC. Transcranial magnetic, transmastoid and Erb’s point stimulations were used to induce motor evoked potentials (MEPs), cervicomedullary MEP (CMEPs) and maximal muscle action potential (Mmax). All MEPs and CMEPs were normalized to Mmax. Mmax and CMEP amplitudes were position-dependent (0° versus 90°), whereas MEP amplitude was position dependent but differed (higher at rest and lower at 10% MVC) between the state at which it was recorded (rest versus active). At 0° compared to 90°, MEP/Mmax ratio was higher at rest but lower at 10% MVC. Whereas, CMEP/Mmax experienced no change at rest but lower at 10% MVC. Finally, MEP/CMEP ratios showed that starting in the 90° position ratios were lower at rest while higher at 10% MVC. On the other hand, starting in the 0° position MEP/CMEP ratios only changed at 10% MVC with the ratio being higher with the change in position. Results showed participants could produce more elbow flexor force in 0° shoulder flexion compared to 90° shoulder flexion. RMS EMG of the biceps brachii was higher and lower at rest and 10% MVC, respectively, at the 90° compared to 0° position. In conclusion, CSE of the biceps brachii is dependent on a change in shoulder position and the state it is recorded. In addition, it seems that there are several factors that play a role in the change of CSE such as: large changes in Mmax amplitudes, differences in biceps brachii RMS EMG and changes in cortical excitability.


identifier: Moore, Sarah Janette <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Moore=3ASarah_Janette=3A=3A.html>   (2017) "When I came out": coming out and personal experience narratives of LGBTQ persons in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis examines narratives that LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and
queer) persons in Newfoundland and Labrador tell, and looks at how these narratives fit
into broader patterns of narratology, context, and performance. Within the discipline of
folkloristics, it examines narratives collected from thirty-two participants to show what
types of narratives are most important to LGBTQ persons, with a focus on the coming-out
story as a core narrative to their repertoires. The coming-out story is a recognizable and
traditional narrative among this folk group, and is compared to both the memorate and
fabulate. The story itself is a personal experience narrative, and is performed with
specific markers of teller ownership and group membership. Various themes are
highlighted in its telling, and these themes speak to issues faced by LGBTQs while
coming out. This corpus of narratives, highlighted using such concepts as legend,
disclosure, and untellability, gives folklorists a new way of looking at traditional
narratives by a contemporary folk group and allows scholars to examine how disclosure
narratives of this sort are performed for various audience contexts and for various reasons.
By looking at the stories that LGBTQs tell, readers can move toward a better
understanding of LGBTQs in Newfoundland and Labrador and other regions, and how
they narrate their lives.


identifier: Young, James Douglas <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Young=3AJames_Douglas=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Roller massage decreases spinal excitability to the soleus.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Evidence suggests that foam rolling and roller massage can increase range of motion and alter pain perception. These effects have been shown not only in the target muscle, but also in the contralateral homologue that was not involved in the intervention. The global nature of these effects suggests that the benefits of rolling are primarily accrued through neural responses and not connective tissue. Therefore, the primary objective of this thesis was to investigate the underlying mechanisms responsible for improvements in range of motion and altered pain perception during and after roller massage. This required the use of a sensitive neurophysiological measure that is subject to modulation via afferent input. The results of the present study serve as the first evidence of neural modulation of spinal excitability during roller massage. It is plausible that immediate changes in range of motion and pain perception following brief roller massage can be attributed to the observed inhibition at the spinal level.


identifier: Ayubian, Sara <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ayubian=3ASara=3A=3A.html>   (2017) GPU-based Monte Carlo simulation for the design Sea Ice Load.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Modern Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) with massive number of threads and many-core architectural components support both graphics and general purpose computing. NVIDIA’s compute unified device architecture (CUDA) takes advantage of parallel computing and utilizes the tremendous power of GPUs. The present study demonstrates a high performance computing (HPC) framework for a Monte Carlo simulation to determine design sea ice loads which is then implemented in both GPU and CPU (central processing unit). Results show a speedup of up to 130 times for the 4 Tesla K80 GPUs over an optimized CPU OpenMP (Open Multi-Processing) implementation and a speedup of up to 8 times for the 4 Tesla K80 over a single Tesla K80 GPU implementation. The elapsed time of the different implementations reduced from about 2.5 hours to 0.7 seconds.


identifier: Opanasenko, Stanislav <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Opanasenko=3AStanislav=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Extended symmetry analysis of isothermal no-slip drift flux model.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
We carry out extended symmetry analysis of the hydrodynamic-type system of
differential equations modeling an isothermal no-slip drift flux. The maximal Lie
invariance algebra of this system is proved to be infinite-dimensional. We also
find its complete point symmetry group, including discrete symmetries, using the
megaideal-based version of the algebraic method. Optimal lists of one- and twodimensional
subalgebras of the above algebra are constructed to obtain groupinvariant
solutions. Applying the generalized hodograph method and linearizing
the essential subsystem, we represent the general solution of the system under
study in terms of solutions of the Klein–Gordon equation. Amongst first-order
generalized symmetries, we single out genuinely generalized ones and relate them
to Lie symmetries of the essential subsystem. Moreover, we construct infinite
families of recursion operators, conservation laws and Hamiltonian structures of
the entire system.


identifier: Cumby, Christopher <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Cumby=3AChristopher=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Sexual assault on the rock: LGBTQ+ experiences in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Many studies in North America have concluded that LGBTQ+ people are at a higher risk for
experiencing sexual assault than their cisgender/heterosexual counterparts; however, no studies
to date have explored the experiences of sexual violence among LGBTQ+ people within
Newfoundland and Labrador. To this end, the objective of this study is to understand the sexual
experiences of gender and sexual minority groups that have been uncomfortable, awkward, or
unwanted within the larger Newfoundland and Labrador LGBTQ+ community. The study was
administered through an anonymous, online survey instrument, replicated from Menning and
Holtzman's (2014) study of on-campus LGBTQ+ sexual violence, and adapted for geographical
differences. The data were analyzed using a traditional content analysis of open-ended responses,
while descriptive statistics are used to summarize the closed-ended responses. Results from the
study indicate that sexual violence is a prominent issue within the community, demonstrating
that LGBTQ+ people experience sexual violence similarly to the general population with some
differences. This study is therefore an initial exploration to which further research must be
conducted in order to advance understanding of this phenomenon.


identifier: Funk, Cory <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Funk=3ACory=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Hashtagging Islam: #JeSuisHijabi, social media, and religious/secular identities in the lives of Muslims in Winnipeg and St. John's, Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In the fall of 2015, after a Canadian federal election rife with negative rhetoric toward Muslims and a concurrent rise in anti-Muslim incidents that occurred alongside November terrorist attacks in Paris, the Canadian Ahmadiyya Muslim community launched a Twitter hashtag campaign called #JeSuisHijabi. With it, the organization stated that it aimed to challenge misconceptions of Islam and Islamic garb that led to anti-Muslim attacks across Canada. An offline campaign accompanied the hashtag; information booths sought to teach non-Muslims about Islam and the hijab, while encouraging them to try on the garment. With analysis of tweets generated with the hashtag #JeSuisHijabi and consideration of qualitative interviews conducted with Muslims in Winnipeg, MB and St. John’s, NL on their use (or not) of hashtags and the Internet in general, I show that the way in which some Canadian Muslims use hashtags to communicate identity complicates the so-called separation between religious and secular spheres. This thesis argues that “religious” hashtags can complicate common notions of a religious/secular binary at work in contemporary Canada, and can serve as a means to understand everyday religiosity in the public sphere.


identifier: Leblanc, Camille <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Leblanc=3ACamille=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Alteration in vascular function due to high intravascular pressure: arterial stiffness and the role of beta-adrenoceptors.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Background: Hypertension-induced arterial stiffness is associated with high risks of
morbidity and mortality. The sympathetic nervous system plays an important role in the
control of cardiovascular function through beta-adrenoceptors (β-AR). The involvement
of β-AR in the control of arterial stiffness in a state of hypertension and normotension
was examined. Methods: Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was assessed within a narrow
range of blood pressures in isoflurane-anaesthetized 13-14-week-old male spontaneously
hypertensive (SH) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Results: Baseline PWV was higher in
SH (9.2±0.9 m/s) compared to WKY rats (6.7±0.4 m/s). The stimulation of β₂- but not
β₃-AR reduced PWV in SH rats despite comparable reductions in blood pressure. Sodium
nitroprusside infusions initiated a dose-dependent reduction of PWV in SH rats.
Conclusion: The evidence suggests that a reduction in central vascular tone may play a
key role in decreasing elevated PWV independently from reduction in blood pressure in a
state of hypertension.


identifier: Hong, Han <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hong=3AHan=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Towards the Orlicz-Brunn-Minkowski theory for geominimal surface areas and capacity.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis is dedicated to study Orlicz-Petty bodies, the p-capacitary Orlicz-
Brunn-Minkowski theory and the general p-affine capacity as well as isocapacitary
inequalities.
In the second chapter, the homogeneous Orlicz affine and geominimal surface areas
are defined and their basic properties are established including homogeneity, affine
invariance and continuity. Some related affine isoperimetric inequalities are proved.
Similar results for the nonhomogeneous ones are proved as well. In the third chapter,
we develop the p-capacitary Orlicz-Brunn-Minkowski theory by combining the
p-capacity for p 2 (1; n) with the Orlicz addition of convex domains. In particular,
Orlicz-Brunn-Minkowski type and Orlicz-Minkowski type inequalities are proved. In
the last chapter, the general p-affine capacity for p 2 [1; n) is defined and its properties
are discussed. Furthermore, the newly proposed general p-affine capacity is compared
with many classical geometric quantities, e.g., the volume, the p-variational capacity
and the p-integral affine surface area. Consequently, several sharp geometric inequalities
for the general p-affine capacity are obtained. Theses inequalities extend and
strengthen many well-known (affine) isoperimetric and (affine) isocapacitary inequalities.


identifier: Afenyo, Mawuli Kwaku <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Afenyo=3AMawuli_Kwaku=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Fate, transport and risk of potential accidental release of hydrocarbons during arctic shipping.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Arctic shipping may present risks to the Arctic marine ecosystem. One of the potential sources of risk is accidental oil spills which require mitigation. In order to reduce this risk, there is a need to respond to oil spills in a timely manner. This requires models to evaluate the fate, transport and risk of oil spills in ice-covered waters. Modeling the fate and transport of oil spills is difficult, and the presence of ice makes it complicated. The focus of this study is the application of the models to potential oil spills during Arctic shipping. This study is carried out through a scenario based analysis of potential accidental releases during Arctic shipping accidents. The main application of the work in this thesis is for contingency planning and providing guidance to policies for Arctic shipping operations. This thesis presents a series of studies that review oil weathering and transport models for open and ice-covered waters, update current open water weathering and transport algorithms to make them ice-covered water capable, develop a fugacity based partition model, integrate aforementioned models as well as source models in an ecological risk assessment framework, and develop an accident forecasting methodology. The review shows that current oil spill models are inadequate for predicting the behaviour of oil in ice-covered waters. It also highlights missing algorithms for encapsulation and de-encapsulation processes which are very critical for oil behaviour in ice-covered waters. A refined weathering and transport model is applied to a hypothetical case study involving a potential Arctic shipping accident. The outcome shows that the predictions of the refined models agree reasonably well with oil in ice data from the area under study. The partition model presented is also applied to a hypothetical case study of a shipping vessel passing through the North-West passage. The results predict the level of contamination of the different compartments. The compartments include air, water, ice and sediments. The ecological risk assessment framework developed is applied to a case study in the Kara Sea. The Kara Sea was chosen mainly to draw attention to a potential site for Arctic shipping accidents. The results show acceptable level of risk in the water column since the Risk Quotient (Ratio of predicted concentration and predicted no effect concentration from ecotoxicological studies) is less than 1. An accident forecasting methodology based on the Bayesian approach is presented. This is illustrated with a ship-ice-berg collision scenario. The fate and transport models are used for assessing the consequences of a potential oil spill, while the Arctic shipping forecasting methodology is used for the probability of occurrence. The methodology may also be useful for choosing potential scenarios for the application of the fate and transport models developed. A sensitivity analysis is performed to identify the most critical parameters of the occurrence of the scenario. This information is useful for prioritization of resources during mitigation.


identifier: Luo, Xiaokang <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Luo=3AXiaokang=3A=3A.html>   (2017) On the polar Orlicz-Minkowski problems and the p-capacitary Orlicz-Petty bodies.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis deals with the polar Orlicz-Minkowski problems and the p-capacitary
Orlicz-Petty bodies. The polar Orlicz-Minkowski problems are introduced and the
solvability of such problems is discussed under different conditions. In particular,
under certain condition on φ; the existence of a solution is proved for a nonzero finite measure μ on Sn-1 which is not concentrated on any hemisphere of Sn-1: The
existence of the p-capacitary Orlicz-Petty bodies is also established. The Orlicz and
Lq geominimal capacities with respect to K0 and S0 are proposed and their properties,
such as invariance under orthogonal matrices, isoperimetric type inequalities and
cyclic type inequalities are provided as well.


identifier: Huang, Zhe <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Huang=3AZhe=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Dark soliton solutions of (2+1)-dimensional Gross-Pitaevskii equation with spatially-periodic external potential.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In this thesis, we study the existence and stability of background solutions (BGSs) and dark
soliton solutions (DSSs) of the Gross-Pitaevskii equation (GPE) with a spatially-periodic external
potential in (2+1)-dimensional domain. First, we use dynamical systems theory to prove the
existence of stationary solutions (BGS and DSS). Exponentially decaying coefficient of the dark
soliton near the BGS is derived in terms of an eigenvalue problem. The stability/instability of
the solutions is investigated in a weighted functional space. The critical wave numbers in the y
direction are derived. We then consider two special cases: the case of large chemical potential
and the case of slowly varying external potential. In both cases, we apply asymptotic analysis
to obtain the approximate formulas for the stationary solutions. As such analytic results are
obtained in both cases. All the results are supported by direct numerical computations of the
stationary solutions as well as the computations of the corresponding eigenvalue problems.


identifier: Kary, Benjamin R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kary=3ABenjamin_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Investigating Schwarz domain decomposition based preconditioners for efficient geophysical electromagnetic field simulation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In this thesis, I researched and implemented a number of Schwarz domain decomposition
algorithms with the intent of finding an efficient method to solve the geophysical
EM problem. I began by using finite difference and finite element discretizations
to investigate the domain decomposition algorithms for the Poisson problem. I found
that the Schwarz methods were best used as a preconditioner to a Krylov iteration.
The optimized Schwarz (OS) preconditioner outperformed the related restricted additive
Schwarz (RAS) preconditioner and both of the local and global OS fixed point
iterations. Using finite differences the OS preconditioner performed much better than
the RAS preconditioner, but using finite element in parallel with the FEniCS assembly
library, their performance was similar. The FEniCS library automatically partitions
the global mesh into subdomains and produces irregular partition boundaries. By
creating a serial rectangular subdomain code in FEniCS, I regained the benefit of
the OS preconditioner, suggesting that the irregular partitioning scheme was detrimental
to the convergence behaviour of the OS preconditioner. Based on my work
for the Poisson problem, I decided to attempt both a RAS and OS preconditioned
GMRES iteration for the electromagnetic problem. Due to the unstructured meshes
and source/receiver refinement used in EM modelling I could not avoid the irregular
mesh partitioning, and the OS preconditioner lagged the RAS preconditioner in
terms of iteration count. On the bright side, the RAS preconditioner worked very
well, and outperformed any of the preconditioners bundled with PETSc in terms of
both iteration count and time to solution.


identifier: Lively, Christopher J. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Lively=3AChristopher_J=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Seeking or suggesting the truth? an examination of Canadian lawyers' questioning practices.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Ninety-one court examinations of lawyers asking questions to witnesses were analyzed. Each unique examination was coded for the frequency of utterance type being spoken (i.e., questions identified as open-ended, probing, closed yes-no, leading, forced choice, multiple, clarification, re-asked, as well as for offered opinions and facilitators), the assumed purpose type of each utterance (i.e., unknown, administrative, information gathering, challenging the witness’ account/details), lawyer type (i.e., prosecutor vs. defence), and examination type (i.e., direct vs. cross). The results showed that approximately 80% of the questions asked were inappropriate for gathering reliable information. In addition, there were no significant differences found between prosecutors or defence lawyers regarding the proportions of the utterance type spoken. However, there was a significant difference with some utterance types as a function of examination type; direct examinations contained significantly more closed yes-no, probing, and open-ended questions, whereas cross examinations contained significantly more leading and clarification questions. There were no significant differences found between lawyer type as a function of purpose type, with the exception of cross (vs. direct) examinations containing significantly more challenges. Although the findings were expected, these data suggest that the vast majority of courtroom questioning practices run counter to the truth-seeking function of the judiciary. Implications for the role of these questioning practices in the courtroom are discussed, along with the extent to which courtroom interviewing practices are in line with the concerns raised by lawyers when arguing against the inadmissibility of statements due to inadequate police interviewing practices.


identifier: Zheng, Nan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Zheng=3ANan=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Inferences in semi-parametric fixed and mixed models for longitudinal discrete data.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Longitudinal data analysis for discrete such as count and binary data has been an
important research topic over the last three decades. With regard to inferences for
this type of data, the marginal model approach using ‘working’ correlation based
GEE (generalized estimating equation), and an auto-correlation class based GQL
(generalized quasi-likelihood) approach have been used, among others. This later
GQL approach was suggested because of certain efficiency drawbacks of the GEE
approach. Many studies were also done using the GQL approach for longitudinal
mixed models. In this thesis, we study the longitudinal count and binary data in a
wider semi-parametric longitudinal fixed and mixed model setup. For inferences, the
SQL (semi-parametric quasi-likelihood), SGQL (semi-parametric generalized quasilikelihood)
and SML (semi-parametric maximum likelihood) have been used wherever
appropriate. The asymptotic properties such as consistency of the estimators produced
by these approaches have been studied in detail. We also study the finite
sample properties of the new approaches and compare them where applicable with
existing SGEE (semi-parametric generalized estimating equation) approaches. The
proposed models and the estimation methodologies are also illustrated with some real
life data.


identifier: Posluns, Julie A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Posluns=3AJulie_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Behaviour differences in companion dogs in response to unfamiliar conspecific contact and personality measurements.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The measurement of behaviour and personality can provide valuable information about the
individual characteristics of dogs, provided these measurement tools are standardized. In the case
of behaviour, an exhaustive list of the domestic dog’s behaviour units has yet to be described. In
the case of personality, there is little consensus on the structure of canine personality. I aimed to
characterize the individual differences of dogs in the context of unfamiliar conspecific contact. I
recorded the behaviour of pairs of dogs in two interactions to examine the effect of familiarity,
sex and sex of partner on activity budgets and behaviours of each of the focal dogs. The owner
and the dog’s walker completed two questionnaires prior to the dog-dog meetings: the Monash
Canine Personality Questionnaire-Revised (MCPQ-R) and the Dog Personality Questionnaire
(DPQ). Overall, the data showed that behaviour changed as familiarity increased. This change
was influenced by sex, as mixed sex pairs spent more time in close proximity to one another
while simultaneously near a human than did other pairs, but only in the first meeting. As well,
male pet dogs spent more time overall near people during meetings with an unfamiliar dog, and
may use humans to facilitate conspecific contact or minimize potential threat. The two
personality assessments were examined for correspondence in structure and for consensus among
dog walkers and dog owners. Correspondences between the assessments suggest we are honing
in on the structure of canine personality, but personality assessment reliability should be reported
and the dog-related experience of personality raters, as well as the context in which they observe
the dogs they are rating, should be taken into account. Reliability appears to increase when
assessments include separate components for canine-directed aggression, e.g., towards people vs.
towards animals. Further research on the factors that influence dog-dog social interactions, such as individual differences in personality traits, sex, and familiarity, may lead to improved canine
welfare.


identifier: Dey, Rajib <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Dey=3ARajib=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Sensitivity to model misspecification of the Von Bertanlanffy grown model with measurement error in age.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The Von Bertalanffy growth function (VonB) specifies the length of a fish as a function
of its age. However, in practice, age is measured with error. We study the structural
errors-in-variables (SEV) approach to account for measurement error (ME) in age.
Cope and Punt (2007) also proposed this approach for fish growth data. They assumed
unobserved age had a simple Gamma distribution. In this study, we investigate
whether SEV VonB parameter estimators are robust to the Gamma approximation
of true unobserved ages. By robust we mean lack of bias due to ME and model misspecification.
Our results demonstrate that this method is not robust. We propose
a flexible parametric Normal mixture distribution for the unobserved true ages to
reduce this bias when estimating the length-age relationship with a VonB model. We
investigate the performance of this approach in comparison to the Gamma age model
through extensive simulation studies and a real-life data set.


identifier: Barron, W. Todd <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Barron=3AW=2E_Todd=3A=3A.html>   (2017) The peace model of investigative interviewing: a comparison of trained and untrained suspect interviewers.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The peformance of police interviewers trained to use a science-based interviewing protocol – known as PEACE – was compared to interviewers who were not trained. Specifically, a sample of real-life suspect interviews by PEACE-trained (n = 25) and untrained (n = 27) interviewers were coded for the existence of engage and explain behaviours, police cautions and charter rights, question types, coercive tactics, evidence-based challenges, along with interview (confessions and information provision) and court (pleas, convictions) outcomes. Results showed that PEACE-trained interviewers used significantly more engage and explain behaviours, and fewer coercive tactics. Trained interviewers were found to use more open-ended questions, more clarifications, more statements, and fewer leading questions and facilitators. Results also showed that people interviewed by trained interviewers provided significantly greater amounts of information than those interviewed by untrained interviewers. It was also found that there were few differences in the administration of legal rights, confession rates, and court outcomes between trained and untrained interviewers. The effect of PEACE training on investigative interviewing and truth-seeking is discussed.


identifier: Alhasanat, Ahmad Salman <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Alhasanat=3AAhmad_Salman=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Dynamics of some partial differential equation models arising in fluid mechanics and biology.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In this thesis, we study the dynamics of some partial differential models arising in
fluid mechanics and biology. First, we analyze a long-wave model for a liquid thin
film on an inclined periodic substrate that is valid at a near-critical Reynolds number.
The existence and the uniqueness, as well as the asymptotic formula, of a periodic
steady-state are derived. Floquet-Bloch theory and asymptotic analysis are carried
out to study the stability in a weighted functional space. The generalized Burgers
equation is another fluid model that we consider. After transforming the problem
into a constant coefficients problem, a shooting method is used to prove the existence
of separable solutions. The total number of them is given and the uniqueness of the
positive solution is proved. The stability of the small-amplitude positive steady-state
is provided using the bifurcation analysis. Dynamics of a two-species competition
model with diffusion is studied in the last part. The minimal wave speed selection
mechanism (linear vs. nonlinear) is investigated. Hosono conjectured that there is a
critical value of the birth rate so that the speed selection changes only at this value.
We prove a modified version of this conjecture and establish some new results for the
linear and the nonlinear speed selection. The local and the global stability, using the
comparison principle together with the squeezing technique, of the traveling wavefront
are studied in a weighted functional space. Some open problems and future works are
presented.