identifier: Stuckey, Paul David <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Stuckey=3APaul_David=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Drift speed distribution of icebergs on the Grand Banks and influence on design loads.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: With increasing oil and gas exploration on the Grand Banks during the 1970's and 1980's, there was a need to better understand the risk of icebergs impacting an offshore structure, and the consequences should such an event occur. As a result of industry demand, a probabilistic iceberg design load methodology was developed to estimate the risk of impacts and the resultant impact forces. --  Since the original framework was developed, there have been numerous improvements and enhancements. Distributions and relationships used to define input parameters have been refined due to the availability of new data. Several models have been improved as a result of ongoing research. The author has been extensively involved in many of the updates and improvements to the methodology, including improvements in the eccentricity model, the area-penetration model, and most recently, the drift speed model. --  The iceberg drift speed model, a key component, was developed by balancing the environmental forces acting on the iceberg. The model was deterministic; there was only one iceberg drift speed for a given iceberg in a specific significant wave height. The model agreed with the overall drift speed distribution based on available data. However, with the availability of new data, it was shown the model did not fully capture the randomness observed in the data. -- A new probabilistic drift speed model was developed to replace the deterministic model. It is based on the statistical analysis of available drift speed data. This model addresses the randomness in the data by incorporating probability distributions. The input parameters for the distributions are defined in terms of the iceberg waterline length and the significant wave height.


identifier: Zhang, Xueying <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Zhang=3AXueying=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Energy efficiency in secure wireless sensor networks.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract: Cryptography plays an important role in protecting the data security of wireless sensor networks (WSNs). However, it is greatly constrained by the limited energy supply of a sensor node. In this thesis, we focus on the energy efficiency of secure communication in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Our research considers both the cryptographic algorithms and the cryptographic schemes when link layer security is applied to a WSN. By implementing symmetric key ciphers in both software and hardware, we evaluate the computational energy cost considering both the algorithm characteristics and channel quality. We further explore different factors that affect the communication energy cost of link layer cryptographic schemes, such as the payload size, the mode of operation, the initialization vector distribution, and the communication channel quality. We evaluate the energy efficiency of different cryptographic schemes for data transmission by developing an analysis model that is constructed considering various factors affecting both the computational cost and communication cost. Its appropriateness is further verified and supported by simulation results. We also investigate the energy cost of session key establishment in a WSN. In conclusion, we recommend using a lightweight block cipher, byte-wise substitution permutation network (BSPN), along with the ciphertext feedback scheme for wireless sensor networks to achieve security and better energy efficiency. To enhance the data security further in a WSN, we also suggest using a key distribution protocol based on symmetric key cryptography, which can lead to a robust system with acceptable additional energy consumption.


identifier: Abgrall, Patrick <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Abgrall=3APatrick=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Defining critical habitat for large whales in Newfoundland and Labrador waters: design and assessment of a step-by-step protocol.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The aim of this study was to develop a procedure to define critical habitat for species at risk under the Species at Risk Act and apply it to blue, fin, and sei whales in an effort to increase our understanding of their habitat use and preference around Newfoundland and Labrador. To achieve this goal, a step-by-step protocol was developed to help scientists and decision makers achieve habitat protection goals for species at risk: Step 1 - natural history description; Step 2 - population concentrations as habitat ranking markers (Candidate Critical Habitats); Step 3 - assessing limiting resources and limiting factors (Protected Critical Habitats); and Step 4 - active monitoring. --  Areas of high population concentrations, including seasonal peaks, for blue, fin, and sei whales were identified through historical shore-based whaling records and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans' cetacean sightings database. These areas were labelled as initial candidate critical habitats and include: the south coast of Newfoundland during spring and summer and the Strait of Belle Isle/Gulf of St. Lawrence during spring for blue whales; coastal Labrador and northeast Newfoundland during summer for fin whales; and the south coast of Newfoundland during summer and coastal Labrador during summer and autumn for sei whales. These regions were demonstrated to have served historically as feeding habitats for all of these species. --  An Ecological Niche Factor Analysis (ENFA), using ecogeographical variables (water depth, seabed slope, sea-surface temperature, and chlorophyll concentrations), provided more precise models of habitat suitability and candidate critical habitats. Results of the ENFA indicated that blue whale distribution around Newfoundland and Labrador was found to be mainly correlated with areas of deep water and steep seabed slope, and particularly off the south coast of Newfoundland, with the steepness of the seabed slope. Fin whale and sei whale distribution were correlated mainly with deeper than average waters and colder surface waters. Season-specific critical habitat models were also generated, but were generally low in their predictive accuracy. When the models were challenged with a limited set of aerial survey sighting records that were not used in the ENFA, 64% of blue whale sigh lings (n = 11) and 60% of fin whale sightings (n = 10) were located within core habitat as defined by ENFA. Finally, potential limiting factors were summarized and conditions were highlighted under which these candidate critical habitats should become protected critical habitats.


identifier: Gamage Don, Gayan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Gamage_Don=3AGayan=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Decentralized leader follower based formation control strategies for multiple nonholonomic mobile robots.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis develops a hybrid decentralized formation control framework to coordinate multiple mobile robots with nonholonomic constraints. The proposed approach deploys a control theoretic bottom-up approach where, some low level behavior based controllers are coordinated by a discrete event system with supervisory control. The robots are required to navigate in an unstructured environment with a predetermined geometric formation while being adaptable to avoiding obstacles and following walls on the way. The complexity of the environment is handled by a discrete event system with supervisory control. For proper navigation, the multi robot systems are transformed in to flexible leader-follower coordinate structures, where we derive the aforementioned low level behavior based controllers. These controllers being nonlinear due to the nonholonomic nature of the robots involved, are subjected to linearization through nonlinear control techniques of static and dynamic feedback linearization. --  Trajectory tracking type formation controllers for nonholonomic mobile robots are also developed and compared against static and dynamic feedback linearized counterparts for performance. The behavior based controllers, collectively known as formation controllers, require the designated leader/leaders robot's state and velocity profiles be known to all of its followers. Hence instead of explicit communication, we use recursive Baysian estimation techniques to estimate the leader robot's state and velocity profiles through the observations taken from sensors local to the robot. We implement and simulate different recursive Baysian estimation techniques to estimate leader robot's state and compare their respective estimation accuracy. The whole conceptual system is implemented through simulation and the results are shown to verify its operation.


identifier: Sheppard, Philip B. (Philip Bruce) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sheppard=3APhilip_B=2E_=28Philip_Bruce=29=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Determining the effectiveness of web-based distance education in mitigating the rural-urban achievement gap.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study was designed to understand how the delivery method of web-based distance courses compares to that used in classroom-based courses and to determine whether students in web-based distance courses perform on par with those in classroom-based courses, if given the same contexts.  Until this is more fully understood, any differences in achievement levels between web-based distance courses and classroom-based courses will be poorly understood, leaving the potential that future decision-making will be based on simplistic notions related to any existing differences.  It is the intent of this study to compare student achievement between web-based distance and classroom-based courses with particular focus on determining the effectiveness of web-based distance education in lessening the rural-urban achievement gap. -- The data for this study came from the Department of Education, Newfoundland and Labrador and the Center for Distance Learning and Innovation, Newfoundland and Labrador.  I studied two cohorts of high school chemistry and physics students who completed Level II and Level III science courses between September 2002 and June 2005.    These students were categorized into four groups based on locality (rural or urban) and course delivery method (classroom-based or web-based).  The categories were as follows: (1) urban students who enrolled only in classroom-based chemistry and physics courses, (2) rural students who enrolled only in classroom-based chemistry and physics courses, (3) rural students who enrolled in Level II classroom-based chemistry and physics courses and Level III web-based chemistry and physics courses, and (4) rural students who enrolled only in web-based chemistry and physics courses.  A repeated measures general linear model was used to predict students' achievement in the Level II and Level III chemistry and physics courses in each of the above noted categories. -- The main finding from this analysis was that there were no achievement differences between urban students who enrolled only in classroom-based chemistry and physics courses, and rural students who enrolled only in web-based chemistry and physics courses. However, there was an achievement difference between urban and rural students who enrolled in Level III classroom-based chemistry and physics courses. Consequently, I conclude that web-based distance education chemistry and physics courses delivered through CDLI are not only as effective as the physics and chemistry courses offered in the traditional classroom-based environment, but they have the potential to overcome the achievement gap between rural and urban students that has traditionally favored the urban students.


identifier: Coady, Lori A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Coady=3ALori_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Effects of moderate motion sickness on estimation of task duration and performance on cognitive tasks.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: While motion sickness (MS) is a well known concern, the effects of moderate levels of MS are still not understood. Marine workers are responsible for ensuring the safe and effective functioning of a ship, regardless of their reactions to an adverse environment. In effort to gain more insight into potential effects of moderate MS on operators, this thesis observed task performance and subject estimated task duration in two movement conditions, motion and no motion. -- Seventeen subjects performed various cognitive and psychometric task batteries in both 'Motion' and 'No Motion' conditions. Moderate levels of MS were contained throughout the two hour 'Motion' session. Estimation of time on task was recorded while performance of tasks was dependent upon response time and errors. Subjective task load data were also collected. An α of 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance and although there was no evidence found at that level, statistical evidence suggests that there may an effect of moderate MS on estimation of time on task at the p<0.10 level. Cognitive task batteries gave little evidence of effect, however subjective task load was perceived as greater when the subject was experiencing moderate MS. Future research is needed to gain a complete understanding of how moderate MS effects task performance. -- Key Terms: motion sickness (MS); estimation of time on task (ETT); cognitive tasks; response time (RT); error percentage (EP).


identifier: Schwartz, Stephen Samuel <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Schwartz=3AStephen_Samuel=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Diagenesis and porosity development of paleozoic carbonate and early to mid cretaceous siliciclastic reservoir intervals, Hopedale Basin, Labrador Shelf.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Paleozoic carbonates and siliciclastic basins Early to Mid Cretaceous sandstones are observed in the Hopedale and Saglek and represent prerift and synrift sedimentation prior and during the development of the Labrador Shelf, respectively. Both of these sediments have been (and are) of hydrocarbon importance, particularly acting as regional reservoirs, with exploration drilling commencing in the 1970's and ending in the early to mid 1980's. The result was 27 exploration wells and more than 100 000 line km of seismic data acquired from the Canadian side of the Labrador Sea. Hydrocarbons, existing mainly as gas and gas condensates, have been discovered in 5 wells in the Hopedale Basin: Snorri J-90, Hopedale E-33, North Bjarni F-06, Bjarni 0-82, and Gudrid H-55. Reserves are estimated at 4.2 Tcf of natural gas and 123 million barrels of NGL. Play types include both siliciclastic (e.g. North Bjarni) and carbonate reservoirs (e.g. Gudrid H-55). North Bjarni has reserves at 2.2 Tcf of gas and 82 million barrels of NGL. -- The Hopedale Basin carbonates are represented by dolomites and limestones, and were investigated in cores from three exploration wells: Indian Harbour M-52, Gudrid H-55, and Roberval K-92. Core samples from Roberval K-92 (3578 - 3582 m and 3870 - 3873.5 m), Gudrid H-55 (2676 - 2680 m), and Indian Harbour M-52 (3952 - 3958 m) were collected for petrographic investigations and geochemical analyses. Two main types of carbonates are recognized; a wackstone with limited dolomitization (Indian Harbour M-52) and dolostone (Roberval K-92 & Gudrid H-55). Three dolomite phases (Dl, D2 and D3) have been petrographically and geochemically identified and correlated between wells, indicating diagenesis as a result of progressive burial. Trace element and stable isotope geochemistry, along with fluid inclusion data, support petrographic data and aid in the understanding the origin and nature of the dolomitizing fluids. All porosity is recognized as secondary and is a result of several stages of dissolution and dolomitization. However, precipitation of calcite cements has occluded porosity, creating reservoir heterogeneity. ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr  values, sampled from micritic calcite and dolomites, suggest that deposition likely started in the Early to Mid-Ordovician with early dolomitization occurring no later than this time. --  The Bjarni Formation represents the main siliciclastic reservoir on the Labrador Shelf and is composed mainly of fluvial to alluvial sandstones, with interbedded to interlaminated lacustrine shales. Six exploration wells from different stratigraphic depths and locations within the Hopedale Basin, containing approximately 31 m of Bjarni Formation sandstone, were logged, sampled, and petrographically analyzed from intervals that include Bjarni H-81 (2157-2164 m), Ogmund E-72 (2234 - 2240 m), North Bjarni F-06 (2452 - 2458 m), Herjolf M-92 (2632 - 2640 m), Roberval K-92 (3095 - 3112.5 m), and North Leif 1-05 (3110 - 3113.5 m). Petrographic and core analysis have identified compositionally and texturally varied sandstones, ranging from Q₉₀.₅F₂.₀L₇.₇ to Q₃₈.₅F₃₉.₀L₂₂.₅, that contain diagenetic minerals such as iron oxides (e.g. hematite), chlorite, ferroan and non-ferroan calcite cements, kaolinite, and quartz overgrowths/cements. Both intergranular (initial) and intragranular (secondary) porosities are recognized and are a result of sediment maturity and diagenesis, respectively. Diagenetic minerals are observed occluding mainly intergranular porosity reducing the total porosity, while the intragranular porosity, present in all studied intervals, supplements the total porosity, improving the reservoir quality.


identifier: Jin, Yu <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Jin=3AYu=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Evolution dynamics of biological systems with spatial and temporal heterogeneities.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Biological invasion is an important phenomenon in ecology. Mathematical studies of biological invasion involve reaction-diffusion equations which consider continuous reproduction and random movements of species, and integro-differential/difference equations which describe population dispersal via various types of dispersal kernels. The purpose of this thesis is to investigate the spatial dynamics of some reaction-diffusion and integro-differential/difference population models with spatial and temporal heterogeneities. -- Introduction and overview of mathematical investigation of biological invasions are presented in Chapter 1. -- In Chapter 2, we present some terminologies and theorems which are based on the theories of global attractors, uniform persistence, monotone dynamical systems, asymptotic speeds of spread and traveling waves. -- Chapter 3 is devoted to the study of spatial dynamics of a class of periodic integro-differential equations which describe the population dispersal process via a dispersal kernel. By appealing to the theory of asymptotic speeds of spread and traveling waves for monotone periodic semiflows, we establish the existence of the spreading speed c* and the nonexistence of time-periodic traveling wave solutions with the wave speed c < c*. In the autonomous case, we further use the method of upper and lower solutions to prove the existence of monotone traveling waves with the wave speed c ≥ c*, which implies that the spreading speed coincides with the minimal wave speed for monotone traveling waves. -- In Chapter 4, we investigate a non-local periodic reaction-diffusion population  model with stage-structure. In the case of unbounded spatial domain, we establish the existence of the asymptotic speed of spread and show that it coincides with the minimal wave speed for monotone time-periodic traveling waves. In the case of bounded spatial domain, we obtain a threshold result on the global attractivity of either zero or a positive periodic solution. -- In Chapter 5, we consider a class of discrete-time population models in a periodic lattice habitat. When the recruitment function is monotone, we show that the spreading speeds coincide with the minimal wave speeds for spatially periodic traveling waves in the positive and negative directions, by appealing to the theory of spreading speeds and spatially periodic traveling waves for monotone systems in periodic environments. When the recruitment function is not monotone, we also obtain the existence and formula of the spreading speeds via the comparison method. Moreover, we prove the existence of spatially periodic traveling waves by using the Schauder fixed point theorem. -- In Chapter 6, we consider a class of cooperative reaction-diffusion systems, in which one population (or subpopulation) diffuses while the other is sedentary. We use the shooting method to prove the existence of the bistable traveling wave, and then obtain its global attractivity with phase shift and uniqueness (up to translation) via the dynamical system approach. The results are applied to some specific examples of reaction-diffusion population models. -- A brief summary of this thesis and some future work are presented in Chapter 7.


identifier: Campbell, Stacy Marie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Campbell=3AStacy_Marie=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Environmental lead exposure in St. John's, Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Residential soil and house dust samples were collected in St. John's to quantify the extent of lead contamination. Fifty-one percent of soil samples collected exceeded the CCME guideline of 140 ppm for lead (n=T231). Only 12% of house dust samples were above the US EPA standards (n=95). Historical use of leaded paint and combustion of coal and leaded gasoline have contributed to lead concentrations, especially downtown. -- Based on soil lead concentrations there may be an increased lifetime health risk for all residents living on properties with soil lead concentrations greater than 900 ppm. Infants and toddlers are at particular risk, and when backyard produce is included, increased risk may occur at soil lead concentrations as low as 38 ppm for these particular receptors. There is a lot of uncertainty in the estimation of lead in backyard produce, but it may be advisable to avoid consuming it until further research is conducted.


identifier: Adsool, Vikrant A. (Vikrant Arun) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Adsool=3AVikrant_A=2E_=28Vikrant_Arun=29=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Enantioselective synthesis with an ephedrine-derived morpholine-dione - new methods and applications in target-oriented synthesis.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Enantiomerically pure α-hydroxy acids and their derivatives are an important class of organic compounds due to their utility as building blocks for the asymmetric synthesis of natural products and biologically active molecules. As a result, several synthetic strategies towards these targets have been reported in recent years. This thesis describes the applications of an ephedrine-based morpholine-dione as a chiral controller for the asymmetric synthesis of α-hydroxy acid derivatives. The methodology has been applied in enantioselective synthetic approaches to functionalized oxacycles as well as selected natural products such as (-)-quinic acid (R)-homocitric acid lactone and (+)-laurencin. -- A formal, enantioselective synthesis of (-)-quinic acid was achieved from a (1S,2R)-ephedrine-derived morpholine-dione which was converted to a dialkyl morpholinone via a highly diastereoselective allylation reaction. Using a similar strategy and by employing the enantiomeric (1R,2S)-ephedrine-derived dione, a concise and highly enantioselective synthesis of (R)-homocitric acid lactone was achieved. -- Enantioselective routes to functionalized, seven-, eight-, and nine-membered oxacycles that are amenable to further elaboration have been developed. Salient features of the methodology include highly diastereoselective and regioselective transformations of an ephedrine-derived epoxy-morpholinone to functionalized precursors of the oxacycles. The ephedrine scaffold exerts remote stereocontrol in the functionalization of the appended oxacycle. -- An application of the strategy for the enantioselective synthesis of medium-sized oxacycles has been demonstrated in a convergent, enantioselective route to an advanced intermediate for the synthesis of the marine natural product (+)-laurencin. The methodology employs ring-opening of an ephedrine-based spiro-epoxide with a chiral secondary alcohol, hemiacetal allylation and ring closing metathesis as the key steps for elaboration of the functionalized medium-ring ether moiety in laurencin. -- Studies on applications of the epoxy-morpholinone in the synthesis of funtionalized pyrrolidines were also conducted. The methodology, which is currently under development, employs ring-opening of an ephedrine-based spiroepoxide with a primary amine. Ring-closing of the amine side-chain on the resulting hemiacetal should provide functionalized pyrrolidines. -- In the investigations described above, removal of the ephedrine portion has been achieved by reductive cleavage (dissolving metal reduction), which results in destruction of the ephedrine portion. Hence, potentially recoverable chiral amino alcohols were examined as alternatives to ephedrine. This study has identified diphenyl alaninol as a potential substitute for ephedrine and has also provided some insights into the morpholinone structural elements that are necessary for good diastereoselection.


identifier: Mofarrah, Abdullah <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Mofarrah=3AAbdullah=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Decision making tool for produced water management : an application of multicriteria decision making approach.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Produced water (PW) is the most significant source of waste discharge from the oil and gas operations. As such, development of an effective PW management system is important to minimize/mitigate the environmental impacts. However, there are challenges with respect to the selection of the best option due to competing and conflicting criteria. Selection of the best alternative often involves multiple criteria, which requires sophisticated multiple-criteria decision making (MCDM) methods. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) has widespread application in MCDM problems. It can effectively handle both qualitative and quantitative data. In this study AHP is integrated with an additive value model to enhance the decision making process. Linguistic terms are used to capture the subjective judgment of decision makers in the absence of quantitative data. -- However, the traditional AHP involves human subjectivity which leads to decision uncertainty. The vagueness type uncertainty associated in the decision making process is considered using the fuzzy based technique. The traditional AHP is modified to fuzzy AHP using extent analysis and integrated with the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) algorithm to solve the decision matrix. A hypothetical case study for PW management is demonstrated to illustrate and compare both traditional AHP and fuzzy based AHP methodology. -- The ecological risk assessment (ERA) of PW is conducted for this study and the ERA results for different PW management options are used in the integrated MCDM model under ecological risk criteria. -- This study has provided a framework for a decision support system which will be helpful for oil and gas industry persons to select the best PW management options with minimum efforts.


identifier: Sorenson, Melody K. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sorenson=3AMelody_K=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Examining the role of mindfulness as a potential mediator of the relationship between gender role and disordered eating.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Mindfulness has garnered empirical support in the treatment of both anxiety and depression, and more recently, in the treatment of binge eating disorder and bulimia nervosa. Research, however, has not yet explored the role of dispositional mindfulness; namely, mindfulness without the benefit of formal training, as a protective factor against disordered eating. This study explored the role of dispositional mindfulness as a mediator of the relationship between gender role and disordered eating. The results of this research suggest that while mindfulness is associated with lower levels of disordered eating, it does not mediate the relationship between gender role and disordered eating, as was hypothesized. The implications of these findings will be discussed within the context of mental health.


identifier: Freeman, J. W. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Freeman=3AJ=2E_W=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Hume and Husserl: philosophy of the self.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Philosophical theories of the self differ about exactly which concerns, aims and insights best promote the discovery of their object. One unambiguous and effective criterion with which to evaluate any such theory, regardless of whatever other first principles or final commitments the theory may possess, is to consider its treatment of (and its constraints, if any, upon) how and to what extent the self can know itself. In this thesis, I aim to uncover the reasons why David Hume (1711-1776) and Edmund Husserl (1859-1938), for sometimes differing and sometimes similar reasons, limit the self's ability to reflect upon and to know itself. I argue that the theories advanced by Hume and Husserl are best understood in combination with a model of self-perception that is compatible and complementary with the letter and spirit of their general philosophies and is also already implied in Hume's bundle theory of the self.


identifier: Carroll, Patrick <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Carroll=3APatrick=3A=3A.html>   (2008) How a community understands its past: oral history, archaeology and identity in Placentia, Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: For the majority of the residents interviewed for this research, their personal history involved the experience of being from someplace other than the original Placentia. Their main attachment to Placentia and its history is through the authorized heritage myth of the town as the "ancient French capital" epitomized by the archaeological excavations that were being conducted at the time of my fieldwork. For the majority of people I spoke with the town's history is most important for its role in the development of economic opportunities to be derived from heritage tourism. Two reasons for this are that a lack of personal experience with Placentia's Past makes it easier for the community to adopt well-constructed narratives of the French and British occupations and, at the time of this research, economic viability was the most important item on the town's agenda. The story of the "ancient French capital" was the epitome of economic opportunities provided by the archaeological excavations and the potential for future income resulting from the development of heritage tourism products. The myth of the ancient French capital provides a means for individuals to attach themselves to a place where they have limited personal experience. It is an accepted narrative that provides a foundation for belonging at the community level.


identifier: Fry, Sheena E. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Fry=3ASheena_E=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Fight and flee : caste decisions during an invasion.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Sociality is a trade-off between personal reproduction and investment in helping others to survive and reproduce. Seven species of Australian gall-inducing thrips have a helping caste (soldiers). A kleptoparasite in the genus Koptothrips that invades and destroys thrips colonies is hypothesized to have evolutionarily shaped this caste. The two investigations presented here both center on one potential evolutionary reaction to the threat of invasion; the production of an alarm pheromone. In the first study, reproductives and soldiers were assessed in the presence or absence of a putative alarm pheromone. Reproductives moved more directly and quickly than soldiers in the trials, but no impact of the pheromone was detected. In the second study, soldier willingness to fight was assessed in relation to this chemical (or blend). Again, no change in behaviour was detected in the trials. Taken together, these two investigations suggest that chemical communication may not have arisen within the gall inducing thrips.


identifier: Rahman, Taufiqur <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Rahman=3ATaufiqur=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Highly accurate vision based surface reconstruction system.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Photogrammetry has come a long way since cameras were employed for aerial mapping tasks. In this digital era, photogrammetry evolved to be used in close range measurements for industrial purposes, thanks to inexpensive and off-the-shelf digital cameras and superior computing power. But how accurately close range photogrammetry can execute a measurement is a question still unexplored by the researchers. This thesis attempts this question to find a vision based measurement solution that employs conventional sensing means yet produces highly accurate results. In a way, the proverbial "pushing the limit" was the main focus of this work. --  It was found that geometrical calibration of digital cameras is the major task in developing a vision based measurement system. This work proposes a novel  calibration technique with an improved approach towards implementation. Experimental results and computer simulation confirmed the accuracy produced by the proposed camera calibration technique. A laser projector emitting a linear pattern was used as an additional sensing element in complement to the camera. Finally a spherical surface was digitized in order to assess the performance of the overall system.


identifier: Ngugi, Anne N. (Anne Njambi) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ngugi=3AAnne_N=2E_=28Anne_Njambi=29=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Efficient rate adaptation in IEEE 802.11 wireless networks.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: IEEE 802.11 is a predominant technology in wireless networks. Though designed to extend local area networks, it has been extended beyond its original infrastructure scope. Three medium sharing aspects must be considered to improve wireless networks throughput. These include higher data rate, power management and channel spatial reuse. --  This thesis focuses on the rate adaptation aspect of wireless networks. Though critical, IEEE 802.11 standards do not specify any rate adaptation mechanism which leaves it up to the wireless devices vendors to implement interfaces that utilize PHY multirate capability. A rate adaptation mechanism must accurately estimate the channel condition despite the presence of various dynamics caused by fading, mobility and hidden terminals, and effectively select the appropriate data rate. -- Utilizing the diverse information scope in literature, we propose hybrid rate adaptation schemes, DRA, DRALD and DRANLD, that draw channel quality information from both the sender and the receiver to effectively determine appropriate data rate. Extensive NS-2 simulations illustrate that these schemes are more adaptive to the dynamic channel conditions and their performance is better than their predecessors.


identifier: Li, Pu <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Li=3APu=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Development of an enhanced adaptive resonance theory mapping system for watershed classification.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Watershed classification is a process that classifies watershed sub-basins into certain groups due to similarities and/or differences in their characteristics. Such a process is of necessity and importance to support the decision making and practice of watershed monitoring, modeling, and management and helps in reducing the set up and running cost and improving efficiency. A watershed system is usually characterized by a large variety of topographical, hydrological, and ecological features, which provides the basis for watershed classification and also makes it a challenging task. Furthermore, many of the features and their interrelationships are hardly measured or quantified accurately due to the complexity and uncertainty of the system. Numerous studies have been conducted on watershed classification but the comprehensive consideration of both systematic complexity and uncertainty in the classification process is lacking. There is a need of more efficient and reliable approaches of watershed classification to deal with complex and uncertain features. --  This research aims to fill the gap by developing a novel classification system based on the enhanced adaptive resonance theory (ART) mapping approaches to classify complex watershed features under uncertainty for supporting watershed modeling and management. The developed system is composed of: (1) a two-stage adaptive resonance theory mapping (TSAM) approach by integrating multitier ART into the system to form an unsupervised learning module for cluster centroid calculation and a supervised learning module for normalized original input classification; and (2) an integrated rule-based fuzzy adaptive resonance theory mapping (IRFAM) approach by incorporating fuzzy set theory and rule-based operation to the system to form an unsupervised learning module for cluster centroid calculation and two supervised learning modules for criteria combination and fuzzified input classification. --  To test the feasibility and efficiency, the developed system was applied to a real-world case study in the Deer River watershed, Canada. The results indicated that the watershed sub-basins were properly classified into preset target groups by both approaches in the given conditions (e.g., vigilance = 0.7). The TSAM approach could efficiently solve the problem of difficulties in criteria generation by using ART unsupervised classification and centriod determination in the first stage and feed the criteria to the ARTMap supervised classification in the second stage. In comparison with the TSAM, the IRFAM approach could take advantages of fuzzy set theory to generate full criteria combinations to match the input patterns and use the rule-based operation to screen the matched patterns into the target groups. This can efficiently handle the classification for the input patterns with a high degree of uncertainty and wide ranges of variations. In the case that there are not sufficient information for generating fuzzy membership functions, the TSAM could be a better choice than the IRFAM from a feasibility perspective; otherwise, the IRFAM could provide more accurate classification results than the TSAM.


identifier: Edge, Jeanette Marie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Edge=3AJeanette_Marie=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Dilute metal recovery from hydrometallurgical process waste streams.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: There have been a number of advancements in the area of waste treatment over the past decade, especially in mining industrial applications. Improvements have been made to conventional technologies to adapt to the tightening of waste disposal regulations. Trace metals in industrial effluents, once regarded as waste, now have the potential to be recovered as a valuable by-product. -- Three separation technologies shown to be successful in mining industrial applications include: ion-exchangers, membrane separation processes, and bio-processing systems. -- The primary objective of this research is to provide a single source of information for separation technologies that apply to the recovery or removal of metals from waste streams and by-product streams from industrial processes similar to Inco's hydrometallurgical process and to indicate where more research is required to determine the best separation technology. It also provides a framework for comparing technologies based on technical feasibility, compatibility with other operations, environment and safety concerns and cost. -- Due to limited information available on the specifics of the INCO effluent stream, this thesis focuses on technologies available to metal processing facilities in general. -- Key Words: Trace metal recovery; separation technologies; hydrometallurgy; wastewaters


identifier: He, Zhijian <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/He=3AZhijian=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Identification of Pygopus 2 as a component of the ribosomal RNA transcription complex in cancer.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Background: Pygopus was initially validated as a co-activator for the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, a critical intracellular cascade implicated both in development and cancer. Further studies indicated that Pygopus appears to have both Wnt-dependent and Wnt-independent functions. Our lab has demonstrated that human Pygopus 2 (hPygo2) was overexpressed and required for Epithelial Ovarian Cancer cell growth in the absence of Wnt signaling. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis was to investigate the mechanism of Wnt-independent requirement of hPygo2 for Epithelial Ovarian Cancer cell growth. --  Hypothesis and Objectives: I hypothesized that hPygo2 achieves Wnt-independent functions in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer via interacting with protein factors not related to Wnt signaling. Therefore, three objectives were proposed in this thesis: 1) to determine minimal domain(s) of hPygo2 required for Wnt-independent Epithelial Ovarian Cancer cell growth; 2) to identify potential protein factors that interact with this critical domain; and 3) to characterize the identified interactions. -- Results: Objective 1). The transfection of hPygo2-specific antisense oligonucleotides in Wnt-inactive Epithelial Ovarian Cancer cell line, SKOV-3 led to cell growth arrest, as shown previously. To assess the sequence requirements of hPygo2 for SKOV-3 cell growth, plasmids encoding various mutant hPygo2 with site-specific alterations within the transcriptional activation domain (N-terminal Homology Domain, NHD) or Wnt-mediating domain (Plant Homeodomain, PHD) were transfected in the hPygo-2-specific antisense treated SKOV-3 cells. Like wild-type hPygo2, mutant hPygo2 proteins with alterations in the PHD that prevented their Wnt-mediating ability restored the growth levels of antisense-treated SKOV-3 cells. On the other hand, hPygo2 protein with mutations in the transcriptional activation NHD domain, failed to restore cell growth. Objective 2). Using a proteomics approach, I identified several possible proteins including p68, RNA helicases II/Gu, Nop56, and Treacle protein from SKOV-3 nuclear extracts that bound to the NHD domain. Objective 3). The treacle protein was identified to have the highest probability of interaction with hPygo2. This interaction was confirmed in vitro and in vivo, in cancer cells. Immunofluorescence assays indicated that Treacle colocalized with hPygo2 in the nucleoli of SKOV-3 and HeLa cancer cells. Actinomycin D treatment in HeLa cells suggested that hPygo2 is a fibrillar component of the nucleolus and may be involved in transcription or early modification of premature ribosomal RNAs. -- Conclusions: The NHD, but not the PHD domain, of hPygo2 protein is required for Wnt-independent SKOV-3 cell proliferation. The hPygo2 interacts with Treacle through its NHD domain and co-localizes with Treacle to the fibrillar compartment of nucleolus in cancer cells. Thus, these results suggest one of the Wnt-independent functions of hPygo2 is involved in ribosomal biogenesis.


identifier: Churchill, David <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Churchill=3ADavid=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Homing in scale space.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

title: Homing in scale space

abstract: Local visual homing is the process of determining the direction of movement required to return an agent to a goal location by comparing the current image with an image taken at the goal, known as the snapshot image. One way of accomplishing visual homing is by computing the correspondences between features and then analyzing the resulting flow field to determine the correct direction of motion. Typically, some strong assumptions need to be posited in order to compute the home direction from the flow field. For example, it is difficult to locally distinguish translation from rotation, so many authors assume rotation to be computable by other means (e.g. magnetic compass). We present a novel approach to visual homing using scale change information from the Scale Invariant Feature Transform (SIFT) which we use to compute landmark correspondences. The method we describe is able to determine the direction of the goal in the robot's frame of reference, irrespective of the relative 3D orientation with the goal.


identifier: Xu, Meiyu <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Xu=3AMeiyu=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Endocrine regulation of appetite and growth in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua).  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Atlantic cod, Gadus morhua, is an important commercial fisheries species in many North Atlantic countries. Due to the recent decline in cod populations worldwide, Atlantic cod has become an emerging species in aquaculture in Canada, in particular New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador. The well-developed resistance to long-term starvation also makes cod a good model for the study of growth- and appetite-related hormones under both short-and long-term nutritional changes. The endocrinal regulation of food intake and energy homeostasis involves a two-way communication of hormones existing in central nervous system and several peripheral organs. I aimed to identify and characterizing genes coding for two growth-related factors (PACAP and SS), as well as one central (OX) and two peripheral (ghrelin and GRP) appetite-related factors in Atlantic cod. Multiple alignments and phylogenetic analyses show that the amino acid sequences all 5 peptides appear relatively conserved among fish, at least among teleosts. The typical expression patterns reflect their functional regions and are highly similar to those of other teleosts reported so far, with high forebrain expression levels for brain peptides and high stomach expression levels for gut peptides. For all the peptides in the present study, an early appearance in development probably indicates a crucial role in development. The apparent differences of expression for PPSS 1, OX and NPY before and after first larval feeding suggest that growth and appetite in fish are already under strict endocrine regulation at very early stages of life. The different expression patterns displayed by PPSS 1 and PRP/PACAP during fasting and re-feeding indicate that they might have distinct functions in the regulation of feeding and metabolism of Atlantic cod. OX and NPY both display periprandial changes and appear to be more affected by re-feeding than a long fasting period, while an increase in CART expression was induced during long-term food deprivation. Ghrelin displayed periprandial changes in expression but was not affected by fasting, while GRP did not display periprandial changes but was affected by food ration. One month exposure to different photoperiods did not affect food intake, body length or growth condition factors in juvenile cod. No overall orexigenic or anorexigenic tendency is shown in juvenile cod, though hypothalamic expressions of both NPY, an appetite stimulator, and CART, a feeding inhibitor, increase in cod exposed to complete darkness compared to fish in constant light. QPCR showed no significant effects of photoperiod on the expression levels of gut ghrelin and GRP. In general, the interaction displayed in Atlantic cod between brain and gut peptites with appetite and nutritional status may help further understanding of the endocrinal control of appetite and the effects of environmental factors, such as photoperiods, in teleosts.


identifier: Noël, Stéphane <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Noe==0308l=3ASte==0301phane=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Fishermen's foodways on the Petit Nord: faunal analysis of a seasonal fishing station at the Dos de Cheval site (EfAx-09), Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Archaeological excavations at the migratory French cod fishing station site of Dos de Cheval (EfAx-09), provided a substantial collection of faunal remains which can be used to study fishermen foodways. Migratory fishing voyages presented some material constraints on the type of food that could be transported and conserved. While archival documents such as provisioning contracts and travel accounts suggest the kind of food products that were brought on board, they only vaguely discuss the incorporation of wild meat in the fishermen's diet while they were on shore. Using zooarchaeological, archaeological and historical data, the present thesis explores specific aspects of food provisioning, but also identity and social status differentiation in food consumption among the Petit Nord fishermen. It is argued that hunting was mainly a privilege of the officers, although ordinary fishermen exploited a variety of seabirds and shorebirds. The subsistence at Dos de Cheval was based almost entirely on domestic mammals, wild land mammals being used only occasionally.


identifier: Ross, Stephen <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ross=3AStephen=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Federalism and centralization in Nigeria.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The following thesis addresses two research questions in relation to federalism in Nigeria. First, why, despite the international trend towards decentralization, does Nigeria remain centralized? Second, what affects has this centralization had on the evolution of federalism in the country? The following research proposes that three variables have reinforced centralization in Nigeria; 1) the nations historical-colonial origins 2) the oil economy 3) the constraints of decentralization and economic reform in federal states. All three variables show centralization to be over-determined, in that, all documented variables point to the same conclusion. The affects of this centralization, as predicted by the political economy of federalism literature, includes transfer dependence, budgetary deficits at the central and sub-national level, macroeconomic instability, public service decay, and resistance to public sector reforms. As a whole, this thesis will conclude that the centralization of Nigerian federalism is both a historical disposition and a rational preference for contemporary actors and institutions.


identifier: Mahmood, Sakib Lutful <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Mahmood=3ASakib_Lutful=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Development of simplified limit analysis techniques and their application to ship structure components.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In this thesis, the mα - tangent method is implemented in conjunction with elastic modulus adjustment procedure (EMAP) and an algorithm has been proposed for limit load estimation. This technique is applied to a number of ship structure components possessing different kinematic redundancies. By specifying spatial variations in the elastic modulus, numerous sets of statically admissible and kinematically admissible stress and strain distributions are generated, and both lower and upper bound limit load multipliers are obtained. Utilizing the lower and upper bound multipliers, accurate limit loads of ship structure components are then determined using the mα - tangent method. Furthermore, a reference volume correction for regions of peak stresses is incorporated to ensure lower bound limit loads in all the linear elastic iterations. Results are compared with the inelastic finite element results and available analytical solutions. -- Lower bound limit loads for ship structure components are also determined based on a single linear elastic finite element analysis by invoking the concept of kinematically active reference volume in conjunction with the mα -tangent method. The method enables rapid determination of lower bound limit loads for ship structure components by taking their kinematically inactive volume into consideration. This method is applied to a number of ship structure components possessing different percentages of inactive volume. Results are compared with the corresponding inelastic finite element results, and available analytical solutions.


identifier: Liu, Yudan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Liu=3AYudan=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area : role of L-type calcium channels in firing regulation.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Dopaminergic projections from the ventral tegmental area constitute the mesolimbocortical system that underlies drug abuse and schizophrenia, primarily as the result of increased dopamine transmission. Essentially, more intense spiking releases more dopamine at the terminal, such as fast single spike firing or burst firing. L-type calcium channels are expressed in dopaminergic neurons, however their role in regulating firing frequency and modes remains unknown. In this thesis, I combined patch clamp recording, western blotting and L-type calcium channel transgenic mice to examine the effects of L-type calcium channels on the firing behavior of dopaminergic neurons in brain slices. Results revealed that calcium influx through L-type calcium channels following FPL64176 or (S)-(-)-Bay K8644 application induced burst firing independent of dopamine, glutamate or calcium from internal stores. The burst firing induced as such was completely blocked by the substrate site protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor chelerythrine but not by the diacylglycerol site inhibitor calphostin C. Western blotting analysis showed that FPL64176 and (S)-(-)-Bay K8644 increased the cleavage of PKC to generate protein kinase M (PKM) and the specific calpain inhibitor MDL28170 blocked this increase. Prevention of PKM production by inhibiting calpain or depleting PKC blocked burst firing induction whereas direct loading of purified PKM into cells induced burst firing. Activation of the NMDA type glutamate or cholinergie receptors known to induce burst firing increased PKM expression. These results indicate that calcium influx through L-type calcium channels activates a calcium-dependent protease that cleaves PKC to generate constitutively active and labile PKM resulting in burst firing of dopaminergic cells (Chapter 2). Next, I examined the role of the L-type calcium channel and PKC in firing responses to carbachol, NMDA or AMPA. All three ligands induced a reversible increase in firing, however, only the carbachol-induced increase was attenuated by the PKC inhibitors chelerythrine and GF 109203X. The L-type calcium channel blocker nifedipine partially blocked carbachol-induced excitation similar to the PKC inhibitors. PKC inhibition and L-type calcium channel blockade did not significantly alter NMDA- or AMPA-induced excitation. Concurrent blockade of PKC and L-type calcium channels with chelerythrine and nifedipine did not additionally suppress carbachol-induced excitation indicating they were sequential events in the same signaling pathway. Furthermore, preincubation with the PKC inhibitor GP 109203X reduced the carbachol-induced increase in nifedipine-sensitive high-voltage gated calcium currents. These results indicate that cholinergic activation enhances PKC activity, which in turn facilitates L-type calcium channel opening to excite dopaminergic cells (Chapter 3). Then, I examined which subtype of L-type calcium channels was involved in firing activities in L-type transgenic mice that have a mutant dihydropyridine (DHP) site. Single spike firing was inhibited to the same extent by the DHP site blocker nifedipine in both Caᵥ1.2DHP⁽⁺/⁺⁾ and Caᵥ1.2DHP⁽⁻/⁻⁾ mice. The DHP site opener (S)-(-)-Bay K8644 and the non-DHP opener FPL64176 induced bursting of dopaminergic cells in Caᵥ1.2DHP⁽⁻/⁻⁾ mice similarly and the DHP blocker nifedipine blocked bursting induced by either agent. Since Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 are the only subtypes expressed in dopaminergic cells, these results underscore the importance of Caᵥ1.3 L-type calcium channels in single spike and burst firing of these cells (Chapter 4).


identifier: Ahmad, Forhad <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ahmad=3AForhad=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Fitness for service assessment of liquid storage tanks.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Storage tanks are widely used in industrial applications in order to store liquid products. Corrosion damage, which is generally termed as locally thinned area (LTA), is considered to be a serious threat to the structural integrity of the industrial storage tanks. Therefore, fitness-for-service (FFS) assessment of these structures needs to be performed periodically in order to ensure the operational safety and structural integrity. -- In the present work, the Remaining Strength Factor (RSF) is chosen to quantify corrosion damage. Two alternative methods are proposed for FFS assessment of industrial storage tanks undergoing corrosion damage. The methods are based on the variational concepts in plasticity, the m-alpha tangent multiplier, the concept of elastic decay lengths and the idea of reference volume. The proposed methods are shown to give conservative assessment of the remaining strength of storage tanks developing LTA during operation. The methods are demonstrated through an example, and the results are verified by inelastic finite element analysis.


identifier: Broderick, Erin M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Broderick=3AErin_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Initial development and validation of the coping styles questionnaire for traumatic events (CSQTE).  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A questionnaire that assesses monitoring and blunting coping strategies used by individuals who have experienced a traumatic event was developed and validated. The Coping Styles Questionnaire for Traumatic Events (CSQTE) was evaluated in a clinical sample of 11 individuals (9 women and 2 men), all of whom were seeking medical advice as a result of experiencing a traumatic event. It was found that 18 of the 21 initial items from each of the monitoring and blunting scales of the CSQTE were useful for measuring monitoring and blunting. In addition, each scale exhibited good internal consistency and convergent validity. The CSQTE has the potential to become a useful tool for understanding the coping strategies individuals use after experiencing a traumatic event. Future studies might want to consider another item analysis with a larger sample of clinical and non-clinical participants.


identifier: Mullowney, Darrell <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Mullowney=3ADarrell=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Factors affecting prevalence and distribution of Bitter Crab Disease in Newfoundland and Labrador snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio) : an investigation toward formulating fishery management strategies.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This report is submitted to partially satisfy the requirements for completion of the Master of Marine Studies in Fisheries Resource Management Programme at the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland. As such, all statements and intellectual property contained herein are the responsibility of the author. -- The report focuses on Bitter Crab Disease (BCD) in Newfoundland and Labrador snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio). Specifically, it investigates potential factors affecting prevalence and distribution of the disease toward formulating effective fisheries management strategies to deal with it. The report entails a review of snow crab biology, an overview of the Newfoundland and Labrador snow crab fishery, a literature review of BCD, and original research investigating prevalence and patterns of BCD in snow crab in coastal bays along the northeast coast of Newfoundland.


identifier: Sutherland, Maggie Belinda <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sutherland=3AMaggie_Belinda=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Human dimensions of black bears, caribou and coyotes on the island portion of Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The overall purpose of this human dimension in wildlife management study is to understand the attitudes of the urban and rural general public toward black bears, caribou, and coyotes on the island portion of Newfoundland and Labrador. Data was collected through a mail-out questionnaire to a representative sample of rural (n=396) and urban (n-390) residents. Attitudes toward caribou were the most positive and attitudes toward black bears were relatively positive. Residents held negative attitudes toward coyotes with many expressing no future generation or existence values for the animal. These negative attitudes were linked to fear and perceptions of impact coyotes have on caribou, small game and livestock. Differences in strength of attitudes did exist between rural and urban residents. This research documents the challenges wildlife managers face when setting policy actions regarding predators and provides an example of managing along the conflict-coexistence continuum.


identifier: Brophy, Mark Austin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Brophy=3AMark_Austin=3A=3A.html>   (2007) Egomotion estimation for vehicle control.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The focus of this thesis is a technique called egomotion estimation, which involves the extraction of motion parameters from a camera based on the nature of the motion field on a frame-by-frame basis. In general, this is a multi-step process that involves estimating the motion field, often referred to as the optical flow, from which the translation direction and rotation are then extracted. The optical flow field is normally generated by tracking a frame's strong features in the subsequent frame of a sequence. Examples of strong features include corners of objects or areas of high contrast within an image. The algorithms described in this thesis have been developed with the hopes of eventually being utilized as the primary sensor on a Draganflyer four-rotor helicopter (also known as a quadrotor) for self-motion estimation. A PD controller was implemented to stabilize the quadrotor, and its effectiveness has undergone initial testing in simulation.  --  The algorithms and implementations that follow, in their initial implementations, took over one minute to find a result on an Intel 3.0Ghz Xeon system. They are now running at a rate of about 5Hz, which is certainly a noteable difference. The methods presented are by no means optimal. The author is continuing this research on egomotion estimation as a part of his doctoral studies.


identifier: Azarsina, Farhood <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Azarsina=3AFarhood=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Experimental hydrodynamics and simulation of manoeuvring of an axisymmetric underwater vehicle.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Experimental study of the hydrodynamics of an underwater vehicle requires state-of-the-art facilities, precise design of the experiment and careful analysis of the results. This thesis presents hydrodynamic observations resulting from experiments that were performed on a series of five bare-hull configurations of slender axisymmetric underwater vehicles and also reports a simulation code to predict the manoeuvring behaviour of a real underwater vehicle: MUN Explorer. The main aim is to find the correct form of the physically-based expressions for the hydrodynamic loads that are exerted on completely-submerged underwater vehicles during various manoeuvres and use this improved knowledge to obtain a better prediction of the manoeuvring of an underwater vehicle. --  Straight-ahead resistance tests and static-yaw runs up to 20 degrees yaw angle for the axisymmetric bare-hull configurations that were performed in the 90 metre towing tank at the Institute for Ocean Technology, National Research Council, Canada, provided empirical formulae for the drag force, side force and turning moment that are exerted on such axisymmetric torpedo-shaped hull forms. The empirical formulae were then embeded in a numerical code to simulate the constant-depth planar manoeuvres of the MUN Explorer AUV. The simulation code was first calibrated using the sea-trials data, and then was used to study the turning manoeuvres and compare the simulation results with theoretical formulae based on the linearized equations of motion. --  Dynamic captive-model tests including pure sway and pure yaw runs were the other part of the experiments on the five bare-hull configurations. The sway force that is exerted on the bare-hull during lateral accelerations, according to the pure sway test data, was observed to have a variation over manoeuvring frequency and amplitude. Also, empirical formulae were proposed to estimate the magnitude and phase of the hydrodynamic loads: sway force and yawing moment that are exerted on the axisymmetric torpedo-shape bare-hull of an underwater vehicle during a rapid zigzag manoeuvre. -- Finally, in order to obtain further insight into the origin and distribution of the hydrodynamic loads during underwater manoeuvres, pressure measurement experiments were proposed and as an initial step towards the aim of performing such measurements over the surface of an underwater vehicle, a re-analysis of the old airship data was presented. The re-analysis of the airship pressure test results provided an estimate of the normal pressures that may be experienced by an underwater vehicle during manoeuvres.


identifier: MacDonald, Jillian M. (Jillian Michelle). <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/MacDonald=3AJillian_M=2E_=28Jillian_Michelle=29=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Ectopic expression of mnb and Hip1 alters Drosophila development.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A powerful approach to studying the mechanisms of disease is through the use of transgenic  models like Drosophila melanogaster. The Drosophila homologue of the human Down syndrome candidate gene, Dyrk1A, is minibrain (mnb). Studies have shown that mnb can participate in development of the Drosophila eye to control growth and survival through modification of insulin receptor signalling. Huntingtin-interacting protein 1 (Hip1), which differentially interacts with the mutant and normal forms of the Huntington disease protein, huntingtin, has been shown to play a role in Drosophila neurogenesis. There are two naturally occurring versions of the Hip1 protein, a full length version and a truncated version missing the N-terminal ANTH domain, referred to as Hip1ΔANTH. As a biochemical interaction has been identified between Hip1 and Dyrk1A/mnb, this study examines these two genes in Drosophila development. In this study the UAS-Ga14 system was utilized to direct the expression of Dyrk1A/mnb, Hip1 and components of the insulin signalling pathway, akt & foxo1, in the developing dorsal notum and eye. While neither mnb nor foxo1 over-expression has any effect, we found that over-expression of akt, a component of the insulin signalling pathway, increases the microchaetae density on the dorsal notum. The over-expression of mnb and Hip1 in the eye have no effect on eye development. Under the sensitized growth conditions where the GMRGa14 also drives the UASfoxo11  transgene, the full length versions of Hip1 show decreased bristle number and decreased ommatidia number while the truncated versions of Hip1 lacking the lipid-binding ANTH domain show decreased ommatidia number. Over-expression of mnb and Hip1 together with foxo1 show changes in eye development, indicating a possible interaction between these two genes. As these are genes in two completely different diseases, finding how they interact could provide a key insight into finding therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.


identifier: Shaikh, Sophia Jasmin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Shaikh=3ASophia_Jasmin=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Impact of safety training on fish harvesters' and seafarers' knowledge and attitudes toward safety.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Safety training can significantly reduce injury and death among workers. A survey of fish harvesters in Newfoundland in the early 1990s (post-moratorium) found that all participants had incurred some form of injury. There is, however, no published literature evaluating the impact of safety training programs in the Newfoundland fishery. This thesis examined the impact of a basic and augmented safety-training program on fish harvesters and other seafarers. The Marine and Emergency Duties A1 programme is a basic 3-day safety-training course created by Transport Canada that all marine workers must complete. A sample of 40 fish harvesters and marine workers were allocated to either the basic or an augmented course (referred to as standard group and enhanced group respectively). All participants were surveyed before and after the training to assess their attitudes, perceptions and knowledge of safety issues. Results indicated an overall increase in knowledge in both groups with the enhanced group scoring significantly higher than the standard group. Discussion with the participants also revealed changes in attitudes toward the Marine Emergency Duties A1 programme mandate: from a general aversion (pre-training) to support for the continuation of the program (post-training). Whilst there was no significant overall difference in attitudes between the two groups, the enhanced group indicated a significant difference in more of the individual attitude items and the subscales as compared to the standard group. Further evaluation of the programme is necessary to understand its specific strengths and weaknesses as these relate to fishing and the industry.


identifier: Nakashima, Jennifer <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Nakashima=3AJennifer=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Experiencing music 2200 online: a critical case study of the curriculum transfer process.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Driven by the need to provide all high school students, regardless of geographic location, equal access to provincially prescribed curriculum, the government of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, undertook to deliver a selection of its high school programming via web-based delivery formats. Representing a groundbreaking initiative for music education in the province, this web-based delivery format presents a new context for the teaching and learning of music in rural public schools. Through the lens of critical theory and using a critical case study approach the researcher collected and analyzed data from (1) interviews with persons directly involved in transferring Experiencing Music 2200 from a face-to-face instructional delivery to an online format, (2) field notes, and (3) pertinent government documents. Abstractions emerging from the data were clustered, themed, and then analyzed and interpreted using categories derived from the work of critical theorists and within selected literature in the area of critical educational research. Synthesis and analysis of data includes the development of timelines, discussion of the process of transference of curriculum to online formats, the identification of challenges, opportunities and implications in this specific case and in future developments, and the posing of critical questions pertaining to curriculum development in online contexts. Suggestions for further research in this area are provided in the concluding section.


identifier: White, Nicole <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/White=3ANicole=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Human kallikrein-related peptidase 6 (KLK6) and 13 (KLK13) are involved in ovarian carcinoma pathogenesis.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: It is estimated in 2009 that 2500 Canadian women were diagnosed and 1750 women lost their lives to epithelial ovarian cancer. This malignancy has a high mortality rate because the majority of women are diagnosed in late stage disease where the 5 year survival rate is only 20%. Late diagnosis is a result of the lack of an effective screening marker. Currently, CA125 is the only marker that is used for ovarian cancer patients and it is used primarily to monitor disease recurrence after treatment. Unfortunately, CA125 lacks the sensitivity and specificity to be used for early detection of ovarian cancer. Recently, a new group of genes, the human kallikrein-related peptidase (KLK) family, has been implicated in ovarian cancer and are being investigated as potential new biomarkers for the malignancy. In particular, KLK 13 has been shown to have increased expression in ovarian cancer. KLK13 has increased expression in the ovarian cancer cell lines CAOV-3, OVCAR-3, and SKOV-3 when compared to the IOSE cell line and is involved in cell motility. Increased KLK13 expression increases migration in the epithelial cell lines IOSE and Mv1Lu. Also, when KLK13 expression was decreased in the ovarian cancer cell line SKOV-3, which has high endogenous KLK13 expression levels, there was a decrease in cellular migration. Increased KLK13 expression in IOSE cells increased cellular invasion through the basement membrane. These data together suggest KLK 13 plays a role in ovarian carcinogenesis and may be a potential therapeutic target. In order to see if KLK expression had any prognostic significance in ovarian cancer patients, paraffin embedded ovarian cancer samples were analyzed for KLK6 and KLK13 mRNA expression.    High expression levels of both KLK6 and KLK13 were associated with invasive ovarian cancer. Also, high KLK6 expression was associated with late stage ovarian cancer and serous histological type. Both KLK6 and KLK13 were also shown to be markers of poor prognosis as patients with high kallikrein expression were more likely to have a recurrence than patients with low KLK expression. When KLK6, KLK13 and Mucl6 were assessed for the ability to detect ovarian cancer, the genes detected 56%, 50%, and 56%, respectively, early stage (Stage I and II) ovarian cancer patients. When all three markers were used in combination, the sensitivity of the test improved to 84%. There was no significant change in the specificity or positive predictive value, but the negative predictive value increased from 33% using the individual markers to 58% when all three markers were combined. These data together suggest KLK6 and KLK 13 are involved in ovarian cancer tumorigenesis. Both KLK6 and KLK13 are potential new markers and possible therapeutic targets for ovarian carcinoma.


identifier: Myrie, Semone B. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Myrie=3ASemone_B=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Developmental origins of cardiovascular disease in Yucatan miniature swine.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Epidemiological studies have consistently indicated that low birth weight is associated with increased risks of chronic diseases in adulthood. Due to limitations of human studies, various animal models are used to elucidate the mechanisms regulating developmental programming of chronic adult diseases. A large proportion (80-90%) of the human incidence of intrauterine growth restriction, resulting in low birth weight, is may be due to impaired nutrient perfusion through the placenta. Spontaneous low birth weight animal models also represent placental insufficiency and may be appropriate models for the human. The overall objective of this thesis was to determine whether the spontaneous naturally occurring low birth weight (i.e., runt) Yucatan miniature pig represents a suitable model for studying developmental origins of chronic adult diseases by investigating biological markers of obesity and cardiovascular diseases. The runts showed qualities similar to low birth weight infants, i.e., small size at birth, an increased rate of postnatal growth (catch-up growth), and organ and metabolic changes which led to the development of obesity and early indicators of cardiovascular diseases. Specifically, runts experienced catch-up growth (prior to sexual maturity at 7 mo old). The catch-up growth was partly due to increased feed intake, which was independent of the post-weaning diet provided, suggesting developmental programming of food intake regulation. Catch-up growth was also associated with increased adiposity in the runts. Furthermore, blood pressure was inversely related to birth weight, similar to findings in epidemiological studies. The higher blood pressure in the runts was significantly correlated to lower nephron number. The results showed that low birth weight was associated with a dyslipidaemic plasma profile as indicated by the higher plasma triglyceride levels in the runts in both the fasted and postprandial states. Finally, a post-weaning dietary intake also plays  an important role as a determinant of chronic disease outcomes; a post-weaning Western-style diet that was high in salt, fat and sugar exacerbate early programming of blood pressure and lipid profile in the runts. Overall, the Yucatan miniature swine has many attributes for a good animal model to explore mechanisms that contribute to the developmental origins of human adult chronic diseases.


identifier: Ravani, Pietro <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ravani=3APietro=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Estimating the risk of recurrent or multiple events in longitudinal studies.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Background. Longitudinal studies usually evaluate risk by modelling time to first event using standard Cox's regression. However this method fails to utilize further outcome information after the first event. In patients with Chronic Kidney Disease repeated events of the same type (recurrent events) and or different type (multiple events) occur frequently. Risk estimation based on partial information may be inaccurate and imprecise. Yet, the analytical tool must take into account the lack of independence of the failure times. -- Methods. To determine whether other methods of analysis are more informative and powerful than standard Cox's regression I re-evaluated data from previous research I had undertaken in Chronic Kidney Disease patients. Data from a multi-centre dialysis access study of incident hemodialysis patients were used as an example of recurrent failure events. Data from a cohort of pre-dialysis patients were used as an example of multiple competing events (dialysis start and death). Correlation in the data was accounted for using either robust variance methods or incorporating frailty effects into the model. Different approaches were used more or less free from distributional assumptions, including generalized models for counts, and using the robust version of the Cox's model as reference estimation method. -- Results. The work shows that standard survival techniques that disregarded further information after the first event have limitations, in terms of power (precision of each estimate and number of estimated effects) and possibly of accuracy (bias). For example, the hazard ratio (HR) of primary failure of the first arterio-venous access for dialysis was 1.96 (95% Confidence Intervals 0.93 to 4.1) in presence of both history of heart failure and nephrology follow-up shorter than 3 months before dialysis start (effect of the interaction controlling for the main effects and other covariates). The estimate was more precise in the corresponding extended Cox's model for recurrent events (HR 2.02, 95% CI 1.11 to 3.65). Similar fits were obtained using variance corrected parametric models. However, all these variance corrected models did not take into account any random effects. This may have induced underestimation of the true effects if the frailty models were true (HR from the frailty Weibull model 3.5, 95% CI from 1.34 to 9). Improvement of model efficiency and more flexibility in model building were observed also using competing risk models for multiple events. -- Conclusion. Analytical techniques for repeated events exist that make more efficient the use of longitudinal data while accounting for their correlation. These methods help address research questions about risk (and some also survival time) considering the entire course of a disease process or multiple possible outcomes, and have implications on design, implementation and costs of clinical research.


identifier: MacKay, Dylan S. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/MacKay=3ADylan_S=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Developmental origins of adult disease in the Yucatan miniature pig : the effects of pre-natal growth on glucose and methyl metabolism.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The effects of birth weight variations on growth and glucose metabolism later in life were investigated in Yucatan miniature pigs. Pigs were fed a high salt, high sugar, and high fat diet for ~12 months. Glucose metabolism in vivo was studied using intravenous glucose tolerance tests (IVGTT) and insulin sensitivity tests (1ST). Glucose tolerance or insulin sensitivity was not affected by birth weight but was significantly affected by gender. Female pigs had reduced glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity compared to male pigs. The female pigs also had higher visceral fat concentrations than male. Increased visceral fat was detrimental to glucose metabolism in all the pigs. The hepatic gene expression of cystathionase (CTH) was lower in runt piglets but betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT) expression and  hepatic global DNA methylation were not different. Thus the role of methyl metabolism in fetal programming of adult  disease remains unclear.


identifier: Kalantarnia, Maryam <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kalantarnia=3AMaryam=3A=3A.html>   (2009) Dynamic risk assessment using accident precursor data and Bayesian theory.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: To improve the safety of a process system, engineers use different methods to identify the potential hazards. Chemical processes involve handling of hazardous chemicals, which on release may potentially cause catastrophic consequences in terms of assets lost, human fatalities or injuries and loss of public confidence in the company. In spite of using endless end-of-the-pipe safety systems, tragic accidents such as BP Texas City refinery still occur. One of the main reasons of such rare but catastrophic event occurrences is lack of effective monitoring and modeling approaches that provide early warnings and help to prevent such events. Other reasons such as lack of criteria and/or assessment parameters and measures for detection of abnormal events may also have an important contribution. --  One of the most popular methods used in the industry today is quantitative risk assessment (QRA) which quantifies the risk associated with a particular process activity by determining the likelihood of occurrence of an unwanted event and the consequences involved. One of QRA's major disadvantages is its inability to update risk during the life of a process. As the process/system operates, abnormal events will result in incidents and near misses. These events are often called accident precursors. A conventional QRA process is unable to use the accident precursor information to revise the risk profile. -- Dynamic failure assessment is a new approach in process safety management, which enables the real time failure analysis of a process. Dynamic failure assessment has been used in the past by nuclear industries for accident likelihood estimation using accident precursors. Recently it has been successfully applied to process units to revise failure probabilities using incident and near miss data. In dynamic risk assessment, an extension of dynamic failure assessment, Bayesian and joint probability theories are used to develop a predictive failure model for a given process. As the process/system operates and generates incidents and near misses, the accident occurrence probability is predicted using accident precursors and later multiplied with consequences to quantify real time risk. --  In this thesis the dynamic risk assessment methodology is discussed in detail. First, potential accident scenarios are identified and represented in terms of an event tree, next, using the event tree and available failure data end state probabilities are estimated. Subsequently, using the available accident precursor data, safety system failure likelihood and event tree end state probabilities are revised.  Finally, the updated probabilities are used in revising the risk profile of the process system. -- Application of this tool is demonstrated by two case studies. The first case study is the process facility of an offshore oil and gas platform where the risk profiles of process units are determined over time. In the second case study dynamic risk assessment is applied to the BP Texas City refinery in order to demonstrate the predictive abilities of the tool. Dynamic risk assessment demonstrates the importance of a learning and predictive tool in risk assessment by verifying significant changes in system failure frequency in comparison with the conventional QRA approach.


identifier: Fiander, Jacqueline J.  <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Fiander=3AJacqueline_J=2E_=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Experiences of individuals living with hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) in families with an exon 8 deletion mutation : a modified grounded theory study.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) is an autosomal dominant condition that predisposes individuals to colon and other cancers. Genetic testing is available to families with known mutations. Limited insight exists on situational and contextual factors influencing genetic testing, as well as the reaction to and acceptance of one's results. An original qualitative study used grounded theory methodological to explore the meaning of genetic testing for HNPCC, to develop a greater understanding of the psychosocial and behavioural impact for carriers and non-carriers, and to identify relevant information to facilitate the provision of counseling programs for both individuals and families. A substantive theory,  C Confronting and Accepting the Challenges of Living in Families with Genetic Linked Diseases, emerged from the data analysis. This theory is defined by three major thematic categories - living in families with a strong history of cancer, becoming aware of genetic testing and living the process, and struggling to adjust. --  Most of the participants in the original study were from families with the intron 5 splice site of the MSH2 gene. These individuals had participated in genetic testing eight to ten years prior to being interviewed. With the identification of an additional MSH2 mutation, exon 8 deletion, family members were now available to be interviewed closer to the time of genetic testing. A modified grounded theory study was subsequently conducted with these individuals by this researcher. The purpose of the current study was to augment the conceptualizations leading to the substantive theory generated in the original study. -- The findings indicated that the genetic testing event was viewed narrowly in comparison to the larger life context. The importance of lay inheritance beliefs became integral to shaping the meaning of genetic testing. Family experiential knowledge emerged as a major factor in shaping risk perceptions and emotional readiness. The impact of these experiences requires careful assessment before genetic testing. Pre-test genetic counseling enhanced cognitive processing of results, but unexpected emotional reactions occurred in relation to extensiveness of familial cancer, beliefs about inheritance, coping abilities, and family communication. Attention needs to be given to the impact of subjective feeling states on the testing process. The psycho-emotional impact of knowing one's HNPCC status can impede successful coping long-term. Being open to and having family support emerged as being significant. Timing and sites of recommended cancer screening were variable amongst physicians, suggesting the value of accurate timely information  flow. For carriers reaching the affected stage, access to health care becomes increasingly significant. -- In conclusion, clinicians and families need to think longitudinally about the course of HNPCC illness with normative landmark transitions and constantly changing demands to help individuals achieve a sense of resilience and maintain an optimal quality of life. Nurses are poised to prioritize, coordinate, and provide psychological and emotional support to HNPCC families.


identifier: Williams, Kristen <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Williams=3AKristen=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Examining the construct of childhood parentification : an empirical investigation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Parentification refers to an experience whereby children take on adult roles in childhood. Two questionnaire-based studies designed to address two areas of parentification research were conducted. To help explain the divergent psychological outcomes of parentification, Study 1 tested internal locus of control as a moderator in the relationship between parentification and outcome in a sample of undergraduate students (N = 99). Internal locus of control moderated the relationship between parentification and depression, suggesting that higher internal locus of control is related to lower levels of depression following childhood parentification. To bring further delineation to the parentification construct, Study 2 examined a number of theorized family functioning correlates of parentification in samples of adolescent (N = 92) and adult participants (N = 80). Results from Study 2 suggest that childhood parentification is often found in mutually unsupportive family systems, where physical and emotional needs are unmet, and parents demonstrate reduced care for their children. Findings from both studies bring further understanding to the construct of childhood parentification.


identifier: French, Vanessa <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/French=3AVanessa=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Fine-mapping and mutation identification for ARVC (Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy) at the ARVD5 locus (3p25) in the Newfoundland population.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Cardiomyopathy is a disease that affects the muscle of the heart. It has a variety of causes, symptoms, and treatments. As the disease progresses, the heart becomes weaker and less able to pump blood through the body. There are four  major groups of cardiomyopathy, which include Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC), Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), and Restrictive Cardiomyopathy (RCM). -- Mutations causing ARVC have been previously found in seven genes. Five of these (PKP2, DSP, DSC2, JUP, DSG2) code for desmosomal proteins and are functionally important for cell-to-cell adhesion. A sixth gene, RYR2, is a phenocopy involved in calcium release mechanisms. A seventh gene, TGFβ3, is implicated in rare cases of ARVC. One of the twelve loci implicated in ARVC is designated Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia Type 5 (ARVD5). Inheritance is in an autosomal-dominant pattern. It, like desmosomal ARVC, is characterized predominantly by the replacement of cardiomyocytes with fatty and fibrous tissue, which can increase the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). In 1998, linkage analysis and a genome wide scan, using a family from Newfoundland, identified an autosomal-dominant form of ARVC mapping to a 9.93 Mb region on chromosome 3p25. -- The primary objective of this study was to reduce the linked candidate region, by identifying recombinations and/or a consistent disease-associated haplotype in additional ARVD5-linked Newfoundland families. The secondary objective was to identify the disease-causing gene. -- Genomic DNA was collected from obligate carriers and affected members from 15 Newfoundland families and was used to construct high-resolution haplotypes. Fine mapping reduced the candidate region from 9.93 Mb to 2.36 Mb. A common haplotype co-segregated with the disease suggesting a common founder in these 14 Newfoundland families and a common mutation causing the disease. Direct sequencing of twenty positional candidate genes identified a novel missense mutation (c.1073 C→T, S358L), in the TMEM43 gene, which was carried by all ARVC patients and absent from 322 population control chromosomes. TMEM43 is a novel causative gene for ARVC at the ARVD5 locus. Presymptomatic diagnosis of at-risk individuals can be carried out due to this mutation discovery.


identifier: Moury, Sanjida <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Moury=3ASanjida=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Design of low speed axial flux permanent magnet generators for marine current application.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The aim of this research work is to design, built and test low speed multi-pole permanent magnet generators for ocean energy conversion systems. Vertical axis drag/lift type ocean current turbines have low speed due to water speed of less than 1m/s. A low speed permanent magnet generator can be utilized to deliver low power that can be used to power- rated sea pods. The study focuses on the design of a permanent magnet generator, which is suitable for under water application and can generate electric power from the low speed marine currents (typically below 100rpm). This thesis explores different low speed permanent magnet generators and focuses on multi-pole direct driven axial flux permanent magnet Generator (AFPMG). AFPMG is suitable for direct coupled systems. Two types of AFPMG are designed and tested for several performance criterions. The prototyped AFPMGs are tested and the results are presented and  discussed in this thesis. The first design produced 5.2V, 3.5W and the second design produced about 5.5V, 2W at 70 rpm. Both designs are simple in construction, economically viable and suitable for low electric power generation from ocean currents.


identifier: Noel, Natasha Angelique Appleby <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Noel=3ANatasha_Angelique_Appleby=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Immune responses to thyroglobulin peptides in animal models of experimental autoimmune thyroiditis.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis has no abstract.


identifier: Bishop, Danielle Elizabeth <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Bishop=3ADanielle_Elizabeth=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Feminist theology, Christianity and the problem of patriarchy : toward an alternative perspective.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: For the last fifty years, feminists have debated whether a feminist Christian theology is even achievable. Post-Christian feminists maintain that it is impossible to reverse the 'sexist society' permeating Christianity, while reformist theologians struggle with how to articulate a commitment to feminism in spite of it. The aim of this thesis is to recast the debate in an e effort to reconcile feminism and faith. Bernard Lonergan's dialectical philosophy provides a useful framework for reworking the basic tensions between Christian and post-Christian feminists. In particular, the historico-religious triad of progress, decline, and redemption reconstructs patriarchy as a symptom of a broader form of systemic bias that is reversible through knowledge born of faith. By way of philosophical exegesis, the objective is to bolster the particular aims of reformist feminism, namely recovery from gender bias, and show that there is a place for feminists in the Church. The remote goal is to develop an alternative existential critique of patriarchy that is legitimate in both the secular and  theological realms and contribute to the task of bridging the gap between faith, traditional religion, and feminism.