title: Indigenous Youth, Criminal Justice and Foster Care: A Scoping Review of Proactive, Preventative Initiatives

subject: Indigenous Youth criminal justice, foster care

abstract: The present study explores what strategies and approaches are being utilized by Indigenous communities to lower the number of youths who are involved in the foster care and criminal justice system. The methodological approach that was used was a scoping review following the guidelines of Arksey and O’Malley (2005). The process of the scoping review involved developing a research strategy (research parameters) which included search terms, years of publication and databases. The first use of the research strategy involved a search on the academic databases from the Mount Saint Vincent University library, which yielded 0 results from the academic literature. The same research strategy was used for a second attempt, using Google Scholar (first 30 pages of articles) where results were yielded. From the results, the researcher organized and eliminated articles based on the articles “fitting” the research criteria, which in turn would answer the research question. Once completed, there were a total of 8 articles that were deemed relevant or “fitting” the research question, however the unintended result of the review, was not in the articles, themselves, but in what was missing. The scoping review process highlighted the need/gap that exists in academic literature involving Indigenous communities. Activities that happen in Indigenous communities are not translated into published reports or are not the object of academic research for reasons that remain unknown, but could be linked to mistrust, the effects of colonization and a westernized view on how Indigenous communities view the world. The learnings from this process, indicate that there is a gap that exists between academics (what is considered “academic” research processes and what is considered knowledge) and Indigenous ways of knowing and doing. Research that is done in collaboration with Indigenous people must be flexible in methods, but there must be recognition from institutions that Indigenous research methodology is truly research.


title: Preschool and Kindergarten Teacher’s Views on School Readiness: A Comparison between Silkeborg, Denmark and Truro, Nova Scotia

format: Full-text application/pdf

subject: Public School System.

subject: North American society

abstract:
The question of which skills children should possess upon entrance into the public school
system has been a topic of much debate for decades (Elkind, 2006; Katz, 1996). Due to beliefs
and values held by many individuals in North American society, parents often feel pressured to
help their children have an edge over other children when it comes to academics and therefore
feel the need to expose their children to academic materials from a very young age. Other
parents, however, feel that children are best prepared for a successful transition into kindergarten
by having lots of opportunity to play, explore and he creative in their formative years. These
divergent views often place early childhood educators in a difficult position. They must decide
how they will help foster children’s growth and development based on what they have learned,
what they believe to be true, what they feel parents are looking for in terms of early learning
experiences, and which skills teachers expect children to possess when they enter kindergarten.
Therefore, this research looks at preschool and kindergarten teachers’ views on school
readiness in Silkeborg, Denmark and Truro, Nova Scotia. It explored the notion that teachers’
perception of readiness can, and do vary, depending on the beliefs and values held by the society
in which the teacher lives. It also takes a look into what teachers feel is currently working within
their respective settings, how much support they feel they are receiving, and where they would
like to see change. Preschool and kindergarten teachers in both communities were sent research
packages via their principal or director. Each package contained: I) a letter outlining the purpose
3
of the research, 2) a demographic survey, 3) a School Readiness Surveys, 4) a consent form to
complete if they were willing to participate in an individual interview, and 5) a return envelope.
Approximately 60% (n = 93) of the surveys were returned. Eight teachers were interviewed, two
preschool teachers and two kindergarten teachers from each community for a total of eight.
Results from the survey analysis and the interviews were consistent, indicating few
differences by professional group but philosophical and functional differences between responses
from teachers in Silkeborg in comparison to teachers in Truro. It appears that both preschool and
kindergarten teachers in Silkeborg feel relatively well supported and content. They have a
holistic view of children and feel it is their responsibility to keep children engaged in learning.
They believe in preschool teachers, teachers parents and communities working together to help
make a child’s transition into school run smoothly. Conversely, teachers in Truro felt
substantially under resourced and often unsupported. They struggle to maintain balance between
academics and other skills related to the overall well-being of the child such as social skills,
independence and emotional competence. Developmentally appropriate practice seemed to be
well understood and often talked about, but not always practiced.
Teachers in Truro indicated that they would like to see more support provided to them
from their respective government departments. In-service training opportunities should be
offered on topics such as developmentally appropriate practice so as to raise the general public
awareness regarding how children learn, and therefore lead to a broader understanding of which
skills are most valuable for children to possess upon entrance into the public school system.


title: An examination of the relationship between high school students' levels of mathematics anxiety and their fluency in the  mathematics language

subject:
Mathematics anxiety
High school students
High school mathematics
Mathematics students


title: Silent partner in care: Impact of physical environment on quality of life for residents with cognitive impairment in long-term care

subject:
Long-term care
Continuing care
Eldercare

abstract:
The increase in older adults in the Maritime provinces signifies the need to focus on the suitability of current continuing care services, and plan for the expected increase in prevalence of Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Nursing homes have an increasing need to offer spaces that are consistent with the changing health needs of older adults with cognitive impairments, and support family and community engagement in the home. Family members of residents with cognitive impairments provide a unique opportunity to examine the perspective of family, who are often an under examined partner in the care team.
This study examines family member survey and case study data collected by the Care and Construction project. Using the Person-Environment Fit Model, the aim of the project is to explore the impact of facility features and design elements on quality of life for residents with cognitive impairment from the family perspective. The research seeks to better understand how residents and family members use the available space and if the environment supports their interactions in the home.
Analysis of the survey data revealed a relationship between the homelikeness, square footage, and size of neighborhood on resident quality of life. Family members have positive perceptions of the nursing home environment when there is an opportunity to personalize private space, and there are communal areas that support social engagement and individual resident activity needs. The analysis suggests that facility features and design elements can positively impact family member perceptions of cognitively impaired resident quality of life.


title: Early Childhood Educator Perspectives: Transitioning Infants and Families into the Child Care Environment

subject:
early childhood
educators
group care
infants
families
transition

abstract: The focus of this research was to examine the perspectives of Early Childhood Educators and to explore how they support infants and families transitioning to group care. Qualitative research methods were used to explore an in-depth understanding of ten ECEs who participated in a focus group and answered a series of semi-structured interview questions. Thematic analysis, as described by Attride-Stirling (2001) and Braun and Clarke (2006) was used to identify global themes based on the organizing and basic themes. Two global themes were identified: successful transition and challenging transition. The results indicate that ECEs can articulate ways in which successful transitions with low stress and high levels of adaptability for infants can impact overall well-being. They also describe potential strategies and tools that are used to promote positive transition and relationship building with the family as a whole. The study results may be useful to ECEs working in child care programs, families, ECE students and program instructors as well as those who create policy for the provision of quality early learning programs. Additional research in this area is needed in order to ensure that infants are being supported in the transition from home to child care environments so that development is not impacted negatively by the stress of transition. Future research exploring the perspectives of a more diverse group of ECEs is suggested in order to expand the findings of this study.


title: Transient Male Youths' perceptions of their experiences within the Canadian Youth Criminal Justice System

subject:
Criminal Justice Sytem - Youth
Young offenders

abstract: The Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) altered the Canadian youth criminal justice system in an effort to reduce youth custody and court use. This legislation also promised to uphold the more youth-focused principles of providing meaningful consequences, rehabilitation and reintegration, addressing underlying causes of youth offending, and upholding youth’s rights as set forth by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Although the YCJA was successful at reducing youth custody and court use, there is some question as to whether its implementation is adhering to its key principles, particularly in regards to certain populations such as transient youth, who are disproportionately represented in the Canadian Youth Justice System. I interviewed five transient male youth between the ages sixteen to eighteen in order to get a sense of how they perceive the system, their experiences within it, and how it impacts them. By analyzing the data through the lens of the paradigm of critical pedagogy I discovered that, despite some evidence of youth-focused practices, this system continues to impact transient male youth in an oppressive manner, one that undermines the key principles declared in its legislation.


title: Adapting the Undergraduate Chemistry Laboratory to Contemporary Learning Theory

abstract:
The value of the laboratory to science learning has been under scrutiny. This thesis
examines the undergraduate chemistry laboratory and seeks to show how improvements
in student outcomes will result from reformulating the laboratory in accordance with
contemporary learning theory. First, this thesis examines the traditional undergraduate
chemistry laboratory from the perspective of cultural historical activity theory to
determine what inconsistencies possibly exist. The thesis then considers factors
influencing the structure of the traditional laboratory, the nature of learning assumed by
the traditional lab and factors influencing students to show how these form barriers to
learning in the laboratory. Third, the thesis explores contemporary theories of learning
and how they accommodate individuals and how they promote deeper conceptual
understanding. Subsequently, the thesis investigates research into laboratory learning,
both laboratory variables and influences on students, to determine their effect on
learning. This enables the thesis to reconceptualize the undergraduate chemistry
laboratory and analyze whether the incompatibilities of the traditional lab with deep
learning are alleviated or resolved.


title: Teachers' Classroom-Based Experiences and Emotions: A Mixed-Method Exploratory Study

subject: Teachers, emotional experience, classroom experience

abstract: Research on teachers’ emotional experiences in the classroom, both positive and negative, is lacking, therefore the current research piloted a survey investigating how 13 preschool to ninth grade private school teachers respond emotionally to recalled positive and negative classroom events. Furthermore, this study explored how teachers’ emotional experiences affected their subsequent thoughts and actions throughout these recalled classroom events. The results showed that positive and negative emotional experiences differed during the self-reported positive and negative events. Specifically, in the self-reported positive events, there were significantly more positive than negative emotions reported. Throughout the negative events, an equal amount of positive emotions and negative emotions were reported. Both types of event elicited a wide range of intensity for both positive and negative emotion states. Moderate to large significant bivariate correlations between specific emotion states were present in both positive and negative selfreported events. Finally, teachers acknowledged that their emotion states influenced their subsequent thought-action tendencies during both types of classroom events. Implications for further research are described.


title: Sketch-To-Stretch: An alternative assessment of reading comprehension with reluctant writers

subject:
Sketch-to-Stretch
Writing--teaching
Reading comprehension

abstract:
Not all students have success with written reader-responses to texts and this is
particularly true of reluctant writers. However, this lack of success does not mean such
students fail to comprehend a text, its main idea, or the author’s intentions, only that they
experience difficulty with expressing their understanding using traditional means. This
thesis examines the use of sketch-to-stretch, a visual text strategy that invites students to
respond to text with art, as an alternative form of assessment with reluctant writers.
Undertaking a qualitative case study approach to teacher research, I endeavoured to gain
insight into my practice and further my professional knowledge on how to best meet the
needs of the reluctant writers in my class.
Conducted during the 2012-2013 school year, the focus of this case study was a
female reluctant writer in my third grade class at Queenstown Public School (The Peel
District School Board). Data, comprised of artifacts the student produced as part of her
everyday school experience, were collected and thematically analyzed according to
presentation and audience; ideas and meaning making (text-to-self, text-to-text, text-toworld)
and voice. Further data consisted of two normative attitude surveys, an exit
survey and a personal reflective journal kept of my practice throughout the study.
Results suggest that sketch-to-stretch is a viable alternative to assessing reluctant writers
on text comprehension. When scored according to a common rubric, the student
participant achieved markedly higher levels in demonstrating her understanding of a text
using sketch-to-stretch than with traditional written reader-responses. The sketch-to-stretch
strategy, as a form of assessment, offers students the opportunity to demonstrate
their learning and understanding in a creative, anxiety-free forum. It is one more way teachers can meet the needs of their diverse students while still ensuring accountability of
learning.


title: Conceptualizing the past and present to see a new potential for the future: a UDL aligned job search strategy survey for individuals with hidden disabilities

subject: Hidden disability, University, Employment, Career, Universal Design for Learning

abstract:
Recent graduates that identify as having a disability struggle more than their peers in obtaining employment. A cross-Canada study conducted in 2013 estimated there to be over 42,000 unemployed post-secondary graduates with disabilities. Reports on post-secondary graduate unemployment rates and studies related to university and job search experiences do not differentiate between visible and non-visible disability. The complicated history of the disability experience needs to be kept in mind when considering the needs of individuals with disabilities and ways we can take positive steps forward in an evidence-based way. There is also a need to better understand the experiences and employment rates of people with non-visible disabilities. The purpose of this thesis is to develop a tool to assess job search experiences for university graduates with non-visible disabilities, the intention is to design the tool in such a way that it can be used by the individual as well as for conducting research. By designing a duel purpose tool, it can be helping individuals with hidden disabilities now while also contributing to the research processes that will help in building a better future.

A 3-part questionnaire was developed by taking the principles of universal design for learning from the classroom into the job search process. The tool consists of an interchangeable demographic section, one is meant for research while the other is designed in a more personal support way. The second section is a questionnaire meant to reflect on work and job search experiences survey. The final section is a UDL aligned checklist that is designed to scale responses. By using the principles of UDL there will be multiple means of accessing the assessment/research material, understanding the content, and expressing circumstances. This tool purpose will serve as a step toward more progressive inclusion by providing benefits to participants and providers alike combined with the multiple options for format delivery.


title: Historical Trends in Attitudes, Knowledge and Behaviours of Canadian Consumers: Analysis of Sugar Tracking Studies from 1998-2007

subject:
Sweetners - Health aspects
Sugar - Public opinion
Sugar
Sweetners
Obesity

abstract:
To date there has been limited research that has assessed the changing attitudes and
perceptions of sugar. While the assumption could be made that public perception regarding
sugar intake has become more negative, this has not been determined through research. Recent
interest in food labeling, guidelines for sugars intake, popular diets, and the role of sugarsweetened
beverages in the obesity epidemic have generated media attention and initiated
research that has focused on sugars intake and health.
The Canadian Sugar Institute (CSI) has been conducting research on tracking consumer
behaviour, attitudes, and knowledge of sugar and sugar substitutes within the context of a
number of health issues. Data from the tracking studies collected in 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004,
2006, and 2007 have been analyzed for temporal changes in behaviour, attitude, and knowledge
towards sugar consumption and for predictors of behaviour and attitude towards sugar
consumption. The Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) provided a theoretical framework for
understanding the influence of external factors on behaviour.
Behaviour, attitude, and knowledge index scores were tabulated for each survey year.
Tukey’s multiple range T-test showed temporal changes in mean behaviour scores over the time
span of data collection. From 1998 to 2007 the behaviour index score (BIS) decreased by 15.7%
indicating consumer’s behaviour had become more negative as respondents adopted ways to
decrease sugars consumption and dieting behaviours. Tukey’s multiple range T-test showed
temporal changes in mean knowledge index score (KIS) and mean attitude index score (AIS)
however the magnitude of the differences were small and mean scores remained fairly constant
over the data collection period.
When assessed for predictors of sugar consumption behaviour regression analysis showed
that the strongest negative predictor of BIS was time and the strongest positive predictor was
AIS. Other positive but less robust predictors were being male, having a low income, living in
households with >5 people, and being a resident of Quebec, while being from an older age group
had a negative impact. The regression model accounted for ~24% of the variance in BIS. When
predictors of attitude towards sugar consumption was assessed regression analysis showed that
the strongest positive predictor was KIS, while being a resident of Quebec was the most
important negative predictor. Other positive but less robust predictors were survey year 2002,
being male, being unemployed, and being from a younger age group. The regression model
accounted for ~20% of the variance in AIS.
Changing subjective norms proposed within the TRA may account for the remainder of
the variance in BIS and could explain the temporal changes in BIS without the same changes in
AIS. External influences such as media messages, changing public health policy, and food
labeling may be impacting on behaviour towards sugar consumption among Canadian
consumers.


identifier: Ryan, Shannon <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ryan=3AShannon=3A=3A.html>   (1971) The Newfoundland cod fishery in the nineteenth century.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

format: application/pdf application/pdf

abstract: The Napoleonic and Anglo-American Wars provided the transitional period during which the ‘West of England - Newfoundland Cod Fishery' disappeared and the ‘Newfoundland Cod Fishery' came into its own. As these wars concluded the Island found itself in the enviable position of supplying the total, with few exceptions, world demand for dried cod. At the same time her economy was almost completely dependent on the cod fishery with per capita exports at a high level. -- During the nineteenth century Newfoundland's population increased five-fold and dried cod continued to provide most of the economic base for the Island. Yet, in spite of the fact that world demand increased steadily, Newfoundland's exports of dried cod expanded very little resulting in a rapid and steep decline in per capita exports as more and more people had to be supported by a non expanding cod fishery. -- The causes for Newfoundland's declining per capita exports and for her declining share of the markets can be found by studying the economy in general and the cod fishery in particular. An examination of the total economy reveals, in the first place, that the cod fishery provided the major economic base during the century, and, secondly, that capital investment in other industries was not a major reason for the lack of expansion in the cod fishery, responsibility for which lay in a combination of production and marketing problems in the fish trade. The writer concludes that the nature of her cod fishery and a deterioration in the quality of her product combined with the growth of foreign competition and an increase in market problems resulted in the decay (not too strong a word) of the Newfoundland dried cod trade. The impact of this situation on Newfoundland society can be seen in the decline in population growth, the increase in public debt, and the retrenching of business.


identifier: Tompkins, Graham Clement <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Tompkins=3AGraham_Clement=3A=3A.html>   (1981) A study of the maturity of career attitudes of senior high school students in the Humber-St. Barbe and Port au Port Roman Catholic School Districts.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The study was designed for the purpose of determining and ascertaining the career attitude maturity of senior high school students.  Also, an attempt was made to determine if relationships exist between career attitude maturity and the variables of sex, socio-economic status, grade level, community of residence, and school size.  Furthermore, information was gathered concerning the provisions made for career guidance for the participants in the study. -- The data required for the study were obtained from the responses to the CMI Attitude Scale and the Student Questionnaire of participants in June of 1978.  The Blishen (1971) Socio-Economic Index for Occupations was used to determine the socio-economic status of the participants in the study.  The proportional stratified sample included 334 senior high school students randomly selected from eleven high schools in the Humber-St. Barbe and Port au Port Roman Catholic School Districts.  Statistical procedures included analysis of variance and the Scheffé test. -- The level of career attitude maturity of the students was found to be significantly lower than that of students of similar age and grade for whom the standardized norms had been computed.  Furthermore, their level of career attitude maturity was comparable to the level of other students of similar age and grade but who were from different economic, ethnic and racial groups.  These groups include the disadvantaged American Indians, Mexican Americans, and inner-city Blacks.  No significant relationship was found between career attitude maturity and the subject's sex.  However, significant relationships existed between career attitude maturity and the variables of grade level, socico-economic status and community of residence.  Furthermore, a significant relationship was found between career attitude maturity and certain classifications of school size.  Students attending schools with a range in school size of 151 to 600 students had a significantly higher level of career, attitude maturity than students attending schools with ranges in school size of either 51 to 150 or 601 to 650 students. -- It was proposed that the study sample's general lack of career guidance and their depressed performance on the CMI Attitude Scale indicated that senior high school students in the two school districts had a great need for career guidance programmes.  Furthermore, it was suggested that the significant relationship which existed between career attitude maturity and variables of socio-economic status, community of residence, and certain classifications of school size might provide educational administrators with some direction as to what high school populations and what type of high schools in the Province have the greatest need for career guidance programmes.  Finally, it was proposed that the study sample's depressed performance on the CMI Attitude Scale, may imply that changes in the way the educational system is organized in this Province may be required.


identifier: Williams, Brian G. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Williams=3ABrian_G=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1994) An ethnohistorical study of fisher-merchant relationships in Burin, Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis attempts to describe the multiplex fisher- merchant relationships as they were experienced in the Burin, Newfoundland, area during the late nineteenth to mid-twentieth centuries. My aim is to demonstrate, using Burin as a basis for examination, that contemporary local opinion and scholarly generalizations, while often fundamentally correct, have oversimplified and ignored the diversity of actual practices that occurred in the conduct of fisher-merchant relationships around Newfoundland's coasts. The information on which this thesis is based is derived primarily from informant recollections, and is supplemented by private, public, and archival information sources. -- As a means of enabling the reader to envision the context in which this paper is set, the thesis first presents an overview of the history and geography of the Burin area. It is followed by descriptions from several writers of the general functioning of the credit system in Newfoundland during the study period. This background information is supplemented by informant descriptions of the inshore and banks fisheries, and the work routines that were required on shore. -- Biographies of two important fish merchant firms, typical of the Burin area, are then presented, to illuminate the analysis of fisher-merchant relationships that follows in the ensuing chapters.  This analysis concentrates on three local and scholarly perspectives of the pre-Confederation period in Burin, history that appear inaccurate or simply in need of qualification: that merchants and fishers were socially quite distant groups, with few social bonds; that cash and cash transactions were non-existent or rare in this era; and that the merchant class in Newfoundland was supposedly doing little more than exploiting the fishing class, with no hint of concern for the welfare of those who caught,, landed, and processed the fish they traded in. -- A discussion of three different economic periods during the twentieth century closes the analytical section of this paper, and focuses on the similarities and disparities in the effects of these periods on the merchant and fisher classes.


identifier: Swain, Audrey M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Swain=3AAudrey_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1997) An evaluation of an instructional intervention program based on Clay's Reading Recovery Program for elementary school students.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study was designed to evaluate the effects of an instructional intervention program based on the principles of Clay's (1985) "Reading Recovery Program" for nine elementary school students who were experiencing difficulties with reading. The study was implemented in an elementary grade Special Education classroom by the special education teacher who was also the researcher. The nine students, from grades four through six, who participated in the study received instruction in four small groups for four forty-minute periods in a six day cycle. -- The researcher designed the program around current research on the "Reading Recovery Program". Clay's (1985) lesson format was modified to meet the demands of small group instruction of older students. The goal of the program was to develop self-extending systems that would enable students to read independently to the best of their ability. Each student's program was tailored to meet his/her individual needs based on his/her strengths rather than weaknesses. The researcher integrated research on current theories of reading, learning and teaching to interpret and apply the procedures outlined in Clay's (1985) "Reading Recovery Program". -- Prior to the implementation of the instructional intervention program, the researcher administered the Stieglitz Informal Reading Inventory to identify strengths and weaknesses of each student. The Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Revised was also administered to determine the students’ potential for language ability. Running records and anecdotal records were taken regularly at the scheduled sessions to monitor students' progress in the independent use of effective reading strategies and to direct instruction. Pre- and posttest scores on the Gates-McGinitie Reading Tests were utilized to determine gains in reading achievement. Scores from the regular September testing, which were available at the school, were used to compare gains made from September to pretest with gains made from pretest to posttest. -- Pretest scores on the Gates-McGinitie Reading Tests revealed that all students were below grade level in vocabulary and comprehension. Posttest scores indicated that all students were still below grade level on both subtests. All but one student made positive gains on vocabulary, and seven students made positive gains in comprehension, compared to all students making positive gains in vocabulary from September to the beginning of the study, and five students showing a regression in performance on comprehension.  Group mean gains from pretest to posttest was four months (i.e., 0.4) for vocabulary and eight months (i.e., 0.8) for comprehension for 0.5 of a school year. Group mean gains from September to pretest was nine months for vocabulary (i.e., 0.9) compared to a regression in performance of one month (i.e., -0.1) on the comprehension subtest for 0.4 of a school year. -- Information gleaned from running records and anecdotal records revealed that, at the beginning of the study, all students used "sounding out" to identify unknown words and there was a general overreliance on visual cues when reading connected text. By the end of the study all students exhibited some evidence of integrating semantic, syntactic and visual cues to predict and confirm their reading, and were showing varying degrees of proficiency in monitoring and self- correcting. -- Based on the results of this study, it was concluded that elementary school students experiencing difficulties with reading benefited from an instructional intervention program based on Clay's (1985) "Reading Recovery Program".


identifier: Cameron, Mary M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Cameron=3AMary_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2000) An evaluation of English language arts software : a graduate internship report done through the Learning Resource and Technology Division of the Nova Scotia Department of Education and Culture.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This internship report details the experience the researcher had at the Nova Scotia Department of Education and Culture evaluating English language arts (EL A) and other software. Criteria for the evaluation of software together with other relevant internship experiences with technology are detailed. The experiences of the writer as a teacher and technology administrator at a technologically innovative school in Alberta are brought to bear and used to draw out the educational gains of the internship.


identifier: Gallant, Thomas L. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Gallant=3AThomas_L=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1998) An evaluation of the National Coaching Certification Program level two technical course for the sport of judo.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The purpose of this evaluation was to assess the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) technical level two component for the sport of judo.  The review of the literature provided background of the NCCP, the sport of judo and the evaluation methodologies that were considered and/or used in the evaluation. A modified version of Stake's (1995) responsive evaluation model was used as a guide in the project. The model was used because of its flexibility, use of audience concerns, as well as its standards development. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered from all provinces and territories in Canada over a period of a year and a half.  The stakeholders were identified and divided into two groups, primary (expert) and secondary (level two) coaches.  The evaluation itself was separated into two phases. In phase one the primary stakeholders set the standards. In phase two the primary and secondary stakeholders evaluated the existing course by applying the standards from phase one. The consensus among all stakeholders was that the course was meeting the standards; however, they did offer recommendations for improvement of the National Coaching Certification Program.


identifier: O'Regan-Hogan, Moira <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/O=27Regan-Hogan=3AMoira=3A=3A.html>   (1995) An evaluation of the preschool health check program.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A primary consideration in health care today is the escalating cost of health services and the recognition that there is need to identify ways of delivering quality care at a lower cost.  As competition for scarce service dollars grows, the benefits of conducting an evaluation of a program's effectiveness are becoming increasingly apparent. -- This study involved an evaluation of the Preschool Health Check Program in the St. John's and District Health Unit utilizing a descriptive methodology and focusing on program design and process to determine relevance, currency and comprehensiveness.  Five separate questionnaires were developed to elicit information concerning the design and process of the program from a variety of groups including Public Health Nurses, Referring Agencies, School Personnel, Key Informants and Parents of Preschool Children.  Preschool health screening practices in other provinces were assessed through administration of a questionnaire to Representatives of Provincial and Territorial Departments of Health. A computerized literature search was conducted relative to preschool screening and the specific screening components of vision, hearing, behavior/emotion, speech/language and development contained in the Preschool Health Check Program. Program and followup data were analyzed together with clinic attendance statistics. -- To contribute to the utility of the evaluation and to ensure that data analysis regarding the interpreting and summarizing of results was not conducted in isolation, focus group interviews were held with appropriate public health nursing personnel within the St. John's and District Health Unit. As well, telephone contact was made with the Directors of Nursing of the other Health Units in the province to discuss the current status of the Preschool Health Check Program in their area and to identify issues pertaining to the Program. -- A total of twenty-two recommendations were developed based upon analysis of the findings from these data sources. Of prime consideration was the identification of a need to develop a coordinated and comprehensive public health nursing assessment program for infant and preschool children at risk which would target those children identified at risk during the infant and early preschool period. -- It is anticipated that the recommendations resulting from this Study will assist program managers in decision making related to future resource allocation in the area of child health programming.


identifier: Sheppard, Karen Margaret Anthony <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sheppard=3AKaren_Margaret_Anthony=3A=3A.html>   (1999) An evaluation of the Women in Science and Engineering Summer Employment Program.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: There are many factors influencing the career choices of young women. At present the combination of personal and societal issues leads both men and women into largely gender-stereotypical occupations. The WISE Summer Employment Program is one initiative designed to encourage girls to consider careers in the fields of science and engineering. Those accepted to the Program are offered positions as research assistants to work side by side with scientists and engineers for eight weeks at Memorial University of Newfoundland. Positive results from a formal evaluation could be beneficial to the WISE Program in determining the strengths of the Program and finding reliable sources of future funding. -- Since the Women In Science and Engineering Student Employment Program is designed to encourage young women to consider careers in science, engineering and related disciplines, the research questions to be addressed by this project were as follows: (1) to determine whether the program affected the career choices of young women, (2) to determine whether the program influenced the students' selection of courses in high school, and (3) to determine whether there had been a change in students' attitudes regarding careers in science, engineering and related fields and various issues related to the subject of women in science. -- The method of research planned for this study involved the interpretation of data obtained from questionnaires. In order to assess the short-term effects of the WISE Program a questionnaire was administered in person to all participants of the 1997 WISE Program on the first day of the program. A post-WISE questionnaire of the same format was administered on the final day of the program to assess any changes in educational and career plans, as well as the development of enhanced, positive attitudes towards careers in science. The same questionnaire was administered to a comparison group of girls chosen by the program coordinator as alternates for the WISE Program. These students are selected each year to replace anyone who declines the offer of a WISE position and, as such, are very similar in terms of the characteristics that the program looks for in its research assistants. -- The long-term effects of the program were evaluated by administering a questionnaire to students of the 1994 WISE Program. This probed the educational and career choices followed by these young women and looked for the presence of continued positive attitudes toward careers in science, engineering and related areas. -- The results of the analysis revealed the many strengths and positive attitudes of the young women who participated in the WISE Summer Employment Program in 1997 and 1994. The experiences and information gained from the Program appear to have given some of the participants more to consider as they attempt to choose a future career. -- All groups involved in this study showed very positive attitudes towards careers in science and engineering. Several of these attitudes were significantly enhanced after participation in the WISE Program, suggesting the value of the Program to the young women of our province.


identifier: Chubbs, Judy A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Chubbs=3AJudy_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1994) An evaluation of two patient classification systems as the determinants of a staffing pattern for medical patients.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A descriptive correlational study was conducted to (a) assess the psychometric properties of two patient classification systems, (b) explore the relationship between nursing care time and intensity and (c) integrate nursing care time and intensity data to predict a staffing pattern. Seventy-one medical patients representing 373 patient days constituted the sample. The Nursing Intensity Index (NII) and the GRASP instruments were used for data collection. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. -- High internal consistency and inter rater reliability were demonstrated for both the NII and GRASP.  Factor analysis generated nine factors to explain 73.6% of the variance in GRASP and three factors to explain 59.4% of the variance in the NII.  NII scores were significantly correlated with GRASP scores indicating a shared variability of 49%.  Regression analysis indicated that seven NII items explained 55% of the total GRASP score, thus leaving 45% of the variability in nursing workload unexplained. Integration of GRASP and NII data produced a skill mix ratio of 80 percent RN to 20 percent RNA. However, this ratio was not supported by the perceptions of direct caregivers. Methodological and application problems may have influenced this result.  More research is needed to identify other factors that may affect skill mix before firm conclusions can be made.


identifier: MacDonald, Denise C. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/MacDonald=3ADenise_C=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1997) Action research : a catalyst for school improvement.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study is concerned with the potential of schoolwide action research to act as a catalyst for school improvement. Members of the faculty at School X were interviewed in order to determine their knowledge and understanding of the process of schoolwide action research, and to determine the consistency of their views relative to the strengths and weaknesses of schoolwide action research as a means to school improvement. -- The data for this study were collected through three primary sources: interviews, document analysis, and participant observation. Thirty-minute interviews were conducted with ten teachers and two administrators at School X. The findings indicate that the staff at School X supports the philosophy and process of schoolwide action research. This process, however, needs refinement in order to ensure that all staff members have a clear understanding of what is entailed. The findings also indicate that school improvement efforts are not necessarily guided by a needs assessment based on sound methods of data gathering.


identifier: Power, Patricia <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Power=3APatricia=3A=3A.html>   (2000) Adolescents with mild and moderate mental retardation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: At a time when education reform and school realignment are occurring in Newfoundland it is increasingly important that educators not lose sight of the students in our schools who have special learning needs. One group of students, the adolescents with mild and moderate mental retardation, have such diverse learning needs that without appropriate learning environments in junior and senior high school these students will not be adequately prepared to function to their full potential in the years following school. The purpose of this paper is to provide educators with a better understanding of the learning needs of adolescents with mild and moderate mental retardation. In the first section of the paper, I will define mental retardation and identify the key initiatives in the education of individuals with mental retardation. Then, I will review the research on the cognitive and social-emotional development of adolescents with mild and moderate mental retardation. Finally, I will clearly state the implications of the research findings for the curriculum, instruction, and placement of these students within the school system.


identifier: Ewart, Harry Stephen <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ewart=3AHarry_Stephen=3A=3A.html>   (1993) Amino acid catabolism in liver : glycine and glutamine.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The liver removes substantial quantities of glycine and glutamine from the circulation in animals ingesting high-protein diets.  Glycine and glutamine, however, do not accumulate in liver tissue during a protein meal, and in fact, their hepatic concentrations may actually decrease. Thus, there appears to be an activation of hepatic glycine and glutamine catabolism at this time.  Glycine and glutamine catabolism are initiated within mitochondria via the glycine cleavage system and glutaminase, respectively.  Rapid activation of these enzymes has been demonstrated in intact mitochondria from glucagon-injected rats.  However, it was unknown whether similar activations occur as part of an hepatic physiological response to protein intake.  In this thesis, glycine and glutamine catabolism have been extensively studied in intact mitochondria from rats fed on a high-protein diet or given a single high-protein meal. -- It was discovered that intact liver mitochondria from rats fed on a high-protein diet for six days catabolise glycine and glutamine at enhanced rates compared to mitochondria from rats fed a normal-protein diet.  Glycine and glutamine catabolism were also stimulated in normal- protein-fed rats if they ingested a single high-protein meal for 2 hours before being killed.  Thus, flux through the glycine cleavage system and through glutaminase is able to respond rapidly, according to the protein intake experienced during an individual meal.  Investigations using whole cells or isolated, intact liver from such animals allow similar conclusions. Thus it is proposed that activation of the glycine cleavage system and glutaminase is a normal hepatic response in animals ingesting a high-protein meal.


identifier: Hong, Robert G. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hong=3ARobert_G=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1998) "An agency for the common weal": the Newfoundland Board of Trade, 1909-1915.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis examines the origins and early history of the Newfoundland Board of Trade and its role in the development of fisheries policy during the period 1909 to 1915, a period relatively unexplored by historians. Bridging a significant gap in the historiography, the thesis offers some insight into the controversial questions associated with government and merchant involvement in fisheries development, or the lack of it, during the critical period prior to World War I. This examination demonstrates that, contrary to the standard interpretation, the mercantile membership of the Board of Trade was genuinely concerned with the problems of a deteriorating fishery and responded to the difficulties by seeking an active role in the development of government policies. As a parallel movement to the Fishermen's Protective Union, which formed in direct response to the fishery crisis of 1907-08, the Board advanced a series of extensive reforms and initiated a number of practical strategies to ameliorate the worsening conditions related to standardization, production, markets, and shipping of Newfoundland's dominant export commodity. -- As well, the thesis examines the administration of Sir Edward Morris and its policies on the fisheries. It is argued that the government's failure to institute widespread fishery reforms was not so much a reflection of inertia or disinclination, but rather the result of extenuating economic, structural, and organizational constraints that limited its ability to effectively reform the fishery.


identifier: Brown, Mark R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Brown=3AMark_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1997) An analysis of freedom in Jean-Paul Sartre's Critique of dialectical reason : Volume 1 : theory of practical ensembles.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Jean-Paul Sartre, in his Critique of Dialectical Reason: Volume I - Theory of Practical Ensembles, sets out to determine the significance of history for human action. Sartre commences his inquiry by investigating an abstract individual satisfying her original need in nature and proceeds to analyse the concrete social formation of which the individual finds herself a pan. The tools which Sartre employs for his analysis include both existentialism and the historical materialism of Marx and Engels. -- Sartre's modified Marxism, as exemplified in the Critique, seems to correct the notion of freedom which he attributed to individuals in his earlier work. Being and Nothingness. According to the later Sartre, historical circumstances do have a direct bearing on what the individual will be, or more specifically, what choices the individual will make. Consequently, the individual's task, according to the Sartre of the Critique, is to look back upon history and determine both when it has been an impediment to freedom and when it has been conducive to freedom. -- As we shall see, one of the keys to understanding Sartre's modified Marxism is his use of the expression, 'practico-inert'. This expression is a modification of the being-in-itself from Being and Nothingness. The being-in-itself is inert in the sense that it is dependent upon the being-for-itself for its meaning -- without the being-for-itself the being-in-itself simply 'is'. In the Critique, the practico-inert is not dependent upon a subject to bestow meaning on it. Rather, because it is the result of the past actions of humans, it is already endowed with meaning. As we will shall see, Sartre maintains that history demonstrates that for the most part we are unfree, as our choices are dictated to us by the forces of the practico-inert. But, according to Sartre, specific historical situations can arise which perpetuate the formation of what he terms fused groups. Fused groups consist of individuals who seek to overturn the forces of the practico-inert and as a result seek to see themselves in a more humane way. Further, a fused group has the possibility of evolving into a pledged group, a group whose members pledge themselves towards freedom. -- As we shall see, Sartre’s analysis of the resurrection of freedom in the Critique hinges on the experience of the fear of death. It is not until death literally threatens the well-being of individuals that freedom can be achieved, as the fear of death compels individuals into a new way of looking both at the forces of the practico-inert and themselves. The conclusion reached in this thesis is that it is the fear of death which distinguishes Sartre's Marxism.


identifier: Strang, Florence A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Strang=3AFlorence_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1995) An analysis of self-ratings of teaching competencies and stressors of student teaching interns, Memorial University of Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This report presents the results of a study of 221 student teaching interns from Memorial University's Faculty of Education who completed their four-month field placement in either December 1992 or April 1993. A questionnaire was administered to the subjects through their university supervisor. Subjects rated themselves on teaching competencies, using a five-point Likert scale and ranked seven common teacher stressors. -- An analysis of the data from this study showed that student teaching interns from Memorial University feel more than satisfied with their competency in all areas surveyed. Elementary student teachers showed a tendency to rate themselves higher on teaching competencies than secondary student teachers. Overall, experienced teachers who were surveyed in an earlier study did not perceive themselves to be more competent than these teaching interns. Both student teachers and experienced teachers ranked Classroom management and discipline as the top stressor; this stressor received a significantly higher mean ranking by student teachers. -- The implications of these findings for Memorial University's teacher training program are discussed. Recommendations are proposed for further study in the areas of self-perceived teaching competency and teacher stress.


identifier: Culhane, Michele <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Culhane=3AMichele=3A=3A.html>   (1999) An ecosystem management approach to fire management in Terra Nova National Park.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Ecosystem management seeks to provide a mechanism for addressing the complexities of managing the natural environment and helping managers more efficiently and effectively handle planning and decision making in a particular ecosystem. It implies a holistic examination of social and biophysical issues which are addressed collectively, not independently, to arrive at the best possible management solution, while preserving the natural character and ecological integrity of an ecosystem. -- The present research considers various biophysical and social issues related to fire management in the greater Terra Nova National Park (TNNP) region, within the ecosystem management setting in a Canadian national park. While a detailed examination of any individual social or biophysical issue related to fire management in TNNP could be undertaken, this research simultaneously examined several issues in lesser detail with the intent of integrating the results. The social research focussed on a questionnaire to Parks Canada employees, key informant interviews of regional representatives, and a preliminary visitor survey. Biophysical research consisted of a field study of regeneration in selected burnovers in and around TNNP, and an examination of the TNNP fire history study and endangered species research. -- To illustrate the integration of several of the social and biophysical research results, a linear framework is built upon and expanded to develop a conceptual framework which addresses fire management in TNNP in the ecosystem management context. Unlike other studies which discuss the ecosystem management concept, this conceptual framework contributes to the field of ecosystem management by proposing a means of implementing the concept. Feedback loops account for continually evolving management concerns through the incorporation of two key roles: coordinating the framework and integrating research. This conceptual framework is applied to the case study of fire management in TNNP. It can, however, also be broadened out to address specific management issues in other national parks or ecological settings. -- The results from this ecosystem management based research indicate the value of integration in that the sum of the individual issues provides more comprehensive information than the separate analyses of these issues. On this basis, an ecosystem management conceptual framework is developed to facilitate management issues, such as fire management in TNNP. One strength of the integrative approach to ecosystem management is therefore the exploration of social and biophysical concerns as a whole and not as isolated variables. Another strength of integration is that 'integrated data' lead to results which would not be revealed had they been examined on an individual basis.


identifier: Coffin, David <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Coffin=3ADavid=3A=3A.html>   (2001) An estimation of the carrying capacity of a commercial mussel farm in Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The mussel industry in Newfoundland began in the early 1980’s. with the number of farms increasing rapidly over the next ten years. By the early  1990’s some of the farms had grown quite large, in excess of 100 hectares, and the industry was becoming concerned about the carrying capacity of some sites. -- This project was initiated to evaluate the carrying capacity of a commercial mussel farm, owned and operated by Atlantic Ocean Farms Ltd., in Fortune Harbour, Newfoundland. The site operators noted it was taking longer to obtain a market size mussel than it had in previous years. -- Over the two year study period, 1994-1996, mussels suspended at 2 m and 15 m and at opposite ends of the site were significantly different in shell length, dry tissue weight, dry shell weight and, in those near the surface, in condition. -- Chlorophyll-α, temperature, and salinity at 2 m were not significantly different at either location although both salinity and temperature at 2 m were significantly different than at 15 m. The site had a low current speed, <2 cm/s, low tidal flushing, and less than optimal chlorophyll-α concentrations with an annual mean of 1.6 µg/L. There were three different carrying capacity models used to determine an appropriate stocking density for the site: tidal volume method, food depletion approach, and food demand versus food supply. The stocking density present on the site, 65 x 10⁶ mussels in 1995, was more than two times the suggested stocking density based of these models. -- It is recommended the operators reduce density of mussels on the site and stock at a rate of approximately 14,000 socks annually or 35 x 10⁶ mussels (132 socks per hectare or 33 x 10⁴ mussels per hectare).


identifier: Tillman, Joseph M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Tillman=3AJoseph_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2000) An examination of ocean policy development in Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Canada's oceans offer important economic, socio-cultural and recreational opportunities that have shaped the country's history and identity. However, this growth is resulting in increased pressure through congestion, environmental degradation and ecosystem imbalances, which threaten the basis for future sustainable growth and in many areas, the biodiversity and ecological integrity of marine ecosystems are being threatened. The increased activity on, in and below our oceans is also manifesting conflicting usage issues that are not only shaping public and therefore policy agendas but is also leading to critical policy pressures that are demanding integration and multi-dimensional rationalization. In Canada there is a multitude of policies, regulations and legislation that bear on the management and development of ocean resources. There are those that direct and control fisheries and other harvesting activities; policies that regulate marine transportation; policies and regulations that direct seabed and subsurface exploration; laws and regulations for recreational use and a plethora of other policies that impact on our ocean resources. This paper examines the evolution of ocean policy in Canada, and describes a mosaic of mostly vertically oriented policies that is shared by other maritime nations and explores recent developments in the ocean policy forum.


identifier: Colbourne, Elsie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Colbourne=3AElsie=3A=3A.html>   (1997) An internship report and review of Blomidon Place's range of services, referral and intake procedures.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This two part report describes an internship and research carried out at Blomidon Place, a division of Community Health Western, located in Corner Brook, Newfoundland. Blomidon Place uses an interagency approach to meet the mental health needs of children, adolescents and families in the Bay of Islands area. -- Prior to the commencement of the internship, the intern in collaboration with her supervisors, set realistic, obtainable goals. Part One of the report describes activities undertaken to reach these goals. -- During the internship, the intern devoted time to research that consisted of a review of Blomidon Place's range of services, referral and intake procedures, as perceived by persons referring clients to the centre. The research is discussed in detail in Part Two of this report.


identifier: Han, Xiaoqiang <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Han=3AXiaoqiang=3A=3A.html>   (1997) An interpretation of Heidegger's dialogue with eastern thought.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis is an investigation of the significance of Heidegger's dialogue with Eastern thought. I attempt to show that this dialogue is primarily concerned with a unique subject matter, namely, overcoming the forgetfulness of Being. The forgetfulness of Being, characterized by Heidegger as the essence of Western metaphysics, has become the destiny of the world in the form of global technologization. As basically non-metaphysical, traditional Eastern thought can exemplify the consequences of the end of philosophy or the overcoming of metaphysics. However, I argue that Heidegger's dialogue with the East is not meant to seek an alternative to Western philosophy, but to bring about a critical reflection of both Western and Eastern thought in regard to their different ways of forgetfulness of Being. My discussion throughout the thesis focuses on the question how Being in the primordial sense, which transformed into a metaphysical concept in Western philosophy, vanished in the ontological indifference of Eastern thought from the very start. The linguistic comparison of both Western languages and Chinese, and the discussion of two major philosophical notions in Heidegger and Eastern thought - the nothing and releasement- make it plain that the true meaning of Being and of ontological difference is not only covered by Western metaphysics, but also dissolved in the distinctively non-metaphysical thinking of the East.


identifier: Manning, Anthony J. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Manning=3AAnthony_J=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1996) An investigation of batch-spawning reproduction in captive yellowtail flounder, Pleuronectes ferrugineus.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The batch-spawning reproduction of female yellowtail flounder, Pleuronectes ferrugineus, was examined in a captive setting over the spawning periods of 1994 and 1995. Individual female yellowtail were examined daily with the objectives of determining the inter-ovulatory period of this species, as well as, the annual egg production, mean batch fecundity and number of batches per female. Egg quality measures (fertilization and hatching rates) were also made on batches from females to quantify maternal differences and inter-batch variation within females in egg survival rates. -- A one-day inter-ovulatory period was predominant in this species and the frequency of this period increased in 1995 due to reductions in irregular ovulatory activity detected in certain females in 1994. The mean duration of spawning for individual females ranged between 31 to 48 days, over which time egg diameter and dry weight were observed to decrease within individual females. -- Female yellowtail flounder demonstrated considerable individual variation in seasonal egg production. In 1994, the mean female production was 550,000 eggs (7.9 x 10⁵ eggs kg⁻¹ spawning female), in 1995 this increased to 1,187,000 eggs (1.5 x 10⁶ eggs kg⁻¹ spawning female). The number of ovulations per female was high, a mean batch number of 14 was seen in 1994, rising to 22 in 1995. Small batch sizes (<100,000 eggs) dominated batch fecundity distributions, and the data suggested that females increase the number of ovulations rather than increase batch fecundity when egg production increases between years. -- Egg quality in yellowtail flounder was found to be subject to maternal differences. In addition, females demonstrated significant inter-batch variation in fertilization and hatching rates. An inter-annual increase in egg quality was observed, where mean fertilization rates rose from 38% to 60%. This increase was not due to slower over-ripening rates since spawning temperatures were not significantly different between years. The egg quality data also did not demonstrate any period within an individual female's spawning season in which the batches with the highest quality eggs were produced. A relationship was seen between gamete potential rates, determined by egg morphological characteristics, and fertilization rates. However, since individuals had their own separate relationships, gamete potential rates can only serve as a rough estimate of egg quality, where fertilization rate were generally 25% lower than gamete potential rates. Hatching rates were, overall, higher than fertilization rates and showed no relationship with fertilization rates. -- Investigations on over-ripening indicated that a daily examination protocol is required to avoid reductions in fertilization rate which were greatest during the first 24 hours after collection. Hatching rates declined less dramatically than fertilization rates with over-ripening. -- The inter-annual increase in the reproductive performance for captive yellowtail flounder may have been based upon reductions in stress from an additional year of acclimation to captive conditions or the introduction of a commercial feed in 1995. Either factor may have been responsible for the reduction of females with poor egg quality and the observed increases in egg production for spawning females.


identifier: Sinha, Amit Kumar <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sinha=3AAmit_Kumar=3A=3A.html>   (1999) An investigation of Marconi's first transatlantic experiment in Newfoundland to find the correct frequency of transmission.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The birth of long distance radio communications made the world such a small place. Marconi's transatlantic experiment was the first pioneering attempt in this area. His experiment was conducted on the 12th of December 1901. Ever since the question of the correct frequency of transmission has been an area of speculation. The problem that is being solved here is in this regard only. To calculate an acceptable frequency of transmission the experiment is studied from the concerned aspects. First the antenna patterns are calculated for both the transmitting and the receiving antenna, at three different frequencies, 166 kHz, 9.375 MHz and 12.5 MHz. Then the ionospheric propagation characteristics are calculated at these same frequencies and the various characteristics are analyzed. To complete the study, the transmitter is modeled and simulated to find the output waveform propagating to the antenna. A study of the receiver has also been conducted. Based on the analysis of the investigation done, a range of frequency has been suggested.


identifier: Winsor, Stephen B. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Winsor=3AStephen_B=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2000) Antifreeze protein in winter flounder, Pleuronectes americanus, gill epithelial cells isolated and grown in culture.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) have been found in the blood of many teleost species and have the ability to bind to ice crystals and inhibit their growth. Type I AFP was later discovered in several body tissues of the winter flounder (Pleuronectes americanus) including the skin, scales and gills. In order to further our understanding of these proteins that are not produced in the liver, epithelial cells of the winter flounder gill were isolated and maintained in culture to look for the presence of skin type I AFP. The present study is the first that describes the isolation and culture of gill epithelial cells from winter flounder. The isolation procedure used was based in part on the gill cell isolation method developed by Pärt et al [Pärt, P., Norrgren, L., Bergström, E. & Sjöberg, P.(1993) J. Exp. Biol 175, 219 - 232]. The presence of type I AFP in the cells was determined using immuno-histochemistry. The results indicate that epithelial cells stained positive for winter flounder type I AFP antisera against liver, skin or a recombinant form of type I AFP whereas cells stained with sea raven type II AFP antiserum showed no reaction. The distribution pattern of AFP seen in these cells suggests the AFP is located intracellularly. The AFP produced within these cells is believed to be the skin type I AFP and is thought to react with the liver and recombinant antisera due to the close similarity between these AFPs. In short term culture, individual cells were of three predominate shapes. Round cells were 8.3 ± 2.6 μm in diameter, crescent cells were 19.8 ± 5.2 µm x 10.4 ± 2.9 μm and elongated cells were 21.5 ± 5.0 µm x 6.8 ± 1.7 µm. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed individual cells with an elevated nuclear region with a low and somewhat ruffled outer cytoplasmic area. Dishes that contained a relatively high number of isolated gill cells supported the formation of a confluent monolayer of cells. Scanning electron micrographs of confluent cells 8 days in culture show a highly flattened apical surface with no distinguishing characteristics. The cells attached to culture dishes and were capable of forming confluent monolayers of cells similar to pavement cells seen in other gill epithelial cultures. However, SEM revealed that they do not contain microridges typically seen in pavement cells isolated from the sea bass and rainbow trout. The use of the fluorescent stain DASPEI showed these cells to be mitochondria-rich, a characteristic of gill epithelial chloride cells. Preparation of cultures such as these provide a means of examining the mechanisms involved in skin type I AFP production, regulation and also how these proteins function in gill epithelia.


identifier: Wang, Zhongning <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Wang=3AZhongning=3A=3A.html>   (1998) Apparent and partial molar heat capacities and volumes of aqueous chelating agents: EDTA and NTA.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In process


identifier: Rose, Michael David <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Rose=3AMichael_David=3A=3A.html>   (2002) Are boreal ecosystems susceptible to invasion by alien plants? : a case study of Gros Morne National Park.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Invasion by alien species is one of the major contributors to the local and global loss of indigenous biological diversity, and a concern to managers of protected areas. The objectives of this study were to document and evaluate the distribution and abundance o( alien plant species in boreal ecosystems of Gros Morne National Park of Canada (GMNP). In areas susceptible to invasion by alien plants the physical parameters contributing to their presence or absence were determined. The importance of disturbance to alien plant invasion in boreal ecosystems was examined by evaluating how environmental conditions and diversity of alien species change as a function of disturbance regime. Functional characteristics contributing to successful invasion in GMNP were also examined. -- Alien plants were found in areas of anthropogenic and natural disturbance throughout GMNP with the greatest abundance and diversity of species occurring in disturbances close to high anthropogenic activity. Although alien plants were absent from undisturbed areas, their unexpected occurrence in disturbed areas remote from human activity is of great concern because they may alter ecosystem properties and displace native species in these areas. -- Vegetation types vulnerable to alien plant invasion in GMNP include forests, riparian areas, fens, and alpine meadows. Disturbance occurring in these vegetation types caused increases in bare ground and or light availability which allowed alien plants to invade these areas. Although high soil pH was associated with alien plants in these areas, disturbance was not found to cause changes in soil pH. This implies that areas susceptible to mv asion bv alien plants may be pre-determined by bedrock geology or other factors influencing soil pH. -- The abundance of alien plants changed from high to undisturbed disturbance regimes. The greatest percentage of alien species occurred at high disturbance regimes, while the total number of alien species was greatest at intermediate disturbance regimes. Moose (Alecs ulcus), a non-native herbivore, acted as the primary conduit for alien plant invasion in GMNP by dispersal of propagules and creating or prolonging disturbance bv trampling and browsing vegetation. Hiking trails were also found to be conduits for alien plant dispersal into natural areas. Areas no longer experiencing disturbance by anthropogenic activity required long periods of time to recover. These areas acted as foci in which alien species could persist and spread to other areas of GMNP. -- Species of concern in GMNP include Ranunculus repens. Tussdago farfara. Lvlhrum salicana. Digitalis purpurea. Hicracium spp.. Taraxacum officinale. Cirsium anense. and Mvosons scorpioules. -- Alien species able to successfully invade areas remote from human activity differed from alien species unable to invade these areas by exhibiting both vegetative reproduction and dispersal of asexually produced propagules. -- Boreal ecosystems can be invaded by alien plants. Management plans must monitor the presence and potential spread of alien plants in GMNP.


identifier: Watton, Sharon E. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Watton=3ASharon_E=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Are entrepreneurs who we think they are : perceptions of the attitudes of male and female entrepreneurs.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Attitudes of men and women entrepreneurs have not been investigated extensively in past research, but may have implications for understanding the entrepreneurial experience, particularly for women entrepreneurs. The present pair of studies investigated the attitudes of men and women entrepreneurs and looked at the perceptions people have of entrepreneurs in terms of their attitudes. In the first study, a written questionnaire containing attitude items from three topic areas—business issues, career and family issues, and social issues—was distributed to a sample (N=137) of entrepreneurs and non-entrepreneurs. Analyses revealed that men and women entrepreneurs could be distinguished from their non-entrepreneur counterparts by their greater endorsement of entrepreneurial business issues and their endorsement of feminist career-family integration. Men entrepreneurs and non-entrepreneurs held more traditional views of gender roles than did women entrepreneurs and non-entrepreneurs, while liberalism did not distinguish the groups from each other. In the second study, undergraduate students (N=244) were asked to judge the attitudes of men and women entrepreneurs in relation to either an entrepreneur of the other gender, or to members of their gender in general, on the same attitude items used in Study 1. People perceived men and women entrepreneurs to be more entrepreneurial in their attitudes than men and women in general. Men entrepreneurs were viewed to hold more feminist views of career-family integration than men in general, while female entrepreneurs were expected to hold feminist attitudes regardless of the comparison group. Entrepreneurs were seen as less traditional than non- entrepreneurs overall, but women entrepreneurs were viewed as less traditional in their attitudes than both targets, especially by women. Participants did not expect the groups to differ in liberalism. The accuracy of these attitude perceptions is discussed in relation to the actual attitudes of entrepreneurs. Overall, these studies indicate that men and women entrepreneurs hold entrepreneurial attitudes toward business issues and are less positive about balancing career and family than other men and women. They are perceived by others to be entrepreneurial in their attitudes, but to also have a positive view of career-family integration, and an untraditional view of gender roles and values. It may be valuable for future research to look at more specific and detailed attitude measures, or investigate the attitude perceptions other groups of people, such as business consultants and bank officers, hold with respect to entrepreneurs.


identifier: Kean, Rexford C. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kean=3ARexford_C=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1996) Art across the curriculum : pedagogical principles to inform teaching.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This project has been developed to inform teachers of a set of pedagogical principles which may be used to teach art across the curriculum. It is written from the perspective of arts educators and consequently views education as being holistic. -- The initial conception of this work originated from the elementary classroom, where students explored various subject areas using a thematic approach. Being an art teacher with elementary classroom duties, I incorporated art into the regular curriculum thus involving art education in the process of teaching and learning. -- A survey of relevant literature has been conducted for this project and has aided in formulating the direction for the field research component. The field research which underpins this work has been conducted in Harlow, England over a six week period. It was composed of six interviews, using six questions, to investigate the current views of arts educators from all levels of teaching. The six areas are generated from the Burlak Dilemmas, as stated in Miller and Seller (1990). They deal with educational aims, conception of the learner, conception of the learning process, conception of the learning environment, conception of teacher role, and conception of the evaluation process. An analysis of current literature and the field interviews was used as a platform to inform my emergent pedagogical principles of art across the curriculum. The results of this work, therefore, produce a set of pedagogical principles informing educators of the philosophy of art across the curriculum.


identifier: Zahra, Fathima <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Zahra=3AFathima=3A=3A.html>   (1998) Artificial neural network approach to transmission line relaying.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis deals with the design of an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) based relay for transmission line protection. A novel feedforward neural network that indicates whether a fault is within or outside the protection zone (fault indication) of a transmission line is presented. This method has been extended to locate the distance of the fault (fault location). The proposed scheme utilizes the frequency components of the voltages and currents to make a decision. -- The first part of the work employed frequency components of one cycle of post- fault data as the inputs to the ANN. The results obtained were promising, thus forming the basis to improve the speed of the relaying decision. This is achieved by using the frequency components of half cycle of pre-fault and half-cycle post-fault data as the inputs to the ANN. -- The neural network employed is small in size, fast and robust. Data obtained from the Electromagnetic Transients Program (EMTP) for single-line-to-ground faults and three-phase faults have been used for testing and the results are found to be accurate. The performance of the trained neural network is good and the proposed ANN has the potential for implementation in a digital relay for transmission line protection. The results of the proposed ANN methodology are found to be accurate under the conditions of different fault location, fault inception angle and fault resistance.


identifier: Chafe, Roger <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Chafe=3ARoger=3A=3A.html>   (2000) An examination of Rawls' neutral justification of liberalism.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: John Rawls presents a carefully crafted justification of liberalism designed to be acceptable to certain pluralistic societies. The acceptability of his justification depends, in large part, on its being 'neutral' with regard to the reasonable comprehensive doctrines within these societies. The main idea is that within societies whose members do not have a shared conception of the good the justification of political institutions cannot be based on assumptions which are contentious to any reasonable group. In this paper, I examine Rawls' attempt to provide a neutral justification by breaking his justification into three stages: I) the attempt to justify adopting a conception of justice generally; 2) the attempt to justify adopting a normative liberal conception of justice; and 3) the attempt to justify adopting a specific normative liberal conception of justice, i.e., his conception of justice as fairness. This novel way of looking at Rawls' work allows us to best evaluate the strengths and shortcomings of his justification and the project of liberal neutrality more generally. Presenting Rawls in this way also illustrates how writers like Sandel, Habermas, and Rorty misinterpret key aspects of Rawls' project. I conclude by saying that while Rawls is fairly successful in providing a neutral justification for certain liberal societies, maintaining this neutrality hampers 'justice as fairness' from contributing more clearly to current political debates within liberal societies.


identifier: Brown, Robert C. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Brown=3ARobert_C=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2002) An experimental investigation of ship manoeuvrability in pack ice.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A 1:40 scale model of the R-Class icebreaking hullform and a 1:80 scale model of the MV. Arctic bulk carrier were tested in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science towing tank at Memorial University of Newfoundland. The models were tested first in open water and then in modelled pack ice covered water at approximately 8.3 tenths concentration. The pack ice model consisted of various sizes of hexagonally shaped paraffin wax with a mean thickness of about 13mm. -- Two main types of tests were conducted for both models in each water surface condition - constant velocity and constant acceleration. The former involved towing at constant velocities of 0.5 and l.Om/s to determine sway velocity damping coefficients while the latter was a new technique proposed for determining acceleration manoeuvring coefficients and for quickly determining the sway velocity damping coefficients compared with conventional constant velocity test methods. The accelerations used for testing were 0.02 and 0.04 m/s2. -- The test series consisted of simple straight-line towing for each model with constant heading angles 0°, 2°, 4°, 6°, 8° and 10° and rudder angles 10° port and starboard, 5° port and starboard and rudder amidships. A total of 480 tests were conducted in all. -- It was shown that crosstalk in a three-component dynamometer could be mathematically removed by developing a 3x3 calibration matrix whose off-diagonal terms represented the crosstalk coefficients. Removing crosstalk measurements provided a more accurate measurement of the actual load applied to the individual load cells. -- The manoeuvring coefficients for sway velocity damping and rudder were calculated using results from the constant velocity segment of the test series. Only coefficients for the sway and yaw equations were calculated for this study. The coefficient values foundsemi-empirical methods given in the literature. The coefficients compared closely. As well, the sign of the coefficients for sway force were correct according to the literature and the sign of yaw moment implied that both models were bow-dominant. -- Comparison of the constant velocity pack ice test results with those in open water showed in general that the loads were higher, regression fits were more nonlinear, the spread in the data points increased with increasing sway velocity, the bow remained dominant for both models and differences forces for varied rudder angles were less distinct. Sway velocity damping coefficients were calculated in pack ice using the same methods as for open water. -- It was shown that by employing a constant tow carriage acceleration, manoeuvring coefficients for sway acceleration could be determined for open water, but that using the same methodology for pack ice resulted in poor regression fits to the data. -- Finally, it has been shown that through the use of constant tow carriage acceleration, the sway velocity damping coefficients can be calculated in a fraction of the time required by using conventional constant velocity testing methods. during the open water portion of the test series were compared with those found from


identifier: Todd, Carolyn B. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Todd=3ACarolyn_B=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1996) An exploratory study of a career counselling intervention with at-risk youth.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: There has been a growing concern over the nature of programming for at-risk youth. A proliferation of studies (Wells, 1990: Gottfredson. 1981; Kelly. 1989: Cross & Markus. 1994: McDonald & Jessell. 1992: Kaplan. 1995) over the last two decades show the importance of a number of factors which the educator should consider when designing and implementing such programs. The data point to the significance of the following variables: socio-economic status, gender, ability, self-efficacy, self-esteem, perception of goals, locus of control, role models, level of motivation and attitude towards school. -- A number of interventions have been designed to assist at-risk students to stay in school and achieve better grades. Although many such interventions are comprehensive and require time and financial commitment, more recently there has been a trend towards short-term treatments. In either case, systematic evaluations of the intervention are often lacking, thus, limiting the further application and refinement of such programs. -- In the present study, the investigator implemented and evaluated the Engage program, which is a national short-term career intervention program aimed at empowering at-risk youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in today's society. Twelve students' (10 males and 2 females), who were considered at-risk, according to the criteria presented in Chapter 3. were selected for participation in this program. -- Perceptions of participants on the program were measured and compared on a pre- and post-test questionnaire. Statements within the questionnaire were initially intended as subcomponents of constructs that answered specific evaluative questions. However, lack of inter-reliability between these sub-components precluded such statistical comparisons. Instead, statements were examined on a case by case basis for changes following intervention. -- Results indicated that the most significant changes were evident within variables measuring locus of control and self-efficacy. It would appear that the treatment allowed students to examine their own lives and begin to exercise some control over it. Despite the brief duration of the program, findings indicated positive changes in many of the variables associated with students considered at-risk. In some cases, it is not certain whether the program served to better train individuals or instead act as a reality check, encouraging individuals to start taking control of their lives and learning. This program could be viewed as a readiness tool for students deemed to be at-risk of dropping out of the school system. It ought not, however, replace other long-term interventions designed for this clientele.


identifier: Hao, Yawei <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hao=3AYawei=3A=3A.html>   (1998) An in vivo study of gene expressions during collateral sprouting accelerated by electrical stimulation in rat dorsal root ganglia.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Previous studies have demonstrated that collateral sprouting in sensory neurons is an NGF dependent process, and that the onset of this sprouting can be accelerated by electrical stimulation (depolarization) of nerves, producing a precocious collateral sprouting. However, the mechanism underlying this phenomenon is not clear. -- In the present study, the mechanisms underlying precocious collateral sprouting were studied in adult rats in vivo. Electrical stimulation was performed on the intact cutaneous nerves at 8V, 20 HZ, 1 min. These intact nerves were isolated from the adjacent nerves by dissecting the nearby nerves. The intact dorsal cutaneous nerves were treated under three paradigms: i) electrical stimulation (S); ii) isolation of intact nerves (I); iii) electrical stimulation plus isolation (S+I). After varying periods of time (lh, 4h, 8h, Id, 2d, 4d, 8d, and 14d), the dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) connected with these nerves were dissected and the possible factors related to precocious sprouting were investigated in the DRG neurons using in situ hybridization (ISH), immunocytochemistry (ICC) and Western blot assays. The parameters examined included immediate early genes (IEGs), such as CREB, egr-1, c-fos, c-jun, and Oct-2; NGF receptors (Trk A and p75); and potential members of the NGF – Trk A signal transduction pathways inducing downstream signaling (PI3-kinase, SHC, PLC-y, ERK1). -- The results showed that, among IEGs, CREB mRNA was quickly induced after 1h electrical stimulation, and this increase lasted to 4d. The effects of isolation started at Id, and the combination of isolation plus stimulation resulted in this occurring sooner. At the protein level, the expression of pCREB was only significantiy increased under stimulation at 8h (p<0.05). After 4h, electrical stimulation started to induce the elevation of egr-1 mRNA and this induction lasted until 2d, but the protein level was significant increased only at 8h. Isolation, which would result in increased NGF levels in the skin due to the adjacent cutaneous denervation, did not induce significant changes in Egr-1 protein during the experimental period. Isolation plus stimulation shortened the duration of Egr-1 increase (at 1d) and this increase lasted to 4d. Except for electrical stimulation alone and isolation alone, isolation and stimulation together induced significant increases of Fos in DRGs at 2d and 4d. Stimulation did not have significant effects on Jun protein, but after 8h, isolation plus stimulation, respectively, resulted in significant increases in Jun protein compared with control. Oct-2 was not affected by any of the treatments in these experiments. -- Under the treatments of electrical stimulation and isolation, expression of Trk A receptor mRNA and protein showed different patterns in these experiments. The mRNA level of Trk A did not significantly increase after electrical stimulation; however, isolation alone resulted in a significant increase of TrkA mRNA and this increase reached a peak at 4d. Combined with electrical stimulation, isolation induced a large increase at a very early time point (1h), but this gradually declined at later time points (2d and 4d). -- The protein level of Trk A was only increased at lh and 4h stimulation time points. There was, however, an increase induced by isolation plus stimulation at later time points (4d and 8d). The phosphorylated state of Trk A receptor did not appear to be increased except at the isolation treatment at 1h and longer time points of 4d and 8d. With respect to p75, mRNA levels were altered little by electrical stimulation. Isolation alone induced a peak change at 2d. The combination of electrical stimulation and isolation resulted in increased expression of p75 by 4h, peaking at Id, and then gradually decreasing. -- Among the proteins which propagate NGF signals, PLC-yl was slightly induced by stimulation and isolation at the short time periods (1h, 4h) and the very late time point (8d). PI-3 kinase was increased only at the latest time point (8d) following treatments. SHC and MAP kinase (ERK1) were not obviously affected by any of these treatments. -- The results addressed the hypotheses that, during precocious collateral sprouting, electrical stimulation induces some alterations in IEG expression and elevated Trk A receptor expression and/or activation, and acts in concert with the increased availability of NGF to result in an accelerated terminal sprouting response. This study provided information about the potential mechanisms associated with precocious sprouting at the molecular level.


identifier: Deng, William (Wenxiong) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Deng=3AWilliam_=28Wenxiong=29=3A=3A.html>   (1996) An integrated forecasting system for the St. John's Census Metropolitan Area, Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The objective of this thesis is to construct and evaluate a regional Integrated Forecasting System (IFS) using the St John's, Newfoundland, Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) as a case study area. The purpose of an IFS is to model the relationships among a number of key variables (e.g. population, employment and housing) which are central to the planning process for any area. Demographic characteristics, for example, are important factors in the need or ability to attract employment and the demand and supply of housing. At the same time, new employment opportunities may result in in-migration or reduce out-migration. Furthermore, lack of available housing may act as a constraint on in-migration, or new house building may encourage it. These inter-linkages require the development of a forecasting approach which is characterized by common and compatible supply-demand assumptions for the key variables and an explicit consideration of the relationships among them. The product from this thesis is such a forecasting model. To demonstrate the capabilities of the IFS, the potential impacts of the Hibernia offshore oil project on selected socio-economic activities in the St. John's Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) are examined as a case study. -- Chapters I and II of the thesis provide a background to the work, describing the St. John's CMA study area, the recent economic development history of the St. John's region and Newfoundland, and reviewing the literature on integrated forecasting systems. -- The structure and evaluation of the model and data are described in Chapter III. The overall design of the IFS follows the basic format of models developed for the Gloucestershire and Grampian regions in the United Kingdom. The IFS is basically a recursive rather than a simultaneous model. This model consists of five interacting blocks: labour demand, labour supply, migration and household formation, housing demand and housing supply. A series of tests are applied to each regression equation (R2. standard error of estimate statistics, F-test, t- statistics and Durbin-Watson statistics) developed to describe each block and, where necessary, modifications are made to the equations in order to improve the model's performance. The sources and methods used in the preparation of the data input are discussed in the last section of this chapter. -- In Chapter IV, the characteristics of the equations and the within-sample performance of the model are evaluated. Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) statistics are calculated to examine the model's performance. This evaluation IFS suggests that the model is appropriate for projecting the impacts of the Hibernia Project on the socio-economic characteristics in the St. John's CMA and has the potential to project impacts for other major projects or sectoral changes. -- Chapter V describes the model's forecasting performance and the assumptions on which the IFS is based. According to the EFS, the Hibernia Project will not change the basic economic situation of the St. John's CMA — St. John's will not become another Calgary in eastern Canada — though it will help the economy of the region to some extent. Overall, this thesis concludes that the IFS provides valuable which can be of value to both regional planners and local businesses.