identifier: Azargun, Mohammad <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Azargun=3AMohammad=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Structures and energetics of guanine tetrads and quadruplexes isolated in the gas phase.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Structures, thermochemistries, reactivities, and kinetics of chemical systems in the gas phase can be determined by a variety of ion activation techniques. The internal energy of ions can be increased by colliding the accelerated ions with a target gas, collision-induced dissociation (CID). This technique can lead to a full or partial structural identification, and also to the relative stabilities of the ion clusters. Ions in the gas phase may reach a dissociation threshold by absorbing multiple photons from the laser radiation if the laser frequency is resonant with a vibrational mode which is called infrared multiphoton dissociation (IRMPD). This technique turns into IRMPD spectroscopy by varying the laser frequency and recording the resultant fragments as a function of laser frequency. Blackbody infrared radiative dissociation (BIRD) is another photodissociation technique used in this work that is well suited to slowly activate weakly-bound non-covalent interactions in order to determine their thermochemistries and also gain kinetic insights. Theoretical techniques have been used along with these activation techniques as a powerful complementary tool.
This work provides physical chemistry insights about guanine tetrads and quadruplexes in the gas phase. The first phase of this research focuses on the alkali metal G-tetrads, M(9-eG)₄⁺ (M=Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs; 9eG = 9-ethylguanine). After their gas phase formation, their structures, stabilities, and energetics were examined by a combination of SORI-CID, IRMPD spectroscopy, and computational chemistry. The role of hydrogen bonding, the size of cation, and electrostatic interactions in the stability and structures were also examined. The formation of alkali metal G-quadruplexes, (M(9eG)₈⁺ (M = Na, K, Rb, Cs), was pursued in the next phase. The BIRD technique, in conjunction with master equation modeling, was applied to determine the binding energies and transition state nature of these G-quadruplexes. IRMPD spectroscopy, along with theoretical techniques, was used for structural elucidation. In the final step, gas phase formation of larger G-quadruplexes was assessed. The K₂(9-ethylguanine)₁₂⁺ quadruplex was successfully generated and isolated in the gas phase. BIRD and SORI-CID techniques were used to determine the quadruplex binding energies and gas phase stability, respectively. The structure of this quadruplex was determined by IRMPD spectroscopy and computational chemistry.


identifier: Yue, Jiajia <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Yue=3AJiajia=3A=3A.html>   (2018) A power comparison of robust tests for monotonic trends in recurrent events.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract:
The analysis of the existence and form of time trends in repairable systems is an
important issue in reliability studies. Hence, many trend tests have been proposed
and studied in the literature. There has been a recent interest in the use of robust
trend tests based on estimating functions to test the absence of time trends in the
rate functions of recurrent event processes. These tests are appealing because they do
not require strong assumptions about the nature of the processes, and are powerful
in a wide range of settings. In this study, we consider monotone time trends in
recurrent event data from repairable systems, and develop a robust trend test based
on rate functions of the power law processes. Our main goal is to discuss the power of
robust trend tests as well as to compare their power with other well-known trend tests
under various settings. We therefore conducted extensive Monte Carlo simulations to
compute and compare the power of these tests under various scenarios. Finally, we
analyze two data sets from industry to illustrate the methodology.


identifier: Kom, Mathias <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kom=3AMathias=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Cosmopolitan intimacy: antifolk in Berlin and New York.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In the early 2000s, New York’s insular and relatively unknown antifolk music scene gained a
significant number of new fans in Germany, thanks to the overseas success of antifolk exports
The Moldy Peaches. In Berlin, a small antifolk scene began to form, with local songwriters
connecting and collaborating both virtually and face to face with New York artists. This
dissertation explores these connections, and suggests that the translocal antifolk community joins
the distinct scenes in New York and Berlin through a cosmopolitan intimacy that emphasizes
friendship and mutual support, but also makes room for differing interpretations of what it means
to make music on the margins. I demonstrate that although the antifolk community is in some
ways defined by movement, it is also fixed in local affinities, and cosmopolitan intimacy is a
productive means to understand this tense simultaneity. Tension also emerges in differing
readings of the political economy of antifolk, especially as it plays out in multiplex
understandings of the ethos of “do-it-yourself” (DIY). I argue that, in antifolk, DIY is both an
anticapitalist political stance, and a strategy of bootstrap capitalism and economic survival.
Likewise, antifolk can be read as a queer space of radical, productive failure, and as a
community that encourages consumers to become producers, in collaborative, participatory
performances and relationships. However, I also suggest that antifolk is never truly outside the
mainstream it seems to oppose, but is inevitably imbricated in it. These simultaneities emerge in
the songs, performances, practices and discourse of the antifolk community, characterized as
often by disagreement as cohesion. Ultimately, I argue that theories of intimacy and
cosmopolitanism can help to understand antifolk as a space of fragmented unity and productive
disjuncture.


identifier: Selvaratnam, Selvakkadunko <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Selvaratnam=3ASelvakkadunko=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Statistical inference for adaptive designs in multi-center clinical trials.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
We discuss methods for comparing effects of two treatments A and B. We investigate
the performance of response-adaptive (RA) and covariate-adjusted response-adaptive
(CARA) designs in multi-center clinical trials. First, we discuss applying RA designs
to maximize the well-being of participating patients in multi-center clinical trials. We
assume that the centers are selected from a large population of centers and develop a
generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) to examine the treatment effect. The asymptotic
properties of the maximum likelihood (ML) estimators of model parameters are
derived using the in
uence function method. We verified their theoretical properties
through simulation studies. The techniques are then applied to a real data that were
obtained from a multi-center clinical trial designed to compare two cream preparations
(active drug/control) for treating an infection. Secondly, we investigate the efficiency for estimates of model parameters and ethics for participating patients among
RA, CARA, and completely randomized (CR) designs for a generalized linear model
(GLM). We consider the logit model to measure efficiency and ethics. Furthermore,
we showed that ML estimators of GLM parameters are consistent and asymptotically
follow multivariate normal distribution for adaptive designs. A simulation study was
conducted to verify these theoretical results. Finally, we provide a justification of why
asymptotic results for Wald-type tests for adaptive designs can be used. We proved
that the choice of adaptive designs affects the statistical power of hypothesis testing
via these quantities: the target allocation proportion, the bias of the randomization
procedure from the target, and the variability induced by the randomization process.
Moreover, we showed that the statistical power increases when the design variability
decreases for a covariate in a logit model. Our theoretical findings are verified by
simulation results.


identifier: Zaman, Tareq Uz <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Zaman=3ATareq_Uz=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Improved modeling for fluid flow through porous media.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Petroleum production is one of the most important technological challenges in the current world. Modeling and simulation of porous media flow is crucial to overcome this challenge. Recent years have seen interest in investigation of the effects of history of rock, fluid, and flow properties on flow through porous media. This study concentrates on the development of numerical models using a ‘memory’ based diffusivity equation to investigate the effects of history on porous media flow. In addition, this study focusses on developing a generalized model for fluid flow in packed beds and porous media.
The first part of the thesis solves a memory-based fractional diffusion equation numerically using the Caputo, Riemann-Liouville (RL), and Grünwald-Letnikov (GL) definitions for fractional-order derivatives on uniform meshes in both space and time. To validate the numerical models, the equation is solved analytically using the Caputo, and Riemann-Liouville definitions, for Dirichlet boundary conditions and a given initial condition. Numerical and analytical solutions are compared, and it is found that the discretization method used in the numerical model is consistent, but less than first order accurate in time. The effect of the fractional order on the resulting error is significant. Numerical solutions found using the Caputo, Riemann-Liouville, and Grünwald-Letnikov definitions are compared in the second part. It is found that the largest pressure values are found from Caputo definition and the lowest from Riemann-Liouville definition. It is also found that differences among the solutions increase with increasing fractional order,


identifier: Purchase, Heather <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Purchase=3AHeather=3A=3A.html>   (2018) A discussion of value and self-realization: orienting religion in the methods introduced by Arne Naess and Bernard Lonergan as they apply to environmental ethical deliberation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This work is a philosophical exploration of ethical decision-making. Bernard Lonergan’s transcendental method can be applied to how environmental decision-makers might develop normative foundations for ethical decision-making, including the role of religion in ethical deliberation. In this thesis, I explore the notions of ‘value’ and ‘self-realization’ as developed in the method of Arne Naess’ deep, long-range ecology; these notions have an implicit religious meaning. While Naess was at pains to avoid a repeat of the errors of the Western Judeo-Christian bifurcation of matter and spirit, his deep ecology is underlined by an implicitly religious foundation. The normative method for deep ecology offers a solution to how we might move from the present question of “How did we get here” to “Where do we go from here?” by intending self-realization. Achieving self-realization allows human beings to proceed into the future through beautiful action and knowledge of what is truly good and concrete.


identifier: Sutherland, Alison Margaret Semple <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sutherland=3AAlison_Margaret_Semple=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Optimization of circulating miRNA library preparation for next-generation sequencing and an exploratory pharmacogenomics investigation of psoriatic arthritis patients treated with IL-12/23 or IL-17 inhibitors.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Optimization for circulating miRNA library preparations, multiplexing capacity,
and sequencing with the Ion Torrent System was executed in order to process patient
samples effectively. Multiple modifications were attempted in two published protocols
before miRNA library preparations reached adequate quality for sequencing. A cohort of
nine psoriatic arthritis patients, recruited for a pharmacogenomics investigation of
treatment with IL-12/23 or IL-17 inhibitors, had blood samples drawn at baseline, as well
as one- and three-month post treatment. The pharmacogenomics samples from baseline
were sequenced and the resultant data underwent several analyses in order to identify
predictive miRNA markers or profiles. Differential miRNA expression analyses were
performed both between the American College of Rheumatology response criteria
groupings and on clinical datasets, followed by a comprehensive literature review to
examine potential implications of identified miRNAs. Pathway analyses, network analyses,
and an in silico functional enrichment analysis were performed on the data to identify
associations with signalling cascades, collectively targeted genes, and biological functions,
respectively. The results of this exploratory study demonstrate the potential of the miRNA
sequencing framework for identifying predictive miRNA markers and profiles associated
with response to pharmaceuticals.


identifier: Mustari, Mst Mausumi Sabnam <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Mustari=3AMst_Mausumi_Sabnam=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Configuring spiking neural network training algorithms.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Spiking neural networks, based on biologically-plausible neurons with temporal information
coding, are provably more powerful than widely used artificial neural networks
based on sigmoid neurons (ANNs). However, training them is more challenging than
training ANNs. Several methods have been proposed in the literature, each with its
limitations: SpikeProp, NSEBP, ReSuMe, etc. And setting numerous parameters of
spiking networks to obtain good accuracy has been largely ad hoc.
In this work, we used automated algorithm configuration tools to determine optimal
combinations of parameters for ANNs, artificial neural networks with components
simulating glia cells (astrocytes), and for spiking neural networks with SpikeProp
learning algorithm. This allowed us to achieve better accuracy on standard datasets
(Iris and Wisconsin Breast Cancer), and showed that even after optimization augmenting
an artificial neural network with glia results in improved performance.
Guided by the experimental results, we have developed methods for determining
values of several parameters of spiking neural networks, in particular weight and output
ranges. These methods have been incorporated into a SpikeProp implementation.


identifier: Holisko, Stephen <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Holisko=3AStephen=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Community watershed management in Newfoundland and Labrador: successes, challenges, capacity-building, future directions.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Out of the collapse of the commercial groundfish and salmon fisheries in
Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) in 1992 and the resultant economic crisis, the
provincial and federal governments implemented a new strategy for developing a highvalue
recreational salmon and trout fishing industry in the province. The goals were to
create local employment opportunities in rural Newfoundland, devise improved resource
management strategies at the community level, and foster an overall improvement in
environmental stewardship through enhanced local decision-making. The program that
emerged to achieve those goals came to be known provincially as community watershed
management (CWM), an approach to resource management that aimed to share
significant decision-making authority and management with local/regional nongovernmental
watershed groups. This new approach constituted a “rescaling” of
governance, a term that describes the move from centralized modes of provincial and
federal management policies, towards local and regional empowerment in the
management of natural resources. Ultimately, the program did not achieve the intended
level of success in the development of a recreational fishery for a number of complex
reasons. The proposed changes to resource management became too politically
contentious amongst stakeholders, the program failed to win support over a government
bureaucracy resistant to structural changes, and the political will required to implement
such an ambitious program faltered. While the provincial government’s commitment to
rescale environmental resource management and governance to the watershed level
ultimately did not hold, there continued, and remains, a lasting grassroots movement across the province at the community level in the form of continuing watershed
management organizations.
This thesis fulfills two important inquiries: 1) to provide a historical overview of
CWM and related recreational fisheries development policies in NL, and 2) to analyze the
experiences of the organizations themselves, through the voices of their past and current
members, as well as stakeholders in community, government, industry, and academia.
The central argument of this paper is that implementation of rescaled environmental
governance and management failed in NL due to a lack of secure funding and agreed
upon longer term policy commitments, entrenched public opposition from a vocal
minority based on fears of privatization of public resources, and lack of institutional
readiness, both on the part of the provincial bureaucracy and the watershed organizations
themselves. The result is that watershed organizations in NL have largely been left to
forge their own direction. Critical to the success of this endeavor is remaining adaptive in
nature, and integrative in approach while tackling the highly complex issues surrounding
environmental management.
It is my hope that these insights may assist in future capacity-building efforts for
governments and community-based stewardship organizations that are attempting to
implement holistic, collaborative, and multi-level environmental management in NL and
elsewhere. This insight has been achieved through document review and by conducting
in-depth interviews with key informants engaged in community watershed groups
throughout the province. The interviews have been analyzed using Mitchell’s (2009) four
contributing factors to policy implementation gaps combined with Robins’ (2007)
multiple-capitals model for assessing and building capacity. This analytical framework allows for a critique of the strengths, challenges, and short-comings of small-scale,
community-based watershed groups, an area of research that is weakly developed in
academic literature. Significant institutional, social, and environmental learning that has
occurred in these organizations and been captured through this research provides us with
the building blocks for better future outcomes in community-based environmental
stewardship practiced through local and multi-level decision-making and inclusive
governance.


identifier: Edet, Emana Ifeoma <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Edet=3AEmana_Ifeoma=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Survey of antibiotic resistome in a mixed-use watershed in Western Newfoundland, Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Antibiotic production is a natural phenomenon employed by microorganisms to control their environment in stress situations. Thus, antibiotic resistance has evolved in parallel to counteract naturally produced antibiotics. On the other hand, excessive use of antibiotics by humans, either for protecting human or animal health, may induce unnaturally high antibiotic stresses leading to enhanced antibiotic resistance, the so-called acquired resistance.
This study is the first to report an initial exploration into the distribution and quantification of antibiotic resistance genes, i.e. resistome, in a mixed-use watershed in Western Newfoundland, along the Humber river. The river was sampled along a gradient of increased human impact, mainly associated with the discharge of municipal wastewaters. The goals of my thesis were to (1) understand the relationship between human impact in the Humber river and the occurrence of antibiotic resistance genes in the environment, and (2) understand the role of the river in mitigating the abundance of these resistance genes, if any role is present.
Total DNA was extracted from the river water samples, sequenced by shotgun sequencing on an Illumina Hiseq platform with sequencing data quality controlled and cleaned at the sequencing facility via a QIIME pipeline, followed by identification and quantification of antibiotic resistance markers through a computational pipeline carried out in ShortBRED against a curated Antibiotic Resistance Genes Database (ARDB). About 400 antibiotic resistance genes, of variable abundance, were identified, distributed across the tested systems, an indication of the wide distribution of antibiotic resistance in the environment. This analysis revealed the distribution and abundance of Antibiotic Resistance Genes (ARGs) within the microbial population in the Humber River.
Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to quantify absolute (copies L⁻¹) and relative abundances (copies /16S rRNA) for TetO, TetM and AdeC genes. Relative abundance of ARGs (copies / 16S rRNA) was higher in the upstream locations versus downstream locations.
The results showed evidence that anthropogenic impacts, especially associated with the use of antibiotics, led to an increase in the diversity and total abundance of antibiotic resistance markers in the Humber River.


identifier: Mason, Gwynhyfar <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Mason=3AGwynhyfar=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Genomic and experimental evidence of rapid evolution in an introduced population of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in Rocky River, Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: We characterized the presence of recent divergence in a population of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) introduced from Little Salmonier River into Rocky River, Newfoundland ~ 5 generations previously, by quantifying genomic divergence and conducting reciprocal transplant experiments. Genomic evidence based on Bayesian clustering and hybrid characterization using genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms support the presence of two populations, one at Little Salmonier, and both at Rocky River with hybridization with non-anadromous residents. In conjunction with evidence of adaptive divergence at ~90 loci, this finding supports the hypothesis of rapid evolution. Reciprocal transplants from controlled lab crosses revealed no significant growth differences between rivers, but higher survivorship in Rocky River. Purebreds outperformed hybrids in both rivers and the laboratory, a finding consistent with outbreeding depression. Overall, the results support the hypothesis of rapid evolution of salmon in Rocky River; with both adaptive evolution and introgression with residents as likely causes.


identifier: Rahman, Md. Shad <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Rahman=3AMd=2E_Shad=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Development of memory-based models for reservoir fluid characterization.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The petroleum industry play an important role in supplying required energy all over the
world. Effective methods are required to stimulate the process. Petroleum fluids are the
mixture of complex hydrocarbons. Several techniques being used to predict reserve
estimation, recovery, production, enhanced oil recovery, etc. Despite of modern
engineering advancement, still, there are some drawbacks, such as, conventional models,
linearized rock-fluid properties models, inaccurate risk assessment, and inappropriate
descriptions of thermal effects. In this research, new mathematical models for petroleum
fluids (non-Newtonian) regarding various degree of complexities will be developed. The
most significant component will be the continuous time function introduced to the
rheology. Previous attempts are addressed in this modeling, and those models were limited
for some specific cases and fluids. The current proposal will develop a comprehensive
model that can be applied to different reservoir fluids irrespective to fluid origin. In
addition, the proposed models will also be adjusted for a complex mixture of reservoir
fluids. The model equations will be solved numerically and validated using field data and
data gathered from experimental tasks available in the literature. The proposed models will
be developed focusing light crude oil for reservoir conditions. The role of various factors,
such as crude oil density, viscosity, compressibility, surface tension, ambient temperature,
and temperature will be included in the predictive models. Model equations will be solved
with non-linear solvers, as outlined earlier. This will generate a range of solutions, rather
than a line of unique solutions. This analysis will increase an accuracy of the predictive
tool and will enable one to assess the uncertainty with greater confidence.


identifier: Bray, Scott D. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Bray=3AScott_D=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Creatine synthesis and methionine partitioning during TPN in Yucatan miniature piglets.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Methionine is an indispensable amino acid in the diet of neonates and has a
metabolic role in the synthesis of creatine, phosphatidylcholine (PC) as well as
protein synthesis and other transmethylation reactions. Creatine synthesis consumes
significant amounts of arginine (a conditionally essential amino acid) and methionine,
while PC requires methionine for its synthesis. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is
typically marginal in these amino acids, and devoid in creatine. Therefore, our
objective was to quantify the partitioning of methyl groups among transmethylation
reactions and the sparing effect of dietary creatine and GAA on protein synthesis.
Adequate supply of dietary methionine resulted in significantly greater hepatic
fractional synthesis rate (FSR) of PC. Furthermore, GAA supplementation increased
FSR of creatine by approximately 175%, but only when adequate dietary methionine
was supplied. Moreover, piglet weight gain was similar to that of piglets receiving
adequate arginine, suggesting arginine was spared for growth. Overall, supplemental
GAA could be considered as a novel TPN ingredient to increase the synthesis of
creatine and spare arginine for growth, but only when adequate methionine is
provided.


identifier: Roy, Krishna Rani <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Roy=3AKrishna_Rani=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Stress, appraisal, autonomous support and coping: an integrative perspective of adult type 2 diabetes management in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In the present study, data was collected from 165 adult type 2 diabetes patients in Newfoundland
and Labrador to understand their psychosocial behaviour associated with blood glucose (HbA1c).
Patient characteristics and the effect of four types of psychosocial behaviour on HbA1c are
examined. A high prevalence of poor glycemic control is found in the participants having BMI ≥
35. The participants with higher stress have a negative appraisal of diabetes. The highly stressed
group has a tendency to use emotion-oriented coping and to have a poor perception of autonomous
supportiveness.
Two path models are developed conducting regressions analyses. The first one shows that stress,
appraisal and coping can explain 7.4% of the variance in HbA1c. The second path model shows
that appraisal plays a role of mediator and can explain 5.8% of the variance in HbA1c. Finally,
50.4% of the variance in stress can be explained by appraisal, coping and autonomous perception.


identifier: MacSween, Jessica <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/MacSween=3AJessica=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Effects of hyperabundant moose (Alces alces) on stream ecosystem functioning and structure in Cape Breton Highlands, Nova Scotia.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Terrestrial consumers can influence forest regeneration, but few studies have investigated
the impacts of terrestrial consumers on freshwater ecosystems. I investigated the potential
for cross-ecosystem effects of hyperabundant moose on stream ecosystems in the Cape
Breton Highlands, Nova Scotia. I predicted that watersheds with higher moose impacts
would have higher stream temperatures, total nitrogen, electrical conductivity, periphyton
biomass, and macroinvertebrate abundances. I analyzed existing long-term data on 3rd and
4th order streams and conducted a field study on 1st and 2nd order streams to test for crossecosystem
impacts of moose in the Cape Breton Highlands. I found evidence for moose
impacts on total nitrogen and electrical conductivity. However, I found no evidence for
higher stream temperatures and periphyton biomass, with limited evidence of moose
impacts on macroinvertebrate abundances. This study provides insight into the effects of
large ungulates within and across boreal forest ecosystems with potential implications for
landscape-scale management of hyperabundant ungulates.


identifier: Amin, Mohammad Asif <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Amin=3AMohammad_Asif=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Experimental investigation of propeller wake velocity field.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Propeller wake wash has been used as an operational ice management technique for many years, particularly in managing small and medium sizes ice floes in arctic and sub-arctic regions. Propeller wake wash is a complicated flow with axial, tangential and radial components of velocity. The jet velocity of a wash has a significant component that is directed upwards towards the free surface of the water. The component of the jet interacting with a free surface of water can be used for ice management, and this is of practical interest for the present investigation.
The current study is an experiment on the propeller wake velocity field to investigate the influence of factors affecting propeller wake wash. The experiment was done on a steady wake wash, in the absence of ice, to measure fluid velocity components downstream of the propeller. The investigation was done by varying the major factors affecting propeller wake wash, which were: the power delivered by the propeller, the inclination of the propeller, and the depth of submergence of the propeller. The power delivered by the propeller was measured as propeller shaft rotational speed. The response variables of interest were the mean velocity in the wake, the spatial distribution of velocity, and the variability of the wake flow. The experiment was designed by following the Central Composite Design (CCD) of Response Surface methodology, testing at five levels for each of the three factors. All the experimental data, and the results that were analyzed, are presented in an OERC test report (Amin et al., 2017), and in this thesis.


identifier: Stacey, Adam <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Stacey=3AAdam=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Mindfulness training and medical residents: effects on psychological wellbeing and patient care.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Negative psychological health outcomes for highly stressed medical students,
residents, and physicians are well documented in the literature. Interventions for this
population may be valuable for residents and their patients alike. Levels of anxiety, stress,
and depression have been reduced following mindfulness training in clinical, non-clinical,
and medical-resident populations. Additionally, mindfulness training has been linked to
increased levels of empathy, subjective well-being, and hope.
The current study sought to determine the effectiveness of mindfulness training as
an intervention for medical residents (N = 42). The current study’s interest in mindfulness
training is three fold. First, is it possible to increase medical residents mindfulness scores
through training? Second, what effect does mindfulness training have on residents’ levels
of psychological wellbeing? And finally, does mindfulness training affect the level of
patient-centred care provided by resident physicians?
Before and after an 11 week training program, residents completed a battery of
mindfulness and psychological wellness measures which included the Perceived Stress
Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, Mindfulness
Attention and Awareness Scale, and Symptom Checklist-90-R. Furthermore, residents
participated in two encounters (pre- and post-intervention) with standardized patients who
evaluated residents’ level of patient-centred care using the Patient Perception of Patient
Centeredness.
Results indicate no statistically significant differences in residents’ mindfulness
scores between those in the control and treatment groups over time. Additionally,
residents’ psychological wellbeing scores did not differ in a statistically significant
manner between groups over time. However, residents’ psychological wellbeing scores
demonstrated a degree of stability which is promising in the context of the literature.
Residents in both control and treatment groups showed statistically significant
improvements in their delivery of patient centred care when pre- and post-intervention
scores were compared which indicates there were no additive benefits of mindfulness
training in this regard.


identifier: Adu, Joseph <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Adu=3AJoseph=3A=3A.html>   (2018) The effects of individual and community-level factors on maternal health outcomes in Ghana.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The utilization of maternal health care services is imperative to reducing the number of perinatal deaths and postnatal complications amongst pregnant women. Data from the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey was used to conduct a quantitative study to understand the effects of individual and community-level factors on the uptake of maternal health care services. In addition, policy documents on maternal and child health care in Ghana with respect to antenatal, facility-based delivery, and postnatal care were reviewed to better understand government policies to improve maternal care. The quantitative study used a sample of 4,141 women nested within 427 clusters across Ghana. Multilevel logistic regression models were employed to examine the effects of individual and community-level factors on antenatal, facility-based delivery, and postnatal care. All the quantitative analyses were conducted with sample-weighted data. The quantitative analysis revealed both individual and community-level factors as significant predictors of maternal health outcomes in Ghana. For instance, wealthier women and those with higher education were significantly more likely to utilize antenatal and delivery services in both the rural and urban areas. Distance to health facilities was negatively associated with women’s use of maternal health services. The policy documents analyses indicated equity gaps in rural-urban health infrastructure and lack of financial resources to ensure equitable delivery of maternal health care services in Ghana. Policy makers must consider both individual and community-level factors, and women’s rights with regard to employment opportunities in addressing barriers to maternal health care in Ghana.


identifier: Sarwar, Adnan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sarwar=3AAdnan=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Resilience analysis of offshore safety and power system.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Harsh and deep waters create challenging environments for offshore drilling and production facilities, resulting in increased chances of failure. This necessitates improving the resilience of the engineering system, which is the capability of a system to recover its functionality during disturbance and failure. The present work proposes an approach to quantify resilience as a function of vulnerability and maintainability. The approach assesses proactive and reactive defense mechanisms along with operational factors to respond to unwanted disturbances and failures. The proposed approach employs a Bayesian network to build two resilience models. Two developed models are applied to: 1) a hydrocarbon release scenario during an offloading operation in a remote and harsh environment, and 2) the main requirements to improve the resilience of an offshore power management system. This study attempts to relate resilience capacity of a system to the system’s absorptive, adaptive and restorative capacities. These capacities influence pre-disaster and post-disaster strategies that can be mapped to enhance resilience of the system. Furthermore, the technique of an object-oriented framework is adopted to better structure the resilience model as a function of a system’s adaptability, absorptive and restorative capabilities. Sensitivity analysis is also conducted to analyze the impact and interdependencies among different variables to enhance resilience.


identifier: Corkum, Christopher P. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Corkum=3AChristopher_P=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Identification of the cellular mechanisms responsible for the generation of particular HLA-DR epitopes.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: HLA class II/peptide complexes (pHLA-II), organized into microdomains on the surface of antigen presenting cells (APCs) or on APC-secreted exosomes, engage CD4+ T cells for immune recognition. The association of the HLA-II alleles DRB1*0401/0404 with rheumatoid arthritis may be due to their propensity to present self-peptides for immune recognition. pHLA-II presentation on APCs is largely determined by HLA-DM, an intracellular chaperone, and its negative regulator, HLA-DO. Previously described DRB1*04-restricted epitopes (D11-0401, D13-0401, and D13-0404) were found dependent, sensitive, and resistant, respectively, to HLA-DM activity. The aims of this study were to determine whether (a) HLA-DO affects epitope expression; (b) cell surface microdomains concentrate these epitopes; and (c) exosomes express these epitopes. Key findings include: HLA-DO appears not essential, but its role in optimal epitope expression may be cell-context dependent; lipid raft disruption abrogated only the DM-dependent D11-0401epitope; exosomal expression of these epitopes was cell specific and independent of their cell surface expression. Altogether, this study has enhanced our knowledge of DM-dependent, -sensitive, and -resistant epitopes on rheumatoid arthritis-associated pHLA-DRB1*04 molecules.


identifier: Okyere, Dinah Anoah <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Okyere=3ADinah_Anoah=3A=3A.html>   (2018) An assessment of sustainable forest and fisheries certification and eco-labelling: comparing outcomes in shellfish fisheries and pulp and paper mills in Atlantic Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Private systems of governance have proliferated in various global locations, with the intent of promoting sustainability in the domains of natural resources and the environment and ameliorating negative impacts of production and consumption processes. These systems form part of a broader environmental network, emerging as alternatives to a ‘failed’ system of governmental regulation in these sectors. Third party, sustainable certification and ecolabelling is one type of private regulatory intervention, which essentially relies on markets (consumers’ and buyers’ within the supply chain) to demand compliance with sustainability standards from producers and organisations. Research and discussions on certification and ecolabelling schemes or programs have increased over the last two decades; however, there is still inadequate knowledge on the sustainability impacts or outcomes of these schemes. This study adopts a mixed-method, comparative approach that complements data from a survey, involving (shell fish) fisheries and two pulp and paper mills in Canada’s Atlantic Region, with existing research findings on this area to identify certification outcomes in the fisheries and forestry sectors. The results for both sectors suggest that, while there may be some improvements or impacts from sustainability certification, these improvements vary and are difficult to define. In addition, ambiguity in the responses and comments given in the survey is evidence that distinguishing sustainability outcomes or impacts specific to certifications in these two sectors, based on this study, may be problematic.


identifier: Ni, Kaijie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ni=3AKaijie=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Chromium amino-bis(phenolate) complexes for CO₂ and cyclohexene oxide copolymerization.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Utilization of CO₂ as a C1 feedstock for polycarbonate production has received considerable attention in the past decades. One of the promising methods is the catalytic copolymerization of CO₂ and epoxides to afford polycarbonates. In this thesis, Cr(III) amino-bis(phenolate) complexes were synthesized and investigated as catalysts for the copolymerization of CO₂ and cyclohexene oxide (CHO). These Cr(III) complexes were characterized by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, single crystal X-ray diffraction, UV-Vis spectroscopy and elemental analysis. In the presence of cocatalysts such as 4-(dimethylamino)pyridine (DMAP), bis(triphenylphosphoranylidene) iminium chloride or azide (PPNCl or PPNN3), these Cr(III) complexes showed efficient activities to selectively produce polycarbonate from CO₂ and CHO with moderate molecular weights and narrow dispersities. End-group analysis of the resulting polymers by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry suggested both the nucleophiles from cocatalyst and the Cr(III) complex could initiate the reaction. However, DMAP was found to be a better initiator to ring-open the epoxide than the chloride from the Cr(III) complex. Monitoring the copolymerization reaction via in situ attenuated total reflectance infrared spectroscopy (ATR-IR), combined with the studies of binding of azide to Cr(III) complexes via mass spectrometry showed that the steric effect of the pendant donor group of amino-bis(phenolate) Cr(III) complex played an important role in increasing the copolymerization rate. Furthermore, polycarbonate diol from CO₂ and CHO was synthesized by a modified Cr(III) complex. The resulting polycarbonate diol was used to afford tri-block copolymers via its use as a macroinitiator in the subsequent base-catalysed ring-opening polymerization of rac-lactide. The resulting copolymers showed a decreased glass transition temperature and an increased decomposition temperature compared to the original polycarbonates.


identifier: King, Kelcey S. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/King=3AKelcey_S=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Analysis of blm: a gene of unclear function involved in the biosynthesis of clavulanic acid in Streptomyces clavuligerus.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Streptomyces clavuligerus produces the medicinally important specialized
metabolite clavulanic acid (CA), but detailed understanding of the roles played by many
genes involved in CA biosynthesis is still lacking. These include the overlapping blm
(orf12), orf13 and orf14 genes, disruptions of which cause defective CA production in S.
clavuligerus. I investigated the potential polarity associated with disrupting blm in S.
clavuligerus, along with the cellular localization of Blm. This was accomplished using
complementation of prepared blm deletion mutants and western analysis of strains
expressing epitope (FLAG) tagged copies of the protein. blm-like genes from other
microorganisms containing sequenced CA gene clusters were examined for their ability to
complement a S. clavuligerus blm in-frame mutant. Results demonstrate that the blm
mutation is not associated with polar effects and that Blm is a cytoplasmic protein,
suggesting that it could either play a regulatory or enzymatic role during CA production
in S. clavuligerus.


identifier: Gee, Adrian Stuart <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Gee=3AAdrian_Stuart=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Spatio-temporal analysis of Chlamydia trachomatis in Newfoundland and Labrador and an exploratory analysis into employment traits as risk factors.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Sexually transmitted infections are an important health concern in Canadian society due to their negative impact on sexual and reproductive health, as well as their social and fiscal ramifications. Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common reported sexually transmitted infection in Canada and has been consistently on the rise since 1997. The province of Newfoundland and Labrador routinely publishes case counts of infectious diseases, including chlamydia, but there is minimal examination into age, sex, the regional distributions of cases, the etiology of these infections, or what populations are most at risk. There is also little information on the role of migratory employment in infectious disease risk in Canada. The spatial and temporal distribution of chlamydia in Newfoundland and Labrador between 2007 and 2013 was examined, in addition to an exploration into migratory employment as a contributory cause. Case data were obtained from the Regional Health Authorities and population information from Statistics Canada. Differences in incidence rates for age, sex, and geography were evaluated over time. A linear increase in incidence occurred over the study period. Distinct areas of high incidence were observed and spatial clusters were identified in northern Labrador and St. John’s. Using the 2006 Census of Population and 2011 National Household Survey, associations between work-related commuting demographics and chlamydia incidence were found in the province. Understanding the distribution of chlamydia as well as the behaviours of migratory workers can help direct health policy to prevent chlamydial and other infections from occurring, and improve overall sexual health practices of Canadians.


identifier: Slade, Frankie Amanda <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Slade=3AFrankie_Amanda=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Investigating the role of Hip1 in Huntington Disease and Parkinson Disease models in Drosophila melanogater.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Huntington Disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized
by the loss of cognition and motor ability. Beginning in the dysfunction of the
GABAergic neurons, HD has been mainly attributed to an increased number of CAG
repeats in the Huntingtin gene, resulting in an extended polyglutamine tract within the
protein. This expansion prevents the normal interaction between the proteins encoded by
Htt and Huntingtin interacting protein 1 (Hip1). Conserved sequences between human
and Drosophila Hip1 allow examination of the protein in D. melanogaster to be used as a
model for human HD. Analysis of the loss of function of Hip1 in a pan-neuronal fashion
resulted in an increase in average lifespan and decrease in motor ability. Overexpression
of Hip1 resulted in a decrease in both lifespan and motor ability, suggesting a delicate
balance of Hip1 in healthy cells. Investigation of the biological effects of altered Hip1
expression may provide insights into a possible role for Hip1 in HD pathogenesis.
The progression of Parkinson Disease (PD) is similar to that of HD – generally
occurring later in life, and affecting cognitive ability and motor function. Associated with
the death of dopamingeric neurons, impairment of a number of genes has been implicated
in disease progression. Recently, a polymorphism in Huntingtin interacting protein 1
Related (Hip1R), was identified as a risk-factor for PD. The Hip1R gene is not found in
D. melanogaster, but is considered an orthologue of Hip1, which is conserved across
species. Directed manipulation of the single Drosophila Hip1 in the dopaminergic
neurons was carried out to provide an in vivo model of disease progression and symptom
development. Investigation of motor ability and longevity of D. melanogaster upon
overexpression and loss of function of Hip1 was completed. Loss of expression of Hip1 in the dopaminergic neurons, through the use of RNAi, decreased the locomotor ability of
the flies and increased the average lifespan. Overexpression of Hip1 in the dopaminergic
neurons revealed the opposite effect, improving locomotor ability and slightly decreasing
average lifespan. This suggests that a delicate balance of Hip1 exists in the dopaminergic
neurons, and alteration of expression affects the motor ability and life expectancy.
Maintaining a healthy balance of Hip1 in the dopaminergic neurons may offer a new
therapeutic option for loss of locomotor ability and pre-mature death. Further
investigation of Hip1R and its role in human disease progression is needed, and may be
crucial to our understanding of PD in order to provide new therapeutic targets.


identifier: Seddig, Hekma Mohamed <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Seddig=3AHekma_Mohamed=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Asphalt binders characterization and modeling x-ray diffraction.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Cracking is a common occurrence in asphalt pavements in colder climates, while pavements in hotter climates experience rutting; both of which are considered on-going problems from an industry standpoint. Asphalt presents in crude oil was studied to know their structure with the help of X-ray diffraction (XRD). Six samples of Asphalt binder were taken from Canada and USA then converted into thin films of 1mm to get XRD pattern. In addition, Cu-K-a monochromatic radiations were used at 40kV using a Rigaku DMax 2200V-PC at 40 mA with scan ranges from 2θ= 5⁰ to 35⁰ and 60⁰ to 110⁰. Mathematical functions such as Pearson VII and Pseudo-Voigt are used to profile fit the data obtained by the XRD. After profile fitting, they are modeled using GFF i.e. Generalized Fermi Function in Mathematicaᵀᴹ. The analysis showed a correlation among the three mathematical functions.
The outcomes discussed here substitute to the accuracy of profile fitting whereas the exponents of Pearson VII and pseudo- Voigt Lorentzian differ. The Lorentzian values of Pseudo- Voigt are 0.3, 0.5, and 0.7 whereas the Exponent values of Pearson VII are 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5, and 3 backgrounds (linear, 3ᴿᴰ order polynomial, and parabolic) were applied in profile fitting. Further, profile fittings’ accuracy made crystallite parameters to produce approximate results when calculated.


identifier: Bernard, Karine <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Bernard=3AKarine=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Beyond food: contributions of a community kitchen and a community garden to the well-being of the Francophone and Francophile community of St. John's, Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This case study examines the impact of a community kitchen and a community
garden developed by the Association communautaire francophone de Saint-Jean (ACFSJ)
on Francophones and Francophiles living in St. John’s. The purpose of the study is to
gain an understanding of the potential roles these activities play among Francophone and
Francophile minority communities. The study used document consultation, participant
observation, and in-depth interviews with 24 study participants.
Findings indicate that the community kitchen and the community garden provide
numerous benefits at the individual and community level. The activities foster much more
than knowledge, skills, and a healthy lifestyle. They become vehicles for cultural and
ethnolinguistic socialization, conscientization, and cultural and linguistic continuity. They
foster a sense of community belonging, empowerment, cultural and linguistic safety, as
well as psychological, social, cultural, and linguistic well-being. They support gathering
between Francophones and Francophiles. They are spaces where identities are
constructed and reconstructed. Findings reveal that Francophones and Francophiles are
seeking opportunities to assert their identity, to be engaged in the development of the
community, and to enhance their collective pride via activities that resonate with their
identity, values, and interests. Above all, findings call for a holistic understanding of
health and well-being, which encompasses cultural and linguistic well-being. They call
for an expanded understanding of how we imagine well-being to include cultural and
ethnolinguistic identity.


identifier: Goyali, Juran Chandra <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Goyali=3AJuran_Chandra=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Characteristics of in vitro- and ex vitro-propagated blueberry plants at morphological, chemical and molecular levels.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium Ait.), a commercially important fruit crop in Canada and USA, is one of the richest sources of antioxidant metabolites which have highly potential to reduce the incidence of several degenerative diseases. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of propagation on the morphological, chemical and molecular characteristics of blueberries. The study evaluated the genetic and epigenetic variation in micropropagated plants. A lowbush wild clone ‘QB9C’ and the cultivar ‘Fundy’ were studied after being propagated by conventional softwood cutting (SC), and by tissue culture (TC) using nodal explants. The antioxidant metabolites in leaves and fruits of both genotypes were investigated in different maturity stages. The TC-regenerated plants were grown more vigorously and produced higher number of stems, branches, and larger leaves compared to SC plants. However, TC plants of both genotypes produced less flowers and fruits compared with SC counterparts. Micropropagation influenced the synthesis of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, and their antioxidant activities in blueberry which were genotype specific. ‘QB9C’ plants were highly influenced by micropropagation for their phytochemical content and antioxidant capacity. Leaves contained substantially higher levels of polyphenolics, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins than berries. The total soluble phenolic and flavonoid content and reducing power of ferric ion were boosted in fruits of the micropropagated plants, whereas the levels of these metabolites and total antioxidant activity were decreased in the leaves of TC plants. Red leaves had higher phenolic and flavonoid content and antioxidant potential than the green leaves, and green fruits had higher levels of bioactive phytochemicals than semi-ripe and full ripe berries. In contrary, anthocyanin content increased with the advancement of fruit maturity. Molecular marker analysis with expressed sequence tag (EST)-simple sequence repeat (SSR) and EST-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) makers detected the identical monomorphic amplification profiles within the TC plants of each genotypes which confirmed their genetic integrity. Methylation sensitivity amplification polymorphism (MSAP) analysis demonstrated that TC plants of both genotypes had higher DNA methylation compared to SC plants. Discrete methylation polymorphism was observed among the tissue culture regenerated plants. These results indicate that although in vitro derived plants maintained trueness-to-type genetic makeup, tissue culture induces DNA methylation alterations and the possibility of involvement of these DNA fragments in the dynamic processes regulating plant growth and development under prevailing growth conditions.


identifier: Oyet, Mercy C. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Oyet=3AMercy_C=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Interpersonal mistreatment in the workplace: implications for target's identities, emotions and behaviour.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The program of research presented herein investigates some fundamental aspects of the relationship between targets’ experiences of interpersonal mistreatment, and targets’ identities. Extending ideas from Identity Theory, I propose and test a perceptual control system model of the interpersonal mistreatment-identity-outcome relationship in which I argue (i) that different acts of interpersonal mistreatment activate the different bases of targets’ identities: the person, social, and role identities, and (ii) that interpersonal mistreatment results in the non-verification – a form of identity threat – of these activated identities. Furthermore, I situate targets’ negative emotional responses both as an outcome of the perceived non-verification of targets’ identities, and a mediator of the relationship between identity non-verification and targets’ subsequent behavioral responses. I examine three behavioral responses: avoidance, retaliation, and reconciliation. Additionally, I explore how a property of targets’ identities - identity centrality - influences targets’ negative affective reactions, paying a closer look at the discrete emotions evoked by such experiences. Two different kinds of experimental techniques – a vignette study and an experiential sampling method (ESM) – were used to test the various hypothesized relationships. Findings from the present research reveal that interpersonal mistreatment activates and threatens each of the three identity bases that form targets’ self-concepts and as such, poses a variety of implications for targets’ identities, emotions and behaviors.


identifier: Hadia, Hassn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hadia=3AHassn=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate slug flow in horizontal pipeline and annular pipe.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Slug flow can emerge as a factor in several industrial processes, especially in the oil and gas (O&G) industry. However, because of the complications that are inherent in multiphase flow, finding or developing a viable analysis tool has thus far proven elusive. For the past few decades, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has served as the preferred approach in the flow analysis of single phase flow, yet it is only now beginning to be used in multiphase flow. Therefore, if CFD is to be adopted on a larger scale in the (O&G) industry, it is imperative that we first explore the wide variety of models currently existing in the commercial realm.
This thesis investigates the commercial CFD package ANSYS 16.2 analysis of (air-water slug flow) and (water-sand slurry flow) inside a horizontal pipe (2-15 m long with a 0.05-0.059 m internal diameter) and an annular pipe (2- 4.5 m long, 0.02- 0.088 m inner and 0.04-0.12 m outer diameter). A range of two-phase air/water flow simulations is carried out using the Eulerian model with the Reynolds Stress Model (RSM), and the volume of fluid (VOF) model with the Shear-Stress-Transport (SST) model option of turbulence. The aim is to simulate a range of fluid velocities between 1.66 and 7 m/s and a range of gas velocities between 0.55 and 11 m/s. Additional investigations include comparing CFD predictions along with experimental measurements in the literature and performing sensitivity studies.
In the present work, the impact from fluid-structure interaction (FSI) is demonstrated by using a 2-way coupling in ANSYS, effectively joining CFD and structural analysis. At the same time, stress and pressure changes are measured, along with the deformational structural response arising from unsteady multiphase flow. It is hoped that the outcome of this study will assist engineers and researchers in making better decisions in terms of operation, design, and sizing of two-phase flow systems, as these systems have broad and promising applications in subsea (O&G) pipelines.


identifier: Khorshidian, Hossein <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Khorshidian=3AHossein=3A=3A.html>   (2018) The pore-level investigation of phenomena affecting the recovery of oil with gas assisted gravity drainage.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Gas Assisted Gravity Drainage (GAGD) is an effective method of oil recovery that can be implemented injecting gas in the crest of reservoirs and producing oil from lower zones. GAGD is controlled by the interaction between capillary, gravitational and viscous forces, which depend on parameters of the operation, porous medium, and fluids. In this research, the performance of GAGD under various conditions was investigated by visualizing the flow of fluids at the pore-level to understand phenomena affecting the recovery of oil. A new pore network micromodel with an improved capillary continuity was developed that provides a transparent porous medium for studying the interplay between capillary, gravitational and viscous forces. The visualization of fluids’ interfaces helped with the characterization of GAGD performance under various conditions. Results of the studies imply that the porous medium heterogeneities caused the gas-front to bypass oil in smaller pores surrounded by larger pores. The bypassed oil could flow in the form of thick films in fine capillaries of porous media upon a subsequent enhancement of the gas-oil capillary pressure due to the effect of gravity on the gas-oil differential density. In the presence of mobile water, a better GAGD performance was obtained under oil-wet conditions as the hydraulic continuity of oil under water-wet conditions can be arrested by the residual water in small pores and fine capillaries of a porous medium. Although the recovery of oil at earlier times after a gas-breakthough was higher under oil-wet conditions, extending the duration of GAGD resulted in a high oil recovery under water-wet conditions upon an effective reduction of the residual water saturation. In post-waterflood GAGD, increasing the production rate resulted in the instability of the gas-front and the reduction of oil recovery at gas-breakthrough because of viscous pressure drops and capillary pressure associated with the flow of oil and water from trailing zones toward leading zones of the gas-front. Experimental results suggest that both oil-wet and water-wet reservoirs are excellent candidates for the implementation of post-waterflood GAGD. However, higher rate of oil drainage with less water production can be expected from early stages of the process in oil-wet reservoirs. Under water-wet conditions, although the production rate of oil is initially low, a very low residual oil saturation can be obtained after an effective reduction of the water saturation.


identifier: Scott, Matthew William <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Scott=3AMatthew_William=3A=3A.html>   (2018) A provenance study of Upper Jurassic hydrocarbon source rocks of the Flemish Pass Basin and Central Ridge, offshore Newfoundland, Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This project is a provenance study of Upper Jurassic source and reservoir rocks from the Flemish Pass Basin and Central Ridge, offshore Newfoundland, Canada. It is aimed at adding a new dataset to contribute to our understanding of the geology of this area, where a number of recent hydrocarbon discoveries have been made, but limited geological information is available. A primary goal of the project is to determine the provenance and paleodrainage patterns of the Upper and Lower Kimmeridgian Source Rock and Upper and Lower Tempest Sandstone of the Flemish Pass Basin and the Central Ridge. It is likely that the source rock and reservoir units increase in thickness toward their source terranes and this provenance study would thus help define where thicker sequences of hydrocarbon source rocks and reservoir units are located in the region. In total, sixty samples of both mudstones and sandstones were acquired, processed and analyzed from four wells (Baccalieu I-78, Panther P-52, South Tempest G-88 and Lancaster G-70) to determine provenance. A combination of detrital zircon geochronology, whole rock geochemistry, and heavy mineral proxies were used to decipher provenance. In addition, core logging and thin section descriptions were completed to gain an understanding of the depositional environment. This analysis indicates a basinal setting with sediment being delivered by turbidity currents. The Upper Kimmeridgian Source Rock, Lower Kimmeridgian Source Rock and the Rankin Formation are interpreted to be composed of detritus from the Avalon Zone, Central Mobile Belt, and underlying basement. Detritus would have been derived from the northeast, and thicker sequences of these units would be expected in the northeastern portions of the Flemish Pass Basin and Central Ridge. The Upper Tempest and Lower Tempest Sandstone are also characterized by material from the Avalon Zone. However, some of the detritus from these units is also interpreted to be derived from Iberia to the east. In addition, the Upper Tempest Sandstone contains Mesozoic zircons, which helped constrain the depositional age of this unit. Mesozoic zircons were not found in samples from the other units. The Tempest Sandstone units are interpreted to be derived from the east, which means thicker sequences of this unit would be expected towards the eastern edges of the Central Ridge and Flemish Pass Basin. Knowledge of where the thickest packages of these units exist may be an important consideration for petroleum exploration in the region.
In addition to these provenance findings, another important conclusion is that although provenance analysis methods such as detrital zircon geochronology are more common in sandstones, it is evident that using these techniques to analyze fine-grained sedimentary rocks is indeed feasible and useful. Additionally, the detrital zircon distributions in interbedded sandstone and mudstone beds were compared. These distributions suggested provenance of these pairs is very similar, an important implication for future use of this method in mudstones.


identifier: Sbeih, Suhad Adnan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sbeih=3ASuhad_Adnan=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Deuterium nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and rheology of microgel colloids at ambient and high pressure.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Microgel colloids exhibit a polymer collapse transition resulting in a large reduction in colloid
particle volume at high temperatures or pressures. They are of interest because of their
potential for applications in areas, like drug delivery and chemical separation, that involve
the uptake, encapsulation and release of small or biological molecules. The goal of this
work is to obtain a microscopic understanding of the internal structure and microscopic
dynamics of microgels by examining the temperature and pressure dependence of the collapse
transition. Deuterium NMR (²H NMR) has been used to probe the microscopic dynamics
of crosslinked poly N-isopropylacrylamide (polynipam) chains, in microgel colloids, as a
function of temperature and pressure for a series of four crosslink densities (Cd). Each
crosslinked microgel colloids was synthesized with deuteron labels on the nipam backbone (d3
nipam). Macroscopic properties of unlabeled colloids having the same crosslink densities were
characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and rheology. Rheological characterization
as a function of temperature (T) and particle concentration (C), and for 4 crosslink densities,
showed that the microgel viscosity decreases as temperature is increased. The Krieger-
Dougherty model of the relative viscosity as a function of volume fraction was employed
for viscosity analysis. The measured viscosity in the colloidal regime (at high T, low C)
collapsed onto one line when plotted against volume fraction. This yields a measure of
the water content in the particles as function of T. The water volume fraction in the
microgel particle at 45ᴼC was always found to be 0.6 for any Cd. ²H NMR spectra of
the d3 nipam suspensions for all Cd indicated freely moving chains at low temperature and
a nearly immobilized fraction above 35ᴼC. This is consistent with DLS observations of a
transition from swollen to collapsed colloids. Nipam segments in the collapsed phase of
the d3 nipam suspension were more mobile than those in the dry powder. This suggests
significant amounts of water in the collapsed phase, a finding consistent with the rheology observations. Variable pressure NMR (up to 90 MPa) showed a slight increase in transition
temperature with pressure for all Cd values studied.


identifier: Puddicome, Todd <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Puddicome=3ATodd=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Finite element analysis of reinforced concrete and steel fiber reinforced concrete slabs in punching shear.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Punching shear capacity of reinforced concrete slabs is influenced by the following material properties: concrete compressive strength, flexural reinforcement ratio, inclusion of steel fibers in the concrete mix, and the reinforcing steel yield strength. A review of current finite element analysis models reveals that a unified approach to include all of these variables into one coherent model does not exist.
This thesis presents a finite element model capable of making accurate predictions on the ultimate punching shear load and load – deflection response of a reinforced concrete slab. The model simulates the nonlinear constitutive properties of reinforced concrete by proposing a robust model to represent the behavior through the Concrete Damaged Plasticity (CDP) constitutive model. The thesis defines the parameters for the CDP model in a finite element analysis and develops an expression to mitigate mesh size dependency. A tension – stiffening model is proposed using an exponential decay expression with variables to account for varying concrete compressive strength, flexural reinforcement ratio, inclusion of steel fibers in the concrete mix, and the reinforcing steel yield strength. The model is calibrated using a series of experimental data from the literature and validated by successfully replicating the punching shear behavior of experimental specimens data from the literature.


identifier: Chen, Huilin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Chen=3AHuilin=3A=3A.html>   (2018) A comparative study of Tone 4 sandhi in Standard Mandarin and Luoyang Dialect.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis provides a comparison of tone sandhi patterns in Standard Mandarin and
Luoyang Dialect, focusing on Tone 4 sandhi. Standard Mandarin is an official language
promoted in China in the 1930s, which is based on the Beijing Dialect by adopting its
syntactic, lexical and phonological systems, and taking some vocabulary from other
Northern dialects. Luoyang Dialect is a dialect spoken in Luoyang and its adjacent areas.
Both the Beijing Dialect and the Luoyang Dialect belong to the Northern Dialect Group.
There are four tones both in Standard Mandarin and Luoyang Dialect, and each tone is oneto-
one correlated, which indicates that a word marked as Tone 1 in one dialect will also be
Tone 1 in another. Tone 4 in both dialects follows a high falling tendency.
As an official language, Standard Mandarin has been extensively studied by linguists.
It has been documented that bu (‘no, not’), as a Tone 4 word in Standard Mandarin, will
dissimilate when it’s followed by other Tone 4 words. This thesis will re-examine this
sandhi rule, and collect acoustic data to investigate whether bu- sandhi exists in Luoyang
Dialect and whether other Tone 4 words also go through tone dissimilation as well. In order
to conduct this research, data was collected from four speakers, including two Standard
Mandarin speakers and two Luoyang Dialect speakers. Praat was used to collect the data
and extract pitch lists. In addition, an algorithm proposed by Shi (Shi & Wang, 2006) was
used to convert pitch data to Chao digits, allowing the tone value of each word to be further
compared.
My data confirms the existence of bu- sandhi in Standard Mandarin, and the
observation that bu is the only Tone 4 word in Standard Mandarin that goes through tone
dissimilation. In comparison with Standard Mandarin, my data shows that bu not only
dissimilates in front of Tone 4 words in Luoyang Dialect, but also will be neutralized from
a high falling tone into a level tone elsewhere. Additionally, different from Standard
Mandarin, other Tone 4 words in Luoyang Dialect will also dissimilate in front of Tone 4
words.
This thesis contributes to the phonological study of the Luoyang Dialect, and may have
implications for studies of the diachronic evolution of Luoyang Dialect, as well as the historical relationship between Beijing Dialect and Luoyang Dialect. This study is the first
to carry out a comparison between Standard Mandarin and Luoyang Dialect from the
perspective of tone 4 sandhi. Not only will a tone 4 sandhi rule in Luoyang Dialect be
proposed and added to the body of research on Chinese tone sandhi, but the relationship of
tone sandhi with stress, duration and the OCP will also be discussed.


identifier: Moddle, Courtney <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Moddle=3ACourtney=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Knit together: a study of late nineteenth-century knitting patterns through contemporary eyes and hands.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Despite, or perhaps because of its familiar role in society, knitting has often been
considered as little more than a craft or hobby and too mundane to study in an academic sense.
Yet, everyday activities, like knitting, can often offer significant information about society,
culture, and individuals’ lives. Focusing on the connections between past and present, between
current knitters and their predecessors, my project examines historic knitting practices through a
contemporary feminist lens. My research argues that a study of knitting books published in the
late 1800s can provide new perspectives on women’s lives and the knitting culture that they
participated in. Furthermore, a thorough analysis of these texts may change the way modern
knitting culture is perceived. To deepen my understanding of the historic knitting patterns, I
engaged in an autoethnographic knitting project as I knit through historic patterns.


identifier: Aljaroudi, Welaa Alireda <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Aljaroudi=3AWelaa_Alireda=3A=3A.html>   (2017) The interaction between lysyl-lysine and arginine in the neonatal Yucatan miniature pig small intestine.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Using an in situ intestinal perfusion model in sow-fed neonatal piglets, our objectives were to
determine whether the lysyl-lysine enhanced arginine absorption led to a functional benefit of
greater mucosal protein synthesis, and whether it was mediated through the mTOR pathway. Three
segments of piglet’s small intestine were isolated, and were continuously perfused with: arginine,
arginine + lysyl-lysine, or arginine + L-lysine. At 90 min, buffers containing the same amino acids
plus phenylalanine were initiated for 30 min to measure mucosal protein synthesis. Six additional
piglets underwent the identical protocol, but one hour before the intestinal perfusion, rapamycin
was delivered intravenously. Co-perfusing arginine with lysyl-lysine resulted in greater arginine
uptake, and higher mucosal protein synthesis. Moreover, both protein synthesis and the
phosphorylation of mTOR were inhibited by rapamycin. Thus, lysyl-lysine led to a greater mucosal
protein synthesis, which was likely mediated through enhanced arginine absorption.


identifier: Liu, Xinlong <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Liu=3AXinlong=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Ocean wind and wave parameter estimation from ship-borne x-band marine radar data.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Ocean wind and wave parameters are important for the study of oceanography, on- and
off-shore activities, and the safety of ship navigation. Conventionally, such parameters
have been measured by in-situ sensors such as anemometers and buoys. During the
last three decades, sea surface observation using X-band marine radar has drawn wide
attention since marine radars can image both temporal and spatial variations of the sea
surface. In this thesis, novel algorithms for wind and wave parameter retrieval from
X-band marine radar data are developed and tested using radar, anemometer, and buoy
data collected in a sea trial off the east coast of Canada in the North Atlantic Ocean.
Rain affects radar backscatter and leads to less reliable wind parameters measurements.
In this thesis, algorithms are developed to enable reliable wind parameters
measurements under rain conditions. Firstly, wind directions are extracted from raincontaminated
radar data using either a 1D or 2D ensemble empirical mode decomposition
(EEMD) technique and are seen to compare favourably with an anemometer reference.
Secondly, an algorithm based on EEMD and amplitude modulation (AM) analysis to
retrieve wind direction and speed from both rain-free and rain-contaminated X-band
marine radar images is developed and is shown to be an improvement over an earlier 1D
spectral analysis-based method.
For wave parameter measurements, an empirical modulation transfer function (MTF)
is required for traditional spectral analysis-based techniques. Moreover, the widely used
signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)-based method for significant wave height (HS) estimation
may not always work well for a ship-borne X-band radar, and it requires external sensors
for calibration. In this thesis, two methods are first presented for HS estimation from
X-band marine radar data. One is an EEMD-based method, which enables satisfactory
HS measurements obtained from a ship-borne radar. The other is a modified shadowingbased
method, which enables HS measurements without the inclusion of external sensors.
Furthermore, neither method requires the MTF. Finally, an algorithm based on the Radon transform is proposed to estimate wave direction and periods from X-band marine radar
images with satisfactory results.


identifier: Al-Shra'ah, Ahmad Qublan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Al-Shra=27ah=3AAhmad_Qublan=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Targeted degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: a potential strategy for coal tar remediation.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The presence and degradation of coal tar deposits is of a great environmental concern due to the toxicity of many of its components especially polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) on the health of humans and animals. In this work, the chemical degradation of PAHs in coal tar was investigated by using several approaches: a) chemical reduction using an acidified Mg/EtOH system; b) chemical oxidation using Fenton’s reagent or peroxyacetic acid; c) thermal removal using microwave-assisted heating; and d) PAH bromination.
The reductive degradation of anthracene as a model PAH compound using Mg/EtOH in the presence of glacial acetic acid was achieved in which anthracene was converted to 9,10-dihydroanthracene. The reaction was optimized by investigating the effect of Mg concentration, co-solvent, volume of glacial acetic acid, and time on conversion yield. Experimental design methodology was used for optimizing the anthracene reduction conditions and these optimum conditions were then used for PAH reduction in coal tar. The main advantage of this approach is that the hydrogenated PAHs formed are less toxic than the parent compounds. Selective reduction of anthracene and fluoranthene in coal tar was achieved with high conversion (>90%) at room temperature within a short time (0.5 h) as determined by GC/MS and GC/FID.
Fenton’s reagent (Fe²⁺ + H₂O₂) was used to convert anthracene to 9,10-anthraquinone. The reaction was optimized by investigating the effect of the concentration of Fe2+, and H2O2, temperature and time on the conversion % of anthracene. In addition, anthracene oxidation using peroxyacetic acid in acetic acid and H2SO4 was also investigated. The reaction conditions were optimized by studying the influence of temperature and time on removal
% of anthracene. Experimental design methodology was used for optimizing the anthracene oxidation using Fenton’s reagent or peroxyacetic acid. Fenton’s reagent showed more efficiency in removal of PAHs compared to peroxyacetic acid.
Microwave-assisted thermal removal of pyrene and PAHs in coal tar was achieved using both closed and open microwave systems at low temperatures (<300 °C). The effect of microwave absorbers such as biochar, activated carbon, and TiO₂ on pyrene and coal tar was investigated. The volatile and non-volatile fractions from microwave heating were individually collected and dissolved in dichloromethane (DCM) then analyzed by GC-MS and GC-FID. In addition, TGA analysis of coal tar with and without additives (e.g., biochar, activated carbon, and TiO2) was investigated for additive influence.
Bromination of pyrene was achieved using hydrobromic acid/H₂O₂ and a binary solvent, diethyl ether and methanol (1:1, v/v), 12 h. The reaction was selective, where 1-bromopyrene was formed with high yield (>95%). This reaction was also used for PAH bromination in the coal tar. The removal percentages of PAHs from coal tar increased with increasing the molar equivalents (0.25–4.00 equiv.) of the brominating reagent (HBr/H₂O₂), but the resulting products could not be ascertained possibly due to side reactions occurring in the coal tar mixture during the bromination reaction.


identifier: Monfet, Evelyne <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Monfet=3AEvelyne=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Farming microalgae; the impact of nitrogen chemical species on nitrogen uptake and assimilation rates by microalgae.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Microalgal biofuel technology provides the opportunity to recover nutrients from wastewater. Nitrogen uptake and assimilation rates by microalgae were studied to understand algal growth. Both literature metadata analysis and batch experiments were carried out. Chlorella vulgaris, Scenedesmus obliquus and Micractinium pusillum were grown in shaken flasks in artificial medium containing nitrate and/or ammonia as the limiting nutrient. Nitrogen availability seems to have regulated algal growth. Exponential growth rates were not significantly different among species. Two distinct Chlorella vulgaris strains resuspended in ammonia have shown a significant higher nitrogen uptake rate per cell compared with resuspension in nitrate. The sole use of ammonia led to a decrease in pH that eventually stopped growth for all tested species. Micractinium pusillum grown in a mixture of ammonia and nitrate have preferred ammonia over nitrate. Optimization of algal growth should therefore consider the ratio of available nutrient chemical species, and control of pH.


identifier: Cui, Xiangda <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Cui=3AXiangda=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Simulating fluid-structure interaction in smoothed particle hydrodynamics method.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In this thesis, a numerical program based on an improved smoothed particle hydrodynamics
(SPH) method has been developed to solve the nonlinear fluid-structure
interaction problems. The program simulates breaking free-surface flows and evaluates
the global and local hydrodynamic loads on structures.
In the present SPH method, the fluid domain is discretized into fluid particles
which allows the Euler equation to be numerically solved. A kernel function is employed
to interpolate the flow field and the approximate Euler equations explicitly.
The solid boundaries are modelled using a fixed ghost particle method. A diffusive
term was adopted to smooth the noise in the pressure field. A particle shift technique
was adopted and improved by introducing a layer of background particles along the
free surface to minimize the interpolation error caused by the anisotropic particle
distribution.
Validation studies were carried out in three two-dimensional cases including dambreak
flow impacting against a vertical wall, water entry of a free-fall wedge, and
sloshing flow in a rectangular container excited by roll motions. The numerical results
were compared with the experimental results and other published numerical
solutions.


identifier: Heredia, Natalia Vivas <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Heredia=3ANatalia_Vivas=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Incorporation of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into concrete using statistical mixture design.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis investigated the incorporation of waste Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) into concrete as a replacement for natural fine aggregate and found an optimal combination of components that produces a useful concrete product. Six components were considered: cement, water, coarse aggregate, fine aggregate, superplasticizer, and waste PET. A total of 31 mixes were prepared based on a statistical mixture design approach. The responses of these mixtures were workability, compressive strength, and splitting tensile strength.
The waste PET was first reduced in volume by shredding and then combined with the rest of the components. The responses from the experiments were statistically analyzed and a model fitted to each response. Linear models were found to fit the responses best. Using the desirability function approach, four optimal options were selected and then verified in the lab by comparing the experimental with the predicted values. Except for one, all the values fell within the 95% prediction interval. The option that best fulfilled the workability and strength requirements was found. The average response values obtained with this combination were: (1) compressive strength of 23.8 MPa; (2) slump 123 mm, and (3) splitting tensile strength of 3.33 MPa. This mix can be used in basements foundation walls or slabs, inside buildings not exposed to freezing temperatures. It is recommended that future work should consider method of mixing, time of mixing, volume of mix, curing conditions, and other responses to further understand the characteristics of incorporating waste PET into concrete.


identifier: Barbeau, Mabel Melissa <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Barbeau=3AMabel_Melissa=3A=3A.html>   (2018) The luminous sea.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

title: The luminous sea

abstract:
The Luminous Sea is a novel in the fictional Newfoundland outport of Molasses Bay. While the novel owes a debt to the magic realist tradition, it falls into the literary genre of new weird.
A team of researchers are studying the emergence of phosphorescent tides and in the process of sampling marine life populations Vivienne, a young research assistant, hooks up a creature unknown to science: a kind of fish, both sentient and distinctly female. Vivienne’s supervisors, Colleen and Isaiah, recognize the importance of the discovery and intend to exploit it to their fullest benefit. They begin invasive scientific testing on the specimen even as they make preparations to transport the animal to St. John’s. Meanwhile, the creature is wasting away, and Vivienne is increasingly disturbed by the events around her. Colleen and Isaiah are willing to do anything to keep their discovery a secret and Vivienne is forced to decide if she will endanger herself to save her fish.


identifier: Khaksar, Ladan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Khaksar=3ALadan=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Electrochemical study and corrosion modeling of chromium alloy steels exposed to sulfide containing environment.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Corrosion, the destructive result of a chemical reaction between a metal or metal alloy and its environment in sour systems (H₂S dominant) has progressively become a greater concern to the oil and gas industry as a result of production from increasingly sour environments. In this study, the effects of the principal H₂S corrosion product, iron sulfide, on the corrosion resistance of alloy steel were initially investigated, followed by the study of the corrosion behavior of alloy steels in the presence of elemental sulfur, which is often present in sour systems. A new experimental method was applied to synthesize the iron sulfide layer on the steel surface with no H₂S in the environment. Attempts were also made to develop an accurate computational model to predict the corrosion rate of alloy steel in various environmental conditions.
A series of experiments was performed to study chloride concentration, temperature, immersion time and pH effects on the corrosion behavior of alloy steel in the simulated sour environment. Various analyzing methods, such as scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, were applied to investigate the results which suggest that each factor can significantly affect the electrochemical behavior of alloy steel, especially in the presence of H₂S corrosion products. The corrosion of alloy steel in the presence of elemental sulfur was also studied using the cyclic polarization technique. In general, it was shown that the presence of deposited layers of elemental sulfur on the surface of 13% Cr steel will increase the corrosion rate by decreasing the scaling tendency of corrosion products on the surface, especially at higher temperature. The experimental data were analyzed and used to develop an analytical model to show the effects of corrosion products, chloride concentration, pH and temperature on the likelihood of corrosion of 13% chromium steel.


identifier: Man, Xiaoxi <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Man=3AXiaoxi=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Femtosecond laser microfabrication of spiral optofluidic sensor and its sensing applications.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Optofluidics combines the advantages of optics and microfluidics to achieve new functionalities. On account of cost-effectiveness, size-miniaturization, and structure-flexibility of optofluidic devices, there has been an increasing interest in optofluidics- related research since the emergence of the concept of optofluidics, such as lab-on-a-chip devices, optofluidic-based lenses and sensors, fluid-based particle sorters, optofluidic lasers, and imaging tools.
In this thesis, femtosecond laser is explored to study the nonlinear interactions between ultrashort laser pulses and photoresist materials, and the possible applications in optofluidics. Based on the effect of two-photon absorption occurred in transparent photoresist materials, spiral-shaped waveguides of different specifications are fabricated with femtosecond laser in photoresist SU-8-2. Each of the waveguides, which contains one bus waveguide and one spiral-shaped waveguide with a distinct circumference, can be integrated into one microchannel on a glass substrate to form a spiral optofluidic device as an optofluidic sensor. The sensor with the highest sensitivity is utilized to measure physical properties of various fluidic samples (calcium chloride, cow milk and its related products, non-diary milk, and sucrose). These properties include temperature, refractive index, positive pressure and concentration. Experimental results indicate that the highest sensitivities for fluidic measurement are -0.47±0.02 nm/ᴼC for temperature sensing, 188.78±3.76 nm/RIU for refractive index sensing, 0.089±0.03 nm/ (N/m²) for positive pressure sensing, and 1.66±0.06 nm/wt% for concentration sensing. All devices have been fabricated with the use of small-sized low-cost materials and easy-to-replicate fabrication techniques. The effectiveness and applicability of the spiral optofluidic devices demonstrated in this thesis revealed the significance of nonlinear optical interactions between ultrashort light pulses and photosensitive materials, and their importance in many applications.


identifier: Bonar, Maegwin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Bonar=3AMaegwin=3A=3A.html>   (2017) Space use during parturition influences caribou calf survial in Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In social species the choice to aggregate in space is hypothesized to affect survival and
reproduction (i.e., fitness). My research addresses the hypotheses provided by the Ideal
Free Distribution (IFD) and the Geometry of the Selfish Herd (GSH) that could explain
how an individual can maximize their fitness by choosing to aggregate, or choosing to
disaggregate during the period where offspring are most vulnerable. I used woodland
caribou (Rangifer tarandus) in Newfoundland as a model system to test the influence of
aggregation on calf survival. In support of this effort, I employed a new movement-based
approach to measure parturition and calf survival for adult females. I found empirical
support for both the IFD and GSH frameworks and introduce an innovative movementbased
approach to inferring parturition and neonate survival in caribou.


identifier: Alfarek, Serag <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Alfarek=3ASerag=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Experimental investigation of pressure drop and flow regimes of Newtonian and Non-Newtonian two-phase flow.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Numerous commercial applications in the nuclear, oil and gas, and chemical industries use two-phase flows. When using flows, it is critical to follow the procedures to ensure that the equipment is safe and that the process is efficient. Experimental researchers of two-phase flows focus on developing the fundamental knowledge about it and on enhancing credible experimental databases. It is crucial for validating predictions of computer simulations (i.e. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software) and the development of theoretical models. Hence, the purpose of this thesis is to assess the pressure drop for Newtonian liquid/gas and non-Newtonian liquid/gas multiphase flows with various operations and to observe the accuracy of the existing empirical models. Partially, the study also aims at predicting the flow patterns of Newtonian and the non-Newtonian flow. However, the estimation of adding a solid particle to the flow loop was not carried out due to the time limitation and commercial constraints. A Manometer and a differential pressure (dP) cell sensor were used to conduct the experimental measurements of pressure drop. In addition, the flow regimes through a horizontal 72.6-mm-ID pipe was observed by a high-speed camera. For the Newtonian model, water and air were instilled. For the non-Newtonian model, xanthan gum solution made out of xanthan gum and water, and air was injected. The experimental results were in line with the empirical models. The experiment results showed that there is a correlation with an increase of the pressure drop and the increase in the gas flow rate. Moreover, the pressure drop increases when the concentration of Xanthan gum solution increases.


identifier: Harris, Alison J. T. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Harris=3AAlison_J=2E_T=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2016) Stable isotope evidence for Amerindian subsistence in Newfoundland, 2800 B.C. to A.D. 1829.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Archaeological research has informed on the lifeways of Newfoundland’s past
Amerindian populations, but their subsistence practices are still poorly understood,
particular with respect to the roles played by marine and terrestrial resources. To
investigate Amerindian diet, isotope ratios (δ¹³Ccoll, δ¹⁵Ncoll) were measured in 86
skeletons from the Maritime Archaic site of Port au Choix-3 (4500 – 4000 cal B.P.), and
in 29 skeletons from 12 Recent Indian/Beothuk sites (AD 1000 – 1800). Whole dietary
carbon was estimated by measuring carbon isotopes in the enamel of 12 Beothuk
skeletons. The Maritime Archaic sample was characterized by the presence of at least two
subsistence patterns: one marine-based, and the other mixed marine-terrestrial. These
patterns may relate to geographic origin, or to biosocial categories. Recent
Indian/Beothuk diet was revealed to be predominantly mixed marine-terrestrial in origin,
but characterized by increasing amounts of terrestrial foods in the late historic period.