identifier: MacDonald, Harry Francis <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/MacDonald=3AHarry_Francis=3A=3A.html>   (1982) A counselling internship undertaken at the Counselling Centre Memorial University with a study of a group counselling approach for test anxiety.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This report provides a description and analysis of a fourteen week full time internship undertaken at Memorial University of Newfoundland Counselling Centre, May - August, 1981. It includes a description of the internship setting, objectives met during the internship, a description of the intern's supervision, and an analysis of a research study pursued to fulfill the internship requirements. -- The research study, conducted over a period of six two hour sessions, focused upon the efficacy of a cognitive learning group approach for the treatment of test anxiety with a group of university students. Treatment and control group participants were pre and post tested with the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory to establish their levels of anxiety. The treatment group showed a significantly lower level of text anxiety (p < .01) than the control group. -- The report makes recommendations for the appropriateness of the internship as an option for partial fulfillment of requirements for the Master of Education Degree in the area of Guidance and Counselling.


identifier: Xu, Jinsong <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Xu=3AJinsong=3A=3A.html>   (1997) Identification of ship coupled heave and pitch motions using neural networks.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract: Investigation of the ship motion behavior in irregular sea states is an important step for ship seakeeping performance research. Ship motion identification from the full scale measurements is the only way to study the actual motion behavior and verify the motion predictions after ship constructions. A particular identification method for coupled heave and pitch motions was developed and validated in this research. The two-degree Random Decrement technique and the Neural Networks technique were combined in identification process. -- This developed method was applied to several motion systems to test its effects. The random motion data were obtained from the ship model experiments and numerical simulations. The coupled heave and pitch Random Decrement signatures obtained from the random motion histories were used as the Neural Networks training data to identify the Random Decrement equations. The identification results were verified by comparing the predictions with the actual Random Decrement signatures, and with the free response signatures. -- The application results suggested that the validation of the identified equations was mainly dependent on the nature of the Random Decrement signatures and the quality of the Neural Networks training. Only White Noise or broad-band spectrum excitations could yield the required agreement between identified Random Decrement equations and motion free response equations.


identifier: Gaulton, Cecilia M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Gaulton=3ACecilia_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2001) A study of the relationships among reader self-perceptions, early reading ability, reading attitudes and gender in grade two students.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study investigated the relationships among reader self-perceptions, early reading ability, reading attitudes and gender in grade two readers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships among reader self-perceptions (observational comparison, social feedback, physiological states, and progress), early reading ability (knowledge of the alphabet, conventions of reading and writing, and meaning), attitude and gender in a group of grade two students. -- The three instruments used in this investigation were: (1) a modified version of the Reader Self-perception Scale (Henk and Melnick, 1995), (2) a test of early reading ability, Test of Early Reading Ability, TERA-2 Form A (Reid, Hresko, and Hammil 1989), and (3) attitudes toward reading were measured using the Elementary Reading Attitude Survey (McKeena and Kear, 1990). -- The study was carried out with seventy-seven second grade students from a rural area. Forty-two girls and thirty-five boys participated in the study. They and their parents/guardians were the participants of a pilot project called Significant Others as Reading Teachers, SORT, for approximately one year (Oldford-Matchim, J., 1994). The project advocated the importance of significant others sharing reading and demonstrating reading practices in children's reading development. -- Results from the Reader Self-perception Scale indicated children had positive self-perceptions toward reading except when comparing their own reading to that of their classmates.  An overall normal curve equivalent (NCE) score was computed from the raw scores on the TERA-2 test. The overall normal curve equivalency score revealed average performance in reading ability for the group of grade two children. The children's conventions of print scores were the highest of the three categories, followed by alphabet scores, then meaning scores. -- The Pearson-Product Moment Method was used to examine the relationships among measures of the: (1) reader self-perceptions, (2) reading ability, (3) attitude toward, (4) recreational reading, (5) attitude toward academic reading, and (6) gender. Cronbach's alpha was used to determine the reliability of the Reader Self-perception Scale and TERA-2. -- Several statistically significant relationships for this group of grade-two children were found. There was a significant relationship between children's knowledge of the conventions of print and one aspect of reader self-perceptions, question number one, "Do you think you are a good reader?", children's attitude toward recreational reading and aspects of reader self-perceptions, namely the overall scores of the Reader Self-Perception Scale, as well as the subtests of observational comparison, social feedback, and physiological states. Also, children's self concept of themselves as readers was positively related to their attitude towards recreational reading. Another significant relationship was found between children's academic reading attitude and aspects of reader self-perceptions, namely the overall scores of the Reader Self-Perception Scale, children's self-concept of themselves as readers, question number one, "Do you think you are a good reader?", observational comparison, social feedback, and physiological states. Children's reading attitude (total ERAS) and aspects of reader self-perceptions, namely the overall scores of the Reader Self-Perception Scale, question number one, "Do you think you are a good reader?", observational comparison, social feedback, and physiological states. -- The findings in this investigation are important for teachers and parents as they engage in daily reading activities with young children in the early stage of their reading development. Parents, teachers, and any significant other should be informed of all the aspects that surround the process of reading and the formation of readers' self-perceptions.


identifier: Xiang, Fan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Xiang=3AFan=3A=3A.html>   (1997) Improvement and investigation of sample preparation for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization of proteins.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Since the introduction of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption and Ionization (MALDI) in 1988 the application of MALDI mass spectrometry has become a vital research field. The method of analyte/matrix preparation plays a central role for achieving optimal performance in MALDI. -- In the first part of this work, a new method of preparing the samples to increase contaminant tolerance is described. While the solvent composition and matrices used in the "dried droplet" method have changed since MALDI was introduced, there has been little fundamental change in this protocol. The "dried droplet" method for MALDI MS is a simple one step process, but high concentrations of nonvolatile liquid, such as glycerol, urea, DMSO and other protein stabilizers, can reduce or eliminate the intensity of protein ion signals. Instead of using the one step process, we developed a three step process. The examples presented in this part of this thesis illustrate how analyses were improved as a result of the new sample preparation procedure. The sample films produced by the new method adhere firmly to the substrate, allowing easier washing of the film compared to the dried-droplet deposits. The films were more uniform than dried-droplet deposits with respect to ion production. The presence of non-proteinaceous material at high concentrations in the solution did not seriously affect ion production from these films. -- The basic difference between laser desorption/ionization and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization is that the laser radiation is directly absorbed by the analyte in the former case, while the matrix dominates energy absorption and the formation of ions in the latter. In the second part of this work, the influence of matrix concentration on analyte ion yield and the mass resolution of the molecular ion signals were investigated. MALDI time-of-flight mass spectra of protein mixed at different concentrations in each of gentisic acid, trans-α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid and sinapic acid matrices, were obtained. The results showed that the intensities of the analyte ion peaks increase gradually with an increase in concentration of matrix in solution and then decrease slightly as the matrix concentration continues to increase. The analysis of the spectra also showed that the molecular ion peaks are broadened, and the mass resolution decreases, as the matrix concentration increases. A proposed interpretation of these results is given based on two categories of matrix concentration effects: a physical effect involving energy deposition and redistribution processes, and a chemical effect involving co-crystallization of the matrix and analyte followed by photochemical ionization. -- Poor crystallization of a MALDI sample has a negative effect on its ability to generate ions. In the last part of this work a strategy was demonstrated to alleviate this problem. Certain amounts of impurities (or additives), present in solution during crystallization, have a pronounced effect on the crystallization process, in particular on the morphology of the deposited crystals. The technique of controlling crystal growth by additives was also discussed. The crystallization of gentisic acid mixed with its isomers and other benzoic acid derivatives was then investigated. The performance of the resulting crystals in MALDI MS was evaluated. The results showed that the admixture of gentisic acid with 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid or 3-amino-2,5,6-trifluorobenzoic acid homogenized the crystal morphology, and consequently improved the MALDI MS performance.


identifier: Goodyear, Marilyn Dawn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Goodyear=3AMarilyn_Dawn=3A=3A.html>   (2007) Antibiotic resistance levels of Streptococcus pneumoniae and antibiotic consumption in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Streptococcus pneumoniae is an important human pathogen, causing potentially life-threatening infections such as pneumonia and meningitis. Until recently, it was almost uniformly susceptible to penicillin and other antibiotics. However, research during the last few years has shown a dramatic increase in the levels of resistance of S. pneumoniae to several classes of antibiotics. Antibiotic resistance is a rapidly evolving problem of worldwide importance. Although antibiotic resistance is related to antibiotic use, the relationship is a complex one that requires further evaluation. -- Purpose: The purpose of this project was to provide baseline information on the levels of antibiotic resistance of Streptococcus pneumoniae for the province of Newfoundland and Labrador and to determine the relationship between different patient factors and resistance. We also compared the accuracy of various methods of susceptibility testing as well as described the trends in outpatient antibiotic consumption within Newfoundland and Labrador between 1997 and 2000. -- Methods: Isolates were collected from various regions of the province between January and December 2000. Patient demographics, including sex, age, specimen source and geographic location, were submitted with the isolates. Susceptibility testing was performed according to standard protocols using both disk diffusion and the E-test system. Information on antibiotic use was provided by IMS HEALTH Canada for the years of 1997 to 2000. -- Results: The levels of antibiotic resistance of S. pneumoniae as described by this study are comparable to the levels of resistance described elsewhere in Canada. Isolates tested during this study showed evidence of resistance to multiple antibiotics. Increased levels of resistance were shown in isolates retrieved from non-sterile sites, children and the elderly. There was little variation in the levels of resistance in isolates obtained from males and females. The E-test System was shown to provide a more specific susceptibility profile than disk diffusion. Between 1997 and 2000, the outpatient use of tetracyclines, trimethoprim and penicillins showed a steady decline while the use of cephalosporins and macrolides declined initially and then increased. Fluroquinolones were the only class of antibiotic studied that showed an increase in public consumption. -- Conclusion: Limitations in isolate availability and patient information as well as a lack of information regarding regional antibiotic consumption prevented any correlations from being made between resistance levels and patient risk factors or community antibiotic use. However, this study does indicate that antibiotic resistance is a significant problem in Newfoundland and Labrador that will require further evaluation.


identifier: Ratnayake, R. M. Wajira Srinanda <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ratnayake=3AR=2E_M=2E_Wajira_Srinanda=3A=3A.html>   (2000) Composition, structure, and physicochemical properties of field pea (Pisum sativum L.) starch.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Starch from four cultivars (Carneval, Carrera, Grande and Keoma) of field pea (Pisum sativum L.) was isolated and its composition, structure, and physicochemical properties were investigated. The results obtained were compared with those of other legume starches reported in the literature. The yield of starch was in the range 32.7-33.5% on a whole seed basis. The starch granules were round to elliptical with smooth surfaces. The free lipid was 0.05% in all starches. However, bound and total lipids ranged from 0.24-0.29% and from 0.28-0.34%, respectively. The total amylose content ranged from 48.8-49.6%, of which 10.9-12.3% was complexed by native lipid. The degree of polymerization (DP) of isolated field pea amyloses ranged from 1300-1350. The chain length distributions of debranched amylopectins of the four starches were analyzed using high performance anion exchange chromatography equipped with a post-column amyloglucosidase reactor and a pulsed amperometric detector (HPAEC-ENZ-PAD). The proportion of short branch chains of chain length DP 6-12 ranged from 16.2-18.6%. Keoma displayed a larger portion (19.4%) of long branch chains (DP>37) than the other three starches (16.2-16.9%). The average amylopectin branch chain lengths ranged from 22.9-24.2. The maximum detectable DP was higher in Keoma (71) than in the other three starches (64-65). The X-ray pattern was of (C type. The relative crystallinity was in the range 20.8-25.1%. The proportion of 'B' polymorphic form was higher in Keoma (25.6%) than in the other three starches (22.1 to 24.1%). There were no significant differences in swelling factor. The extent of amylose leaching at 95°C ranged from 25.20-26.85. All four starches exhibited nearly identical gelatinization transition temperatures. However, the gelatinization temperature range (TC-TO) followed the order: Grande ~ Keoma > Carneval ~ Carrera. The four starches showed identical pasting temperatures and exhibited only marginal differences with respect to 95°C viscosity and to the increase in consistency during the holding period at 95°C. However, the set-back viscosity for Carneval was lower than that of the other starches.  There were no significant differences in the extent of acid hydrolysis. However, susceptibility towards α-amylase followed the order: Carneva I~ Carrera ~ Grande > Keoma. The magnitude of changes in transition temperatures and enthalpy, and the broadening of the endotherm during retrogradation (24h) at different storage temperatures (4 and 40°C), followed the order: 4°C/24h > 4°C/24h + 40°C/24h > 40°C/24h. The extent of retrogradation (assessed by changes in enthalpy) followed the order: Carneval ~ Grande ~ Carrera > Keoma. There were no significant differences in the extent of freeze-thaw stability. The results showed that Keoma differed from the other three starches with respect to amylopectin branch chain length distribution, 'B' polymorphic composition, enzymatic digestibility, and degree of amylopectin retrogradation.


identifier: Sun, Yongmei <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sun=3AYongmei=3A=3A.html>   (1997) Coping with value dependency for failure recovery in multidatabase systems.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Local autonomy is the main impediment to achieving failure atomicity in a multidatabase system since it allows a local database to unilaterally commit or abort a subtransaction. Compensating a committed subtransaction is in general hard to realize due to the complication arising from the propagation of the committed effects.  Resubmitting an aborted subtransaction is more realistic since the problems arising from inter-subtransaction dependencies are more predictable than those from propagation of committed effects. However, if such a dependency is cyclic or if it not only involves values but also data items, then the problem becomes more complicated. In this thesis, a failure recovery scheme¹ using resubmission is proposed. The scheme is based on distinguishing the subtransactions into two different types, and employing different strategies for them. As a result, the scheme allows an aborted subtransaction to be restarted. Compared with other failure recovery schemes which also do not rely on compensation, the scheme compromises local autonomy to a lesser extent. In this thesis, different kinds of dependencies are also studied, their impact on the correctness of resubmission method discussed and solutions proposed.


identifier: Piercey-Normore, Michele D. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Piercey-Normore=3AMichele_D=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1997) Molecular evolution, identification and epidemiology of North American species of a root-infecting fungus, Armillaria.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Armillaria (Fr.:Fr.) Staude is a genus of root-infecting fungal pathogens which cause disease in forests and orchard plantations.  Biological species of Armillaria are identified by sexual incompatibility mating interactions.  Epidemiological studies of North American species of Armillaria indicated that some are saprotrophic, some mycotrophic, and others are necrotrophic pathogens often producing death of the host.  Stress of the host tree is often considered a critical factor in disease development. -- Three objectives to this study examined different aspects of the pathogenicity of Armillaria.  The first was to estimate phylogenetic relationships among North American biological species (NABS) of Armillaria.  This allowed inference of inheritance of pathogenic traits among species.  The second was to develop species-specific molecular markers for NABS Armillaria.  This would provide a method of identification for pathogenic species.  The third was to examine disease development of Armillaria inoculum using different types and degrees of stress inflicted on the host tree.  Molecular techniques were employed to examine the first two objectives.  The third objective involved a field inoculation trial with two Newfoundland isolates of A. ostoyae. -- This study is consistent with previous phylogenetic hypotheses concerning relationships among species of Armillaria.  Phylogenetic analysis of randomly amplified DNA regions of unknown function provided strong support for intraspecies clustering.  Most NABS Armillaria were resolved using four anonymous nucleotide sequences combined within a single data set.  There was stong support for the clustering of NABS I and II, as well as NABS III and VII.  Isolates of NABS V showed sequence polymorphism. -- Species-specific molecular markers were developed for most NABS Armillaria.  PCR amplification using a combination of different random primer sets in each of the reaction mixtures, yielded species size-specific bands on an agarose gel for each of NABS I, II and VI.  A common band was found specific for NABS III and VII.  Although NABS V, IX and X contained less variation, 10 nucleotide primers could be used to confirm their identity.  Results from inverse PCR suggested that secondary DNA structure and primer/template competition played a significant role in determining species-specificity with SWAPP 10 nucleotide primers. -- Results from the field inoculation trials suggested that two years was sufficient time to allow forest managers to make informed decisions regarding stand management.  Host stress appeared to influence Armillaria root disease development.  The black spruce plantation had more infection than the naturally regenerated stand.  There was more disease in the balsam fir thinned stand than the un-thinned stand.  Significant correlation between infection and above ground tree symptoms occurred in a very severely defoliated balsam fir sawfly plot only.  Well-drained sandy soil seemed to increase the aggressiveness of the Armillaria isolate used as inoculum. -- The utilization of molecular techniques, combined with knowledge of ecological processes, would greatly enhance the efficiency of forest management.


identifier: Kozar, Seana <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kozar=3ASeana=3A=3A.html>   (1998) Deliberations between the covers : an audience-centred ethnography of Chinese popular fiction readers.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis is an ethnography of Chinese popular fiction readership which presents an integrated exploration of contemporary readers' tastes and patterns of reading behaviour. However, in order to understand the genres and particular texts that contemporary readers designate as "popular," especially within the context of Chinese popular culture which has long been the site of an active exchange between written and oral traditions, it is necessary to examine the historical audiences and generic antecedents, the traditions of texts and contexts, that provide modern readers with reference points of continuity and change within the larger landscape of Chinese popular literature. -- To this end, this study suggests that reading patterns, like other kinds of expressive behaviour in everyday life, can be thought of in terms of repertoires of aesthetic discrimination which may have inactive as well as active dimensions. The inactive facets of a reader's repertoire, it is argued, may still exert important influences on the shaping and articulation of preferences and associations. -- Related to issues of methodological design, including the use of printed and electronic Chinese and English language questionnaires, face-to-face interviews and e-mail correspondence, the readership sample is comprised primarily of men and women who have achieved or are pursuing some level of post-secondary or postgraduate education. Trends in readers' affinities and/or aversions to particular genres, as well as their uses of fiction - whether they read for escape or instruction, for example - are considered, as are such concepts as fan culture, reader identification with characters or other aspects of the narrative and the phenomenon of addictive reading styles. This pattern of consumption is explored with particular reference to Chinese martial arts fiction, which as a genre is given the most detailed treatment, followed by romance and detective fiction. In addition to readers' conceptions of the process of reading itself and their perceptions of the various traditions which inform their favourite contemporary novels, this work also looks at the importance of conversation in readers' experiences, as well as some of the interactions between gender and genre, especially with regard to the intentional transgression and renegotiation of the boundaries of traditionally "masculine" or "feminine" fiction.


identifier: Strowbridge, Susan Leah <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Strowbridge=3ASusan_Leah=3A=3A.html>   (2005) Metamorphic evolution of anatectic metapelites from the Gabriel high strain zone, Grenville Province.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The Gabriel High Strain Zone, exposed in the Manicouagan Reservoir area, is part of the Allochthonous Belt of the eastern Grenville Province. It was metamorphosed under mid-P granulite facies conditions during the culmination of the Ottawan orogeny (ca. 1050 Ma). Anatectic metapelites from the Gabriel High Strain Zone are characterized by quartz-rich layers that also contain ferromagnesian minerals and, in some cases sillimanite, alternating with granitic layers which likely represent segregated leucosome. -- Samples of the quartz-rich layers have been divided into three groups on the basis of the observed mineral assemblages which in turn are controlled by bulk composition. Group 1 has a moderate to high Alumina Index (0.35--0.66) and the highest XMg (0.51--0.77) and contains the assemblage quartz + garnet + biotite + sillimanite + cordierite ± K-feldspar ± plagioclase; group 2 has a moderate to high Alumina Index (0.22--0.60) and intermediate XMg (0.35--0.51) and consists of the mineral assemblage quartz + K-feldspar + garnet + biotite + sillimanite ± plagioclase; and finally, group 3 has a low Alumina Index (0.10--0.13) and low to intermediate XMg (0.23--0.39) and is comprised of the assemblage quartz + garnet + biotite + plagioclase + K-feldspar. These mineral assemblages provide complementary information that, if put together, allow the P-T field of the thermal peak to be tightly constrained.-- Textural relationships and AFM topologies in the KFMASH system were used to determine the following sequence of reactions that affected these rocks with increasing temperature.  Cores of garnet porphyroblasts in groups 1 and 2 rocks contain inclusions of sillimanite needles and are interpreted to have grown by subsolidus reactions in the sillimanite stability field.  The absence of muscovite and the coexistence of sillimanite porphyroblasts and K-feldspar in the matrix are indicative of the reaction: muscovite + albite + quartz → K-feldspar + sillimanite + liquid (R1) which marks the onset of dehydration melting in politic rocks.  Clear rims of garnet porphyroblasts are consistent with a second phase of garnet growth by the continuous reaction: biotite + sillimanite + quartz → garnet + K-feldspar + liquid (RIIa).  In addition, the coexistence of garnet and cordierite in group 1 rocks indicates that the subsequent discontinuous reaction: biotite + sillimanite + quartz → garnet + cordierite + liquid (R2) was crossed.  In the rocks of groups 1 and 2 prograde biotite was eliminated by reactions R2 and RIIa, respectively, therefore it was not available for further dehydration melting by the reaction: biotite + garnet + quartz →  orthopyroxene + cordierite + liquid (R3).  In contrast, group 3 rocks retain peak biotite, therefore the absence of orthopyroxene in them indicates that the P-T conditions for reaction R3 were not reached.  In all rocks, texturally late biotite and sillimanite aggregates developed at the expense of garnet and cordierite as a result of reactions RIIa and R2 having taken place in the reverse sense during cooling. -- Garnet porphyroblasts experienced extensive chemical homogenization at high temperatures and only preserve, in the best cases, an incomplete record of their evolution.  For instance, growth zoning in terms of grossular, which is preserved in the most Ca-rich samples, attests to a two stage garnet growth and variably developed rim zoning is consistent with retrograde resetting of the composition.  Based upon textures, AFM topologies, garnet XFe isopleths and the KFMASH petrogenetic grid it is inferred that the thermal peak occurred between 6.2 kbar (between 820 to 870°C) and ~8.9 kbar (at 900°C) and that the P-T path was clockwise with little decompression between the prograde and retrograde parts of the path.  Application of thermobarometry (garnet-biotite and GASP) was of limited use in these rocks because: (a) biotite is in most cases retrograde and in addition experienced extensive resetting of its composition during late cooling; and (b) it was difficult to identify plagioclase that was stable at the thermal peak.  However, in group 1 and 2 rocks GASP isopleths are consistent with the P-T field determined with the petrogenetic grid.  In addition, GASP isopleths that correspond to different stages of the metamorphic evolution cover a narrow range further supporting the interpretation that the P-T path did not involve significant decompression. -- The metamorphic evolution of the sillimanite-bearing metapelites of the Gabriel High Strain Zone is consistent with a previously proposed tectonic model which suggests that this zone was part of the hangingwall of an extruded high-P unit known as the Manicouagan Imbricate Zone.  The results of this study provide additional constraints to this model.  For instance the examined rocks were metamorphosed at similar temperatures, but lower pressures than the Manicouagan Imbricate Zone and experienced a P-T path that is consistent with heating and cooling with little decompression in between.  These observations indicate that a fast heat transfer from the hot extruding Manicouagan Imbricate Zone to the Gabriel High Strain Zone may have been responsible for the metamorphism of the latter.


identifier: Sokhan, Savuth <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sokhan=3ASavuth=3A=3A.html>   (2002) Marine fisheries management in Cambodia: offshore fisheries sustainable development.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study examines marine fisheries sector in Cambodia, especially the offshore fishery which provides the potential for further exploitation. -- The report introduces the Cambodian fishery sector including economic, resources, harvesting, processing and marketing. It then focusses on the offshore marine fishery and its future. -- The fishing industry was the activity that provided the original basis for the economic development of Cambodia.  Due to lack of investment, there are few Cambodian offshore vessels and there is no offshore patrol capability in Fisheries.  Consequently there is little enforcement of legislation and foreign vessels are able to fish unhindered. Cambodia is trying to address this situation by encouraging fishers to invest in this area and displace the foreign fishers. At the same time, due to lack of investment and ability to harvest offshore.  Cambodia actively seeks joint ventures with other countries to exploit the resources. -- The report concluded that, if properly managed, the offshore fishery can add significantly to the country's food supply and economy. Proper management will depend on: the collection and analysis of ecological information and accurate harvesting data; creation and enforcement of appropriate regulations; and strengthening of human resource development for the sector.


identifier: Puvanendran, Velmurugu <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Puvanendran=3AVelmurugu=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Effect of prey concentration and light on the foraging behaviour, growth and survival of Atlantic cod larvae (Gadus morhua) under laboratory conditions.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis describes experiments on the responses of Atlantic larval cod to two important ecological variables, prey concentration and light in terms of behaviour, growth and survival. The first ecological variable investigated was light intensity and its effect on the foraging behaviour, growth and survival of Atlantic cod larvae from two geographical regions in the Northwest Atlantic. Larval cod originating from different geographical locations responded differently to light intensity. Larvae originating from the Scotian Shelf (SS origin) foraged, grew and survived better in low light intensity while larvae from the Northeastern Grand Banks (NF origin) performed better in high light. This difference in response to light intensity may be explained by the different spawning seasons rather a than latitudinal difference. -- The next ecological variable investigated was prey concentration. Earlier studies on larval fish indicated that growth and survival of the larvae vary with prey concentration. However, the shortcoming of most of these studies involving cod larvae was that they were short term experiments. Thus, I investigated the ontogeny of foraging behaviour of Atlantic cod larvae exposed to different prey concentrations from hatching to metamorphosis. Larvae exposed to higher prey concentration outperformed the larvae reared in lower prey concentrations in all the foraging Modal Action Patterns (MAP's) investigated in this study. But the magnitude of the foraging MAP's increased as the larvae grew regardless of prey concentration. Results also indicated development of foraging behaviour was not affected by prey concentration. -- Next, I investigated the growth and survival of Atlantic cod larvae reared in a wide range of prey concentrations. My previous experiment showed that the highest prey concentration used (4000 prey L⁻¹) may not be the optimal prey concentration to rear the cod larvae in the laboratory. In this second experiment, prey concentrations of 8000 and 16000 prey L⁻¹ were included. Results indicated no difference in growth when prey concentration above 4000 prey L⁻¹ were used. Initially no difference was found in the survival of larval cod among the three highest prey concentrations (4000, 8000 and 16000 prey L⁻¹) but continuous use of prey concentrations above 4000 prey L⁻¹ beyond 3 weeks post-hatch reduced the survival considerably. Initially, mortality rates of cod larvae were higher in prey concentrations lower than 4000 prey L⁻¹. Beyond 3 week post-hatch no significant difference was found in mortality rates among any of the treatments. Observations on foraging behaviour of larval cod indicated that larvae reared in higher prey concentrations foraged more efficiently than larvae reared in the lower prey concentrations. Observations from this study emphasize the importance of behavioural observations to explain any difference in growth variables between the treatments. Results indicated that for intensive rearing larval cod require a prey concentration of 4000 prey L⁻¹ to sustain reasonable growth and survival. -- I also investigated foraging, growth and survival of Atlantic cod larvae (NF origin) reared at varying light intensities and photoperiods. Behavioural observations were also carried out in an attempt to explain any differences in the performance of cod larvae under varying light intensities. Cod larvae grew and survived better in higher light intensity (2400 lux) and 24L:0D photoperiod. The condition index (ratio of myotome height at anus to standard length) of the larvae was also better in high light intensity and 24 hr photoperiod. Examination of the foraging MAP's indicated that cod larvae reared in higher light intensity captured the prey more efficiently than larvae reared in low light. -- Predator responses (functional, developmental and numerical) of larval cod to different prey concentrations were investigated in an attempt to further study some observations made in my earlier experiments. In this experiment prey consumption rates were investigated in terms of both age and size. Results indicated that the cod larvae exhibited a type II functional response where prey consumption increases with increasing prey concentration asymptotically at a decelerating rate. Developmental response of the cod larvae was closely correlated to the size. Prey consumption rates increased as the larvae grew. During the first two weeks post-hatch, larvae exposed to low prey concentrations (<1000 prey L⁻¹) did not feed enough to sustain sufficient growth and subsequently could not survive beyond three weeks.


identifier: Joseph, Raphael M. H. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Joseph=3ARaphael_M=2E_H=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1973) Nascent unions: a study of trade union development and labour relations in the English-speaking Caribbean with particular reference to Jamaica, Antigua, Trinidad and Tobago.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In this study of unions in the English-speaking Caribbean, the emphasis is placed on the social, political and economic factors that have contributed to the development and growth of the labour movement.  It examines the historical basis of the structure of Caribbean society in an attempt to explain the social, political and economic factors that have shaped the character of contemporary Caribbean unions.  Rather than presenting a chronological account of union growth and development, the focus has been placed on the principal factors and events that have created and maintained worker solidarity throughout the region. -- Chapter I discusses aspects of Caribbean history which help to explain the distinctive development of trade unionism in this region.  Chapters II to IV examine the development of unionism in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and Antigua with some emphasis on their similarities and differences.  In Chapter III the racial and cultural heterogenity is emphasized since it poses obvious difficulties for organized group action.  In Chapter V aspects of the industrial relations system are examined and the problems of union organization and regulation are explored. -- The Caribbean, like many of the underdeveloped regions of the world which have recently emerged from colonialism, now faces the crucial task of nation building.  Intellectual modernization, cumulative technological change, heavy foreign investment and the virtually unrestricted flow of ideas are some of the principal forces which create and sustain conflict in industry, government and the labour movement.  The desire for rapid development and growth introduces into the industrial relations machinery new procedures for dealing with industrial conflict.  Whereas Jamaica has strengthened its conciliation and arbitration machinery, Trinidad has adopted more stringent legislation to regulate union activity through the provisions of the Industrial Stabilization Act of 1965 and the Industrial Relations Act of 1971.  The operation of the industrial relations system is examined in Chapter V. -- In the final chapter, some of the current theories of nascent unions are examined and evaluated in the light of Caribbean experiences.  The more extreme forms of union control are rejected in preference to broad institutional changes which, it is hoped, will create a climate where innovative labour administration can more adequately assist in the struggle for economic development and social progress.


identifier: El-Tahan, Hussein Wahba Mohamed <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/El-Tahan=3AHussein_Wahba_Mohamed=3A=3A.html>   (1985) Dynamic response of a hydroelastic model of a typical semi-submersible to waves and bergy-bit impact.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study addresses the problems of semi-submersible platforms operating year-round under harsh environmental conditions.  The main objective of this study is to develop techniques for modelling, construction, handling, and testing a model that is dynamically and structurally similar (as close as possible) to a typical semi-submersible and use it to study its motion and global structural response to wave forces and bergy bit impact. -- Extensive review of the available numerical, experimental and full-scale studies is presented.  The review identified the need for developing techniques to overcome the problems associated with modelling, construction, handling and testing of a structurally and dynamically similar (hydroelastic) semi-submersible model. -- The review also identified the lack of data on the impact strength of iceberg ice and the need for experimental and analytical studies to investigate the problem of semi-submersible/bergy-bit impact. -- A hydroelastic model of a typical semi-submersible was developed.  In addition to simulating hydrodynamic forces, a hydroelastic model achieves structural similarity (i.e. mode shapes, natural frequencies and stresses).  The model, believed to be the first of its kind, was fabricated with 0.8 mm (0.03 in.) thick high impact polystyrene sheets.  Cellulose acetate butyrate tubes, 1.58 mm thick, were used as bracings.  The model was extensively instrumented with strain gauges to measure strains in critical sections of all the semi-submersible members. -- The response of the model to regular and irregular waves under operating/survival conditions and impacts of modelled bergy-bits is presented. -- The experimental response in waves is compared with the available numerical and full-scale values. The measured forces, stresses and motion due to simulated impact are presented and compared with numerical results of impact models. -- There is very good agreement between the experimental and analytical results of this study and other published results. -- The effect of varying local stiffness of the structure/ice on the impact force has been studied using a two-degrees-of-freedom model and introducing a local stiffness element.  The impact strength and load-deformation characteristics of iceberg ice were obtained from a comprehensive ice testing program carried out as part of this study. -- The maximum bergy-bit mass and impact velocity conditions that a column can withstand, without local damage, have been estimated using the results of the impact tests on the semi-submersible models and blocks of iceberg ice. -- It was found that semi-submersibles designed for wave forces only may not be able to withstand impact of small bergy-bits without suffering local damage. -- The study demonstrated the viability and reliability of hydroelastic modelling, and the usefulness of hydro-elastic models in studying the response to impact. -- Based on the findings of the study, areas for further research have been identified and recommendations made for further work on the bergy-bit/semi-submersible impact.


identifier: Drinkwater, Eric J. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Drinkwater=3AEric_J=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2001) Effects of 22°C muscle temperature on the rate of recovery of voluntary and evoked contractile properties of the plantar flexor after high intensity exercise.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The primary goal of this study was to investigate the interaction effects of 22°C local muscle temperature on the recovery of specific evoked and voluntary contractile properties in intact human plantar flexors at 1-. 5-. and 10-minutes after high intensity, isometric exercise. The secondary goal of this study was to validate previous studies and add to the body of knowledge about the main effects of recovery from fatigue with homeostatic temperature and the main effects of local hypothermia on unfatigued muscle on evoked and voluntary contractile properties in intact human plantar flexors. Twelve subjects were tested for muscle voluntary and evoked contractile properties prior to fatigue (i.e. pre-fatigue), fatigued using intermittent, high-intensity, isometric contraction, and then retested at 1-. 5-. and 10-minutes post-fatigue conditions under localized hypothermic and normothermic conditions. Voluntary properties of the plantar flexor muscles were monitored by measuring the force of a maximal voluntary isometric contraction, as well as muscle activation derived from the interpolated twitch technique (ITT) and integrated electromyographic (iEMG) activity. Evoked contractile properties included the force and temporal characteristics of a maximal twitch and titanic contraction of the plantar flexor muscles. Data were analyzed with a 2-way repeated measures ANOVA for main effects of a) hypothermic and normothermic conditions, b) prefatigue and at post-fatigue intervals, and c) interactions between hypothermic and normothermic pre- and post-fatigue intervals. During recovery from high intensity-intermittent fatigue there was a general augmentation of evoked properties of the plantar flexors with a deceleration and decrease of the force of voluntary properties. Hypothermia had little effect on all but the temporal characteristics of the plantar flexor muscles, which were slowed by cold. The effect of cold on the rate of recovery of the plantar flexor muscles was generally not significant. Thus it may be concluded that local muscle hypothermia does not impair recovery of voluntary and evoked contractile properties of the plantar flexors from high intensity exercise.


identifier: Furtado Neto, Manuel Antonio de Andrade <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Furtado_Neto=3AManuel_Antonio_de_Andrade=3A=3A.html>   (1998) Molecular systematics and population genetics of marine vertebrates from Brazil.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis examines the implications of patterns of DNA sequence variation in a variety of marine vertebrate species of ecological and fisheries interest from Brazilian waters. -- The degree of genetic variation in the marine and riverine dolphin Sotalia fluviatilis from Brazilian waters was investigated.  A unique genotype found only in Sotalia from the Amazon River suggests that the freshwater form may be genetically distinct from the marine form.  The species is genetically diverse in the marine environment, but the occurrence of a common genotype in all six coastal locations along the marine coast examined suggests that there is sufficient gene flow in the marine region to prevent local differentiation. -- A previously unexamined mitochondrial locus. COI (cytochrome oxidase I), was used in combination with three other loci to re-investigate phylogenetic relationships of cetaceans.  In this data set, the largest sequence yet applied to this problem, the controversial Milinkovitch Hypothesis that sperm whales are more closely related to baleen whales than to toothed whales was not supported.  Instead, four different clades with different taxonomic rankings (Physeteridae. Ziphiidae. Delphinida. and Mysticeti) were identified, in agreement with the traditional separation of toothed and baleen whales as distinct clades.  Results of the analysis are sensitive to locus combinations and method of phylogenetic reconstruction. -- The species of angel sharks (Squatina. Squatinidae) endemic to the continental shelf of Southern Brazil constitute a monophyletic group.  The recently described species S. occulta was found to be more closely related to S. guggenheim than to S. argentina.  This phylogeny helps to explain the evolution of reproductive structures (number of ovaries) and patterns of vertical distribution in the water column (from deep to shallow waters) of squatinid sharks. -- Red snapper (Lutjanus purpureus) shows high genetic diversity off the coast of northern Brazil.  Two genotypic clades have been identified, one of which occurs northwest and the other southeast of the discharge of the Amazon River mouth.  This is in agreement with recent morphological and reproductive studies which suggest that L. purpureus on the continental shelf of northern Brazil comprises two stock units occupying relatively segregated territories, defined by differences in salinity and temperature. -- In contrast, the low genetic diversity of yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) from northeastern Brazilian waters agrees with the hypothesis that only a single stock of yellowfin tuna occurs in the southwest equatorial region of the Atlantic Ocean.  The genetic homogeneity of T. albacares in this area suggests that there is sufficient gene flow in that area to prevent development of local stocks.


identifier: King, Ruth Elizabeth <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/King=3ARuth_Elizabeth=3A=3A.html>   (1978) Le parler français de l'Anse-aux-Canards / Maisons d'Hiver (Baie St.-Georges, Terre Neuve) : étude phonologique et morphologique, suivie d'un lexique.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Pendant l'année 1977 ont été faites trios enquetes à  L’Anse-aux-Canards/Maisons d’Hiver, village franco-terreneuvien sur la peninsule de Port-au-Port, Baie St.-Georges, Terre-Neuve.  Un échantillon de la population s'est prété  l’étude, et dix-sept heures de conversation de neuf temoins ont été enregistrées en contexte naturel.  Cette thèse, qui décrit le parler de L'Anse-aux-Canards/Maisons d’Hiver, est basée sur le corpus dont une transcription a été faite.  On a aussi présenté un échantillon en transcription phonétique et on s’est servi d'un spectrographe pour mettre en évidence les subtilités de la parole. -- Pour ce travail, on a analysé le parler du village sur les plans phono-logique et morphologique, et on a composé un lexique des mots du corpus qui différent du français standard.  Le travail se divisé donc en trois parties.  Au premier chapitre les phonèmes et les allophones du français terreneuvien ont été établis.  Les différences phonologiques entre le dialecte et le français standard ont été décrites.  Ensuite, au deuxième chapitre, il est question des formes nominales, verbales et des autres catégories grammaticales.  Le troisième chapitre comprend un lexique d’a peu près deux cent quatre-vingt mots tirés du corpus.  La où l’occasion se présentait, on a fait remarquer les parallèles entre le français terreneuvien, l'acadien, et le québécois. -- Le parler du village est représentatif du parler franco-terreneuvien en général, étant donné qu’il s’agit seulement de différences phonétiques entre les parlers des cinq villages de la côte oust de Terre-Neuve ou on parle français.  Le français terreneuvien ressemble beaucoup aux autres dialectes français de l’Amérique du nord.  En effet, on le considère un dialecte acadien en raison de tant de points communs entre le français terreneuvien et les dialects acadiens du Nouveau Brunswick et de la Nouvelle Ecosse. -- Traduction du résumé. -- In 1977 three field trips were made to L’Anse-aux-Canards/Maisons d’Hiver (or Black Duck Brook/Winter Houses, as the community is known in English), a predominantly French village located on the Port-au-Port predominantly on Newfoundland’s west coast.  A preliminary survey of the population provided nine informants and seventeen hours of conversation were subsequently recorded.  These tape recordings of conversation were made in natural context, and are the corpus upon which this study is based.  This corpus has been transcribed in its entirety, and a representative portion has been transcribed phonetically.  A spectrograph has also been used to shed light upon the subtleties of the dialect’s phonological system. -- The French spoken in L’Anse-aux-Canards/Maisons d’Hiver has been described phonologically and morphologically, and a lexicon of words taken from the corpus which differ from Standard French usage has been compiled.  The thesis is divided, then, into three principal chapters.  In the first, the phonemes and a lophones of the dialect are presented, and phonological differences between it and Standard French have been pointed out.  The second chapter divides discussion of the morphology of Newfoundland French into the categories of noun, verb, pronoun, adjective, adverb, preposition and conjunction.  The third chapter includes a lexicon of approximately two hundred and eighty words taken from the corpus.  Where possible, parallels with Acadian dialects, St. Pierre French and Québécois have been drawn, and analysis made of non-standard world in the dialect. -- It is felt that, since only phonetic differences exist between the dialect spoken in the French villages of Newfoundland’s west coast, the speech of L’Anse-aux-Canards/Maison d’Hiver is quite representative of Newfoundland French in general.  Newfoundland French greatly resembles other North American French dialects, and is considered by the author of this study to be an Acadian dialect, since it shares so many linguistic features with Acadian dialects of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.


identifier: Cheng, Shumin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Cheng=3AShumin=3A=3A.html>   (1998) Non-destructive evaluation of cracking in tubular T-joints using vibration procedures.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis presents an experimental and analytical study of the initiation and growth of cracks in tubular T-joint members of the type used in some off-shore platforms.  Cracks were developed experimentally under fatigue loading conditions. -- The early stages of formation and growth of the cracks have been studied by fracture surface analysis, using scanning electron microscopy.  Their growth has also been followed by modal testing.  It has been shown that a number of significant changes occur in the static and dynamic response characteristics of the T-joints, as cracks initiate and grow.  In particular, it has been shown that strain gauge modal testing provides a means of detecting cracks at a much earlier stage of formation than has been possible using alternative techniques. -- The modal analysis methods developed in this thesis rely on the use of strain/acceleration frequency response functions to detect the presence of growing cracks.  Three parameters were found to be significant in detecting the presence of cracks, and these include: a) response in the quasi-static region; b) response in the anti-resonant region; and c) non-linearity in the frequency response functions.  The factors contributing to the observed changes are discussed. -- In addition, measured (static) strains and stresses were also found to provide good indications of the presence of growing fatigue cracks.  Abrupt changes in strain gauge outputs were observed consistently as small thumb-nail cracks, present in the early stages of crack growth, coalesced to form single cracks of much longer length. -- Parametric equations were developed to relate the fatigue life of the tubular specimen to the strains/frequencies measured at the various strain gauge locations.  In addition equations were also developed to relate the crack size to the strains/frequencies measured at various locations.  These equations could be utilized to predict the remaining life of the joint as well as the probable crack size at the critical location near the gauge. -- Finite element analysis was used to predict the modal response of crack-free and cracked structures to dynamic excitation.  Excellent agreement was observed between experiment and theory in all cases. -- A lumped mass model has been developed to simulate the behavior of the fatigue cracks during dynamic testing.  It has been shown that the structure in the vicinity of the cracks exhibits non-linear stiffness and compliance as the fatigue cracks open and close.


identifier: MacPherson, Brian Roger <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/MacPherson=3ABrian_Roger=3A=3A.html>   (1977) Development of a model for experimental colitis in the rat and cat using acetic acid.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Diffuse, topical application of dilute acetic acid to the serosal surface of the rat colon, or standardized intraluminal (per rectum) instillation of the agent into rat or cat colon, induced a reproducible, diffuse colitis in a dose-response manner.  The lesions were reproduced with 100% reliability and were evaluated up to 60 days in the rat, and 21 days in the cat, when healing generally occurred.  Histopathological features of this chemically-induced colitis were diffuse ulceration of the distal colon down to the muscularis mucosae or superficial aspect of the submucosa, occurrence of pseudopolyp-like structures, alterations in crypt-depth and mucus secretion, and a transmural, non-specific inflammatory response.  Histochemical monitoring revealed an increase in alkaline phosphatase activity as the lesion developed, while mucus staining was markedly decreased.  Electron microscopy revealed the mechanism of this agent on the colonic mucosa and indicated initial epithelial sloughing and mucosal edema followed by rapid infiltration of inflammatory cells from submucosal vessels and of erythrocytes from damaged mucosal capillaries.  The histopathological pattern observed here was similar to that of an edematous burn response of the colonic mucosa or that induced by other caustic agents, indicating that the colonic mucosa of various species reacts in a similar manner to mechanical or chemical insult.  Motility alterations recorded in the colons of cats afflicted with acetic acid-induced lesions, demonstrated a pattern similar to that observed in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease or other diarrheal states.  Initial suppression of unstimulated motor activity was followed by a subsequent hyperactive response, while that of urecholine-stimulated activity also demonstrated the initial decrease but returned to near normal values by the end of the experimental period.  Suppression of urecholine-stimulated activity during the period of severest diarrhea (greatest ulceration), was not characteristic of that reported in patients with colitis and may indicate some temporary impairment of nervous organization.  The opposite was observed during the period of healing and regeneration of the mucosa in animals where the colonic motility was observed to be greatly increased, perhaps reflecting an increased sensitivity.  Preliminary trials with corticosteroid and sulfanilamide compounds demonstrated a therapeutic value for the sulfanilamides (Salazopyrin) in significantly reducing the severity of the lesions following pre- and post-induction of colitis treatment in rats.


identifier: Durnford, Edward A. D. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Durnford=3AEdward_A=2E_D=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1998) Lipid composition of selected tissues and milk of phocid seals of eastern Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Marine oils and seafoods have received much attention since their consumption has been associated with beneficial cardiovascular effects.  Much of the research, however, has focused on fish oils and oily fish with some recent reports on harp and grey seal blubber oils.  This study investigated the lipid composition of several tissues from all six species of Eastern Canadian Phocid seals.  The position of fatty acids of the triacylglycerol (TAG) backbone also has important dietary and biochemical implications.  Therefore, the positional distribution of fatty acids of the TAG of harp seal milk was also investigated. -- Proximate composition of the samples indicated that blubber, followed by milk, had the highest lipid content and the lowest levels of moisture and protein.  Muscle tissues had the highest protein content and milk had the lowest amount of ash. -- Thin layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID) studies indicated that lipid class composition was primarily dependent on the tissue as compared to species of seal.  Furthermore, some tissues had a very unique composition.  Blubber and milk lipids were found to be mainly composed of TAG while brain had undetectable levels of TAG.  Brain lipids were high in cholesterol and cerebrosides, the latter being a polar lipid class not found in any other tissue examined. -- The fatty acids of all tissue lipids contained relatively high proportions of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) of the ω3 type (12- 23%) and these were composed of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 0.3-13%), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA, 0-5%), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 3-16%).  Multivariate analysis showed that fatty acid composition varied more from tissue to tissue than species to species.  Several unique features in the fatty acid compositions of various tissues were also identified.  Blubber was found to be high in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), but low in arachidonic acid and dimethyl acetals.  Brain lipids, on the other hand, were high in dimethyl acetals.  Brain lipids were also high in DHA.  Lung tissue lipids were very high in saturated fatty acids, especially palmitic acid, and heart lipids had a higher content of linoleic acid than lipids of other tissues examined. -- Multivariate analysis also indicated clear differences in the neutral and polar lipid fractions of corresponding tissues.  The polar lipid fraction tended to be higher in dimethyl acetals, saturated fatty acids and PUFA of the ω3 configuration.  The neutral lipid fraction of corresponding tissues, however, tended to be richer in MUFA and PUFA of the ω3 configuration. -- The positional distribution of the fatty acids of the triacylglycerols of harp seal milk was very similar to that of harp seal blubber.  The ω3 PUFA were concentrated in the sn-1 and sn-3 positions while the saturated fatty acids were preferentially esterified to the sn-2 position.


identifier: Ellis, Joanne I. (Joanne Irene) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ellis=3AJoanne_I=2E_=28Joanne_Irene=29=3A=3A.html>   (1997) Incorporation of spatial gradients into benthic impact assessment.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Before-After Control Impact (BACI) sampling designs are commonly used in environmental impact assessment and are considered the most effective for detecting changes due to anthropogenic disturbances. These designs handle local spatial variability through randomized placement of samples into a treatment stratum and one or more control strata. While BACI designs based on agronomic block procedures are appropriate for disturbances that have defined boundaries, these designs suffer from serious limitations when applied to point source disturbances where the scale of disturbance is unknown. When a contaminant disperses with distance from a point source it is suggested that a 'gradient' design will be more sensitive to change than randomized placement of samples. This requires allocating samples according to distance, rather than by random placement within randomly placed strata (blocks). This thesis develops the use of gradient designs for environmental impact assessment. -- Gradient versus random sampling designs were compared using data from an oil field in the North Sea. The gradient sampling designs were more powerful than a randomized block design for point source disturbances, and enabled the scale of the disturbance to be readily identified. A gradient layout also avoids the problem of selecting adequate control sites, and gradient designs lend themselves to constructing mechanistic models that generate testable predictions of attenuating effects with increasing distance. The assumptions of gradient designs are that no natural gradients exist or that natural gradients do not effect community response to the anthropogenic disturbance. This assumption was tested using data where an increasing physical gradient due to increased wind/wave and tidal disturbance existed with distance from a sewage outfall at Manukau Harbour, New Zealand. -- Statistical methods to analyze data from gradient designs are reviewed. A method using regression to estimate the magnitude of spatial gradients successfully separated sensitive and tolerant species. Ordination and gradient techniques differed in their ability to generate and test causal models and to identify the extent of the disturbance. Ordination techniques were more sensitive at detecting community change, while gradient methods lead to quantitative predictions than can be readily tested.


identifier: Ryan, Nancy A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ryan=3ANancy_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2002) Growing with poetry: enhancing an appreciation of poetry in the primary classroom.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Poetry has a musical language appeal that is magic to the emotions of young children. Children, however, as they move from grade to grade gradually become less and less enthusiastic for poetry. As adults, many have an immense dislike for it. -- This project explores the decline in interest of poetry and looks at what can be done to improve the quality of the teaching of poetry in the primary grades. An informative poetry teacher resource guide to complement the A.P.E.F. provincial primary English language arts curriculum has been designed for primary educators. It is an attempt to promote the aesthetic appreciation of poetry as a pleasurable classroom activity. -- The project describes the recent research literature as it relates to the teaching and learning of poetry in the primary classroom. The resource guide contains the most commonly found elements and forms of children's poetry. Each poetic element and form is clearly defined, examples given, and additional poems from specific provincially authorized poetry anthologies are listed. Also included are listings of appealing topics of children's poetry and of children's poets. Suggestions for selecting quality poetry and how to create an affective classroom with poetry are given. Finally, an annotated bibliography of children's poetry books, professional teacher resources and informative Internet sites are described. -- Recommendations for implementation of what the resource guide contains are listed for the concern of teachers, schools, school districts, the Department of Education and university.


identifier: Christopher, Terry K. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Christopher=3ATerry_K=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Paleolimnology in an urban environment : the history of environmental change in St. John's, Newfoundland.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Lake sediment cores from St. John's and surrounding areas were used to document anthropogenic impacts since European settlement. Environmental indicators preserved in the sediment including, geochemical characteristics, pollen, diatoms, soot and charcoal were analyzed in a chronological sequence to document the physical, chemical and biological impacts over time. -- Two broad-scale eras of direct soil disturbance were identified and related to farming and urban growth. During the farming era, between 1750 and 1950, the natural vegetation cover was removed and lake sedimentation rates increased. The urban era, which began about 1910, resulted in rapid soil erosion and high lake sedimentation rates. During the most intense period of urban development, the mid-1960s, the dry sediment influx rate was 160 times pre-European rates. Storm sewers and pavement played an important role in the urban environment, providing a direct path to the lakes for pollutants. -- Superimposed on these disturbances are atmospheric contributions from coal and automobile emissions. Coal combustion, which began about 1800 and increased to the mid-1950s, emitted soot and toxic metals, as observed in the lake sediment records. Automobile pollution, through leaded gasoline combustion, contributed significant levels of lead. Lake sediment records show the highest inputs and concentrations of lead occurred about 1970. Lead isotopic ratios suggest two or three different gasoline types were used in this area. -- The most notable aquatic impact is a pH increase through the last few decades. Reconstructing water pH in Quidi Vidi Lake from diatom assemblages showed that the earliest farming had little influence on the pH, while an increase of about 1.2 units was observed to the 1980s. The recent high pH has been attributed to increased buffering capacity, believed to be caused by an increase in Mg and Ca contributions from the dissolution of concrete in the watershed. -- The long history of coal combustion and leaded gasoline combustion has probably left the local soils charged with soot and heavy metals. Although the extent of influence is unknown, these soils may be continuous suppliers of contaminants for centuries to come. Any attempt to ameliorate the urban lakes and their watershed soils should consider all consequences, since the lakes appear to be in a 'city-equilibrium'.


identifier: Zhao, Yong <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Zhao=3AYong=3A=3A.html>   (2002) Developmental changes in antioxidant enzymes and the effects of high O2 after birth on enzyme activity.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Antioxidant enzymes play a very important role in protecting newborn babies who have to cope with an increase in O₂ exposure after birth.  Some researchers believe that the rise in antioxidant enzyme activity in the last stage of development of fetal life is an essential preparation for birth.  However, there are contradictory reports.  We have investigated the developmental changes in catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (both Mn-SOD and Cu/Zn-SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities in fetal rat livers at different stages of gestation and explored the effects of high O₂ after birth on antioxidant enzyme activities.  Our results showed that CAT and GPx activities increased when enzyme activities were expressed per mg protein from 15 day of gestation to 22 day of gestation.  But, when SOD activity is expressed per mg protein, total SOD activity decreased.  High O₂ exposure induced an increase in AOE activities when newborn rats were exposed to 95% O₂ for 9 days.  Both CAT and GPx activities increased continuously.  However, the pattern of increasing SOD activity was different from that seen for both CAT and GPx.  Total SOD activity rose by 20% at 3 days of exposure, by 34% at 6 days of exposure and by only 9% at 9 days of exposure when compared with corresponding newborn rats exposed to room air.  Cu/Zn-SOD activity increased during the first 6 days of exposure and then decreased.  There was no change in MnSOD activity during the first 3 days of exposure, but after 3 days of exposure, MnSOD activity began to increase. -- In conclusion:  1) both CAT and GPx activities increased during the last stage of development, 2) total SOD activity decreased before birth, 3) total SOD activity did not change concomitantly with both CAT and GPx activity during the last stage of development after birth, 4) all liver antioxidant enzyme activities increased significantly during exposure to high O₂, but total SOD enzyme activities decreased after having increased for 6 days.


identifier: Methven, David Alan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Methven=3ADavid_Alan=3A=3A.html>   (1997) Density of juvenile cod in coastal Newfoundland habitats : multiscale analyses of spatial and temporal variation.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis examines the relative importance of small-scale spatial and temporal variation in density of coastal populations of juvenile cod, Gadus morhua and how identification of this variation may contribute to a better understanding of the early life history and to the design of better sampling programs. This thesis also considers sampling variation due to fishing equipment and species identification. Populations of marine fish exhibit strong variation in yearclass strength. Hence annual variation in density was expected to exceed variation at monthly and hourly scales. Contrary to expectation, temporal variation was highest at a monthly scale for two intensively sampled sites, and was attributed to cod settling in coastal habitats in pulses during May-June, August-September, and after mid October. Settlement in May-June and after mid October was due solely to G. morhua. Settlement in August-September was by G. morhua and G. ogac, a sibling species that is presently difficult to identify at <50 mm. Larger cod G. morhua (87-135 mm) identified in this study by electrophoresis and discriminant function analyses had larger eyes and were not as deep and heavy-bodied as G. ogac. Highest spatial variation occurred at the scale of individual sites and was consistent with the expectation that cod were selecting specific habitats. Cod density, however, varied markedly at the same sites from year to year, indicating factors other than just habitat selection were determining local density. Variation in density of juvenile cod decreased with increasing size indicating older individuals were more evenly dispersed than younger cod. Small-scale spatial and temporal changes in catch were independent of fishing equipment. Density of juvenile cod was higher at night than during the day and higher at 4-7 m than at greater depths. These observations establish that the coastal zone represents the centre, and not the edge, of the distribution of age 0 cod during autumn. Nursery areas in the early 1990s, a time of low stock biomass must be identified as the coastal zone, not offshore.


identifier: Royston, Stephanie Lynne <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Royston=3AStephanie_Lynne=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Genetic structure, diversity and evolutionary history of the Ivory Gull (Pagophila eburnea) and Ross's Gull (Rhodostethia rosea).  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The Ivory Gull (Pagophila eburnea) is classified as "Endangered" under the Species at Risk Act in Canada due to an 80% decline in population survey counts at known breeding sites between the early 1980s and 2003-2005.  This study aimed to fill critical information gaps with regard to the Ivory Gull's global population structure, with a genomic approach of several mitochondrial gene sequences.  Ivory Gulls have a low level of genetic diversity, similar to other endangered and arctic species.  Most of the genetic variance is within populations, such that the Canadian, Greenland and Norwegian breeding populations are genetically indistinguishable and the source of the Labrador Sea wintering birds is unidentifiable.  The Alaskan non-breeding population was weakly differentiated from the breeding colonies analyzed and the Labrador Sea wintering population. -- Ross's Gull (Rhodostethia rosea) is classified as Threatened in Canada due to the extremely small numbers of breeding birds.  A small number of museum specimens were used to analyze the control region sequence.  The genetic diversity of the Canadian birds was much lower than the Alaskan individuals and the two populations were weakly differentiated although the source of this was unclear.


identifier: White, E. F. Bruce <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/White=3AE=2E_F=2E_Bruce=3A=3A.html>   (1984) Historical fiction in the elementary grades.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Historical fiction has a rich potential to contribute to the intellectual, emotional, social, and even spiritual growth of children.  Yet the potential of this genre is not recognized by many elementary school teachers.  Foremost among the reasons for this reluctance is that not all elementary school teachers have been exposed to study in children's literature which would give them an awareness of the rich resources that are available in historical fiction, as well as the approaches, techniques, and activities appropriate to the teaching of literature in general and historical fiction in particular.  Furthermore, the Program of Studies prescribed by the provincial Department of Education makes no particular reference to either children's literature or historical fiction. -- This study was undertaken to establish a set of criteria which teachers may use in evaluating and selecting books of historical fiction for their pupils, to develop a workable unit of study for historical fiction within an elementary school literature program, and to provide a small core list of historical fiction appropriate to elementary school pupils. -- All available literature pertaining to the nature of historical fiction as a literary genre and the potential value this genre has for sharing with elementary children was reviewed.  This review formed the basis for the set of criteria.  The recommended core and alternate lists consist of books which meet the criteria of excellence formulated from the literature review, have been personally examined by the writer, have been recommended in at least one reputable selection aid, and are presently in print or because of their interest, appeal, and popularity are available in the existing collection of many schools. -- The teacher's guide demonstrates one approach to teaching historical fiction.  No attempt was made to deal with the many other, equally worthwhile approaches.  The recommended core and alternate lists of books are not exhaustive.  They are samples selected for their literary qualities and supportive themes. -- Based on this study a number of observations and recommendations are made to suggest how schools and teachers may be supplied with adequate up-to-date materials to ensure the success of a literature program.  Other recommendations focus on the pre-service and in-service preparation of teachers.


identifier: Lan, Haiyan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Lan=3AHaiyan=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Effect of annealing on the molecular structure and physicochemical properties of bread wheat starches varying in amylose content.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Starch from normal (CDC teal), high amylose (line 11132) and waxy (99WAX27) bread wheat cultivars was isolated and its morphology, composition, structure and properties were studied before and after annealing.  Granule diameters, total phosphorus, total amylose, lipid complexed amylose chains, crystallinity, gelatinization temperature range, gelatinization enthalpy, swelling factor (at 90°C), and amylose leaching (at 90°C) ranged from 2-38μm, 0.007-0.058%, 26.9-32.3%, 13.4-18.7%, 28.6-42.8%, 12.7-14.3°C, 11.3-13.3 J/g, 27.6-72.1 and 22.2-26.2%, respectively.  Peak viscosity, thermal stability, set-back and susceptibility towards acid hydrolysis followed the order: 99WAX27 >CDC teal >11132, 11132 >CDC teal >WAX27, CDC teal >99WAX27 >11132, and 99WAX27 >11132 >CDC teal, respectively.  Susceptibility towards α-amylase hydrolysis followed the order: 99WAX 27 > 11132 > CDC teal (<24h) and 11132 >CDC teal >99WAX27 (>24h).  The extent of retrogradation measured by spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry followed the order: 11132 > CDC teal >99WAX27 and 99WAX27 >CDC teal >11132, respectively.  In all starches, concentration of amylase (apparent & total), lipid complexed amylose chains, gelatinization temperature range, swelling factor, amylose leaching, peak viscosity, final viscosity, set-back, light transmission, susceptibility towards α-amylase and acid hydrolysis and the proportion of small (2 to 8 μm) B-type granules decreased on annealing. However, thermal stability and crystallinity increased on annealing, whereas enthalpies of gelatinization and retrogradation and the amylopectin chain length distribution remained unchanged in all starches.  Pores and indentations were formed on the granule surfaces of CDC teal and 99WAX27 starches on annealing.


identifier: Bourgeois, Kara Ann <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Bourgeois=3AKara_Ann=3A=3A.html>   (2008) Exploring society's perceptions of teachers: the culture of teaching in eastern Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This critical study uses qualitative methods to study the phenomenon of whether or not the teachers in Eastern Newfoundland society are positively perceived and valued for their work.  Fifteen participants were selected from a cross section of society to provide their perceptions.  This research indicates teachers are not considered to be respected professionals by many members of Eastern Newfoundland society. -- The participants in this study believe that many members of society do not truly understand the complex nature of teaching and learning.  The de-valuing of educators appears evident in the many challenges placed upon teachers such as the continuous downloading of work, inadequate funding, large class sizes, and increased abuse of teachers.  It is believed these perceptions of teachers and the neglect of their challenging circumstances have lead to negative implications for teacher well-being and the successful delivery of education.


identifier: Rokonuzzaman, Mohd. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Rokonuzzaman=3AMohd=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Discrete event development framework for highly reliable sensor fusion systems.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Intelligent Systems are being deployed increasingly in safety and mission critical applications. This thesis has synthesized a novel engineering methodology for developing highly reliable sensor fusion systems (SFS) of multi-sensori intelligent systems for the applications in the safety and mission critical environments. This methodology includes both the avoidance of faults during the development phase and the tolerance of sensor failures during the operation phase. Petri net based novel discrete event framework has been proposed to model SFS as discrete event dynamic system. This intuitive mathematical framework abstracts the SFS as a hierarchically finite state machine. The intuitive graphical nature of this framework has the potential to enhance the communication between the developer and the client to capture sensing requirements resulting in avoidance of requirement errors. The mathematical attribute enables the developer to analyze different attributes of the modeled SFS to ensure logical and temporal correctness of the performance of the system. This proposed discrete event framework has been verified by simulating the design of an example sensor fusion system. The reasoning basis of the architecture of the underlying computing system from this Petri net model of the SFS has also been developed to ensure the temporal correctness during the operation phase. The use of redundancy to tolerate failure of sensors has been experimentally verified. Overheads have been identified to incorporate hardware fault-tolerance in this proposed SFS framework to tolerate sensor faults during the operation phase. A novel scheme has been developed to manage these overheads in a predictable manner. A fault-tree based novel scheme has been proposed to measure the probability of failure of different levels of fusion due to the failure of different sensors. A computationally simple scheme to detect transients present on the sensor data stream has been proposed with extensive simulation results to enhance system performance in operation phase. The loss of time sensitive data during the fault clearance intervals compromises the effectiveness of fault-tolerance in the SFS. A parallel sensing based novel scheme has been proposed to restore sensor data lost during the fault clearance intervals. The effectiveness of this proposed scheme has been experimentally verified by restoring data lost during fault clearance intervals of a triple modular redundant optical sensor.


identifier: Knox Lush, Linda <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Knox_Lush=3ALinda=3A=3A.html>   (2002) Literary theory: historical origins, current constructs, derivative approaches and Atlantic Provinces Education Foundation document applications.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The herald and harbinger of the new millennium has, most decidedly, been change. Its hand has touched almost all facets of human existence, it being slow, slight and singular in some cases yet rapid, multiple and irrevocable in others. High school curriculum development has also felt its impress as well. The western provinces have recognized and responded to the call for change with the Western Canadian Protocol - Common Curriculum Framework; closer to home the impetus for change in curriculum direction, development, and documents has been answered through the formulation and gradual implementation of the Atlantic Provinces Education Foundation document. It is within the pages of this document that new directions and reconceptualizations take shape that will serve to inform the teaching of English language arts for the new millennium. -- For the most part, this shape and direction has been a theoretical one, specifically that of literary theory. With the explosion of the new continental literary theories and their subsequent graft and maturation, this field has been a decided mover and shaker in not only the realm of the academy but, particularly of late, in the world of high school curriculum development. The philosophies and methodologies of movements and schools such as critical literacy, semiotics, deconstruction, cultural studies, etc. are those that now serve to form some of the key conceptual and structural pillars of the English language arts classroom. The presence, role, and practical application of such theories in current curriculum frameworks, particularly the APEF, necessitate an examination of this theoretical territory and its inherent consciousness in the APEF. It also necessitates a proposal utilizing the integration and synthesis of said theories, resulting ultimately in workable practices for the English language arts classroom; applications borne of, circumscribed by, and adherent to critical literacy and multiple sign systems. -- Critical literacy, itself, is an approach to teaching English language arts that is characterized by eclecticism and dichotomy, and draws its fuel and fire from postmodern theoretical stances. Transactions through multiple sign systems utilizes an application of Gardiner's Multiple Intelligences through Reader-Response Theory, specifically the American development of Rosenblatt termed aesthetic transactive theory. Such reshaping, refashioning, and reconceptualizing, evident in curriculum development, is no less evident within the APEF where its designers have sought and wrought new directions and innovations for the 21st century, theoretically grounded in literary theory. It is also clearly evident that these new directions and shifts embrace the philosophy behind critical literacy and transactions through multiple sign systems. -- It is to such perceived shifts in the accepted order that Thomas Kuhn coined the term paradigm; it is to such shifts that the students of Newfoundland and Labrador will be introduced to a new paradigm under the aegis of the APEF and its inherent literary theories.


identifier: Cao, Jianchun <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Cao=3AJianchun=3A=3A.html>   (2003) Centrifuge modeling and numerical analysis of the behaviour of suction caissons in clay.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Although suction caissons have been used as mooring systems for offshore structures since 1980s, the working principles of caissons installed in clay and subjected to uplift loading have not been fully understood.  Those phenomena include (1) installation resistance during both self-weight and suction penetration; (2) distribution of excess pore pressures, EPPs induced by installation in the soil and their dissipation after installation; (3) setup development; (4) failure mechanism and corresponding appropriate parameters for reasonable prediction of pullout capacity; and (5) distribution of EPPs in soil during pullout of a suction caisson.  This study was to investigate these phenomena using both centrifuge modeling and finite element analysis (FEA). -- The first part of this study focuses on centrifuge modeling on the behavior of suction caissons in normally consolidated (NC) or slightly overconsolidated (SOC) clay.  All caissons were installed in-flight by both self-weight and active suction.  The undrained shear strength profile, the penetration resistance profile, the distribution and dissipation of the EPPs in clay during both installation and pullout phases, the passive suction, and the pullout capacity were measured. -- Centrifuge test results indicated that the penetration resistance depended not only on the soil properties but also on the effective stress in soil which was influenced by the EPPs.  The initial EPPs in the soil induced by installation of a suction caisson can be described using cylindrical cavity expansion theory.  The consolidation time of EPPs can be reasonably predicted using two methods: (1) radial consolidation theory (initially developed for driven piles) through adjusting the radius by the annular base of the caisson wall; and (2) modified Bogard and Matlock method (originally derived for driven piles) by adjusting the diameter or the wall thickness of the caisson to keep the D/Î” ratio (diameter/wall thickness) to a maximum value of 48. -- A confined general shear (CGS) failure mechanism is appropriate to describe the soil failure for sealed suction caissons in clay under fast upward loading.  A displacement of 4 to 10% of caisson's diameter is required to mobilize maximum reverse end bearing (REB).  The REB is in range 40 to 60% of the total pullout capacity, resulting in a REB factor in the range of 6.5 to 10.8.  Moreover, a setup curve used to predict the wall skin friction resistance of the caisson at different times after installation is also proposed. -- The second part of this study focuses on the numerical investigation of the behavior of suction caissons subjected to vertical loading.  A finite element model based on centrifuge model test SAT06 was developed.  The caisson-soil interaction was simulated using interface elements.  A new method, in which the water inside the caisson is simulated by a very soft porous-elastic material, was introduced to simulate the development of passive suction.  This numerical model was validated using the centrifuge experimental results. -- Finite element analysis (FEA) results confirmed the failure mechanism of suction caisson in clay observed in the centrifuge tests.  Although the passive suction versus pullout displacement curve obtained using the FEA was slightly different from that obtained from the centrifuge tests, the maximum suction was almost the same, and the pullout force versus displacement curve obtained using FEA was close to that obtained from the centrifuge tests.  FEA results also indicated that the distribution of the EPPs in the soil inside the caisson is different from that in the outside soil during pullout of a suction caisson. -- In summary, this study has combined centrifuge modeling and finite element analysis to investigate the performance of suction caissons in clay.  The study presented in this thesis clarifies several working principles of suction caissons to provide better understanding.  They include the friction coefficients for predicting the installation resistance during both self-weight and suction penetration, the distribution of EPPs in clay induced by installation and their dissipation with time, the setup development, the failure mechanism with corresponding parameters, the EPPs in clay during pullout of the caisson, and the simulation of passive suction using FEA.


identifier: Pike, Sherrill Dawn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Pike=3ASherrill_Dawn=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Caudillo politics and delegative democracy in the leadership of Chávez, Putin and Berlusconi.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Hugo Chávez, Vladimir Putin and Silvio Berlusconi are the flawed leaders of three very different countries. Various elements of structure and agency allow such individuals to attain and maintain power despite their faults. An analysis of Chávez's leadership style, the nature of Venezuelan democracy and Venezuela's political culture sets the pattern for comparison with Putin and Berlusconi. Chávez also provides the basis to explore whether Latin American political concepts such as elected caudillismo and delegative democracy may be usefully applied to leaders in other countries. Ultimately, it is the failure of various structural components in Venezuela, Russia and Italy that allow these men to govern. They are all, indeed, elected caudillos and Venezuela and Russia are examples of delegative democracy. It is because Berlusconi is considered, by observers, to be a western democratic leader that he escapes the negative judgments heaped on Chávez and Putin.


identifier: Currie, Jens Jacob <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Currie=3AJens_Jacob=3A=3A.html>   (2010) An investigation into different sampling techniques and geographic variation in size-fecundity parameters of the American lobster, H. americanus.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis focuses on two main aspects, the first of which looks at non-invasive sampling techniques to estimate fecundity and the second looks at a model that can predict size-fecundity parameters from latitude. The non-invasive sampling techniques estimate fecundity for ovigerous American lobster (Homarus americanus) based on measurements and digital image analysis. Non-invasive fecundity estimates can now be made that require the removal of only ten eggs per female. Applications of this technique includes the evaluation of the efficacy of conservation measures, such as v-notching or the establishment of closed areas, aimed at increasing egg production, where differences in egg production can be quantified without the use of destructive sampling techniques. In order to create a model able to predict size-fecundity relationships throughout the species range, fecundity estimates for American lobster (H. americanus) from 11 different locations in the Northwest Atlantic (from the Strait of Belle Isle, Newfoundland to Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts) were obtained. The data were then analyzed for geographic variation and a latitudinal gradient was found in the size-fecundity parameter b. This was then used to create a model that can predict size-fecundity relationships from latitude. This model will allow for future fecundity estimates to be made, utilizing size data from latitude for any population in the Northwest Atlantic.


identifier: Elliott, Pamela G. (Pamela Gale) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Elliott=3APamela_G=2E_=28Pamela_Gale=29=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Evaluation of the implementation of an electronic occurrence reporting system at Eastern Health, Newfoundland and Labrador (Phase One).  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In June 2008, Eastern Health completed the implementation of an electronic occurrence reporting system (Phase One). Phase One included a pre-go-live site (an integrated services site in a rural setting) and three go-live sites (acute care, long term care and community health in an urban setting). The evaluation study had a dual purpose: (a) to assess and report on the impact of the implementation of the electronic occurrence reporting system on achieving its stated objectives, particularly those that could be measured within the timelines of the project and (b) to analyze findings to identify contributions to the literature in the recently developing field of implementations of electronic occurrence reporting systems in health care. -- The evaluation was guided by the framework outlined in the report, "Towards an Evaluation Framework for Electronic Health Records Initiatives" (Neville et al., 2004), which emphasizes stakeholder involvement in evaluation studies, pre/post comparative study design, and triangulation of data where possible. Data were collected from several sources such as project documentation, administrative occurrence reporting records, surveys, focus groups and key informant interviews. -- The findings of this study provide evidence that frontline staff and managers support the implementation of the electronic occurrence reporting system, that there is little difference in results between the various sectors of the continuum of health services and the new system had both positive and negative impacts on the role of frontline managers. There were limitations related to some of the findings due to the small sample size, particularly the long term care sector. -- Many benefits were realized such as: (a) an increase in the number of occurrences reported, (b) increase in the number of occurrences reported within 48 hours, (c) increase in the number of occurrences reported by staff other than registered nurses, (d) increase in the number of close calls reported, (e) positive changes in the patient safety culture, (f) improved timelines for notification of high alert occurrences to managers, and (g) satisfaction with the electronic tool related to ease of use, accessibility, and consistency. -- The implementation process also encountered challenges, such as issues related to customizing the software and development of the classification system for coding occurrences. These issues impacted on the ability of the managers to obtain timely customized reports and to close out files. These challenges are currently being addressed by the Project Implementation Team. Participants noted that resolving these issues will enhance the many positive impacts of the system already realized. Lessons learned during the Phase One implementation process (including the identification of facilitators and barriers) resulted in recommendations that can assist with future implementations.