identifier: Noseworthy, Mark Joseph <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Noseworthy=3AMark_Joseph=3A=3A.html>   (2011) A study to determine instructors self-reported instructional strategies which foster science literacy in an EFL (English as a Foreign Language) environment.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This research titled 'A Study to Determine Instructors Self-Reported Instructional Strategies Which Foster Science Literacy in an EFL (English as a Foreign Language) Environment' is an ethnographic study based on grounded theory principles and research design.  The essence of the research was to answer five research questions that would ultimately create a foundation for instructional strategies allowing science instructors to foster science literacy in an EFL environment.  The research attempts to conceptualize the research participants' instructional strategies that promote strong science literacy skills.  Further to this, consider the complexities that this learning environment inherently offers, where the learning event is occurring in an English environment that is a second language for the learner.  The research was designed to generate personal truths that produced common themes as it relates to the five research questions posed in this thesis; what instructional strategies do current post secondary science instructors at one College in Qatar believe foster science literacy in an EFL environment?  As well, do science instructors believe that total immersion is the best approach to science literacy in an EFL environment?  Is the North American model of teaching/learning science appropriate in this Middle Eastern environment?  Are the current modes of teaching/instruction optimizing student's chances of success for science literacy?  What do you feel are the greatest challenges for the EFL learner as it relates to science?


identifier: Rector, Megan E. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Rector=3AMegan_E=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica) parent-offspring behaviour and condition under varying nutritional constraints.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract: During the breeding season, environmental conditions can affect parental behaviour, offspring growth and survival, and the role of both parties during parent-offspring conflict.  I explored the effects of environmental conditions on Atlantic puffins during the breeding season by taking advantage of yearly differences in foraging conditions and by experimentally manipulating chick diet.  Chick diet and growth as well as adult stress hormones were all affected by changes in the abundance of capelin, the primary prey species of chick-provisioning puffins in the Northwest Atlantic.  Chick growth was lower during poor foraging conditions as expected; however, adult stress hormones were also lower during poor foraging conditions contrary to previous findings linking low prey availability with high stress levels.  Chicks fed a supplementary diet also showed an increase in mass gain rate as well as an increase in survival, while supplementary feeding had no effect on chick stress hormones.  Video recordings of chicks and adults within their nesting burrows were used to examine the effects of chick condition and begging on adult provisioning behaviour.  Two types of begging calls were recorded and begging was associated with poor chick condition as well as current adult provisioning behaviour.  Adults did not respond to changes in begging behaviour.  Use of begging calls is interpreted in the context of honest signaling models and the role of environmental conditions in the control held by adults and chicks during parent-offspring conflict is discussed.


identifier: Trina, Sameena <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Trina=3ASameena=3A=3A.html>   (2010) An integrated horizontal and vertical flow simulation with application to wax precipitation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This research explored a few opportunities of improving the simulations available to reservoir engineers in the oil and gas industry. Three very specific simulation models were used in this thesis. Firstly, improvements were made to an inflow model for a horizontal well by making it possible to run the model for different fluids easily. Secondly, a vertical flow model was developed by combining a well-known, multi-phase flow correlation with a multi-phase temperature model. A novel approach was developed to solve these two models in sequence. Thirdly, this thesis scoped out the application of two different wax crystallization models. It was the first time that these wax models were tested using a flow simulator. The results obtained from all three simulation models were in par with theory and expectations. It was concluded that these models together would be a very useful tool for both the industry and for further research work.


identifier: Dunford, Joseph I. (Joseph Isaac) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Dunford=3AJoseph_I=2E_=28Joseph_Isaac=29=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Dynamic response analysis of transmission towers after conductor breakage using ADINA.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The objective of this research was to (i) assess the peak dynamic and static residual loads on various types of transmission line structures due to conductor rupture, (ii) study the effect of structural flexibility on maximum dynamic impact and static residual conductor loads and (iii) carry out a sensitivity study of various line parameters such as conductor tension, ice load, insulator length and terrain types on the peak dynamic and static residual loads. -- To accomplish these objectives, the following tasks were carried out: -- A number of numerical models of a 30 span transmission line were developed and analyzed using the ADINA finite element software package. The initial results were validated by comparing with the full scale test data. -- Four structure types were considered in the detailed analyses. These were: (1) self-supported steel lattice tower with different leg extensions, (2) guyed-V steel lattice tower, (3) tubular steel pole structure and (4) H-frame wood pole structure. The effect of the structures' flexibility on peak dynamic and static residual conductor tensions was studied, after a conductor rupture -- A sensitivity analysis study was conducted to study the effects of various line design parameters such as initial conductor tension, conductor loading (bare conductor, versus loads due to half an inch and one inch radial ice thicknesses), insulator length and terrain types (e.g. level, hilly and valley terrains). The results from this study are presented in terms of their effect on impact factors. -- The results obtained from the numerical simulation study indicate that the structural flexibility and the span/insulator and the span /sag ratios have considerable effects on the residual conductor tension (hence on the insulator force).  However, the peak dynamic tensions are affected not only by the structural flexibility but also by the cross arm mass and the shape of the structures used for line modeling.  For stiff structures, cross arm mass has very little effect on the peak conductor tension.  For transmission line modeled with rigid structures, the impact factors are not sensitive to the stiffness values, where as for line modeled with flexible structures, the residual ratio depends on both the stiffness values and span/insulator and span/sag ratios.  The effect of insulator string length has more effect on residual ratio than peak impact factor.  The specific terrain types that were considered in this study had only minimum effects on the impact factors.


identifier: Kennedy, Christopher <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kennedy=3AChristopher=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Dendroclimatology of Picea glauca at tree line in northern Labrador, Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis applies standard dendroclimatological techniques to compare the radial growth response of the dominant species persisting across treeline in northern Labrador, Canada.  White spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) tree-ring width chronologies were constructed from ten sites spanning treeline in northern Labrador from the Labrador Sea to the Quebec border.  The effects of climate on radial tree growth were examined at various spatial and temporal scales. -- This is the first study to conduct a regional dendroclimatological analysis of Labrador's treeline with respect to delineating the extent of maritime and continental climatic influences on radial growth.  Pearson product moment correlations and response function analyses were used to identify two distinct tree bioclimate zones acting on treeline in northern Labrador. The arctic-maritime zone consists of the northern extension of treeline along Labrador's coast and is primarily characterized by a strong positive correlation to June and July temperatures of the current growing season. Also defined is the subarctic maritime zone encompassing the area immediately below the arctic maritime zone. Trees here also demonstrate a strong positive sensitivity to June and July temperatures, as well as a negative association to current spring temperatures and a positive correlation to previous fall temperatures. These findings indicate that a bioclimatic shifting of the climate-radial growth relationship of white spruce occurs at roughly 56°75'N along treeline in northern Labrador. Furthermore, as white spruce trees at their northern range limit are expected to be susceptible to future changes in climate, radial growth models using only climate variables are produced and future forecasts (2009 - 2100) are also developed. Models were constructed using a stepwise regression analysis, employing monthly compiled variables for all ten sites. Model outputs were cross-referenced and important climate variables to white spruce radial growth were verified and landscape patterns of climatic responses were noted. Radial-growth forecast model outputs illustrate a generally decreasing radial growth rate at extreme northern locales, and moderate radial growth increases for more southern sites by 2100 AD. The radial growth forecasts produced here suggest that southern and intermediate latitude treeline sites may expand inland, while no expansion is expected at extreme northern locales along the coast.


identifier: Downer, Lee Matthew <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Downer=3ALee_Matthew=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Detecting damage in beams and structures through modal analysis.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Based on a review of previous literature on the subject of modal testing, it was determined that modal parameters such as frequency, damping ratio and mode shape change with the introduction of damage to a beam or structure. However, relating those changes back to the exact nature and location of the damage is a subject of ongoing study. In the current work, a method has been proposed for quantifying and localizing defects in structures using multiple regression models and response surfaces obtained through design of experiments (DOE) techniques, which are initially developed to relate modal frequencies to parameters such as defect location and defect depth. Once the models are developed, multiple models can subsequently be inverted and solved for the multiple defect parameters required to characterize a defect by using modal frequency measurements of a test specimen. The method was also successfully employed in many scenarios involving theoretical, finite element and physical models. In addition to the development of this method, a series of full-scale utility poles were tested in order to investigate whether modal impact testing could be used to assess their condition. Static destructive tests were used to determine material properties as well as failure stress at the ground line and break location for each pole. It was found that each modal damping ratio correlated to some degree with these maximum stress values. Moreover, it was found that the average of damping ratio across multiple modes correlated with maximum stress better than either individual damping ratio, and that correlation progressively improved as a greater number of modes were considered in the averaging process. Regression models were developed to relate average damping ratio to maximum stress and proved to provide better predictions of maximum stress for the specimens involved in the study than did commercial ultrasonic NDT equipment.


identifier: Jayasinghe, Punyama <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Jayasinghe=3APunyama=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Biofuels from fish waste from remote fish processing plants in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Biofuels derived from waste and recycled oils are gaining attention throughout the world. Deriving biofuels from fish waste and use on-site can have a number of advantages in areas of substantial fish processing such as Newfoundland and Labrador. Currently, the waste is sent to landfill and/or discharged to the ocean. Depending on the fish species, between 3-25% of the waste is oil. However, composition, stability, degree of processing required, and end use will determine feasibility of use. Fish processing plants in Atlantic Canada are remotely located, making recovery of the oil for export for fuel use unattractive economically or environmentally. On-site use is likely the most sustainable option for reducing the impacts of waste discharge and, reducing emissions and costs for petroleum fuels use and transport. -- The study is conducted to determine the feasibility and impacts of using fish waste derived biofuel as a blend for use on-site, in the community, or in marine vessels. Waste from three fish processing plants was characterized for chemical composition, stability, and partitioning. A process to separate and purify the oil from the waste was developed by modifying the fishmeal process. Recovered oil was analyzed for physical properties such as; density, viscosity, melting properties and specific heat capacity, and chemical composition was analyzed for sulphur content, lipid classes, and fatty acids. Using energy consumption and oil recoverability data for the proposed process, an overall life cycle analysis is conducted for estimating reductions in gaseous and GHG emissions, and solid/liquid waste discharge to the ocean. Emission studies were carried out for in-plant use in furnaces, stationary diesel engines and residential boilers.


identifier: Rogers, Kara Lynn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Rogers=3AKara_Lynn=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Examining the local lobster (Homarus americanus) stock of Bonne Bay, Newfoundland : utilizing an interdisciplinary approach.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Over the past two decades, fisheries of Atlantic Canada, in particular those Newfoundland have experienced massive collapses and changes. Micro-scale reconstruction of the development of the Bonne Bay and West Coast fisheries overall decline in landings, changes in the species composition of landings, declines the size of organisms landed, and increases in fishing efficiency over the past As these fisheries developed, changes in the target species and landings composition reveal a shift in the trophic composition away from taxa at high trophic levels, such and salmon, to lower trophic level taxa including herring, capelin and mackerel, was a major decline in Catch per Unit of Effort (CPUE) for lobster and some other species despite increased efficiency. In recent years, with no alternatives, the fishers Bonne Bay increased effort within the lobster fishery. Fishers who had not pursued the fishery or who had not fished to their limit were now doing so. These changes led to unprecedented pressure on the lobster stock. The reconstruction followed by a scientific examination of lobsters located in Bonne Bay, Although lobsters that inhabit cold-water environments (i.e. Northwest Atlantic) sexually mature at larger sizes, increasing fishing pressure makes it more difficult lobsters to survive to maturity and reproduce before being harvested. A study of effect of changes in the fishery on the size of lobsters in Bonne Bay was completed in summer of 2002 utilizing Carapace Length (CL) measurements. Statistical analysis CL measurements found that the CL of lobsters differed significantly in response to depth and location. Males were statistically larger than females, with 75.2% of below the Minimum Legal Size (MLS - a CL of 82.5mm or greater), while 57.3% of males measured greater then the MLS. Lobsters from deeper inshore waters of Bay were significantly larger than those found in shallow inshore waters. It was that the carapace length of lobsters was significantly linked to the location. The however, failed to find a significant interaction between either explanatory variable (depth, sex, or location) in relation to carapace length (response variable).


identifier: Gardner, Alexander Roderick <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Gardner=3AAlexander_Roderick=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Evaluation of bulbous bows on an inshore fishing vessel.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The Newfoundland and Labrador inshore fishing fleet is in a unique situation in that they fish up to 350 miles offshore.  The industry evolved from a fleet fishing for cod in short trips close to home, until the collapse of that species in 1992, to a fleet fishing multiple species wherever they can.  Unfortunately, the small fishing boat regulation did not evolve with the vessels.  This gave rise, because of a number of factors, to vessels becoming wider and higher but not longer.  In an effort to design a vessel more appropriate for the conditions and species being harvested an unrestricted vessel was designed for the fleet under a separate project (Friis, et al. 2007). -- This thesis describes the results of experiments conducted on this unrestricted vessel.  The thesis looks specifically at four different bulbous bow options and how they compare to a conventional bow.  Resistance, self-propulsion and head seas resistance, pitch and heave motion experiments were completed for the thesis.  The intent is to contribute to the general knowledge of bulbous bow design for fishing vessels in Newfoundland and Labrador.


identifier: Ward, Jamie Gary <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ward=3AJamie_Gary=3A=3A.html>   (2011) A spatial econometric investigation of urban proximity and labour market behaviour after the Newfoundland and Labrador cod moratorium.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Traditionally, the majority of quantitative studies that analyze labour market phenomena have utilized global data and top-down methods.  Often, however, labour market dynamics observed on the national or provincial scale are the result of processes operating on a lower-level, local scale.  This discrepancy between the scale at which labour market processes operate and the scale at which they are studied reduces the resolution of analysis, and may result in faulty policy development.  In addition, because labour markets normally operate in discrete space, traditional local methods which operate in continuous space, such as geographically weighted regression (GWR), are not appropriate.  In this thesis, a method of adapting the GWR model to discrete space is described and tested.  To evaluate its effectiveness, the discrete-space GWR (DGWR) technique is applied to the aftermath of the 1992 cod moratorium in Newfoundland and Labrador.  To do this, a theoretical economic model of moratorium susceptibility and impact is constructed and tested using a DGWR, ordinary least squares, and continuous GWR model.  Upon conducting the analysis, it is found that the DGWR is the superior technique with respect to both model fit and the mitigation of spatial effects.  In addition, the DGWR model also produces more realistic and easily applicable empirical results than the existing alternatives.


identifier: Little, Kathleen R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Little=3AKathleen_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Child, youth and family services social worker turnover in Newfoundland and Labrador: trends and determinants.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Social worker turnover has been repeatedly identified in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) as a major issue affecting the stability within Child, Youth and Family Services (CYFS) and the level of client care provided by the organization.  Although recent provincial research has identified turnover as a primary issue, no studies have quantified CYFS turnover and examined trends over time, or examined factors associated with intent to leave.  The purposes of the current studies are twofold: (1) to quantify and examine trends in CYFS social worker turnover within Eastern Health (EH); and (2) to identify what factors may be contributing to the turnover of CYFS social workers within NL. -- Results from Study 1 indicated that EH's internal and external child welfare worker turnover is high, with internal movements contributing to the majority of the turnover within CYFS.  The highest levels of internal turnover were observed in 2007-2008, and the highest levels of external turnover were observed in 2008-2009.  The majority of the turnover was internal, and attributable to SWIs and managers changing positions within CYFS.  When examined by geographic location, external turnover was generally higher amongst urban teams than rural teams.  Wide variations in internal and external turnover were also observed at the team level. -- Findings from Study 2 indicated that approximately one quarter of CYFS social workers surveyed intended to leave their position within 12 months.  The results suggested that decreased job satisfaction, increased depersonalization, decreased manager support, increased emotional exhaustion, and rural location were positively correlated with intent to leave.  When entered into logistic regression models, the full model accounted for the most explained variance in intent to leave (21.6%). -- These findings suggest that CYFS social workers within EH are experiencing high levels of turnover, specifically internally.  Also, across the province CYFS social workers are experiencing levels of burnout, job dissatisfaction, and decreased manager support that are contributing to their desire to leave their positions within CYFS. -- Specifically targeted programs aimed at reducing levels of burnout, increasing job satisfaction, and increasing perceived levels of manager support amongst CYFS social workers will likely help reduce and manage turnover within the organization.


identifier: Tobin, Jared <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Tobin=3AJared=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Approximate marginal inference in models with stratum nuisance parameters, with applications to fishery data.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The profile likelihood is commonly used in cases where the maximum likelihood estimator for a shape or dispersion parameter depends on knowledge of the mean.  We demonstrate that, in stratified models with many mean parameters, the maximum profile likelihood estimator for a common shape parameter can be severely biased or even inconsistent when the sample size per stratum is low.  We note a 'marginal' likelihood function that eliminates these problematic mean parameters, but is usually intractable or even impossible to calculate in practice.  We discuss approximations to this marginal likelihood - notably the modified profile likelihood of Barndorff-Nielsen [5], the adjusted profile likelihood of Cox & Reid [16], and quasi-likelihood variants - and demonstrate that estimators based on these functions have better bias properties than those based on the full likelihood.  We apply these estimators to a stratified negative binomial model and achieve accurate estimates for the negative binomial dispersion parameter κ in a simulation experiment.  Finally, we provide an application of our methods to fishery data.


identifier: Dignum, Tracy <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Dignum=3ATracy=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Evaluation of satisfaction, employment outcomes and job satisfaction of graduates of a University Rehabilitation Assistant diploma program.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Rehabilitation Assistants (RA) are a recent addition to British Columbia's healthcare system.  Capilano University's Rehabilitation Assistant Diploma Program (RADP) trains graduates for employment as assistants for occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech language pathologists and audiologists.  This study examined levels of employment success and job satisfaction of Capilano University RADP graduates (2005 - 2009).  The study determined the range of employment outcomes of graduates and obtained information concerning satisfaction with their role as an RA by applying the Measure of Job Satisfaction (MJS) tool as developed and validated by Traynor & Wade in 1991 for community nurses in the United Kingdom (Traynor & Wade, 1993). -- This mixed-methods study consisted of an electronic questionnaire of all RADP graduates and a telephone interview with a stratified sample of twelve graduates from the four graduating cohorts from the program.  The questionnaire collected information concerning employment outcomes and levels of satisfaction of the RADP graduates, future education plans, and satisfaction with Capilano's RADP.  The telephone interviews examined how effectively RADP prepared graduates for their current employment as well as RA satisfaction with scope of practice, role and supervision in their current jobs. -- The findings of this study indicate that the graduates of RADP at Capilano University are satisfied in their current employment situation.  The mean Measure of Job Satisfaction (MJS) score of the RADP graduates employed as RAs was in the high neutral- satisfied range.  The graduates indicated satisfaction with their role and contribution to the health care team, supervision model, and opportunities for continuing education.  Areas of dissatisfaction identified were prospects for promotion, salary, and workload. -- A majority of the RAs recommend Capilano's RADP and feel that the program has prepared them well for their current work environment.  Positive aspects of the program include the clinical fieldwork placements and skills training in occupational therapy and physiotherapy assisting.  The primary suggestion for improvement identified by the RADP graduates is to supplement speech language pathology and audiology courses and clinical exposure. -- It is relevant to rehabilitation professionals and health system managers that the lack of promotion opportunities for RAs in BC may result in migration from the field.  Improved work environments and enhanced professional growth opportunities may slow this attrition and allow RAs to remain in their role and continue to contribute effectively to rehabilitation teams. -- Key words: Capilano University; Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA); Physiotherapy Assistant (PTA); Rehabilitation Assistant (RA); Rehabilitation Assistant Diploma Program (RADP); Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA)


identifier: Murphy, Laura Anne <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Murphy=3ALaura_Anne=3A=3A.html>   (2010) "Evaluating the effect of a subsidy freeze on dental health utilization in Newfoundland and Labrador".  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In 1995, fees for dental services under the Dental Health Plan (DHP) in Newfoundland and Labrador were frozen.  The purpose of this thesis was to evaluate the effect of the subsidy freeze on dental health utilization in children ages 12 and under from 1996 to 2005.  Utilization was determined by measuring the durations between dental maintenance visits.  In addition, the effect of persons per dentists, gender, socioeconomic status, fee differential, fee differential linked with socioeconomic status, Census Division (CD), age and year on durations were studied. -- Over the 10-year observation period, there were longer average durations between maintenance visits.  The number of persons per dentist, socioeconomic status, fee differential linked with socioeconomic status, the age of the child, CD and year were statistically significantly associated with the length of time between maintenance visits. -- To evaluate the effect of longer durations on oral health, the proportion of maintenance visits ending in caries and/or emergency visits were measured across socioeconomic quintiles for each year of the observation period.  The results showed no increase in the incidences of caries and a slight increase in incidences of emergency visits in the lower socioeconomic quintiles. -- The frozen subsidy did lead to a decline in utilization as subjects were waiting for longer durations between maintenance visits.  However, in most cases longer durations did not result in adverse dental outcomes.


identifier: King, Christine April <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/King=3AChristine_April=3A=3A.html>   (1998) Cytokine expression during different phases of the menstrual cycle.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Previous studies have shown that cultured and circulating cells from women may differ in immune responses, the differences relating to the phase of the menstrual cycle in which they were harvested. In this investigation, specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for IL-2, IL-4, IFNγ, IL-1ra and IL-1β were used to determine if there are differences in levels of cytokine expression at different phases of the menstrual cycle. -- A sample set of mononuclear cells and serum were isolated from nine healthy, cycling females (19-29 years) at known points in their cycle and from four male controls. The gonadal hormones 17β-estradiol, progesterone and luteinizing hormone, as well as serum cytokine levels and cytokine production by unstimulated and stimulated cells in culture were monitored. Results indicated that the levels of all the cytokines measured varied in relation to the menstrual cycle. IL-2, IL-4, and IFNγ secretion by PHA stimulated PBMC was low at time of ovulation and high in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. There appears to be a TH1 to TH2 shift from the follicular to the luteal phase. Secretion of IL-1β and IL-1ra in LPS stimulated cultures changed during the menstrual cycle. The IL-1 ratio (IL-1β/IL-1ra) was low at ovulation in unstimulated cultures and low at the late follicular and the midluteal phases of the cycle in LPS stimulated cultures. The IL-1 ratio in serum was lowest at ovulation with higher levels in the follicular and luteal phases. Variability in the levels of the cytokines detected in successive samples, both in serum and in culture supernatants, was greater for women than men for IL-4, IFNγ in culture supernatants, and for IL-1ra and IL-1β in serum. In addition, females had significantly higher mean values for IL-1ra in nonstimulated cultures and lower mean IL-1 ratios in serum as compared to males. Finally, multiple regression analysis of the cytokine data with the hormones estrogen, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone as well as with age of the volunteer, day in the cycle the sample was obtained, length of cycle, and day of ovulation demonstrated that IL-4 and possibly IFNγ production by stimulated PBMC and IL-1ra production by unstimulated PBMC are positively correlated with age. In contrast, IL-2, production by stimulated PBMC and serum levels of IL-1ra and IL-1β are negatively correlated with age. IL-1ra secreted by both stimulated and nonstimulated cells is positively correlated with day in the cycle the sample is taken whereas IL-1β correlates with day of ovulation and length of cycle. All of the correlations that were found to be significant in this study suggest that the menstrual cycle has a marked effect on the levels of cytokine production as detected in vivo in serum samples and in vitro in the supernatants of cells in culture. -- In summary, these data demonstrate that a) there is greater variation over time in amounts of cytokine produced by women than by men b) there are changes in cytokine production in women related to the menstrual cycle c) the lowest cytokine production occurs at time of ovulation (the exception being IL-1 in stimulated cultures) and d) age influences the amounts of cytokines produced by women. -- The data presented here support the hypothesis that (i) there are cyclical changes in immune responses in women (ii) the immune response is influenced by changes in hormone status and (iii) regulation of cytokine production is fundamentally different in women than men.


identifier: Brown, Peter A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Brown=3APeter_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1974) Basement-cover relationships in southwest Newfoundland.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In the Port aux Basques area five geological divisions are recognised.  These are Cape Ray Complex, The Port aux Basques Complex, The Windsor Point Group, The Harbour Le Cou Group.  The first two are separated by, and the third overlies a 1 km wide mylonite zone the Cape Ray Fault.  The Harbour Le Cou and Bay du Nord Groups occur in the eastern part of the area and are deformed during the reworking of the Port aux Basques Complex. -- The Cape Ray Complex occurs to the west of the Cape Ray Fault Zone and comprises a chaotic, intensely retrogressed leucocratic gneiss intruded by granitic phases.  The Windsor Point Group consists of a series of metasedimentary and metavolcanic rocks which unconformably overlie the Cape Ray Complex and the Cape Ray Fault Zone, and have been mildly deformed by late movements along the fault. -- The Port aux Basques Complex crops out to the east of the Cape Ray Fault Zone and comprises a well banded gneiss complex intruded by granitic phases.  Between the fault and Isle aux Morts at least three periods of penetrative deformation are recognized.  The earlier two phases are, at least in part, responsible for the development of the gneissic banding.  The later phase subisoclinally folds this banding.  The highest grade of metamorphism is associated with the second event and resulted in the development of garnet, staurolite, kyanite, sillimanite, and potassium feldspar.  The Port aux Basques granite intruded the gneiss in post D1 - pre D2 times. -- East of Isle aux Morts the gneisses are reworked i.e., further deformed and metamorphosed.  These deformations, three are recognized, overprint the gneissic fabrics and result in the development, from west to east, of shear zones, recumbent folds, and tectonic slides.  During the earliest event, which is the most penetrative, the gneisses were reconstituted to a finely schistose rock such that no lithological boundary was apparent between the gneisses and a sequence of pelitic to semi-pelitic rocks, the Harbour Le Cou Group, infolded, by this event, into the gneisses.  A structural and metamorphic convergence towards the basement-cover contact zone resulted in the parallel-alignment of lithological boundaries, schistosities, and intrusive rocks within it, and an apparent gradational metamorphic contact across it. Tectonic slides define the contact. -- Another sequence of predominately pelitic rocks, the Bay du Nord Group, was affected by the reworking deformations.  This Group is, by correlation, lower to Middle Devonian in age, indicating that the reworking deformations are, at the oldest, an Acadian event. -- The Cape Ray Fault is a 1 km. wide zone of intense deformation which separates The Cape Ray Complex from the Port aux Basques complex.  The Cape Ray Complex is correlated with the Long Range (Grenvillian) Complex of western Newfoundland and is interpreted to have formed part of the western margin of the Proto Atlantic Ocean.  The Port aux Basques Complex is included in the Eastern Crystalline Belt and is interpreted to have formed part of the eastern margin of the Proto Atlantic Ocean.  The Cape Ray Fault is therefore interpreted as a cryptic suture along which complete closure of the Proto Atlantic Ocean took place. -- No correlation is possible between the formation of the Cape Ray Fault and the reworking of the Port aux Basques Complex and infolding of the Harbour Le Cou Group.


identifier: Keating, Ron Andrew <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Keating=3ARon_Andrew=3A=3A.html>   (2011) A specification language for agglutinative aboriginal languages for use with finite-state spelling correction.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: There are certain North American aboriginal languages which are in danger of becoming extinct.  This is partially due to the younger generations learning more major world languages in order to communicate in an increasingly global society.  Furthermore, these languages tend to have only developed writing systems relatively recently, and thus do not have a rich legacy of written works to help preserve them.  In order to help alleviate this problem, certain tools are being developed to facilitate communication in those languages.  One such tool that is expected to help is a digital spelling correction tool.  Having such a tool will make it easier to create professional digital documents in those languages, as well as help educate speakers with regard to the proper spellings of words. -- To facilitate the creation of a spelling correction software tool, this thesis proposes a simplified specification language called FSCL.  Linguists can use FSCL to specify the details of natural languages in a format that is easily readable by both humans and computers without having to sacrifice any relevant expressive power, thus allowing linguists and even language speakers to build and maintain a working model of the natural language in question.  The syntactic and semantic details of FSCL are discussed, and an implementation built on existing finite-state natural language processing algorithms is detailed and tested with respect to a set of actual language data from one such aboriginal language, Innu.


identifier: Curtis, Sarah Joan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Curtis=3ASarah_Joan=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Familial aggregation of fractures: a pilot study.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Background: Childhood fractures are common and preventable.  They are a significant cause of morbidity and are relatively understudied.  Some children may have readily identifiable risk factors and examination of this possibility will help our understanding of pediatric fractures. -- Objectives: To investigate familial, environmental and other complex influences on fracture risk in children. -- Design/Methods: Case-control study of 150 children with and without fracture. -- Results: Children with fractures were more likely to have a parental history of fracture (46.8% of cases versus 31.0% of control; p=0.007).  Odds ratios for fracture were 2.2 (p=0.036), 2.03 (p=0.035) and 3.7 (p= 0.009) if the child's mother, father or both parents fractured respectively.  Cases were twice as likely to have siblings and 1.5 times as likely to have first-degree relatives with fracture.  Increased parental fracture burden was seen in families of children with multiple fractures.  Groups did not differ with respect to environmental influences on fracture risk. -- Conclusions: There appears to be an increased familial clustering of childhood fractures as children with fractures are more likely to have parents and siblings with childhood fractures.  Explanations for this association between parental fractures and increased risk of fracture for their children are currently unknown.  This association should be validated in larger sample sizes and the relative impact of genetic, environmental and behavioral factors need to be further elucidated.


identifier: Greene, Randal <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Greene=3ARandal=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Addressing accessibility challenges of GIS-based multiple-criteria decision analysis for integrated land management : case study in the Humber region of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Land management is an important and complex activity requiring decision makers to simultaneously consider diverse values.  Strategic frameworks such as integrated land management (ILM) and ecosystem-based management (EBM) provide guiding principles, but do not dictate specific techniques for integrating multiple values when analysing land-management decisions.  Multiple-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) is an established set of methods for supporting decisions by taking into account many perspectives.  MCDA has historically been combined with geographic information systems (GIS) and can provide scenario analyses for ILM and EBM.  However, the use of GIS-based MCDA by land-management decision makers is limited by accessibility challenges, where accessibility refers to the ease of understanding and use of available methods and tools.  The goal of this research is to support land-management decision makers and analysts in simultaneously considering multiple values by improving the accessibility of GIS-based MCDA.  The objectives are to (1) identify specific accessibility challenges for land managers in using GIS-based MCDA to support ILM and EBM, (2) design a generic approach to GIS-based MCDA that addresses some of the accessibility challenges identified, (3) implement the approach by developing GIS-based MCDA custom software, and (4) validate the approach through an applied land-management case study.  The primary accessibility challenge identified is that GIS-based MCDA tools are most often focused on the evaluation phase of decision making, which assumes that the problem is already well understood and structured.  The approach and GIS software developed in this thesis helps address this challenge by providing exploration tools integrated with evaluation tools and supplemented with geovisualisation capabilities.  Case-study participant feedback revealed that exploration facilitates understanding and structuring of land-management decision problems in preparation for evaluation.


identifier: Acevedo, Juan Fernando <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Acevedo=3AJuan_Fernando=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Communication system for the remote hybrid power system in Ramea Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A reliable communication system is essential for the operation of a remote hybrid power system.  Such a system is needed to interconnect the wind turbines, diesel generators, and the hydrogen energy storage unit with a centralized supervisory controller and data acquisition system.  For the purpose of this research, we have considered the remote wind-diesel-hydrogen hybrid power system currently under development at Ramea, Newfoundland.  This thesis illustrates the implementation of a half-duplex collective transmission agreement with low RF transceivers and Power Line Carrier modems which allows the system to have a redundancy network and provide uninterrupted communication between the wind turbines and the main power building.  Power line couplers with high pass filters and high frequency amplifiers are also designed and implemented to permit data transmission through high voltage power lines without affecting the performance of the data acquisition system.  The research also provides the description of wind turbines parameters being measured at Ramea's remote hybrid power solution.


identifier: Staple, Benjamin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Staple=3ABenjamin=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Folklore of the virtual elves : social identity construction and performance in a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG).  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: As virtual worlds gain popularity, they are quickly becoming places of online culture.  Within these cultural contexts, players are re-inventing themselves through postmodern constructions of identity.  This M.A. thesis explores the role of folklore in the virtual identity construction and performance within the online community of the massively multi-player online role-playing game Warhammer Online.  As a product of popular culture, Warhammer Online acts as both a construction of commercialism and as a site of vernacular culture.  Player communities participate in a power relationship with the development company as they negotiate the cultural commodification of play experience and vernacular appropriation.  Flows of knowledge and folklore within these relationships pattern players' experience of Warhammer Online and contribute to the broader migration of player groups between virtual worlds themselves.  Employing ethnographic techniques, this thesis traces the experience of players through phenomenological embodiment and self-perception in avatar creation to social performance in negotiating existential authenticity and community conflict.


identifier: Doyle, Susan (Susan Marie) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Doyle=3ASusan_=28Susan_Marie=29=3A=3A.html>   (2011) A program effects case study of the Cybersmart! Student Curriculum in a private school in Florida.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This research sought to investigate how the curricular integration of the CyberSmart! Student Curriculum (CyberSmart!, 2010) had an effect on: 1) reported cyberbullying instances by participating students as operationalized by the difference in scores in pre and post-program Olweus Bullying Questionnaire (OBQ) (Stone, 2009) administrations, and 2) changes in reported instances as accounted in pre and post-program interviews with participating students and faculty.  The unit of analysis for this program effects case study was the grade six class and three faculty members in a private school in Florida that participated in the CyberSmart! Student Curriculum.  The student participants consisted of grade six students (n=79) that were instructed using the program.  All students filled out a pre and post-program OBQ and three students out of this sample underwent pre and post-program interviews.  Faculty members were also interviewed both before and after the programs implementation and all results were compared and analyzed. -- The pre-program OBQ results revealed that 82.3% of the students were cyberbullied in the previous months prior to the prevention course.  The post-program OBQ indicated a 49.4% response rate, giving an overall decrease of 32.9% after the programs conclusion.  A decrease was also noted in the respondent as a cyberbully section, where the pre-program OBQ showed a report of 46.8% of cyberbullying behaviors compared to 25.3% in the post-program OBQ results signifying a decrease of 21.5%.  All specific methods of cyberbullying instances in both sections verified an overall decrease as well.  The student interviews noted a 100% decrease in reported instances and the faculty interviews illustrated a decrease from twenty-two reported instances to two following the programs implementation. -- The results of the study also concluded that there was a notable difference between occasional and intensive cyberbullying behaviors and that even though the program was effective in decreasing overall and occasional cyberbullying behaviors, the program did not have such a positive effect on intensive cyberbullying.  The OBQ results revealed that the intensive cyberbullying only had an overall decrease of 2.5% in the cyberbully victim section and there was no change overall for the respondent as a cyberbully section.  The specific methods of cyberbullying for both sections either saw a slight decrease, an increase or no change at all.


identifier: March, James David <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/March=3AJames_David=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Affective priming of music and words.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

title: Affective priming of music and words

abstract: In recent times the relationship between language and music has garnered substantial interest (Patel, 2008).  The present thesis used an affective priming paradigm, in which musical sequences and words were categorized as happy or sad, to determine whether lexical and musical information of matched affect could act as effective primes (stimulus congruency).  Experiment 1 was a replication of previously reported congruency effects using auditory presentation of lexical stimuli.  In Experiment 2, two words, two short musical sequences or one of each were presented auditorily and participants responded by categorizing the emotional valence of the second item as happy or sad.  Experiment 3 examined the extent to which affective properties of words and musical chords have an impact on judgments in a semantic decision task.  Participants responded to the semantic properties of the second item (i.e., whether it was a word or a chord, or neither).  In all of the experiments, affective congruency effects were observed, suggesting that affective properties can influence the priming of music and words when they are presented together.  However, although similarities were found between affective priming of words and music, there were differences.  First, responses to the musical stimuli were slower than those to the word stimuli.  Second, in some conditions contrast, rather than congruency was observed.  These studies are the first to explore word-music affective priming.  In addition, the research expands the existing knowledge of affective priming of lexical and musical stimuli and provides evidence of similarities and differences between musical and lexical processing.


identifier: Harnett, David <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Harnett=3ADavid=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Clinical and genealogical studies of familial colorectal cancer type-x in Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Familial Colorectal Cancer Type-X (FCCTX) is a syndrome defined by criteria used to identify Lynch Syndrome, but in which the genetic cause is not the result of mismatch repair (MMR) gene mutations with the genetic etiology remaining unknown.  In an attempt to facilitate novel gene discovery in FCCTX, families (N = 12) were identified with a strong family history of CRC (≥5 cases of CRC) of unknown genetic etiology, who fulfilled the criteria for FCCTX: meeting the ACI, possessing no known MMR gene mutation, and a probands with MSS CRC.  Significant variability was found in terms of age of onset, tumour location, and genetic profile of CRCs amongst the probands of these families.  First-degree relatives of the probands of the FCCTX families (N = 126) were compared as a group to first-degree relatives of the probands of fifteen Lynch Syndrome families (N = 153).  No difference in lifetime risk of CRC existed between the groups, but the families fulfilling the FCCTX criteria demonstrated a significantly later onset of CRC and fewer cases of extra-colonic cancers.  Mapping locations of origin demonstrated that families originated from multiple different geographic isolates.  The use of a customized hereditability database failed to demonstrate genealogical linkages between the twelve FCCTX families.  In six of the FCCTX families, further archival research also failed to yield a direct link.  The heterogeneous clinical and pathological features, geographic distribution of probands in different isolates, and failure to identify genealogical linkages between families suggest that multiple genes underlie the susceptibility to CRC observed in FCCTX.


identifier: Nag, Kaushik <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Nag=3AKaushik=3A=3A.html>   (1996) Association and interactions of pulmonary surfactant lipids and proteins in model membranes at the air - water interface.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Pulmonary surfactant (PS) a lipid-protein complex secreted by type-II pneumocytes is responsible for alveolar stability and prevents lung collapse at low volumes. PS lines the air-alveolar fluid interface with a putative ultra-thin monomolecular film, which by reducing the surface tension of that interface counteracts the contractile forces of lung collapse at low volumes.  Monomolecular films (monolayers) are appropriate models for studying biological membranes, in which the lipids and proteins are organized in bilayers, and for pulmonary surfactant films. -- Interactions of the main phospholipid component of PS, dipalmitoylphosph-atidylcholine (DPPC) were studied with the other component lipids and proteins of PS at the air-water interface in monolayers.  Over the last decade, epifluorescence microscopy has become a novel and powerful tool to study the organization of molecules in films.  Epifluorescence microscopy of films formed in a surface balance of DPPC in combination with unsaturated phosphatidylcholine (dioleyl-PC  or  DOPC); dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol (DPPG); cholesterol; and fluorescently labelled surfactant proteins SP-A, SP-B and SP-C were performed.  Visual observation of such lipid-lipid and lipid-protein films using epifluorescence microscopy allowed for the semi-quantitative understanding of the surface chemistry, phase transition, association and interactions of such components of PS with each other, at the air-water interface. -- The unsaturated phosphatidylcholine, DOPC, fluidized films of DPPC and were squeezed out of such films upon dynamic cycling (Chapter 3).  Phosphatidylglycerol (DPPG) condensed films of DPPC under the influence of calcium (Chapter 4).  Cholesterol drastically altered the DPPC condensed phase structures and fluidized such films (Chapter 5).  Hydrophobic surfactant protein - C (SP-C) perturbed the packing of DPPC and DPPC:DPPG films, occupied the fluid phase and was present in the films up to high packing states (Chapter 6).  Films adsorbed from liposomes and solvent-spread ones of some PS components were found to display similar micro-architecture and phase properties in equivalent packing states, and SP-C enhanced the adsorption of DPPC vesicles (Chapter 7).  Hydrophobic surfactant protein - B (SP-B) also perturbed the packing and associated with the fluid phase of DPPC, albeit differently than did SP-C (Chapter 8 and 9).  Hydrophilic surfactant protein - A (SP-A) adsorbed to DPPC films, and was associated with the condensed-fluid phase boundaries of the lipid, and perturbed the packing of such films (Chapter 10).  Porcine lipid surfactant extract (LSE) films showed fluid to condensed phase transition upon compression, and probably other complex transitions which was indicated by a decrease in the amount of condensed domains with increasing packing states (Chapter 11).  The condensed phase of LSE films were increased under the influence of millimolar calcium dissolved in the subphase compared to the ones without the cation.  Dissolved SP-A in the subphase, adsorbed on to solvent-spread LSE films and altered the distribution of condensed domains (Chapter 11).  Some of the properties of LSE films (Chapter 11) were correlated to those exhibited by its component combinations in films (Chapters 3-10). -- These studies, using a novel technique, elucidate some of the possible modes of association and interactions between the major pulmonary surfactant components at the air-water interface.  This study may also indicate feasible lipid-lipid and lipid-protein associations and micro-organisation in model of biological membranes.


identifier: Merner, Nancy D. (Nancy Dawn) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Merner=3ANancy_D=2E_=28Nancy_Dawn=29=3A=3A.html>   (2011) A molecular genetics approach to gene discovery of Mendelian diseases on the island of Newfoundland.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Background -- Newfoundland is an island off Canada's east coast that has a unique population for gene discovery.  Newfoundland out-port communities were founded by English Protestant or Irish Catholic fisherman, and were subject to isolation due to geographical distance between communities and religious segregation.  As such, many genetic isolates formed and have since aided in several gene discoveries. - Objective -- The main objective of this thesis was to identify novel disease-causing genes involved in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia type 5 (ARVC/D), deafness and breast cancer, by studying Newfoundland families. - Results -- ARVC is an arrhythmic disorder characterized by fat-fibro replacement of the myocardium.  The causal gene for one subtype of ARVC, ARVD5, was identified by studying 15 Newfoundland ARVC families.  Haplotype analysis initially revealed a 2.36 Mb critical region that all affected individuals shared and after screening positional candidate genes, a missense variant, transmembranre protein 43 (TMEM43) c.1073C>T, was determined to be the causal variant. -- A large, extended Newfoundland family with non-syndromic hearing loss was suspected to have an X-linked mode of inheritance.  Haplotypes spanning the entire X chromosome revealed that only a single region was shared among all affected individuals, a 13.3 Mb region on Xp.  One key individual, whose parents were both affected and related, had a 0.96 Mb region of homozygosity within the dystrophin (DMD) locus, however, segregation of the affected haplotype on the maternal side was not confirmed.  Screening cochlea expressed positional candidate genes in the 13.3 Mb region revealed no deleterious variants. -- Screening a cohort of 96 Newfoundland breast cancer probands, with a family history of breast cancer, for BRCA1 and BRCA2 (breast cancer susceptibility genes 1 and 2) deleterious variants (phase 1) identified 15 truncation mutations solving only 15.6% (15/96) of the cohort.  In addition, targeted screening of the 15 Newfoundland BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in 57 newly recruited probands (phase 2) only resulted in one positive screen; one proband screened positive for the BRCA2 c.6714delACAA mutation.  The two BRCA2 c.6714delACAA probands (one from phase 1 and the other from phase 2) appeared to share a 6.02 Mb haplotype on chromosome 13 between markers D13S1242 and D13S220 - suggesting it may be a founder mutation.  Furthermore, screening all probands for a low penetrant allele in the CHK2 gene identified three mutation carriers. - Conclusions -- The population of Newfoundland provides opportunity for novel gene discovery particularly in autosomal dominant and X-linked disorders.  By studying 15 Newfoundland ARVC families we have identified the cause of ARVD5 as a missense mutation in a novel gene, TMEM43.  This discovery, through mutation screening, now aids in disease diagnosis and identifies at-risk individuals, which allows the appropriate life-saving precautions to be taken, including the use of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. -- A critical region on the X chromosome has been identified that segregates with non-syndromic deafness in a large Newfoundland family.  Despite great efforts, the causal gene has not yet been identified and thus there still remains an opportunity for a novel gene discovery. -- The Newfoundland population also provides an opportunity to identify a novel gene(s) in breast cancer.  Studying the unsolved families (approximately 84% of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 screened cohort) and determining which ones originate from the same fishing communities may represent clusters of related families that could be used to search for new genes.


identifier: Hillock, Susan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hillock=3ASusan=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Conceptualizing oppression : resistance narratives for social work.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Using an exploratory qualitative research design, featuring semi-structured interviews with ten social work field instructors, this thesis explores three key areas related to oppression: 1) the participants' discourses, experiences, and narratives of oppression including the respondents' conceptualization processes about oppression; 2) their representational narratives and constructions about how they applied their conceptualizations of oppression to social work practice and their personal lives; and 3) their resistance efforts. Four main themes emerging from the research findings include: 1) understandings of oppression and anti-oppressive practice (AOP); 2) limited acknowledgement of privilege and entitlement; 3) a conclusion that good intentions are not enough to create social change, and 4) a lack of collectivity and social action. Based on these themes, recommendations range from the need for effective change strategies for the "low power" actor, the development of educational curriculum and field instruction skills related to AOP, to the teaching of successful resistance strategies. Suggestions for future research are outlined including exploring service users' conceptualizations of oppression, ascertaining if social workers stories about their resistance and AOP are congruent with their actual behaviours, and creating research and scholarship into how to facilitate and optimize student learning through classroom and field practicum moments of AOP transformation, identity challenge, stress, and uncertainty.


identifier: Skinner, Randolph <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Skinner=3ARandolph=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Development of a predictive spatial distribution model for Erioderma pedicellatum (boreal felt lichen) for the island of Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The worldwide population of Erioderma pedicellatum is currently listed as critical by the IUCN, with over 95% of the current population residing on the island of Newfoundland.  Surveys of E. pedicellatum habitats and populations have primarily been opportunistic, rather than systematic in nature.  Boreal felt lichen is listed as a species of special concern and vulnerable under COSEWIC and the Newfoundland and Labrador provincial listings respectively.  By using a Geographic Information System (GIS) and compiled occurrence data and pseudo-absence data, I developed the first systematic predictive spatial distribution model for E. pedicellatum on the island of Newfoundland.  A suite of 19 models using 4 different parameters were developed; the model with distance from coastline and aspect was the best candidate.  Testing with reserve data and using a confusion matrix showed that the model displayed low model sensitivity (i.e., a low ability to predict false presence), but high model specificity (a strong ability to predict true absence).  The final predictive model can assist future COSEWIC status assessments and provincial conservation management decisions that require information on probable species distribution. -- Keywords: Erioderma pedicellatum; boreal felt lichen; predictive habitat model; presence absence model; GAM; Newfoundland


identifier: Finlay, Jodi Mindy <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Finlay=3AJodi_Mindy=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Educating gifted and talented learners in rural Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This research study sought to explore the experiences and perspectives of educators in rural Labrador with respect to educating gifted and talented learners.  To guide the exploration, the following research questions were used: -- 1. Do rural educators attempt to identify gifted and talented learners?  If so, how do they do it? -- 2. What programming, resources and supporting personnel exist at school, school board and provincial levels to meet the needs of gifted and talented learners in rural Labrador? -- 3. What degree of support do teachers in rural Labrador feel they have to attend to the needs of gifted and talented learners? -- 4. What strategies do teachers in rural Labrador employ to meet the needs of gifted and talented learners? -- 5. How can programming, resources and further support for gifted and talented learners be improved upon in rural Labrador? -- The research findings revealed four major themes: who gifted and talented learners are, attitudes, knowledge of programming personnel, and support; these findings were used to offer suggestions for future policy and practice with respect to gifted and talented education.


identifier: Ji, Yunqi <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ji=3AYunqi=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Analysis of longitudinal categorical and count data subject to measurement error.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In biomedical, social, behavioral, and environmental studies, the data are frequently collected from surveys, registration systems, clinical trials, and other observational or experimental studies, which are often contaminated with measurement errors.  This may be due to the imperfect instruments and procedures, limited experience and knowledge of examiners and examinees.  Ignoring measurement errors in responses results in biased estimates of model parameters.  Explicit models are required to describe the misclassifications on categorical responses and count errors on aggregation responses.  To obtain more reliable inference, one needs to take the measurement errors into consideration when developing statistical methods to analyze mis-measured data. -- In this thesis, we define a generalized thinning operation, based on which we propose a transition model for categorical longitudinal data.  This new transition model can flexibly accommodate a variety of linear and nonlinear transition models.  We also discuss a thinning-operation-based transition model and an ordinary linear transition model for dynamic count data. -- Most importantly, we present some new measurement error models for categorical data and count data, which link the true responses with the observed, possibly mis-measured responses by explicit expressions.  A meaningful application of the explicit misclassification model is to describe the unbalanced misclassifications in categorical data, which provides an alternative way to jointly model the data suffering from both misclassification and some missing values due to unsure answers.  Moreover, the count error models which accommodate both the overcounted and undercounted data can be used to describe some interesting count data of disease cases with different situations of the dynamic population sizes of an area.  We apply these explicit measurement error models and transition models to analyze the longitudinal discrete data subject to measurement errors. -- Methods based on the generalized estimating equations (GEE), generalized quasi-likelihood (GQL), the second order GQL (GQL2), and maximum likelihood (ML) are developed to obtain unbiased hence consistent estimates of the unknown parameters in longitudinal models for categorical and count responses.  The explicit measurement error models lead to simple development of the GEE, GQL and GQL2 approaches.  Intensive simulations are conducted to examine the performance of these approaches.  These methods tend to provide satisfactory estimates of model parameters, estimated standard errors and confidence intervals.  Surprisingly the generalized quasi-likelihood approach performs almost as good as the likelihood approach when the latter is applicable in some first-order transition models.  In the linear transition model for dynamic count data, even the GQL approach provide almost as good estimates as the ML approach.  These findings provide us an efficient alternative to analyze longitudinal data when complicated dependence structure is taken into account the modeling.  The proposed methods are illustrated by an example of children asthma data from Harvard Six Cities Study.


identifier: Chandrasekara, Chandrasekara Mudiyanselage Neel Ranjith <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Chandrasekara=3AChandrasekara_Mudiyanselage_Neel_Ranjith=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Antioxidant activity and Phenolic compounds of raw and processed cashew nuts.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Roasting of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) nut is a commonly used processing method to improve their texture, colour, flavour and appearance.  The effect of roasting on the content of phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and antiradical properties of cashew nuts and testa were studied.  Raw whole cashew nuts were roasted at low temperature (LT; 70° C for 6 hours) and high temperature (HT; 130° C for 33 min).  Raw and roasted whole cashew nuts, kernels and recovered testa were used to extract soluble phenolic compounds under reflux conditions with 80% (v/v) ethanol.  The residues were used to extract insoluble bound phenolics at room temperature by alkaline hydrolysis under nitrogen.  The antioxidant activity was measured using several chemical assays as well as food and biological model systems.  Cashew nut oils extracted from raw and roasted whole cashew nuts were examined for their fatty acid composition, colour change and oxidative stability.  The results showed that the highest antioxidant activity was achieved when nuts were roasted at HT.  The contents of soluble and insoluble bound phenolic of raw, LT and HT roasted cashew nuts and testa ranged from 1.14 ± 0.43 to 348.99 ± 6.88 and 0.03 ± 0.01 to 4.53 ± 0.12 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per g of defatted meal, respectively.  Roasting increased the total phenolic content while decreasing that of the proanthocyanidins.  Phenolic acids, namely syringic, gallic and p-coumaric acids were identified in soluble extracts of raw, LT and HT roasted cashew nuts and testa by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and amongst which syringic acid was the predominant one.  Flavonoids, namely catechin, epicatechin and epigallocatechin were also identified and their contents increased with increasing temperature. -- The results of the present study showed that HT roasting effectively enhanced antioxidant activity of cashew nuts and testa.  The analysis of fatty acid composition showed that oleic acid was the major monounsaturated (MUFA) fatty acid.  Roasting of whole cashew nuts improved the oxidative stability of nut oil during storage.  The results suggest that whole cashew and testa could be used as a potential source of natural antioxidants in food applications and for health promotion.


identifier: Doyle, Gina Marie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Doyle=3AGina_Marie=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Effect of spatial and environmental factors on the reproductive cycle of the brittle star, Ophiopholis aculeata, based on a new maturity stage index.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Monthly collections of the brittle star Ophiopholis aculeata were made and individuals were analyzed using traditional methods (gonad indices, gametogenic stages and oocyte diameters), along with a newly developed quantitative method coined the 'maturity stage index' (MSI).  The MSI was statistically related to conventional methods of studying reproduction, but provided greater sensitivity for fine-scale and inter-individual comparisons.  This allowed the study of reproductive synchrony in O. aculeata over several scales: (1) within a given habitat, (2) between adjoining habitats, (3) among individuals in each habitat, and (4) within and among natural clusters of individuals.  Complementary laboratory trials were conducted to further examine the influence of temperature and spatial distribution on gametogenesis.  Ophiopholis aculeata exhibited an annual gametogenic cycle with spawning in late summer.  Significant differences were seen between habitats and among individuals in certain months, and synchrony was generally greater around the time of spawning and in nearby/grouped individuals.  Laboratory experiments indicated that temperature is unlikely to act as a proximate reproductive cue, and phytoplankton is probably the major environmental factor mediating the annual reproduction of O. aculeata.  Together, field and laboratory findings further evidenced the synergistic roles of exogenous factors and inter-individual communication in coordinating the reproductive cycle of marine invertebrates.


identifier: Li, Heng <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Li=3AHeng=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Experimental investigation of the rate of penetration of vibration assisted rotary drilling.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A conceptual drilling technology called Vibration Assisted Rotary Drilling (VARD) was experimentally investigated in this study.  Similar drilling technologies and their mechanisms were reviewed during this investigation.  A laboratory experimental drilling system was developed.  This system is capable of providing basic controls over most drilling operating parameters; it is also capable of providing vibrations with adjustable amplitudes near the bit.  Relationship between the Weight on Bit (WOB) and Rate of Penetration (ROP), and the effect of drilling fluids were investigated.  VARD experiments on coring and full face diamond impregnated bits were then conducted.  The effects of vibrations with various amplitudes on the conventional WOB-ROP relationship were studied and discussed.


identifier: Hinks, Don <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hinks=3ADon=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Educational leaders' perspectives on issues and concerns in aboriginal education in Alberta.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This qualitative study examined the perspectives of educational leaders in Alberta regarding issues and concerns in Aboriginal education.  A questionnaire was emailed to participants including principals, vice principals and lead teachers from across the province.  Participants responded to questions regarding Aboriginal education, issues and concerns in Aboriginal education and possible solutions to make the current state of Aboriginal education better. -- Responses were subjected to qualitative analysis and yielded a number of emergent themes and predominant categories.  The study was driven by the following general research question: What are the perspectives of educational leaders regarding the issues and concerns involved with Aboriginal Education?  The subsidiary research questions were: -- 1. What do you see as the current state of Aboriginal Education in the province of Alberta today? -- 2. What are the major issues facing Aboriginal Education in the province of Alberta today?  Please list practical examples that you might recall. -- 3. What can be done to improve Aboriginal education throughout the province? -- 4. What are some innovative methods that you have used to improve the delivery of education to Aboriginal students?  Please elaborate. -- 5. List some suggestions as to how the delivery of education to Aboriginal youth could be improved to better meet the changing needs of today's society. -- 6. Are there any additional comments/points you would like to make regarding Aboriginal education in Alberta? -- The study found that educational leaders perceive that Aboriginal education is not effective for Aboriginal students in today's society and that something has to be done to improve the results.  The study's findings included a discussion of the issues faced by educators in Alberta as well as suggestions on how to improve the delivery of Aboriginal education.  Two major findings of the study were that there presently exist many problems in Aboriginal education today but there are many things that educators can do to improve teaching practices to help these students.


identifier: Macdonald, Katie E. (Katie Elizabeth) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Macdonald=3AKatie_E=2E_=28Katie_Elizabeth=29=3A=3A.html>   (2011) A novel mouse model for partial androgen insensitivity syndrome.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS) is the under-masculinization of individuals with XY sex chromosome karyotypes.  A broad clinical spectrum of AIS exists, from mild to partial to complete AIS.  Mouse models of complete AIS have been used to study aspects of sexual development, physiology, and behavioural outcomes in the absence of androgenic signaling.  There is currently no animal model of partial AIS (PAIS), and the novel mouse strain described in this research satisfies the clinical description of human PAIS patients, appearing outwardly male with additional feminine characteristics.  My research on the PAIS mouse model focuses on the anatomical features and endocrinology of this unique strain, and the role of partial androgen signaling as a cause of behavioural anxiety. -- Anatomically, PAIS male mice have similar body size and weight to wild-type (WT) males, but they have an intermediate anal-genital distance that is shorter than WT males, but longer than WT female mice.  The PAIS males do possess intra-abdominal testes, but they are infertile, as they lack internal reproductive structures such as the seminal vesicles, prostate, epididymis and vas deferens.  Androgen-responsive organs are significantly smaller in mature PAIS males compared to age-matched WT males, including the testes, preputial glands and kidneys; however, this phenotype did not correlate with a lack of testosterone (T) synthesis, since T concentrations were not different between WT and PAIS males as juveniles (30 d) or young adults (50 d).  Following an androgen sensitivity test, androgen-responsive growth of the preputial glands in castrated males was significantly reduced in T-supplemented PAIS versus WT males, indicating partial androgen insensitivity.  A defect in androgen sensitivity was further indicated by the elevated serum gonadotropin concentrations at 30 d of age (follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)) and 50 d of age (FSH and luteinizing hormone (LH)), suggesting a failure of negative feedback regulation at the level of the hypothalamic-anterior pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis.  Behaviourally, the PAIS mutation significantly decreased male-typical behaviours (aggression and sexual interest) and increased anxiety-like behaviour in a standard paradigm for measurement of rodent anxiety - the elevated plus maze.  One assay of social behaviour showed no difference in social interactions between PAIS and WT male mice.  This novel rodent model of PAIS satisfies the criteria for human PAIS patients, and will serve as an excellent tool to further explore the potential consequences of PAIS to male health.


identifier: Yu, Xiao <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Yu=3AXiao=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Direct secant estimation of limit behaviour of framed structures.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A direct secant method used to predict the plastic limit load of framed structures is presented in this thesis.  Instead of using classical techniques, it utilizes two or more purely elastic analyses to predict the limit load.  Secant rigidity of structures is modified based on the result of the first purely elastic analysis.  Iterative reanalyses are performed until convergence is reached.  By selecting the peak bending moment, potential plastic hinges are listed.  The result can be used to predict the plastic limit load as well as the collapse mechanism.  The limit load calculated by the direct secant method is compared to the solution of other traditional analyses, where applicable.  Generally, the direct secant method is an attractive alternative for evaluating the limit load of framed structures.  The results are a significant improvement over traditional methods which are illustrated in the thesis.  Similar idea is applied on frame stability analysis.  After the first purely elastic analysis, two preliminary and empirical methods for analyzing stability are suggested.  Factor C and factor β are investigated to evaluate the critical load.  This thesis investigates large deflection by using similar idea inspired from the direct secant method used for analyzing frame stability.  Factor η is investigated and used to analyzing the large deflection. -- The method is executed by ANSYS software using APDL routines.  The problems solved include: Portal frames, Two-bay Single-storey frame, Two-bay Two-storey frame as well as Multistorey Frame Subject to Concentrated and Distributed Loads.  The results from the above analyses compare with other traditional methods closely, and the error is no more than 5%, thus demonstrating the usefulness of the direct secant method.


identifier: Copeman, Louise Audrey <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Copeman=3ALouise_Audrey=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Lipid biomarkers and essential fatty acids in trophic ecology and nutrition of age-0 gadids.  PhD thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Over the last 30 years, lipids have been used to study patterns of energy flow and food web dynamics in cold and temperate marine ecosystems. I used fatty acids (FAs) and lipid classes to better understand the early survival, nutrition, habitat use and growth of age-0 Atlantic and Pacific gadids, both through laboratory and field approaches. Firstly, I used lipids to examine condition of age-0 juvenile Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) as they settled in eelgrass (Zostera marina) nursery habitat. Cod reduced lipids per wet weight at the time of settlement, indicating that energy was directed towards rapid growth rather than storage for overwintering. Secondly, I used both FA biomarkers (FABMs) and compound specific carbon isotopes of FAs to show that increased terrestrial carbon entered the diet of juvenile cod during settlement. Higher dietary short chain polyunsaturated FAs (PUFA), coupled with low proportions of dietary essential FAs (EFAs) in the nearshore foodweb, indicated that the functional significance of eelgrass was refuge, and not elevated nutritional food quality. Thirdly, I conducted a laboratory experiment on the nutritional requirements of Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) larvae to compare with literature values for Atlantic species. This comparative approach indicated that trends in larval nutrition could not be generalized across the family Gadidae. Pacific cod larvae grew fastest with diets containing high levels of n-3 PUFA, similarly to Atlantic species. Unlike Atlantic cod, however, Pacific cod larvae did not show elevated growth and survival with higher dietary proportions of DHA (22:6n-3) relative to EPA (20:5n-3). Fourthly, I investigated the rate of uptake of two C₁₈ PUFAs in tissues of two species of Pacific juvenile gadids (Pacific cod, Gadus macrocephalus and walleye Pollock, Theragra chalcogramma). I examined how both biotic and abiotic factors influenced the rate of uptake in liver, flesh and heart tissues. C₁₈ PUFAs showed high temporal sensitivity, and were evident in fish tissues after only one week of feeding. The differential uptake of these FABMs among tissues could represent a new tool to disentangle timing of offshore-inshore nursery migrations in juvenile fish. Throughout, this thesis I have shown that lipid classes, FABMs and EFAs can be successfully used to indicate critical trophic events during the early life history of gadid fish.


identifier: Scott, Linda M. (Linda Marie) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Scott=3ALinda_M=2E_=28Linda_Marie=29=3A=3A.html>   (2010) "My name is Legion" : an exploration of the meaning of the story of the Gerasene demoniac in Mark 5:1-20.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The story of the Gerasene demoniac in Mark 5:1-20 is one of the great stories of the bible.  Yet the full implications of this story remain largely unexplored.  Scholars have focused mostly on it as a single pericope with interesting historical features.  Its function within the whole of the Markan redaction has, surprisingly, been neglected.  This thesis seeks to redress this neglect by showing how the story of the exorcism of the Gerasene demoniac acts as a hermeneutical key which helps us access the fuller dimensions of Mark's narrative. -- The form critical approach to Mark's Gospel treated it as a mere collection of traditions.  Rudolf Bultmann, for example, claimed that Mark was someone who was not sufficiently in control of his material to be able to impose his own theological view upon it.  In more recent scholarship, however, the Gospel of Mark is seen as a complex and sophisticated narrative with a very definite theological point of view.  This thesis argues that this point of view is seen quite clearly when we examine how the story of the Gerasene demoniac functions within the whole narrative. -- Exorcisms are crucial in understanding the significance of Jesus' mission.  By performing exorcisms Jesus is challenging the ruling authorities and summoning the marginalized and oppressed to embrace the Kingdom of God.  The story of the exorcism of the Gerasene demoniac is central in illustrating this crucial aspect of Jesus' mission.  Moreover, by closely analyzing the structure of Mark we can see how in the Markan redaction whole narrative complexes are woven together - especially those concerning exorcisms and feeding miracles - in order to throw into sharper relief the radical nature of what Jesus says and does.


identifier: Frost, Toby <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Frost=3AToby=3A=3A.html>   (2000) Narrowing of the autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease critical region in a Newfoundland family.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A Newfoundland family, consisting of three nuclear families, was identified as having polycystic kidney and liver disease and found to be descended from two founding ancestral pairs.  Using homozygosity mapping with polymorphic microsatellite markers, three disease loci, NPH-1, -2 and mouse bpk/jcpk were excluded and linked the disease in sibships A and B to the ARPKD disease loci on chromosome 6.  Due to a meiotic recombination in one of the individuals in sibship A, the ARPKD critical region was narrowed to a 1cM region.  The disease in sibship C was not linked to either of the abovementioned loci and kidney ultrasound suggested that the disease was not ADPKD.  Because the gene which causes ARPKD is, as yet, unknown, it was necessary to attempt to identify it through positional cloning.  A PAC contiguous map was constructed to allow the examination of smaller, individual pieces of DNA within the region.  Each clone was subcloned and screened for microsatellites.  Three were identified however none was variable in this family.  The complete sequence of clone 108c2 had been published to the public domain and examination revealed a large repeat region which was analyzed and found to be polymorphic.  This marker allowed the ARPKD region to be further refined to an area of approximately 560kb in size, completely covered by PAC clones.  This region contains 10 known gene-oriented clusters representing different transcripts including NFYA, TFAP2B, MDFI and APOBEC2 (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ UniGene).


identifier: Osmond, Justin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Osmond=3AJustin=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Music and ethics: Pythagoras, Schopenhauer, and Iris Murdoch.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis develops a historical and conceptual framework for a future consideration of the question of the ethical effect of music, in relation to metaphysical accounts of music in the thought of Pythagoras and Schopenhauer, and through careful examination of Iris Murdoch's ethics of attention.  First, I describe the Pythagorean rationalist ontology and discuss its influence on Greek musical practise and ethical life.  Music is here explained as a sensuous, practical encounter with abstract laws governing the whole cosmos.  Second, I lay out the voluntarist ontology of Arthur Schopenhauer and discuss how he privileges music, over the other arts, as a direct manifestation of the inner nature of the world.  The link between Pythagoras and Schopenhauer is that they both conceive of music as a mimetic art form which represents deep ontological structure.  They both consider music to provide a vision of the ontological structure of the world.  Since this envisioning is what Iris Murdoch calls attention, I am able to move from Pythagoras and Schopenhauer to situate music within Murdoch's claim we are initiated into the good life when art, i.e., any envisioning process, interrupts self-attention thus promotes attention toward others.  Finally, using Lewis Rowell's more recent theory of ontology and mimetic music, I clarify how to approach music from a Murdochian standpoint, i.e., how to consider music as a mode of attention.  I claim that music orients us towards others in a way which corresponds to the ontological vision represented in the music, and that the ethical effect of music must be further studied by outlining how music shapes our understanding of the structure of the world.


identifier: Merner, Bradley L. (Bradley Lawrence) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Merner=3ABradley_L=2E_=28Bradley_Lawrence=29=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Synthesis of 1,1,n,n-tetramethyl[n](2,11)teropyrenophanes : large and highly distorted polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The synthesis of nonplanar aromatic hydrocarbons has been an area of interest for quite some time now. These distorted π-systems have fascinated the imaginations of organic chemists over the years and through extensive studies and syntheses, many important lessons on the implications of strain and aromaticity have been provided. Moreover, the chemical synthesis of monodisperse single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) that does not involve "fullerene surgery" remains a significant challenge. This dissertation involves the synthesis of nonplanar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) - namely, 1,1,n,n-tetramethyl[n](2,11)teropyrenophanes, which resemble large segments (about half) of (8,8) armchair SWCNTs. The work described herein focuses on new reactions of the pyrene ring system, the synthesis of new pyrenophane motifs and the exploration of the valence isomerization/dehydrogenation (VID) reaction as a means to synthesizing the most distorted π-systems contained within a cyclophane framework. -- Chapter 1: Introduction of underlying concepts involving designed molecule synthesis and seminal work on the synthesis of nonplanar aromatic hydrocarbons. Focus has been placed primarily on the synthesis of nonplanar aromatic systems that are also cyclophanes. Four general strategies towards the synthesis of cyclophanes are highlighted with an emphasis on the most powerful valence isomerization (Strategy D) approach. -- Chapter 2: Retrosynthetic analysis of the target 1,1,n,n-tetramethyl[n](2,11)teropyrenophanes and a discussion of the early synthetic efforts to construct the teropyrene system using a four-fold functionalization approach is presented. Most of the chemistry described in this chapter led to synthetic routes that were incapable of delivering significant quantities of viable advanced intermediates of the designed targets. Also, the attempted synthesis of a modified cyclophane target is described. -- Chapter 3: Alternate disconnective analyses of the target 1,1,n,n-tetramethyl[n](2,11)teropyrenophanes, as well as model studies on the 2-tert-butylpyrene system and a novel approach to pyrenoid cyclophane systems is discussed. Several new substitution and coupling reactions of substituted pyrene derivatives were discovered during the course of this study and are presented in Chapter 3. -- Chapter 4: The synthesis of a series of 1,1, n,n-tetramethyl[n](2,11)teropyrenophanes (n=7-9) using two different synthetic routes (Routes A and B) is the main feature of this chapter. Application of a Wurtz-type coupling reaction of 1-(bromomethyl)-7-tert-butylpyrene (discovered in Chapter 3) was successful applied in the synthesis of three teropyrenophane targets. As well, the rare use of the McMurry reaction to construct [2.2]metacyclophanediene systems, a structural prerequisite for the pivotal VID reaction, is presented. Interesting structural and spectroscopic properties of 1,1,8,8-tetramethyl[8](2,11)teropyrenophane and future applications of the chemistry developed during the course of this project are also discussed.


identifier: Sayeed, Tanvir Mehedi <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sayeed=3ATanvir_Mehedi=3A=3A.html>   (2010) Numerical simulation of planing hull in regular waves.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The problem of predicting the motions of planing craft is extremely difficult.  The planing hull motions in waves lead to strong non-linearities that cannot be depicted well by linear analysis of motion.  A non-linear mathematical model (3 degree of freedom program) has been developed for predicting the vertical motions of a planing hull in regular head waves.  Since the model is nonlinear, the computations are made in the time domain.  The model has its origins in the non-linear strip theory developed by Zarnick (1978).  The model can input variable deadrise angles to account for hull geometry.  It is assumed that the wavelengths are large in comparison to the boat length and the wave slopes are small.  Wave input is restricted to monochromatic linear deep water waves.  The thrust and the friction drag forces are assumed to act through the centre of gravity.  The hull is divided into a series of two-dimensional wedges.  The forces and moments acting on the craft are calculated by modelling wedge impact and integrating the result along the length of the hull.  This model can also predict the vertical accelerations which are important design criteria for planing hulls. -- The numerical model is verified with the experimental model test results of Fridsma (1969), Chiu & Fujino (1989), and Katayama et al. (2000).  The model has shown promising results in predicting the heave and pitch motions in semi-planing and planing regions of speed.  For the very high speed vessels and to predict the vertical accelerations, the model still needs to include exact slamming forces. -- Experimental investigations have been carried out with a 10° deadrise wedge varying the drop heights and the mass of the wedge.  These factors have been found to have negligible influence in predicting the maximum pressure coefficient.  The analytical prediction method developed by Chuang (1973) is found to be an accurate tool for determining maximum slamming pressures.  Follow up experiments could be performed varying the deadrise of the wedge and doing some oblique drop tests to further verify Chuang's (1973) prediction method.  Then this method could be implemented in the numerical simulation of planing hulls.


identifier: Lingampally, Rajinikanth <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Lingampally=3ARajinikanth=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Studies on guanidinyl pyrrolidine catalyzed conjugate additions and synthesis of (-)-pancracine and (+)-ipalbidine.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The organocatalytic, asymmetric conjugate addition of carbon nucleophiles and heteroatom nucleophiles to enones is of interest because the products are useful synthetic intermediates.  We have observed that these reactions are catalyzed by proline-derived guanidines.  The present study examines the enantioselective addition of malonates, nitroalkanes and heteroatom nucleophiles to a variety of enones in order to provide the corresponding Michael adducts.  The observations from this study provide some insight into the reactivity of amine-guanidine bifunctional catalyst motifs and lay the foundation for designing second generation catalysts having modulated nucleophilic and basic character. -- Enantiomerically pure γ-nitroketones and their derivatives are an important class of organic compounds due to their utility as building blocks for the asymmetric synthesis of natural products and biologically active molecules.  In the present study, the organocatalytic Michael addition of a monoprotected cyclohexane 1,3-dione and selected β-nitro styrenes in the presence of a proline-derived triamine catalyst provided the conjugate addition products in good yield (83-90%), with high enantiomeric excess (89-99%) and high diastereoselectivity (≥19/1).  These Michael adducts were utilized in a stereoselective synthesis of cis and trans-3-aryloctahydroindoles.  Application of this methodology is presented in a short formal total synthesis of the methanomorphanthridine alkaloid (-)-pancracine. -- Enantiomerically enriched γ-nitroketones obtained from the triamine catalyzed organocatalytic Michael addition were also utilized as starting materials in an efficient synthesis of indolizidines.  The utility of this methodology is highlighted by its application in a short total synthesis of the arylindolizidine alkaloid (+)-ipalbidine.  The synthetic strategy has potential applications in the preparation of congeners and analogs of several arylindolizidine alkaloids.