identifier: Shembilu, Noel Clement <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Shembilu=3ANoel_Clement=3A=3A.html>   (2021) Diagenetic history of the Lower Port au Port Group carbonates in Western Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The investigated Middle–Upper Cambrian carbonates span, from bottom to top, the uppermost Hawke Bay (40 m), the March Point (˜83 m thick), and the lowermost Petit Jardin (˜47 m) formations of the Port au Port Group (western Newfoundland, Canada). The deposits consist of dolomitized shallow-water carbonates ranging from microbial mudstones to oolitic grainstones. Petrographic examination of the March Point and Petit Jardin carbonates reveals three generations of dolomite: (i) micritic to near-micritic (D1, 4 μm −35 μm) fabric-retentive dolomite, (ii) coarse crystalline sucrosic (D2, 60 μm−150 μm) fabric-destructive dolomite (sub- to euhedral zoned rhombs with clear rim and cloudy core), and (iii) coarse anhedral (D3, >0.5 mm) fracture-filling saddle dolomite. The microthermometric measurements of primary two-phase fluid inclusions retained in D2, and D3 samples yielded homogenization temperatures (Tₕ) showing a general increase with burial. The mean values of Tₕ and salinity are 89.1 ± 6.4 ﾟC vs 21.2 ± 2.2 eq. wt% NaCl, and 110 ± 8.2 ﾟC vs 21.1 ± 4.7 eq. wt% NaCl, respectively. The dolomites show a decrease of Sr from D1 (90 ± 44 ppm) to D3 (47 ± 15 ppm), which reflects the influence of progressive burial. The estimated δ¹⁸O values of the D1 parent fluid (−5 to −10‰ VSMOW) are bracketed by those suggested for the Middle Cambrian meteoric and seawaters. The fluid-inclusion gas analyses provided CO₂/CH₄ and N₂/Ar ratios coherent with the conclusions from the petrographic examination and geochemical compositions.
II
A multi-technique evaluation of the preservation of carbonates was applied by using several petrographic and chemical screening tools. The δ¹³C and δ¹⁸O values of dolomicrites (−1.2 ± 1.1 ‰ VPDB and −6.7 ± 1.3 ‰ VPDB, respectively) exhibit an insignificant correlation (R² = 0.16) and similarly, the δ¹³3C values with their Mn/Sr ratio (R² = 0.02). This supports the preservation of at least near-primary δ¹³C signatures that can be utilized to construct a high-resolution δ¹³C profile for reliable global correlations. The δ¹³C profile exhibits two major negative excursions, the lower excursion (˜4 ‰) immediately below the lower boundary of the March Point Formation (Hawke Bay/March Point boundary) and the upper excursion (˜2 ‰) almost at the lower boundary of the Petit Jardin Formation where these excursions are likely associated with short-term sea level changes. The trilobite biozonation scheme suggests the correlation of the lower excursion with the DICE (Drumian Carbon Isotope Excursion) event and the upper excursion with the base of the SPICE (Steptoean Positive Carbon Isotope Excursion) counterpart and both events have been globally documented on different paleocontinents.
The variations in several proxies of bioproductivity (e.g., P, Ni, and Cu), input of weathering products (Mn, Fe, Al, and ΣREE), and paleoredox (e.g., Th/U) have been utilized to study the paleoenvironmental conditions during the investigated time interval. Distinct positive shifts in the profiles of Al, ΣREE, Mn, and Fe have been associated with the negative shifts recorded by the δ¹³3C profile and correlated with the DICE (Middle Cambrian) and base of the SPICE (lowermost Upper Cambrian) events.
III
They reflect contributions from detrital weathered material during sea level falls. Similar correlated positive shifts are also documented by the P, Ni, and Cu profiles, thus suggesting an increase in the riverine inputs of nutrients associated with the drop of sea level and increase of weathering activities. In addition, the changes in the bioproductivity and weathering proxies were associated with relative rising in the Th/U ratios (0.1 to 8.3), which reflects variations in the redox state towards relatively more oxidizing conditions.


identifier: Khoshrou, Siamak <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Khoshrou=3ASiamak=3A=3A.html>   (2021) Co-electro-polymerization/generation of poly-terthiophene/Au nanoparticle incorporated thin-film at a micro liquid|liquid interface.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract:
Electroactive thin films are desirable for a wide array of applications, including catalysis, energy conversion, and (bio)sensor technologies. Herein, a novel strategy has been developed for the simultaneous electrochemical formation of polythiophene (PT) films with gold (Au) nanoparticle (NP) generation. In this method, AuCl₄⁻ (aq) is reduced at a water|1,2-dichloroethane (w|DCE) micro liquid|liquid interface by terthiophene (TT) positioned in the organic phase. The liquid|liquid interface is advantageous as it is molecularly sharp/smooth and highly reproducible, which distinguishes it from solid/solution interfaces where surface morphology can play a critical role. To further enhance the sensitivity of this technique, a micro interface between two immiscible electrolyte solutions (ITIES) was employed by use of a micropipette (25 μm in diameter). The morphology and size of the Au NPs at the ITIES was investigated by changing the applied potential, aqueous phase pH, and [KAuCl₄]:[TT] concentration ratio. Three different ratios, 1:1, 1:2 and 1:3, where chosen and paired with three pH regimes: 2, 5.5 and 8.5. The as-prepared Au-NP/PT films were then analyzed by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while electrodeposition was monitored by cyclic voltammetry. Interestingly, Au NP size increased concomitantly with pH and the ratio of [KAuCl₄]:[TT]. Bithiophene was also investigated; however, no film formation was observed.
Preliminary results using 4,5-didecoxy-1,8-bis(dithiafulvenyl)pyrene (C₁₀C₁₀bisDTF) are also discussed with respect to its electro-polymerization/deposition on to a carbon fiber ultramicroelectrode (UME) followed by electrodeposition of Au nanoparticles via electrode reduction of KAuCl₄(aq). These modified electrodes have been evaluated as selective dopamine (DA) sensors versus ascorbic acid.


identifier: Affram, Amanda Dansoa <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Affram=3AAmanda_Dansoa=3A=3A.html>   (2021) Knowledge and perceptions of climate change among smallholder farmers in Ghana and the role of local ecological knowledge in climate change adaptation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Climate plays a crucial role in the agriculture sector in ensuring food security and stable employment for the majority that depend on it for their livelihood. This study assessed smallholder farmers perceptions and adaptations to climate change and the role of local ecological knowledge in adaptation. A review of existing literature together with data from the 2017 Afrobarometer survey was used to answer the research questions. The focus of the study was on Ghana but a review of Nigeria was done in order to draw comparisons of the economic productivity and agricultural characteristics in the sector. Some farmers had heard about the term climate change while others had not; however, some of the farmers who had heard about the term did not fully understand it. Climate change was seen as evident in high temperatures, excessive rainfall, and a prolonged dry season. Despite the challenges with climate change, some farmers perceived it had limited effects. Perceptions were influenced by age, gender, education and length of stay in the farming community. Moreover, perceptions of climate change influenced the decision to adapt. The majority of adaptation measures used were borne out of local ecological knowledge, which has proven successful over time. The results suggest making government educational programs and adaptation techniques more accessible to farmers, especially those in both remote and urban` areas.


identifier: SedighNejad, Hanif <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/SedighNejad=3AHanif=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Design and optimization of a small compressed air energy storage system for isolated applications.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In this study, a variety of practical and theoretical CAES systems are reviewed in order to show the current status of the available CAES systems. Then a small scale compressed air energy storage for small isolated wind based hybrid energy system is introduced and discussed.
In order to develop a cost-effective renewable based hybrid energy system, this research investigates the optimization of each component of the system from the wind turbine to the load to deliver the required energy in the most efficient way. After finding the general control strategy for energy harvesting from the wind, the control strategy based on predictive initial working condition of the air vane motor is investigated through practical tests. A control path is developed using the implemented air motor steady state operation based on its manufacturer datasheet, and it is used to supply a fixed amount of power to the grid.
A new criterion for evaluation of different energy storage system with identical power rating and storage capacity is proposed and examined during a case study and the performance of pumped hydro, battery and compressed air energy systems are compared based on the total shortage time and total fuel consumption of backup diesel generators. The Monte Carlo simulation was used in order to regenerate the wind speed data with 10 minute resolution to represent more accurate variable wind speed. The proposed Harvested Energy Index (HEI) showed the ability of energy storage systems with low efficiency in utilizing excess wind energy and reach their storage capacity. Based on the obtained results, a novel general control concept for such systems is proposed and its steady state simulation results are discussed.


identifier: Hasan, Azra <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hasan=3AAzra=3A=3A.html>   (2021) An analysis of the mitochondrial fission factor Drp1 along with mitochondrial protection genes in drosophila models of Parkinson disease.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Parkinson disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder and is strongly
associated with the accumulation of Lewy bodies and loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the
substantia nigra of brain. The pathophysiology includes bradykinesia, tremors, motor, autonomic
and cognitive disorders. Mitochondrial dysfunction induced cellular stress and cell death is
implicated as the cause of PD. Mitochondrial dysfunction causes unregulated mitochondrial
dynamics (biogenesis to degradation), impaired metabolic functions, oxidative stress, loss of
proteostasis and abnormal cell death. Drp1 is crucial in mitochondrial dynamics and other
functions, including apoptosis and mitophagy. To analyze the implication of altering the protein
which affects mitochondrial health, I altered the expression of mitochondrial fission gene, Drp1;
the transcription regulator, Rbf; mitophagy regulators Pink1 and parkin, Bcl-2 family genes Buffy
and Debcl, Insulin receptor signalling genes foxo and trbl and increased disease risk gene α-
synuclein; in DA neurons of Drosophila. I found that the altered expression of these key genes can
have a beneficial, intermediate, and detrimental effect on the health of DA neurons as determined
by lifespan and locomotor functions. Furthermore, I found that the overexpression and inhibition
of Drp1, which encodes a mitochondrial fission protein, could suppress various PD like phenotypes
in Drosophila.


identifier: Bayramov, Elmaddin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Bayramov=3AElmaddin=3A=3A.html>   (2021) A quadruple helix approach to the Regional Innovation System in Corner Brook and surrounding area: case study of a local innovation project applying waste heat from Corner Brook Pulp & Paper Limited for greenhouse operations.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The Regional Innovation System (RIS) model provides important insights into the innovation performance of regions by investigating the interaction of organizations with each other and their environment in these regions. There is a lack of literature on RIS in resource-dependent rural and peripheral regions. This thesis contributes to our understanding of RIS in resource-based regions by investigating the interaction between the quadruple helix of government, post-secondary institutions, the private sector, and community organizations to investigate the current state of RIS in Corner Brook and its surrounding area in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). To achieve this, this study uses context analysis and a case study approach. The thesis reveals a number of challenges and opportunities to further develop RIS in the region. The findings suggest that there is a lack of interaction among key quadruple helix actors of RIS in Corner Brook and its surrounding area, especially between the private sector and other actors of the quadruple helix. On the other hand, strong knowledge infrastructure, the presence of enough support organizations, rich natural resources, quality transportation infrastructure, and close-knit ties within the small community offer good prospects for the future of RIS in the region. Findings from the case study indicate that, although establishing cross-sectoral partnerships with the quadruple helix actors can be challenging and time-consuming, the application of this approach to develop innovation-based projects could offer tremendous benefits to the region. Based on the findings, recommendations are provided for each category of actors involved in the quadruple helix approach to encourage innovations in Corner Brook and the surrounding area.


identifier: Asante, Edward Oteng <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Asante=3AEdward_Oteng=3A=3A.html>   (2021) Business responses to climate change: a case study of selected organizations in Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Climate change is a problem that the world is struggling to solve. Many studies and much research
have been directed toward this course, but we still face its impacts. Recently, scholars have
investigated the relationship between climate change and businesses. Companies have begun
taking responsibility for climate change and are finding ways to combat the issue. Climate change
presents risks and opportunities to businesses. Therefore, this thesis aims to appreciate business
responses to climate change in Newfoundland’s natural resource sector. Using a qualitative study
based on semi-structured interviews, the research examined how the selected businesses are
responding to climate change. The major finding of the study was that Newfoundland lacks
specific climate change regulations and requirements to drive adequate response measures from
companies. It was revealed that the chosen organizations’ significant sources of greenhouse gas
emissions were transportation and the use of equipment and fuel. However, most of the businesses
had implemented measures to reduce their carbon footprint and addressed some climate change
impacts they face. In terms of the influence of institutional pressures on business responses, this
research showed that mimetic force (copying similar actions among firms) played a major role
compared to the other forces. Generally, this thesis highlighted that businesses are not immune to
climate change, hence companies are incorporating the impacts of climate change into their
planning and are adopting actions to address the problem.


identifier: Sanchez Ortega, Marco Antonio <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sanchez_Ortega=3AMarco_Antonio=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Inferring direct genetic effects in family-based designs.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In some genetic association studies, the same genetic loci have been found to be associated
with different complex phenotypes. Such associations may be induced by direct genetic effects or
indirect genetic effects through some intermediate phenotypes. In order to make valid statistical
inference on direct genetic effects on a target phenotype, it is important to distinguish the
causative genetic associations. A directed acyclic graph (DAG) can be used to describe possible
relationships between genetic variants, primary and intermediate phenotypes, and confounding
factors. There are several statistical methods for the aim of estimating direct genetic effects.
This study mainly focuses on a novel approach called causal inference based on estimating equations
(CIEE) with robust Huber-White sandwich variance estimator.
The primary objective of this dissertation is to provide an extension of the CIEE method to
family-based designs. Essentially, we are interested in estimating and testing direct genetic
effects when some dependence exists among pairs of family members. We consider two statistical
models for the analysis of continuous primary phenotypes, which are either completely observed or
subject to censoring. In the first modelling approach, we assume independence between phenotypes of
family members given measured factors and other phenotypes, while in our second approach the
dependence between family members is modelled by a copula function. We formulate unbiased
estimating equations to remove the indirect effect and obtain the direct genetic effect. The
standard error of the direct effect estimator is obtained by using the so-called robust Huber-White
sandwich variance estimator. We use large-sample Wald-type test statistic for testing the absence
of direct genetic effect on the target phenotype. We evaluate the performance of our method by
conducting Monte Carlo simulation studies for the analysis of quantitative and time-to- event
primary traits. The results show that both methods are competitive and provide unbiased direct
effect estimates and valid hypothesis testing. However, in general, the CIEE method under the
copula model has better performance than the working independence model. It yields more accurate
point estimates, valid empirical type I error rates for testing the absence of direct effect and
higher empirical power rates across the considered
simulation scenarios.


identifier: Smith, Nicole C. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Smith=3ANicole_C=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2021) Characterization of Atlantic salmon head kidney leukocyte culture.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) is an economically important farmed and wild fish in several countries including Canada. Macrophages are white blood cells of the immune system of fish and other vertebrates, that are essential in fighting infection and disease. Elucidating how macrophages differentiate and function is necessary to fully understand how the fish immune system functions and to enable the development of methods to maintain healthy fish. Therefore, the objective of my Ph.D. thesis was to characterize the Atlantic salmon adherent head kidney leukocyte (HKL) culture, a macrophage-like model commonly used in fish immunological studies, using various genomic and complementary techniques. Using morphology (Giemsa stain) and functional (phagocytosis) assays, the results of this thesis showed that the Atlantic salmon adherent HKL population changes during culture time. At Day 1 of culture, the results suggest that adherent HKLs are a heterogeneous population of predominantly “monocyte-like”, cells but by Day 5 of culture, the cells become more homogenous selectively enriched with macrophages. RNA-sequencing identified a change in the microRNA (miRNA) profile of Day 1 and Day 5 adherent HKLs, as well as the extracellular vesciles (EVs) released from them. Many of the identified miRNAs are involved in macrophage function and/or differentiation in other species. Furthermore, using a 44K microarray, changes in the mRNA transciprtome were profiled. Macrophage-related transcripts, lipid-related transcripts, immune-related transcripts and transcription factors were identified as differentially expressed between the two cell populations. In addition, GO term enrichment and network analysis identified immune-related and immune-cell differentiation related terms. The results of this thesis provides evidence that the Atlantic salmon HKL culture changes to become predominantly “macrophage-like” by Day 5 of culture and this is something that
should be kept in mind when using HKLs for in vitro fish immunology studies. This research provides novel insight into the genes, miRNAs and molecular pathways involved in the differentiation of Atlantic salmon adherent HKLs from monocyte-like cells to macrophage-like cells.


identifier: Carlson, Ivan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Carlson=3AIvan=3A=3A.html>   (2022) The Genesis of Labrador's Indigenous landscapes: a review of research approaches and current knowledge.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis presents an archaeological and paleoecological literature-based synthesis on the current state of knowledge concerning the development of Labrador’s Indigenous landscapes and proposes a strategy for future research projects examining past human-environment interactions and anthropogenically influenced ecological change in the region. This is achieved through an examination and synthesis of archaeological literature on Labrador’s archaeological culture histories and paleoecological research examining the environmental impacts of past and contemporary Indigenous groups from around the circumpolar north.
A review of 60 available paleoecological research papers demonstrates the efficacy of five methodological approaches in arctic and subarctic regions: geochemical soil analysis, palynology, archaeoentomology, paleolimnology, and dendrochronology. Then, following an account of Labrador’s Indigenous culture histories based on available archaeological literature, a four-point research strategy is proposed to examine Indigenous-environment relationships at various spatial and temporal scales. This includes investigations of the following environmental contexts: (1) regional, through the sampling of lake and pond sediments; (2) local, by examining archaeological site-adjacent peat deposits; (3) site-level, for example through dendrochronological and geochemical soil analysis; and (4) community, including documentation of Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Indigenous toponyms. This research strategy is intended a useful tool for future sustainable research in Labrador but may be applicable more broadly.


identifier: Vidal, Juliana Ladeira <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Vidal=3AJuliana_Ladeira=3A=3A.html>   (2021) Catalysts and advanced materials from waste: diversifying biochar applications towards the implementation of a circular and bio-based economy.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Biochar is a bio-sourced and carbon-based material produced from the
thermochemical processing of wood residues. Besides presenting remarkable chemical
and physical properties, biochar is a tool for carbon dioxide (CO₂) sequestration.
Unfortunately, it has been mainly employed in low value-added fields in pollutant
removal and soil amendment. The diversification of biochar applications is aligned with
the Principles of Green Chemistry and could help to tackle our society’s current
environmental challenges through the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals. The use of a material obtained from waste with recognized carbon
sink potential for the further production of energy and chemicals can reduce the impacts
of consumption, contribute to our good health and well-being, and also mitigate
devastating climate change consequences.
A true sustainable future can only be achieved if interdisciplinary and collaborative
approaches are considered. In this thesis, strategies in the areas of CO₂ transformation,
layered materials exfoliation, polymer composites reinforcement, catalysis, and their
respective applications in biochar research are discussed. Biochar after functionalization
could be applied as catalyst for the synthesis of cyclic carbonates from epoxides using CO₂
as a feedstock. Besides presenting good efficiency (i.e. conversions higher than 78.5%)
and having a wide substrate scope, the catalytic system proposed could be re-used at least
five times without any loss in its activity. The same material could be applied in liquidphase
exfoliation processes to produce biochar nanostructures with improved chemical
and physical properties. Although greener environments for the exfoliation of biochar
were obtained and studied through extensive solvent screening, the functionalization of
this carbon-based material was able to further increase the yield of nanostructures
obtained in benign solvents to human health and the environment. Using different
catalysts, the functionalized biochar produced could then be applied as a polymer additive
for the production of biodegradable poly(e-caprolactone) composites with increased
stiffness, crystallinity and conversions. Preliminary degradation studies also showed a
positive effect of the exfoliated functionalized material in the degradation of poly(ecaprolactone)
under different conditions. Functionalized biochar also showed good
activity (i.e. 75.2% conversion) as the first carbon-based catalyst used for the synthesis of
cyclic ethers via ring-closing C-O/C-O metathesis of their aliphatic counterparts, and as
an efficient alternative system for the synthesis of terpene esters from terpene alcohols
and acetic anhydrides (i.e. conversions higher than 84.3%) under mild conditions.


identifier: Blankson, Genevieve Kuntu <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Blankson=3AGenevieve_Kuntu=3A=3A.html>   (2021) Implementation of climate change adaptation in small municipalities in Newfoundland: process and barriers.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The impacts of climate change are already manifesting, and municipalities (both small and large)
across the globe are attesting to this fact based on the increase and frequent changes in precipitation
and temperatures, causing flooding, and storms in their locality. As a result, municipalities are
implementing a myriad of actions to adapt to such impacts. Using a case study approach, the study
used three small-size municipalities (population under 10,000) in western Newfoundland to
ascertain the process they follow to implement adaptation measures, the role of multi-level
governance in climate change adaptation and barriers they encounter to adapt to climate change.
The findings from the study identified climate impacts in these municipalities, which included
flooding, riverbank erosion and coastal erosion. The study found that climate impacts experienced
differ among municipalities and so were the measures taken to minimise them. The municipalities
under study did not have municipal adaptation plans to provide defined processes or steps to adapt
to climate change. These municipalities instead used reactive methods to adapt to climate change.
Regarding the role of multi-level governance, the study found that municipalities had direct
relationships with the provincial government and that these relationships were most often
perceived to hinder municipalities’ attempts to implement projects of high priority in the
community. Some of the barriers identified in this study include the lack of funding for municipal
adaptation projects, inadequate human resources to take on climate adaptation responsibilities and
a lack of awareness and political interest. To overcome these barriers recommendations suggested
included streamlining access to funding and intensifying public participation and education.


identifier: Greeley, Krista <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Greeley=3AKrista=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Skeletal growth ring microanalysis and growth rates in sea pens from the Laurentian Channel MPA, Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Valuable information can be obtained through sea pen skeletons due to their high longevities and their annually deposited growth rings. Using Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (SEM-EDX), elemental microanalyses were performed on sea pen skeletons to understand the physical basis of their growth rings. Here, the elemental composition and structure of growth bands in Anthoptilum grandiflorum, Anthoptilum murrayi, Pennatula aculeata, Funiculina quandrangularis, Protoptilum carpenteri, and Kophobelemnon stelliferum are shown. Samples were collected using the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) ROPOS in 2017 from the Laurentian Channel marine protected area (MPA) at depths of 400-600 m. Cross-sections of the axes were examined using SEM-EDX, presenting minor element variations within each growth ring (light: 2.64 cps Mg, 47.5 cps Ca; dark: Mg 2.25 cps, Ca 51.2 cps). The data suggests primary differences include large, abundant voids in dark growth rings, and fewer smaller voids in the light growth rings.


identifier: Laforge, Michel P. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Laforge=3AMichel_P=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2021) Movement and selection by migratory ungulates in dynamic landscapes: plasticity and individual difference in a changing world.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
A fundamental aspect of many ecological systems is that they fluctuate in habitat quality through time. A common strategy among species is therefore to time reproduction, which is energetically expensive, to when resources are most abundant. A challenge for animals in adopting such a strategy is dealing with environmental change at intra- and inter-annual scales. Within years, migrating individuals can track areas of resource abundance throughout the season to increase energy intake. Alternatively, individuals may time reproduction to coincide with when resources are most abundant, at the cost of being able to track those resources spatially due to young that reduce movement capacity. For either strategy to be successful, individuals must deal with interannual changes in the timing of resource abundance, which threatens to decouple resources and consumers via trophic asynchrony. This is especially important in light of climate change which continues to advance the timing of spring events. Animals or populations can cope with this change in the timing of spring in two ways: individuals can be plastic to change and acclimate their behaviour to annual conditions, and/or populations can adapt if there are consistent differences among individuals in the timing of life-history behaviours that are transmissible across generations, resulting in selective pressures that result in an adaptive response. I tested these ideas in caribou (Rangifer tarandus) in Newfoundland and in migratory herbivores in Wyoming, USA. I demonstrate that caribou follow a gradient of melting snow to time their migrations, and as such give birth during the peak of resource availability (green-up). I then demonstrate that timing of migration and timing of parturition are plastic to timing of melting snow and are correlated. I tested for an effect of forage, conspecific density, and predation risk on calf mortality in two populations of caribou and found that avoidance of predators predicted calf survival in one of the two populations. Finally, I found that migratory
ungulates in Wyoming had high repeatability in migration timing and were plastic to the timing of annual green-up. The results of my thesis are overall positive news for the conservation of migratory herbivores faced with changing environmental conditions in the Anthropocene.


identifier: Huque, Mohammad Mojammel <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Huque=3AMohammad_Mojammel=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Systematic investigation of cuttings transport behavior in horizontal and inclined drilling operation.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Hole cleaning and cuttings transport play a vital role in the drilling operation. Various drilling problems such as a reduction in penetration rate, an increase in the torque and drag, and an increase in the potential of differential sticking are often related to poor cuttings transport from a wellbore. A variety of parameters, including the fluid rheology, mud velocity, cuttings size, and drill pipe inclination generally influence the cuttings transport performance. Although several experimental and modelling research investigations have been conducted in this area, there are controversial findings about the effect of different parameters on cuttings transport. For instance, the interactions among the parameters during cuttings transport which have not been adequately investigated. In this thesis, we systematically study the effect of drilling parameters on cuttings transport, especially interaction effects of the drilling parameters through experiments and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method.
An extensive experimental study was conducted to investigate the flow behavior of solid cuttings based on Newtonian and non-Newtonian Herschel Bulkley fluid models. Experiments were performed to simulate solid transport behavior in horizontal and near horizontal well trajectories. A high-speed imaging technology was used to visualize the cuttings transport behavior in the annulus section. This visualization tool validates the mechanistic three-layer model of cuttings transport and transition from a stagnant solid bed to a homogeneous single layer model of cuttings transport mechanism. An Electrical Resistance Tomography (ERT) system was used to observe the cutting transport which is capable of providing instantaneous cuttings volume fraction in the annular section of the experimental system.
ERT data shows cuttings concentration versus with change in fluid rheology, fluid velocity, eccentricity, drill pipe rotation, rate of penetration, and inclination angle. Experimental studies in the horizontal wells show that cuttings transport capability of non-Newtonian fluid increases upon an increase in fluid velocity, and drill pipe rotation. A higher viscous fluid carries more cuttings in the dispersed phase; however, transport capability reduces significantly through suspension mechanism with increasing fluid velocity and drill pipe rotation. A comparison of four different non-Newtonian fluid cases shows that turbulence plays a key role in cuttings transport in the horizontal well regardless of fluid rheology. This experimental study reveals that a higher ‘Minimum Transport Velocity (MTV)’ is required to move a solid dune in the annulus for a highly viscous fluid.
CFD modeling approach is employed to simulate the cuttings transport behaviors in the horizontal and inclined wellbore cases. Cuttings transport in the wellbore annulus represents a solid-liquid multiphase flow phenomenon. The Eulerian-Eulerian multiphase flow model is adopted to describe the flow characteristics in the wellbore annular section. A proper Design of Experiments (DOE) is used to systematically study the interactions among the independent variables. A comprehensive parametric sensitivity analysis is then conducted to obtain a better understanding of the relationship between the input variables and the target parameters (cutting transport performance). It is found that the mud viscosity, mud velocity, and drill pipe rotation have a positive impact on cuttings transport, whereas the cuttings size and annular clearance show a significant adverse effect on cuttings transport performance in the horizontal wells. Although both drilling mud viscosity and velocity exhibit the positive effect, the interaction among them shows a negative influence on cuttings transport. Analysis shows that the cuttings with a size of 1 to 2 mm are difficult to be cleaned, compared to larger cuttings. According to the CFD investigation,
the critical inclination angle prone to hole clogging is a function of a wide range of flow rates and fluid rheologies. Also, this study investigated two factor interaction of fluid rheology and velocity for the inclined wellbore orientation. Finally, a generalized expression of cutting transport efficiency is proposed for the inclined well considering two factor and three factor interactions.


identifier: Musah, Malika <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Musah=3AMalika=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Advanced tongue root harmony in Anii-Gisida.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis provides an analysis of vowel harmony and positional neutralization in Anii-
Gisida. Anii-Gisida is spoken in the northern part of Benin, eastern Togo, and the
central-eastern part of Ghana. It has an eleven-vowel system, which is unique in that all
the vowels are active in [ATR] harmony processes (Morton, 2012, 2014). Anii-Gisida
has five [+ATR] vowels, /i, e, ə, o, u/ and six [-ATR] vowels, /ɪ, ɛ, ɨ, a, ɔ, ʊ/. All the
vowels have a harmonic counterpart except the high central vowel /ɨ/. The high central
vowel, however, occurs exclusively with [-ATR] vowels in a word. I argue that all the
vowels, /i, ɪ, e, ɛ, ɨ, ə, a, o, ɔ, ʊ, u/ are contrastive for [ATR], including the high central
vowel /ɨ/. I compare two approaches to contrastive feature specification, the Minimal
Difference approach (e.g., Nevins, 2010) and the Successive Division Algorithm (e.g.,
Dresher, 2009), to determine which approach best accounts for vowel harmony
patterning and positional neutralization in Anii-Gisida. The former approach does not
result in contrastive specification of [ATR] for the Anii-Gisida high central vowel; and
allows the non-contrastive vowel /ɨ/ to participate in [ATR] harmony. However, the
latter allows all vowels to be contrastively specified for the harmonic feature; and
allows only contrastive features to participate in [ATR] harmony. It is only the SDA
version of contrastive specification that predicts that the high central vowel /ɨ/ can be
phonologically active while also restricting phonological activity to contrastive features.
The SDA also accounts for positional neutralization and markedness facts in Anii-
Gisida. I propose that the features, [ATR], [low], [back], [high] and [round] are the
features that divide the Anii-Gisida vowel inventory in a hierarchical tree. In the
proposed hierarchical tree, the features ([±high] and [±round]) are ordered lower in the
tree. These are the features that neutralize in affix position. Positional neutralization is
crucial to distinguishing between marked and unmarked values in Anii-Gisida. The [-
high] and [-round] vowels do not occur in the affixes. I argue that these feature values
are marked relative to [+high] and [+round] which do occur in affixes. The proposed
feature tree accounts for both [ATR] harmony and positional neutralization in Anii-
Gisida.


identifier: Savoury, Ryan Bruce <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Savoury=3ARyan_Bruce=3A=3A.html>   (2021) Can anodal tDCS of the motor cortex affect exercise performance of the ipsilateral or contralateral knee extensors?  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has risen in popularity over the past two decades, in part due to research suggesting it can be used to provide muscular performance improvements; namely increased maximal voluntary force production and reduced fatigue. While substantial conflict in the literature exists as to whether tDCS is truly an effective ergogenic aid, studies almost exclusively examine performance in muscles contralateral to the stimulated cortical area. This leaves a substantial gap in understanding about how muscles ipsilateral to the stimulated site are affected. Additionally, with most participants involved in studies utilizing tDCS being male, and no studies directly comparing the effects between sexes, the viability of tDCS to increase exercise performance for female participants is not well understood.


identifier: Mousavi, Seyed Mohammad <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Mousavi=3ASeyed_Mohammad=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Design, simulation, and analysis of a PV power and reverse osmosis system for a house in Iran.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Electricity demand is increasing and new energy resources are required, especially
environment-friendly resources like PV systems. On the other hand, water scarcity is
another growing issue in the modern world, and the availability of potable water is a
concern. Therefore, designing a system to address both problems in one solution is needed.
In this thesis, a photovoltaic (PV) power system and reverse osmosis (RO) system were
designed, simulated, and analyzed for a rural house in Tehran, Iran. Water system
configuration in the house was investigated, RO system components were merged into the
system, and a new design was proposed. RO load and house load were calculated, and
different hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) were introduced. Optimization results
with HOMER Pro software suggested that the PV battery RO system had several
advantages over other systems. Moreover, the software offered optimum low cost system
sizing. Then the PV and RO system dynamic model was introduced to check the behaviour
of the system. This part was conducted in two phases; in the first phase, a transfer functionbased
model for a small-scale RO unit was introduced, and the model precisely mimicked
the system's behaviour for different inputs. In the second phase, components of the PV
system were simulated in MATLAB/Simulink, and it was proved that the proposed
electrical system powers the loads with a fixed and stable voltage and frequency in all the
conditions. Finally, three different maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques
were designed and simulated for the PV system and shown that the fuzzy logic (FL)
controller offers better results.


identifier: Anderson, Timothy Simon <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Anderson=3ATimothy_Simon=3A=3A.html>   (2021) Toward the development of sustainable polymers – zinc and iron complexes for poly(carbonate), poly(ether) and poly(ester) synthesis.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In recent decades, significant effort has been put toward the development of sustainable polymers to compliment or replace the materials currently in use. Two major classes of interest are poly(carbonate)s and poly(ester)s. The allure of these stems from the materials that are used to synthesize them. Copolymerization of carbon dioxide and epoxides is one method of synthesizing poly(carbonate) and carbon dioxide levels in our atmosphere continue to rise – a result of anthropogenic activity – therefore, utilizing the small molecule for various transformations is convenient and necessary. The most common epoxides used in poly(carbonate) synthesis are produced from petroleum but there are naturally sourced compounds as well. Similarly, poly(ester) is produced mainly in the form of poly(ethylene terephthalate) but recently, naturally sourced reagents (i.e. lactide) have begun commercial production. The synthesis of the polymers is often facilitated through metal-based catalysts that encourage controlled reactivity between the substrates.
In this work, a zinc amino-bis(phenolate) complex was investigated for catalytic activity toward carbon dioxide and cyclohexene oxide copolymerization in the presence of benzyl alcohol co-catalyst producing poly(ether-co-carbonate) with high molecular weights containing both ether and carbonate linkages. The catalyst was active at 1 bar carbon dioxide – a trait shared by some of the most active catalysts in this area. The complex also exhibited activity toward copolymerization of carbon dioxide and limonene oxide – a naturally sourced
epoxide. Poly(limonene carbonate) typically exhibits physical properties more similar to commercially produced bisphenol-A poly(carbonate)s.
Iron complexes were also examined for carbon dioxide and epoxide coupling as part of a collaboration between the groups of Drs. Kerton and Kozak with my own contributions studying three Fe(III) amino-bis(phenolate) complexes. Toward cyclohexene oxide and carbon dioxide coupling in the presence of bis(triphenylphosphine)iminium chloride co-catalyst, only cyclic cyclohexene carbonate was observed in low yields. However, the activity of two of the complexes toward lactide ring-opening polymerization was high. Furthermore, co- and terpolymerization reactions involving lactide, phthalic anhydride and epoxides produced poly(ester-co-ether)s with narrow dispersities.
A zinc alkylperoxo complex was synthesized and structurally characterized. This could be applied toward the epoxidation of α-ß unsaturated ketones and subsequent copolymerization with carbon dioxide in one-pot in low yields. This represents the first instance of poly(carbonate) synthesis from epoxide-devoid starting materials in one-pot.


identifier: Gentile, Alessandra <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Gentile=3AAlessandra=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Integrating seasonal spatiotemporal interspecies and habitat dynamics to identify and hindcast bycatch hotspots of the yellowtail flounder fishery on the Grand Bank.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A long-standing problem in commercial fisheries is the incidental catch of species that are not targeted by the fishery, called bycatch. Bycatch inflicts unnecessary mortalities and potential economic loss. An economically important fishery with bycatch is the commercial yellowtail flounder bottom trawl fishery on the Grand Bank of Newfoundland. My thesis aims to mitigate bycatch in the yellowtail flounder fishery by using novel spatiotemporal models to identify dynamic bycatch hotspots. In my first chapter, I provide an overview of the yellowtail flounder fishery. In my second chapter, I run seasonal multispecies spatiotemporal models to estimate interspecies bycatch relationships using habitat variables. In my third chapter I perform short term retrospective forecasts of these models to estimate bycatch hotspots relationships. By understanding the spatiotemporal dynamics of interspecies relationships with dynamic habitat covariates, and developing a retrospective forecast model, I provide a framework for future bycatch mitigation strategies to contribute to the sustainability and economic efficiency of this fishery.


identifier: Dowden, Benjamin R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Dowden=3ABenjamin_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Machine learning for the harsh environment: applications in sea ice classification and satellite magnetic fault recovery.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis presents the development of two machine learning navigation modules for
harsh environment applications. The first application investigates semantic segmentation
using neural networks for sea ice detection and classification in polar oceans.
Two popular generic architectures, SegNet and PSPNet101 are used to segment images.
Transfer learning is performed using two custom datasets, one with four classes:
ice, ocean, vessel, and sky, i.e., sea ice detection dataset, and the second with eight
classes: ocean, vessel, sky, lens artifacts, first-year ice, new ice, grey ice, and multiyear
ice, i.e., sea ice classification dataset. The Nathaniel B. Palmer imagery, which captured
2-month footage of the icebreaker completing an Antarctic expedition was used
in the creation of both datasets. A subset of the dataset was labeled to generate a
240-image training set for sea ice detection achieving an accuracy of 98% classification
for the 26-image test set. The sea ice classification dataset consists of 1,090 labeled
images achieving accuracies of 98.3% or greater for all ice types for the 104-image
test set.
The second application investigates a new attitude error parameterization and
a machine learning regression model for small satellite attitude fault recovery systems
experiencing magnetometer bias faults. A simulation environment is developed
to mimic an orbit of the international space station, and simulates both the magnetometer
and the fine sun sensor on-board a small satellite. A right quaternion
error parameterization is presented to ensure consistent error bound growth during
the eclipse period of orbits where only a subset of sensor data is available. Using the
improved error bounds a fault detection method using Mahalanobis distance is implemented to
flag any faults in the system. After the fault detection, the fault recovery
uses a regression sliding window optimizer to determine the unknown magnetometer
bias that the sensor encounters. The proposed method demonstrates improved
root mean squared error and error bound consistency achievable using the right error
formulation for magnetic bias fault detection and recovery applications of small
satellites.


identifier: MacDonald, Kelly J. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/MacDonald=3AKelly_J=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Movers and shakers: exploring the complex dynamics of aquatic biological invasions.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Human-mediated introductions of non-native species have provoked innumerable biological invasions, which can have a suite of adverse effects on the communities into which they are introduced. Despite extensive research, there remains a need in invasion ecology for simple methods of predicting how an introduced species will spread and become established. While I predicted that spread can be modelled simply using the characteristics of the invading population, establishment should be explained by the characteristics of the receiving ecosystem. Using the brown trout (Salmo trutta) invasion on the Island of Newfoundland as a case study, I fit a reaction-diffusion model to brown trout population data to predict expected spread and test these predictions against extensive occurrence data. I use statistical models to test the influence of a suite of environmental variables on the establishment of brown trout within the invasion range. I find that observed spread in Newfoundland is slow compared to invasions elsewhere and that two landscape environmental variables show evidence of explaining establishment patterns, but their influence is likely moderated by other factors. My study contextualises the mechanisms contributing to slow aquatic invasions, revealing that studies need to integrate a variety of methods to elucidate the processes governing biological invasions.


identifier: Galley, Christopher George <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Galley=3AChristopher_George=3A=3A.html>   (2022) The development of the surface geometry inversion method with applications to modeling seafloor hydrothermal alteration and associated mineralization.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
As the exploration and exploitation of seafloor polymetallic deposits appears to be the next
frontier in mineral exploration, developing and optimizing remote sensing methods to locate
and study these deposits is becoming increasingly important for understanding the resource
potential and environmental implications of mining from the deep seafloor. One such deposit
type is seafloor massive sulfide (SMS) deposits, which form on and below the seafloor at sites
of high-temperature hydrothermal fluid venting at a variety of tectonic settings where seafloor
extension and magmatism takes place. SMS deposits have promise to offer new sources of Cu,
Zn, Pb, Au, and Ag, but the remote environment in which they are located creates difficulties
for their discovery and resource estimates. In particular, the proportion of ore found below the
seafloor, versus that found within the sulfide mound, has only been estimated from a limited
number of collected drillcores. These cores are expensive, with respect to time and money, and
unless collected in large numbers, and to sufficient depth, offer limited geometric information of
the subseafloor components of the deposit. Alternatively, magnetic voxel-based inverse models
can be used to locate SMS deposits as magnetic lows, due to the hydrothermal fluids stripping
much of the magnetite from the alteration zone, and the data can be inverted with a surface
geometry inverse (SGI) modelling method to resolve subseafloor structures. Additionally gravity
inverse models can be used to model the SMS deposits' massive sulfide layer as a density high.
The SGI method inverts for the position of nodes in a wireframe mesh rather than physical
properties within a fixed mesh. This thesis demonstrates the SGI method to be an excellent
tool for modelling the contact surfaces between the sulfide mound, the hydrothermally altered
chloritized basalt, and least altered basaltic host rock. The volumes within these surfaces can
then be used to calculate an estimated tonnage for the ore located below the seafloor, developing
a better resource model for SMS deposits.


identifier: Kelly, Paula <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kelly=3APaula=3A=3A.html>   (2022) An institutional ethnographic exploration of nurses' work in labour and delivery.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Background: Although intermittent auscultation during low-risk labour is recommended (Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Canada, 2007, 2018, 2020), nurses often use continuous electronic monitoring to assess fetal heart rate during the intrapartum period irrespective of women’s risk levels. Electronic fetal monitoring confines women to the birthing bed, thus preventing positions and movements that leverage gravity in the natural progress of labour. Its routine use also increases the risk of adverse effects of instrumental vaginal and surgical births. While some nurse researchers have examined barriers to the implementation of best practice guidelines during fetal health surveillance, research exploring the associated broader social forces to gain a deeper understanding of nurses’ work in labour and delivery, has not yet been conducted.
Purpose: The purpose of this dissertation research was to gain insight into nurses’ work by examining how nurses carry out fetal health surveillance, particularly how and why nurses choose to use continuous electronic fetal monitoring. The specific research questions were: What are the everyday experiences of labour and delivery nurses related to fetal health surveillance? What social relations organize and influence how labour and delivery nurses conduct fetal health surveillance? Answering these questions is the critical first step in promoting best practices in the nursing care of labouring women.
Methods: An institutional ethnographic study was conducted in a labour and delivery unit. Data sources included documents (e.g., national practice guidelines, unit policies, and patient chart forms), semi-structured interviews of inter-disciplinary practitioners, and participant observation. Data analysis included indexing, mapping, and writing accounts.
Findings: Powerful textually-mediated ruling relations organize and influence nurses’ work. Notably, biomedical and medical-legal discourses infiltrate the “boss text” (i.e., national practice guidelines) and establish an ideological space that influences fetal health surveillance policies and procedures (e.g., electronic fetal monitoring). Nurses’ everyday work decisions are shaped by organizational texts (i.e., patient chart forms) that require considerable time devoted to documentation of biophysical data (e.g., fetal heart rate) and limit focus on holistic nursing care practices.
Conclusions: Labour and delivery nurses are choosing continuous electronic fetal monitoring over intermittent auscultation to fulfill mandated documentation requirements that are regulated by biomedical and medical-legal discourses. Documentation reflects the influence of these discursive ruling relations—primarily the valuing of biomedical, technological interventions over supportive nursing care measures and safeguarding the institution against risk of litigation.


identifier: Guerra, Nigel Ivan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Guerra=3ANigel_Ivan=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Effects of replacing dietary fish oil and fish meal with microbial oil and algal biomass on lipid class, total fatty acid and phospholipid fatty acid composition of Atlantic salmon liver and muscle tissues.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: With the continuous growth of aquaculture comes a growing demand for an alternative lipid source for fish oil (FO) and fish meal (FM) in aquafeeds. Certain microorganisms provide a potential sustainable replacement for FO and FM due to their content of omega-3 (ω3) long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are essential for the growth and health of fish. Two feeding trials were conducted to determine the effects of replacing FO and FM with oil and biomass from two different microorganism species. The first feeding trial comprised of replacing FO with a microbial oil (MO) derived from a novel strain, Schizochytrium sp. (strain T18), in diets for Atlantic salmon. Four experimental diets were developed: a fish oil control diet (FO), a blend of fish oil/canola oil control diet (FO/CO), a fish oil replacement with low proportions of microbial oil diet (LMO), and a fish oil replacement with high proportions of microbial oil diet (HMO). After 16 weeks of feeding, there were no significant effects on growth parameters across the dietary treatments. Fatty acid profiles reflected the diets with DHA being present in high proportions in the tissues, especially in the cellular membrane. The purpose of the second feeding trial was to reduce FO and replacing FM with algal biomass (AB) derived from Pavlova sp. strain CCMP459 (Pav459) in diets for Atlantic salmon. Three experimental diets were developed: a fish meal control diet (FM), a blend of a fish meal/algal biomass Pav459 diet (FM/AB), and a complete FM replacement with algal biomass Pav459 diet (AB). After 12 weeks of feeding, again, there was no significant effect on growth paraments, and the fatty acid profiles also reflected those of the diets. The DHA was present in high proportions in the tissues for all dietary treatments, especially the cellular membrane. The stable isotope data suggested a direct integration of EPA and DHA and not biosynthesis from its precursor ALA.


identifier: Alfosool, Ali M. S. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Alfosool=3AAli_M=2E_S=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2021) ALF-Score: a predictive, personalized, transferable and network-based walkability scoring system.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Measuring the environments around us, including cities, roads, and social environments
is crucial to understanding human behaviour. This knowledge can help us
predict how aspects of the environment influence behaviour and health. Walkability
is a popular measure of the environment used to describe various aspects of the built
and social environment associated with physical activity and public health. Most
existing methods are missing or underutilizing some crucial parameters that substantially
impact measuring accurate walkability scores. For instance, road network
structure is an integral part of mobility and should be an essential part of walkability
but is not widely discussed in existing methods. Moreover, most walkability measures
provide area-based walkability, or their scores are distributed with low spatial
resolution. Additionally, individuals’ opinions are not considered when measuring
walkability. Furthermore, walkability is subjective, and although multiple definitions
of walkability exist, there is no single agreed-upon definition. Existing measures take
a one-size-fits-all approach without providing any personalization based on users’ perspectives,
leaving much more desired. In this research, Active Living Feature Score or
ALF-Score¹ is proposed, which is a novel approach to measure walkability scores more
accurately and efficiently while addressing existing limitations. ALF-Score incorporates
road network structure to derive features such as network science centralities
and network embedding, which are crucial in understanding the road structure better.
ALF-Score utilizes user opinion to build a high-confidence ground-truth used
to generate models capable of estimating walkability scores based on user opinion. By incorporating machine learning approaches in its pipelines, ALF-Score achieved a
much higher granularity and higher spatial resolution of walkability scores at point
level. ALF-Score introduced two new methods: 1) a combined graph reduction and
reconstruction technique that focuses on reducing the number of nodes in a road
network achieving an average of 77% reduction while preserving the core structure
of the road network, and 2) the Generalized Linear Extension of Partial Orders or
GLEPO, which enables the conversion of relative rankings to absolute scores. Moreover,
ALF-Score+ extends ALF-Score by incorporating user demographics such as
age and gender to capture profile clusters that help provide personalized walkability
scores suitable for varying individual profiles. Additionally, ALF-Score++ improves
the overall scalability of ALF-Score and further extends this measure by incorporating
transferability to allow reusability of already-learned knowledge and previously
detected patterns as a base for further and continued learning to help reduce training
time, improve prediction accuracy, reduce resource consumption, and lower the
number of labels needed for training. Most importantly, ALF-Score++ enables zero-user-
input application, which allows predicting walkability scores for any location on
the road without training models for that particular region with a low transferability
loss of 13.28 units using Deep Neural Network approaches, and a direct training loss
of only 4.56 units using shallow learners (MAE on a scale of 0-100).
¹https://alfscore.com/


identifier: Webber, Valerie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Webber=3AValerie=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Epistemic injustice and public health policy: the case of occupational health in porn production.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This dissertation examines occupational health protocols used to prevent the transmission of STIs
and HIV in porn production, both those imposed by governmental health agencies and those
developed by porn performers themselves. There is much disagreement over what protocols are
best for the industry. Using critical interpretive medical anthropology from a sex worker rights
perspective, this research asks what is at stake in these disputes over appropriate porn health
practice. Qualitative data was collected through 40 interviews with 36 porn workers, in-person
and digital fieldwork across several sites, textual analysis of relevant media and documents, and
auto-ethnography as a porn performer. I trace how government and lobby groups have routinely
discounted porn performers’ testimony about what would make their working conditions safe and
comfortable, and the many ways that the porn industry has responded. In doing so, I make three
primary arguments: First, porn workers have been ignored in conversations around the
management of their occupational health. This is an example of epistemic injustice—the state of
being wronged in one’s capacity to know and be known. Second, this marginalization puts
pressure on the porn industry to focus on securing legitimacy among mainstream healthcare
critics—what I call the Responsibility Defense. When pushed to focus on respectability, the
occupational health solutions produced by the porn industry reinforce rather than challenge status
quo sexual health practice, which can lead to exclusionary, discriminatory, and ableist
occupational health protocols, like the exclusion of HIV+ performers. On the other hand, when
porn performers manage health and safety on their own terms, they offer compelling alternatives
that trouble and expand key concepts—like autonomy, community, and consent—that form the
heart of public and occupational health praxis. Third, this demonstrates how important it is for
public health and health policy makers to centre epistemically marginalized subjects—not just to
iii
ensure that policies meet the needs of those they are meant to support, but also to ensure that we
benefit from the rich and unique contributions of all social members.


identifier: Yang, Zhiding <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Yang=3AZhiding=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Evaluation and improvement of methods for estimating sea surface wave parameters from X-band marine radar data.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfounadland.

abstract:
In this thesis, several algorithms have been proposed for estimating ocean wave parameters
from X-band marine radar data, i.e., wave direction, wave period, and significant wave
height. In the first part of this study, the accuracy of wave direction and period estimation
from X-band marine radar images under different rain rates is analyzed, and a sub-image
selection scheme is proposed to mitigate the rain effect. Firstly, each radar image is divided
into multiple sub-images, and the sub-images with relatively clear wave signatures are
identified based on a random-forest based classiffication model. Then, wave direction is estimated
by performing a Radon transform (RT) on each valid sub-image. As for wave period
estimation, a random-forest based regression method is proposed. Texture features are first
extracted from each pixel of the selected sub-image using the gray-level co-occurrence matrix
(GLCM) and combined as a feature vector. Those feature vectors extracted from both
rain-free and rain-contaminated training samples are then used to train a random-forest
based wave period regression model. Shore-based X-band marine radar images, simultaneous
rain rate data, as well as buoy-measured wave data collected on the West Coast of the
United States are used to analyze the rain effect on wave parameter estimation accuracy
and to validate the proposed method. Experimental results show that the proposed subimage
selection scheme improves the estimation accuracy of both wave direction and wave
period under different rain rates, with reductions of root-mean-square errors (RMSEs) by
6.9ﾟ, 6.0ﾟ, 4.9ﾟ, and 1.0ﾟ for wave direction under rainless, light rain, moderate rain, and
heavy rain conditions, respectively. As for wave period estimation, the RMSEs decrease by
0.13 s, 0.20 s, 0.30 s, and 0.20 s under those four rainfall intensity levels, respectively.
The second part of research focuses on the estimation of significant wave height (Hₛ).
A temporal convolutional network (TCN)-based model is proposed to retrieve Hₛ from X-band
marine radar image sequences. Three types of features are first extracted from radar
image sequences based on signal to noise ratio (SNR), ensemble empirical mode decomposition
(EEMD), and GLCM methods, respectively. Then, feature vectors are input into the
proposed TCN-based regression model to produce Hₛ estimation. Radar data are collected
from a moving vessel at the East Coast of Canada, as well as simultaneously collected wave
data from several wave buoys deployed nearby are used for model training and testing. After
averaging, experimental results show that the TCN-based model further improves the Hₛ estimation
accuracy, with reductions of RMSEs by 0.33 m and 0.10 m, respectively, compared
to the SNR-based and the EEMD-based linear fitting methods. It has also been found that
with the same feature extraction scheme, TCN outperforms other machine-learning based
algorithms including support vector regression (SVR) and the convolutional gated recurrent
unit (CGRU) network.


identifier: De Moura Junior, Jeronimo <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/De_Moura_Junior=3AJeronimo=3A=3A.html>   (2021) Universal physics-based rate of penetration prediction model for rotary drilling.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The drilling process is one of the most important and expensive aspects of the oil and gas industry. Drilling is required during mining for different ore production processes such as blasting and large drilling operations. Overall, it contributes significantly to the total cost of mining. As a result, an accurate prediction of the rate of penetration (ROP) is crucial for drilling performance optimization and contributes directly to reducing drilling costs. Knowledge of drilling performance is a powerful tool to aid in the development of a consistent drilling plan as well as to anticipate issues that may arise during drilling operations. Several approaches, with varying degrees of complexity and accuracy, have been tested to predict drilling performance, but all have shown several limitation to predict the complete drilling performance curve including locate the founder point. This limitation can be extended to their capacity of covering different drilling scenarios with high accuracy. In this thesis (manuscript style) a review of the history of drilling performance prediction is conducted with emphasis on the rotary drilling of small and large diameters. The approaches are grouped into two categories: physics-based models and data-driven models. Due to the low complexity of the physics-based models and the scarcity of drilling performance prediction research that reports the founder point location, a novel physics-based ROP prediction model for rotary drilling that includes the founder point location is presented. This model presents high accuracy to predict the drilling performance for fixed cutter drill bit, roller-cone drill bit, and large diameter drilling operations. The behaviors of the new model constants (drillability coefficient and drillability constant term) are discussed when analyzed in relation to the unconfined compressive strength (UCS), bit diameter, and rotary speed. Additionally, a new experimental setup approach was developed based on the circular movement of the full-scale disc cutter that are normally used in raise boring and tunnel boring machines. This setup will permit to simulate the large diameter drilling operations in laboratory scale aiming the understanding of the fragmentation process and application of optimization to this scenario.


identifier: Ature, Abdul- Rasheed Abubakari <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ature=3AAbdul-_Rasheed_Abubakari=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Local engagement and success of small-scale renewable energy projects in remote areas: insights from Ramea’s wind energy projects.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Access to clean, affordable, and sustainable energy remains a significant challenge in off-grid areas across the world. As the energy transition progresses, relevant stakeholders in the energy sector have acknowledged the potential of small-scale renewable energy (SSRE) in addressing this challenge. However, studies have demonstrated situations where the development and uptake of some SSRE schemes fail to realize their intended purposes, especially due to ineffective local engagement by project proponents, and partly to capacity gaps of beneficiaries. Leveraging the cases of two wind energy demonstration projects in the Town of Ramea, Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), this thesis investigates how the projects’ proponents engaged the community in the activities of the projects. It also explores the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) of the projects, intending to unearth key factors that can impact the successes or failures of test projects. By using document reviews, site observation, and in-depth interviews with the various stakeholders of the projects, the study established that there was an early, genuine, and multi-faceted engagement with the local community. The community’s premium wind resources, coupled with both local and external interest in wind energy development, present key opportunities for the energy transition in the Town. Despite contributing to a reduction in the use of diesel, creation of employment, and the development of wind-hydrogen-diesel integration control technology, one of the projects has been discontinued due to technical challenges with part of the project’s equipment. Competing energy priorities, rate uniformity in NL, and large-sized diesel engines in Ramea significantly challenged the optimum integration of wind energy in the island’s electricity grid and limited the benefits the community enjoys from the projects. I conclude that effective local engagement may not be enough to ensure the success of SSRE projects in off-grid areas, recognizing that the proponents’ internal organizational issues and the broader energy ecosystem affect the success of demonstration projects as well.


identifier: Oton, Cyprian <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Oton=3ACyprian=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Design and control of a hybrid power system for a remote telecommunication facility in Nigeria.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The proliferation of mobile base transceiver station sites in Nigeria comes with a growing need to
address those sites' source of power. Sustainability and mitigating harmful environmental impact
caused by the diesel-only method of power generation is of great concern. This thesis examines
the design, optimal sizing, and control of a Hybrid Power system to replace the current diesel-only
option on the site. An outdoor base station site in Agbaja, a rural settlement in Kogi State, Nigeria
is used as a case study. HOMER pro is used to size the system based on the measured load and
available renewable resources. The PV/Diesel/Battery configuration resulted in the least Net
Present Cost (NPC), Cost of Energy (COE), and unmet energy. The system is sized as DC for
better performance and elimination of multiple energy conversion experienced in the AC system.
A comparison between this proposed system and the current system shows a reduction in operating
expenditure (OPEX) by 75% with zero unmet energy. Each component of the system is designed
and simulated in a MATLAB/Simulink environment and connected to form the whole system. The
transient behaviour of the system is studied under varying solar irradiation to ascertain the stability
of the power supplied to the sensitive telecommunication load. The result shows a stable power
output to the load at rated voltage of 48 V. Also, a low-cost open source Internet of Things (IoT)-
based Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system using ESP32 and Arduino IoT
Cloud for monitoring and control of the system using a widget-based dashboard is also presented.
Current, voltage, temperature, and humidity sensors are programmed to measure relevant
parameters of interest, and the measured Data is processed and parsed to the Arduino IoT Cloud
via a Wi-Fi network communication channel. A mobile application is also deployed to aid remote
monitoring and control as well. LEDs are used to implement a high temperature and low voltage
control logic. The prototype used to demonstrate this only cost $88.34 USD.


identifier: Petty, Ian C. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Petty=3AIan_C=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2019) "As elegant as they are novel": exploring consumption patterns of eighteenth-century ceramics from Newfoundland and the northeast.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
A bustling trade in ceramics is amply visible in the archaeological record of the
eastern seaboard of North America, though a comprehensive study of ceramic
consumption within Newfoundland has yet to emerge. This research will explore the
distribution and usage of ceramics in eighteenth-century Newfoundland. Ceramic
collections were studied with an eye to exploring analytic variables including domestic
vs. commercial and urban vs. rural settings. Two Newfoundland sites were compared
with two sites in the Northeastern United States. The four sites are the Ayre’s Premises in
St. John’s, NL, the Goodridge Premises in Renews, NL, the John Tayler House in
Stillwater, NY, and The Three Cranes Tavern in Boston, MA. The results form a useful
dataset to investigate the consumption patterns between two vastly different geographic
regions, shaped by differing political, economic, and social systems.


identifier: Atiwesh, Ghada <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Atiwesh=3AGhada=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Lignin extraction, biodegradation and usage.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Lignin is a complex biopolymer abundantly found in all vascular plants. It plays a key role in building connective tissues and giving them strength, rigidity, and resistance to environmental factors such as pathogens. Extracted lignin finds diverse applications in the commercial sector with immense potential in novel value-added applications. Therefore, it is important to develop optimum and sustainable processes for lignin extraction. To this end, one of the aims of the present research was to examine different lignin extraction methods on common wood species present in Newfoundland, Canada – balsam fir, pine, spruce (softwood), birch, maple, and oak (hardwood). Two different lignin extraction methods were studied: (1) the Formacell method, which uses acetic acid/formic acid/water; and (2) the BioEB method, which uses only formic acid/water.
Various parameters were tested, including solvent concentration, temperature, cooking time, to determine the most optimal lignin extraction conditions. The results of this study can be applied to inform and improve industrial lignin extraction processes to obtain better yields in the most optimal manner.
This thesis also discusses the latest developments in value-added uses of extracted lignin for the preparation of novel bio-based materials. Lastly, it provides a review of the mechanisms of microbial biodegradation of lignin. These microbial ligninolytic mechanisms provide a host of possibilities to overcome the challenges of using harmful chemicals to degrade lignin biowaste in many industries.


identifier: Ashoshan, Hanan M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ashoshan=3AHanan_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Extractive desulfurization of fuel oils using ionic liquids.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The sulphur content of transportation fuels must be reduced in high-sulphur crude oil by desulfurization. Traditionally, desulfurization methods have required harsh reaction conditions and are not very effective at removing refractory sulfur compounds such as benzothiophene (BT), dibenzothiophene (DBT) and 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene (4,6-DMDBT). Alternative methods, such as ionic liquid (IL)-mediated desulfurization, are both effective and environmentally friendly. Isolants ideal for desulfurization are required to be recyclable, insoluble in oil, selective for compounds containing sulphur, and eco-friendly. These properties are offered by ILs based on pyridinium. Therefore, the primary objectives of this thesis were to: (1) investigate the properties of N-butyl-pyridinium tetrafluoroborate ([BPy][BF₄]) and N-carboxymethyl pyridinium hydrogen sulfate ([CH₂COOHPy][HSO₄]); (2) understand the effects of reaction parameters (temperature, volume ratio, oxidant dosage, quantities of sulphur compound extracted, etc.) on desulfurization efficiency; (3) clarify the interactions between ILs and sulphur compounds; and (4) investigate the recycling and regeneration of ILs. Experimental results showed that the desulfurization efficiency of [BPy][BF₄] increased with temperature and oxidant dosage and declined with IL to fuel volume ratio. It was observed that at 30ﾟC, 1:1 ration of IL to model fuel [BPy][BF₄] could remove up to 79% of DBT in 80 min in the presence of oxidant H₂O₂. [CH₂COOHPy] [HSO₄] was found to be more effective in desulfurization, capable of removing up to 99.9% of DBT in the presence of oxidant H₂O₂ within 40 min at 25ﾟC, 1:1 ratio of IL to model fuel. The recycled [CH₂COOHPy][HSO₄] marginally lost effectiveness
after 8 recycles. It was also found that the effectiveness of both ILs was lower in real diesel compared to model fuels.
Computational density functional theory-based structural analysis revealed that there were two types of possible π-π interactions between [BPy] [BF₄] and DBT/DBTO₂, resulting in the formation of complexes with different geometries. [CH₂COOHPy][HSO₄] also exhibits similar potential π−π interactions with DBT/DBTO₂. Moreover, both ILs undergo the same oxidative mechanism of desulfurization, as they involve π-π interactions and hydrogen bonds.


identifier: Shano, Miguel <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Shano=3AMiguel=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Investigating the onshore-to-offshore structure and stratigraphy of the carboniferous Bay St. George subbasin, Western Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The Bay St. George subbasin is a geologically complex onshore-to-offshore basin that has undergone significant deformation during Appalachian orogenesis. Despite this complex tectonic history, few studies have investigated the crustal inheritance and correlated the geology from the onshore-to-offshore. The main objective of this study is to use high-resolution geophysical data, including seismic, well log, and potential field data to investigate the structure and stratigraphy of the basin.
This study reveals significant subsurface compartmentalization reaching crustal-scale depths. A new 3-D gravity inversion and seismic interpretation provide evidence of juxtaposed lower crustal blocks caused by regional faults in the basin and broader Northern Appalachians. Based on the timing and structural characteristics of these regional faults, the Bay St. George subbasin has a history that involves both transtension and transpression.


identifier: Riche, Jacob <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Riche=3AJacob=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Holy ground: the impacts of place belonging, community, and boundary work.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In St. John’s, Newfoundland, the Christian church has shaped cultural history since before the province joined Confederation in the 1940s. One church in the St. John’s region that has navigated the shifting cultural climate throughout the province's history with organized religion is The Salvation Army St. John’s Temple. With plenty of current members claiming multiple generations of attendance to the church, the complex array of social and historical influences on these members has profound impacts on their perceptions of belonging, community, and their creating an understanding of place within a religious community. Through 16 in-depth, semi-structured interviews, I create a framework to demonstrate how my participants create and maintain community, as well as the boundaries that delineate inside/outside membership. My analysis reveals a generational discrepancy in the attitudes relating to the use of boundary work to delineate membership of the church. My participants indicated a range of emotions towards the church’s use of boundary work, primarily expressed through feelings of anger, resentment, and lost hope amongst the younger participants. Complex boundary work exists within the congregation itself, as well as outside of the congregation and the surrounding community memberships that participants maintain. My participants also reflect on the impacts of the current COVID-19 pandemic on religious life, involving both the restriction of in-person gatherings on their personal faith, as well as the structural concerns that have been highlighted during the unprecedented experience of the pandemic.


identifier: Jardine, Katelyn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Jardine=3AKatelyn=3A=3A.html>   (2022) He’s like, “My Nan loves that naan bread” quotative be+like and mimetic performance among migrants to St. John’s NL.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis examines quotative verb use and mimetic performance among migrants to St. Johns,
Newfoundland. The first part examines the variation and distribution of quotative verbs among
this community, implements variable rule analysis and delves into which grammatical and social
constraints condition the choice of quotative verbs by these speakers. The second part
investigates the properties of mimetic speech and explores how these individuals create voices
using the acoustic properties of vowels. These topics are examined through the lens of social
network theory (Milroy 1987) and performance speech. I propose a framework of sociolinguistic
comfort that incorporates these concepts to account for the patterns of quotative and mimetic
performance. As our world grows ever more global, understanding the ways migrant speakers
learn to perform identity, incorporate highly regionalized features, and yet remain connected to
their adopted community is essential.


identifier: Al-Taiby, Kareem <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Al-Taiby=3AKareem=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Propeller-induced vibration: experimental tests in atmospheric towing tank.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Ship’s propellers are main sources of onboard vibration that can have adverse effects on humans and machinery alike. A reliable design tool that allows the prediction of propeller induced vibration, in the early design phases of new constructions would help prevent damage or discomfort and reduce costs related to later modifications of the propellers. In an effort to obtain data on vibration generated by ship’s propellers, tests can be performed on a ship model in a tow tank. Self-Propulsion, Resistance and Bollard tests are established tests used to characterize the ship's hydrodynamics in a tow tank. Recently some researchers are investigating the possibilities to help understand the how the propeller design affects the vibration and vibration propagation to the ship body. One of the main problems with these tests is the separation of vibrational contribution of the propeller versus the fundamental frequencies of the ship model. In this work, experimental model tests were performed to evaluate the pressure fluctuations created by the propeller on a vessels structure. Methods used to perform these tests included Experimental Modal Analysis and Operating Deflection Shape, the latter performed during the hydrodynamic tests. The results show how pressure measurements can be influenced by structural vibration and thus the importance of identifying ranges of vibrational effects from the ship models’ structure during hydrodynamic testing to understand if structural vibrations need to be removed from the pressure sensor measurements to give an accurate representation of vibration effects due to the propeller.


identifier: Islam, Md Saiful <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Islam=3AMd_Saiful=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Measurements of underwater radiated noise from non-cavitating propellers in atmospheric towing tank.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Propeller-induced underwater radiated noise (URN) has been an increasing threat to marine ecosystems. The design of silent ships requires a set of regulations and standards that allow naval architects to assess the URN from new ships in the early design stages. Tests in towing tanks are established experimental procedures to assess the hydrodynamic performances of new ships. Recently researchers have started to focus on developing model testing to assess URN from propellers, which are major sources of the URN.
In this work, the acoustic parameters of a towing tank have been analyzed both experimentally and numerically. The outcomes allow us to measure URN in the towing tank without the influence of reverberation and free surface interference. Additionally, I present a procedure to assess URN from non-cavitating propellers in atmospheric towing tanks at different hydrodynamic conditions. A MATLAB program is developed to analyze the results both in narrow and 1/3 octave bands.


identifier: Maher, Rebecca Ann <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Maher=3ARebecca_Ann=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Exercise interventions and fertility outcomes for women with obesity and experiencing infertility: a narrative review.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Introduction: Obesity negatively impacts fertility. Women with obesity and experiencing infertility may improve fertility outcomes through exercise, however there is limited evidence on exercise prescription for this population. Specifically, there is limited information on: (1) exercise interventions that are effective for women with obesity and experiencing infertility, and (2) fertility outcomes impacted by exercise interventions. Purpose: This narrative review will provide an analysis of current exercise interventions and the fertility outcomes reported in the literature. Methods: A systematic search was completed in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and CINAHL. Inclusion criteria for this review included quantitative studies published between 2005-2021 reporting on exercise interventions for women (aged 18-40 years), experiencing obesity (defined as BMI >28kg/m2), and infertility (lasting >1 year). Data were extracted on exercise technique, intensity, duration, and fertility outcomes. Results: Out of 574 articles, 16 publications met review criteria and were included. Ten of the 16 studies demonstrated improvements in the reported primary outcome, and all studies reported benefits in at least one fertility outcome. Cyclic exercise (i.e., walking, cycling) is the technique most incorporated into the exercise intervention, though a combination of cyclic, acyclic (i.e., circuit training, bootcamp), or individualized is often used. Several fertility outcomes are reported; however, rate of conception, pregnancy, and live birth rates are the most common. Conclusion: There are large variations in the specific exercise prescriptions recommended to improve fertility. Most studies examined reported statistically significant positive changes in fertility outcomes after an exercise.


identifier: Hanson-Agumbah, Theresa <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hanson-Agumbah=3ATheresa=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Bad governance "A threat to human wellbeing: a case study of bad governance during the COVID pandemic in Nigeria".  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Despite the ongoing substantial evolutions in human progress, the search for appropriate administration and governance that is focused on advancement, general welfare, and the well-being of citizens in developing countries has become disreputable and ironic, in the sense that it has been clouded with corruption, embezzlement, poor service delivery and appears to differ from what is expected by the citizens. However, the results of good or bad governance are ultimately felt by those within the scope of which the authority has been exercised. This study titled bad governance “a threat to human wellbeing: a case study of bad governance during the covid pandemic in Nigeria” is aimed at determining how the leaders in Nigeria have failed in their duties and how the advent of the covid-19 pandemic worsened bad governance in Nigeria. Though Nigeria has been plagued by terrible leadership in the past, the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic highlighted more the government's failures to its citizenry. This study draws mainly from secondary sources.
The findings from the study reveal that the welfare of the people is no longer the priority of the state as can be seen in the poor health, education, lack of basic infrastructures, non-payment of workers' salaries, insecurity, and high rate of unemployment. It was further revealed from the study that strengthening checks and balances, building broad-based support for reform, and paying close attention to incentives are ways to ensure good governance. The study recommended citizens' participation and engagement, institutionalizing the rule of law, ensuring responsiveness and consensus orientation, equity, and inclusiveness as well as efficient social service delivery.


identifier: Katan, Tomer <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Katan=3ATomer=3A=3A.html>   (2022) Impact of plant-based oils and other feed ingredients on growth, tissue composition, gene expression, and health of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar).  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The ω6 to ω3 (ω6:ω3) fatty acid (FA) ratio is known to affect many biological processes (e.g. inflammation, FA metabolism) and human diseases. However, its impacts on salmon physiology, immune response, and the underlying molecular mechanisms are less well understood. The current thesis applied a nutrigenomics and lipidomics approach to study the impacts of plant-based feeds with varying dietary ω6:ω3 ratios and ω3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) levels on farmed salmon growth, tissue composition and lipid metabolism, gene expression, and antibacterial immune response.
In Chapter 2 Atlantic salmon were fed with diets containing the same sources and equal levels of marine and plant proteins, and differed in plant oil mixes to generate a range of ω6:ω3 (i.e. 0.3-2.7). A targeted qPCR study was used to measure the mRNA expression of lipid metabolism and eicosanoid synthesis-related genes in the liver. This study revealed that while growth performance and organ indices were not affected by dietary ω6:ω3, liver and muscle FA composition was highly reflective of the diet and suggested elongation and desaturation of 18:3ω3 and 18:2ω6. Compound-specific stable isotope analysis further demonstrated that liver 20:5ω3 and 20:4ω6 synthesis was largely driven by dietary 18:3ω3 and 18:2ω6, respectively. Moreover, significant correlations between LC-PUFA synthesis-related transcripts and liver LC-PUFA further supported FA biosynthesis. In Chapter 3, I used the same fish from the previous feeding trial in order to investigate how the two extreme ω6:ω3 diets (i.e. high ω6 and high ω3) affected the hepatic transcriptome (using 44K microarrays), and to identify novel biomarker genes that respond to variation in ω6:ω3. The microarray study identified transcripts with important roles in lipid metabolism (helz2a), cell proliferation (htra1b), immune and inflammatory response (lect2a, itgb5, helz2a, p43), control of muscle and neuronal cell development (mef2d), and translation (eif2a, eif4b1, p43). Further, the PPARα activation-related transcript helz2a was down-regulated by high ω6 diet compared with high ω3 diet, and two of its paralogues showed significant correlations with ω6 and ω3 FA in two tissues (liver, muscle). These data indicated their potential as biomarkers of tissue response to dietary ω6:ω3 variation.
The focus of Chapter 4 was to apply a two-factorial design to evaluate if diets with different combinations of ω6:ω3 (high ω6, balanced, high ω3) and EPA+DHA levels (0.3, 1.0, or 1.4%, as formulated) impact head kidney lipid composition, and the transcript expression of genes involved in FA and eicosanoid metabolism (using qPCR). Head kidney FA composition was reflective of the diet and responded to ω6:ω3 variation. Proportions of 20:5ω3 were similar among fish fed 0.3% EPA+DHA with high ω3, 1% EPA+DHA (both high ω3 and high ω6 treatments) and 1.4% EPA+DHA/balanced fed fish, although dietary 20:5ω3 varied by 2.5- to 3-fold. Further, positive correlations were identified between head kidney ω3 LC-PUFA and elovl5a transcript levels. This suggested that high dietary 18:3ω3 promoted the synthesis of ω3 LC-PUFA in salmon fed lower dietary EPA+DHA levels (0.3%). This Chapter also showed significant correlations between head kidney FA composition and the expression of eicosanoid synthesis-related transcripts (i.e. 5loxa, 5loxb, cox1, cox2, ptges2, ptges3, and pgds), which illustrated the constitutive relationships among FA and eicosanoid metabolism in salmon. In Chapter 5 salmon were fed high ω6 and high ω3 diets combined with two EPA+DHA levels (0.3 and 1.0% of diet) to investigate dietary impacts on antibacterial and eicosanoid responses. Eicosanoid-metabolism-related transcripts (e.g. cox1, 5loxa, 5loxb, pgds, lkha4) in the head kidney
were down-regulated in formalin-killed Aeromonas salmonicida (ASAL)-injected compared with the phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-injected fish (within diet), suggesting an attempt to mitigate the proinflammatory response in bacterin-challenged fish. Fish fed 0.3% EPA+DHA with high ω6 diet showed the strongest fold-change induction (ASAL vs. PBS) of antibacterial genes (ccl19b, il8, il10, il8, saa5, hamp). Further, this Chapter showed positive correlations between head kidney ω6 PUFA and the transcript expression of immune-related genes (e.g. il8, il10, hamp, camp, stlr5, lect2). These findings suggested that 0.3%EPA+DHA with high ω6 diet may have enhanced the innate antibacterial immune response of Atlantic salmon. Finally, diet and ASAL and/or PBS injection significantly impacted the plasma prostaglandin (PGE2, PGF3α) levels [measured with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS)] of salmon. The 0.3%EPA+DHA with high ω6 diet also resulted in lower levels of PGE2 in ASAL- when compared with PBS-injected fish, and this was concurrent with lower head kidney expression of PGE2 receptor-encoding transcript (i.e. ptger4a).