identifier: Majidi, Narges <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Majidi=3ANarges=3A=3A.html>   (2018) A personalized course recommendation system based on career goals.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Recommendation systems have become very popular and are integrated into many
applications that we use everyday. We are recommended music pieces, articles, books,
and movies by many websites and devices in our everyday life. Education is another
example of a domain where recommendation systems can help make better and wiser
decisions that can affect someone's future. With the growing number of available
online courses, it is difficult to choose the right courses. In this thesis, a proof-of-concept
of a course recommendation system is proposed that takes the users' career
goals into consideration in order to help them with choosing the right path toward
their desired future job. First, data is extracted from Indeed job postings for the
desired job titles showing the relations between job titles and skills. Then, a second
dataset is gathered which contains a set of available online courses and the skills that
they cover. The first phase of the method generates some association rules using
the Apriori algorithm which is then used in the second phase that runs a Genetic
Algorithm to find the best set of skills for each career goal. After finding the best
set of skills for a desired career goal, we need to find the minimum number of courses
that can cover all of these skills to be able to recommend them to users which is
an instance of the Set Cover problem. In our method, the last phase runs another
Genetic Algorithm on the course dataset in order to find the optimum set of courses.
This proof-of-concept approach demonstrates that courses that are suggested to users
with a specific career goal add key skills that are trending in the market to their list
of qualifications.


identifier: Alruhaymi, Fatimah <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Alruhaymi=3AFatimah=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Mathematical and algorithmic methods for finding disjoint Rosa-type sequences.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract:
A Rosa sequence of order n is a sequence S = (s1; s2; ..., s2n+1) of 2n + 1 integers
satisfying the conditions: (1) for every k ∈ {1; 2;...; n} there are exactly two elements
sᵢ; sj ∈ S such that si = sj = k; (2) if sᵢ = sj = k; i < j, then j - i = k; and (3)
sn+1 = 0 (sn+1 is called the hook). Two Rosa sequences S and S' are disjoint if
sᵢ = sj = k = s't = s'ᵤ implies that {i;j} ≠ {t,u}, for all k = 1;..., n.
In 2014, Linek, Mor, and Shalaby [18] introduced several new constructions for
Skolem, hooked Skolem, and Rosa rectangles.
In this thesis, we gave new constructions for four mutually disjoint hooked Rosa
sequences and we used them to generate cyclic triple systems CTS₄(v). We also obtained
new constructions for two disjoint m-fold Skolem sequences, two disjoint m-fold
Rosa sequences, and two disjoint indecomposable 2-fold Rosa sequences of order n.
Again, we can use these sequences to construct cyclic 2-fold 3-group divisible design
3-GDD and disjoint cyclically indecomposable CTS₄(6n+3). Finally, we introduced
exhaustive search algorithms to find all distinct hooked Rosa sequences, as well as
maximal and maximum disjoint subsets of (hooked) Rosa sequences.


identifier: Palit, Swomitra <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Palit=3ASwomitra=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Macromolecular dynamics and structure in crowded and confined environments.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Macromolecular crowding and confinement, the effects caused by high concentrations
of macromolecules in solution and/or in small compartments, are believed to influence
diffusion processes, intermolecular interactions, protein folding, and intracellular
transport in living cells. Understanding mechanisms of transport in biological systems
(such as living cells) is complex and challenging. We construct cell mimetic environments
in which the artificial macromolecules (e.g. polyethylene glycol, Ficoll70) are
compartmentalized not in cells but in concentrated environments and agarose gel
networks. In this work we have established a system to generate stable and monodisperse
droplets of hierarchical confinement. The goal of this study is to measure
translational diffusion in crowded and confined geometries of varying concentrations
of different macromolecules on diffusion. We have combined the use of pulsed-fieldgradient
nuclear magnetic resonance (PFG NMR) with small-angle neutron scattering
(SANS) in order to obtain new insights in simple model systems of macromolecular
crowding. The NMR and SANS techniques complement each other. Using PFG NMR
technique, we have monitored the dynamics of synthetic macromolecules with multiple
chemical components in complex environments. SANS, on the other hand, yields
structure (size) of macromolecules. Our experimental findings in cell mimetic environments
provide an important step towards gaining further insights into the effects
of macromolecular crowding on diffusion and conformation.


identifier: Blythe, Christine <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Blythe=3AChristine=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Vernacular theology: home birth and the Mormon tradition.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis examines the personal experience narratives of Mormon birth workers and
mothers who home birth. I argue that embedded in their stories are vernacular beliefs that inform
their interpretations of womanhood and broaden their conceptions of Mormon theology. Here I
trace the tradition of Mormon midwifery from nineteenth century Mormonism into the present
day and explore how some Mormon birth workers’ interpretation of the Mormon past became a
means of identity formation and empowerment. I also examine how several recurring motifs
reveal how the pain of natural childbirth—either in submission to or in the surmounting of—
became a conduit of theological innovations for the women participating in this research. Their
stories shed light on and respond to institutional positions on the family and theological
ambiguities about woman’s role in the afterlife. Drawing on the language of my contributors, I
argue that in birth women are sacralized, opening the door to an expanding (and empowering)
image of Mormon womanhood.


identifier: Biswas, Shatadru Bipasha <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Biswas=3AShatadru_Bipasha=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Sizing, dynamic modelling and control of a solar water pumping system for irrigation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis describes the sizing, dynamic modelling, and control of an automatic solar
irrigation pumping system with energy storage for extraction of groundwater for irrigation
utilizing an alternative source of energy. The system design is based on site data of an
existing project in Bangladesh. Sizing estimation, sensitivity analysis, and optimization are
done in HOMER. MATLAB simulation is performed for all alternative types of energy
storage systems to study the dynamic behaviors of system components. A water level
sensor observes the tank water level and a programmed sensor module measures the
temperature, humidity, soil moisture level and send the information to ESP32
microcontroller. Based on the information and boundary conditions, the microcontroller
decides either to start or to stop the pump motor and sends results to the web server so that
the user can see that. The user can operate the irrigation system far from the field by a
simple click on a cellphone. This research also provides a comparative study among all
alternative systems as well as the conventional diesel engine system from the economic
point of view to give an optimal solution of an automated solar irrigation pumping system
with energy storage.


identifier: Fahim, Shaikh Mohammad <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Fahim=3AShaikh_Mohammad=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Continuous time model identification using sinusoidal response.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
System identification is an interface that unites the mathematical world of control theory
and practical applications of control; as such its significance is omnipresent. Identification
techniques involve differential equations where the coefficients are closely
related to the physical parameters in the system; continuous time models have greater
appeal than its discrete-time counterpart in understanding these interpretations. In
this study, we have considered sinusoidal input for identification purpose as it has
been discussed in the context of designing optimal input and also because it facilitates
to excite processes with particular frequencies of interest. The primary objective
of this work focuses on process parameter estimation. At first, integer order model
is studied due to its simplicity, as order estimation is not necessary and thus the
structure of the model. In addition, a comparison between different identification
methods for better parameter estimates is performed on integer order model. Following
on, fractional order model is taken into consideration with known and unknown
order estimates. When solving for unknown model order, more emphasis is given on
the logarithmic derivative term. According to literature, the unknown model order
is estimated numerically whereas we provide an analytical expression of logarithmic
derivative of sinusoidal inputs considering deterministic approach. For integer order
model, although satisfactory results were achieved in terms of parameter estimates
for different approaches varying different input constraints, it was evident that the performances varied with data length, and more importantly with the frequency of
the input signal. The developed methodology for fractional order model identification
with known model order lead fairly accurate estimates of the process parameters and
when extended for unknown model order, exhibited highly satisfactory results as well
but with higher computational time. The main challenge of this study was optimizing
process parameters based on convergence; this issue was studied in simulation and
corresponding numerical results for diverse noise levels met our expectations.


identifier: Judd, Alyson <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Judd=3AAlyson=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Exploring relationships between phonological awareness and phonological productive abilities of kindergarten-aged children.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Numerous language acquisition studies have identified relationships between phonological
awareness, which refers to a speaker’s ability to identify and manipulate syllable constituents,
and other developmental skills, including vocabulary, literacy, and future academic achievement.
In contrast, fewer studies have explored the nature of the relationship between phonological
awareness and phonological abilities measured through performance in speech production. In this
thesis, I explore the nature of this relationship by using statistics to compare the performance of
26 children on three developmental tasks (Phoneme Isolation, Verbal Fluency, and Letter
Naming) and two measures of phonological abilities in production (Picture Naming Task and
Semi-Directed Narrative). I divide the participants into three separate speaker groups (children
with suspected speech disorders, younger children with typical speech, and older children with
typical speech). I identify the measures for which lower scores consistently pattern with the
former two speaker groups, in comparison to the latter group, and I establish that less mature
phonological systems may also influence performance on these assessments. I show that
differences in behaviours observed among these speaker groups can most clearly be identified
through ‘marked’ (i.e. complex) phonological contexts, as opposed to those that are ‘unmarked’
(i.e. simple). In addition to contributing research on the relationship between phonological
awareness and phonological abilities in production, this study also provides evidence of the
potential for phonological markedness as a principal consideration toward both the future
development of phonological assessments and early diagnosis of phonological disorders.


identifier: Prasad, Siva <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Prasad=3ASiva=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Retrieval of sea ice parameters using fusion of high resolution model and remote sensing data.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This thesis discusses the retrieval of sea ice parameters using the combination of
remote sensing data and a sea ice model for the region of the Baffin Bay, Hudson
Bay, Labrador Sea and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The Los Alamos sea ice model,
CICE, which is used as a module for coupled global ice-ocean models, was used for
this work. The model was implemented with a 7-category thickness distribution, open
boundaries and a variable coefficient for ice-ocean heat flux. A slab ocean mixed-layer
model based on density criteria was used for the standalone regional implementation
of the model. The model estimates of ice concentration were validated using seasonal
means, and anomalies. A combined optimal interpolation and nudging scheme
was implemented to assimilate Sea Surface Temperature (SST) and ice concentration
from Advanced very-high-resolution radiometer (AVHRR) and Advanced Microwave
Scanning Radiometer for EOS (AMSR-E) respectively. The inclusion of the variable
drag coefficient required updates of ice volume and dependent tracers corresponding
to the updates in the ice concentration estimates. The sea ice variables of thickness,
freeboard, level ice draft and keel depth were compared with the estimates derived
from Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity (SMOS), CryoSat2, and a ULS instrument
respectively. The assimilated model provided better estimates of ice concentration,
thickness, freeboard and level ice draft. The model estimated ice thickness compared
well with the thin ice thickness estimated from the SMOS data, except during
March, when there is significant ice extent. The reason for this discrepancy could be
attributed to the absence of mixed layer heat flux forcing in the model and also the
effect of snow and the onset of melt that alters the observation.
Field measurements were also used for the comparison of model estimates. The measurements
from the Upward Looking Sonar (ULS) instrument located at Makkovick
Bank were used to estimate the level ice draft and keel depth. The observations from
ULS along with model estimates were used to determine the coefficient that relates
the sail and keel measurements. The level ice draft showed a good match with the values
extracted from the ULS data, while the sail to keel relationship coefficient seems
to vary between a value of 3 during January and February and a value of 7 from
March to May. Further studies have to be conducted to understand these variations.
The ice concentration estimates from the assimilated model were compared with the
ice concentration estimates derived from the images that were obtained during a field
survey along the Labrador coast. The results of the ice concentration derived from
the images showed a good match with the model values. The results were also compared
with the estimates from Canadian Ice Service (CIS) ice charts and Advanced
Microwave Scanning Radiometer-Earth observation (AMSR-E).


identifier: Willcott, Neal Jonathan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Willcott=3ANeal_Jonathan=3A=3A.html>   (2018) State level corruption: an empirical study of the effects of state level corruption on firm performance in the United States.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Over the past 30 years considerable work scrutiny has been undertaken in the area of corruption and its effect on many facets of society. In business, efforts to measure corruption have been frequently debated and models have been proposed to reflect different firm characteristics in the presence of corruption. Based on these measures, research usually considers single variable measures over time, generally cross-nationally. This study constructs a new model incorporating multiple different variables working in concert over the period from 2000-2015, to postulate a variety of different relationships and firm characteristics at the state level in the United States. In doing so, the model is constructed to limit biases that a single variable can have on the data. The model analyzes state level firm financial performance by utilizing ROA and Tobin’s Q as well as comparing high corruption state data to low corruption state data. The study finds that the presence of corruption increases the firm’s financial performance at the state level. These data are then used to conduct univariate testing with Ordinary Least Squares modelling to examine fixed firm effects as well as time lagged data. Significance is found to hold for these constraints and that firm financial performance is enhanced in high corruption states for most of the sample constructs. Supplementary models are subsequently constructed to test the robustness against significant economic events and legislative changes. The model is found to provide additional evidence when these tests are applied, thereby maintaining significance. The evidence from these tests are discussed and the conclusion reached is that corruption provides the opportunity for firms to enhance their financial performance, particularly for large firms, value firms, and firms with low leverage. It is also concluded that the benefits in performance from corruption are more beneficial in the short term.


identifier: Das, Ayon Kumar <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Das=3AAyon_Kumar=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Semi-analytical modelling of fluid flow in unconventional fractured reservoirs including branch-fracture permeability field.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Growing demand for energy and unavailability of new viable energy resources have
played a crucial role in the persistent exploitation of unconventional resources through
multistage hydraulic fracturing. Currently, standard modelling approaches idealize a
fractured media as an interplay of several homogeneous continuum of normal diffusive
characteristics. However, evolved branch-fractures generate a space with extreme
heterogeneity around primary fracture plane. The precise characterization of these
branch-fractures is imperative for well performance analysis along with subdiffusive
behaviour of unconventional matrices. This study presents two semi-analytical models
that account for the branch-fracture permeability field and subdiffusion.
The first model, Induced Branch-fracture Subdiffusive Flow model (SIBFF), accounts
for exponential permeability field concept and subdiffusive transport behaviour
of matrices. Compared to the earlier analytical models, the SIBFF model accounts
for more comprehensive transport mechanisms and medium properties. The other
model, Fractal Branch-fracture model, couples fractal porosity/permeability distribution
of branch-fracture and subdiffusion to account for more detailed description of
stimulated reservoir volume (SRV) and unfractured inner region.
The wellbore pressure solution is derived by discretizing the reservoir into several
flow regions and imposing both flux and pressure continuity at the interface between
contiguous segments. The inclusion of permeability field and fractional flux law introduces
important complexities to the mathematical model that are carefully resolved
by implementing Bessel functions and Laplace transformation (LT). Finally, the solution
is inverted to time domain using Gaver-Wynn-Rho (GWR) algorithm. This
study also assessed the applicability of four numerical inversion methods and found
GWR method more suitable and predictive.
The sensitivity of important model parameters is presented. Results were verified
analytically and validated against Niobrara and Eagleford field data. It is shown that
the models could be implemented to quantify the efficiency of a stimulation job, to
decide on the necessity of re-fracturing a formation and to analyze horizontal well
performance with better predictive capability. The proposed models could further be
employed to characterize different flow regimes for unconventional reservoirs.


identifier: Lima, Camila de Paula de <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Lima=3ACamila_de_Paula_de=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Effects of periodized versus non-periodized stretch training programs on morphological flexibility adaptations and muscle performance in artistic gymnasts.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Static Stretching (SS) is a popular technique performed to increase joint range of
motion (ROM). Therefore, increases in joint ROM after long-term SS programs
may be attributed to morphological adaptations. Periodized program have been
adopted to induce greater adaptations to the neuromuscular system while
avoiding overtraining effects. However, the effects of periodized stretch training
interventions to investigate long-term stretching adaptations are still unknown.
Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare the effects of a periodized
(PD) and non-periodized (NP) programs on flexibility, hamstrings stiffness and
muscle performance. Fifteen participants were allocated to either PD or NP SS
training programs and tested pre- and post- 8 weeks for jump height, hip flexors,
hip extensors and dorsiflexors range of motion (ROM), hamstrings stiffness and
hamstrings and quadriceps peak torque (PT). The results demonstrated that both
PD and NP stretch training programs similarly increased joint flexibility,
hamstrings PT and jump height, and decreased hamstrings stiffness. However,
PD elicited overall greater flexibility compared to the NP. Therefore, 8-week PD
and NP SS programs can cause morphological adaptations to young gymnasts
and increases in muscle performance. However, effect sizes indicate that longer
PD stretch training was more advantageous for increasing flexibility and
improving muscle performance.


identifier: Tadavani, Somayeh Khajehpour <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Tadavani=3ASomayeh_Khajehpour=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Electrohydrodynamics: a study of collective behavior and self-organization of an oil-in-oil emulsion.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In this thesis, I study the collective behavior and self-organization of immiscible silicone
oil drops in a castor oil medium. Castor oil is a “leaky dielectric” and the silicone
oil drops interact with each other due to electrohydrodynamic forces induced by an
imposed electric field. The strength and the range of the hydrodynamic interactions
are modulated by changing amplitude and frequency of the electric field, respectively,
in a small capacitor.
The result of the electrohydrodynamic forces is to induce flows that induce drop
motions, deformations and breakup. I study the effect of cell thickness, d, on the size
distribution and dynamics of silicone oil drops in presence of an external DC electric
field. I also investigate the effect of dimensionality by varying the cell thickness, d, and
observation of drop dynamics as well as the observation of an electrohydrodynamically
driven convective instability. For the first time, to our knowledge, two-roll structures,
with a lateral size that is half the cell thickness, are observed experimentally. Further,
this instability is also seen in castor oil medium, in the absence of any liquid-liquid
and solid-liquid interfaces, indicating the importance of electrokinetic effects.
Next, I constrain the motion of silicone oil drops in 2D, using dielectrophoretic
traps, in order to create a 2D droplet crystal. By driving this crystal with frequencytunable
electrohydrodynamic forces, I construct a amplitude-frequency phase diagram
for the non-equilibrium order to disorder phase transition of silicone oil drops in castor oil medium. The pure order-to-disorder behaviour is observed for a amplitudefrequency
regime where no breakup events occur but the hydrodynamic flows are
strong enough to deform and partially unpin the droplets from their trap potential.
Finally, an examination of the underlying flows using tracer particles reveals
anomalous superdiffusive motion with power law scaling of t3/2. The underlying probability
distribution for these anomalous motions is non-Gaussian and has the form
exp
(-( x2    )δ/2
   4Kγt3/2

At short times, it is a simple exponential decay (i.e. δ = 1),
while at longer times the distribution is consistent with δ = 1.4.
This system exhibits non-equilibrium self-organization that is frequency- and
amplitude-tunable, that will not only allow more detailed comparisons with detailed
theory and simulation in the future. Moreover, it has been demonstrated as a model
system for studying self-organization with tunable hydrodynamic interactions.


identifier: Scorrer, Sebastian <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Scorrer=3ASebastian=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Carbon-isotope stratigraphy of the East Isthmus Bay (Port au Port and St. George groups) and Broom Point (Cow Head Group) sections, western Newfoundland, Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The carbon-isotope stratigraphy of two carbonate sections spanning the Upper Cambrian to lowermost Ordovician from western Newfoundland were investigated for their potential for regional and global correlation with coeval carbonate sections.
The East Isthmus Bay (EI) section consists of carbonates from the uppermost Cambrian (Furongian) Berry Head Formation (~ 160 metres thick), and the lowermost Ordovician (Tremadocian) Watts Bight Formation (~ 30 metres thick) that accumulated in a shallow-marine setting on the Laurentian platform/passive margin in western Newfoundland, Canada. Petrographic investigation shows that the sampled carbonates have retained at least their near-primary sedimentary fabrics, though there is minor recrystallisation in the lower section.
The Broom Point (BP) section encompasses the Broom Point North (~ 20 metres sampled) and Broom Point South (~ 120 metres sampled) sections. The sections cover the Shallow Bay (Furongian) and Green Point (Tremadocian) formations, these carbonates formed further down the slope in slightly deeper water. Petrographic examination of the carbonates implies the retention of near-primary sedimentary fabrics.
Correlation between the Sr and Mn concentrations of carbonates from both sections suggests the Broom Point carbonates have been more impacted by diagenesis than their East Isthmus Bay counterparts due to the higher correlation (R²BP = 0.4, R²EI = 0.18, respectively). The East Isthmus Bay δ¹³C values show insignificant correlation with their Sr (R²EI = 0.04), Mn (R²EI = 0.001), and Fe (R²EI = 0.02) counterparts, implying preservation of at least near-primary carbon-isotope compositions. On the other hand, the Broom Point section shows considerable correlation of Sr and Mn with their δ¹³C counterparts (R²BP = 0.54 and R²BP = 0.29, respectively), implying considerable alteration of the primary geochemical signatures. Though a poor correlation is seen between δ¹³C and Fe (R²BP = 0.14) in the Broom Point carbonates and insignificant correlation is seen between the δ¹⁸O and δ¹³C values in both the investigated sections (R²EI = 0.0003, R²BP = 0.06).
The petrographic and geochemical examination suggests that a reliable carbon-isotope profile can be reconstructed from the δ¹³C signatures of the East Isthmus Bay section. On the contrary the geochemical analyses do not support the preservation of near-primary δ¹³C signatures from the Broom Point section, emphasising the importance of using geochemical analyses alongside petrographic examination to inspect the degree of preservation of δ¹³C signatures of carbonate rocks.
The East Isthmus Bay section is largely fossil poor but the δ¹³C profile shows a pattern with distinct variations that can be matched with those of the Laurentian Lawson Cove Auxiliary Boundary Stratigraphic Section and Point (ASSP) section, Utah, USA. Therefore, a conclusive conodont biozonal match was possible to reconstruct by matching the δ¹³C profile with its counterpart from the Lawson Cove ASSP section. At the base of the East Isthmus Bay section, the δ¹³C profile exhibits a broad excursion (the top of the Herllnmaria-Red Tops Boundary, HERB Event), which can be matched with the base of the Eoconodontus Zone (mid-Furongian), followed by an enrichment trend through the Cordylodus intermedius Zone (top Furongian). A positive anomaly (Hirsutodontus simplex spike or HSS) is recorded in the upper Cordylodus intermedius Zone (the top Cambrian), and a prominent positive peak characteristic for the upper Cordylodus lindstromi Zone is recorded from the top of the investigated section. The δ¹³C values of the Newfoundland carbonates are generally ~ 1 ‰ VPDB lower than the Lawson Cove values, which is likely attributed to a relative higher productivity and/or organic burial in the Utah region.
The investigated carbon-isotope stratigraphy revealed four main excursions: (1) an upper negative excursion (~ 2.5 ‰ VPDB), thought to be associated with the Cambrian−Ordovician boundary, (2) a lower broad negative excursion (~ 2 ‰ VPDB) which can be correlated to the latest Furongian HERB Event. (3) A positive excursion of ~ 1 ‰ VPDB seen at the base of the Cordylodus proavus conodont Zone and finally (4) a distinct gradual rise in positive δ¹³C values known as the Hirsutodontus simplex Spike (or HSS). These four excursions can be seen on various sections worldwide spanning the uppermost Cambrian to lowermost Ordovician.


identifier: Parsi, Behzad <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parsi=3ABehzad=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Finite element modeling in the design and optimization of portable instrumentation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Finite element modeling method (FEM) is a powerful numerical analysis method that is widely used in various engineering and scientific domains. In this thesis, we have utilized FEM to study structural analysis, heat transfer, and fluid flow in the instrumentation design and optimization. In particular, we have designed and optimized a portable micro-dispenser for bio-medical applications and a portable enclosure device for industrial applications. In the micro-dispenser study, our proposed model is comprised of a permanent mainframe and a disposable main tank, which can hold a bulk volume of sample fluid as an off-chip reservoir. The height of the micro-dispenser and the diameter of the passive valve have been analytically designed upon the physical properties of the fluid sample. A Peltier thermoelectric device supported by a fuzzy logic controller is dedicated to controlling the temperature within the micro-dispenser. As an extension, we have also explored another piezoelectric-based actuator, which is further optimized by genetic algorithm and verified by FEM simulations. Furthermore, in the enclosure study, we have proposed a design and optimization methodology for the self-heating portable enclosures, which can warm up the inner space from -55°C for encasing the low-cost industrial-class electronic devices instead of expensive military-class ones to work reliably within their allowed operating temperature limit. By considering various factors (including hardness, thermal conductivity, cost, and lifetime), we have determined to mainly use polycarbonate as the manufacturing material of the enclosure. The placement of the thermal resistors is studied with the aid of FEM-based thermal modeling. In summary, despite the distinct specialties and diverse applications in this multi-disciplinary research, we have proposed our design methodologies based on FEM. The design efficacy has been not only demonstrated by the FEM simulations, but also validated by our experimental measurements of the corresponding prototypes fabricated with a 3D printer.


identifier: Abdulai, Abdul-Rahim <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Abdulai=3AAbdul-Rahim=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Motivating the future farmers? Understanding farmer attraction and retention policy interventions in Newfoundland and Labrador's agriculture.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The declining number, and the ageing of farmers in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) necessitate the understanding of attraction and retention of people into agriculture. This study aimed to understand the factors that influence the decision to farm, the reinforcements that keep people sustained in farming, and how those link to issues of attraction and retention of farmers in the province. The thesis draws mainly from interviews with farmers, agricultural officials, and policy document reviews. The study showed that the need for autonomy, competence, and relatedness are vital in the decision to farm. However, even when general interest and desire to farm do exist, triggering and sustaining factors, including connection to consumers, an active farmer community, and government interventions, may be needed to turn interests and motivations into action and to sustain them. The study also found that the agricultural policy setting is characterized by an emotionally driven discourse which manifest through satisfaction, discord, hope and optimism, lack of trust, suspicion, among others in relation to interventions. Thus, the interventions will not bring the required impacts unless structural issues that are embedded in the policy environment are tackled. Some of these issues include the lack of room for experimentation, excessive red tape in government support, stringent program requirements, undue focus on conventional farming, limited of partnership, and silo approach to farmer support. The study concludes that the policy actions have a role in creating, enabling, triggering, and sustaining interest in agriculture. But, conscious efforts from actors are needed to appreciate and incorporate human psychological elements, including motivations and emotions, into the policy setting to achieve intended outcomes. To that effect, policy recommendations including the support of an active farm active community, a diversity-conscious agricultural approach, sector/model specific interventions, human characteristics and values sensitive policies, and human resource capacity building are put forward to facilitate farmer attraction and retention efforts, and to advance policy practice.


identifier: Chamkalani, Ali <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Chamkalani=3AAli=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Dynamic thermodynamic flux balance analysis and life cycle analysis of microbial biofuels.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Recently, a paradigm shift from fossil fuel energy to renewable energy is observed because of the environmental awareness. Algae are abundant, carbon neutral and renewable, which make them high potential materials to be developed as a fuel source, pending economic constraints. If algae are used as a platform, a clear and precise insight to the pathway should be presented. This requires a deep understanding of gene-protein-reaction systems. Using the genome-scale metabolic networks, a better description of the cellular metabolism and strain optimization will be attained; this will help to decrease the demand for expensive in-vivo experiments.
First Phase: one major objective of this research was to maximize the production rate of algae biofuel at different process conditions with economic and environmental considerations. We did a comprehensive review on life cycle analysis of algal biodiesel. In this review, the effect of different process variables on the environmental impacts of algal biodiesel in the literature were systematically presented.
Second Phase: We integrated the biological data and thermodynamic constraints to establish a realistic metabolic phenotypic space. With the aid of public metabolic networks, the MODEL SEED database, and component contribution, we incorporated the thermodynamics and chemical reactions constraints.
Third Phase: In metabolic network modeling, many simulations carry out in “static” state whereas our interest is to predict the behavior in a “dynamical” approach and to understand how environment and intracellular interact. In addition, the metabolic phenotype of cell systems often involves high levels of nutrient uptake and excessive byproduct secretion. In silico scenarios were used to simulate diauxic growth under two different situations. The glucose and xylose as main component of lignocellulosic biomass defined in media and allow E. coli to grow on them. Then under fully aerobic condition and later of under aerobic to anaerobic transition, simulations were performed to see how our proposed dynamic thermodynamic flux balance (DT-FBA) captures cell behaviors.


identifier: Elhemmali, Alaaeddin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Elhemmali=3AAlaaeddin=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Experimental investigation of oil-water separation using gravity and electrolysis separation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study investigates experimentally the performance of oil-water separation using two methods; gravity separation and electrolysis separation. Conventional oil-water gravity separation tested against numerical and categorical factors are based on a statistical method called the analysis of variance. Therefore, a factorial design experiment is conducted where each factor has a high and low level respectively as follows: water flow rate 4 gal/min and 1 gal/min, oil flow rate 4 gal/min and 1 gal/min, temperature 35⁰C and 25⁰C, number of compartments (2) and (1), and type of separator inlet deflector plate and elbow. These factors are combined in one correlation which describes the process. The developed correlation is able to account 98% of data variability with a 97% success of data prediction which indicates that the correlation describes the operation perfectly. The electrolysis cell separation is conducted using one factor at the time method. It is found that increasing temperature, voltage, and (NaCl) salt increases the performance of oil-water separation, while increasing the pH or the volumetric oil to water ratio acts adversely.


identifier: Walsh, Andrew <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Walsh=3AAndrew=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Computational modelling of the phosphorylation mechanism ATP and glucose.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Microbes have found ways to render certain drugs ineffective and hence are no longer susceptible to them. Continued misuse of a wide variety of drugs has given rise to organisms being able to resist them, which has led to multidrug resistance. One way to solve the issue of multidrug resistance is by looking at the mechanism of phosphorylation using adenosine triphosphate (ATP) the phosphate donor. If the phosphorylation of antibiotics can be prevented from occurring, then they would retain their antibacterial activity and thus help solve the issue of drug modification by bacteria.
The two-step mechanism for the phosphorylation of glucose using ATP, in which ATP is dephosphorylated in the first step and glucose is phosphorylated in the second step, is investigated using Hartree-Fock (HF) and B3LYP calculations with the 6-31G(d) and 6-31+G(d) basis sets. Glucose is chosen for study since it is a simple model for kanamycin. The ability of each conformer of ATP to donate a phosphate group is also discussed. The phosphorylation of both the alpha and beta anomers of glucose as well as the ᴅ and ʟ enantiomers of glucose is also discussed.
It was determined that, while the chairPT isomer of ⁴⁻ is lower in energy than the chair isomer of ATP⁴⁻, the ΔUᵣₓn, ΔHᵣₓn and ΔGᵣₓn values are less negative for the phosphorylation of the chair isomer of ATP⁴⁻. The ΔUᵣₓn, ΔHᵣₓn and ΔGᵣₓn values are least positive for the phosphorylation of deprotonated β-ʟ-glucose without water while they are least positive for the phosphorylation of deprotonated α-ʟ-glucose upon inclusion of water molecules.


identifier: Aina, Adekunle Kayode <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Aina=3AAdekunle_Kayode=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Computational study of the biophysics of protein conformational switching.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
One of the basic tenets of biophysics is that a globular protein, under physiological
conditions, folds spontaneously into a unique three-dimensional structure called
the native state and that it dictates the biological function of the protein. However,
recent experimental observations show that some proteins can undergo drastic
structural rearrangements that lead to a complete change of their native folds to alternative
functional folds. In order to access the underlying biophysical principles
of this conformational switch, we develop and test a generalized-ensemble algorithm
for biomolecular simulations that is able to calculate the thermodynamic behavior of
many sequences in a single run. By applying this method to a coarse-grained model for
protein folding, we explore the folding of thousands of (model) protein sequences and
find that successive point mutations can lead to abrupt fold switching. Our method
helps to unravel some of the biophysical properties of mutational pathways between
elementary (distinct) folds and thus provide a physical explanation of the effects of
mutations in conformational switching. In addition, we employ an atomistic model
to characterize the fold-switching tendency in the naturally occurring protein RfaH.
Our results suggest that the all-α to all-β fold switch of its carboxyl-terminal domain,
in agreement with in vitro experiments, is thermodynamically favored. Providing a
physical basis for protein fold switching, and ultimately the ability to design them,
may have an extensive impact in biology and biotechnology.


identifier: Alwaar, Abourawi <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Alwaar=3AAbourawi=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Experimental and numerical investigation of drilling performance in anisotropic formations and with axial compliance at the bit.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: As drilling performance is a key indicator of success in the oil and gas industry, numerous academic and industry organizations have been researching how to improve drilling with regard to time and efficiency. A study is done to determine rock isotropy by applying mechanical and physical measurements, along with oriented drilling, as anisotropy has a distinct impact in drill performance. Based on these findings, the study then performs drilling experiments on anisotropic rock in order to gauge the effect of anisotropy on drill efficiency. The tests employ a dual-cutter PDC bit, 35 mm, and use several different WOB under constant atmospheric pressure and water flow. In looking at relationships of WOB, ROP and DOC, it is clear that increasing the WOB leads to a subsequent increase in DOC and ROP. Furthermore, increasing the WOB also leads to increases in cutting sizes as well as material anisotropy. At Memorial University in Newfoundland, Canada, the Drilling Technology Laboratory (DTL) has developed a passive vibration-assisted rotational drilling (p-VARD) tool which enhances drill rates of penetration (ROP) in lab tests. Previous lab experiments, including simulations, point to axial vibrations having significantly improved ROP. These experiments are carried out by applying the Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulation, using the DTL p-VARD configurations tool. To gauge the tool’s cutting efficiency, a PFC2D (i.e., particle flow code in two dimensions) numerical model is utilized in simulating micro-crack generation/propagation for the drill procedure on synthetic rocks. The pVARD tool compares the downhole vibration with the rigid drill configuration of conventional rotary drilling, using low, medium and high spring compliance. Next, output parameters for ROP, MSE, and DOC are analyzed for pVARD/ non-pVARD configurations. The overall results point to the pVARD tool having a positive impact in downhole drilling, showing improvements in DOC, MSE, and ROP.


identifier: Ahadi, Amir <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ahadi=3AAmir=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Analytical approach based generation planning with wind energy integration.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A large power grid consists of generation, transmission, and distribution. Power system planning is to develop new and upgrade existing power grids to satisfy the future load demand. Reliability evaluation has a great importance in power system planning and is viewed from two aspects, adequacy and system security. This thesis focuses on adequacy, which concerns the existence of enough power generation in the system to satisfy load demand. The output power of a wind turbine depends on wind speed which is highly uncertain and random. Hence, the first step in generation adequacy evaluation is modeling wind speed. In this research, the wind speed was predicted using the ARMA model and artificial neural network (ANN). After this step, hourly power output of wind energy was determined. This was done by the power curve characteristics of the wind turbine. Fuzzy C-Means (FCM) was then used to reduce the number of states in the wind turbine generator model. The main objective of this thesis is to evaluate the influence of wind energy to the overall reliability of the system. In addition, megawatt (MW) capacity of wind energy system required for replacing conventional generators while maintaining the same risk criteria was investigated. In this thesis, the Roy Billinton Test System (RBTS) was adopted for generation adequacy evaluation. The St. John’s International Airport was selected as the wind speed measurement site. The Vestas V90-2MW (IEC IIIA) was selected as the wind turbine for the case study. The main contributions of this thesis include modeling of generation adequacy evaluation of wind energy systems using an analytical approach; wind speed prediction by ARMA and Neural Networks; Fuzzy C means algorithm to reduce the number of wind turbine states; standalone renewable energy system design; and a procedure and guideline development for generation planning with wind power integration using the analytical approach.


identifier: Donovan, Amy <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Donovan=3AAmy=3A=3A.html>   (2018) The ways of the bird rising.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

title: The ways of the bird rising

abstract:
The Ways of the Bird Rising centres on a small Scottish island community threatened by offshore
fracking. It takes the idea of “community” in the widest sense, extending its reach to the
narrative voices of animals, plants, stones and the island itself in an attempt to evoke the
consequences of resource extraction on a more-than-human world. The human story centres on
Alana, who grew up on the island and is, with mixed feelings, moving back there after years
away; and Comgall, a Canadian geologist who comes to the island as an employee of the
company in charge of the fracking. In their own ways, both are reconciling their relationship to
the land and to their respective rural homes, while being opened to the lively multi-species world
around them—a process mirrored in the reader’s experience as the island’s many inhabitants
contribute to narrating their home.


identifier: Nippard, Anna <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Nippard=3AAnna=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Corticospinal and spinal excitability to the biceps and triceps brachii is modulated differently between forward and backward arm cycling.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Research on humans and non-human animals has provided indirect evidence that
suggests that the fundamental rhythmic motor pattern required for locomotor outputs is partially
controlled by neural circuits in the spinal cord, referred to as the central pattern generator (CPG).
Specifically, research has shown that the same neural networks operate to control both forward
(FWD) and backward (BWD) locomotor outputs. Up until this point researchers have focused on
examining reflex modulation patterns during FWD and BWD locomotor outputs to infer activity
of the CPG. However, these studies do not provide any insight into how the brain and spinal cord
are contributing to the generation of FWD and BWD rhythmic movement. To date, no study has
directly compared corticospinal and spinal excitability between FWD and BWD locomotor
outputs. Thus, the purpose of this study was to use transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in
combination with transmastoid electrical stimulation (TMES) to compare corticospinal and
spinal excitability projecting to the biceps and triceps brachii between FWD and BWD arm
cycling.


identifier: Butters, Leanna <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Butters=3ALeanna=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Identifying the built space impacts of fly-in-fly-out employment-related geographical mobility in Deer Lake, Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Fly-in/fly-out (FIFO) is a long-distance commuting arrangement involving the travel of individuals to and from a place of work by airplane. Research suggests that host, source, and hub communities associated with FIFO are faced with both challenges and opportunities. It has also been suggested that compound community types exist, including the source-hub community. Built space, such as airport infrastructure, housing, and services, are integral to the functioning of source-hub communities but have not yet been studied in the FIFO context. This research project identified the town of Deer Lake in Newfoundland and Labrador as a source-hub community with the goal of better understanding the role and impacts of FIFO on built space in the community. This study found that Deer Lake is a source-hub community, that FIFO has impacted built space in Deer Lake, and that FIFO may have had additional impacts on the community.


identifier: Debnath, Binoy <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Debnath=3ABinoy=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Modelling of downslope displacement of failed soil blocks originating from submarine landslides.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Submarine landslides are regarded as one of the major offshore geohazards that might affect offshore structures and associated facilities. The failed soil mass or debris that originate from a submarine landslide might travel hundreds of kilometres at a high speed and could affect offshore infrastructures. In the present study, numerical simulations are performed to investigate the velocity and run-out distance of the failed soil mass. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach in ANSYS CFX is used for numerical simulation of the process, where the soft clay-rich sediments/debris are modelled as a non-Newtonian fluid. Large-deformation finite element (FE) simulations are also performed using the coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) approach in Abaqus FE software. Similar to other large deformation FE analysis, Abaqus CEL and ANSYS CFX are computationally expensive. In offshore environments, the debris flows through water. The drag force resulting from water has a significant influence on the velocity of the debris and run-out distance. Modelling the downslope movement of an idealized soil block, it is shown that the pressure drag resulting from the pressure in front of the sliding block is the main source of the drag force. Progressive formation of additional shear planes, through localized plastic shear strain, might occur in the soil block during downslope displacements. A parametric study shows that the seabed slope angle and shear strength degradation due to undrained remoulding and/or water entrainment influence the failure patterns. For the cases analyzed, “flowslide” and “spread” type failures are obtained when the shear strength degradation of soil is considered. In terms of practical implications, the run-out distance will provide the information on whether an offshore structure will be affected by a failed soil mass resulting from a landslide. If so, the velocity will help to estimate the exerted force because it depends on the velocity of the moving soil block.


identifier: Li, Shengnan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Li=3AShengnan=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Regulation of Nucleocytoplasmic Shuttling of the Transcriptional Regulator Human Mesoderm Induction Early Response 1 α in Breast Carcinoma Cells.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Temporal and spatial regulation of the subcellular distribution of transcriptional regulators is important to ensure their proper functioning in a cell. Mesoderm induction early response 1 α (MIER1α) has been implicated as a tumour suppressor in breast cancer. Analysis of MIER1α subcellular localization in breast samples revealed a stepwise translocation from the nucleus to the cytoplasm during progression to invasive carcinoma (McCarthy et al., 2008). Therefore, an investigation of MIER1α nucleocytoplasmic shuttling is critical to unraveling its role in breast cancer progression.
Structurally, MIER1α has conserved domains found in a number of other transcriptional regulators, including N-terminal acidic stretches, ELM2 and SANT domains. However, none of these domains contain the predicted nuclear import or export signals. In this thesis, I show that MIER1α localizes in the nucleus in breast carcinoma MCF7 cells without an intrinsic nuclear localization signal (NLS). Although MIER1α has been shown to bind to ERα, active nuclear import of MIER1α is not through interaction with ERα; instead, it depends on interaction and co-transport with HDAC1/2 through a “piggyback” mechanism. Deletion analysis demonstrated that the entire ELM2 (aa164-283) is required and sufficient for nuclear targetting of MIER1α and that a simple mutation, 214W→A in the ELM2 domain abolishes both the interaction between MIER1α and HDAC1/2 and its nuclear localization. Further investigation revealed that MIER1α is exported out of the nucleus when cells are treated with insulin, IGF-1, EGF or FGF, but not with 17β-estradiol, and this export out of the nucleus is mediated by CRM1. HDAC1 & 2 nuclear localization were not affected by MIER1α export, suggesting they are only involved in MIER1α nuclear import. Both Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase B/Akt (PI3’K/AKT) pathways are activated upon treatment with growth factors, and it was further confirmed MIER1α nuclear export is triggered by the MAPK pathway, but not the PI3’K/AKT pathway. However, the mutation of predicted ERK1/2 consensus phosphorylation sites S10-P and/or S377-P motifs in the MIER1α sequence had no effect on its localization. MIER1α returns to the nucleus when activation of MAPK pathway diminishes, suggesting this process is transient and reversible. Deletion analysis narrowed the required sequence for export to the N-terminal region, aa1-163, containing acidic stretches. Overall, these results provide details of the mechanism responsible for MIER1α nucleocytoplasmic shuttling in a breast cancer carcinoma cell line; a similar mechanism may be operating during breast cancer progression.


identifier: Fowler, Benjamin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Fowler=3ABenjamin=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Modelling evolvability in genetic programming.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
We develop a tree-based genetic programming system, capable of modelling evolvability during evolution through artificial neural networks (ANN) and exploiting
those networks to increase the generational fitness of the system. This thesis is empirically focused; we study the effects of evolvability selection under varying conditions
to demonstrate the effectiveness of evolvability selection. Evolvability is the capacity of an individual to improve its future fitness. In genetic programming (GP), we
typically measure how well a program performs a given task at its current capacity
only. We improve upon GP by directly selecting for evolvability. We construct a
system, Sample-Evolvability Genetic Programming (SEGP), that estimates the true
evolvability of a program by conducting a limited number of evolvability samples.
Evolvability is sampled by conducting a number of genetic operations upon a program and comparing the fitnesses of resulting programs with the original. SEGP is
able to achieve an increase in fitness at a cost of increased computational complexity.
We then construct a system which improves upon SEGP, Model-Evolvability Genetic
Programming (MEGP), that models the true evolvability of a program by training
an ANN to predict its evolvability. MEGP reduces the computational cost of sampling evolvability while maintaining the fitness gains. MEGP is empirically shown
to improve generational fitness for a streaming domain, in exchange for an upfront
increase in computational time.


identifier: Burt, B. Quinn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Burt=3AB=2E_Quinn=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Indigenous-led environmentalism: news framing of pipeline protest in the Harper and Trudeau eras.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In recent years, news media have widely covered pipeline activism within Canada. Social movements and news media have an intertwined relationship, in which activists benefit from increased public awareness on specific issues while news sources gain access to captivating content. Even though a wide range of peoples and organizations pursue protest efforts against resource extraction projects, academic work has generally distinguished between Indigenous and environmental movements. Similarly, news sources can misrepresent protest issues and make problematic generalizations by grouping individuals into broad categories or by creating divisions between peoples and movements. This study benefits from anti-colonial, framing, and political opportunity theories to understand how news sources cover Indigenous-led pipeline protest over time. I compare coverage across three news types (settler-mainstream, settler-independent, and Indigenous) during the Harper and Trudeau political eras. This study finds clear differences in focus and knowledge production between news types and explains how critical events, such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, changed news understandings of resource extraction debates over time. Furthermore, it argues that news work on pipeline protest can benefit from providing more context, rather than generalizing specific issues as if they apply to all Indigenous peoples and communities.


identifier: Wood, Bryn F. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Wood=3ABryn_F=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Spatial analysis of community observations of environmental change in North West River, Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The Sivunivut Inuit Community Corporation (SICC) is funded by the Nunatsiavut Government to represent North West River (NWR) residents who are beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement. In 2010, they began work on a community driven, participatory research project that was aimed at addressing community concerns regarding the ongoing effects of climate change on local resource use. This resulted in the completion of forty-nine surveys by resident land use experts. These semi-directed surveys were completed in conjunction with a spatial component and were designed to collect traditional ecological knowledge related to the local effects of climate change. This thesis examines this knowledge using grounded theory and spatial analysis to identify and describe thematic patterns. The spatial extent of environmental change is described through the use of kernel density analysis (KDA) maps illustrating concentrations of environmental change. The regions identified denote commonly referenced areas that, in many cases, are highlighted in multiple survey categories. Through this analysis it is clear that local environmental change is influenced by many factors. Climate change is one such factor but other major drivers of environmental change include weather events, harvesting pressure, infrastructure development, accessibility, and habitat quality. In the face of ongoing environmental change, residents of NWR employ a number of adaptation strategies to maintain their strong connection to the land. This thesis examines aspects of these adaptation efforts in light of a number of technological, societal and political factors.


identifier: Mohamed, Bashir <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Mohamed=3ABashir=3A=3A.html>   (2018) CFD simulation of downhole thruster performance evaluation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The present study investigates the rule that the downhole Thruster could contribute towards enhancing drilling performance of oil and gas wells. The core study was numerical simulation implemented ANSYS Software using different fluids of various viscosities. As a main part of the numerical study, an evaluation of the variation of fluid velocities and their resultant pressures at several planes within the Thruster geometry was included. The evaluation methodology included a comparative study of “With-Thruster” versus “Without-Thruster”, which represent two drilling modes involving drilling with axially induced oscillations and drilling without axially induced oscillations; respectively. This was performed to simulate different drilling modes of unconventional (i.e. with controlled and desirable axial oscillations) and conventional (i.e. rigid drilling system); respectively. By implementing the downhole Thruster, the conventional drilling can be shifted to the unconventional drilling mode that produces controlled axial vibrations empowered hydraulically through generating pressure pulses. At first, the drilling performance was simulated by implementing Maurer model, which showed significant increase in the rate of penetration (ROP) when using the Thruster for all fluid velocities. The improvement in ROP was noticed to increase from quarter unit to a one unit induced by a generated force of at as low as 6000 (N) to as high as 10000 (N); respectively. The clear increase in ROP in the simulation work was then carried out for further simulation of the Thruster for comprehensive evaluation under various conditions, including applying back pressures as well as using various fluid viscosities, which also showed improvement in ROP with Thruster implementation.


identifier: Mensah, Charity <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Mensah=3ACharity=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Communication in educational leadership in Canada: a qualitative case study.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Communication plays a vital role in the success of any organization, including institutions
of higher learning. Ineffective communication can hinder the growth of institutions and
organizations. The sender of an information must ensure the receiver gets the information
without distortion. The communication process is incomplete without feedback.
Administrators in higher learning institutions must communicate effectively if they want
to achieve their goals and objectives. Though communication can be said to be
synonymous with effective leadership, the literature reveals little research on this topic in
a university setting. This study examined the communication process between senior
administrators and faculty members in one university in Ontario Canada. Semi structured
interviews were used to gather data from senior administrators and faculty members.
Findings revealed channels of communication used and preferred by both administrators
and faculty. Some of these channels included emails and face to face interactions. Though
email was the most used channel of communication in this case study, both participants
preferred face to face interactions such as meetings. This was preferred because it allows
communicators to give live feedback interpreted through body language and facial
expressions.


identifier: Martin, Chris William <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Martin=3AChris_William=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Tattooed lives: the indelible experience of meaning and identity in body art.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This dissertation explores the increasingly popular practice of tattooing from the
perspective of tattoo enthusiasts and tattoo artists. While the topic of tattoos and
tattooing have been researched by sociologists and cultural theorists in the past,
this treatment of the subject uniquely combines the perspectives of symbolic
interactionism, social semiotics, and Bauman’s ideas about liquid modernity, to
help understand the meaning-making semiotic potential of tattoos for enthusiasts
and artists within the context of their wider socio-cultural environments.
This thesis is informed by in-depth qualitative research data gathered from over a
year of ethnographic field research in a tattoo studio. It also offers enthusiast
narratives which were gathered from semi-structured interviews. It is important to
better understand a practice like tattooing in a post (or liquid) modern era which
prizes a more ephemeral existence, especially in relation to fashion, technologies,
and human relations. Appreciating the meanings and reasons behind tattoos and
tattooing is highly relevant in order to understand why the practice is more
common, culturally relevant, and artistic than ever before despite theories of
impermanence associated with liquid modernity (Bauman 2000). Indeed, some
estimates say that up to 40% of those 18-35 have at least one tattoo and that it is a
billion-dollar industry (Pew Research 2008).
My results show that despite liquid modern life, tattoo enthusiasts continue to
indelibly mark their skin with ink to express (1) self- identity (2) cultural and
gender shifts and (3) artistic and emotional connections. From the perspective of
tattoo artists, this research shows how artists must demonstrate dramaturgical
discipline and navigate symbolic interaction to effectively traverse the cultural
shifts occurring in their practice and work with their clients to produce and coconstruct
body art. These cultural shifts have led tattooists to become better known
as tattoo artists and caused for tattoos to be more artistically demanding and
aesthetically sophisticated than ever before.


identifier: Zygmunt, Ellie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Zygmunt=3AEllie=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Collective memory in George Sprott: 1894-1975 and building Stories.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis examines collective memory in the graphic novels George Sprott: 1894-1975 by Seth and Building Stories by Chris Ware. Seth and Ware illustrate how individual memory is inextricable from collective experiences of history, space, and community by using unconventional publishing formats paired with the visual language of graphic narrative. I argue Seth and Ware also extend the border of collective memory to include the non-fictive space of the reader through multi-media adaptations and collaboration. Seth’s cardboard Dominion models, the chamber oratorio Omnis Temporalis, and Ware’s iPad comic Touch Sensitive create a larger community of memory that extends beyond the page.


identifier: Veitch, Erik <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Veitch=3AErik=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Influence of bridge officer experience on ice management effectiveness.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The research presented in this thesis investigates the influence of human expertise on the effectiveness of ice management operations. This was accomplished in an experiment using a marine simulator in which 36 participants with a range of seafaring experience levels were tasked with individually completing ice management exercises. Effectiveness was assessed in terms of the operator’s ability to lower pack ice concentration around an offshore structure and to keep a defined area free of ice for a lifeboat launch. These responses were compared to two independent variables: i) experience level of the participant, and ii) ice concentration. The results showed a significant difference in ice management effectiveness between experience categories. Characterizations of effective ice management techniques were presented based on the results. This result has implications for training in the nautical sciences and can help inform best practices in ice management.


identifier: Happy, Fatema Akter <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Happy=3AFatema_Akter=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Theoretical and numerical investigation of the rheology of heavy crude oil.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
The rheological study of heavy crude oil is important in the field of petroleum engineering. The rheological properties of heavy oil (e.g., shear stress, shear rate, viscosity, etc.) depend on several factors including temperature, pressure, surface tension, diluent type and diluent composition, pH, shear stress and thermal histories, memory, and shear conditions during the analysis. The investigation of the rheology of heavy crude oil flow is a critical issue for both upstream and downstream operations. The objective of this study is to perform an investigation on the rheological properties of heavy crude oil to show the effect of shear rate, temperature, and pressure on the viscosity and the shear stress. The aim of this work was to broaden current knowledge of the rheological behavior and flow characterization of heavy crude oil. This paper takes a new look at the shear stress-strain relationship by considering the memory effect along with temperature effect on the shear rate.
It is considered that the viscosity of the heavy crude oil is a function of pressure, temperature, and shear rate. As the heavy crude oil is considered as a Bingham fluid, Bingham model is employed here for the analysis. The experimental data from previous studies are used to complete the analysis. To develop the model, a modified Darcy’s law that employs the effect of memory on the Bingham model is considered. The effect of temperature has been incorporated by the Arrhenius equation for the development of a new model to study the heavy crude oil rheological behaviors. The relationship between shear stress and viscosity has been shown at different fractional derivative order and time. The validation and the simulation of the model are performed by using the experimental and the field data from the literature. The numerical simulation of this model is conducted by using the MATLAB simulation software.
From the sensitivity analysis, it is found that the temperature has the highest impact on the viscosity over the pressure and the shear rate. On the other hand, the pressure shows a strong effect on the shear stress-shear rate relationship over the temperature. In the model analysis, it is found that the fluid memory affects in the Bingham model due to nonlinear behavior of heavy crude oil. The shear stress increases with decreasing viscosity at different fractional derivative order and time. The change in shear stress is high at large fractional derivative. The range of fractional derivative order is from 0.2 to 0.8. When fractional derivative order,


identifier: Nguyen, Hau Xuan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Nguyen=3AHau_Xuan=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Rings whose cyclics satisfy a certain property.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
In 1964, Osofsky proved that a ring R is semisimple artinian if and only if every cyclic
right R-module is injective. Motivated by this result, there have been numerous studies
in the rings whose cyclic modules satisfy a certain generalized injectivity condition.
An up-to-date account of the literature on this subject can be found in [26].
Following this direction, in Chapter 2, we study the rings whose cyclics are C3-modules
(or CC3-rings). We prove that a ring R is semisimple artinian if every 3-generated
right R-module is a C3-module. Structure theorems of semiperfect CC3-rings and
self-injective regular CC3-rings are obtained. Applications to rings whose 2-generated
modules are C3-modules, and whose cyclics are quasi-continuous, are also addressed.
In Chapter 3, we present basic properties of CD3-rings, i.e., rings whose cyclics are
D3-modules. We show that a ring R is semisimple artinian if every 2-generated right
R-module is a D3-module. Structure of self-injective regular CD3-rings is given.
We characterize the rings whose cyclic modules are quasi-discrete and, respectively,
discrete.
In Chapter 4, we prove that a semiperfect module is lifting if and only if it has a
projective cover preserving direct summands. This result is then used to characterize
rings whose cyclics are lifting. New characterizations of artinian serial rings with
Jacobson radical square-zero are obtained. Furthermore, we show that every cyclic
right R-module is �-supplemented if and only if every cyclic right R-module is a
direct sum of local modules, and that artinian serial rings are exactly these rings for
which every left and right module is a direct sum of local modules.
In the last chapter, we present various properties, including a structure theorem and
several characterizations, for δ-semiperfect modules. Our method can be adapted to
generalize several known results of Mares and Nicholson from projective semiperfect
modules to arbitrary semiperfect modules.


identifier: Mohammed, Ifedolapo <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Mohammed=3AIfedolapo=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Examining the implications of international interests on Arctic governance structures in the wake of rapid change.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The current debate on governance in the Arctic suggests that growing influences and rapid change occurring in the Arctic are outside the scope and mandate of the Arctic Council. As new states and political entities continue to express interest in Arctic affairs, recent patterns spectacularly legitimize the proposition that the Arctic council may not be well equipped to handle and adjust to these changes occurring in the Arctic; however, the Arctic Council is modeled as an arena for diplomacy. The study seeks to examine the implications of international interests with regard to the structure of governance in the Arctic, by particularly studying the Arctic Council and its present mode of operations. To achieve the study’s aim, an analysis of international interest from the perspectives of two foremost international relations paradigms was conducted. Findings illustrate that realist predictions are unable to truncate predominant liberalist features of Arctic international politics, and that international interests for the Arctic region are incapable of disrupting the existing political landscape of the Arctic due to its very potent liberalist character. Contrary wise, a realist scenario of systemic, gradual ascension to power by non-arctic stakeholders due to weaknesses of the Arctic Council’s structure is not completely unimaginable.


identifier: Blair, Jason FL <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Blair=3AJason_FL=3A=3A.html>   (2018) The effect of minimalist footwear on running economy following exercise-induced fatigue.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Running economy (RE) is the oxygen utilization during a steady state submaximal running bout. The purpose of this study was two-fold: (a) to determine if running in minimalist footwear results in better RE (mL kg⁻¹ km⁻¹) compared to conventional footwear and to identify any relationships between RE and lower limb muscle activation; (b) to determine whether any changes in RE related to minimalist footwear are sustained following exercise-induced fatigue. In a fully randomized, counterbalanced fashion, ten well-trained male distance runners (age 29.0±7.5; BMI 38.6±6.5 kg m⁻²; 2max 61.6±7.3 mL min⁻¹ Kg⁻¹) completed a RE test pre- and post-fatigue on a motorized treadmill in both conditions using identical footwear (minimalist 178g; conventional 349g). The fatiguing protocol consisted of high-intensity interval training (7 X 1000-m at 94-97% VO₂max) on a 200-m, unbanked, Mondo surface, indoor running track. Cardiorespiratory, muscle activation, and kinematic parameters as well as, the rate of perceived exertion and blood lactate were measured throughout the experimental sessions. A significant main effect of footwear on running speed during intervals (p=0.041) was found. Participants ran faster during the minimalist compared to conventional footwear condition (3:24±0:44 vs. 3:30±0:47 (mm:ss), respectively). While fatigue was induced, no other effect of time or footwear on RE, muscle activation or stride frequency occurred. The results of this study suggest that the characteristics of the minimalist footwear did not differ enough from the conventional shoes to induce acute changes in metabolic, kinematic and muscle activation variables during the submaximal runs.


identifier: Gong, Jue <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Gong=3AJue=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Catalytic conversion of glucose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural using zirconium-containing metal-organic frameworks.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) can be obtained by the catalytic dehydration of
glucose or fructose using different homogeneous or heterogeneous catalysts. In my research
project, four closely related zirconium-containing Metal-Organic Frameworks
(MOFs) were chosen as catalysts for the conversion of glucose to 5-HMF due to their
chemical and thermal stability as well as the Lewis acidity of zirconium. The initial
research focused on the use of UiO-66-X (X= H, NH2 and SO₃H), optimization of reaction
conditions and investigation of the relationship between their catalytic activity
and properties. The highest yield of 5-HMF (28%) was obtained using UiO-66 under
the optimal reaction conditions. In catalyst recycling experiments, UiO-66 could be
re-used after five runs with a small reduction in the yield of-5-HMF. We assumed
that this is due to the formation of humin after reaction. Thus, used UiO-66 catalyst,
named UiO-66-humin, was characterized by several techniques such as PXRD, FTIR,
¹³C Solid State NMR spectroscopy, and N2 adsorption measurements. MOF 808
was another potential candidate for the conversion of glucose since it possesses lower
connectivity (6-connected) with larger surface area compared with UiO-66. MOF
808 was synthesized via a solvothermal method and characterized by PXRD and N2
adsorption measurements. Notably, MOF 808 afforded higher yields of 5-HMF when
compared with UiO-66-X.


identifier: Torres, Julian <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Torres=3AJulian=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Working alliance in the treatment of anorexia nervosa: baseline predictors, motivation to change, and relationship to treatment outcome.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Background: Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is a severe and potentially deadly disorder that is often found to be resistant to treatment, especially in adult populations. Patients commonly present a strong ambivalence towards recovery and high rates of premature treatment termination. The working alliance has been found to be a strong predictor of treatment outcome across an array of psychological disorders and treatment approaches; however, little research has been conducted to understand its role in the treatment of AN and its relation to motivation for treatment or outcome in this population. The present pilot study sought to investigate primarily the associations between reports of working alliance, measurements of motivation for treatment, and AN treatment outcome. This is the first study to examine the relation between motivation and working alliance in AN patients. Method: The present study was a secondary analysis of data obtained from a sample of 53 adult AN patients who were admitted to a specialized inpatient/day-hospital eating disorder treatment program. The patients completed self-report questionnaires measuring autonomous and controlled motivation for treatment at baseline and at week four, self-report questionnaires regarding working alliance at week four, and clinical symptomatology and BMI were measured at baseline, week four, and discharge. Results: Changes in Autonomous motivation for treatment from baseline to week four were found to predict working alliance scores at week four. No association was found between measures of motivation for treatment or working alliance with treatment outcome or rates of premature treatment termination. In exploratory analyses, AN subtype (i.e., restricting vs. binge-purge) was significantly associated with working alliance scores, measures of treatment outcome, and rates of premature treatment termination. Conclusions: The results of this study point to the importance of early measurements of working alliance in this population and brings into question the validity of early self-reports of motivation in AN treatment. On balance, the present findings do not align with previous findings in the literature. Limitations of the current study related to high attrition and low statistical power are discussed. The differences observed between AN subtypes in their response to treatment add to a growing body of clinical knowledge that may suggest a need for researchers and clinicians to reformulate how these clinical subtypes are conceptualized.


identifier: Dawe, Kathryn E. R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Dawe=3AKathryn_E=2E_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Formation and emission of reactive chlorine in indoor air.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Chlorine atoms are powerful atmospheric oxidants known to degrade air quality.
Despite much focus, a direct measurement technique does not exist. Instead, chlorine
atom precursors are used as proxies to study chlorine atom chemistry. Reactions of
precursors resulting in chlorine atoms studied in outdoor environments are also possible
indoors. Daily household activities, especially those involving chlorinated cleaning
products, are suspected to contribute to indoor chlorine atom chemistry. Indoor air studies
are hindered by sampling techniques, as few appropriate instruments exist. A common
atmospheric measurement technique was evaluated while monitoring gas and particulate
phase species emitted during indoor bleach use. This instrument collects a non-selective
gaseous and a particulate chloride sample. Recent advances in indoor instrumentation
allow for selective measurement of chlorine atom precursor, hydrogen chloride (HCl),
using a cavity-ring down spectroscopy instrument. Present ubiquitously outdoors,
atmospheric HCl is a result of direct emission and secondary production. Previous
measurements of HCl indoors are rare and have been limited to non-residential buildings
using integrated sampling. This sampling strategy does not provide the source of HCl
emissions. In order to better understand sources of HCl indoors, real-time gas-phase
mixing ratios of HCl during typical household activities were monitored such as floor
exposure to bleach, detergent use in household dishwashers, and cooking events. Based
on calculated rates of chlorine atom precursors, both photolysis and direct emission could
be contributing to elevated HCl levels indoors. This work presents insights regarding HCl
production and the influence of household activities on indoor air quality.


identifier: Edomwandekhoe, Kenneth Ikponmwosa <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Edomwandekhoe=3AKenneth_Ikponmwosa=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Modeling and fault diagnosis of broken rotor bar faults in induction motors.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Due to vast industrial applications, induction motors are often referred to as the “workhorse” of the industry. To detect incipient faults and improve reliability, condition monitoring and fault diagnosis of induction motors are very important. In this thesis, the focus is to model and detect broken rotor bar (BRB) faults in induction motors through the finite element analysis and machine learning approach.
The most successfully deployed method for the BRB fault detection is Motor Current Signature Analysis (MSCA) due to its non-invasive, easy to implement, lower cost, reliable and effective nature. However, MSCA has its own limitations. To overcome such limitations, fault diagnosis using machine learning attracts more research interests lately. Feature selection is an important part of machine learning techniques.
The main contributions of the thesis include: 1) model a healthy motor and a motor with different number of BRBs using finite element analysis software ANSYS; 2) analyze BRB faults of induction motors using various spectral analysis algorithms (parametric and non-parametric) by processing stator current signals obtained from the finite element analysis; 3) conduct feature selection and classification of BRB faults using support vector machine (SVM) and artificial neural network (ANN); 4) analyze neighbouring and spaced BRB faults using Burg and Welch PSD analysis.


identifier: Sawden, Kari <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sawden=3AKari=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Maps of our own making: practicing divination in 21st century Canada.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Divination in 21st century Canada is rooted in paradox. Frequently the site of challenge, reductionism, and dismissal, it continues to thrive in individual lives and defy cultural expectations. Through an ethnographic study of over thirty divination practitioners (those who use tools such as tarot cards or astrology charts to uncover information deemed otherwise unknowable), primarily located in central Alberta, I explore the ongoing functions of this practice within individual lives and the larger communities they serve. In doing so, this thesis counters claims of divination’s erroneous, at best, and harmful, at worst, presence within this modern, rational country.
Built on the personal narratives of my participants and the research of scholars from multiple disciplines on divination and folk belief, I explore what the term divination means within both academic frameworks and lived experiences. Once terminology is established, I examine how it fits within the worldviews constructed by those who undertake divination and the ways they reconceptualise ideas of proof and truth. Recognising that a key role of the diviner within their community is that of storyteller, this thesis goes on to explore the literary strategies they utilise and the means by which their rituals, and the tools used within, form alternative languages through which identity is constructed and communicated.
Divination as a site of power contestation is an essential part of this thesis, and I focus particularly on the ways diviners confront the larger social narratives that cast them into the role of charlatan by reframing the relationship between the monetary and the spiritual. Furthermore, the role of gender, significant due to the large number of women who participate in this act, and divination’s role in claiming personal power, in general, are also addressed. Finally, the relationship between divination and that of good and evil is explored, revealing how the concept of darkness is transformed through these practices to support a deeper process of individual development.
It is impossible to understand divination and its ongoing presence within Canada without listening to the voices of those who choose to practice it. By engaging with them and bringing their stories into academic spaces, I challenge the stereotypes of divination that emerge from popular culture and the ivory tower. This thesis provides a new framework for divinatory discourse beyond that of the pre-established vocabularies and theories of other disciplines and cultures. In doing so, I explore the paradox of divination in Canada and how this practice is proving to be a growing alternative resource for knowledge, healing, and hope.


identifier: McNeil, Kaleb Daniel Smith <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/McNeil=3AKaleb_Daniel_Smith=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Understanding all-terrain vehicle user behaviour: the human dimensions of ATV use in Northeastern New Brunswick, Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
This study examined all-terrain vehicle (ATV) users in northeastern New Brunswick,
Canada, providing a human dimensions approach to understanding the activity and inform
future management decisions. A methodological comparison between self-classification
and multivariate applications of Bryan's (1977) recreation specialization framework was
conducted to assess variation in participant engagement within the activity. The impact of
activity consumption on levels of recreation specialization was also examined to
investigate how differences in ATV use affects user engagement. Self-administered
questionnaires were randomly distributed to three New Brunswick communities (n =
144). Results suggest that both applications of the recreation specialization framework did
not similarly classify participants as expected. Specialization levels were found to differ
across three activity consumption sub-groups, suggesting different types of ATV use may
impact user engagement. Resource managers should consider differences in user
recreation specialization and activity consumption when designing strategies to manage
the heterogeneous activity.


identifier: Wall, Kayla <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Wall=3AKayla=3A=3A.html>   (2018) Objective and subjective sleep and cognitive dysfunction in women newly diagnosed with breast cancer.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in Canadian women. Cancer
treatments such as endocrine therapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are often associated
with pervasive, negative side effects. One of the most prevalent barriers to resuming normal
functioning following the completion of treatment is known as cancer-related cognitive
dysfunction (CRCD). However, the factors that may influence the development of these
cognitive impairments remain unclear. A potential underlying mechanism of CRCD that has not
been well-studied is sleep quality. The present study sought to determine whether a patient’s
sleep quality prior to treatment is indicative of cognitive functioning four months following the
initiation of treatment in a sample of 32 women with breast cancer, using both subjective and
objective measures. We found that all patients experienced worsened cognitive function, sleep,
and mood disturbance at four months on subjective measures compared to baseline. Our findings
may indicate that women with insomnia symptoms prior to diagnosis may begin treatment with
poorer cognition and thus be at a higher risk for further cognitive deterioration. Moreover,
women that do not exhibit symptoms of insomnia prior to beginning treatment may have a buffer
against a decline in cognition. Participants with insomnia symptoms at baseline may also be at an
increased risk for worsened mood disturbance as their treatment regimen proceeds. Future
research should examine the changes in cognition, sleep, and mood disturbance with longer
follow ups and investigate whether sleep quality mediates or moderates the relationship between
cancer treatment and CRCD.


identifier: Elzen, Katherine Vanden <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Elzen=3AKatherine_Vanden=3A=3A.html>   (2018) The sport body image project: exploring body image among athletes in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Athletes are at greater risk of developing body image issues that can lead to eating disorders, compared to those who don’t compete in high-level sports. Both male and female athletes experience pressures to obtain a certain body ideal within their sport and a certain body ideal within society. To date most body image research has focused on female athletes and very few sport-specific body image programs exist in Canada. This thesis aims to understand the experiences of five men and five women athletes with body image in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), Canada, through the use of digital storytelling (DS). In this qualitative study, participants completed a two-day workshop where they learned about DS, partook in a focus group, and created their own stories. Data collection consisted of digital stories, focus groups, and individual interviews. The data was analysed through a critical feminist standpoint theoretical lens. Four main findings emerged from the data: body image development is influenced by sport culture and society, body ideals are expressed through sport success, sport is a vehicle for “healthy body” discourses, and there is a need to reimagine the sport body. The results of this study will help to highlight concerns among athletes and lead to further prevention methods within the sporting environment.


identifier: Alharbi, Maryam <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Alharbi=3AMaryam=3A=3A.html>   (2018) In-line tapered fiber Mach-Zehnder interferometer for biosensing applications.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Due to the advantages of compact size, light weight, immunity to electromagnetic
interference and remote sensing, optical fiber sensors have been studied extensively since
the 60s. In particular, interferometric Mach-Zehnder fiber sensors are favourable for their
flexibility and high sensitivity. The principle of operation for these sensors bases upon the
interference between the light propagation in the core mode and the excited cladding
modes. The work presented in this thesis focuses on the fabrication of tapered Mach-
Zehnder interferometer in a single-mode fiber and its applications in biosensing.
In this study, two kinds of tapered fiber Mach-Zehnder interferometer, either
symmetric or asymmetric, have been fabricated using fusion splicing technique. In both
cases, the effects of varying the waist diameter, separation distance between tapers, and
propagation direction are studied. The symmetrical tapered fiber Mach-Zehnder
interferometer has been explored for biosensing applications. Using the dipping layer-bylayer
method, multiple thin films have been deposited on the fiber structure for the detection
of streptavidin which is a common target material used to test the effectiveness of a
biosensor. The sensing mechanism here relies on the electrostatic attraction between
cationic and anionic materials, in which the cationic material used in this study is poly
(allylamin hidrocloride) (PAH). While, the anionic material adopted here is either SiO₂
core/Au shell nanoparticles or poly (sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS). For the best of our
knowledge, this is the first time the tapered fiber Mach-Zehnder interferometer is used for
streptavidin sensing by applying the layer-by-layer technique.
Two types of multilayered structure are fabricated on the tapered region of the fiber
interferometer. The first multilayered structure consists of SiO₂:Au nanoparticles, in which
the deposition of a monolayer of the PAH polymer and a monolayer of the negatively
charged SiO₂:Au NPs represents a single bilayer of (PAH/SiO₂:Au NPs). The second
multilayered structure bases on the deposition of PAH and PSS polymer. Following the
fabrication of the multilayered structures is the functionalization with biotin which is a
vitamin that possesses a strong binding ability with streptavidin so it functions as an
adhesive material to streptavidin. The sensing response of the sensors on detecting aqueous
solutions of streptavidin has been observed by measuring the shift in the wavelength of the
transmission spectrum of the tapered fiber interferometer. The effects of depositing
(PAH/SiO₂:Au NPs) and (PAH/PSS) films in multilayered structures, as well as the
influences of different device specifications are investigated.