identifier: O'Keefe, Danielle Marie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/O=27Keefe=3ADanielle_Marie=3A=3A.html>   (2012) The effect of an intensive nurse home visit program on self-assessment of health and on social engagement in the independently living old elderly.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Background -- The fastest growing segment of the Canadian population is comprised of seniors who are 65 years of age and older. In 2005, in Newfoundland and Labrador, seniors represented 13.1% of the population and by 2026 this percentage is projected to increase to 26.6. Recognizing the growth in the senior's population, it is important that research focuses on determining factors that will help maintain and/or improve well-being and general health. -- Research Rationale -- To assess and improve the care of seniors who were eighty years of age and older a randomized controlled trial, the ElderCare Project, was conducted in the St. John's and surrounding areas in Newfoundland and Labrador between 2006-2011. The research reported here is a before-after analysis of the impact of the nursing intervention employed in the ElderCare Project on self-assessment of health and on social engagement in the intervention group. -- Methods -- The intervention group consisted of 54 participants. At baseline, data was collected on utilization of social engagement activities and self-assessment of health as measured by the SF-36 Health Survey. The intervention consisted of the development of an ElderCare Plan followed by eight home visits by the research nurse. At completion of the study, data on the use of social engagement activities was once again collected and the SF-36 Health Survey was repeated. -- The self-assessment of health results were analyzed using the Paired Samples T-Test and McNemar's test for related samples was used to analyze the social engagement activities data. Logistic regression was used t o further analyze significant social engagement activity results. -- Results -- The nursing intervention did not result in a significant change in self-assessment of health. While there was not a significant change in the use of formal or intermediate social engagement activities from baseline to one year, statistically significant results [p<0.001] were found for the utilization of informal social engagement activities. When logistic regression was used to analyse the social engagement activity data further, education level was found to be associated with increased use of all social engagement activities [Odds Ratio 4.97, 95% (11.48-16.71; p=0.009]. Similar results were found when the logistic regression was run using informal social engagement activities [Odds Ratio 4.71, 95% Cl 1.32-16.8, p=0.017].


identifier: Oldford, Roy <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Oldford=3ARoy=3A=3A.html>   (1978) An investigation into the nature of services offered at the district level by instructional materials centres of school boards in Canada.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

abstract: This study was conducted to find the answers to the following two general questions: -- 1. Is there a relationship between the size of school districts in Canada and the presence or absence of various components of media services? -- 2. Is there a relationship between the presence or absence of various components of media services and the opinion of media specialists concerning the extent to which these components are desirable? -- The study assumed that those philosophies of curriculum and instruction that require a variety of media are sound and also that the district level service will be instrumental in helping to develop effective media programmes for defined areas. -- A questionnaire was developed and mailed to 212 school board districts across Canada who reported the presence of some type of media programme. The questionnaire consisted of a general section which asked for the student population of the district, the full-time teacher population of the district, the area of the district in square miles, the total budget for new media, and the total budget for library books. These were considered as independent variables and only one--the size of the school district as determined by the total student enrollment--was chosen for this study. -- The next ten sections of the questionnaire outlined what were considered to be characteristics of a district media centre, and these were listed under the following general areas: -- 1. Financial Arrangements -- 2. Selection of Materials and Equipment for Acquisition -- 3. Classifying, Cataloguing and Processing of Materials and Equipment -- 4. Availability of Educational Media -- 5. Care and Maintenance of Materials and Equipment -- 6. Physical Facilities -- 7. Furnishings and Equipment -- 8. Locally and Commercially Produced Materials -- 9. Educational Media Staff -- 10. Services and Activities -- Ten null hypotheses were then stated, one each concerning the possible relationships of the ten components of media centre operations with the size of the school district. A Chi Square was applied to attest independence, and the null hypotheses were either accepted or rejected based on a .05 level of significance. -- The findings showed that the null hypotheses were accepted for a majority of characteristics in nine of the ten components of media services. In general there was no significant relationship between the presence or absence of the characteristic~ of media services and the size of the school district. -- The null hypothesis was rejected with respect to a majority of the characteristics of the component of locally and commercially produced materials, concluding that there is a significant relationship between this component of media services and the size of the school district. -- To answer the second question, ten null hypotheses were also formulated - one for each of the ten components of the media centre's services-indicating that there was no significant difference between the presence or absence of the particular characteristics of these components of media services and the extent to which they were considered desirable by the media specialists. A Chi Square analysis was then performed to test independence, and the null hypotheses were either accepted or rejected based on a .05 level of significance. -- The findings here indicate that the null hypotheses were rejected for a majority of characteristics in six of the components of media services. The null hypotheses were accepted only in the case of the components of physical facilities, furnishings and equipment, the educational media staff, and services and activities. It can be concluded then, in general, that there is a significant relationship between the presence or absence of these components of media services and the opinion of media specialists concerning the extent to which these components are considered desirable.


identifier: Oldford, Sharon A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Oldford=3ASharon_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2006) Interrelationships and clinical significance of expression of immunological markers in invasive breast carcinoma.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The immunologic and prognostic significance of tumor cell HLA class II expression and immune cell infiltration in invasive breast carcinoma is unclear. The studies described in this thesis involved investigating several hypotheses regarding the anti-tumor immune response in invasive breast carcinoma in an attempt to provide clarification. -- We postulated that the significance of tumor cell HLA-DR expression is dependent on HLA-DRB allotypes. In a pilot study, HLA-DR+ tumor cells differentially expressed HLA-DRβ allotypes, with DRβ1*04 preferentially expressed. An expanded study with clinicopathological arid outcome data, confirmed these findings and demonstrated HLA-Dβ1*04 and HLA-DRβ1*13 expression by breast tumor cells, oppositely associate with survival. Evaluation of the intratumoral cytokine milieu suggested prognostic differences were attributable to variation in immune responsiveness, as HLA-DRβ1*04+ tumors had elevated TH1-type cytokines, while DRβ1*13 expressing tumors had elevated immunoregulatory markers. In non-DRB1*04 tumors, lack of expression of one or more HLA-DRβ allotypes by HLA-DR+ tumors independently predicted decreased survival time, suggesting it may function in immune evasion. -- Since in vitro studies demonstrated HLA-DR+ tumor cells function as antigen presenting cells, we evaluated the role of co-expression of the HLA class II co-chaperones, Ii and HLA-DM. DR+Ii+DM+ breast tumor cells independently predicted improved survival while DR+Ii+DM- tumors predicted decreased survival. Determination of intratumoral cytokine levels indicated improved prognosis of patients with DR+Ii+DM+ tumors was attributable to enhanced TH1-type immunity and elevated IFN-γ associated with improved survival. -- As infiltrating inflammatory cells constitute the major source of immune-modulating cytokines, we correlated infiltrating cell subsets with cytokine mRNA levels. We observed the prognostic significance of tumor infiltrating cells is dependent on the balance of pro-inflammatory and immunoregulatory cytokines. A small exploratory study investigating whether genetic variation in cytokine genes partially regulate intratumoral cytokine responses demonstrated that allelic variation in cytokine gene regulatory sequences play a minor role controlling cytokine levels in breast tumors. -- This expanded characterization of the in situ immune response m breast carcinoma enhances the understanding of anti-tumor immunity. This study suggests that future attempts to design and implement immunotherapeutic strategies in breast carcinoma patients should consider HLA-DRB allotypes, and involve co-incident enhancement of cell mediated immunity and suppression of immunoregulatory mechanisms.


identifier: Olender, Jenna <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Olender=3AJenna=3A=3A.html>   (2005) View from the edge: vernacular theory and cyberpunk fandom.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Cyberpunk, a sub-genre of science fiction that developed in the 1980s, is typified by a dystopian representation of the near future. There is a cultural ethic embraced by cyberpunk fans that is derived from the literature and other media of the genre. This cultural ethic can be recognized as part of a vernacular theory unique to cyberpunk fandom. Vernacular theory proposes that it is not only academics that are able to critique and theorize about social experiences. Thus, through the themes of this cultural ethic (marginalization, creation of identity and image, technology and the body, and global integration and conflict) fans demonstrate a certain understanding of their social reality, address issues of concern, and reflect an awareness of and ability for critical theory.


identifier: Olivier, Claude A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Olivier=3AClaude_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2003) Relationships between income level and work, service use, and informal relations among people living with HIV/AIDS.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The relationship between income and health is well established. However, we do not fully understand how various factors related to income lead to poor health. This study explores how people living with HIV/AIDS (PHAs) of various income levels experience paid and volunteer work, the use of private, government and non-profit services, and informal social relations. Through the use of semi-structured interviews, qualitative data was collected from 27 PHAs residing in the Maritime Provinces. Participants reported a number of psychosocial stressors linked to low income. This was evident in all three social domains explored. Low-income participants faced the greatest range of barriers to paid employment (e.g., lack of training and education). Those with long term low-income had fewer volunteer opportunities, likely related to not having acquired desirable skills through participation in the workforce. Participants had to rely on public income security programs that many found insufficient to their basic needs. Newly low-income participants described assertiveness and communication skills (likely acquired through paid work) that helped in obtaining maximum income assistance benefits. Participants with long term low-income may not have had opportunity to develop these skills. Low income participants had less access to private services to help maintain their health (e.g., complementary therapies, psychosocial counselling and fitness centres). In this study, negative HIV -related interactions with family and community members were more common among low-income participants. Participants connected this to people's lack of knowledge about HIV/AIDS and discomfort or judgement regarding homosexuality. Furthermore, low-income participants did not always have the money to visit or call family and friends, and to participate in community events. Overall, and in comparison to those with higher incomes, low-income participants experienced a greater range of stressors and had less control in addressing these stressors. This resulted in isolation and threats to self-worth; factors that are known to negatively impact upon health and wellbeing. For PHAs to meet their aspirations in paid or volunteer work, use of services, and informal social relations attention must be paid to oppression at individual, cultural and structural levels of society. Policy and program design must also focus on sources of stress, on factors that affect control over stressful life events, and on barriers to social engagement. Findings support the need for a population health approach to include an anti-oppressive analysis in exploring health inequities between population groups.


identifier: Olson, Kim <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Olson=3AKim=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Step zero for marine conservation: driving factors of voluntary fishery closures in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Fishery closures are a form of conservation measure employed to protect fish stocks, a key resource for many coastal communities. Due to the social and economic importance of fisheries, there are challenges associated with limiting access to marine resources. Nonetheless, fishery closures are gaining popularity in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, particularly as voluntary initiatives. Voluntary fishery closures take shape as community-based conservation initiatives driven by fish harvesters and further include the fish harvesters’ union and the federal department of Fisheries and Oceans in their implementation and monitoring. -- Not all closures discussed are implemented, and not all implemented closures are successful in meeting their conservation objectives. Research on closures has focused primarily on outcomes or compliance, often excluding the steps, processes, and interactions that either lead to or inhibit their implementation. This thesis argues that knowing how a closure is conceived, discussed and communicated, as well as what the state of the fisheries system is prior to its implementation help explain why they succeed of rail. This can further our understanding of the role of voluntary closures in fisheries management and the factors that generate their support of opposition. Knowledge of what drives voluntary closures can further provide insight on what factors need to be in place for fish harvesters to support or be engaged in fisheries conservation. -- Research for this thesis was conducted in the Bay of Islands, Western Newfoundland, where a voluntary snow crab closure was discussed among inshore crab harvesters in the spring of 2010, but was not implemented. Thirty semi-structured interviews with fish harvesters, the fish harvesters union, fishery managers, scientists, and other community members were conducted to examine the step zero of fishery closure discussions in the area, i.e. the drivers, steps, processes and interactions leading to the closure discussions. Questions explored the motivation, initiators, support, opposition, and expectations for a voluntary closure in the area. Furthermore, interviews sought information on each component of the fish chain (marine environment, harvest, processing and marketing) to enhance the aforementioned ‘step zero’ understanding. -- Interviews illustrated that the initiative was influenced first and foremost by declining crab stocks, and was also driven by an existing closure in the nearby area, as well as low prices of snow crab. The closure was further conceivable because of a low economic reliance on the crab fishery in that area. While concerns about the stock were shared, stakeholder’s support for the closure varied, as did their expectations of the closure and their roles in marine conservation. It is clear through this study that the crab stocks in the Bay of Islands are depleting and require attention; however closure discussions did not fully address the needs and concerns raised by all harvesters in the area. Until these issues are addressed a consensus among crab harvesters to close the fishery is unlikely, as a result it is improbable that a voluntary crab closure will be implemented.


identifier: Onabiyi, Oluwatosin Opeyemi <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Onabiyi=3AOluwatosin_Opeyemi=3A=3A.html>   (2013) An investigation of surface-to-borehole travel-time tomography for mineral exploration.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis analyses the capabilities of the surface-to-borehole travel-time tomography method as a tool for mineral exploration and resource evaluation. Compared to electrical, electromagnetic, induced polarization and potential field methods, which are the currently preferred geophysical methods used in mineral exploration, the surface-to-borehole tomography methods offers the potential for higher resolution imaging of the subsurface. Despite the potential for improved subsurface imaging, this method has been somewhat untested for mineral exploration purposes. -- Assessment of the surface-to-borehole tomography capabilities was done using a series of increasingly realistic geological models. Acoustic finite-difference modeling was used to generate seismic travel-time data for the series of synthetic models and a minimum-structure inversion approach was used to perform the inversions on first-arrival travel-times. Evaluation of the accuracy of the inversion was done by comparing the true models to the slowness tomograms and the observed travel-times to the predicted travel times. -- Through the use of the 2-dimensional synthetic modeling experiments, this thesis successfully demonstrates the potential for deeper and higher resolution subsurface imaging than the currently used geophysical methods. Based on the acquisition parameters (vertical receiver boreholes, 50 - 60 Hz peak source frequency, and velocity contrasts expected for sulfide mineral deposits in hardrock environments), the results from the synthetic data show that resolution in the tomogram is good down to a depth of 40-50% of the borehole used. In addition, only objects on the scale of 100m - 150m or greater are resolvable with this method. Also, in comparison to other directions, it was observed that the best resolution in the tomograms is obtained in the direction perpendicular to the raypaths. Furthermore, we demonstrate that improved resolution in a tomogram is obtained by increasing the angular ray coverage of the region and by using structural and slowness constraints to perform the inversion.


identifier: Onodenalore, Akhile Collins <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Onodenalore=3AAkhile_Collins=3A=3A.html>   (1993) Aqueous washing of mechanically deboned chicken meat: effect on chemical and functional characteristics.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Mechanically deboned chicken meat (MDCM) was prepared from backs and necks of freshly slaughtered birds. Samples were then subjected to aqueous washings at various pH conditions using water, 0.5% NaCl or NaHCO ₃. Approximately 73.9% of the total hemoprotein pigments and 52.1% of total lipids were removed by washing with a sodium bicarbonate solution which resulted also in the best colour improvement in the products. Extraction of these components with water and NaCl solution was less effective. The yield of proteins ranged from 58.1% after one washing with water to 41.7% after washing with water and then with a sodium bicarbonate solution. The amino acid content and protein efficiency ratio (PER) values of washed meats, calculated by an amino acid scoring methodology, were comparable to those of unwashed MDCM. -- The concentration of flavour precursors, namely free amino acids and inosine 5'-monophosphate was decreased by over 50% in the washed samples. Similarly, the content of nucleic acids and cholesterol in the corresponding washed samples was reduced by 60.5 and 42.3%, respectively. A slight increase in the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids of phospholipids and content of phospholipids was also noted in the washed MDCM. The cook yield of washed MDCM was enhanced, while a decrease in sulphydryl groups and a proportionate increase in disulphide bonds due to washing was noted. The oxidative stability of washed raw products was less than their unwashed counterpart, however, the cooked washed meats were more resistant to lipid oxidation than the unwashed sample during a 2-week storage at 4°C.


identifier: Oppong, Felix K. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Oppong=3AFelix_K=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2005) Probing the microstructure of yield-stress fluids using multiple particle tracking.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: We have studied the microstructure of carbopol, a polymer, and laponite, a colloidal clay suspension, using multiple particle tracking and fluorescence video microscopy. From measurements of the positions of fluorescent spheres suspended in these fluids over a period of time, we obtain information about the microscopic properties of the fluids. -- For carbopol at low concentrations, the spheres diffuse freely in the fluid without any hindrance and the fluid environment is homogeneous. At intermediate concentrations, as the fluid gels, the environment becomes heterogeneous and the motion of the spheres becomes subdiffusive as the fluid structure starts to restrict their motion. At higher concentrations, stiffer gels are formed, the mean square displacement is low and the spheres are almost completely trapped by the fluid structure. From our data we estimate the length scales of the structures in the fluid to be on the order of 1 to 2 μm. -- The properties of laponite depend on both age and concentration. At small age and low concentrations, the motion of the spheres is diffusive and the fluid is homogeneous. At intermediate ages and concentrations, the motion is subdiffusive at short lag times but close to diffusive at longer lag times, which may be a signal of the sol-gel transition. At higher ages and concentrations the spheres are completely confined by the stiff gels formed and the fluid environment is heterogeneous. We were unable to determine a characteristic length scale for laponite, probably due to its fractal structure.


identifier: O'Reilly, Daria Joan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/O=27Reilly=3ADaria_Joan=3A=3A.html>   (1997) The annual institutional long-term care needs in the St. John's Region.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The St. John's region has approximately 1400 long-term care (LTC) beds in nursing homes and personal care homes. Despite this there are concerns that excessive numbers of acute care beds are occupied by clients awaiting long-term care placement that the waiting list for placement is too long, and that there is a mismatch between needs of clients and level of care provided in nursing homes. -- Actual placement within the long-term care (LTC) sector is influenced by services that are currently available, the desires/demands of clients as well as their needs. Accordingly, relating needs to utilization will assist in rational planning for LTC services to accommodate the expected growth in need as the population ages. -- The primary objective of this study was to determine the current status of the long-term care sector in the region. This analysis determined the needs of the clients entering the long-term care sector using validated scoring systems. It identified: -- the needs of the clients awaiting institutional placement; -- the proportion of acute care beds occupied while awaiting placement; -- the annual demands on the long-term care sector; -- appropriateness of client placement; -- time to placement. -- The availability of home support, the need for professional care provided in a nursing home (NH) and degree of disability was estimated for the 426 clients entering the LTC sector in 1995/96. Using validated assessment tools, the needs of these clients were compared to the actual placement. 4% of clients had no measurable disability and another 8% may have managed with home support. 20% of the clients recommended for NH care did not have a clinical indication for NH placement. Thus, the development of minimal criteria for placement in supervised care and in NH care may help maximize the utilization of the current number of beds. -- The median time to placement in a private personal care home was 8 days, whereas average wait for government-subsidized, level 1 supervised care in a NH was 302 days. There is a need for supervised care in the city aimed at clients who have disability, but who do not have need for NH level of care. The median time to placement of clients requiring nursing home placement (levels 2/3) was 96 days. A target time for placement should be developed. -- 139 LTC clients awaiting placement from an acute care hospital bed had an average wait of 97 days, and occupied less than 4% of the acute care beds. -- The annual incidence of clients requiring placement in a supervised environment was 110/426, and the incidence of those requiring the professional care available in a nursing home was 316/426, as determined by the assessment panel. Using objective criteria the former rate was 108/426 and the latter 268/426. -- The actual annual rate of placement in both supervised and nursing home care was commensurate with the demand when mortality and client wishes were taken into account. In fact there was no increase in the waiting list after 1 year of follow-up. -- We conclude that minimal criteria should be developed for admission to institutional long-term care. The current system is providing reasonable access to nursing homes, without excess blocking of acute care beds or increasing size of waiting lists. Restructuring of the long-term care system requires study of the needs and outcomes of current residents.


identifier: O'Reilly, Daria Joan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/O=27Reilly=3ADaria_Joan=3A=3A.html>   (2005) The introduction of an unrestricted reimbursement policy for atypical antipsychotic medications in Newfoundland and Labrador: the impact on hospital utilization by patients with schizophrenia.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Objectives: To measure total days of hospitalization, length of stay (LOS) and readmission risk for patients with schizophrenia following the introduction of an unrestricted reimbursement policy for costly atypical antipsychotic medications. -- Methods: A province-wide, observational, retrospective hospital chart review, using a before and after design, was used to identify all hospital admissions and quantify data on risk factors associated with LOS and readmission for acute episodes of schizophrenia. Three time periods were studied: 1) 1995/96 at the beginning of restricted access to atypical agents; 2) 1998 at the last year of restricted access; and 3) 2000 the second year of open access. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression models were used to identify risk factors influencing LOS and readmission within one year of discharge respectively. Retrospective administrative prescription claims provided data on the use of and expenditure for atypical agents before and after the policy change. -- Results: Total days hospitalization for schizophrenia in 1995/96 was 15,089, 16,318 in 1998 and 15,691 in 2000. There were 57 (18.2%) fewer patients admitted to hospital and 98 (16.7%) fewer admissions during the period of open access (2000) when compared to baseline (1995/96). However, median LOS in 2000 was significantly longer than in 1995/96 (22.0 vs. 15.0 days, P<0.001). Being admitted in 2000 compared to baseline was a significant predictor of increased LOS (HR: 3.04, CI=1.57-5.86, P=0.0009); independent of requiring ECT (HR: 2.49, CI=1.69-3.66, P<0/001); seclusion (HR: 1.87, CI=1.41-2.50, P<0.001); thought disorder (HR: 1.41, CI=1.11-1.81, P=0.006); suicidal ideation on admission (HR: 0.70, CI=0.57-0.86, P=0.0007) and discharging against medical advice (HR: 0.38; CI=0.27-0.54, P<0.001). No change m the number of readmissions was observed over the study period. -- Expenditures for atypical agents were $217,273 in 1995/96, $1.3 million in 1998, and 3.8 million in 2000, a 17.5 fold increase. -- Conclusions: The unrestricted reimbursement policy for atypical antipsychotic medications was associated with a large increase in government expenditure for these drugs, which was not associated with a decrease in hospital utilization in the province by schizophrenia sufferers. Although a decrease in hospital admissions occurred, this was negated by an increase in LOS.


identifier: Organ, Marion E. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Organ=3AMarion_E=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2004) Modeling of natural attenuation at a contaminated site: a case study.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated site was evaluated using computer software (SEVIEW) in this study. Using a design of experiment approach, the model was calibrated and verified and a sensitivity analysis was completed. Based on the results of the experimental analysis it was found that the computer model adequately estimated the fate and transport of contaminants under conditions of natural attenuation. The estimated results were in reasonable agreement with the actual field measurements. The sensitivity analysis concluded the model was sensitive to chemical properties (Koc), soil properties (soil pore disconnectedness index, intrinsic permeability, effective porosity, foc and the Freundlich Exponent) and aquifer properties (hydraulic conductivity, longitudinal dispersitivity and transverse dispersivity). The calibrated model was then used to predict the time required for natural attenuation to remediate the site within acceptable risk values. The model was also used to predict the fate and transport of petroleum hydrocarbons in the groundwater. The model predicted that the concentration of petroleum hydrocarbons in the soil would be within regulatory guidelines in 16 to 17 years under natural attenuation. Additional remediation would be required for groundwater as the concentrations of petroleum hydrocarbons posed a risk to a down stream receptor (a small stream that was a tributary for a pond) in the future. The model predicted that the plume would reach a tributary, located downstream, in four years. The concentration would reach a maximum value at fifteen years and the stream would be considered impacted from year 10 onwards.


identifier: O'Rourke, Jacqueline <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/O=27Rourke=3AJacqueline=3A=3A.html>   (2011) Representing violence: jihad, theory, fiction.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The discourse surrounding the “war on terror” is dense with possible quilting points in need of analysis. While the theorization of the “war on terror” has been continuing for a decade now, both “suicide bombings” and attacks on Muslim populations have increased dramatically. Thus, while theorizing about the jihad and popularizing the figure of the jihadist has become commonplace, hundreds of thousands of people across the world are still suffering from the effects of real conflict. It can be argued that this condition demonstrates a deep dislocation between First World theory and reality, and that as this dislocation grows the gap of interlocution grows wider. This thesis attempts to highlight this disjuncture and offers suggestions as to how genuine contrapuntal discourse might begin in radical criticism. -- In this thesis I will argue that the temptation to theorize jihad, and especially to appropriate the figure of the jihadist, offers a fertile area from which to launch a discussion about the limits of current theory, particularly regarding the role of Muslim interlocutors in interpretation, the limits of secularism as the founding doctrine off postcolonial theory, and the often opaque debates focused on Islam’s challenge to modernity. The jihadist has been employed by First world theorists as a tool to engage in self reflection on the state of the democratic project in Western countries, while Muslim interlocutors have become central to making visible the specter of the jihadist, playing the role of “good” Muslims in translating the motifs of the “bad” Muslims. Simultaneously, the “bad” Muslims have developed their own forms and discourses to represent themselves, without the mediation of interlocutors. This leads to a vastly heterogeneous discourse which both affirms and rejects dominant ideologies, producing a multi-dimensional “Muslim” response. This thesis discusses what these heterogeneous discourses offer to theory. -- The introduction establishes the methodological approach of the thesis: its contrapuntal and cross disciplinary approach towards a “democratic criticism.” Chapter One argues that while drawing on predominantly Muslim countries as the source material for his theory, Said avoided Islam’s radical critique of humanism, further isolating Islam from the growing field of postcolonial studies. Chapter Two focuses on the various forms of Orientalisms, from the neoconservatives and the left, that have arisen post 9/11 and the role of Muslims, either advertently or inadvertently, in supporting theses Orientalisms as the cultural logic for the militarization of Muslim countries. It studies the works of popular, but diverse, Muslim writers such as Irshad Manji Azar Nafisi, Khalid Hosseini, and Yasmina Khadra. Chapter Three further explores how the concept of jihad migrates of “travels” in theory to fit both the discourses of reform and revolution. This chapter compares the works of liberal reformists such as John Esposito, Oliver Roy and Imam Feisal Abdu Rauf as well as those of well-known radical thinkers, such as Slavoj Žižek and Terry Eagleton, to Islamic reformers, such as Ziaddiun Sardar, Anouar Majid, and Tariq Ramadan. Chapter Four explicitly examines the intentionality of jihad by employing a contrapuntal approach that includes fiction and critical analysis to compare fictional representations of the jihadist to biographical reconstructions of famous jihadists as interpreted by various sociologists and historians. John Updike’s Terrorist, Don DeLillo’s Falling Man, Slimane Benaïssa’s The Last Night of Damned Soul, Mohsin Hamid’s The Reluctant Fundamentalist and Orhan Pamuk’s Snow are discussed. Chapter Five examines the intentionality of the jihadist from his own perspective, through the direct interventions by infamous jihadist, such as Osama bin Laden, Adam Gadhan, Mohammed Siddique Khan, and Shehzad Tanweer, raising questions about the dialogic relationship between the jihadist, his audience, and the media. Arguing that the jihadist maintains both a performative and political stance by establishing a relationship between the jihadist and a community of responsible victims, these articulations are compared to those of noted interpreters such as Henry Giroux and Faisal Devji. The concluding chapter theorizes what jihad can contribute to contemporary theory, particularly to postcolonial studies, and positions the concept of jihad itself within the postcolonial tradition. The thesis concludes that by reclaiming the roots of contemporary jihad theory as a part of a postcolonial tradition, jihad can make a valuable contribution to the future of theory, which includes Islamic discourse in a serious debate on postcolonialism, particularly in the context of the ongoing 2010-2011 Arab revolutions.


identifier: Orr-Ewing, Etienne <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Orr-Ewing=3AEtienne=3A=3A.html>   (2006) Governmental decision-makers' views, perceptions, and concerns regarding privacy and confidentiality issues surrounding personal information, personal health information, and electronic health records in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Objective. To gain a better understanding of governmental decision-maker's views, perceptions and concerns regarding privacy and confidentiality issues surrounding personal information, personal health information, and electronic health records. -- Methods. This project employed qualitative research methods. Nine interviews were conducted with public officials of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador in the Department of Health and Community Services and the Department of Justice. The sample was recruited after consultation with privacy experts in the province and NLCHI. -- Results. The governmental decision-makers' had a thorough understanding of the terms and concepts involved with personal information, personal health information, and electronic health records. There was agreement that electronic health records can be and are safe. As well, the protection of personal health information should not impact health care or health research. -- The participants said they used mainly internal documents for their information on privacy. They also performed extensive searches through other jurisdictions and review similar legislation in other province and countries. Also, they stated that a strong partnership exists with NLCHI. -- Most participants believed that privacy is not a big issue in Newfoundland and Labrador. They stated that this is a relatively more trusting culture and that there has been a lack of resources allocated for this area. All agreed that the main reason for the delay in the implementation of the Access To Information and Protection of Privacy Act (ATIPP) and the privacy provisions was due to a lack of government readiness. All agreed that the privacy provisions would come into force because government now considers this legislation to be a priority. -- Participants stated that personal health information was not specifically addressed in A TIPP because it was previously recognized that it was different than personal information, and personal health information legislation is currently being developed. -- Conclusion. Privacy has not been a major issue in this province for several years. These governmental decision-makers have a comprehensive understanding of both the issues involved with personal health information and the objectives which should be taken into consideration when instituting personal health information legislation. It is imperative that these issues and objectives be addressed during the creation of such an act. In addition, government should make consultation with health researchers a priority when it moves forward with health privacy legislation.


identifier: O'Sullivan, Dan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/O=27Sullivan=3ADan=3A=3A.html>   (1999) The catabolism of arginine and ornithine in the liver.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The liver is a key organ for the catabolism of amino acids in mammals. However, the processes for the catabolism of arginine and ornithine in liver have not been studied in great detail. Neither the extent to which these amino acids are catabolized, nor the location within the liver of this catabolism is known. With respect 10 the localization of these processes, certain metabolic pathways are restricted to specific regions within the liver. Thus, it is possible that the processes for catabolizing ornithine and arginine are not distributed homogeneously throughout the liver, but are contained within a specific region. Furthermore, the catabolism of amino acids such as glycine and glutamine in liver is known to be regulated by various dietary and hormonal stimuli; the rates of catabolism of arginine and ornithine may also respond to such stimuli. -- It was discovered that the catabolism of both ornithine and arginine could be carried out, in their entirety, in the perivenous cells of the liver (those cells lining the central vein. where blood normally exits the liver). Also, the rates of catabolism of ornithine and arginine are subject to regulation by the amount of dietary protein. Rats fed a high protein diet over a period of days showed increased rates of catabolism of these amino acids, when compared with rats fed a diet with normal protein content. With respect to the effects of hormones, it was demonstrated that the catabolism of arginine, but not of ornithine, is subject to acute stimulation by glucagon, whereas insulin was without effect.


identifier: O'Toole, Mary Dolorosa <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/O=27Toole=3AMary_Dolorosa=3A=3A.html>   (1960) An analysis of the works of F. Scott Fitzgerald.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: F. Scott Fitzgerald is one of the most talented novelists that America has produced, although he was not the most careful or the most prudent. From Henry James he inherited a social perceptiveness that vas often at an uneasy truce with his belief in The American Dream. Fitzgerald's art is divided between these extremes and only once, in The Great Gatsby (1925), did he succeed in welding them into a coherent whole. Of his other books, only The Last Tycoon (1941) shows the same understanding and objective grasp of material that makes The Great Gatsby so outstanding, but the novel is unfinished and it is impossible to say whether or not Fitzgerald could have succeeded a second time. -- A concern with money is paramount in Fitzgerald; he saw it as a means of perfection, until intellectual honesty forced him to recognize its limitations. To some extent all his novels deal with the isolating power of money and its destructiveness of personality. Because he possessed a Jamesian social conscience Fitzgerald attempted to find certainty in a moneyed aristocracy. Tender Is the Night (1934) is, in part, an analysis of the uncertainty and instability of the American rich who formed, for Fitzgerald, an elite; to them he attributed the virtues he admired: honour, courage and inner security. The corrupting power of money forced him to modify his view of aristocracy until it became a moral rather than a material state. -- Even his earlier novels, such as This Side of Paradise (1920) and The Beautiful and Damned (1922), contain in embryo the ideas he later developed into a personal and national myth. Acutely conscious of his society, Fitzgerald was gifted with the satiric eye of a Jane Austen, but possessed neither her staying powers nor her social assurance. His works, The Vegetable (1923) excepted, are marked by a verbal brilliance, although marred by carelessness and illiteracies; he has an unfailing ear for language that makes his prose style the most vibrant in American fiction.


identifier: Ottenheimer, Gerald R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ottenheimer=3AGerald_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1960) The novels of Graham Greene: a study of the essential I.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The eight novels of Graham Greene offer the reader a penetrating and provocative analysis of certain themes particularly significant for the present age. Still their significance does not stop there. The recurring themes of Greene’s novels are not only contemporary but span the questions and problems inherent in human existence. -- The Man Within, It’s a Battlefield, and England Made Me deal, to a large extent, with the question of identity. Most of Greene’s characters are utterly introspective. In their search for the nature and meaning of the self, they achieve the painful but necessary goal of self knowledge. -- The publication of Brighton Rock marks a broadening and deepening of Greene’s talent. Relentless self-analysis is still present but, more and more, Greene’s characters are viewed sub specie aeternitatis. This does not mean that the natural man is overlooked. The flesh with all its needs and pains is glaringly present in all of Greene’s work. For Greene, however, human acts have both a temporal and an eternal value. -- The Power and the Glory, The Heart of the Matter, and The End of the Affair mark Green’s most creative period. These three novels offer variations on the theme of love. Love as manifested in religion, marriage, adultery, and parenthood is skillfully examined. Love is a redeeming force in Greene’s novels but it offers no universal solution to unravelling the knot of life. Although love has God as its source, it may become contaminated in the slush of the world and the flesh. -- In The Quiet American Greene makes explicit ideas which were previously implied in his novels. The theme of personal involvement in and personal responsibility for the human condition forms a backdrop for much of his writing. In The Quiet American the theme is explicitly examined. Perhaps for this reason the novel is less convincing that its immediate predecessors. -- Considered as a whole Greene’s work is an examination of the relationship between the two realities of God and man. Greene is an observer of life. His observations constitute a sensitive testimony to the worth of human effort.


identifier: Oxford, Will <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Oxford=3AWill=3A=3A.html>   (2007) Towards a grammar of Innu-aimun particles.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In Algonquian linguistics, indeclinable particles are traditionally treated as a single class. Although this approach is morphologically accurate, it obscures the fact that particles serve a wide variety of grammatical functions. This thesis examines the particles of Innu-aimun, an Algonquian language spoken in Labrador and Quebec. Based on a detailed grammatical analysis, particles are classified into the following more specific part-of-speech categories: adnominal particles (adjectives and quantifiers), prepositions, adverbs, focus particles, question particles, negators, conjunctions, and interjections. The grammatical properties that distinguish each class are described and analyzed. The declinable categories of pronouns, demonstratives, and locative-inflected nouns, which have certain properties in common with particles, are also discussed. While the primary goal of the thesis is to provide a broad and comprehensive description of the grammar of Innu-aimun particles, the analysis is expressed using the framework of generative grammar and theoretical explanations are suggested throughout.


identifier: Paddock, Natasha Ruby <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Paddock=3ANatasha_Ruby=3A=3A.html>   (2008) The effect of an inverted body position on muscle force and activation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Orthostatic pressure changes have been shown to significantly affect sympathetic nervous system responses in order to maintain balance and homeostasis. Neuromuscular responses have not been extensively, if at all, investigated in an inverted body position. Muscle force, activation and other neuromuscular factors are necessary, for instance, to successfully complete escape procedures from a secured inverted seated position of a overturned car or aircraft. -- It is known that both central and peripheral factors contribute to muscle force output. With an increase in pressure to levels above the heart in an inverted body position, cerebral blood pooling is likely. Even though there is evidence of a decrement in sympathetic functioning in similar circumstances to inversion, specific vestibulosympathetic responses during inversion are unknown, but possibly contribute to neuromuscular impairment. Peripheral factors such as lower levels of blood flow to the contracting muscles leading to decreased perfusion pressure and an oxygen deficit within the muscle results in a decreased force output. Decreased hydrostatic pressure in areas below the heart during inversion may also be a contributing hindrance to neuromuscular performance, but this has not been demonstrated. -- Based on the lack of literature in this area, the following experiment was implemented. Maximal and submaximal voluntary and evoked forces and EMG were recorded, and the contractions were analyzed for peak force, rate of force development and activation with upright and inverted seated positions. It was expected that inversion induced deficits in muscle force and activation would suggest impairment in neuromuscular efficiency in this tilt position. -- It was found that both quadriceps EMG activity during submaximal contractions, as well as instantaneous strength during maximal contractions, demonstrated a deficit in the inverted position. Therefore, during the inverted seated position it seems that neuromuscular function is impaired.


identifier: Paga, Deepa <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Paga=3ADeepa=3A=3A.html>   (2013) Modelling simulation of wind speed and wind farm power prediction.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In this research, the wind speed model and the wind farm power model is developed and the results are estimated and simulated in the MATLAB from the designed algorithm using the historic input wind data. For the wind speed forecasting, the historic input wind speed data is used to estimate and forecast the wind speed in advance from the wind speed models. For the wind farm power model the input to the power model is the historic wind speed, pressure, temperature, wind direction, and air density. The wind farm power is determined from the designed algorithm simulated in the MATLAB. -- The wake effect is considered in the wind farm power model and it depends on the wind direction and the wind farm layout. Transmission loss due to the power transmission in the cables is determined for the wind farm. Using this approach the wind farm power of the Fermeuse wind farm and the Cedar Creek Colorado wind farm is determined. This thesis presents the details and results of research.


identifier: Palanisamy, Giriprakash <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Palanisamy=3AGiriprakash=3A=3A.html>   (2001) A study of heavy metals in soils of the former United States naval base, Argentia, Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In contaminated landfill sites, sorption, desorption and mobility of contaminants are important properties that should be studied thoroughly before taking any remedial measures. Samples from five soil sections were taken from a landfill site at the former United States Naval facility at Argentia, Newfoundland. Total metal contents were analyzed by XRF and ICP-MS. Available cadmium content was determined by the EDTA extraction method using GF- Atomic Adsorption Spectrometry. High levels of Sr, Zn, Pb, Fe, Ti and Zr were found in these soil samples. Soil samples have variable pH (4.64 to 7.78), organic carbon content (0.03 to 7.49 %), CEC (0.6 to 10.2 cmole(+)/Kg), bulk density (0.994 to 0.638 Mg/m³) and soil texture (as sandy, sandy loam, sandy clay loam, loamy sand, loam, silty loam and clay loam). They are classified using USDA soil textural classification. -- Batch sorption and desorption experiments were carried out for all samples, and Freundlich isotherms and equations were developed. The results showed that Cd sorption increased with increasing depth in two sections and decreased in another section, whereas the other sections showed a variable behavior. Cadmium sorption increased with increasing soil pH, organic carbon content and clay content, whereas it decreased with increasing sand percentage. -- The results revealed a possible relationship between Cd sorption and associated anions. In particular, sorption decreased with increasing C1 content of the soil samples in section V. This was attributed to the formation CdC1⁺, which is less readily sorbed than Cd. The results of desorption experiments showed a positive relationship between sand content and Cd²⁺ desorption. The amount of Cd retained in profile IV decreased with increasing calcium content, which might be due to the competition of calcium for Cd sorption sites. -- A possible relationship between the pH and sand content with Cd mobility was studied by soil thin layer chromatography. The soil samples that showed lower pH values and higher sand percentage also showed high Cd mobility; therefore, the lower the pH and higher the sand percentage, the higher will be the Cd movement to the lower soil layers and groundwater.


identifier: Palasvirta, Natalie S. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Palasvirta=3ANatalie_S=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2004) Rainer Maria Rilke's Notebooks of Malte Laurids Brigge: a theater of imagination.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract:
Rainer Maria Rilke's The Notebooks of Malte Laurids Brigge (1910) are viewed as
a new kind of theater for the modern age. Through protagonist Malte's subjective
imagination we witness sound and silence, visualize scenery and lighting, observe how
costumes affect perception of character, and discover a connection between Malte's masks
and masks in Greek theater. These technical aspects of theater, plus two special effects,
support the premise of Malte as an actor. Learning to see opens him to empathize with
others. Remembering the past helps Malte to understand his present and helps him discover
the great human drama represented at Orange. From the St. Vitus Dancer, Malte learns how
to play a role, which leads him through rehearsal for his part, the Prodigal Son. At last Malte
comes to lerms with love, Abelone, and God, and finds a secure self behind a role on the
world's stage.


identifier: Pallard, Jessica Thérèse  <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Pallard=3AJessica_The==0301re==0300se_=3A=3A.html>   (2007) A symbiotic relationship: Anna Barbauld's ideal of moral progress through science and imagination.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Anna Letitia Barbauld's work mediates between the extremes of Enlightenment rationalism and Romantic imagination. Through readings ofsome of her scientifically focused poetry, such as "The Mouse's Petition," "An Inventory ofthe Furniture in Dr. Priestley's Study," "To Mr. S. T. Coleridge," "Washing-Day," and "The Invitation," as well as the prose work, "Hill of Science: A Dream-Vision," this thesis demonstrates how Barbauld saw science and poetry, reason and imagination, as symbiotic, mutually dependent concepts integral to society's political, cultural, and social well being. These works are discussed in the context of her Dissenting background, her friendship with Joseph Priestley, and her commitment to the educational principles ofthe Warrington Academy. The thesis examines Barbauld's sympathetic evaluation ofthe merits and shortcomings ofscientific objectivity and imaginative subjectivity and focuses on her fundamental goal of promoting moral responsibility and integrity in the actions of scientists and poets alike.


identifier: Pan, Li <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Pan=3ALi=3A=3A.html>   (2003) Limit load estimation for structures under mechanical loads.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Please see thesis for abstract.


identifier: Pandya, Keyur M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Pandya=3AKeyur_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2006) Studies on organocatalytic asymmetric Michael addition reactions.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The development of organocatalysts for asymmetric synthesis continues to be actively investigated in recent years due to the advantages over conventional metal-based catalysts. Research in our laboratory has focused on the development of organocatalysts for fundamental carbon-carbon bond forming reactions, such as the Michael addition reaction. -- The organocatalytic Michael addition of ketones to nitroalkenes is of special interest since the reaction generates two contiguous stereocenters and the products (γ-nitro ketones) are useful synthetic intermediates. We have observed that this reaction is efficiently catalyzed by pyrrolidine-based chiral, secondary diamines as well as triamines. The use of a protic acid in conjunction with the amine catalyst is beneficial and the Michael addition products (syn diastereomers) are obtained with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee) and diastereoselectivity (up to 50:1 dr) for cyclic ketones and nitroalkenes derived from aromatic aldehydes. Details regarding the effect of changes in the catalyst and protic acid structure, variation of catalyst/protic acid combinations and the scope of the reaction with respect to structural changes in the ketone and nitroalkenes will be discussed. -- In addition, the application of the chiral triamines in Michael reactions involving iminium ion intermediates has been examined. Preliminary results from these studies will be presented. The attempted synthesis of pyrrolidine-based organocatalysts with guanidine-containing side chains as well as catalysts based on the camphor scaffold will also be presented.


identifier: Pang, Stephen Ching-ng <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Pang=3AStephen_Ching-ng=3A=3A.html>   (1982) An examination of the hypothesis that structural changes which occur in hypertension, are a result of the increase in arterial pressure.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The hypothesis that the medial hypertrophy which occurs in jejunal arteries of the SHR during development is a result of elevation of arterial pressure, was examined. The morphological changes occurring in the jejunal arteries of SHR and normotensive WKY during development were compared with those occurring in jejunal arteries transplanted between the two strains, in WKY in which the blood pressure had been elevated by renal artery constriction and in SHR which had been rendered normotensive by capsaicin treatment. Although it is still premature to draw the final conclusion on the causes of medial hypertrophy is neither the result of inherent generic factors in the arterial wall, nor the increase in arterial pressure, but due to some other factors such as innervation of the arteries or circulating hormones in the blood.


identifier: Parai, Kakoli <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parai=3AKakoli=3A=3A.html>   (2004) Changes in vascular function in hypertension: role of chloride in altered electromechanical coupling in salt hypertension.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Please see thesis for abstract.


identifier: Pardy, Krystal Dawn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Pardy=3AKrystal_Dawn=3A=3A.html>   (2012) The minds of our youth: a needs assessment of mental health education and promotion in schools.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: With an increasing number of youth identified with mental health conditions, schools have recognized this factor as an educational concern. Mental health is a component of student well-being and academic success. It is a building block for elements of learning and a teachable subject. Students can learn stress management, coping skills, and resiliency; components that should be a part of our educational system. Providing support for mild to moderate mental health problems in schools would allow students to receive timely support in a natural environment and allow medical professionals to focus on students with severe mental illnesses. In order for schools to offer mental health support, they must understand the needs of their population and evaluate the availability of services. In this study, using a qualitative approach, 10 educators were interviewed: five school counsellors and five administrators. The participants provided information on their experiences in addressing mental health in schools. This paper was designed to (1) discover the current role of mental health in schools, (2) identify the barriers to mental health promotion in schools, and (3) provide an opportunity for educators to voice their perspectives on mental health education. The findings of the study indicated that in order for schools to provide approaches that will positively influence mental health, they must acquire a deeper understanding of student behaviour and have ongoing professional development for school staff. Support from external organizations and governmental departments are essential in this venture, and societal expectations and perceptions will also affect the success of school mental health programming. These findings suggest that schools in Newfoundland and Labrador are not yet prepared to provide adequate mental health education. More collaboration and interagency dialogue between health and education are needed to provide effective mental health services to students.


identifier: Park, Beverley A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Park=3ABeverley_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1993) The design and development of a graduate course for offering via distance education: a descriptive case study.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The offering of a course by distance education, whether new or existing, requires considerable course development activity, since the course should be in keeping with the particular advantages and limitations of the various distance education technologies. Hence, even in the case of the existing courses, major adaptations are frequently required. -- This case study describes the development of a graduate distance education course - L6521 Instructional Development. The course has been offered on campus as a required graduate course on three programs leading to the Master of Education degree. Because of increasing demands by students residing outside of St. John's, the decision was made to offer the course via distance education. -- In developing the course for distance technology, the core content remained essentially the same, with only minor changes made through the introduction of a new text and a revised student evaluation plan. Major changes were made in the instructional methodologies employed in the course. -- Based on research in the areas of instructional development and distance education, the course developers selected the audio-tutorial system of education developed by S.N. Postlethwait as the most appropriate instructional method for this course. The audio-tutorial system can incorporate a variety of media systems, including audiotape, print, and videotape, making it a very flexible system. -- This descriptive study focuses on the implementation of the course development process and presents, in brief descriptive terms, the materials developed by the course development team.


identifier: Park, Murray Kitchener <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Park=3AMurray_Kitchener=3A=3A.html>   (1997) The coordination chemistry and magnetism of compounds derived from formylphenols and diaminomaleonitrile.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis describes the synthesis~ spectroscopic characterization, electrochemistry and magnetism of mononuclear and polynuclear coordination compounds derived from formylphenols and diaminomaleonitrile (DAM), as well as extended Hückel molecular orbital calculations concerning the magnetic behaviour of binuclear macro cyclic copper(II) compounds. -- Chapter l provides an overview of the literature to date concerning these compounds, with an emphasis on the current understanding of the magnetic properties of binuclear copper(II) systems from experimental (magnetostructural correlations) and computational (extended Hückel and ab initio) points of view. Chapter 2 describes the syntheses of mononuclear and polynuclear copper(II) compounds derived from formylphenols and DAM. A discussion of the x-ray diffraction structures of two copper(II) compounds along with infrared, UV -visible, electrochemical and variable temperature magnetism studies on the DAM-based systems is presented in chapter 3. While copper(II) readily templated the desired DAM-based product, this was not found in general for other metal ion salts and a series of IR guidelines was established to assess the structure and nuclearity of the products isolated. The UV-visible spectra of the copper(II) DAM systems are dominated by charge transfer bands that originate from the 1t framework of the ligand, in contrast to related binuclear copper(II) systems. Cyclic voltammetry revealed that the binuclear copper(II) systems all exhibit a single non-reversible one-electron reduction at uncharacteristically high electrode potentials, except in the case of a diacetonyl adduct (formed upon reaction of a binuclear copper(II) macrocyclic compound with acetone) which undergoes two one-electron reductions to a binuclear copper(I) species via a mixed valence intermediate. The magnetism of the binuclear copper(II) systems is greatly affected by the electronic structure of the DAM residues and this is discussed in detail. The presence of antiferromagnetic exchange in the acetonyl adduct (2J = -25cm⁻¹) despite having the smallest average phenoxide angle reported to date (92.4°) provides experimental support for the results of the extended Hückel study on macrocyclic phenoxide bridged binuclear copper(II) systems.


identifier: Park, Timothy L.G. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Park=3ATimothy_L=2EG=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2012) Pressure ridge ice gouge morphology and the development of a representative physical ice keel model for the Beaufort sea.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Ice gouge experiments have been conducted by numerous authors since the early 1970s. A common theme in nearly all experiments is the use of an idealized prismatic wedge shape model to represent the keel of an iceberg or pressure ridge. In the case of icebergs, it is well known that keel morphology is highly variable. However, for pressure ridge ice keels a common morphology has been recognized. An in-depth study of extreme gouge features in five multi-beam bathymetric datasets, from the Beaufort Sea, has led to the development of a three-dimensional representative model of an ice keel. A qualitative 1g scale model test comparing the representative three-dimensional model to a traditional prismatic wedge was conducted using Beaufort Sea clay. The experiment used a model pipeline to compare the loads from a representative keel to that of an idealized prismatic wedge. The three-dimensional representative model resulted in a lower force/deflection on the pipeline when compared to the traditional prismatic wedge shape model. However, the shape of the representative model keel resulted in proportionately higher stresses being transmitted through the soil than the simple prismatic model.


identifier: Parker, Linda Alice <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parker=3ALinda_Alice=3A=3A.html>   (1979) Suppression of consummatory behavior elicited by a lithium-conditioned flavor.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A rat develops an aversion to the flavor of a solution which is paired with illness. Although it is well established that the rat will avoid consuming this flavor, the actual conditioned response (CR) that it elicits has not been systematically investigated. The following series of experiments present a technique for measuring this CR. The rats were first trained to discriminate between an aversive flavored solution (CS+) which was paired with lithium and a safe flavored solution (CSc) which was presented alone. The CR was then measured by the ability of the immediate aftereffect of the CS+ flavor to suppress consumption of a differently flavored solution (the test solution). While the rats consumed the test solution, they were intraorally infused with 2 ml of either the CS+ or esc flavored solution; the time to resume drinking and the subsequent rate of licking of the test solution were recorded. -- All experiments demonstrated that the rats infused with the CS+ flavored solution were more hesitant to resume drinking the test solution than were the rats infused with the esc flavored solution. This CR was evident whether the test solution was unflavored water, a novel flavored solution or a conditioned aversive flavored solution; however, the duration of the CR varied by the nature of the test solution, ranging between 45 and 235 seconds. Finally, the strength of the suppressive CR was influenced by variations of the sickness intensity and the flavor intensity during conditioning. -- It is unlikely that the CR measured in these experiments is the sole motivator of a flavor aversion, because extinction of the suppressive CR did not even weaken the rats subsequent avoidance of the CS+ flavored solution. The suppressive CR elicited by a lithium-conditioned flavor parallels the suppressive CR elicited by a shock-conditioned external cue.


identifier: Parrell, Elizabeth Marie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parrell=3AElizabeth_Marie=3A=3A.html>   (1979) The problems of beginning teachers: a theoretical approach.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The research reported in this paper studies the relationship of three independent variables, namely; experience, training, and methods, to eleven environmental dimensions of the school. These dimensions fall into three general socialization categories, namely; (1) students’ formal subenvironment (containing five dimensions), (2) students’ informal subenvironment (containing two dimensions), and (3) the teachers’ subenvironment (containing four dimensions). – The sample (N=55) was drawn from twenty-three Newfoundland schools and included thirty beginning teachers who were matched with twenty-five experienced teachers. A questionnaire type of instrument was administered to all subjects for data gathering purposes. – The analysis of the data resulted in the following findings. New teachers experienced no more problems per dimension than experienced teachers. In fact, new teachers experienced fewer problems in two areas; (1) the student opportunity to learn dimension (p<.01), and (2) the student academic involvement dimension (p<.005). Training was related significantly to the ‘student authority dimension’ only (p<.05), with internship students experiencing fewer problems than non-internship students. It was also found that interns experienced more difficulties in relation to ‘opportunities and encouragement to learn’ their new role, although the findings were not statistically significant (p<.07). Regarding teaching methods, activity oriented teachers experienced fewer problems in the ‘students’ socialization environment’. Acceptable levels of significance were found in the ‘student reinforcement dimension’, ‘the student identification dimension’, and the ‘student academic involvement dimension’ (p<.01 in each case). In ‘teachers’ socialization environment’, however, activity oriented teachers generally experienced more problems than their passively oriented counterparts. – A review of the literature yielded very little knowledge about where beginning teachers seek help in their new environment. Consequently, for exploratory purposes, twenty-nine items on the questionnaire contained a section requesting teachers to indicate what they considered to be most helpful for that particular problem area. Basically no help was sought in the ‘students’ socialization environment’ in most instances. In the ‘teachers’ socialization environment’, principals, vice-principals and other teachers provided most of the help. Teachers seem to find education courses most beneficial in the areas relating to curriculum and student evaluation. – It is conclude, from the findings of the present study, that beginning teachers are generally well educated and adequately trained to cope with the difficulties inherent in their new role.


identifier: Parry, Dewi Michael <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parry=3ADewi_Michael=3A=3A.html>   (1975) Teacher liability and tenure with special reference to Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study examines the legal responsibilities of educators for the supervision and care of students, and the legal rights of teachers in the field of tenure. The overall purpose of the study is to identify, in these two areas, consistent principles of law relative to educational personnel. -- The writer examines the sources of law which define the responsibilities and rights of educators. The sources include relevant statutes, contractual agreements, and subordinate legislation in the form of school board bylaws, rules and regulations. Much of Canadian law is unwritten so that legal principles have evolved through the common law. These principles are identified and illustrated by an examination of more than one hundred court cases. Pertinent Newfoundland legislation, some comparative legislation, and British and Canadian court cases form the basic source of the writer's data. -- Under the topic of Teacher Liability, the tort of negligence is defined and explained. The legal duties that educators, in their respective roles, owe to students are examined with specific reference to their supervisory duties on and off school premises, before and after school hours, and while transporting students. The duty owed to keep premises, facilities and equipment in a safe condition is reviewed. The writer examines the defences to a charge of negligence and the measures that educators can take to protect themselves against such a charge or against the possible ensuing financial consequences. Through an examination of the by-laws o~ Newfoundland school boards and the procedural methods of a selected number of schools, the writer attempts to comment on the adequacy of prevailing supervisory practices. -- Under the topic of Teacher Tenure, the writer reviews the procedures for acquiring tenure, the causes for dismissal, the procedures for dismissal and the procedural rights that accrue to teachers. -- As a result of his findings, the writer classifies a number of basic legal principles that apply to educators generally across Canada. The most important implication of the study, in the writer’s view, is that much needs to be done to make educators more aware of their legal rights and duties. He suggests some methods whereby this need might be satisfied.


identifier: Parsons, Andrew D. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parsons=3AAndrew_D=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1995) Morale and cohesion in the Royal Newfoundland Regiment 1914-18.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In 1914, Newfoundland was a self-governing dominion of the British Empire. With the declaration of war, Newfoundland agreed to send five hundred men to serve in the British Army. Very quickly this nucleus of five hundred grew to form the Newfoundland Regiment. -- The Newfoundlanders fought as an infantry regiment of the British Army. National identity, however, was maintained through the institution of the regiment. The traditional British regiment functioned as a soldier's home and in this capacity of social organisation, it was significant in promoting troop morale and unit cohesion. -- The regiment, and its influence upon morale and cohesion is the focus of this thesis. Throughout the war, the regiment was manned by Newfoundlanders and it maintained a distinctive identity as was encouraged by the traditional regimental system. The support from home bolstered this distinctiveness with care packages which maintained the links with Newfoundland. -- This thesis examines the experience of Newfoundland's soldiers through the framework of the regiment. The importance of the "national" regiment and the support from the people in Newfoundland demonstrate the essential link between the soldier and the society from which he comes.


identifier: Parsons, Brett M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parsons=3ABrett_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2006) Empirical analysis and observations of routing protocols for wireless sensor networks.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Routing in Wireless Sensor Networks poses unique challenges due to the low-energy requirement and the resource-constrained nature of nodes in the network. This brings about a need for efficient routing protocols for Wireless Sensor Networks. We selected three routing protocols for Wireless Sensor Networks (Directed Diffusion, Dynamic Source Routing, and Minimum Transmission Routing) and implemented them in a novel software framework. A simulation study was carried out to evaluate these routing protocols in regards to typical Wireless Sensor Network deployment scenarios, with a focus on the application of habitat monitoring. Additionally, well-defined metrics were used to measure the performance of each routing protocol in the experimentations. Based on the results of our experimentations, we recommend Dynamic Source Routing as the preferred routing protocol in most Wireless Sensor Network deployments for habitat monitoring purposes.


identifier: Parsons, Carolyn S. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parsons=3ACarolyn_S=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2007) Exploring the social interactions between international and Canadian students at Sir Wilfred Grenfell College.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: There are several benefits associated with the social interaction of international and domestic post-secondary students. Social interactions can assist international students with their adjustment to a new environment and can encourage two-way learning about different cultures, global issues and lifestyles. -- This study explored the current state of social interactions between international and domestic students studying at Sir Wilfred Grenfell College. In-person interviews were conducted with 16 international students and 12 domestic students to gain a deeper understanding of what social interactions are occurring on campus; what benefits are being realized as a result of social interactions; what students perceive as being potential benefits; what adjustment concerns international and domestic students experience; and whether domestic students have an understanding of the adjustment concerns experienced by international students. -- Social interaction between international and domestic students does appear to be happening at Grenfell, although several domestic students would like to have more interaction. Also, it was identified that although some benefits are being realized, there could be a greater cultural exchange- students feel that there is not a high degree of learning occurring as a result of social interactions.


identifier: Parsons, Claire Christine <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parsons=3AClaire_Christine=3A=3A.html>   (1989) A report on an internship in administration and supervision of physical education within a Newfoundland and English school district.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The dimensions of this internship report reflect experiences that were made available to the candidate in both the Newfoundland and English educational systems. The candidate had the opportunity to work in the Newfoundland educational system as an assistant to a Physical Education Co-ordinator with a School Board (three weeks); to work in an administrative capacity at a Centre dealing with ‘special needs’ children (two weeks); and to work as an evaluator in student teaching for Physical Education 311B course (one week). – In the England the candidate worked under the auspices of an Area Education Authority. The areas of practical experience in which the candidate worked were administrative/teaching in physical education (two weeks); a general teaching practice at the infant, junior and secondary schools (two weeks); and in a supervisory capacity dealing with handicapped students. –  The insights gained in these educational environments helped the candidate apply administrative concepts to the tasks that were given within the internship. Part I of this report deals with those tasks. The candidate, acting in the position of Physical Education Co-ordinator of the fictitious Utopian School Board, had to deal with some of the administrative responsibilities that are common to this role. Each task was unique in itself, with no causal connection to the others. Task Ia required the candidate to provide details of a method that could be used in the evaluation of physical education teachers.


identifier: Parsons, Jennifer M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parsons=3AJennifer_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2006) Positional effects in phonological development: a case study.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis investigates positional effects in the acquisition of English, based on a longitudinal case study. Analyses of the acquisition of voicing contrasts and cluster development in onsets are conducted. In addition, an acoustic analysis of Voice Onset Time (VOT) is performed on obstruent stops in singleton onsets in order to test the reliability of the multiple-blind transcriptions used in the corpus. -- While the results were inconclusive with regards to positional effects, significant observations were made. First, the acoustic investigation reveals that manually transcribed data are a reliable means of analysis, especially when following a multiple-blind protocol. Second, the analysis of the acquisition of voicing in onsets reveals that voicing contrasts were acquired extremely early. This finding is further supported by a recent study by Kager et al. (in press). Finally, the investigation of the acquisition of onset clusters reveals that branching onsets and s+C clusters are acquired following independent paths.


identifier: Parsons, Lance C. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parsons=3ALance_C=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2013) Brillouin scattering studies of porous silicon-based one-dimensional hypersonic phononic-photonic crystals.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Brillouin light scattering spectroscopy and optical reflectance measurements were used to characterize the acoustic phononic band structure and the photonic band structure, respectively, of binary periodic mesoporous silicon superlattices with a repeated porosity sequence of  ~55% (~45%) and modulation wavelengths of the order of 100 nm. The samples exhibited visible-range forbidden photon frequency bands, or photonic band gaps, for photons propagating along the modulation axis of the superlattice. This manifested as a peak in the near-normal incidence broadband optical reflectance spectrum. Using a combination of pseudo-reflection geometry Brillouin spectroscopy and near-normal incidence 180°-backscattering geometry Brillouin spectroscopy, a portion of the bulk acoustic band structure directed approximately along the superlattice periodicity was mapped for a series of samples. The obtained agreement between the data and calculations based on a one-dimensional elastic/electromagnetic continuum model suggested that the longitudinal bulk acoustic phonon dispersion curve had underwent zone-folding into the mini-Brillouin zone corresponding to the artificial periodicity. In particular, two peaks associated with folded bands of the longitudinal band structure were observed in the Brillouin spectra. For the transverse bulk acoustic mode, on the other hand, the Brillouin spectra showed evidence of a single band. Analysis of the Brillouin peaks associated with the longitudinal modes suggested that phonon attenuation in porous silicon was several orders of magnitude larger than that observed in bulk crystalline silicon. It was, therefore, suggested that the film porosity played a significant role in the phonon attenuation. Additionally, another peak, attributed to a surface-localized mode with a frequency within a hypersonic phononic band gap in the longitudinal bulk mode band structure centered at ~16 GHz, was also observed. This surface-localized mode was a manifestation of the hypersonic phononic band gap. Taking into account the Brillouin scattering results along with those obtained through the optical reflectance measurements, it was inferred that the π-Si superlattices were one-dimensional hypersonic phononic-photonic crystals. -- Oblique acoustic phonon propagation was also characterized using oblique 180°-backscattering geometry Brillouin scattering. The frequency of the probed folded longitudinal acoustic phonon modes depended on the phonon propagation direction. No evidence of coupling between the folded longitudinal bulk acoustic bands and the transverse bulk acoustic band was obtained. In addition to the bulk acoustic modes, peaks ascribed due to a Rayleigh surface mode and a pseudo-surface mode were observed in the oblique 180°-backscattering geometry Brillouin spectra. These surface modes were dispersive, with the phonon velocity increasing with phonon wavelength. This surface mode dispersion appeared to be an artefact of the periodic structure of the probed samples.


identifier: Parsons, Matthew P. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parsons=3AMatthew_P=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2006) From hypothalamic peptides to the regulation of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens: the introduction of the paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus in a novel hypothalamic-thalamic-striatal circuit.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Previous studies have demonstrated that the para ventricular nucleus of the thalamus (PVT) receives heavy projections from numerous hypothalamic peptides involved in energy homeostasis and brainstem monoamines involved in various aspects of stress and arousal. Not surprisingly, the PVT is highly active during periods of active waking as well as stress and lesions of the PVT influence feeding behavior and anticipatory reactions to cues signaling food reward. Furthermore, the PVT sends a dense glutamatergic projection to the same regions of the nucleus accumbens shell (NacSh) receiving heavy dopaminergic innervation from the ventral tegmental area. Although numerous cortical afferents to the accumbens have been shown to mediate a glutamate-dependent regulation of dopamine efflux within the NacSh, little is known regarding the role of PVT terminals within this region of the ventral striatum. Initial anatomical experiments were done to examine the innervation of the PVT and adjacent thalamic nuclei by two recently discovered hypothalamic peptides termed the orexins and cocaine and amphetamine related transcript (CART), both of which have been heavily implicated in stress and arousal as well as energy homeostasis. Specifically, orexin and CART peptides fibers were investigated in terms of their relationship and proximity to PVT neurons projecting to the NacSh. Further experiments were done using in vivo voltammetry to examine the effects of electrical stimulation of the PVT on dopamine efflux in the NacSh. The PVT was found to receive heavy projections from both orexin immunopositive and CART immunopositive fibers whereas adjacent thalamic nuclei received considerably less or no innervation whatsoever from either peptide. Orexin and CART fibers in the PVT were found to co-express immunoreactivity for synaptophysin, a marker for presynaptic exocytotic release, suggesting that these neuropeptides are actively released within the PVT. High magnification confocal and light microscopy revealed frequent appositions between orexin and CART fiber varicosities and PVT neurons projecting to the NacSh. Voltammetric recordings from the NacSh demonstrated that brief electrical stimulation of the PVT (400 µA, 40Hz, 1.0 ms for 5s) resulted in a transient increase in dopamine oxidation current within the NacSh. The PVT –evoked response was found to be insensitive to inhibition of midbrain dopamine neurons, suggesting a presynaptic regulation of dopamine release. Indeed, an immediate attenuation of PVT evoked dopamine transients was observed upon intra-accumbens infusion of the ionotropic glutamate receptor antagonist kynurenic acid. It is hypothesized that this hypothalamic-thalamic-striatal circuit is important in the facilitation of specific motivated behaviors and is discussed in terms of both a stress and arousal induced increase in dopamine efflux as well as a dopaminergic modulation of food-seeking behavior.


identifier: Parsons, Robert Charles <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parsons=3ARobert_Charles=3A=3A.html>   (1982) Development of guidelines for using children's literature in the social studies and science programs in the elementary grades.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Children’s literature is necessary to extend and enrich the content of social studies and science texts. Many teachers in the elementary grades, however, are unfamiliar with a large number of good books suitable for this purpose. Even when many books are available to them, most teachers do not have the time needed to develop activities for use with each book. -- The primary purpose of this study was to select appropriate children’ s books which could effectively enrich units presented in the elementary social studies and science programs currently in use in the schools of Newfoundland, and to provide for each book an annotation, complete bibliographical information, and an indication of the level of reading difficulty. A secondary purpose was to develop, at each grade level, discussion questions and activities for a sample of several books. -- Through a study of the prescribed textbooks, teachers’ manuals, guidebooks, and programs of study, the units of study contained in the social studies and science programs in the elementary grades were identified. The subject indexes of reputable selection aids were used to determine the titles of children’s books which were related to these units of study. A listing was made of the titles, and each available book was read to determine its suitability for enrichment purposes in elementary social studies and science. An annotated list of books for each grade was prepared. Complete bibliographic information, a summary, an indication of the level of reading difficulty, and at least one recommending source were prepared for each book. For a sample of books at each grade level, examples of related activities and discussion questions were developed to serve as guides for teachers when developing their own activities for these or other children’ s books.


identifier: Parsons, Sterling <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parsons=3ASterling=3A=3A.html>   (2005) Assessment of some triggering mechanisms associated with submarine slope failures on continental slopes utilizing centrifuge testing.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The conditions leading to submarine slope failures on continental slopes are not fully understood. A research program utilizing centrifuge modelling was developed to provide insight into the understanding of submarine slope failures on continental slopes. The primary research objectives were to develop methodologies for the modelling of submarine slope failures caused by static loadings on continental slopes, and to show that the test data obtained simulates prototype conditions. -- Based on experience from previous demonstration tests, the testing program consisted of three centrifuge tests. The study investigated the triggering mechanisms in normally consolidated submarine slopes under static loads induced by two basic phenomena: sediment erosion and excess pore water pressure. Slope stability analysis using limit equilibrium methods was completed to evaluate the results of the centrifuge tests. -- Due the high excess pore pressures required to initiate slope failures in the centrifuge and the restrictions imposed by the finite size of the centrifuge model, the centrifuge tests probably did not simulate actual natural submarine failure conditions. However, this research has provided new insights and allowed the development of new methodologies for the modelling of submarine slope failures, and has demonstrated the possible usefulness of the geotechnical centrifuge for this type of research. Further centrifuge testing and analysis is recommended.


identifier: Parsons, Stewart R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Parsons=3AStewart_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2003) Polytopic diazine ligands and their coordination chemistry.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis describes the ligands and related complexes synthesized in an attempt to generate homonuclear high nuclearity metal clusters from a family of related ligands. Self-assembly processes are the intellectual basis of the work and exploration of the magnetic properties of the complexes the ultimate reason for the research. -- Chapter 1 deals with the underlying theoretical and historical principles, it includes a brief introduction to the study of polytopic diazine ligands, and their self-assembly forming clusters. Chapter 1 continues with a discussion of the magnetism of metal clusters, including the different types of magnetic interactions possible and a discussion of molecular magnetism. -- Chapter 2 contains general experimental details and background theory on AC/DC SQUID magnetometry and Mössbauer spectroscopy. It briefly discusses the theory of the general ligand syntheses, and continues to specifically describe the preparation of the individual ligands. -- Chapter 3 discusses the results of the ligand synthesis, beginning with the general properties they all share and then specific ligand properties. Chapter 3 ends with the discussion of, and experimental details of, a number of ligands whose synthesis were unsuccessful but would have been of interest to obtain. -- Chapter 4 deals with the inorganic coordination chemistry of these ligands, identification of the complexes formed and a discussion of their magnetic properties. The magnetic discussion deals with the consequences the structural features of the clusters have on the magnetic properties observed and the structure of the cluster formed. Due to the paucity of X-ray data, the majority of the structural details of the ligands and complexes are inferred mainly from spectral data. -- The Appendices include brief background theory behind the modeling of magnetic exchange behavior in metal clusters (Appendix A), crystal structure data (Appendix B), and χM vs. T data (Appendix C).


identifier: Patch, Rosie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Patch=3ARosie=3A=3A.html>   (2007) Contemporary hobby knitting: the preservation and reinvention of traditional craft.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Knitting today is a hobby activity that provides knitters with a sense of connectedness with their families' past and of participating in a fundamental element of their culture. Knitting's existence in contemporary popular culture demonstrates the widespread desire in Western society to make links with an idealized past. This thesis is based on interviews with ten knitters, in St. John's, Newfoundland, analysis of the objects they produce and observations of a regular gathering of knitters. -- This study has found, knitters emphasize the importance of the act of knitting, as well as the importance of producing functional objects. Contemporary hobby knitters preserve tradition by continuing to use the same techniques as have a long tradition of use in their families and their communities. However, knitters strive to make hand knit objects functional for today's users by conforming to contemporary fashion trends and using modern materials. Migrating away from, and back to, Newfoundland has had the effect of solidifying some knitters' sense of knitting as symbolic of Newfoundland culture. Knitting also offers today's frequently migrating urbanites comfort by providing a sense of belonging to a universal culture that goes beyond the sense of belonging to a particular place or time. Furthermore, the contemporary phenomenon of knitting as a hobby reflects the strength of the knitting tradition in Newfoundland, despite the influence of external culture, such as printed patterns, and hobby knitters today contribute to the evolution of Newfoundland knitting. My aim is to discover how women today are using traditional knowledge as a force for social change.