identifier: Ramjuttun, Ravindlall <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ramjuttun=3ARavindlall=3A=3A.html>   (1997) The chemical speciation of chromium in seawater by cathodic stripping voltammetry.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Chromium has an interesting ecotoxic role in aquatic environments, where it occurs in two different oxidation states, Cr(lll) and Cr(VI). While Cr(lll) is considered an essential nutrient, Cr(VI) is toxic and carcinogenic. Hence it is important to monitor the concentrations of the individual Cr species in natural waters. -- This thesis describes the development, optimization and application of a new voltammetric method for the determination of Cr species in aqueous environmental samples, with particular reference to seawater. This method is based on the Square Wave Cathodic Stripping Voltammetry (CSV) of a Cr-Xylenol Orange (XO) complex preceeded by its adsorptive preconcentration on a hanging mercury drop electrode. The catalytic reduction of nitrate ions in the vicinity of the electrode is utilized to enhance the sensitivity of the method. Stable reduction peaks are obtained for both Cr(VI) and Cr(lll) species. The formation of the adsorbed analyte complexes derived from Cr(VI) and Cr(lll) is dependent on the deposition potential used for the preconcentration and this forms the basis for the speciation of Cr. Hence the need for lengthy sample pretreatment steps is precluded from the analytical procedure. -- Under optimized conditions, sensitivities greater than 1.8 µA (µg/L)⁻¹ min⁻¹ (90 nA nM⁻¹ min⁻¹) can be achieved, making the method adequate for the determination of Cr at the concentration levels prevalent in all types of natural waters. For 60 s preconcentration times, detection limits for Cr(VI) and Cr(lll) are respectively 1.2 and 1.8 ng/L in distilled, deionized water. The method is virtually free from interferences and is applicable to Cr analysis in seawater as well as in surface waters and has been applied to the determination of Cr speciation in the N.W. Atlantic Ocean. -- Results of experiments aimed at elucidating the electrode processes involved in the deposition and reduction of the analyte complex suggest that the adsorbed complex is Cr¹¹¹-XO. This complex is formed on the surface of the electrode by the reaction between nascent Cr species and adsorbed XO. The analytical signal is the current obtained when this complex is reduced to Cr¹¹-XO.


identifier: Shangguan, Bumin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Shangguan=3ABumin=3A=3A.html>   (1998) A seasonal study of male reproduction and sperm physiology of three coldwater flatfish.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

format: application/pdf application/pdf

abstract: Seasonal patterns of sperm release and changes in sperm quality were studied in winter flounder and Atlantic halibut. While more than half of male winter flounder began producing milt by January, only small amounts of milt continued to be detectable during the prespawning period lasting from January to April. Milt production increased, sperm quality improved and spermatocrit declined during the summer spawning period in May and June, briefly coupled with peak plasma levels of testosterone (T) and 11 ketotestosterone (11-KT). In halibut, the period of milt production in males also began in January and continued into May. Unlike winter flounder, sperm motility in halibut was highest during the earliest stages of the spawning season and a remarkable reduction in sperm motility occurred by the end of the season in association with marked increases in the density of the milt. -- Light and electron microscopy observations revealed that primitive features characterize the structure of both the winter flounder and halibut spermatozoa consisting of an unmodified head and a short midpiece enclosing a single unmodified mitochondria ring. The basal body, accommodated in the caudal nuclear fossa, is made up of the distal centriole and a centriolar collar consisting of 9 pericentriolar columns, 9 bridges and an outer ring. Serial microscopic sampling and examination of sperm morphology demonstrated the existence of abnormal spermatozoa in both species throughout the reproductive season. These abnormalities involved the head, tail and cell membrane damage. In both species, the lowest proportion of abnormal sperm was found during the period that sperm motility was the highest. -- The impact of hormonal manipulation of reproduction in mature male winter flounder was examined by means of hypophysectomy (hypex), pituitary replacement therapy (PRT) and the administration of gonadotropin releasing hormone analogue (GnRH-A). During the spawning season, while GnRH-A treatment increased the production of milt and advanced sperm production, milt was diluted and sperm output for the entire reproductive season was not augmented. In hypexed male flounder, by contrast, milt became more concentrated and sperm production declined along with reduced plasma androgen levels. A restoration of milt hydration in hypexed males followed PRT in December and January. Moreover, PRT increased plasma 11-KT levels in intact males at this early seasonal stage of spermiation and appeared to be responsible for advancement of spermiation in a large number of prespawning males. Finally, none of these treatments altering the hormone levels of mature males resulted in detectable changes in either sperm motility or egg fertilization rates. -- Studies of the genital tract in male winter flounder indicated that the testicular efferent duct system (TEDS) is composed of a testicular primary duct (PD) and the sperm duct (SD) lined primarily by columnar and cuboidal epithelial cells. Secretion in these cells appeared to be most active during the period of vigorous sperm release in the spawning season and relatively quiescent at other periods, parallelling seasonal changes in milt production and sperm motility. Observations in vivo indicated that the pH of milt increased and milt density decreased as one proceeded distally along the male genital tract (from PD to SD), since sperm motility was increased perhaps after storage for several weeks in the TEDS in May. This suggests that the testicular efferent duct system plays a role in the mediation and maintenance of sperm function. -- Milt properties in the winter flounder were characterized, and showed that seminal fluid osmolality ranged from 356-377 mOsm kg⁻¹ with a pH of 8.0. Although protein electrophoretic profiles were very similar between the seminal fluid and blood plasma, the protein, phospholipid (PL), cholesterol (Chl) and some ion (Na⁺ and Cl⁻) concentrations were lower in the seminal fluid. Of all these substances, only PL and Chl concentrations were found to be negatively correlated with sperm motility. -- Like other teleosts, the testicular development in male yellowtail flounder can be classified into 5 progressive stages, i.e. 1) early testis development, 2) rapid testis development, 3) limited spermiation, 4) full spermiation and 5) spent. Despite this apparent progression of development in testes, the seasonal rate of mature and spermiating yellowtail flounder never fell below 40% even during September and December when the lowest gonad-somatic index values were observed. Frequent observations of spermatocytes in the testis of spermiating cultured males and males from the wild suggest that overlapping cycles of spermatogenesis occur in yellowtail flounder, representing a somewhat distinctive mode of male flatfish reproduction in this species.


identifier: Smith, Andrew R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Smith=3AAndrew_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Report of an educational psychology internship at the College of the North Atlantic including a research report on student satisfaction with counselling services as measured by the student satisfaction survey.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This report describes various aspects of an educational psychology internship undertaken at the College of the North Atlantic from September to December of 1997 in St. John's, NF, Canada. Aspects include a statement of goals and objectives followed by a description of activities and personal reflections indicating how well these goals and objectives were met during the internship. The research component focussed on the degree of satisfaction that second year students experienced with Counselling Services. The findings suggest that overall students are satisfied with the present state of operations at the College. However, issues of increased awareness need to be addressed on a campus-wide basis. It was found in this sample that the demographic effects of gender, program type, and GPA did not show any statistically significant differences between users and non-users of Counselling Services. However, a significant difference was found between age categories and usage of Counselling Services, in that older students reported using aspects of Counselling Services more than younger students. Recommendations and suggestions for future research are provided. The Student Satisfaction Survey and 46 references are included.


identifier: Zhang, Zizhen <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Zhang=3AZizhen=3A=3A.html>   (2001) A study of spinal prostaglandins in experimental allodynia.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Cumulative evidence indicates that the release of spinal prostaglandins (PGs) is increased in hyperalgesia and persistent pain states following peripheral inflammation or injury, events that are associated with repetitive C-fiber stimulation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), given intrathecally (i.t), inhibited PG release and attenuated persistent pain and hyperalgesia, approximately 500- 1000 more potently when compared with systemic administration suggesting a central site of action. Cyclooxygenase (COX), the enzyme for PG synthesis, is present in the spinal dorsal horn where the nociceptive C-fibers terminate. Furthermore, i.t. PGE₂ induces hyperalgesia and allodynia in conscious mice. All these observations support the hypothesis that PGs are involved in C-fiber mediated spinal sensitization processes underlying hyperalgesia and allodynia. Tactile stimulation (Aβ-fiber input) induces prominent, well-defined allodynia after i.t. bicuculline (BIC) in the rat. However, the mechanism of allodynia is unclear. The objective of the present study was to determine whether the low threshold mechanoreceptive (Aβ) primary afferent fibers activate a similar prostanoid-sensitizing mechanism in the rat spinal cord in allodynia. Male Sprague Dawley rats (325-400g) were anaesthetized with halothane and maintained with urethane for the continuous monitoring of blood pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR) and cortical electroencephalogram (EEG). A laminectomy was performed to expose the dorsal surface of the spinal cord. Unilateral application of bicuculline (0.1 µg in 0.1 µl) to the L5 or L6 spinal segment induced a highly localized allodynia (e.g., one or two digits) on the ipsilateral hind paw. Thus, hair deflection (HD) (brushing the hair with a cotton-tipped applicator) in the presence, but not absence of bicuculline, evoked an increase in MAP and HR, abrupt motor responses (MR) (e.g., withdrawal of the hind leg, kicking, and/or scratching) on the affected side, and desynchrony of the EEG. Bicuculline-allodynia was dose-dependent, yielding ED50 values (95% Cl) of 0.055 mg (0.035-0.085) for MAP; 0.075 mg (0.048-0.118) for HR and 0.097 mg (0.078-0.122) for MR. Allodynia was sustained for up to 2 h with repeated bicuculline doses without any detectable change in the location or area of peripheral sensitization. Pretreatment with either the EP-receptor antagonist, SC-51322, the cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 selective inhibitor, NS-398, or the NMDA-receptor antagonist, AP-7, inhibited bicuculline-allodynia in a dose-dependent manner. Innocuous tactile stimulation in the presence of i.t. PGE₂ induced nociceptive-like behavioural responses (allodynia) in conscious rats. These allodynic responses were attenuated by SC-51322, or AP-7. Bicuculline, given i.t. 5 min before PGE₂, enhanced PGE₂-induced allodynia and shifted the PGE₂ dose-response curve to the left. The spontaneous behavioural response after i.t. PGE₂ was also enhanced by bicuculline, but to a much less extent. The present results demonstrate: a) the utility of topical drug delivery for inducing highly localized and sustained allodynia in the lightly-anaesthetized rat; b) that PGs, synthesized by constitutive COX-2 in the spinal cord in response to NMDA-dependent afferent input, contribute to the abnormal processing of tactile input via spinal EP-receptors; c) i.t PGE₂ induces allodynia in conscious rats which is mediated by EP and NMDA receptors, and is potentiated by pretreatment with i.t. bicuculline. These results suggest that low threshold afferent input acquires access to a PG-sensitizing process during bicuculline-disinhibition in the rat.


identifier: Hicks, Glenn V.(Glenn Victor) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hicks=3AGlenn_V=2E=28Glenn_Victor=29=3A=3A.html>   (1997) An investigation of automatic generation control for an isolated power system.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: For the Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro (NLH) Energy Management System, the Automatic Generation Control (AGC) process performs the task of adjusting system generation to meet the load demand and of regulating the large system frequency changes. A result of the mismatches between system load and system generation, and system frequency and the desired value of 60 Hz is the accumulation of time error. Present AGC schemes used to combat this problem utilize a static, linear system response characteristic (SRC) to model the actual variable, non-linear system response to frequency deviations. For interconnected power systems, the AGC control signal is determined from the sum of the tie-line power interchange between interconnected systems and the system frequency deviation weighted by a bias factor, which is the SRC approximation. For an isolated power system, such as the NLH system, the control signal relies entirely on the weighted frequency deviation. Thus, the approximation of the SRC becomes increasingly important in the AGC process of an isolated power system. -- Current industry practice is to select the AGC bias factor based on the SRC and the annual peak load. This bias value then remains constant throughout the year. The use of a variable or dynamic value that is continuously changing throughout the year based on the system load and on-line generation can better approximate the SRC, and result in improved frequency regulation. Past research in this area has focused on the use of a variable bias factor in the AGC process of interconnected power systems. In this thesis, various methods for the calculation of a variable bias factor for use in an isolated power system are presented. Results show that by varying the bias factor in response to changes to the on-line generation (megawatt output and network configuration), improved frequency regulation, and hence a decrease in accumulated time error, can be realized. -- This thesis presents an investigation of the Automatic Generation Control process for an isolated power system. Using computer simulation techniques, a detailed model of the NLH Power system was implemented and tested using the load demand as input. The effect of a variable bias factor was investigated for various operating conditions, and compared to the presently used static value. Based on a set of performance indices, including the accumulated time and unit control errors, a control scheme was determined that provided improved frequency regulation in an isolated power system.


identifier: Drover, Gwenda Mary <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Drover=3AGwenda_Mary=3A=3A.html>   (2002) Tests for longitudinal change in skewed samples with application to Hibernia sediment chemistry data.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The Hibernia platform began drilling for oil on November 17th, 1997 in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Newfoundland. Measurements of organic and inorganic chemicals occurred in both 1995 and 1998 to determine if this drilling process resulted in a significant sediment change In the ocean floor surrounding the drill site. Statistical analysis and summary of the change in sediment chemistry data collected from the Hibernia Gravity Based Structure (GBS) were released in 1999 by Jacques Whitford Environment Ltd. St. John's, Newfoundland. The objective of this practicum is to more thoroughly examine these data collected before and after the Hibernia drilling process began and to determine whether the introduction of the GBS platform resulted in changes in the concentration of various chemicals in the surrounding sediment. This procedure involved the modification of existing statistical tests to accommodate for the asymmetrical nature of the data as well as existing longitudinal and spatial correlations. Combined data test results of this practicum do not in fact differ significantly from those reported in 1999 by Jacques Whitford Environment Ltd.


identifier: Standage, Kevin Francis <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Standage=3AKevin_Francis=3A=3A.html>   (1977) The diagnosis and classification of personality disorders.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This investigation was undertaken to examine the utility of the typology of personality disorders proposed by the psychiatrist Schneider.  Eighty-one subjects were examined.  They were seen in the practice of one clinical psychiatrist during a one-year period. -- The characteristics of the sample have been described.  The commonest reason for referral was the development of neurotic symptoms.  In 17 per cent of cases, no presenting problem could be identified other than direct manifestations of a personality disorder. -- Summaries of the patients’ histories and audio- recordings of them were presented to independent psychiatrists for diagnosis.  Examples of eight of the ten personality disorders described by Schneider were identified with unanimous agreement.  The exceptions were the fanatic and labile types. -- Higher reliability was found for the diagnosis of personality disorders than was suggested by earlier reports. In typical cases, Schneider's typology was more reliable than the ICD-8 classification of personality disorders, but some of the types were able to be diagnosed more reliably than others. -- An adjective check-list was completed for every patient and the adjectives were subjected to a principal components analysis.  A set of rating scales was developed from the first five components and used to assign the patients to their most appropriate types.  It proved to be able to discriminate between the types and evidence of its reliability and validity was found. -- The profiles provided by a psychological test battery demonstrated the content validity of the typology. Predictions of anthropometric differences in certain types were not confirmed, except that female patients with affective personality disorders had greater body 'bulk' than the others. -- Numerical taxonomy was performed on the clinical data provided by the sample.  Highly significant associations were found between the resulting clusters of subjects and the diagnoses made with the rating scales.


identifier: Kean, Robert Wilfred <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kean=3ARobert_Wilfred=3A=3A.html>   (2002) The aesthetics of dissent : cultural opposition and the independent musician.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The aim of this research is to explore the possibility that independent musicianship constitutes a form of cultural opposition to capitalist hegemony. The analysis which follows attempts to chart a course between two competing theoretical perspectives on modern popular culture: critical theory, according to which popular culture is a medium of capitalist manipulation of credulous masses, and the Birmingham School of cultural studies, which emphasizes the creative potential inherent in cultural consumption. Twenty-four local musicians took part in semi-structured interviews focusing on their evaluations of different kinds of music, the creative and business- related choices they make in bringing their songs to listening audiences, and the values they hold as musicians working outside the creative parameters set by the major-label record industry. The interview data supply compelling evidence that respondents’ artistic sensibilities, and indeed their entire self-understanding as independent musicians, is informed by a critical awareness of the commodity production of culture, and as well a clear desire to resist the aesthetic standardization of music.


identifier: Chinnasamy, Gurusamy <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Chinnasamy=3AGurusamy=3A=3A.html>   (2000) Biology of over-wintering of perennial root nodules and seed development in beach pea (Lathyrus maritimus L.).  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Beach pea (Lathyrus maritimus L.) is a potential cold-climate circumpolar legume crop that naturally grows along the shorelines of Newfoundland, Canada. The present study was undertaken to determine the over-wintering (winter survival) strategies of perennial root nodules of beach pea on the sandy beach of Salmon Cove, Newfoundland, with emphasis on oleosomes (lipid bodies). Seasonal changes in other biochemical constituents of nodules such as carbohydrates, proteins and elements were also studied. In addition, attempts were made to screen the suitable rhizobial inoculum for beach pea and also to trace the patterns of seed development, maturation and abortion in beach pea. -- The native rhizobial strain (ACCCRC) isolated from beach pea nodules was found to be the most effective inoculum. It was superior in nitrogen-fixing traits compared to other bacterial strains. Studies on seasonal changes in nodule structure revealed that perennial nodules undergo winter dormancy when the aerial parts of the plant dry out. With the advent of spring, the nodule meristem is activated to regenerate effective nodule tissues that perform normal functions of the nodule in the following summer. A higher number of oleosomes was seen in histological preparations of winter nodules compared to summer nodules. As winter approached, nodules stored higher amounts of lipids, which decreased gradually throughout winter and spring. The degradation of oleosomes could be localized at the electron microscopic level. -- Phospholipids and monoglycerides were identified as the major oleosomic lipids in perennial root nodules. C16:0, C18:0 and C18:1 were the dominant fatty acids. The fatty acid composition and double bond index differed among lipid classes depending upon the season. Overall, the level of many unsaturated fatty acids increased and many saturated fatty acids decreased in oleosomes of winter nodules. Nodules selectively utilized fatty acids depending upon the season to overcome environmental influence. -- Microscopical studies showed that nodule cells accumulated large amounts of amyloplasts with multiple starch grains in summer to be used in winter, and the degraded products could be visualized by electron microscopy. This was confirmed by quantitative data that starch content of nodules increased during the summer and decreased during the winter. Soluble sugars and non-reducing sugars increased in the winter, whereas reducing sugars increased in the fall. These results indicate that perennial nodules act as temporary storage organs. Nodules have large amounts of storage organelles such as oleosomes and amyloplasts during pre-winter months. These storage organelles may be catabolized to protect the nodule tissues from cold temperatures and also mobilized just before the growing season to support re-growth. Accumulation of more sugars in winter may help to maintain high osmolarity of cells that prevents freezing of dormant nodule tissues. Ultrastructural morphology of winter nodules confirms the lack of freezing damage. -- Protein contents of nodules increased as the winter approached. A wide variation was observed in season-specific accumulation of amino acids and elements. Amino acids such as arginine, cystathionine, ethanolamine, histidine, hydroxyproline, ornithine and proline increased in winter nodules, whereas the level of y-aminobutyric acid declined at the same time. Nodules collected in winter contained higher amounts of P, K, Ca, Mn, Cu and Zn, while summer nodules showed more Cl, Na, S, Mg, Al, Si, Mo and Fe. The possible  involvement  of some  amino  acids  and  elements  in  cold   adaptation was discussed. This study shows that perennial nodules of beach pea have complex winter survival strategies that involve modifications of anatomy, physiology and biochemistry of the nodules. -- Generally, beach pea seeds showed almost a sigmoidal pattern of development. The stage 6 (S6) was identified as the physiological maturity stage in both beach pea and grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.). This study suggests that harvesting of a seed crop when physiologically mature will ensure seeds of the best quality. Beach pea seeds exhibited precocious germination as well as hardseededness at S4. Hard seed coats completely prevented water absorption and germination at S5 and S6. In grass pea, precocious germination started at S3 and increased with seed maturity. There was no hardseededness in grass pea. Studies on seed abortion revealed that cryptic seed abortion was observed early in pod ontogeny in both beach pea and grass pea. Only 68% and 82% of ovules produced mature seeds in beach pea and grass pea, respectively. The patterns of seed abortion and development at different ovule positions within developing pods were random in beach pea and nonrandom in grass pea. Ovules in position 1 and 2 at the basal end of pods showed a greater probability of seed abortion in beach pea. Grass pea pods showed increased seed abortion towards the basal region of the pod.


identifier: Thirugnanasambandamoorthy, Madusudanan <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Thirugnanasambandamoorthy=3AMadusudanan=3A=3A.html>   (2001) A unified modulation scheme for three-phase inverter-fed induction motor drives.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Variable speed AC motor drives are widely used for industrial applications and a majority of the industrial drives employ induction motors. In most of the drives, variable speed is achieved by V/f control strategy, where the air-gap flux in the motor can be maintained constant at all frequencies. The V/f control can be achieved by various modulation schemes in inverter-fed drives. -- This thesis analyzes the advantages and limitations of the existing modulation schemes for V/f control and presents an improved modulation scheme called the unified modulation scheme (UMS). This scheme combines the advantages of two popular modulation schemes (the delta and sine-PWM modulation schemes), at the same time overcoming their disadvantages. The development, simulation results and experimental implementation of the proposed scheme are presented. Comparison between the different modulation schemes shows the advantages of the unified modulation scheme. -- This thesis also presents simulation results of a SIMULINK implementation of an induction motor dr.ve using the unified modulation scheme. These results are compared with the results of the delta-modulated inverter-fed induction motor drive. The results show that the unified modulation scheme provides improved performance in terms of lower-order harmonic attenuation and sub-harmonic elimination. Finally, a modified unified modulation scheme is presented using the conventional sine-PWM scheme, for performance enhancement.


identifier: Power, Nicole Gerarda <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Power=3ANicole_Gerarda=3A=3A.html>   (1997) Women, processing industries and the environment : a sociological analysis of women fish and crab processing workers' local ecological knowledge.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Resource shortages and ecological degradation have drawn attention to management systems, and the scientific knowledge on which they are based, that have failed to provide sustainable ecosystems. In the case of Newfoundland, fisheries collapses have stimulated discussions on the value and potential of the ecological knowledge of local peoples in terms of successful resource management. Until recently, Newfoundland women have been left out of this literature on local ecological knowledge. In this thesis, I explore the local ecological knowledge of women fish and crab processing workers. I work through the standpoint of women, as processing workers, mothers, and wives, in search of clues to understanding what is necessary for sustainable fisheries and sustainable communities in rural Newfoundland. Because women's work and roles in their communities and families are different from men's, their knowledge about the fishery may be different from men's. -- Fish and crab processing workers experienced tensions in their work as a consequence of such ecological changes as resource shortages and changes in the size and texture of fish in the 1970s, 1980s and early 1990s. Processing work is mediated by technologies, ownership, and managerial strategies that cure beyond the control of those employed at the plant, but help to shape workers' relationships with nature and limit sustainable practices. Women's labour process differs from men's because of the sexual division of labour in households and in fish processing plants. Their knowledge reflects their experiences in the processing plants, in the household and community. I argue that women acquire extensive knowledge about the fishery through their work, but also through their home and family lives. Working through the standpoint of women and their local ecological knowledge indicates that women are knowledgeable about fish quality, nutrition, capitalism and patriarchy in terms of resource declines. If these types of information have a gender-dimension, they would reflect the division of labour in the home and processing plants.


identifier: Chose, Philemon John <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Chose=3APhilemon_John=3A=3A.html>   (1998) A VLSI synthesis of a Reed-Solomon processor for digital communication systems.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The Reed-Solomon codes have been widely used in digital communication systems such as computer networks, satellites, VCRs, mobile communications and high- definition television (HDTV), in order to protect digital data against erasures, random and burst errors during transmission. Since the encoding and decoding algorithms for such codes are computationally intensive, special purpose hardware implementations are often required to meet the real time requirements. -- One motivation for this thesis is to investigate and introduce reconfigurable Galois field arithmetic structures which exploit the symmetric properties of available architectures. Another is to design and implement an RS encoder/decoder ASIC which can support a wide family of RS codes. -- An m-programmable Galois field multiplier which uses the standard basis representation of the elements is first introduced. It is then demonstrated that the exponentiator can be used to implement a fast inverter which outperforms the available inverters in GF(2m). Using these basic structures, an ASIC design and synthesis of a reconfigurable Reed-Solomon encoder/decoder processor which implements a large family of RS codes is proposed. The design is parameterized in terms of the block length n, Galois field symbol size m, and error correction capability t for the various RS codes. The design has been captured using the VHDL hardware description language and mapped onto CMOS standard cells available in the 0.8-µm BiCMOS design kits for Cadence and Synopsys tools. The experimental chip contains 218,206 logic gates and supports values of the Galois field symbol size m = 3,4,5,6,7,8 and error correction capability t = 1,2,3, ..., 16. Thus, the block length n is variable from 7 to 255. Error correction t and Galois field symbol size m are pin-selectable. -- Since low design complexity and high throughput are desired in the VLSI chip, the algebraic decoding technique has been investigated instead of the time or transform domain. The encoder uses a self-reciprocal generator polynomial which structures the codewords in a systematic form. At the beginning of the decoding process, received words are initially stored in the first-in-first-out (FIFO) buffer as they enter the syndrome module. The Berlekemp-Massey algorithm is used to determine both the error locator and error evaluator polynomials. The Chien Search and Forney's algorithms operate sequentially to solve for the error locations and error values respectively. The error values are exclusive or-ed with the buffered messages in order to correct the errors, as the processed data leave the chip.


identifier: Kinloch, George A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kinloch=3AGeorge_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1969) The absorption of tetrachloroethylene and trichloroflouromethane on anhydrous nickel sulfate.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Tetrachloroethylene and trichloro- fluoromethane exhibit hysteresis when adsorbed on anhydrous nickel sulfate. Analysis of the heats of adsorption and the entropies of the adsorbed substances suggests that condensation occurs during adsorption.  This is corroborated by analysis of the data with the Kelvin equation. This analysis also indicates that the angle of contact between the condensed adsorbate and the adsorbent is not zero as is usually assumed, but is in fact, finite.  The data suggest that layers of adsorbate of only two molecules' thickness can exhibit liquidlike properties.  The shape of the isotherm suggests that the adsorbent consists of parallel plates separated by capillary spaces within which condensation occurs.  The plates may move apart as adsorption progresses to accommodate large volumes of adsorbate between the plates.


identifier: LaBossière, Camille R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/LaBossi=E8re=3ACamille_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1968) Wordsworth's early balladry : a critical study.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: William Wordsworth's early balladic poetry (1798-1800) repeals a reactionary as well as an innovational dimension in its use of language. The language of this poetry fluctuates, in varying proportions, from the language of denotation to the language of implicitness. A study of Wordsworth’s balladry is quite revealing, for it lies at the core of his literary manifestos when he embodies the explicitness of the broadside ballad in his early poetry, he is not being novel; his use of language is part of the denotative tendency which pervaded previous literary taste. When he embodies the implicitness of the ballad of tradition, his use of language constitutes an innovation. Some of his early ballad poems are mainly "direct,” some are mainly "oblique,” while yet others are both "direct" and "oblique" in part. Wordsworth's unevenness in his early balladry as a whole stems basically from the fluctuation in his use of language. -- An analysis of The Idiot Boy,  Peter Bell,  Goody Blake and Harry Gill, and Simon Lee the Huntsman reveals a didactic concern for illustrative subject matter. The emotional reactions of the persona are made explicit, and the reader’s response is controlled and directed through overt authorial statement.  Expostulation and Reply and The Tables Turned emerge as gnomic Ideological statements which share this explicitness. -- The Thorn, The Complaint of a Forsaken Indian Woman, Lucy Gray  Anecdote for Fathers,  We Are Seven, and Her Eyes Are Wild—all evidence a certain concern for the implicit, either through understatement and/or flgurativeness, as well as the explicitness of the poems mentioned above. -- The Lucy and Matthew poems evidence a radical divergence from the principally denotative use of language. The use of symbol and understatement in these poems, characteristic of the ballad of tradition rather than the broadside, points to "oblique" poetry. It is in these poems that Wordsworth emerges as an "innovator" in the use of language in poetry. It is here that the modern reader finds himself most at home.


identifier: Treberg, Jason R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Treberg=3AJason_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2002) The accumulation, synthetic capacity and intertissue distribution of trimethylamine oxide in deep-sea fish and the cold adapted smelt (Osmerus mordax).  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Trimethylamine oxide (TMAO) is common to most marine fishes; however, the role TMAO plays in the physiology of marine fish is not well understood. I have used two distinct TMAO accumulating fish 'types', deep-sea fish and smelt (Osmerus mordax), to compare differences in the levels, intertissue distribution and capacity for synthesis of TMAO in fish with high and low levels of TMAO. Several consistencies were found. The intertissue distribution of TMAO showed a trend of locomotory muscle > heart > liverliver ≅ kidney ≅ brain. Levels of trimethylamine oxidase, the enzyme required for TMAO synthesis, did not correlate with higher tissue TMAO content indicating that enhanced endogenous synthetic capacity is not responsible for elevated TMAO content. Finally, evidence for the active uptake of TMAO into striated muscle and the regulation of TMAO concentration in white muscle is presented, possibly due to some role TMAO plays in muscle function.


identifier: Srinivas, V.(Varadarchary) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Srinivas=3AV=2E=28Varadarchary=29=3A=3A.html>   (1982) ABO(H) isoantigens in bladder tumours : a new technique of quantitative analysis.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Bladder tumours are the second most common urological malignancy seen and twenty-five percent of all superficial tumours ultimately become invasive. -- The Specific Red Cell Adherence Test (SRCA) appears most promising with a potential to predict which superficial bladder tumour(s) will ultimately become invasive. -- The major drawbacks of the test in its present format are: 1. Inability to quantitate the test. 2. Variability of antigen expression in tissue sections. 3. Weak reaction in blod group ‘O’ patients. -- The objectives of this research project were: 1. To develop a new technique for quantitative analysis of ABO(H) isoantigens. 2. To improve the sensitivity of the test in blood group ‘O’ patients. -- The project was carried out in three phases: Phase 1: A new technique of obtaining viable single transitional cell suspensions from bladder biopsies with preservation of ABO(H) isoantigens was developed. Toluidine blue was used to confirm the presence of transitional cells and trypan blue stain to determine the viability and cell count. Cell separation was carried out successfully in 20 cases. Phase 2: A modified SRCA test with final staining procedure was developed to quantitatively measure the ABO(H) isoantigens in the single cell suspension. Bombay blood which contains a high titre of anti H antibodies was used successfully in blood group ‘O’ patients. Phase 3: A double blind clinical study was carried out in a total of 15 patients; 8 with normal bladder and 7 with bladder tumour. The biopsies were subjected to cell separation and quantitative analysis as worked out in phases 1 and 2. -- In the 8 patients with normal bladder, the mean antigen positive cell count was 88% and in the 7 patients with bladder tumour, the mean antigen positive cell count was 33%. The mean antigen positive counts between these two groups were significantly different at the P < .001 level. -- A new technique for quantitative analysis of ABO(H) isoantigens in bladder tumours has been developed and this should help in standardizing the test and making it applicable in different prospective clinical trials.


identifier: Kenny, Frank Townsend <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kenny=3AFrank_Townsend=3A=3A.html>   (1978) Experimental modification of the knowledge of limb length : a study of Kinesthesis.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This paper is composed of two parts, the first being a theoretical account of the topic at hand, the knowledge of limb-length, and the second being a description of a series of experiments designed to demonstrate that knowledge of limb-length constitutes a newly-discovered adaptive mechanism. -- In Part I, it is suggested that in order to carry out a wide variety of kinesthetic and motor functions, the brain must have a knowledge of the lengths of all of the body segments, including the length of the limbs, which is of particular present concern.  However, a search of the relevant literature in human experimental psychology, medicine, and general biological science has revealed that this is a topic which has, by and large, been completely overlooked and unexplored prior to the present investigation.  Therefore, argument by example, by logical necessity, and by inference from a few medical and psychological phenomena (e.g. phantom limb), is given in support of the contention that knowledge of limb-length is a real, existing cerebral mechanism and that it constitutes an integral, essential, and prerequisite part of human kinesthetic and motor function. -- Since such a system has never been considered before, a brief theoretical proposal is given concerning the underlying basis of such a mechanism with respect to other known kinesthetic and proprioceptive systems.  It is proposed that knowledge of limb-length — termed 'registered limb-length'— along with knowledge of body volume, constitutes one part of a larger and superordinate system of body knowledge, termed the 'proprioceptive knowledge system'.  The other sub-systems involved in this latter system are the joint-angle knowledge system and the system involving knowledge of cutaneous stimulation.  It is further argued that all three sub-systems are cross-calibrated and that each is also calibrated against other spatial systems, particularly vision. Finally, it is suggested that registered limb-length might also be capable of recalibration in response to adaptive requirements. -- In Part II, brief consideration is given to a set of experiments on perceptual adaptation to displacing prisms which led to the present proposal concerning knowledge of limb-length.  This is followed by a description of six experiments which attempt to demonstrate that registered limb-length can be recalibrated in response to imposed perceptual discrepancies.  It is concluded from analyses of subject performance in reaching tasks following exposure to both displacing prisms and kinesthetic discrepancies, that a system involving registered limb-length does exist and that it is, in fact, capable of recalibrated change under certain circumstances.  Some implications of this discovery are discussed.


identifier: Abreu-Ferreira, Darlene <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Abreu-Ferreira=3ADarlene=3A=3A.html>   (1995) The cod trade in early-modern Portugal : deregulation, English domination, and the decline of female cod merchants.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study analyzes the extent of Portuguese participation in the early cod fishery off Newfoundland and concludes that Portugal's role in the fishery was intermittent. Evidence shows that the Portuguese were not great cod fishers in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The best archival documentation found in Portugal is for the seventeenth century and it shows the English and French supplying the Portuguese with most cod entering Portugal's harbours. -- Toward the second half of the seventeenth century the English monopoly of the cod trade in Portugal was entrenched. In order to accommodate the influx of a foreign merchant community, Portuguese authorities had to deregulate the structure of their regional economy. Consequently, a previously-protected native merchant class was displaced by foreigners. In the cod trade, many of these cod merchants who were supplanted by foreign interlopers were women. In certain coastal towns in northern Portugal women were big cod merchants but their number and the volume of cod they merchandised decreased substantially in the second half of the seventeenth century.


identifier: Winsor, Wendy <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Winsor=3AWendy=3A=3A.html>   (1999) The characterization of novel fibroblast growth factor response genes in Xenopus laevis.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In a search for fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-regulated early response genes, four cDNA fragments were isolated via a polymerase chain reaction-based differential display procedure. The cDNA fragments represent portions of genes that were either activated or repressed in Stage 8 Xenopus laevis explants after a 30 minute treatment with lOOng/ml XFGF-2. One 498bp cDNA fragment, named Band V, represents a gene that is downregulated by FGF treatment. This gene is expressed at Stages 8, 9 and 15 in the developing Xenopus embryo. A Genbank homology search program revealed similarity of Band V to distinct regions in an alternatively spliced myocyte enhancer factor, the v-j- c region of a T-cell receptor gamma chain, a Meprin A beta-subunit precursor and a myosin I heavy chain-like protein. The three other cDNA bands isolated from the differential display were chosen due to apparent upregulation by FGF. The 449bp Band VIA/B cDNA fragment possesses regions of similarity to the reactive centre of murine serine proteinase inhibitor 2.4 and a contrapsin-related MC-7 precursor. Upregulation of Band VIA/B was not confirmed because gene expression could not be detected via PCR in Xenopus explants or throughout development. The third Band 11/12, is a 636bp cDNA fragment whose gene is only expressed at Stage 8 of the developing embryo and was upregulated by FGF-2, in a PCR reaction. A database homology search showed that Band 11/12 was similar to a hypothetical protein. A second, 190bp DNA fragment isolated from Band 12 was a portion of the c-mos protooncogene. The fourth and final cDNA Band 22 is 517bp in size and represents a previously cloned Xenopus 146kDa nuclear splicing factor (Schmidt-Zachmann et aL, 1998). This factor is expressed throughout Xenopus development, and control of Band 22 gene expression by FGF-2 could not be confirmed.


identifier: Wadman-McGrath, Colleen <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Wadman-McGrath=3AColleen=3A=3A.html>   (1999) Communication strategies of grade twelve early French immersion students in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the types of communication strategies employed by grade twelve early French Immersion (EFI) students in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. The intent was to determine the types of communication strategies employed by effective language learners (ELLs) and less effective language learners (LELLs) and whether there is a difference in the pattern of strategy use between these two groups of advanced adolescent language learners. -- Interviews were conducted with an entire class of twenty-five grade twelve EFI students. These interviews were recorded on audio-cassette. Following the data collection, two judges rated the interviews according to the criteria outlined in the manual, French 3200 Oral Testing: A Manual for Interviewers f 1986). Based on their scores, six students were identified as effective language learners and six as less effective language learners. After the subjects for the study were identified, the twelve interviews were transcribed and analyzed to identify communication stategy use. -- The results of the study indicate that both the ELLs and the LELLs employed a mix of Reduction and Achievement strategy types and both groups used interlingual strategies more often than intralingual strategies. The LELLs however, employed more Reduction strategies than the ELLs while the ELLs employed more Retrieval strategies than the LELLs.


identifier: Nixon, Douglas <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Nixon=3ADouglas=3A=3A.html>   (1999) A seventeenth-century house at Ferryland, Newfoundland (CgAf-2, area B).  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis focuses on the remains of a 17th-century house excavated at Ferryland, Newfoundland (CgAf-2, Area B). The goal of this research was to date the period of occupation and to learn more about the origins, social standing and activities of its occupants. The structural remains of the house are examined and compared with contemporaneous houses in colonial North America and England. To date the house occupation, the ceramic, tobacco pipe and bottle glass assemblages are analysed. This analysis also indicates the nature of 17th-century trade with Newfoundland and suggests the social standing and activities of the household. Metal artifacts are studied in an attempt to identify other activities carried out within the house and to determine the social position of the household. -- The results of these analyses indicate that the house at Area B was a timber-framed structure built ca.1660 and abandoned in 1696. The permanent residents appear to have been of the middling sort and were participants in the cod fishery. The evidence suggests they also were engaged in other seasonal activities, including hunting and boat-building, or repair.


identifier: Harling Stalker, L. Lynda <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Harling_Stalker=3AL=2E_Lynda=3A=3A.html>   (2000) Wool and needles in my casket : knitting as habit among rural Newfoundland women.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis examines the motives and meanings behind the actions of female knitters in rural Newfoundland.  This is done from a Weberian standpoint. -- This research will present the findings from a survey conducted in April 1999, and subsequent interviews done in June and July 1999. The population that is under investigation consists of Newfoundlanders who knit for Newfoundland Outport Nursing and Industrial Association (NONIA). This organisation is a non-profit cottage industry. One will see the general characteristics of NONIA knitters, and what they perceive to be the motivations and meanings attached to the knitting they do. -- It will be established that while the knitters in this research get paid for their knitting, monetary reward is not the main motivating factor. This research shows that the necessity of having a learned activity to pass time and to maintain a coherent self is the prime motivator, and meaning, behind knitting. For many rural Newfoundland women, knitting has developed into a habit that is intertwined into many aspects of their lives.


identifier: Hsu, Chimei James <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hsu=3AChimei_James=3A=3A.html>   (1978) A theoretical study on the stimulated Raman scattering modulated by the flopping frequency arising from the interaction between a strong resonant field and the medium.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The stimulated Raman scattering (SRS), arising from the interaction between molecules of a medium and two strong light fields - a resonant field and a pumping field - is studied theoretically. The transitions of molecules between a given pair of levels is assumed to be both Raman active and infrared active. A semiclassical approach, in which the density matrix method is used for the quantum mechanical description for the medium, is employed. We expand the density matrix in various orders within which the zeroth-order is referred to as the solution of the equation of motion of the density matrix when only the resonant field is applied. -- We obtain a set of equations in second order of the density matrix element p₁₀⑵ (ω) from which the gain function can be derived. This set of equations in the special case of steady state is accidentally similar to those obtained by Mollow in his study of the power spectrum of a strong driven two-level system. We have shown that the SRS in the steady state under the resonant field interaction, is drastically reduced in general. When the flopping frequency is larger than the relaxation constants (Ω > r), we find there appears both weak positive and weak negative gains on both sides of the ordinary SRS components. Since we retain our second-order equations in a general form rather than the form for steady state, we are able to take account of the dependence on the transient zeroth solution. By employing the Laplace transform technique with the help of convolution products, we are able to solve for ρ₁₀⑵(ω) in the stationary flopping state. When the intensity of the resonant field is high, we have found theoretically that both the Stokes and anti-Stokes component become doublets and equally displaced by the amount of the flopping frequency, Ω, on the opposite sides of ordinary Stokes and anti-Stokes components, respectively. The gain maxima are approximately the order of Ω/4r times the ordinary gain of the Stokes component, where Ω/r >> 1 if the flopping exists. The gains are therefore large in comparison with the ordinary gain for SRS in the steady state.


identifier: Lambert, Valerie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Lambert=3AValerie=3A=3A.html>   (1992) A survey of parent and teacher perceptions of kindergarten programming in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study investigated the perceptions of kindergarten teachers and parents of kindergarten children in Newfoundland and Labrador concerning kindergarten programming. The parent and teacher samples were selected using a random sampling procedure with one third of each sample chosen from each of the three main denominational systems operating schools in the province: Integrated, Roman Catholic, and Pentecostal. -- In general, both parents' and teachers' perceptions of kindergarten programming were consistent with recent research on quality programming for young children. However, findings suggest that kindergarten education may be experiencing an overcrowded curriculum because both teachers and parents want to include everything in kindergarten. Additional findings indicate strong agreement in both groups with various types of parental involvement. In comparing parents' and teachers' responses, major findings suggest that parents differ from teachers in believing that it is important that children (a) spend a part of each day in school sitting quietly, listening to the teacher and following directions and (b) complete paper and pencil tasks in the subject areas. Also, parents, more so than teachers, were in agreement with parents becoming involved in making important decisions concerning their children's kindergarten education. An additional difference related to estimates of the importance of  Health Education, with parents  rating  it significantly higher than teachers did. Further comparisons of parents' and  teachers' responses showed that  there  were areas of kindergarten  education  where both groups were similar in  their  perceptions. -- Several factors were found to be related to parents' and teachers' responses. Teachers' responses were most strongly related to  their teaching qualifications and  the denominational affiliation of  the  school district where  the teacher worked, while  parents' responses were most  strongly related  to  their educational levels and  the denominational affiliation of the school their child attended.


identifier: Xidos, James Dimitrios <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Xidos=3AJames_Dimitrios=3A=3A.html>   (1999) A theoretical study of stereoselectivity in the Diels-Alder reaction.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The control of stereochemistry in chemical reactions is a primary concern for synthetic organic chemists. The Diels-Alder reaction often provides good yields of a single stereoisomer. However, the reasons for this stereoselectivity are not always obvious. -- The Diels-Alder reaction of 5-substituted-1,3-cyclopentadienes has been the focus of considerable debate. 1,3-Cyclopentadienes substituted at the C₅ position with OR, NRR′, and F yielded 100% syn addition products, while substitution with CH₃, SR and CI yielded mixtures of the products of syn and anti addition, and substitution with Si(CH₃)₃, Br, SePh and I yielded primarily anti addition products. Explanations in the literature for the preferential syn addition of some dienes usually involved electronic phenomena. --  The degree of facial selectivity for the Diels-Alder reactions of 5-substituted-l,3- cyclopentadienes with a variety of dienophiles can be predicted correctly at the ab initio HF/6-31 G(d) level. It has been determined that the energy required to deform the diene into its syn transition state geometry is the primary factor controlling facial selectivity in these reactions. This energy is related to the amount of angular change about C₅ of the diene in the syn transition state. Facial selectivity roughly correlates with empirical measures of the size of the C₅ substituent. -- The size of the bond between C₅ and its substituent (C₅-X bond) has been defined to be the second moment, evaluated at the centroid of charge of the C₅-X bond, of the localized molecular orbital which describes the C₅-X bond. This measure of size correlates with facial selectivity. The C₅-O, C₅-N and C₅-F bonds are predicted to be smaller than the C₅-H bond. -- A substituent factor has been defined by dividing the value of size by the distance between C₅ and the centroid of charge. The substituent factor correlates excellently with facial selectivity. Thus, facial selectivity can be fully accounted for based on steric arguments. An additional electrostatic repulsion has been shown to exist for syn addition of 1,3- cyclopentadienes substituted with halogen atoms, C≡N or C≡CH, with 1,2,4-triazoline-3,5- dione. -- Protonation of the C₅-substituent is predicted to stabilize the anti addition transition state, resulting in more anti addition product. Deprotonation of the C₅-substituent is predicted to stabilize the syn addition transition state, and to destabilize the anti addition transition state, thus increasing the proportion of syn addition product. -- The reaction of 3-substituted-1,2-cyclopropenes with 1,3-butadiene is predicted to yield, in most cases, mainly the product of endo-anti addition, with a lesser amount of the product of exo-anti addition. It is suggested that endo-syn and exo-syn additions are disfavoured due to steric hindrance between the diene and the C₃-substituent of the dienophile. The preference for endo-anti addition is primarily due to a favourable interaction between the methylene hydrogen of 3-substituted-1,2-cyclopropene and 1,3-butadiene. This interaction becomes less favourable as the electronegativity of the C₃-substituent increases. -- The substituent factor correlates well with both steric hindrance and electronegativity. It is transferable to other systems, and correlates with geometric trends.


identifier: El-Lababidy, Said <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/El-Lababidy=3ASaid=3A=3A.html>   (2005) Experimental analysis and evaluation of a dynamic positioning thruster in heavy loading conditions.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Over the past few years, Dynamic Positioning (DP) systems have seen increasing use in the offshore oil and gas industry. As operations move into more hostile and deeper waters, the need for DP systems has become almost mandatory. Thrusters working at low advance ratios are employed in a wide range of offshore and marine applications on Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) systems, shuttle tankers, tug boats, and mobile offshore units. Therefore, an understanding of the flow around a DP thruster is of great practical interest. -- Despite this interest, there is lack of knowledge on the description of the hydrodynamic characteristics of a DP thruster's wake under varied operating conditions and regarding a description of the effects of the current wash produced from DP thrusters when they are in operation. The large number of parameters involved in these particular problems does not allow an experimental and systematic coverage of the various phenomena of the DP thruster's wake. Therefore instead, recourse must be taken to a combination of experiments and calculations, which together eventually will yield a prediction tool that can be used to further improve the analysis of a DP thrusters wake. With the increasing importance and applications of DP thrusters in the offshore oil and gas industry, the designer as well as the operator must have more information about the operational propulsive characteristics. Future development and the success in such approaches depend greatly upon our understanding of the flow around a DP thruster. -- Different phenomena associated with the propeller wake can be measured by the introduction of laser techniques: Laser Doppler Velocimetry (LDV) and Particle Imagine Velocimetry (PIV), as propeller flow velocity-measuring tools. Moreover, with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) codes finding their way into practical applications, a combined analysis is gradually becoming feasible. Experiments are then used to validate and complement computations. -- The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive and systematic analysis of the flow produced from the operation of a DP thruster with and without a nozzle, under varied operating conditions. Furthermore, this study aims to quantify the interaction effects between the DP thruster wake and any structures placed in the working region of the DP thruster up to 15 diameters. This study is the first such approach to the particular problems associated with DP thruster operation. -- In this research, a DP thruster's performance characteristics and wake velocities were analyzed experimentally, and the DP thruster near and far wake profile was simulated computationally. The DP thruster performance characteristics were investigated at different propeller speeds, with and without a nozzle, and over a range of advance ratios including the bollard pull condition. The DP thruster wake velocities were measured using two different laser techniques in two different facilities: a LDV system at the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) Institute for Ocean Technology (IOT) cavitation tunnel; and a Stereoscopic PIV system at the Italian Ship Model Basin (INSEAN), Rome, Italy, large circulating tunnel. The numerical simulation of the DP thruster wake profile was performed using CFD software FLUENT 6.0. The experimental results of the DP thruster near wake velocity were used as input to the CFD numerical simulation. -- The results of the experimental work of this study show the advantages of using ducted thrusters rather than open thrusters in low speed and DP applications. Also, these results provide valuable data about the safest distance, which should be between the DP thrusters and any submerged structure in the slipstream. The evaluation of the DP thruster near and far wake characteristics under a variety of working conditions provide designers of structures in the slipstream of the DP thruster with reliable and accurate data of the DP thruster wake momentum, thrust and energy propagation. These data are fundamental in calculating the load increases on these structures due to the operation of the DP thruster. Therefore, reliable and sound design of these structures can be achieved. -- A number of DP thruster near and far wake simulations under a variety of working conditions were performed using FLUENT 6.0. The simulation of the DP thruster wake was simplified and was considered to be similar to a turbulent jet flow, in which the flow of the propeller was simulated without using the detailed propeller geometry. The results from the CFD simulations showed the capability of this method in simulating the DP thruster wake propagation and dissipation under a variety of working conditions. -- The results of this research provide detailed data about DP thrusters' performance characteristics, near and far wake hydrodynamic features, wake momentum propagation and far wake momentum effects under a variety of working conditions. Moreover, the results of this study provide reliable and accurate data about the DP thruster wake to be used for numerical and CFD simulation and validation work. These can be used as an important tool for evaluating the performance of DP thrusters and for predicting DP thrusters wake effect on structures in the slipstream.


identifier: Weisbart Bellini, Stephanie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Weisbart_Bellini=3AStephanie=3A=3A.html>   (2001) The kitchen table talks : immigrant Italian domestic workers in Toronto's post-war years.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis examines the labour experiences of post-war immigrant Italian women who were employed as household workers in the greater Toronto area. As a sub-text, it also explores the social construction of fictional immigrant Italian women's lives in Italian- Canadian literature. -- Dorothy Smith's The Everyday World As Problematic (1987), which addresses how ruling relations work through texts, and mat women are generally excluded from ruling relations, provided an analytical context for this thesis. Like Rollins (1985: 8), my approach to this study is based on the notion mat those who have lived an experience know more about it than those who have not. In this case, the experiences of Italian immigrant household workers expressed through oral interviews I conducted, are compared with the images of immigrant Italian women as victims of triple oppression commonly found in Social Science and Popular Literature. -- Extant popular literature on the situation of Italian females in Canada is flowering, but immigrant women have not received proper analysis because their stereotyped image has not been fully debunked. A qualitative analysis shows mat they are portrayed by both female and male writers in a variety of ways, most of which perpetuate stereotypes. First generation Italian immigrant women are characterized in the fiction primarily as wives and mothers, but less often as paid workers. The near invisibility of women workers in the fiction might be related to a difference in intergenerational perceptions. Many literary works of the later generation of Italian-Canadian writers are more feminist in their orientation, and address a broader range of women's issues. -- Italian immigrant household workers were anything but passive victims of job oppression without possibilities of choice, resistance, or independence. By using a variety of strategies for coping within the workplace, women were able to gain a sense of control over their working lives. Italian women worked in the paid and unpaid sectors of the service industry as mothers and wives who performed multiple duties. Many newly-arrived women actively chose paid household employment as a way to market the skills they had developed from child rearing and housekeeping.


identifier: Russell, Rodney S. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Russell=3ARodney_S=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2000) The influence of HIV-1 proviral burden on disease progression and response to antiretroviral therapy.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: When HIV-1 infects CD4⁻ T cells, its RNA genome is reverse transcribed into double stranded proviral DNA which translocates to the nucleus and integrates into the host cell genome. This integrated proviral DNA can remain silent, but ultimately is the source of all HIV-1 replication. Therefore, we hypothesize that the size of the HIV-1 proviral pool determines the rate of disease progression and is a useful prognostic indicator of the durability of responsiveness to antiretroviral therapy. To test this hypothesis, we developed a nonradioactive quantitative PCR-based proviral load assay and measured the frequency of CD4⁻ T cells containing HIV-1 proviral DNA in 78 HIV-1-infected individuals. Our results show that HIV-1 proviral load is a stable pool of virus that is unaffected by current antiretroviral therapies. We found that HIV-1-infected individuals with higher proviral loads displayed a lower mean CD4⁻ T cell count and significantly higher mean peak plasma virus load. When we separated HIV-1-infected individuals into groups based on whether or not they responded to therapy, we found that non-responders had higher proviral loads than did responders. Taken together, these results indicate that the HIV-1 proviral DNA pool has a strong influence on the potential for immune reconstitution and viral suppression in response to antiretroviral therapy, suggesting that HIV-1 proviral load is much more important than originally believed. Current regimens of antiretroviral therapy are not going to be sufficient to eradicate HIV, and new therapies that target this pool of HIV-1 proviral load are needed. -- The second aim of my study was to evaluate the effects of the CCR5∆32 HIV-1 coreceptor mutation on the rate of HIV-1 disease progression, and to determine whether the slower rate of disease progression reported in CCR5∆32 heterozygotes could be due to lower levels of HIV-1 proviral DNA. We found that the heterozygous individuals in our group displayed slower rates of disease progression than individuals homozygous for wild type CCR5. However when we compared HIV-1 proviral load between groups of CCR5∆32 heterozygous and CCR5wt homozygous individuals, we saw only a slight difference in mean proviral load. This result indicates that the slower rates of disease progression observed in the CCR5∆32 heterozygotes is not due to a decreased HIV-1 proviral load.


identifier: Pinsent, William Paul <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Pinsent=3AWilliam_Paul=3A=3A.html>   (1998) The institutionalization of experiential religion - a study of Newfoundland Pentecostalism.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis examines the degree to which changes occurring in the Pentecostal Assemblies of Newfoundland reflect the sociological process of institutionalization in a context of secularization. The analysis includes an examination of changes that have occurred in the movement from its inception in 1910 up to the present. -- Methodologically the thesis uses heuristic constructs developed by Max Weber (1864-1920), Ernst Troeltsch (1865-1923), H. Richard Niebuhr(1894-1962), and Bryan R. Wilson (1926- ): sect, denomination and church. These types provide for a continuum along which a religious group's progress can be understood during its development. When specific characteristics of the typology are applied to the Newfoundland Pentecostal movement, it is suggested that the initial introversionist Pentecostal sect, which was characterized by an experiential religiosity, a distinct holiness ethos, and immanent eschatology, evolved into a full fledged denomination, with all the bureaucratic structural supports of an institutionalized religion. -- The thesis argues that — while the initial religious group under the leadership of Alice Belle Garrigus (1858-1949) was an introversionist sect — by the early 1920s characteristics of a conversionist sect were becoming evident. It was this shift in the primary character and ethos of the sect that was the first step towards institutionalization. It is further argued that the influx of Methodist and Salvation Army parishioners into the sect was partially responsible for this shift in sectarian group typology as was a new leadership drawn from those churches. Changes in evangelism and a conflict over leadership of the sect, were also conducive to a relatively early shift toward institutionalization. -- Specific organizational changes further exemplify this trend. It is shown that over time males came to dominate the leadership of the movement. This patriarchal domination eventually led to the establishment of a hierarchal system of control that resulted in a paid ministry, an emphasis on training and education, ordination policies, as well as financial and business structures, all of which are characteristic of a movement towards a denomination. -- Finally, it is argued that secularization has had a transformative effect on the ideology and praxis of the Pentecostal Assemblies of Newfoundland. Social mobility and educational attainment, for example, have become important goals for Pentecostals. Doctrinal stances regarding divorce and remarriage, and ecumenicity, as well as changes in worship practices, are presented as being representative of a decline in the distinctiveness of early Pentecostal ideology and praxis. Concomitant with these changes in doctrine and practice has also been a recent decline in membership and churches.


identifier: Mahoney, Thomas G. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Mahoney=3AThomas_G=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2001) The influences of the learning organization model on mixed-gender co-leadership in groups.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Department of Justice contracts with a community-based agency to provide counselling services to offenders. The standards for the provision of these services require that these group counselling programs be co-led by a mixed gender team of counsellors. -- The site contracted to deliver these services has an organizational structure based on the learning organization model (Senge, 1990). This thesis was a case study, using a collaborative action research design. It had two purposes: first, it was intended as a professional development initiative as the participants sought to find new ways of working in mixed-gender teams; secondly, it describes the influences of the learning organization model on mixed-gender co-leadership, with a specific focus on the discipline of team learning. -- Six participants, two males and four females, voluntarily participated for a sixteen week period. Audio tape recordings of clinical meetings and stimulated recall sessions, as well as participant journals, were used to gather qualitative data to answer two research questions. The first was: How does learning occur in mixed gender co-leadership teams used in group programs? The second was: What assists and distracts from the mixed- gender teams working through issues to prepare for co-leading group programs for male batterers and sex offenders? -- The findings indicate that collaborative action research and the discipline of team learning facilitated the participants working through personal and emotional issues to prepare for co-leading these group programs. Important processes identified by the participants were summarized to describe how their learning occurred. Factors that were identified as assisting and distracting from working through issues to prepare for these groups are also discussed.


identifier: Coristine, Pamela E. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Coristine=3APamela_E=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2002) The landscape of home - the role of Signal Hill in the emergence of a sense of identity and place in St. John's, Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Common to every community across the world are features in the landscape which contribute to a community's identity and the local sense of place. Some of these features become metonymical for the cities and countries in which they lie. Images of these visible place features are often mass produced, becoming symbols or icons of a city and its residents. But along with their recognition factor is the more important fact that as symbols of place identity these icons help to create and reflect the local sense of place. A National Historic Site and prominent landmark in St. John's, Newfoundland, Signal Hill has provided individuals and groups a focal point for the negotiation of a collective identity and concept of home over the past four centuries. An integral feature in the city's landscape, for many local residents today Signal Hill simply means home.


identifier: Buffinga Passchier, Anna <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Buffinga_Passchier=3AAnna=3A=3A.html>   (2001) The influence of cultural values and reasoned action on local attitudes towards the management of the Indian Bay recreational fishing project.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis explored the influence of cultural context and reasoned action on attitudes and beliefs towards management of the recreational sport fish resource in the Indian Bay watershed. The communities adjacent to the Indian Bay watershed are struggling to initiate a new recreational fisheries management strategy which contains two potentially conflicting objectives: (I) to allow continuation of current local recreational angling that has its roots in a traditional open access attitude towards the land and resources of the Indian Bay watershed; and, (2) encourage a stronger recreational sport fishery for non-residents. -- The traditional open access attitude might be part of a cultural belief system which becomes a filter through which new information is interpreted. This was explored using Cultural Paradigm theory. Generally, the values for communities in the vicinity of the Indian Bay watershed could be characterized as 'Humanity-oriented' with greater influences from 'Individually-oriented' values, as compared to 'Whole earth/ecosystem- oriented' values. The emphasis on egocentric values would be consistent with the Newfoundlander's historical reliance on the land for subsistence and the attitude of a traditional right of access to Crown land and resources for personal use.   The resource manager must first address these values before proposing new initiatives. -- The traditional open access attitude was further explored through the Theory of Reasoned Action and persuasive communications. The thesis examined the cognitive structure of behavioural beliefs and evaluations underlying specific attitudes towards management proposals. Pearson correlation and step-wise linear regression were applied to define the attitude/belief structures that could be targeted by persuasive messages. While there was moderate support for this 'traditional' access, it was a sub-theme found in the predictive relationships of key beliefs influencing attitudes towards sport fish development. The underlying traditional values need to be addressed in order to move the management agenda from conflict to cooperation between managers and the people who use the resources. Overall, the results of the study reconfirmed the profile provided by Hill (1984) on the value of wildlife to Newfoundlanders whereby personal and utilitarian values, and provincial economic values, are given priority over environmental/wildlife conservation. The key difference is the greater willingness of the people in the Indian Bay area in 1997 to accept controls. There are significant opportunities for persuasive communications and consultation to influence ambivalent attitudes regarding regulatory and development initiatives into favourable attitudes. -- Subsequent events leading up to the proposed provincial 'Outdoor Bill of Rights' suggest that the emotional response to any threat to this traditional value should not be underestimated. Managers need to ensure that they address the various aspects of the traditional access issue in their day to day communications. More importantly, the results of the study emphasize that managers in the Indian Bay area need to consult with their public in a meaningful and consistent manner in order to prevent emotionally charged conflicts that undermine rational policy development.


identifier: Nordeen, Carrie Louise <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Nordeen=3ACarrie_Louise=3A=3A.html>   (2002) The influence of high-amplitude acoustic deterrents on the distribution, abundance, and behaviour of baleen whales.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The influence of high-amplitude acoustic deterrents (HAADs) on mysticetes, including humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus), and minke whales (B. acutorostrata), was investigated at Cape Saint Francis, Newfoundland, Canada during the summers of 1995 and 1996. The influence of HAADs on baleen whale distribution, abundance, and behaviour was evaluated by shore-based monitoring of a study site. A HAADs system was moored inshore at a water depth of 10m and the average sound pressure level of these pulses was 194 dB re luPa at 1 m with energy concentrated around 10 kHz and a single harmonic at 20 kHz. The acoustic device was randomly operated on a 24 hour basis (either 'on' or 'off). Observers stationed on a 60m cliff documented species, number of individuals, behaviour and presence/absence of vessels in the area with each whale sighting throughout the day. Whale movements were tracked with a theodolite and observers were unaware of the operating condition of HAADs. The distance between whale sightings and HAADs was quantified to determine whale distribution, sighting rate was calculated as a measure of abundance, and the proportion of behaviours were compared between operating condition of HAADS. Results indicated that operation of HAADs was significantly related to the distribution and abundance of baleen whales and may relate to transient and residential species differently. Despite considerable variation in the number of whale sightings between years, overall distance and sighting trends suggest that humpback and fin whales demonstrated an avoidance of operating HAADs while minke whales exhibited no influence and/or an attraction to operating HAADs. This result suggests that transient whale species are displaced from areas with operating HAADs, while resident species remain in areas with operating HAADs. To mitigate any possible influences on baleen whales from HAADs, deterrent usage could be seasonally adjusted to avoid biologically important habitats and high concentrations of whales.


identifier: Sancheti, Ajay <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Sancheti=3AAjay=3A=3A.html>   (2002) The influence of human core temperature on minute ventilation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Body temperature is known to affect human ventilation (Vg), yet the nature and mechanisms of this relationship are not resolved. The first study in this thesis explores how exercise-induced increases in body temperature affects ventilatory components, namely tidal volume (Vt) and frequency of respiration (f), and if these relationships are reproducible. Expressed as a function of esophageal temperature (Tes) in seven adult males during incremental exercise to maximum, ventilation and its components were reproducible using intraclass correlation coefficients, 0,84 < R < 0.93 (p<0.05). Since the relationships between ventilation variables and Tes were reproducible, a second study examined whether the mechanism of this effect could be mediated by an increased ventilatory sensitivity to C02- Central sensitivity to C02 was assessed using a modified Read rebreathing protocol before and after exercise induced warming in 6 male subjects. The slope and threshold point of ventilation expressed as a function of end tidal carbon dioxide were increased and decreased respectively, indicating an increased to sensitivity to C02 after body warming. In conclusion, the results support core temperature influence on human ventilation in a reproducible manner and that the effect of ventilation may be partially mediated by an increased central sensitivity to carbon dioxide.


identifier: Dutta, Prasannajit <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Dutta=3APrasannajit=3A=3A.html>   (2000) The influence of phosphodiesterase inhibitor, rolipram, on plasma tumor necrosis factor-a levels and haemodynamics in lipopolysaccharide-treated rats.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Septic shock is the thirteenth most common cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of death of individuals in intensive care units once it progresses to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) (Parrillo et al., 1993). Mortility ranges from 20% to 95% (Eidleman et al., 1995; Parrillo et al., 1993; Wiessner et al., 1995). Septic shock is caused most often by gram-negative bacteria and it has increased dramatically in the past 10 years. Even when properly treated with available therapies, it carries a 60% mortality (Wiessner et al., 1995). -- The administration of iipopolysaccharide (LPS) has been reported to produce hypotension and reduced cardiac output. The aim of the present investigation was to (a) examine the influence of type IV phosphodiesterase inhibitor rolipram on haemodynamics, plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a) levels, and production of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in the lungs, ex vivo, in LPS-treated rats, and (b) determine the cardiovascular effects of a selective a,-adrenoceptor agonist, methoxamine, in the absence or presence of rolipram in rats treated with LPS. -- Blood pressure, cardiac index, heart rate and arterial resistance were assessed in Long- Evans rats anaesthetized with thiobutabarbital. Cardiac output was measured using radioactive labeled microspheres and arterial blood pressure was measured via an intraarterial catheter. Plasma levels of TNF- a were measured by an immunoassay technique, and nitric oxide synthase (inducible & constitutive) activity in lung homogenate was assessed by measuring the conversion of [3H]L-arginine to [3H]L-citrulline. -- Administration of LPS (0.8 mg/kg i.v.) to animals resulted in a significant reduction in cardiac index over time. Changes in arterial resistance, heart rate and blood pressure were insignificant over time in LPS-treated animals. The administration of LPS to rats resulted in a substantial rise in the plasma levels of TNF-a. Furthermore, the injection of LPS resulted in a significant increase in the iNOS activity in lungs. Pre-treatment with rolipram (10 mg/kg) or dexamethasone (5 mg/kg) prevented the decline in cardiac index in animals that received LPS. Infusion of methoxamine into animals injected with rolipram and pre-treated with LPS did not result in significant changes in cardiac index. In contrast, in animals treated with dexamethasone and subsequently LPS, infusion of methoxamine significantly reduced cardiac index and increased blood pressure and arterial resistance. Pre-treatment with rolipram (10 mg/kg) or dexamethasone in animals injected with LPS significantly prevented the rise in TNF-a when compared to respective values in vehicle treated animals. However, pre-treatment with dexamethasone but not rolipram was found to significantly reduce iNOS activity in the lungs of animals injected with LPS. -- The present observations support the view that cardiac index can be maintained in animals treated with LPS independent of iNOS inhibition. Furthermore, our findings seem to support the idea that induction of NOS may occur independently of TNF-a in LPS-treated rats.


identifier: Buffett, Gerald M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Buffett=3AGerald_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2001) The learning organization in the educational setting.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In this fast-changing world where advances in science and technology threaten to outpace the effectiveness of schools, there is a dire need for a new model of educational leadership to effectively manage the changes encountered. Schools can no longer prepare people to fit in the world of twenty years ago, because that world will no longer exist (Senge, 2000). The purpose of this study was to examine the new emerging model of leadership, the concept of the learning organization in a school setting, and to determine the degree to which characteristics of the learning organization were present. In doing so, this thesis explores (a) the applicability of organizational learning theory to the understanding of schools and (b) practical images of organizational learning in school settings -- The study was conducted through a qualitative research approach consisting of interviews, participant observation and document analysis. The study built on baseline data already collected by Brown and Sheppard (1996). From this earlier research, a school was identified using a unique-case selection. -- The findings from on-site field work reveals that this school portrays many of the characteristics of the learning organization, and although it is evolving towards a learning organization, it has not yet institutionalized the five disciplines to an ideal state. The study confirms that the learning organization theory fits well in the educational setting. There are strong implications for this theory to be included in district strategic planning and professional development such that administrator themselves have the knowledge to promote effective organizational learning in the educational settings in which they work. The findings suggest that leaders should consider an approach which encompasses systems thinking, personal mastery, shared vision and team learning as they look for new solutions to educational challenges.


identifier: Walker, Daniel Lloyd Norris <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Walker=3ADaniel_Lloyd_Norris=3A=3A.html>   (1996) The influence of blockage and cavitation on the hydrodynamic performance of ice class propellers in blocked flow.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Ships operating in ice in Canadian waters normally use open or ducted marine screw propellers for propulsion. The operation of the vessel in an ice cover, especially during icebreaking operations, often results in the submergence of broken ice pieces at the bow, and along the length, of the vessel. As the vessel moves through the ice field, the propeller approaches the submerged piece or pieces of ice and contact or non-contact interference between the ice and the propeller occurs. -- This work examines the effects of blockage and cavitation on the hydrodynamic loads associated with non-contact propeller ice interaction. A series of experiments were done in medium sized cavitation tunnels with two 200 mm open propeller models and two 200 mm ducted propeller models. Tests were also conducted in a towing tank with one of the open propellers. The tests were conducted in uniform flow and in blocked flow using simulated ice blockages installed upstream of the propeller. Measurements were made of mean and instantaneous propeller thrust and torque, duct thrust in uniform flow, block drag load and blade pass pressure on the face of the block adjacent to the propeller. Effects of blockage, cavitation and proximity of the ice piece were examined. -- Blockage of a propeller resulted in increased mean levels of thrust and torque over uniform flow values. Furthermore the blockage increased the oscillation of the loads about their mean. Cavitation reduced the mean loads associated with blockage but further increased oscillation about the mean. The development of severe sheet and cloud cavitation posed the risk of both fatigue and erosion to the propeller.


identifier: Green, Melanie Leslie Dawn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Green=3AMelanie_Leslie_Dawn=3A=3A.html>   (1999) The identification of novel autoantigens by means of serological screening of a cDNA expression library constructed from multiple sclerosis brain tissues.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Multiple sclerosis is the most common demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. It typically affects young adults, and as with many autoimmune diseases, MS affects more women than men. -- A large number of studies have concentrated on the identification of the antigen(s) responsible for inciting MS, but the causative agent(s) has yet to be found Some of these studies demonstrated that T and B lymphocytes isolated from MS patients are reactive with autoantigens, such as myelin basic protein, myelin oligodendrocyte protein, proteolipid protein, and myelin associated protein, and with viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus, measles, and varicella-zoster. However, a role for any of these antigens in the initiation of multiple sclerosis has not yet been established -- This study was undertaken as an attempt to identify potential autoantigens in multiple sclerosis by using a modification of the SEREX (serological identification of antigens by recombinant expression cloning) technique developed by Sahin et al. (1995). This technique, unlike many of the techniques previously used by investigators to identify autoantigens in MS, makes no ? priori assumptions as to the identity of the autoantigen. Messenger RNA was isolated from multiple sclerosis brain tissues and used to construct a cDNA library in a lambda phage vector. This vector was transfected into Escherichia colU protein expression was induced with isopropyl ?-D-thiogalactopyranoside, and the proteins were transferred to nitrocellulose membranes. The membranes were screened with patients5 sera and positive clones were detected with a color reaction which recognizes IgG in patients' sera bound to the recombinant protein. Positive clones were subcloned to clonality and sequenced, and the sequences compared with DNA and RNA sequences in various databases. Three positive clones were used as probes in Northern blotting experiments to determine their relative expression levels in various tissues. One of these clones was identified as testican, the other two appear to be related gene products of the clone F4 transmembrane protein and KIAA0530.


identifier: McCallum, Barry R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/McCallum=3ABarry_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (2001) The impact of mobile fishing gear on benthic habitat and the implications for fisheries management.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Marine fisheries for demersal fishes, crustaceans and mollusks are commonly conducted using otter and beam trawls, dredges and rakes. The ecology and behavior of these commercially valuable species requires that such fishing gears, in order to be effective collectors, must come into contact, and often penetrate the seabed. Concern has long been expressed about the impact of bottom fishing activity on benthic environments and there is now a strong consensus within the scientific community that mobile fishing gear can alter the benthic communities and structures on the seabed. However, the short and long-term consequences of this disturbance and the implications for management of future fisheries are not well understood. -- This paper attempts to examine the issue of fishing gear disturbances of the seabed from a holistic perspective. The mechanisms by which mobile gear impacts the seabed, are considered, as well as the spatial and temporal distribution of this impact in the context of natural disturbances. The selectivity, technical performance, environmental and socio-economic impact of otter trawls is contrasted with other non-bottom contacting fishing technologies. The seabed has long been protected by various national and international agreements and treaties, however these have rarely, if ever, been effective. Various management alternatives to mitigate the adverse effects of bottom contacting fisheries are therefore discussed.