Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Environmental outcomes'
To see the other types of publications on this topic, follow the link: Environmental outcomes.
Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles
Consult the top 50 dissertations / theses for your research on the topic 'Environmental outcomes.'
Next to every source in the list of references, there is an 'Add to bibliography' button. Press on it, and we will generate automatically the bibliographic reference to the chosen work in the citation style you need: APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago, Vancouver, etc.
You can also download the full text of the academic publication as pdf and read online its abstract whenever available in the metadata.
Browse dissertations / theses on a wide variety of disciplines and organise your bibliography correctly.
1
Rowen, Zachary. "Are Streams Protected? Outcomes of Environmental Regulation." Thesis, University of North Texas, 2017. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1011867/.
Full textAbstract:
Urban areas experience the loss of natural stream channels through conversion to artificial conveyances. This process tends to target headwater and other low order streams. The purpose of this study is to determine the patterns of stream loss in Denton, Texas, and explore the regulatory structure that manages these streams. Historic and current maps and stream data are used to map Denton's streams and categorize them according to their vertical connectivity as: 1) "intact", streams that are open to the atmosphere and connect to groundwater; 2) "concrete", channelized streams open to the atmosphere but cut off from groundwater; and 3) "buried", streams disconnected from the atmosphere and groundwater. A review of federal, state, and local regulatory codes and interviews with local government officials and other stakeholders elucidates stream management in Denton. Results from these analyses reveal high rates of stream loss in the urban center with low rates overall. The federal Clean Water Act and the local Environmentally Sensitive Areas code serve as the primary protective measures for natural streams. These regulations discourage stream impacts through expensive and complex permitting requirements. However the policies allow minor impacts which may cause cumulative effects. This study aims to inform future policy-making decisions and contribute to the knowledge of the environmental regulation of streams.
2
Pohl, Raimund R. "An evaluation of the learning outcomes in environmental science from a field-based water quality environmental unit." Thesis, Curtin University, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/1260.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis validates the Science Laboratory Environment Inventory for the first time in a field based environmental setting using a water quality-monitoring program within a girls' high school and compares the cognitive achievement of students in the water quality-monitoring school with those in non-water quality-monitoring schools. The psychosocial learning dimensions of the water quality-monitoring program are assessed using a modified form of the Science Laboratory Environment Inventory.The results indicate that students involved in the water quality-monitoring school were more homogenous and ranked higher in their cognitive achievement and transferability of concepts than students in the non-water quality-monitoring schools. Pre and post testing together with anecdotal information affirmed that there was a direct association between the quantitative results and qualitative information in relation to the learning dimension scales of the Science Laboratory Environment Inventory.Comparisons were made between similar water environmental programs in different countries and the water quality-monitoring school program results. The use of skills and constructivist techniques indicates that the water quality-monitoring program together with real life problem solving work is an effective method for improving science learning.
3
Bosco, Carol. "The Relationship Between Environmental Turbulence, Workforce Agility and Patient Outcomes." Diss., The University of Arizona, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/195013.
Full textAbstract:
For years heath care workers have been dealing with environmental changes which have created turbulent, complex work environments. Turbulence has been considered a negative phenomenon. However Workforce Agility may be a positive response to Environmental Turbulence. Other disciplines are familiar with the term Turbulence and Workforce Agility but there is little research available on this concept despite the impact that they may have on patient outcomes.The purpose of this research was to identify the relationship between Environmental Turbulence, Workforce Agility and Patient Outcomes through the examination of four alternative theoretical models.This research was conducted using secondary analysis of the IMPACT data set (Verran, Effken & Lamb, 2001-2004). The data were reanalyzed in order to answer different questions than the primary study. Causal modeling with path analysis and regression analysis was conducted to answer the research questions. Three questions included the use of either a moderator variable or mediator variable.The setting for the IMPACT Study was acute care hospitals in the Southwestern region of the United States. For the IMPACT study, the sample consisted of patient care units from teaching and non-teaching hospitals. Subjects consisted of staff members who were employed on the patient care units.Data collected from the Registered Nurses were used for the secondary analysis because this research was interested in looking primarily at the nursing unit. The total RN staff assigned to patient care units who responded to the questionnaires was N=454. The total number of patients who responded to the survey was N=1179.In summary, the unit characteristics that were found to be Antecedents to ET were the sub-composites of Team and Complexity. Proxy variables, Collaborative Culture Agility and Experiential Agility, were successfully formed as a composite for WFA and were tested with the primary data. No mediators or moderators were shown; however, main effects of WFA and ET did have an impact on patient outcomes.
4
Johnson, Brian. "Can Education Improve the Environment? Applying the Pressure-State-Response Environmental Indicator Framework to Environmental Education Program Outcomes." Antioch University / OhioLINK, 2013. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=antioch1375367966.
Full text
5
Pohl, Raimund R. "An evaluation of the learning outcomes in environmental science from a field-based water quality environmental unit." Curtin University of Technology, Science and Mathematics Education Centre, 1999. http://espace.library.curtin.edu.au:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=9584.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis validates the Science Laboratory Environment Inventory for the first time in a field based environmental setting using a water quality-monitoring program within a girls' high school and compares the cognitive achievement of students in the water quality-monitoring school with those in non-water quality-monitoring schools. The psychosocial learning dimensions of the water quality-monitoring program are assessed using a modified form of the Science Laboratory Environment Inventory.The results indicate that students involved in the water quality-monitoring school were more homogenous and ranked higher in their cognitive achievement and transferability of concepts than students in the non-water quality-monitoring schools. Pre and post testing together with anecdotal information affirmed that there was a direct association between the quantitative results and qualitative information in relation to the learning dimension scales of the Science Laboratory Environment Inventory.Comparisons were made between similar water environmental programs in different countries and the water quality-monitoring school program results. The use of skills and constructivist techniques indicates that the water quality-monitoring program together with real life problem solving work is an effective method for improving science learning.
6
Tsai, Hui-Mei. "Cultural determinants of learning outcomes in global environmental education." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1999. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk2/ftp01/MQ37419.pdf.
Full text
7
Truong, Khoa Dang. "Essays on environmental determinants of health behaviors and outcomes." Santa Monica, CA : RAND Corporation, 2008. http://www.rand.org/pubs/rgs%5Fdissertations/RGSD228/.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (Ph.D.)--Pardee Rand Graduate School, 2007.Title from title screen (viewed on June 13, 2008). This website links to the complete document in PDF format. Includes bibliographical references.
8
Ghosh, Rakesh. "Interaction between environmental factors and gender on perinatal outcomes." Thesis, University of Newcastle Upon Tyne, 2008. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.446230.
Full text
9
Wraith, Darren. "Bayesian mixture modelling for characterising environmental exposures and outcomes." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 2008. https://eprints.qut.edu.au/18467/1/Darren_Wraith_Thesis.pdf.
Full textAbstract:
Environmental exposure and outcomes assessment is a great challenge to scientists. Increasingly more and more detailed data are becoming available to understand the nature and complexity of the relationships involved. The methodology of mixture models provides a means to understand, quantify and describe features and relation- ships within complex data sets. In this thesis, we focussed on a number of applied problems to characterise complex environmental exposure and outcomes, including: assessing the interaction between environmental exposures as risk factors for health outcomes; identifying di®ering environmental outcomes across a region; and estab- lishing patterns in the size and concentration of aerosol particles over time. Mixture model approaches to address these problems are developed and examined for their suitability in these contexts.
10
Wraith, Darren. "Bayesian mixture modelling for characterising environmental exposures and outcomes." Queensland University of Technology, 2008. http://eprints.qut.edu.au/18467/.
Full textAbstract:
Environmental exposure and outcomes assessment is a great challenge to scientists. Increasingly more and more detailed data are becoming available to understand the nature and complexity of the relationships involved. The methodology of mixture models provides a means to understand, quantify and describe features and relation- ships within complex data sets. In this thesis, we focussed on a number of applied problems to characterise complex environmental exposure and outcomes, including: assessing the interaction between environmental exposures as risk factors for health outcomes; identifying di®ering environmental outcomes across a region; and estab- lishing patterns in the size and concentration of aerosol particles over time. Mixture model approaches to address these problems are developed and examined for their suitability in these contexts.
11
Graham, Stephanie. "Environmental management in the UK food industry : antecedents and outcomes." Thesis, Queen's University Belfast, 2013. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.602513.
Full textAbstract:
This study provides an empirical assessment of the antecedents and outcomes of Environmental Supply Chain Management within the UK food industry. Sustainability has emerged as an important issue within the Operations and Supply Chain Management fields in recent years. The objective of this study is to contribute to the new and emerging field of Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) by considering some of its key recurring themes. An extensive literature review in chapter two highlights three key issues requiring further attention namely, environmental response (proactive or reactive), the role of stakeholder pressure and the performance outcomes of SSCM. On the back of this literature review, chapter three identifies a series of research questions in need of investigation and sets out a theoretical model for the task. Data was gathered from a sample of 1200 food manufacturing firms within the UK, generating a response rate of 12.4%. This data was then analysed using ,multiple regression analysis. The key findings were: (1) a proactive approach to environmental management is associated with a number of different environmental practices both internally and at the supply chain level; (2) firms mostly appear to be motivated to implement these practices as a result of their internalised commitment to the environment rather than due to external pressure from different stakeholder groups. Lastly, there was some evidence to suggest that environmental performance might benefit as a result of environmental management, however, improvements do not appear to penetrate to the level of operational performance. These findings contribute to existing research and thus help to further the development of the SSCM field.
12
Shihadeh, Alan Louis 1967. "NOx control and environmental regulation : techniques and discriminatory social outcomes." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1994. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/12285.
Full text
13
Ketcham, Cene Walstine. "Influence of Tree Planting Program Characteristics on Environmental Justice Outcomes." Thesis, Virginia Tech, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/56571.
Full textAbstract:
Urban trees provide a variety of benefits to human physical and mental health. However, prior research has shown that urban tree canopy is unevenly distributed; areas with lower household incomes or higher proportions of racial or ethnic minorities tend to have less canopy. Urban tree benefits are largely spatially-dependent, so this disparity has a disproportionate impact on these communities, which are additionally subject to higher rates of health problems. Planting programs are a common way that municipal and nonprofit urban forest organizations attempt to increase canopy in cities. Increasing canopy in underserved communities is a commonly desired outcome, but which of the wide range of programmatic strategies currently employed are more likely to result in success? This research uses interviews with planting program administrators, spatially referenced planting data, and demographic data for six U.S. cities in order to connect planting program design elements to equity outcomes. I developed a planting program taxonomy to provide a framework for classifying and comparing programs based on their operational characteristics, and used it along with planting location data to identify programs that had the greatest reach into low-income and minority area. I found that highly integrated partnerships between nonprofit and municipal entities, reduced planting responsibility for property owners, and concentrated plantings that utilize public property locations to a high degree are likely to improve program penetration into low-income and minority areas. These findings provide urban forestry practitioners with guidance on how to more successfully align planting program design with equity outcomes.Master of Science
14
Weltin, Meike [Verfasser]. "Sustainable intensification: Farmers’ adoption behaviour and environmental outcomes / Meike Weltin." Bonn : Universitäts- und Landesbibliothek Bonn, 2021. http://d-nb.info/1235525902/34.
Full text
15
Pius, Epie Ewanzimbi. "Significant outcomes of the West-Central African later Iron Age /." free to MU campus, to others for purchase, 2003. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/mo/fullcit?p3091957.
Full text
16
Gong, Yaping. "Staffing subsidiaries of multinational firms : Environmental antecedents and subsidiary level outcomes /." The Ohio State University, 2002. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1272986292.
Full text
17
Mendy, Angelico. "House dust endotoxin: associated respiratory outcomes and effectiveness of environmental interventions." Diss., University of Iowa, 2018. https://ir.uiowa.edu/etd/6613.
Full textAbstract:
Background: Endotoxin is a lipopolysaccharide located on the outer membrane of the cell wall of Gram-negative bacteria that is widespread in the environment. Although domestic endotoxin has been found to be associated with asthma and wheeze, its association with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is unclear. It is also unknown how environmental exposures influence the relationship between endotoxin and asthma and very few studies have investigated the effectiveness of interventions in reducing endotoxin in the homes of people with asthma.
Goals: The goals of this dissertation were to examine 1) the association of house dust endotoxin with chronic bronchitis or emphysema, two phenotypes of COPD, 2) the influence on the relationship between endotoxin and asthma outcomes of environmental factors such as exposure to dog and cat in homes, climate regions, as well as co-exposure to ambient air pollution, and 3) the effectiveness of an environmental intervention in reducing home endotoxin and asthma symptoms in rural Iowa children with asthma.
Methods: For the first two goals of this dissertation, data from the 2005-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) was used. Dust sampled from the bedroom floor and bedding of 6,963 children and adult participants was evaluated for endotoxin at the University of Iowa Pulmonary Toxicology facility using a kinetic chromogenic Limulus amebocyte lysate assay. Data on asthma outcomes and chronic bronchitis or emphysema (CBE) was collected using questionnaires. Home exposure to dog and cat was considered by pet ownership and levels of dog (Canis familiaris 1) and cat (Feline domesticus 1) allergens in house dust. Annual average particulate matter ≤2.5 µm (PM2.5), ozone (O3), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentrations at participants’ residential location were estimated using the Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) and Downscaler (DS) models.
In the third goal, data from the Louisa Environmental Intervention Project (LEIP) study which included schoolchildren 5-14 years-old with active asthma from Louisa and Keokuk counties in rural Iowa was analyzed. The households were block-randomized to receive extensive (education + professional cleaning) or educational intervention. Environmental sampling and questionnaire administration were done at baseline and during three follow-up visits.
Results: In the NHANES, the median concentration of endotoxin in house dust was 16.2 EU/mg. In adjusted analysis, house dust endotoxin (log10-endotoxin) was associated with increased odds of CBE diagnosis (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.00-1.61) and chronic bronchitis symptoms (OR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.01-3.12). Sensitization to inhalant allergens modified the relationship between log10-endotoxin and CBE diagnosis (P(interaction)=0.001), with stronger associations observed in sensitized participants (OR: 2.46, 95% CI: 1.72-3.50).
The association of endotoxin with asthma outcomes was different with climate regions of the U.S. Endotoxin was associated with higher prevalence of wheeze outcomes in the past 12 months in subarctic/very cold/cold regions (OR: 1.48, 95% CI:1.19-1.85) and in hot-humid regions (OR: 1.66, 95% CI:1.04-2.65). In hot-humid regions, endotoxin was positively associated with current asthma (OR: 1.56, 95% CI:1.11-2.18), but negatively with sensitization to any inhalant allergens (OR: 0.83, 95% CI:0.74-0.92). Exposure to dog and cat allergens enhanced endotoxin association with current asthma (OR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.04-3.83, P(interaction)=0.012) and wheeze in the past 12 months (OR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.32-2.66, P(interaction)=0.016). House dust endotoxin co-exposure with PM2.5 (CMAQ) was synergistically associated with emergency room visits for asthma in the past 12 months (OR: 5.01, 95% CI: 2.54-9.87) in general. In children, a synergistic association was found for co-exposure to house dust endotoxin and NO2 with the outcome (OR: 3.45, 95% CI: 1.65-7.18).
In LEIP, 104 asthmatic children from 89 homes were included in the study. In the main analysis, extensive compared to the educational intervention was associated with decreased endotoxin load in farm homes (P-value of main effect for intervention <0.0001) and with less frequent nighttime asthma symptoms (Intervention x visit interaction P-value = 0.044). In exploratory analysis, endotoxin load reduction from baseline was associated with less daytime wheeze (OR: 0.59, 95%CI: 0.38-0.91) and daytime cough (OR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.40-0.97).
Conclusions: House dust endotoxin is associated with obstructive pulmonary diseases. The association of endotoxin with asthma outcomes is stronger in cold regions of the U.S. and is enhanced by exposure to pet allergens and co-exposure to ambient air pollutants such as PM2.5 and NO2 in children. The LEIP study demonstrated that extensive cleaning interventions can be effective at reducing endotoxin in the homes children with asthma and can alleviate their symptoms.
18
Go, Jennifer. "Investigations Into the Effects of Gestational Exposure to Environmental Phthalates on Maternal and Perinatal Outcomes and the Role of Inflammation Biomarkers as Potential Mediators." Thesis, Université d'Ottawa / University of Ottawa, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/36925.
Full textAbstract:
Objectives The aims of this thesis were to (1) investigate the association of gestational exposure to environmental phthalates with maternal and perinatal outcomes, and (2) explore phthalate-induced changes to maternal inflammatory responses as potential mediators of possible health effects.
Methods A systematic review was performed to summarize existing evidence on the association of gestational exposure to phthalates with obstetrical outcomes, including pre-eclampsia (PE), pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), birth weight (BW), head circumference (HC), gestational age (GA), preterm birth (PB), and Apgar scores (AS). Additionally, a secondary analysis of data from the MIREC Study was conducted to evaluate the association of phthalate metabolites with clinical outcomes in the mother and infant using multiple linear and logistic regression, and with inflammatory biomarkers using multinomial logistic regression.
Results The systematic review identified a total of 24 articles, and observed inconsistent evidence on BW, HC, GA, and PB, a paucity of research on IUGR, PE, GDM, and AS, and a lack of studies on PIH. However, among studies with statistically significant (p<0.05) results, most suggest an association of phthalates with decreased BW and GA, and increased HC and PB. Findings from the MIREC Study indicate a significant (p<0.01) positive association between MBP and HC among female infants; however, null results were identified for BW, GA, PB, AS, and PIH. In relation to the exposure to phthalates, general trends among suggestive associations (p<0.05) for head circumference showed consistent increases in females and decreases in males, and for gestational age displayed decreases in both stratums. Additionally, a significant positive association of MBzP and ∑DEHP was observed with high MMP-2 and low VCAM levels, respectively. Results approaching statistical significance demonstrated a positive association of ∑DEHP with low MCP1 and ICAM levels, MCPP with low GMCSF levels, MBzP with low CRP and high ICAM levels, and MEP with high MMP-7 and IL-2 levels.
Conclusion From the systematic review, the effects of phthalates on maternal and perinatal health remain unclear, possibly due to sources of heterogeneity and challenges in exposure assessment. In the MIREC Study cohort, phthalate levels were associated with GA and HC in infants in a sex-specific manner. Phthalates also appear to influence the circulating inflammatory marker levels, possibly explaining the observed adverse effects. Future research is needed to validate these findings.
19
Núñez, Rocha Thaís. "International trade and environment : the role of environmental regulations." Thesis, Paris 1, 2016. http://www.theses.fr/2016PA01E051/document.
Full textAbstract:
Cette thèse contribue à la compréhension de la relation entre le commerce et l’environnement, en mettant l’accent sur le rôle de la réglementation environnementale entre pays. Trois essais abordent ce lien selon différentes perspectives. Le premier chapitre analyse l’efficacité de la formalisation de la Convention de Bâle sur le commerce des déchets dangereux dans l’Union européenne (UE-WSR) puis sur les pays en développement, divisés en régions. Je construis un indice de réglementation environnementale, qui comprend notamment la qualité des institutions. Les résultats montrent peu de preuves d’un effet de havre de déchets dans les pays de l’UE les moins développés. Dans l’analyse régionale, il n’y a aucune preuve de l’efficacité de l’UE-WSR. Le second chapitre étudie l’efficacité des accords internationaux sur l’environnement. Ce chapitre évalue les effets de la ratification et de l’adoption de ces accords sur les importations de produits chimiques dangereux et de polluants organiques persistants. Les résultats soulignent l’effet partiel de ces deux conventions. Plus précisément, lorsqu’on évalue un accord moins restrictif, les importations ne sont réduites que lorsque l’exportateur ratifie la convention. Lors de l’évaluation de l’interdiction des polluants organiques persistants, les importations sont réduites. Le troisième examine l’effet de la réglementation environnementale sur les résultats environnementaux. Ce chapitre a pris en compte les déterminants de la pollution et une variable de réglementation environnementale composée de lois environnementales adoptées par les pays. Les résultats montrent que les lois environnementales ont un effet améliorant les résultats environnementaux. Cet effet est particulier aux résultats environnementaux et à la loi. Ainsi on met en question certaines conclusions antérieures tirées de la littérature sur l’effet bénéfique du commerce sur l’environnementThis thesis contributes to an understanding of the relationship between trade and the environment, with an emphasis on the role of environmental regulation among countries. Three essays deal with this link from different perspectives. The first chapter analyses the effectiveness of the formalization of the Basel Convention on trade in hazardous wastes in the European Union (EU-WSR), followed by developing countries, and divided into regions. I build an environmental regulation index, which includes the quality of the institutions. The results show little evidence of a waste haven effect in the least developed EU countries. In the regional analysis, there is no evidence of the effectiveness of the EU-WSR. The second chapter examines the effectiveness of international environmental agreements. This chapter assesses the effects of the ratification and adoption of these agreements on imports of hazardous chemicals and persistent organic pollutants. The results underline the partial effect of these two conventions. More specifically, when assessing a less restrictive arrangement, imports are reduced only when the exporter ratifies the agreement. In assessing the ban on persistent organic pollutants, imports are reduced. The third examines the effect of environmental regulation on environmental outcomes. This chapter has taken into account the determinants of pollution and an environmental regulatory variable composed of environmental laws adopted by countries. The results show that environmental laws have an effect improving environmental outcomes. This effect is unique to environmental outcomes and to the law. Thus, some previous conclusions drawn from the literature on the beneficial effect of trade on the environment are questioned
20
Au, Felicia. "The Impact of Environmental Heavy Metal Exposures on Pregnancy and Birth Outcomes." Thesis, Université d'Ottawa / University of Ottawa, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/35558.
Full textAbstract:
Background: There is still a paucity of information on maternal biological mechanisms specific to adverse birth outcomes despite maternal environmental exposure and health status being known to influence neonatal morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study was to explore maternal biomarkers pertinent to infant development in utero, specifically matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and determine their relationships to environmental heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury, and manganese as well as their relationships to outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight and small for gestational age infant outcomes. Methods: A secondary data analysis on 1533 mother-infant pairs from the Maternal and Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals (MIREC) cohort was conducted to statistically test relationships between metals and biomarkers, as well as biomarkers and outcome. A systematic literature review and meta-analysis was also conducted to identify the interdependencies between maternal blood biomarkers relating to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Results: Multivariate regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (OR) for the association between metal concentrations in quartiles and both high (90%) and low (10%) maternal MMP levels. Significant metal-related effects were observed with different MMP responses. A total of 54 studies (35 for meta-analysis), including 43,702 women and evaluating 50 biomarkers, met the inclusion criteria and all subgroups of biomarkers showed significant associations with birth outcomes with no apparent publication bias. Conclusions: Maternal plasma markers may serve as potentially valuable tools in the investigation of maternal molecular mechanisms, especially select toxicity pathways underlying metal-mediated adverse infant outcomes. Further research is still needed to evaluate biomarkers such as proteomic and genetic profiles in other various maternal biological samples.
21
Ali, Basmah. "Multistakeholder collaboration outcomes in environmental voluntary initiatives : the case of A.R.E.T. initiative." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 2001. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk3/ftp04/MQ59277.pdf.
Full text
22
Bashir, Imran, and Muhammad Sabir Shah. "CSR Implementation and Outcomes: The Environmental Concern : The Case of Axfood (Sweden)." Thesis, Karlstads universitet, Fakulteten för ekonomi, kommunikation och IT, 2013. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:kau:diva-30755.
Full textAbstract:
The study is about the implementation of environmental conscious approach of corporatesocial responsibility in the Food wholesale and retail business. The environmental approach includes eco friendly packaging, organised logistics and practices of energy conservation. The case studied is Axfood through the investigation of their public reports, observation at stores and interview with the store managers and the Head of Corporate Social Responsibility. The methodology used in the research project is case study methodology during which data from various sources has been used and analysed for information richness and going deep down into the matter for investigation the patterns of environmental concern at Axfood. The empirical exposure gained through observations, repeated store investigation, interviews of customers and store managers and having five interview sessions with Asa Domeij (Head of the Environmental matters at Axfood) had formed the result in three learning points. One,the practice of having competition on cheap and quality products on the basis of re-injected revenue and expenses control through recycling and energy conservation is successful. Two, market pressure on companies to focus only on the products that pushes them to neglect the social audits followed by ambiguous reports is not a sustainable solution. Lastly, learning from competitors, attaining point of parity through having what others have with some uniqueness that others lack is in terms of superior environmental consciousness is the solution for future business (recent digital loyalty programme of Willys).
23
Nelson, Edward. "Hydropower in Scotland : linking changing energy and environmental agendas with sustainability outcomes." Thesis, University of Stirling, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/1893/20282.
Full textAbstract:
As the UK energy sector moves to a greater contribution from low-carbon and renewable sources it faces significant challenges in delivering affordability, security of supply and sustainability. Although hydropower in Scotland emerged on a large scale in the mid-20th century against an influential, changing wider context of energy policy, environmental regulation and debate, it is now subject to an evolving renewables agenda. This further shapes the national and scheme level characteristics of hydropower and in turn outcomes for the water environment. Contingent upon these considerations, hydropower regulation must now deliver on EU obligations to protect and improve the ecological status of water bodies, whilst also supporting domestic efforts to meet high profile binding renewable energy targets. Yet, despite an acknowledged potential for energy policy to constrain the delivery of water policy objectives, there is little policy harmonisation between disciplines. As Scotland orientates itself as a leader in Europe on climate change, transitioning to increasing amounts of renewable generation across a handful of technologies, there is a gap in knowledge about how specific renewable policies and trends can influence hydropower sustainability outcomes and regulatory challenges. This thesis therefore contributes an innovative and timely critical examination of the effect a changing wider renewable energy and policy context has on hydropower sustainability in Scotland, at a scheme and national level. This research uses an interdisciplinary, temporal analysis to identify linkages and create dialogue between disciplines and scales, informing the pursuit of sustainable renewable energy through policy and regulation in a changing world. It finds firstly, that the changing national generation mix towards an increased contribution from renewable sources, including potentially intermittent technologies such as wind power, has contributed to an alteration in the operational characteristics and reservoir variability profile of Cruachan pumped-storage scheme, presenting positive outcomes for reservoir littoral habitats. Secondly, it finds that whilst not operating in isolation, renewable energy incentive policies, through their eligibility criteria, financial reward frameworks and timing, influence hydropower characteristics and sustainability challenges, providing trade-offs but also synergies for hydropower regulation. Finally, it finds that there is a degree of divergence in hydropower outcomes and challenges in Scotland and Norway, due to the characteristics and especially interaction of wider contextual elements such as topography, profile of precipitation input, national energy needs and the role of regional and municipal government. By highlighting these linkages, this thesis is of value to energy policy and environmental regulation in Scotland and across the EU, and is seen as a first step in addressing these uncertainties and supporting a more integrated and sustainable hydropower and renewables governance framework.
24
Westbrook, Johnnie Ray. "Enhancing Limited-Resource Farmers' Economic, Environmental, and Social Outcomes Through Extension Education." Diss., Virginia Tech, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/39743.
Full textAbstract:
This research examined how the North Carolina A & T State University Cooperative Extension program has helped limited-resource farmers realize economic, environmental, and social outcomes through its 1890 Extension education program. Since1990, there has been little research on recent contributions of 1890 Extension programs for this audience. This inquiry described educational collaborative efforts among the North Carolina A & T Extension program, North Carolina State University (NCSU), other 1862 land-grant universities, community-based organizations, and government agencies providing nonformal education and services to limited-resource farmers. Personal interviews were conducted with two Extension specialists, one associate, two agents, and two agricultural and natural resource technicians. A focus group was conducted with nine limited-resource farmers.The findings revealed that the Farmers Adopting Computer Training (FACT), Plasticulture, and Pastured-Swine programs have helped enhance limited-resource farmers' economic, environmental, and social outcomes. In addition, the participants confirmed caring, trust, and relationship building as qualities that encouraged their participation. However, participants indicated that scheduling Extension programs that conflict with planting and harvesting season and programs that do not address farmers' needs and issues prevent their participation in Extension programs. Furthermore, North Carolina A & T Extension programs involved farmers in program planning through advisory committees and mentoring other farmers. Participants indicated that NC A & T collaborates with North Carolina State University, community-based organizations, and other government agencies to meet the needs of limited-resource farmers.The data suggest that the following improvements and changes for the North Carolina A & T Extension program: (a) use the outcome-based evaluation approach to evaluate Extension programs, (b) provide training for Extension faculty on program planning models, (c) continue the FACT, plasticulture, and pastured-swine production programs, (d) educate faculty in other schools and colleges at NC A & T State University about Extension programs, and (e) develop joint programs with other schools and colleges at North Carolina A & T State University.Ph. D.
25
Perrotta, Allison Rose. "Microbial communities as predictors of outcomes in industrial and clinical applications." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/111446.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis: Ph. D. in Environmental Microbiology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, 2017.Cataloged from PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references.
Environmental and host associated microbial communities provide an extensive reservoir of genetic and functional diversity. This diversity represents a wealth of potential for applications in many fields. To harness this potential for engineering applications, the impact of temporal dynamics need to be better understood. Yet most of the data we have are in the form of static surveys of diversity. In this thesis, I use 16S rRNA sequencing analysis to measure community composition across time series to predict outcomes for three applications: bioreactor function; a non-invasive diagnostic of endometriosis; and commercial chicken rearing. I identify bacteria that exhibit distinct temporal dynamics within each application, and discuss the implications of those dynamics in the context of each application. Despite the diverse communities covered in this work, temporal dynamics emerge as a common theme that can impact these engineering applications which rely on stable and predictable community performance.
by Allison Rose Perrotta.
Ph. D. in Environmental Microbiology
26
Wilkinson, Tara Ann Cindy. "The Barbados Marine Reserve and involvement of fishers in its decision-making: outcomes, history, and processes." Thesis, McGill University, 2012. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=107604.
Full textAbstract:
Marine protected areas (MPAs) are essential elements of marine conservation strategies, but since commercial, sport and subsistence fisheries are inevitably influenced by MPAs (and vice versa), stakeholder participation in decision-making is recognized as being critical to the success of MPAs. If the goals of protected marine resources are to be served in the long run, it is essential that participation be carefully assessed and reviewed. This thesis reviews the outcomes of fisher participation in decision-making for the Barbados Marine Reserve (BMR), and examines the history of the reserve and of the processes of participation that contributed to such outcomes. For the 108 stakeholders interviewed (55 fishers and 53 non-consumptive resource users or "NonCons" for short, e.g., government employee, diver, academic, boat operator), results were mixed. Stakeholder involvement in BMR changed with the times. The stages of stakeholder participation in decision-making for the BMR included: a) largely neglecting and marginalizing fishers during its inception (late 1970s/early 1980s), b) later isolated attempts by a "policy entrepreneur" (Mascia 2000) at including fishers, and c) pointedly seeking out and including fishers in representative-based stakeholder round tables (RTs) during its review (late 1990s/early 2000s). During the latest stage, the BMR review, the process of including fishers in decision-making varied in its quality. In general, both fishers and NonCons who had attended the RTs felt the facilitators' performance was acceptable. Although facilitators seemed to have made a great effort to include fishers, only a few attended, and so the impact was limited. Those who did attend the RTs felt they had had been provided discussion opportunities and had been treated equally. These positive aspects were hindered by facilitators paying insufficient attention to procedural details of stakeholders' participation as well as to details about the stakeholders' history, culture and socio-economic factors. These factors led to less than optimal outcomes.Most stakeholders believed in the potential of an MPA and the theory behind it, and seemingly acted to take advantage of its benefits (i.e., fished on the edge of the reserve to benefit from spillover and/or leakage). Moreover, fishers who had participated in the latest participation process for the reserve (i.e., the RTs) had more positive opinions and views of the BMR than those who had not participated. On the other hand, despite their presence at the RTs, most participants (both fishers and NonCons) felt they had not been involved in any decision-making for the BMR. So despite their progression from the late 1970s, the BMR's poor beginnings were not forgotten and its recent improvements appeared insufficient. This analysis showed that in structuring stakeholder participation for MPA management, special attention must be paid to the quality and procedural detail of participation.Les aires marines protégées (AMP) sont des éléments essentiels des stratégies de conservation marine, mais comme elles ont une incidence inévitable sur la pêche commerciale, sportive et de subsistence (et vice versa), la participation des intervenants dans la prise de décision est essentielle à leur réussite. À long terme, l'atteinte des objectifs de protection des ressources marines doit essentiellement passer par une évaluation et une révision rigoureuses de la participation. La présente thèse évalue les résultats de la participation des pêcheurs dans la prise de décision pour la Réserve marine de la Barbade (RMB) et se penche sur l'histoire de la réserve et sur les processus liés à la participation qui ont contribué à ces résultats. Pour les 108 intervenants qui se sont livrés à un entretien (55 pêcheurs et 53 utilisateurs rationnels (UR) des ressources, comme des employés du gouvernement, des plongeurs, des chercheurs et des conducteurs de bateaux), les résultats sont mitigés. L'implication des intervenants à l'égard de la RMB a changé au fil des années. Les étapes d'implication des intervenants dans les prises de décisions à l'égard de la RMB comprennent : a) négliger et marginaliser en grande partie les pêcheurs pendant sa création (fin des années 1970 et début des années 1980), b) effectuer des tentatives isolées subséquentes par l'entremise d'un « entrepreneur en stratégies » (Mascia 2000) d'inclure les pêcheurs et c) s'adresser directement aux pêcheurs pour les inclure dans les tables rondes (TR) demandant la participation des intervenants au cours de l'évaluation (fin des années 1990 et début des années 2000). Au cours de la dernière étape, le processus d'inclusion des pêcheurs dans la prise de décision a fluctué en termes de qualité. En général, les pêcheurs et les UR qui ont participé aux TR ont trouvé le rendement des facilitateurs acceptable. Même si les facilitateurs semblent avoir fait des efforts considérables pour inclure les pêcheurs, seuls quelques-uns ont participé, ce qui a diminué l'impact de leur présence. Ceux qui ont participé aux TR ont indiqué qu'ils avaient eu des occasions de discuter et qu'ils avaient été traités équitablement. Toutefois, ces aspects positifs ont été amoindris par des facilitateurs qui n'ont pas porté une attention suffisante aux éléments de procédure de la participation des intervenants, de même qu'à leurs facteurs historiques, culturels et socio-économiques, ce qui a mené à des résultats insuffisants. La plupart des intervenants croient au potentiel d'une AMP et à la théorie qui s'y rattache, et semblent avoir agi pour tirer profit de ses avantages (c.-à-d. qu'ils ont pêché aux limites de la réserve pour profiter des déversements ou des débordements). De plus, les pêcheurs qui ont participé au dernier processus d'implication pour la réserve (c.-à-d. aux TR) avaient des opinions et des avis plus favorables à propos de la RMB que ceux qui n'avaient pas participé. Par contre, malgré leur présence aux TR, la plupart des participants (les pêcheurs comme les UR) avaient l'impression qu'ils n'avaient pas été impliqués dans la prise de décisions relatives à la RMB. Donc, malgré le progrès effectué depuis la fin des années 1970, les débuts difficiles de la RMB n'ont pas été oubliés et les récentes améliorations semblent insuffisantes. Cette analyse a démontré que dans le cadre de la structuration de la participation des intervenants dans la gestion des AMP, une attention spéciale doit être portée à la qualité et aux éléments de procédure de la participation.
27
Brooks, Constance M. "Environmental risk factors and risky sexual behavior outcomes attitudes as a mediating factor /." Diss., Columbia, Mo. : University of Missouri-Columbia, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10355/4820.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Missouri-Columbia, 2007.The entire dissertation/thesis text is included in the research.pdf file; the official abstract appears in the short.pdf file (which also appears in the research.pdf); a non-technical general description, or public abstract, appears in the public.pdf file. Title from title screen of research.pdf file (viewed on September 19, 2007) Vita. Includes bibliographical references.
28
Rodríguez, Teresa. "Environmental Pesticide Exposure and Neurobehavioral Effects among Children of Nicaraguan Agricultural Workers." Doctoral thesis, Uppsala universitet, Institutionen för medicinska vetenskaper, 2012. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-182164.
Full textAbstract:
Background: Children exposed to pesticides are susceptible for neurodevelopmental disruption. Data from developing countries are scarce. Aim: Assessing long-term and recent pesticide exposure in Nicaraguan children in relation to parental pesticide use and examining potential associated neurobehavioral effects. Methods: In the first study, pre- and post-spraying urinary residues of the chlorpyrifos metabolite TCPY and diazinon metabolite IMPY were measured among 7 subsistence farmers and 10 plantation workers, and in one child per worker. In the second study, for 110 children in an agricultural village and 22 in a non-agricultural village, aged 7-9, parental pesticide use was assessed by hours of spraying and kilograms of active ingredients during pre-and-postnatal time windows, as proxies for children’s long term pesticide exposures. Urinary TCPY, 3-PBA (pyrethroid metabolite), and 2,4-D were determined in 211 samples of 74 children of the agricultural village. IQ components and total IQ (WISC-IV) were evaluated in all agricultural village children. Behavior was evaluated with the Conners’ Teacher Rating Scale-Revised: Short. Multivariate linear regression models assessed associations between long-term and recent exposure to organophosphates and pyrethroids and cognitive and behavioral scales. Results: In study 1, post-spraying urinary levels of pesticide metabolites of subsistence farmers and their children were highly correlated (r=0.85), but not those of plantation workers and their children. In study 2, a wide range of exposures was reported by parents for all pesticides and time windows. The median urinary TCPY (3.7 μg/g creatinine), 3-PBA (2.8), and 2,4-D (0.9) were comparable to other studies for TCPY and 3-PBA but high for 2,4-D. Maximum levels were the highest reported for all compounds. Prenatal use of organophosphates affected working memory, and methamidophos also verbal comprehension and total IQ. Urinary TCPY was associated with poorer working memory. Organophosphate exposures were not associated with children’s behavior. Pyrethroid exposure during the first year of life associated with poorer perceptual reasoning and behavior, and urinary 3-PBA with a number of cognitive functions and ADHD in girls but not in boys. Conclusion: Nicaraguan children in poor agricultural areas are highly exposed to pesticides, which is influenced by parental pesticide use in subsistence farms. Organophosphate and pyrethroid exposures adversely affect their neurobehavioral development.
29
Frensley, B. Troy. "Investigating the links between lesson characteristics, student engagement, and outcomes at a residential environmental education program." Diss., Virginia Tech, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/83826.
Full textAbstract:
This dissertation investigates the links between lesson characteristics, student engagement, self-determination, and environmental literacy outcomes at a residential environmental education (EE) program. I developed a novel methodology using observations of 81 lessons at the study site to isolate the characteristics hypothesized to influence student engagement, self-determination, and outcomes of environmental literacy. Student surveys provided self-reported data on student engagement, selfdetermination, and environmental literacy. Mixed-methods analyses allowed me to explore these links within the 81 lessons observed in this case study. The results are organized into five chapters: an introduction chapter; three manuscripts planned for stand-alone publication (Chapters 2 - 4); and a conclusion chapter. Chapter 2 reports on the links between student engagement, self-determination, and environmental literacy. Chapter 3 provides insights on the links between the lesson characteristics (e.g., educator characteristics, teaching approaches, and schoolteacher/chaperone behaviors) and environmental literacy outcomes. Chapter 4 investigates the degree to which measures of student engagement, observed or self-reported, are associated with environmental literacy outcomes. Chapter 5 summarizes the findings from this study and presents additional analyses intended to fully synthesize the links between lesson characteristics, student engagement, self-determination, and environmental literacy. This study provides a novel methodology and survey items that may be of use to both practitioners and researchers. This research offers useful information about why and how EE works in this case and some of the specific characteristics and practices that engender positive environmental literacy outcomes.Ph. D.
30
Cil, Gulcan. "Effects of Behavioral and Environmental Factors on Infant Health." Thesis, University of Oregon, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/1794/19316.
Full textAbstract:
Health at birth is considered an important indicator of health outcomes in adulthood. It is also shown to have a strong association with future educational attainment and labor market outcomes. I examine the effects of behavioral and environmental factors on infant health. The factors I focus on include alcohol consumption during pregnancy, extreme weather events associated with climate change, and pollution that may result from unconventional oil and natural gas development.
In Chapter II, I examine the effects of point-of-sale alcohol warning signage that alcohol retailers are required to post in some states on alcohol use during pregnancy and on birth outcomes. I find that point-of-sale warning signs discourage alcohol consumption among pregnant women and are associated with a decrease in the odds of newborns having very low birth weight or being very pre-term. The findings of this research inform decision makers about a potentially effective mechanism through which alcohol consumption among pregnant women can be reduced. They also suggest causal evidence for the link between prenatal alcohol exposure and inferior health at birth.
Chapter III documents that exposure to heat waves during pregnancy is associated with increased likelihood of the mother experiencing an adverse health condition during pregnancy and the newborn having an abnormal condition at birth. The results provide an assessment of the magnitude and timing of the effects of extreme heat events associated with climate change on infant health which is potentially helpful in enhancing the effectiveness of adaptation efforts.
Finally, Chapter IV provides an empirical investigation of the link between unconventional oil and natural gas development and infant health. The results indicate that unconventional drilling activity is associated with a small, but statistically significant, decline in birth outcomes, especially for those living in rural areas. Given that it is estimated that the rapid expansion in unconventional oil and gas extraction will continue for at least a few more decades, the results of this study may contribute to the discussions related to initiation or tightening of regulations and monitoring efforts to control pollution.
This dissertation includes previously unpublished co-authored material.
31
Jones, A. "Measuring and managing social, economic and environmental outcomes in the English social housing sector." Thesis, Nottingham Trent University, 2015. http://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/27716/.
Full textAbstract:
The ambitions and activities of social housing providers in the UK today extend beyond those associated with the traditional landlord role. Providers are now aiming to address a range of complex and cross-cutting social issues to improve individual and community wellbeing. A recent advance in practice to support this broader service delivery has been the development and adoption of tools and approaches to measure the social value generated by such activities. This thesis aims to understand, firstly, the contextual drivers for the recent growth of this practice in the sector; and secondly, the most significant dynamics for successful implementation, from both the operational perspective of the individual organisation and the strategic perspective of the wider social housing sector. This is approached through qualitative interviews with programme architects and leading practitioners, drawing on a conceptual framework that combines a programme theory approach (realist evaluation) with an implementation theory formation (Theory of Change), within the analytic framework provided by the ‘public value’ paradigm. The thesis concludes by specifying a model for the implementation of social impact measurement, which looks beyond the individual methods for impact measurement to assess the wider contextual factors and the specific inner workings of the complete process (including the necessary organisational capabilities) that are required to successfully implement and embed the practice. This then provides a number of insights into the developments needed at an organisational and sector-wide level to fulfil the positive outcomes anticipated from social impact measurement.
32
Frederick, Emilia. "Predicting child developmental outcomes from family environmental factors: Findings from the Bayley-4 Project." Thesis, Frederick, Emilia (2020) Predicting child developmental outcomes from family environmental factors: Findings from the Bayley-4 Project. Masters by Coursework thesis, Murdoch University, 2020. https://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/60738/.
Full textAbstract:
The home environment during early childhood is considered to have a fundamental impact on child developmental outcomes. The purpose of the current study was to understand how well developmental outcomes can be predicted from a linear combination of four family environmental factors. This was done using data from the Pearson Clinical Australia and New Zealand managed Bayley-4 Project. Data were available for 50 infants and toddlers, and their parents. Cognitive, language, and motor development in children were measured using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, fourth edition. The frequency of shared reading and screen time duration was measured with items on the Family Care Indicators survey. The parent’s level of parental bonding was measured using the Maternal Postnatal Attachment Scale. Furthermore, parental depressive symptoms were measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Using multiple linear regression analyses, it was found that the overall regression models for cognitive, expressive language, fine motor, and gross motor developmental outcomes were not significantly predicted by the combination of family factors. Although the independent predictors significantly accounted for 26% of the variation in child receptive language, this relationship was no longer significant following sensitivity analysis. However, the direct relationship between parental depressive symptoms and optimal receptive language remained significant. These findings indicate that parental depressive symptoms may not be a potential risk factor for young child development. Future research ought to further examine the relationship between family factors and young child developmental outcomes, to assess the level of risk or protection.
33
McLean, Kevin Daniel. "Interpreter Attributes and Their Impact on Visitor Outcomes in National Park Service Interpretive Programs." Thesis, Virginia Tech, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/19288.
Full textAbstract:
By revealing deeper meanings and connecting the visitor to the resource, interpretation strives to accomplish a number of goals. Interpretation can increase knowledge of a program\'s topic, change the visitor's attitude toward something, change future behaviors, and increase appreciation for a place and its resources. While literature exists professing best practices for interpretation, little empirical support is present in the research literature to validate these practices' individual links to desired outcomes. This study empirically identifies attributes of the interpreter that statistically linked to visitor outcomes. We tracked 31 interpreter attributes and 10 intended outcomes of interpreters in 376 live interpretive programs in 24 units of the U.S. National Park Service (NPS) and conducted visitor surveys immediately following the programs. This research addresses the following question: Which interpreter attributes most consistently lead to desired outcomes? Our research shows that the interpreter attributes most consistently associated with positive visitor outcomes were the interpreter's apparent degree of confidence and expression authentic emotion. The results can be used to inform interpretive training throughout the National Park Service.Master of Science
34
Mason, Rachel. "Modeling Agricultural Outcomes in a Warmer, Wetter Vermont." ScholarWorks @ UVM, 2019. https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/graddis/1034.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis aimed to model agricultural outcomes that are important to Vermont dairy farms and their surrounding communities -- runoff, erosion, nitrogen and phosphorus losses, crop yields, and timeliness of farm operations -- under a set of possible future climates. The Agricultural Policy/Environmental eXtender (APEX) model was used for this work, and the models were calibrated using data from a project that measured most of these outcomes on a set of local farms. The model setup and calibration methodology is thoroughly documented and may be a useful starting point for others who are new to agricultural modeling.
Applied to two farms growing continuous corn, the future climate simulations showed that increasing temperatures by 2 C, combined with raising total precipitation or changing the seasonality of precipitation, had little effect on any outcome. Intense rainfall has increased greatly in recent decades, so a combination of higher temperatures and more intense precipitation was also simulated. This led to more runoff, more soil loss, and more nutrient losses. While median values were only modestly increased, the 95%-ile and total losses over the simulation period increased by a larger amount (as much as 53%, depending on the site). Management practices that can reduce runoff and soil/nutrient loss exist, but their effectiveness when a higher fraction of losses occur in large events is not well known.
Crop yields changed by <10% in all simulations, and in some cases increased slightly. Other studies have warned of decreases in yields because of high summer temperatures and droughts. The pilot simulations in this thesis probed only a limited range of climate parameter space, so running the models for a wider range of scenarios may illuminate the circumstances in which particularly harmful and beneficial outcomes occur.
Finally, APEX can in principle calculate the delays to corn planting that are expected if climate change leads to wetter conditions in the spring. However, the models consistently predicted that only harvest operations will be delayed. The reasons for this are not well understood, and it may be a useful avenue for future work.
The present work is limited in a number of ways. Chief among these are somewhat mediocre model performance, and the narrow range of farming systems and climate scenarios investigated. Statistics describing the performance of the calibrated models were poorer than anticipated, and satisfactory results could not be obtained for some nutrient loss pathways. Only two farms were modeled, in just four hypothetical future climates; results for other relevant farming systems and climates may be quite different. Nonetheless, it is hoped that this thesis serves as a useful illustration of the potential and limitations of utilizing the APEX model in this context, and that it lays the groundwork for a more extensive investigation of agricultural outcomes under climate change in Vermont.
35
Buttling, Lauren G. "Maternal Residential Proximity to Central Appalachian Surface Mining and Adverse Birth Outcomes." Thesis, Virginia Tech, 2020. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/98651.
Full textAbstract:
Maternal residency in Central Appalachian coalfields has been associated with low birth weight at the county-level. To refine the relationship between proximity and adverse birth outcomes, this study employs finer spatial scales of exposure. Spatiotemporal characterizations of surface mining boundaries in Central Appalachia between 1986-2015 were developed using Landsat data. The maternal address field on births records from VA, WV, KY, and TN were geocoded and assigned amount of surface mining within a 5km radius of residence (street-level). Births were also assigned exposures based on the amount of surface mining within residential ZIP code tabulation area (ZCTA) (ZIP code-level). Using linear and logistic regression, associations between surface mining activities during gestation and birth weight, preterm birth, low birth weight, and term low birth weight were determined, adjusting for available demographic factors. An increase in surface mining activities was negatively associated with birth weight at the street-level (β = −8.93g; (95% CI = -12.69 -5.7, P= <0.001) and ZIP code-level (β = −4.41g ; 95% CI = -6.30, -2.52, P= <0.001). Small, statistically significant associations were also found between preterm birth and mining within 5km of residence (OR = 1.003; 95% CI = 1.001, 1.005, P= 0.003) and within maternal ZCTA (OR = 1.002; 95% CI = 1.001, 1.003, P=0.001). Relationships were also found between amount of mining within 5km of residence and low birth weight and term low birth weight outcomes. This study found subtle, but significant associations between proximity to active surface mining during gestation and adverse birth outcomes.M.S.
Central Appalachian surface mining produces air, water, and noise pollution, all of which have been associated with increased risk of adverse birth outcomes. Previous studies examining associations between surface mining and adverse birth outcomes rely upon relatively coarse county-level data. This research compares outcomes from hundreds of thousands of individual birth records and proximity of maternal home address to surface mines for a fine-scale, epidemiological study. Surface mining boundaries between 1986-2015 were developed using satellite imagery. Birth records from VA, WV, KY, and TN were geocoded and assigned the amount of surface mining within a 5km radius of residence. Births were also assigned exposures based on the amount of surface mining within residential ZIP code since geocoding led to a considerable loss of records. Associations between proximity to surface mining during gestation and birth weight, preterm birth (PTB), low birth weight (LBW), and term low birth weight (tLBW) were determined by linear and logistic regression, adjusting for available demographic factors. Results demonstrate significantly decreased birth weights were found near active mining operations. Mothers living near active surface mining also saw a slight increase in the odds of their birth being PTB, LBW or tLBW. These results suggest there is a subtle, but significant relationship between proximity to surface mining and adverse birth outcomes.
36
Núñez, Rocha Thaís. "International trade and environment : the role of environmental regulations." Electronic Thesis or Diss., Paris 1, 2016. http://www.theses.fr/2016PA01E051.
Full textAbstract:
Cette thèse contribue à la compréhension de la relation entre le commerce et l’environnement, en mettant l’accent sur le rôle de la réglementation environnementale entre pays. Trois essais abordent ce lien selon différentes perspectives. Le premier chapitre analyse l’efficacité de la formalisation de la Convention de Bâle sur le commerce des déchets dangereux dans l’Union européenne (UE-WSR) puis sur les pays en développement, divisés en régions. Je construis un indice de réglementation environnementale, qui comprend notamment la qualité des institutions. Les résultats montrent peu de preuves d’un effet de havre de déchets dans les pays de l’UE les moins développés. Dans l’analyse régionale, il n’y a aucune preuve de l’efficacité de l’UE-WSR. Le second chapitre étudie l’efficacité des accords internationaux sur l’environnement. Ce chapitre évalue les effets de la ratification et de l’adoption de ces accords sur les importations de produits chimiques dangereux et de polluants organiques persistants. Les résultats soulignent l’effet partiel de ces deux conventions. Plus précisément, lorsqu’on évalue un accord moins restrictif, les importations ne sont réduites que lorsque l’exportateur ratifie la convention. Lors de l’évaluation de l’interdiction des polluants organiques persistants, les importations sont réduites. Le troisième examine l’effet de la réglementation environnementale sur les résultats environnementaux. Ce chapitre a pris en compte les déterminants de la pollution et une variable de réglementation environnementale composée de lois environnementales adoptées par les pays. Les résultats montrent que les lois environnementales ont un effet améliorant les résultats environnementaux. Cet effet est particulier aux résultats environnementaux et à la loi. Ainsi on met en question certaines conclusions antérieures tirées de la littérature sur l’effet bénéfique du commerce sur l’environnementThis thesis contributes to an understanding of the relationship between trade and the environment, with an emphasis on the role of environmental regulation among countries. Three essays deal with this link from different perspectives. The first chapter analyses the effectiveness of the formalization of the Basel Convention on trade in hazardous wastes in the European Union (EU-WSR), followed by developing countries, and divided into regions. I build an environmental regulation index, which includes the quality of the institutions. The results show little evidence of a waste haven effect in the least developed EU countries. In the regional analysis, there is no evidence of the effectiveness of the EU-WSR. The second chapter examines the effectiveness of international environmental agreements. This chapter assesses the effects of the ratification and adoption of these agreements on imports of hazardous chemicals and persistent organic pollutants. The results underline the partial effect of these two conventions. More specifically, when assessing a less restrictive arrangement, imports are reduced only when the exporter ratifies the agreement. In assessing the ban on persistent organic pollutants, imports are reduced. The third examines the effect of environmental regulation on environmental outcomes. This chapter has taken into account the determinants of pollution and an environmental regulatory variable composed of environmental laws adopted by countries. The results show that environmental laws have an effect improving environmental outcomes. This effect is unique to environmental outcomes and to the law. Thus, some previous conclusions drawn from the literature on the beneficial effect of trade on the environment are questioned
37
Sweet, Laura Louise. "The Impact of an Urban Intervention to Mediate Indoor Environmental Hazards on Asthma Outcomes in Children." The Ohio State University, 2012. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1343509149.
Full text
38
Tshikuka, Mulumba Jose-Gaby. "Relationships between environmental risk factors, parasitic infections and health outcomes in an urban African setting." Thesis, McGill University, 1995. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=40014.
Full textAbstract:
The relationships between parasitic infections, environmental and living conditions, and health outcomes were studied in subdivisions of lower (LSES) and higher (HSES) socio-economic status Lubumbashi, Zaire. The two LSES subdivisions had higher prevalences of Plasmodium infection and higher rates of stunting, abdominal pain and low packed cell volume (PCV) than the HSES subdivision. The prevalence and intensity of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura was not associated with socio-economic status. Maternal education was a significant predictor of A. lumbricoides intensity in both LSES and HSES subdivisions. Factors related to poor sanitation were risk factors for A. lumbricoides in LSES subdivisions, whereas a high ratio of relatives to immediate family members per household predicted high intensity infection in the HSES subdivision. The risk of stunting was higher in children with A. lumbricoides, that of wasting was higher in children with A. lumbricoides or T. trichiura whereas the risk of kwashiorkor was high with T. trichiura but very reduced in those with A. lumbricoides. The four most common clinical conditions were diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever and low PCV. Hookworm infection, T. trichiura infection, young age and residence in LSES subdivisions were determinants of diarrhea. T. trichiura infection, young age and living in a LSES subdivision were risk factors for abdominal pain. Plasmodium infection and young age were associated with fever. LSES was predictive of low PCV. No combination of parasites had antagonistic or synergistic effects on clinical indicators examined. Based on this study, it is suggested that one parasite will increase the risk of infection with another. Although maternal education should be improved in all subdivisions, attention to sanitation, crowding and diet in the LSES subdivisions, and to the role of relatives and visitors in parasite transmission in the HSES subdivision should be priorities.
39
Pratson, Daniel Francis. "An investigation of environmental education instructors: motivations, autonomy, experience, and their influences on student outcomes." Thesis, Virginia Tech, 2019. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/91387.
Full textAbstract:
Environmental education (EE) programming has been found to lead to positive behavioral and attitudinal outcomes in student participants. Among a variety of factors, the characteristics of EE program instructors have been found to play a role in driving these outcomes. This thesis investigates the specific motivators of EE instructors and the links between instructor autonomy, prior experience, and program outcomes. I used a multi-methods approach to investigate these themes and have organized the results between two chapters that are manuscripts intended as separate journal publications. Chapter 2 presents a qualitative study that identifies the salient motivators of EE instructors, as well as organizational practices that affect EE instructor feelings of autonomy, competence, relatedness, and the meaningfulness these instructors feel within their jobs. Chapter 3 presents a quantitative study analyzing the impact of autonomy and prior experience on program outcomes by linking instructor and student participant survey responses from a sample of 166 EE programs performed throughout 57 different organizations across the US. Results led to the following recommendations for EE organizations: (1) promote job enrichment elements for their instructional staff, including the implementing of participatory evaluation processes; (2) encourage instructors to take "ownership" of programming, such that they continue to practice and develop competence over time; (3) increase instructor autonomy as they gain further experience.Master of Science
Environmental education (EE) programming has been found to lead to positive behavioral and attitudinal outcomes in student participants. Among a variety of factors, the characteristics of EE program instructors have been found to play a role in driving these outcomes. This thesis investigates the specific motivators of EE instructors and the links between instructor autonomy, prior experience, and program outcomes. I used a multi-methods approach, employing semi-structured interviews and surveys to investigate these themes, and have organized the results between two chapters that are manuscripts intended as separate journal publications. Chapter 2 presents a qualitative study that identifies the salient motivators of EE instructors, as well as organizational practices that affect EE instructor feelings of autonomy, competence, relatedness, and the meaningfulness these instructors feel within their jobs. Chapter 3 presents a quantitative study analyzing the impact of autonomy and prior experience on program outcomes by linking instructor and student participant survey responses from a sample of 166 EE programs performed throughout 57 different organizations across the US. Results led to the following recommendations for EE organizations: (1) promote job enrichment elements for their instructional staff, including the implementing of participatory evaluation processes; (2) encourage instructors to take “ownership” of programming, such that they continue to practice and develop competence over time; (3) increase instructor autonomy as they gain further experience. This research provides information to better EE organizational management in the aims of promoting motivated employees and ultimately effective program outcomes.
40
Twigg, Sarah. "Unravelling the biological, environmental, physical and psychosocial factors impinging on outcomes in early rheumatoid arthritis." Thesis, University of Leeds, 2014. http://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/8421/.
Full textAbstract:
Objective: The aim was to study the course of disease activity and disability in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the relationship between the two over 24 months. Baseline predictors of adverse outcome were sought as potential tools for targeting future therapy in RA. Methods: Yorkshire Early Arthritis Register (YEAR) recruited patients with a clinician-made diagnosis of RA and symptoms of ≤24 months. Change in disease activity, measured using disease activity score from counts of 28 joints (DAS28) and disability, measured using the disability index component of the health assessment questionnaire (HAQ-DI), after 6 and 12 months, were outcomes in linear regression models. In order to take advantage of the longitudinal data and examine change in DAS28 and HAQ-DI over time, latent growth curves were applied to the data. Latent class growth analyses (LCGA) identified trajectories of change in DAS28 and HAQ-DI over 2 years. Multinomial logistic regression identified predictors of trajectory group membership. Finally, a dual trajectory analysis explored the relationship between DAS28 and HAQ-DI trajectories. Missing data were handled using multiple imputation and maximum likelihood estimation. Results: Data from 1416 YEAR cases were included. Baseline fatigue visual analogue score (VAS) consistently predicted worse outcome including lesser change in DAS28 and HAQ-DI after 6 and 12 months and adverse DAS28 and HAQ-DI trajectories. There were 2 DAS28 and 2 HAQ-DI trajectories and 4 dual trajectory groups: half of patients followed the most favourable, low DAS28/low HAQ-DI, trajectory and only 1% followed a high DAS28/low HAQ-DI trajectory. High DAS28/high HAQ-DI and low DAS28/high HAQ-DI trajectories were more likely for females, cases from more deprived socio-economic areas, and those reporting greater fatigue at baseline. The high DAS28/high HAQ-DI trajectory was more likely in cases with higher baseline DAS28, but baseline DAS28 did not predict low DAS28/high HAQ-DI trajectory group membership. Membership of the low DAS28/high HAQ-DI group was more likely in cases with greater contribution of subjective components to baseline DAS28 . Conclusion: Baseline fatigue consistently predicted adverse DAS28 and HAQ-DI over 2 years. In some cases, there was persistent disability and disease activity, whilst another group had greater disability despite less disease activity. Compared to those with low disease activity and disability, membership of these 2 groups was more likely with greater baseline fatigue. Further research into the drivers of fatigue in RA may help target therapies and limit disability in RA.
41
Folke, Olle. "Politics and preferences : explanations to policy outcomes in Swedish municipalities /." Uppsala : Dept. of Economics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 2008. http://epsilon.slu.se/10862558.pdf.
Full text
42
Shishehbor, Mehdi H. "Mediating Pathways That Link Contextual Risk Factors to All-Cause Mortality and Clinical Outcomes." Case Western Reserve University School of Graduate Studies / OhioLINK, 2013. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=case1377537452.
Full text
43
Estornell, Paula Haas Charles N. Brulle Robert J. "Sustainable development : which policy process - autocratic or democratic-leads to more durable policy and environmental outcomes?" Philadelphia, Pa. : Drexel University, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/1860/3312.
Full text
44
Yang, Ma Ga. "Developing a Focal Firm’s Sustainable Supply Chain Framework: Drivers, Orientation, Practices and Performance Outcomes." University of Toledo / OhioLINK, 2013. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=toledo1356543598.
Full text
45
Cunningham, Natalie Lorinda. "The profile and outcomes of stroke patients discharged from a hospital In the Eastern Cape." Thesis, University of Western Cape, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/11394/3368.
Full textAbstract:
Magister Scientiae (Physiotherapy) - MSc(Physio)Stroke is the third leading cause of death and disability worldwide. The Uitenhage Provincial Hospital admits many stroke patients. To date, no in-depth study has been conducted on stroke patients admitted to the Hospital. This study identified the profile of stroke patients admitted to the Uitenhage Provincial Hospital and explored the challenges that these patients experienced post stroke. A concurrent mixed model design was used to collect the data. Firstly retrospective data was obtained by means of a quantitative data gathering instrument designed by the researcher. The information obtained, included data relating to demographic characteristics, reported risk factors relating to stroke, stroke onset-admission interval and length of hospital stay, as well as information relating to the process of physiotherapy. Secondly quantitative prospective information was collected by means of the Barthel Index, the Modified Rankin Scale and the Facilitators And Barriers Survey. The sample for the quantitative phase was drawn from medical records of 168 stroke patients admitted to the Uitenhage Provincial Hospital from the 1 of January 2008 up to and including the 31 of December 2009. For the second prospective quantitative part of the study, participants were selected conveniently from the admitted patients. In the qualitative phase, nine participants taken of the sampled participants were selected. The Microsoft Excel 2007 Package and the SPSS 18 for social sciences were used to analyse the quantitative data. Means, standard deviations, frequencies and percentages were calculated for descriptive purposes and the Chi-square test was used to test for associations between variables. Qualitative analysis began with the transcription of voice recordings and the translation of relevant Afrikaans transcription into English. Emerging categories were identified within the pre-determined themes. Permission and ethical clearance was obtained from the Higher Degrees Committee and the Senate Research and Grants and Study Leave Committee of the University of the Western Cape and permission to conduct this study was also obtained from the Medical Superintendent of the Uitenhage Provincial Hospital. Altogether 461 patients had been admitted with stroke during the relevant period, but only 168 could be included in the retrospective quantitative study. The mean age of the participants was 61,54 years; 59% were females and 41% males. The majority of the participants (86,9%) were admitted on the same day of stroke onset, and the mean length of hospital stay was 7,38 days. Hypertension was the most common reported risk factor, at 79%. Only 165 of the participants received physiotherapy while hospitalised, with the mean total physiotherapy sessions being 2,56 sessions. In 90% of the cases, physiotherapy sessions were discontinued due to the patient being discharged from the Hospital. The mean Barthel Index score was 81,46 and the family care domain of the Modified Rankin Scale was the most affected. Participants experienced participation restrictions and activity limitations due to stairs, gravel surfaces and kerb cuts. During the qualitative interviews participants reported activity limitations related to walking and activities of daily living. The participants also experienced participation restrictions, which included dependency on others, decreased social support and an array of emotions experienced post stroke. The current study’s findings suggest that the discharge of patients from the hospital post stroke should follow a mulitidisciplinary approach. Rehabilitation professionals should play an active role in the discharge process in providing patient and caregiver education.
46
Marin, Maria M. "The Effects of Classroom Environmental Quality on the Early Literacy Outcomes of a Regionally Heterogeneous Population of Latino Children." FIU Digital Commons, 2010. http://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/162.
Full textAbstract:
The purpose of this study was to examine the relation between classroom environmental quality and early literacy outcomes amongst a sample of Latino children from various Latin-American countries. Participants included 116 preschoolers that attended various childcare centers in Southeast Florida. Participant’s literacy knowledge was assessed using the Test of Preschool Early Literacy. Classrooms were assessed on environmental quality using the Early Childhood Environmental Rating Scale-Revised. A regression analysis revealed that classroom environmental quality did not account for Latino children’s early literacy outcomes. However, a multiple regression analysis was significant (R2= .15, F(5, 115) = 3.86, p< .05) indicating that quality has a varying impact on children’s early literacy skills based on children’s region of origin. Findings suggest that high classroom environmental quality does not necessarily mean better literacy development for Latino children. Additionally, Latino children should not be viewed as a homogeneous group, particularly in relation to their development of literacy skills in English.
47
Seryak, Liesel M. "Factors and Outcomes Associated with Bisphenol A Exposure in Women of Reproductive Age." The Ohio State University, 2012. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1355885304.
Full text
48
Lee, Hannah Garrett. "Assessing the influence of preparation and follow-up on student outcomes associated with environmental education field trips." Thesis, Virginia Tech, 2019. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/91465.
Full textAbstract:
Experiential learning theory stresses the importance of adequate preparation and reflection surrounding concrete experiences. This study explores the relationship between preparation and follow-up classroom experiences and the outcomes of environmental education (EE) field trips, including environmental literacy, 21st century skills, positive youth development, satisfaction, and self-reported behavior change. Surveys with both students and their school teachers who attended over 300 EE programs reveal that both pre-trip preparation, especially concerning logistics, and post-trip follow up, related to the subject matter of the field trip, were significantly related to more positive student outcomes. The authors recommend both schools and organizations take into consideration how they can work together to create more holistic learning experiences.Master of Science
Environmental and science education in the form of school field trips have the capability of to enhance student learning, increase motivation to do well in school, and develop skills such as thinking critically and collaborating with peers. Learning theory illuminates the importance of in-school preparation and reflection surrounding field trips. We wanted to discover what happens in the classroom before and after these field trips that contribute to creating truly valuable educational experiences. Student and teacher surveys from over 300 field trip programs highlight the importance of preparing students both logistically and with the educational content, as well as following-up after the field trip by reviewing and utilizing newly gained knowledge and skills. We recommend schools and field trip providers, such as parks, zoos and nature centers, collaborate to create more holistic science learning experiences.
49
Keith, Nathan. "The Influence of Chemical Pollution on the Rate, Spectra, and Distribution of Genome-Wide DNA Mutation with Considerations for Health and Ecosystem Outcomes." Thesis, Indiana University, 2019. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=13808392.
Full textAbstract:
Mutations are the ultimate source of genetic variation. Understanding the rate and environmental influence on mutation rate is therefore critical for understanding the origin of human disease and all evolutionary change. Environments, including chemical environments, are rapidly changing around the globe. Over the past seven decades, more than 140,000 novel chemicals have introduced into the market. However, less than 2% of these chemicals have been thoroughly characterized with toxicological assays.
Because the majority of germline mutations have a neutral or negative impact on fitness, pollutant-induced mutagenesis can be devastating for ecosystems and can increase the rate of human disease. However, the influence of chemicals on the rate of germline mutation has been largely ignored. We therefore utilized Daphnia pulex to, (1) characterize the rate and spectrum of genome-wide mutation, (2) measure the influence of chronic, cadmium exposure on the germline mutation rate, and (3) investigate if adaptation protects the germline from mutagenesis.
The single nucleotide mutation (SNM) rate in D. pulex is similar to other model organisms. However, the rate of large-scale de novo copy number variants is 10 to 100-fold higher than other organismal models and is identical to the estimated rate in humans. Exposure to cadmium was mutagenic in the germline, altering the genome-wide rates and spectra of multiple SNM classes and changing the SNM rates in multiple genome regions. Since drastic, pollutant-induced changes to germline mutation have not previously been described, we developed a quantitative model for predicting population response to mutagenic pollutants. Finally, with a cadmium-adapted genotype we show adaptation protects the germline from cadmium-induced mutagenesis. The knowledge gained through this research stands to have profound implications for society and the long-term health of populations, which are living longer in the presence of a growing diversity of potentially mutagenic chemicals.
50
Soloway, Julie A. "Institutional capacity to constrain suboptimal welfare outcomes from trade-restricting environmental, health and safety regulation under NAFTA." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 2000. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk2/ftp03/NQ49919.pdf.
Full text