identifier: Chintalapati, Sharada P. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Chintalapati=3ASharada_P=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1988) Studies on the growth of fungus Scytalidium acidophilum in hydrolysates from sphagnum peat moss.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Scytalidium acidophilum was cultured in various peat based substrates to determine which one would produce the highest concentration of biomass. Peat was hydrolyzed individually with sulfuric, hydrochloric, nitric and phosphoric acids and the hydrolysates used as substrates to prepay the media for culturing the fungus. The proximate composition of the hydrolysates were determined. The H₂SO₄- hydrolysate of peat was the richest in carbohydrate concentration. The constituent monosaccharides in the peat hydrolysates were determined by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography (GC). Hexoses constituted more than 50 % of the total reducing sugars present in the peat hydrolysates. -- Preliminary experiments with synthetic media showed that a 5 % (v/v) inoculum ratio produces the highest growth of the fungus. Growth of the fungus on the media containing different carbon sources indicated that hexoses were better utilized by the fungus than pentoses. -- Undiluted and water-diluted peat hydrolysates were used for culturing the fungus. Peat hydrolyzed with sulfuric acid and  diluted 1:1 with water produced the highest growth parameters of the fungus. Supplementation of the hydrolysates with 3 g/L yeast extract and 0.4 g/L magnesium sulfate improved the growth of the fungus compared to the other nutritional additives tested. -- The effects of components of peat on the growth of the fungus were investi-gated. A study involving the removal of one peat component (modified peats) to avoid the potential inhibitory effect of  peat is not a viable method of increasing the biomass production. A comparison of non-modified and modified peat hydrolysates showed that modification of peat results in a loss of nutrients. -- The nutrient supplementation of modified peat hydrolysates caused no statistically significant increases (P < 0.05) in the growth parameters as  compared with those obtained when non-supplemented modified peat hydrolysates were used. -- Fractionation of humic substances of peat was completed to identify the growth inhibiting components. The fulvic acid fraction was found to  show inhibitory effect on the growth of the fungus while the  humic acids fraction was stimulatory. -- Hydrolysates obtained from peat-fish offal compost were also used as sub-strates for the growth of the fungus. Growth curves have been constructed by growing S. acidophilum in peat and compost hydrolysates. The composition of biomass produced on  peat hydrolysate was determined.


identifier: Saxena, Uday <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Saxena=3AUday=3A=3A.html>   (1986) Studies on the interaction of rat serum phosphorylcholine binding protein (PCBP) with plasma lipoproteins.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

format: application/pdf application/pdf

abstract: Rat serum phosphorylcholine binding protein (PCBP) was previously shown to inhibit heparin-lipoprotein-precipitation reaction. Comparison of the effect of PCBP on heparin-lipoprotein precipitation reaction with similar proteins from other species revealed a striking difference between the glycosylated rat PCBP and female hamster FP and the non-glycosylated varieties (human and rabbit CRP’s). Whereas FP shared the inhibitory effect with rat PCBP, human and rabbit CRP failed to inhibit the precipitation reaction suggesting a role of the sialic acid residues on PCBP and FP in the mechanism of inhibition of heparin-lipoprotein precipitation reaction. -- The binding of PCBP to multilamellar liposomes prepared with egg phosphatidylcholine (PC) and lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) was studied and the binding was found to be Ca²⁺ dependent and required the incorporation of 25% LPC into the liposomes. The binding was inhibited by phosphorylcholine (P-choline). Substitution of phosphorylcholine head groups by phosphorylethanolamine and phosphorylserine on the PC of the liposomes reduced the binding considerably indicated involvement of the phosphorylcholine head groups in the bind of PCBP to liposomes. -- Studies on the binding of human plasma lipoproteins to PCBP immobilized on Sepharose showed that very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) were partially bound and the bound fraction contained higher amounts of apoprotein (apo) B and E. All the low density lipoproteins (LDL) were bound to the column. In case of high density lipoproteins (HDL) only a small fraction was retained on the column but that bound fraction contained all the apo E and Lp(a) applied. The binding of lipoproteins was Ca²⁺ dependent and the bound lipoproteins were eluted by a P-choline gradient. Prior equilibration of Sepharose-PCBP column with P-choline prevented the binding of LDL but the removal of sialic acid from PCBP had no effect on the binding of LDL to immobilized desialylated PCBP. Chemical modification of arginyl residues on apo B in LDL resulted in marked reduction of binding whereas modification of lysine residue had no effect. The results suggest a preferential binding of apo B and E containing lipoproteins with PCBP. -- Investigations to examine the effect of PCBP on the binding of human LDL to LDL receptors on liver membranes from estradiol treated rats showed that PCBP inhibited the binding of LDL to receptors. Preincubation of liver membranes with PCBP did not affect the binding of ¹²⁵I-LDL to the membranes. Gel filtration analysis of the incubation products from the LDL-receptor assays showed a concentration dependent binding of ¹²⁵I-PCBP to LDL. These results suggest that the inhibitory effect of PCBP is probably due to fluid phase interactions between LDL and PCBP and not due to the binding of PCBP to the LDL receptor site. -- The effectiveness of Sepharose-PCBP columns to bind plasma VLDL and LDL from control and hypercholestrolemic rabbits when used in a extracorporeal plasmapheretic system was tested. Results showed that Sepharose-PCBP columns bound some circulating plasma lipoproteins and most (>90%) of the bound lipoprotein fraction contained VLDL + LDL. The results obtained in this study support the possibility of a role of rat PCBP and similar circulation phosphorylcholine binding proteins of other species in lipoprote in metabolism.


identifier: Aucoin, E. Jane <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Aucoin=3AE=2E_Jane=3A=3A.html>   (1997) Nutritional and quality changes in a sous vide product pasteurized at various temperatures.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A test product using harp seal (Phoca groenlandica) meat (Seal Meat Shepherd's Pie) was developed and processed by the sous vide method.  Changes in nutrient content were tested after the product was pasteurized at five different time/temperature schedules (65°, 70°, 75°, 80° and 85°C for 105, 60, 43, 35 and 30 min respectively) and were also tested after the product was prepared by the conventional method of cooking.  A non-pasteurized sample acted as control.  The nutrients tested were thiamin, fatty acids, protein and amino acids.  Percent fat and moisture content and pH and water activity were recorded for all the variations studied.  Results showed small variations in the amounts of nutrients as a result of some of the treatments when compared statistically with the non-pasteurized sample.  Microbial changes in the product processed at the 85°C for 30 min pasteurizing schedule, non-pasteurized product and conventionally prepared samples were monitored.  Changes in the texture of the meat were tested after the heat treatments and in the non-pasteurized samples.  Optimum pasteurization schedules were determined for some of the factors as follows: for Ω-3 fatty acids (65°C for 105 min), for amino acids (85°C for 30 min) and for texture (70° to 80°C for 60 to 35 min).  The pasteurized product did not show any increase in the growth of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria when stored at both 2.2°C and 8°C for 21 days.


identifier: Han, Xiao-Qing <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Han=3AXiao-Qing=3A=3A.html>   (1993) Recovery of digestive enzymes from Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) and their utilization in food processing.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: An extraction process for the recovery of proteolytic enzymes from the digestive tract of cod (Gadus morha) is described.  Processing variables were optimized by employing a rotatable experimental design with computer graphics-assisted response surface methodology (RSM).  A simple extraction procedure was developed which effectively isolated both acid and alkaline proteases from cod viscera with recovery yields of 52% and 30%, respectively.  Further purification and characterization revealed that the crude acid proteases consisted of three types of gastric enzymes designated as acid proteases A, B, and C.  Acid protease B was classified as fish pepsin II.  Acid proteases A and C possessed properties similar to chymosin and gastricsin, respectively.  The partially purified alkaline proteases possessed properties of trypsin-like enzymes and acted on N-benzoyl-L-tyrosine ethyl ester (BTEE), a synthetic substrate for chymotrypsin. -- Utilization of the crude isolated proteases was tested in milk-clotting for cheese making, as well as preparation of protein hydrolysates from under-utilized fish species.  Cod pepsin was capable of clotting milk efficiently at low temperatures, which shows its potential use in cold renneting of milk.  Capelin protein hydrolysate with a recovery yield of 55.8% was obtained when crude cod gastric proteases were used over a 4 h hydrolysis period at ambient temperatures.


identifier: Ray, Soma <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ray=3ASoma=3A=3A.html>   (1993) Renal handling of polyamines.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

title: Renal handling of polyamines

abstract: Polyamines are aliphatic, organic cations distributed in all  living cells. They play an important role in cell proliferation, cell growth and synthesis and metabolism of macromolecules like nucleic acids and proteins. The three principal polyamines in mammalian cells are putrescine, spermidine and spermine. -- Polyamine excretion has been found to be increased in the urine of patients with various types of malignancies. Many workers have advocated the use of urinary polyamines as markers of malignancy and also for monitoring the effectiveness of cancer therapy. To use urinary polyamines for such a purpose it is important to understand how the kidney handles these substances, and to find out what is the source of the urinary polyamines. The present experiments were done to study these aspects of renal polyamine handling. -- In both male and female rats, putrescine was the major polyamine excreted, followed by spermidine and smaller amounts of spermine and the acetylated polyamines. No cadaverine was detected in the urine of any of these rats on a polyamine-free diet. Equilibrium dialysis studies in vitro showed that about 8% of putrescine and 16% of spermidine are non-covalently bound  to plasma proteins, therefore, most of the putrescine and spermidine should be filterable. When the excreted load of spermidine was compared to the probable filtered load, using the free spermidine concentration, it was found that only 0.6-1.5% of the spermidine was excreted. The negligible arteriovenous difference in whole blood and plasma indicates  that almost all of the spermidine entering the glomerulus is  returned to the renal circulation. Thus reabsorption is the predominant fate of the spermidine filtered at the glomerular membrane. On the other hand, a higher proportion of the filtered putrescine was excreted, although this still only ranged from 14% (female) to 29% (male) of the probable filtered load in untreated rats. Much more putrescine is removed from the red blood cells as they pass through the kidney than what is excreted. The metabolic fate of this putrescine is not known. -- In order to test whether reabsorption occurred in the proximal tubule, female rats were treated with maleate to produce an experimental Fanconi  syndrome characterized by a generalized disruption of the reabsorption processes in the proximal renal tubule. Polyamine excretion was compared with that from saline-treated control rats. Maleate treatment for four hours produced polyuria, glucosuria and aminoaciduria. There was a  significant drop in the plasma spermidine level and a significant decrease in the filtered load of spermidine. The  plasma putrescine delivery and the plasma level remained unaltered due to maleate treatment. There was a significant decrease in the percentage reabsorption of both putrescine and spermidine. It was concluded that maleate interferes with polyamine reabsorption as it does with reabsorption of amino acids and other substances by the proximal tubule. Spermidine reabsorption by the kidney may play an important role in maintaining its plasma level; an interference of reabsorption producing excess excretion causes a failure to maintain plasma spermidine levels. On the other hand, plasma putrescine level may have a tighter regulation, which prevents a decrease in plasma concentration even when its excretion is increased due to interference in reabsorption.


identifier: Fourney, Ronald Mitchell <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Fourney=3ARonald_Mitchell=3A=3A.html>   (1984) Regulation of antifreeze polypeptide biosynthesis in the winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus).  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The heterogeneity of antifreeze polypeptides (AFP) in the Newfoundland winter flounder Pseudopleuronectes americanus was analyzed by reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Seven AFP components could be readily, resolved. Five of the components were similar in molecular weight (3,300) and amino acid composition. Two of the AFP components were larger (4,500) and contained valine. The two major components (components 6  and 8) were identical to those reported earlier from our laboratories (Davies et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., USA 79, 335, 1982). -- Serum AFP were isolated from winter flounder collected from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Long Island (New York) and compared to the AFP found in Newfoundland winter flounder. These peptides were analysed by reverse phase HPLC, and showed nearly identical elution profiles to that of Newfoundland AFP. Individual components from New Brunswick and Long Island had antifreeze activity and agreed  with the activity measurements previously established for the Newfoundland AFP. Amino acid analyses of the major AFP components from the different flounder populations indicated  that they had similar compositions. A minor variation which included valine in one AFP component was noted in the New Brunswick sample suggesting that a limited amount of genetic  polymorphism may be present in the winter flounder population from New Brunswick. In general, there appears to be little or no variation in the structure of the AFP from winter flounder inhabiting different geographical habitats. In view of the similarity of the serum AFP components and in  light of recent information on the structure and genomic organization of AFP genes, it is likely that the winter flounder AFP components are products of an AFP gene family. -- The seasonal synthesis of AFP in winter flounder is influenced by photoperiod and comes under the control of the  pituitary gland. The effects of hypophysectomy (hypex) and long day length on the accumulation of antifreeze messenger RNA (mRNA) in the liver were examined. Hypophysectony resulted in a significant decrease in serum freezing temperature, and increases in liver weights, total liver Poly (A)⁺ RNA and AFP mRNA accumulation. The identity of the  AFP mRNA in hypex animals was confirmed by gel electrophoresis, cell-free translation and Northern blot hybridization techniques. Cytoplasmic-dot hybridization analysis indicated that the AFP mRNA level in hypex fish approximated that observed in winter animals actively synthesizing AFP. These experiments utilized a nick-translated CT5, an antifreeze protein cDNA clone. An increase in AFP mRNA was detectable as early as the first day after hypophysectomy and by day 7 reached 25% of the level found in fish actively synthesizing AFP mRNA during the winter months. Since AFP mRNA is found at very low levels in the control flounder, this suggests that its accumulation after hypophysectomy depends on accelerated transcription. The pituitary gland appears to regulate the liver AFP mRNA level by a negative transcriptional control mechanism. -- The effect of photoperiod on the seasonal accumulation of winter flounder AFP mRNA in the liver was examined. Flounder maintained under conditions of 15 h long day length have both a delayed appearance and decreased accumulation of AFP mRNA. AFP mRNAs were identified and their concentrations measured by a cytoplasmic dot-hybridization method and Northern blot hybridization utilizing a nick-translated E₃, an antifreeze genomic clone. December flounder maintained under conditions of long day length demonstrated the most significant decrease in AFP mRNA levels. It was estimated that these fish contained less  than 0.6% the AFP mRNA normally found in control December fish. The seasonal fluctuation of AFP mRNA in both experimental and control fish match closely, but preceed, the rise and fall of plasma AFP levels. These results suggest that long day length suppresses the rate of transcription of antifreeze genes, and support the hypothesis that photoperiod may act as the initial cue for entraining the precise activation of AFP synthesis possibly through a pituitary mediator. A model for the regulation of winter flounder AFP gene expression is presented.


identifier: Raksakulthai, Nongnuch <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Raksakulthai=3ANongnuch=3A=3A.html>   (1986) Role of protein degradation in fermentation of fish sauce.  Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Male inshore capelin were used to prepare fish sauce, a fermented liquid product used as a condiment in South East Asia.  Fermentation of mince capelin with salt (4:1 w/w) alone did not give satisfactory results in terms of extractable soluble nitrogen, free amino acid formation or sensory evaluation score.  Supplementation of the salted mince with 2.5% (w/w) squid hepatopancreas (SHP) significantly increased the degree of protein hydrolysis (P<0.01), the free amino acid content of the finished product (2.1-fold) and the sensory evaluation score (P<0.05).  The free amino acid content in control and SHP-supplemented sauce were 242 and 520 mM, respectively.  The failure of the heat-treated SHP (100°C, 30 min) to aid the fermentation process indicated that SHP aids the fermentation of fish sauce by virtue of its enzymes.  Acidification of the salted mince containing 2.5% SHP with HC1 to pH 4.5 gave a product having a lower sensory score, although the degree of protein hydrolysis significantly increased (P<0.05) and the free amino acid content increased to 1.5-fold the control (370 mM). -- The results of fermentation of salted mince at initial pH values ranging from 3-8, at ambient temperature and at 37°C and at concentration of NaCI ranging from 15-30% indicated that the conditions recommended for fermentation of capelin fish sauce were at 25% salt (w/w), at ambient temperature (20-25°C) and at natural pH of fermentation (pH 5-7). -- Enzymes associated with the viscera were found to contribute to the hydrolysis of protein during fish sauce fermentation but the sensory evaluation score of the finished product prepared from round and gutted capelin did not show any significant difference.  Enzymes from the viable bacteria in salted mince were of little importance in the fermentation process as indicated by insignificant difference between protein hydrolysis of the antibiotic-treated sample and the control.  When minced capelin was held at ambient temperature for 24 h prior to addition of salt, the number of total viable bacteria increased significantly as did the amount of protein hydrolysis in salted mince (P<0.05).  However, delayed salting for 24 h did not significantly improve the sensory quality of the fish sauce. -- The importance of aging or ripening on quality of fish sauce was investigated by comparison of fish sauce kept at -20°C and at ambient temperature for 4-6 months after fermentation.  It was found that ripening process had no significant effect on free amino acid content, color or sensory evaluation score of fish sauce although a trend toward darker color of the aged samples was resulted. -- The contribution of free amino acids and peptides to flavor of fish sauce was examined.  Fish sauce was filtered through an ultrafiltration unit, M.W. cut off 10,000.  The results indicated that removal of larger molecules from fish sauce lowered the acceptability (P<0.001).  Gel filtration chromatography indicated that the apparent molecular size of peptides and amino acids in fish sauce ranged between 100-300 daltons.  Regression analysis of preference score and free amino acid content indicated a significant correlation of (0.724 (P<0.05). -- To characterize, partially, the enzymes retained in fish sauce after 6 months fermentation, fish sauce was concentrated 3.5-fold using an ultrafiltration unit, M.W. cut off 10,000.  Protease activity of the enzymes retained in fish sauce prepared with SHP was greater than that of control (3-fold on azocasein and 5-fold on hide powder azure substrate).  The pH optimum of the residual enzymes in low concentration (0.2 M) of NaCl was at pH 4.  At salt concentration of 1.5 M, the optimal pH shifted to pH 5.0, and at 4.0 M NaCl the maximal activity was at pH 6.  Salt partially inhibited the proteolytic activity, however, the residual enzymes in SHP-supplemented sauce appeared to be more tolerant to salt than those in the control sauce.  Protease activity at low salt concentration on azocasein was partially inhibited by ethylenediaminetetraacetate, iodoacetate, p-chloromercuribenzoic acid, mercuric chloride and soybean trypsin inhibitor.  In the presence of 4 M NaCl, inhibitors for sulfhydryl proteases appeared to be the only effective inhibitors against hydrolysis of azocasein.  Hydrolase activity of cathepsin C was less inhibited by salt than was the azocasein hydrolysis.  It was apparent that cathepsin C and other sulfhydryl proteases were of importance to the fish sauce fermentation.


identifier: Levy, Ryna <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Levy=3ARyna=3A=3A.html>   (1990) Water soluble vitamin status of low birthweight infants receiving total parenteral nutrition.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Vitamin recommendations for low birthweight (LBW) infants on  total parenteral nutrition (TPN) are met with 3 mL of a multivitamin supplement, MVI-Pediatric (McGraw Laboratories). However, there is limited data available on the adequacy of this preparation and on the exact needs of infants receiving TPN. The purpose of this study was to assess the thiamin, riboflavin, folate and vitamin B₁₂ status of parenterally fed LBW infants receiving MVI-Pediatric. Thirty infants were randomly assigned to receive either 3 mL of MVI Pediatric (PAR3 group; birthweight = 1133  ± 293 g; gestational age = 29.4 ± 2.1 weeks) or 2 mL (PAR2 group; 1137 ± 231 g; 28.5 ± 1.8 weeks). One hundred percent (%) received TPN for the first week, 50% by the second, and less than 33% by the third. Eighteen control infants received enteral feeds only (ENT group; 1281 ± 271 g; 29.6 ±  1.7 weeks). -- Weekly blood, 24 hour urine collections and dietary intake data were obtained. The adequacy of thiamin and riboflavin was assessed by erythrocyte transketolase activity (ETA) and erythrocyte glutathione reductase activity coefficient (EGRAC) respectively. Urinary thiamin and riboflavin levels were measured by fluorometric techniques. Plasma folate, red blood cell (RBC) folate, urinary folate and plasma vitamin B₁₂ concentrations were determined by a radioassay. As well, the thiamin, folate and  B₁₂ levels in the TPN admixture and MVI-Pediatric were analyzed. -- The ETA and EGRA were within the normal range for all groups at each time period. No significant differences were found in ETA among the 3 groups. The EGRAC did differ significantly between the PAR2 (0.98 ± 0.07) and PAR3 groups (1.11 ± 0.10) at week 2 but no difference was observed between the ENT group and the parenteral groups at any time. Urinary thiamin and riboflavin levels were significantly lower prior to the initiation of parenteral or enteral feeds than at subsequent sampling times. However, there was no difference found between groups during the study period. -- No difference was observed in RBC folate levels at any time. Plasma folate did significantly differ between the PAR3 group (24 ± 7 ng/mL) and both the PAR2 (13 ± 5 ng/mL) and ENT groups (16 ± 3 ng/mL) prior to the initiation of feeds and at week 1 and between the PAR3 (30 ± 16 ng/mL) and PAR2 (16 ± 4 ng/mL) infants at week 2. A difference was found in plasma vitamin B₁₂ between the ENT groups (551 ± 287 pg/mL) and both the parenteral groups (PAR2 = 841 ± 405 pg/mL; PAR3 = 924 ± 424 pg/mL) at week 1 and between the ENT (530 ± 238 pg/mL) and PAR3 (999 ± 425 pg/mL) groups at week 2. -- From the results of the present study it appears that 2 mL of MVI-Pediatric is sufficient to meet the thiamin, riboflavin, folate and vitamin B₁₂ needs of the parenterally fed LBW infant.


identifier: Zhu, Peihong <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Zhu=3APeihong=3A=3A.html>   (1999) A study of biochemical composition in captive Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) eggs and larvae.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In this study, lipid classes, fatty acids, free amino acids (FAA) and protein content in captive Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) eggs were measured to investigate the relationship between biochemical composition of the eggs and egg quality, the effect of the physiological  condition of broodstock females on egg biochemical composition, and changes in the biochemical composition of eggs and larvae in both the embryonic and early larval stages. -- High neutral lipid (NL) level and low (n-6) and (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) levels seem to be associated with low egg quality. For eggs with a fertilization success ≥ 75%, there were significantly lower amounts of total NL and sterol (ST) per egg (P<0.01, P<0.05,  respectively) compared to eggs with a fertilization success < 75%. For eggs that produce larvae with survival time ≥ 15.9 days, the amount of triacylglycerol (TAG) was significantly lower than in eggs that produced larvae with survival times < 15.9 days (P<0.01). For eggs with a fertilization success ≥ 75%, the proportion of (n-6) PUFA in  TAG (P<0.01), the proportion of 20:5 (n-3) in phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) (P<0.05), and 18:2 (n-6) (P<0.05) in the total lipid per egg, were significantly higher than for eggs with fertilization success < 75%. -- The average dry weight of eggs followed a pattern similar to that of the average food intake of the broodstock female, while the average egg lipid content did not change. The spawning rhythm of the females also affected egg composition. The ash free dry weight and total protein of the eggs decreased as the spawning season proceeded (P<0.05). In TAG, the levels of 18:0 and 20:4 (n-6) per egg,  and in PE, the level of (n-6) PUFA per egg decreased significantly over the spawning season (P>0.05). The maturity of the spawners affected egg quality and egg lipid composition as well. Repeat spawners produced eggs with significantly higher fertilization success than first-time spawners (P<0.05). The total neutral lipid (TNL) and ST were  significantly lower for eggs from repeat spawners than for eggs from first-time spawners (P<0.01, P<0.05, respectively). -- Total FAA decreased continuously (p<0.01) over the embryonic and larval stages investigated. TAG decreased significantly for the larval stages (P<0.05). When  hatching occurred, there was a significant increase in all lipid classes except ST. It is suggested that FAA may be the  source of carbon skeletons for lipid synthesis at hatching. -- Thus, this study has shown that lipid and fatty acid composition in eggs from captive Atlantic halibut is associated with egg quality; however, FAA are the biochemical components that are most utilized during embryonic and early larval stages. At the end of embryonic stage and early larval stage, these amino acids appear to be  directed towards lipid synthesis and then towards protein synthesis.


identifier: Gilkinson, Kent Dennis <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Gilkinson=3AKent_Dennis=3A=3A.html>   (1983) Growth and reproduction of Mytilus edulis (Linnaeus) on the two sides of the Strait of Belle Isle.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A comparative growth study of Strait of Belle Isle Mytilus edulis populations was undertaken, with the hypothesis that the surface water temperature difference between the two sides of the Strait (4-8 C) results in differences in growth  rates. Results of the study show that Mytilus edulis collected at four sites, (two on each side of the Strait) from the high, low, and subtidal zones, displays the type of  spawning, growth, and population structure, typical of north-temperate, exposed-coast mussel populations. Linear shell growth rates were similar between the two sides of the Strait. Growth rates were low (maximum of 6-8 mm per year) and were highly variable within populations (average range in length of 10 mm per year class). -- Winter growth was negligible as evidenced by pronounced, external shell check-marks, and despite the large spring-summer water temperature  difference between sides of the Strait of Belle Isle, the annual spring start of linear shell growth was similar between mussels on the two sides. The seasonal progression of the internal growth line in M. edulis was relatively synchronous within populations, and timing of deposition was  similar between sides of the Strait. -- Spawning was synchronized and occurred later (July-August) than at more southern latitudes. Subsequent settlement in 1981 resulted in large numbers of post-larvae over-wintering on algae and adult mussel beds at sizes < 2 mm in shell length. There were large differences in fecundity between sites, however, the range in fecundity was similar on both sides of the Strait. Age-specific fecundity was higher in the low intertidal than in the high intertidal (e.g. 160 and 115 mg gamete dry weight respectively, at Pte. Amour). -- Mussels < 15 mm in shell length dominated the intertidal zone while contributing little to meat weight biomass. At the sampling scale used in this study (200 cm¹), meat dry weight biomass and reproductive output were similar between high and low intertidal zones. Individual meat weight values were similar  between the two sides of the Strait and Pte. Amour meat weight values were highest of those in the intertidal zones while similar to values at other sites subtidally.


identifier: Beauchamp, Christine Lorraine <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Beauchamp=3AChristine_Lorraine=3A=3A.html>   (1984) Habitat relationships in passeriform birds in eastern New Brunswick.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study examined two aspects of breeding habitat selection in several species of migratory passeriform birds:  (1) Quantitative bird-vegetational relationships and (2) philopatry of individuals to the breeding location. -- In an  attempt to discover vegetational characteristics to which species were responding, 19 variables of vegetational structure were measured and subjected to a principal components analysis which extracted seven major vegetational trends from the raw data. Stepwise multiple regressions of bird abundance at each of 19 study sites on the vegetational components demonstrated that significant proportions of the variation in abundance of 11 species out of 22 were accounted for by certain vegetational variables. An investigation of philopatry revealed that individuals of most species often returned to or near the breeding location  of a previous year. For three species, a comparison of site fidelity in experienced birds and first-year adults using between season data showed that experienced birds tended to move shorter distances from a previous year's location than did first-years.


identifier: Emerson, Ian Paul <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Emerson=3AIan_Paul=3A=3A.html>   (1973) Aspects of the biology and local distribution of sea stars inhabiting a sloped, rocky bottom in Logy Bay, Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The spatial and temporal distribution of five species of asteroids were examined over a one year sampling programme by means of a series of photographs taken weekly along a set  transect line extending perpendicularly down a sloped sublittoral rocky bottom, in Logy Bay, Newfoundland. Estimates of the abundance and distribution of three species  of asteroids inhabiting a more gently sloped sublittoral plateau surmounting this underwater cliff were also determined using a variety of quantitative and qualitative sampling techniques. -- The results of systematic studies of  selected physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of these habitats are presented. Such characteristics include depth, slope, relative irradiance, water temperature, dissolved oxygen concentration, conductivity, and predator and prey abundance and distribution. -- Specific studies relating to the interaction of sea stars with their environment (i.e. feeding, light preference, pull  capacity, and interspecific and intraspecific behaviour), undertaken to elucidate factors affecting sea star distribution, are also presented. -- A presentation of the effects of other specific biological activities on local distribution patterns, such as migration and movement, reproduction and growth is also given. -- In the general discussion, a hypothetical model for considering interactions between a species and its environment that affect population dynamics and local distribution is presented. The model is then utilized in an analysis of locally observed asteroid distribution patterns in the study  area. From this analysis it is concluded that the distribution or occurrence of water disturbance, prey, predators, and competitors are the major factors affecting the abundance-distribution patterns of the sea stars in the study area. A wider range of interactions between a given species and its environment may be of secondary importance in this relationship.


identifier: Lawson, John W. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Lawson=3AJohn_W=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1983) Behavioral adaptations of harbour seal mothers and pups to an amphibious lifestyle.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Prolonged observation from unusually close range provided data on interactions between mother and pup Harbour seals, Phoca vitulina concolour, on Miquelon (45ﾟ 45' N, 56ﾟ 14' W)  located 19 kilometers southeast of Newfoundland, Canada. Records of intrapair distance changes, nursing bouts, responses to pup vocalizations, nose-to-nose contacts, haul-outs and exits from the nursery and emergences and submergences were analyzed quantitatively to ascertain the contributions of the mother and her pup to the maintainance and eventual dissipation of the nurturant relationship. Both  animals exhibit behavioural adaptations which reduce the risk of separation arising from their amphibious lifestyle and the extreme precocity of the pups. The pups remain with their mothers constantly as a result of a specific predisposition to follow which seems to develop soon after birth. The mothers also establish a specific bond to their pups and modify their behaviour such that they are most attentive to the pups when in the water and during periods of major disturbance. This attentiveness decreases prior to weaning as the mothers show fewer nursing initiations and more frequent rejections of pups' nursing solicitations.


identifier: May, Arthur W. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/May=3AArthur_W=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1964) Determination of fish growth by back-calculation from scales, with application to haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus (L.)) of the Newfoundland area.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Methods of determining age and growth of fish are reviewed. In particular, the scale method of ageing and procedures for  back-calculation of growth from scales are reviewed in some detail, and are applied to haddock of the Newfoundland area. -- Plots of fork length on scale diameter are used to determine the body-scale relationship, and are found to be linear. Differences between the fitted regressions for the sexes, year-classes and areas are examined by analysis of covariance. It is concluded that a general body-scale relationship, having a regression coefficient of 4.62 and L-intercept value of 6.57 cm, provides an adequate description  of the relative growth of body and scales in the area as a whole. -- The L-intercept value was used to correct the simple proportionality (Dahl-Lea) formula for back-calculation of growth. Values of back-calculated average lengths at age were slightly higher (of the order of 1 cm) than empirical averages. Lee's phenomenon, the apparent decline in average length at age when calculations are made from successively older fish, does not appear in its usual form in the data, but occurs in reverse form in growth calculations from the most recent year-classes. Differences in growth are found between immature and mature fish, males and females, year-classes and areas and possible reasons for these differences are discussed. Average lengths at age of Newfoundland area haddock are shown to be less than those for other areas of the northwest Atlantic over the range of ages compared.


identifier: Emerson, Carolyn Jean <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Emerson=3ACarolyn_Jean=3A=3A.html>   (1977) Developmental morphology of the optic cushion and ocelli of the sea star Leptasterias polaris (Müller & Troschel).  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A study of the morphology of the optic cushion and ocelli of  the sea star Leptasterias polaris (Müller and Troschel) was undertaken to provide a description of their fully differentiated condition, and as a comparison with similar work on the ocelli of other species of asteroids and on the photoreceptors of other animals. In addition, the development of the optic cushion and its ocelli through embryogenesis, and the regeneration of adult tissues were investigated. For these studies, larvae of L. polaris, and the optic region of the fully formed adult, and of adult regenerating rays, were examined by light, scanning electron, and transmission electron microscopy. -- The ocelli consisted of numerous pigmented and sensory cells that lined a lumen. The designation of the sensory cells as ciliary photo-sensory receptors was confirmed by observations of the prominence and microtubular irregularities of the numerous cilia present in the lumen, and by the origin of villi from the base of their shafts, as   well as from the cell membrane of the expanded apical portions of the sensory cells. The presence of coated cell membrane invaginations, coated vesicles, and multivesicular bodies, suggested a mechanism of endocytosis of villous membrane, such as has been documented as a photoreceptoral membrane recycling pathway in rhabdomeric photoreceptors. -- The pigmented cells possessed small pigment granules, and larger polymorphic bodies proposed to be stages in autophagocytosis. Corneal cells subserved a supportive function, surrounding the ocellus and projecting processes containing vesicular profiles and a microfilamentous bundle, over the lumen. -- In both larval and regenerative development, a region of epidermal cells at the base of the terminal tentacle, commenced differentiation into the three classes of ocellar cells. This region then invaginated and the corneal components extended processes over the lumen, which gradually became filled with the apices of the sensory cells and their cilia and villi. Endocytosis of villous material was noted in the sensory cells in newly formed ocelli, and the polymorphic profiles of autophagocytosis were present in very early stages of pigmented cell differentiation. The small pigment granules appeared to arise from a granular material present in the cytoplasm, and  apparently transported from the Golgi apparatus by vesicles.  -- The optic region thickened to become a pad of tissue. Establishment of this cushion and numerous ocelli occurred rapidly through regeneration, while the larvae, which developed optic pigmentation and an ocellus after the establishment of their third pairs of tube feet, maintained the single ocellar condition for an extended period of time.


identifier: Hameed, Nuzhat S. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hameed=3ANuzhat_S=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1987) Biodegradation of phloroglucinol and gallic acid by the soil fungus Penicillium simplicissimum.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Studies were undertaken to define the biodegradative pathway  of aromatic compounds namely phloroglucinol and gallic acid by the soil fungus Penicillium simplicissimum. Optimal growth conditions were determined for the utilization of phloroglucinol and gallic acid as sole sources of carbon P. simplicissimum grew best at pH 5.5 and the optimal temperature was about 27-29°C. The optimal concentration of substrate was 1.5 % (w/v) in the case of phloroglucinol and 0.2 % (w/v) for gallic acid. -- The metabolic pathways of these aromatic compounds were studied in crude extracts from  mycelia grown on the respective substrates. P. simplicissimum mycelia used for enzymatic studies were 24 hours and 30 hours old. The biodegradation of phloroglucinol  was initiated by phloroglucinol reductase (PG-R), an NADPH+H⁺ dependent enzyme, forming dihydrophloroglucinol as the first intermediate. The second intermediate detected and  isolated in crude extract was resorcinol and the third one, possibly a ring cleavage substrate, was 1,2,4-benzenetriol. This intermediate was detected and isolated from the culture medium containing phloroglucinol as a substrate. The enzymes  responsible for ring cleavage, catechol 1,2 oxygenase and catechol 2,3 oxygenase, were found to be present in the crude extract. -- The utilization of gallic acid followed a different metabolic pathway. The initial step was catalyzed by gallic acid reductase (GA-R) in the presence of NADPH+H⁺. The ring fission enzymes, catechol 1,2 oxygenase and catechol 2,3 oxygenase, were again found to be present in the crude extract. Catechol 1,2 oxygenase was more active and stable than catechol 2,3 oxygenase. The possible substrate for the oxygenases was 1,2,4-benzenetriol which was detected and isolated from the culture medium. The product of ring cleavage was shown to be maleylacetate by the enzymatic breakdown with maleylacetate reductase in the presence of reduced NADPH⁺. The end product of enzymatic reduction of maleylacetate was β-ketoadipate, which was detected and isolated from the reaction mixture containing maleylacetate, NADPH+H⁺ and maleylacetate reductase.


identifier: Allsop, Keith John <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Allsop=3AKeith_John=3A=3A.html>   (1977) Ethylene formation from methional mediated by lipid hydroperoxides.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Ethylene could be formed by a model system containing lipoxygenase, linolenate, sulphite and methional. The system had an optimal pH of 7.8. Free radicals formed during the lipoxygenase-catalyzed oxidation of linolenate were thought to initiate sulphite oxidation. Hydroxyl radicals formed during sulphite oxidation reacted with methional. Ethylene was one of the products of the reaction. -- Ethylene could also be formed from a model system containing linoleic acid hydroperoxide, sulphite and methional. The pH optimum was 5.0. It is thought that two species were responsible for converting the methional to ethylene, the hydroxyl radical, formed during sulphite oxidation and singlet oxygen which probably arose from the collision of two sec-peroxy radicals. -- Studies of oxygen uptake by a LAHPO/sulphite system showed that the hydroxyl radical was formed during sulphite oxidation and may be a chain carrying species. Because both hydroxyl radicals and methional inhibited sulphite oxidation initiated by LAHPO it was thought that methional was reacting with hydroxyl radicals in our system. Because inhibitors of sulphite oxidation only partially inhibited ethylene formation it was thought that another species, not formed during sulphite oxidation could also be responsible for the conversion of methional to ethylene. -- The evidence for singlet oxygen production by linoleic acid hydroperoxide and sulphite came from three techniques - thin layer analysis of the products of diphenylfuran oxidation, inhibitor studies on diphenylfuran exudation using fluorescence spectrophotometry and chemiluminescence. Diphenylfuran was converted by linoleic acid hydroperoxide and sulphite to cis-dibenzoylethylene, the product formed when diphenylfuran reacts with singlet oxygen. Both diphenylfuran oxidation and chemiluminescence were inhibited by singlet oxygen quenchers and antioxidants but not inhibitors of sulphite oxidation. -- Several simple experiments were performed to show that singlet oxygen could react with methional to produce ethylene. Light, methylene blue, and methional produce ethylene by a singlet oxygen reaction. Other singlet oxygen producing systems, H₂O₂ and OCl⁻, peroxidase, H₂O₂ and Cl⁻ converted methional to ethylene.


identifier: Bishop, Madonna Anne Whiteway <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Bishop=3AMadonna_Anne_Whiteway=3A=3A.html>   (1989) A taxonomic study of the Haemoproteidae (Apicomplexa: Haemosporina) of the Avian order Strigiformes.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The avian order Strigiformes consists of two families, the Strigidae (136 species) and the Tytonidae (12 species). Thirteen species of haemoproteids (Haemosporina: Haemoproteidae) have previously been described from the Strigidae while none have been described from the Tytonidae.  A review of these species based on the morphometric parameters of the gametocyte indicates that Haemoproteus asio and H. otus are nomina nuda; H.bubonis, H. aluci and H.  glaucidiumi are nomina dubia; H. glaucidii, in partim, H. bramae, H. cellii, in partim and H. nebraskensis are synonyms of H. noctuae and H. glaucidii, in partim., H. cellii, in partim., H. multiparasitans and H. aegyptius are synonyms of H. syrnii. Haemoproteus noctuae and H. syrnii are herein redescribed and neohapantotypes and paraneohapantotypes are designated. Haemoproteus phodili n. sp. is described from the Tytonidae. -- Other blood parasites which were recorded from the Strigiformes included: Leucocytozoon ziemanni, Plasmodium relictum, P. vaughani, P. polare, P. fallax, P. circumflexum, P. elongatum, Trypanosoma avium, T. calmettei, T. everetti, Atoxoplasma sp., Babesia sp., microfilaria and unidentified parasites.


identifier: Okaeme, Augustine Nkadi <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Okaeme=3AAugustine_Nkadi=3A=3A.html>   (1983) On the biology of Cnephia ornithophilia and Simulium vernum (Diptera: simuliidae) in insular Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The habitat and life history of Cnephia ornithophilia, Davies, Peterson and Wood; and Simulium (Eusimulium) (vernum) (Macq) were investigated in 49 streams in order to characterize the habitat and larval distribution. -- Cnephia  ornithophilia larvae were restricted to pond outlets feeding  in small permanent streams in forested areas. The distribution of larvae indicated a relatively broad range of  conditions in terms of stream width, depth, current velocity  and substrate choice. This species is univoltine, and eggs begin to hatch in September. There are eight larval instars with a prolonged period of development (September to May). The larvae formed clumps, were sedentary, and relocate to the undersurface of substrates in winter, while physio-logically the growth rate between instars is highly variable  and they have a wide thermal tolerance (0-30°C). -- Simulium  vernum larvae are more widely distributed in streams than C.  ornithophilia, occurring both at pond outlets and elsewhere in temporary and permanent streams both in forested and barren areas. These streams ranged from small tricklets to streams up to 3 m wide. The local species is cytotype "B" and bivoltine with the first generation from May to July and  the second generation July to August. -- Using emergence and  bantam-baited traps it was found that C. ornithophilia emerges in May, only during the day (1500 - 1900 h) when stream temperature is 10-12°C. Host seeking females were anautogenous limited to the forest and between 1300 - 2000 h. Oviposition apparently occurs within pond near the outlet, based on location of first instars. -- Simulium vernum emerges in June (1100 - 1900 h), and in August (0900 - 1300 h), for the first and second generation respectively.  Host seeking females are anautogenous with activity within forest and forest fringes between 9000 - 2000 h. The prevalence of Leucocytozoon in females was 19.04%, with a high attack and blood feeding rates, indicating a good vector. Oviposition is along streams near sunset (1700 h). -- Although the seasonal occurrence of C. ornithophilia and S. vernum is later and prolonged in Newfoundland, they are ecologically similar to populations occurring elsewhere on the continent.


identifier: Dupuis, Sylvie Mona <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Dupuis=3ASylvie_Mona=3A=3A.html>   (1988) Autecology of Empetrum nigrum and Empetrum eamesii on the Avalon Peninsula, Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Empetrum nigrum L. is a common evergreen shrub in Newfoundland where it forms extensive coastal heathland communities. Empetrum eamesii Fern. & Wieg. is an endemic to  the Gulf of St. Lawrence and is most abundant in Newfoundland; this dwarf shrub species forms subarctic heath  communities on the most elevated and windswept areas in Newfoundland. -- A comparative autecological study was undertaken for these two Empetrum species on the eastern Avalon Peninsula. Although E. nigrum has been studied extensively, little is known ecologically of E. eamesii. I investigated phenology, shoot growth, germination success and microhabitat of both Empetrum species. Attempts were made to relate these variables to the distribution patterns of E. nigrum and E. eamesii on the Avalon Peninsula. -- Phenological development of the two species coincided. The blooming period occurred from mid- to late April and was followed by fruit formation from the beginning to late May. Fruit maturation was initiated at the beginning of July and all development ceased in mid-late August. -- Shoot growth was significantly greater for E. nigrum in both the field and greenhouse monitoring programs. The mean annual growth of E. nigrum in the field was 15.0 mm and in the greenhouse 77.5 mm. E. eamesii grew less than E. nigrum, and measurements were carried out only in the field for E. eamesii since propagation of this species in the greenhouse was unsuccessful. The mean annual shoot growth of E. eamesii  was 8.5 mm. The differences were related to microhabitat conditions such as windspeed and soil nutrient availability at the sites. -- Germination experiments conducted in the laboratory showed that E. eamesii had an overall significantly greater germination success than E. nigrum at 10° and 5°C. This may be related to the variation in sites and microhabitats. Both E. nigrum and E. eamesii had optimal  germination at 25°C. -- A Discriminant Function Analysis was  performed on the microhabitat variables. The microhabitat differences were found to be generated from an exposure gradient, that is windspeed and elevation contributed the most to interspecific variation. The remaining microhabitat variables, air and soil temperature, available soil nutrients, soil pH, and organic matter concentration of the soil contributed little to the interspecific difference between E. nigrum and E. eamesii. -- A stepwise Multiple Regression was performed to explain the distributions of E. nigrum and E. eamesii based on their abundance and microhabitat variables. A regression for E. eamesii showed windspeed to be negatively related to abundance. These results indicate that windspeed is a major factor influencing to Empetrum distribution on the Avalon Peninsula. Empetrum nigrum grows in relatively more protected areas, whereas E. eamesii occurs in more exposed and windswept sites.


identifier: Arnbom, Tom Arne <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Arnbom=3ATom_Arne=3A=3A.html>   (1987) Individual photographic identification : a key to the social organization of sperm whales.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Sperm whales were tracked visually and acoustically in the waters west of the Galapagos between February and April 1985. A method for photographically identifying individual sperm whales is described. Measures of the photograph quality were compared with the certainty with which individuals were identified. A total of 210 females or immatures, 7 large adult males and 6 calves were recognized with certainty and individually identified. A simple model suggested that up to 9% of the females/immatures could not be identified using this method of photographic identification, despite high quality photographs. It was shown that these individuals have a lower number of unique marks on their flukes than the 210 identified females/immatures. The assumption of random sampling when taking photographs of individual sperm whales is discussed. The time and geographical positions of the re-sightings of known individuals suggest that the sperm whales preferred a rich upwelling area. -- The identified females/immatures were clustered into 23 discrete groups. Thirteen of these groups contained more than six associated members. Observations of calves and the high frequency of dorsal fins  with a callus suggested that the groups of sperm whales off the Galapagos fell into the category of "mixed groups". Whales recorded as escorting a calf were most probably females. Different females/immatures were observed to escort  the same calf, and identified females/immatures were observed with several different calves. -- Large males were observed either as singles, pairs or a set of three. In the observations of identified individuals there was no indication that particular pairs of large males, or large males of a similar size, were preferred companions. No fresh  wounds or agonistic behaviour between large males was observed. The lack of sightings of medium-sized males suggest that they do not take part in reproduction in this area. The proportion of large males to mature females suggests that all large males do not migrate to the breeding  grounds and do not participate in breeding every year. Identified large males were observed with different mixed groups and, further, different large males were associated with particular mixed groups. There was no indication that some mixed groups associated more with large males, than others. Large males seemed to follow a strategy of searching  for mixed groups, instead of holding harems. -- During an attack by killer whales on sperm whales a high degree of coordination of the sperm whales' behaviour was noted. Twenty-one percent of the sperm whale flukes had tooth mark scars of which a majority were probably derived from shark attacks. A difference in the number of unique marks on the flukes between different geographical areas suggests that the method of individual photographic identification relying  on uniquely marked flukes may be less successful in other areas.


identifier: Woodworth, Carla <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Woodworth=3ACarla=3A=3A.html>   (1980) Insecticide spraying : its effect on passeriform populations of central Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Bird populations were studied during the 1979 breeding season by means of the mist-net technique in 3 areas of central Newfoundland in an attempt to identify possible longer-term effects of the 1978 application of the insecticide Matacil. Raw data obtained for 2 of the areas during the 1978 breeding season were used for comparative purposes. Structural features of the vegetation were measured at all net sites in 1979. These data were subjected to a principal components analysis to determine relationships among the measured variables. The percentage variation of the distribution attributable to vegetation differences between net sites was determined for the adults and immatures of 7 passeriform species by step-wise multiple regression analyses. The numbers of adults and immatures of these species expected at each sprayed area on the basis of the vegetation were obtained from regression equations developed from the control area data. Blood parasite levels were investigated in an attempt to gain indirect evidence of the impact of the spray applications on the insect population and hence on the food supply available for insect-eating birds. -- The number of parulid immatures captured at the control area was higher than at the sprayed areas. Adults of 4 species occurred at the sprayed areas in lower numbers than predicted by the regression equations. Immatures of 6 species at Big Careless Cove Brook and 5 species at Little Careless Cove Brook also occurred in lower numbers than predicted by the regression equations. No trends were detected among the areas in the blood parasite levels of the birds. -- The 1978 aerial application of Matacil appears to have directly and/or indirectly affected the avian communities of the areas studied. The high numbers of immatures at the control area probably result from immatures invading the area to forage on the high density spruce budworm population. Comparably, the low numbers in the sprayed areas result from the immatures leaving the areas where the food supple has been diminished (presumably due to insecticide applications) to forage in areas of more abundant food supply. In view of the higher predicted than observed abundances at the sprayed areas for the adults and for the immatures of several species it is also probable that there was a depressed success rate in the sprayed areas.


identifier: Hameed, Sohail <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hameed=3ASohail=3A=3A.html>   (1986) Involvement of microbodies in symbiotic nitrogen-fixing Arachis hypogaea L. (peanut) root nodules.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Studies were undertaken to examine the ultrastructure and enzyme activities of peanut, Arachis hypogaea L. Var. Jumbo virginia root nodules induced by the nitrogen-fixing rhizobial strain, Bradyrhizobium sp. 32H1. Root nodules at different stages of development were assayed for their nitrogen-fixing ability using the acetylene reduction technique. Highest values for nitrogen fixation were obtained in 35 days old nodules. The bacteroids and the host  cytosol/organelle fractions of root nodules were assayed for  catalase activity. Catalase activity was present in all fractions, being highest in the bacteroids. The in vitro grown 32H1 were also assayed for catalase activity. There was negligible or no catalase activity in intact bacteria, but the supernatant from broken bacteria showed considerable  catalase activity. -- Peanut root nodule anatomy differs considerably from the nodules of other nitrogen-fixing legumes. The central infected zone is devoid of any uninfected cells except for the rays of cortical cells running through the infected cells, which divide them into several masses. Sections fixed in a mixture of paraformaldehyde and glutaraldehyde were processed for ultrastructural studies. The 3,3'diaminobenzidine (DAB) reaction for localization of catalase was used. Controls were run by adding 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole (AT), potassium cyanide (KCN) in the incubation mixture and also by pre-boiling sections of incubating the sections without DAB and hydrogen peroxide. -- The characteristic ultrastructural arrangement and differentiation of rhizobia into large spherical bacteroids was observed within the host cells. Besides other organelles, lipid bodies were present in abundance and in close association with the bacteroids. Often they were seen attached to the peribacteroidal membrane envelope. Microbodies were observed in both uninfected and infected cells at all stages of nodule development unlike other nitrogen-fixing legumes where they are only found in uninfected cells. The microbodies in peanut root nodules were in close association and often in contact with the peribacteroidal membrane envelope and the bacteroids. Occasionally their membranes were seen fusing with the peribacteroidal membrane envelope. Microbodies were  found to be DAB positive and the osmiophilic electron dense reaction product was found within its matrix. The presence of abundant lipid bodies, their physical contact with the peribacteroidal membrane envelope and with the bacteroids along with the microbodies and high catalase activity suggest that the lipids may be utilized as a carbon source during symbiosis through β-oxidation pathway. -- Besides the  lipid bodies and the microbodies another osmiophilic DAB positive structure called the dense body was observed associated with the bacteroids. It resembled the central core of the microbody, lacked a membrane and was present at the interface between the peribacteroidal membrane envelope and the outer bacteroidal membrane and also within the matrix of the bacteroids. The DAB positive reaction shown by  the dense bodies and their association with the bacteroids indicate that there is a possible role for them in the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide, produced during lipid utilization.


identifier: Page, Lewis Kenneth <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Page=3ALewis_Kenneth=3A=3A.html>   (1987) Physiological responses of Daphnia catawba, Coker to manipulations of naturally occurring seston in in situ enclosures.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Filtering rate, length-specific weight, and fecundity were used as measures of short, medium and long-term responses of  individual Daphnia catawba to manipulation of the natural food supply and to seasonal fluctuations in water temperature. Natural lake seston concentration was manipulated to encompass a realistic range of food concentrations in in situ enclosures and six, four or eight day experiments were conducted over a two month period to take advantage of seasonal variability in lake water temperature. Based on prior laboratory studies, both filtering rate and length-specific weight were expected to respond to changes in food supply and water temperature and a threshold food concentration was expected above which weight gain would occur. The results of this study are in general agreement with predictions from earlier laboratory studies. The general seston components (chl a, POC, PON) were not significantly correlated with filtering rate and net weight change in Daphnia catawba. Only the plankton biomass component and water temperature variables explained significant levels of variation in filtering rate and net weight change. Filtering rates were weakly, negatively correlated with an edible (5-10 μm) plankton biomass and positively correlated with an edible (5-10 μm) plankton biomass component. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that these variables explained 14, 20 and 13% of the variance in filtering rate of small, medium and large animals respectively. Net weight change; calculated as the difference between the final and initial dry body weights, was found to be significantly positively correlated with the  smallest plankton component (<2 μm) and significantly negatively correlated with water temperature, with multiple regression models explaining 35, 37 and 58% of the variance in net weight change for small, medium and large animals respectively. Net weight change in large animals was also significantly negatively correlated with initial animal weight (r==-.782). Fecundity responses to seston manipulation and water temperature fluctuation were minimal;  adult females appeared to allocate excess energy to growth rather than reproduction.


identifier: Favreau, Marc <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Favreau=3AMarc=3A=3A.html>   (1987) Phytogeography of the bryophytes of sugar maple forests in Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In the Gaspé Peninsula of Québec, forests dominated by sugar maple, Acer saccharum Marsh, occur as discrete patches within the predominant coniferous forest, and form a northern limit of the North American Deciduous Forest Biome.  Extensive field studies at six of these stands revealed a bryophyte vegetation similar to that of more continuous sugar maple forests located in southernmost Quebec. -- The bryophyte flora of the study sites includes 96 moss and 18 liverwort species.  Four North American distribution groups were defined, based on the overlapping limits of the Boreal Forest Biome and the Deciduous Forest Biome.  Azonal species (widespread in both biomes) make up 32% of the flora, and grow mainly on mineral substrates.  Boreal species comprise 34% of the flora, and about half of these grow on rotting wood and humus.  Temperate species (25% of the flora) include a large proportion of epiphytes, and many species that are endemic to eastern North America.  Ecotonal species, with just 9% of the flora, represent a heterogeneous group of bryophytes, restricted in eastern North America to the overlap zone of the two biomes.  Abundance, frequency between sites, and fertility do not differ significantly between the distribution groups. -- Even at the northern limit of the Deciduous Forest Biome, Gaspé sugar maple forests provide suitable habitats for many bryophyte species characteristic of the Biome; a few of these species reach their northern limit in the Gaspé.  However, the bryophyte flora includes an even larger number of species of boreal affinity, or indifferent to the biomes.


identifier: Moores, John A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Moores=3AJohn_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1980) Population dynamics and biological characteristics of the Newfoundland west coast herring stock.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus harengus L.) occurring along the west coast of Newfoundland were examined.  Based on tagging results and spacing type (spring-spawners and autumn-spawners) composition a fisheries management unit encompassing the area from Cape Anguille to Cape Norman was proposed.  Several spawning areas have been identified in this area indicating that there are several herring populations in the area such that the fishery exploits a stock-complex.  Several biological characteristics including maturity rate, growth and feeding were examined.  A comparison of growth rates from samples taken at two spawning sites and from the fall fishery did not indicate any differences and the populations were, therefore, treated as a unit stock for an analysis of its population dynamics.  These analyses indicate that recruitment in recent years has generally been poor particularly among autumn-spawners which have steadily declined in abundance during the period covered by the analysis (1966-78).  Recruitment to the spring-spawning component has been poor with the exception of the exceptionally strong 1968 year-class and the moderately strong 1974 year-class., However, no stock and recruit relationship could be established.  In terms of F₀₋₁ management strategy the stock is currently under exploited.


identifier: McCreadie, John William <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/McCreadie=3AJohn_William=3A=3A.html>   (1983) Preliminary studies on the biting flies (Nematocera-brachycera) attacking cattle in Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The seasonal occurrence and abundance, host-seeking activity, and blood-feeding behaviour of the species of biting flies attacking cattle in Newfoundland was investigated using a newly designed cattle-baited trap. A Trueman-McIver Segregating CO₂ trap was also employed to provide additional information during times when the cattle-baited trap was not in operation. -- A total of 19,682 female biting flies (26 species) were collected in the cattle-baited (11,407) and CO₂ (8, 275) traps, from May 25 to September 16, 1982. Simuliids were the most abundant family collected (cattle-baited trap = 10,747; CO₂ trap = 7773) comprising 94.1% of the total season’s catch. The remaining families of biting flies, mosquitoes, tabanids and sand flies, contributed little to the population, comprising only 5.9% of the total season’s catch. Sequentially mosquitoes (Family: Culicidae) and black flies (Family: Simuliidae) were the first to appear followed by the sand flies (Family: Ceratopogonidae) and finally the tabanids (Family: Tabanidae). -- Prosimulium mixtum, most common in June and S. venustum/verecundum complex, most numerous in July, were the two most abundant black flies collected and the only two biting flies taken in numbers sufficient to adequately study host-seeking activity and blood-feeding behaviour; limited information remaining species was obtained. The host-seeking activity of P. mixtum was usually restricted to the morning and afternoon, whereas S. venustum/verecundum complex was most active in the morning and evening. Preliminary results suggest that although the host-seeking activity of P. mixtum and S. venustum/verecundum complex was greatly suppressed by wind speeds, temperatures, saturation deficiences and light intensities outside of certain ranges, such factors do not account for most of the variation observed in the number of these simuliids collected in the cattle-baited trap. -- Mean temperature over the previous 24 hours appeared to greatly influence the blood-feeding behaviour of both groups, with changes in temperature showing a strong positive relation with changes in the proportion of blood-feds taken in the cattle-baited trap. The present temperature, mean temperature over the previous 24 to 48 hours, and light intensity might have had some influence on blood-feeding, but saturation deficit and wind speed appeared to have none. -- The cattle-baited trap designed for this study is an effective method for the study of host-seeking activity and blood feeding behaviour of at least simuliids under field conditions.


identifier: MacLean, Donald A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/MacLean=3ADonald_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1984) Genetic and environmental factors affecting growth, physiology and reproductive patterns in two forms of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar (Linnaeus) 1758, in Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Newfoundland has numerous populations of landlocked Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar).  Several of these populations are stunted, exhibiting a marked reduction in size at any age compared with other anadromous and landlocked populations.  A population of stunted landlocked salmon from 5 Mile Pond East on the Avalon Peninsula was investigated.  Data collected on ecology and life history reveal the population to be an extremely slow-growing, short lived form of Atlantic salmon. -- Anadromous and landlocked Atlantic salmon examined at the smolt stage revealed a difference in the degree of smoltification and salinity tolerance exhibited by the two forms.  Anadromous fish had a decrease in lipid, increase in water content and the increased salinity tolerance characteristic of true smolts.  While wild landlocked 5 Mile Pond East fish experienced a similar reduction in lipid and increase in water, neither they, nor cultured landlocked salmon survived a challenge to sea water. -- The two pure lines and the reciprocal hybrids between the early maturing stunted 5 Mile Pond East fish and a later maturing anadromous form were reared in the laboratory for a period of 2.5 years.  Ninety percent of female parr of the dwarf landlocked strain matured at age 2+ while no females of the anadromous form matured at this time.  Ovary weight differed in the two pure forms at age 0+ and the numbers, size and stages of previtellogenic oocytes also differed at age 1+.  Ovarian patterns of development and the time of onset of sexual maturation in the two hybrid forms appeared intermediate to that of the parental forms.


identifier: Hutchings, Jeffrey Alexander <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hutchings=3AJeffrey_Alexander=3A=3A.html>   (1985) The adaptive significance of lakeward migrations by juvenile Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Freshwater migratory patterns of juvenile Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, were examined to (1) quantify parr movements into and out of lakes, (2) determine the importance of lakes to smolt production, and (3) identify mechanisms permitting the sympatry of anadromous and resident salmon.  Counting fences were maintained at the mouth of Wings Brook, Newfoundland, and at the outlets of its two associated lakes.  There was a lake- and seaward movement of parr from early-May to late-September, intensifying over a 6-8 week period during spring when smolt emigrated from the lakes.  Lacustrine parr returned to the stream following either maturation (usually males) or smoltification (predominantly females).  Lakes contributed 87-100% of the system's smolt production, provided conditions for increased parr growth and survival, and represented important overwintering habitat.  Lakeward migrations appear to be innately controlled but regulated by the environment.  My observations support the hypothesis that co-occurring anadromous and resident S. salar represent phenotypic polymorphism within a single population.


identifier: Chadwick, Julia Bray <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Chadwick=3AJulia_Bray=3A=3A.html>   (1986) Incorporation of 14C-glycine in the scales of winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus, walbaum) does not reflect scale growth.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The hypothesis that the rate of incorporation of ¹⁴C-labelled glycine into isolated fish scales reflects the instantaneous growth rate of fish (Ottaway and Simkiss 1977a,) was tested for scales of winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus), a marine fish which has a strongly seasonal biology. -- A seasonal study of ¹⁴C-glycine incorporation into scales of wild fish was conducted  over a 22 month period. A separate study of ¹⁴C-glycine incorporation was carried out on laboratory-held fish, which  were serially sampled over 17 months. In addition, scale growth was estimated by examining scales from all fish sampled, and measuring the width of the growing edge. Changes in length and weight of serially sampled fish were monitored. -- The seasonal cycles of glycine incorporation into scales did not correlate with cycles of scale growth of  wild or serially sampled laboratory fish. The cycles of growth in length and weight observed in the serially sampled  fish also did not correlate with the cycle of glycine incorporation rates. Peak ¹⁴C-glycine incorporation rates were observed from late July to September, when annual scale  growth was nearly complete in most fish. The peak in ¹⁴C-glycine incorporation occurred about two months after peak rates of increases in length and weight. -- Incorporation into anterior scale portions, which included the growing edge of the scale, accounted for only 16 to 34% of whole scale incorporation. The cycle of incorporation of anterior scales paralleled the cycles of incorporation of the epidermis bearing posterior scale portions and of whole scales, but did not correlate to the cycle of scale growth. -- The clear seasonal cycle in ¹⁴C-glycine incorporation was  strongly correlated with seasonal changes in epidermal thickness, which have been correlated to changes in gonad condition (Burton and Fletcher 1983). Peak ¹⁴C-glycine incorporation occurred when the epidermis was thinnest, and processes of regeneration were probably highly active. -- Analysis of incubated scales showed that an average 36% of ¹⁴C-glycine was not incorporated into any other molecules within the scale, and only about 13% of the ¹⁴C-glycine was associated with collagen molecules. There were seasonal variations in the distribution of ¹⁴C in various scale fractions, with more incorporation into larger molecules in summer- and autumn-incubated scales than in winter-incubated  scales. The highest level of incorporation of ¹⁴C-glycine into collagen molecules occurred in September, which coincided with the period of epidermal regeneration. -- The seasonal cycle of ¹⁴C-glycine incorporation into scales was also influenced by other factors, though only slightly. Seasonal variations in temperature resulted in a variable O₁₀ of the incorporation rate. Fluctuations in the scale free glycine pool changed the relative concentration of ¹⁴C-glycine within the scale, but did not change the timing of the seasonal cycle of incorporation rates. The effects of inhibitors of protein biosynthesis suggested that micro-organisms may colonize the degenerating epidermis and contribute to ¹⁴C-glycine incorporation rates during summer months. -- This study indicated that the basic hypothesis of  Ottaway and Simkiss (1977a) was not valid for winter flounder: the rate of ¹⁴C-glycine incorporation was not correlated with the rate of growth of scales or the rate of growth of the fish. Instead, the seasonal cycle of ¹⁴C-glycine incorporation was correlated to the seasonal cycle of degeneration and regeneration in the epidermis. For winter flounder, ¹⁴C-glycine incorporation into scales seemed to be sensitive to generalized processes of protein metabolism, but was not specifically sensitive to collagen synthesis at the growing edge of scales.


identifier: Cote, Raymond Paul <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Cote=3ARaymond_Paul=3A=3A.html>   (1971) Laboratory studies of the effects of elemental phosphorus on selected marine organisms.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Literature reviews of bio-assay methodology and phosphorus toxicology are presented as part of the introduction to the thesis. A temperature-controlled, serial dilution unit designed to provide eight successive 2:1 dilutions and its actual performance are described. Marine organisms were collected in waters free of pollutants and tested at the Marine Sciences Research Laboratory. The three-spined stickleback, Gasterosteus aculeatus, and the Atlantic cod, Gadus morhua, were assayed to determine median tolerance limits (TLm) and to compare the effects of two types of colloidal phosphorus formulations: phossy water from the Electric Reduction Company of Canada plant at Long Harbour and, colloidal dispersions of pure phosphorus (P₄) prepared in the laboratory. The 48 hour TLm values for stickleback and cod at 8.0°C are 190 ugm/L. and 27 ugm/L. respectively in ERCO phossy water; the 48 and 96 hour TLm's in pure P₄ dispersions at 8.0°C are 185 ugm/L. and 68 ugm/L. for stickleback and 28 ugm/L. and 16 ugm/L. P₄ for the cod. In bioassays conducted on the winter flounder, Pseudopleuronectes americanus, the 48 and 96 hour TLm's are 70 ugm/L. and 25 ugm/L.P₄ respectively. Temperature affects the toxicity of yellow phosphorus to the three-spined stickleback, while particles of P₄ greater than 0.8microns have little or no effect on the same species. ERCO phossy water retards the righting response of the northern starfish, Asterias vulgaris, at concentrations lower than those required for lethality. Dispersions of phosphorus affects the hematocrit of the cod and winter flounder as well as the white cell count of the cod. P₄ causes a depression of the acetyl cholinesterase activity of the three-spined stickleback, a sufficient amount to cause death.


identifier: Spring, Adrian Brett <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Spring=3AAdrian_Brett=3A=3A.html>   (1979) Some aspects of glycosyltransferase activities in lung tissue.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In our laboratory high sialyl- and galactosyltransferase activities were observed in lung homogenate.A differing behaviour using the detergent Triton X-100 was also observed  for these enzymes. Following this the various properties and  kinetic parameters of the two glycosyltransferases were studied in detail in lung microsomes. The optimum pH (6.8), optimum exogenous acceptor protein requirements (DS- and DSG- fetuin, 250 μg) and a linearity with time and protein concentration were established for sialyl- and galactosyltransferase. In addition, galactosyltransferase required Mn²⁺ (12.5mM) and ATP(2mM) for optimum activity. Sialyltransferase catalyzed the transfer of 2.3 nanomoles sialic acid to fetuin acceptor per mg protein per hour, and its apparent Km for CMP-sialic acid was 0.33mM. Galactosyltransferase catalyzed the transfer of 14.0 nanomoles of galactose to fetuin acceptor per mg protein per  hour, and its apparent Km for UDP-galactose was 0.053mM. -- Inclusion of the detergent Triton X-100 caused an 8-fold increase in the activity of galactosyltransferase and the Vmax rose 6—fold, from 0,33 to 2.0. Sialyltransferase, in contrast, showed no dose—dependent response to Triton X-100 and was virtually unresponsive to Triton even in small dose. Little change in the Vmax of this enzyme in the presence of Triton was seen. Lysolecithin caused a specific activation of galactosyltransferase when compared to other lipid species added in a quantity considered to be physiological. Sialyltransferase, however, showed a general inhibitory response to all lipid classes tested. An additive effect was  found on the glycosyltransferases when Triton and lipid were  added on an equimolar basis. When the Triton dose was much greater than that of the lipid, the effects of the latter were masked by Triton. The one exception to this trend was found with LysoPA (oleoyl) whose effect on either enzyme's activity was not completely masked by the Triton. -- An enrichment of both sialyl- and galactosyltransferase was obtained from purified lung surfactant and lung lamellar bodies. During the isolation of lung surfactant, sialyl-transferase was found in soluble form and galactosyltransferase was localized in membrane-rich fractions. Major proteins of molecular weights 64,000, 35,000, and 23-28,000 were identified in lung surfactant and  lamellar body fractions, as revealed by SDS-gel electrophoresis. -- A difference in the membrane localization and soluble nature of sialyl- and galactosyltransferase in lung tissue is discussed, with specific reference to the role of lysolecithin in this system. The role of glycosyltransferases found in lung surfactant and lamellar bodies may also involve membrane lipid changes in affecting the function of these enzymes. Possible relationships between glycosyltransferases and membrane phospholipids are discussed.


identifier: Niles, A. M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Niles=3AA=2E_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1984) Some aspects of symbiotic nitrogen fixation in Vicia cracca L. (Leguminosae).  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Studies were undertaken to characterize the symbiosis between an uncultivated legume, Vicia cracca L., and a strain of Rhizobium bacteria isolated from its root nodules. -- Root nodules were found to be elongate and often branched at maturity.  Tritiated-thymidine incorporation studies, monitored by autoradiography, indicated that nodules develop from an apically-located meristem.  Nitrogen fixation, measured by acetylene reduction, occurred at rates commensurate with values reported for other legumes.  Vicia cracca seeds and plants are small and can be conveniently cultured in vitro but a rigorous scarification procedure, immersion in concentrated sulfuric acid, was required to produce appreciable germination rates.  Sulfuric acid simultaneously carified and surface-sterilized Vicia cracca seeds.  This permitted nodulation of V. cracca, by selected Rhizobium strains, to be conveniently studied. -- The Rhizobium isolate, referred to as R. sp. VC 2, was identified as a wild strain of Rhizobium leguminosarum.  Studies were undertaken to characterize the bacterium with respect to carbon and nitrogen nutrition and with respect to the effects of temperature and pH on growth.  A wide variety of carbon and nitrogen sources was used by R. sp. VC 2.  Total growth of shake cultures was significantly affected by carbon and nitrogen source and markedly dependent on the initial pH of the growth medium.  Total growth of bacteria in shake culture, at pH values below 7.0, was found to be greater at 24 C than at 30 C.  The cell surface of R. sp. VC 2 was shown to possess receptor sites for a lectin from V. cracca seeds.  The lectin was extracted from V. cracca seeds by affinity chromatography and labelled with fluorescent isothiocyanate (FITC).  Nitrogen fixing activity was induced in free-living cultures of Rhizobium sp. VC 2.  A number of carbohydrates, alone add in combination, supported nitrogen fixation.  R. sp. VC 2 nodulated V cracca as efficiently as two commercial strains of Rhizobium leguminosarum. - V. cracca seedlings, being small, could be easily cultured in vitro and nodulated by Rhizobium leguminosarum.  These attributes permit the V. cracca - Rhizobium leguminosarum symbiosis to be used as a convenient model for the Pisum sativum (pea) - Rhizobium leguminosarum symbiosis.  Uncultivated V. cracca nodules could be used as a source of new genetic material for commercial producers of Rhizobium inocula.  Also, the Vicia cracca - Rhizobium leguminosarum symbiosis has potential to be used in land reclamation and land maintenance projects.


identifier: Bruce, W.J. (William Joseph) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Bruce=3AW=2EJ=2E_=28William_Joseph=29=3A=3A.html>   (1975) Some aspects of the biology of landlocked smelt, Osmerus Mordax (Mitchill) 1815, in selected Avalon Peninsula lakes.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Smelt populations in four lakes on the Avalon Peninsula, Newfoundland, were investigated in this study.  Sympatric populations of large (giant) and small (dwarf) smelt live in one of these lakes, Black River Pond.  The remaining three lakes contain only the small race smelt. -- Small race smelt have a very short life span, usually two years, while the large race may attain an age of six years.  Small race smelt seldom exceed a length of 130 mm and many large race smelt exceed 250 mm.  Small race smelt rarely attain a weight of 10 g while it is not unusual for giant smelt to weigh more than 10 times this amount. -- Four of the six measured morphological characteristics showed a significant difference between the two sympatric races. -- Both races are spring spawners, with the actual time of spawning varying from one locality to the next, and from year to year.  They spawn both in tributaries and around the shores of the lake.  Small race smelt reach sexual maturity at the end of their second growing season and the large race smelt a year later.  The sympatric populations at Black River Pond are reproductively isolated temporally and perhaps spatially.  The large race spawns first, starting almost two weeks prior to the beginning of spawning in the small race. -- Food analysis studies showed that small race smelt are principally benthic feeders relying mainly on aquatic insect larvae and nymphs and to a lesser degree on amphipods.  The relative importance of any particular aquatic invertebrate group showed regional variability.  The large race at Black River Pond are very cannibalistic, feeding upon younger small race smelt.  They forage on immature stages of aquatic insects to a lesser-degree. -- Combining information on rate of growth, life span, age and size at sexual maturity, time of spawning, feeding habits, and morphological differences, it appears evident that the two sympatric forms at Black River Pond are discrete populations, and that at least a partial barrier to gene flow exists between them.


identifier: Rigby, Michael D. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Rigby=3AMichael_D=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1980) Some aspects of the intestinal helminths of the muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus Linnaeus) in Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: One hundred and fourteen muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus (Linnaeus 1776)) were collected between September 1977 and January 1979 from three regions in insular Newfoundland, and were examined for helminths.  Eleven species were found (7 Digenea, 2 Cestoda and 2 Nematoda).  Diplostomum mergi Dubois 1932 were recovered from a mammal for the first time. -- Adult and immature muskrat showed differences in the prevalence and intensity of infection and the adults also had larger concurrent infections (Table 3, Figures 3 and 4).  In only one case, namely Hymenolepis evaginata Barker and Andrews 1915, was a parasite species more prevalent in one sex (the males). -- All commonly occurring helminth species showed seasonal peaks in prevalence and intensity of infection, except for Quinqueserialis quinqueserialis Barker and Laughlin 1911 which only showed a seasonal peak in intensity of infection.  The seasonal differences were related to the differences in prevalence of infection found between adult and immature muskrat, and to water temperature. -- Longitudinal distribution within the alimentary tract was examined and all helminths recovered preferred the proximal 60 per cent of the small intestine, except Q. quinqueserialis and Trichostrongylus calcaratus Ransom 1911, which preferred the caecum. -- A difference in digenean occurrence between areas in insular Newfoundland was related to water pH and hardness.  A comparison of the insular fauna of muskrat intestinal helminths was made with previous records throughout North America.  An attempt was made to relate helminth occurrence to the zoogeographical distribution of the muskrat and various biotic factors.


identifier: Hambrook, Patricia Jill <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hambrook=3APatricia_Jill=3A=3A.html>   (1988) Seasonal dynamics of social spacing and mate choice in Ulvaria subbifurcata.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The seasonal dynamics of aggression and social spacing; and mate choice of the radiated shanny, Ulvaria subbifurcata was examined using both laboratory and field observations.  In addition, the role of aggression was examined in the context of territoriality and reproduction. -- A 12 month study demonstrated adult U. subbifurcata hold and defend a crevice site year-round.  Hence, adults can be considered territorial.  The field study also demonstrated that adults hold and and defend crevice sites from April to November.  However, adult U. subbifurcata moved slightly offshore during winter months (December to March).  Although not observed, it is suspected that while offshore adults also hold territories.  It is thought that territoriality in U. subbifurcata is for shelter and reproduction. -- The laboratory and field observations also demonstrated that aggression in both sexes increased during the pre-reproductive period (March to May) and peaked during the reproductive period (May to July).  A proportion of the increase in aggression in the pre-reproductive period can be attributed to territory establishment in the field.  However, the increase in aggression during the reproductive period can be attributed to increased GSI and hormonal levels.  Hence, aggression is important in the reproductive behaviour of the radiated shanny. -- To examine the role of aggression in reproduction in U. subbifurcata additional laboratory and field observations were performed.  Observations indicated that there was variance in male spawning success.  It was discovered that a high level of male aggression and large body size were both important criteria for female mate choice and subsequent male spawning success.  Laboratory observations also indicated that female choice of spawning partners was based on active examination of all experimental males and nest sites before spawning.  In addition, field observations indicated positive assortative mating. -- Aggression in U. subbifurcata changes temporally and appears to play an important role in territoriality and sexual selection, two important aspects of sociability.


identifier: Goulet, Denis Charles <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Goulet=3ADenis_Charles=3A=3A.html>   (1985) Reproductive behavior, spawning success and mate choice of the lumpfish Cyclopterus lumpus L., in Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A field study in Broad Cove, Newfoundland, was conducted to describe the reproductive behavior, mate selection and spawning success of the lumpfish Cyclopterus lumpus. -- Prior to courtship male lumpfish exhibited a characteristic nuptial coloration consisting of a greyish-black body and orange-red ventral surface and fins.  After an extended courtship involving nest site cleaning, caressing and quivering, females released gametes.  Following fertilization, males engaged in molding behavior manipulating the eggs into the nest site producing funnel-like depressions in the egg mass. -- Males remained with the eggs throughout the incubation period exhibiting parental behaviors essential for egg development and hatching.  Parental care behaviors of males were independent of male size.  Pectoral fanning and puffing were the predominant parental care behaviors exhibited throughout the incubation period.  Puffing behavior appeared to increase as the eggs neared hatching.  During hatching emergent larvae were swept from the nest site by male fanning and puffing behaviors. -- Qualities of the male and characteristics of the nest site were tested as criteria for mate choice, and their effect on male spawning success was evaluated.  The number of eggs guarded was not correlated with male length.  Nest site location variables; depth, distance offshore and distance to the nearest male were not related to spawning success.  Nest topography and nest site concealment were also not significant criteria for female choice. -- The hatching success of an egg mass was not predictable on the basis of the size of the guarding male.  Guarding males, regardless of size, were unable to defend their eggs from predation by cunners, Tautogolabrus adspersus.  Hatching success of eggs was also independent of nest characteristics.  Most egg masses hatched regardless of the characteristics of the nest site.  Female lumpfish, therefore, may increase the probability that some of their eggs will hatch by spawning with a number of males.


identifier: Morris, Claude Conrad <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Morris=3AClaude_Conrad=3A=3A.html>   (1983) Statolith development and age determination in the ommastrephid squid Illex illecebrosus (Lesueur, 1821).  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The first complete developmental series of a cephalopod statolith with its various structures is described.  A new method involving a tracing for viewing, counting and recording growth increments in invertebrate statoliths and vertebrate otoliths is detailed and used to determine a daily rate of increment formation in statoliths of young illex illecebrosus.  The number of increments increases as a function of statolith length, as a function of dorsal mantle length (DML), and also increases over time.  Statolith length increases as a function of DML and also increases over time. -- The larval condition is shown to progress past the rhynchoteuthion (7.5-8.5 mm DML) to 50-70 mm DML, based on a change in growth constant and retention of larval characteristics including the shape of the statolith. -- Statolith length is a more accurate and precise indicator of age of the animal than is the number of growth increments.