title: Localizing Reggio: Adapting the Reggio Emilia Approach to Early Childhood Education in Three Childcare Centres on Prince Edward Island

format: 259 electronic application/pdf

subject: Education, Early Childhood

abstract: This research is a situational, interpretative case study of three childcare centres in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada, which are inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education. This study investigates how these centres came to be inspired by the Reggio principles, the benefits and/or challenges they have encountered in the process, the future goals these centres have for their programs, and the support the centres need to continue implementing the Reggio Emilia pedagogy. Was it worth all the effort to change their former way of teaching? Would the benefits to the children outweigh the challenges involved in implementing the Reggio approach? Could this pedagogy be localized to Prince Edward Island? And if so, with what results?

abstract: This study has been inspired by my own personal commitment to the Reggio Emilia principles. Additionally, I had a keen interest to extend the extensive literature regarding the localization of the Reggio approach in other countries and cultural contexts, to Prince Edward Island.

abstract: Four interviews were conducted with supervisors, early childhood educators, and parents from each of the three centres (a total of twelve interviews). Twenty hours of observations were also undertaken in each of the centres (a total of sixty hours). This data was analysed, using situational, interpretive case study, in the light of both the existing literature about the Reggio Emilia approach, and the author's personal journal, which was kept while attending a study tour in Reggio Emilia, Italy, in April 2010.

abstract: Findings from this research indicate that, although the process of becoming Reggio inspired has not always been smooth, the three centres are implementing the Reggio principles according to the needs of their children and their own cultural context. The three centres are practicing the fundamental principles of the Reggio Emilia approach. Supervisors and educators have a positive image of the child. Parents are seen as partners in their children's learning, while educators are trying to get them more actively involved in their centre. Educators are working collaboratively to co-construct their children's learning. Children's learning is being made visible through documentation, and all three centres are using the environment as a means of enhancing this learning.

abstract: This research also identifies a number of challenges that these centres faced in the process of implementing the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood learning. These include: overcoming initial educators' fears, apprehensions, and self-doubts; time demands for comprehensively documenting children's learning; and convincing parents that their children are learning nevertheless through play.

abstract: As a result of this research, the study also offers a number of considerations for future research, and some suggestions and recommendations to all stakeholders involved, including policy makers.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 50-04, page: 2072.

abstract: Advisers: Carla DiGiorgio; Basil Favaro.


title: Lupin silage and lupin seeds in beef cattle rations

type: Text Dissertation/Thesis

contributor: MacLeod, John (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Richardson, Gavin (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Nijjar, Peter (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Ogilvie, Tim (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 98 electronic application/pdf

subject: Agriculture, Animal Culture and Nutrition

abstract: The effects of harvest date on ensiling characteristics and nutrient yield per hectare were evaluated for lupin (Lupinus albus), lupin-oat and oat (Avena sativa) crops. Growth performance, carcass merits and feed intakes were evaluated for both lupin silage and raw and roasted lupin seeds in two steer feeding trials.

abstract: The lupin silages had a lactate-type fermentation with low pH and high lactic acid contents. Crude protein (CP) content decreased from 19.1% at the second pod stage to 16.7% at senescence. Lupin-oat silages had higher dry matter (DM) content 28.9, 29.7 and 65.5% compared to lupin 20.5, 20.8 and 47.0% at each harvest date, with shorter drying times.

abstract: The lupin silage had a lactic acid fermentation with lower DM, neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and protein nitrogen content than the grass silage but higher CP. There were no statistically significant differences in gain, carcass weight, dressing percentage or backfat levels between steers fed lupin or grass silage. Dry matter intake of the silages was not significantly different but there was a tendency for lower DM intake of lupin silage when supplemented with potatoes.

abstract: Twenty-eight Charolais-cross steers (235 $\pm$ 35 kg) were fed grass silage only (SIL, n = 7) or silage plus supplements fed to supply CP at 6.5% of the silage DM intake from raw lupin (RL, n = 7), roasted lupin (ROL, n = 7) or soybean meal (SBM, n = 6). In the growing phase, steers fed RL, ROL or SBM had daily gains significantly higher (P $<$ 0.05) than steers fed SIL. Steers fed the SBM diet had significantly higher daily gains than RL, with steers fed ROL being intermediate. Silage DM intake was significantly lower on RL and ROL supplemented diets compared to SIL. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 33-01, page: 0118.

abstract: Adviser: Mary McNiven.


title: Lupins as a protein source in pig diets

contributor: Anderson, Drek M. (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: MacLeod, John A. (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Bate, Luis (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Curtis, Robert (Supervisory Committee Member)

abstract: To determine the potential use of sweet lupin seeds (Lupinus albus) as a protein source in nonruminant diets, the chemical composition and the protein quality of lupin seeds were estimated. The lupin seeds contained 30-35% crude protein. The NPR of lupins, supplemented with methionine was better than roasted soybeans and similar to SBM.

abstract: Pigs given the lupin, roasted soybean or SBM corn-based diet had a similar feed efficiency. Pigs given the lupin diet had lower feed intakes and reduced body weight due to a palatability problem. Pigs given the lupin corn-based diet had lower dressing percentages but had leaner carcasses with higher index values and backfat higher in unsaturated fatty acids than those given the roasted soybean or the SBM corn-based diet.

abstract: Including lupins at 20 or 32% of the barley-based diet resulted in reduced body weight gain of starter pigs, relative to pigs given the SBM-barley diet, as a result of reduced feed intake. Lupins included at 6% of a barley-based diet for starter pigs, 12% for grower pigs and 9% for finisher pigs, resulted in similar growth performance as those given the 0% lupin barley-based diet. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 30-03, page: 0596.


title: Mapping delivery of the nontechnical professional competencies in the veterinary curriculum

contributor: Miller, Lisa (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 164 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Education, Curriculum and Instruction
Education, Higher
Biology, Veterinary Science

abstract: The Atlantic Veterinary College is currently undergoing a phase of curricular renewal, which comes at a time when there are increasing calls to re-evaluate the future of veterinary education and the profession. Past reports on the future of the profession consistently recognized the increasing importance of the nontechnical professional competencies for successful veterinary practitioners, yet we as a faculty do not necessarily have a clear picture of when or how these skills are addressed in our curriculum. Concurrently, there is increasing attention placed on the non-cognitive skills by the American Veterinary Medical Association's Council on Education for accreditation purposes. The convergence of these factors presents a timely opportunity for this study, which examines the delivery of these skills at AVC in the context of curriculum mapping of the official, taught, learned, and assessed curricula. It is an opportunity to focus attention and reflection on how we are delivering the soft skills, as well as introduce the technique of curriculum mapping as a powerful tool for curriculum management.

abstract: This study used a mixed methods research approach. Data was collected from the major stakeholders in AVC education: current faculty and students, alumni, and employers of our graduates. Document analysis of existing survey instruments of alumni and employers was used for quantitative analysis. AVC faculty and students were invited to participate in interviews (faculty) and focus groups (students) to gather data for qualitative analysis. Delivery of nontechnical professional competencies was evaluated based on the following categories: communication, ethics, self-management, human-animal bond, practice management, and career knowledge/options. Curriculum maps were constructed to show which didactic and clinical (rotation) courses addressed each of the competencies. A separate map was constructed for the taught and learned curricula, and a master map was constructed to evaluate congruence between those perspectives.

abstract: In the preclinical curriculum, an extremely limited number of courses are officially identified as addressing the nontechnical professional competencies. Those courses which are identified in the official curriculum as addressing the competencies are also identified as such by faculty and students in the taught and learned curricula maps. However, faculty and students also identify many additional courses where the competencies are addressed in the preclinical curriculum; most of these include implicit teaching/learning, behavioral observation/modeling, and unscripted anecdotes rather than explicit inclusion of the competencies. The official curriculum does not recognize the role of implicit teaching/learning in addressing the non-technical competencies. While there is good overall congruence between the taught and learned maps, students over-identify courses as addressing the competencies relative to faculty. It appears that faculty may underestimate the importance of implicit teaching/learning, as well as observation/modeling, in addressing the non-technical competencies.

abstract: Both faculty and students recognize the dichotomy between the preclinical curriculum and fourth year rotations. Both groups express frustration with the limitations of didactic teaching, and discuss the rewards of teaching and learning in rotations. These feelings are amplified when considering the non-technical competencies, which may be delivered in large part by behavioral observation/modeling. The results of this study suggest implications for curriculum design, to introduce more opportunity for practical, experiential learning in the preclinical curriculum.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 47-06, page: 3141.


title: Maternal narratives as feminist inquiry

contributor:
Hyndman, Nicole E. Deneau (author)
(Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 118 electronic application/pdf

subject: Women's Studies

abstract: This thesis is an examination of the construction of my identity as a mother and an analysis of the issues mothers face in our society.

abstract: Analyzing the construction of my identity, I consider socially constructed forces as well as embodied experiences and how the two in combination have influenced who I am, how I mother, and how I perceive and interact with the world.

abstract: Using personal narratives as my 'data' for this research together with theoretical analysis, I examine feminism and the normative ideology of the 'good' mother as powerful influencing forces in the construction of my identity as mother. My 'data' has led to the revelation of personal 'truths' which have allowed me to critically analyze and challenge these powerful forces. I examine how the challenging of powerful normative ideologies can be empowering and an impetus for social action.

abstract: The relationship between motherhood and feminism is contentious. Exploring the intersection of motherhood and feminism in my own life has exposed the tensions that exist between the two, but also the need for feminism in motherhood and for motherhood in feminism. Recognizing this has led me to a political space. The way our society positions mothers means that women who become mothers are subjugated despite years of feminist work attempting to gain equality for all women.

abstract: My aim in writing this thesis is twofold: the first is to show through personal narratives my developing consciousness of issues that mothers face in our society. The second aim of this thesis is to expose the need for social change so that mothers in our society can achieve equality.

abstract: Feminism and motherhood need to make space for one another so that social change may be possible.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 45-03, page: 1314.


title: Mathematics and literature: Partners in making sense of the world

contributor: de Freitas, Elizabeth (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Gabriel, Martha (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 239 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Education, Language and Literature
Education, Mathematics
Education, Elementary
Education, Curriculum and Instruction

abstract: Using an action research design, this study examined 19 grade two students in a small elementary school. The aim of this study was to explore and describe the impact of integrating children's literature into the Grade Two mathematics curriculum. Over the course of this ten-week integrated unit titled Circles and Cycles, approximately 30 pieces of literature, both books and poetry were shared with students and approximately 45 activities were completed relating to different aspects of mathematics, as well as science, social studies, visual arts, health, and language arts. This study examined the impact on students' problem solving skills and mathematical understanding as well as student attitudes towards mathematics and engagement. Developing literacy through mathematics and mathematics through literacy resulted in powerful connections for students by allowing the literature and mathematics to emerge together. The importance of promoting an engaged student identity through a culture of mathematics was another critical finding.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 45-03, page: 1173.


title: Measurement of the enzyme N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase for detection of subclinical mastitis in a random sample of bulk tank milk in Prince Edward Island

contributor: Lopez, Alfonso (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Donald, Alan (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Chan, Cathy (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: McNiven, Mary (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 100 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Agriculture, Animal Pathology
Biology, Veterinary Science

abstract: The objective of this study was to compare the fluorometric and the colorimetric methods of N-Acetyl-$\beta$-D-Glucosaminidase (NAG) measurement in bulk tank milk (BTM) as indicators of subclinical mastitis in dairy cattle.

abstract: Observation of an effect of time in frozen storage on NAG activity was not significant for the fluorometric method and was significant for the colorimetric method in this study. Enzyme activity determined by the fluorometric methods was less affected by days in storage.

abstract: The pattern of the frequency distributions of NAG and SCC in BTM were distinctly different. The fluorometric method of NAG measurement had a stronger association with SCC than the colorimetric method.

abstract: The range of NAG(F) in the BTM collected in this study was 2-7 U/mL. Threshold value NAG(F) $>$ 3.2 U/mL may be considered an indicator of the onset of subclinical mastitis. Results of this study suggest that the fluorometric method may be applied in a manual test for subclinical mastitis. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 31-04, page: 1687.


title: Measuring landscape preferences: The identification and evaluation of island viewscapes

contributor:
Horne, Carol (author)
(Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 199 electronic application/pdf

subject: Urban and Regional Planning

abstract: Limits to land on islands are clear and specific, defined by the coast and the sea. If the land on islands is limited, how then should it be valued as a resource and protected for its highest and best use? What tools would assist government administration and communities to assess the landscape and make informed land use decisions?

abstract: Land use decisions may be based on agricultural productivity, potential for development or ecological importance, but pure aesthetics are not necessarily taken into consideration. Yet few would deny that scenic beauty is often a major tourism draw for island destinations and that visual appeal plays a large part in the quality of experience of both residents and visitors. Islands very often depend to a large degree on the tourism industry and thus on the appeal of the scenic viewscapes; yet the value of beauty is very difficult to measure. No obvious consensus appears to have been reached as to how to accurately assess the economic value of a view, any more than the less concrete measure of well-being imparted by aesthetic surroundings. The paper proposes as a hypothesis that Prince Edward Island residents and visitors will express preferences for some viewscapes. This research exercise considers the scenic quality of landscapes as a resource, and sets out to develop an appropriate tool for the measurement of preferences for scenic landscapes in the context of Prince Edward Island (PEI). The paper establishes some preliminary basis for evaluation of scenic resource and provides results which could prove useful as one component of a land management program. The paper also reports on how the scenic resource is managed in selected island and mainland jurisdictions. This research could lead to an objective and practical methodology to designate scenic viewscapes for protection under the PEI Planning Act and assist in both defining and promoting appropriate development that could both enhance the tourism industry and contribute to the quality of life of residents of Prince Edward Island and those of other islands and mainlands elsewhere.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 46-03, page: 1343.


title: Mechanisms of resistance to the microsporidian Loma salmonae and its localization in gills from experimentally exposed rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

contributor: Markham, R.J. Frederick (Thesis advisor)

contributor: Lewis, P. Jeffrey (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Cawthorn, Rick (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Jones, Simon (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Ikede, Basil (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 260 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Agriculture, Animal Pathology
Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture
Health Sciences, Immunology

abstract: Loma salmonae is a microsporidian that infects salmonids of the genus Oncorhynchus and produces spore-filled xenomas in the gills. The resistance phenomenon of rainbow trout to L. salmonae  has been documented, but the nature of this resistant state is unknown. The first objective examines how rapidly this resistance develops by using the exposure re-exposure model combined with a technique for measuring sphere-like structures. When fish received a primary oral challenge with live spores, partial resistance developed by week (wk) 2 postexposure (PE) and a complete resistance to re-challenge occurred at 8 wk PE. Fish which received their primary challenge in the form of non-viable spores administered intraperitoneally (IP), showed evidence of partial resistance by wk 3 and total resistance by wk 6 PE. The second objective of this study investigates if head kidney lymphocytes from recovered, exposed, and unexposed fish could respond to antigens from  L. salmonae when measured in an in vitro lymphocyte proliferation assay. Lymphocytes from fish orally exposed to live spores reached a maximum proliferation at wks 6 and 8 PE, when stimulated in vitro  with the soluble and particulate antigens (Ag) respectively. When fish recovered from an initial infection were re-stimulated at wk 14 with live spores, a peak in the proliferative response to the particulate Ag occurred only at wk 15 PE. Lymphocytes from fish IP exposed to dead spores had a high lymphoproliferation at wk 2 PE when in vitro stimulated with the particulate Ag rather than with the soluble Ag. Finally, lymphocytes from fish IP exposed to dead spores and then orally re-exposed with fresh spores at wk 22 PE, had the highest proliferative response when stimulated in vitro with both Ag. The third objective of this study was to examine the ultrastructural features of gills from fish experimentally infected with L. salmonae  to explain the mechanisms of infection in gills. At 3 wk PE, meronts were recognized within blood cells and pillar cells (no xenomas) associated with the capillary channels, lamellae and lamellar arteries and inflammation was absent. In lamellar arteries, infected cells were underneath endothelium. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 64-07, Section: B, page: 3178.

abstract: Advisers: Dave Speare; Fred Markham.


title: The effects of long-term whole cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) consumption on markers of metabolic syndrome in the cholesterol challenged JCR:LA-cp corpulant rat model

contributor: Gottschall-Pass, Katherine (Thesis advisor)

format: 126 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Biology, Animal Physiology
Health Sciences, Nutrition

abstract: A novel approach to battling metabolic syndrome involves the use of foods to modulate the underlying molecular processes that contribute to disease on-set and progression. The American Cranberry fruit (Vaccinium macrocarpon ) has high concentrations of compounds thought to possess anti-oxidant and other health promoting properties. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of whole cranberry, incorporated as 3% of dietary intake, on various parameters of metabolic syndrome using the obese JCR: LA-cp rat model. After two weeks acclimatization to purified diet, forty animals were divided into four diet groups: control (CON), 1% added cholesterol (CHOL), 3% added cranberry (CRAN), and cranberry plus cholesterol (CRAN + CHOL). Animals were maintained on the diet for a period of twelve weeks at the end of which time blood and tissues were collected and analyzed. Results demonstrate that cranberry-feeding improved several markers of metabolic syndrome, and these improvements were mostly related to hepatic activities. To highlight, plasma low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were lower, and the ratio of high density to low density lipoprotein ratio (HDL/LDL) was higher in cranberry-fed animals. Also, when fed in conjunction with cholesterol, cranberry prevented the significant induction of plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) observed in CHOL diet group. Furthermore, hepatic tissue analysis revealed that cranberry consumption conferred protection against oxidative insults, as cranberry-fed animals had significantly higher ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione and significantly lower glutathione peroxidase activity. Plasma markers of inflammation and insulin resistance were not affected by cranberry treatment. In conclusion, dietary cranberry, incorporated at physiologically relevant concentrations, has both cardio- and hepato-protective properties and could be incorporated into a viable cardio-protective protocol.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 47-06, page: 3370.


title: The effects of organic and inorganic dietary selenium on selenium status and immune function of horses

contributor:
Montgomery, Julia Bettina (author)
Wichtel, Jeff (Thesis advisor)
Wichtel, Maureen (Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 220 electronic application/pdf

subject: Biology, Veterinary Science

abstract: Selenium (Se) is a trace element essential for animal and human cell biology. Incorporated into selenoproteins, Se is an integral part of several antioxidant enzymes, including glutathione peroxidase and thioredoxin reductase. In addition to other well recognized roles of Se, such as in thyroid metabolism, an important research focus has been Se and its role in immune function. The selenium status of horses is determined by geographical location and management practices.

abstract: In the first study, the effects of Se supplementation and source of dietary Se on blood Se status and measures of immune function were investigated in adult, non-pregnant horses. Plasma and red blood cell Se concentrations were highest in horses in the organic Se group when compared to horses in the inorganic Se group or control group. Dietary Se content and source led to alterations in relative lymphocyte expression of IL-5, and relative neutrophil expression of IL-1 and IL-8.

abstract: In the second study, different methods of Se supplementation were compared in adult, non-pregnant horses. Horses received either no supplementary Se, access to Se-containing trace mineral block, or Se-enriched hay, obtained from fields after application of Se-containing fertilizer. The concentration of Se in fresh forage and hay was increased from concentrations considered inadequate to meet dietary requirements to those considered adequate. Both Se-enriched hay and the Se-containing trace mineral block significantly increased the plasma and red blood cell Se concentrations of adult horses. However, horses fed Se-enriched hay had significantly higher plasma Se concentrations when compared to horses with access to the Se-containing trace mineral block.

abstract: The third study investigated the effects of dietary Se on the Se status of broodmares and their foals, as well as, measures of immune function in foals. Se source fed to mares during late pregnancy and early lactation influenced the red blood cell Se concentrations of their foals at one month of age with organic Se leading to higher red blood cell Se when compared to inorganic Se. Mare blood and milk Se as well as foal blood Se at birth were not affected by Se source. Furthermore, the blood Se status of mares during late pregnancy was correlated with their colostrum Se and early lactation milk Se. Selenium source influenced relative gene expression of foal lymphocyte cytokines, namely IL-2, TNFα, and IFNγ; however, no Se source consistently led to alteration in expression.

abstract: In conclusion, different methods of Se supplementation, including Se-fortified forage, can be used to improve the Se status of horses in Se-deficient regions. In adult, non-pregnant horses, organic Se is consistently superior to inorganic Se in raising blood Se; however, this effect of dietary Se source could not be demonstrated as clearly in broodmares and their foals. Selenium may contribute to alterations in immune function of horses through changes of relative cytokine gene expression, however, the significance of these observations remains to be clarified.

abstract: Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 71-08, Section: B, page: 4688.


title: The effects of perinatal excitatory amino acids on neuroendocrine function in the rat

contributor: Bate, Luis (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Burton, Shelley (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 174 electronic application/pdf

subject: Psychology, Physiological

abstract: The objectives of this study were to characterize effects on serum corticosterone (CORT), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), oxytocin, and prolactin concentrations in neonatal rats following sequential injections of domoic acid (DOM) or kainic acid (KA) over PND 8-14, and to determine whether these drug treatments correlate with long-term changes in behavioural and neuroendocrine responses to stress.

abstract: In the first experiment, eighty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat pups were randomly assigned to one of five treatment groups: 5 or 20μg/kg DOM, 25 or 100μg/kg KA, or saline. Drugs were administered by subcutaneous injection and physical assessments were performed daily from PND 8-14.

abstract: In the second experiment, thirty-four 16-month-old SD rats treated with either 20μg/kg DOM or saline from PND 8-14 were used. Blood was collected prior to and immediately after exposure to a mild stressor. Also, trunk blood was collected 1 month later and assayed for baseline serum ACTH. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 43-02, page: 0633.

abstract: Advisers:  Cathy Ryan; Andy Tasker.


title: The emotional labour of critical pedagogy: An autoethnographic study of teacher identity

contributor: Brookes, Anne-Louise (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 109 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Education, Elementary
Education, Curriculum and Instruction

abstract: This thesis examines my life-history and how it has impacted my teaching practices in my Grade 6 classroom. Specifically, I use autoethnography, narrative inquiry and critical theory as I weave my lived experiences, letters to my grandmother with the theories of various researchers. I recount specific experiences from my past in order to identify the power relations that exist in our society. I argue that my schooling greatly influenced the way I learn, the way I teach and the way I live my life. Indeed, I only learned to know myself once I entered the Masters Program and was challenged to unlearn, learn and relearn all that I knew about teaching and learning. I invite the reader to reflect upon my lived experiences and question my thesis through a critical lens. I believe we must enter into meaningful dialogue about the hidden messages in our society in order to create a better world for our students and children.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 45-03, page: 1153.


title: The epidemiology of Mycobacterium bovis in Canadian cattle and cervidae between 1985-1994

contributor: Ogilvie, Tim (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: McNab, Bruce (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Spangler, Elizabeth (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Markham, R.J. Frederick (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 211 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Biology, Biostatistics
Biology, Veterinary Science

abstract: This study examined and analysed the data from the 9 outbreaks of tuberculosis in Canadian cattle and cervidae from 1985-1994. Descriptions and diagrams were given for each outbreak. For the purposes of this study, a positive animal was one which was culture positive. A reactor animal was one which was positive or suspicious on a mid-cervical, comparative cervical, or gross or microscopic test for tuberculosis. Reactor or positive herds were farms with one or more reactor or positive animals, respectively. Herd data were collected from every farm while individual animal data were extracted only from farms which were classified as positive or reactor farms. Herd classification was either positive/reactor or negative. Data for the study were collected from the outbreak records in the Regional or District offices of Agriculture and Agrifood Canada's Animal and Plant Health Directorate. Index animals in 8 out of 9 outbreaks were identified either at routine slaughter surveillance or post mortem examination. One index herd was identified through routine skin testing at the owner's request.

abstract: Logistic regression was used to study between herd spread of tuberculosis. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 36-06, page: 1557.

abstract: Adviser: Ian Dohoo.


title: The epidemiology of equine strongylidosis on Prince Edward Island

contributor: Dohoo, Ian (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Miller, L. (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 146 electronic application/pdf

subject: Biology, Veterinary Science

abstract: Detailed knowledge of the seasonal patterns of transmission of gastro-intestinal parasites of livestock is important for the design of effective and efficient control programmes. Climatic factors have a major impact on these patterns, hence it is necessary to investigate specific patterns for each unique climatic region. The purpose of this study was to monitor the level of strongyle infection and pasture contamination in pastured horses in Prince Edward Island; investigate the patterns of pasture infectivity during the grazing season; and determine the rates of development, migration and longevity of the free-living stages of horse strongyles on pasture plots at different times of the year.

abstract: Three horse herds were monitored for 13 months (April 1993-April 1994) using monthly faecal egg counts. Herds 1 and 2 were standbred brood mare herds; Herd 3 was a mixed breed herd consisting entirely of adult horses. Positive faecal samples were cultured and third stage larvae (L3) recovered and identified. Peak egg counts occurred between August and September in all groups. Minor peaks were observed between January and April. Cultures revealed that the majority of the eggs contributing to the peaks in Herds 1 & 2 were cyathostomes while in Herd 3 all were cyathostomes. These results were consistent with the necropsy findings from 3 tracer/cull horses from 2 of the herds, in which Strongylus vulgaris (Herd 1), Triodontaphorus spp. (Herd 1) and various species of cyathostomes (Herds 1 and 3) were recovered. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 34-03, page: 1117.

abstract: Adviser: Gary Conboy.


title: The estuarine fish community and food web structure in areas of sea lettuce (Ulva lactuca) and eelgrass (Zostera marina) within the Stanley River Estuary, Prince Edward Island

contributor:
Schein, Allison (author)
Courtenay, Simon (Thesis advisor)
van den Heuvel, Mike (Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 168 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Biology, Ecology
Biology, Oceanography

abstract: Agriculture is a major industry on Prince Edward Island (PEI), covering approximately 44% of the land area. Large quantities of nutrients from artificial fertilizers are entering surface and ground waters that feed estuaries and bays, replacing eelgrass (Zostera marina) with dense blooms of sea lettuce (Ulva lactuca) and resulting in anoxic events. This project aimed to determine whether the nearshore estuarine fish community and food web structure differed between areas dominated by sea lettuce and areas with mainly eelgrass. Monthly beach seining was conducted from April to August 2008 to sample the fish community at five stations in the Stanley River estuary on PEI, where habitat varied from primarily eelgrass beds at the downstream stations to complete sea lettuce cover at the upstream stations. The fish community differed significantly among stations and months. In general, stations with large quantities of sea lettuce had fewer Atlantic silverside (Menidia menidia) and more mummichog ( Fundulus heteroclitus) than those with less sea lettuce in April, more ninespine stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) and fewer northern pipefish (Syngnathus fuscus) in June, and more young-of-the-year (YOY) Gasterosteus spp. and YOY fourspine stickleback ( Apeltes quadracus), yet fewer northern pipefish, in July. In August, the main differences were fewer YOY Atlantic silverside and YOY northern pipefish and more YOY mummichog at the upstream sea lettuce stations. In addition, primary producer, invertebrate, and fish samples were collected at the same five stations in August 2007, as well as monthly from April to August in 2008, in order to assess temporal and spatial variability in the food web structure. The food web was described using carbon and nitrogen stable isotope analysis and stomach contents analysis was performed on two common fish species, mummichog and fourspine stickleback. Overall, stable isotope values did not differ between fish caught at sea lettuce and eelgrass stations. This indicated that there was no shift from a pelagic (lower δ13C values) to a benthic-driven (higher δ13C values) food web at stations with an abundance of sea lettuce and, presumably, associated benthic invertebrates. Gammarid amphipods were by far the most prevalent food item for mummichog and fourspine stickleback. Except in April, there were no significant differences in mummichog diet between sea lettuce and eelgrass stations. While increased sea lettuce alters the structural habitat of an estuary, and potentially increases the abundance of some invertebrates, this does not result in fish having a larger proportion of their diet corning from benthic resources.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 48-06, page: 3510.


title: The expression and regulation of proliferation-linked genes in cancer

contributor: Sweeney-Nixon, Marva (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Gottschall-Pass, Katherine (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 139 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Biology, Cell
Health Sciences, Oncology

abstract: Cancer is a disease characterized by altered regulation of cell growth and proliferation. Studies were conducted which examined the expression and regulation of different proliferation-linked genes in non-transformed and transformed cells. These genes included the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which mediate metastasis, survivin, which is an inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP), and ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) and spermidine/spermine N 1-acetyltransferase (SSAT), both of which are integral in polyamine metabolism. The effects of flavonoid-enriched fractions from lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) on MMP regulation was examined in DU 145 human prostate cancer cells. It was shown that MMP-2 and MMP-9 were down-regulated by lowbush blueberry fractions, and that this regulation was protein kinase C (PKC) and/or mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase dependent. Survivin expression in 10T½ and NR3 cells was examined in response to the mitogenic growth factors, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and epidermal growth factor (EGF). Survivin expression was induced in NR3 cells by all growth factors, and results show that survivin induction by each growth factor was phoshatidylinositol-3 (PI3) kinase dependent, while PDGF and EGF also used competent PKC and MAP kinase pathways to induce survivin. The expression of ODC and SSAT in 10T½ and NR3 cells was examined in response to insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 and -2. Results show that IGF-1 and IGF-2 induce both ODC and SSAT, and that both IGF-1- and IGF-2-mediated induction of these enzymes was PKC and MAP kinase dependent. These results illustrate the complex regulation of important proliferation-linked genes in cancer cells, and may provide further insight into the mechanisms involved in the selective growth advantage observed in cancer cells.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 45-03, page: 1354.


title: The gift of sport:  An autoethnographic inquiry into sport culture and the construction of identity

contributor:
Devine, Lisa (author)
(Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 149 electronic application/pdf

subject: Anthropology, Cultural

subject: Sociology, Individual and Family Studies

subject: Recreation

abstract: This thesis examines how the cultural structures which guide and control sport impact on the construction of an athlete's identity. Specifically, I use autoethnography and narrative inquiry to explore how my lived experiences in sport shaped my identity as a competitive female athlete. Ten narratives are presented and represent a cross-section of an athletic career that included triumphs, tragedies and interruptions. Particular attention is paid to the gendering of sport and how being female impacted on my experiences; the effect of injury on an athlete's self-esteem and future plans, and the psychological and emotional effects of retiring from sport sooner than expected. Reflexive writing is used as a method to discover knowledge gleaned from my personal athletic experiences. The reader is invited to re-interpret these narratives and to generate questions and insights in relation to their own possibly similar experiences. The deconstruction of identity through writing and renegotiating interpretations is a means of reconnecting with long forgotten affiliated identities.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 44-03, page: 1245.


title: The impact of oral health and the implications on quality of life for seniors: A Prince Edward Island Study

contributor:
Penner, Audrey Jane (author)
Timmons, Vianne (Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 129 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Gerontology
Health Sciences, Dentistry
Education, Health

abstract: This thesis examines the literature pertaining to the relationship of oral health and quality of life for seniors, and describes the self-reported oral problems of a sample of seniors on Prince Edward Island (P.E.I)]. The instrument used for this study was the Subjective Oral Health Indicators, a validated tool in use for similar research on independent living seniors in other geographic regions of Canada. A cluster sampling design was used to randomly select senior housing units across the five geographic counties of P.E.I. Surveys were mailed to seniors through the Regional Housing Authorities for the five regions. The quantitative analysis included frequencies of problems identified related to oral health and worry/concern associated with those problems.

abstract: Results of this research identified a number of self-reported oral health issues by seniors, that indicated a number of issues around speaking, oral pain and discomfort as problems. There was a significant difference in responses between male and female on various aspects of the study, something not addressed in other research of this nature. The Centre for Health Promotion [CHP], University of Toronto, quality of life conceptual framework (Renwick, Brown & Nagler, 1996), and the Precede-Proceed model of health promotion implementation was used to determine quality of life needs as outcomes for health promotion strategies.

abstract: Results of this study were compared to similar studies in Ontario and the United States. Levels of awareness by seniors on issues of oral health were inconclusive in this study. Further research regarding the issue of oral health and quality of life for seniors on P.E.I., both qualitative and epidemiological, is recommended.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 41-02, page: 0362.

abstract: Adviser: Vianne Timmons.


title: The influence of islandness on energy policy and electricity supply

contributor:
Stuart, E. Kathleen (author)
Baldacchino, Godfrey (Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 237 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Geography
Political Science, General

abstract: Despite global power reform, electricity is still provided in many islands by vertically integrated monopoly utilities. The aim of this research is to identify the impact and influence of 'islandness' on electricity policy decisions. This multi-disciplinary, exploratory study uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to explore islandness through such attributes as scale, remoteness, complexity, adaptive capacity and the small-scale syndrome of totality/monopoly/intimacy. The research includes a case study of Prince Edward Island, Canada, whereby the energy institution is examined through interviews with key informants. The study concludes that negotiated political solutions rather than market solutions offer more promising alternatives to solving energy issues in small islands. Recommendations include: encouraging alternative energy technologies given already high electricity costs; providing top level ministerial support for energy portfolio; implementing clear, comprehensive energy policy with sustainability targets enforced by legislation; and enhancing energy literacy through broadly based public debate and truly innovative energy policy.

abstract: Keywords: islands, energy policy, electricity, politics, society, sustainability, Prince Edward Island, energy literacy.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 46-03, page: 1292.


title: The integration of dairy production, health and food safety information

contributor: Novotny, Mark (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Ruegg, Pam (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 135 electronic application/pdf

subject: Agriculture, General

abstract: A study was conducted in P.E.I. to determine the feasibility of establishing a network of communication to monitor basic herd level animal health, productivity and food safety on dairy farms. A basic herd level system (HERD) which collected only herd level data and collected all data directly from the farm, was compared to an animal level system (ANIMAL) that collected animal and herd level data from various sources. A random sample of 12 dairy farms participated from September 1, 1991 to August 31, 1992.

abstract: Predictive models were developed that used dairy farm facilities and sanitation scores, as scored by the P.E.I. Department of Agriculture inspectors, for the prediction of bulk-tank somatic cell counts and high bulk-tank bacterial counts. Models were developed using data from 1989 to 1991 then validated by applying the models to 1992 data. Sanitation levels of dairy barns and equipment were significant predictors of average bulk-tank SCC. The model performed as well predicting bulk-tank SCC with new data as it did with the original data. The sanitation of equipment was the only significant predictor of high bulk-tank bacterial counts. Although the annual inspection scores were statistically significant predictors, they did not make good predictors of annual average bulk-tank SCC or high bacterial counts. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 33-01, page: 0110.

abstract: Adviser: Ian Dohoo.


title: The intersection between crime and drug dependence: Establishing the clinical utility of the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) with a sample of federally incarcerated, male offenders

contributor:
Kunic, Dan (author)
Stryhn, Henrik (Thesis advisor)
Critchley, Kim (Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 212 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Psychology, Behavioral
Sociology, Criminology and Penology
Psychology, Psychometrics
Health Sciences, Epidemiology

abstract: Between 70% to 80% of Correctional Service Canada's (CSC) general offender population and over 90% of its Aboriginal offender population has an identified substance abuse problem requiring intervention. Ensuring that these offenders receive the most effective treatment is a major challenge that is best addressed through the application of assessments that are shown to be reliable, accurate, and useful for client-treatment matching and correctional planning.  Aim. The main objective of the study was to establish the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) (Gossop et al. 1995) as a suitable measure for client-treatment matching, and as a predictor of recidivism and relapse to substance use.  Setting. The SDS and the Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) (Skinner, 1982) were administered to a sample of 3350 adult, male inmates from CSC between 2002 and 2007. A total of 1667 inmates were eventually released from custody and available for 24 months of follow-up. Measurements. Cronbach's coefficient alpha provided a measure of internal consistency (reliability), and canonical correlation analysis quantified the dimensional relationship between the two instruments. With DAST as the reference standard, Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) analyses established the optimal cut-off score for a classification of psychological drug dependence on the SDS. A number of multivariable logistic regression models uncovered the dimensions of the classification, while a series of Cox proportional hazards models examined SDS's ability to predict the rates of revocation and relapse to substance abuse over a maximum of 24 months of follow-up into the community.  Findings. Large Cronbach's coefficient alpha values confirmed the internal consistency of both the DAST and SDS. The canonical correlation analysis revealed 11 linear combinations of DAST and SDS items that were highly correlated along a single dimension that closely approximated the dependence syndrome as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV. The results from the logistic regression and Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) analyses underscored the strong relationship between DAST's classification of drug dependence and the SDS. The cut-off value of ≥6 for a classification of psychological drug dependence produced the best trade-off between sensitivity and specificity. The individual logistic regression models and the significant unconditional associations between indicators within a number of life domains and psychological drug dependence uncovered a host of deficits that are important for client-treatment matching and correctional planning. The SDS was also predictive of post-release outcomes. After adjusting for the effects of other predictors within a series of Cox proportional hazards models, offenders who were classified as psychologically drug dependent had higher hazards of revocation and relapse to substance abuse. However, exposure to the high intensity program and community-based maintenance reduced the hazard of revocation and relapse to substance. Conclusions. The SDS was a reliable measure of psychological drug dependence, and useful for differentiating offenders for treatment and for predicting post-release outcomes. The findings underscore the importance of accurately matching offender criminogenic need to appropriate levels of service delivery, and reinforce the importance of community aftercare in mitigating the risk of recidivism and relapse to substance abuse.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 47-06, page: 3307.


title: The islands of the Danish Realm: The quest for sovereignty in Iceland, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands

contributor:
Boulter, Ryan (author)
(Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 204 electronic application/pdf

subject:
History, European
Political Science, General

abstract: This paper examines the similarities and differences between the development of Iceland, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands from colonies toward sovereignty. All three island groups are examined in the context of history, national development, and external forces on the development their respective nation. Iceland, the Faroes and Greenland all were once as Danish colonies, but Iceland is the only one that has attained sovereignty. The Faroe Islands and Greenland have stopped short of sovereignty and retain Home Rule administrative powers within the Danish Realm. Many of the reasons why Iceland was able to obtain sovereignty are the same reasons why Greenland and the Faroe Islands have not been able to develop into sovereign nations. Iceland was able to build on its strong historic roots, high level of literacy, well organized and popular nationalist movement, and firm belief in an independent and prosperous Iceland. The Faroe Islands and Greenland have been hindered with late recognition of their culture and language, unorganized and unfocussed view of their future, and timidity regarding their economy and success as an independent nation. Greenland also has been held up by the vague and unresolved concept of aboriginal self government. Danish history, with a focus on Danish colonial history, is also examined to understand how Denmark has historically related with its colonies. Denmark was never a major colonial power with a mission to civilize. Danish colonialism was based almost purely on mercantilist purposes. The most important part of Danish colonial history is the development of the Danish Home Rule Model. The Home Rule Model, which can be traced back to the Icelandic Constitution of 1871, delegates the most administrative powers of all autonomy models in the international system.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 46-03, page: 1312.


title: The many faces of bullying: Elementary students' perceptions and experiences with the phenomenon of bullying

contributor:
Morash, Virginia E. (author)
(Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 95 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Education, Elementary
Education, Social Sciences

abstract: This research thesis focuses on elementary students' perceptions, experiences and thoughts regarding the phenomenon of bullying. It describes a group of grade four students' feelings regarding this phenomenon through class discussions, student drawings and a series of in-depth interviews. From these various venues, several significant themes emerged such as the students receiving contradictory messages from administrators, teachers and parents on a daily basis in regards to how to respond to bullying. Other themes include the fact that a significant amount of bullying occurs on the school bus, that there is a strong call to action and a pessimistic outlook about the reduction of bullying. As a result of this research, we as a society are closer to understanding what it is like to be a grade four student who is bullied and hopefully we can begin to take initial steps in reversing this devastating phenomenon.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 46-03, page: 1228.


title: The mechanism of acetaminophen-induced methemoglobinemia in dogs and cats

contributor: Burton, Shelley (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Chan, Cathy (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Gaskill, Cindy (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Bates, Luis (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Grossman, Scott (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 185 electronic application/pdf

subject: Health Sciences, Pharmacology

abstract: Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose in most species is associated with hepatotoxicity due to covalent binding of the reactive metabolite N-acetyl- p-benzoquinoneimine (NAPQI) to hepatocellular proteins. Dogs and cats are unique in that acetaminophen overdose primarily causes methemoglobinemia and hemolysis. It has been proposed that NAPQI is the responsible reactive intermediate in dogs and cats but it does not have the chemical or pharmacokinetic characteristics that would favor methemoglobin formation. Our hypothesis is that the deficiency of N-acetyltransferase (NAT) activity in dogs and cats allows accumulation of another acetaminophen metabolite,  para-aminophenol (PAP) that then induces methemoglobinemia. We have demonstrated that dogs, cats, mice and rats can all deacetylate APAP to PAP  in vitro with no significant difference between species. Dogs were unable to acetylate PAP to APAP in vitro while feline acetylation of PAP in vitro was significantly less than rats and mice (feline Vmax=0.088 ± 0.004 nmol/mg prot/min, apparent rat Vmax=0.63 ± 0.027 nmol/mg prot/min and apparent wildtype mouse Vmax=1.42 ± 0.1 nmol/mg prot/min;  P<0.001).

abstract: Erythrocytes of healthy dogs, cats and rats were exposed in vitro  to APAP, NAPQI and PAP. The only compound that caused significant methemoglobin formation at physiologically relevant concentrations was PAP. The 500 μM PAP-induction of methemoglobin at 60 minutes was greater in feline and canine erythrocytes than in rat and mouse erythrocytes (60.9 ± 2.0%, 67.3 ± 1.9%, 27.1 ± 2.5% and 28.5 ± 1.1% respectively, n=4 in each species) (P<0.01). Methemoglobin induction was significantly higher in erythrocytes from NAT1/NAT2 double knockout mice than wildtype C57BL/6 mice (35.8 ± 1.2% versus 28.5 ± 1.1%; P<0.05). There was significantly more methemoglobin in the lysed erythrocytes of C57BL/6 mice and rats, most likely due to the loss of methemoglobin reductase activity. In dogs and cats, there was significantly more methemoglobin in the intact erythrocytes, likely reflecting prolonged PAP and oxyhemoglobin redox cycling due to lower NAT activity in these species. The NAT1/NAT2 double knockout mice showed no significant difference in methemoglobin production between intact and lysed erythrocytes, possibly due to their high methemoglobin reductase activity but minimal acetylation. These results support our hypothesis that PAP contributes to APAP-induced methemoglobinemia and demonstrates a species difference in the sensitivity to methemoglobin induction. They also support that the decreased ability to re-acetylate PAP to APAP in dogs and cats is one contributing factor to the species sensitivity to APAP-induced methemoglobinemia.

abstract: The in vivo response of C57BL/6 wildtype and C57BL/6  NAT1/NAT2 double knockout mice to hepatotoxic doses of APAP was compared. Both groups had markedly elevated liver enzymes and evidence of centrilobular hepatic necrosis. There were no significant changes in the erythrocyte morphology. One group of knockout mice treated with 250 mg/kg APAP intra-peritoneally (ip) did have a significantly lower hematocrit at 48 hours than wildtype mice treated with the same dose of APAP. However, this was not a consistent change across multiple experiments. These results suggest that deficient  N-acetylation alone is usually insufficient to create susceptibility to methemoglobinemia and hemolytic anemia and that it must be accompanied by either a relative deficiency in the ability to reverse methemoglobinemia or another defect.

abstract: There was significantly higher methemoglobin induction in knockout mice compared to wildtype mice treated with 400 mg/kg PAP (P=0.008). This was due to the significantly higher methemoglobinemia in female knockout mice compared to female wildtype mice (P=0.0047). There was no significant difference in methemoglobinemia in male knockout and wildtype mice. This again supports that a deficiency in N-acetylation would contribute to differing species sensitivity towards methemoglobin induction by the APAP metabolite PAP.

abstract: The H2 blocker cimetidine has been proposed as a treatment for feline and canine APAP toxicity. However, it has been shown that cimetidine inhibits N-acetylation in rats. We examined the  in vitro effect of cimetidine on feline APAP N-acetylation. There was a significant inhibition of acetylation activity, suggesting the possibility that cimetidine could increase the risk of methemoglobinemia.

abstract: Our findings support that the hypothesis that PAP is the metabolite responsible for APAP hematotoxicity and that deficient N-acetylation in dogs and cats is a contributing factor to their high species sensitivity to PAP-induced methemoglobinemia. Furthermore, we have shown that cimetidine inhibits feline N-acetylation of PAP and therefore should not be used in the therapy of feline APAP toxicity.

abstract: Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 68-10, Section: B, page: 6607.


title: The pathophysiology of equine pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction: The role of dopaminergic neurodegeneration, oxidative stress and alpha-synuclein

contributor: Wright, Glenda (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Corey-Slechta, Deborah (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Cribb, Alastair (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Kibenge, Fred (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Miller, Lisa (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Saleh, Tarek (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 216 electronic application/pdf

abstract: Equine pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) is a common disease of aged horses. The pathogenesis of PPID is poorly understood, but a loss of dopaminergic inhibition of the pituitary pars intermedia is suggested. The goal of this thesis was to gain a better understanding of the pathologic mechanisms that result in PPID and to define factors that predispose horses to developing this condition. We hypothesized that PPID results from dopaminergic neurodegeneration of the periventricular dopaminergic neurons in response to accumulation of oxidatively damaged nerve terminal protein, α-synuclein; the same mechanism proposed in nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurodegeneration with Parkinson's disease. Immunohistochemical examination of pituitary and hypothalamic tissue demonstrated a loss of dopaminergic neurons in PPID affected horses compared to age-matched controls. In addition, 3-nitrotyrosine (an oxidative stress marker) and α-synuclein were increased and co-localized in the pars intermedia of horses with disease. These findings suggest a role for nitration of overexpressed α-synuclein in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration in PPID. To assess whether horses developed PPID due to poor antioxidant defense mechanisms, biochemical assays were used to compare accumulation of oxidative damage to systemic and local (pituitary) antioxidant capacity. Accumulation of markers of oxidative stress was not associated with a deficiency in antioxidant capacity. However, we did observe an age-associated decrease in manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) activity and a failure of MnSOD activity to increase in response to oxidative stress. These findings suggest MnSOD may contribute to disease susceptibility. In summary, evidence from our laboratory is consistent with earlier published data indicating PPID is due to a loss of dopaminergic inhibition and furthermore suggests that PPID is a dopaminergic neurodegenerative disease. The role of oxidative stress and α-synclein expression in the pathophysiology of PPID is a new finding. These results suggest the pathogenesis of PPID may be mechanistically similar to that of Parkinson's disease.

abstract: Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 66-12, Section: B, page: 6472.


title: The perinatal domoate rat model: Alterations in behaviors mediated by the mesocorticolimbic pathway

contributor:
Burt, Melissa A. (author)
(Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 167 electronic application/pdf

subject: Biology, Neuroscience

abstract: Glutamate is the primary excitatory amino acid neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system. Glutamate is also critically important in the development of the central nervous system, and in order for normal development to occur, an optimal level of glutamate signalling is needed. Previous studies in our lab have demonstrated that an alteration in the glutamatergic system, through low non-convulsive doses of domoic acid (DOM) and kainic acid (KA) (selective for kainate receptors, a distinct class of glutamate receptors), administered chronically (s.c.) to rats during a critical period of brain development, caused permanent neuroanatomical, neurochemical and behavioural alterations. Such changes include an altered response to a novel, spatial environment, and alterations in hippocampal morphology. The altered response in a novel environment suggests that the rats treated with DOM in these studies had an alteration in systems modulating response to novelty. The dopaminergic system is important in modulating response to both novelty and reward. Glutamate signalling, through kainate receptors, has been shown to modulate dopamine release in the mesocorticolimbic dopamine pathway, and if expression of these receptors is altered by administering DOM, then the result could be alterations in response to novelty and reward. Therefore, the objective of this thesis was to examine the effects of similar low doses of DOM (20μg/kg), administered during a critical period of brain development when the system is undergoing rapid change (postnatal day 8-14), on behaviours specifically designed to assess responses to reward and novelty. It is known that systems undergoing rapid change are the most susceptible to insult, therefore such treatment could result in permanent change to the functional integrity of the nervous system, rather than just producing transient effects.

abstract: The first set of experiments involved the administration of 20μg/kg of DOM to rat pups, over PND 8-14. The rats were then assessed as juveniles and adolescents in the open field. During adulthood, rats were tested in an open field, a sucrose consumption task, the playground maze and in a nicotine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm. Activity levels were altered in the DOM-treated rats in open field behavior at each time point assessed. In the playground maze the DOM-treated male rats had an altered response to novelty, as indicated by an increase in time spent exploring objects during the novelty trial of the playground maze. This was not found in DOM-treated female or control rats. The DOM-treated female rats had an increased sensitivity to nicotine in the nicotine-induced CPP paradigm, with a conditioning to nicotine as indicated by a preference for the nicotine-paired compartment of the test arena. This preference was maintained for at least a month following the final drug-compartment pairing.

abstract: In the second set of experiments, 20 μg/kg of DOM was administered to rat pups over PND 8-14. The rats were assessed in the nicotine-induced CPP paradigm, during late adolescence. Peri-adolescence is a period of increased sensitivity to the rewarding properties of nicotine, and a period of maturation for the mesocorticolimbic pathway. In the DOM-treated rats, there was a decrease in the sensitivity to nicotine in the nicotine-induced CPP, compared to the saline control rats. The DOM-treated rats failed to manifest the age-appropriate preference for the nicotine-paired compartment.

abstract: The results of these studies demonstrate the effects of early DOM exposure on the emergence of behaviors mediated by the mesocorticolimbic pathway, specifically activity levels, response to the rewarding properties of nicotine and response to novelty. These differences are also gender related, and manifested differently at differing stages of development. These results are discussed in light of the putative mechanism of initial KA receptor mediated activation and the link to the DA mesocorticolimbic system.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 46-03, page: 1413.


title: The pharmacological effects of intrathecally administered excitatory amino acid receptor ligands in the formalin test

contributor: Burka, John (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Ireland, Bill (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Donald, Alan (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Amend, Jamie (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 198 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Biology, Neuroscience
Health Sciences, Pharmacology

abstract: The aim of the current studies was to clarify the role of excitatory amino acids (EAAs) in the transmission of nociceptive signals produced by injection of formalin in conscious rats. Studies were conducted by identifying the responses to EAAs administered via chronically implanted intrathecal (i.t.) cannulae. I.t. administration of both GLU and ASP produced significantly increased nociceptive responses when injected prior to 1.0% formalin. Phase 1 (0-10 min) nociception was more sensitive to the spinal administration of both GLU and ASP, while Phase 2 (10-60 min) nociception was only increased following the administration of higher doses of GLU. Thus, GLU and ASP appear to have a role in the spinal processing of nociceptive inputs. I.t. administration of NMDA produced significant hyperalgesia during Phase 1 (0.75 and 1.0 nmol) but was without effect on Phase 2 nociception, suggesting that ASP-induced Phase 1 hyperalgesia was mediated via an NMDA receptor. I.t. administration of aminohydroxymethyl isoxazolapropionic acid (AMPA) or the EAA metabotropic receptor agonist (1S,3R)-1-aminocyclopentane-1,3-dicarboxylic acid (tACPD) were without effect on formalin-induced nociception in either Phase. I.t. administration of both kainic acid (KA) and domoic acid (DOM) prior to 2.5% formalin produced significant antinociceptive effects. The selective low-affinity KA receptor antagonist NS-102 significantly reversed KA-and DOM-induced antinociception indicating that the antinociception produced by both KA and DOM was mediated via low-affinity KA receptors. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 36-02, page: 0526.

abstract: Adviser: R. A. R. Tasker.


title: The physiological response of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) to sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) infection and the effects of hydrogen peroxide treatment

contributor: Sims, David (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Whyte, Shona (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Brimacombe, Michael (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Conboy, Gary (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 102 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Biology, Zoology
Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture

abstract: The physiological response of Atlantic salmon to the stress caused by sea lice infection was examined. Fish were infected with copepods, resulting in an average infection of 106 sea lice per fish (range: 15–285). The infected salmon were sampled 6 times over a 29 d time period and blood samples were measured for cortisol, glucose, electrolytes, T3 and T 4 concentrations, as well as hematocrit.

abstract: Hydrogen peroxide has been used as a method for sea lice removal. Although it has been demonstrated to remove sea lice relatively effectively, it was necessary to focus on its impacts on the host salmonid.

abstract: Short-term exposure to a hydrogen peroxide bath (>750 ppm) has been shown to effectively remove sea lice. Smoltified salmon were exposed to four possible treatments (0, 1000, 1250, and 1500 ppm. hydrogen peroxide) for 20 min at 10°C. Blood samples were taken for cortisol, glucose, electrolytes, and protein concentrations, as well as hematocrit. Trial 1 examined both the acute and chronic stress response of salmon to hydrogen peroxide exposure. Trial 2 was conducted using S1 and S2 fish to determine if the stress response which resulted from hydrogen peroxide exposure would increase susceptibility of the fish to sea lice infection. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 41-02, page: 0502.

abstract: Advisers: John Burka; Dave Speare.


title: The policy and the principal: Caring Places to Learn /Safe School Environment and the role of effective administrative leadership in creating safe intermediate school environments in the Eastern School District of Prince Edward Island

contributor:
Crawford, John Bernard (author)
(Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 174 electronic application/pdf

subject: Education, Administration

abstract: In 1999, a new violence reduction policy called Caring Places to Learn/Safe School Environment was introduced to every school within the Eastern School District of Prince Edward Island. This study evaluated the methods by which the principals of the district's five largest intermediate schools have promoted this policy through awareness, implementation, and enforcement. Areas of review include an examination of effective policy characteristics such as communication, fairness, consistency, and meaningful consequence. This is complemented with a discussion of important principal strategies such as maintaining visibility, providing teacher support, communicating with stakeholders, and responding to students fairly and consistently. Information was collected through in-depth interviews, and the findings indicate a heightened awareness of policy objectives among administrators, an increased communication between principals, staff, students, and parents, and a practical interpretation of policy procedures in accordance with the factors surrounding each violent incident that occurs. The efficacy of the policy is questioned, the possibilities for future research are presented, and the educational implications of combining good policy and effective administrative strategies are discussed in detail.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 42-02, page: 0367.

abstract: Adviser: Gerry Hopkirk.


title: The relationship between involvement in high school sport and academic achievement

contributor:
McIsaac, Dale Edwin (author)
Liu, Xiufeng (Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 74 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Education, Secondary
Recreation

abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between involvement in high school sport and academic achievement of students in Prince Edward Island high schools. For the purposes of measuring the indicators within this study the following variables were considered the categorical variables: gender, type of sport, grade level and level of involvement were independent variables. The continuous variable, academic achievement, was the dependent variable. Two specific groups were selected for this study: Those who are involved in school sports and those who are not. A purposeful cluster sampling was utilized to identify an equal number of participants and non-participants.

abstract: Data was collected from PEISAA roster forms to identify athletes and from school data banks for final marks for each term as an indicator of academic achievement. Data was collected on 447 athletes and 447 non-athletes.

abstract: The results of this study show that there is a statistically significance difference in the first term, second term and final marks of students involved in high school sport and those who are not, there is a statistically significant difference between the first term, second term and final marks of males and females who are involved in high school sport, there is no statistical significant difference between the ‘in’ season marks and ‘out of’ season marks of students involved in high school sport, there is no statistical significant difference between the first term, second term and final marks of students involved in team sports and those involved in individual sports and there is no statistical significant difference between the first term, second term and final marks of students involved in high school sport in Grade 10, 11 and 12.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 40-04, page: 0840.

abstract: Adviser: Xiu Feng Liu.


title: Reproductive cycle, spawning and early growth of soft shell clams (Mya arenaria) on Prince Edward Island

contributor: Burton, Shelley (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Spangler, Elizabeth (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: McGladdery, Sharon (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Landry, Thomas (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 144 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Biology, Oceanography
Biology, Zoology
Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture

abstract: Reproductive evaluation of male and female soft shell clams ( Mya arenaria) was investigated using histologic examination of gonads from samples which were collected during spring, summer, and autumn months in the Malpeque Bay and Pinette River areas of Prince Edward Island (PEI) between 1997 and 1999. Clams were classified into 1 of 5 stages, inactive, active, mature, partially spent or completely spent. The data indicated that spawning commences mainly in the month of June and the duration of spawning varies between sites and years.

abstract: Triggers of spawning were examined including water temperature and month of year.

abstract: Several condition indices were tested to determine their accuracy in predicting spawning events. Steamed meat yield, a gravimetric index and a shell condition index were compared to results of histological analysis.

abstract: Larval monitoring was conducted using the plankton pump and plankton net methods to monitor the development of clam larvae in the water and to verify the date of clam spawning. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 42-02, page: 0542.

abstract: Advisers: T. Jeffrey Davidson; Gerald Johnson.


title: Results of a treadmill simulation of field training regimens of three-year-old racing Standardbred pacers

contributor: McNiven, Mary A. (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: McClure, J. Trenton (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Salah, Tarek (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Stãempfli, Henry (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Curtis, Mike (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 79 electronic application/pdf

subject: Biology, Veterinary Science

abstract: Training programs for human athletes have greatly increased in effectiveness by utilizing the findings of exercise physiology studies. In contrast, training regimens of Standardbred horses have changed very little over the past 100 years and few have undergone scientific validation. The purpose of this study was to determine training workload as a percentage of maximal exertion in the Standardbred. This was achieved by profiling the physiologic parameters of individual racetrack training regimens, reproducing the workload on a treadmill in the form of a simulated training exercise test (ST), and then combining the results with those obtained during a maximal standardized exercise test (MAX) in order to obtain an estimation of percentage of maximal effort (%MAX).

abstract: Based on our model, the study horses were training between 78 to 97%HR max and 64 to 91% of maximal oxygen consumption (V˙O2max). The respiratory frequency during the ST was 116% of the MAX. Stride frequency was similar in both tests, although stride length during the ST was only 80% of the MAX. Venous plasma lactate levels were statistically higher post-MAX than post-ST.

abstract: The range in the %V˙O2max between horses reflected the variation in aerobic demand of their respective training regimens compared to their maximal aerobic capacity. Training below 80% HRmax may not maximize the horse's potential, while training above 90% HRmax may predispose the horse to musculoskeletal injury as a result of overworking. It was also concluded that a wide variation in work effort existed in what was considered to be standard training protocol among the horsemen selected for this project. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 38-05, page: 1269.

abstract: Advisers:  Margaret Montgomery; Elizabeth Spangler.


title: Review of the Bluefield High School/Holland College transitions program

contributor:
Canvin, Grant (author)
(Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 73 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Education, Secondary
Education, Curriculum and Instruction

abstract: This thesis was designed to study the effects of the Bluefield High School/Holland College Transitions program and its affects on the career maturity of at-risk high school students. It followed the students' progress throughout the program and compared their career maturity, as measured by the Career Factors Inventory test both at the beginning of the program and at the end of the program. The work of this researcher has determined that an increase in career maturity could not be found, when using the Career Factors Inventory. However, the researcher believes that the program itself should be considered a success due to the number of students who successfully transitioned to post-secondary education upon completion of this program.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 45-03, page: 1164.


title: Rewarming hypothermic piglets with 915 MHz microwave radiation

contributor: Tranquilla, J. (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Ireland, William (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Amend, J. (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Richardson, G. (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 113 electronic application/pdf

subject: Biology, Animal Physiology

abstract: Microwave radiation (MWR), with its ability to penetrate tissue, can provide an efficient means of generating heat within the body. A first trial determined a safe and efficient rate of rewarming using a 915 MHz microwave (MW) unit. Hypothermia was induced in 46 neonatal piglets. Their rectal temperatures were reduced to 25$\sp\circ$C. Piglets were randomly assigned to be rewarmed at the rate of 0.5, 0.75, or 1.0$\sp\circ$C min$\sp{-1}$ using 915 MHz MWR. After being rewarmed to 38$\sp\circ$C, the piglets were returned to the sow and allowed to suckle. It was concluded that the rewarming rate of 1.0$\sp\circ$C min$\sp{-1}$ was the most time efficient and provided a safe and effective treatment for hypothermic piglets. A second trial compared rewarming of hypothermic piglets with MWR vs. infrared radiation (IRR). It was concluded that 915 MHz MW rewarming is a safe and more efficient method for rewarming hypothermic piglets than using the conventional IR lamp. The third trial was performed to evaluate the short-term biological effects following the established rewarming procedures. Blood samples were taken from 16 experimental piglets at birth, after cooling, after rewarming, and at sacrifice. Neither plasma cortisol or glucose levels showed significant differences ($P >$ 0.05) between treatments at any of the four sampling times. However, differences were significant ($P <$ 0.05) within treatments between times. Rewarming treatment did not influence liver glucose or glycogen levels. The percentage are of the adrenal gland zones showed no significant difference ($P <$ 0.05) between treatment groups. It was concluded that rewarming hypothermic piglets with 915 MHz MWR does not appear to cause any detrimental effects to these variables assessed. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 32-05, page: 1344.

abstract: Directeur: L. Bate.


title: Risk factors affecting post-capture health and productivity of impounded American lobsters (Homarus americanus) in Atlantic Canada

contributor: Cawthorn, Rick (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Dohoo, Ian (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Speare, David (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 196 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Biology, Veterinary Science
Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture

abstract: The Canadian lobster industry holds lobsters (Homarus americanus ) in captivity for various periods to supply the market with live product year-round. Mortalities during holding result in considerable losses, estimated at 10 to 15%, per year by the industry. The first part of this study evaluated lobster health variation among fishing boats from different fishing ports located in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island from May 1996 to February 1997. A total of 3,525 lobsters from 99 different boats were tagged and monitored. The second part assessed lobster fishing practices on various boats, and related these practices to lobster vigour measured at the processing plants. A total of 2,191 lobsters landed from 64 boats in 1997 were included, in the study. Lobsters were tagged and their vigour assessed on the boats, at the wharves, and at the time of entry into the processing plants, while fishing and transportation practices were monitored. The third part of this study examined the prevalence of Anophryoides haemophlia  and Aerococcus viridans, causative agents of bumper car disease and gaffkemia respectively, in lobsters caught in the waters of Prince Edward Island during the spring and fall fishing seasons of 1997. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 38-03, page: 0657.

abstract: Advisers:  Larry Hammell; Elizabeth Spangler.


title: Rockin' the boat on a renegade isle: Taiwan's drive to independence

contributor:
McKendrick, Janice (author)
Bartmann, Barry (Thesis advisor)
(Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 159 electronic application/pdf

subject: Political Science, International Law and Relations

abstract: The current cross-Strait conflict between mainland China and Taiwan ( Formosa) has the potential to change the face of international politics. After decades of political uncertainty, the Taiwanese government is giving serious consideration to the idea of declaring the island jurisdiction an independent state. Whether or not this political position stems from continued pressure from the People's Republic of China, or whether there are alternative forces at work, the long term consequences of the Taiwanese people gaining their political independence could be potentially destabilizing for both Asia and the remainder of the world. Instead of the island becoming a shining beacon of democracy for mainland China as some international experts had hoped, Taiwan's transition to democracy has created a less than positive political environment between the two powers.

abstract: The purpose of this research is to examine the nature of cross-Strait relations between China and Taiwan, and to determine the legitimacy of Taiwan's argument, indeed, its claim for independent status within the context of self-determination and contending approaches to sovereign status within the realm of international law.

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 46-03, page: 1320.


title: Role for the pericyte in a model of inflammation an electron microscopic study of the venule wall

subject: Engineering, General

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 40-07.


title: Role of selenium supplementation in the prevention of copper-induced hepatocellular damage in Fischer 344 rats

contributor: Markham, R.J. Frederick (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Cribb, Alastair (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Ikede, Basil (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Kibenge, Frederick (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 186 electronic application/pdf

subject: Health Sciences, Pathology

abstract: Copper (Cu) toxicosis associated with consumption of excess dietary Cu is a well recognized condition in sheep and may have a role in Cu-associated liver diseases in children. The pathogenesis of Cu-induced hepatocellular damage is unknown. Three experiments were conducted in the Fischer 344 rat, a strain that has been proposed as a suitable model to investigate Cu-induced liver disease. The first experiment was designed to investigate the hepatotoxic effects of long-term exposure to excess dietary Cu and the role of selenium (Se) supplementation in the prevention of lipid peroxidation. Weanling male Fischer 344 rats were fed a diet containing 500 ppm Cu with normal Se levels (0.35 ppm), supplemented with 2 ppm Se, or in a Se-deficient diet (<0.2 ppm). Controls included normal diet (18 ppm Cu), Se-supplemented diet, and Se-deficient diet. Five rats per group were killed after 3, 6, and 12 months and their livers were removed for histology, histochemistry, Cu and Se analysis, glutathione peroxidase measurement, and quantification of malondialdehyde (MDA). Copper accumulation was low and morphologic changes were mild in all Cu-loaded rats. Evidence of lipid peroxidation was only observed as an age-related change in all rats after 12 months. In the second experiment, male Fischer 344 rats were fed diets containing 18 (control), 750, 1000, 1250, 1500, and 2000 ppm Cu and killed after 3 months in order to determine the amount of excess dietary Cu necessary to induce hepatocellular injury in this strain. Livers were removed and processed for histology, histochemistry, Cu analysis, and MDA measurement. Hepatic Cu levels were significantly higher in rats receiving more than 1000 ppm. The severity of the histological lesions became more prominent as levels of dietary Cu increased, being significant (p < 0.01) in rats receiving 1,250 ppm Cu and over. However, no significant differences were found for MDA levels between groups. The third experiment was developed to determine the optimal sampling time for evaluating liver damage, and the role of Se supplementation in the prevention of lipid peroxidation. Rats receiving excess (2,000 ppm) dietary Cu with normal Se levels, supplemented with 2 ppm Se, and Se-deficient diet were killed after 4, 8 and 12 weeks. Controls (normal Cu and Se, Se-supplemented and Se-deficient) were also included. Significant morphologic changes (necroinflammatory foci) were observed in all Cu-loaded rats. Apoptosis, which may be related to DNA damage, was a prominent feature in all Cu-loaded rats. These studies demonstrate that compared to other species, very high levels of excess dietary copper are needed to induce liver injury in Fischer 344 rats. This may be due to Cu resistance. Fischer 344 rats fed 1,250 to 2,000 ppm Cu developed morphologic evidence of Cu toxicity without increase in hepatic MDA content suggesting that lipid peroxidation does not play a major role in the pathogenesis of Cu-induced liver injury in the Fischer 344 model. Selenium supplementation did not prevent hepatocellular damage. Further studies are needed to investigate the major mechanisms by which Cu induces hepatocellular damage and to clarify the role of DNA damage in the pathogenesis of Cu-associated liver diseases.

abstract: Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 61-04, Section: B, page: 1886.

abstract: Adviser:  Carmen Fuentealba.


title: Salt compounds as control agents against selected post-harvest tuber diseases of potato

contributor: DeBoer, S.H. (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Hale, Lawrence R. (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 110 electronic application/pdf

subject: Agriculture, Plant Pathology

abstract: Studies were conducted on the in vitro effects of 27 salt compounds and seven commercially available fungicides on mycelial growth of Alternaria alternata, Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium avaneceum, Phytophthora erythroseptica, Phytophthora infestans, Verticillium albo-atrum and  V. dahliae at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Growth media were amended with each compound at three concentrations—0.002 M, 0.02 M, 0.2 M plus an appropriate control.

abstract: Several salt compounds were tested in vitro as growth inhibitors of Erwinia carotovora spp. atroseptica  strains 3, 6, 31, 196, 198 and Erwinia carotovora spp. carotovora (Ecc) strains 23, 24, 59, 61, 71. Studies examining the preventative and curative effects of the most effective compounds were conducted using Ecc 71 as the test pathogen.

abstract: The preventative and curative effects, as well as seed piece phytotoxicity of various salt compounds were tested for their ability to inhibit infection by late blight and pink rot pathogens of potato. Compounds were applied as dips at the concentrations 0.002 M, 0.02 M, 0.2 M respectively. Tubers were inoculated with sporangia of P. infestans or active zoospores of P. erythroseptica. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 43-02, page: 0477.

abstract: Adviser:  R. A. R. Hurta.


title: Selenium fertilizer use on beef cow/calf farms: Effects on calves from birth to weaning

contributor: Donald, Alan (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: McNiven, Mary A. (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Nijjar, Peter (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Ogilvie, Tim (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Winter, Karl (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 105 electronic application/pdf

subject: Agriculture, Animal Culture and Nutrition

abstract: A randomized clinical trial of selenium fertilizer was conducted on 30 beef cow/calf farms on Prince Edward Island, a selenium deficient area of Canada. Selenium-enriched superphosphate fertilizer was top-dressed on all pasture and forage crops on 14 farms in the spring of 1989 and 15 farms in the spring of 1990. The other farms served as controls and received no fertilizer. Calving data including birth weights were collected for all calvings that occurred during the spring of 1990. Pasture and forage samples were collected for selenium analysis in the summer of 1989. Blood samples were obtained for serum selenium determination from a random sample of approximately 20 weaning age calves on each farm. Two hundred day adjusted weaning weights were collected for calves on all study farms. Blood samples were obtained from approximately 20 nursing calves and their dams in the spring of 1990 following winter feeding of home grown forages. Information on calf management and selenium supplementation practices was collected by a personal interview questionnaire in 1989. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 31-03, page: 1111.


title: Selenium supplementation in cattle: Transfer to milk and effect on udder health

contributor: Stryhn, Henrik (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Sanchez, Javier (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Rodriguez-Lecompte, Juan Carlos (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: LeBlanc, Stephen (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Markham, Frederick (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 229 electronic application/pdf

subject: Health Sciences, Epidemiology

subject: Biology, Veterinary Science

abstract: Soils in many regions of the world have low selenium (Se) content due to an uneven distribution of Se in the earth's crust. Selenium deficiency has been associated with a wide range of costly disorders in cattle, such as retained placenta, lowered milk production, reduced growth rate, altered immune responses and reduced disease resistance. Mastitis is likely to provide the most convincing evidence for the influence of Se on disease resistance. The aim of this thesis was to evaluate the effect of Se status and Se supplementation on milk Se concentration, and on indicators of udder health. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of oral Se supplementation on milk Se concentration in cattle indicated that milk Se concentration increased, on average, 0.16 μmol/L, with a significant heterogeneity among studies. North American cows supplemented with Se yeast had higher milk Se concentration when measured approximately 75 d after the beginning of supplementation. This information provided the basis for tailoring daily animal requirements in order to enhance Se intake of consumers of dairy products. Mean cow-level milk Se concentration was considered marginal in 14% of dairy cows from Atlantic Canadian dairy herds. The risk of having a marginal Se status was highest when cows were pastured during the grazing season. Selenium status was not associated with the overall odds of new intramammary infections (IMI) in the dry period. However, new IMI caused by Streptococcus spp. and by other Gram-positive pathogens increased with higher milk Se concentration. Bulk tank milk Se from Canadian herds was not associated with milk production parameters or bulk tank somatic cell count (BTSCC). However, higher values of BTSe were associated with lower risk of being a Staph. aureus-positive herd. In pastured herds in Chile, whole blood activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) increased after Se supplementation beginning 45 days before calving, no matter what source of Se was used. Supplementation did not affect udder health in the subsequent lactation in multiparous cows, indicating that dietary basal Se intake (approximately 20% of the current recommendation) was adequate for preventing subclinical mastitis in pasture-based cows in Southern Chile. The effect of prepartum supplementation with a single injection of barium selenate or organic Se on the risk of IMI and SCC around calving in pastured first-lactation dairy heifers was studied in Chilean dairy herds. Supplementation was accompanied by a reduction in the prevalence of IMI and SCC at calving, but did not affect the risk of new IMI and SCC in milk during the balance of the first month of lactation. In conclusion, milk Se concentration does not appear to be a principal determinant of udder health in Atlantic Canadian dairy herds, or milk production parameters in Canadian dairy herds. However, higher values of BTSe may be associated with lower risk of being a  Staph. aureus-positive herd. In cows raised in pastoral systems in Southern Chile, an intake of approximately 1 mg Se/cow/d was adequate for preventing subclinical mastitis during lactation. However, pre-calving Se supplementation appears beneficial for preventing subclinical mastitis shortly after calving in heifers grazing low Se pastures.

abstract: Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 73-06, Section: B, page: 3443.


title: Sequence analysis of infectious bursal disease virus of serotype 2 and expression of the VP5 cDNA

contributor: Hanna, Paul (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Long, J.R. (Supervisory Committee Member)

contributor: Tasker, R.A.R (Supervisory Committee Member)

format: 189 electronic application/pdf

subject:
Biology, Microbiology
Agriculture, Animal Pathology
Biology, Veterinary Science

abstract: The nucleotide sequences of genome segment A of five strains, and genome segment B of one strain of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) of serotype 1 were previously reported. Comparisons between these sequences and published sequences of three infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV) strains revealed differences that are likely to be connected with virulence and antigenic variation. To further characterize the two serotypes of IBDV, and to more specifically identify the exact sequences involved in antigenic variation and pathogenicity, the genome of serotype 2 IBDV strain OH was cloned, and 3,171 nucleotides of genome segment A cDNA sequence, and 2,767 nucleotides of genome segment B cDNA sequence have been determined for the first time.

abstract: The high degree of conservation between the two IBDV serotypes on genome segment B indicates that most of the biological differences between the two serotypes are due to sequence differences on genome segment A. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

abstract: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 31-04, page: 1628.