19th Annual Workshop/Conference
of the
Association for Biology Laboratory Education (ABLE)
University of Calgary
Calgary, Alberta
June 10-14, 1997
The 19th Annual ABLE Workshop/Conference will be held at the University of Calgary from June 10-14, 1997. At ABLE meetings biologists present interesting and innovative laboratory exercises. This year’s meeting provides 20 hands-on workshops, each approximately 3 hours in duration, mini workshops and tours. Each conferee can participate in up to six major and some mini workshops, and will receive written materials for all major workshops. Social events and tours are also planned.
- Conference Highlights
- Membership in ABLE
- Transportation, Official Carrier, Accommodations, Camping, Food Service, Attire
- Conference Registration, Refund Policy
- Laboratory Workshops
- Mini Workshops
- Conference Social Activities, Tours, ABLE T-Shirt
- City of Calgary, University of Calgary, Areas of Interest in Calgary, Recreation Facilities
Monday, June 9
- ABLE Board meeting: 14:00 – 17:00; 18:30 – 21:30
Tuesday, June 10
- Tour 1: Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology
08:30 – 18:00 - Tour 2: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump 08:30
– 18:00 - Welcoming Reception: University Club
18:00 – 21:00 - Registration 18:00 – 21:00 (at reception)
Wednesday, June 11
- Registration: Science Theatres Lobby
08:00 – 12:00. - Major Workshops: 08:30 – 11:30 and 14:00
– 17:00 - Special Lecture: “Molecular Farming:
Crop Diversification through Genetic Engineering” 11:30 – 12:30 - Mini Workshops: 12:30 – 14:00
Thursday, June 12
- Major Workshops: 08:30 – 11:30 and 14:00
– 17:00 - Board of Directors Photograph: 11:15
- Participants Group Photograph: 11:30
- Mini Workshops: 12:00 – 14:00
- Annual General Meeting: 17:15
Friday, June 13
- Major Workshops: 08:30 – 11:30 and 14:00
– 17:00 - Mini Workshops: 11:30 – 14:00
- Conference Dinner – Rafter Six Ranch:
17:45
Saturday, June 14
- Tour 3: Bow River Valley Corridor 08:00
– 19:00 - Tour 4: Plateau Mountain – Front Range
of Canadian Rockies 08:00 – 18:00
Calgary is located in the foothills of southern Alberta against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies.
Calgary’s greatest resource is its 767,000 people – more than 66 per cent of whom have post secondary education, well above the national average. A full spectrum of educational opportunities is available through The University of
Calgary, Mount Royal College, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and the Alberta College of Art. With the nation’s third highest concentration of head offices, the city is an important centre for the oil and gas industry, international business, communications, transportation, tourism, finance, agriculture, manufacturing and high-tech industries.A vibrant arts community thrives with many high quality theatre and dance companies, philharmonic and opera societies, art galleries, museums and musical groups.
Nearby are Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country, offering some of the world’s finest skiing, golfing, mountain climbing, hiking and camping, and UNESCO World Heritage sites and Head-Smashed-In
Buffalo Jump. The city has world-class recreational facilities, a legacy of the 1988 Olympic Winter Games, and a full range of summer facilities. More than 284 kilometres of paved bike paths link the city’s four quadrants.For more information, see the City of Calgary web site.
The University of Calgary began as a branch campus of the University of Alberta Faculty of Education in 1945, and gained full autonomy as a degree-granting institution in 1966. Today it is a dynamic research and teaching University with 16 faculties and more than 60 academic departments, situated on a beautifully landscaped 123 hectare campus located in the northwest of the City of Calgary. The 1988 Olympic Winter Games held in Calgary left the University a legacy of outstanding recreational and sports facilities, including the continent’s only enclosed speed skating oval.
More than 22,000 students from every province and territory and 80 countries attend the University. There are over 2,000 graduate students within the 42 teaching units of the Faculty of Graduate Studies. The U of C employs some 5,000 full-time equivalent academic and support staff from both operating and research grants. It is the City’s fourth largest employer.
Calgary has an international airport which is served by major Canadian airlines as well as several other major
carriers. The most convenient access to the University campus from the airport is by taxi for about $20.00.Car rentals can be arranged through major companies, such as Hertz, Avis, Budget and others. Advanced booking is advised. Parking is available on campus for a fee, and it can be arranged at the Housing Registration Office when you check in.
While at the Conference, downtown Calgary is accessible by the Light Rail Transit (CTrain). Trains travel between The University and the City core frequently but do not run after midnight except on Saturday.
Official Carrier:
For North American Delegates, Canadian Airlines International, American Airlines and their regional partners have been selected as the Official Carrier for the ABLE Conference. Canadian Airlines’ Conventionair Reservations Office will guarantee you 15% off the full economy fare when you travel with them to ABLE. Canadian delegates will
be guaranteed savings of 35% off the full economy fares within Canada per availability. Certain purchase requirements apply. American delegates will be guaranteed 10% of the full economy fare or 5% of any applicable fare at the time of reservation.Advance purchase fares offer even greater savings. Should you qualify, you will be offered the lowest fare at the time of booking (certain purchase requirements apply).
Simply contact Canadian Airlines’ Conventionair office toll-free 1-800-665-5554 or American Airlines 1-800-433-1790, and advise them you will be attending the ABLE conference in Calgary. Our file registration number is: MJ204F7.
When making your reservations through your local travel agent. please ensure they register your booking with Canadian Airlines’ Conventionair Office or American Airlines.
Canadian Plus and AAdvantage members continue to earn valuable mileage points with Canada’s best frequent flyer program.
The University of Calgary, Summer Conference Housing, offers single or double occupancy rooms, and suites. Prices range from $28 per person per day to $41. A limited number of rooms are also being held at the Village
Park Inn, near the campus [phone: (403) 289-0241 or fax: (403) 289-4645]. These rooms are $79 per night, single or double occupancy. Rates are subject to change and applicable taxes. Make your reservations early by booking with the University Summer Conference Housing using the form included in this program. If you wish to stay at the Village Park Inn or other hotel of your choice, please book the room directly with them. Space and rates for both campus housing and hotel are not guaranteed after May 20th. All reservations must include a deposit in the amount of one night’s accommodation. If you require additional information on hotels, please feel free to contact Conference Management Services at The University of Calgary (403) 220-7101.Camping
The only campground in the vicinity of Calgary is the KOA, approximately 8 km from the University. Their phone number is (403) 288-0411.
Food Service
The Alberta Room, located within the Residence complex, is the main cafeteria on campus. There are numerous smaller snack shops across campus. The main food court of MacEwan Student Centre features Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Delicatessen, muffins and coffee outlets. On the lower level is Max’s Cafe. Delegates are on their own for all lunches at the Conference. For lunch meetings, arrangements have been made for a food kiosk near the meeting rooms. A detailed listing of Calgary restaurants will be included in the registration package provided for each delegate.
Attire
At an elevation of 1031 metres above sea level, Calgary’s summers are usually dry and warm during the long daylight hours and cool in the evenings. Conference participants should be prepared for cool and wet weather. Bring sweaters and jackets. There are occasional high UV index ratings, and sun screen is recommended for extended exposure and especially for field trips. We suggest you bring good walking shoes and sweaters, jackets or windbreakers for all field trips.
Calgary is a rather informal city, and people dress informally for most events. We suggest you wear comfortable casual clothing for the workshops, dress informally for the reception and wear jeans to the Conference Dinner at Rafter Six Ranch.
Registration for the 1997 ABLE conference at the University of Calgary is now full. We look forward to seeing you at the 1998 conference to be held at Florida State University, Tallahassee, June 9-13. For further information about ABLE ’98 contact Dr. Ann Lumsden (lumsden@bio.fsu.edu). Conference and Housing registration forms can be obtained directly from the conference coordinator: Margaret
Anne Stroh. Please remit separate payments for each, and return them at your earliest convenience. Payment must accompany a completed registration form in order for it to be processed. Please submit a separate conference registration form for each person; blank registration forms may be photocopied. Submit a cheque or money order (payable to The University of Calgary) in Canadian funds or Visa/Mastercard number, along with the completed registration form.Space to attend the conference is limited to about 160 participants. Space will be assigned in the order that registration forms are received, with priority given to ABLE members, whose dues are paid for 1996-97 by April 15. Deadline for registration is April 15, 1997. Registration fee is $170 (Canadian) for ABLE members
and includes the welcoming reception, workshops, workshop documents and refreshment breaks. Non-members registration fee is $190. After April 15, 1997, there is an additional fee of $25 for late registration. Accompanying persons may register for an additional $35.Tours and Conference Dinner tickets are not included in the registration fees. These must be purchased separately prior to the Conference.
New Members: Please indicate your first conference attendance by checking the box in the upper right corner of the registration form.
Inquiries regarding Conference Registration should be directed to Margaret Anne Stroh, Conference Coordinator, The University of Calgary, 1833 Crowchild Trail, NW, Calgary, Alberta T2M 4S7. Phone: (403) 220-6229, fax: (403) 284-4184 or Email: mastroh@acs.ucalgary.ca
Direct Program inquiries to Dr. Chuck Curry, Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, T2N 1N4, phone: (403) 220-6697, fax: (403) 289-9311, E-mail: clcurry@acs.ucalgary.ca
Refund Policy
In the unfortunate event that registration must be cancelled by the registrant, fees already paid less $45.00 handling costs will be refunded provided the cancellation notice is received by Conference Management Services on or before May 15, 1997. No refunds will be issued after May 15, 1997.
Registration priority will be given to persons who are current (1996-97) members of ABLE as of April 15, 1997.
Membership fee is $35 (US) annually and includes the Conference Proceedings and the Newsletter, Labstracts. To join or renew your membership, contact:
Nancy Rosenbaum, ABLE membership chairperson
Biology Department
Box 208104
Yale University
New Haven, CT 06520-8104
Email: nancy.rosenbaum@yale.edu
Phone: (203) 432-3864
Fax: (203) 432-3854
This year for the first time there will be an official ABLE T-SHIRT.
The shirt colour is navy with the Calgary logo (as seen on the front cover of the brochure) in white. The cost, paid in advance with the registration, is $15.00. Order on the Registration Form which can be obtained directly from the conference coordinator: Margaret Anne Stroh.
- Patching and Capping: Plasma Membrane Protein Redistribution (Workshop 1)
- Sampling, Density Estimation and Spatial Relations (2)
- Using Yeast Fermentation as a Model for the Scientific Method (3)
- Enzyme Kinetics (4)
- Plant Transformation by lux+ Agrobacterium (5)
- The C-Fern: A Plant for Teaching Biology and Student Research (6)
- Developing Course and Laboratory Homepages for the World Wide Web (7)
- Enhancing your Biology Course and Lab WWW Pages with the Latest in htm, CGI, and JavaScript Features (8)
- Measuring Genetic Variability in Natural Populations by Allozyme Electrophoresis (9)
- Nonradioactive Screening of an M13 Phage Library for Eucaryotic Microsatellite DNA (10)
- Pungency Assessment in Onions (11)
- What Can be Learned about Forest Dynamics and Succession from the Age Distribution of Trees? (12)
- The Mammalian Masticatory Apparatus: An Introductory Comparative Exercise (13)
- Forest Fragmentation in the Rocky Mountains (14)
- Variability and Selection in Natural Populations of Wood Lice (15)
- Signal Transduction and the Control of the Cell Cycle in Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae): A Collaborative Laboratory Exercise (16)
- Use of Impedance Pneumography in Exercise Physiology (17)
- Factors Affecting the Spread of Disease in Human Populations (18)
- Bacterial Gene Transfer (19)
- A Beginner’s Guide to the Study of Plant Structure (20)
Workshops: Wednesday, June 11
All workshops presented 08:30 – 11:30 and 14:00 – 17:00.
1- Patching and Capping: Plasma Membrane Protein
RedistributionWarren Gallin and Kimberley Christopher, Dept. of
Biological Sciences, University of AlbertaThis exercise provides students with practical experience in
cell manipulation and immunofluorescent staining, and applies
the Fluid Mosaic model of membrane structure. It is based on work
by Taylor et al. (Nature New Biology 233: 225-229). Mouse spleen
cells are approximately 40% B cells, which express membrane-associated
IgM. When this IgM is cross-linked by FITC-anti-mouse Ig the crosslinked
proteins form small patches independent of metabolic energy. The
patches are collected into a cap at one end of the cell in an
energy-dependent process. The FITC on the cross-linking antibody
allows one to visualize the process using a fluorescence microscope.2 – Sampling, Density Estimation and Spatial
RelationsMaggie Haag, Dept. of Biological Sciences, University
of AlbertaIn most field and laboratory experiments on populations, it
is often difficult to deal with the total population; instead
we sample. For the sample to be truly representative of the entire
population, it must be unbiased and it must be adequate in size.
In this lab, we will consider both of these features of sampling
while employing techniques used to estimate density and determine
the spatial relationships among the organisms in the population
being tested. In the first part of the lab we will use the technique
of mark/recapture of fathead minnows to estimate absolute population
density. In the second part, zooplankton samples collected previously
will be processed to determine the densities of the two major
zooplankton groups (cladocerans and copepods) using the quadrat
method.3 – Using Yeast Fermentation as a Model for
the Scientific MethodHelen K. Pigage, D.A., Milton C. Neilsen, Lt. Col.,
USAF and Michele M. Greeder, M.S., United States Air Force Academy,
ColoradoThe BioLab computer simulation supports two laboratory exercises
giving students in a large introductory level biology course more
of the flavor of science than descriptive exercises. Our goals
include: (1) student experimentation based on the scientific method
with repetition; (2) reinforcement of subject matter; (3) student
production of a scientific paper with instructor input and student
revision; and, (4) student analysis and synthesis of results from
both the experiment and computer simulation. BioLab addresses
and reinforces several specific desired learning outcomes (DLOs)
for the introductory biology course for both Biology majors and
nonmajors at the United States Air Force Academy.Carl A. Stiefbold, Biology Department, University
of OregonThe objectives of this laboratory exercise are to understand
the principles of an enzyme assay using a spectrophotometer, to
understand why the rate of an enzyme reaction reaches a maximum
velocity (Vmax) and to understand how the affinity of an enzyme
for its substrate (Km) is measured. Students first view computer
animation software depicting generalized enzyme catalysis. This
is followed by an introduction to absorption spectroscopy and
the enzyme assay for b-galactosidase using ONPG as a substrate.
Students then estimate Km for b-galactosidase by measuring reaction
rates at four substrate concentrations. Lastly, using another
computer application, students measure Km and Vmax for wild type
b-galactosidase enzyme and by measuring Km and Vmax of mutant
enzymes determine whether the mutations are in the substrate binding
site or catalytic site of the mutant enzymes.5 – Plant Transformation by lux+ Agrobacterium
Anna Szenthe and William J. Page, Dept. of Biological
Sciences, University of AlbertaThis laboratory exercise studies the basic biotechnology technique
of Agrobacterium-mediated in vivo transformation
of N. tabacum cv. SR1 leaf explant with plant expression
vector containing an auxin-regulated promoter fused to bacterial
luciferase marker gene. Leaf explants will be regenerated on callus
generation medium containing auxin, cytokinin and selection for
recombinant transgenic callus formation. After determining the
soluble cell protein content of callus by Bradford Dye-Binding
protein assay, regenerated calli will be assayed for luciferase
gene expression by a luminescence photometer and the specific
activity will be expressed by mv per minute per mg protein.6 – The C-Fern: A Plant for Teaching
Biology and Student ResearchLeslie G. Hickok and Thomas R. Warne, Dept. of Botany,
University of TennesseeThe C-Fern is a simple model plant system based upon
the homosporous fern Ceratopteris richardii. The C-Fern
has a rapid and easily manipulated life cycle that makes it ideal
for incorporation into a wide variety of laboratory situations.
The small gametophytes afford opportunities for direct observation
of developmental events, including spore germination, sexual differentiation,
swimming spermatozoids, fertilization and embryo development.
The small size and ability to culture large numbers of gametophytes
permits easy acquisition of an abundant amount of quantitative
data. We will illustrate culture techniques and use of the C-Fern
in several investigations that highlight development and Mendelian
genetics.7 – Developing Course and Laboratory Homepages
for the World Wide WebGlenn Bauer and Glenn MacDougall, Dept. of Biology,
St. Michael’s College, and Dept. of Biology, Acadia UniversityThis workshop will teach participants how to prepare Biology
course homepages, with an emphasis towards putting lab information,
assignments, and graphic images onto a WWW type server. While
it is becoming increasingly easier with new software to put pages
on the web, it is important for educators to understand both the
potential and the limitations of delivering course material in
a digital format. In this workshop we will show the basics of
web page construction which will include linking to other pages,
using digital images, and how to put material on a server. In
Calgary we will be working in a PC computer lab (running Windows
95). We will however be using methods and software that are platform
independent, so participants will learn skills that will be useful
on any type of computer or Network environment. This session is
directed towards individuals who have little or no experience
with webpage construction.
Workshops: Thursday, June 12
All workshops presented 08:30 – 11:30 and 14:00 – 17:00; except
workshop 12 which is presented only 12:00 – 17:00.8 – Enhancing your Biology Course and Lab WWW
Pages with the Latest in htm, CGI, and JavaScript FeaturesGlenn MacDougall and Glenn Bauer, Dept. of Biology,
Acadia University, and Dept. of of Biology, St. Michael’s CollegeThis workshop directed at individuals with basic htm and web
page construction experience, will demonstrate how to enhance
your course webpages. We will demonstrate techniques in a platform
independent manner such that you can add tutorials, quizzes, embedded
sound, video, image maps and JavaScript to your course homepages.
We will discuss the potential and limitations of enhanced webpages
and the basic differences between the internet and your own campus
intranet. We will also show you how to optimize your pages for
delivery in either situation. Templates, and evaluation copies
of current shareware applications will be given to participants
and will be used during the session to prepare web pages. This
session, while not advanced, is not really appropriate for individuals
who have little or no background in webpage construction.9 – Measuring Genetic Variability in Natural
Populations by Allozyme ElectrophoresisJames M. Bader, Dept. of Biology, Case Western Reserve
UniversityThis laboratory investigates the genetic variability in three
populations of bark beetles (Scolytidae). Cellulose acetate
electrophoresis is used as a rapid procedure for the separation
of allozymes from whole organisms or tissue homogenates, allowing
the screening of hundreds of individuals in a three hour laboratory
period. Interpretation of gels is straightforward for many enzymes,
and calculation of intra- and interpopulation variability is accomplished
with a standard spreadsheet program. From this data, inferences
can be made regarding the relatedness of the populations and the
extent of gene flow between them.10 – Nonradioactive Screening of an M13
Phage Library for Eucaryotic Microsatellite DNAWilliam C. Clark, Dept. of Biological Sciences, University
of AlbertaThis laboratory attempts to introduce biology students to the
basic molecular biology involved in producing a DNA library in
a large population of bacteriophage and screening them, following
plaque lifts, for a specific target sequence by hybridization
to a nonradioactive (biotinylated in this case) DNA probe. By
using “random” mammalian genomic DNA fragments for cloning in
an M13 vector and probing with a microsatellite DNA repeated
sequence, we ensure the recovery of at least some positive clones
and are able to demonstrate the power of the technique. Students
get experience titering phage on E. coli and purifying
single plaque isolates (clones) for further analysis.11 – Pungency Assessment in Onions
William M. Randle, Dept. of Horticulture, and Catherine
A. Teare Ketter, Division of Biological Sciences, University of
GeorgiaThe purpose of this investigation is to provide students with
experience assaying levels of pyruvate in common onion varieties
and onion allies. Additionally, students are asked to modify the
protocol to investigate one of several hypotheses relating pyruvate
concentration to (1) Allium variety, (2) growth medium
sulfur concentration, (3) plant tissue type, or (4) cultivation
temperature.An explanation of onion flavor chemistry in included.
The laboratory protocol employed is the industrial standard used
by commercial onion growers to determine the grade of onion “sweetness”.
Pyruvate concentration is estimated from a standard curve generated
using known pyruvate standards. Modifications for assaying soluble
sugars will be included.12 – What Can be Learned about Forest Dynamics
and Succession from the Age Distribution of Trees?Edward A. Johnson and Sheri L. Gutsell, Dept. of
Biological Sciences, University of CalgaryNOTE: This workshop, a field trip to The University
of Calgary field station in the Kananaskis Valley of the Rocky
Mountains, is only offered at one time. Participants depart
the campus at 12:00 and return at 17:00. A box lunch will be provided
on the bus. Dress for mountain weather and wear walking/hiking
shoes.Temperate forest trees, because they produce annual rings, allow
ecologists to gain an understanding of forest dynamics and succession.
In this lab we will demonstrate that by coring trees and measuring
their basal diameter, the age distribution of live trees, their
height growth rates and their age-diameter relationships can be
determined. Cross-dating techniques will also be used to show
how dead trees can be incorporated into the age distribution.
The lab will emphasize the limitations of using only live trees
in interpreting forest dynamics and succession.13 – The Mammalian Masticatory Apparatus:
An Introductory Comparative ExerciseAnthony P. Russell, Dept. of Biological Sciences,
The University of CalgaryExposure to well-circumscribed and tractable exercises is an
important part of the training of undergraduates in comparative
anatomy. Use of fresh, rather than preserved, material provides
for greater appreciation of functional systems. The masticatory
apparatus of mammals provides an example of how a musculoskeletal
complex can be studied to introduce the basic principles of comparative
anatomy and functional morphology. This exercise is based upon
fresh rabbit heads (reclaimed from physiology laboratories) and
explores how muscle architecture influences the functioning of
the system, and is enhanced by a study of other functional masticatory
groups as outlined by W.F. Turnbull (1970, Fieldiana Geol. 18:
149-356).
Workshops: Friday, June 13
All workshops presented 08:30 – 11:30 and 14:00 – 17:00.
14 – Forest Fragmentation in the Rocky Mountains
Rebecca Reed, Dept. of Zoology, University of Wisconsin
and Jane Beiswenger, Dept. of Zoology and Physiology, and Dept.
of Botany, University of WyomingForest fragmentation represents a serious threat to global biodiversity
of both terrestrial and aquatic species. It may also be detrimental
to human health, recreational opportunities, and economic wellbeing.
This laboratory activity heightens awareness of these phenomena.
Specifically, we seek to have our students understand the process
and the effects of forest fragmentation and its relation to timber
harvesting practices. Students learn how these practices have
changed from decade to decade by calculating cumulative changes
in the rate of timber harvesting, the patch sizes of remaining
forest, the amount of forest edge created, and the impact of roads.
The students discuss the potential impacts of each aspect of clearcutting
on the forest organisms and share ideas about the pros and cons
of presentday harvesting techniques.15 – Variability and Selection in Natural
Populations of Wood LiceRudi C. Berkelhamer, Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary
Biology, University of California, IrvineStudents measure a variety of morphological and behavioral traits
for locally collected wood lice. They characterize the variability
of these traits, make predictions about relationships among them,
and hypothesize about the effect of predation on trait variability.
They test their predictions by performing and analyzing the outcome
of a simulated predation experiment. Each group has a choice of
traits to study and analyze leading to a variety of hypotheses
and predictions being tested. This simple and inexpensive exercise
helps students to appreciate the variability present in natural
populations and to understand that variability is crucial to evolution
by natural selection.16 – Signal Transduction and the Control of
the Cell Cycle in Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae): A Collaborative
Laboratory ExerciseBarbara Hoopes, Nancy Pruitt, Sherry Brooks and Kathleen
Baise, Dept. of Biology, Colgate UniversityThis investigative laboratory exposes students to signal transduction.
Haploid yeast cells each produce a mating factor that activates
a signal transduction pathway. Activation results in cell cycle
arrest and increased transcription of genes involved in mating.
Yeast cells containing mutations in two portions of the signal
transduction pathway are transformed with a plasmid coupling b-galactosidase
activity to transcription of a mating gene. Cells are assayed
with and without mating factor for increased transcription and
cell cycle arrest. The effect of mating factor on these two processes
allows determination of what steps in signal transduction are
affected by the mutations.17 – Use of Impedance Pneumography in Exercise
PhysiologyConnie Brewer and Mary Gray, Dept. of Biology, Purdue
UniversityThis laboratory exercise investigates the changes in the cardiovascular
and respiratory systems that occur with exercise. Students initially
record heart rate, systolic blood pressure, respiratory rate and
depth, and skin temperature for a subject at rest. The subject
is then asked to do a timed stepping exercise. The parameters
are subsequently measured at the end of exercise and during the
recovery period. The impedance pneumograph provides a convenient
method of recording the rate and depth of respiration using two
trans-chest electrodes. This technique is also applicable to other
mammals (i.e. rats). Data acquisition at the workshop will be
done with Macintosh computers and Maclabs, although other systems
may be utilized.18 – Factors Affecting the Spread of Disease
in Human PopulationsNancy L. Goodyear, Sciences Division, Bainbridge
CollegeThe object of this exercise is to teach students how the spread
of disease is affected by factors such as density patterns, the
chance for re-infection, and the presence or absence of carriers.
Students use a computer simulation to set up a particular disease
situation of human populations. Data is collected and then, analyzed.
No living organisms are used. This exercise incorporates not only
writing and analyzing skills, but also computing and graphing
skills. In addition, students are introduced to the difficulties
of controlling disease.John Mordacq and Roberta Ellington, Northwestern
UniversityThis laboratory investigates one form of genetic recombination
in bacteria. This process, called conjugation, occurs when one
bacteria transfers DNA to another bacteria. Two different strains
of Escherichia coli are used: an Hfr strain with the F
factor integrated into the bacterial chromosome acting as the
donor, and an F- strain lacking the fertility factor acting as
a recipient. The F- strain is auxotrophic for certain genetic
markers and the ordered transfer of markers from the Hfr strain
to the F- strain is used to map gene locations on the bacterial
chromosome.20 – A Beginner’s Guide to the Study of Plant
StructureEdward C. Yeung, Dept. of Biological Sciences, The
University of CalgaryAn understanding of the basic construction of the plant body
is essential to the study of plant biology. The purpose of the
laboratory exercise is to demonstrate a variety of simple methods
that would allow students to study plant structures. The following
procedures will be introduced to the participants: (1) free
hand sectioning procedures; (2) histological and histochemical
staining of fresh hand sections; (3) maceration of specimens to
show features of plant cells; and (4) autofluorescence characteristics
of plant cells and tissues for the purpose of identification.All
these are low cost exercises and yet the structural organization
of plant cells, tissues, and organs can readily be studied.
- Motivating first-year biology students to use microscope and
the scientific method - Conducting a regional ABLE workshop
- An investigative approach to the study of phagocytosis in Tetrahymena
- NIH- Image 1.60 – A cost effective image analysis software
for undergraduate educational purposes - Using an investigative approach to a laboratory exercise on
the genetics of Indian corn - Family-genetics – What will your children be like?
- Building biological models with the BioQUEST Genetics Construction
Kit - Protein and nucleic acid analysis by computer as a teaching
tool for undergraduate molecular biology - In vivo and In vitro development of the chicken heart
- Computer and hands-on simulation of Mendelian genetics
- How to reduce the level of formaldehyde in the teaching lab
- How can computer software help you construct exams – use of
LXR-test - European corn borer as a model organism
- Population genetics of coat characteristics in domestic cats
“Molecular Farming: Crop Diversification through Genetic
Engineering” Maurice Moloney, Department of Biological Sciences,
The University of Calgary.Wednesday 11:30 – 12:30, Science Theatres 143
Dr. Moloney is a plant molecular biologist who studies seed development
and regulation of expression of storage protein genes especially
those encoding oleosins, proteins which are tightly attached to
oil bodies in a wide range of seeds, particularly Brassica napus
(Canola), a major Canadian oilseed. Seed-specific gene expression
is being exploited in applications including the production of proteins
of pharmaceutical or industrial interest in seeds. A variety of
genetically engineered plants have been produced that express unusual
(non-plant) proteins in their seeds. These seeds may be used in
molecular farming.
Reception
A Welcome Reception and Buffet, sponsored jointly by the Deans
of the Faculties of Science of The University of Calgary and University
of Alberta, will be held on Tuesday evening, June 10 from 1800 to
2100 in the University Club, MacEwan Student Centre.Conference Dinner – Barbecue at Rafter
Six RanchOn Friday evening, June 13, board deluxe motor coaches at 17:45
to travel back in time to the Rafter Six Ranch in the Front Range
of the Canadian Rockies along the Kananaskis River. This has been
a working ranch since the late 1800’s when Colonel Walker of the
N.W.M.P. used it to run horses and do the logging for Fort Calgary.
In the 1940’s the Ranch was the location for Marilyn Monroe’s first
movie, “River of no Return”. Since then it has been the site for
other movies, such as Disney’s “Grizzly Adams”, and numerous television
shows. The Ranch which is bordered on the east by the Stoney Indian
Reserve is a 45 minute drive west of Calgary. Price ($45) includes
meal and transportation.Tours
Tours begin and end at the main entrance of the University Residence Halls.
Tour 1: Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology and Badlands of Alberta
Leader: Anthony Russell, Department of Biological Sciences, The University
of CalgaryDate: Tuesday, June 10, 08:30 – 18:00 Cost: $40.00, includes transportation, snack and admission On the trip from Calgary you will drive across prairie grasslands
into the semi-desert conditions of the Red Deer River valley. There
will be a short stop at Horseshoe Canyon along the way to see vegetation
relics of a time when the River flowed through the canyon. Here
you will also see the geological formations from which much of Alberta’s
Upper Cretaceous Palaeontological heritage has been retrieved. You
will learn about the circumstances in which deposition and fossilization
occurred. The Royal Tyrrell Museum, situated within the spectacular badlands of
the Red Deer River, is a major research and exhibition centre and
one of the largest palaeontological museums in the world. It is
operated by Alberta Community Development and encompasses 11,200
square metres. Staff will provide an hour tour of the museum collection.
Afterward, you may spend more time visiting the Museum, or, with
the leader, explore the badlands terrain surrounding the museum
for a look at the plants and the geological history of the area.
Walking shoes, light clothing and sun screen are needed. This is
a full day trip. Lunch may be purchased on site.Tour 2: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre
Leader: Brian Kooyman, Department of Archaeology, The University
of CalgaryDate: Tuesday, June 10, 08:30 – 18:00 Cost: $40.00, includes transportation, snack and admission For over 5700 years, Plains Indians drove massive herds of bison
to their death by stampeding them over the fifty foot cliff at Head-Smashed-In
Buffalo Jump. According to legend, the Jump was named 150 years
ago when a young brave who wanted to witness the plunge of the buffalo,
stood under the shelter of the cliff to watch the great beasts fall.
The hunt was unusually good that day, and the pile of bodies crushed
him. His people found him with his head-smashed-in. Now recognized
as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jump is among the largest and
best preserved jump sites on the western plains and a remarkable
testimony to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Buffalo Hunting
Culture.The Interpretive Centre is an impressive seven-storey structure
built into the very cliff where the buffalo fell. It documents the
fascinating era of the Plains Indians’ history.The Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre is a 1½
hour bus drive south of Calgary. On the way you will travel through
prairie grasslands and irrigated agricultural land, south to the
area of Fort McLeod, Alberta. Bring a sweater or jacket, and wear
walking shoes. This is a full day trip. Lunch may be purchased on
site.Tour 3: The Bow River Valley Corridor
Leader: Len Hills, The Department of Geology and Geophysics, The
University of CalgaryDate: Saturday, June 14, 08:00 – 19:00 Cost: $45.00, includes transportation, snack and lunch This trip begins at Calgary with a discussion of the geological
events which have formed the current landscape. From Calgary the
journey proceeds westward along the Bow River through Banff and Lake Louise to Bow Glacier and Bow Lake,
the source of the River. The natural history of the river corridor
will be presented, and there will be opportunities at the stops
to see spring blooming wild flowers, glaciers and the geological
formations of the front and main ranges of the Canadian Rockies.
Wear walking shoes and warm clothing. Sun screen is recommended.
This is a full day trip with transportation, lunch and snack provided.Tour 4: Plateau Mountain – Front Range Tour
Leader: C.C. Chinnappa, Department of Biological Sciences, The University
of CalgaryDate: Saturday, June 14, 08:00 – 18:00 Cost: $40.00, includes transportation, snack and lunch From Calgary the tour will head south through Black Diamond and
Longview (site of the early oil wells in western Canada), past grain
fields and ranches, to Chain Lakes where we turn west and drive
over Hailstone Butte into the Front Ranges of the Rockies and to
the summit of Plateau Mountain, an ecological reserve. There is
stunning scenery, unusual frost-heave polygons and other permafrost
features in a glacial nunatak environment atop the mountain.
Diverse arctic and alpine plant species, ice caves, wildlife and
geological history may be explored.Plateau Mountain is accessible by van. Wear warm clothing and
walking shoes. Sun screen is also recommended. The tour will take
a full day with transportation, lunch and snack provided.
The Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede, billed as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” and
one of the world’s largest rodeos, takes place from July 4 – 13.
Those planning to take in events of the Stampede should call early
for information and ticket order forms using the North American
toll free number: 1-800-661-1260. (FAX: 403-265-7197).Heritage Park
Within the city and close to The University campus, Heritage Park
is a working, turn of the century, village of houses, shops and
entertainment. You can spend the day here riding the vintage trains
and the paddle wheeler or walking through the park enjoying the
Alberta life of a century ago. There are restaurants on site. Sun
screen recommended. (403) 259-1910.The Calgary Zoo
Take the Light Rail Transit (C-Train) from the University Station
to the Calgary Zoo (about 20 minutes ride). While there, tour the Dorothy Harvey
gardens with its excellent conifer collection and wide variety of
perennials. The garden includes an all American Select trial garden.
You will also want to see the Canadian Wilds Project – exhibits
of the Canadian biomes with all native plants. A principle feature
of the Zoo is its Dinosaur Park with life-sized replicas of dinosaurs
in their native Alberta habitat of 250 million years ago. Plan to
spend a day or half day here. Sun screen is recommended.Canada Olympic Park
Five kilometres from The University is Canada
Olympic Park, the site of the Bobsleigh, Luge and Ski Jumping
during the 1988 Olympics in Calgary. At the site you may ride to
the top of the ski jumps for a view or get a thrill on the bob sled.
There is a restaurant on site. For more information call (403) 247-5452.Glenbow Museum
In downtown Calgary, the Glenbow Museum is renowned for its Mineralogy exhibits, the finest in
North America. It also houses a permanent collection of warrior
regalia from the past 500 years. Temporary exhibits are displayed
in the principal areas throughout the year. For more information
call (403) 268-4100.Theatre
Calgary has two major professional theatres. Theatre
Calgary in downtown Calgary is the Premier theatre of the City.
Beginning as an actors’ workshop, it has become a vibrant theatre.
At the time of the Conference the Theatre will be staging Oscar
Wilde’s “An Ideal Husband”, a clever tale of love and deceit and
a comically complicated battle of wits.Alberta
Theatre Projects, a theatre that specializes in Canadian playwrights,
experimental and unconventional productions is staging Tony Kushner’s
“Angels in America”, a highly praised award-winning epic about American
life, politics, sexuality and the human spirit in the 80’s. Part
I: Millennium Approaches and Part II: Perestroika will be scheduled
for a single day in a double billed performance on Saturday, June
14th.To order tickets for either theatre call Ticketmaster
Alberta – Performing Arts Line (403) 299-8888.Downtown
Plan to spend at least half a day in this modern city. Most of
the high rise buildings are offices of international petroleum companies.
The excellent shopping areas are mostly inside the buildings which
are connected with each other through a system of Plus-15’s, aerial
bridges which connect the buildings throughout the core of the city.
They have been built to help Calgarians avoid the winter weather
when shopping. Be sure to visit our indoor park, the Devonian Gardens,
in Toronto Dominion Square.
The University of Calgary has world-class
sports facilities which includes the speed skating oval, 450 metre
indoor track, climbing room, 50 metre pool, racquet centre and a
fitness and life style centre. Sports equipment of all kinds, including
bikes and rollerblades may be rented by the day. Access to the City’s
284 km of bike/running paths is close to the Campus. A weekly membership
pass for use of all facilities may be purchased for $15.00 at the
Campus Recreation office in the Physical Education “A” building
between 08:30 and 16:00 on week days. For more information call
(403) 220-7241.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
- Housing: (403) 220-3203 (24 hours) (403) 282-8443 (fax)
- Conference Management Services:
Margaret-Anne Stroh
(403) 220-6229 (08:30 – 16:30 MDT)
(403) 284-4184 (fax) - Village Park Inn: (403) 289-0241 (24 hours)
- Biological Sciences Department
Dr. Charles L. Curry ABLE Host
(403) 220-5260 (08:30 – 16:30 MDT)