May 31, 2004
$273,000 Grant to Back U of S-Swedish Research into Cereal Crop Quality
Posted May 31, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Monday, May 31st, 2004 2004-05-41-OTHER
$273,000 Grant to Back U of S-Swedish Research into Cereal Crop Quality
A joint U of S-Swedish team has been awarded $273,000 from a Swedish
foundation to study development of the endosperm in wheat and barley. This
structure contains much of the starch, protein and fat in the seed and is
the most important component when determining crop quality.
Ravindra Chibbar, Canada Research Chair in Crop Quality, and plant science
professor Brian Fowler will work with plant molecular biology professor
Christer Jansson from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU)
in Uppsala.
"We look forward to collaborating with Professor Jansson and combining our
expertise and resources," Chibbar says. "I'm also very excited about the
unique opportunity this funding provides to graduate students both at the U
of S and SLU to work at each of our laboratories and enrich their graduate
training."
The funds for the four-year project were awarded through an institutional
grant from STINT, the Swedish Foundation for International Co-operation in
Research and Higher Education. Its institutional grants are intended to
foster long-term co-operative projects between Swedish researchers and
international institutions.
"I'm very pleased with this opportunity to collaborate with Dr. Chibbar,"
Jansson says. "Our overlapping interests in cereal endosperm development
promise to significantly further our understanding of this biologically and
economically important process."
The co-operative project entitled "Functional Genomics of the Cereal
Endosperm" will build on U of S infrastructure and expertise assembled as a
result of the large-scale Genome Prairie/Genome Canada project launched in
2001. (See "Saskatoon Researchers to Receive $8 M from Genome Canada for Two
Projects" at www.usask.ca/events/news/articles/20010405-1.html.)
Jansson will visit the Chibbar lab this fall to work out the details of the
program.
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For more information contact:
Ravi Chibbar
Department of Plant Sciences
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4969
ravi.chibbar@usask.ca
http://www.usask.ca/agriculture/plantsci
Brian Fowler
Department of Plant Sciences
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4973
brian.fowler@usask.ca
http://www.usask.ca/agriculture/plantsci
Michael Robin
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
May 26, 2004
U of S Honours Most Distinguished Graduates for 2003-04
Posted May 26, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 26, 2004 2004-05-37-OTHER
U of S Honours Most Distinguished Graduates for 2003-04
The University of Saskatchewan will recognize the achievements of its most
distinguished graduates at Spring Convocation May 26 and 27 at the
Centennial Auditorium. A number of awards and prizes will be presented,
including the prestigious Governor General's Gold and Silver Medals.
Angela Renee Baerwald of Elrose will receive the Governor General's Gold
Medal, awarded to the graduate student with the highest academic standing.
Baerwald will be receiving a Doctor of Philosophy.
Jasrajbir Singh Baath of Saskatoon will receive the Governor General's
Silver Medal, awarded to the undergraduate student with the highest academic
standing. The Spring Convocation Three-year medal will also be presented to
Baath who will receive a Bachelor of Science Three-year (with Great
Distinction).
In addition, the following outstanding graduates will also be honoured for
their academic achievements:
Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists Gold Medal presented to Kelsey
Jacqueline Clarke, Prince Albert, Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (with
Great Distinction)
The Fred Fulton Family Prize presented to Chet Ronald Dykshoorn, Foremost,
Alberta, Diploma in Agriculture
Haslam Medal presented to Andrea Louise Dick, Advanced Certificate in
Science, Saskatoon
Earl of Bessborough Prize in Science presented to Andrea Louise Dick,
Advanced Certificate in Science, Saskatoon
University of Saskatchewan Film Society Prize presented to Brigid Clare
Fitzgerald Ward, Muenster, Bachelor of Arts Honours with High Honours in Art
History and Studio Art
Copland Prize in the Humanities presented to Christopher Jon Jensen, Prince
Albert, Bachelor of Arts Honours with High Honours in Religious Studies
Copland Prize in the Social Sciences presented to Janeen Dawn Loehr, Prince
Albert, Bachelor of Arts Honours with High Honours in Psychology
The Goodspeed Award presented to Eric Martin Hanson, Swift Current, Bachelor
of Commerce (with Great Distinction and High Honours in Accounting)
Gold Medal in Dentistry presented to Kamaljit Singh Sahota, Calgary,
Alberta, Doctor of Dental Medicine (with Great Distinction)
Saskatchewan Teachers' Federation Prize presented to Janelle Ruth Senga, La
Ronge, Bachelor of Education (with Great Distinction)
Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan Gold
Medal presented to Benjamin Tyler Wilson, Saskatoon, Bachelor of Science in
Engineering (Engineering Physics) (with Great Distinction)
The Dr. Gordon Garvie Prize in Kinesiology presented to Tara Lee Miller,
Saskatoon, Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology (with Great Distinction)
Law Society of Saskatchewan Gold Medal presented to Darren Jay Reed, Regina,
Bachelor of Laws (with Great Distinction)
Lindsay Gold Medal in Medicine presented to Gregory Christopher Kraushaar,
Regina, Doctor of Medicine (with Great Distinction)
Lindsay Gold Medal in Nursing presented to Heather Dawn Chamberlin, Prince
Albert, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (with Great Distinction)
Rutter Medal in Nutrition presented to Randi Luella Palmer, Melfort,
Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (with Great Distinction)
Robert Martin Prize in Pharmacy presented to Sarah Scott Jacques, Saskatoon,
Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy (with Great Distinction)
Talmage E. Hunt Award in Physical Therapy presented to Erin Leigh Ireland,
Estevan, Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (with Great Distinction)
Western College of Veterinary Medicine Faculty Gold Medal presented to
Catharine Anne Shankel, West Vancouver, British Columbia, Doctor of
Veterinary Medicine (with Great Distinction)
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For more information, please contact:
Erin Taman
Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-6919
Cell: (306) 261-5852 (on May 26 and 27 only)
U of S College of Arts and Science Most Distinguished Graduates 2003-2004
Posted May 26, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 26, 2004 2004-05-38-OTHER
College of Arts and Science Most Distinguished Graduates 2003-2004
Governor General's Silver Medal - Jasrajbir Singh Baath, Bachelor of Science
Three-year (with Great Distinction), Saskatoon
Haslam Medal - Andrea Louise Dick, Advanced Certificate in Science,
Saskatoon
Earl of Bessborough Prize in Science - Andrea Louise Dick, Saskatoon
U of S Film Society Prize - Brigid Clare Fitzgerald Ward, Muenster
Copland Prize in the Humanities - Christopher Jon Jensen, Prince Albert
Copland Prize in the Social Sciences - Janeen Dawn Loehr, Prince Albert
Spring Convocation Three-year Medal - Jasrajbir Singh Baath, Saskatoon
W.B. Francis Prize in Arts and Science and Law - Mary Violet Erasmus,
Yellowknife
James Newstead Convocation Award in Anatomy and Cell Biology - Conrad James
Veikle, Saskatoon
Most Outstanding Graduate in Anthropology - Kristian Ira William Sullivan,
Elkford, British Columbia
Victor L. Vigrass Prize in Archaeology - Leah Kirstin Mann, Saskatoon
Judy Poole Award in Art and Art History - Brigid Clare Fitzgerald Ward,
Muenster
Department of Biochemistry Convocation Award - Grant Allan Lester Bare,
Saskatoon
Most Outstanding Graduate in Biochemistry and Biotechnology Program -
Richard Thomas Yellepeddy Nataraj, Wadena
Department of Biology Convocation Award - Ashley Dean Mattson, Lloydminster,
Alberta
Department of Chemistry Convocation Award - Grant Allan Lester Bare,
Saskatoon
Most Outstanding Graduate in Computer Science - Jeffrey Richard Long,
Saskatoon
Most Outstanding Graduate in Drama - Michelle Lynn Riglin, Elrose
Lewis C. Gray Prize in Economics - Evgueni S. Panasiouk, Moscow, Russian
Federation
Award for Excellence in English Studies - Jordan James Howie, Kindersley
Environmental Earth Sciences Program Convocation Award - Danielle Celine
Renaud, La Ronge
Most Outstanding Graduate in Food Science - Derek Roy Dee, Pritchard,
British Columbia
Department of Geography Convocation Award - Lynette Rae Jacobson, Brock
Ore Gangue Memorial Award (Academic) in Geological Sciences - Kristl Jean
Hoksbergen, Colonsay
Gendzwill-Hajnal Convocation Award in Geophysics - Julia Elizabeth Milne,
North Portal
Charles W. Lightbody Convocation Prize in History - Teresa Lynn Redlick,
Biggar
International Studies Program Convocation Award - Benjamin John Fowler,
Saskatoon
Land Use and Environmental Studies Program Convocation Award - Allan James
Stonhouse, Saskatoon
Most Outstanding Graduate in Languages - Andrea Puhl, Reimsbach, Germany
Linguistics Program Convocation Award - Carole Lorraine Valois, Saskatoon
Mathematical Physics Program Convocation Award - Kurtis Frank Burnett, Moose
Jaw
Most Outstanding Graduate in Mathematics - Ward Andrew Wurtz, Melfort
J.F. Morgan Memorial Award in Microbiology - Andrea Louise Dick, Saskatoon
Collingwood Convocation Prize in Music - Carissa Catherine Klopoushak,
Saskatoon
Tania Balicki Memorial Award in Native Studies - Lisa Ann Woodard, Saskatoon
Palaeobiology Program Convocation Award - Taran Elizabeth Meyer, Saskatoon
Department of Philosophy Convocation Award - Kyle Dallon Joseph Plamondon,
Saskatoon
Most Outstanding Graduate in Physics - Krista Joy Chytyk, Tway
L.B. Jaques Convocation Award in Physiology - Jerome Allen Leis, Saskatoon
The Honourable Donald Alexander McNiven Prize in Political Studies -
Kimberly Dawn Brown, Prince Albert
Gordon A. McMurray Prize in Psychology - Janeen Dawn Loehr, Prince Albert
Regional and Urban Development Program Convocation Award - Melanie Neuhofer,
Shellmouth, Manitoba
Most Outstanding Graduate in Religious Studies - Christopher Jon Jensen,
Prince Albert
Most Outstanding Graduate in Sociology - Tyler Allan McCreary, Saskatoon
Most Outstanding Graduate in Toxicology - Alexis Nadine Schafer, Mankota
Department of Women's and Gender Studies Scholarship - Jana Lee Orr,
Saskatoon
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For more information, please contact:
Jennifer Webber Forrest
Communications Officer
College of Arts and Science
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-1982
Email: jennifer.webberforrest@usask.ca
May 25, 2004
Innovative Weigh-in-Motion Pilot Project to be Expanded
Posted May 25, 2004
The following news release has been issued by the City of Saskatoon.
Innovative Weigh-in-Motion Pilot Project to be Expanded
http://www.city.saskatoon.sk.ca/org/news_releases/detail.asp?id=1114
The City of Saskatoon, in partnership with International Road Dynamics (IRD)
and the University of Saskatchewan (U of S), has been awarded a $226,000
deployment contract from Transport Canada under the Intelligent
Transportation Systems (ITS) Research and Development Plan.
May 21, 2004
U of S Alumni On Fire With The Calgary Flames
Posted May 21, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 21, 2004 2004-05-36-OTHER
U of S Alumni On Fire With The Calgary Flames
The University of Saskatchewan Alumni Association is offering alumni the
opportunity of a lifetime - the chance to see the Calgary Flames play in
Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
This exciting prize package includes two tickets to the May 31st game at the
Pengrowth Saddledome in Calgary, a $500 travel voucher with WestJet
Airlines, and two nights accommodation at the Delta Bow Valley.
The contest is open to all U of S alumni living in Canada. One entry per
person, and contestants must correctly answer a skill-testing question.
To enter, please visit www.usask.ca/alumni. The contest closes at midnight
(CST) on Thurs. May 27.
"The University of Saskatchewan Alumni Association is very fortunate to have
many strong connections with the Calgary Flames from athletic therapists to
owners," said Melana Soroka, Executive Director of the U of S Alumni
Association. "This contest would not have been possible without the help of
co-owner Daryl K. (Doc) Seaman."
-30-
For more information, please contact:
Melana Soroka
Executive Director
University of Saskatchewan Alumni Association
Tel: (306) 966-1247
Cell: (306) 241-4436
Email: melana.soroka@usask.ca
Web: http://www.usask.ca/alumni
May 18, 2004
NSERC Awards $400,000 to Explore New Approach to Fungal Disease Control in Canola
Posted May 18, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 18, 2004 2004-05-31-AR
NSERC Awards $400,000 to Explore New Approach to Fungal Disease Control in
Canola
Armed with $400,000 in federal funding, University of Saskatchewan chemistry
professor Soledade Pedras is striking a path into uncharted territory in an
effort to help crops such as canola and cabbage protect themselves from
devastating fungal diseases.
Pedras is one of an elite group of 15 Canadian researchers awarded an
Accelerator Grant for Exceptional New Opportunities from the Natural
Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC). These grants are once
in-a-lifetime funds intended to back outstanding new and daring ideas that
have great potential for a major breakthrough.
Her targets are biotrophic fungi, a class of organisms that includes cabbage
clubroot and white rust in canola, a disease that can cut yields by more
than 20 per cent. Almost nothing is known about the biochemistry of these
diseases largely because these organisms can only survive on living plants
and cannot be grown in culture. This makes them extremely hard to study.
If Pedras and her team can unravel their secrets, the knowledge could be
used by geneticists and plant breeders to develop resistant plants.
Chemists, including those in her own group, could also use it to develop
products to boost the plants' own defense mechanisms to fight off disease.
"This research promises to fill a significant gap in our knowledge of plant
disease," says U of S Vice-President Research Steven Franklin. "This
foundation work could have broad implications both for plant science and the
agricultural economy."
Pedras and her team will focus on how biotrophic fungi infect plant cells
and change attack and defense programs. In the process, the plant cells are
killed.
From her work with necrotrophic fungi (those that kill and feed upon dead
tissue), she suspects there are biochemical pathways that favour biotrophic
fungi as well. Necrotrophic fungi include canola diseases like blackleg and
stem rot, and are relatively easy to culture in the lab.
Understanding the biochemical pathways of biotrophic fungi could be the key
to controlling the diseases.
"The question is, what is happening during this cycle?" Pedras says. "What
sort of metabolic processes are occurring and can we manipulate them? Can we
design chemicals that can stop these processes, and in fact act
synergistically with the plant defenses?"
The group has already coined a term for these designer chemicals --
paldoxins, for "phytoalexin detoxification inhibitors." Phytoalexins are the
substances plants use to fight off fungal infection, but some fungi - the
ones that cause disease - have learned how to neutralize or detoxify these
defenses.
Ideally, Pedras envisions products tailor-made to defend a specific plant
from a specific pathogen, with little damage to non-target organisms. The
best case scenario would have these products developed by a Saskatchewan
biotech company.
But before any of this can happen, the initial research must be done to
illuminate a dark corner of the plant disease knowledge base, with no
guarantee it will yield results.
"I've worked many years at the bench, and my experience is always that if
there is really a hard project, the harder it is, the better the results
will be," Pedras says. "There will be more novelty. If it was easy, it would
already be well-known."
The NSERC grant will pay for two graduate students and two post-doctoral
fellows and the tools they need to conduct the work.
NSERC (www.nserc.ca) is Canada's largest science granting agency.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Soledade Pedras
Department of Chemistry
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4772
soledade.pedras@usask.ca
Michael Robin
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
U of S Professor Awarded Prestigious Molson Prize
Posted May 18, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 18, 2004
U of S Professor Awarded Prestigious Molson Prize
Ottawa (May 18, 2004) - Maria Campbell, Metis author, playwright, filmmaker
and professor and Richard Tremblay, professor and researcher in the field of
child development have been awarded this year's Canada Council for the Arts
Molson Prizes.
Two Molson Prizes worth $50,000 each are awarded every year to distinguished
Canadians, one in the arts and the other in the social sciences or
humanities. The prizes recognize the recipients' outstanding lifetime
contribution to the cultural and intellectual life of Canada.
Maria Campbell is currently an assistant professor at the University of
Saskatchewan.
To view the complete release, go to
http://www.canadacouncil.ca/news/releases/2004/nq127293590562656250.htm
May 17, 2004
U of S "Great Books" Series to Build Educational Reform in Europe
Posted May 17, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 17, 2004 2004-05-29-AR
U of S "Great Books" Series to Build Educational Reform in Europe
May 2004 marks the beginning of a new "Great Books" series of courses which
will see University of Saskatchewan professors teach classic literature in
Central and Eastern Europe over the next three years.
The series was sparked by an invitation to U of S English professors from
the University of Warsaw. It will fit into a grassroots reform of education
currently underway in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE).
"The idea is to bring a greater understanding of literature and the history
of the English language to transitional societies in Central and Eastern
Europe," said U of S English Professor and Associate Dean Judith Rice
Henderson. "They are very eager to develop English studies."
Henderson returns on May 20th, 2004 from Warsaw, Poland after teaching a two
week seminar on Shakespeare's tragedies to some of Poland's most gifted
students.
Current educational reform in Poland is being propelled by the Akademia
Artes Liberales (Liberal Arts Academy), a consortium of universities
including the U of W. It is trying to offer its top students a broader
liberal arts education instead of the narrower training in specialized
fields still prevalent in the CEE.
The "Great Books" series at the U of W will continue in May 2005 with a
course on Shakespeare's histories to be taught by U of S English Professor
David Parkinson. In May 2006, U of S English Professors William and Camille
Slights will teach a course on Shakespeare's comedies.
The U of S involvement is largely possible thanks to funding from the
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)'s Partnerships for Tomorrow
Program Phase II (PTP II).
-30-
For more information, please contact:
(On or after May 20th)
Professor Judith Rice Henderson
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-2143 or 966-5497
Email: judith.henderson@usask.ca
Jennifer W. Webber Forrest
Communications Officer, College of Arts and Science
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-1982
Email: jennifer.webberforrest@usask.ca
Web: http://www.arts.usask.ca
U of S Spring Convocation to be held May 26 and 27
Posted May 17, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Monday, May 17, 2004
2004-05-30-OTHER
U of S Spring Convocation to be held May 26 and 27
The University of Saskatchewan will honour its graduates and confer 2,910
degrees, diplomas and certificates at the annual Spring Convocation, May 26
and 27 at the Centennial Auditorium in Saskatoon. Chancellor Tom Molloy will
confer the degrees and preside over the ceremonies.
Please note that the procession of graduates begins 15 minutes prior to the
start of each ceremony.
The Convocation ceremonies are as follows:
Wednesday, May 26, 9:00 a.m.
College of Arts and Science
College of Law
Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree to Dr. Dafydd (Dave) Rhys Williams
Convocation Address by Dr. Williams
Wednesday, May 26, 2:00 p.m.
College of Agriculture
College of Commerce
College of Engineering
President's Address by U of S President, Peter MacKinnon
Thursday, May 27, 9:00 a.m.
College of Dentistry
College of Kinesiology
College of Medicine (including Physical Therapy)
College of Nursing
College of Pharmacy and Nutrition
Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Honorary Doctor of Science Degree to Dr. Marcel (Marc) Baltzan
Convocation address by Dr. Baltzan
Thursday, May 27, 2:00 p.m.
College of Education
College of Graduate Studies and Research
Earned Doctor of Science Degree to Dr. Rajendra Sharma
Awards Presentations to the following:
Master Teacher Award - John Thompson
President's Service Award - Howie Salisbury
J.W. George Ivany Internationalization Award - Gerri Dickson
Distinguished Researcher Award - Bill Waiser
Distinction in Extension and Public Service Award - Brian
Rossnagel
Receptions will be held after each ceremony within the Centennial
Auditorium.
For more information about the Convocation ceremony, please visit:
www.usask.ca/university_secretary/convocation.shtml.
For student information related to Convocation, please visit:
students.usask.ca/academic/convocation/.
-30-
For full biographical citations and/or photos of Honorary Degree recipients
or award winners please contact:
Erin Taman
Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-6919
Cell: (306) 261-5852 (May 26 and 27 only)
Email: erin.taman@usask.ca
May 14, 2004
University of Saskatchewan video series promotes understanding of Canadian Muslims
Posted May 14, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 14, 2004 2004-05-26-OTHER
University of Saskatchewan video series
promotes understanding of Canadian Muslims
SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN, CANADA - The University of Saskatchewan is
receiving international attention this week with the upcoming launch of a
new video series A new life in a new land: the Muslim experience in Canada.
The series aims to promote greater understanding of the cultural and
religious lives of Canadian Muslims and their contributions to society.
Created by Producer Michael Milo and the Division of Media and Technology at
the University of Saskatchewan, the series includes three documentaries
entitled:
- The mosaic - Muslims and the multicultural fabric of Canada
- In faith and practice - the religious lives of Canadian Muslims
- A warm welcome - the contributions of five Muslims and their families to
Canadian life.
The videos will be will be used for educational purposes in schools
internationally and will air on the Saskatchewan Communications Network
(SCN), Vision TV and Canadian Learning Television (CLT).
"The Muslim community in Canada is kind of a microcosm of the broader
multi-culturalism in the country. At any given mosque throughout the
country, you might find up to 50 different ethnic and cultural groups that
are all sharing community together. The videos try to celebrate that
diversity," says Producer Michael Milo.
"The series uses the tools of reason and education to help advance
understanding and respect for multicultural and multi-faith differences in
our society both at home and abroad," says University of Saskatchewan
President Peter MacKinnon.
The University of Saskatchewan has sponsored this series in collaboration
with Canadian Heritage. It has also received support from the Canadian
Independent Film and Video Fund, the National Film Board, Milo Productions
Inc., the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, the Canadian Film/Video Tax
Credit Program, the Saskatchewan Film Employment Tax Credit and the
Saskatchewan Arts Board.
-30-
For more information, please contact:
Danielle Fortosky, Director
Division of Media and Technology
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-4271
or
Michael Milo, Media Producer/Editor
Division of Media and Technology
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-4271
Prairie Horticulture Certificate Students Graduate at the U of S
Posted May 14, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 14, 2004 2004-05-27-EXT
Prairie Horticulture Certificate Students Graduate at the U of S
Saskatoon, SK - The College of Agriculture will award certificates to 14
graduates of the Prairie Horticulture Certificate (PHC) program at the
Extension Division Certificate Program graduation exercises on May 15, 2004
in Marquis Hall at the University of Saskatchewan.
The PHC program meets the demand from prairie residents for post-secondary
education in horticulture science. The developed program is specific to the
prairie climate and adaptable to the growing horticulture industry across
the Prairie Provinces.
"It is anticipated that demand for the program from gardeners and industry
will continue to be strong," says PHC Coordinator Patricia Hanbidge, PAg.
"Students appreciate the opportunity to study at a distance and continue
with their farm, business and family responsibilities all at the same time."
Since the program's beginning in the fall of 1994, there are 83 graduates
and approximately 370 active participants at various stages of completion in
the PHC distance delivery program.
PHC was developed and is delivered by a consortium including the University
of Manitoba, Assiniboine Community College, Olds College and the University
of Saskatchewan. This program is offered cooperatively by the College of
Agriculture and the Extension Division at the University of Saskatchewan.
-30-
For more information please contact:
Patricia Hanbidge, PAg
PHC Coordinator
Extension Division
University of Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 966-5749
The Certificate in Agriculture Program to Graduate 18 Students
Posted May 14, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 14, 2004 2004-05-28-EXT
The Certificate in Agriculture Program to Graduate 18 Students
Saskatoon, SK - Certificates in Agriculture will be presented to 15 students
in Crop Production and three students in Farm Management at the Extension
Division Certificate Program graduation exercises on May 15, 2004 in Marquis
Hall at the University of Saskatchewan. As well, students with the highest
academic standing in each certificate stream will be recognized through
awards sponsored by the Saskatchewan Wheat Pool and Farm Credit Corporation.
"The Certificates in Agriculture Program (CAP) meet a demand from Western
Canadian residents for post-secondary education in applied agricultural
science," says CAP Coordinator Kari Nicolas, PAg. "Students are appreciative
of the opportunity to study at a distance and continue with their farm,
business and family responsibilities at the same time."
In the past, the Certificates in Agriculture Program received the
Distinguished Credit Program Award from the Association for Continuing
Higher Education. The program also received the Outstanding Program Award
from the Canadian Association for University Continuing Education. Receiving
these awards is a tribute to the success and high completion rate of
students in this program.
The CAP graduates of 2004 are the twelfth group to complete the requirements
of this successful program. There are now 330 graduates since the program
began in the fall of 1990.
CAP continues to attract new students as there are over 130 course
registrations from across the Prairie Provinces this year. This program is
recognized within the agriculture industry as a credible post-secondary
source of agricultural education and is offered cooperatively through
University of Saskatchewan's College of Agriculture and the Extension
Division.
-30-
For more information please contact:
Kari Nicolas, PAg
CAP Coordinator
Extension Division
University of Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 966-5592
or
Dr. Ernie Barber, PEng, PAg
Dean
College of Agriculture
University of Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 966-4050
May 13, 2004
MCN Bioproducts Inc. Takes Award for Innovation
Posted May 13, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 13, 2004 2004-05-24-OTHER
MCN Bioproducts Inc. Takes Award for Innovation
MCN Bioproducts Inc., the brainchild of University of Saskatchewan
researchers David Maenz, Henry Classen and Rex Newkirk, has been named
winner of the third annual Innovation Place-Industry Liaison Office Award of
Innovation.
The award was presented May 11 at the annual Celebrate Success! dinner.
"The technology developed by MCN Bioproducts turns an undervalued commodity
into quality products that will open up new markets," said Doug Gill, U of S
Managing Director of the Industry Liaison Office (ILO). "The potential
impact of this work, both for the company and for Saskatchewan farmers,
makes this truly award-winning technology."
MCN Bioproducts Inc. was created in 2000 to commercialize a process to
fractionate canola meal, one of the highest quality plant-based protein
sources in the world. Canola meal is currently produced as a byproduct when
canola seed is crushed to extract the oil.
The MCN technology developed by the College of Agriculture researchers
separates the meal into multiple products, such as high-protein concentrates
for the aquaculture industry, customized protein fibre products for cattle
feed, and various co-products for use in markets from food to cosmetics.
The company has secured venture capital from various partners, has proven
its technology, and is on the brink of major commercialization.
The Award of Innovation honours U of S researchers who have brought new and
commercially viable technology to the ILO for development into marketable
products. It is open to U of S employees and students. Selection criteria
include the novelty of the innovation and its potential commercial impact.
The selection committee includes representatives from Innovation Place and
the U of S.
The other finalists were pharmacy professor Marianna Foldvari and chemistry
professor Ron Verrall, for their needle-free drug delivery system, and
Vivian Ramsden and Jim Thornhill from the College of Medicine for their
cooling device for head trauma and stroke victims.
In addition to a financial award, the winners are recognized with a photo on
the Award of Innovation wall at the ILO and a personal trophy.
Innovation Place (www.innovationplace.com) is one of North America's most
successful research parks. The Industry Liaison Office works with inventors
to help commercialize innovations developed at the U of S.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Doug Gill
Managing Director
Industry Liaison Office
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7335
doug.gill@usask.ca
Michael Robin
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
May 11, 2004
Saskatchewan Master Storyteller to Receive Distinguished Researcher Award
Posted May 11, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 11, 2004 2004-05-17-OTHER
Saskatchewan Master Storyteller to Receive Distinguished Researcher Award
A University of Saskatchewan historian whose work has brought alive dozens
of rich and vibrant stories from the province's past will receive the
Distinguished Researcher Award at the May 27 convocation.
Professor Bill Waiser is one of Canada's leading historians, specializing
in the western and northern Prairies. The award, which carries a $1,000
prize, recognizes a U of S faculty member who has made a major
contribution to knowledge through research and publication.
"Perhaps more than any other Canadian historian, Professor Waiser has
found innovative ways of reaching out to general audiences with the
insights that make the history of our region come alive," says U of S
Vice-President Research Steven Franklin. "He has also done a great deal to
energize the study of history on our campus, contributing to a rich
experience for our undergraduates and graduate students alike."
He has written eight books and is currently working on his ninth, a
history of Saskatchewan commissioned by the U of S and supported by the
government of Saskatchewan as well as the federal department of Canadian
Heritage for the provincial centennial. His latest book, All Hell Can't
Stop Us: The On-to-Ottawa Trek and Regina Riot, won a 2003 Saskatchewan
Book Award for non-fiction.
An earlier work, Loyal till Death: Indians and the North West Rebellion
was co-authored with Professor Blair Stonechild, head of Indigenous
Studies at the First Nations University of Canada. The book was praised
for its sensitivity in telling the stories of Indians during this
turbulent time. It took a 1997 Saskatchewan Book Award for First Peoples
Publishing and was a finalist for the Governor General's Literary Award
for non-fiction.
"No one in Saskatchewan for over a generation has worked as successfully
to engage both scholars and the province at large in a debate about its
essential character," says Ken Coates, fellow history professor and dean
of the College of Arts and Science. "Few scholars anywhere in this country
have contributed as much, and as consistently, to the explication of
regional society."
Waiser's award-winning efforts also include the broadcast medium. Working
with CBC producer Paul Dederick, he hosted and co-produced Looking Back, a
series of nearly 50 six-minute segments aired on CBC TV's Saskatchewan Now
early evening news from 1998 to 2001.
Looking Back was praised for its approach of telling historical stories
from the perspective of people who were there. There was the boy who
skipped school and so witnessed the 1931 Estevan riot from his hiding spot
inside a garbage can. There was the woman who lost both grandparents to
Saskatchewan's worst blizzard in 1947, and to this day cannot face
February 2 without tears. There was the friction in Moose Jaw with the
arrival of the British Commonwealth Air Training Program and its dashing
British pilots who wooed the local young women, creating friction that may
have led to the 1944 riots.
Looking Back was short listed for the Pierre Berton Award and received an
honourable mention at the Columbus International Film and Video
Festival. Material from the program has been adapted into the 2003 book
Looking Back: True Tales from Saskatchewan's Past.
Waiser is adept at satisfying the rigorous demands of scholarly
work. He has published 13 refereed articles and served as chair of the
advisory board of the scholarly journal Canadian Historical Review from
2000 to 2003. He is an active member of local and regional historical
societies, and has served on the board of Canada's National History
Society since 2001.
Waiser brings his enthusiasm for our shared history to the lecture hall
and his mentorship of numerous graduate students. He has supervised three
PhD students and 17 Master's students. In 2002, he received the College of
Arts and Science Teaching Excellence Award.
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For more information, contact:
Bill Waiser
Department of History
College of Arts and Science
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5801
waiser@duke.usask.ca
Michael Robin
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
Acting Associate Vice-President of Research Appointed
Posted May 11, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 11, 2004 2004-05-18-OTHER
Acting Associate Vice-President of Research Appointed
Kinesiology professor Karen Chad has been appointed for a one-year term to
the newly created position of Acting Associate Vice-President Research,
effective July 1.
The new position, endorsed by the research community during the recent U of
S integrated planning process and approved by the Board of Governors May
7th, is fully funded by the federal Indirect Costs Program. A search to fill
the position on a permanent basis will be undertaken in January of 2005.
"I am delighted to work with Professor Chad as we strive to enhance the
research environment on campus and build research capacity through a team
approach that will advance U of S research, scholarly and artistic
activity," said U of S Vice-President of Research Steven Franklin.
"I am confident that this new position will foster improved funding and
research support, increased scholarly output, and greater understanding of
the role and importance of research and scholarly activity."
As a member of the Vice-President Research Executive, Chad will help manage
key initiatives such as the Indirect Costs of Research Fund, the Canada
Foundation for Innovation Operating Fund, university-level research centres,
and the Vice-President Research Integrated Plan.
Working with the Research, Scholarly and Artistic Work (RSA) Committee of
Council and the associate and assistant deans of research, Chad will assist
in research policy development and a broad range of strategic initiatives
including supporting strong researchers and research groups; enhancing
research support from both granting agencies and the private sector;
identifying U of S areas of pre-eminence; and developing stronger links
between the research administration and graduate students.
She will assist in external relations with research funding partners and
with community groups, especially the Aboriginal community. She will also
help advance core areas of the Office including knowledge and technology
transfer, regulatory compliance, research contract administration, and
research communications.
Chad received U of S bachelor degrees in both physical education and
education. She earned a Master's in physical education from the University
of Victoria in 1985 and her PhD from the University of Queensland in 1988.
After working at Australian universities, she joined the U of S College of
Physical Education in 1990 as an assistant professor, and is an associate
member of the College of Pharmacy and Nutrition and the College of
Medicine's department of physiology and School of Physical Therapy.
A prolific researcher, she has a keen interest in aspects of exercise
physiology including metabolism, nutrition, body composition and human
health, and performance. She currently holds a major federal grant for a
community-partnered research project entitled "Saskatoon In Motion: Building
Community Capacity in Health Promotion Research."
Currently Chair of the RSA Committee of Council, Chad has extensive
experience in research administration, as well as in working with external
funding agencies including government, not-for-profit organizations, and
community groups. She has also been active in the promotion of graduate
studies.
She has twice been awarded a Teaching Excellence Award by the U of S
Student's Union. In 1997, she received the YWCA Woman of Distinction (Health
and Education) award.
Note to editors: A photo of Chad and more information about her research is
available at: http://www.usask.ca/kinesiology/faculty_index.php?id=3
-30-
For more information, contact:
Karen Chad
Professor, College of Kinesiology
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-1071
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506
www.usask.ca/research
May 07, 2004
U of S Board Announces Multi-Year Operating Budget
Posted May 07, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 7, 2004 2004-05-14-OTHER
U of S Board Announces Multi-Year Operating Budget
The University of Saskatchewan's Board of Governors today approved its first-ever multi-year operating budget framework for 2004-07 which was developed in the context of a campus-wide planning initiative and complements the strategic vision of the University.
The multi-year budget framework addresses the University's structural deficit and ensures a balanced budget by 2006/07. It also focuses on increasing revenues, improving operating efficiencies and ensuring a quality education for students.
"The multi-year budget framework provides us with a more responsible way of allocating funds from our operating budget," said University President Peter MacKinnon. "It allows the University to make informed decisions about the management of resources over the longer term in order to better serve our students and the people of this province."
The budget includes a reduction in funding to the Colleges of Agriculture ($1 million), Commerce ($1.2 million), Nursing ($0.26 million), Pharmacy and Nutrition ($0.4 million), Extension Division ($1 million) and the Facilities Management Division ($1.2 million) totaling $5.06 million over three years.
MacKinnon said: "Reducing funds, although initially challenging, will leave these colleges free to generate higher revenues from increased tuition and enrolments in selected programs, and to make changes to their academic and business practices instead of relying solely on the central operating budget."
A levy of 1 per cent, over two years, will be charged to the operating budgets of most other academic and administrative units totaling $1.48 million. These measures will enable the University to meet its current and projected operating expenses including salary settlements; increases in utilities' costs; and critical investment in the renewal of the University.
"The 1.52 per cent increase in our operating grant from the Provincial Government fell short of the required 6.7 per cent increase needed to meet our basic financial obligations without incurring a deficit," explained MacKinnon. "We have therefore taken responsible action by making necessary reductions to ensure a balanced budget by 2006/07."
The University's operating budget for 2004-05 is $263.8 million. It includes an average tuition increase of 4.8 per cent. The majority of students, around 70 per cent, will face an increase of 2 per cent or less.
The 2004-05 tuition increases continue to reflect the national norm tuition policy and range from 0 per cent to 19.1 per cent. Professional colleges face the greatest increases, but in some cases a large proportion of new tuition revenue will be funneled back into colleges to enhance academic and student services.
In addition, the Board is increasing funding for student services. A total of 10 per cent ($0.163 million) of the tuition rate increase is being allocated to student support including scholarships and bursaries. As well, an additional $1 million will be allocated to graduate students support from the Academic Priorities Fund. This is in addition to $0.5 million for undergraduate scholarships announced early this year.
"We are determined to build on the University's strategic vision for a nationally competitive university and can only do so if we remain accountable for our spending and focus on our strengths, " concluded MacKinnon.
Highlights of the 2004-05 to 2006/07 Operating Budget and background information are located at: http://www.usask.ca/communications/Budget_Highlights.pdf (PDF).
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For more information, please contact:
Peter MacKinnon
President
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6612
Tina Merrifield
Office of Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2213
For more information on the University of Saskatchewan Integrated Plan:
http://www.usask.ca/vpacademic/integrated-planning/.
May 06, 2004
U of S Announces Award Recipients for Spring Convocation 2004
Posted May 06, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 6, 2004 2004-05-09-OTHER
U of S Announces Award Recipients for Spring Convocation 2004
The University of Saskatchewan is pleased to announce the following
recipients of awards, which will be presented at the Convocation ceremony
held on May 27 at 2:00 p.m. at the Centennial Auditorium.
Master Teacher Award - The Master Teacher Award emphasizes the importance of
teaching at the U of S and honours faculty who excel in it. Professor John
Thompson, Department of Sociology, St. Thomas More College, is the
recipient. When one looks at the evidence relating to his teaching, as shown
in student evaluations, colleagues' comments, and his teaching portfolio,
the pages come alight, shining with an undiminished flame over all his years
at the U of S. Thompson not only teaches sociology, his teaching changes
lives. Most of his students remember "A Live Sociologist at Work - Writing
an Essay in Class." Using this technique, Thompson, with the students,
writes an essay from scratch on the blackboard, talking about and showing
them the painstaking processes academics go through when they write. It is a
powerful and precarious teaching tool. He has shown himself to be a superb
teacher and an excellent emissary of his discipline, touching everyone he
encounters with his passion for sociology and his absolute ardour for the
craft and art of teaching.
President's Service Award - Senior Mechanical Engineer Howie Salisbury has
seen the University of Saskatchewan campus grow over the past quarter
century. Salisbury's caring and nurturing hand has ensured that its
lifeblood - its extensive mechanical systems - are designed and operated in
the best possible way for students, faculty and staff. There are few indoor
or outdoor nooks and crannies on campus that Salisbury hasn't been in over
the years. He has played an integral part in upgrading the many systems
involved as a host of new buildings came on-stream. The excitement, for
Salisbury, is seeing an idea that begins just as a concept, then is
developed into a design, and then becomes an actual operating structure on
campus. He is credited with helping to develop energy conservation measures
for the mechanical systems that have saved the University millions of
dollars.
Award for Distinction in Extension and Public Service - This award
recognizes a member of faculty who has extended the University's expertise
to the wider community. Brian Rossnagel, a professor in the Department of
Plant Sciences, College of Agriculture and Crop Development Centre is the
2004 recipient. During his career, Rossnagel has developed over 35
varieties of barley and oats. In 2003, his varieties accounted for more than
50% of all feed barley and oat acreage sown in Saskatchewan and Alberta.
Rossnagel has been highly sought after by producers and farm organizations
and has been involved in over 200 extension events not only in Canada, but
in Australia, Japan, and the United States. He has also been active in many
professional and agricultural organizations including the Canadian Seed
Growers Association, the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists, the Canadian
Society of Agronomy, Royal Agricultural Societies of the Commonwealth, and
Canadian Western Agribition to name a few.
J.W. George Ivany Internationalization Award - This award was established to
recognize extraordinary contributions towards the internationalization of
the U of S. The winner is Professor Gerri Dickson from the College of
Nursing. An employee for 18 years, she was instrumental in the creation of
the national Native Access Program to Nursing in 1987, a program that has
resulted in a significant increase in the number of Aboriginal students who
have become nurses. Her international work continues to have a substantial
impact on health and development. Since 1991, she has been involved in a
CIDA-funded project that works to strengthen STD/AIDS control in Kenya. She
also took a lead role in securing CIDA funding for the Training for Health
Renewal Program, a hugely successful project, now in its sixth year, which
is aimed at building capacity in Mozambique and engaging the participating
Canadian institutions in the use of innovative approaches to education and
practice of health workers.
-30-
For more information, or photos, please contact:
Erin Taman
Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-6919
Email: erin.taman@usask.ca
VIDO-developed SARS Vaccine Candidates Fast-tracked to Testing
Posted May 06, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 6, 2004 2004-05-12-OTHER
VIDO-developed SARS Vaccine Candidates Fast-tracked to Testing
Saskatoon, SK. Promising new SARS vaccine candidates developed in part by
the University of Saskatchewan's Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization
(VIDO) have entered testing, just 14 months after the disease emerged and
triggered a global health crisis.
"These vaccine prototypes represent a year of dramatic, rapid progress
toward solutions for SARS, which remains a major global human health
threat," says VIDO Director Lorne Babiuk. "VIDO's experience and expertise
in vaccine development and in model systems has been a crucial factor in
achieving this quick response."
The vaccine project is a collaboration among VIDO, McMaster University, the
British Columbia Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) and the University of
British Columbia (UBC). Funding for the program comes in part from the SARS
Accelerated Vaccine Initiative (SAVI), a program based on $2.6 million in
seed funding from the British Columbia government and operated with
administrative and leadership support from the BCCDC, the Michael Smith
Foundation for Health Research and UBC.
"The goal of SAVI is to develop an effective and safe SARS vaccine as
quickly as possible," says Dr. Raymond See, Program Director, Vaccine
Development, for SAVI. "The progress at VIDO is a good example of how this
can be achieved. Developing a new vaccine usually takes years. However, by
adopting an emergency-management model, VIDO and other institutions working
with SAVI are getting to the testing stage in a matter of months, rather
than years."
Two prototype vaccines for SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) are
currently being tested and fine-tuned in collaboration with VIDO. One, which
employs an adenovirus vector, was developed by McMaster University and was
selected in part for its power to target the respiratory system and produce
a strong immune response. The second is a conventional killed SARS vaccine,
developed by BCCDC/UBC in collaboration with VIDO. The candidate vaccines
have entered animal testing at the Southern Research Institute in Alabama,
which has the "Level 3" laboratory facilities required to deal with SARS.
The first test results are expected this June.
It typically takes a minimum of 10 years to develop a market-ready vaccine,
but institutions operating as part of SAVI hope to cut that time in half for
the first successful SARS vaccine for humans.
VIDO's SARS work began in May 2003, but the institution had years of
experience working with a coronavirus - the type of virus that causes SARS -
as part of its livestock health research. "VIDO has previously developed and
licensed a coronavirus vaccine for cattle," says Babiuk. "This provided a
solid basis of understanding of the issues involved, which has proven very
important in vaccine development for SARS."
Future VIDO research on SARS and other highly infectious diseases will
benefit from a new International Vaccine Centre (INTERVAC), slated to open
on the University of Saskatchewan campus in 2008. The projected $61.8
million facility - a collaboration of VIDO, the university's College of
Medicine and the Western College of Veterinary Medicine - will be
Saskatchewan's first Level 3 laboratory dealing with human and animal
diseases. Level 3 facilities are required for work with diseases such as
SARS, hepatitis C, Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy and tuberculosis (TB),
which can cause serious infections.
The Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization is a world leader in vaccine
research for the control of infectious diseases and is a wholly owned
University of Saskatchewan not-for-profit institute. It operates with
substantial support from the Government of Alberta and the Government of
Saskatchewan as well as Government of Canada competitive grants.
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For more information, contact:
Tess Laidlaw
Communications Officer
Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization
University of Saskatchewan
www.vido.org
(306) 966-1506
Tracy Conley
Project Co-ordinator, Communications
SARS Accelerated Vaccine Initiative
(604) 661-1650
www.savi-info.ca
U of S Signs Letter of Intent to Commercialize Treatment for Lung Injury Complications
Posted May 06, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 6, 2004 2004-05-13-OTHER
U of S Signs Letter of Intent to Commercialize Treatment for Lung Injury
Complications
A letter of intent to commercialize a new drug treatment for Acute
Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) has been signed between the University
of Saskatchewan's Industry Liaison Office (ILO) and IL Therapeutics Inc., a
new start-up firm at Innovation Place on the U of S campus.
The announcement was made today by ILO Managing Director Doug Gill during
Investment Future Forum 2004, hosted by Investment Saskatchewan Inc. and
Saskatchewan Industry and Resources in Regina.
ARDS is a rapid form of respiratory failure resulting from an injury to the
lungs. Patients die in roughly half the cases.
U of S researchers John Gordon and Fang Li developed the proposed treatment
which involves a protein that can be administered by injection to patients
experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, the syndrome.
The letter of intent also paves the way to explore potential uses of the
proposed treatment for inflammatory diseases in humans and animals,
including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, shipping fever
and mastitis.
ILO will continue discussions with IL Therapeutics Inc., managed by the
Saskatoon office of Lombard Life Sciences (Lombard), regarding a worldwide
exclusive license for the compound, with ARDS as the main target for
treatment.
Lombard manages the $90-million Western Life Sciences Venture Fund LP (WLS
Fund), which creates, acquires and develops emerging life sciences
companies. The WLS Fund has helped launch two Saskatchewan companies in the
past eight months based on technology developed at the U of S. Investment
Saskatchewan Inc. is an investor in the WLS Fund.
The research underlying the proposed new treatment was funded by the
Saskatchewan Agricultural Development Fund and the Alberta Agricultural
Research Institute.
ILO was created in January to replace UST Inc. as the university's
technology transfer arm. ILO operates out of the Office of the
Vice-President Research to encourage invention and innovation by faculty,
promote research collaboration and technology transfer opportunities with
industrial partners, and help form spin-off companies that will create and
market products from U of S inventions.
Over the past five years, UST/ILO has helped to set up seven new companies
in Saskatoon, ranging from small consulting companies to high-tech
nanotechnology and bio-pharmaceutical firms. For information about
available technologies, visit: http://www.usask.ca/ust/tech/index.html
The U of S aims to triple its total revenues from commercialized
university-developed technology to $3 million by 2010.
-30-
For more information, contact:
John Gordon
Professor of Veterinary Microbiology
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7214
Doug Gill
ILO Managing Director
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7335
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506
Kevin McGarry
President and CEO
Lombard Life Sciences
(306) 975-9883
May 05, 2004
U of S Announces Honorary and Earned Degree Recipients
Posted May 05, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 5, 2004 2004-05-03-OTHER
U of S Announces Honorary and Earned Degree Recipients
Today the University of Saskatchewan announced the latest recipients of
honorary and earned degrees.
Dr. Dafydd Rhys Williams, a physician and astronaut and Dr. Marcel Baltzan,
a local physician and renal transplant specialist will receive honorary
degrees. Dr. Rajendra Sharma a U of S professor and research scientist
specializing in the cardiovascular system, brain tumours and cancer will
receive an earned degree.
Dr. Dafydd (Dave) Rhys Williams was born in Saskatoon and graduated with a
Doctorate of Medicine and Master of Surgery from McGill University. In 1992,
the Canadian Space Agency selected Dr. Williams as one of four successful
candidates from a field of 5,330 applicants to begin astronaut training. He
filled various roles within the Canadian space program and then joined the
NASA space team in 1995. His first foray into space took place in 1998,
aboard the space shuttle Columbia. Dr. Williams was named a Mission
Specialist 3 and during the 16-day flight he participated in experiments
dedicated to the advancement of neuroscience research, and focused on the
effects of microgravity on the brain and the nervous system. Dr. Williams
was the first non-American to hold a senior management position within NASA
and he is currently training to participate in his second space flight.
Dr. Williams will receive an honorary doctor of laws on May 26 at 9:00 a.m.
All ceremonies will take place at the Centennial Auditorium.
Dr. Marcel (Marc) A. Baltzan has made an enormous contribution to Royal
University Hospital, the University of Saskatchewan, to Saskatchewan and the
world with his pioneer work in renal transplants. He pioneered the second
kidney transplant in Canada. His research and experience in this field has
set an example for physicians around the world. He has shared his knowledge
and the results of his research with medical students at the University of
Saskatchewan. His research has benefited thousands of patients around the
world. In addition to his medical practice and research, Dr. Baltzan was
President of the Saskatchewan and Canadian Medical Associations and is Past
President of the Canadian Association of Professors of Medicine. He is also
an Officer of the Order of Canada (1995) and received the Saskatchewan Order
of Merit in 1999. He was awarded the status of Master of the American
College of Physicians. He is an outstanding clinician-scientist, medical
economist, medical organizer and educator who has excelled in each of these
roles.
Dr. Baltzan will receive an honorary doctor of science on May 27 at 9:00
a.m.
Dr. Rajendra (Raj) K. Sharma was born in Hathras, India and obtained a B.Sc.
and M.Sc. from Aligarh University and his Ph.D. degree in Biochemistry at
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. Currently, Dr. Sharma is
a professor in the Dept. of Pathology, College of Medicine, U of S and a
Research Scientist in the Cancer Research Centre, Saskatchewan Cancer
Agency. To this date, he has published more than 150 papers including
review articles and has co-edited a book. He has received more than $2
million dollars from various granting agencies since his time at the U of S.
Dr. Sharma excels in the realm of scientific innovations and original
procedures and brings us forward in the understanding, diagnosis, and
treatment of many medical conditions. Not only has he made numerous
milestone discoveries in basic science, but also in applied areas relating
to the pathogenesis of cancer. He has made significant contributions in the
area of colorectal cancer. Dr. Sharma is a dedicated and outstanding
scientist with an international reputation for conducting cutting edge
research in widely disparate areas.
Dr. Sharma will receive an earned doctor of science on May 27 at 2:00 p.m.
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For more information, please contact:
Norma McBain
University Secretary's Office
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-4635
Students Learn Science at the Synchrotron through Art, Song and Dance
Posted May 05, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Wednesday, May 5th, 2004 2004-05-04-EXT
Students Learn Science at the Synchrotron through Art, Song and Dance
A unique science program that focuses on light and incorporates both the
arts and visits to the Canadian Light Source (CLS) synchrotron on the U of S
campus has been developed for grade one and two students attending King
George Community School.
The students will showcase their work at the program's grand finale on May
10 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Media are welcome to attend between 10 a.m.
and 11 a.m.
Students will demonstrate how they made their classroom creations and will
also hold a large dance performance depicting what they have learned about
light.
The initiative was made possible through a partnership among the U of S
Extension Division Community Arts Program, the CLS, and King George
Community School, with financial support from an ArtsSmarts grant and The
Saskatoon Foundation.
"This initiative has provided the children of King George School with a rare
opportunity to connect their artistic creativity with scientific learning,"
said Kate Hobin, Community Arts Program Director. "Our overall desire was to
encourage the development of intellectual skills through active
participation in the arts, and the outcomes have been very rewarding."
Artist and teacher Pam Adams, who has been teaching science to these
students through a variety of artistic disciplines, agrees. "The children
have shown a playful curiosity and a real desire to explore light and art,"
she says. "Art (visual art, dance, song, poetry) can be used as a stimulant
in all areas of education. It is another vehicle for transmitting knowledge
that is not used enough."
The students had their first synchrotron experience in February. Their
three-hour field trip included a tour of the U of S-owned national facility,
kaleidoscope making, and the opportunity to interact with scientists.
Various stations were set up where students could study the use of light
with microscopes and prisms, and how magnets attract and repel each other.
They also created molecule models from tinker toys and learned that
electrons manipulate objects by conducting a balloon and water experiment
For information about the CLS, visit www.lightsource.ca
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For more information, please contact:
Kimberly Heaton
Program Coordinator - Extension Division
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5530
kimberly.mathews@usask.ca
www.extension.usask.ca/go/arts
or
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan/ CLS
(306) 966-2506
www.usask.ca/research
Eight U of S Engineering Students Win National Energy Efficiency Awards
Posted May 05, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Wednesday, May 5, 2004 2004-05-05-ENG
Eight U of S Engineering Students Win National Energy Efficiency Awards
Eight University of Saskatchewan mechanical engineering students have been
named Energy Ambassadors by Natural Resources Canada's Office of Energy
Efficiency for their innovative approaches to saving energy and protecting
the environment.
The Energy Ambassador Program recognizes students whose undergraduate
projects contribute to improving energy efficiency or reducing energy
consumption.
This year, students from 12 universities across Canada received these
awards. Each winning group receives an award of $1,000. Members traveled to
Ottawa at the end of March to receive their awards and to make presentations
on their projects. Students also meet industry leaders involved in energy
efficiency and officials from Natural Resources Canada.
- U of S students Jeff Wagner, Darcy Holderness and Matthew Mireau were
recognized for their control system to improve efficiency in energy-recovery
wheels. These wheels capture energy from the exhaust stream of heating and
air conditioning systems, reducing heating and cooling costs in buildings.
This fourth-year design project was supervised by Ken Coutu, and was
sponsored by Venmar CES Inc., a Saskatoon manufacturer of heating,
ventilation and air-conditioning products.
- Craig King, Chris James, Conrad Iskra and Dalys Buck developed an energy
recovery system for Cameco Corporation's Rabbit Lake underground uranium
mine. The system more efficiently heats the fresh air brought into the mine
for ventilation. This will reduce annual heating costs and carbon dioxide
emissions. This fourth-year design project was supervised by Professor Carey
Simonson.
- Chris Richards developed an on-campus student group to increase awareness
of energy efficiency and sustainable development. The group will hold
educational seminars, facility tours and meetings with technical societies
and professional associations.
Further information on the Energy Ambassador program and the winning student
design projects can be found on the Natural Resources Canada website:
http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/ambassadors/2004_university_of_saskatchewan.cfm.
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For more information, contact:
Ken Coutu
(306) 244-7527
kcoutu@integratedcontrols.ca
Professor Carey Simonson
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5479
carey.simonson@usask.ca
Michael Robin
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
Genetic Change Linked to Most Common Form of Adult-Onset Leukemia
Posted May 05, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 5, 2004 2004-05-06-ME
Genetic Change Linked to Most Common Form of Adult-Onset Leukemia
A U of S research team has found a genetic change in a gene associated with
the most common form of leukemia in the Western world, a link that could
lead to better screening tools for the disease and a new target for
therapeutic drugs.
"We can use the change we have found as a marker for disease, but it's more
important to find out how the disease works," says Dr. Anurag Saxena. "This
gene codes for a protein, and this protein is responsible for keeping the
cells long lived."
The findings were published in the May 5, 2004 issue of the Journal of the
National Cancer Institute, the most prestigious publication for cancer
research.
Saxena, a pathology professor in the U of S College of Medicine, led the
study. The research team looked at 58 patients with chronic lymphocytic
leukemia (CLL), a blood cancer that attacks adults in mid to late life.
"In this particular leukemia, once the cells get started, they want to live
forever. They are kind of death-defying," Saxena says.
This is a problem with many cancers. Programmed cell death, or apoptosis,
happens once a cell has outlived its usefulness and is ready to be recycled.
In cancer, apoptosis goes awry. Cells keep living far beyond their "best
before" date, dividing, growing into tumours, and in the case of CLL,
insinuating themselves into and disrupting different organ systems in the
body. Patients with CLL will live between five and 15 years before
succumbing to the disease.
The team examined DNA from cancer cells taken from the patients as well as a
control group of 18 healthy individuals. In 17 of the leukemia patients,
they found a short DNA sequence insertion in the promoter for the gene that
codes for Mcl-1 protein. This is one of the Bcl-2 family of proteins that
controls apoptosis. High levels of Mcl-1 are often seen in this form of
leukemia.
"This small sequence is present in the promoter of the gene," Saxena says.
"If it is present in the promoter, it is regulating the whole gene. Even if
you have a small change in the promoter, you're going to have a large
impact, as it's sitting at that crucial point."
Patients with this genetic sequence were also among the minority of CLL
patients for whom the disease is most deadly. Their illness doesn't respond
to treatment, and it kills them more quickly. Saxena says this link is a
clue to how CLL develops - information that will be valuable both as a
diagnostic tool and to develop more effective treatments.
"This is one of many factors, but it identifies those people who either
don't respond to treatment, or whose disease progresses at a rapid rate,"
Saxena says. "It sheds light on a key question in cancer research: why do
some patients get sicker than others?"
Saxena hopes to find similar markers for lung, prostate and breast cancers,
as well as other types of leukemia and cancers of the immune system. He and
his colleagues intend to look at other proteins in the Bcl-2 family as well.
The research team includes Anurag Saxena, Oksana Moshynska (pathology),
Koravangattu Sankaran (pediatrics) and Punam Pahwa (community health and
epidemiology). The study was funded by the Saskatchewan Health Research
Foundation.
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For more information, contact:
Dr. Anurag Saxena
Department of Pathology
College of Medicine
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 655-2157
saxena@sask.usask.ca
Michael Robin
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
May 03, 2004
Broccoli May Bolster Body's Defenses Against Heart Disease and Stroke
Posted May 03, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 3rd, 2004 2004-05-01-OTHER
Broccoli May Bolster Body's Defenses Against Heart Disease and Stroke
Compounds in broccoli may supercharge the body's ability to mop up free
radicals and so protect against high blood pressure, stroke and heart
disease, according to research led by University of Saskatchewan health
scientist Bernhard Juurlink and recently published in the Proceedings of the
National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) in the U.S.
"Nearly all the studies to date have focused on the protective effects of
these substances against cancer," said Juurlink, head of the U of S
department of anatomy and cell biology. "This study is the first to show
that broccoli sprouts rich in these compounds, through raising the
antioxidant and thereby the anti-inflammatory capacities of cells, can
correct major dysfunctions such as hypertension and stroke."
The research team is exploring oxidative stress which occurs when free
radical production outstrips the body's ability to neutralize it. Free
radicals are unstable chemical byproducts of the body's normal metabolism
which damage essential cell molecules in a manner similar to the rusting of
iron. This damage leads to cardiovascular disease and other ailments.
Tissues have a variety of defenses to prevent this "rusting" - systems that
Juurlink and his team found can be bolstered by eating foods rich in
chemicals called phase 2 protein inducers. One such inducer, glucoraphanin
(Grn), is found in high levels in broccoli sprouts (baby broccoli plants
with a pleasant, tangy flavor).
"Phase 2 inducers promote the production of phase 2 proteins," Juurlink
says. "These proteins either promote scavenging of oxidants or decrease the
chance of these oxidants being formed in the first place. The result is a
huge multiplier effect. One phase 2 protein inducer likely has the same
effect as thousands of typical anti-oxidant molecules."
The researchers fed broccoli sprouts to two groups of rats that were prone
to high blood pressure and stroke. One group received sprouts high in Grn,
while the other group received a Grn-poor variety. At the end of 14 weeks,
the rats on the high-Grn diet displayed more vigorous antioxidant defense
mechanisms. They also had lower blood pressure and decreased inflammation of
the heart and kidney.
The study suggests a modest change in diet could have profound health
benefits. Juurlink says if humans respond the same way as the test animals,
one or two grams of fresh broccoli sprouts per day per kilo of body weight
would do the trick. This works out to 70 to 140 grams (roughly two to four
ounces) for a 70-kilogram person, or a smallish serving with supper every
day. The team hopes to repeat the study in human subjects to confirm the
beneficial effects.
Anti-cancer effects of the sprouts, documented in a study published in 2002
by a team at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Maryland, appear
to be due to the same enhanced antioxidant effect. The 2002 study also
showed a powerful antibacterial effect against Helicobacter pylori, an
organism known to cause stomach ulcers.
Why sprouts? They have much higher concentrations of Grn than mature
broccoli. Juurlink estimates you would need to eat 20 to 50 times as much of
the mature plant to get the same benefits.
If broccoli sprouts are hard to come by in your supermarket, you can also
get phase 2 protein inducers into your system with other foods. Some
examples are flax seed, soy products, kale - and for dessert, raspberries,
blackberries, strawberries, blueberries and cranberries.
Funding for the study was provided by the Saskatchewan Agricultural
Development Fund. Other researchers on the team included Lily Wu
(pharmacology), Hossein Noyan Ashraf (post-doctoral fellow in anatomy and
cell biology), Marina Facci (graduate student), Rui Wang (physiology),
Phylis Paterson (pharmacy and nutrition), and Alison Ferrie (National
Research Council's Plant Biotechnology Institute).
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For more information, contact:
Bernhard Juurlink
Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology
College of Medicine
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4083
bernhard.juurlink@usask.ca
Michael Robin
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
