Thesis (M.S.)--University of Michigan, 1991.

Thesis (M.S.)--University of Michigan, 1991.

Capturing and holding of white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) for the reintroduction to new reserves or breeding in zoos often involves a risk of mortality. Non-invasive techniques to monitor the stress experienced by these animals may guide the selection of management techniques that reduce risks to animal well-being. The aim of the study was to evaluate the biological relevance of a developed technique to monitor stress hormone metabolites in faecal samples of wild-caught and captive-bred white rhinoceros. Faecal corticosterone concentrations were measured via radioimmunoassay (125I RIA), in seven white rhinoceros (3 males and 4 females), at three sites, before and after an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) challenge test and control saline injection. Administration of ACTH resulted in a significant increase in faecal corticosterone concentrations (up to 350% above pre-ACTH baseline) within 1-2 days of injection, returning to baseline 4 days post-injection. It was found that individual baseline corticosterone concentrations fluctuate naturally and vary between individual animals, suggesting that an adequate baseline period of faecal sampling is needed in order to accurately assess responses to ACTH stimulation. Furthermore, the technique proved sensitive enough to detect elevations in faecal corticosterone concentrations due to environmental stressors. Data of faecal corticoid concentrations were correlated with gastrointestinal transit (GIT) times before and after ACTH and saline treatment by using art glitter as a digestive marker. This showed that gut passage times correlated to the ACTH-induced time to peak. Overall the results confirm that measurements of faecal corticosterone metabolites with the validated 125I RIA is a useful diagnostic tool to monitor adrenocortical activity in white rhinoceros. This study can therefore provide a methodology for examining chronically heightened adrenal activity in these animals and consequently be used to inform management strategies that aim to improve the welfare of white rhinoceros in captivity. / Dissertation (MSc)--University of Pretoria, 2011. / Anatomy and Physiology / unrestricted

Diss. (sammanfattning) Stockholm : Karolinska institutet, 2007. / Härtill 4 uppsatser.

The Master´s Thesis „Stress evaluation, coping and reduction” deals with analyzing stress in students, ordinary workers and top managers. The theoretical part analyzes stress, effects of stress, its impact on human health, his work / study results and overall his life. The practical part is concerned with the influence of stress on students, ordinary workers and top managers, using a questionnaire. On the basis of the analysis is specified what causes stress for the various groups, how most respondents solve the stress. The conclusion of the work includes the proposal of effective coping and stress reduction for each group of respondents.

The aim of the master’s thesis was t odevelop alternative solutions supporting steel structure of the railway bridge on the undermined area. The range of single fields were chosen based on the location of existing substructures. Reducing the width of bridge openings were not allowed. Based on the geodetic survey plans were drawn up clear of the current state. On the basis of specifications for developing a detailed process was chosen variant Gerber’s beam reinforced with an arch in mean field. For this variant was performed structural analysis of the main parts of the main structure of the bridge, which was calculated with the effects of undermining. For variant Gerber’s beam were made clear drawings and drawing details of the selected steel bridge construction (new state). Further, detailed analysis of selected structural detail was made. Specifically, connecting rod to the main beam, which was designed optimal shape and thickness of the joints plate with a suitable radius of the firing to avoid plastification of the material in this area. Variant of the continuous beam without joints was prepared to. It has been observed, what is the effect of undermining on the stress in the construction of the bridge - was confronted with the effects on Gerber’s beam. To reduce stress in the construction of the bridge and compliance of ultimate state of applicability of the main beam has been designed bearing adjustment and after considering several options its implementation too. The economic comparison between the two variants was conducted. The assembling procedure was designed for both types of bridge structures. In the technical report we can read about due to the intention of building a new bridge and further we can find there other important technical information. In conclusion of the master’s thesis there has been recommended for the construction specific variant – from the perspective of an investor, and from the static aspect-view of the designer.