No description available.

The extent of genetic structuring of a population results from a balance of forces producing local genetic differentiation, and counter-forces producing genetic homogeneity. An understanding of these forces is essential when investigating evolutionary processes in a species. It has been predicted that, when populations experience severe reductions in size, they lose genetic variability. Small population size may occur as a consequence of founder events, such as with the introduction and spread of a pest species. The predictions as described were examined by studying the molecular evolution and population genetics of European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus (L)) populations in Australia, using variation in mitochondrial DNA control region sequences. The results suggest that there is a higher rate of gene flow within populations in semi arid/arid areas, which is attributable to the extreme environmental heterogeneity found in these areas and may be best explained by a process whereby local populations becoming extinct and are recolonised by individuals drawn from other populations. / Master of Science (Hons)

No description available.

Graduation date: 1990

published_or_final_version / Physiology / Doctoral / Doctor of Philosophy

No description available.

For almost a century both toxic and beneficial qualities have been ascribed to fluorine. During this time emphasis has been placed on many aspects of fluoride metabolism by different groups of workers. Farm animals are exposed to dietary fluorine from small amounts in most natural feedstuffs, from their water supply, from rock phosphate used as a mineral supplement, and from foliage grown in the vicinity of certain industrial operations. [...]

The importance of fluorine in nutrition is related to its presence in small amounts in most foods and water supply and in all tissues of the body, particularly in bones and teeth. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, fluorine was considered to be a poison. Scientific articles dealt with its toxic properties when used in preservatives and pesticides and with the ill-effects of extremely high concentrations of fluoride in drinking water and in industrial processing. [...]

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xiii, 159 leaves : tables ; 30 cm. / Title page, contents and abstract only. The complete thesis in print form is available from the University Library. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Adelaide, Dept. of Human Physiology and Pharmacology, 1980