Aug 16 2007 Bulletin.Indd

August 16, 2007 Vol. 41. No. 8 umanitoba.ca/bulletin The Bulletin University of Manitoba

Arctic adventure DNA physics Creative works Our researchers will be busy Biology, chemistry and physics A new grants program is over the next 15 months studying all have a role to play in the recognizing the value of creative change in the Arctic Ocean. study of DNA. works. Page 3 Page 4 Page 8 Students decode the law About a dozen University of Manitoba law students have developed an innovative project that provides legal information to Aboriginal people in Manitoba who were in the residential school system. All summer students have been volunteering their time and expertise traveling to Manitoba reserves and giving free information workshops on the federal government’s Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement. “We’re helping those people who don’t normally get access,” says Calla Coughlan, law student and program coordinator for Pro Bono Students of Canada - Manitoba (PBSC), a student volunteer organization interested in philanthropy and public interest law. “The settlement will impact many survivors’ lives; it’s critical they understand it.” Submitted photo The PBSC residential schools Ian Morrison’s wife Joanne, second from right, and children, from left, Katie, Brett and Stuart, were at the July 26 event to information workshops offer christen the Ian N. Morrison Research Farm. information on how to protect finances, including signing authority, shared bank accounts, and what constitutes fraud and theft. “Since many survivors are elderly, U of M honours Morrison we are also answering general questions regarding the creation of The Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences’ Carman resistance, were internationally recognized. wills,” Coughlan adds. research station was officially named the Ian N. Morrison In 1999, he was inducted as a Fellow of the Weed Science “The settlement agreement opt-out Research Farm on July 26. Morrison was a professor and Society of America, an international society that he had day [of Aug. 20] is approaching and renowned weed scientist with the University of Manitoba served for many years. survivors are still wondering what the for 20 years. Also a gifted teacher, he supervised more than 20 ramifications of opting out are,” says A sign noting the farm’s new title was unveiled by graduate students, many of whom now play major roles law student Meredith Mitchell, who Morrison’s wife Joanne and children Stuart, Katie and in the agricultural industry across Canada as researchers, took part with Coughlan in a workshop Brett. educators and managers in private industry, universities and at Peguis First Nation last month. Morrison, as head of the department of plant science the public service. “As students with a valuable skill set in 1992, led the effort to secure the Carman property as a Morrison left the University of Manitoba in 1996 to of understanding and decoding the permanent research farm. become dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and law we have an opportunity to assist Today, the 406-acre farm located on the west side Home Economics at the University of Alberta in Edmonton survivors.” of Carman serves as an important site for research and for eight years. He passed away unexpectedly in January Funding has been provided by the collaboration with grower groups and Manitoba Agriculture, 2006. Law Foundation of Manitoba to help Food and Rural Initiatives personnel, and for extension Joanne Keselman, vice-president (research), was on cover travel costs. activities such as the annual Crop Diagnostic School. hand for the event and said the U of M couldn’t do its job as a Upcoming trips include the Peguis Each year approximately one thousand visitors from research university without places like the research farm. First Nation, Rouseau River First Nation, Manitoba and around the world tour the Carman farm. “The Carman Research Station plays a very important Norway House and Cross Lake. The site also includes the University of Manitoba Carman role as a centre of research and education throughout the Requests for additional workshops & Region Facility, a teaching, research and extension centre region, and it’s fitting that we are dedicating this facility to have been received by the students, that serves the community and surrounding area. an outstanding scientist who made a significant and lasting who are teamed up with the university’s Morrison’s research contributions in weed science, contribution to research and education across the prairies,” Manitoba Aboriginal Law Students’ especially his groundbreaking research into herbicide Keselman said. Association. The students are advised by law faculty in their research. One University. Many Futures. Page 2 The Bulletin August 16, 2007 In The News

University of Manitoba members are always making news – demonstrating the university’s impact on the community. Here’s a look at the stories and headlines that show how U of M faculty and staff impact the world around them. Mini U gets maximum mention Summer, 2007 Canadian Family Magazine Janice Grift, director of children’s programming at the university, was quoted in the summer issue of Canadian Family Magazine about Mini U. Grift offered several tips to parents on how to select a safe and suitable day camp for kids. Autism and discipline July 9, 2007 The Wall Street Jounal Psychology professor Garry L. Martin was quoted in a story about autism and discipline in The Wall Street Journal. Photo by Kimberley Corneillie Prentice, yet again! John Wilkins and the Head Start Biomedical Youth Program students complete their tour of the Centre for July 10, 2007 Proteomics and Systems Biology Lab, which opened in June 2006. Canada.com, The National As supply chain management professor and former director of the university’s Transport Institute, Meet tomorrow’s scientists Barry Prentice was asked to comment on a wide By Kimberley Corneillie “I really liked the tour and the science experiment,” range of news stories, including using dirigibles For The Bulletin she said. in the Arctic as a plausible form of transport for Fifteen Grade 5 and 6 students got hands-on When asked what she would like to accomplish as the diamond mine industry and the collapse of an experience as budding scientists in the recently a scientist, she answered, “I want to learn how long interstate bridge in Minneapolis. launched Head Start Biomedical Youth Program. mosquitoes live and I want to cure cancer.” The program ran for one week with the young Boulette’s excitement was demonstrated by all Hong Kong Living scientists receiving their graduation diplomas on 15 participants as they toured the lab facilities at July 19, 2007 Friday, July 13 at the Faculty of Medicine, University both St. Boniface Hospital Research Centre and the International Herald Tribune of Manitoba. Faculty of Medicine and later participated in hands-on The program targeted Winnipeg inner city experiments with grad students. Interior Design graduate Anita Tang was fea- schools, with a specific focus on Aboriginal schools Next year the program will continue, and Amara tured in a prominent story overseas for her work Niji Mahkwa, Marion and Fort Rouge. would like to see more inner city students have the designing luxury show apartments for one of Hong Francis Amara, associate professor and senior opportunity to participate. Kong’s leading developers. scientist, department of biochemistry and medical “I am hoping that this program will create a genetics, Faculty of Medicine, said this initiative sustainable interest in science, and have an impact Working on Alzheimer’s is designed to give students of under-represented on the career choices for these children,” said July 23, 2007 minorities and low socio-economic backgrounds an Amara. The Boston Globe introduction to science and research. The Head Start Biomedical Youth Program and Orrie Friedman, a biotechnology pioneer who The goal of the program is to encourage them to the Science Buddies Program are proudly sponsored graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1935 learn more about science and to eventually pursue by the Faculty of Medicine, St. Boniface Hospital and lives in the U.S., was featured in a lively story careers in the health profession. Research Centre, Sanofi-Aventis Biotech, MINDSET in The Boston Globe about his hopes to entice a Jasmine Boulette, who proudly said she’s entering Manitoba, and the Centre for Aboriginal Health pharmaceutical company to take an interest in re- grade six at Niji Mahkwa School, had a great time. Education. search conducted on Alzheimer’s disease by his own company, Grand Pharma. Friedman, who became a chemistry professor at Brandeis University, is 92 years old. The philanthropist has no plans to slow Like meeting people? Come volunteer! down and since his father didn’t retire until he was The University of Manitoba is hosting an Open hoping they’ll have a chance to talk with prospective 99 years old, Friedman intends to see the day when House to coincide with this year’s Homecoming cel- students, alumni and members of the general pub- a viable treatment for Alzheimer’s can be found. His ebrations in September and we need your help to lic to share their views and experiences of university brother died from the disease three years ago. make it a success. life. On Saturday, Sept. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Volunteers are needed in a number of areas and Headline News general public will be invited to campus to take part capacities such as hosts, tour guides and support staff. Where else has the U of M been making news? in tours, activities and displays hosted by various fac- If you are interested in volunteering and/or can • “Icebreaker-turned-laboratory begins 15-month ulties and departments. help us find some students and staff members who Arctic voyage,” Canada.com, July 27, 2007. We’d love to have faculty, staff and students join are, please contact Dale Barbour at 474 8111 or • “Energy Tribune speaks with Vaclav Smil,” Energy us as volunteers. We envision our student volunteers [email protected] or Erin Carter at 272 Tribune, July 27, 2007. as ambassadors for the university. Along with playing 1564 or [email protected]. host and acting as support staff for the event, we’re Volunteer orientation will be provided.

Editor/Advertising/Production Schedule community. There is no charge for The Bulletin Dale Barbour Issue Date: Sept. 6 running notices in the events column. University of Manitoba Phone: 474 8111 Copy/advertising deadline: Aug. 29 Send events notices to: Fax: 474 7631 [email protected] The Bulletin is the newspaper of record Issue Date: Sept. 20 for the University of Manitoba. It is pub- E-mail: [email protected] Copy/advertising deadline: Sept. 12 Advertising Policy lished by the Public Affairs department every second Thursday from September Academic Advertising Return undeliverable copies with Ca- With the exception of advertisements to June and monthly in December, July Kathy Niziol nadian addresses to: from the University of Manitoba, ads carried in The Bulletin do not imply and August. Phone: 474 7195 The University of Manitoba Bulletin recommendation by the university for Fax: 474 7505 144 Services Building, The Bulletin welcomes submissions the product or service. The Bulletin E-mail: [email protected] 97 Dafoe Road from members of the university com- will not knowingly publish any adver- Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 munity. Submissions can include letters Printing tisement which is illegal, misleading Phone: (204) 474 8111 to the editor, columns, news briefs and Derksen Printers or offensive to its readers. The Bul- story and photo suggestions. Fax: (204) 474 7631 letin will also reject any advertisement which violates the university’s internal This issue’s contributers: Frank Nolan, Events Tamara Bodi, Bob Talbot, Sean Moore, policies, equity/human rights or code Material in The Bulletin may be reprint- The Bulletin publishes notifications Chris Rutkowski, Kimberley Corneillie of conduct. ed or broadcast, excepting materials on events taking place at the Univer- for which The Bulletin does not hold sity of Manitoba or events that are of The Bulletin can be viewed online at exclusive copyright. particular interest to the university umanitoba.ca/bulletin August 16, 2007 The Bulletin Page 3 A window between tundra and ice Circumpolar Flaw Lead project will shed light on Arctic’s future The University of Manitoba is on the to protect our oceans, the environment move in the Arctic Ocean and Canada and the well-being of all Canadians.” Research Chair in Arctic System Science The CFL Study will receive a total David Barber couldn’t be happier. of $20.5 million from the Government Barber, who is also director of the of Canada Program for IPY, including $6 Centre for Earth Observation Science million in research funding and $14.5 at the University of Manitoba, leads the million in logistical ship support. Over Circumpolar Flaw Lead System (CFL) the next four years the project team study, a 15-month adventure aimed will also receive $768,000 in research at understanding the effects of global funding from the Natural Sciences climate change in the Arctic. The project and Engineering Research Council of kicked off this summer. Canada (NSERC), and $4.2 million in The CFL study, which involves more infrastructure support from the Canada than 200 scientists from 16 countries, Foundation for Innovation (CFI) and was officially launched the Manitoba Research at the University of “When you consider and Innovation Fund. Manitoba on July 11. that we are now losing “Funding inno- Based aboard the vative research helps Canadian Coast Guard Arctic sea ice at a rate retain our brightest research icebreaker, of about 70,000 square minds in Manitoba, CCGS Amundsen, the kilometers each year, we attract more world- CFL study is the largest class research and project in Canada’s really need to understand r e s e a r c h e r s , a n d Photos by Bob Talbot International Polar how this will effect the enhances Manitoba as From left, Canada Research Chair in Arctic System Science David Barber, speaks with Year (IPY) research e n t i r e c i r c u m p o l a r a centre of innovation,” Manitoba minister of healthy living Kerri Irvin-Ross, vice-president (research) Joanne program, and one of Irvin-Ross said. “The Keselman, and Treasury Board president Vic Toews at the CFL launch on July 11. the largest IPY projects region.” funding we are provid- in the world. David Barber, ing for this research central Arctic ice pack moves away from importance of climate processes in For the official Canada Research Chair in Arctic project supports the coastal ice. Scientists consider flaw leads changing the nature of the flaw lead launch, Barber was System Science province’s commitment to be early indicators of what the Arctic system in the Northern Hemisphere, joined by Vic Toews, to scientific research.” will look like in the coming decades, but and the effect these changes will have president of the Treasury Board, Kerri “The CFL study is a tremendous Barber said they have never before been on the marine ecosystem, the transport Irvin-Ross, minister of healthy living for undertaking that will provide vital studied in such a detailed way. of contaminants, and the exchange of the Province of Manitoba, and Joanne new insight into the effects of global “Our project is looking at the flaw greenhouse gases. Keselman, vice-president (research) at climate change on the environment lead system from virtually every angle,” The project will also include a the University of Manitoba. and peoples of the circumpolar Arctic,” Barber said at a media presentation cultural component, with researchers “The Circumpolar Flaw Lead System said Keselman. “We are extremely proud following the official announcement. relying on the knowledge and first-hand project will provide us with vital scientific of Dr. Barber and his team, and we “When you consider that we are now experience of northern residents to knowledge regarding the interactions congratulate every one of the more than losing Arctic sea ice at a rate of about help guide their work. between climate change and the ocean 200 researchers who will play a part in 70,000 square kilometers each year, we To learn more about the Circumpolar ecosystem,” emphasized Toews, on this unprecedented collaboration.” really need to understand how this will Flaw Lead System Study, please visit the behalf of Loyola Hearn, Minister of Along with Barber, the project is effect the entire circumpolar region. We project’s Web site: umanitoba.ca/ceos Fisheries and Oceans. “Our new co-led by Gary Stern, DFO/University will be studying the entire ecosystem, To learn more about Canada’s government’s support for this initiative of Manitoba and Jody Deming from from viruses to whales, and developing International Polar Year initiatives, is part of our ongoing commitment to the University of Washington. CFL new models for accurately predicting please visit the Government of Canada’s Canada’s Northern region. This project researchers will be studying “flaw leads,” future conditions.” International Polar Year Web site: www. will help us make informed decisions areas of open water created when the The CFL study will examine the ipy-api.gc.ca A lesson about sarcasm Melanie Glenwright’s research is children have difficulty seeing the �� really fascinating. No, really. humour intended in sarcasm? And, Glenwright, department of what cognitive mechanisms and social �� psychology, is exploring sarcasm and experiences are necessary for children �� irony, and children’s ability to grasp to understand sarcasm? �� these important aspects of everyday Although adults don’t think twice �� communication. about why they are laughing at a sarcastic Or, to be more precise, children’s quip made by a character in a popular �� inability. sitcom such as Friends, Glenwright says �� “Sarcasm is something that we that the process by which we interpret �� don’t ‘get’ until a certain point in our and respond to sarcasm is actually quite �� childhood stage of development, late in complex. �� our primary years,” says Glenwright. It works something like this: when Glenwright, who has spent six years we encounter sarcasm we first process �� making sarcastic comments around the literal meaning of the words being �� kids, has found that children tend to spoken, then we suppress an urge to be literal thinkers and their ability respond to that literal meaning, then �� to perceive and process sarcasm is we look for the true intent of the �� developed over time. words based on facial expressions, Of course, Glenwright doesn’t intonation and familiarity with the �� stand around the schoolyard trying to person speaking the words. At that �� elicit laughs with her sarcastic wit. Her point, we’ve recognized sarcasm and �� research is conducted using puppets can respond accordingly, often with who employ sarcasm in conversation laughter or an icy stare. �� with each other while children, aged Kids, on the other hand, are left �� 6 to 10, observe. Kids are then asked wondering what the joke is. about the meaning and intent behind “Younger kids think slapstick is �� the puppets’ words. funny, and plays on words. But not �� “Kids detect sarcasm at about age sarcasm,” says Glenwright, adding that This workshop is sponsored by the Ofﬁ ce of Research Services. 6, but don’t begin to see the intended kids often perceive sarcasm to be mean- humour until around age 10,” she spirited. explains. Glenwright says her research could �� But Glenwright’s work doesn’t be a boon to educators, as it helps shed �� stop at pinpointing which ages can light on the origins of teasing, which can identify sarcasm. Her research, much turn into bullying at later stages of child of which is done in collaboration development. with University of Calgary colleague “Healthy classroom discussions Advertise in The Bulletin Penny Pexman, sets out to answer about sarcasm could be beneficial for specific questions, such as: Why do kids,” she says. For details call 474 8111 Page 4 The Bulletin August 16, 2007 Finding physics in the study of DNA that charges can move through DNA is what has brought us together with the other sciences,” Chakraborty said. Books “Maybe if we are able to understand how this oxidation by University Staff damage propagates through the DNA, we’ll be better able to explain how these diseases operate.” BY DALE BARBOUR While one section of the book is dedicated to The Bulletin the health implications of DNA carrying charges, Physics is no longer the odd man out. other chapters deal with the potential technology Traditionally the study of DNA has been the terrain ramifications. Chakraborty’s own research is dedicated of people from the chemistry and biology departments. to the idea of creating nanodevices – essentially using But over the last ten years researchers have been finding biological material such as DNA as circuits. that physics might just offer a new insight into both the “Nanotechnology is based on the idea that things function and possibilities of DNA. are shrinking. In computers, miniaturization has been Canada Research Chair in Nanoscale Physics Tapash taking place at an incredible rate,” Chakraborty said. Chakraborty brings together the three sciences in a new “What has been happening is that chips are being packed book entitled Charge Migration in DNA: Perspectives with more and more transistors.” from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, part of the The process has taken computers from the size of Nanoscience and Technology series by Springer. rooms to the palm of your hand in a generation. But the Photo by Dale Barbour process can’t go on forever. “We’re hoping that by bringing together people from Canada Research Chair in Nanoscale Physics Tapash “Eventually we’ll reach a point where you can’t make three different fields we can provide researchers with Chakraborty is expanding the study of DNA with Charge them smaller through conventional means,” Chakraborty some new ways to think about DNA,” Chakraborty said. Migration in DNA: Perspectives from Physics, Chemis- said. But DNA is the ultimate nano-circuit, due to its “If you read the biology papers they’ll talk about the try, and Biology. charge going from one end to another, but they don’t molecular recognition and self-assembling capabilities. care about the mechanism that makes that work. As of them are already well known to the general public. “DNA is an important element for nanotechnology. We physicists, we do. And maybe by bringing our techniques “People understand that anti-oxidants are healthy need to understand its electronic properties. It has to the research we’ll be able to benefit biology in the and that they should be eating fruit,” Chakraborty said. not even been clear until now that DNA can conduct end.” The science behind that health tip has everything to do charges,” Chakraborty said. How the process works The book is drawn from a series of talks given at with the ability of DNA to carry a charge. When DNA and under what circumstance is still a matter of debate. the Charge Migration in DNA symposium held at the molecules become oxidized, it means an ion has been Chakraborty’s own lab is working on theoretical models University of Manitoba last year. Chakraborty is editor knocked off the base of the DNA, changing its charge. for how the process might work. and contributes to the chapter “Physics Aspects of Charge As that charge transfers through the DNA, it has the It’s the sort of approach that might one day lead to Migration Through DNA.” ability to pass on the damage to other areas of DNA, computers that are designed at the cellular level. As the title suggests, the concept behind the book eventually creating a DNA mutation. The results can Charge Migration in DNA: Perspectives from is that DNA molecules can carry charges, not unlike a range from cancer to Parkinson’s disease to arthritis as Physics, Chemistry, and Biology is written with upper copper wire carrying an electrical charge. Although the well as aging. level graduate students and researchers in mind. process isn’t nearly as simple. “That’s where the physics part becomes interesting. Ultimately, Chakraborty said the goal is to draw together The ramifications, however, are significant and some We’re used to dealing with electronic circuits. The idea the research strength from all the disciplines. Exhibit looks at book design Elizabeth Dafoe Library is hosting a Alcuin Society Awards for Excellence in traveling exhibit of prize-winning books, Book Design in Canada. selected for the 2006 Alcuin Society Judging is based on the suitability Book Design Awards. of the design concept in relation to the Faculty of Education Since 1981 the Alcuin Society intellectual nature of the content and has sponsored the oldest national the intended audiences. Judges also competition that recognizes and consider use of colour and type as well Homecoming 2007 celebrates fine book design in Canada. as illustrations and photography (when Each year publishers submit books to applicable). To view the exhibit, please Penny Milton a panel of expert judges who give the visit the Elizabeth Dafoe Library. Canadian Education Association CEO Cardiovascular Finding the Brilliance of Children Awards

The Faculty of Education Homecoming 2007 Program, sponsored by the Faculty of Education Alumni Applications/nominations are invited for the following cardiovascular awards Association, will include: Robert Beamish Ken Bowman John Foerster Welcome from Education Alumni President, Katherine Stardom Leadership Award Research Award Distinguished Greetings from the Honourable Minister of Education, Lecture Award Citizenship and Youth, Peter Bjornson Alumni Awards and Scholarships Presentations Vincenzo Panagia Arnold Naimark Henry Friesen Distinguished Young Investigator Young Scientist Lecture Award Award (For Post- Award (For Pre- Wednesday, September 12, 2007 Doctoral Fellows) Doctoral Fellow) 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Room 200, Education Building, Sr. Jacqueline St- Jack Litvack T. Edward Cuddy University of Manitoba Yves Award for Exemplary Service Summer Student Best Paper Award Award

Free Admission, James S. McGoey Heart & Stroke Refreshments, Entertainment Summer Student Foundation Award For Please RSVP to Terry Award Masters Student Cooke at 474-9170 or The closing date for applications/nominations is September 14, 2007. Winners [email protected] will be decided by a Committee and notified towards the end of September. The awards will be presented at the ICS Awards Day, November 15, 2007.

For more information, please see For more information and terms/conditions of the awards, please contact: www.umanitoba.ca/education/alumni Dr. Lorrie Kirshenbaum Secretary, Cardiovascular Awards Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences St. Boniface General Hospital Research Centre Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba 351 Tache Avenue One University. Many Futures. Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, R2H 2A6 Tel: (204) 235-3661 Fax: (204) 233-6723 umanitoba.ca E-mail: [email protected] August 16, 2007 The Bulletin Page 5

EventsUniversity Listing of Manitoba Come home or come for a visit! Season Ticket Sale The University of Manitoba will be a chance for university faculty and staff It pays to get your season tickets the place to be in September and not to mix and mingle with former students early. The Manitoba Bisons are just for students. as well. Along with the Homecoming offering a series of deals aimed at The university is holding an Open Football game, events include: staff and students. House at its Fort Garry Campus on Sept. • Class reunions. Plenty of alumni 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. will be back to share memories. Seasons ticket prices It will be a great chance for the • The Faculty of Engineering for Staff general public, along with friends and centennial. It will be a great party. More Regular price: $40. family of students and staff to check out information is available at: umanitoba. Early Bird Price: $30. the university ca/faculties/engineering. The Open House will include • There will be tours of the Fort Seasons ticket prices entertainment, displays and campus Garry Campus on Friday, Sept. 14. Sure for Students tours. Visitors will also have the to prompt a ‘Hey, that’s new’ moment. Regular price: $30. opportunity to explore the campus Check out the Bison on Sept. 15! • The faculty of music concert. A Early Bird Price: $20. where they’ll find everything from art one of the highlights of Homecoming great mix of jazz, classical and more. shows to dinosaurs. 2007, which runs from Sept. 12 through • The reunion dinner. A gala event Students can also look forward Had enough of looking at the Sept. 16. and perennial highlight. to special season ticket prices in the campus? Then break off from the Open Each year, the University of Manitoba There’s something for everyone fall when the University of Manitoba House and watch the U of M Bison Alumni Association holds its week-long at Homecoming 2007. To learn more, kicks off a new year of athletics and square off against the University of Homecoming event with the goal of head to umanitoba.ca/alumni. Pick the competition. Calgary Dinos during the Homecoming recapturing the magic of student life for events you’d like to attend and then football game. U of M grads from all over the world. give Alumni House a call at 474 9946 umanitoba.ca/bisons/ The game kicks off at 1 p.m. and is But the week is not only for grads. It’s to order your tickets. Bannatyne Campus and St. Boniface Research Centre Arts& THURSDAY, AUGUST 30 Translation, Translation by Frank Book Signing, Cancer?? What you Davidoff, editor emeritus of Annals Entertainment need to know: Causes, Treatments and of Internal Medicine, and has been Concerns by Keith Lewis, immunology, principal investigator of research grants Dr. Paul H.T. Thorlakson Gallery Health Sciences Bookstore, Brodie from the National Institutes of Health, The Iceland Reading Room, Elizabeth Dafoe Library, University of Manitoba Centre, 4 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 30. the Commonwealth Fund, the Pew Gallery hours: Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Charitable Trust, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Theatre A, Basic Sagas WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Medical Sciences Building, 12 p.m., by Inga Torfadottir Joe Doupe Lecture Series, The Secret Wednesday, Sept. 5. June 28 to September 21 for Better Health Care: Translation, Faculty of Music and Smartpark Fort Garry Campus Smartpark’s Summer Night Jazz Fest 8 p.m., Thursday, August 23 Max Bell Centre THURSDAY, AUGUST 16 Classification Implementation by A group of internationally acclaimed jazz musicians are set to perform at Foods and Nutritional Sciences Douglas Cornelsen, E2 – 361 Engineering the University of Manitoba. Steve Wilson, alto & soprano saxophone, flutes, PhD Oral Examination, Creation, and Information Technology Centre, 9 Avishai Cohen, bassist/composer, Stefon Harris, vibraphonist-composer, and Growth and Stability of Aerated a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 21. Terreon Gully, drummer, will join Steve Kirby, bassist, and director of Jazz Structures in Chemically Leavened Studies, University of Manitoba, and Winnipeg’s local Jazz talent. Dough Systems and Relationships Electrical and Computer Engineering A jazz event for all ages. Tickets are $10, children 14 and under are free (with to Mechanical Properties with Low- MSc Thesis Defense, Optimization- adult accompaniment). Visit Ticketmaster.ca or call 780-3333. Bring a lawn intensity Ultrasound by Guillermo Enabled Transient Simulation for chair. Free parking in U Lot. Guido Bellido, 243 Ellis Building, 2:30 Design of Power Circuits with Multi- p.m., Thursday, Aug. 16. Modal Objective Functions by Keyhan Kobravi, 1 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 21. Gallery One One One TUESDAY, AUGUST 21 Gallery One One One is located on the main floor of the FitzGerald Building. Pharmacy MSc Thesis Defense, Effect WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 22 It is open Monday to Friday, noon to 4 p.m. of a novel cateter locking solution for Social Work PhD Oral Examination, the prevention of hemodialysis catheter- Enhancing and Developing Policies, Orange Corner: A Ken Lochhead tribute exhibition related infections by Teresa Takla, Models and Practices to Address the with works by the artist and his circle E2-221 Engineering and Information Mental Health Needs of Immigrant and August 18 to September 28 Technology Centre, 9 a.m., Tuesday, Refugee Women in Saskatchewan by Initiated by Mimi Paige, Suzanne Gillies, and committee members, this tribute Aug. 21. Judy White, 503 Tier Building, 9 a.m., exhibition includes work by Kenneth Lochhead as well as his devoted students Wednesday, Aug. 22. and associates, including Ron Gabe, Don Reichert, Mimi Paige, Joe Fafard, Computer Science MSc Thesis Bryan Nemish, E.J. (Ted) Howorth, Celia Rabinovitch, Don Proch, Jeffrey Defense, A Signature File Algorithm MONDAY, AUGUST 27 Funnell, Pierre Arpin, Bill Lobchuk, Louis Bako, Wayne Brueckner, Kevin for Large Image Databases by Weihua Electrical and Computer Engineering Adair Free, John King and others. Lu, E2-445 Engineering and Information MSc Thesis Defense, A Study of Heart Kenneth Lochhead was born in 1926. He became Director of the University of Technology Centre, 10 a.m., Tuesday, Period Variability for the Statistical Saskatchewan School of Art in Regina in 1950. In 1955, he began the Emma Aug. 21. Detection of Congestive Heart Failure by Lake Professional Artists’ Workshops, which attracted artists such as Barnett Stephen Dueck, E2 – 361 Engineering Newman, Kenneth Noland, Jack Shadbolt and the critic Clement Greenberg Electrical and Computer Engineering and Information Technology Centre, 10 to Saskatchewan. Lochhead was one of the “Regina Five” painters who first MSc Thesis Defense, Design and a.m., Monday, Aug. 27. exhibited together at the National Gallery in 1961. After Regina, Lochhead Verification of a System-On-Chip Packet continued to teach painting and drawing at the University of Manitoba, York University and the University of Ottawa. A painter’s painter, Lochhead’s work • The Bulletin publishes events involving the university is known for its compositional finesse and often exuberant use of colour. community. Lochhead was an Officer of the Order of Canada, a recipient of an Honorary Doctors of Laws, University of Regina, and a 2006 recipient of the Governor- • E-mail events to [email protected] or fax, 474 7631. General’s Award in Visual and Media Arts. He died in 2006.

• The deadline for the September 6 Bulletin is August 29 at 4:30 p.m. Page 6 The Bulletin August 16, 2007 Academic Job Opportunities U of M matches record for A full listing of employment oppor- FACULTY OF MEDICINE tunities at the University of Manitoba can Department of Internal Medicine Academic All-Canadians be found at www.umanitoba.ca Winnipeg Regional Health Authority The University of Manitoba encour- Position: Transplant Hepatologist BY CHRIS ZUK ages applications from qualified women Start date: Oct. 1 Bison Sports Information Officer Bison Sports and men, including members of visible At the completion of the 2006- Salary: Commensurate with experience • 15 Bisons earned Academic All- minorities, Aboriginal peoples, and per- 07 season, Bison Sports matched last and qualifications Canadian status while studying at the sons with disabilities. All qualified candi- season’s all-time high in CIS Academic Application deadline: Position will Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation dates are encouraged to apply; however All-Canadians with 68 student-athletes remain open until filled Management. Canadians and permanent residents will qualifying by maintaining a 3.5 grade Position number: 06493 • Bison women’s student-athletes be given priority. Please include the posi- point average or better based on a For information: Dr. Gerald Minuk, comprise 65 per cent (44 of 68) of this tion number when applying for openings 4.5 scale in their field of study at the head, section of hepatology, John Buhler year’s list. at the university. University of Manitoba. Research Centre, 803F-715 McDermot • The men’s hockey team had six of Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R3E 3P4. Some highlights included University of Manitoba Bisons track and field 29 (21 per cent) while men’s track and FACULTY OF ARTS field had 10 of 48 (21 per cent). Women’s Studies Program Department of Internal Medicine student-athlete Christopher Hrynkow, who completed his Bison career by • Ten of the Bison teams have at least Position: Post-Doctoral Fellowship (up Winnipeg Regional Health Authority two or more Academic All-Canadians. to 5 years post Ph.D. Positions: Four neurologist positions earning this prestigious honour during all five consecutive eligible years, and • There were 13 Bison student- Start date: Jan. 1, 2008 within the areas of stroke neurology athletes who earned a 4.0 or higher mark Salary: The fellowship award is $41,750 and/or general neurology women’s track and field athlete Janelle Vincent who graduated as a four-time (an A – 90 per cent), which represents 19 for per annum (non-negotiable). The Start date: Oct. 15 per cent of all Bisons named as 2006-07 postdoctoral fellow will be expected Salary: Commensurate with experience Academic All-Canadian. Bison student-athletes earning this Academic All-Canadians. to engage in an active program of and qualifications • There were 29 multiple time feminist research supported by a $3,000 Application deadline: Sept. 30, however honour during their first four Bison years were women’s basketball Melanie winners (two or more times named to research/travel grant for the tenure position will remain open until filled this honour). of the fellowship. The candidate will Position number: 06446, 06447, 02222, Schlichter, women’s hockey Dana also have the opportunity to apply to AHW 529 Hoogsteen, women’s track and field Kja Isaacson and men’s track and field HUDSON HOLDS FORT teach two half-courses per year for an For information: Dr. Alan Jackson, chair, FOR PISCHKE additional $8,656 per annum, subject to search committee, section of neurology, Jesse Howatt. Of the 68 Bisons earning the CIS recognition, six are now three- Bison Sports has named Phil Hudson the availability of funds and the needs of Room GF543, Health Sciences Centre, as the new Bison men’s volleyball head the Women’s Studies Program. 820 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB, R3A time CIS Academic All-Canadians and 17 have reached this honour for the coach for the upcoming 2007-08 season. Application deadline: Oct. 1 1R9. Hudson will replace Garth Pischke, who Position number: 06672 second time. The overall total of 68 Bison will be on a six month leave of absence For information: Dr. Linda M. Wilson, Department of Pediatrics and Child from the University of Manitoba. professor and acting coordinator, Health Sports student-athletes earning CIS Academic All-Canadian represents Hudson has been with Dakota women’s studies program, 308 Fletcher Section of Pediatric Collegiate since 1988 and been the Argue Building, University of Manitoba, Gastroenterology over 22 per cent of the total number of Bison Sports student-athletes (304). physical education department head Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, phone 474 Position: Gastroenterologist since 2004. Over his 20 years with 8403, fax 474 7590, e-mail lwilson@ms. Start date: Jan. 1, 2008 The overall percentage of Bison Sport student-athletes named as Academic Dakota, he has coached the men’s umanitoba.ca. Salary: Commensurate with experience volleyball team to three Provincial “AAAA” and qualifications All-Canadians has been at 20 per cent or higher over the last four years. volleyball championships (1991, 1992 UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA Application deadline: Dec. 1 and 2003) and ten more trips to the Position number: 05017 Bison Sports Athletic Director Coleen LIBRARIES Dufresne stated, “These young men and Provincial Final Four. Elizabeth Dafoe Library For information: Dr. C. Rockman- women are such great role models for Position: Education librarian at the rank Greenberg, department head, the youth of our city. Excelling both of assistant librarian department of pediatrics & child health, academically and athletically, these Start date: Oct. 1 University of Manitoba, Children’s student athletes demonstrate the Bison Classified Ads S a l a r y : C o m m e n s u r a t e w i t h Hospital, CE208-840 Sherbrook St., philosophy. I’m very proud of their qualifications and experience Winnipeg, MB, R3A 1S1, fax 787 4807, The Bulletin welcomes Classified accomplishments and congratulate all Application deadline: Sept. 16 e-mail [email protected]. Ads. The rate for ads is $5 for the of them.” Position number: 05252 first 45 words. For information: Ms Carolynne Presser, FACULTY OF SCIENCE A few highlights from the 2006-07 CHARACTER DUPLEX (1st floor) in director of libraries, The University of Department of Physics and CIS Academic All-Canadians Bisons list. Osborne Village, close to bus routes, Manitoba Libraries, Winnipeg, MB, R3T Astronomy • The women’s basketball team had shopping, Corydon, and downtown. 2N2. Position: tenure track position in experimental biological physics six of 13 (46 per cent), women’s soccer 2 b/m, large l/r, new appliances, and had eight of 19 players (42 per cent) and w/d. Parking available. No pets, ns. FACULTY OF ENGINEERING Start date: July 1, 2008 Application deadline: Oct. 31 women’s volleyball team had five of 12 $950 per month. Available late August Department of Mechanical and players (42 per cent). or September. Call 284-5033. Manufacturing Engineering Position number: 05239 Position: Assistant professor in the area For Information: Dr. P.G. Blunden, of solid mechanics Head, Department of Physics and Start date: July, 2008 Astronomy, University of Manitoba, Salary: Commensurate with experience Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, phone 474 9817, Live on campus! and qualifications fax 474 7622, e-mail blunden@physics. Application deadline: January, 2008 umanitoba.ca. and will continue until the position is filled Rooms are available at St. John’s College Position number: 04344 Residence, 92 Dysart Road. For information: Professor D. Kuhn, chair of the search committee, department of mechanical and SJC has excellent services and (arguably) manufacturing engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 5V6, the best food on campus. e-mail [email protected] to the attention of Prof. D. Kuhn. Residence rates include 19 buffet style meals/week, plus complimentary snack on Remember, Sunday nights and during exam periods. it’s YOUR Bulletin! Cost: Single Room - 8 months $6763. The Bulletin welcomes: news tips, opinion pieces, Contact the Dean of Residence letters to the editor, photo ideas 474-8363, and event submissions. [email protected] For information call 474 8111. August 16, 2007 The Bulletin Page 7

Researchumanitoba.ca/research News Perfecting the tools to manage power BY SEAN MOORE “You can’t just waste energy. Research Promotion Everything counts,” he said. A previous design his lab The hybrid car recently zipped developed in early 2007 was used to to the forefront of environmentally- create an electrical vehicle driven by friendly vehicles, which is admirable, some American parking authorities. but where is the champion of clean The simulated energy savings were commuting – the all-electric engine? 95% accurate compared to subsequent In the race to reduce greenhouse real-world results. gas emissions, why does the production “I think what distinguishes us from of electric cars continue to crawl along other researchers working on electric at the speed of a wounded turtle? and hybrid vehicles is the real power In short, it has a power management of good simulation tools that we have problem. But things are about to and develop. It’s our niche area,” change. Filizadeh said. Shaahin Filizadeh, electrical and His work is also applicable to larger computer engineering, is designing new scale projects, like power grids. circuitry that will make power flow to By adding better power electronic where it is needed more smoothly and devices to a system you could, for with remarkably increased efficiency. example, select how much power “We have a powerful motor and you want to send down a particular we have batteries with limited energy corridor, thus making much better storage. What’s needed is an interface use of existing power transmission to manage how much power flows networks. from the batteries to the motor, and “If information technology is how it is done. That’s one of the things Photo by Sean Moore the art of data processing, power we’re working on,” Filizadeh said. Shaahin Filizadeh, left, and Erwin Dirks, electrical and computer engineering. electronics is the art of energy He is developing computer processing. You have different forms simulation models that can be used to and starts and recreational users want the way switches are turned on and off of energy available to you but if you create better power electronics, which it to go fast. affects the way power flow happens. want to use them responsibly you are being installed into an electric all When power flows from its source Simulation tools play an important role need to process them in a way that is terrain vehicle (ATV) his lab is building. to its destination, it travels through a in the way such systems are designed efficient and gives you performance He chose an ATV because it epitomizes combination of electronic switches to enhance their operation and make and reliability. That’s what these the problem: farmers, for example, use called a power electronic converter. them more efficient by smart use of interfaces we design can do.” it for long trips involving many stops The topology of such converters and the energy available. Researchers examine our views on zoos BY SEAN MOORE signs to souvenir stuffed animals and Research Promotion conversations at an animal’s cage – is Apparently, there’s something being tapped and examined by Benbow captivating about captive animals. who wants to know what impacts zoos Every year, North American zoos have on people. Such information is have greater attendance numbers than valuable to conservationists. all professional North American sports “It’s been stated that, for many teams combined. They are prominent people in Western countries, their cultural institutions found in nearly only contact with biodiversity is in every major city; you are brought to zoos. I thought if that’s the case, them when you are young and you then that contact means people get bring your own young to them when a fundamentally different view of you are old. Indeed, Winnipeg’s 103- nature,” Benbow said. “What are the year-old zoo is the oldest zoo in Canada. implications of that?” The first Canadian zoo, however, was To learn more, she studies maps a privately owned one established in because they reveal how zoos portray 1847 in Halifax, but it closed in the themselves. Zoo maps from the late 1890s. 19th century, like Philadelphia’s, were “What is it about these places that designed to be formal and convey an Photo by Sean Moore bring people out in droves?” Bonnie image of a scientific institution. By Mary Benbow, left, and Bonnie Hallman, environment and geography, are studying Hallman, environment and geography, the 1930s, animals on zoo maps were zoos. asked. portrayed using symbols and even inviting to seniors – important future because a zoo, they’ve noticed, is one Hallman and Mary Benbow, cartoons. These images reveal how clientele. of the top spots families take photos of associate dean (academic) of the animals were viewed; for example, Current zoo goers, Hallman each other with surprisingly consistent the Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of gorillas were once depicted as said, are mostly mothers with their formulaic compositions. Environment, Earth, and Resources, brooding and monstrous but recently, children. Benbow said this is just one are studying zoos. Both examine zoos and more appropriately, as sensitive “A zoo helps define who we are example of the wealth of research from different angles, but often their and nurturing creatures. and it helps people grow into the role opportunities zoos have to offer. work overlaps and they have recently Meanwhile, Hallman is looking at of being a good parent,” she said. “If you look around, you realize begun collaborating on new studies. how people, with a particular interest “It gets an unquestioned stamp of there are essentially so many projects The rich repository of in families, interact within the zoo. approval for a good family outing.” that the big challenge is figuring out environmental, social and cultural She has also received funding from a To shed more light on their work, where we want to go next,” she said. information held in zoos, and Centre on Aging Research Fellowship Benbow and Hallman recently studied “There are so many untapped disseminated by them – from maps and to examine the ways zoos can be more photographs taken by families in zoos areas,” Hallman added.

Research News is Published by the Office of the Vice-President (Research) Comments, submissions and event listings to: Bringing Research To Life [email protected] Phone: (204) 474-9020 Fax (204) 261-3475 Page 8 The Bulletin August 16, 2007 Grant program has creative focus Sinclair plans to draw people into a ﬁctional world

BY DALE BARBOUR Sinclair said creative works reach out to the broader The Bulletin community and industry through partnerships. Thanks to a $1,972 grant from the University of “You can’t make a project like this work on your Manitoba’s new creative works grants program, English own,” Sinclair said. “Winnipeg is the perfect place to professor Struan Sinclair has a leg up on his new project do it because it’s so rich in resources, ranging from the entitled If/Then: A Walkthrough Fiction. strong artistic community to the expertise available on “It’s a project I’ve had in mind for a while,” the technical side.” Sinclair said. As director of the English Media Lab Sinclair is one of ten faculty members to receive he has experience in using multiple media to tell a a grant through the creative works grants program. story or move information. His own research reaches The program supports high quality creative works that across cognitive science, computing, literature and the meet peer standards of excellence and are suitable possibilities of using artificial intelligence as a story for publication, public performance or viewing. All creating engine. full-time academic staff members with professorial or If/Then: A Walkthrough Fiction will pull all of those academic librarian rank at the University of Manitoba various approaches together and put them together in are eligible to apply to the program. Details about the a virtual world. program can be found at umanitoba.ca/research/ors/ “During a trip to London, I came across a walking internal_funding_grantforms.html. tour by Canadian artist Janet Cardiff,” Sinclair said. Apart from If/Then: A Walkthrough Fiction, Sinclair People would be handed a tape or cd and head off on is still working in more conventional media. A book of their own with some head phones. The tour started short stories, Everything Breathed, is out with Granta Photo by Dale Barbour off with a straight forward narrative, but as the tour and his first novel, Automatic World will be published English professor Struan Sinclair is looking to create a progressed the narrative voice became far more in Canada by Doubleday in 2008. virtual world. personal, talking about what the places had meant to her. With If/Then: A Walkthrough Fiction Sinclair envisions people going on a tour of a virtual world Creative works grants program recipients where they’ll meet people and places capable of telling THE FOLLOWING PEOPLE RECEIVED AWARDS IN THE MAY 1, 2007 COMPETITION OF THE UNIVERSITY CREATIVE WORKS GRANTS or showing their own stories. The first phase of the PROGRAM: project will be a single building, but Sinclair sees the project evolving into an open construct where people University Creative Works Grants Program Competition: May 1, 2007 can log in from around the world and help build the Applicant Department Project Title Award story – reshaping the virtual world through their own interaction with it. B. Brown Landscape Architecture Landscapes as/of sound: exhibit and attendant events 2,500 It’s a project that raises intriguing questions about N. Chard Architecture Active picture plane drawing instrument 2,500 the ability of people from across the world to work G. Fitzell Theory & Composition/Design & Theory Strange Places / Alien Spaces: Canada's Urban Rivers 2,440 together to develop a larger project. P. Hasdell Architecture "Blow-up": temporary inflatable installation for the But of course, building a world does take money. Urban Sculptures Exposition in Montreal 2,350 The creative works grants program funding will help W. Kerr English "Squirrels" & other delicious nuts: short works by Sinclair purchase the programs needed to run the David Mamet 2,500 virtual world and the technical expertise to help build L. Loewen Music CD recording - Harrington/Loewen duo 2,500 it. However, as much as the grant will help him, Sinclair M. Matthews Music Compact disc recording of piano works 2,500 said as significant is the meaning behind it: It’s a sign that N. McArthur Philosophy Byzantium (short film) 2,500 the university recognizes the value of creative works. D. McMillan School of Art Photographing Chernobyl Zone 2,500 “It gives credence to creative works that are often S. Sinclair English If/Then: A Walkthrough Fiction 1,972 shut out of the funding circle,” Sinclair said. But like other research projects undertaken at the university, TOTAL: 24,262 U of M gives donated books a new home Donors may receive a tax receipt for the appraised value of those books which are added to the Libraries A Day in the Life collections. of a gifts and preservation The preservation-side of Lewis’ position involves ensuring that the university’s own collection of books librarian is kept in good shape. “What we’ve done here is focus on prevention,” Books are very personal items. You can spend a Lewis said. “If we can control the environment we can life time gathering a collection and every one of them keep the books safe.” Prevention includes keeping the tells a story about where you were and what you were books from getting wet and ensuring their bindings doing when you acquired it. are maintained. Acidity in paper used to cause paper to Little wonder that when people give up their become brittle as it aged, but Lewis said printers have collections, they want to ensure they go to a good home long since cottoned on to that problem making books and that’s where U of M libraries gifts and preservation made since the 1970’s more durable. librarian Georgina Lewis comes in. Nowadays, a major threat to books in a library “I coordinate the large interdisciplinary gifts – the is mold, either from water damage or uncontrolled donations that are not limited to a certain subject area,” humidity. If a book gets doused with water, Lewis Lewis said. The gifts come from a variety of sources, said they have about 48 hours to step in and freeze or from members of the general public, to alumni to properly dry the book otherwise mold can both destroy retired faculty members or their families. the book and create a health hazard. “Not all of our donations are local either, one of As if being gifts and preservations officer wasn’t our recent major gifts came in from Toronto. That one enough, Lewis is also head of the Fr. Harold Drake ran to about 100 cartons of books.” Library at St. Paul’s College. She’s been with the “Sometimes if it’s a local person we’ll go to collect university since 1990, but added the St. Paul’s position the books ourselves,” Lewis added. “We’ll spend a day in 2001. “I liked the idea of returning to my academic roots,” or two at the donors going through the collection and Photo by Dale Barbour packing up the books.” U of M libraries gifts and preservation librarian Georgi- said Lewis who is an alumna of St. Paul’s college from It’s hard physical labour, but at the same time they na Lewis sorts through a collection of books that have her own undergrad days at the University of Manitoba. have a chance to chat with people connected to the been donated to the university. A big part of Lewis’s job as library head is shaping collection. the library to meet the study and research needs of “They want to know their books are going to a good preferably, they’ll ask donors to send in a list of the the college, particularly its focus on University 1 and place and sometimes they just want to see them treated books they’re looking to donate. Otherwise, they may Catholic Studies. well because they are books,” Lewis said. send the books directly and the university will select “And with the new Arthur Mauro Centre for Peace Of course, the university can’t keep every book the books which it can use. Unwanted books may be and Justice having just been created at the college, it that is donated. While some books fill a hole in the sent to the Libraries’ annual book sale for a second was a chance to develop a doctoral level collection from university’s own collection, others are duplicates or chance. Ideally they’ll end up in the hands of a student scratch,” Lewis said. just not what the university’s looking for. Lewis said or faculty member.