The aim of this thesis was to investigate long term population dynamic processes in Black-tailed Godwit populations resulting from habitat fragmentation on three different spatial scales by using... Show moreThe aim of this thesis was to investigate long term population dynamic processes in Black-tailed Godwit populations resulting from habitat fragmentation on three different spatial scales by using genetics. We demonstrated that egg shell membranes provide a good alternative DNA source for population genetic studies compared to blood samples. Through the usage of egg shell membranes we could conduct the genetic studies in this thesis a large spatial scales. Genetic population structuring was studied here because Black-tailed Godwit breeding areas seemed geographically fragmented and it was unclear if this had led to genetic separation and inbreeding as well. On a local scale we did not detect any genetic populations structuring as an effect of habitat fragmentation. We showed that habitat fragmentation, although geographically visible, has not yet lead to genetic differences between Dutch breeding populations. As such it seems that Dutch breeding areas of the Black-tailed Godwit consist of a single panmictic population. On a global scale this thesis confirmed the presence of three genetically distinct groups now recognized as subspecies. However, no clear genetic differences were found between L. l. limosa across most of its current breeding range. Possibly, there is some genetic differentiation between L. l. limosa breeding areas in the Netherlands and Sweden. Show less
Pathology laboratories throughout the world have compiled large archives of unique collections of tissue specimens. These tissue samples are used for patient diagnostics and research. Novel... Show morePathology laboratories throughout the world have compiled large archives of unique collections of tissue specimens. These tissue samples are used for patient diagnostics and research. Novel molecular insights into alterations in normal cellular function have led to the identification of targets for innovative therapies. Testing for biomarkers combined with molecular pathology has created the potential for __personalized medicine__ and improved diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. New technologies for molecular analysis in molecular tumor diagnostics and research must be developed and implemented to keep pace with the latest insights, resulting in a constant cycle of change. Such translational research can only progress if patient material can be accessed from the archives for further study. The resulting new insights and strategies will eventually be implemented in patient care. This thesis describes three important issues in this cycle of change with a focus on molecular pathology. Tissue preparation, method development and data analysis. Show less
