bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncological and survival reference data for NZO/B1 inbred mice
Authors: Goodall C. M. , Bielschowsky Marianne , Forster D. R. , D'Ath E. F.
Published: June 2007

Detailed reference data are given for survival and for all types of neo-plastic lesions found in inbred NZO/B1 mice from the original colonies. NZO/B1 mice are unusual in producing malignant lymphomas of Peyer's patches, and a high incidence of duodenal and lung tumours. They are very responsive to most chemical carcinogens. The significance generally of the data is briefly discussed, and reference statistics for neoplasms with more than 1% incidence in untreated animals are tabulated to assist other laboratories studying NZO/B1 mice.
Shigellosis in rhesus monkeys in quarantine
Authors: Arya S. C. , Verghese A. , Agarwal D. S. , Pal S. C.
Published: June 2007

Shigellae and salmonellae were isolated both from rhesus monkeys that displayed and from others that were free from signs of enteric disease. There was some resistance in vitro among the shigellae to chloramphenicol and to streptomycin, but none to furazolidone. Generally in-vitro sensitivity corresponded to clinical results, and mortality could be reduced by prompt and appropriate therapeutic action. The only symptomless excretor of Shigella flexneri type 3 ceased to excrete it only after extensive treatment.
Natural routes for post-natal transmission of murine lymphocytic choriomeningitis
Authors: Skinner H. H. , Knight E. H.
Published: June 2007

Albino mice of an isolated colony in which murine lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) of natural origin has been congenitally transmitted for many years were used to simulate wild house mice with a persistent tolerant infection (PTJ) in investigations on possible routes of infection of LCM-free (SPF) colonies.

For 50% of SPF contact mice to acquire infection from PTI donors of the same sex, at least a week of close contact was required when they were docile weanlings or young adults. With older aggressive mice a contact period of only 30 minutes was sufficient for 70% of the SPF contacts to become infected if involved in a fight. Bites made artificially and contamination of scarified skin with the urine or saliva of PTI mice regularly transmitted infection to SPF mice of all ages. The SPF female of an SPF x SPF mating may give birth to tolerantly infected mice if she acquires an infection early in pregnancy. This could occur through a bite or contact, and both these routes could introduce tolerant infection into a colony of SPF mice from wild PTI mice. The tolerant form of infection would then be perpetuated in the progeny of PTI females. Horizontal transmission would occur between mixed new-born PTl and SPF mice, thus introducing the risk of post-partum mated SPF foster-mothers becoming infected in early pregnancy. None of these natural infections of adults or young were clinically recognisable.
Evaluation of a filter rack for laboratory rodents
Authors: Clough G. , Hill Auriol , Blackmore D. K.
Published: June 2007

The efficiency of a commercially-available filter rack in providing a barrier to cross-infection between animals housed within it was evaluated by physical and biological methods. Although the rack provided ventilation to each animal box, the pattern of air movement within and around the rack encouraged rather than discouraged the transfer of certain pathogens between boxes. The use of air-barrier systems to provide locally clean environments is discussed.
Warfarin resistance and vitamin K requirement in the rat
Authors: Greaves J. H. , Ayres Priscilla
Published: June 2007

The development of vitamin K deficiency, vitamin K requirement and warfarin susceptibility were studied in several types of warfarin-resistant and non-resistant rat. Domesticated HW strain rats needed about 13 times as much vitamin K1 as did Wistar rats to maintain normal blood-clotting function, while HS strain rats were intermediate in this and in their susceptibility to warfarin. The vitamin K requirement of Wistar hybrids resembled that of the Wistar parent or was intermediate. Hypoprothrom-binaemia was induced at least as readily in non-resistant wild rats as in HS rats. A new diet suitable for inducing vitamin K deficiency in conventionally maintained Wistar rats is described, and it is suggested that the HW strain could be used for vitamin K bioassay. The genetical basis of warfarin resistance is discussed.
A restraining device facilitating electrocardiogram recording in rats
Authors: Osborne Barry E.
Published: June 2007

A simple device, fabricated from rigid transparent plastic and polyvinyl chloride, enables electrocardiograms to be recorded from a conscious rat comfortably restrained in a constant position. Extremity leads can be recorded. The entire procedure can be carried out by 1 operator.
Comparison of techniques for taking liver and lung samples from small rodents for bacteriological culture
Authors: Verstraete A. P.
Published: June 2007

The most reliable method of taking uncontaminated liver and lung samples from mice and rats for bacteriological culture into liquid media was with a 2 mm bore sterile pasteur pipette inserted vertically through the seared surface of the organs.
Equipment for rearing gnotobiotic lambs
Authors: Alexander T. J. L. , Lysons R. J. , Elliott Linda M. , Wellstead Patricia D.
Published: June 2007

A detailed description is presented of equipment for rearing and studying gnotobiotic lambs up to 5 months of age.
The recovery of Lactobacillus sp. from the livers of healthy mice
Authors: Hale P. , Hill Auriol
Published: June 2007

A Gram-positive bacillus commonly isolated from the livers of apparently healthy mice was identified as Lactobacillus sp. It did not cause disease when inoculated into mice.
Another hystricomorph rodent: keeping casiragua (Proechimys guairae) in captivity
Authors: Weir Barbara J.
Published: June 2007

Caging, feeding and handling are described. The animals were obtained for study of their reproduction and details of this are given.
Use of CT1341 anaesthetic ('Saffan') in monkeys
Authors: Box P. G. , Ellis K. R.
Published: June 2007

An intramuscular dose of 12 mg/kg of this steroid anaesthetic produced sedation in cynomolgus monkeys, and higher doses (up to 60 mg/kg) produced light anaesthesia lasting up to 3 hours. Surgical anaesthesia could be induced by a single injection of 120 mg/kg, or by an intramuscular injection of 18 mg/kg followed by 6-12 mg/kg intravenously. No clinical or pathological effects were observed after daily use of the anaesthetic for 4 weeks.
Establishment of a colony of mice free from lymphocytic choriomeningitis in kenya
Authors: Cooper J. E.
Published: June 2007

The introduction of mice free from lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) necessitated a rigorous program of elimination of LCM-infected mice, followed by disinfection and rodent-proofing of buildings. The program was phased to ensure a continuing supply of experimental mice to the laboratory.

The maintenance of the LCM-free colony, including strict hygienic precautions such as the wearing of protective clothing and the disinfection of food, bedding and equipment, is described.

The value of LCM-free mice in laboratory work and the use of the colony in testing other laboratory and wild rodents for LCM are briefly discussed.
Incidence of cleft palate in sabra strain mice
Authors: Shapira Yehoshua
Published: June 2007

Cortisone acetate was administered on day 11 1/2 gestation. Cleft palate affected 62% of the embryos. 10 similar mice treated with hydrocortisone sodium succinate showed no instance of clefts.
Microorganism counts and distribution patterns in air-conditioned animal laboratories
Authors: Teelmann K. , Weihe W. H.
Published: June 2007

Counts of microorganisms in the air of air-conditioned animal laboratories, carried out when the animals (rats, Chinese hamsters and rabbits) were quiet, revealed significant distribution patterns due to natural convection currents from the animals. The concentration of airborne microorganisms depended on animal activity, and soiling of bedding caused no increase. It was concluded that even in air-conditioned rooms random distribution of airborne microorganisms is unavoidable.
Ketamine-methoxyflurane anaesthesia for the mongolian gerbil, meriones unguiculatus
Authors: Smith S. M. , Kaplan H. M.
Published: June 2007

Ketamine hydrochloride alone was an effective analgesic in the Mongolian gerbil. In 28 young adult animals of both sexes (bodyweight 45-68 g) intramuscular injection of 44 mg/kg produced analgesia in about 83 seconds. Deep surgical anaesthesia could be readily achieved in about 12 min from start when methoxyflurane was administered by nasal cone 5 min after ketamine injection, and the surgical level was maintained arbitrarily for about 40 min during part of which laparotomy was performed. Induction of deep anaesthesia was smooth and recovery occurred uneventfully. The combination of ketamine and methoxyflurane allowed effective control of both the depth and duration of anaesthesia. Recovery time was about 77 min. Sex differences generally were slight.
Biochemical and haematological investigations in syrian golden hamsters after cigarette smoke inhalation
Authors: Dontenwill W. , Chevalier H.-J. , Harke H.-P. , Lafrenz U. , Reckzeh G. , Leuschner F.
Published: June 2007

After long-term exposure to cigarette smoke, erythrocyte and haemoglobin levels were higher due to the high carbon monoxide concentration in the smoking chamber. Other values were not affected by the exposure.
Histopathology of the myocardium in 50 apparently healthy cats
Authors: Nobel T. A. , Neumann F. , Klopfer U.
Published: June 2007

Post-mortem examination revealed that about 30% of the cats were free from lesions. Few animals showed active muscle necrosis or extensive fibrosis, but the occurrence of other cardiac lesions suggests that any cat giving variable or abnormal responses in pharmacological studies should be examined for such pathological changes.

Hepatozoon-like schizonts were found in 42% of the animals.
A case of hydrocephalus and meningoencephalocele in a rabbit, caused by aqueductal malformation
Authors: Geelen J. A. G.
Published: June 2007

The hydrocephalic brain of a 3-week-old rabbit with a meningoencephalocele is described. The hydrocephalus is caused by obstruction of cerebrospinal fluid circulation in the aqueduct, which is anomalously formed by several minute tubules surrounded by ectopic ependymal cells. The encephalocele is an atrophied part of the right ventricle forced out of the skull by increased CSF pressure. It is suggested that the aqueductal malformation is caused by an ependymal developmental disturbance.
The manufacture of small quantities of rat food pellets in the laboratory
Authors: Green R. S. , Turner J. C.
Published: June 2007

A cheap and rapid method of manufacturing pellets from special diets is described, whereby 2 people can convert 6 kg of dry mash into strands of extruded mash in 1 hour.
Clinical assessment of reproductive function in female rhesus monkeys: individual physical examination
Authors: Van Pelt Lloyd F.
Published: June 2007

Routine physical examination of laboratory-housed female rhesus monkeys can reveal lesions of the reproductive tract, and uterine cysts, ovarian cysts, cervical mucocoele, endometriosis, genital tuberculosis, and genital tract involution are briefly described. The examinations are also useful in the early determination of pregnancy, in the selection of females for breeding, and in settling mating priorities. Attention to cycle-to-cycle variation in fertility can lead to improved reproductive performance of the colony.
Seasonal variation in urinary 17-oxosteroids and seminal fructose in male japanese macaque monkeys (Macaca fuscata fuscata)
Authors: Matsubayashi K.
Published: June 2007

The daily excretion of 17-oxosteroids in the urine and the concentration of fructose in the semen were significantly higher during the breeding season in winter than in the summer.
A technique for chronic venous cannulation in swine
Authors: Harris W. H.
Published: June 2007

A technique for the implantation of an indwelling cannula into the jugular vein of mature swine is described. Cannulas have been functional for up to 77 days. The indwelling cannula enables the investigator to collect sequential blood samples or inject substances without restraint or excitement of the animal.
Thyroid carcinoma of a guinea-pig: a case report
Authors: Zarrin Kh.
Published: June 2007

Multiple tumour nodules arising in the thyroid of a guinea-pig consisted histologically of a mixture of carcinoma with an ossifying spindle-cell element. No metastases were detected. This type of thyroid neoplasm has not hitherto been reported in the guinea-pig.
Bone tumours in CF-1 mice
Authors: Charles R. T. , Turusov V. S.
Published: June 2007

Benign osteomas occurring in CF-1 mice late in life were observed through 6 consecutive generations, their average incidence being higher in control females (11·5%) than in control males (8·5%) and in treated females(17·4%) and treated males (11·7%). Multiple sites were found in 20% of the cases. The skull was involved in about 90% of untreated osteoma-bearing mice, the limbs in 12·0%, vertebral column in 9·0% and the sacrum and pelvis in 3·0%. In treated mice the skull was involved in approximately 80%, the limbs in 20%, the vertebral column in 12% and the sacrum and pelvis in 8%. The osteomas affecting the skull were represented by small nodules 2-3 mm in diameter, while those found at other sites frequently reached a much larger size (6-10 mm or more). Multiple osteomas with many large nodules at various sites were also observed.
Control of mange mites in a large mouse colony
Authors: Green C. J. , Needham J. R.
Published: June 2007

Control of mange mites, Myobia musculi and Myocoptes musculinus, in large numbers of imported mice is described. Previously recommended acaricides were found inadequate in clearing Myobia unless unrealistic treatment schedules were employed. A simple dipping procedure at fortnightly intervals with a bucarpolate-pyrethrins agent which is safe both for adult and newly born mice, completely cleared mice that were heavily infested.
Some diseases in normal and immunosuppressed experimental animals
Authors: Taffs L. F.
Published: June 2007

Some observations made during routine clinical and pathological examination of laboratory mice, guinea-pigs, rats, rabbits, cats and pigs are discussed.

Increased susceptibility to disease was noted following a variety of immunosuppressive and experimental procedures. Thymectomy and/or irradiation precipitated deaths in mice from Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteriaemia. Deaths from Tyzzer's disease followed irradiation or injection of mice with lymphocytes. Large clusters of spore-like organisms were seen in the livers of 2 irradiated mice with Tyzzers disease.

A rapid clinical response followed treatment with an anti-protozoal drug in young pigs from which a spirochaete and a ciliate Balantidium coli were demonstrated in profuse mucoid diarrhoeic faeces.
Apparently spontaneous candida tropicalis infection of a mouse
Authors: Austwick P. K. C. , Sebesteny A.
Published: June 2007

Apparently spontaneous infection with Candida tropicalis of a hysterectomy-derived young mouse is described. The yeast was found in its kidneys, liver and spleen, mostly in collections of neutrophil granulocytes and necrotic tissue. This was a single incidental finding during routine health monitoring.
Spontaneous diabetes in monkeys
Authors: Jones S. M.
Published: June 2007

The clinical features of spontaneous diabetes mellitus in 3 monkeys ( Macaca fascicularis) are described. It appears that the condition in primates is very similar to the disease in man, and the monkey is a useful model for future studies on abnormal carbohydrate metabolism.
The effects of 3 food supplements on feeding and growth rate in the rat
Authors: Bagshaw Judith M. , Leslie G. B.
Published: June 2007

One preparation, 'Supradyn', caused a lower rate of growth without diminishing food consumption. Another preparation, 'Biostrath', caused normal growth on a lower food pellet consumption. It is suggested that 'Biostrath' might contain as yet unknown growth factors from yeast which are not present in the standard diet or the synthetic vitamin preparations.
Occurrence of gallstones in foetal sheep
Authors: Wood J. R. , France Venetia M. , Sutor D. June
Published: June 2007

A study of the gallbladders of 36 foetuses of gestational age 102-147 days (term=148 days) revealed a 50% incidence of gallstones. These stones were composed of calcium palmitate and pigment. Measurement of fluid transport rates in 6 gallbladders has shown for the first time that the foetal sheep gallbladder is capable of bile concentration.
Developmental and biochemical characteristics of sterile cultures of the blowfly Lucilia cuprina
Authors: Williams Keith Leslie , Nurmi Susan , Birt L. M.
Published: June 2007

A procedure is described for the routine sterile culture of large numbers (2000 per week) of blowflies, Lucilia cuprina, through all stages of the life cycle. Comparisons of the rate of development and basic chemical composition of the sterile and non-sterile insects revealed no significant differences.
Spinal anaesthesia in the guinea-pig
Authors: Thomasson B. , Ruuskanen O. , Merikanto J.
Published: June 2007

Guinea-pigs are notoriously difficult to anaesthetize, but spinal anaesthesia offers a useful alternative. The technique described is quick, inexpensive, safe, requires no preoperative supplementation of the anaesthesia, gives excellent abdominal relaxation and decreases uterine tonus, thus having special merits in foetal surgery.
Routine birth induction in rabbits using oxytocin
Authors: Morgan D. R.
Published: June 2007

Using exogenous oxytocin to induce parturition newborn rabbits were obtained in an unfed condition at specific times to fulfil the requirements of a metabolic study, without the need for caesarian section. The technique was found to be very simple and reliable and extremely safe for both mother and offspring.
Malignant melanoma metastatic to the lung in a pet hamster
Authors: Mangkoewidjojo S. , Kim J. C. S.
Published: June 2007

A 2 year old pet male hamster died with spontaneously occurring ocular melanoma. Metastasis occurred in the lung.
Ultrastructural studies of vascular and muscular changes in ascorbic acid deficient guinea-pigs
Authors: Kim J. C. S.
Published: June 2007

Disorganization of muscle structures such as fragmentation of myofilaments with a loss of contrast in the Z bands, swelling of mitochondria and glycogenic infiltration, was seen in ascorbic acid deficient guinea-pigs. Vacuolar degeneration of external and internal endothelial cell membranes with accompanying dystrophic changes of the surrounding muscle and lack of collagen formation were consistent findings. Chondroblasts showed a marked dissolution of the matrix vesicle and a lack of hyaline droplets.
Observations on a new liver inclusion in the mouse
Authors: Wharton F. P. , Wrightt D. J. M.
Published: June 2007

A hitherto unrecognised lipoprotein liver-cell inclusion is described in elderly mice. The significance of these inclusions is unknown.
Diseases of lower vertebrates and biomedical research
Authors: Cooper John E.
Published: June 2007

The historical and present role of lower (non-mammalian) vertebrates in biomedical research is discussed. Examples are given of disease problems and experimental studies. It is suggested that lower vertebrates may prove of increasing value in this field in the future.
Studies on Tyzzer's disease : application of immunofluorescence for detection of Bacillus piliformis and for demonstration and determination of antibodies to it in sera from mice and rabbits
Authors: Fries A. Schaich
Published: June 2007

Bacillus pilifarmis antigens were demonstrated in smear preparations from infected mouse livers by direct immunofluorescence technique. Mouse serum antibodies against B. pilifarmis were demonstrated by indirect immunofluorescence technique. The test was employed quantitatively both on sera from experimentally infected mice and on sera from clinically healthy mice from colonies infected with B. pilifarmis, and could be used for the quantitative demonstration of antibodies in sera from a stock of rabbits with Tyzzer's disease. It was found very useful for the detection of subclinical infection.
A simple device to facilitate intragastric infusion per os in the conscious rat
Authors: Waynforth H. B. , Holsman J. W. , Parkin R.
Published: June 2007

An apparatus easily manufactured in the laboratory is described for the continuous infusion of substances into the stomach of the unanaesthetised rat.
An easily dismantled pig pen for long-term radiation exposure
Authors: Brown J. R. , Hickman R. L. , Hilmas D. E.
Published: June 2007

A pen to hold individual miniature pigs during long-term radiation exposure studies has been designed and used. Wooden construction results in low cost and minimizes radiation scatter problems associated with higher density materials. An automatic water system is provided.
Studies on Tyzzer's disease: isolation and propagation of Bacillus piliformis
Authors: Fries A. Schaich
Published: June 2007

Mice from a colony with subclinical Tyzzer's disease were treated with prednisolone in order to activate a Bacillus piliformis infection. From the livers of these mice the organism was isolated and serially passaged in embryonated eggs. It resisted heating at 75°C for 20 minutes and was still infective after storage at -80°C for 24 days, but not for 52 days or more. Infectivity was maintained for more than a year by storing infectious liver tissue at -190°C. B. piliformis was also isolated from the liver of a mouse with naturally-occurring Tyzzer's disease and maintained for more than 300 passages. Mice inoculated with different egg passages developed fatal Tyzzer's disease and B. piliformis was reisolated from their livers.
The haemoglobin types of mice
Authors: Harleman J. H.
Published: June 2007

The haemoglobin types of 27 inbred strains of mice have been determined. Besides the common types, Hbb-s and Hbb-p, 2 strains were found with Hbb-p. Affinity between strains with the Hbb-p type and asiatic mice seems likely. The influence of storage on the polymerisation of Hbb-d and Hbb-p, the possibility of distinguishing between homo- and heterozygote Hbb types, and the possible existence of a 4th haemoglobin type, are discussed.
Postnatal development of the testes in the cuis, Galea musteloides
Authors: Holt W. V.
Published: June 2007

Testicular development to 9 months of age has been studied. Seminiferous tubule diameter increased in a linear manner between 13 and 65 days of age, and there was a steep increase in testicular weight with age. At about 9 months the animals weighed 400-500 g and total testicular weight was about 10 g. This relatively large testicular size was correlated with high sperm density in the semen.

Spermatogenesis commenced at about 21-25 days of age, when the first spermatids were found. Spermatozoa appeared in a small proportion of seminiferous tubules by 31-35 days of age, and were seen in the epididymides of an animal of 31 and another of 34 days. Epididymal spermatozoa were consistently present in large numbers after 60 days and this correlated with the increased frequency of mature seminiferous tubules.

Leydig cell size increased rapidly from 13 to about 60 days, then remained constant. Inferences have been drawn from this and the study of spermatogenesis about the level of testosterone secretion.

The results indicate that the male cuis is almost fully grown and sexually mature by about 90 days of age.
Inorganic ions in the intestinal and caecal contents of germ-free and conventional chickens
Authors: Rolls B. A.
Published: June 2007

In 4-week-old chicks that had been maintained on 3 different diets, caecal weights were lower in germ-free than in conventional birds eating practical but not semipurified diets. There were no consistent differences in total sodium, potassium and chloride ions in the contents of the small intestine. In germ-free chicks the caecal wall muscle appeared lacking in tone and there was a lower concentration of chloride ions in the contents, but there was no caecal enlargement comparable to that in germ-free rodents.
The india-ink immunoreaction: a method for the rapid diagnosis of encephalitozoonosis
Authors: Waller T.
Published: June 2007

Sera from 37 rabbits were assayed for antibodies against Encephalitozoon cuniculi (Nosema cuniculi) by the india-ink immunoreaction and the indirect fluorescent antibody tests: all animals seropositive to the former were also positive to the latter test. 27 of the rabbits were also tested for skin hypersensitivity and then autopsied. Animals positive to the skin test were also positive to the serological tests. At autopsy 18 of 22 rabbits positive in the immunological tests showed lesions typical of encephalitozoonosis.

Sera from 200 rabbits originating from 6 institutes were assayed by the india-ink test: seropositive rabbits were found from all institutes (9·1 to 81·9% incidence), with serum titres ranging from 1:125 to 1:5000.

The india-ink test appears to be a rapid and convenient method for diagnosis of encephalitozoonosis in rabbits.
Cutaneous malakoplakia in an HIV-positive patient
Authors: Savant S R , Amladi S T , Kangle S D , Wadhwa S L , Nayak C S
Published: June 2007

Malakoplakia is an uncommon granulomatous infectious disease that is found primarily in the genitourinary tract, but may rarely involve the skin. We report a case of cutaneous malakoplakia in an HIV-positive patient diagnosed on the basis of Michaelis–Gutman bodies. The patient presented with ulcers, draining sinuses and tender papules and nodules mainly on perigenital area, buttocks and right thigh.
Risk of sexual HIV transmission in a rural area of China
Authors: Ji Guoping , Detels Roger , Wu Zunyou , Yin Yueping
Published: June 2007

A survey was conducted among residents aged 25–55 years in randomly selected villages with many former blood/plasma donors. Among the 1997 participants, the prevalence of HIV was 10.8%. The proportion reporting multiple sexual partners was 3.1%. Being male, younger, having other jobs, lower income, a positive attitude towards HIV-positives having sex, and being HIV-positive were associated with multiple partners. Most boyfriends/girlfriends were from local areas (87.5%). Two-thirds of the sex workers visited by HIV-positives were in urban areas. Within marriage, consistent condom use was only 1.1%. Only 0.5% used condoms with girlfriends/boyfriends, but 23.5% of men used condoms with sex workers. Therefore, HIV-infected villagers are spreading HIV within local and urban areas. Promotion of condoms with all partners and limiting sexual partners are urgently needed to reduce the spread of HIV. Intervention programmes should promote HIV/AIDS education, consistent condom use, and voluntary counselling and testing.
Post-coital bleeding due to penile piercing
Authors: Jones R , Kingston A , Boag F
Published: June 2007

Post-coital bleeding is a common presenting complaint in the genitourinary medicine clinic. We report an unusual case of recurrent post-coital bleeding secondary to urethral trauma during sexual intercourse.
The syphilis outbreak in Northern Ireland
Authors: Emerson C R , Lynch A , Fox R , Smyth B , Gray S , Dinsmore W W , Maw R D
Published: June 2007

Since the late 1990s, there has been a resurgence of infectious syphilis, with notable outbreaks in Brighton, Manchester, London and Dublin, predominately among men who have sex with men (MSM). We report a similar outbreak in Northern Ireland. Genitourinary (GU) medicine clinic attendees were assessed from 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2005 to identify those who met the agreed criteria for primary, secondary or early latent syphilis. In total, 161 individuals were diagnosed with syphilis and 121 were MSM. Sixteen individuals indicated a contact in Dublin as the likely source of infection. Thirty were identified through contact tracing. Over half contracted the infection through oral intercourse. Most (106) had one or two partners in the previous three months. Twelve cases were HIV positive (nine were aware of their status at the time of presumed infection). In conclusion, initially, cases acquired their infection in Dublin and, as the outbreak gained momentum, syphilis was contracted within Northern Ireland. The cohort was not generally associated with a high number of sexual contacts, multiple anonymous partners or specific locations. The challenge is to educate both patients and health-care professionals to sexual health issues; specifically, the risk associated with casual oral sex by MSM.
Sexually transmitted infection health-care seeking behaviour in the Netherlands: general practitioner attends to the majority of sexually transmitted infection consultations
Authors: van Bergen Jan EAM , Kerssens Jan J , Schellevis Francois G , Sandfort Theo G , Coenen Ton T , Bindels Patrick J
Published: June 2007

Health-care seeking behaviour for sexually transmitted infection (STI)-related symptoms is not well known in the Netherlands. Within the framework of a large representative study, the second National Survey of General Practice (NIVEL 2001), 9687 persons aged 18 years and older were interviewed about their STI and STI-related health-care seeking behaviour. In total, 1.2% of the interviewees reported STI-related symptoms in the past year (18–24 years: 5%). A (lifetime) history of STI was reported by 2.7% (18–44 years: 4%). In all, 63% of interviewees visited their general practitioner (GP) for these complaints; 20% went to an STI-clinic and/or municipal public health services and 8% to a different care-provider. A total of 9% did not undertake any action. The majority of persons with STI-related symptoms in the Netherlands visit the GP. Reported history of STI-related symptoms was twice lower in the Netherlands compared with the UK National Sexual Health Survey. Appropriate attention for sexual health in primary care is needed.
Telephonetics® RESULTS™ computer-facilitated telephone system: a novel method for patient results retrieval
Authors: Steedman N M , Thompson C
Published: June 2007

Patients who may have been at risk of sexually transmitted infections should receive information on the infections for which they are being tested, and how and when they can receive their results. In August 2005, we installed a novel 24-hour computer-facilitated telephone results system in our department and an audit was conducted for the month of September 2005 to evaluate the effectiveness of, and demand for, this service. During the initial audit period, 33.8% of male patients and 50.9% of female patients chose to access their results using the new telephone system, and there were no complaints regarding the system. From January 2006, we adopted this system as our principal method of conveying results, and we present data regarding the running of the system and uptake rates by patients to date. This novel method of results retrieval provides an efficient solution with a high level of patient satisfaction.
Cold-stress-induced de novo expression of infC and role of IF3 in cold-shock translational bias
Authors: Giuliodori Anna Maria , Brandi Anna , Giangrossi Mara , Gualerzi Claudio O. , Pon Cynthia L.
Published: June 2007

Expression of Escherichia coli infC, which encodes translation initiation factor IF3 and belongs to a transcriptional unit containing several promoters and terminators, is enhanced after cold shock, causing a transient increase of the IF3/ribosomes ratio. Here we show that after cold shock the two less used promoters (PT and PI1) remain active and/or are activated, resulting in de novo infC transcription and IF3 synthesis. These two events are partly responsible for the stoichiometric imbalance of the IF3/ribosomes ratio that contributes to establishing the cold-shock translational bias whereby cold-shock mRNAs are preferentially translated by cold-stressed cells while bulk mRNAs are discriminated against. Analysis of the IF3 functions at low temperature sheds light on the molecular mechanism by which IF3 contributes to the cold-shock translational bias. IF3 was found to cause a strong rate increase of fMet-tRNA binding to ribosomes programmed with cold-shock mRNA, an activity essential for the rapid formation of “30S initiation complexes” at low temperature. The increased IF3/ribosome ratio occurring during cold adaptation was also essential to overcome the higher stability of 70S monomers at low temperature so as to provide a sufficient pool of dissociated 30S subunits capable of “70S initiation complex” formation. Finally, at low temperature IF3 was shown to be endowed with the capacity of discriminating against translation of non-cold-shock mRNAs by a cold-shock-specific “fidelity” function operating with a mechanism different from those previously described, insofar as IF3 does not interfere with formation of 30S initiation complex containing these mRNAs, but induces the formation of nonproductive 70S initiation complexes.
Somatodendritic microRNAs identified by laser capture and multiplex RT-PCR
Authors: Kye Min-Jeong , Liu Tsunglin , Levy Sasha F. , Xu Nan Lan , Groves Benjamin B. , Bonneau Richard , Lao Kaiqin , Kosik Kenneth S.
Published: June 2007

The catalog of RNAs present in dendrites represents the complete repertoire of local translation that contributes to synaptic plasticity. Most views hold that a pool of dendritic mRNAs is selectively transported to a dendritic destination. This view requires that some mRNAs in the dendrite are locally enriched relative to the cell body; however, quantitative comparisons that would support this assumption do not currently exist. These issues related to somatodendritic distribution of mRNAs also apply to the microRNAs, ∼21 nucleotide noncoding transcripts that bind to target mRNAs and either inhibit their translation or destabilize them. We combined laser capture with multiplex real-time RT (reverse transcription) PCR to quantify microRNAs in the neuritic and somatic compartments separately. The samples were standardized by RT-PCR measurements of a set of mRNAs, including known dendritic mRNAs, in these two compartments. Most neuronal miRNAs were detected in dendrites. With a few notable exceptions, most miRNAs were distributed through the somatodendritic compartment across a nearly constant gradient. Thus for lower-abundance miRNAs, the total neuronal concentration of the miRNA can remain readily detectable in the cell body but vanish from the dendrite. A very small number of miRNAs deviate from the distribution gradient across the miRNA population as relatively enriched or depleted in the dendrite.
HIV-2 RNA dimerization is regulated by intramolecular interactions in vitro
Authors: Baig Tayyba T. , Lanchy Jean-Marc , Lodmell J. Stephen
Published: June 2007

Genomic RNA dimerization is an essential process in the retroviral replication cycle. In vitro, HIV-2 RNA dimerization is mediated at least in part by direct intermolecular interaction at stem–loop 1 (SL1) within the 5′-untranslated leader region (UTR). RNA dimerization is thought to be regulated via alternate presentation and sequestration of dimerization signals by intramolecular base-pairings. One of the proposed regulatory elements is a palindrome sequence (pal) located upstream of SL1. To investigate the role of pal in the regulation of HIV-2 dimerization, we randomized this motif and selected in vitro for dimerization-competent and dimerization-impaired RNAs. Energy minimization folding analysis of these isolated sequences suggests the involvement of pal region in several short-distance intramolecular interactions with other upstream and downstream regions of the UTR. Moreover, the consensus predicted folding patterns indicate the altered presentation of SL1 depending on the interactions of pal with other regions of RNA. The data suggest that pal can act as a positive or negative regulator of SL1-mediated dimerization and that the modulation of base-pairing arrangements that affect RNA dimerization could coordinate multiple signals located within the 5′-UTR.
Transitivity in Arabidopsis can be primed, requires the redundant action of the antiviral Dicer-like 4 and Dicer-like 2, and is compromised by viral-encoded suppressor proteins
Authors: Moissiard Guillaume , Parizotto Eneida Abreu , Himber Christophe , Voinnet Olivier
Published: June 2007

In plants, worms, and fungi, RNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RDRs) amplify the production of short-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that mediate RNA silencing. In Arabidopsis, RDR6 is thought to copy endogenous and exogenous RNA templates into double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs), which are subsequently processed into siRNAs by one or several of the four Dicer-like enzymes (DCL1→4). This reaction produces secondary siRNAs corresponding to sequences outside the primary targeted regions of a transcript, a phenomenon called transitivity. One recognized role of RDR6 is to strengthen the RNA silencing response mounted by plants against viruses. Accordingly, suppressor proteins deployed by viruses inhibit this defense. However, interactions between silencing suppressors and RDR6 have not yet been documented. Additionally, the mechanism underlying transitivity remains poorly understood. Here, we report how several viral silencing suppressors inhibit the RDR6-dependent amplification of virus-induced and transgene-induced gene silencing. Viral suppression of primary siRNA accumulation shows that transitivity can be initiated with minute amounts of DCL4-dependent 21-nucleotide (nt)-long siRNAs, whereas DCL3-dependent 24-nt siRNAs appear dispensable for this process. We further show that unidirectional (3→5′) transitivity requires the hierarchical and redundant functions of DCL4 and DCL2 acting downstream from RDR6 to produce 21- and 22-nt-long siRNAs, respectively. The 3→5′ transitive reaction is likely to be processive over >750 nt, with secondary siRNA production progressively decreasing as the reaction proceeds toward the 5′-proximal region of target transcripts. Finally, we show that target cleavage by a primary small RNA and 3→5′ transitivity can be genetically uncoupled, and we provide in vivo evidence supporting a key role for priming in this specific reaction.
Isolation of microRNA targets by miRNP immunopurification
Authors: Easow George , Teleman Aurelio A. , Cohen Stephen M.
Published: June 2007

microRNAs (miRNAs) serve as post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression, by guiding effector complexes (miRNPs) to target RNAs. Although considerable progress has been made in computational methods to identify miRNA targets, only a relatively limited assessment of their ability to function in vivo has been reported. Here we describe an alternative approach to miRNA target identification based on a biochemical method for purifying miRNP complexes with associated miRNAs and bound mRNA targets. Microarray analysis revealed a high degree of enrichment for miRNA complementary sites in the 3′UTRs of the miRNP-associated mRNAs. mRNAs specifically associated with an individual miRNA were identified by comparing the miRNP-associated mRNAs from wild-type flies and mutant flies lacking miR-1, and their regulation by the miRNA was validated. This approach provides a means to identify functional miRNA targets based on their physical interaction in vivo.
Property Disputes between Co-Owning Cohabitees—Ireland and England Compared
Authors: Woods Una
Published: June 2007

Disputes in relation to the family home frequently arise on the breakdown of a relationship between unmarried cohabitees. The Irish purchase money resulting trust may generate no beneficial interest, or one that is smaller than expected, for the primary carer who co-owns the family home. In addition, the primary carer may be forced to leave the home, as an application by the other co-owner for an order for the sale of the property pursuant to the Partition Acts 1868 and 1876 is unlikely to be refused. This article compares the position of this vulnerable co-owner with the position of her counterpart in England. It concludes that the application of the English common intention constructive trust is likely to generate a more generous share in the beneficial ownership for the primary carer. Also, in proceedings pursuant to the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996, the English courts are afforded the flexibility to refuse or postpone an order for sale if the primary carer and the children continue to reside in the co-owned property.
Life, Death and the Law
Authors: Oates Laurence
Published: June 2007

When does the High Court (Family Division) have power to make a life-or-death decision for a person who lacks capacity to decide for themselves? The inherent jurisdiction and its basic principles are described. Power is to grant declaratory relief (in adult cases). Contrast the position where an adult is capable of making an autonomous decision, or the position under the Mental Health Act 1983. Examples are given of recent extensions of the jurisdiction; and prospective changes under the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Particular issues relating to withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment, and the distinction between omissions and positive acts causing death are discussed. When a court decision is needed on withholding life-sustaining treatment to a patient, other than one in PVS, is left unclear. The nature of the test to be adopted in reaching such decisions is described, as are the circumstances in which advance directives refusing treatment are binding, and the significance of views and wishes falling short of an advance directive; an example is given of the dilemmas that can arise.
Divesting Abandonment: An Unnecessary Concept?
Authors: Griffiths-Baker Janine
Published: June 2007

Where an owner of a chattel voluntarily seeks to relinquish his rights in that property, there appear to be no clear rules on whether that owner can be said to have abandoned those goods. Although there are no very recent English authorities examining the question of abandonment of chattels, the issue has received the attention of the Commonwealth courts on several occasions. This paper assesses, in light of these cases, whether there is any need for English courts to recognize a general principle of abandonment at common law.
Defeudalization: Towards a Pluralist Land System in New Zealand
Authors: Hepburn Samantha
Published: June 2007

The Crown has no property interest in customary land and is not the source of title to it. ( Ngati Apa v Attorney-General [2003] 3 NZLR 643 at [47], per Elias CJ.)

… the king is the universal lord and original proprietor of all the lands in his kingdom; and no man doth or can possess any part of it, but what has mediately or immediately been derived as a gift from him … (William Blackstone1)
’Doing Time’: Becoming a Police Leader
Authors: Silvestri Marisa
Published: June 2007

In England and Wales, despite having cracked the glass ceiling in policing, the number of women holding leadership positions remains disappointingly low. Drawing on data from interviews carried out with senior policewomen, this article provides an insight into the ‘making’ of the police leader. It offers an account of the gendered nature of the climbing frame available to police officers for their progression through the ranks and details the significance of ‘time’ as a defining feature and key resource for achieving a successful career in policing. Through doing and managing ‘time’, police officers are able to accomplish organisational commitment and credibility, two fundamental yet essentially informal competencies necessary for police leadership. Above all, this article challenges the idea that women are free to progress within the police organisation and argues that women aspiring to police leadership continue to face a series of powerful, albeit less obvious, hurdles in their climb to the top.
Policing Performance: The Impact of Performance Measures and Targets on Police Forces in England and Wales
Authors: Loveday Barry
Published: June 2007

This paper considers the impact of performance management and the application of targets on public services, particularly the police service. It identifies the unintended consequences of targets on the delivery of service and notes that in 1999 HMIC were to raise serious doubts as to the value of this management approach for public policing in England and Wales. It considers the impact of ‘micro-management’ on services that performance management ultimately represents. It goes on to reassess the purported attractions of performance management and presents an alternative in terms of a more holistic and local management approach based on a ‘systems' application which highlights the value of local feedback as a driver for service delivery. It challenges the highly centralised and mechanistic orientation which performance management, as pursued by New Labour, now represents. It concludes by arguing that a ‘systems approach’ would fit well within the planned roll-out of the new Neighbourhood Policing strategy while also providing a sound platform for the Basic Command Unit reform proposals recently identified by an influential police association.
The Police Service and Liability Insurance: Responsible Policing
Authors: Otu Noel
Published: June 2007

The United States Constitution, as well as national values, centre on individual (human) rights. Conservatives, liberals, and independents agree that police officers must at times resort to physical force if they are to carry out fully their official responsibilities. As well, there is no question the lawful use of force by police officers frequently escalates to unlawful behaviour (police brutality), and that this must be controlled. Despite this shared attitude, however, public opinion and government policy diverge in their approach to deterring police brutality. Most recent official and unofficial policies are based on the plausibility of prevention through creation of civilian review boards, recruitment tests, counselling, and training and retraining of officers. None of these measures seems to work well in reducing police brutality, although society is answerable to the kind of police it chooses to have, whether it be by deliberation, power struggle, or total neglect, the fact is police brutality is an issue of great concern to individual officers, police administrators, and more importantly, the victims (society). This paper focuses on the deterrence effect of requiring police officers to purchase individual occupational liability insurance, on a fundamental belief of deterrence philosophy and documented examples that a high rate of police brutality stems in large part from lack of monetary liability/accountability on the part of the individual police officer. Police brutality occurs in part because some (both normal and emotionally disturbed) officers have opportunities to commit this unlawful behaviour, and in part, because they are not deterred from committing it, and because the judiciary chose to ‘water down’ the doctrine of sovereign immunity. It's time to require all police officers to have personal liability insurance. This calls for Congressional action. Without solid reform, police brutality will have no incentive to do anything other than continue to worsen.