bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of quench aging treatment on microstructure and tensile properties of thixoformed ZA27 alloy
Authors: Chen T.-J. , Hao Y. , Li Y.-D.
Published: June 2007

The effects of quench aging heat treatment on microstructure and tensile properties of thixoformed ZA27 alloy were investigated. The results indicated that the microstructure of the alloy became into polygonal β phase particles after solid solution treatment at 350°C for 48 h. The β particles then decomposed into α and η phases which would coarsen during the subsequent aging at 150°C. It was observed that the Zn concentration in the β phase near the polygonal boundaries was higher than that within the β particles. As a consequence, both the decomposition speed of the former β phase and the subsequent coarsening speed were faster than those of the latter β phase. Thus, α and η phases near the boundaries were always coarser than those within the particles during aging. Owing to the coarsening, the ultimate tensile strength continuously decreased with increasing aging time. The percentage elongation increased up to 10 h, but decreased with aging time owing to bad deformation accommodation and low bonding strength between particles. Cracks initiated from some defects (e.g. inclusions and porosities) during tensile test, and the path for the cracks to propagation changed with the aging time.
Uncertainties in dilatometric determination of martensite start temperature
Authors: Yang Hong-Seok , Bhadeshia H. K. D. H.
Published: June 2007

Methods for the dilatometric determination of the martensite start temperature of steels are discussed, with emphasis on noise in the experimental data. The methods are tested on a new set of experiments using a specially prepared steel. Relying on the first detection of expansion due to transformation is fraught with difficulties. Instead, an offset method is proposed which should enable independent investigators to reach the same conclusions given identical data. The technique at the same time preserves the notion that the early stages of martensite formation correspond to the start temperature. The uncertainty in the start temperature deduced using this method is about ± 12°C, better than the reported values of noise in published data. The work underlines the need to state the sensitivity of the analysis technique when quoting transformation temperatures.
Effect of preweld microstructure on HAZ liquation cracking of Rene 80 superalloy
Authors: Shahsavari H. A. , Kokabi A. H. , Nategh S.
Published: June 2007

The objective of this work was to study the microstructure of as cast, solution treated and overaged Rene 80 superalloy before and after welding treatment. Studies focused on identifying heat affected zone (HAZ) liquation cracking mechanism and the effect of preweld microstructure on it. The formation of HAZ liquation cracking or microfissuring is found to be strongly dependent on constitutional liquation of grain boundary precipitates. These liquated precipitates in the as cast state contain MC carbides and particularly γ/ γ‘ eutectic islands. While in the overaged condition they consist of the MC carbides and borides. Also HAZ grain boundary liquation and subsequent resolidification occur in overaged Rene 80 during welding. MC carbide liquation can be observed at the weldment of solution treated Rene 80 but the intensity of this liquation is not enough for liquid film formation and then cracking. X-ray mapping of MC carbide forming elements, give further evidence on the liquid film formation at hot cracking regions. It shows the enrichment from tungsten and lower amounts of molybdenum and titanium.
Interface morphology of nanosized Si embedded in Al matrix
Authors: Zhao M. , Jiang Q. , Xu B. S.
Published: June 2007

Al/Si interface morphologies of rapid quenched Al–Si alloys are observed by high resolution transmission electron microscopy. Si nanocrystals embedded in Al matrix are in particle and rod shapes. The Al/Si interface of particles is mainly amorphous while that of rods is essentially semicoherent with a cube–cube relationship. From thermodynamic and mechanic points of view, the interface morphologies are related to the size of the nanocrystals. It is found that the semicoherent interface of nanocrystals can exist even if the interface strain reaches one-fourth as long as the size of the nanocrystals is small enough. In addition, the semicoherent interface is stable against growth when the nanocrystals’ sizes are smaller than a critical size. This is because this growth does not lead to drop of the unit internal energy of the nanocrystals.
Aging response and strength formability parameters of hot rolled copper alloyed interstitial free steel
Authors: Rana R. , Bleck W. , Singh S. B. , Mohanty O. N.
Published: June 2007

Laboratory investigations have been carried out on a copper alloyed interstitial free steel to develop a high strength steel for automotive applications in hot rolled conditions. The aging characteristics for a wide range of temperature and time have been documented and discussed in terms of diffusivity and solubility of copper in α iron. Coiling temperature, in general, influences the strength formability parameters of the hot rolled steel owing to its effect on copper precipitation. A high strength hot rolled steel for automotives with high strain hardening rate can be developed by adopting low temperature coiling at 550°C, without using any additional step in the normal processing schedule of interstitial free steels. Deep drawability or the Lankford parameter appears not to be influenced much by the coiling temperature.
Effects of platinum concentration on combustion synthesis of NiAl: Application in repairing Ni based superalloys
Authors: De Jouvancourt H. , Record M. C. , Marin-Ayral R. M.
Published: June 2007

The present work is a study on the effect of platinum concentration on the synthesis of NiAl in the ‘SHS build-up process’ under high gas pressure. It has been reported in previous work that this process can be used to repair damaged turbine blades, however a further step is necessary to protect them before use. The aim of the present investigation was to show the feasibility of this process for simultaneous repairing and coating. Good results were obtained for a content of 18 at.-%Pt. The Pt aluminide coatings are free of PtAl2 precipitates and porosity. A good joining is ensured along the superalloy which does not show any damage.
Osmotic fragility of rat embryo red blood cells collected during intrauterine growth
Authors: Hod I.
Published: June 2007

Whole blood was tapped from the embryos of anaesthetized pregnant New Zealand rats using a micropipette of approximately 250 μm diameter, inserted through the uterine wall via a 5-mm incision in the anterior abdominal wall. The procedure was repeated 3 times (days 15, 17 and 19 of fetal life) in the same pregnant rats, and thereafter, twice in the surviving newborns (days 14 and 30 of neonatal life). Osmotic fragility of the red blood cells (RBC), reticulocyte counts and haemoglobin values of each sample were analysed. The fragility curve of the fetuses showed the presence of 2 types of cell population: a fragile and a more resistant type. This was correlated with the number of immature RBC (reticulocytes) in the samples. Starch gel electrophoresis of the haemoglobin revealed 4 fractions in both the fetuses and newborn animals.
Some data on the fertility of bank voles (Clethrionomys glareolus britannicus) in the laboratory supporting the hypothesis of induced ovulation
Authors: Ödberg F. O.
Published: June 2007

83 (40%) litters with an average of 3·42 pups and unbiased sex ratio were born of 207 couples. Fertility and litter average were higher in summer and autumn. Most females were fertilized on the 1st day spent with a male, which supports the mating-induced ovulation hypothesis. Infantile mortality was highest at birth and during the 1st 5 days of life. 26% of the pups died before weaning (day 25), i.e. an average of 1 per litter.
Congenital taillessness in AGUS inbred rats
Authors: Lovell D. P. , Sparrow S.
Published: June 2007

From a survey of breeding records of the AGUS/Lac rat colony, 1% of animals weaned were found to lack tails. Post-mortem examination of 5 females showed major skeletal and genital abnormalities. Tailless rats were found more often than expected in 4th and 5th litters. A 'threshold' model of inheritance was postulated with an unknown environmental factor 'triggering' the condition.
Papovaviral sialoadenitis in athymic nude rats
Authors: Ward J. M. , Lock A. , Collins M. J. , Gonda M. A. , Reynolds C. W.
Published: June 2007

A wasting disease was found in 32 athymic nude rats. The rats had parotid sialoadenitis with intranuclear inclusion bodies in ductal and acinar epithelial cells. Other common lesions included bronchitis, bronchiolitis and secondary bacterial pneumonia. Less commonly, rhinitis and Harderian adenitis were seen. Intranuclear inclusions were also seen in bronchial epithelium of 1 rat, Harderian gland acini of 1 rat and laryngeal glands of 2 rats. Viral particles, averaging 45 nm in diameter, sometimes in crystalline arrays, were found in the nucleus of parotid epithelial cells. By the use of the avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex (ABC) immunoperoxidase technique, antibodies to disrupted SV40 virus (the group specific antigen of the polyomavirus (miopapovavirus) genus of the papovavirus family) reacted with intranuclear inclusions and cytoplasm of parotid epithelium and inclusions in lung and Harderian gland. The viral antigen did not cross react with antibodies to mouse polyoma, mouse K or disrupted bovine papilloma viruses.
Inheritance of hydronephrosis in the inbred mouse strain DDD
Authors: Goto N. , Nakajima Y. , Onodera T. , Imamura K.
Published: June 2007

The mode of inheritance of hydronephrosis was investigated by crossing inbred DDD mice having a high incidence of hydronephrosis and C57BL/6 mice having normal kidneys. In the males, incidences of hydronephrosis in F1 animals were intermediate between the two parental strains at a rate of 32·6% in (DDD × C57BL/6)F1 and 23·4% in reciprocal F1. The same tendency was observed in F2 male animals. In BCF1 males, the number of affected mice was higher in (C57BL/6 × DDD) F1 × DDD (72·4%) than in (DDD × C57BL/6)F1 × C57BL/6 (11·1%). A few affected mice were found among the females of hybrids F1, F2 and BCF1. These results suggested that hydronephrosis in the DOD strain of mice was controlled by polygenes, and that male hormones may have some effect on the occurrence of hydronephrosis.
Preliminary observations on enteritis associated with a coronavirus-like agent in rabbits
Authors: Eaton P.
Published: June 2007

An outbreak of fatal enteritis in 3-8-week old rabbits in a barrier-maintained breeding colony is described. The laboratory findings and treatments attempted suggest that a viral agent was the primary pathogen.
The rabbit as an animal model for haemoperfusion: surgical preparation and use
Authors: Mashiah A. , Marcus L. , Savin H. , Margel S.
Published: June 2007

In this paper the authors describe the surgical procedure to prepare rabbits for haemoperfusion experiments. The carotid artery and jugular vein are cannulated and a simple shunt device inserted to maintain patency of the vessels over a period of time. The cannulas and shunt remain patent and free of infection for some months. Specially designed outflow and inflow extracorporeal tubing sets minimize blood volume outside the body of the rabbit. The authors also illustrate the efficacy of this system in haemoperfusion trials to remove specific antibodies. Recently a system was described to remove mercury from the bloodstream of poisoned animals. The rabbit is a useful experimental animal for this type of haemoperfusion trial.
Cerebrospinal fluid sampling from guineapigs: Sample volume-related changes in protein concentration in control animals and animals in the relapsing phase of chronic relapsing experimental allergic encephalomyelitis
Authors: Suckling A. J. , Reiber H.
Published: June 2007

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was removed from guineapigs by puncture of the cisterna magna and the total sample volume of 200-360 µl divided into 40 µl aliquots. After determination of albumin and IgG in these CSF aliquots it was found that successive samples gave different results. In general, up to 100 µl CSF could be removed before the protein concentration began to increase. In animals with chronic relapsing experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (CR-EAE) the rise in albumin concentration was accompanied by a corresponding fall in the number of white cells in later samples.
A modified anaesthetic vapour extraction system
Authors: Hunter Susan C. , Glen J. B. , Butcher C. J.
Published: June 2007

A number of design modifications have been made to an extraction system for use with inhalation anaesthesia techniques in rats and other small laboratory animals. These changes necessitated a re-evaluation of the effectiveness of this equipment in limiting the operator's exposure to the anaesthetic vapours used. With a given fresh gas flow. the halothane vapour concentration in the operator's breathing zone was dependent on the design of the oronasal mask. With the optimum configuration the atmospheric concentration of halothane was less than 1 ppm.
An evaluation of a water purification system for use in animal facilities
Authors: Raynor T. H. , White E. L. , Cheplen J. M. , Sherrill J. M. , Hamm T. E.
Published: June 2007

A commercially available water purification system was evaluated for its ability to minimize chemical and microbial contaminants. The reduction or removal of these impurities from the drinking water of experimental animals would reduce experimental variability. 3 strains of bacteria were collected from the processed water. An increase in the total number of bacteria was observed the longer the filters remained in use. Determinations of heavy metals in water samples before and after processing were made for lead, zinc, copper, nickel, manganese, iron, arsenic and mercury. Calcium and magnesium levels were also determined. The concentrations of these inorganic chemicals were reduced by the purification process except at 2 time points in which desorption of the chemical could have occurred. Bacterial colonization and desorption of these chemicals were controlled by installing new filter cartridges. Volatile halocarbon concentrations were determined for water samples before and after purification. All volatile halocarbons analyzed were less than 10 ppb before and after purification at all time points. Other organic chemicals were greatly reduced by the purification process. In a study of contaminants associated with installation of the unit, it was found that flushing the unit for 8 days reduced lead and methyl ethyl ketone concentrations to insignificant levels. The purification system was found to be effective in providing high quality drinking water as verified by a microbial and chemical testing program.
Energy/protein ratio in natural-ingredient diets for weanling rats. II. Energy and protein retention and efficiency of retention
Authors: López A. , García C.
Published: June 2007

A 3 × 3 factorial experiment was carried out, in which natural ingredient diets formulated at 3 digestible energy levels (DE) (100, 90 and 80% of NRC, 1978 recommendations) and at 3 energy: protein ratios (EPR) (63, 71 and 79 kJ DE/g crude protein (CP)) were fed to 8 weanling male Wistar rats/group. Half of these animals were sacrificed at the end of the 6-week experimental period and their body composition analyzed. Retentions of protein and energy were assessed by difference from a similar group of 8 rats killed and analyzed at the beginning of the experiment. No interaction was found between the 2 factors studied. Main results showed a decrease in intake and retention of both energy and protein, without affecting the efficiency of retention when energy level of diets was reduced by 20%. An increase in the EPR of the diets led to a decrease in protein intake and to an increase in efficiency of protein retention, without affecting the amount retained. No changes in body composition, nor in composition of live weight gains were found as a result of treatments. It is concluded that a 10% reduction in DE level of the diet is of no consequence, and that an EPR of 79 kJ/g leads to more efficient use of the dietary protein without detrimental effects over any other nutritional indicator.
A caval clamp for portacaval shunt in the rat
Authors: Jacob G. , Howe S. C. , Hobbs K. E. F.
Published: June 2007

An inexpensive caval clamp and stand, designed for use in the performance of portacaval shunt in the rat are described.
Malaria, arbovirus and hepatitis infections in Macaca fascicularis from Malaysia
Authors: Le Bras J. , Larouze B. , Geniteau Monique , Andrieu Béatrice , Dazza Marie-Christine , Rodhain F.
Published: June 2007

Naturally occurring malaria, arbovirus infection and hepatitis in monkeys can be a hazard for the investigator and might interfere with the outcome of experiments.

63 young adult Macaca fascicularis from Malaysia were screened for these infections. About 1 year after their arrival in France, parasitaemia due to Plasmodium spp., was present in 6·4% of the animals and specific antibodies in 55·5%. 19 of 35 initially positive monkeys were tested again 2 years later. Parasitaemia was found in 1 of 4 monkeys and antibodies in 11 of 19 monkeys which were initially positive. 9 of the monkeys initially tested had low titres of antibodies to the Flavivirus genus. All animals were negative for the hepatitis B surface antigen and anti-HBc. The prevalence of IgG antibodies against hepatitis A was 46·0%. The implications in terms of control are discussed.
Use of agar-based diet to fulfil the food and water requirements of mice
Authors: Lang J. A. , Lang C. M. , White W. J.
Published: June 2007

Mice were fed an agar-based diet without an additional source of water for 5 weeks. In comparison with a similar group of mice fed a commercial diet and water ad libitum, there were no significant changes in bodyweight.
Spontaneous hyperplastic and metaplastic duct epithelium in the sublingual salivary glands of Wistar rats
Authors: van Esch E. , der Meulen H. C. Dreef-van , Feron V. J.
Published: June 2007

Focal epithelial hyperplasia and metaplasia were observed in the intralobular ducts of the sublingual salivary glands of 302 out of 1142 Wistar rats. These rats (aged 16-145 weeks) served as controls in toxicological experiments. The ductal changes varied from small groups of irregular cylindrical cells with basophilic cytoplasm and vesicular nuclei, with often prominent nucleoli, to large areas of non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium with marked mitotic activity and necrotic superficial cells being released in the lumen. Mononuclear inflammatory cells were often present in fibrous tissue surrounding altered ducts. Within certain limits the degree and incidence of the changes increased with increasing age; their aetiology is unknown.
A simple and economic technique for long-term continuous intravenous infusion in the unrestrained rat
Authors: Kamada N. , Collier D. ST. J.
Published: June 2007

A reliable, inexpensive and ethically acceptable method for long-term intravenous infusion in unrestrained rats is described. This system absorbs rotational forces produced by the animal turning without kinking of the tube.
Variation in pentobarbitone sleeping time in mice 2. Variables affecting test results
Authors: Lovell D. P.
Published: June 2007

The effect of some environmental factors on the pentobarbitone sleeping time (PST) in inbred strains of mice has been investigated. Age, dose level and fasting before the test significantly altered the PST while the source of the drug and regular handling of the mice had no effect. None of these factors affected strains differentially. Unsystematic effects such as litter differences contributed only a small proportion of the total variation in the experiments.

The strain rankings were different from those obtained in some previous experiments. The effects of some of the environmental factors on the PST did not always agree with previous work. The implications of these results for the design of similar experiments and the relevance of baseline values in laboratory animals are discussed.
Observations on the effects of vibration and noise on plasma ACTH and zinc levels, pregnancy and respiration rate in the guineapig
Authors: Bailey K. J. , Stephens D. B. , Delaney C. E.
Published: June 2007

The responses of female guineapigs to vibration and noise were examined with the use of an apparatus designed to simulate transport. Peak levels of plasma ACTH and zinc concentrations were attained after 4 min of exposure to vibration and 80-90 dB of noise. The respiration rate, normally around 90/min, was increased to 103/min when the animals were moved (while still in their cages) to the experimental area; it rose to 129/min when the apparatus was switched on to expose the animals to vibration and noise. Those left adjacent to the apparatus and exposed to noise alone elevated their respiration rates to 115/min. Respiration rates returned to normal within 2·5 h. There was no apparent effect on the maintenance of pregnancy, gestation length, litter size or post-partum growth of the young born to guineapigs exposed to this vibration and noise for a period of 1 h at mid-term.
Towards the computerized animal house: the Newcastle University Animal House Management System
Authors: Wootton R. , Flecknell P. A.
Published: June 2007

A suite of computer programs (available from the Laboratory Animal Science Association) has been written to carry out much of the routine administration of a central animal house facility. Principal functions include stock control and accounting. The programs are fully portable and can be implemented on almost any microcomputer. They are protected against data-entry errors and can be used by staff who have little or no computer experience. In 10 months' use at the Comparative Biology Centre, the Newcastle University Animal House Management System has become an indispensable management tool. The system has also been successfully implemented at Bath University.
Spontaneous necrotic enteritis in young RFM/Ms mice
Authors: Matsushita S. , Matsumoto T.
Published: June 2007

Fatal necrotic enteritis was observed in mice 24-52 days old in the RFM/Ms breeding colony maintained in a clean conventional condition in the National Institute of Radiological Sciences. Gross lesions included hyperaemia, petechiae, erosion and the occasional formation of pseudomembranes in the mucosa of the ileum and caecum. Histologically, there was necrotic enteritis with numerous Gram-positive bacilli-forming spores but no inflammatory cell reaction. Non-type-A Clostridium perfringens was isolated from the intestinal contents. This disease cleared after the addition of chlortetracycline hydrochloride (11 mg/I) to the drinking water.
Receptivity in Mongolian gerbils: dose and temporal parameters of ovarian hormone administration
Authors: Raible L. H. , Gorzalka B. B.
Published: June 2007

The dose and temporal effects of oestrogen and progesterone treatment on the induction of receptivity in female Mongolian gerbils were investigated. One group of animals was primed with 10 μg oestradiol benzoate (OB) 48 and 24 h prior to testing and received 500 μg progesterone (Pr) 0, 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21 or 24 h prior to testing. These subjects were found to exhibit high levels of receptivity from hour 2 to hour 18. This is similar to the reported duration of heat during natural oestrus. A second group of animals were primed with 10 μg OB and were then given either 0, 10, 50, 100, 250 or 500 μg Pr 3 h prior to testing. Results indicated that the administration of 100 μg Pr could elicit high levels of receptivity. A final group of animals were given either 0·5, 1·0, 5·0 or 10·0 μg OB 48 and 24 h before testing and then 100 μg Pr 3 h prior to testing. It was found that only the 10 μg dose of OB elicited high levels of receptivity in these animals.
Variation in pentobarbitone sleeping time in mice 1. Strain and sex differences
Authors: Lovell D. P.
Published: June 2007

A set of 23 inbred strains of mice was tested for their sleeping time under sodium pentobarbitone anaesthetic. Highly significant strain differences were found. Estimates of the proportion of the variation accounted for by genetic differences ranged from 28% to 42%. In general, males slept longer than females but the size of the sex differences was not consistent across strains. Sleeping times on different test days also varied, indicating that environmental factors were affecting the results. A specially designed experiment failed to detect any differences in within-strain variation.
Rapid diagnosis and management of parainfluenza I virus infection in common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Sutherland S. D. , Almeida J. D. , Gardner P. S. , Skarpa M. , Stanton J.
Published: June 2007

During 1983 a severe episode of respiratory infection occurred in a marmoset colony at these laboratories. Of 91 marmosets, 69 showed clinical signs of disease, one died and nine were so ill that euthanasia was necessary. Eight were examined post mortem and all showed consolidation of the lungs. Laboratory studies were carried out in an attempt to establish the cause of the outbreak and an interstitial pneumonia was found in seven animals which were examined histologically. Direct electron microscopy of nasal swabs and lung samples revealed the presence of a high titre of a paramyxovirus, and subsequent immunofluorescence studies established that the particular paramyxovirus involved was parainfluenza virus type I. Subsequent studies showed that surviving affected animals had seroconverted to parainfluenza I virus while animals that had not been implicated in the outbreak had not.
Exophthalmos in ageing rats with Harderian gland disease
Authors: Rothwell T. L. W. , Everitt A. V.
Published: June 2007

Exophthalmos was found in aged rats in several longevity studies. Four cases were due to malignant Harderian gland neoplasia whilst others were associated with severe Harderian gland inflammation, less severe inflammation being found in rats without exophthalmos.
A procedure for arterial blood sampling in the rabbit
Authors: Fick T. E. , Schalm S. W.
Published: June 2007

The ear vessels in the rabbit appear to be easily accessible for blood puncturing. Several measures are described to overcome problems of vascular spasm and uncontrolled movements of the animal during injection.
Susceptibility of tamarin (Saguinus labiatus) red blood cell membrane lipids to oxidative stress: implications for wasting marmoset syndrome
Authors: Gutteridge J. M. C. , Taffs L. F. , Hawkey C. M. , Rice-Evans C.
Published: June 2007

Captive Callitrichids frequently suffer a fatal wasting disease, wasting marmoset syndrome (WMS), of unexplained cause. This paper describes studies on the erythrocytes from animals in a breeding colony of tamarins ( Saguinus labiatus), in which deaths from anaemia and wasting were occurring, to seek evidence for biochemical changes which could lead to oxidative damage and premature cell lysis. In only one animal of 33 studied did the red blood cell lipids show an increased susceptibility to oxidative damage. This animal, with some degree of certainty, could be diagnosed as having WMS. It was concluded that evidence for a primary deficiency of antioxidants as a cause of unexplained deaths, or WMS, in the colony could not at present be substantiated.
Long-term effects of partial ileal bypass on the health status of rabbits
Authors: Schouten J. A. , Beynen A. C. , de Rooy P. D. , Hoitsma H. F. W. , Bosma A.
Published: June 2007

Partial ileal bypass (PIB) surgery is a method for the treatment of familial hypercholesterolaemia in man. Since the rabbit is frequently used as an animal model in experimental studies on PIB, we have investigated the long-term effects of this surgical procedure on the health status of rabbits. Forty-eight weeks after surgery plasma and liver cholesterol levels were decreased by about 40%. The inner diameter of the bypassed ileum was drastically reduced, unlike its length. The bypassed segment did not show clear histological abnormalities. The microflora of the caecum was similar in control and PIB rabbits. PIB did not influence liver histology. The bile of the rabbits with PIB was less lithogenic than that of control animals. Blood haemoglobin levels, haematocrit values and plasma concentrations of alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, γ-glutamyl transferase and lactate dehydrogenase were not changed after PIB. Plasma levels of albumin, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B12 and folic acid were not significantly affected by PIB. Rabbits with PIB had significantly higher plasma levels of bilirubin and zinc than control rabbits, but plasma vitamin E concentrations were significantly lower. These results may be of importance for further studies on the effects of PIB in rabbits.
A new variant of the Es-1 locus in the rat
Authors: Katoh H. , Shoji Y. , Yoshimura Y. , Esaki K.
Published: June 2007

A new prealbumin plasma esterase was demonstrated by the use of miniaturized polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoresis. Genetic analysis indicated that the new variant is controlled by the Es-1 locus and this gene was designated Es-1c. Among 11 rat strains only one strain, WJ, possessed the gene. Two random-bred stocks, JcI:Wistar and JcI:SD, also maintained it in their populations. Miniaturized polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoresis showed that the ES-1 band consisted of two close bands with the cathodal one staining darker.
Asbestos bodies in rat lung following intratracheal instillation of chrysotile
Authors: Harrison P. T. C. , Heath J. C.
Published: June 2007

Asbestos bodies in rat lung have rarely been reported, and just one previous record of their formation from chrysotile fibres in the rat is known. This paper illustrates the production of numerous true asbestos bodies in the lungs of Lister hooded rats after a single small intratracheal dose of lightly milled chrysotile. The demonstration of these bodies is particularly useful because uncoated chrysotile fibres in lung tissue cannot normally be visualized by light microscopy; the detection of asbestos bodies, and therefore of asbestos fibres, provides a means of directly relating asbestos exposure to observed tissue lesions. The asbestos bodies detected in the present study were nearly always associated with small pulmonary fibrotic lesions. The bodies ranged in length from 5 to 80 μm and were up to 5 μm in diameter. Small spheres, rods and bodies the shape of a comma were common; larger beaded structures were somewhat rarer. The bodies were visible in tissue sections stained routinely with modified Azan stain and with haematoxylin and eosin, but their detection and localization was enhanced by the use of Perls' Prussian blue stain in association with a paleeosin counterstain.
An improved procedure for obtaining germ-free laboratory mice
Authors: Taylor D. M. , McConnell I. , Farquhar C. F.
Published: June 2007

The economy of time and effort accruing from the use of laminar air-flow cabinets to obtain germ-free mice has already been established. However, a further modification of the technique, utilizing small intermediate isolators, has made it possible to transfer to the large, recipient isolators only those litters which are viable and demonstrably free from contamination.
Biological variations in serum total hydroxyproline concentration in the beagle dog
Authors: Svanberg G. K.
Published: June 2007

A newly developed assay for hydroxyproline (Hyp) in physiological samples was used for determining the biological variations in serum total Hyp in the beagle dog. The results showed that dietary Hyp restriction in the beagle dog results in a significant decrease in serum total Hyp over the first 24 h and that there are no obvious circadian variations in serum total Hyp concentrations in beagle dogs on dietary Hyp restriction.
Hereditary hepatitis of LEC rats is controlled by a single autosomal recessive gene
Authors: Masuda R. , Yoshida M. C. , Sasaki M. , Dempo K. , Mori M.
Published: June 2007

The natural history of hereditary hepatitis in long-survived LEC rats was reported. Among 56 (female: male, 28:28) LEC rats of F30, 16 (8:8) (29%) died of fulminant hepatitis approximately four months after birth. The remaining 40 (20:20) rats that survived more than one year developed chronic hepatitis and subsequent hepatic lesions including hepatocellular carcinomas. Further study made with 32 F31 rats killed at the age of five months revealed that hepatitis occurred in all of these rats.

Genetic analysis performed by various crosses of LEC and LEJ rats confirmed the previous result that hereditary hepatitis was caused by a single autosomal recessive gene. F1 hybrid rats never developed hepatitis, showing normal histology of the liver. Histological features of hepatitis in F2 (F1×1) and backcross (F1×LEC) rats were the same as those observed in the LEC rats. The preneoplastic foci also appeared in some of these hybrid rats at the age of eight months. We propose a gene symbol hts to designate the present hepatitis which is assumed to be homozygous in LEC strain rats.
Haemolysis and artifactual lung damage induced by an euthanasia agent
Authors: Prien T. , Traber D. L. , Linares H. A. , Davenport S. L.
Published: June 2007

The artifactual development of endothelial necrosis, pulmonary congestion, and oedema that has been reported in dogs, cats, and monkeys when the animals were killed with 1-1·5 ml/kg body weight of the euthanasia agent T-61 was reproduced in adult ewes of the merino breed. This species also exhibited a marked pulmonary congestion with intra-alveolar haemorrhages, septal oedema, and a diffuse cellular damage of the alveolar septa when the recommended dose of 0·3 ml/kg body weight was administered after forcing blood flow through one lung by clamping the contralateral hilum. The red coloration of the damaged lung areas may be due to haemolysis, another aspect of T-61 induced cell damage in this species. The degree of haemolysis increases with increasing blood concentration of the agent and approximates complete haemolysis at a T-61 blood concentration of 5%. The blood concentration dependent degree of haemolysis in sheep suggests a similar relationship between blood concentration of the agent and degree of pulmonary tissue damage.
Spontaneous neoplasms of the seminal vesicles in aged Han:Chin hamsters (Cricetulus criseus)
Authors: Kaspareit-Rittinghausen J. , Deerberg F.
Published: June 2007

Tumours of the seminal vesicles were found in 11 of 182 male Han:Chin hamsters kept in a life-span study from weaning to their natural death. Histologically they were classified as adenocarcinoma ( n = 10) and hemangiosarcoma ( n = 1). The histopathological features of the neoplasms are described.
Normal levels of vitamin A in tissues of the Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) determined colorimetrically
Authors: Robinson M. E. , Gibbins A. M. Verrinder , Hardy M. H.
Published: June 2007

Vitamin A levels in tissues of 20 normal adult hamsters on a standard diet were measured colorimetrically. No significant difference between male and female animals was found for any of the tissues sampled. The mean vitamin A value for blood plasma in 20 animals was 53·4 μg/dl. Mean values for liver, kidneys, flank skin and cheek pouch were 813, 1·29, 1·84 and 1·31 mg/g wet weight, respectively. The vitamin assay was less suitable for small organs such as trachea.
Lectins as markers of endothelial cells: comparative study between human and animal cells
Authors: Roussel F. , Dalion J.
Published: June 2007

Vascular endothelial cells were labelled with 10 vegetal lectins and 3 more monoclonal antibodies antiblood group ABO substances, in major organs of 14 common laboratory animals. After fixation in PLPa and paraffin embedding, cells were examined to determine their likeness to human cells. The most interesting reactive used was EEA, whose positivity defines upper mammalians. Blood B substance positivity and CSA negativity defines primates among which man is unique and defined by UEA I positivity and variability in ABO substance. CSA positivity defines non-primate upper mammalians. Rodents and birds were negative with all reactives tested. From the histochemical point of view, the animals closest to humans are monkeys, followed by swine and oxen, then by cat and dog and lastly by sheep. Rodents appear unrelated to humans in this system.
Long-term blood sampling technique in the marmoset
Authors: O'Byrne K. T.
Published: June 2007

A simple and reliable method for long-term blood sampling from the restrained marmoset is described. Cannulae were chronically inserted into the internal jugular vein, exteriorized and housed in a backpack system. The cannulae remained patent for 1-7 months. This system allows for rapid collection of blood samples and hence detailed analysis of circulating hormone levels.
A restraint system for the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: O'Byrne K. T. , Morris K. D.
Published: June 2007

A method for restraining the marmoset in a primate chair is described. The device is inexpensive to construct, is reliable, and the majority of animals can be habituated to its use. The chair has been used in neurobiological studies employing electrophysiological recordings, with or without concurrent collection of serial blood samples.
Technique for long-term infusion into the inferior mesenteric artery of unrestrained rats
Authors: Aguiar J. L. A. , Garzon F. T. , Schneideri S. , Berger M. R. , Schlag P. , Schmähl D.
Published: June 2007

A technique for long-term infusion into the inferior mesenteric artery was developed which allows simple and reliable regional infusion into the colorectal segment of unrestrained rats. The cannulation system consists of an injection port 'In Stoppers' as a flow swivel, connected to an injection needle, which is inserted into a polyethylene tube protected by a steel spiral. During infusion the animals are free to move in the cage with access to food and water ad libitum. The method is suitable for regional chemotherapy as well as for studies of colorectal tumours in rats. In this study 73% of the cannulae remained functional for continuous infusion over a 15 day period.
An improved simple technique for the collection of blood samples from rats and mice
Authors: Conybeare G. , Leslie G. B. , Angles K. , Barrett R. J. , Luke J. S. H. , Gask D. R.
Published: June 2007

The technique of blood collection from the lateral caudal vein has been improved. The method requires only moderate skill and no anaesthesia is necessary. Collection of blood samples causes little trauma and can be repeated at frequent (8 h) intervals thus making the method particularly suitable for pharmacokinetic and hormonal studies. Blood samples are uncontaminated by tissue fluids. Large volumes can be obtained, in mice up to 1·5 ml and in Wistar rats over 4 ml.
Intestinal carcinomas in two tamarins (Saguinus fuscicollis, Saguinus oedipus) of the German Primate Centre
Authors: Brack M.
Published: June 2007

Two colonic mucoid adenocarcinomas in tamarins from the German Primate Centre are reported. A mucinous mucoid adenocarcinoma occurred in the ascending and transversal colon of a Saguinus oedipus male more than 8 years old, with metastases in the regional lymph nodes and the pancreas. The tumour corresponded to colon cancer in cotton-topped tamarins of other colonies. The second tumour, a well differentiated tubular mucoid adenocarcinoma, developed at the ileocaecal valve of a 14½ year old Saguinus fuscicollis male with metastases to the local lymphatic system.
Small-calibre vascular grafting into the rat abdominal aorta with biodegradable prostheses
Authors: Bartels H. L. , van der Lei B.
Published: June 2007

130 Male Wistar rats, 2-3 months old and weighing 250-350 g were operated on to implant biodegradable small-calibre vascular prostheses (length 10 mm; internal diameter 1-5 mm) in their infrarenal abdominal aorta.

The mean operation time was 40 min, the mean aortic cross-clamping time 25 min. The early patency rate was 100% the late patency rate was 97-7%, and the operative mortality was 3-1%. Microscopical examination of the biodegradable prostheses from 1 h up to 1 year after implantation demonstrated reproducable morphological results; in these prostheses a new arterial wall regenerated which had a structure very similar to the normal arterial wall.

It was concluded that the rat is an appropriate experimental laboralory animal for testing new types of small-calibre vascular prostheses.
A new method of bile duct cannulation allowing bile collection and re-infusion in the conscious rat
Authors: Rath L. , Hutchison M.
Published: June 2007

A technique is described for collection of bile from the surgically-prepared, conscious rat after a postoperative recovery period of 7 days. This model can also be used to study enterohepatic recirculation.
Cell-mediated and humoral immune responses in mice during experimental infection with Mycoplasma pulmonis
Authors: Kishima M. , Kuniyasu C. , Eguchi M.
Published: June 2007

Cell-mediated and humoral immune responses in mice after challenge exposure with Mycoplasma pulmonis were investigated. The cell-mediated immune response was determined by means of the delayed-type footpad swelling and the humoral immune response by means of the indirect haemagglutination test. Delayed-type footpad swelling and serum antibody titres were detected at one week after the challenge exposure and persisted for 7 weeks until the end of the experiment. However, there was a poor correlation between the degree of delayed-type footpad swelling and that of serum antibody titre. Delayed-type footpad swelling in mice with gross pneumonic lesions was less than that of mice with no gross lesions. A weak negative linear correlation was observed between the delayed-type footpad swelling and the number of M. pulmonis isolated from lungs.
A method of remote physiological monitoring of a fully mobile primate in a single animal cage
Authors: Pearce P. C. , Halsey M. J. , Ross J. A. S. , Luff N. P. , Bevilacqua R. A. , Maclean C. J.
Published: June 2007

A system was designed to allow the physiological monitoring of a fully mobile, unstressed baboon ( Papio anubis) in a single animal cage for the purpose of measuring the changes occurring in a hyperbaric environment. It was required to operate for at least three months, both inside a pressure chamber and outside, and to measure the following parameters: electroencephalogram (EEG, three channels), electrooculogram (EOG), electromyelogram (EMG, two channels), electrocardiogram (ECG), arterial blood pressure, respiration and body temperature. Also in the system were catheters through which blood samples could be taken and intravenous drugs given. The overall system consisted of a harness and jacket, an umbilical and back pack, a combined electrical and fluid transmission swivel and a monitoring implant and catheters.
Reinfection of virus free mice with mouse mammary tumour virus
Authors: Lee A. E. , Rogers L. A. , Topps S. , Wallace K.
Published: June 2007

BR6/Icrf mice carrying a milk-transmitted mammary tumour virus (MMTV) develop tumours after several pregnancies. If the mice are freed from MMTV, no tumours develop. In the experiments described in this paper, MMTV was reintroduced into MMTV-free mice by foster nursing, which was least effective if the pups were exposed to the virus only during the first week of life. Exposure for even a short time after that age led to a tumour incidence similar to that found in normally infected mice. Reinfection was also achieved by injection of MMTV-containing milk into weanling or pregnant mice, and was then transmitted naturally to the next generation.
An electrophoretic polymorphism in salivary amylases (Amy-1) of mastomys (Praomys coucha)
Authors: Matsushima Yoshibumi , Ikeno Takeyuki , Ikeno Kumiko , Tanaka Shin
Published: June 2007

An electrophoretic polymorphism of salivary amylases ( Amy-1) in mastomys ( Praomys coucha) (MWC, MRJ and MCC strains) was detected. Amylase in MWC or MRJ saliva, which migrated fast toward the anode, was designated as AMY-1A, and that in MCC saliva migrating slowly as AMY-1B. Salivary amylases are controlled by a pair of codominant alleles at a single autosomal locus ( Amy-1). No polymorphism was seen in pancreatic amylases ( Amy-2). The frequencies of these phenotypes did not differ between the sexes. Some isoamylases were observed and these were different from those in mouse or rat.
Sex ratio and litter size in relation to parity and mode of conception in three inbred strains of mice
Authors: Krackow Sven , Gruber Franz
Published: June 2007

Breeding records from three inbred strains of mice (BALB/c ABom, C57BL/10ScSn, C3H/He/Kon) were examined with respect to the effects of parity and mode of conception upon litter size and sex ratio at birth. Litters from 3 modes of conception were considered: litters of primipares, litters of multipares conceived during postpartum oestrus and litters conceived after lactational anoestrus. Litters of multipares were assigned to one of these latter groups according to the inter-litter intervals. Parity had no significant effect upon the sex ratio but had a significant one upon the litter size, which did not vary between the strains when first litters were excluded from analysis. The expected variations in response to the mode of conception were found in BALB/c ABom mice but both the effects on the litter size as well as on the sex ratio varied significantly between the strains. Litter size reduction per se could be ruled out to be the cause of the sex ratio variations found. Rather, it is suggested that sex-specificity of embryonic loss depends upon the mode of conception.
The use of a rat-derived microflora for providing colonization resistance in SPF rats
Authors: Heidt P. J. , Koopman J. P. , Kennis H. M. , van den Logt J. T. M. , Hectors M. P. C. , Nagengast F. M. , Timmermans C. P. J. , de Groot C. W.
Published: June 2007

To obtain a suitable species-specific microflora for a new rat SPF-unit, germ-free WAG/Rij rats were associated with a flora derived originally from selectively decontaminated Cpb:WU (Wistar) rats. Caecal and ileal contents of these rats had been cultured anaerobically (37°C) for 7 days and harvested. This cultured flora was given to germ-free Cpb : SE (Swiss) mice, which were kept in an isolator system and acted as a source of the flora to associate germ-free Wag/Rij rats.

In these associated rats, several parameters indicative of the 'quality' of the intestinal micro flora were investigated and compared to those in rats with a mouse derived anaerobic microflora. Parameters included relative caecal weight, colonization resistance and the concentration of faecal bile acids. The cultured rat-derived microflora normalized the observed intestinal parameters better than the mouse derived microflora, and provided better colonization resistance.

We conclude that culturing of intestinal contents of selectively decontaminated animals can be a useful way to obtain a species-specific donor-micro flora which can be used to start new SPF units.
The mouse epidermis as a model in skin pharmacology: influence of age and sex on epidermal metabolic reactions and their circadian rhythms
Authors: Kietzmann M. , Lubach D. , Heeren H.-J.
Published: June 2007

The influence of age and sex on epidermal metabolism and histology was studied in mice (NMRI). Within a few weeks postpartum, thymidine triphosphate incorporation into DNA and amino acid incorporation into epidermal protein decreased. Differences between tail epidermis and other skin regions (back, abdomen, ear) were found. Sex dependent differences could not be demonstrated. A circadian rhythm of the studied epidermal metabolic processes was shown (artificial 12L: 12D light/dark cycle). Maximum incorporation of thymidine triphosphate and of amino acids was found at the end of the light period at 1800 h, while a minimum incorporation was demonstrated at the end of the dark period. Considering described biological variations, the mouse tail assay seems to be suited to study influences of drugs in epidermal metabolism and histology.