bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The biochemical assessment of insulin resistance
Authors: Borai Anwar , Livingstone Callum , Ferns Gordon A A
Published: June 2007

Insulin resistance is a common condition, recognized to be a central feature of the metabolic syndrome, and strongly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The quantitative assessment of insulin sensitivity is not used for routine clinical purposes, but the emerging importance of insulin resistance has led to its wider application to research studies that have examined its pathogenesis, aetiology and consequences. The gold standard method for the determination of insulin sensitivity is the euglycaemic hyperinsulinaemic clamp from which indices of insulin sensitivity can be derived. The clamp technique is both expensive and complex to undertake and has prompted the use of surrogate methods, notably the insulin tolerance test and frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test. Indices may be derived from these methods and correlate well with those derived from clamp studies. Indices can also be derived from measurements made during a standard oral glucose tolerance test and from one-off fasting specimens (e.g. homeostasis model assessment and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index). These indices lend themselves for use in large population studies where a relatively simple, inexpensive assessment is necessary. However, these tests all suffer from important limitations, including poor precision. Insulin resistance is increasingly being assessed in clinical situations, where relatively simple markers are required. Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 is an emerging marker which may be useful in this context.
A restraining device for use when recording electrocardiograms in monkeys
Authors: Osborne B. E.
Published: June 2007

A simple restraining board was made from wood and plastic self-adhesive strips. By using it, satisfactory electrocardiograms were recorded from unsedated monkeys of 2-6 kg bodyweight.
The effect of handling weanling rats on their usefulness in subsequent assays of follicle-stimulating hormone
Authors: Sharpe R. M. , Choudhury S. A. R. , Brown P. S.
Published: June 2007

Handling weanling female rats for 3 days prior to experiments using the Steelman-Pohley method of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) assay reduced the variability of their responses, significantly in 2 out of 3 instances. The results suggested that about twice as many non-handled rats would be required in an assay to obtain the same degree of precision as with handled rats. Variability was not significantly altered by handling in experiments using the Johnson-Naqvi method of FSH assay.
A preliminary survey of the nematode parasites of some imported old-world monkeys
Authors: Owen D. , Casillo S.
Published: June 2007

Faecal samples and blood films from 3 species of Old-World monkeys, Macaca mulatta, Macaca irus and Papio dogeura, were examined for the presence of nematode parasites. 8 separate groups, a total of 200 animals, were examined within 24 hours of their arrival at the premises of a primate importer. 8 species of nematode were found to be common inhabitants of the alimentary tract, and small numbers of microfilaria were detected in all groups.
The use of pelleted dichlorvos in the control of murine acariasis
Authors: Fraser Jane , Joiner G. N. , Jardine J. H. , Galvin T. J.
Published: June 2007

Dichlorvos resin pellets placed in bedding were found to be highly efficacious in eliminating Myobia musculi (Schrank) from a conventional mouse colony. The infested mice were exposed continuously to the insecticide for a 14-day period. At the end of this period no live mites or eggs were observed.
Comparative morphological and functional aspects of the aorta of the major vertebrate classes
Authors: Berry C. L. , Germain Jocelyn , Newman D. L. , Greenwald S. E.
Published: June 2007

A lamellar unit structure is present throughout the subphylum. From measurements of the change in diameter of the aorta in response to increased pressure, strain values were calculated for the aorta of species of reptiles, birds and mammals. Differences may be relevant to the development of degenerative vascular disease in these orders.
Noise as an environmental problem in the animal house
Authors: Pfaff J.
Published: June 2007

Audiogenic seizures, changes in parameters of the stress syndrome, and disturbance of acoustic communication in rodents are discussed as possible harmful effects of noise and evaluated in regard to standards published in Germany for man. These standards are insufficient to protect laboratory animals from ultrasound, to which rodents are very sensitive. Neither do they give sufficient protection for many experiments, since some physiological parameters of the stress syndrome may be influenced by levels of noise less than that regarded as acceptable for man.
Experimental and natural infection of the conjunctiva of rats
Authors: Hill Auriol
Published: June 2007

Experimental inoculation of organisms isolated from the conjunctiva of rats with clinical signs of conjunctivitis did not produce any disease. Natural transmission of these organisms from infected parents to their young diminished with succeeding generations.
Genetic reliability of commercially-bred laboratory mice
Authors: Festing Michael F.
Published: June 2007

An analysis of 20 mouse colonies from 10 different breeders sampled over a period of up to a year using the mandible-analysis technique revealed 3 major cases of lack of authenticity: supply of mice as a pure strain from a colony founded by an unidentified cross: blending of 2 or 3 stocks into a single colony the offspring of which were sold under 3 different names, none of which were authentic; differences between nominally identical stock from 2 sources.

These findings are discussed in relation to previously published information using named strains, and a genetic monitoring scheme for commercial breeders is proposed.
Cerebrospinal fluid pressure measurements and radioisotope cisternography in dogs
Authors: Novak G. , Digel Carole , Burns B. , James A. Everette
Published: June 2007

Cerebrospinal fluid pressure measurements and radioisotope cisternograms were made in 16 mongrel random-source dogs (beagle breed excluded) as a screening technique in developing an experimental animal model for communicating hydrocephalus. Cerebrospinal fluid pressure measurements were made by puncturing the cisterna magna with a spinal needle through which the radiopharmaceutical was also subsequently injected. The mean cerebrospinal fluid pressure was 117 mm water, and the incidence of hydrocephalus was found to be rare. Cisternographic flow patterns also indicate that cerebrospinal fluid flow and absorption in dogs differs from that found in man.
Occurrence of oestrus in the Mongolian gerbil after pairing with a male
Authors: Meckley P. E. , Ginther O. J.
Published: June 2007

Females grouped together showed a significantlylower incidence (0/20) of vaginal oestrus than did those separated from the group and paired with males (27/35): 12 of the 27 first showed vaginal oestrus on the 3rd day after pairing. Paired females had heavier ovaries and uteri than did those kept in groups.
Buphthalmos (congenital glaucoma) in the rat
Authors: Young Caroline , Festlng M. F. W. , Barnett K. C.
Published: June 2007

The spontaneous occurrence of buphthalmos in a colony of WAG inbred rats was due to the presence of a persistent pupillary membrane which interfered with the drainage of aqueous humour from the eye. The condition appears to be inherited but as yet no completely satisfactory mode of inheritance can be given.
Microbiological monitoring of gnotobiotic lambs
Authors: Elliott Linda M. , Alexander T. J. L. , Wellstead Patricia D. , Lysons R. J.
Published: June 2007

This paper discusses the contaminants that were detected in gnotobiotic lambs reared for up to 5 months.
Sedation of sheep and patas monkeys with ketamine
Authors: Britton B. J. , Wood W. G. , Irving M. H.
Published: June 2007

20 mg/kg ketamine appears to induce safe and satisfactory sedation in sheep and patas monkeys. No animals died and the recovery period in monkeys was uncomplicated.
Control of Pasteurella multocida infections in a small rabbit colony
Authors: Plant J. W.
Published: June 2007

Clinical pasteurellosis was eliminated by administration of sulphamezathine in the drinking water (0·13%) to pregnant females for 4 days before the expected date of parturition.
Breathing pattern in the guinea-pig
Authors: Nixon Joseph M.
Published: June 2007

The laboratory guinea-pig ( Cavia porcellus L.) is unable to breathe by mouth except under extreme respiratory stress, when an oral route is maintained only on a breath-to-breath basis. Normal breathing in this species is accomplished through the nasal passages only, even after heavy exercise.
A case of guinea-pig conjoined young
Authors: Capel-Edwards K. , Eveleigh J. R.
Published: June 2007

This case of conjoined young or double monster was the only spontaneous congenital abnormality noted during the breeding of 4369 guinea-pigs of the Dunkin-Hartley strain.
Structure of the normal rat larynx
Authors: Smith G.
Published: June 2007

Recent studies have shown the rat larynx to be an important organ in the evaluation of irritancy of inhaled materials. Serial sections and scanning electron microscope observations have clarified its basic structure. In particular the cartilage pattern and the distribution of the epithelia lining the lumen have been determined. There are 2 specialised epithelia-stratified squamous (found in areas subject to wear) and ciliated pseudostratified columnar (which produces and transports mucus). Always intervening between these is an unspecialised epithelium, the non-ciliated columnar. The marked variation in type of epithelium over a short distance within the larynx emphasises the need to take sections in the same plane when comparing different specimens.
Murine lymphocytic choriomeningitis: the history of a natural cross-infection from wild to laboratory mice
Authors: Skinner H. H. , Knight E. H. , Grove Rosemary
Published: June 2007

A new locus of wild house mice tolerantly infected with the virus of lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) has been identified in the United Kingdom. Evidence is presented which indicates that these mice were the source of infection in a laboratory mouse breeding colony, the mode of transmission probably being bites on tails and limbs exposed through wire-grid flooring.

The results of an experiment which simulated indirect exposure of SPF mice to tolerantly infected wild mice supported earlier observations that without injury to the epidermis the risk of spread of infection from the infective urine, saliva or faeces is low.
Influence of diet pellet hardness and particle size on food utilization by mice, rats and hamsters
Authors: Ford D. J.
Published: June 2007

Increasing hardness of diet pellets reduced food wastage by each species. Also, less wastage occurred when pellets made from finely ground materials were given, an effect that was not related to hardness. The hardest diet reduced growth of the mice by reducing true food consumption and a poorer food conversion efficiency (true food consumption/growth) was obtained. Apparent food consumption increased with the softness of the diet and food utilization (apparent food consumption/growth) of the softest diets was less efficient than those of the others.

Grinding of the raw materials prior to pelleting had no effect on food conversion, but food utilization was less efficient because of the greater wastage of pellets from coarsely ground materials and consequent apparent food consumption.
Effect of autoclaving and physical structure of diets on their utilization by mice
Authors: Ford D. J.
Published: June 2007

A pelleted and 2 expanded rodent diets were autoclaved at 121°C for 20 minutes, and fed to DBA/1 and LACA strains of mice. Reproduction was not significantly different on any diet and autoclaving had no effect other than increasing the intervals between litters. However, apparent food consumption was greater and efficiency of food utilization (expressed as young weaned/diet consumed) was poorer in mice fed pelleted diets.

Diet had no significant effect on growth, but food wastage and consequently apparent food consumption were less and food utilization more efficient when expanded diets were fed. In addition, true food consumption was lower and food conversion more efficient.

Autoclaving had little effect on expanded diets but caused a significant reduction in wastage and in apparent and true consumption of the pelleted diet, perhaps because of increased hardness.
Respiratory pathogens in non-human primates with special refererence to Corynebacterium ulcerans
Authors: Panaitescu M. , Maximescu Paula , Michel Juliana , Potorac E.
Published: June 2007

An investigation of 272 non-human primates (75 Macacca cynomolgus, 97 Macacca mulatta and 100 Cercopithecus aethiops) revealed a high incidence of respiratory disease caused by Corynebacterium ulcerans, Staphylococci, Diplococci and Streptococci. Escherichia coli was also found as a secondary invader. Most of the infections occurred during winter in Macaca cynomolgus and were caused by Corynebacterium ulcerans and Diplococcus pneumoniae. The C. ulcerans strains were phage type VI G. A phage type III C strain was isolated from a Macacca mulatta.

The high incidence of C. ulcerans suggests that this organism plays a significant role in the pathology of respiratory disease in the non-human primate.
Congenital venous hypoplasia in the liver of rats
Authors: Mullink J. W. M. A. , Vos-Maas Margriet , Bussink G. P. , Haneveld G. T.
Published: June 2007

Narrowed and rudimentary portal vein branches were observed in the livers of specified-pathogen-free rats which, at the age of 6-11 weeks, showed poor condition and retarded growth. At autopsy abdominal venous dislension and congestion suggestive of portal hypertension and collateral circulation appeared to have developed. The cause of the observations and their significance in view of the use of the rats are unknown.
Ultrastructure of proliferative ileitis in hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus)
Authors: Kim J. C. S. , Jourden M.
Published: June 2007

The ileum of affected hamsters bore microvilli which were much shorter, less regularly arranged and less densely packed than those from control animals. Organelle derangements such as atrophy of mitochondria, degranulation and dilated cisterna of endoplasmic reticulum, were observed. Some hyperplastic epithelial cells contained multiple intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies and amyloid deposits were present extracellularly.
Conjoined twins and opocephaly in guinea-pigs : 4 cases of congenital malformation
Authors: Hong Chou C. , Ediger Raymond D. , Djurickovic Slobodan
Published: June 2007

A case of opocephaly in inbred guinea-pig strain 2/N and another in strain 13/N, a conjoined twin and an opocephaly concurrent with conjoined twins in the Dunkin-Hartley/FD strain are described. The incidence of congenital malformations in the inbred strain 2/N and strain 13/N was 0·0013 and 0·0073% respectively. The incidence in the random-bred Dunkin-Hartley/FD strain was 0·0007%.
Infectious form of Spironucleus (Hexamita) banded cysts
Authors: Kunstýř I.
Published: June 2007

Spironucleus muris is a facultative pathogen which may impair experiments on rodents. During examination of thymus-deficient ( nu/nu) mice of Han:NMRI stock which were spontaneously infected with this flagellate, infectious cysts were found in the lower intestine and in the faeces. The disease was reproduced in animals fed these cysts. The observed prepatent time was 2-3 days. The cysts are supposed to be the only infectious form of S. muris. The immature and mature stages, of the cyst with a characteristic banded appearance ('Easter-egg cysts') are described. The description of the cystic form of S. muris the faeces of infected mice makes possible the diagnosis of spironucleosis without sacrificing the host.
Treatment of purulent staphylococcal conjunctivitis in rabbits with autogenous vaccine
Authors: Hinton M.
Published: June 2007

Autogenous Staphylococcus aureus vaccine produced temporary clinical improvement in 4 cases of conjunctivitis and may have a role where drugs are in-appropriate.
Hydronephrosis in male rats
Authors: O'Donoghue P. N. , Wilson Marie S.
Published: June 2007

Section of the right internal spermatic artery and vein where they overlie the ureter in Wistar-related male rats suggests that the right hydronephrosis found in these animals is not a consequence of simple obstruction by the blood vessels. The diverse effects of this operation on testicular weight presumably reflect variation in the relative importance of internal and external spermatic blood supply.
Segmental aplasia of the vagina in the beagle bitch
Authors: Wadsworth Peter F. , Hall Janet C. , Prentice David E.
Published: June 2007

Segmental aplasia of the vaginal mucosa was discovered in 3 beagle bitches at the end of a routine toxicological experiment. Anomalies of Müllerian duct development in the bitch are discussed.
Selective decontamination of the digestive tract of Syrian hamsters
Authors: Angulo A. F. , Spaans J. , Zemmouchi L. , Van Der Waaij D.
Published: June 2007

Conventional Syrian hamsters colonized with aerobic gram-negative bacteria such as Pasteurella pneumotropica and various Enterobacteriaceae species were successfully and permanently freed from these microorganisms by oral treatment for 4 weeks with dihydrostreptomycin and 'Orabase' premixed with appropriate antibiotics. Concomitant oral treatment with dimetridazol for the elimination of intestinal flagellates was unsuccessful. During treatment the animals were maintained under germ-free isolation conditions.
Control of oxyurids in mice using thiabendazole
Authors: MacArthur Judy A. , Wood Margery
Published: June 2007

Mice with a natural infection of Syphacia obvelata and Aspiculuris tetraptera were continuously medicated with 0·1% thiabendazole in the diet. No oxyurids were found in test animals after 24 days of treatment though control animals remained infected. Growth rates in treated animals increased. 2 generations of mice were studied and, although overall production fell by 1·45%, the use of this drug in total eradication of the worms is suggested.
Establishment of a small breeding colony of rhesus monkeys
Authors: MacArthur Judy A. , Seamer J. H. , Veall D.
Published: June 2007

A breeding colony of 22 female and 4 male rhesus monkeys ( Macaca mulatta) was established in a controlled-environment building with an outdoor run. The animals were quarantined for 2 years prior to their release into the unit. The housing, release and management of the colony are described. During the first year 19 young were born of which 17 have survived to 6 months of age. The cost of production and maintenance of the colony when compared with the cost of importing rhesus monkeys would appear to be acceptable.
The immunoperoxidase test diagnosis of Encephalitozoon cuniculi in rabbits
Authors: Gannon J.
Published: June 2007

Sera collected from both naturally and artificially infected rabbits were found to show excellent correlation when examined for the presence of Encephalitozoon cuniculi antibodies using the immunoperoxidase and immunofluorescence tests. Out of 85 randomly selected rabbits, 21 were found to be serologically positive using both the tests. However, lesions which could be attributed to E. cuniculi infection were only demonstrated in 16.
Humoral immune response to infection with Encephalitozoon cuniculi in rabbits
Authors: Waller T. , Morein B. , Fabiansson Eva
Published: June 2007

Parenteral administration of Encephalitozoon cuniculi induced an antibody response within 7-11 days. Peroral administration was less effective since only 2 of 6 animals showed seroconversion; they became seropositive within 14-21 days. Sera from animals which became seropositive had high antibody titres during the whole test period.

Immune sera from 3 animals were fractionated by gel filtration. With the india-ink immunoreaction test, antibodies to E. cuniculi were found only in the 7S fractions, while the indirect fluorescent-antibody test detected them in fractions 19S and 7S. The 7S fractions were identified as IgG and the 19S fractions as IgM.

A program for eradication of encephalitozoonosis, based on these results, is discussed.
Automation in the animal house
Authors: Morrissey G.
Published: June 2007

Whilst appearing attractive, automation must be approached with caution. Much time, effort and money is put into curing 'symptoms' without really defining the problem. Too often organizations launch a programme of automation when what they really need is rationalization. Unless you know precisely how much time and effort is currently involved in an operation, you are in grave danger of making costly mistakes in considering automation. A prerequisite is to make sure that your present operation is as productive as it is capable of being.
The influence of anaesthetics on the haematology of the patas monkey, Erythrocebus patas
Authors: Hawkey C. M. , Dean S. , Hart M. G.
Published: June 2007

The effects of phencyclidine, ketamine and an alphaxalone-alphadolone mixture on the haematology of the patas monkey have been compared. In animals sedated with phencyclidine or ketamine the only significant difference detected was in the mean cell volume. Statistically significant differences in white-cell count and blood coagulation and fibrinolytic activity were found in monkeys which had received alphaxalone-alphadolone. It is suggested that ketamine is a suitable alternative to phencyclidine for haematological studies in these monkeys.
A new guinea-pig watering system
Authors: Sommers Tina , Betts T. E.
Published: June 2007

Automatic drinking valves were mounted outside solid-floor cages, the guinea-pigs gaining access to them through holes in the cage walls. The animals were thus provided with a constant supply of clean water without the danger of their cages being flooded.
Ultrastructural features of spironucleosis (hexamitiasis) in x-irradiated rat small intestine
Authors: Gruber Helen E. , Osborne James W.
Published: June 2007

Summary

An alteration in the host response to the intestinal protozoan Spironucleus (Hexamita) muris was noted in x-irradiated rat small intestine. When few were present in the crypt lumina, the intestinal microvillar border was normal. However, when larger numbers were present, the microvilli were greatly reduced in numbers or entirely absent in some regions. The organism was identified in the base of the crypt lumen, in apical portions of mucous cells, and near the basement membrane. Spironucleus enclosed by digestive vacuoles occasionally appeared to be in the process of being extruded through the basement membrane. Not all intracellular protozoa were surrounded by such digestive vacuoles.

Spironucleus was never seen in association with the digestive vacuoles of Paneth cells. Since it has been suggested that Paneth cells have a role as a fixed phagocyte, ingesting protozoa and other microorganisms, the results presented here suggest that this function may have been impaired in irradiated animals.
Evaluation of room cleaning procedures in a laboratory animal facility
Authors: Shields Robert P. , Schramm Barbara , Braune Norman E.
Published: June 2007

Summary

Animal room cleaning procedures were developed that could be used routinely and economically in this animal facility. Bacterial samples from the floors of rooms housing rabbits, rats and mice provided a useful way to evaluate the effectiveness of the cleaning procedures, and to determine the in-use effectiveness of disinfectant solutions.
Bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) in the laboratory-bred and wild rat, Rattus norvegieus
Authors: Gregson R. L. , Davey M. Jean , Prentice D. E.
Published: June 2007

Summary

In juvenile wild rats, bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) development was similar to that seen in adult specified-pathogen-free rats. In adult wild rats the BALT was widespread. In one animal infected with a mycoplasma-like organism, a region of bronchoepithelium overlying a large BALT nodule was seen, through which lymphocytes appeared able to pass to make direct contact with the bronchial lumen: the significance of this observation is discussed. There was no evidence of infection in lungs from any of the specified-pathogen-free animals, where small foci of BALT were seen.
Diagnosis of Encephalitozoonosis: A Simple Method for Collection of Rabbit Blood
Authors: Waller T. , Lyngset Annelise , Morein B.
Published: June 2007

Summary

The blood was collected on filter paper, dried, put into an envelope and posted to the laboratory. One drop of blood extracted with 1 ml PBS was satisfactory for detecting natural cases of encephalitozoonosis by the india-ink immunoreaction.
Sensitivity of Encephalitozoon Cuniculi to Various Temperatures, Disinfectants and Drugs
Authors: Waller T.
Published: June 2007

Summary

Spores of Encephalitozoon cuniculi were exposed to various temperatures or to disinfectants, and their infectivity was then tested on monolayer cultures of canine kidney cells. The maximum survival time for spores suspended in medium 199 was 1 day at –20°C, 98 days at 4°C, 6 days at 22°C, and 2 days at 37°C. Only 2·5% survived 30 min at 56°C. Boiling for 5 min or autoclaving at 120°C for 10 min killed all spores. Dry spores survived less than a week at 4°C but at least 4 weeks at 22°C.

Exposure for 30 min to recommended working concentrations of 9 of the 11 disinfectants tested killed all spores.

The growth-inhibition effect of 7 antibiotics and chemotherapeutics was studied on canine kidney cell culture inoculated with E. cuniculi. None could completely inhibit growth. The most effective was chloroquine phosphate which, at a concentration of 12·5 mg per 1000 ml culture medium and during a test period of 8 weeks, reduced the harvest of E. cuniculi to 31% of that from inoculated, untreated cultures.
Exteroceptive Factors, Sexual Maturation and Reproduction in the Female Rat
Authors: Norris M. L. , Adams C. E.
Published: June 2007

Summary

Keeping a sexually mature male with a weanling female rat advanced neither the time of vaginal opening nor that of 1st oestrus. In 2 of 3 experiments females kept singly after weaning reached sexual maturity significantly earlier than did grouped females. The reproductive performance of females mated at 1st oestrus was not significantly different from that of older primiparae. 26 rats gave birth to an average of 9·3 young at 59·5 days of age, and 22 of them reared 96% of the young to weaning.
Ectopic Adrenal Tissue in the Kidney of Rhesus Monkeys (Macaco, Mulatta)
Authors: Prentice D. E. , Jorgeson W.
Published: June 2007

Summary

The histological appearances of 5 cases are described. The origin, incidence and significance of ectopic adrenals are discussed.
Simple Focus Assay for Encephalitozoon Cuniculi
Authors: Pye D. , Cox J. C.
Published: June 2007

Summary

In this in vitro infectivity assay for Encephalitozoon cuniculi, lesions due to the organism appeared as macroscopically distinct foci. The number of such foci was used as a direct measure of the number of infectious units in the original sample. The expected correlation between focus-forming units and 50% infectious doses was observed in limit dilution experiments.
Postnatal Development of Bronchus-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (Balt) in the Rat, Rattus Norvegicus
Authors: Gregson R. L. , Davey M. Jean , Prentice D. E.
Published: June 2007

Summary

The pattern of development of bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) in specified-pathogen free and conventional (non-barrier maintained) rats over the initial 4 weeks of life appeared to be similar. BALT first appeared around the 2nd week of life and increased in amount over the following 2 weeks. Overlying large nodules of BALT the bronchial epithelium becomes infiltrated by lymphocytes to form a lymphoepithelium. This transformation occurs earlier in conventional rats, possibly because of the differing antigen levels to which they are exposed.
The Influence of Bacillus Piliformis (Tyzzer) Infections on the Reliability of Pharmacokinetic Experiments in Mice
Authors: Fries A. Schaich , Ladefoged O.
Published: June 2007

Summary

The half-lives of warfarin and trimethoprim were significantly longer in mice acutely infected with Bacillus piliformis and in mice which had clinically recovered from previous experimental infection with the organism. The volume of distribution of trimethoprim but not of warfarin was significantly greater in infected mice than in controls. Body clearance of warfarin was significantly reduced in both disease states. For trimethoprim this parameter was only reduced in the acute state of the disease.

The importance of careful control of Tyzzer's disease in laboratory animals for use in pharmacological research is stressed.
Epidemiological investigation of an animal house based upon phage-typing and biotyping of Staphylococcus epidermidis
Authors: Wierup Martin , Nord Carl Erik , SjÖberg Lennart
Published: June 2007

Summary

The value of biotyping and phage-typing coagulase-negative staphylococci in the epidemiological investigation of a laboratory animal house was clearly demonstrated. In the animal rooms in which conventional bacteriological methods revealed equal bacterial contamination between a conventional unit and one housing specified-pathogen-free rodents, biotyping identified Staphylococcus cohnii as the only species in the latter, compared to S. warneri, S. hominis, S. saprophytics, S. xylosus abd S. epidermidis as well as S. cohnii in the conventional unit. Similarly, phage-typing revealed 2 phage types in the specified-pathogen-free compared to 7 in the conventional unit. Thus biotyping and phage-typing provided evidence for the existence of a barrier between these units that had presented similar gross bacteriological findings.
Haemolysis of various mammalian erythrocytes in sodium chloride, glucose and phosphate-buffer solutions
Authors: Matsuzawa Toshiaki , Ikarashi Yasushi
Published: June 2007

Mouse, rat, rabbit, hamster, cow, pig, sheep, guineapig, dog and human erythrocytes were studied. A 0·9% or stronger solution of sodium chloride completely prevented haemolysis; sheep and pig erythrocytes appeared the more fragile, while human and dog erythrocytes were not haemolized in concentrations of 0·4% or more. Haemolysis of human, rabbit, cow, hamster, guineapig, pig and sheep erythocytes was not observed in solutions of 0·4% or more of glucose. Except for sheep, human and dog erythrocytes, haemolysis was depressed in rate but not completely prevented by phosphate-buffer solution of pH 7·0.
Humoral immune response to natural infection with Encephalitozoon cuniculi in rabbits
Authors: Bywater J. E. C. , Kellett B. S.
Published: June 2007

Sera from 4 generations of a family of rabbits having a natural Encephalitozoon cuniculi infection were investigated. Antibodies were demonstrated in a litter of newborn rabbits and in another litter 11 days old. Histological examination of the brains and kidneys of these animals failed to reveal lesions attributable to the disease.

Sera from a further litter of 2 rabbits, taken at weekly intervals from 4 to 42 weeks of age, revealed a low initial antibody titre which regressed to an undetectable level. After an interval, titres rose and then plateaued to the end of the period of observation.

Encephalitozoon cuniculi infections in the dams of all the litters were confirmed by antibody assay and by histology.

Parallel titration of samples treated and not treated with 2-mercaptoethanol showed that the india-ink immunoreaction demonstrates only immunoglobulin G.
Short-term effects of aflatoxin B1 on serum lipids in subhuman primates
Authors: Bassir O. , Alozie T. C.
Published: June 2007

Summary

Aflatoxin B1 significantly depressed serum lipid levels in specimens of Cercopithecus aethiops, Cercopithecus mona, Erythrocebus patas and Papio enubis. Serum cholesterol, total phospholipids and total lipids were not affected to the same extent.
An isolator for avian disease research
Authors: Timms J. R. , Cooper Doreen M. , Millard B. J. , Powell P. C.
Published: June 2007

Summary

An isolator is described, fabricated in glass-reinforced plastic, suitable for housing 25–30 chicks to 6 weeks of age, or for fewer older birds, for use in experiments involving infectious agents.
Financial control of laboratory animal facilities: Partial Cost Recovery in an Academic Institution
Authors: Eaton Peter
Published: June 2007

Summary

The objective of cost management in the animal house is to make efficient use of resources and to regulate the activity of the user. Regular charging of users keeps them aware of their responsibility both ethically and financially. Forward budgetary control is encouraged and regulation of the work load achieved through planned requirements helps to reduce animal wastage.
The ferret, Mustela putorius furo, as a new species in toxicology
Authors: Thornton P. C. , Wright Pauline A. , Sacra P. J. , Goodier T. E. W.
Published: June 2007

Summary

Comprehensive studies on the haematology, urine chemistry, serum chemistry and gross pathology have been carried out and reported. Seasonal weight changes were confirmed and were initiated, together with sexual activity, when ferrets were brought in to a constant temperature (18–19°C) and 14–hour daylight cycle during the winter months. Levels of haemoglobin, erythrocytes and haematocrit were higher than in most common laboratory species. Similarly, serum electrolytes and glucose levels were higher than in Wistar rats or beagle dogs. Ovaries, uteri and testes displayed a seasonal maturation and atrophy. All other parameters were similar to common laboratory species.
Chronic non-infective conjunctivitis in rabbits
Authors: Buckley Peter , Lowman Doreen M. R.
Published: June 2007

Summary

A high proportion (36%) of rabbits in a long-term experiment developed a severe chronic purulent conjunctivitis. Bacteriological examination failed to reveal an organism common to all cases, and the condition was only partially controlled by a neomycin and hydrocortisone eye ointment Cutting down the possibility of hay dust entering the rabbits' eyes led to marked improvement: the conjunctivitis was virtually eliminated when hay was given in a specially-designed solid-sided hopper which prevented the release of dust during feeding and which, being detachable, could be refilled away from the rabbit rooms to minimize general atmospheric dust.
Ultrastructure of normal monkey liver
Authors: Kennedy Sandra J.
Published: June 2007

Summary

The normal ultrastructure of the liver of rhesus and cynomolgus monkeys is described. A classification of type A and B periportal hepatocytes is introduced together with a discussion of the high incidence of mitochondrial abnormalities. It is suggested that the rhesus monkey is more suitable as an experimental model than the cynomolgus since its liver ultra-structure is less variable.
Mating post partum, concurrent lactation and reproduction in the laboratory rat
Authors: Norris M. L. , Adams C. E.
Published: June 2007

Summary

32 of 35 sexually mature CFHB rats paired with proven males and thereafter allowed to mate post partum and nurse young concurrent with pregnancy, produced a total of 227 litters. The proportion of females producing litters decreased both with increasing age and parity, and with the number of young nursed. Litter size declined both as age and parity increased, and when gestation was extremely prolonged. The incidence and extent of delayed implantation (gestations >25 days) were affected by the number of young nursed but not by increasing age and parity. There was no evidence for the existence of implantation periods coinciding with multiples of oestrous cycles.
Closed glass cage for metabolism studies in birds using labelled compounds
Authors: Frank A. , Lindgren N. O. , Petersson L.
Published: June 2007

Summary

The cage is a modification of one produced commercially for rats.
Eradication of the pinworm Syphacia obvelata from an animal unit by anthelmintic therapy
Authors: Owen Dawn , Turton Jon A.
Published: June 2007

Summary

Thiabendazole incorporated in the diet at a rate of 0·1%, fed to all animals over a period of 3 months, successfully eliminated the parasite from the colony. Samples taken 12 months after treatment were still negative for the parasite. During the period between the discovery of the organism and the preparation of the diet a course of piperazine citrate was administered at a rate of 2 g/litre in the drinking water in order to limit the spread of the infection.
Bacterial growth in ampholytic disinfectant solutions
Authors: Kellett B. S.
Published: June 2007

Summary

Large numbers of live bacteria were isolated from solutions of 2 ampholytic disinfectants supplied from a built-in predosing system. They were resistant to and proliferated in these disinfectants. Bacteria were eradicated by employing a 3rd type of ampholytic disinfectant in the system.
Normal values for some whole blood and serum components of grivet monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops)
Authors: Hambleton P. , Harris-Smith Patricia W. , Baskerville A. , Bailey N. E. , Pavey K. J.
Published: June 2007

Summary

Normal values for a number of blood components of grivet monkeys are reported. Haematological data and values for glucose, cholesterol and urea are similar to those of rhesus monkeys. Activities of alkaline phosphatase (1526 U/l), glutamine oxaloacetate trans-aminase (30·9 U/l), glutamine pyruvate transaminase (13·7 U/l), lactate dehydrogenase (629 U/l), α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (175 U/l), creatine phosphokinase (227 U/l), γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (38·7 U/l) and sorbitol dehydrogenase (14·2 U/l), and levels of lysozyme (178 mg/dl), zinc (162 μg/dl), copper (81·3 μg/dl) and iron (296·5 μg/dl) have not previously been reported for this animal. Values for serum amino acids, proteins, electrolytes, triglycerides and creatinine are compared with those of other primates.
Infiltrating pituitary neoplasms in the rat
Authors: Magnusson G. , Majeed S. K. , Gopinath C.
Published: June 2007

Summary

11 cases of spontaneous pituitary neoplasms in rats, which showed infiltration into brain tissue, are reported. This represents an incidence of about 0·42%.
Bacterial contamination in feed ingredients, formulated chicken feed and reduction of viable bacteria by pelleting
Authors: Furuta Kenji , Morimoto Shigeichi , Sato Shlzuo
Published: June 2007

The number of bacteria in steam-pelleted or crumbled chicken food was compared with the number in individual ingredients and in mash. A few bacteria were detected in white-fish meal processed Alaska pollack. Highest yields were from alfalfa meal.

Colonies numbering 3·5 × 103-4·2 × 105 were obtained by heart-infusion agar culture, and 2·1 × 102-7·0 × 104 with deoxycholate hydrogen sulphide lactose agar, from 1 g mash. After pelleting or crumbling the number of colonies in 1 g was reduced to 0-1·9 × 103 and 0-3·0 × 100 respectively. Bacteria in the lactose medium, mostly coliform, were observed in only 1 of 18 samples.
Sensory development of Felis catus
Authors: Beaver Bonnie V.
Published: June 2007

The sensory development of 22 kittens was observed for 12 weeks. Vision-related responses began as a palpebral reflex at 1·8 days and continued as a light blink response at 5·7 days (mean values). The eyes unsealed between days 6 and 17 and the pupillary reflex was well developed within a few days. Depth perception began at 13·2 days mean. Auditory development progressed rapidly after the opening of the external canals between days 7 and 14. Pain and rooting reflexes were present at birth, while auriculonasocephalic and Galant's reflexes were highly variable.
Producing mice for bioassays
Authors: Ryle Margaret
Published: June 2007

Groups of breeding females were caged together for 3 weeks before putting them (1 or 2 per small box) with males, for 4-5 days. They were then pooled again until shortly before parturition. The majority of pups were born 22 or 23 days after pairing and were reared in foster litters, usually consisting of 27 pups with 3 foster mothers. Non-pregnant females and those not required as foster mothers were pooled once more. All pups were weaned on the same day, 19 or 20 days after birth, when all females were again mated. The average production rate was approximately 4 usable pups per female in the batch every 6 weeks. By maintaining 3 asynchronous batches of females a regular fortnightly supply of experimental animals was maintained with minimum wastage of food and labour.
Metastatic squamous-cell carcinoma in a gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus)
Authors: Raflo Charles P. , Diamond Sheldon S.
Published: June 2007

A 3 year old pet male gerbil developed a squamous-cell carcinoma in close proximity to the caudal border of the sebaceous ventral marking gland. The neoplasm invaded locally and metastasized to the lung and right axillary lymph node.
Successful anaesthesia and small-bowel anastomosis in the guineapig
Authors: Bett N. J. , Hynd J. W. , Green C. J.
Published: June 2007

Using methoxyflurane and paying critical attention to maintenance of body temperature, tracheal aspiration and fluid replacement, guineapigs were rendered suitable for intraperitoneal operations lasting up to 3 h. Anaesthetic mortality was less than 2%. A technique of small-bowel anastomosis was developed using interrupted soluble sutures meticulously placed 1 mm apart and taking bites 1 mm deep. Survival was 95%.
Nephrocalcinosis in 2 young rats: a case report
Authors: Silverman Jerald , Rivenson Abraham
Published: June 2007

Nephrocalcinosis was diagnosed as an incidental histopathological finding in 2 Sprague-Dawley rats of 150 g bodyweight, The calcified material was located along the entire corticomedullary junction. Dietary and other causes of nephrocalcinosis are discussed.
A closed marine culture system for rearing Octopus joubini and other large-egged benthic octopods
Authors: Forsythe J. W. , Hanlon R. T.
Published: June 2007

The system consists of 2 adjoining 150 litre aquaria, one functioning as the water-conditioning tank and the other as the principal rearing tank. Water quality remained high with biological and mechanical filtration, physical adsorption and ultraviolet-light disinfection taking place exclusively in the conditioning tank. The pH ranged from 7·58 to 8·00 and ammonia and nitrite levels never exceeded 0·004 mg/l and 0·198 mg/l, respectively. Nitrate levels were maintained at 40 mg/l or less with no adverse affects. Adult octopuses readily mated and females produced 50-150 eggs, with 95% hatching success. When fed small live crabs, the octopus hatchlings were reared to sexual maturity either in groups or individually in about 120-150 days. Growth rates (4% bodyweight/day) and food conversion efficiences (30-40%) were as high as those obtained in open systems by previous workers.
Performance of 3 successive generations of specified-pathogen-free chickens maintained as a closed flock
Authors: Furuta Kenji , Ohashi Hitoshi , Obana Jitsuo , Sato Shizuo
Published: June 2007

No antibodies against Salmonella pullorum, Mycoplasma gallisepticum, Mycoplasma synoviae, Haemophilus gallinarum, fowl pox virus, Marek's disease virus, herpes virus of turkey, infectious laryngotracheitis virus, avian adenovirus, avian reovirus, infectious bursal disease virus, reticuloendotheliosis virus, avian leukosis virus, avian encephalomyelitis virus and Newcastle disease virus were detectable in the sera obtained from these chickens in 3 generations at various ages. Antibodies against infectious bronchitis virus were detected in the sera of the 3rd generations at 66, 74 and 108 weeks of age.

The performance of these chickens was nearly the same as that of conventional healthy chickens in the poultry industry, with no tendency to decline.
An eye infection in laboratory lizards associated with an Aeromonas sp.
Authors: Cooper J. E. , McClelland M. H. , Needham J. R.
Published: June 2007

Laboratory-maintained lizards (Family Lacertidae) kept for studies on thermal biology developed a superficial eye infection associated with Aeromonas liquefaciens. The origin of the infection could not be traced and attempts at therapy were generally unrewarding.
Proteinuria in rats in relation to age-dependent renal changes
Authors: Alt Jeannette M. , Hackbarth H. , Deerberg F. , Stolte H.
Published: June 2007

A variety of sex-dependent urinary proteins of low molecular weight, absent in females and in castrated males, can be identified in male rats by disc electrophoresis. In the urine of male rats of age 5·5 months, albumin comprises only 1-2% of the total protein. Albumin excretion increases greatly with age and associated kidney disease. Total protein excretion, however, stays the same or even decreases slightly as the rat ages, due to a loss of low molecular weight, sex-dependent, proteins. These are virtually absent in senescent rats (38 months of age), although total protein excretion rises tenfold in these animals due to high molecular weight plasma proteins passing into the urine; the glomerular filtration rate decreases to 70% of the value measured at 5·5 months of age.
A new system for monitoring respiratory patterns of small laboratory animals
Authors: Beven J. L.
Published: June 2007

By remotely detecting the changes in light intensity caused by respiratory movements of animals held under restraint, the technique is noninvasive and therefore allows changes in respiratory behaviour caused by treatments to be interpreted more easily.
A survey of Encephalitozoon cuniculi in laboratory animal colonies in the United Kingdom
Authors: Gannon J.
Published: June 2007

Of 38 animal colonies serologically examined for Encephalitozoon cuniculi, 1 mouse, 2 rat and 4 guineapig colonies were positive. A further survey showed that the prevalence within mouse, rat, guineapig and rabbit colonies varied between 25 and 95%. Guineapigs housed with infected rabbits are at a greater risk of being infected than those housed separately. Nephritis was a common feature, but cerebral granulomata were not seen.
An automated temperature recording apparatus for the determination of pyrogens in intravenous solutions
Authors: Joubert C. J.
Published: June 2007

This paper describes the development of a computerized system of temperature recording for the determination of pyrogenic substances in intravenous fluids, using the rabbit as test animal.
Akodon molinae (Rodentia Cricetidae), a new laboratory animal: breeding, management and reproductive performance
Authors: Merani Maria Susana , Lizarralde Marta Susana
Published: June 2007

Akodon molinae, a vole mouse widely distributed in central Argentina, shows remarkable chromosome polymorphisms. It is one of the natural reservoirs of the actiologic agent of haemorrhagic fever, and a laboratory colony could be of great help in investigating this disease. Pregnancy lasted 23 (range 21-25) days. Litters of 4-5 young were born to monogamous breeding pairs about every 30 days, with weaning at 26 days post partum. The sex ratio at birth was 505 males to 500 females: at weaning it was 460 to 440. Sexual maturity was attained at about 16 weeks of age in males and 12-20 weeks in females.

Akodon molinae is easy to handle, but fighting and killing or neglect of young are problems.
Spontaneous papnlary cystadenocarcinoma of the ovary in Dunkin-Hartley guineapigs
Authors: Hong Chou C.
Published: June 2007

Spontaneous papillary cystadenocarcinoma of the ovary was found in 2 Dunkin-Hartley guineapigs of 18 months of age. This is the first report of this tumour in the guineapig.
Genetic drift in a stock of laboratory mice
Authors: Papaioannou Virginia E. , Festing M. F. W.
Published: June 2007

Genetic drift in an outbred stock of CFLP mice was monitored for 6 years using genetic polymorphism for glucose phosphate isomerase (GPI) and the shape of the mandible as genetic markers. Statistically significant drift was found in both characters. The cause of this drift was not determined, though it could have arisen as a result of genetic sampling during hysterectomy derivation. The use of inbred strains is recommended on theoretical grounds if long-term genetic constancy is needed.