The fleece and the phage: a yarn from down under

Article Abstract:

The bacterium Dermatophilus congolensis is responsible for a condition in Australian sheep known as lumpy wool. The bacterium invades the sheep's skin follicles, causing inflammation as it multiplies. The pus released by the inflamed skin mats the wool, and further skin follicles are infected when the wool becomes wet. At present, there is no really effective method of combatting the condition. However, Australian scientists have discovered a new type of phage which is very specific, attacking only Dermatophilus congolensis. Dealing with the problem in a biological way would be an ideal solution.

Diseases, Sheep

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How a flashing fish could save your life

Article Abstract:

The universities of Nottingham and Brighton, England, have conducted research into usage of luminescent microbes such as Photobacterium phosphoreum for sensing bacteria in food and water. The microbe is used in a sensing device to monitor pollutants. Lux genes are transferred into bacteria which are usually dark but can be exploited to measure substances. Lux genes can also be placed in bacteriophages to reveal food-poisoning bacteria and for other applications.

Research, Analysis, Pollution, Bioluminescence, Bacteria, Luminous, Luminous bacteria

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Warfare waged by a gadfly

Article Abstract:

Human anthrax disease has recurred in Bosnia-Herzegovina where normal veterinary services have been disrupted by war. A gadfly was contaminated by the carcass of a cow and bit a woman, who contracted cutaneous anthrax from the Bacillus anthracis microbe. This is penicillin-resistant but responds to tetracycline. This microbe was declared a suitable agent of biological warfare in 1942.

Health aspects, Physiological aspects, Military aspects, Bacteria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Anthrax, Cutaneous manifestations of general diseases, Skin manifestations, Veterinary medicine, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bacillus anthracis

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