Rabbits In Control Group Research Articles

Increased HDL Size and Enhanced Apo A‐I Catabolic Rates Are Associated With Doxorubicin‐Induced Proteinuria in New Zealand White Rabbits

The catabolism and structure of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) may be the determining factor of their atheroprotective properties. To better understand the role of the kidney in HDL catabolism, here we characterized HDL subclasses and the catabolic rates of apo A-I in a rabbit model of proteinuria. Proteinuria was induced by intravenous administration of doxorubicin in New Zealand white rabbits (n = 10). HDL size and HDL subclass lipids were assessed by electrophoresis of the isolated lipoproteins. The catabolic rate of HDL-apo A-I was evaluated by exogenous radiolabelling with iodine-131. Doxorubicin induced significant proteinuria after 4 weeks (4.47 ± 0.55 vs. 0.30 ± 0.02 g/L of protein in urine, P < 0.001) associated with increased uremia, creatininemia, and cardiotoxicity. Large HDL2b augmented significantly during proteinuria, whereas small HDL3b and HDL3c decreased compared to basal conditions. HDL2b, HDL2a, and HDL3a subclasses were enriched with triacylglycerols in proteinuric animals as determined by the triacylglycerol-to-phospholipid ratio; the cholesterol content in HDL subclasses remained unchanged. The fractional catabolic rate (FCR) of [(131)I]-apo A-I in the proteinuric rabbits was faster (FCR = 0.036 h(-1)) compared to control rabbits group (FCR = 0.026 h(-1), P < 0.05). Apo E increased and apo A-I decreased in HDL, whereas PON-1 activity increased in proteinuric rabbits. Proteinuria was associated with an increased number of large HDL2b particles and a decreased number of small HDL3b and 3c. Proteinuria was also connected to an alteration in HDL subclass lipids, apolipoprotein content of HDL, high paraoxonase-1 activity, and a rise in the fractional catabolic rate of the [(131)I]-apo A-I.

Traditional Chinese Medicine: Salvia miltiorrhiza Enhances Survival Rate of Autologous Adipose Tissue Transplantation in Rabbit Model.

This study aimed to explore the influence of traditional Chinese medicines: Salvia miltiorrhiza on the survival of auto-transplantation of adipose tissue in a rabbit model. Minced adipose tissue harvested from the scapular region was transplanted into the dorsum of the ears of New Zealand rabbits. The experimental groups were intra-peritoneally injected with S. miltiorrhiza for a total 4 weeks. The rabbits in control group were intra-peritoneally injected with normal saline. Plasma VEGF levels were assayed at week 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 after fat tissue auto-transplantation in the dorsum of rabbit ears. Graft samples were collected and measured at week 2, 4, and 12. Survival rates were calculated, and histologic morphology was evaluated. The expression of CD31 was detected by means of immune-histochemical staining to observe neo-vascularization of the auto-transplanted fat tissue. Perilipin was detected by means of immune-histochemical staining to observe the survival of fat cells. At 12 weeks, the survival rates in the experimental group were statistically greater than that in the control group, respectively (p < 0.05). Plasma levels of VEGF in the experimental group at different time points were significantly higher than that in the control group (p < 0.05). Histologically, grafts in the experimental group showed better survival of adipocytes and neo-vascularization. By perilipin immuno-histochemical staining, the experimental group demonstrated better adipocyte survival. In the rabbit model, S. miltiorrhiza can promote the neo-vascularization of adipose tissue grafts and significantly improves the survival rate of auto-transplanted adipose tissue. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

The structure and chemical composition of the femur after different metal alloys implantation.

Background. Osteointegration is a key factor for successful implant ingrowth. It depends on quality of bone, lack of initial stability, excessive loading, loosening or fracture of screw, and fracture of implant itself. Other factors that can affect osteointegration are implant composition and features of implant surface. Objective. The aim was to study the structure and chemical composition of an injured bone by scanning electron microscopy at different times after the implantation of metal alloys. Methods. Experiment was conducted on 90 rabbits, that were divided into 6 groups – 1 control and 5 experimental. We made round defect of femur in rabbits of control group and fill it by different alloys in experimental ones. Results. It was estimated that the implantation of TiVT6 and KTC-125 alloys in distal epiphysis leads to the formation of connective tissue around prosthesis and activation of bone remodeling. β- (Ti-Zr) alloy leads to early regression of the connective tissue around the implant and development of minimal changes in the structure and chemical composition of the bone during all periods of observation. Use of hydroxyapatite to coat metallic implants prevents connective capsule formation and stimulates bone growth around prosthesis that ensures its optimum fixation. Conclusion. Optimization of osteointegration leads to reduction of calcium loss. Hydroxyapatite coating of β- (Ti-Zr) alloy ensures the absence of stress-shielding displacement effect and development of bone micro-cracks.

ВПЛИВ ІМУНОМОДУЛЯТОРІВ ПРИРОДНОГО ПОХОДЖЕННЯ НА КОНЦЕНТРАЦІЮ ПРОТЕЇНОВИХ ФРАКЦІЙ ТА РІВЕНЬ КОРТИЗОЛУ У ПЛАЗМІ КРОВІ КРОЛИКІВ ЗА УМОВ СТРЕСУ

&lt;p&gt;The results of determination of protein fractions, cortisol content in blood of rabbits, which further added to the feed of natural origin biologically active substances are presented in the article. As an antistressors and immunomodulators in pre-slaughter period are using of spleen extract biologically active substances were obtained with ultrasound application. The purpose of research — determination of changes of protein fractions, cortisol content in rabbits blood before slaughter and their correction of natural origin biologically active substances (spleen extract).&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Object and research methods. The experiment was conducted on 15 rabbits with standard diet. Three groups of rabbits five month of age (5 rabbits each) was formed for research. The spleen extract were using as an biologically active substances to the feed rabbits in pre-slaughter period (five days before slaughter). The extracts were applied to feed by aerosol method (70 °alcohol solution of spleen extract volume of 1.4 ml per rabbit) (group I). The rabbits (group II) received to the feed in the same way of 70 °alcohol solution in the same volume. The control group rabbits received the standard feed in the same volume. The feed eating by rabbits was exercised daily. The rabbits ate food completely. The rabbits slaughter was carried out in the morning. The blood plasma protein fractions separation was carried out by horizontal electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel (PAAG).&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="Default"&gt;Mathematical treatment of the research results worked statistically using the software package Statistica 6.0 and Microsoft Excel for Windows XP. Probability differences was assessed by Student t-test and results considered likely at P ≤ 0.05.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Results and discussion. We measured the ratio of blood plasma protein fractions of rabbits, which in addition to the feed fed of natural origin biologically active substances. As a result of research was found that aerosol introduction of the spleen extract to the rabbits feed increases the Prealbumin concentration in rabbits blood plasma of two experimental groups twice (P ≤ 0.05) and 2.8 times (P ≤ 0.01) compared to the control.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Cortisol level in rabbits (which further added to the feed of spleen extract (I research group) blood plasma was reliable lower by 40 % (Р&amp;lt;0.05) compared to control, that may to indicate decreasing of stress before slaughter. On the rabbits feeding final stage is necessary to consider a pre-slaughter stress and to apply of natural origin biologically active substances. The results which obtained can to use in researches of stress hormones, such as cortisol, on farm animals for organism resistance increasing, correction and avoid their pre-slaughter stress and improve product quality.&lt;/p&gt;

MR susceptibility-weighted imaging in staging hepatic fibrosis of rabbits

Objective To assess the value of susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) in staging hepatic fibrosis (HF) in rabbits. Methods Sixty healthy rabbits were randomly divided into HF group (n=44), control group (n=16). Rabbits in the HF group and supplementary group were injected subcutaneously with 50% CCl4 oily solution to establish hepatic fibrosis model. On the basis of preliminary test, 8 rabbits in the HF group and 4 rabbits in the control group were selected randomly at the 4th, 5th, 6th, 10th week after CCL4 injection ,respectively , to undergo liver MR scan, including conventional axial T1WI, T2WI and axial SWI, DWI scan. All rabbits were sacrificed after MR scan and the tissue of liver were sampled for pathological test and hepatic fibrosis staging. Rabbits were classified into group F0, F1-2 and F3-4 based on pathological results. Liver signal intensity (SI), and liver-to-muscle SI ratio were measured on SWI images and ADC values were measured on DWI images correspondently. One-way ANOVA analysis was performed to compare difference in liver SI, liver-to-muscle SI ratio and ADC values among group F0 (no fibrosis), F1-2 (mild-moderate fibrosis) and F3-4 (severe fibrosis) . Spearman correlation analysis was performed to correlate pathological staging and liver SI, liver-to-muscle SI ratio and ADC values. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to compare the diagnostic performance of SWI and DWI for staging HF. Results Two and 5 rabbits in the HF group died at the 5th and the 6th week after CCL4 injection , respectively due to acute hepatic necrosis, hepatorrhexis and systemic failure. Seven rabbits in supplementary group were used as supplement. Of the 16 rabbits in the control group, 1 was excluded from the study due to liver fibrosis. Fifteen rabbits in group F0, sixteen rabbits in group F1-2 and sixteen rabbits in group F3-4 underwent MRI and were included into this study. Liver-to-muscle SI ratio in group F0, F1-2 and F3-4 were 0.973±0.020, 0.880±0.090 and 0.649±0.140, respectively. Liver SI were 378±45, 374±19 and 317±34. ADC values were (1.473±0.320) ×10-3, (1.311±0.310) ×10-3 and (0.942±0.180) ×10-3mm2/s. There were statistically significant differences in liver SI, liver-to-muscle SI ratio and ADC values among group F0, F1-2 and F3-4 (F=46.571,15.803 and 15.317,P< 0.01). Liver-to-muscle SI ratio was highly negatively correlated with HF staging (r=-0.818,P<0.01), while liver SI and ADC values were moderately correlated with HF staging (r=-0.565, -0.630;P<0.01). Area under ROC curve (AUC) of liver-to-muscle SI ratio, liver SI and ADC value for differentiating hepatic fibrosis stage F0 and stage F1-4 were 0.916, 0.695 and 0.768, while the AUC for differentiating hepatic fibrosis stage F0-2 and stage F3-4 were 0.951, 0.904 and 0.900. Conclusion Liver-to-muscle SI ratio on SWI provide added diagnostic value and could be an useful parameter for staging hepatic fibrosis. Key words: Liver fibrosis; Liver cirrhosis; Magnetic resonance imaging

Ultraviolet-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy techniques are important diagnostic tools during the progression of atherosclerosis: Diet zinc supplementation retarded or delayed atherosclerosis

Background. In this study, we examined whether UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy techniques detect the progression of atherosclerosis in serum of rabbits fed on high-cholesterol diet (HCD) and HCD supplemented with zinc (HCD + Zn) compared with the control.Methods. The control rabbits group was fed on 100 g/day of normal diet.The HCD group was fed on Purina Certified Rabbit Chow supplemented with 1.0% cholesterol plus 1.0% olive oil (100 g/day) for the same period. The HCD + Zn group was fed on normal Purina Certified Rabbit Chow plus 1.0% cholesterol and 1 .0% olive oil supplemented with 470 ppm Zn for the same feeding period. UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy and biochemistry in Rabbit’s blood serum and blood hematology were measured in Rabbit’s blood.Results. We found that the fluorescent peak of HCD shifted toward UV-visible wavelength compared with the control using fluorescent excitation of serum at 192 nm. In addition, they showed that supplementation of zinc (350 ppm) restored the fluorescent peak closely to the control. By using UV-visible spectroscopy approach, we found that the peak absorbance of HCD (about 280 nm) was higher than that of control and that zinc supplementation seemed to decrease the absorbance. Conclusions. This study demonstrates that ultraviolet-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy techniques can be applied as noninvasive techniques on a sample blood serum for diagnosing or detecting the progression of atherosclerosis. The Zn supplementation to rabbits fed on HCD delays or retards the progression of atherosclerosis. Inducing anemia in rabbits fed on HCD delays the progression of atherosclerosis.

A clinically relevant BTX-A injection protocol leads to persistent weakness, contractile material loss, and an altered mRNA expression phenotype in rabbit quadriceps muscles

Botulinum toxin type-A (BTX-A) injections have become a common treatment modality for patients suffering from muscle spasticity. Despite its benefits, BTX-A treatments have been associated with adverse effects on target muscles. Currently, application of BTX-A is largely based on clinical experience, and research quantifying muscle structure following BTX-A treatment has not been performed systematically. The purpose of this study was to evaluate strength, muscle mass, and contractile material six months following a single or repeated (2 and 3) BTX-A injections into the quadriceps femoris of New Zealand white rabbits. Twenty three skeletally mature rabbits were divided into four groups: experimental group rabbits received 1, 2, or 3 injections at intervals of 3 months (1-BTX-A, 2-BTX-A, 3-BTX-A, respectively) while control group rabbits received volume-matched saline injections. Knee extensor strength, quadriceps muscle mass, and quadriceps contractile material of the experimental group rabbits were expressed as a percentage change relative to the control group rabbits. One-way ANOVA was used to determine group differences in outcome measures (α=0.05). Muscle strength and contractile material were significantly reduced in experimental compared to control group rabbits but did not differ between experimental groups. Muscle mass was the same in experimental BTX-A and control group rabbits. We concluded from these results that muscle strength and contractile material do not fully recover within six months of BTX-A treatment.

Effects of timing of enteral nutrition in the severe acute pancreatitis

Objective To explore the effects of timing of enteral nutrition (EN) in the severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) . Methods The rabbit model of SAP was constructed, and 40 experimental rabbits were divided randomly into the experimental group (20 rabbits) and the control group(20 rabbits) . (1) The parenteral nutrition (PN) was administered to rabbits in the experimental group, and then EN was administered after bowel sound restoration. (2) EN was administered to the rabbits in the control group at hour 12 after PN. The values of TNF-α , IL-6 and IL-8 on post-modeling day 1, 3 and 7 and intra-abdominal pressures at hour 1 before EN and on post-modeling day 1 and 3 were respectively examined. The experimental animals were sacrificed on post-modeling day 7 and 10. The expression of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) was detected by immunohistochemistry and bacteria from mesenteric lymph nodes were cultured. The measurement data with normal distribution were presented as ±s. The trend comparison between groups and pairwise comparison were analyzed using the repeated measures ANOVA andt test. Results The 40 rabbit models of SAP were constructed successfully. (1) The results of serum test showed that the values of TNF-α , IL-6 and IL-8 in the experimental group on post-modeling day 1, 3 and 7 were (6. 9 ±2.1) ng/ L, (5.9 ± 1.8) ng/ L, (5.3 ± 1.8) ng/ L and (109 ± 17) ng/ L, (96 ± 16) ng/ L, (83 ±17) ng/ L and (89 ±20) ng/ L, (78 ±21) ng/ L, (70 ±19) ng/ L, respectively. The values of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-8 in the control group on post-modeling day 1, 3 and 7 were (7. 4 ±1.5) ng/ L , (7.1 ±1. 6) ng/ L (6.8 ± 1. 7) ng/ L and (101 ±19) ng/ L , (98 ±18) ng/ L , (93 ±20) ng/ L and (91 ±14) ng/ L , (91 ±16) ng/ L , (83 ± 19) ng/ L, respectively. There were significant differences in the changing trends of TNF-α and IL-6 between the 2 groups (F =7.947, 19.386, P 0.05) . (2) The intra-abdominal pressures in the experimental group at hour 1 before EEN and on post-modeling day 1 and 3 were (3. 5 ±1. 6) cmH2O (1 cmH2O =0.098 kPa) , (4. 3 ±1. 7) cmH2O and (3. 6 ±1. 8) cmH2O, which were significantly different from (4.9 ± 1. 9) cmH2O, (5.7 ± 2. 2 ) cmH2O and (4. 5 ±1. 6) cmH2O in the control group (F =7.042, P <0.05) . (3) The expression of NF-κB in the tissues of pancreas was localized mainly in the cell nucleus. The expression of NF-κB in the experimental group on post-modeling day 7 was 5. 0 ±2.7, which was significantly different from 7.0 ±2.9 in the control group (t =2.236, P <0.05) . (4) The amount of bacteria culture from mesenteric lymph nodes in the experimental group on post-modeling day 7 and 10 were (4.7 ± 0.9) × 103 cfu/ g and (4.1 ± 0.7) × 103 cfu/ g, which were significantly different from (5. 5 ±1. 0) ×103 cfu/ g and (4. 6 ±0. 7) × 103 cfu/ g in the control group (t =2.382, 2.126, P < 0.05) . Conclusion The selective timing of EN can effectively improve the recovery of rabbits with SAP, and the efficacy of EN administering based on the recovery of bowel function may be better than immediate EN administering. Key words: Severe acute pancreatitis; Nutritional support therapy, enteral; Inflammatory factor; Nuclear factor-kappa B

The effect of patulin on femoral bone structure in male rabbits

A lot of kinds of crops are susceptible to fungal attack, leading to considerable financial losses and damage the health of humans and animals. Patulin, a toxic fungal metabolite, can be found mainly in apple and apple products, with much less frequent contamination in other food products. Because of its high incidence and harmful health effects, patulin belongs to a class of mycotoxins, which are strictly monitored. However, its effect on bone structure is still unknown. This study was designed to investigate the impact of patulin on femoral bone structure in adult male rabbits. Four month-old male rabbits were randomly divided into two groups of three animals each. Rabbits from the experimental group (group A, n=3) were intramuscularly administered with patulin at dose 10 μg.kg-1 body weight (b.w.) twice a week for 4 weeks. The second group without patulin administration served as a control (group B, n=3). At the end of the experiment, body weight, femoral weight and length, cortical bone thickness and histological structure of femoral bones from all rabbits were determined. The results did not show any significant differences in body weight, femoral weight and length between experimental and control groups of rabbits. On the other hand, intramuscular application of patulin induced a significant increase in cortical bone thickness (p &lt;0.05) and considerable changes in qualitative histological characteristics of compact bone in adult male rabbits. In patulin-intoxicated males, the primary vascular longitudinal bone tissue was absent near endosteal border. On the other hand, this tissue occurred near periosteum and also in the middle part of the femoral bone in these rabbits. The values for the primary osteons' vascular canals were significantly lower (p &lt;0.05) in males exposed to patulin as compared to the control group. Based on these findings we can conclude that intramuscular patulin administration demonstrably influences cortical bone thickness and histological structure of femoral bone in adult male rabbits.

Effect of hydrogen sulfide on tissue factor-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation in rabbits

To investigate the protective effect of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on tissue factor-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in rabbits and its mechanism. Thirty-two healthy rabbits were randomly divided into four groups: normal control group, NaHS control group, DIC model group, NaHS pretreatment group (each, n = 8). Ten minutes before model reproduction, rabbits in NaHS control and pretreatment groups were given 3.4 mg/kg NaHS (dissolved in normal saline to 5 mL) via ear vein, while rabbits in normal control and DIC model groups were given an equivalent volume of normal saline. Ten minutes later, rabbits in DIC model and NaHS pretreatment groups were intravenously given tissue factor (TF) 2 mL/kg (dissolved in normal saline to 30 mL, at the speed of 1 mL/min for 5 minutes, 2 mL/min for 5 minutes, and 3 mL/min for 5 minutes), and rabbits in normal control and NaHS control groups were given normal saline. 3 mL of blood was collected 10 minutes before TF injection, and 3, 5, 8, 10, 13, 15, 45, 85, 135 minutes after TF injection for determination of prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), thrombin time (TT), fibrinogen content (FIB), fibrin degradation products (FDP), and platelet count (PLT). Microcirculation in the mesentery was also observed under microscope. Compared with normal control group, PT and APTT became shorter at 5 minutes after TF injection, and the rate of their change was increased [PT: -8.3 (-11.7 to -5.3)% vs. 1.3 (-2.5 to 3.8)%, P < 0.01; APTT: -19.1 (-30.4 to -9.4)% vs. -2.6 (-6.2 to 3.0)%, P < 0.05]. PT and APTT were prolonged 15 minutes after TF injection, and their changes were more significant [PT: 31.0 (25.0 to 36.9)% vs. -1.3 (-6.3 to 5.0)%, APTT: 61.3 (50.0 to 72.9)% vs. 0.0 (-10.0 to 10.0)%, both P < 0.01] in DIC model group. TT was gradually reduced after TF injection, FIB and PLT were gradually decreased, and their changes were more obvious at 15 minutes in DIC model group compared with those in normal control group [TT: -9.5 (-12.0 to -6.2)% vs. -2.0 (-4.0 to 0.7)%, FIB: -4.3 (-9.9 to -2.2)% vs. -1.0 (-5.8 to 4.3)%, PLT: -90.0 (-93.4 to -86.5)% vs. -1.0 (-3.9 to 2.6), all P < 0.01]. After TF injection, it appeared latex-like particles in FDP test board, and it was gradually increased within 3-15 minutes, and then it gradually became less marked. The rate of blood flow in mesenteric capillaries was decreased obviously within 10 minutes, and it became faster accompanying with obvious hemorrhage. PT and APTT in NaHS pretreatment group became shortened 5 minutes after TF injection, and their rate of change was significantly decreased compared with that of DIC model group [PT: -6.3 (-8.6 to 0.0)% vs. -8.3 (-11.7 to -5.3)%, APTT: -13.6 (-24.2 to -2.3)% vs. -19.1 (-30.4 to -9.4)%, both P < 0.05], and prolonged at 15 minutes, and their rate of change was significantly decreased compared with that of DIC model group [PT: 10.1 (3.8 to 15.2)% vs. 31.0 (25.0 to 36.9)%, P < 0.01; APTT: 27.8 (-15.8 to 39.7)% vs. 61.3 (50.0 to 72.9)%, P < 0.05]. TT, FIB, and PLT were reduced at 15 minutes in NaHS pretreatment group, and their rate of change was markedly decreased compared with that of DIC model group [TT: -4.5 (-7.8 to -1.3)% vs. -9.5 (-12.0 to -6.2)%, P < 0.01; FIB: -3.3 (-8.0 to 1.9)% vs. -4.3 (-9.9 to -2.2)%, P < 0.05; PLT: -58.8 (-53.0 to 64.0)% vs. -90.0 (-93.4 to -86.5)%, P < 0.01]. The rate of agglutination of latex particles in NaHS pretreatment group was decreased significantly at each time point compared with DIC model group; mesenteric capillary blood flow slowed down gradually within 10 minutes, but it was faster as compared with the DIC model group. It became faster later, but bleeding was obviously less. These results show that H2S protects against TF-induced DIC by inhibiting the activity of coagulation system and platelet aggregation.

The Effect of Clove Leaf Methanol Extract on the Profiles of Superoxide Dismutase and Malondialdehyde in the Liver of Rabbits under Hypercholesterolemia Condition

The study was conducted to observe the effect of clove leaf methanol extract on the profile of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver of rabbits under hypercholesterolemia. Nine male New Zealand rabbits were used for this study. They were divided into three groups i.e (1) negative control group, (2) Positive control group (hypercholesterolemic) was fed with diet containing 1% cholesterol for 50 days, and (3) the group was given clove leaf extract and 1% cholesterol for 50 days. The hypercholesterolemic condition decreased SOD activity and Cu, Zn-SOD level, otherwise the increasing of MDA level occurred on the liver of the rabbits in the positive control group compared to negative control group. On the other hand, the third group showed the increase of SOD activity and Cu, Zn-SOD level with clove leaf methanol extract. The best results were obtained in the rabbits treated with clove methanol extract simultaneously for 50 days.

Early treatment response to sorafenib for rabbit VX2 orthotic liver tumors: evaluation by quantitative contrast-enhanced ultrasound.

The aim of our study was to investigate the application of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and its quantification analysis for the prediction of early treatment response of sorafenib on rabbit VX2 liver tumor model. Rabbits were implanted VX2 tumor mass to establish a liver tumor model. Fourteen days after tumor implantation, rabbits presented with single liver tumor were randomly divided into two groups. Rabbits in treatment group were given by gavage once a day for 14 days with sorafenib suspension at a dose of 30 mg/kg, whereas rabbits in control group were given saline by gavage of the same volume. CEUS was performed before treatment and 3, 7, 14 days after treatment for the analysis of tumor size, enhancement pattern, and necrosis range. The time intensity curve (TIC) was used to obtain quantitative parameters of enhancement patterns. Before sorafenib administration, tumor volumes ranged from 0.24 to 0.75 cm(3) (mean 0.49 ± 0.18 cm(3)) in treatment group and 0.24 to 0.44 cm(3) (mean 0.30 ± 0.12 cm(3)) in control group. The dynamic enhancement patterns of tumors were homogeneous hyper-enhancement (n = 8), heterogeneous hyper-enhancement (n = 4), and peripheral rim-like enhancement (n = 2). All tumors of the treatment group presented with peripheral rim-like enhancement with large necrotic area after sorafenib administration, whereas tumors of the control group showed heterogeneous hyper-enhancement (n = 5) and peripheral rim-like enhancement (n = 2). There was a significant difference in area under the curve (AUC) before and after sorafenib treatment (P = 0.045). CEUS may be of value in the evaluation of early therapeutic response after sorafenib administration.

English

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of zoledronic acid, which is a potent bisphosphonate on oxidative stress markers in rabbit kidney tissue. As an oxidative stress marker, malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, glutathione were studied. Rabbits were given daily 100 μg/kg zoledronic acid for 28 days (n = 7) in the study group. Control group (n = 7) rabbits were fed ad libitum for the same period. Malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels were statistically significantly higher in the zoledronic acid group (p <0.0001). However, glutathione activity was statistically significantly lower (p <0.0001) compared to the control. Rabbit kidney tissues were examined histopathologically. The histopathological changes between the groups were not significantly different. In conclusion, we showed that zoledronic acid may induce oxidative stress by reducing antioxidant levels in rabbit kidney tissues. Further human studies are needed to clarify the adverse effects of zoledronic acid. Key words: Zoledronic acid, oxidative stress, malondialdehyde, glutathione, nitric oxide.

EFFECT OF USING SPIRULINA PLATENSIS AND CHLORELLA VULGARIS AS FEED ADDITIVES ON GROWING RABBIT PERFORMANCE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary inclusion of microalga Spirulina platensis (SP) and Chlorella vulgaris (CV) as feed additives in balanced diets formulated for growing rabbits on digestibility, growth performance, carcass traits, some blood parameters of rabbits. Sixty New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits (five weeks old with an average initial live body weight (626.85 g) were divided into five experimental groups (12 in each) for the feeding trail where rabbits in control group was fed 100% complete feed diet without algae supplements (T1), while both kinds of algae were added at 0.75 or 1.5g/Kg diets as T2 and T3 for spirulina diets and at the same two levels T4 and T5 for chlorella supplement, respectively. Rabbits fed the experimental diets till twelve weeks old and then digestibility trail was carried out using three animals for each group. Slaughtered test for carcass characteristics evaluation was done in addition some blood parameters were determined as well. Results indicated that the final LBW was significantly higher with both levels of SP supplement (T2&T3) than that of control (T1), but the other two levels of CV supplement (T4 &T5) were insignificantly higher than of control, with the highest value being occurred with T3. Similarly , total body weight gain was significantly higher with both levels of SP during the whole experimental period than that of control group , while the value of the two levels of CV were insignificant higher than that of control one . The highest value was associated with T3 followed in descending order by T2, T4, T5 and lastly the lowest value with control (T1). Only feed intake was significant affected by the addition of high level of SP, while the other tested dietary treatments did not significantly influenced, over the whole experimental period , compared with control . Feed conversion was improved significantly due to all algae treatments except that of the high level of CV supplement (T5) which nearly equal to that of control group. Non significant differences among treatments were found in respect of digestion coefficients of DM, OM, CP, CF, EE and NFE nutrients. Concerning the results of slaughter test , slaughter weight for the two levels of SP- diets had significant higher values than those of CV-diets and control one. Similar trend was observed respecting hot carcass weight among experimental treatments. However, both weights and percentages of liver, kidney, heart and total giblet, didn't significant affected by dietary treatments. Also no significant differences among treatments respecting the dressing percentage was found. The lowest significant (P≤0.05) cholesterol value (37.64 mg/dl) was obtained by rabbits fed diet with high level of SP compared with the control (52.74 mg/dl). Rabbit fed diets supplemented with both levels of SP and also the low CV- diet had performed more economically than the other treatments. Conclusively, results indicated that both levels of Spirulina – diets markedly improved growth performance of growing rabbits and in addition reduced liver enzyme activities, cholesterol and total lipids concentration in blood compared with control and the chlorella algae supplement

Expression pattern of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in different organs and effects of lipopolysaccharide on the expression of TLR 2 and 4 in reproductive organs of female rabbit

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are vital for innate immunity, and they were expressed in various immune cells, tissues and organs. Moreover, TLRs specific expression pattern in different cells, tissue and organs have been confirmed to have correlation with the ability to resistance to pathogenic challenges. The present study aimed to determine the expression profiles and levels of TLR2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 10 in the lung, trachea, intestine, stomach, liver, spleen, uterine horn and body, cervix, ovary, oviduct and hypothalamus of female rabbits, and whether the expression level of TLR2 and 4 in the ovary, oviduct, uterine horn and body, and cervix were affected by lipopolyasaccharide (LPS). The tissues of the lung, trachea, intestine, stomach, liver, spleen, uterine horn and body, cervix, ovary, oviduct and hypothalamus were collected from four rabbits which didn’t be treated as 0h. 16 rabbits in LPS group were injected with LPS (according to 0.5mg/kg body weight) and 16 rabbits in control group were injected with saline (LPS carrier), hereafter the tissues of the uterine horn and body, cervix, ovary and oviduct from 32 rabbits were collected after 1.5, 3, 6, and 12h (n=4 each group) postinjection. The expression profiles of TLRs were analyzed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and expression level of TLRs were examined using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The results shown: TLR2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 10 were expressed in lung, trachea, intestine, stomach, liver, spleen, uterine horn and body, cervix, ovary, oviduct and hypothalamus of female rabbits, but their expression level had great difference in the same organs, and each TLR has different expression level in the different organs. After LPS-stimulation, the expression of TLR2 in the uterine body and horn was significantly higher than that in control group by 3h and 12h of postinjection (P<0.05) respectively. The expression of TLR4 in ovary and uterine body was significantly higher than that in control group by 3 and 12h of postinjection (P<0.05), and the expression of TLR4 in uterine body was greater than that in control by 3h postinjection (P<0.05). The results suggested LPS upregulated the expression of TLR2 and 4 in uterine body and horn, and the expression of TLR4 in ovary.

Determination of Immunodominant Antigens of Dicrocoelium Dendriticum by Hyperimmune Sera

Dicrocoeliasis caused by the small liver fluke Dicrocoelium dendriticum (syn. D.lanceolatum), which live in the bile ducts and gall bladder of wild and domesticated mammals, particularly livestock farming. Parasitological methods are not reliable enough for diagnosis of this trematode infection. In the present study, the sera from rabbits immunized with somatic and excretory-secretory antigens of D.dendriticum were assayed with immunoblot technique. Adult worms were collected from infected livers of sheep at a local abattoir. The excretory-secretory product and somatic antigens were prepared through homogenization and incubation of trematodes, respectively. Polyclonal antibodies were raised in rabbits after inoculation of the two antigens with emulsified Freunds adjuvant followed by booster injection. Comparative study between D.dendriticum antigens and those of Fasciola, cysticercus tenuicollis and hydatid cyst fluids antigens was carried out. SDS-PAGE of antigens was performed and for immunoblotting analysis, hyperimmune sera were obtained from immunized rabbits of case and control groups. Immunoblot analysis of rabbits antisera against somatic and excretory-secretory antigens of D.dendriticum were showed six and four protein bands ranging from 25 to more than 170 and 25 to 70 kDa molecular weights, respectively. However cross-reaction with other specific proteins was observed in Fasciola excretory-secretory, hydatid cyst and cysticercus tenuicollis fluid antigens. The results demonstrated that the 25-27 kDa proteins were strongly recognized by both hyperimmune sera and was common in both somatic and excretory-secretory antigens. According to the results of this study performed with two antigens of D.dendriticum shows that the 25-27 kDa polypeptide as immunodominant protein, could be considered for the immunodiagnosis of dicrocoeliasis and it probably induces protective immunity against Dicrocoelium infection.

Influence of glucocorticosteroids on the biomechanical properties of in-vivo rabbit cornea

Understanding corneal biomechanical responses during long-term glucocorticosteroids administration is important in clinical practice. The purpose of this study is to investigate the biomechanical influence of fluorometholone 0.1% eye drops on rabbit cornea. Thirty-eight Japanese white rabbits were randomly divided into three groups; a fluorometholone group, a supernatant group and a blank control group. For each rabbit in fluorometholone group, one cornea was treated with fluorometholone 0.1% eye drops four times a day for 8 weeks, while corneas of rabbits in supernatant group were treated in the same frequency with supernatant fraction centrifuged from fluorometholone 0.1% eye drops. The rabbits in the blank control group were not given any treatment. At the end of the 8 week observation period, the rabbits were euthanized and the eyes immediately enucleated and prepared for inflation testing. The experimental pressure-deformation data was used to derive the stress–strain behavior of each eye using an inverse modeling procedure. Comparisons of mechanical stiffness of corneas were conducted among the three groups to determine the influence of fluorometholone. The results showed that corneal stiffness decreased as the fluorometholone administration time prolonged. Comparisons of tangent modulus indicated average stiffness reductions of 34.2% and 33.5% in the fluorometholone group compared to the supernatant and control groups, respectively, at the end of the observation period. The stiffness-reduction effect of fluorometholone on the cornea should be considered in clinical management, especially when administrating it to biomechanically weakened corneas, such as after refractive surgeries and in cases of keratoconus.

The acaricidal efficacy of aqueous neem extract and ivermectin against Sarcoptes scabiei var. cuniculi in experimentally infested rabbits

Sarcoptes scabiei var. cuniculi is one of the most important veterinary ectoparasites in rabbits and results in considerable loss of weight, productivity, and wool quality. The acaricidal activity of aqueous leaf extract of neem (CAN) and ivermectin (IVR) were evaluated in vitro and in vivo against S. scabiei var. cuniculi. Rabbits were classified into four groups (ten rabbits each). The first group (group 1) was designated as the negative control group. Each rabbit of the other groups was experimentally infested with 50 mites. One month post-infestation, the second group (group 2) was not treated and taken into account as the positive control group. The third group (group 3) was subcutaneously injected with 1% IVR (200μg/kg body weight, three times within a week interval). The fourth group (group 4) was treated topically with CAN (25%) every 3days for three consecutive weeks. Index scoring of lesions was described weekly. The number of live mites (larvae, nymphs, and adults) on each rabbit was counted on the 14th, 28th, and 42th day post-treatment (PT). Blood samples were taken 28 and 42days PT for estimation of some chemical parameters. The body weight and cumulative body weight gain were recoded 14, 28, and 42days PT. CAN (40%) was highly efficacious against larvae of S. scabiei var. cuniculi as 100% mortality was reached 24h PT. On the other hand, all treated mites with CAN (20%) and IVR died 48h PT. The lethal values of CAN (LC50, LC90, LC95, and LC99) were 7.496, 14.67, 17.75, and 25.37%, respectively, 48h PT. Lesion scoring in groups 3 and 4 were significantly decreased (P ≤ 0.05), reaching 0.20 and 0.40, respectively, when compared with that of group 2 (4.00), 42days PT. Twenty-eightdays PT, the reduction percentages of mites infesting rabbits were 93.38 and 93.09% for IVR and CAN, respectively. However, complete mite reduction was reached 42days PT. Rabbits treated with CAN did not show signs of restlessness or irritation, respiratory signs, or inflammation on the eye and/or skin at the time of application or afterwards. Regarding biochemical analysis, the levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, creatinine, and total cholesterol in rabbits treated with CAN were decreased significantly (P ≤ 0.05) than those of rabbits of the positive control group and those treated with IVR. On the other hand, the levels of total protein, albumin, and globulin of rabbits in group 4 were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased when compared with the corresponding values of groups 2 and 3. The body weight and cumulative body weight gain of rabbits treated with CAN were significantly increased (P ≤ 0.05) when compared with such values of groups 2 and 3, 28 and 42days PT. The present data indicated that CAN had in vitro and in vivo acaricidal efficiency similar to that of IVR and improved the performance of rabbits without inducing adverse effects on treated rabbits; consequently, CAN could be suitable as a promising alternative acaricide for veterinary use.

Histological findings of uveal capillaries in rabbit eyes after multiple intravitreal injections of bevacizumab

Purpose: To evaluate the potential toxicity of multiple intravitreal injections of bevacizumab on the uveal capillaries of rabbit eyes.Materials and methods: Nine eyes of nine rabbits that received single intravitreal injections of bevacizumab (IVB) constituted the single IVB group, while nine eyes of nine rabbits that received three injections of IVB, with an interval of 28 days between injections, constituted the repeat IVB group. Seven eyes of seven rabbits constituted the control group. The rabbits in the single and repeat IVB groups were sacrificed 7 and 28 d after the single and third IVB injection, respectively. Uveal specimens were compared between groups after immunohistochemical staining. Ultrastructural findings were evaluated by electron microscopy. Control group rabbits were sacrificed 7 d after saline injection. Clinical examination and fundus fluorescein angiography were performed at baseline, 7 d after the first injection, and after the last injection.Results: Differences in the CD31-positive areas of the iris, ciliary body and choroid 7 d after IVB were not statistically significant among the single IVB, repeat IVB and control groups (p = 0.0749, p = 0.7237 and p = 0.7346, respectively; analysis of variance). Endothelial cell fenestrations (ECFs) in the choriocapillaris and ciliary body observed by electron microscopy on day 7 in the single and repeat IVB groups were decreased by 50% (p < 0.0001) and 33% (p < 0.0001), respectively, in both IVB groups compared with those in the control group. However, ECFs observed on day 28 in both groups were comparable to those observed in the control group.Conclusions: Single IVB and repeated IVB did not have any effect on normal vessel endothelium density as per immunohistochemical findings. Ultrastructural findings revealed that IVB transiently decreased the ECFs in the choriocapillaris and ciliary body.

Preparation of infertile male rabbits by local electron beam irradiation for intratesticular transplantation of autologous bone marrow stem cells

To explore an efficient and safe protocol for the preparation of infertile male rabbits from which bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) could be isolated and cultured. Autologous BMSCs could be used for intratesticular transplantation and male infertility research. For this model, various doses (e.g., 6, 8, 10, or 12 Gy) of electron beam irradiation from a linear accelerator were locally applied to the scrotum of 5-month-old male New Zealand white rabbits. The effects of irradiation were compared between treatment groups, and with age-matched normal controls. Both morphology and hollow ratios of seminiferous tubules (HRST) were examined two, four, six, eight and 12-weeks post-irradiation. The seminiferous epithelium showed varying degrees of damage in all treatment groups compared with unirradiated controls, yet Sertoli and Leydig cells appeared unaffected. A dose-dependent response in spermatogenesis was also observed. BMSCs that were isolated and cultured from rabbits of the normal control group and the 12 Gy treatment group were compared with respect to morphology and growth. Starting at 6 weeks, HRST of the 12 Gy-treatment group were stable, and were the highest among all the groups. BMSCs from rabbits treated with 12 Gy also exhibited similar growth as the control group. Local dose of 12 Gy to the testes of 5-month-old male New Zealand rabbits is a protocol with which to obtain autologous bone marrow stem cells.