Rabbit Liver Research Articles

Mussel-inspired modified regenerated cellulose as tissue adhesive and antibacterial gauze: A promising approach for rapid hemostasis in non-compressible hemorrhage

Uncontrollable hemorrhage leads to high mortality rates; thus, engineering effective hemostatic materials is crucial for rapid hemostasis. Developing hemostatic materials for rapid coagulation, antibacterial activity, and easy removal without compromising clot integrity remains a challenge. Herein, a multifunctional hemostatic gauze was engineered by modifying regenerated cellulose textile through multiple sequential chemical reactions, including carboxymethylation, crosslinking with CaCl2/ZnCl2 solution, oxidation, and polymerization with dopamine. Provided gauze demonstrated remarkable wet-tissue adhesion (890 kPa) that physically sealing the area to prevent blood loss. The engineered gauze exhibits excellent antibacterial activity (against S. aureus and E. coli) and enhanced hemostatic ability (clotting time (20S), attachment of red blood cells (~93 %) and platelets (~80 %)). The complete hemostasis and stable clot formation without secondary bleeding were achieved by synthesized gauze in 20s, 50s, and 100s for the rat and rabbit liver, and rat femoral artery injury models, respectively. That was significantly faster hemostasis (4–14-fold reduction in time) and lower blood loss (3-fold reduction) compared to the commercial hemostatic textiles (p < 0.001). Biochemical, hematological, and pathological examinations revealed no evidence of systemic and local inflammation or toxic effects in the rat organs. The engineered hemostatic gauze exhibits outstanding characteristics of a hemostatic material for clinical applications.

The Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Lactococcus lactis-Ling-Zhi 8 on Ameliorating Atherosclerosis and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver in High-Fat Diet Rabbits

Inflammation plays a crucial role in atherosclerosis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We previously engineered a recombinant Lactococcus lactis strain expressing the Ling-Zhi immunomodulatory protein (L. lactis-LZ8). This study investigated the anti-atherosclerotic effects of L. lactis-LZ8 in rabbits fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Changes in body weight, serum lipid profiles, and liver function were monitored. The aorta and liver tissues were analyzed for gross pathology and histopathology. Eight-week administration of L. lactis-LZ8 with HFD ameliorated atherosclerosis by downregulating protein and gene expression associated with lipid metabolism and inflammation in the aortas. The rabbits receiving L. lactis-LZ8 exhibited a significant dose-dependent reduction in hepatic fat accumulation. RNA sequencing of the livers revealed that inflammatory genes in the L. lactis-LZ8 groups were downregulated compared to the HFD group. Disease ontology enrichment analysis indicated that these genes were involved in atherosclerosis. Gene set enrichment analysis plots revealed significant enrichment in the gene sets related to cholesterol homeostasis. CIBERSORT immune cell fraction analysis indicated significant infiltration by regulatory T cells, CD8+ T cells, activated dendritic cells, and natural killer cells in the L. lactis-LZ8 group. Our studies underscore LZ8’s role in precision nutrition, providing a potential solution to the current challenges in modifying atherosclerosis and NAFLD.

Morphological and Morphometric Parameters of the Liver of Newborn Male Rabbits Alexander

Introduction. At present, the study of age-related issues of the liver structure in animals is one of the most important objectives of morphology, since liver diseases occupy one of the leading places among the nosologies causing death of newborn animals, in particular rabbits. At the same time, although the data on the micromorphological structure of the digestive tract of rabbits is extensive, the data on the age-related anatomy of the liver in the animals under study is scarce in the available literature. The aim of the paper is to determine the morphofunctional features of the liver of newborn male rabbits.Materials and Methods. The objects of the study were newborn male rabbits of the “butterfly” breed (n=9), who had no deviations in development and constitution. To establish the anatomical and topographic features and morphometric parameters of the liver of the animals under study, the standard anatomical dissection, Pirogov's cuts, macromorphometric and statistical research methods were used.Results. It has been established that the liver of newborn male rabbits of “butterfly” breed has segmental nature, the caudate process is large, distinct from the other lobes. The papillary process is oval in shape, poorly developed, adjacent to the lesser curvature of the stomach. The quadrate and right lobes of the liver are well developed, and the left lobes are less developed, which entails the horizontal position of the organ. The ligamentous attachments of the liver are well developed. A round ligament of liver (ligamentum teres hepatis) with fetal hepatic vessels can be distinguished. The linear and weight parameters of the liver are characterised by the small absolute and large relative values. The liver index is inversely proportional to the body weight of an animal and is 5.91.Discussion and Conclusion. The obtained morphological and morphometric data is aimed at establishing the standard liver parameters of the clinically healthy newborn male rabbits of the “butterfly” breed. The liver boundaries have been defined taking into account the length, width, thickness parameters of each lobe separately. The organ topography has been defined including the skeletotopy, holotopy and syntopy of the individual lobes and processes of the liver.

Study the Physiological Effects of Palm Heart Extract (PHE) on some Cardiac, Hepatic Enzymes, and Reproductive Hormones in Male Rats

Background: For a long time, researchers have extensively studied the health advantages of natural products derived from plants. Objective: The main goal of this study is to investigate the effects of palm heart extract (PHE) on the lipid profile and various parameters of the heart, liver, and reproductive system in male rabbits. Methods: The male rabbits were divided into four groups by chance; one group was given a standard diet for comparison, while the other three received a PHE supplement. The control group did not get any treatment while three groups were given medium to high doses of PHE daily for 8 weeks. Troponin and lipid profile levels were assessed for health indicators, while liver enzyme levels (ALT, AST, ALP) and total bilirubin were analyzed to evaluate liver function. Furthermore, hormone levels such as testosterone, LH (luteinizing hormone), and FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) were also observed during the entire study period. Outcomes: Lipid profile parameters, including cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), were assessed before and after the intervention period. Results: The results indicated a reduction in TC and LDL levels in the treatment group compared to the control group was statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05). Nonetheless, there were no changes observed in the levels of TG and HDL in both groups, with a p-value greater than 0.05. These results indicate that heart palm water extract might have the ability to lower lipid levels, especially in decreasing total cholesterol and LDL levels. Testosterone levels showed a small drop in the high dose group when compared to the control group, although there was no statistical significance (p &gt; 0.05). LH levels did not significantly decrease in the medium dose group compared to the control group (p &lt; 0.05). There were no notable variations in FSH levels among the groups (p &lt; 0.05). In conclusion, male rabbits showed reduced troponin levels in a dose-dependent manner, indicating potential cardioprotective effects of HDP extract. The administration of HDP extract did not have any impact on liver function. Although reproductive hormone levels varied, additional research is required to understand the effects of heart palm extract on male reproductive health.

A self-gelling alginate/chitosan based powder containing bioactive nanoparticles for non-compressible bleeding control and promoting wound healing

The challenge remains in developing hemostatic dressings that can fulfill both hemostatic and repair functions to meet clinical demands worldwide. Herein, the biodegradable powders composed of benzeneboronic acid-modified sodium alginate/catechol-modified quaternized chitosan hydrogel (SBQCC) networks and bioactive cerium oxide nanoparticles (CNPs), were prepared for hemostasis and promoting wound healing. The SBQCC/CNPs powders had good self-gelation ability, water absorption ratio, tissue adhesiveness and biocompatibility. The SBQCC/CNPs powders could not only rapidly absorb a large amount of blood to concentrate coagulation factors when applied on bleeding wounds, but also formed an adhesive hydrogel physical barrier to control bleeding in situ. Meanwhile, the aggregation and activation of red blood cells and platelets induced by the SBQCC/CNPs powders can initiate the forming of internal blood clot with fibrin to further enhance the hemostatic effect. The SBQCC/CNPs powders demonstrated excellent hemostatic performance in non-compressible rat tail vein bleeding and rabbit liver bleeding models. In addition, SBQCC/CNPs powder-derived hydrogels had antibacterial activity and multiple biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and promoting angiogenesis for accelerating wound healing. Therefore, the SBQCC/CNPs powders can accelerate wound healing while achieving effective hemostasis, which will be a promising hemostatic dressing.

Cholesterol dynamics in rabbit liver: High-fat diet, olive oil, and synergistic dietary effects

Background & aimsLipid metabolism disorders contribute to a range of human diseases, including liver-related pathologies. Rabbits, highly sensitive to dietary cholesterol, provide a model for understanding the development of liver disorders. Sterol regulatory element-binding protein isoform 2 (SREBP2) crucially regulates intracellular cholesterol pathways. Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) has shown reducing cholesterol levels and restoring liver parameters affected by HFD. The aim was to investigate the molecular impact of an HFD and supplemented with EVOO on rabbit liver cholesterol metabolism. Approach & resultsMale rabbits were assigned to dietary cohorts, including control, acute/chronic HFD, sequential HFD with EVOO, and EVOO. Parameters such as serum lipid profiles, hepatic enzymes, body weight, and molecular analyses. After 6 months of HFD, plasma and hepatic cholesterol increased with decreased SREBP2 and 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) expression. Prolonged HFD increased cholesterol levels, upregulating SREBP2 mRNA and HMGCR protein. Combining this with EVOO lowered cholesterol, increased SREBP2 mRNA, and upregulated low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) expression. HFD-induced metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease was mitigated by EVOO. In conclusion, the SREBP2 system responds to dietary changes. ConclusionsIn rabbits, the SREBP2 system responds to dietary changes. Acute HFD hinders cholesterol synthesis, while prolonged HFD disrupts regulation, causing SREBP2 upregulation. EVOO intake prompts LDLR upregulation, potentially enhancing cholesterol clearance and restoring hepatic alterations.

Investigate the relationship between pulsed field ablation parameters and ablation outcomes.

Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is an emerging non-thermal ablation method. The primary challenge is the control of multiple parameters in PFA, as the interplay of these parameters remains unclear in terms of ensuring effective and safe tissue ablation. This study employs the response surface method (RSM) to explore the interactions between various PFA parameters and ablation outcomes, and seeks to enhance the efficacy and safety of PFA. In vivo experiments were conducted using rabbit liver for varying PFA parameters: pulse amplitude (PA), pulse interval (PI), number of pulse trains (NT), and number of pulses in a pulse train (NP). Ablation outcomes assessed included three ablation sizes, surface temperature, and muscle contraction strength. Additionally, histological analysis was performed on the ablated tissue. We analyzed the relationship between PFA parameters and ablation outcomes, and results were then compared with those from a simulation using an electric-thermal coupling PFA finite element model. A linear relationship between ablation outcomes and PFA parameters was established. PA and NT exhibited extremely significant (P < 0.0001) and significant effects (P < 0.05) on all ablation outcomes, respectively. NP showed an extremely significant impact (P < 0.0001) on surface temperature and muscle contraction strength, while PI significantly influenced (P < 0.05) muscle contraction strength alone. Histological analysis revealed that PFA produces controlled, well-defined areas of liver tissue necrosis. Surface temperature results from simulations and experiments were highly consistent (R2 > 0.97). This study clarifies the relationship between various PFA parameters and ablation outcomes, and aims to improve the efficacy and safety of PFA.

Effects of a High Trans Fatty Acid Diet on Kidney-, Liver-, and Heart-Associated Diseases in a Rabbit Model.

Trans fatty acids are specific unsaturated fats found in processed foods that undergo hydrogenation, leading to hepatic disorders such as metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and conditions like CVD and CKD. The effects of different food samples containing trans fatty acids (elaidic and oleic acid) on the liver, heart, and kidney through antioxidant enzyme activity were investigated in animal models. Liver function tests (ALT, ALP, AST, and LDH), heart biomarker levels (CPK, TC, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides), and kidney biomarker levels (serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and serum uric acid) were examined in serum of rabbits and the histopathology of liver tissues. Results showed that these biomarkers were more elevated in the Mujahid Ghee group than in the normal control, oleic acid, and Kausar Ghee groups. The concentration of antioxidant markers such as peroxidase, glutathione, catalase, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and superoxide dismutase were lower in the Mujahid Ghee group. HPLC showed that Mujahid Ghee had the highest quantified value of elaidic acid among all selected samples. Overall, this study demonstrated that elaidic acid in its purest form aggravated MAFLD in rabbit livers and provoked CVK and CVD.

Combining Native Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics to Differentiate and Map the Metalloform Landscape in Metallothioneins.

Within the intricate landscape of the proteome, approximately 30% of all proteins bind metal ions. This repertoire is even larger when considering all the different forms of a protein, known as proteoforms. Here, we propose the term "metalloforms" to refer to different structural or functional variations of a protein resulting from the binding of various hetero- or homogeneous metal ions. Using human Cu(I)/Zn(II)-metallothionein-3 as a representative model, we developed a chemical proteomics strategy to simultaneously differentiate and map Zn(II) and Cu(I) metal binding sites. In the first labeling step, N-ethylmaleimide reacts with Cysteine (Cys), resulting in the dissociation of all Zn(II) ions while Cu(I) remains bound to the protein. In the second labeling step, iodoacetamide is utilized to label Cu(I)-bound Cys residues. Native mass spectrometry (MS) was used to determine the metal/labeling protein stoichiometries, while bottom-up/top-down MS was used to map the Cys-labeled residues. Next, we used a developed methodology to interrogate an isolated rabbit liver metallothionein fraction containing three metallothionein-2 isoforms and multiple Cd(II)/Zn(II) metalloforms. The approach detailed in this study thus holds the potential to decode the metalloproteoform diversity within other proteins.

Infection of Egyptian domestic rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus, with Cysticercus pisiformis (Cestoda: Taeniidae): morphological, molecular, and histopathological diagnostic tools.

Cysticercosis raises the alarm for domestic rabbits since it has a significant impact on their health, productivity, and nutritional value. In this study, several white creamy- colored cysts were detected in the mesentery of the stomach and intestine, as well as embedded in the liver of domestic rabbits collected from Qena Governorate, Egypt. Based on both morphological and molecular assessments, revealed cysts could be identified as Cysticercus pisiformis, the larval stage of Taenia pisiformis. Gross and histopathological investigations of infected organs were documented. To our knowledge, this is the first geographical report on Cysticercus pisiformis in domestic rabbits in Qena Governorate, using current morphological, molecular, and histopathological methodologies that provide critical data for developing diagnostic targets for C. pisiformis.

Effects Vitis vinifera Leaves on the Oxidative Status of New Zealand Rabbit Liver Infected with Eimeria stiedae

Background: Rabbits are the most important protein sources of animals for humans all over the world. Its production has increased significantly in recent years and it has become one of the most important animal sources in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Coccidiosis is one of the most dangerous diseases affecting rabbits and other animals causing global economic losses. Plant extracts have been used as potential alternatives to chemotherapy because they do not have the negative consequences of tissue deposits and drug resistance. Methods: The current study examined the antioxidant activity of Vitis vinifera leaf extract (VVLE) in New Zealand rabbits infected with Eimeria stiedae. The extract was subjected to phytochemical analysis by FT-IR. A total of 35 male New Zealand rabbits were divided into seven groups. Group 1 served as the uninfected, untreated (negative control) group. Group 2 uninfected and treated at 400 mg/kg of extract to test for toxicity. Group 3 represented the infected, non-treated (positive control) group. While, groups 4, 5 and 6 comprised infected treated with at100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of extracts, respectively. Finally, group 7 consisted of infected rabbits treated with Toltrazuril at a dosage of 5 mg/kg body weight. Result: The analysis of phytochemicals by FT-IR for Vitis vinifera leaf extract revealed the existence of 15 biologically active compounds. VVLE was able to decrease the induced weight loss due to infection. Moreover, the oxidative status due to E. stiedae infection had been changed after treatment with VVLE where the level of glutathione, malondialdehyde and nitric oxide was improved indicating the antioxidant activity of the VVLE. Our findings suggested that VVLE could boost the induced oxidative stress in the liver of infected New Zealand rabbits, but studies are needed to determine the mechanism of VVLE.

ТЕХНОЛОГИЧЕСКИЕ РАЗРАБОТКИ ДЛЯ МЯСОРАСТИТЕЛЬНЫХ ПАШТЕТОВ ЗАДАННОГО СОСТАВА

The purpose of the study is to develop technological solutions for obtaining meat-and-vegetable pates of a given composition. Objectives: to develop technological approaches to the creation of protein-carbohydrate components based on soybeans, vegetables and wild-growing raw materials; to justify the technological parameters for the production of meat and vegetable pates. The general scheme of research included the development of technology for soy-carrot, soy-pepper, soy-pepper-mushroom and soy-carrot-fern granulates, as well as pates from rabbit meat and liver with the resulting granules, which were the objects of research and were assessed based on a combination of various indicators. The results of the study are presented, in accordance with which a technology has been developed for the production of protein-carbohydrate components based on soybeans, vegetables, wild-growing Far Eastern raw materials, including operations for joint disintegration and extraction, pre-soaked soybean seeds and chopped fresh carrots or sweet peppers, separation of the resulting mixture, introduction into the insoluble residue of onions, bracken, mushrooms, granulation and drying. Analysis of the chemical composition of the deve-loped protein-carbohydrate components showed that the proposed technology made it possible to increase the content of protein, fat, and dietary fiber, which exceeds similar indicators for dried vegetable concentrates existing on the market. By purposefully varying the amount of meat and protein-carbohydrate components, their optimal ratio of 70: 30 % was determined. Based on the analysis of mathematical mo-dels, the main factors influencing the quality of rabbit meat and liver pates with a protein-carbohydrate component were determined: mass fraction of the protein-carbohydrate component – 30.00–30.55 %; mass fraction of fat – 12.6–16.3 %; cutting duration is 8.6–10.7 minutes. The production technology of the designed meat-and-vegetable pates of a given composition has been experimentally confirmed.

Neisseria leonii sp. nov., isolated from the nose, lung, and liver of rabbits.

A taxogenomic study of three strains (3986T, 51.81, and JF 2415) isolated from rabbits between 1972 and 2000 led to the description of a new Neisseria species. The highest sequence similarity of the 16S rRNA gene was found to Neisseria animalis NCTC 10212T (96.7 %). The 16S rRNA gene similarity above 99 % and average nucleotide identity (ANI) values above 96 % among the strains, indicated that they belong to the same species. At the same time, the strains shared ANI values below 81 % and dDDH values below 24 % with all described Neisseria species. In the bac120 gene phylogenetic tree, the three strains clustered near Neisseria elongata and Neisseria bacilliformis in the Neisseria clade. However, the Neisseria clade is not monophyletic, and includes the type strains of Morococcus cerebrosus, Bergeriella denitrificans, Kingella potus, Uruburuella suis, and Uruburuella testudinis. Neisseria shayeganii clustered outside the clade with members of the genus Eikenella. Amino acid identity (AAI) values were calculated, and a threshold of 71 % was used to circumscribe the genus Neisseria. According to this proposed AAI threshold, strains 3986T, 51.81, and JF 2415 were placed within the genus Neisseria. The cells of the three strains were Gram-stain-negative diplococcobacilli and non-motile. Optimal growth on trypticase soy agar occurred at 37 °C and pH 8.5 in aerobic conditions. Notably, all strains exhibited indole production in the API-NH test, which is atypical for Neisseria and the family Neisseriaceae. The strains exhibited a common set of 68 peaks in their MALDI-TOF MS profiles, facilitating the swift and accurate identification of this species. Based on genotypic and phenotypic data, it is proposed that strains 3986T, 51.81, and JF 2415 represent a novel species within the genus Neisseria, for which the name Neisseria leonii sp. nov. is proposed (type strain 3986T=R726T=CIP 109994T=LMG 32907T).

Expression of dihomo-γ-linolenic acid and FADS1/2 and ELOVL2/5 in term rabbit placentas

Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) are essential for both fetal and placental development. We characterized the FA composition and gene expression levels of FA-metabolizing enzymes in rabbit placentas. Total FA compositions from term rabbit placentas (n = 7), livers, and plasma (both n = 4) were examined: among LCPUFAs with more than three double bonds, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) was the most abundant (11.4 ± 0.69 %, mean ± SE), while arachidonic acid was the second-most rich component (6.90 ± 0.56 %). DGLA was barely detectable (<1 %) in livers and plasma from term rabbits, which was significantly lower than in placentas (both p < 0.0001). Compared with the liver, transcript levels of the LCPUFA-metabolizing enzymes FADS2 and ELOVL5 were 7- and 4.5-fold higher in placentas (both p < 0.05), but levels of FADS1 and ELOVL2 were significantly lower (both p < 0.01). Our results suggest a placenta-specific enzyme expression pattern and LCPUFA profile in term rabbits, which may support a healthy pregnancy.

Efficacy of Zingiber Officinale (ZO) in The Treatment of Lead Acetate-induced Hepatopathy in Rabbits: An Ultrastructural Assessment of Sub-acute Trial.

Lead acetate (Pb) is a hazardous heavy metal that is well-known to impair the functions of bodily systems and organs. This present study identifies the histopathological alterations that Pb toxicity causes in the liver of rabbits as well as the efficacy of ginger (Zingiber Officinale, ZO) in mitigating its negative effects. As ZO is a rich source of several antioxidants, this present study examines its ability to decrease Pb toxicity in test animals. A total of 30 rabbits were randomly divided into three groups (n = 10). The Control group was only fed distilled water, the Negative group was only fed a 2% Pb solution, while the Treated group was fed a 2% Pb solution as well as 100 mg of ZO extract per kilogram of body weight daily. Lead acetate (Pb) was found to significantly alter the histopathology of rabbit livers by increasing inflammation, fibrosis, vacuolation, and degeneration; significantly decreasing plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymatic activities; and increasing plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. Furthermore, ZO extract not only significantly decreases the negative hepatic impacts of Pb but also prevents Pb-induced hepatopathy.

Hydroxysteroid 17-β dehydrogenase 14 (HSD17B14) is an L-fucose dehydrogenase, the initial enzyme of the L-fucose degradation pathway

L-Fucose (6-deoxy-L-galactose), a monosaccharide abundant in glycolipids and glycoproteins produced by mammalian cells, has been extensively studied for its role in intracellular biosynthesis and recycling of GDP-L-fucose for fucosylation. However, in certain mammalian species, L-fucose is efficiently broken down to pyruvate and lactate in a poorly understood metabolic pathway. In the 1970s, L-fucose dehydrogenase, an enzyme responsible for the initial step of this pathway, was partially purified from pig and rabbit livers and characterized biochemically. However, its molecular identity remained elusive until recently. This study reports the purification, identification, and biochemical characterization of the mammalian L-fucose dehydrogenase. The enzyme was purified from rabbit liver approximately 340-fold. Mass spectrometry analysis of the purified protein preparation identified mammalian hydroxysteroid 17-β dehydrogenase 14 (HSD17B14) as the sole candidate enzyme. Rabbit and human HSD17B14 were expressed in HEK293T and Escherichia coli, respectively, purified and demonstrated to catalyze the oxidation of L-fucose to L-fucono-1,5-lactone, as confirmed by mass spectrometry and NMR analysis. Substrate specificity studies revealed that L-fucose is the preferred substrate for both enzymes. The human enzyme exhibited a catalytic efficiency for L-fucose that was 359-fold higher than its efficiency for estradiol. Additionally, recombinant rat HSD17B14 exhibited negligible activity towards L-fucose, consistent with the absence of L-fucose metabolism in this species.The identification of the gene encoding mammalian L-fucose dehydrogenase provides novel insights into the substrate specificity of enzymes belonging to the 17-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase family. This discovery also paves the way for unraveling the physiological functions of the L-fucose degradation pathway, which remains enigmatic.

Elements in Serum, Muscle, Liver, and Kidney of Rabbits Fed Macroalgae-Supplemented Diets.

The addition of marine macroalgae to animal feed has garnered interest due to the demonstrated benefits of gut health in many livestock species. Most macroalgae have a higher mineral content than terrestrial vegetables, making them an attractive, sustainable source of minerals. However, some macroalgae contain elevated concentrations of iodine and arsenic, which may be transferred to the meat of livestock fed with macroalgae. This study evaluated the mineral profile of rabbit serum, muscle, liver, and kidney of rabbits fed diets supplemented with different marine macroalgae, with the goal of improving post-weaning gut health and reducing reliance on antibiotics. We found increased deposition of iodine in muscle, liver, and kidney due to macroalgae supplementation, which is particularly promising for regions with low iodine endemicity. Higher, though relatively low arsenic concentrations, compared to those in other animal meats and food sources, were also detected in the muscle, liver, and kidney of macroalgae-fed rabbits. The absence of apparent interactions with other micronutrients, particularly selenium, suggests that the inclusion of macroalgae in rabbit diets will not affect the overall mineral content. Enhanced bioavailability of elements such as phosphorus and iron may provide additional benefits, potentially reducing the need for mineral supplementation.

Concentration of selected biogenic and risk elements in liver, kidneys and muscle of domestic rabbit and wild brown hare

In the present study the concentration of selected elements in tissues of domestic rabbits and of wild brown-hares (kidneys, liver, and muscle – m. quadriceps femoris) in Slovakian habitats were determined. After mineralization the elements examined were detected using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry/graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry. For rabbits, Fe in the liver was correlated with essential (Mn, Cu) (R 2 = 0.94, p < 0.05; R 2 = 0.96, p < 0.05 respectively) or toxic (Pb) elements (R 2 = −0.93, p < 0.05). For hares, significant correlations were found between Cd and Cu or between Cd and Mn in the kidneys (R 2 = −0.96, p < 0.05; R 2 = 0.92, p < 0.05 respectively), which is the target organ for Cd. Higher concentrations of the elements were found in hare tissue, and this may be linked to pollution of their wild habitats. The xenobiotic elements as well as the essential elements were accumulated in the kidneys of the hares than rabbits. For liver, differences were less pronounced and significance was only for Fe and Cu. Muscle of hares was more contaminated than of rabbits for both biogenic and toxic elements. These results show that detectable concentrations of inorganic elements. These levels may be linked to contamination of the natural habitats of wild biota due to industry, traffic, agriculture, and urban sprawl.

Expansion-clotting chitosan fabrics based on unidirectional fast-absorption fibers for rapid hemorrhage control

The rapid absorption of water from the blood to concentrate erythrocytes and platelets, thus triggering quick closure, is important for hemostasis. Herein, expansion-clotting chitosan fabrics are designed and fabricated by ring spinning of polylactic acid (PLA) filaments as the core layer and highly hydrophilic carboxyethyl chitosan (CECS) fibers as the sheath layer, and subsequent knitting of obtained PLA@CECS core spun yarns. Due to the unidirectional fast-absorption capacity of CECS fibers, the chitosan fabrics can achieve erythrocytes and platelets aggregate quickly by concentrating blood, thus promoting the formation of blood clots. Furthermore, the loop structure of coils formed in the knitted fabric can help them to expand by absorbing water to close their pores, providing effective sealing for bleeding. Besides, They have enough mechanical properties, anti-penetrating ability, and good tissue-adhesion ability in wet conditions, which can form a physical barrier to resist blood pressure during hemostasis and prevent them from falling off the wound, thus enhancing hemostasis synergistically. Therefore, the fabrics exhibit superior hemostatic performance in the rabbit liver, spleen, and femoral artery puncture injury model compared to the gauze group. This chitosan fabric is a promising hemostatic material for hemorrhage control.

Silver and gold nanoparticles as a novel approach to fight Sarcoptic mange in rabbits

Various kinds of pets have been known to contract the ectoparasite Sarcoptes scabiei. Current acaricides are becoming less effective because of the resistance developed by the mite besides their adverse effects on the general activity and reproductive performance of domestic pets. For this reason, the present study aims to discover a novel and safe approach using silver and gold nanoparticles to fight Sarcoptic mange in rabbits as well as to explain their mechanism of action. 15 pet rabbits with clinical signs of Sarcoptic mange that were confirmed by the microscopic examination were used in our study. All rabbits used in this study were assessed positive for the presence of different developing stages of S. scabiei. Three groups of rabbits (n = 5) were used as follows: group (1) didn’t receive any treatment, and group (2 and 3) was treated with either AgNPs or GNPs, respectively. Both nanoparticles were applied daily on the affected skin areas via a dressing and injected subcutaneously once a week for 2 weeks at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg bwt. Our results revealed that all rabbits were severely infested and took a mean score = 3. The skin lesions in rabbits that didn’t receive any treatments progressed extensively and took a mean score = of 4. On the other hand, all nanoparticle-treated groups displayed marked improvement in the skin lesion and took an average score of 0–1. All NPs treated groups showed remarkable improvement in the microscopic pictures along with mild iNOS, TNF-α, and Cox-2 expression. Both nanoparticles could downregulate the m-RNA levels of IL-6 and IFγ and upregulate IL-10 and TGF-1β genes to promote skin healing. Dressing rabbits with both NPs didn’t affect either liver and kidney biomarkers or serum Ig levels indicating their safety. Our residual analysis detected AgNPs in the liver of rabbits but did not detect any residues of GNPs in such organs. We recommend using GNPs as an alternative acaricide to fight rabbit mange.