Male Rabbits Research Articles

Efficacy of photobiomodulation using diode laser 650 nm combined with nano-cellulose and nano-amorphous calcium phosphate in bone healing of rabbit tibial defects assessed by H&E staining and computed tomography.

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effect of Diode LLLT 650 nm, TEMPO oxidized Nano-fibrillated cellulose mixed with Nano-Amorphous calcium phosphate, and their combination on bone healing in rabbit tibia using H&E staining and computed tomography. Eighteen adult male New Zealand rabbits were selected, two circular bone defects were created in each tibia, resulting in four bony defects in each rabbit, representing the four tested groups; group A (negative control), group B (filled with mineralized nano-cellulose), group C (combination), group D (laser). Animals were euthanized after two weeks and one month, defects were assessed by CT for bone density, then histological samples were examined by H&E stain. In both evaluation periods, group D recorded the greatest mean area percent of new bone formation and bone density, followed by group A, while group C recorded the lowest value. Groups A and D showed full closure of the defects, while groups B and C showed partial defect closure with retained bone graft material. H&E and CT showed that Laser group had the best results of defects healing, bone density and new bone formation, followed by the negative control group. Diode laser 650nm photobiomodulation significantly improved bone defects healing. Mineralized nano-cellulose experimental bone substitute material showed a delayed effect in bone healing and graft material resorption. The combination of LLLT with the graft material had no positive outcome on bone defect healing.

PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF GINGER (ZINGIBER OFFICINALE) AND CLOVE (SYZYGIUM AROMATICUM) AGAINST INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY BY DIMETHOATE IN EXPERIMENTAL ANIMALS

Usage of pesticides is world wide spread have harmful effect on human health via environmental or occupational exposure, that pollute water, soil and food. This experimental study aims to investigate possible antioxidant and protective activities of ginger (Zingiber officinale) and clove (Syzygium aromaticum) aqueous extracts against induced injury of liver hepatocytes using the organophosphate Dimethoate (DM) in rabbits. Thirty adult male rabbits from local market were divided into five groups (6 animals in each). (1) control rabbits, (2) rabbits were given DM (20 mg/kg B. w daily dose 1/20 of half the lethal dose), (3) rabbits were given ginger extract (400 mg/kg B.W) daily dose and then DM, (4) rabbits were given clove extract (100 mg/kg B.W) daily dose and then DM, (5) rabbits were given ginger with clove extracts and then DM as previous dose for 30 days. At the end of the experiment animals were anesthetized and then sacrificed. The blood sample was collected for biochemical analysis. Dimethoate resulted in significant increase in the activity of aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) compared with control. Significantly increased level of both total and direct bilirubin were observed. However, the total protein and albumin were decreased. The ginger and clove extracts either separately or combined in groups 3,4 and 5 showed significantly improvement and decrease activity of liver enzymes AST, ALT and ALP. On the other hand, decreased in total bilirubin compared with DM group were recorded. While increased the serum levels of total protein and albumin were observed. It could be included that ginger and clove extracts were effective in protecting against induced hepatotoxicity by treating liver functions. Therefore, we recommend these two plants by moderate amounts to be added in the daily meals and drinks.

Gut-gonad crosstalk in mice exposed to a “chemical cocktail” combining metabolomics and microbial profile by amplicon sequencing

Testes are very prone to be damaged by environmental pollutants, but there is a lack of information about the impact of “chemical cocktails” (CC) on the testicular metabolome and the possible influence in the gut-gonad crosstalk. For this, BALB/c mice were given flumequine and diclofenac orally in food and potentially toxic trace elements (Cd, Hg, As) in drinking water. A mice group was supplemented with selenium, a well-known antagonist against many pollutants. Our results revealed that the steroid 5-alpha-androstan-17-beta-ol propionate, suggested as a parameter of androgenicity independent of testosterone levels, proline that improves reproductive indicators in male rabbits affected by environmental stress) among others metabolites are only present after CC exposure with rodent and selenium supplemented diet. Selenium also antagonized the up-or down-regulation of anandamide (20:l, n-9) (p < 0.001 and FC 0.54 of CC vs C but p > 0,05 and FC 0.74 of CC-Se vs C), that regulates gonadotropin-releasing hormones in mammals, 2,3-dinor-11b-PGF2a (p < 0.001 and FC 0.12 of CC vs C but p > 0,05 and FC 0.34 of CC-Se vs C), which has been related with reproductive hormones, besides others testicular metabolites altered by the exposure to the CC and reversed the levels to control. Moreover, numerous significant associations between gut microbes and testicular metabolites indicated a possible impact of pollutants in the testes mediated by gut microbiota due to a gut-gonad crosstalk.

Experimental study on the preservation of amputated limb by low-temperature HTK preservation solution arterial perfusion

Objective: To evaluate the effect of HTK (Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate solution) infusion on the protection and replantation of amputated limb. Methods: In experiment 1, the amputated limbs of male New Zealand white rabbits were preserved by different preservation methods, including low-temperature HTK solution perfusion group, low-temperature normal saline perfusion group, low-temperature preservation group and non-perfusion group at normal temperature. The homogenates of muscle tissue at different time points were collected for biochemical detection. H&amp;E (hematoxylin and eosin) staining was performed on muscle tissue. Bax, Bcl-2 protein immunohistochemical staining and Tunel method were used to detect apoptosis in muscle, nerve, and vascular tissues. The ultrastructure of cells was observed by transmission electron microscope. In experiment 2, the amputated limbs of rabbits were treated with HTK perfusion and cryopreservation without perfusion, respectively. The survival of rabbits and their limbs were observed, and detected by H&amp;E, TUNEL (Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP Nick End Labeling) and scanning electron microscopy. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 22 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). χ2 test, student’s t-test, and ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) were used to compare the categorical and continuous variables. Results: Experiment 1: With the extension of disconnection time, there were statistical differences between the biochemical indexes of the HTK liquid perfusion group and those of the non-low temperature non-perfusion group, while some indexes of the other groups were different. Immunohistochemical staining of tissues (muscle, nerve, and blood vessel) in each group showed that the number of cells stained by anti-apoptotic protein BCL-2 in each group significantly increased with the extension of time, while the number of cells stained by pro-apoptotic protein BAX2 in each group significantly decreased. Tunel test showed that compared with other treatment groups, the apoptosis rate of the HTK liquid group was significantly decreased. Experiment 2: The survival rate of the experimental group was 60%, and that of the control group was only 30%. H&amp;E staining, the TUNEL method and scanning electron microscopy suggested that HTK infusion could reduce ischemia-reperfusion injury in muscle tissue. Conclusion: 1. Perfusion preservation of severed limbs at 4 ℃ can effectively reduce tissue damage caused by ischemia and hypoxia, and the effect is stronger than direct preservation. 2. HTK solution and normal saline were used for one-time perfusion of the severed limbs of rabbits, and the preservation effect of HTK solution was the best. 3. HTK solution was used for one-time perfusion of severed hind limbs of rabbits, which was refrigerated at 4 ℃ and then replanted (ischemia time was 3–5 h). Compared with the replanted limbs after cold storage alone, the survival rate was higher, and the postoperative ischemia and hypoxia injury of surviving limbs were less.

Evaluation of Aortic Hemodynamics Using Four-Dimensional Flow of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Rabbits with Liver Fibrosis.

Liver fibrosis (LF) precipitates systemic hemodynamic alterations, however, its impact on the aorta remaining undefined. To assess aorta hemodynamics changes during LF development in a rabbit model. Prospective, experimental. Thirty 7-month-old male rabbits underwent bile duct ligation (BDL) to induce LF. Biweekly four-dimensional (4D) flow imaging incorporating a 3D gradient-echo at 3.0 T scanner for 14 weeks post-BDL. Histopathological exams for 2-5 rabbits were performed at each time point, following each MRI scan. LF was graded using the Metavir scale by a pathologist. 4D flow was analyzed by two radiologists using dedicated postprocessing software. They recorded 4D flow parameters at four aorta sections (aortic sinus, before and after bifurcation of aortic arch, and descending aorta). The linear mixed model; Bonferroni correction; Pearson correlation coefficient (r); receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve; Delong test. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05. Following BDL, the wall shear stress (WSS) (0.23-0.32 Pa), energy loss (EL) (0.27-1.55 mW) of aorta significantly increased at the second week for each plane, peaking at the sixth week (WSS: 0.35-0.49 Pa, EL: 0.57-2.0 mW). So did the relative pressure difference (RPD) (second week: 1.67 ± 1.63 mmHg, sixth week: 2.43 ± 0.63 mmHg) in plane 2. Notably, the RPD in plane 2 at the second week displayed the highest area under ROC curve of 0.998 (specificity: 1, sensitivity: 0.967). LF were found at the second, fourth, and sixth week after BDL, with grade F2, F3, and F4, respectively. The RPD in plane 2 was most strongly correlated with the severity of LF (r = 0.86). The occurrence of LF could increase WSS, EL, and RPD of aorta as early as the second week following BDL. 1 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.

Magnetic resonance imaging combined with histological evaluation of repair process using the microfracture technique in an association of osteocartilaginous and meniscal surgically induced lesions of the knee. In vivo experiment on a rabbit model.

The present research study aimed to assess magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes and histological findings in the therapeutic effects of microfractures in the treatment of complex animal knee lesions resulting from osteochondral and meniscal defects resulting from non-total meniscectomies. The anterior cruciate ligament lesions are also proven to facilitate the development of osteoarthritis in the knee and worsen the prognosis. Surgery was performed on the right knee joint of 22 male rabbits in order to partially remove the anterior horn of the internal meniscus and to induce an osteochondral defect at the level of the internal femoral condyle. The induced lesion complex was aimed to simulate a clinical situation that occurs frequently in orthopedic practice when young adults undergo partial meniscectomy and at the time of surgery, an osteochondral defect is diagnosed. Rabbits were separated into two study groups: the control (C1) group and the microfractures (MF2) group. After the induced cartilage defect and partial meniscectomy, both groups were followed-up for six months using detailed MRI. Also, anatomical specimens were histologically analyzed to show modifications and signs of healing process, along with complications, in the study group. The results showed that the microfracture group had better results concerning articular surface defect healing in comparison to the control group. Our results suggest that microfractures do improve results concerning surface contact healing and serial MRI studies can be useful in observing the remodeling process in dynamics.

Investigating the Clinical, Radiological and Histopathological Effects of Androgens in Bone Formation and Fracture Healing By IJISRT

Background and Purpose: How to use steroid hormones as a solution and indicator in bone fractures and healing in sterilized or unsterilized male animals and even in female animals and animals that have a deficiency and disorder of steroid hormones.  Research Method: Ten apparently healthy adult male rabbits were selected from the laboratory and were sterilized by scrotal method, and four holes with diameters of 1, 2, 3, and 4 mm were inserted on the tibia from the lateral side, and then into two The group was divided. Regarding the time evaluation of radiographs, which had a normal distribution, variance analysis tests were used at a significant level of 0.05. About the status of the steps that were in the ranking scale. Kruskal-Wallis test was used and statistical calculations were done using SPSS statistical program.  Results: The gait status of rabbits in both groups improves significantly from day one to day 60. On the other hand, there is no significant difference between the two groups at different times and between different times in each group. Except for the first and seventh day, this difference is completely normal. In relation to the amount of callus formed in the two groups, there is a significant difference at some times. From the point of view of pathology, the assessment of the first and second groups indicated the occurrence of restoration and bone callus formation in both groups, but in comparison, the first group had a wider and more voluminous callus. The whole restoration process had more advanced stages.

Physicochemical properties and sensory profile of some breeds of rabbits in Algeria.

The objective of this study was to compare physicochemical traits and sensory profile of meat from rabbits of both sexes belonging to two genotypes, local population and new line (ITELV 2006) which exhibited better characteristics due to its genetic potential. A total of 60 rabbits at 90 days of age were used in the experiment. At slaughter, meat physicochemical and sensory characteristics were measured on Longissimus lumborum muscle. Differences related to genotype were found in most of the physicochemical characteristics studied like Cooking Losses (P < 0.001), Percentage of Released Water (P < 0.001), Myofibril Fragmentation Index (P < 0.001) and a* value (P < 0.001). However, in some of the traits, the differences were related to interaction of sex and genotype (S*G) as in the case of Cooking Losses (P < 0.001) and b* value (P < 0.01). Regarding SDS-PAGE analysis results, the comparison between two breeds has not shown any particular distinction in the myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic protein profiles in relation to the number and the intensity of bands. No significant differences in the sensory characteristics of the meat were noted (P > 0.05). Interestingly, no relevant differences were found between meat from male and female rabbits in all the variables studied (P > 0.05). It was concluded that meat quality was mainly affected by genotype. Thus, the new line exhibited good physicochemical characteristics compared to the local one. This study is the first to analyse and compare the physicochemical and sensory properties of Algerian rabbit meat.

Plasma lipid profile and sex hormone levels in rabbits under paraceta-mol-induced oxidative stress

Changes in the redox balance at different levels, which lead to the accumulation of toxic radicals against the background of a decrease in the content of redox-active compounds, i.e., a state of oxidative stress (OS), are considered the leading pathogenetic factor in pathological conditions. Processes of peroxide oxidation of biological substrates, especially cell membrane lipids and lipophilic compounds have both regulatory and pathological effects in the body of animals and humans. For now, it remains relevant to establish the regularities of interaction of metabolism during OS development. Among the large number of existing OS models, attention is drawn to those that can be reproduced in clinical practice, as a complication of treatment measures or an error in the medical strategy, due to a constant influence on peroxidation processes in the body. Important among such means is paracetamol (acetaminophen, APAP) – one of the most common antipyretic and analgesic drugs. In addition to the known hepato-, nephro- and neurotoxic effects of its long-term and/or excessive use, there are data on reproductive toxicity and disorders of lipid metabolism. Therefore, the aim of our work was to determine the lipid profile and the level of sex hormones in male rabbits during paracetamol-induced OS. The study was performed on male rabbits of the Khila breed. According to the principle of analogs, a control group (n = 12) was formed, which were kept on a standard diet, and an experimental group (n = 12), whose animals were simulated the state of OS by oral injection of a solution of paracetamol with food at a dose of 300 mg/kg of weight body once during 21 days. The following results were obtained by determining the dynamics of changes in biochemical indicators in the rabbit body during chronic injection of paracetamol: in the rabbits of the experimental group, after the injection of paracetamol, the level of diene conjugates was 63.0 % higher, and the content of thiobarbiturate-active products was 1.26 times higher (P ˂ 0.05). A decrease in the activity of the antioxidant defence system was also noted – the amount of reduced glutathione decreased by 35.4 %, and the activity of superoxide dismutase decreased by 25.6 % (P ˂ 0.05). The obtained changes were consistent with the comprehensive indicator of total antioxidant activity, which on the 21st day of the experiment was 34.1 % lower than the values of the control group (P ˂ 0.05). At the same time, the level of steroid hormones also changed during the study – the level of total testosterone gradually decreased (on the 21st day – by 22.8 %, and at the end of the experiment – by 30.9 %, P ˂ 0.05), while the level of 17β-estradiol had an upward trend and on the 21st day was higher than the control indicators by 10.7 % (P ˂ 0.05). Significant changes in lipid metabolism were found in male rabbits – the total cholesterol content on the 21st day of the experiment exceeded the data of control animals by 25.3 %, the level of triacylglycerols – by 42.3 %, and the content of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol also increased by 1.1 times (P ˂ 0.05), and the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, on the contrary, was reduced by 17.0 % (P ˂ 0.05). In general, the obtained results indicate the relationship between the development of OS with changes in lipid metabolism and the balance of sex hormones, which allows us to use the model of paracetamol-induced OS in rabbits for further research.

Histological Evaluation of Fracture Healing after Thyroidectomy

This study aimed to examine the impact of thyroidectomy on the process of fracture healing. A total of sixteen adult male rabbits of the local breed were utilized. The animals were segregated into two equivalent groups, namely the control group and the treatment group. The animals were administered atropine sulfate (1mg /Kg B.W) intramuscularly as a premedication. Ten minutes later, a combination of xylazine hydrochloride (20mg /Kg B.W) and Ketamine hydrochloride (40 mg /Kg B.W) was administered intramuscularly. The control group had the induction of a mid-shaft femoral fracture, followed by fixation with intramedullary pinning. In the treated group, the identical treatment mentioned above, which involved thyroidectomy, was performed. The clinical examination showed that the inflammatory symptoms, such as swelling, discomfort, and increased temperature in the surgical site, were more severe in the control group compared to the treated group. The indications vanished during a span of four to five days in the treatment group and five to six days in the control group. The histological analysis showed that the control group had a greater presence of granulation tissues, trabecular bone, and compact bone compared to the treated group. Ultimately, it was seen that the fracture healing process was more advanced in the control group compared to the treated group.

Effects of Dietary Supplementations of Vitamin C, Organic Selenium, Betaine, and Pomegranate Peel on Alleviating the Effect of Heat Stress on Growing Rabbits.

The aim of this study was to investigate the biological activity and sustainable biorefinery development of vitamin C, organic selenium, betaine, and pomegranate peel on the performance, cecal fermentation, and antioxidant status of growing rabbits to alleviate the negative impacts of heat stress. A total of 105 male rabbits at 35 days old with an average weight of 752.55 ± 27.56 g were randomly assigned to five groups (21 rabbits in each). The experimental dietary groups included a control group fed a basal diet without additives (control group) and four treated groups, A, B, C, and D, fed a basal diet supplemented with either a 1000 mg vitamin C/kg diet, a 25 mg organic selenium/kg diet, a 1000 mg betaine/kg diet, or a 20 g pomegranate peel/kg diet, respectively. No negative group (not heat-stressed) was included in the trial. Rabbits given A, B, C, and D supplements showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in growth performance, nutrient digestion, concentration of total volatile fatty acids (VFA), acetic, and propionic acids, and total bacterial count, and a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in NH3-N concentration, Enterococcus, coliforms, and E. coli counts in the cecum of rabbits. Total protein, albumin, globulin, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in groups supplemented with A, B, C, and D supplements compared to those in the control group. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, urea, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in groups supplemented with A, B, C, and D supplements compared to those in the control group. In conclusion, the finding showed that the supplementation of vitamin C, organic selenium, betaine, and pomegranate peel played a significant role in alleviating heat stress and had a further beneficial impact on rabbit performance, cecal fermentation and microbiota, and antioxidant status. However, betaine supplementation had a superior positive effect on the nutritional and physiological profile of heat-stressed rabbits.

Features of bone destruction in rabbits with experimental metabolic syndrome

There is now evidence that abdominal obesity and metabolic syndrome in general are associated with a decrease in bone mineral density, which in turn leads to an increased risk of fractures. A high incidence of osteoporosis and vertebral fractures in patients with MS has been proven. Thus, MS can be considered a new risk factor for osteoporosis. We studied biochemical parameters in rabbits with experimental metabolic syndrome, accompanied by bone destruction, as well as in models of metabolic syndrome (MS) and osteoporosis. The level of glucose and c-peptide indicates the development of insulin resistance in animals with MS and MS, accompanied by bone destruction. It has been shown that with metabolic syndrome associated with bone destruction, rabbits exhibit more profound disorders of lipid metabolism than with MS, the level of which differs slightly from each other. The study of bone remodeling indicators in a model of MS accompanied by bone destruction showed individual and gender differences in the content of bone remodeling markers in blood serum. It has been shown that in most experimental animals there is a decrease in osteocalcin, which is a marker of osteosynthesis, and an increase in the level of type I collagen C-telopeptide, which indicates increased destruction of bone collagen. Moreover, the level of bone destruction was more pronounced in males than in females. A study of biomarkers of cartilage tissue degradation showed that the level of change in COMP and hyaluronic acid was higher in females than in males, and the deviation of aggrecan levels from the reference value was higher in males. From our results we can conclude that in male rabbits with MS, bone tissue damage predominated, while in females the degree of cartilage tissue damage was higher.

Visual Corticotectal Neurons in Awake Rabbits: Receptive Fields and Driving Monosynaptic Thalamocortical Inputs.

The superior colliculus receives powerful synaptic inputs from corticotectal neurons in the visual cortex. The function of these corticotectal neurons remains largely unknown due to a limited understanding of their response properties and connectivity. Here, we use antidromic methods to identify corticotectal neurons in awake male and female rabbits, and measure their axonal conduction times, thalamic inputs and receptive field properties. All corticotectal neurons responded to sinusoidal drifting gratings with a nonlinear (nonsinusoidal) increase in mean firing rate but showed pronounced differences in their ON-OFF receptive field structures that we classified into three groups, Cx, S2, and S1. Cx receptive fields had highly overlapping ON and OFF subfields as classical complex cells, S2 had largely separated ON and OFF subfields as classical simple cells, and S1 had a single ON or OFF subfield. Thus, all corticotectal neurons are homogeneous in their nonlinear spatial summation but very heterogeneous in their spatial integration of ON and OFF inputs. The Cx type had the fastest conducting axons, the highest spontaneous activity, and the strongest and fastest visual responses. The S2 type had the highest orientation selectivity, and the S1 type had the slowest conducting axons. Moreover, our cross-correlation analyses found that a subpopulation of corticotectal neurons with very fast conducting axons and high spontaneous firing rates (largely "Cx" type) receives monosynaptic input from retinotopically aligned thalamic neurons. This previously unrecognized fast-conducting thalamic-mediated corticotectal pathway may provide specialized information to superior colliculus and prime recipient neurons for subsequent corticotectal or retinal synaptic input.

Moringa oleifera leaf extract promotes the healing of critical sized bone defects in the mandibles of rabbits

ObjectiveThe search for an osteopromotive material that enhances the efficacy of alloplasts in reconstructive surgeries has been going on for years. This study aimed to histologically and histomorphometrically evaluate the efficiency of Moringa oleifera leaf extract as an osteopromotive biomaterial.DesignThe study is a prospective randomized controlled animal study. 24 adult male New Zealand rabbits were equally allocated into test and control groups. Critical-sized bone defects were created in the edentulous areas of the mandibles of rabbits. The defects of the control group were filled with Beta-tricalcium Phosphate, while the defects of the test group were filled with Beta-tricalcium Phosphate combined with Moringa oleifera leaf extract. The results were evaluated histologically and histomorphometrically.ResultsHistological and histomorphometric analysis showed a significant increase in the surface area of bone and the number of osteoblasts in test groups compared to those in the control groups.ConclusionMoringa oleifera leaf extract has a positive effect on bone regeneration in critical-sized bone defects.

Comparison of the Effect of Kombucha and Vitamin C on Coronary Arteries in Rabbits Exposed to Lead and High-cholesterol Diet

Background: Vitamin C and kombucha contain a high amount of glucuronic acid that can prevent cholesterol accumulation and convert cholesterol to a more water-soluble compound. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of kombucha and vitamin C on the coronary arteries and aorta of male rabbits exposed to lead acetate fed with a high-cholesterol diet. Methods: Forty male rabbits were divided randomly into four groups of 10 animals. Group 1 served as a control group. Rabbits in group 2 received water containing 547 ppm of lead acetate and a high-cholesterol diet (1%). Group 3 received water containing 547 ppm lead acetate and a high-cholesterol diet (1%) in combination with ascorbic acid (500 mg/kg), and group 4 rabbits were treated with water containing 547 ppm lead acetate and kombucha extract (10 ml/kg) for 40 days orally on a high-cholesterol diet (1%). Results: The results showed that in groups 3 and 4, no significant atherosclerotic plaques could be detected in coronary arteries, compared to the control animals. However, large atherosclerotic plaques were observed in the aortas of those treated only with kombucha. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) statistical methods. The mean ± standard error of the mean (SEM) triglyceride (TG) serum levels in groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 were 122.70 ± 66.77, 280.60 ± 88.66, 120.10 ± 8.33, and 107.86 ± 8.61 mg/dL, respectively. The mean ± SEM TG serum levels in groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 were 67.80 ± 10.33, 67.90 ± 10.10, 60.80 ± 8.16, and 58.71 ± 4.78 mg/dL, respectively. The mean ± SEM TG serum levels in groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 were 194.50 ± 6.58, 182.60 ± 13.75, 178.30 ± 18.01, and 166.00 ± 7.65 mg/dL, respectively. P-values for low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and TG were reported as P &lt; 0.001, P = 0.077, and P &lt; 0.001, respectively. Conclusions: It could be concluded that kombucha, unlike vitamin C, cannot prevent the formation of large plaques in the aorta, although it seems that it can prevent atherosclerotic lesions in coronary arteries. Therefore, further studies are required to evaluate the long-term use of kombucha to assess whether higher doses are beneficial in preventing atherosclerotic events or not.

Heavy Metal Bioaccumulation in Rabbit Organs and Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann, 1819) Larvae: Implications for Forensic Entomology

Background: A closer relationship has been established between entomology and toxicology, giving rise to a new field known as entomotoxicology, which focuses on the bioaccumulation of toxic substances in scavenging insects and other arthropods. Methods: This study investigates the impact of lethal doses of Mercury Chloride (HgCl2) and Cadmium Chloride (CdCl2) administered to male rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus Linnaeus) on the distribution of Mercury and Cadmium in rabbit organs and their subsequent accumulation in Chrysomya albiceps larvae. The experimental groups were subjected to oral administration of specific concentrations of HgCl2 and CdCl2, while a control group received distilled water. Organ dissection and subsequent larval feeding were followed by acid digestion for sample preparation and inductively coupled plasma torch spectrometry coupled with a mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) was employed for analysis. Result: Results indicate a significant increase in Mercury concentrations in treated rabbit organs, with the liver exhibiting the highest concentration. Cadmium showed diverse distribution among rabbit organs, with the highest concentrations in the kidneys. Ch. albiceps larvae, reared on rabbit organs, exhibited varied concentrations of both Mercury and Cadmium, with significantly higher levels in the treated group. These findings underscore the ecological implications of heavy metal exposure and the potential utility of insect larvae in forensic investigations as bioindicators of environmental contamination.

Can the Sterilization Protocol Be Improved to Enhance the Healing of Allograft Tendons? An In Vivo Study in Rabbit Tendons.

Peracetic acid and irradiation are common sterilization methods for allograft tendons; however, under some conditions, both methods adversely affect the fiber arrangement and ultimate load of the tendon. An in vitro study showed that low-dose peracetic acid combined with irradiation may be less detrimental to allograft tendon structure and properties, possibly because the breakdown of peracetic acid can lead to an enlargement of the interstitial spaces and an increase in porosity. Using a rabbit Achilles tendon model, we asked: What is the effect of peracetic acid-ethanol combined irradiation on (1) the histopathology and fiber diameter of the allograft tendon, (2) tensile creep and load-to-failure biomechanical properties of allograft tendons, and (3) healing of the treated tendon in vivo compared with fresh-frozen allograft and peracetic acid-ethanol sterilization at 4 and 8 weeks? The Achilles tendons used in this study were sourced from euthanized 10-week-old male New Zealand White rabbits previously used for ophthalmic experiments. All allografts were divided into three groups: fresh-frozen group (control group, n = 20), peracetic acid-ethanol sterilization group (n =20), and peracetic acid-ethanol combined irradiation group (n = 20). The sterilization protocols were performed per a predetermined plan. In the peracetic acid-ethanol sterilization group, the tendon tissues were covered with the peracetic acid-ethanol sterilization solution (1% peracetic acid for 30 minutes). In the peracetic acid-ethanol combined irradiation group, the tendon tissues were covered with the peracetic acid-ethanol sterilization solution (0.2% peracetic acid for 30 minutes) and were subjected to 15 kGy gamma irradiation. Thirty 10-week-old male New Zealand White rabbits received bilateral Achilles tendon allografts surgically. Tendon samples from each group were harvested at 4 weeks (n = 30) and 8 weeks (n = 30) postoperatively. For each timepoint, eight tissues were used for histologic staining and electron microscopy, 15 tissues were used for biomechanical testing, and seven tissues were used for hydroxyproline assay and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Histopathology was determined qualitatively by hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining, while fiber diameter was measured quantitatively by transmission electron microscopy. Biomechanical properties were measured using cyclic loading tests and load-to-failure tests. The healing outcome was quantitatively judged through healing-related genes and proteins. At 4 weeks and 8 weeks postoperatively, the peracetic acid-ethanol combined irradiation group visually demonstrated the best continuity and minimal peripheral adhesions. Histologic staining showed that tendon fibers in the peracetic acid-ethanol combined irradiation group maintained consistent alignment without notable disruptions or discontinuities, and there was a qualitatively observed increase in the number of infiltrating cells compared with the control group at the 4-week timepoint (444 ± 49 /mm 2 versus 256 ± 43 /mm 2 , mean difference 188 /mm 2 [95% confidence interval 96 to 281]; p < 0.001). At 8 weeks postoperatively, the tendon fiber diameter in the peracetic acid-ethanol combined irradiation groups was similar to that of the control group (0.23 ± 0.04 µm versus 0.21 ± 0.03 µm, mean difference 0.02 µm [95% CI -0.04 to 0.08]; p = 0.56). At 8 weeks postoperatively, the peracetic acid-ethanol combined irradiation group exhibited better properties in terms of both ultimate load (129 ± 15 N versus 89 ± 20 N, mean difference 40 N [95% CI 7 to 73]; p = 0.02) and energy absorption density (17 ± 6 kJ/m 2 versus 8 ± 4 kJ/m 2 , mean difference 8 kJ/m 2 [95% CI 0.7 to 16]; p = 0.004) compared with the control group. Gene expression analysis revealed higher expression levels of COL1A1 (2.1 ± 0.8 versus 1.0 ± 0, mean difference 1.1 [95% CI 0.1 to 2.1]; p = 0.003) and MMP13 (2.0 ± 0.8 versus 1.0 ± 0, mean difference 1.0 [95% CI 0.4 to 1.6]; p = 0.03) in the peracetic acid-ethanol combined irradiation group than in the control group. There was a higher amount of collagen Type I in tendons treated with peracetic acid-ethanol combined irradiation than in the control group (0.36 ± 0.03 versus 0.31 ± 0.04, mean difference 0.05 [95% CI 0.01 to 0.09]; p = 0.02). Treatment with peracetic acid-ethanol combined irradiation did not have any discernible adverse effect on the histology, fiber diameter, enzymatic resistance, collagen content, or biomechanical strength of the allograft tendons compared with the control group. Peracetic acid-ethanol combined irradiation treatment had a positive impact on remodeling of the extracellular matrix and realignment of collagen fibers. This sterilization method could be helpful to expand the scope and frequency with which allogeneic materials are applied. The long-term healing effect and strength of allograft tendons must be tested before clinical use, and it is necessary to conduct comparative studies on autografts and synthetic materials that are currently widely used clinically.

Protective properties of vitamin E on hepatic cell injury caused by pregabalin on male rabbits (Biochemical and histopathological study)

Protective properties of vitamin E on hepatic cell injury caused by pregabalin on male rabbits (Biochemical and histopathological study)

Biological Evaluation of Isolated Flavonoids from Cymbopogon citratus on the Absorption of Lipids in Rabbits Infected with Giardiasis

The study involves isolation of flavonoids from Cymbopogon citratus, which included (Gallic acid, Chlorogenic, Caffeic acid, Ferulic acid, Myricetin, Tran-cinnamic acid, Kaempferol, Citral, Luteolin-7-O-neohesperidoside, Cassiaoccidentalin B, Carlinoside, Isoorientin, and Cynoaroside), and assessment of their therapeutic impact on lipid absorption in rabbits with Giardiasis. Twenty adult male rabbits were divided into four groups: Negative control (C-) received only drinking water, Positive control (C+) was orally treated with parasite cysts to induce Giardiasis, Group 1 (G1) received 30 mg/kg/day of metronidazole after inducing Giardiasis, and Group 2 (G2) received 100 mg/Kg/day of isolated flavonoids post Giardiasis induction. The results revealed varying concentrations of active flavonoids in the isolated extract, with a lower treatment response observed in G2 compared to metronidazole treatment in G1. Biochemically, microsomal triglyceride transfer protein levels significantly decreased in C+ and G1 compared to C- but returned to normal after flavonoid treatment in G2. Triglycerides levels decreased significantly in the C+ group and returned to normal post-treatment, while total cholesterol and high density lipoprotein levels remained unchanged in the C+ group. Serum cholesterol was unaffected by the infection in G+ and G2 but significantly increased in G1. Total antioxidant capacity and malodialdhyde levels significantly increased in the positive group but returned to normal after treatment in G1 and G2.. KEYWORDS :Cymbopogon citrates, Giardia lamblia, Lipid profile, Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein.

Differential Impact of Subcutaneous Neurokinin B Administration on Epididymal Proliferation in Adult New Zealand White Rabbits: A Dose-Dependent Study

Objective: To investigate the potential of variable doses of Neurokinin B on histomorphology of epididymis in adult rabbits. Study Design: Laboratory-based experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Gomal Centre of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, from Jun 2019 to Jun 2020. Methodology: Adult male New Zealand White rabbits with an average weight of 1.5–2 Kg were randomly assigned to three groups. Study animals were administered subcutaneously with Neurokinin B in two variable doses: 1 µg and one ηg. Control rabbits were injected with distilled water in parallel. After 12 days of continuous peptide treatment, animals (n=06) in each group were sacrificed. Epididymis were dissected and processed for light microscopy and sperm count. Results: Mean epididymis weight (mg) increased significantly (p&lt;0.001) with the treatment of Neurokinin B 1 ηg and Neurokinin B 1 µg as compared to control. With the increase in doses of Neurokinin B (1 ηg, 1 μg), the lumen of caput, corpus and cauda of the epididymis got significantly (p&lt;0.001) dilated dose-dependently in Neurokinin B treated animals. Sperm count increased significantly (p&lt;0.001) in the Neurokinin B-treated rabbits compared to the control. Light microscopy revealed increased luminal diameter compared to control in all Neurokinin B treated groups as compared to control. Conclusion: Continuous administration of Neurokinin B could benefit the epididymis, as shown by increased luminal diameter and sperm count.