Zealand White Male Rabbits Research Articles

Are nontreponemal tests suitable for monitoring syphilis treatment efficacy? Evidence from rabbit infection models

ObjectivesWe aimed to characterize kinetics of non-treponamal antibody titres during the natural course of syphilis and explore their roles in monitoring syphilis treatment efficacy. MethodsSixty New Zealand white male rabbits were challenged with Nichols or Amoy Treponema pallidum strains, and the rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test was performed to quantify non-treponemal antibody titres during the infection course. Viable T. pallidum in the challenged rabbits was assessed with rabbit infectivity tests. ResultsThe RPR titres of the Nichols or Amoy strain between no benzathine penicillin G (BPG) and BPG treatment subgroups displayed a similar trend: first ascending and then descending. Compared with baseline, the proportions of fourfold decline in RPR titres in the Nichols or Amoy group presented a similar result on days 30, 60 and 180 between the no BPG and BPG treatment subgroups (0%, 0/5; 80%, 4/5; 100%, 5/5; vs. 0%, 0/5; 80%, 4/5; 100%, 5/5; p 0.999; 0%, 0/5; 80%, 4/5; 80%, 4/5; vs. 40%, 2/5; 100%, 5/5; 100%, 5/5; p 0.098, respectively). Compared with the maximum baseline titre, the proportion of fourfold decline in PRR titre also showed a similar result in the two groups on days 30, 60 and 180 between the no BPG and the BPG treatment subgroups (0%, 0/5; 100%, 5/5; 100%, 5/5, vs. 40%, 2/5; 100%, 5/5; 100%, 5/5; p 0.129; 0%, 0/5; 100%, 5/5; 100%, 5/5, vs. 80%, 4/5; 100%, 5/5; 100%, 5/5; p 0.091, respectively. Moreover, regardless of whether the RPR titres presented a fourfold decline, viable T. pallidum could be detected in untreated rabbits' lymph nodes at 30, 60 and 180 days post infection, while viable T. pallidum was not detected in any of the treated rabbits' lymph nodes. ConclusionsThe RPR titre increased and then decreased (even became negative) during the natural course of syphilis, similar to that seen after BPG treatment. The RPR tetre is thus a questionable indicator of syphilis treatment efficacy.

Banana peels extract (Musa Paradisiaca Var Kepok) Decreased MDA in New Zealand White Rabbit With DM Hyperlipidemia

The incidence of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is increasing over the year. The drugs of DM cause side effects on an organ and heart. The pathological process of DM hyperlipidemia begins with oxidative stress. It is necessary to think about preventing hyperlipidemia in DM by using herbs as herbal medicines. This study aims to find out the effect of peel extracts of Musa Paradisiaca var. kepok to New Zealand White rabbits with hyperlipidemic in DM. The banana peel extract was obtained from the traditional market in Demak, Central Java. Banana peel extraction used maceration with ethanol extract. This study used 27 New Zealand White male rabbits, aged 4 months, with 1.5-2 kg average weights. The sample of the study was divided into three groups. Treatment group 1 (P1), Treatment group 2 (P2) and control group (K). All groups had standard feed and High Fructose Fat Diet (HFFD). Group P1 was given banana peel extract dose of 200 mg/kg body weight/day and group P2was given banana peel extract dose of 400 mg/kg body weight/day and group K was not given banana peel extract. This was an experimental laboratory research with the randomized pretest-posttest control design. The research data were taken three times; pretest, day 45 and day 104. This research was conducted for 104 days at UGM LPPT of unit 4 which has been internationally standardized. MDA levels were measured by the HPLC. The results of the pretest levels of MDA 0, 627, day 45 p = 0.232, day 104 p = 0.028. Ethanol extract of Musa Paradisiaca var. kapok prevents oxidative stress of New Zealand White rabbits with Diabetic Hyperlipidemia.

Effects of Buddlejae Flos Granules on Inflammatory Factors TGF-β1, NF-κB, IL-10 and IL-12 in Lacrimal Gland Cells of Castrated Male Rabbits

ObjectiveTo observe the effects of Buddlejae Flos (Mi Meng Hua, 密蒙花) granules on the expression of TGF-β1, NF-κB, IL-10 and IL-12 in lacrimal gland cells in castrated male rabbits. MethodsA total of 30 New Zealand male white rabbits were randomly divided into 5 groups. Group A: blank group; group B: model group; group C: Buddlejae Flos (Mi Meng Hua, 密蒙花) granules group; group D: placebo group; group E: testosterone group. Except for the group A, all rabbits were treated with bilateral testicular and epididymis resection before intervention. Rabbits in group C were administered with Buddlejae Flos (Mi Meng Hua, 密蒙花) granules (100 mg/kg), 3 times per day; Rabbits in group D were administered with normal saline, 3 times per day. Rabbits in group E were injected with testosterone propionate (0.5 mL/kg) in the thigh muscle, every 3 days. Schirmer I test (SIT) and break-up time (BUT) were measured on 1st day before modeling and 30th day after modeling. After 30 days of intervention, all rabbits were sacrificed. The removal lacrimal gland was stained in immunohistochemica staining. The expression of TGF-β1, NF-κB, IL-10 and IL-12 in lacrimal gland tissue of each group was detected, and the structure of lacrimal gland was observed. ResultsThe results of SIT and BUT showed that there was significant difference between group B and D compared with group A (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between group C and E (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in the comparison of inflammatory factors TGF-β1, NF-κB, IL-10 and IL-12 between group B and D (P > 0.05). There were significant differences between group B and D compared with other groups (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference between group A, C and E (P > 0.05). ConclusionsBuddlejae Flos (Mi Meng Hua, 密蒙花) granules have an inhibitory effect on the expression of TGF-β1, NF-κB, IL-10 and IL-12 in castrated male rabbit lacrimal gland cells, and alleviate the inflammation of lacrimal gland tissue by inhibiting the expression of TGF-β1, NF-κB, IL-10 and IL-12 in lacrimal gland tissue, so as to treat dry eye.

Differential scanning calorimetry as a fast method to discriminate cage or free-range rabbit meat

In this work, we proposed the use of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) as a rapid tool for the discrimination of meat samples coming from free-ranged and caged rabbits. Fatty acid composition, colour, and texture were also provided to fully characterize meat quality of the different samples. A total of 36, thirty-seven days old California × New Zealand White male rabbits were divided into 2 groups, housed in open air cages and in ground free-range, respectively. After 62 days of farming, 12 rabbits per group were slaughtered and the skinned carcasses were chilled for 24 h at 4 °C prior to be dissected. The Longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle was analysed. The overall fatty acid profile was not affected by the farming system, while free-range rabbits show a significant lower L* value (49.59) than the open-air ones (53.54). Nor a* and b* were altered. Texture measurements revealed that there was no effect of housing system on shear force. More interestingly, the deconvolution of DSC signals in the range 30–90 °C revealed that free-range rearing lead to an increase of myosin amount in meat, being its peak percentage equal to 8.5 ± 1.9 against 4.3 ± 2.2 in meat from caged rabbits.

Comparison of Single Versus Multiple Low-Level Laser Applications on Bone Formation in Extraction Socket Healing in Rabbits (Histologic and Histomorphometric Study)

This study evaluated the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on bone healing after tooth extraction in healthy rabbits and compared the effect between single and multiple doses of laser therapy. Thirty-six New Zealand white male rabbits were randomly divided into 3 equal groups: a control (C) group, a single laser (SL) group, and a multiple laser (ML) group. The mandibular right first premolar was extracted. The SL group received a single dose of diode laser immediately after extraction. The ML group received a dose immediately after extraction and then every 72hours for 12days. The Cgroup extraction sites were left untreated by laser. Eighteen animals were sacrificed at each of the experimental periods 3 and 6weeks after extraction. The sockets were removed from the harvested mandibles and prepared for light microscopic examination and histomorphometric analysis. The SL and ML groups showed more bone formation and rapid maturation compared with the Cgroup at 3 and 6weeks postoperatively. At 6weeks, the SL group showed the formation of compact bone. Furthermore, the ML group exhibited well-vascularized bone marrow spaces. Histomorphometric analysis showed an increase in the percentage of newly formed bone in the SL and ML groups compared with the C group. Moreover, the difference in the percentage of newly formed between the SL and ML groups was not statistically relevant. This rabbit model showed that single or multiple diode laser applications can be used to enhance bone formation after tooth extraction.

RECENT TECHNIQUES FOR AMELIORATION THE EFFECT OF HEAT STRESS CONDITIONS ON MALE RABBITS

The present work was conducted to study the effect of selenium (Se) plus vitamin E(Vitam E) and AD3E vitamins (Vitam AD3E) mixture as two alleviation techniques on heat stressedrabbits during hot summer season of Egypt. In total 45 New Zealand white (NZW) male rabbits wereused in this research. The animals were divided into three equal groups. The 1st group was keptwithout any treatment and served as control group. The 2nd and 3rd groups were supplemented daily1m/l in drinking water with Se plus E and AD3E vitamins mixture, respectively. The experiment lasted7 weeks during hot summer season (from third week of July to the end of August, 2017). Resultsshowed that adding both of Se plus vitamin E and AD3E vitamins mixture in drinking water decreased(P≤0.001) rectal, skin, ear temperature and respiration rate compared with the control group. Addingboth of Se plus vitamin E and AD3E vitamins mixture in drinking water improved (P≤0.05) final livebody weight and feed intake and decreased (P≤0.001) daily water intake in comparative with controlgroup. Adding both of Se plus vitamin E and AD3E vitamins mixture in drinking water increased(P≤0.01) serum total protein, albumin and globulin concentrations and decreased (P≤0.05) urea-N andcreatinine concentrations in male rabbits. Serum cortisol level was (P≤0.001) lower whileTriiodothyronine (T3), Thyroxin (T4) hormonal levels were (P≤0.001) higher in both two treatmentgroups compared with control. Normal sperm, volume, count, motility and live sperm increased(P≤0.001) while dead sperm was decreased (P≤0.001) in the two treatment groups compared withcontrol group. It can be concluded that the two techniques can alleviate the negative effects of heatstress on rabbits under hot summer season in Egypt

An instrument for inducing continuous passive motion after fracture of the tibial plateau in rabbits

Objective To design and develop intelligent rehabilitation equipment for administering continuous passive motion (CPM) of a rabbit′s knee joint after tibial plateau fracture. Methods The equipment constructed had three main parts: the core machinery, electronic control and a control program designed based on bionics principles. Twenty six-month-old New Zealand White male rabbits were randomly divided into sedentary (SED) and CPM groups after their knees had been fractured. The rabbits in the CPM group were given 30 min of early joint rehabilitation once a day for 4 weeks using the CPM equipment, while those in the SED group were kept in their cages and allowed free activity without any special exercise program. The body weight, range of motion and swelling of the affected knee joint were measured before the fracture and on the 3rd, 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th days after the fracture. On the 28th day after the fracture the pathological structure of the articular cartilage on the operative side was observed under a light microscope. Results The equipment ran safely and reliably, and drove the rabbits to move synchronously. It could accurately and conveniently adjust the knee flexion angle, movement speed and movement time. The intelligence of the equipment met the experimental requirements. On the 3rd day after the operation the average range of motion in the joints of both groups had changed significantly compared to that before the fracture. On the 28th day after the fracture the average degree of swelling and range of motion in the CPM group were significantly different from those of the SED group. On the 28th day, deformity and the smoothness of the fracture line in the CPM group were superior to those in the SED group. Moreover, the dominant tissues in the defect area of the CPM group were mainly hyaline cartilage while those in the SED group were mainly repair fibrocartilage. The defect area and its adjacent articular cartilages, chondrocyte regeneration and arrangement, layers of cells and subchondral tidal line recovery of the CPM group were better than in the SED group on average. Conclusion The equipment for knee joint manipulation is convenient to use, reliable and effective for the early rehabilitation of tibial plateau fracture, at least in rabbits. It promotes remodeling of the fracture and cartilage repair after tibial plateau fracture, and also improves range of motion in the knee and reduces swelling. Key words: Passive motion; Tibial plateau fracture; Rehabilitation equipment

BONE REGENERATION AND SOCKET PRESERVATION USING BONE AUGMENTING MATERIALS (HISTOMORPHOMETERIC STUDY IN RABBITS)

Background: The ultimate goal of periodontal therapy is the regeneration of tissues destroyed by periodontal disease Fibronectin belongs to a group of high molecular weight glycoproteins that exist on cell surfaces. It is known to play a role in cell-to-cell and cell-to-substrate adhesion, as well as an essential role in osseointegration due to its capacity to make osteoblasts attach to the extracellular matrix(ECM) components. Combination of Fibronectin and commercially available bone grafts may hold a promising potential of enhanced bone regeneration.Objective: Comparison of the effect of fibronectin, Bovine-Derived Xenograft (BDX)and their combination for socket preservation through histologic and histomorphometric analysis.Material and Method: Thirty six clinically healthy adult New Zealand white male rabbits, were used in this study. The animals were equally divided into three groups; I-control group (defect was left empty as control), II- bio group (bio- oss was applied on the socket ) and III-( Bio Fibro group) bone and fibronectin group( socket was filled with Bovine-Derived Xenograft Bio-Oss® with fibronectin). At 4 and eight weeks the animals were sacrificed. Bone regeneration among the three groups was evaluated through histologic and histomorphometric analysis.Results: The most significant value of area percent of newly formed bone was observed in the (bone and fibronectin) group, then the fibronectin group, with the least amount recorded in the control group. The difference was extremely statistically significant (p<0.0001). The socket is almost filled with newly formed bone trabeculae with organized fibrous tissue in the fibronectin and bone group ( Bio Fibro group ) at eight weeks.Conclusion: Fibronectin is a useful biomaterial for the enhancement of bone formation. Combination of fibronectin and bovine graft seems to lead significantly to favorable bone regeneration and could be efficaciously used in the socket preservation.

Influence of four tropical medicinal and aromatic plants on growth performance, digestibility, and blood constituents of rabbits

The present context was aimed to assess the influence of medicinal and aromatic plants supplemented diets on growth performance, digestibility, blood serum constituents, and economic efficiency of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus L.) as a model of livestock animals. A total of forty New Zealand White (NZW) male rabbits of 6 weeks of age with an average initial body weight of 837.7 ± 42.4 g were used. Rabbits were distributed into 5 groups (8 rabbits per group). First group served as control (non-supplemented diet), while P1, P2, P3, and P4 groups were supplemented with 1% basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), chamomile flower (Matricaria chamomilla L.), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), and ginger (Zingiber officinale L.), respectively. The final body weight (13 weeks of age), daily weight gain, daily feed intake, performance index, and feed conversion ratio were increased (P < 0.05) in rabbits fed diet supplemented with fennel (i.e., P3). Digestibility and feeding values were higher (P < 0.05) for P2 and P3 rabbits. Rabbits fed diets supplemented with P1, P2, and P3 excreted higher (in P3) and lower (in P1 and P2) crude protein in soft and hard feces, respectively. Control and P4 group showed the highest (P < 0.05) crude fiber content of soft feces when compared to other groups tested. Most of the carcass traits and blood parameters were significantly (P < 0.05) affected by rabbits fed diet supplemented with P3. Results indicated that 1% fennel could be preferably supplemented in growing rabbit’s basal diets for their enhanced productive performance, economical efficiency, and other essential livestock parameters.

Effect of resveratrol on seric vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations during atherosclerosis

IntroductionAlthough it is known that resveratrol has anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic actions, its effect on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in atherosclerosis is unknown. ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of resveratrol on serum concentrations of VEGF during the progression and evolution of atherosclerosis, as well as and its evolution over time in rabbits fed with a cholesterol diet. Materials and methodsA total of 48 New Zealand white male rabbits were randomly divided into four groups of 12 rabbits: group 1 (control): standard diet (commercial rabbit food); group 2: cholesterol diet (0.5% cholesterol); group 3 (control resveratrol): standard diet (commercial rabbit food) and resveratrol (2mg/kg); group 4: cholesterol diet (0.5% cholesterol) and resveratrol (2mg/kg), for 12weeks. Blood samples of overnight-fasted rabbits were collected at baseline and the sixth and twelfth weeks, and the lipid profile, VEGF, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were determined. Half of the animals were sacrificed on the sixth or twelfth week, and the aorta was dissected for histological studies. ResultsVEGF and CRP levels were significantly higher in groups 2 and 4 than in groups 1 and 3, respectively, from the 6th week (p<0.001). VEGF and CRP were significantly lower in group 4 than in group 2 on 12th week (p<0.004). Supplementation of resveratrol reduced the formation of atherosclerotic lesions. ConclusionsSerum VEGF and CRP levels are early markers of atherosclerosis. Oral supplementation of resveratrol exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic effects, decreasing serum concentrations of VEGF and CRP and the formation and evolution of atherosclerotic lesions.

The effect of allicin on the ventricular myocytes of rabbit with heart failure

Objective To observe the effect of allicin on the action potential duration (APD) and L-type calcium current (ICa, L) in the ventricular myocytes of rabbits with heart failure in order to explore the mechanisms of therapeutic effect of allicin on cardiac arrhythmias complicated with heart failure. Methods Forty-five New Zealand White male rabbits were randomly (random number) assigned to 3 groups (n=15 in each group): sham operated group (sham group), heart failure group (HF group), and heart failure treated with allicin group (HF+All group). The rabbit heart failure model was established by abdominal aortic constriction coupled with aortic regurgitation, the ventricular myocytes were obtained by enzyme double digestion, and the whole cell clamp was used to record action potential and calcium current.The action potential duration (APD), ICa, L and gating mechanism were observed during heart failure and allicin administered. Data were processed with pCLAMP version 10.2. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 17.0. Comparisons among groups were carried out using ANOVA, and SNK-q was used for multiple comparison as post-hoc. Results (1) Prolonged APD was found during heart failure, APD50 was prolonged from (93.4±4.7) ms in sham group to (115.5±6.2) ms in HF group(P<0.01). After administration of allicin 30 μmol/L, APD50 was shortened to (105.2±5.5) ms (P<0.05). (2) The density of ICa,L increased during heart failure, peak current density increased increased from (-8.4±0.6) pA/pF in sham group to (-15.1±1.1) pA/pF while 0 mV attained at depolarizations (P<0.01). After administration of allicin 30 μmol/L, the current density reduced to (-10.1±0.8) pA/pF ( P<0.01). The effect of allicin presented in both voltage dependent and consentration dependent manner. (3) According to the gating mechanism study, the main mechanism of lowering the density of ICa, L by allicin after heart failure was the acceleration of the steady inactivation of the channel, and the de-escalation of the recovery kinetic after the inactivation of the channel. Conclusions Allcin can be used to reduce the calcium current of ventricular myocytes in animal heart failure model, it has the potential of clinical use in treating cardiac arrhythmias during heart failure. Key words: Allicin; Heart failure; Rabbit; Ventricular myocytes; Action potential; L- calcium current

Efecto del resveratrol sobre las concentraciones séricas del factor de crecimiento endotelial vascular durante la aterosclerosis

IntroductionAlthough it is known that resveratrol has anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic actions, its effect on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in atherosclerosis is unknown. ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of resveratrol on serum concentrations of VEGF during the progression and evolution of atherosclerosis, as well as and its evolution over time in rabbits fed with a cholesterol diet. Materials and methodsA total of 48 New Zealand white male rabbits were randomly divided into four groups of 12 rabbits: group1 (control): standard diet (commercial rabbit food); group2: cholesterol diet (0.5% cholesterol); group3 (control resveratrol): standard diet (commercial rabbit food) and resveratrol (2mg/Kg); group4: cholesterol diet (0.5% cholesterol) and resveratrol (2mg/Kg), for 12weeks. Blood samples of overnight-fasted rabbits were collected at baseline and the sixth and twelfth weeks, and the lipid profile, VEGF, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were determined. Half of the animals were sacrificed on the sixth or twelfth week, and the aorta was dissected for histological studies. ResultsVEGF and CRP levels were significantly higher in groups2 and 4 than in groups1 and 3, respectively, from the 6th week (p<0.001). VEGF and CRP were significantly lower in group4 than in group2 on 12th week (p<0.004). Supplementation of resveratrol reduced the formation of atherosclerotic lesions. ConclusionsSerum VEGF and CRP levels are early markers of atherosclerosis. Oral supplementation of resveratrol exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic effects, decreasing serum concentrations of VEGF and CRP and the formation and evolution of atherosclerotic lesions.

The Protective Effect of Spinal Cord Stimulation Postconditioning Against Spinal Cord Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Rabbits

Delayed paraplegia due to spinal cord ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) remains one of the most severe complications of thoracoabdominal aneurysm surgery, for which effective prevention and treatment is still lacking. The current study investigates whether spinal cord stimulation (SCS) postconditioning has neuroprotective effects against spinal cord IRI. Ninety-six New Zealand white male rabbits were randomly divided into four groups as follows: a sham group and three experimental groups (C group, 2 Hz group, and 50 Hz group) n = 24/group. Spinal cord ischemia was induced by transient infrarenal aortic balloon occlusion for 28 min, after which rabbits in group C underwent no additional intervention, while rabbits in the other two experimental groups underwent 2 Hz or 50 Hz epidural SCS for 30 min at the onset of reperfusion and then daily until sacrifice. Hind limb neurologic function of rabbits was assessed using Jacob scale. Lumbar spinal cords were harvested immediately after sacrifice for histological examination and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining. The number of viable α-motor neurons in ventral horn was counted and TUNEL-positive rate of α-motor neurons was calculated. Spinal cord IRI was caused by transient infrarenal aorta occlusion for 28 min. Both 2 Hz and 50 Hz SCS postconditioning had neuroprotective effects, particularly the 2 Hz SCS postconditioning. Comparing to C group and 50 Hz group, rabbits in the 2 Hz group demonstrated better hind limb motor function and a lower rate of TUNEL-positive α-motor neuron after eight hours, one day, three days, and seven days of spinal cord reperfusion. More viable α-motor neurons were preserved after one and three days of spinal cord reperfusion in 2 Hz group rabbits than in C group and 50 Hz group rabbits. SCS postconditioning at 2 Hz protected the spinal cord from IRI.

Effects of Selenium- and Chromium-Enriched Diets on Growth Performance, Lipid Profile, and Mineral Concentration in Different Tissues of Growing Rabbits.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation with different sources of selenium and/or organic chromium on the growth performance, digestibility, lipid profile, and mineral content of hair, liver, and fore and hind limb of growing rabbits. A total of 150 weanling New Zealand White (NZW) male rabbits were randomly allotted to six dietary treatment groups: (1) basal diet (control group), (2) basal diet + 0.6mg sodium selenite/kg diet, (3) basal diet + 0.6mg selenium yeast/kg diet, (4) basal diet + 0.3mg sodium selenite/kg diet + 0.3mg selenium yeast/kg diet, (5) basal diet + 0.6mg chromium yeast/kg diet + 0.6mg selenium yeast/kg diet, (6) basal diet + 0.6mg chromium yeast/kg diet. Only the combination between inorganic and organic selenium led to significant improvement in body weight, body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio. Carcass traits were not different in all groups. Selenium (Se) and chromium (Cr) were deposited in the tissues of rabbits fed diets supplemented with Se and Cr, respectively. Blood serum in both of selenium- and chromium-supplemented groups showed declined total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Group supplemented with organic chromium showed higher high-density lipoprotein (HDL) than the other groups. It could be concluded that using a mixture of inorganic and organic Se has a positive effect on the growth performance of growing rabbits. Both Se and Cr have hypocholesterolemic effect. Both of Se and Cr can be deposited in the meat and other tissues of rabbits and that improves meat quality which positively reflects on human acceptance. The combination between inorganic (0.3mg sodium selenite/kg diet) and organic selenium (0.6mg selenium yeast/kg diet) improved growth performance traits of growing rabbits.

IN VITRO EFFECTS OF ACINETOBACTER BAUMANNII AND SELECTED NATURAL BIOMOLECULES ON RABBIT SPERMATOZOA MOTILITY

The aim of this study was to assess the potential efficiency of selected biologicallyactive substances on the motility behaviour of rabbit spermatozoa subjected to invitro induced A. baumannii contamination. The semen samples used for A.baumannii detection were collected from 10 New Zealand white male rabbits andthe presence of the bacterium was confirmed using MALDI-TOF MassSpectrometry. For the in vitro experiments rabbit spermatozoa were re-suspendedin PBS, containing mineral supplements, BSA and glucose in the presence of 3x105CFU A. baumannii and diverse concentrations of selected biomolecules (resveratrol- RES, quercetin - QUE, curcumin - CUR, epicatechin - EPI, isoquercitrin - ISO).The sperm motility was assessed using the computer-aided sperm analysis at 0h,2h, 4h and 6h. A. baumannii significantly decreased the sperm motility (P&lt;0.001)at Time 2h and maintained this negative impact throughout the in vitro culture.Meanwhile, the motility at Time 2h was significantly higher in the samples subjectedto A. baumannii together with 10 μmol/L RES (P&lt;0.01); 5, 10 and 50 μmol/L QUE(P&lt;0.001); 1 μmol/L CUR (P&lt;0.05); 10, 50 and 100 μmol/L EPI (P&lt;0.01) as well as 50μmol/L (P&lt;0.05) and 100 μmol/L ISO (P&lt;0.001) in comparison to the control exposedto the bacterium exclusively. After 4h, the motility remained significantly higher in thegroups co-treated with the inoculum and 10 μmol/L RES (P&lt;0.05), 50 μmol/L QUE(P&lt;0.05) as well as 50 μmol/L EPI (P&lt;0.05) when compared to the positive control.Nevertheless, none of the biomolecules was effective against the rapid decline ofsperm motility caused by A. baumannii during later stages of the experiment (Time6h). Based on these results, one can conclude that RES, QUE and EPI exhibitantibacterial properties providing a selective advantage to spermatozoa in thepresence of A. baumannii, particularly during short-term rabbit semen handling.

Postconditioning Effect of PDE5 inhibitor, Sildenafil in Normal and Diabetic Rabbits following Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion injury.

BackgroundSeveral studies have demonstrated cardioprotective effects of the phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor, sildenafil (SILD), in the setting of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion (MI/R) in mice and rabbits. However, it is unclear whether sildenafil exerts postconditioning effect in normal and diabetic rabbits.Methods and ResultsTo induce diabetes, alloxan monohydrate (125 mg/kg, i.v.) was administered in New Zealand white male rabbits (n=10; ~3 kg, 4 months old). Blood glucose level increased to 342±21 mg/dL following 2 weeks of alloxan administration. Balloon occluders were implanted on the top of the coronary artery and 7 days later, conscious rabbits were subjected to 45‐min ischemia (I) and 3 days of reperfusion (R) by inflating/deflating the balloon. Saline (as control) or Sildenafil (0.71 or 1.4 mg/kg; i.v.) was infused for 60 min starting 5 min before reperfusion. Myocardial infarct size was determined by triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining and troponin I (cTnI) was measured using ELISA method in the plasma. The result showed that sildenafil (both concentrations) significantly reduced myocardial infarct size (Figure A) and peak plasma levels of cardiac troponin I. Similarly, sildenafil reduced infarct size in diabetic rabbits (DM) following MI/R (Figure C). There were no differences in hemodynamics during MI/R or myocardial area‐at‐risk (AAR) (Figure B and D).ConclusionSildenafil exerts significant postconditioning effect in normal and diabetic rabbits of conscious I/R model that is potentially is free of confounding factors associated with open‐chest preparations.Support or Funding InformationNIHRO1HL134366 (AD &amp; RCK), RO1HL118808 (RCK), RO1HL133167 (RCK)This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

The role of Platelet Rich Fibrin in bone defect regeneration

Background: Natural tissue regeneration relies on a cocktail of signaling molecules and growth factors. During natural wound healing, activated platelets concentrate in the wound area and secrete factors that play a role in wound healing. Platelet rich fibrin (PRF) represents a revolutionary step in the platelet gel therapeutic concept. It needs only centrifugation of the natural blood without additives. Objectives: This present study designed to evaluate the role of PRF on regeneration of bone defect. Design: In this study 24New Zealand white male rabbits were used with bilateral cortical bony defects in the submental mandibular area, divided into two groups. The right bone defects were filled with PRF (experimental) and the left bone defects kept empty (control). Each group was equally subdivided into three subgroups; rabbits were sacrificed at 2nd, 4th and 6th weeks. Immunohistochemical analysis for collagen I and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were done. Results: The histological findings illustrated that all experimental subgroups showed more deposition of osteoid tissue and well organized bone trabeculae. Immunohistochemical findings of collagen I revealed statistically to be the highest in PRF group. While VEGF illustrated a positive expression by bone marrow stromal cells and bone tissue cells in different value and the PRF group recorded the highest value. Conclusion: It was concluded that PRF can accelerate bone regeneration and had effect on collagen I and VEGF expression.

Combined PET/DCE-MRI in a Rabbit Model of Atherosclerosis: Integrated Quantification of Plaque Inflammation, Permeability, and Burden During Treatment With a Leukotriene A4 Hydrolase Inhibitor

ObjectivesThe authors sought to develop combined positron emission tomography (PET) dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to quantify plaque inflammation, permeability, and burden to evaluate the efficacy of a leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H) inhibitor in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis. BackgroundMultimodality PET/MRI allows combining the quantification of atherosclerotic plaque inflammation, neovascularization, permeability, and burden by combined 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET, DCE-MRI, and morphological MRI. The authors describe a novel, integrated PET-DCE/MRI protocol to noninvasively quantify these parameters in aortic plaques of a rabbit model of atherosclerosis. As proof-of-concept, the authors apply this protocol to assess the efficacy of the novel LTA4H inhibitor BI691751. MethodsNew Zealand White male rabbits (N = 49) were imaged with integrated PET-DCE/MRI after atherosclerosis induction and 1 and 3 months after randomization into 3 groups: 1) placebo; 2) high-dose BI691751; and 3) low-dose BI691751. All animals were euthanized at the end of the study. ResultsAmong the several metrics that were quantified, only maximum standardized uptake value and target-to-background ratio by 18F-FDG PET showed a modest, but significant, reduction in plaque inflammation in rabbits treated with low-dose BI691751 (p = 0.03), whereas no difference was detected in the high-fat diet and in the high-dose BI691751 groups. No differences in vessel wall area by MRI and area under the curve by DCE-MRI were detected in any of the groups. No differences in neovessel and macrophage density were found at the end of study among groups. ConclusionsThe authors present a comprehensive, integrated 18F-FDG PET and DCE-MRI imaging protocol to noninvasively quantify plaque inflammation, neovasculature, permeability, and burden in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis on a simultaneous PET/MRI scanner. A modest reduction was found in plaque inflammation by 18F-FDG PET in the group treated with a low dose of the LTA4H inhibitor BI691751.

EFFECT OF SUPPLEMENTAL ZINC AND COPPER ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS

Forty-two New Zealand White male rabbits with average body weight 546.74g were randomly assigned to 7 groups (6 animals in each) in a completely randomized design to study the effect of dietary zinc supplementation through inorganic (ZnO) or organic (Zinc EDTA) sources in combinations with copper (CuSo4) on growth performance. Rabbits of the first group (T1) were given basal diet without any supplementations (control group), while the other 6 groups were given basal diet containing zinc and copper as follows: group 2 (T2) received basal diet + 250 mg Cu/kg diet from CuSo4, group 3 (T3) received basal diet + 500 mg Cu/kg diet, group 4 (T4) received basal diet +20 mg Zn from Zinc EDTA + 250 mg Cu/kg diet, group 5 (T5) received basal diet + 20 mg Zn from Zinc EDTA + 500 mg Cu/kg diet, group 6 (T6) received basal diet +20 mg Zn from ZnO + 250 mg Cu/kg diet and group 7 (T7) received basal diet + 20 mg Zn from ZnO + 500 mg Cu/kg diet, respectively. Live body weight, daily body gain, daily feed intake andfeed conversion ratio were significantly increased by feeding rabbits on diets supplemented with 250 or 500 mg Cu/ kg diet. More enhancements were recorded in rabbits fed with 20 mg zinc as ZnO and 250 mg copper (T6). Total protein concentration in blood serum was significantly increased in rabbits fed 20 mg Zn from Zn EDTA + 500 mg Cu/kg diet (T5). Also the same treatment increased ceriatenine (CREAT) concentration in blood serum. While, Cu supplementations at 250 (T2) or 500 (T3) mg/kg feed increased urea concentration. All supplementation treatments significantly increased pre-slaughter weight comparing to un-supplemented control rabbits. The highest pre-slaughter weight was found in rabbits fed with diet containing 250 mg Cu/kg diet (T2) or with 20 mg Zn from ZnO + 250 mg Cu/kg diet (T6). Weights of carcass, liver and kidney and dressing (%) as well as weights of head and hind part did not significantly affected with the tested supplementations.Economically final margin was increased in all rabbits fed supplemented feed. The highest income from gain and the highest final margin were recorded in rabbit groups fed diet supplemented with 250 mg Cu/kg diet (T2) or 20 mg Zn from ZnO + 250 mg Cu/kg diet (T6).

Use of fresh human amniotic membrane for improvement of rabbit perianal surgery wounds

Introduction: The use of fresh human amniotic membrane as an accelerating factor for injury repair has been considered for improvement of various injuries, particularly burns, and has shown significant effects. Perianal surgeries, however, have a high recurrence rate due to the anatomy of the area. Thus, finding an effective method in postoperative care may play an important role in improving the quality of surgical procedures in this area. Considering the high recurrent rate of injury in the perianal region and the need for more effective post-surgical care, this study was aimed at evaluating the effects of using amniotic membrane for wound improvement following perianal surgery in a rabbit model. Methods: Twenty-four New Zealand white male rabbits were divided into two groups. After the rabbits received anesthesia and perianal surgery, group A rabbits received fresh human amniotic membranes (measuring 1x1 cm) to potentially repair the surgical wounds, while group B rabbits did not receive the membranes. The data were analyzed using t-tests and in order to confirm the normal distribution of data, Kolmogorov-Simonov test was used (P=0.03). Results: In this study, the Abramov surgical wound scoring system was used to determine the wound improvement rate in all specimens. According to the results, this rate was significantly higher in the group administered with amniotic membrane (group A; P=0.0001). Conclusion: The use of fresh human amniotic membrane plays an important role in the improvement of perianal surgical wounds in rabbits. Thus, this method may be more effective than other methods without membrane anesthetic surgeries.