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The aim of the research was to investigate the effects of different stocking densities on fattening performance, slaughter, carcass, meat quality characteristics, and fatty acid composition in New Zealand rabbits raised in cage conditions and also determine the ideal housing frequency so that yields were not adversely affected. In the study, 36 New Zealand rabbits were used. After weaning, the fattening was started and rabbits were put into cages at different stocking densities as 1 rabbit/cage, 2 rabbits/cage, and 3 rabbits/cage. The live weight of rabbits and feed consumption data were taken every week. At the end of 8 weeks of fattening, slaughtering was carried out and slaughter weights of the rabbits were recorded. The internal organ weights and hot carcass weights were determined. After 24 h, chilled carcass weight and reference carcass weight were defined. As quality parameters of meat; pH, color, cooking loss, water holding capacity, drip loss, and fatty acid composition were determined. In the results of the study, 3 rabbits/cage group had the lowest final live weight (2353.60 g) and daily live weight gain (25.62 g) but 1 rabbit/cage group had the lowest feed conservation ratio (3.56) (p = 0.05). There were no significant differences in dressing out percentage, hot, chilled, and reference carcass weight. Head and hind part percentages were higher for 2 rabbits/cage and 3 rabbits/cage groups (p = 0.05). Stocking density had no relationship between meat quality and fatty acid composition data except b* value for the longissimus dorsi muscle measured at the 24th h and for the biceps femoris muscle measured at the 0th h (p = 0.05). In conclusion, 1 rabbit/cage and 2 rabbits/cage groups had better fattening performance values comparing the 3 rabbits/cage group because of movement area, social and hierarchical behavior between rabbits and advised for laboratory and commercial rabbit breeding for uniformity and profitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The topic was to investigate the anatomical features of the rabbit liver by two- and three-dimensional ultrasonography. Eighteen sexually mature healthy clinically New Zealand rabbits aged eight months were studied. Two-dimensional ultarsonographic anatomical image of the rabbit liver presented it in the cranial abdominal region as a relatively hypoechoic finding. Its contours were regular and in close contact with the hyperechoic diaphragm. Liver parenchyma was heterogeneous. The gall bladder was visualized as an oval soft tissue structure, filled with anechoic content. Its walls were hypoechoic. Two-dimensional ultarsonographic anatomical image of left hepatic lobe was sharply distinguished to right hepatic lobe's outlines. In three-dimensional ultrasonogarphic anatomical study, the organ image was in three orthogonal planes. Its relief was regular and uninterrupted. Left hepatic lobe was found on the left and the right hepatic lobe was a soft tissue point for gall bladder position. Left and lateral was left lateral hepatic lobe. It was covered partly by left medial hepatic lobe. The right hepatic lobe was visualized as a single structure. The gall bladder was an oval finding. Its walls were hyperechoic and regular, without roughness. The results could be used as a base for modern interpretation of rabbit liver anatomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forty eight New Zealand White weaned male rabbits (28 d of age) were classified into 4 groups (12/group). Four isonitrogenous, iso-energetic and isofibrous diets were formulated. The control diet was based on corn, soybean and straw. Guava waste (GW) was collected, dried and crushed as meal, then chemically analyzed. Three diets (D1, D2 and D3) were prepared to contain 20% dried GW meal. Diets D2 and D3 were supplemented by 1% of either a blend of organic acids or Mannan oligosaccharide (MOS), respectively. Diets and water were offered ad-libitum to rabbits and feed intake was recorded daily. Body weight change was recorded weekly and. Digestibility trial was carried out at 46 d of age by fecal collection for 4 successive days and followed by feed and feces analysis. The digestion coefficients were calculated for organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and non fiber carbohydrate (NFC). At 98 d of age, blood samples were collected after slaughter for hematology and carcass dressing measurements. Results revealed that GW was rich in crude fiber but its inclusion in the diet improved significantly (P<0.05) OM and nutrients digestibility, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and performance index (PI) of rabbits fed diets D1, D2 and D3 when compared with the control group. Organic acids and MOS supplementation to diets D2 and D3 improved the efficiency of feed digestibility and growth. Results of blood and carcass traits showed no adverse effect of GW inclusion in the diet of rabbits. Economically, inclusion of GW either alone in the diet or with MOS supplementation was the most profitable when compared with other diets. In conclusion, GW can be satisfactory added to diets of growing rabbits without negative effect on growth, digestibility, health and carcass characteristics , and economizes feed costs and preserves the environment by reduction of pollution caused by its processing and manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endosulfan, a chlorinated hydrocarbon insecticide/acaricide, is a member of a cyclodiene sub-group of poisons to a wide variety of insects and mites. It is also toxic to humans and animals, but there is limited knowledge about endosulfan-related splenic and overall immunotoxicity. The aim of this study was to review pathological findings of endosulfan toxicity in the spleen and to examine potential protective effects of the anti-oxidant Vitamin C (Vit C). Here, after 6-week exposures, the spleens of New Zealand White rabbits were examined grossly and histopathologically and tissue caspase-3 activity was assessed immunohistochemically. Rabbits in four groups were used: Group END were given by oral gavage a sub-lethal dose of endosulfan (1 mg/kg) in corn oil daily for 6 weeks; Group END + C received the same dose of endosulfan daily and Vit C (20 mg/kg) every other day by gavage during this period; Group Vit C received oral corn oil daily and 20 mg/kg Vit C every other day; and Group OIL received corn oil daily for 6 weeks. Analyses of the tissues collected 1 week after the final dosing revealed lymphocyte depletion and necrosis in spleens of the hosts that received the pesticide (END only and END + C); hemorrhage and slight neutrophilic infiltration was also noted. Caspase-3 immunoreactivity was marked in lymphocytes in all spleens of rabbits in both END groups. Overall, these toxicities were mitigated by Vit C co-treatment; in END + C hosts, markedly decreased depletion of lymphocytes, inflammation and caspase-3 immunoreactivity were observed. However, even with mitigation, the level of toxicity present was still greater than any seen in the spleens of hosts that received OIL or Vit C alone. These results revealed endosulfan could cause toxicity in the rabbit spleen, characterized by depletion of lymphocytes, inflammation, necrosis and hemorrhage, and that this toxicity could begin to be mitigated by Vit C co-treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of different levels of dietary supplementation of grape seed extract (GSE) on growth performance, carcass traits and antioxidant status of rabbits under heat stress conditions (temperature humidity index 87.5–93.5). Weaned male New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits about 6 weeks old (n = 144, mean body weight 705 g) were randomly allotted to four dietary groups. The Control group was fed a basal diet without GSE; the experimental groups received the basal diet with 100, 200 and 300 mg GSE/kg (Groups 100 GSE, 200 GSE and 300 GSE, respectively). The experimental period lasted for 8 weeks. Compared with other groups, rabbits of Group 300 GSE had the best body weight gain and feed conversion ratio and the lowest mortality. Dietary GSE improved carcass weight, percentage of hot carcass, intestine and edible giblets, while total non-edible parts were reduced (p ≤ 0.05) in comparison with the Control group. In Groups 200 GSE and 300 GSE, plasma total protein, albumin and globulin were increased (p ≤ 0.05). In contrast, all supplementation levels of GSE reduced (p ≤ 0.05) the plasma concentrations of total lipids, total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins. Antioxidant enzymes of rabbits (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione transferase) and total antioxidant capacity in blood were increased (p ≤ 0.05) by adding dietary GSE. However, malondialdehyde was reduced (p ≤ 0.001) with increasing GSE levels. Generally, grape seeds can be considered as rich source of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. The results of the study revealed that all tested levels of GSE were useful as a natural protection against heat stress to maintain performance, carcass traits and antioxidant status and could reduce the negative effects of heat stress in rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To investigate the effect of eicosapentaenoic acid ( EPA)-coated Ti implants on osteoconduction in white New Zealand rabbit mandibles. Material and methods Sandblasted and cleansed planar titanium specimens with a size of 5 × 5 × 1 mm were coated on one side with 0.25 vol% eicosapentaenoic acid ( EPA). The other side of the specimens was kept highly polished (the control side). These specimens were inserted in rabbit mandibles. Twelve rabbits were randomly assigned into three study groups ( n = 4). The rabbits were sacrificed at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. The harvested specimens with the implants were assessed for new bone formation on both sides of the implant using CBCT, conventional radiographs, and the biaxial pullout test. The results were statistically analyzed by a nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test and Friedman's test as multiple comparisons and by Brunner-Langer nonparametric mixed model approach (R Software). Results A significant osteoconductive bone formation was found on the EPA-coated Ti implant surface ( P < 0.05) at 8 weeks when compared to the polished surface (control). Biaxial pullout test results showed a significant difference ( P < 0.05) after 8 and 12 weeks with a maximum force of 243.8 N, compared to 143.25 N after 4 week. Conclusion EPA implant coating promoted osteoconduction on the Ti implant surfaces, enhancing the anchorage of the implant to the surrounding bone in white New Zealand rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the viability of the implanted crushed and uncrushed auricular cartilage graft with intact perichondrium with respect to macroscopic and microscopic parameters. Cartilage grafts from 8 white New Zealand rabbits were harvested from the right auricle, with intact perichondrial layers. There were two categories Pre implant and Post-implant and two types, mildly crushed and uncrushed cartilage graft. The cartilage grafts were implanted into the subcutaneous pockets over the right upper paraspinal area. At the end of 2 months, implanted grafts were retrieved and examined histopathologically. There was a difference among the both types of cartilages in both the categories with respect to chronic inflammation, fibrosis, cartilage mass viability and vascularization. The mildly crushed auricular autologous cartilage with intact perichondrium does not lose the viability and maintains the structural integrity and thus increasing the clinical predictability for cosmetic correction of nose in rhinoplasty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the role of local injection of butyric acid (BA) with autogenous omental graft was evaluated in healing of experimental Achilles tendon injury in rabbits. Nine adult male New Zealand rabbits were anesthetized and a partial thickness tenotomy was created on both hindlimbs. In treated group, omental graft was secured in place using BA soaked polygalactin 910 suture. In control group, the graft was sutured without BA. Butyric acid and normal saline were injected daily to treatment and control groups for three days, respectively. Based on the findings, on day 15 after injury, the tendon sections showed that healing rate in BA treated group was higher than that in control group. Furthermore, at days 28 and 45, comparison between BA treated and control groups demonstrated that BA increased the healing rate but with no significance. In summary, results of this study show that application of BA with autogenous omental graft can improve healing process of damaged Achilles tendon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the diagnostic value of quantitative contrast-enhanced (CE) ultrasonography for crush injury in the hind limb muscles of rabbits. Methods: A total of 120 New Zealand white rabbits were randomized to receive compression on the left hind limb for either 2h (n = 56) or 4 h (n = 56) to induce muscle crush injury. Another eight animals were not injured and served as normal controls. CE ultrasonography parameters such as peak intensity (PI), ascending slop, descending slop and area under curve (AUC) were measured at 0.5, 2, 6 and 24 h and 3, 7 and 14 days after decompression. Results: Compared with the uninjured muscles, reperfusion of the injured muscles showed early and high enhancement in CE ultrasonography images. The time-intensity curve showed a trend of rapid lift and gradual drop. The PI and AUC values differed significantly among the three groups and were positively correlated with serum and tissue biomarkers. Rabbits of the 4-h compression group showed significantly higher PI and AUC values, and serum and tissue parameters than the 2-h compression group at each time points. Conclusion: CE ultrasonography can effectively detect muscle crush injury and monitor dynamic changes of the injured muscles in rabbits. PI and AUC are promising diagnostic parameters for this disease. Advances in knowledge: CE ultrasonography might play an important role in the pre-hospital and bedside settings for the diagnosis of muscle crush injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants and plant extracts are used extensively to treat many diseases. Fumaria officinalis is an annual plant from the genus Fumaria which has long been used in herbal medicine. The aim of this study was to examine the haematological effects of F. officinalis hydroalcoholic extract in rabbits. This study was conducted over a period of 28 days. Two doses of F. officinalis hydroalcoholic extract (200 and 400 mg/kg body weight) were administrated orally to two groups of rabbits. Parameters evaluated included packed cell volume (PCV), Hb, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), RBC and total and differential WBC count. The results showed that F. officinalis hydroalcoholic extract (FOHE) produces a non-dose-dependent significant ( P < 0.05) decrease in PCV, Hb, MCV, RBC, total WBC and neutrophil percentage in the two experimental groups when compared with the control group. However, it increased lymphocyte, eosinophil and monocyte percentages. In conclusion, FOHE reduces haematological activity in rabbits which should warrant its consideration in the management of anaemia and immunity-dependent disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Acacia honey is a natural product which has proven to have therapeutic effects on skin wound healing, but its potential healing effects in corneal wound healing have not been studied. This study aimed to explore the effects of Acacia honey (AH) on corneal keratocytes morphology, proliferative capacity, cell cycle, gene and protein analyses. Keratocytes from the corneal stroma of six New Zealand white rabbits were isolated and cultured until passage 1. The optimal dose of AH in the basal medium (FD) and medium containing serum (FDS) for keratocytes proliferation was identified using MTT assay. The morphological changes, gene and protein expressions of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), marker for quiescent keratocytes and vimentin, marker for fibroblasts were detected using q-RTPCR and immunocytochemistry respectively. Flowcytometry was performed to evaluate the cell cycle analysis of corneal keratocytes. Results Cultured keratocytes supplemented with AH showed no morphological changes compared to control. Keratocytes cultured in FD and FDS media supplemented with 0.025% AH showed optimal proliferative potential compared with FD and FDS media, respectively. Gene expressions of ADLH and vimentin were increased in keratocytes cultured with AH enriched media. All proteins were expressed in keratocytes cultured in all media in accordance to the gene expression findings. No chromosomal changes were detected in keratocytes in AH enriched media. Conclusion Corneal keratocytes cultured in media supplemented with 0.025% AH showed an increase in proliferative capacity while retaining their morphology, gene and protein expressions with normal cell cycle. The results of the present study show promising role of AH role in accelerating the initial stage of corneal wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a highly toxic gas for which no effective antidotes exist. It acts, at least in part, by binding to cytochrome c oxidase, causing cellular asphyxiation and anoxia. We investigated the effects of three different ligand forms of cobinamide, a vitamin B12 analog, to reverse sulfide (NaHS) toxicity. Methods. New Zealand white rabbits received a continuous intravenous (IV) infusion of NaHS (3 mg/min) until expiration or a maximum 270 mg dose. Animals received six different treatments, administered at the time when they developed signs of severe toxicity: Group 1-saline (placebo group, N = 9); Group 2-IV hydroxocobalamin ( N = 7); Group 3-IV aquohydroxocobinamide ( N = 6); Group 4-IV sulfitocobinamide ( N = 6); Group 5-intramuscular (IM) sulfitocobinamide ( N = 6); and Group 6-IM dinitrocobinamide ( N = 8). Blood was sampled intermittently, and systemic blood pressure and deoxygenated and oxygenated hemoglobin were measured continuously in peripheral muscle and over the brain region; the latter were measured by diffuse optical spectroscopy (DOS) and continuous wave near infrared spectroscopy (CWNIRS). Results. Compared with the saline controls, all cobinamide derivatives significantly increased survival time and the amount of NaHS that was tolerated. Aquohydroxocobinamide was most effective (261.5 ± 2.4 mg NaHS tolerated vs. 93.8 ± 6.2 mg in controls, p < 0.0001). Dinitrocobinamide was more effective than sulfitocobinamide. Hydroxocobalamin was not significantly more effective than the saline control. Conclusions. Cobinamide is an effective agent for inhibiting lethal sulfide exposure in this rabbit model. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal dose and form of cobinamide and route of administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between enhanced intensity of contrast enhanced ultrasound and microvessel density of aortic atherosclerotic plaque in rabbit model. The abdominal aortas of thirty-six male New Zealand rabbits were damaged by balloon expansion and the animals were then fed a high fat diet for 12 weeks. Twenty-seven plaques on the near aortic wall were detected using conventional ultrasound examination. The maximum thickness of each plaque was recorded. CEUS was performed on these 27 plaques and the time-intensity curves (TICs) were analyzed offline. Using the quantitative ACQ software, features such as the arrival time (AT), time to peak (TTP), baseline intensity (BI), peak intensity (PI) and enhanced intensity (EI) (EI = PI-BI) were assessed. Inter- and intra-observer agreement of EI were assessed using the Bland-Altman test. After CEUS examination, the rabbits were sacrificed for pathological examination and CD34 monoclonal antibody immunohistochemical detection. Microvessel density (MVD) was counted under the microscope. The relationship between indexes of CEUS and the level of MVD was analyzed. There was a good positive linear correlation between EI and MVD (γ = 0. 854, P<0. 001), the intraclass correlations for inter- and intra-observer agreement for EI were 0.73 and 0.82 respectively, suggesting that EI may be act as a useful index for plaque risk stratification in animal models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For articular cartilage defect treatment, many treatment modalities have been developed. We evaluate the cartilage repair potential of an atelocollagen and fibrin mixture transplanted to cartilage defects. A circular, articular cartilage defect 4 mm in diameter was made in the trochlear region in each of 20 New Zealand white rabbits. The 10 rabbits in the control group were kept without treatment and the 10 rabbits in the experimental group underwent injection of atelocollagen mixed with fibrin. At week 12 following surgery the cartilage was observed and histologically compared in both groups. The surface of the newly generated cartilage was very smooth and even, and we also noted that the entire area was completely regenerated in the experimental group. The control group showed incomplete and irregular cartilage formation in the defect. Regarding the histological scoring, comparison of the two groups differed significantly (p < 0.001). Injection of a mixture of atelocollagen and fibrin used to treat articular cartilage defects of the knee appears to be an effective method for cartilage regeneration. © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed the histopathology of rabbit skin, previously immunized with SGE2, SGE4, and SGE6 gland extracts prepared from salivary glands of Rhipicephalus sanguineus female with 2, 4, and 6 days of feeding, at the region of the R. sanguineus female feeding lesion 2, 4, and 6 days after tick attachment. In this work, infestation-naïve New Zealand White rabbits were inoculated either with the extracts (test group (TG)) or with phosphate buffer and complete Freund's adjuvant mixture (control group 2 (CG2)). Each extract-inoculated- (TG and CG2) and non-inoculated (CG1) rabbit was subsequently infested with R. sanguineus. Skin biopsies were collected from the rabbit at the tick feeding lesion at 2, 4, and 6 days of feeding. Results revealed that rabbit immunization with gland extracts induced acquisition of resistance against this species. It should be stated that the SGE4 extract was the most effective in developing an immune-inflammatory response against ectoparasites, being this process characterized by the presence of an early and intense inflammatory cell infiltrate. On the other hand, SGE6 extract caused a later appearance of resistance with less infiltrate occurrence and intense edema at the feeding lesion site. As to the inflammatory process deriving from SGE2 extract inoculation, it was the less intense. It was concluded that immunization with different extracts from R. sanguineus female salivary glands did not change microscope features of the inflammatory process, although an earlier or more intense and later response, which was also dependent on the inoculate extract, was noticed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the antifibrotic role of captopril during ureteral scarring in a New Zealand rabbit model. Materials and Methods: The tissue expression and the fluctuation of EGF, TGF-β, FN, Col Ia1, Col Ia2 and Col III of the impaired ureter and the contralateral normal ureter were investigated by RT-PCR. The histological changes of the specimens were studied. When the sensitive markers had been selected, 10 New Zealand rabbits were randomly assigned to a captopril group and a control group. The specimens were harvested 2 weeks after the injury and then the histological examination and RT-PCR were performed. Results: By RT-PCR screening, EGF, TGF-β, FN, Col Ia1 and Col Ia2 were found to be significantly related to ureteral scarring (p < 0.05) confirmed by histological examination. The peak level of EGF, TGF-β and Col Ia1 appeared at 2 weeks after the injury, while for Fn and Col Ia2 it was at 3 and 4 weeks after the injury. An obvious reduction of fibrotic scarring was observed in the captopril group. The expression of EGF, Fn and Col Ia2 in the captopril group was significantly lower than in the control group (p < 0.05) after the treatment. Conclusions: EGF, TGF-β, Col Ia1, Col Ia2 and FN seemed to have an important role in the ureteral scarring after injury. Captopril might partially inhibit the fibrotic process by blocking the EGF, Col Ia2 and FN pathway so that it could be a promising treatment after ureteral injury. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a need to better understand inhalational anthrax in relevant animal models. This understanding could aid risk assessment, help define therapeutic windows, and provide a better understanding of disease. The aim here was to characterize and quantify bacterial deposition and dissemination in rabbits following exposure to single high aerosol dose (> 100 LD50) of Bacillus anthracis (Ames) spores immediately following exposure through 36 h. The primary goal of collecting the data was to support investigators in developing computational models of inhalational anthrax disease. Rabbits were vaccinated prior to exposure with the human vaccine (Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed, AVA) or were sham-vaccinated, and were then exposed in pairs (one sham and one AVA) so disease kinetics could be characterized in equally-dosed hosts where one group is fully protected and is able to clear the infection (AVA-vaccinated), while the other is susceptible to disease, in which case the bacteria are able to escape containment and replicate uncontrolled (sham-vaccinated rabbits). Between 4-5% of the presented aerosol dose was retained in the lung of sham- and AVA-vaccinated rabbits as measured by dilution plate analysis of homogenized lung tissue or bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. After 6 and 36 h, >80% and >96%, respectively, of the deposited spores were no longer detected in BAL, with no detectable difference between sham- or AVA-vaccinated rabbits. Thereafter, differences between the two groups became noticeable. In sham-vaccinated rabbits the bacteria were detected in the tracheobronchial lymph nodes (TBLN) 12 h post-exposure and in the circulation at 24 h, a time point which was also associated with dramatic increases in vegetative CFU in the lung tissue of some animals. In all sham-vaccinated rabbits, bacteria increased in both TBLN and blood through 36 h at which point in time some rabbits succumbed to disease. In contrast, AVA-vaccinated rabbits showed small numbers of CFU in TBLN between 24 and 36 h post-exposure with small numbers of bacteria in the circulation only at 24 h post-exposure. These results characterize and quantify disease progression in naïve rabbits following aerosol administration of Ames spores which may be useful in a number of different research applications, including developing quantitative models of infection for use in human inhalational anthrax risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To assess the effects of ginseng saponin on relaxation of the bladder and prostatic urethra and to determine its mechanism of action. Materials and Methods: For the in vitro study, prostatic urethra muscle strips were harvested from 18 male New Zealand rabbits. The strips were mounted in organ baths and connected to force displacement transducers. After stabilization, maximal tissue contractions were obtained by the application of phenylepinephrine to the urethra strips, and a dose-response curve for ginseng saponin was constructed (10-6-10-2M). After pretreatment of urethra strips with N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), another dose-response curve for ginseng saponin was constructed. For the in vivo study, we used adult male Sprague-Dawley rats divided into three groups [control, partial bladder outlet obstruction (PBOO) and saponin-fed groups], and we monitored the vesical pressure (Pves) and urethral perfusion pressure (UPP). Results: The ginseng saponin induced a significant dose-dependent relaxant effect on the prostatic urethra strips. A significant relaxant effect of ginseng saponin was observed from 10-3M, and ginseng saponin significantly relaxed urethra strips by 50.2 ± 20.26% at 10-2M. The relaxant effect was partially inhibited with L-NAME pretreatment. In the in vivo study, the change in UPP between baseline and relaxation was significantly higher in the saponin group than in the control or PBOO group (p < 0.001). The saponin group showed a significantly lower baseline Pves than the PBOO group. Conclusions: We observed a significant relaxation effect of ginseng saponin on the bladder and prostatic urethra in both in vitro and in vivo studies. The mechanism by which ginseng saponin induces relaxation appears to involve the nitric oxide/nitric oxide synthase pathway. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue engineering is clinically promising for missing and damaged tissues. Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs), a type of mesenchymal stem cells, represent a reliable source of seed cells for tissue engineering with multiple merits such as minimal invasion, abundant yield, little immunity, low morbidity, easy isolation, and rapid expansion. However, because the properties of adipose tissue-derived cells differ depending on the fat depot from which they are derived, we compared the ASCs from three anatomic sites of New Zealand white rabbits: subcutaneous inguinal (SI), subcutaneous dorsocervical (SD), and retroperitoneal perinephric (RP) regions. We investigated cellular behaviors including proliferation, viability, and differentiation. The ASCs of the subcutaneous regions (SI and SD) had higher performances in all assessments compared to those of the RP region. Moreover, the SI and SD ASCs had significant differences, with SI ASCs having better properties than SD ASCs. We conclude that the different anatomic distributions of fat contribute to the different behaviors of ASCs. The SI region offers the most applicable cell source reservoir for ASC tissue engineering. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The determination of elemental concentrations for Br, Ca, Cl, Fe, K, Mg, Na, S, Sr, and Zn in blood samples from White New Zealand rabbits was performed applying the NAA technique. Twenty whole blood samples (12 male and 8 female) collected in research centers from Brazil (Aggeu Magalhães in Recife and Butantan Institute in São Paulo) were investigated, using the IEA-R1 nuclear reactor at IPEN/CNEN-SP-Brazil. These data can be used as references to perform biochemistry analyses in veterinary medicine using small quantities of whole blood (100-400 μL), simplifying the collection and the preparation of biological samples (it is not necessary to perform the serum separation nor to use specific reactants). Furthermore, the knowledge of the biochemical values in blood allows us to check the similarities with the blood estimations in human beings, which is an important condition for selecting laboratory animals. Finally, these data suggest a great similarity of the inorganic tissue profile of rabbits (White New Zealand) and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We examined whether intramuscular parecoxib administration has a preventive or therapeutic effect on vasospasm following experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Materials and Methods: Twenty New Zealand White Rabbits were assigned randomly to one of four groups. Animals in Group I were not subjected to SAH (control group). Animals in all other groups were subjected to SAH. Animals in Group II received no treatment after SAH induction (SAH group). Animals in Group III received intramuscular parecoxib (diluted with saline) injection at 6 and at 30 hours after SAH (treatment group). Animals in Group IV received only intramuscular saline injection at 6 and at 30 hours after SAH (vehicle group). Animals were euthanized by perfusion and fixation 48 hours after SAH induction. Basilar artery cross-sectional areas and wall thicknesses were measured. Statistical comparisons were performed using Kruskal--Wallis and Mann--Whitney U tests. Results: Basilar artery cross-sectional areas in the treatment group were significantly higher than in the SAH or vehicle group ( p < .05). Basilar artery wall thickness in the treatment group was significantly smaller than in the SAH or vehicle group ( p < .05). Conclusion: Our study revealed that intramuscular administration of parecoxib significantly attenuates vasospasm following experimental SAH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

K-complexes are the EEG elements recorded during the state of developing sleep and during slow wave sleep. They are the only EEG components which can be elicited by sensory stimulation during sleep. The peculiarity of New Zealand rabbits to sleep with their eyes open allows the use of visual stimuli to elicit K-complexes. Experiments were performed with three rabbits. For visual stimulation, an elongated screen illuminated by LED flashes was attached to an implant on the animal's skull. The screen covered 20-120° of the visual field of one eye, and moved with the head during animal motion. One-millisecond flashes (15-s interval) were used during daytime in an illuminated room. Flashes elicited evoked responses, which, during the first stages of sleep, were often accompanied by K-complexes. The induced K-complexes were recorded from electrodes located both above visual and somatosensory areas. Evoked responses to visual stimuli were also recorded from both pairs of electrodes, although they were generated exclusively in the visual cortex. Correlation analysis showed that visual evoked responses and K-complexes induced by this stimulation were generated in visual cortex, and passively spread to the electrodes above the somatosensory area. Investigation of the latencies of induced K-complexes revealed two time windows when these complexes could be seen. Within each window there was no correlation between latency and amplitude of K-complexes. There was also no correlation between amplitudes of the visual evoked responses and K-complexes elicited by these responses. We propose that visual stimulation in light sleep temporarily opens a gate for some independent external signals, which evoke activation of the visual cortex, reflected in K-complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are important postnatal changes in the sino-atrial node (SAN), the pacemaker of the heart. Compared with the neonate, the adult has a slower intrinsic heart rate and a longer SAN action potential. These changes may be due to differences in ion channel expression. Consequently, we investigated postnatal developmental changes in the expression of ion channels and Ca-handling proteins in the SAN to see whether this is indeed the case. Using quantitative PCR, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, we investigated the expression of ion channels, Ca-handling proteins and connexins in the SAN from neonatal (2-7 days of age) and adult (∼6 months of age) New Zealand White rabbits. The spontaneous beating rate of adult SAN preparations was 21% slower than that of neonatal preparations. During postnatal development, quantitative PCR revealed a significant decline in the SAN of the following mRNAs: HCN4 (major isoform responsible for I), Na1.5 (responsible for I), Ca1.3 (in part responsible for I) and NCX1 (responsible for inward I). These declines could be responsible for the slowing of the pacemaker during postnatal development. There was a significant decline during development in mRNA for delayed rectifier K channel subunits (K1.5, responsible for I, KLQT1 and minK, responsible for I, and ERG, responsible for I) and this could explain the prolongation of the action potential. In situ hybridization confirmed the changes observed by quantitative PCR. In addition, immunohistochemistry revealed hypertrophy of nodal cells during postnatal development. Moreover, there were complex changes in the expression of Ca-handling proteins with age. In summary, there are significant postnatal changes in the expression of ion channels and Ca-handling proteins in the SAN that could explain the established changes in heart rate and action potential duration that occur during normal development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Successful observation of behaviour depends upon knowing both which behaviours to look for and focusing on the appropriate areas of the body to observe them. Behaviour based scoring systems have become increasingly widely used to assess animal pain and distress. Although studies are available demonstrating which behaviours need to be observed, there has been little attempt to assess how effectively observers apply such information when viewing an animal's behaviour. Methodology/Principal Findings: This study used historical video recordings of New Zealand white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculi) considered to be experiencing varying degrees of post-operative pain to assess the pattern of observation and the ability to assess pain exhibited by both experienced and inexperienced human participants (n = 151). Eye tracking equipment was used to identify how quickly, how frequently, for how long different areas of the rabbit's body were attended to by the participants. Simple visual analgoue scoring was used to assess the pain experienced in each sequence. The results demonstrate that irrespective of their experience or gender, observers focus first, more frequently and for longer on the face, compared to the abdomen, ears, back and hindquarters of the rabbit and that participants were poor at identifying rabbits in pain. Observing the back and hindquarters was correlated with 'correct' assessments and observing the face was correlated with 'incorrect' assessments. Conclusions: In conclusion, irrespective of experience and gender, observers focused on the face when using behaviour to assess pain and were unable to effectively identify rabbits in pain. Focusing on the face is unlikely to be effective when using behavioural indicators of pain since they involve other body areas. Alternatively, if animals exhibit pain-related facial expressions, then it could improve our ability to assess pain. In addition, these results have potential implications for the use of behaviour to assess how rabbits and potentially other species feel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CMX001, a lipophilic nucleotide analog formed by covalently linking 3-(hexdecyloxy)propan-1-ol to cidofovir (CDV), is being developed as a treatment for smallpox. CMX001 has dramatically increased potency versus CDV against all dsDNA viruses and, in contrast to CDV, is orally available and has shown no evidence of nephrotoxicity in healthy volunteers or severely ill transplant patients to date. Although smallpox has been eliminated from the environment, treatments are urgently being sought due to the risk of smallpox being used as a bioterrorism agent and for monkeypox virus, a zoonotic disease of Africa, and adverse reactions to smallpox virus vaccinations. In the absence of human cases of smallpox, new treatments must be tested for efficacy in animal models. Here we first review and discuss the rabbitpox virus (RPV) infection of New Zealand White rabbits as a model for smallpox to test the efficacy of CMX001 as a prophylactic and early disease antiviral. Our results should also be applicable to monkeypox virus infections and for treatment of adverse reactions to smallpox vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to investigate the effect of atorvastatin on the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-αα) and interleukin-1beta (IL-1ββ) following acute pulmonary embolism (PE). Forty New Zealand white rabbits were divided into control and atorvastatin groups. Acute PE was created by injection of autologous blood clots into the femoral vein. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure TNF-αα and IL-1ββ. At baseline, there was no significant difference in serum TNF-αα (10.6 ±± 1.3 versus 11.2 ±± 1.9 pg/mL; P > .05) or IL-1ββ (8.2 ±± 1.0 versus 8.6 ±± 0.9 pg/mL; P > .05) between the control group and the atorvastatin group. In both groups, there was a significant increase in the serum TNF-αα and IL-1ββ following acute PE. However, the levels of serum TNF-αα and IL-1ββ in the atorvastatin group was significantly lower than in the control group following PE ( P < .01). The authors conclude that acute PE is associated with a significant increase in serum proinflammatory factors TNF-αα and IL-1ββ. Pretreatment with atorvastatin diminished the increase in TNF-αα and IL-1ββ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the chondrogenic ability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from different tissues in rabbits' full-thickness articular cartilage defects. Methods: Sixty New Zealand white rabbits of ordinary grade with a body weight of 2.5∼3.5kg were selected for this study. Six were sacrificed for preparation of deminerized bone matrix (DBM) as scaffold. Fifty-four were used for cartilage defects model. Full-thickness cartilage defect of knee joint was created on trochlear groove at two sides of the femur with a diameter of 4 mm and thickness of 3 mm. All 54 rabbits were randomly divided into 6 groups and treated by autogeneic MSCs isolated from bone marrow, periosteum, synovium, adipose tissue and muscle, respectively. The 6th group was a control group with nothing plugged into the defects. Every three rabbits were killed at three time points, which were 4, 8, and 12 weeks after the operation in each group. The reparative tissue samples were evaluated grossly, histologically, immunohistochemically, and graded according to gross and histological scales 12 weeks postoperatively. We input the scores into SPSS 11.5 software and the analysis of variance (one-way-ANOVA) and student-newman-keuls (SNK-q) test were used to process statistical analysis and find out if the differences between each group had statistical significance. Results: Fifty-four rabbits are included in the final analysis. The defects are all repaired by hyaline-like tissue except the control group. The bone-marrow-MSCs produced much more cartilage matrix than that of other groups. Gross and histological grading scale indicates that the defects repaired by MSCs isolated from bone marrow are superior to that repaired by MSCs isolated from periosteum, synovium, adipose tissue, and muscle (p < 0.05). In adipose-MSCs and muscle-MSCs group, some defects are even repaired by fibrous tissue. Conclusion: Bone-marrow-MSCs have greater in vivo chondrogenic potential than periosteum-, synovium-, adipose- and muscle-MSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boswellia serrata gum resin has been used for treatment of various ailments in different cultures for thousands of years. Aflapin® is a novel synergistic composition derived from B. serrata gum resin (Indian Patent Application No. 2229/CHE/2008). Aflapin is significantly better as an anti-inflammatory agent compared to the Boswellia extracts presently available in the market. To assess the safety of Aflapin, a battery of acute and sub-acute toxicity studies were conducted in various animal models according to the OECD test guidelines. The acute oral LD50 of Aflapin was greater than 5000 mg/kg in female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. Acute dermal LD50 of Aflapin was greater than 2000 mg/kg in SD rats. A primary dermal irritation study conducted using New Zealand White rabbits indicated that Aflapin is non-irritating to skin. Aflapin caused minimal ocular irritation in a primary eye irritation test conducted on New Zealand Albino rabbits. A repeat dose 28-day sub-acute oral toxicity study in SD rats demonstrated no significant signs of toxicity. Various evaluations including hematology, clinical chemistry, gross necropsy, and histopathology did not show any significant adverse changes. The NOAEL of Aflapin was found to be greater than 2500 mg/kg body weight. These studies demonstrate broad spectrum safety of Aflapin in animal models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium mesh may be an alternative material to be used in laryngotracheal reconstruction. Twenty New Zealand rabbits were divided into two groups. Group A underwent laryngotracheoplasty with titanium mesh-buccal mucosa-muscle complex, and Group B received auricular cartilage grafts. All animals survived without complications. The animals were killed at 60 days, and laryngotracheal regions were evaluated. There was no subglottic collapse at physiologic and supraphysiologic negative airway pressures in Group A and mild-moderate collapse in Group B. Macroscopically the average antero-posterior and lateral diameters were not statistically different among two groups. Light microscopic examination revealed no fibrosis, necrosis or new cartilage formation in both groups. Inflammation and granulation were more pronounced in Group A. The lumens in both groups were moderately obstructed. Reconstruction of the upper airway with titanium mesh may be used in very selected cases where autologous grafting materials are inadequate and unsatisfactory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the penetration of topical 1% voriconazole through the cornea into the aqueous humor in New Zealand white rabbits and to determine the effect of mechanical scraping of the corneal epithelium. Materials and Methods: The right eyes of 29 New Zealand white rabbits were maintained with the epithelium intact, and the left eyes underwent mechanical epithelium debridement of the central 7.5 mm of the cornea. A loading dose consisted of a drop of 1% voriconazole applied every 5 min for the initial half hour and followed by a maintenance dose consisting of a drop every 20 min, which was applied for about 2 hr. Then, the first sample was obtained 5 min after the first seven doses (loading dose) were given, and then four more samples were taken 5 min after four more subsequent drops (maintenance dose). The samples were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography. Results: The mean aqueous concentration of voriconazole was 33.44 ± 5.77 μg/mL 5 min after the loading dose in the non-scraped group and 57.67 ± 6.77 μg/mL in the scraped group, respectively. The mean aqueous concentration of voriconazole was maintained in a range from 19.97 to 23.70 μg/mL 5 min after the maintenance doses in the non-scraped group and from 44.44 to 49.02 μg/ mL in the scraped group. The mean vitreous concentration of voriconazole ranged from 0.38 to 0.49 μg/mL in the non-scraped group and ranged from 0.72 to 0.94 μg/mL in the scraped group. These levels were statistically significant ( P < 0.05) between the scraped and non-scraped groups. Conclusions: Topically administered voriconazole achieved minimum inhibitory concentrations in the aqueous for all the organisms most commonly involved in fungal endophthalmitis and achieved minimum inhibitory concentrations in the vitreous for some pathogenic fungi. The concentrations of voriconazole were higher in the scraped group than in the non-scraped group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During spring-assisted cranioplasty, the spring transmits forces through adjacent cranium. We have previously demonstrated that the ectocranial–endocranial thickness of cranial sutures increases significantly over time in the presence of continuous spring forces. We wished to investigate if cranial bone showed similar adaptational responses. New Zealand white rabbits were randomized into a treatment group [a spring was placed across a posterior frontal suture (PFS) suturectomy and a control group (PFS suturectomy)]. Animals ( n = 6) were euthanized from each group at 4, 7, and 10 weeks, respectively. A sham group ( n = 6) was euthanized at 10 weeks. Frontal bone thickness was recorded at five reproducible anatomical points on the frontal bone. Histological analysis of the bone architecture was performed. Frontal bone thickness was significantly greater than controls at all five sites at weeks 7 and 10. There were multiple significant differences between the 4-, 7-, and 10-week groups with each site progressively thickening over time. Histological analysis revealed a uniform increase in thickness of the endocranial and ectocranial cortical bone in the treatment groups. Cranial bone adapts to the presence of continuous spring cranioplasty forces by progressively thickening over time. This property is beneficial in craniosynostosis cases with very thin and poor quality bone and may partly explain the observed lack of spring erosion through bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To assess the relaxation effect of the phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor udenafil on the bladder and prostatic urethra and its therapeutic potentials for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)/lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Methods: For the in vitro study, muscle strips from urinary bladder and urethra were prepared from male New Zealand rabbits. The strips were mounted in organ baths and connected to force transducers. After stabilization, maximal tissue contractions were obtained by the addition of phenylepinephrine for urethra strips and carbachol for bladder strips. When the contraction was stabilized, a dose-response curve of udenafil was constructed. For the in vivo study using adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, changes of intravesical pressure and urethral perfusion pressure after intraarterial administration of udenafil were monitored. Results: Udenafil significantly relaxed the bladder and urethra strips in a dose-dependent manner. At 10–3M, udenafil induced a significant relaxation of the bladder strips by 37.3% and of the urethra strips by 44.0%. In the in vivo study, the intercontraction interval was significantly prolonged (p < 0.01) and the duration of urethral relaxation with high-frequency oscillations was significantly prolonged (p < 0.01) after udenafil. Conclusions: Udenafil had relaxant effects on the bladder and prostatic urethral smooth muscle. Clinically, udenafil could be applied as an effective treatment for BPH/LUTS. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the osteoconductive properties and biological performance of porous titanium granules used in osseous defects adjacent to titanium implants. Material and methods: In this animal experimental study, calibrated defects were prepared in the tibias of 24 New Zealand rabbits. The defects were randomized into two tests and one control group. The test defects were grafted with either metallic or oxidized porous titanium granules (PTG or WPTG, respectively), whereas control defects were left empty (sham). The defects were closed with a submerged coin shaped titanium implant. Defects were left for healing for 4 weeks. After healing, the implants were removed and the new bone tissue formed onto the implant surface was analyzed for run × 2, osteocalcin, collagen-I, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, H+-ATPase, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 gene expression using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reactuion. Wound fluid from the healed defects was analyzed for lactate dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase activity. Finally osteoconductivity was analyzed by micro-computed tomography and histology. Results: Significantly more new bone formed in PTG and WPTG grafted defects compared with sham. The new bone grew both through the porosities of the granules and onto the implant surfaces. The WPTG group showed significantly less expression of key inflammation markers, but with no significant difference in a marker for necrosis. The WPTG also showed a significant increase in collagen-I mRNA expression compared with PTG. Conclusion: The results suggest that PTG and WPTG are both osteoconductive materials that can be used to promote bone formation in osseous defects adjacent to titanium implants without hampering implant osseointegration. To cite this article: Wohlfahrt JC, Monjo M, Rønold HJ, Aass AM, Ellingsen JE, Lyngstadaas SP. Porous titanium granules promote bone healing and growth in rabbit tibia peri-implant osseous defects. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 165–173. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0501.2009.01813.x [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  Sixty New Zealand rabbit models with steroid-induced necrosis of femoral head were exposed to a rotating permanent magnetic field (RPMF) (group A1–2 h/d for one month and group A2–2 h/d for two months), and the changes of femoral head, blood viscosity, serum cholesterol, triglyceride, and pressure within the hip joint cavity were measured and statistically analysed compared to that of control group (B1 and B2) and sham group (C1 and C2). After RPMF treatment, the osteogenesis regeneration of the necrotic femoral head was markedly improved, as was shown by micro-CT. Blood viscosity, serum cholesterol, triglyceride, and pressure in the hip joint cavity were found significantly reduced. RPMF could affect various critical aspects in the course of femoral head necrosis, which will be a promising measure in the prevention and treatment of steroid-induced necrosis of femoral head, especially in the early stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Uveal melanoma (UM) cell lines, when exposed to blue light in vitro, show a significant increase in proliferation. In order to determine if similar effects could be seen in vivo, we investigated the effect of blue light exposure in a xenograft animal model of UM. Methods: Twenty New Zealand albino rabbits were injected with 1.0 × 106 human UM cells (92.1) in the suprachoroidal space of the right eye. Animals were equally divided into two groups; the experimental group was exposed to blue light, while the control group was protected from blue light exposure. The eyes were enucleated after sacrifice and the proliferation rates of the recultured tumor cells were assessed using a Sulforhodamine-B assay. Cells were re-cultured for 1 passage only in order to maintain any in vivo cellular changes. Furthermore, Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) protein expression was used to ascertain differences in cellular proliferation between both groups in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded eyes (FFPE). Results: Blue light exposure led to a statistically significant increase in proliferation for cell lines derived from intraocular tumors (p < 0.01). PCNA expression was significantly higher in the FFPE blue light treated group when compared to controls (p = 0.0096). Conclusion: There is an increasing amount of data suggesting that blue light exposure may influence the progression of UM. Our results support this notion and warrant further studies to evaluate the ability of blue light filtering lenses to slow disease progression in UM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: To evaluate the safety of suramin compared with mitomycin-C (MMC) as an adjunctive agent in trabeculectomy by determining its ciliary body toxicity at predetermined effective dosages in rabbit eyes. Methods: Thirty-two New Zealand albino rabbits received either suramin (200, 300, 400, or 800 mg/ml) or MMC (0.2, 0.3, 0.4, or 0.8 mg/ml) injections subconjunctivally in the right eye. Enucleations were performed on the 1st, 3rd, 7th and 28th day. Untreated left eyes were injected with balanced salt solution and served as controls. The injection-exposed ciliary body specimens were processed to be investigated under the light microscope and transmission electron microscope. Results: There was no pathologic abnormality in specimens under light microscopy. The morphologic evaluation with transmission electron microscopy showed severe changes in structure, except for eyes treated with 200 mg/ml suramin and 0.2 mg/ml of MMC. These changes were more prominent in eyes exposed to MMC, and appeared earlier compared to suramin-treated eyes. Conclusions: Suramin 200 mg/ml and MMC 0.2 mg/ml seem to be comparatively nontoxic to the ciliary body of the rabbit eye. Concentrations higher than these values caused severe damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of the study was to investigate and compare iloprost and levosimendan on spinal cord ischemia in an experimental model. Materials and Methods: The study was done in two stages. For the 4-hour short survival study, 50 New Zealand white rabbits were randomly allocated into five groups. Spinal cord ischemia was induced by clamping the aorta just below the left renal artery and just proximal to the aortic bifurcation with bulldog artery clamps. The aortic clamps were removed after 40 min and restoration of blood flow was verified visually. The groups were analyzed at 1 and 4 h after reperfusion. For the 48-hour survival study, two different groups (iloprost plus levosimendan, n = 10; saline-treated controls, n = 10) were analyzed at 24 and 48 h after reperfusion. Results: The neurologic status of the animals in the treatment and sham groups was better than that in the control group both at 1 and 4 h after reperfusion. Viability index values in the levosimendan, iloprost and iloprost plus levosimendan groups were statistically higher than in the control group indicating less or no neuronal damage. Discussion: The results suggest that levosimendan, as well as iloprost, may reduce ischemic damage in transient spinal ischemia and provide better neurologic outcome. Copyright © 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study the clinical and histopathological effects of topically applied tripeptide-copper complex (TCC) and zinc oxide on open-wound healing in rabbits was evaluated. Eighteen New Zealand rabbits were divided into three groups: TCC, zinc oxide and no treatment. One full thickness wound was created on each side of the dorsal midline in each rabbit. Wound margins were traced on days 0, 7, 14, and 21 and topical TCC and zinc oxide were applied daily for 21 days to each rabbit in the respective treatment groups. The mean unhealed wound area was significantly smaller in the TCC than in the zinc oxide group on day 7, but it was significantly smaller in the TCC group than in to the control group on days 7, 14 and 21. The mean percentage of wound contraction on day 7 was significantly higher in the TCC than in the zinc oxide group; however, it was significantly higher in the TCC group than in the control group on days 7, 14 and 21. Median time for the coverage of the wound bed with granulation tissue was significantly shorter in the TCC group than in the other groups. Filling of the open wound with granulation tissue to skin level was significantly slower in the control group than in the other two groups. Neutrophil counts decreased regardless of the group in parallel with healing, while neovascularization was best observed in the TCC group. The results suggest that TCC is a better choice in the treatment protocols of open wounds in rabbits than zinc oxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compares the behavior of two biomaterials contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus or Staphylococcus epidermidis, used to repair abdominal wall defects. Defects created in the anterior abdominal wall of 60 white New Zealand rabbits; Repair of the defects using polypropylene or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene prostheses; Indication that integration within host tissue was affected in the setting of S. aureus infection but the tensile strength of contaminated prostheses was not significantly reduced; Unaltered biomechanical strength of the contaminated implants.

Trigeminal motoneurons were electrically stimulated in order to investigate the electromyographic (EMG) behavior in relation to the contractile properties of motor units of the masseter muscle. A total of 80 motor units were studied in situ in male New Zealand White rabbits (n=46). The motor units were separated into two groups, each exposed to a specific fatiguing stimulation regimen. Motor unit action potential (MUAP) features, which comprised the amplitude (AMP) and inter-peak time (IPT), and the tetanic force were measured. All motor units were classified as fast (F) units. Forty-one motor units underwent a prolonged standard fatigue regimen of 40-Hz trains at 1 Hz for 20 min. While the MUAP showed an immediate decrease of mean AMP at the beginning of the stimulation, the mean force and IPT increased. After 2 min, the force declined, while the IPT continued to increase until 20 min. Only after 3 min of stimulation, did the degree of force decrease parallel the decline in MUAP AMP. After 20 min of stimulation, the majority of motor units (n=34) still generated a force larger than 50% of the initial value, but only 17 motor units showed MUAP AMP of less than 50% of the initial EMG response. A more intensive fatigue regimen (40-Hz trains at 1.5 Hz) was applied to another group of 39 motor units. A rapid decline of force and MUAP amplitude to almost 50% was observed within the first 5 min of stimulation. After 20 min, only four motor units were still able to produce a tetanic force of more than 50% of the initial. Most strikingly, motor units with twitch contraction times faster than 22 ms exhibited a decrease in force more than in MUAP AMP, whereas the reverse was seen for units slower than 22 ms; motor units with a twitch contraction time of 22 ms showed equal decrease in AMP and force. This finding is suggestive of a division of fast masseter motor units into two classes, those which fatigue more rapidly mechanically and those which fatigue more readily electrically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Local flaps are widely used in reconstructive surgery. Tri-lobed skin flap is a relatively new flap and there has been no experimental model of this flap. This flap can be used for repair of full thickness defects in the face, ears and alar region. Based on the size of ears in a rabbit, we designed a model of ear reconstruction using expanded tri-lobed flap. Local flaps are more advantageous in that they provide excellent color and texture matching up with those of the face, adequately restore ear contour, place scars in a favorable location and ideally accomplish these goals in a single stage with minimal donor site morbidity. Methods: Eight adult New Zealand rabbits were divided into two groups. 50 ml round tissue expander were implanted to four rabbits. After completion of the expansion, a superiorly based tri-lobed flap was elevated and a new ear was created from the superior dorsal skin of each rabbit. Scintigraphy with Technetium-99m pertecnetate was performed to evaluate flap viability. Results: Subtotal flap necrosis was seen in all animals in non-expanded group. New ear in dimensions of the original ear was created in expanded group without complication. Perfusion and viability of the flaps were proved by Technetium-99m pertecnetate scintigraphy. Conclusion: According to our knowledge this study is the first to demonstrate animal model in tri-lobed flap. Also, our technique is the first application of the trilobed flap to the possible ear reconstruction. We speculated that this flap may be used mastoid based without hair, in human. Also, tri-lobed flap may be an alternative in reconstruction of cylindrical organs such as penis or finger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Animal and organ culture experiments have shown beneficial inhibitory estrogen effects on post injury neointima development. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether such estrogen effects are influenced by the estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780. Different concentrations of 17β-estradiol and the phytoestrogens genistein and daidzein were tested. Methods: F emale New Zealand White rabbits were benumbed. In situ vascular injury of the thoracic and abdominal aorta was performed by a 3F Fogarty catheter. Segments of 5 mm were randomised and held in culture for 21 days. Three test series were performed: 1) control group -- 20 µM ICI -- 30 µM ICI -- 40 µM ICI. 2) control group -- 20 µM ICI -- 40 µM 17β-estradiol -- 40 µM 17β-estradiol + 20 µM ICI. 3) control group -- 20 µM ICI -- 40 µM daidzein -- 40 µM daidzein + 20 µM ICI -- 20 µM genistein -- 20 µM genistein + 20 µM ICI. After 21 days the neointima-media-ratio was evaluated. Results: 1) Treatment with ICI 182,780 did not reduce neointima formation significantly (p = 0.05). 2) 40 µM 17β-estradiol alone (p < 0.0001) and in combination with 20 µM ICI (p < 0.0001) reduced neointima formation significantly. 3) 20 µM genistein alone (p = 0.0083) and combined with 20 µM ICI (p = 0.0053) reduced neointima formation significantly. 40 µM daidzein did not have a significant (p = 0.0637) effect. Conclusions: The estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780 did not modulate the inhibitory estrogen effects on post injury neointima formation. These results do not support the idea that such effects are mediated by vascular estrogen receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have assessed the effects of antigenic stimulation on the regional blood flow of the lymph node. In seventeen New Zealand white rabbits, the regional blood flow to the popliteal lymph nodes was determined using 9 and 15 μm microspheres at 16, 40, and 144 h following antigen administration. The regional blood flow in the resting lymph node measured with 15 μm spheres was 0.46±0.07 ml g-1 mm -1, with 9 μm spheres 0.26±0.03 ml g-1 min-1. There was a significant 'differential flow' (the difference in blood flow between the experimental and control nodes) measured with 15 μm spheres (P<005). This increase in blood flow was larger early (16 h) than late (144 h) following antigen administration (P < 0.01). There was significant (P < 0.05) 'shunt flow' (the difference in blood flow measured with 15 μm and 9 μm spheres) in the lymph node, with more shunting early (16 h) than late (144 h) following antigen administration. No significant shunting was seen in the kidney or thigh muscle. Thus, we have established: (1) a significant increase in blood flow following antigenic stimulus; (2) shunting of 9 μm microspheres in the resting popliteal lymph node; (3) increased shunting following antigenic stimulus; and (4) that the increase in nodal blood flow was, to a large extent, secondary to increased shunt flow. Both the increased blood flow and the shunting shortly after antigenic stimulus may be important in the evolution of the immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: When planning nerve conduction studies using animal models, the sciatic nerve is often used and the upper extremity nerves are not preferred due to the size of laboratory animals. This study aimed to present the method and mean values of median nerve conduction studies in laboratory rabbits. Fifty-five six-month-old male New Zealand white rabbits weighing 2 to 2.5 kg were included in nerve conduction studies performed under anesthesia. The compound muscle action potential amplitude and distal latency values were recorded for the median motor nerve with the electrodes placed on the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle and tendon.Results: A total of 110 median nerves were evaluated. The mean amplitude of the median nerve was 30.6 ± 6.8, mV the median nerve distal latency was 1.3 ± 0.2 ms, and the mean intensity of stimulation inducing a response was 2.5 ± 1 mA.Conclusions: The mean values obtained by the median motor nerve conduction method in this study can act as a guide for future nerve interventions undertaken in the upper extremities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate the detection of iron oxide nanoparticles taken up by macrophages in atherosclerotic plaque with differential phase optical coherence tomography (DP-OCT). Magneto mechanical detection of nanoparticles is demonstrated in hyperlipidemic Watanabe and balloon-injured fat-fed New Zealand white rabbits injected with monocrystalline iron oxide nanoparticles (MIONs) of <40 nm diam. MIONs taken up by macrophages was excited by an oscillating magnetic flux density and resulting nanometer tissue surface displacement was detected by DP-OCT. Frequency response of tissue surface displacement in response to an externally applied magnetic flux density was twice the stimulus frequency as expected from the equations of motion for the nanoparticle cluster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]