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This study aims to obtain three-dimensional models of the cavum pelvis in New Zealand rabbits of both genders using CT images, to measure the pelvis diameters and angles through the created digital models, and to compare female and male New Zealand Rabbits in terms of sexual dimorphism. A total of 20 New Zealand rabbits, 10 females and 10 males, were used in this study. Computed tomography (CT) images of the animals were taken, the images were reconstructed with the MIMICS 20.1 program, and a three-dimensional model of the pelvic cavity was obtained from the two-dimensional images. Morphometric data were obtained by making diameter and angle measurements on the resulting 3D model. Then, the rabbits were dissected and the os coxae was exposed and the anatomical formations were named. When pelvimetry measurements in female and male rabbits were compared, it was seen that all values except pelvic tilt were higher in females. The data reveal that there is no significant difference in the volume and surface area of the right and left os coxae between male and female rabbits (P > .05). In this study comparing the morphometric differences of the pelvis in female and male New Zealand rabbits, volume and surface area data were shared for the first time. The collected data could be used for sex discrimination in rabbits, assist physicians in diagnosing patients, serve as a reference for clinical practices, and form the basis for new research.

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Aim: This study was carried out to create three-dimensional (3D) models of the humerus and femur using computed tomography (CT) images of the New Zealand rabbit and to reveal whether there are differences between sexes and the right and left sides. Materials and Methods: The study was applied on 14 month old (10 male and 10 female) New Zealand rabbits. First, 0.5 mm thick images of the animals were taken by computed tomography (CT) and saved in DICOM format. Then, 3D models of the humerus and femur were obtained by reconstructing the images with the MIMICS 20.1 program. Morphometric data were obtained from the obtained 3D model. After this procedure, the rabbits were dissected and the weights of the humerus and femur were measured. Results: It was determined that the right humerus and femur volume and surface area in male rabbits were larger from the left side (p Conclusion: It was thought that this study would provide the basis for studies and experimental models on rabbits by revealing the morphological features of the humerus and femur and would help the physician in the diagnosis of diseases by forming the basis of the data obtained with the imaging systems used in the clinical field.

Bone defects treatment may require the use of biomaterials that behave as a support and promote bone regeneration. Limitations associated with the use of autografts and allografts make it necessary to design new synthetic bone substitutes. Some of the most promising biomaterials currently under investigation are based on nanocarbonate hydroxyapatite (nCHA). In this study, we studied the bone‐inducing capacity of nCHA‐based scaffolds alone (SAG) and enriched with osteostatin (SAGO) or with bone marrow aspirate(SAGB) after implantation for 12 weeks in a 15‐mm long critical defect performed in the radius of New Zealand rabbits. Bone formation obtained was compared with a group with the unfilled defect (CE), as control group, and other with the defect filed with iliac crest autograft (GS), as gold standard. X‐ray follow‐up was performed at 2, 4, 6 and 12 weeks and μCT and histological studies at 12 weeks. The radiological results showed a greater increment in bone formation in the GS group (75%–100%), followed by the SAG and SAGB groups (50%–75%). μCT results showed an increase of bone volume/tissue volume values in GS group followed by SAG and SAGB groups (0.53, 0.40, and 0.31 respectively) compared with CE group (0.26). Histological results showed limited resorption of the nCHA scaffolds and partial osseointegration in the SAG and SAGB groups. However, in the SAGO group, the presence of connective tissue encapsulating the scaffold was detected. In SAG, SAGB, and increase of bone formation were observed compared with CE group, but less than the GS group. Thus, the investigated materials represent a significant advance in the design of synthetic materials for bone grafting, but further studies are needed to bring their in vivo behavior closer to autograft, the gold standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Eurasian Journal of Veterinary Sciences is the property of Eurasian Journal of Veterinary Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective To detect the changes of rabbits’ bladder function and cell ultrastructure after partial bladder outlet obstruction (pBOO) with its subsequent relief. Methods Twenty-four male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into obstruction group, pBOO relief group and control group, with 8 rabbits in each group. The animals in the obstructive group were operated by partial ligating the bladder neck to form the pBOO animal model. Subsequently, bladder capacity and bladder weight were compared, and rabbit detrusor tissue was extracted. The ultrastructures such as mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum in cells were observed under transmission electron microscope. Contractility test was processed in various buffers. Results The bladder weight of the control group was significantly lower than that of the other two groups. In solutions other than Ca2+ -free， the maximum contraction velocity and maximum tension of the detrusor per unit weight in the control group were significantly greater than those in the other two groups. No significant difference was detected between obstruction and pBOO relief groups. Compared with the control group， the endoplasmic reticulum in the obstructed group was significantly expanded， and the mitochondrial was obviously swollen， and the relative density decreased. Conclusion Detrusor endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria of rabbits had morphological changes after 2 weeks of obstruction and failed to return to normal level. This change may be related to the decline of detrusor bladder function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Agriculturae Zhejiangensis is the property of Acta Agriculturae Zhejiangensis Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective To investigate the effect of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) composite-coated porous titanium alloy test piece on bone integration in the middle femur of rabbits Methods Forty-eight porous titanium alloy test pieces were constructed, and 24 samples were randomly selected to prepare porous titanium alloy test pieces with BMP-2 composite coating. Twenty-four male New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into the observation group and control group, with 12 in each group. The rabbits in the control group were implanted with porous titanium alloy test pieces in both femurs, and the rabbits in the observation group were implanted with BMP-2 composite-coated porous titanium alloy test pieces in both femurs. After 4 and 8 weeks of implantation of porous titanium alloy test pieces, 6 rats in each group were randomly selected and killed by air embolism. Micro-CT scan of the right femur was performed to obtain the femoral bone volume fraction (BVF), tissue mineral density (TMD), and bone microstructure indicators, bone trabecular relative volume (TBV), bone trabecular thickness (Tb. Th), bone trabecular space (Tb. Sp), and the bond strength between the implant and the femur (the maximum pullout force when the porous titanium alloy test piece was pulled out); the bone formation at the implant-femoral interface was observed in the left femur under the low vacuum scanning electron microscope, the percentage of bone ingrowth area of the implant was detected by the ponceau staining, and the expression levels of osteogenesis-related gene Runt related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteocalcin (OCN), and Osteoblast-specific tran⁃ scription factor Osterix (Osx) in the bone tissues at the implant-femoral interface were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR. Results Compared with the control group, the femur BVF, TMD, TBV and Tb. Th of porous titanium alloy test piece in the observation group significantly increased at 4 and 8 weeks after implantation, while the Tb. Sp significantly decreased (all P<0. 05). The maximum pullout force of porous titanium alloy test pieces at 8 weeks of implantation in both groups was significantly higher than that at 4 weeks of implantation, and the maximum pullout force of porous titanium alloy test pieces at 4 and 8 weeks of implantation in the observation group was significantly higher than that in the control group (all P<0. 05). The porous titanium alloy test pieces were implanted for 4 weeks. In the control group, new bone grew towards the edge of the implant at the implant-femur interface, with small bone trabeculae and more space between bones, while in the observation group, new bone at the implant-femur interface increased significantly, and bone trabeculae were thickened and fused, and the space between bones became smaller. After 8 weeks of implantation of the porous titanium alloy test pieces, a large number of new bones could be seen crawling and growing on the surface of the implant at the implant-femur interface of the control group, and bone trabeculae were thicker and fused and arranged in regular layerlike order, while the new bones at the implant-femur interface of the observation group further increased compared with the control group, bone trabeculae were thicker and fused and arranged in regular layer-like order, and lamellar bone was obviously formed. And a complete bony interface was formed between the implant and the femur. The percentage of implant bone growth area at 8 weeks of implantation was significantly higher in both groups than that at 4 weeks of implantation, and the percentage of implant bone growth area at 4 and 8 weeks of implantation in the observation group was significantly higher than that in the control group (both P<0. 05). Compared with the control group, the relative expression levels of Runx2, OCN and Osx in the interfacial bone tissues of the porous titanium alloy at 4 and 8 weeks after implantation signifi⁃ cantly increased in the observation group (all P<0. 05). The relative expression levels of Runx2, OCN and Osx in the interfacial bone tissues of porous titanium alloy at 8 weeks implantation were significantly higher than those of porous titani⁃ um alloy at 4 weeks implantation (all P<0. 05). There were no significant differences in the expression levels of Runx2, OCN or Osx in the interfacial bone tissues of the porous titanium alloy in the control group between 4 and 8 weeks after implantation (all P>0. 05). Conclusion BMP-2 composite-coated porous titanium alloy test pieces can promote the formation of new bone and bone insertion in the middle part of rabbit femur, improve the microstructure of bone tissues at the implant-femur interface, improve the binding strength of implant and femur, and facilitate the bone integration in the middle part of rabbit femur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rabbits are frequently used in research because of their human‐like biological structure. In the present study, 10 male rabbits were preferred. Arterial vascularization of the genital system organs were dissected. Morphometric and macroanatomical results of these organs were taken, and some organs were examined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this study, right testis length was measured at 67.24 ± 5.36 mm and left testis length was 62.25 ± 6.55 mm in New Zealand rabbits. Testicular weight was 10.21 ± 1.17 g on the right and 9.90 ± 1.15 g on the left. Right caput epididymidis 0.68 ± 0.08 g, left caput epididymidis 0.80 ± 0.13 g; right corpus epididymidis 0.14 ± 0.03 left corpus epididymidis 0.15 ± 0.03 g; right cauda epididymidis 1.87 ± 0.26 g left cauda epididymidis 1.90 ± 0.31 g. In the present study, right ductus deferens weight was 0.30 ± 0.29 g, and left ductus deferens weight was 0.25 ± 0.03 g; the ampulla ductus deferentis weight was 0.35 ± 0.16 g on the right side and 0.37 ± 0.16 g on the left side. The length of the vesicular gland glandula vesicularis was calculated as 18.54 ± 0.35 mm on the right and 17.55 ± 0.59 mm on the left. The width of the vesicular gland was measured as 16.54 ± 0.28 mm on the right and 16.70 ± 0.45 mm on the left. Vesicular gland weight was 0.91 ± 0.07 g on the right side and 0.96 ± 0.09 g on the left side. The prostate length was recorded as 11.68 ± 2.01 mm and width as 13.02 ± 1.38 mm. The length of the bulbourethral gland was 13.36 ± 2.00 mm on the right side and 12.39 ± 1.21 mm on the left. Its width was recorded as 6.73 ± 0.98 mm on the right and 5.80 ± 0.90 mm on the left. Respectively, it weighed 0.40 ± 0.20 g on the right and 0.44 ± 0.24 g on the left. The prostate consisted of three parts in rabbits: the proprostate, the corpus prostate and the paraprostate. The bulbourethral gland was a green lentil‐sized gland found in pairs. It is thought that the obtained results will contribute to the scientific researches on male genital system in laboratory animals and other animal species, artificial insemination studies, reproductive system diseases and operations in rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Gutta-percha has low yield strength and shows hard and tough mechanical properties. On this basis, a sports protective gear that can be freely shaped according to the body shape has been developed, and it has been preliminarily confirmed that this performance can reduce the damage to athletes caused by external impact forces. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of gutta-percha splint on fracture fixation. METHODS: Thirty-five adult male New Zealand rabbits were used to establish closed fracture models of the left tibia by the modified three-point stress method. Totally 30 successful models were randomly divided into two groups (n=15) and fixed with gutta-percha splint and gypsum, respectively. The effects of the two external fixation methods were compared by X-ray imaging and fracture healing was observed at 2 hours, 4 and 6 weeks after fixation. After 6 weeks of fixation, the tibia specimens were observed for gross and histological morphology. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) X-ray films: Clear fracture line was seen 2 hours after fixation, without obvious periosteal reaction. After 4 weeks, the fracture line became blurred, and a large area of spindle low-density callus shadow was seen at the broken end. After 6 weeks, the fracture line nearly disappeared; the callus connected together to form a cortical bone bridge, and the bone marrow cavity was partially canalized, and partially close to recanalization. After 6 weeks, gray value at the fracture site was higher in the gutta-percha splint group than that in the gypsum group (P < 0.05). (2) General observation: In the gutta-percha splint group, except for three rabbits with malunion, the fracture line of the rest of the rabbits basically disappeared; part of the outer callus was absorbed, and the cortical bone density was close to the normal level. In the gypsum group, except for four rabbits with malunion, the fracture line of the rest of the rabbits disappeared, a small part of the outer callus was absorbed, and the cortical bone density was close to the normal level. (3) Histological morphology: In the gutta-percha splint group, new bone trabeculae were thick; the trabecular space was reduced and fused to form lamellar bone, and the medullary cavity had been partially recanalized. In the gypsum group, new bone trabeculae were reticular, forming a woven bone, and a large number of transected small arteries, veins and capillaries could be seen in the medullary cavity. (4) Complications: Within 6 weeks of fixation, the extremity swelling, purple darkening, displacement and malunion, and the number of local pressure ulcers in the gutta-percha splint group tended to be less than those in the gypsum group, but there was no significant difference in statistical analysis (P > 0.05). (5) The results showed that gutta-percha splint could play a similar fixation effect to plaster on the rabbit model of closed tibial fracture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Magnesium alloys have been receiving much attention for use in biodegradable metal implants because of their excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. However, their rapid breakdown and low bioactivity can cause the implant to lose mechanical integrity before the bone is completely healed. Moreover, hydrogen gas released during degradation can significantly delay the tissue regeneration process. To solve the instability of magnesium alloys, Zn and Ca can be added to improve the mechanical properties and biocompatibility. One other way to improve the mechanical properties of Mg is plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO), which provides a dense, thick ceramic-like coating on the Mg surface. In this study, high-purity Mg was selected as the control, and Mg-1wt%Zn-0.1wt%Ca alloy and PEO-treated Mg-1wt%Zn-0.1wt%Ca alloy were selected as the test materials; the results of radiographic and histological analyses of their biocompatibility are reported herein. Materials and method Nineteen New Zealand white rabbits were used in the study. Rod-bars (Ø2.7 × 13.6 mm) were placed on both paravertebral muscles, and cannulated screws (Ø2.7x10mm) were placed on both femur condyle notches. Each animal was implanted in all four sites. X-rays were taken at 0, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks, micro-CT, and live-CT were taken at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. At weeks 4, 8, and 12, individuals representing each group were selected and sacrificed to prepare specimens for histopathological examination. Result The results confirm that in vivo, Mg-1wt%Zn-0.1wt%Ca alloy had higher corrosion resistance than high-purity Mg and safely degraded over time without causing possible side effects (foreign body or inflammatory reactions, etc.). In addition, PEO treatment of Mg-1wt%Zn-0.1wt%Ca alloy had a positive effect on fracture recovery by increasing the bonding area with bone. Conclusion Our results suggest that PEO treatment of Mg-1wt%Zn-0.1wt%Ca alloy can be a promising biomaterials in the field of various clinical situations such as orthopedic and maxillofacial surgerys.

High-fat diet (HFD) and overnutrition are important starting factors that may alter intestinal microbiota, lipid metabolism, and systemic inflammation. However, there were few studies on how intestinal microbiota contributes to tissue steatosis and hyperlipidemia. Here, we investigated the effect of lipid metabolism disorder–induced inflammation via toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4), and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways at the intestinal level in response to HFD. Twenty 80-day-old male New Zealand White rabbits were randomly divided into the normal diet group (NDG) and the high-fat diet group (HDG) for 80 days. Growth performance, blood biochemical parameters, lipid metabolism, inflammation, degree of tissue steatosis, and intestinal microbial composition were measured. HFD increased the relative abundance of Christensenellaceae_R_7_group, Marvinbryantia, Akkermansia etc., with a reduced relative abundance of Enterorhabdus and Lactobacillus. Moreover, HFD caused steatosis in the liver and abdominal fat and abnormal expression of some genes related to lipid metabolism and tight junction proteins. The TLR-2, TLR-4, NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-6 were confirmed by overexpression with downregulation of IL-10. Serum biochemical indices (TG, TCHO, LDL-C, and HDL-C) were also increased, indicating evidence for the development of the hyperlipidemia model. Correlation analysis showed that this microbial dysbiosis was correlated with lipid metabolism and inflammation, which were associated with the intestinal tract's barrier function and hyperlipidemia. These results provide an insight into the relationship between HFD, the intestinal microbiota, intestinal barrier, tissue inflammation, lipid metabolism, and hyperlipidemia. Key points: • High-fat diet leads to ileal microbiota disorders • Ileal microbiota mediates local and systemic lipid metabolism disorders and inflammation • There is a specific link between ileal microbiota, histopathology, and hyperlipidemia [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rabbit is an experimental animal that is widely used to understand the etiology, progression, and treatment strategies of diseases related to the circulatory system. The creation of disease models related to vascular system is particularly preferred in performing surgeries and invasive experiments for education purpose. Though rabbit's iliac arteries and their branches are vessels mostly encountered in these procedures, yet there are limited resources on the course and distribution of arteria (a.) iliaca interna. Therefore, seven male and seven female New Zealand rabbits have been used to elucidate the detailed ramification patterns of branches from the a. iliaca interna using the latex injection method. The a. iliaca interna ramified into a. umbilicalis, a. obturatoria, a. iliolumbalis, a. glutea cranialis, a. ovarica or a. prostatica, a. glutea caudalis, a. pudenda interna, a. perinealis ventralis, and a. caudalis lateralis. The branching pattern of the a. iliaca interna showed five variations. According to the findings of the recent study, the vessels supplying the pelvic wall were not originating from the a. glutea caudalis rather both visceral and parietal divisions were branching off the a. iliaca interna. So, it can be said that among domestic mammals, a. iliaca interna of the New Zealand rabbit is similar to ruminant and sus, that is, short pudendal type branching in terms of course and divisions. Hopefully, the information obtained in this study will make a contribution to future anatomical, interventional, and surgical studies using the New Zealand rabbit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objectives We aimed to explore the bacterial community composition following ocean bacterial infection using an animal model. Methods This animal-based experiment was conducted from September 2019 to November 2019. Eighteen seawater filter membranes were collected from Changle City, Fujiian Province, China, on September 8, 2019. Ten filter membranes were used for implantation. Eight filter membranes that were used in the bacterial culture for the exploration of seawater bacteria were assigned to the seawater group (SG). Fourteen healthy adult New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into the experimental group (EG) and control group (CG). Seawater filter membranes and asepsis membranes were implanted into the tibia in the EG and CG, respectively. One week after surgery, tibial bone pathology tissues were collected and assessed using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Medullary cavity tissues were collected for the performance of Illumina MiSeq sequencing and bacterial culture. The differences between EG and CG were assessed by pathological observation under light microscopy and SEM, high-throughput bacterial sequencing, and bacterial culture. Results Compared with the CG, the infection rate was 100%, and the mortality value was 20% after the implantation of the filter membranes in the EG. Both light microscopy and SEM showed that a large number of bacteria were distributed in the bone marrow cavity after ocean bacterial infection. No bacterial growth was found in the CG. Illumina MiSeq sequencing found that Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Thermotogae, Fusobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria were the dominant bacteria at the phylum level and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_7, Haloimpatiens, Clostridium_sensu_stricto_15, Clostridiaceae_1, Clostridium_sensu_stricto_18, and Oceanotoga were the dominant bacteria in genus level among the EG. In the bacterial culture of the medullary cavity tissues, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shewanella algae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, and Vibrio vulnificus were the predominant infective species. Moreover, compared with the SG, the EG showed a higher detection rate of E. coli and S. aureus (P = 0.008 and P = 0.001, respectively). The detection rates of V. alginolyticus, V. parahaemolyticus, and V. fluvialis were higher in the SG than the EG (P = 0.007, P = 0.03, and P = 0.03, respectively). Conclusions Our model, which was comprehensively evaluated using four techniques: histopathology and SEM observation, gene detection, and bacteria culture, provides a scientific basis for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of patients in such settings.

The purpose of this experiment is to study the relationship between the difference in production performance between Sichuan White (SC) rabbits and New Zealand (NZL) rabbits and the diversity of caecal flora. Twelve pregnant SC rabbits and 12 NZL female rabbits were selected for this experiment. After delivery, the young rabbits were divided into two groups according to breeds, each group had 30 replicates, and each replicate had one rabbit. During the experiments, these rabbits were kept in the same room, and the temperature in the room was controlled at 12-25 °C, with a 16-hour light cycle every 24 hours. The nutritional composition of the feed and other environmental conditions were consistent. On the 59th day of the experiment, the caecum contents of the two groups of young rabbits were collected. The results showed that the survival rate of the SC rabbit group was higher than that of the NZL rabbit group, and the diarrhoea rate and average daily gain were lower than those of the NZL rabbit group (P < 0.05). The results of high-throughput sequencing of the 16S gene showed that compared with the NZL rabbit group, the relative abundance of Bacteroides increased, and the abundance of harmful flora Verrucomicrobia and Proteobacteria decreased (P < 0.05). Functional analysis of the microflora showed that the relative abundance of carbohydrate metabolism genes in the SC rabbit group was higher than in the NZL rabbit group. In conclusion, compared with the NZL rabbits, the SC rabbits have a more optimized intestinal flora structure and lower abundance of harmful bacteria. Moreover, the intestinal health level of SC rabbits is improved, and the tolerance to roughage of SC rabbits is increased.

Background: Oxidative stress negatively impacts pregnancy and its outcomes; hence, its avoidance through gestational antioxidant intakes is a desired nutrition-reproduction practices. Materials and Methods: Female rabbits (n=40) were divided into 5 groups and supplemented with 0, 200, 300, 400, and 500 mg Chlorella vulgaris biomass per kilogram body weight daily, respectively throughout the gestation period. Upon kindling, kits of the female rabbits (n=75) were randomly selected and monitored from birth till 120 days old. The reproductive performance of the female rabbits was evaluated by computation of their reproductive index, while birth weight, growth rate, oestrogen and testosterone concentrations, oxidative stress biomarkers, and expression of selected functional genes of the progeny were determined. Results: The gestational intake of Chlorella vulgaris increased reproductive index of the female rabbits (p < 0.05), and it also increases the growth and oxidative stress protection status of the rabbit progeny (p < 0.05). Selected functional genes, including Gstp1, Cyp1a1, Ar, Ghr, Il2, and Il6 assessed in the progeny of the supplemented groups were significantly upregulated (p < 0.05). Conclusion: It was concluded from these results that gestational Chlorella vulgaris biomass intake improved reproductive index of the female rabbits, increased growth and oxidative stress protection in their progeny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Yanghe Decoction is an effective prescription for the clinical treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Our previous basic studies have shown that the mechanism of Yanghe Decoction to prevent and treat knee osteoarthritis is related to the protection of articular cartilage. It is still not unclear about the effect of Yanghe Decoction on early synovial inflammation of knee osteoarthritis. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of Yanghe Decoction on the pain and synovial inflammation in a rabbit model of early knee osteoarthritis, and to further clarify the efficacy and mechanism of Yanghe Decoction in the treatment of early osteoarthritis. METHODS: Twenty-four 4-month-old New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into blank control group, model group, Yanghe Decoction group and positive control group, with six rabbits in each group. Except for the blank control group, the rabbits in the other groups were injected with papain into the joint cavity for modeling. Two weeks after modeling, the blank control and model groups were given the same amount of normal saline by gavage, the Yanghe Decoction group was given 6 g/kg/d Yanghe Decoction, and the positive control group was given 24 mg/kg/d Celebrex. Administration in each group lasted for 2 weeks. At 4 hours after final administration, the knee joint skin temperature and circumference were measured, and Lequesne MG score was used to evaluate knee joint function. At 2 days after final intragastric administration, ELISA was used to detect the levels of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, cyclooxygenase-2, and prostaglandin E2 in the synovial fluid. Synovial tissue morphology was observed using hematoxylin-eosin staining. Immunohistochemical detection was conducted to detect the expression of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, cyclooxygenase-2 proteins in synovial tissue. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the blank control group, the knee joint circumference in the model group was widened (P < 0.05), and the local skin temperature, Lequesne MG score, and the levels of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, cyclooxygenase-2, and prostaglandin E2 in the synovial fluid were all increased (P < 0.05), synovial membrane morphology and inflammatory changes were obvious, and the expressions of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, cyclooxygenase-2 proteins in synovial tissue were all increased (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the knee joint circumference in the Yanghe Decoction group and positive control group decreased (P < 0.05), local skin temperature, Lequesne MG score, and the levels of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, cyclooxygenase-2, and prostaglandin E2 in the synovial fluid were all decreased (P < 0.05), synovial membrane morphology and inflammatory changes were alleviated, and the expressions of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, cyclooxygenase-2 proteins in synovial tissue were all downregulated (P < 0.05). In conclusion, Yanghe Decoction can inhibit the expression of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, cyclooxygenase-2, and prostaglandin E2, reduce synovial inflammation, and improve joint function, thereby delaying the progression of knee osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to determine the morphometry of hypophysis of the New Zealand rabbit by using the computed tomography images and its topography according to the anatomical structures in the cavum cranii. For this purpose, the head of 12 (6 female, 6 male) New Zealand Rabbits was scanned in a prone position by using Multi-Detector Computed Tomography. Three-dimensional modeling of the images obtained was performed. Morphometric analysis of the hypophysis, the three-dimensional modeling of which was performed, and its topographic measurements were taken according to the adjacent structures. When the data were examined, it was found that protuberantia occipitalis externa value was statistically significant in terms of sexes (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between other data in terms of sexes (P>0.05). When the correlation analysis was examined, positive correlations between the gland volume and volume of cavum cranii (P<0.01) and between volume and surface area of cavum cranii were detected (P<0.05). Consequently, it is thought that the data of the study would contribute to the operative and experimental studies to be conducted on the region by determining the morphometry and topography of the hypophysis in New Zealand rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to test the preventive effects of nano liposomes against contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) in New Zealand rabbits. Sixty New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into four groups, with 15 rabbits in each group: control group, contrast group, hydration group and nano liposome group. Serum creatinine (Scr) and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) were measured before and after injection of the contrast agent iopromide. Oxidative stress markers, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and apoptosis markers, such as Bcl2-Associated X (Bax) and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Rabbits were killed 24 h after injection of the contrast medium and both kidneys were removed. Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot assays were performed in kidney tissue. Pathological changes were analyzed under the optical and electron microscope. Compared with the hydration group, the nano liposome group showed improved protection of renal function, with significantly different Scr and BUN levels, incidence of CIN, apoptosis index, RT-PCR and Western blot protein expression patterns. Under the optical and electron microscope, the renal injury in the nano liposome group was less than in the hydration group. However, based on SOD and MDA, there was no significant difference in oxidative stress when compared with the hydration group. Apoptosis is an important mechanism in CIN. Nano liposomes can prevent the occurrence of CIN by decreasing apoptosis, reducing damage to the kidney by the contrast agent.

Introduction: The magnesium alloy was fabricated into orthopedic plates, and used to repair tibial fractures of New Zealand white rabbits. The osteogenesis and degradation behavior of magnesium alloy plates were investigated in vivo. Methods: 38 rabbits were randomly divided into an experimental group using the magnesium alloy plate and control group using a titanium alloy plate. Tibial fractures in the experimental group and control group were fixed with magnesium alloy plates and titanium alloy plates, respectively. An X-ray of the fracture site was taken at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 weeks after surgery. The formation of callus and expression of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP-2) in each group were examined at 4, 8, and 16 weeks postoperatively. The degradation behavior of the magnesium alloy plate was observed using a scanning electron microscope with an energy dispersive spectroscopy system. Results: The results of X-ray showed that the fracture healed gradually and there was significant callus around the plate in the magnesium alloy plate group than that in the titanium alloy plate groups. The formation of callus and the expression of BMP-2 in the magnesium alloy plate group were more significant than that in the titanium plate group. The degradation behavior of the magnesium alloy plates deepened in vivo with the implantation time. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that the magnesium alloy plate implanted into the rabbit tibia could promote the formation of callus and result in osteogenesis in vivo. Meanwhile, the magnesium alloy plate was absorbed gradually in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We aimed to explore the bacterial community composition following ocean bacterial infection using an animal model. Methods: This animal-based experiment was conducted from September 2019 to November 2019. Eighteen seawater filter membranes were collected from Changle City, Fujiian Province, China, on September 8, 2019. Ten filter membranes were used for implantation. Eight filter membranes that were used in the bacterial culture for the exploration of seawater bacteria were assigned to the seawater group (SG). Fourteen healthy adult New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into the experimental group (EG) and control group (CG). Seawater filter membranes and asepsis membranes were implanted into the tibia in the EG and CG, respectively. One week after surgery, tibial bone pathology tissues were collected and assessed using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Medullary cavity tissues were collected for the performance of Illumina MiSeq sequencing and bacterial culture. The differences between EG and CG were assessed by pathological observation under light microscopy and SEM, high-throughput bacterial sequencing, and bacterial culture. Results: Compared with the CG, the infection rate was 100%, and the mortality value was 20% after the implantation of the filter membranes in the EG. Both light microscopy and SEM showed that a large number of bacteria were distributed in the bone marrow cavity after ocean bacterial infection. No bacterial growth was found in the CG. Illumina MiSeq sequencing found that Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Thermotogae, Fusobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria were the dominant bacteria at the phylum level and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_7, Haloimpatiens, Clostridium_sensu_stricto_15, Clostridiaceae_1, Clostridium_sensu_stricto_18, and Oceanotoga were the dominant bacteria in genus level among the EG. In the bacterial culture of the medullary cavity tissues, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shewanella algae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, and Vibrio vulnificus were the predominant infective species. Moreover, compared with the SG, the EG showed a higher detection rate of E. coli and S. aureus (P = 0.008 and P = 0.001, respectively). The detection rates of V. alginolyticus, V. parahaemolyticus, and V. fluvialis were higher in the SG than the EG (P = 0.007, P = 0.03, and P = 0.03, respectively). Conclusions: Our model, which was comprehensively evaluated using four techniques: histopathology and SEM observation, gene detection, and bacteria culture, provides a scientific basis for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of patients in such settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence for the effectiveness of metformin in the treatment of acne is limited. To assess its efficacy, comedones were experimentally induced in young New Zealand rabbit ear using Isopropyl Myristate (IM) followed by metformin treatment (30 mg/kg bodyweight) for 60 days with continued IM application. In another group, to check whether metformin pre‐treatment affects subsequent comedone development by IM, metformin was given for 14 days and then withdrawn (14 days) followed by comedone development with IM and metformin treatment. At different time points, dermatoscopic images of rabbit ear were taken for clinical assessment. Blood and biopsy samples were taken for hormonal assessment, histological examination and gene expression. Histologically confirmed acne model was developed in rabbit ear. Follicular size increased significantly (p = 0.0004 in both groups) upon IM application. Metformin significantly decreased comedones size as observed in dermatoscopic (p = 0.0003 in group I, p = 0.0190 in group II) and histological examination (p = 0.0313 in group I and II). However, size of comedones developed after metformin pretreatment was significantly (p < 0.0001) smaller. The lipid content of sebaceous glands decreased with metformin without any significant changes in the assessed hormones and genetic expression. Overall, metformin was found to be clinically effective in experimentally induced acne and can be used in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of human tissues to self-repair is limited, which motivates the scientific community to explore new and better therapeutic approaches to tissue regeneration. The present manuscript provides a comparative study between a marine-based composite biomaterial, and another composed of well-established counterparts for bone tissue regeneration. Blue shark skin collagen was combined with bioapatite obtained from blue shark's teeth (mColl:BAp), while bovine collagen was combined with synthetic hydroxyapatite (bColl:Ap) to produce 3D composite scaffolds by freeze-drying. Collagens showed similar profiles, while apatite particles differed in their composition, being the marine bioapatite a fluoride-enriched ceramic. The marine-sourced biomaterials presented higher porosities, improved mechanical properties, and slower degradation rates when compared to synthetic apatite-reinforced bovine collagen. The in vivo performance regarding bone tissue regeneration was evaluated in defects created in femoral condyles in New Zealand rabbits twelve weeks post-surgery. Micro-CT results showed that mColl:BAp implanted condyles had a slower degradation and an higher tissue formation (17.9 ± 6.9 %) when compared with bColl:Ap implanted ones (12.9 ± 7.6 %). The histomorphometry analysis provided supporting evidence, confirming the observed trend by quantifying 13.1 ± 7.9 % of new tissue formation for mColl:BAp composites and 10.4 ± 3.2 % for bColl:Ap composites, suggesting the potential use of marine biomaterials for bone regeneration., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Healthy, weaned, coccidial-free male rabbits from two breeds (New Zealand white (NZ) and V-line (VL)) were divided into 10 equal groups (5 groups each for NZ and VL) (3 replicates/group, 6 rabbits/replicate, 18 rabbits/group). All rabbits were inoculated with 5 × 104 Eimeria spp. oocysts (E. intestinalis (67%), E. magna (22%), and E. media (11%)) except for the rabbits in the first group (G1), which were inoculated with a sterile solution and served as a negative control. The remaining four groups were treated as follows: G2, no treatment/positive control, G3, treated with neem leaf extract, G4, treated with pomegranate peel extract (PPE), and G5, treated with a combination of neem leaf extract and PPE. For both breeds, our results showed that the use of neem leaf and/or pomegranate peel extract resulted in improved growth performance, with a significant improvement in relative feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to the positive control groups, which recorded the worst values, as well as a significant (p ≤ 0.05) reduction in mean oocyst count compared to the positive control groups. We also observed downregulation of mRNA levels of IL-1βα, IL6, and TNF-α in the herbal treatment groups compared with the mRNA levels of these genes in the positive control groups. Herbal treatment with neem leaf and/or pomegranate peel extracts had positive effects on the NZ and VL rabbits experimentally infected with mixed Eimeria species, as evidenced by their healthy appearance, good appetite, no mortalities, an anticoccidial index > 120, and a significantly higher total return and net profit when compared to the positive control groups of both breeds. In NZ rabbits, the treatment with neem leaf extract alone (G3) or in combination with PPE (G5) recorded the most efficient economic anticoccidial activity.

Objective: To investigate the effects of sacubitril/valsartan on the expression of Galectin-3 (Gal-3) and Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in New Zealand rabbits with stressinduced cardiac hypertrophy. Methods: Twenty-four healthy male 8-week-old New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into sham operation group (Sham), model group (Model), and sacubitril/valsartan group (Sacu/Vals), with 8 rats in each group. Abdominal aortic coarctation was used to construct a model of cardiac hypertrophy. After 8 weeks of successful modeling, the acubitril/valsartan group was administered with the drug, and the other two groups were given an equal volume of normal saline. All rabbit hearts were sacrificed at the end of the 16th week. The left ventricular mass index and the whole heart mass index were measured. The left ventricular myocardial tissue was evaluated by HE staining to evaluate the cardiac hypertrophy. The expression of Gal-3 and MMP-9 in the myocardial tissue was detected by western blot. Results: (1) Compared with the sham operation group, the HMI and LVMI of the model group and the sacubitril/valsartan group increased. Compared with the model group, the HBA and LVMI decreased in the sacubitril/valsartan group; (2) In the sham operation group, the myocardial fibers were arranged neatly, arranged in a bundle, and the morphology was intact, and no obvious fibrous tissue was observed. The myocardial fibers in the model group were disordered, most of them were broken, the cells were edematous, and the myocardial interstitial showed fibrous connective tissue. Compared with the model group, the sacubitril/ valsartan group had a neat arrangement of myocardial fibers and a significant reduction in cell edema; (3) Compared with sham operation, the expression of Gal-3 and MMP-9 protein in the model group and the sacubitril/valsartan group increased; compared with the model group, sacubitril/valsartan the expression levels of Gal-3 and MMP-9 in the tan group were decreased. Conclusion: Sacubitril/valsartan can alleviate cardiac hypertrophy in rabbits, and its mechanism may be related to down-regulation of Gal-3 and MMP-9 protein expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using nutritional antioxidants in livestock systems is considered the key in improving animal production. The current study assumes that dietary tomato powder (TP) supplementation positively affects haemato‐immunological, biochemical, and antioxidant parameters for New Zealand rabbits. A total of 30 rabbits (45 days old) were assigned to three groups, including a diet with no additives (control), and two dietary treatments with the providing of 1% or 2% TP. Mass spectrometric study for TP methanolic extract showed some phenolic compounds. Consumption of TP supplemented diets significantly (p < 0.001) affected body weight gain and feed efficiency. Red blood cells and white blood cells count exhibited a significant increase (p < 0.001) in both TP groups compared with the control. In addition to, feeding rabbits on TP enhanced cell‐mediated and humoral immune responses through a significant increase in phagocytosis, chemotaxis, and levels of immunoglobulins (TIg, IgG, IgM and IgA). Supplementation of TP significantly (p < 0.01) reduced lipid profile induces except high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol values. A remarkable significant (p < 0.001) effect on serum and hepatic oxidative stress responses were observed with TP addition. Ultimately, TP supplementation could play a potential role as a growth and health enhancer for fattening rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) play a regulatory role in various physiological processes in mammals and act as endogenous ligands for the G protein-coupled receptors (GPR) 41 and 43. The role of GPR41 and GPR43 in mediating SCFA signaling in the rabbit remains unclear. The present study was to investigate the sequence of the GPR41 and GPR43 messenger RNA (mRNA) and their expression pattern in different tissues and developmental stages in New Zealand rabbit. Comparison of genomic sequences in GenBank using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool program suggested that the New Zealand rabbit GPR41 mRNA has high similarities with the human (84%), bovine (84%) and Capra hircus (84%) genes. Similarly, GPR43 mRNA has high similarity with the rat (84%) and mouse (84%) genes. Real-time PCR results indicated that GPR41 and GPR43 mRNA were expressed throughout rabbit’s whole development and were expressed in several tissues. G protein-coupled receptor 41 and GPR43 mRNA were most highly expressed in pancreas (P

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Diarrhea is a syndrome of digestive disorders in young rabbits and may lead to secondary infections resulting in reduced immunity and higher mortality in baby rabbits, with serious impacts on rabbit farming. In this study, we investigated the effects of diarrhea on the health of baby rabbits in terms of intestinal mucosal development, immune function, and intestinal microbial diversity. We found that the duodenal villus length and the villus/crypt ratio in rabbits with diarrhea were significantly reduced compared with those in healthy rabbits (P

Introduction: The research on the marine products and creatures, in particular coral, has started during the recent decade, confirming the beneficial effects of this material. Therefore, this study aimed to use the coral native to Persian Gulf as oral powder to heal the tibial bone defect in rabbits. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 18 New Zealander rabbits were randomly categorized into 3 groups (control group, the group which used oral calcium powder and the one which used oral coral powder) of 6 rabbits. For producing the defect, 1/3 of the tibial bone was blunt dissected and the operation site was observed. Using an orthopedic drill, a hole with the depth of 0.6-0.8 mm and diameter of 4 mm was produced and after emptying and washing, the operation site was sutured. The operation was performed on all the 3 groups similarly. The calcium group was treated using 1150 mg calcium powder daily, the coral group received 1220 mg of coral powder on a daily basis, and the control group was kept under standard condition. On days 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 63, the cases were evaluated and pathological studies were performed. Results: In the histopathologic study, fibroblastic proliferation, new bone formation, bone maturation and mineralization were evaluated; the results for the coral group were better than those of the calcium and control groups (P

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) play a regulatory role in various physiological processes in mammals and act as endogenous ligands for the G protein-coupled receptors (GPR) 41 and 43. The role of GPR41 and GPR43 in mediating SCFA signaling in the rabbit remains unclear. The present study was to investigate the sequence of the GPR41 and GPR43 messenger RNA (mRNA) and their expression pattern in different tissues and developmental stages in New Zealand rabbit. Comparison of genomic sequences in GenBank using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool program suggested that the New Zealand rabbit GPR41 mRNA has high similarities with the human (84%), bovine (84%) and Capra hircus (84%) genes. Similarly, GPR43 mRNA has high similarity with the rat (84%) and mouse (84%) genes. Real-time PCR results indicated that GPR41 and GPR43 mRNA were expressed throughout rabbit’s whole development and were expressed in several tissues. G protein-coupled receptor 41 and GPR43 mRNA were most highly expressed in pancreas (P<0.05) and s.c. adipose tissue (P<0.05), respectively. The expression levels of GPR41 mRNA was down-regulated in duodenum, cecum (P<0.05) and pancreas and up-regulated in jejunum, ileum, adipose tissue and spleen during growth. G protein-coupled receptor 43GPR43 mRNA was highly expressed in the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, colon, cecum and lung at 15th day (P<0.05), whereas the expression levels in the pancreas and spleen increased later after birth, with the highest expression at 60th day (P<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective To establish a novel experimental model of New Zealand rabbit to assess the biocompatibility of 0.1 mm polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a novel material of pulmonary valve. Methods Forty-two adult New Zealand rabbits about 3 kg were selected to give 35 mg/kg ketamine and 0.25 mg/kg dexmedetomidine intramuscularly for the anesthesia. The chest was open to expose the upper segment. The surface of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) was exposed after the pericardium was opened partially. The valve material (0.1 mm PTFE) was inserted into the right ventricle via the central mini-incision. Then the skin was closed and the rabbits were recoved with the oxygen inhalation. Results Forty-two adult New Zealand rabbits accepted the operation. Six rabbits died during the early period due to the inappropriate anesthesia drug (n=2), pneumothorax (n=1) and thrombosis (n=3), which occurred the 5th, 7th and 8th postoperative day. The anticoagulation treatment was adjusted to solve the thrombosis problem. Thirty-six rabbits survived for several months with weight increase until the experiment was finished. Conclusions The experimental model of New Zealand rabbit is appropriate for the biocompatible assessment of 0.1 mm PTFE. The advantage is to avoid intubation and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and to decrease the pneumothorax. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The research on the marine products and creatures, in particular coral, has started during the recent decade, confirming the beneficial effects of this material. Therefore, this study aimed to use the coral native to Persian Gulf as oral powder to heal the tibial bone defect in rabbits. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 18 New Zealander rabbits were randomly categorized into 3 groups (control group, the group which used oral calcium powder and the one which used oral coral powder) of 6 rabbits. For producing the defect, 1/3 of the tibial bone was blunt dissected and the operation site was observed. Using an orthopedic drill, a hole with the depth of 0.6-0.8 mm and diameter of 4 mm was produced and after emptying and washing, the operation site was sutured. The operation was performed on all the 3 groups similarly. The calcium group was treated using 1150 mg calcium powder daily, the coral group received 1220 mg of coral powder on a daily basis, and the control group was kept under standard condition. On days 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 63, the cases were evaluated and pathological studies were performed. Results: In the histopathologic study, fibroblastic proliferation, new bone formation, bone maturation and mineralization were evaluated the results for the coral group were better than those of the calcium and control groups (P

The purpose of the present study was to define the normal haematologic values and some biochemical parameters in serum and in urine in both male and female New Zealand white rabbits and to determine the effect of gender on these parameters. Blood and urine samples from a total of 40 New Zealand white rabbits were investigated. The haematologic parameters were determined in whole blood samples, while serum and urine (urine protein, glucose, creatinine, urea, GGT, nitrite, Na, K, Cl, creatinine clearance) biochemical parameters were determined in serum and urine samples. Normal values of these parameters were determined and statistical comparisons between male and female animals performed. No statistically significant differences were found between male and female animals for the parameters analysed except HCT, HGB, granulocyte %, L/M and serum K concentration. As a result, it was judged that defining the normal values of given haematological factors and serum and urine biochemical parameters in this study in New Zealand white rabbits would be helpful for both clinicians and researchers.

Rabbits have been used as an experimental model in many diseases and for the study of toxicology, pharmacology and surgery in many universities. However, some aspects of their macro anatomy need a more detailed description, especially the abdominal and pelvic arterial vascular system, which has a huge variability in distribution and trajectory. Thirty cadaveric adult New Zealand rabbits, 13 male and 17 female, with an average weight and rostrum-sacral length of 2.5 kg and 40cm, respectively, were used. The thoracic aorta was cannulated and the vascular system was filled with stained latex S-65. The celiac artery and its proximal branches were dissected and lengthened in order to evidence origin and proximal ramifications. The celiac artery emerged between the 12th and 13th thoracic vertebra in 11 (36.7%) rabbits; at the level of the 13th thoracic vertebra in 6 (20%) rabbits; between the 13th thoracic vertebra and the 1st lumbar vertebra in 12 (40%) rabbits; and at the level of the 1st lumbar vertebra in only one (3.3%) rabbit. The mean length of the celiac artery was 0.5cm. The celiac artery first branch was the lienal artery, the second branch was the left gastric artery and the hepatic artery arose from the left gastric artery in all the dissected rabbits. No relation was observed between the celiac artery length and the rostrum-sacral length in rabbits. The number of left gastric and lienal artery branches and the distribution of celiac artery origin are not gender dependent.Os coelhos têm sido usados como modelo experimental em diferentes patologias e para estudos de toxicologia, farmacologia e cirurgia em várias universidades. Entretanto apesar de sua grande utilização, muitos aspectos de sua macroanatomia, em especial os que se referem ao sistema vascular arterial que irrigam as viscerais abdomino-pélvicas ainda carecem de uma descrição mais detalhada, pois os vasos arteriais apresentam grande variabilidade na sua distribuição e trajeto. Foram utilizados 30 coelhos, 13 machos e 17 fêmeas, pesando em media 2,5 kg e apresentando comprimento rostro-sacral em torno de 40cm. A artéria aorta torácica foi canulada e através da mesma foi feita à fixação com solução de formaldeído a 10% e repleções vasculares com solução de Petrolátex S65 corado. A artéria celíaca e suas ramificações proximais foram dissecadas ao longo do seu percurso, registrando com auxílio de um paquímetro seu comprimento e sua esqueletopia. A artéria celíaca teve sua emergência de forma única diretamente da artéria aorta abdominal em todos os animais dissecados. Emitiu inicialmente a artéria lienal e a seguir a artéria gástrica esquerda que se continuou como hepática em todos os 30 animais. A artéria celíaca teve sua origem entre a 12ªe 13ª vértebra torácica em 11 animais (36,7 %), na 13ª vértebra torácica em 6 (20 %), entre a 13ª vértebra torácica e a 1ª vértebra lombar em 12 (40 %) e na 1ª vértebra lombar em apenas 1 animal (3,3%). O comprimento médio da artéria celíaca foi de 0,5cm. Não foi observada relação entre o comprimento da artéria celíaca e o comprimento rostro-sacral dos coelhos. O número de artérias gástricas esquerdas, ramificações principais da artéria lienal, bem como a origem da artéria celíaca independeram do sexo do animal.

AbstractBackground and purpose: This study was undertaken to examine the reversibility of renal injury in the male New Zealand white rabbits, subsequent to a 90-days exposure to uranyl nitrate (UN) in the drinking water. Animals were exposed for 90 days to uranyl nitrate in their drinking water (24 or 500mg/l). The control group were given municipal tap water.Materials and Methods: The biomarkers of kidney function measured in this study included β-2 micro globulin (marker of tubular), micro albumin (marker of glomerular) and the marker for cell toxicity was catalase.Results: Excretion of β-2 micro globulin was to be significantly different and was correlated with uranium intake for rabbits in early weeks. Microalbuminuria was found to be significantly different but this different was within normal range. Catalasuria was not significantly different in this study.Conclusion: These results suggest that chronic ingestion of uranium in the drinking water affects kidney function and is related to the proximal tubule, rather than glomerul.

The course and distrubution of the celiac artery was investigated macroanatomically in the New Zealand rabbits in this study. A number of eight New Zealand rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus: Rodentia) (four male, four female) were used in the study. The materials were injected with red colored latex and corrosion casted with mono- polymethymethacrylate (takilon) through the abdominal aorta. It was determined that the celiac artery arose from the ventral surface of the abdominal aorta, and terminated giving off the lienal, left gastric and hepatic arteries. It was observed that the lienal artery originated from the left border of the celiac artery and terminated under the name of the left gastroepiploic artery. It was state that the left gastric artery anastomosed with the right gastric and short gastric arteries. It was indicated the short gastric arteries was determined to stem from the lineal artery in the New Zealand rabbits. In the study, it was also observed that the proper hepatic artery was not to be a branch of the hepatic artery. It was determined that the hepatic artery was the continuation of the celiac artery after leaving the left gastric artery and terminated splitting the right and left branches after giving off the common stem of the right and middle gastric arteries, the side branches to pylorus and lesser omentum and the gastroduodenal artery. The branches and distribution of the celiac artery were found to be not gender dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Biological scaffolds that compose extracellular matrix (ECM) can facilitate the restructuring of a large number of preclinical studies in animal tissues and also in clinical applications. As we know interaction between cells and ECM provides suitable threedimensional structures. Objectives: The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of induced matrix of New Zealand rabbit bladder on the blastema cells in vitro. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, first of all, in order to decellularize, it is necessary to put bladder of New Zealand rabbit in 1% weight/vol solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) for 24 hours. Then, to prepare blastema tissue, the pinna of New Zealand rabbit should be punched-hole manually with a special puncher, and after 72 hours a circular blastema is separated with another puncher. After that, the decellularized samples are put in the middle of the blastema ring and transferred to the culture. Then to test, we first use Hematoxylin & Eosin and pick indigo staining. To identify 1 micron samples Toluidine Blue staining is used. After preparing 7 nm sections, some samples are studied by transitional electron microscope on day 15 and 20. Results: Collagen fibers are preserved after decellularizing in matrix of bladder. Most migration of blastema cells occur on days 15 and 20 of culture. Blastema cells are differentiated in different types of cells. Toluidine Blue staining shows desmosome connections between epithelial cells. Glycoproteins that are secreted by the epithelial cells can be indicated in the extracellular matrix (ECM). Conclusions: Bladder scaffold has the ability to induce blastema cells as they differentiate and migrate. This finding is very important since no other growth factor and inducer component has been used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]