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Despite the lasting aversion many hold towards rats and mice owing to historical associations with diseases such as the plague, there exists a growing consensus among researchers advocating for a reappraisal of these creatures. A noticeable trend is emerging in Western Europe, wherein rodents are increasingly viewed as urban neighbors, challenging the prevailing negative perceptions. To explain the ongoing shift, we use examples from medicine, popular culture, science, and exhibitions. The recognition of rats and mice as sentient and intelligent beings necessitates human stewardship in the context of urban coexistence. We conclude that understanding the ecology and behavior of rats and mice in urban environments, as well as human behavior change, is a prerequisite for achieving harmonious urban coexistence.

AbstractBackgroundAimMaterial and MethodsResult and ConclusionThe delivery of drugs into the inner ear is a challenging field of study due to the complex cochlear anatomy and physiology. The creation of an intracochlear device that allows for short- and long-term intracochlear delivery of the drugs with a minimal invasive technology is needed to prevent or treat conditions that can potentially prevent the development of permanent hearing loss.This study intends to test the efficacy of DXM-infused PLGA microneedles created in our laboratory in an in vivo animal model of acute ototoxic injury.Twenty-four male Norway Brown rats were randomized into four groups, three of which groups received an intratympanic injection of ethacrynic acid and kanamycin. Two of these groups underwent the placement of an intracochlear microneedle blended or not with dexamethasone, and two groups underwent implantation of a plain microneedle, one of without prior exposure to the ototoxic agent to confirm in vivo biocompatibility. Animals were then followed with a weekly auditory brainstem response testing until day 28 after surgical intervention.Our intracochlear device demonstrated biocompatibility and produced no hearing changes after its implantation in the control group. Inserted DXM-blended microneedles prevented hearing deterioration in those animals exposed to an ototoxic environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The changing composition of non-cell autonomous circulating factors in blood as humans age is believed to play a role in muscle mass and strength loss. The mechanisms through which these circulating factors act in age-related skeletal muscle changes is not fully understood. In this study, we used human myogenic progenitors derived from human pluripotent stem cells to study non-cell autonomous roles of circulating factors during the process of myogenic differentiation. Methods: Myogenic progenitors from human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) were supplemented with serum samples fromaged or young Fischer 344 × Brown Norway F1-hybrid rats. The effect of aged or young serum supplementation on myogenic progenitor proliferation, myotube formation capacity, differentiation, and early transcriptomic profiles were analyzed. Results: We found that aged rat serum supplementation significantly reduced cell proliferation and increased cell death in both ESC- and iPSC-derived myogenic progenitors. Next, we found that the supplementation of aged rat serum inhibited myotube formation and maturation during terminal differentiation from progenitors to skeletal myocytes when compared to the cells treated with young adult rat serum. Lastly, we identified that gene expression profiles were affected following serum supplementation in culture. Discussion: Together, aged serum supplementation caused cellular and transcriptomic changes in human myogenic progenitors. The current data from our in vitro model possibly simulate non-cell autonomous contributions of blood composition to age-related processes in human skeletal muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How organisms respond to complex environments is one of the unsolved problems in ecology. Life history patterns of a species provide essential information on how different populations may respond and adapt to environmental changes. Compared to typical seasonal breeders, which have limited distributions, the worldwide distribution of brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) across highly complex and divergent habitats suggests they exhibit exceptional adaptiveness. However, the difference in physiological mechanisms by which brown rats respond and adapt to markedly different environments is seldom investigated. Here, we reveal a significant divergence in reproductive seasonality and environmental responses between two brown rat subspecies: one subspecies, R. n. caraco, lives in the temperate zone, and another subspecies, R. n. norvegicus, lives in the subtropical region. Although R. n. caraco displayed a significantly higher reproductive seasonality than R. n. norvegicus, both subspecies adapted to sub‐optimal breeding conditions mainly by regulating the seminal vesicle rather than testis development. Especially in responding to severe winter conditions in high‐latitude regions, bodyweight‐dependent recovery of testicular development in adults enables R. n. caraco to initiate reproduction more rapidly when conditions are suited. These findings elucidate a regulatory process of how brown rats live as opportunistic breeders by benefiting from enhanced semen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The additive model of inheritance assumes that heterozygotes (Aa) are exactly intermediate in respect to homozygotes (AA and aa). While this model is commonly used in single-locus genetic association studies, significant deviations from additivity are well-documented and contribute to phenotypic variance across many traits and systems. This assumption can introduce type I and type II errors by overestimating or underestimating the effects of variants that deviate from additivity. Alternative genotype encoding strategies have been explored to account for different inheritance patterns, but they often incur significant computational or methodological costs. To address these challenges, we introduce PAGER (Phenotype Adjusted Genotype Encoding and Ranking), an efficient pre-processing method that encodes each genetic variant based on normalized mean phenotypic differences between diallelic genotype classes (AA, Aa, and aa). This approach more accurately reflects each variant's true inheritance model, improving model precision while minimizing the costs associated with alternative encoding strategies. Results: Through extensive benchmarking on SNPs simulated with both binary and continuous phenotypes, we demonstrate that PAGER accurately represents various inheritance patterns (including additive, dominant, recessive, and heterosis), achieves levels of statistical power that meet or exceed other encoding strategies, and attains computation speeds up to 55 times faster than a similar method, EDGE. We also apply PAGER to publicly available real-world data and identify a novel, relevant putative QTL associated with body mass index in rats (Rattus norvegicus) that is not detected with the additive model. Conclusions: Overall, we show that PAGER is an efficient genotype encoding approach that can uncover sources of missing heritability and reveal novel insights in the study of complex traits while incurring minimal costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The ultrastructural study of spermatozoa in parasites such as the Digenea provides data that, like classical morphological features, biological data, and genetic characterization, can help achieve a better understanding of phylogenetic relationships at different taxonomic levels. In this context, the present study provides the first ultrastructural data of spermatozoa in a digenean species of the genus Artyfechinostomum. These results increase the database of ultrastructural spermatological characteristics within the group of Echinostomatoidea. The comparison of these features with the existing data allows us to establish a coherent model of the sperm cell for species belonging to this superfamily. The study of sperm characteristics has proven useful for elucidating interrelationships in several groups of Platyhelminthes, such as digeneans. Thus, in the present work, the ultrastructural organization of the mature spermatozoon of the digenean Artyfechinostomum malayanum (Echinostomatidae), a parasite of Rattus norvegicus (Rodentia: Muridae) from Dong Thap Province, Vietnam, was investigated for the first time using transmission electron microscopy. The male gamete of A. malayanum exhibits two axonemes of different lengths, showing the 9 + '1' pattern of the Trepaxonemata, a nucleus, two mitochondria, two lateral expansions, two bundles of parallel cortical microtubules, external ornamentation, spine-like bodies, and granules of glycogen. Thus, the mature spermatozoon follows a Type V sperm model proposed for digeneans. We also highlight some noteworthy characteristics in Echinostomatidae with possible phylogenetic implications, such as two lateral expansions in the anterior region of the spermatozoon and two mitochondria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The age‐related loss of muscle mass is partly accounted for by the loss of sarcomeres in series, contributing to declines in muscle mechanical performance. Resistance training biased to eccentric contractions increases serial sarcomere number (SSN) in young muscle, however, maximal eccentric training in old rats previously did not alter SSN and worsened performance. A submaximal eccentric training stimulus may be more conducive to adaptation for aged muscle. The purpose of this study was to assess whether submaximal eccentric training can increase SSN and improve mechanical function in old rats. Twelve 32‐month‐old male F344/BN rats completed 4 weeks of submaximal (60% maximum) eccentric plantar‐flexion training 3 days/week. Pre‐ and post‐training, we assessed in‐vivo maximum isometric torque at a stretched and neutral ankle angle, the passive torque‐angle relationship, and the isotonic torque‐velocity‐power relationship. The soleus and medial gastrocnemius (MG) were harvested for SSN measurements via laser diffraction, with the untrained leg as a control. SSN increased 11% and 8% in the soleus and MG, respectively. Training also shifted optimal torque production towards longer muscle lengths, reduced passive torque 42%, and increased peak isotonic power 23%. Submaximal eccentric training was beneficial for aged muscle adaptations, increasing SSN, reducing muscle passive tension, and improving dynamic contractile performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paramyxoviridae is one of the most well known and largest virus families, including some animal and human pathogens, such as the Hendra, Nipah, and Rinderpest viruses, with a high potential for the emergence of human diseases. Based on recent phylogenetic analyses, two new genera (Narmovirus and Jeilongvirus) have been described. The newly recognized genus Jeilongvirus has rapidly increased in number and has grown to 15 species from 7 a few years ago. However, little is known about the diversity, host range, or evolution of Jeilongvirus. As a well-known host reservoir for many pathogens, rodents have always been the focus for characterizing their pathogenic potential. In this study, we isolated a Tailam virus strain (RN-JH-YN-2022-1) belonging to the genus Jeilongvirus from Rattus norvegicus in Yunnan Province, China. The virus presented a near-complete genome (19,046 nucleotides). Similar to other members of the genus Jeilongvirus, the genome of RN-JH-YN-2022-1 contains eight basic genes (3′-N-P/V/C-M-F-SH-TM-G-L-5′) with 88.88% sequence identity to Tailam virus (TL8K). Additionally, we discuss the pattern of genus Jeilongvirus diversity and the possible route of spread of the Tailam virus, which could provide new clues into the host range, virus diversity, and geographical distribution of the genus Jeilongvirus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To investigate thermoregulation, thermal antinociception, food/kaolin intake, fecal output, and behavior following long-acting buprenorphine preparations in rats. ANIMALS 8 adult male rats (Rattus norvegicus) were administered long-acting SC buprenorphine (SB; 0.65 mg/kg), transdermal buprenorphine (TB; 10 mg/kg), and controls in a randomized, cross-over design. METHODS Body temperature, self-injury, sedation, food/kaolin intake, fecal output, and thermal withdrawal latencies were measured 1, 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours posttreatment. Data analysis was performed with mixed linear models. RESULTS Self-injury was present between 1 and 12 hours and 4 and 12 hours following TB and SB, respectively; sedation was associated with TB at 12 to 24 hours. Withdrawal latencies were longer in both TB and SB groups than in the control group. Food intake decreased with time in all groups but was significantly lower 24 to 48 hours after TB and 24 to 72 hours after SB versus controls. Kaolin intake decreased from baseline 48 to 72 hours in the control group. Fecal output decreased from baseline 24 to 72 hours in all groups but was significantly lower than controls 24 hours following TB and 24 to 48 hours in SB. Body temperature increased from baseline at 1 hour, 1 to 12 hours, and 1 to 24 hours in the control, TB, and SB groups, respectively, and was significantly higher than the control group 1 to 72 hours following TB and 4 to 24 hours after SB. Transdermal buprenorphine and SB in normal rats produced antinociception, self-injurious behavior, hyperthermia, and decreased food/fecal output. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Although these buprenorphine preparations may produce antinociception, untoward effects such as hyperthermia, self-injurious behavior, and reduced food intake/fecal output may be seen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastric dilatation and volvulus has been reported in mammals and exotic pets. A 7-month-old, male neutered, pet domestic rat (Rattus norvegicus) was presented for acute onset anorexia, lethargy and regurgitation. The patient was hospitalised and ultrasound and radiographs under a general anesthesia showed severe gastric dilatation. Based on diagnostic imaging findings, a laparotomy was performed, demonstrating a 180° clockwise rotation of the stomach. Derotation and a gastrotomy to remove material foreign body was performed. The patient recovered fully from the procedure. Gastrointestinal diseases have been reported in domestic pet rats, however gastric dilatation and volvulus should be considered as a differential for an acutely vomiting/regurgitating patient with gastric dilatation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time in Russia, the intraspecific structure of the brown rat Rattus norvegicus was studied using the mitochondrial control region (D-loop) as a molecular marker. The mtDNA sequence was determined in brown rats from eight regions of European and Asian Russia. Three rat clades were identified, including one in European Russia and two in Asian Russia. The synanthropic subspecies R. n. norvegicus was found to have two, European and Asian, lineages. The European lineage included haplotypes from central and southern regions of Russia, and the Asian lineage included haplotypes from Eastern Siberia and the Russian Far East. The exoanthropic subspecies R. n.caraco from the Russian Far East formed a separate genetic lineage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Animal models can help understand human physiological responses, including the response to exercise and physical activity. However, many of these models incorporate noxious stimuli for various scientific purposes. We propose a noxious stimuli-free treadmill running training program for Rattus norvegicus species to study adaptations to aerobic exercise. Methods: In this study, rats were randomly allocated to training (n = 20) and sedentary (n = 20) groups. The training group underwent a program consisting of 30–50 min of treadmill running at 60% intensity, three times per week for 8 weeks. Maximum speed tasks (Tmax) were conducted to determine, adjust, and evaluate changes in fitness conditions. The rats had one week of familiarization with the treadmill, and a rubber ball was used at the back wall of the lane as a painless stimulus to encourage running. All assessments were conducted by two independent researchers in a double-blind manner, with data analysis conducted by a third-blind investigator. Results: A significant effect of time (η2p = 0.430, p < 0.001, large effect) could be found, showing differences between Tmax1 and Tmax2, and between Tmax1 and Tmax3 in both groups. The training group significantly outperformed the sedentary group (η2p = 0.266, p < 0.001, large effect). There was a significant interaction between time and condition (η2p = 0.152, p < 0.001, large effect). Conclusions: The proposed moderate-intensity treadmill running program could effectively differentiate between trained and sedentary conditions within both the short period of 4 weeks and the extended period of 8 weeks. This protocol can be used as a model for running on a treadmill for Rattus norvegicus species without the use of noxious stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) occupies nearly every terrestrial habitat with a human presence and is one of our most important model organisms. Despite this prevalence, gaps remain in understanding the evolution of brown rat commensalism, their global dispersal, and mechanisms underlying contemporary adaptations to diverse environments. In this Review, we explore recent advances in the evolutionary history of brown rats and discuss key challenges, including finding and accurately dating historical specimens, disentangling histories of multiple domestication events, and synthesizing functional variation in wild rat populations with the development of laboratory strains. Advances in zooarchaeology and population genomics will usher in a new golden age of research on the evolutionary biology of brown rats, with positive feedbacks on their use as biomedical models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study investigated the use of cyanoacrylate-based adhesives and their effects on the closure of surgical wounds. Different commercial and surgically indicated cyanoacrylate molecules were compared with each other and with conventional suture. The materials were evaluated for polarization time, scar resistance, inflammatory index, and healing. Promising results were observed in surgical wounds treated with adhesive compared to suture thread. Cyanoacrylate-based adhesives are widely used in wound closure, providing good cosmetic results and little discomfort. However, reports in the literature are found about negative effects that include the release of cytotoxic chemicals during biodegradation. In this study, we sought to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of four cyanoacrylate-based adhesives on the closure of skin incisions in Rattus norvegicus. The animals (n = 140) were divided into five groups of 28 animals each according to the wound closure technique: G1 and G2 (n-2-ethyl-cyanoacrylate); G3 (n-2-butyl-cyanoacrylate); G4 (n-2-octyl-cyanoacrylate); and G5 (5 nylon stitches). Midline incisions measuring 5.0 cm in length were created and closed using the different materials evaluated, and on D3, D7, D14, and D21, tensiometric and histopathological analyses were performed. Shorter wound closure and adhesion times were observed in G4 animals. At D3 and D7, G5 presented greater tensiometric resistance in the animals of G5, with a decrease in D14 and D21 compared to the other groups. On the other hand, the wounds of G3 and G4 were more resistant in D14 and D21, reaching maximum resistance values. Polymorphonuclear and mononuclear cells are more prevalent and more granulation tissue was observed in G5. The deposition of type III collagen was more evident in G5, whilst there was no difference in the amount of type I collagen in any of the groups treated with cyanoacrylate adhesives. Larger areas stained positive for VEGF-α in G2 and smaller areas in G4, with peaks at D7 and D14. In general, cyanoacrylate adhesives cause less intense inflammatory reactions, resulting in shorter healing times when compared to nylon sutures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Heterakis spumosa Schneider, 1886 is a parasite commonly found in rodents, primarily associated with the black rat Rattus rattus and the brown rat R. norvegicus, two global invasive rodent species, and the house mouse Mus musculus. This parasite originated probably from Asia, and has been reported in various rodent species, but molecular information from its putative native region is still lacking. Our sampling efforts across Southeast Asia allowed us to collect and analyze this species from two localities in Lao PDR and five localities in Thailand. Additionally, specimens from Europe were included in the analysis. All specimens were analyzed using mtCOI gene and nuclear ribosomal ITS1. Our findings revealed the presence of two distinct clades of H. spumosa, with no discernible association with hosts and geographical localities. Heterakis spumosa, a parasitic worm infecting rodents, is globally prevalent in black rats, brown rats, and house mice. It is hypothesized to originate from Asia due to its widespread presence in Southeast Asia in various Murinae. Previous molecular studies focused on European, African, and Japanese specimens, but none included samples from the putative native range. Rodents were collected between 2008 and 2015 across various localities in Southeast Asia and Europe, identified by morphology or genetic barcoding. Viscera were examined or preserved for later inspection. DNA was extracted from H. spumosa. PCR amplification targeting the mtCOI gene and ITS1 region was conducted in this study using newly designed primers (based on Heterakis reference sequences). PCR amplicons were subsequently sequenced and analyzed. In this study, the phylogenetic analysis using ITS1 sequences revealed that Heterakis samples from Thai and Laotian rodents belong to the species H. spumosa, exhibiting low genetic variation compared to samples from other regions. Genetic distance calculations using mtCOI sequences confirmed the marked distinction of H. spumosa from other Heterakis species. Our phylogenetic analyses using partial mtCOI and ITS1 sequences have significantly enhanced our comprehension of the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of the nematode H. spumosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seoul orthohantavirus (SEOV) has been identified as one of the main causative agents of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in China. The virus was found circulating in rodent populations in almost all provinces of the country, reflecting the wide distribution of HFRS. Here, using the direct immunofluorescence assay (DFA) and real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) approach, we performed screening in 1784 small mammals belonging to 14 species of three orders captured in the main areas of HFRS endemicity in Yunnan province (southwestern China) and identified 37 SEOV-positive rats (36 Rattus norvegicus and 1 Rattus tanezumi). A 3-year surveillance of HFRS epidemics and dynamics of rodent reservoir density and virus prevalence implied a potential correlation between them. The subsequent meta-transcriptomic sequencing and phylogenetic analyses revealed three SEOV variants, among which two are completely novel. The ancestral character state reconstruction (ACSR) analysis based on both novel variants and documented strains from 5 continents demonstrated that SEOV appeared to originate near the southwestern area (Yunnan-Kweichow Plateau) of China, then could spread to other regions and countries by their rodent carriers, resulting in a global distribution today. In summary, these data furthered the understanding regards genetic diversity and the potential origin for SEOV. However, the expanding endemic foci in the province suggest that the virus is spreading over a wider region and is much more diverse than previous depicted, which means that increased sampling is necessary. Author summary: Hantaviruses are primarily hosted by small mammals such as rodents, shrews, moles, and bats. In recent years, the diseases caused by rodent-associated hantaviruses become more frequent among humans in Yunnan province. In order to curb human infections, it is necessary to monitor the dynamics of virus prevalence in their natural reservoir populations. As expected, we detected 37 SEOV strains harbored by rats in the main endemic areas of the province, and the subsequent meta-transcriptomic and phylogenetic analyses revealed two SEOV variants that diverged early from the rest of the viruses, based on which Yunnan-Kweichow Plateau appears to be the region where earlier SEOV was originated. Further studies and more samples are needed to clarify how the virus migrates worldwide, and the pathogenicity of newly discovered viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) results in notable impairments in neurological function and is associated with poor outcomes. Various processes occur at the cellular level, one of which is neuroinflammation. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin protein produced by the brain that circulates in plasma post-injury. It has functions such as anti-apoptosis, anti-neurotoxicity, and anti-inflammatory effects. Therapeutic approaches aimed at modulating or synergizing BDNF are anticipated to reduce inflammation and enhance outcomes in TBI patients. Magnesium sulfate administration is known for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Methods: This study employed a true experimental post-test-only group design. The subjects, male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus), were subjected to weight-drop-induced TBI and divided into three distinct groups: a control group (Group A), a TBI group without therapy (Group B), and a therapy group (Group C). Group B received TBI without magnesium sulfate administration, while Group C received TBI with magnesium sulfate administered at 250 µm/kg BW. BDNF levels in blood plasma were assessed at the conclusion of therapy utilizing ELISA. ANOVA was used to conclude the inquiry after all groups underwent a Shapiro-Wilk test. Results: Plasma BDNF levels were significantly lower in the TBI rat models treated with magnesium sulfate at 250 µm/kg BW within 4 hours after injury than in the untreated group (p = 0.005). Compared to the untreated group, the magnesium sulfate-treated group had reduced plasma BDNF levels. Conclusions: Administration of MgSO4 to the TBI treatment group resulted in decreased BDNF levels compared to the untreated group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) and is the main cause of 20 to 40 times higher mortality compared to diabetes without nephropathy. Therefore, the author wants to prove the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) on changes in blood glucose levels, proteinuria and kidney tissue necrosis cells in DN animal models. This study used 27 male white rats Rattus Norvegicus strain Wistar, weighing 170 - 220 grams, aged 8-12 weeks, healthy and active, divided into 3 groups, namely the normal rats group (G0), the DN rats without HBO group (G1) and the DN rats with HBO group (G2). Making a DN model with Streptozotocin (STZ) induction 75 mg / kgBW intraperitoneally in a single dose. HBO was performed in a 2.4 ATA pressurized air chamber by inhaling 98% O2 for 3 x 30 minutes interspersed with inhaling normal air for 2 x 5 minutes for 5 consecutive days. The results showed a significant decrease in blood glucose levels p = 0.000 (p <0.05). In proteinuria levels, there was an insignificant decrease p = 0.077 (p > 0.05) in G2 compared to G1. Repair of kidney tissue damage was also indicated by a decrease in necrotic cells by 45.45% in G2 compared to G1. These results prove that HBO can repair kidney damage in DN model mice, so HBO is expected to be used as an additional therapy in cases of diabetic nephropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Angiostrongylus cantonensis, commonly known as the rat lungworm, is a metastrongyloid nematode found primarily not only in tropical and subtropical regions but also in temperate areas and considered the leading cause of eosinophilic meningitis in humans. Synanthropic rodents such as Rattus norvegicus and Rattus rattus are the most frequent definitive hosts of this parasite. Methods and Results: The presence of this parasite was detected in the pulmonary arteries of three specimens of R. norvegicus in the city of Buenos Aires representing the species' southernmost known record in natural hosts. Species confirmation was achieved through partial sequences of 18S and COI genes. By comparing the COI gene sequences with those available in GenBank through the construction of a haplotype network, we obtained that the analysed specimen presents high similarity with those reported in Japan and Southeast Asia. Conclusions: All infected rats were captured in an area surrounding a port with significant import and export activity, suggesting that A. cantonensis may have been introduced through commercial ships. Specifically, the parasite was detected in a neighbourhood with vulnerable socio‐economic conditions and in a nature reserve, which exhibit biotic and abiotic characteristics conducive to sustaining high‐density rat populations, scattered waste, areas of spontaneous vegetation, debris accumulation and flooded areas or lagoons offering suitable habitats for intermediate hosts such as snails. Thus, the close proximity of the port to these sites creates a favourable ecological context for the establishment of A. cantonensis. This study shows the need to conduct research to detect A. cantonensis in non‐endemic areas but with the characteristics that promote its arrival and development of its life cycle in order to implement control measures to prevent expansion of this parasite and its transmission to humans and other animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: Quercetin (Q) is a compound that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the colon; however, to do so, a high dose is needed, requiring a drug delivery system to target cancer endothelial cells directly. This study investigates the potency of nanodiamondconjugated quercetin (NDQ) as an anticancer drug against colon cancer in Rattus norvegicus induced by N-methyl N-Nitrosourea (MNU). Materials and methods: This study is experimental-based and was designed using a six-group treatment method, namely normal control (KN: not treated by MNU, nanodiamond (ND), or Q); negative control (K-: treated by MNU); positive control (K+: treated by MNU and capecitabine); ND (treated by MNU and NDs); Q (treated by MNU and Q); and NDQ (treated by MNU and NDQ). To induce colon cancer in rats, MNU (10 mg/Kg BW) was administrated intrarectally three times per week for four weeks. The treatment of Q (40 mg/Kg BW) or NDQ (40 mg/Kg BW) was given intraperitoneally twice a week for 6 weeks. Cancer progression of all cohorts was evaluated by performing body and colon weight measurements, which involved the following: ELISA assay-specific to metastatic marker matrix metalloprotein-9 (MMP-9), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), hypoxia-inducible factor 1 a (HIF1a), vascular endothelial growth factor, protein 53 (p53) and immunohistochemistry staining of Caspase-3 and Ki-67 proteins. Observation of cancer metastasis to the lung was also performed. Results: NDQ significantly inhibited cancer aggressiveness by causing an increment in body weight gain and the growth rate--while reducing the colon weight compared to the K-group. Moreover, decreased levels of MMP-9, CEA, HIF-1a, and Ki67 and increased levels of p53 and Caspase-3 were more significant in the NDQ group than in the Q group. The lung tumor metastases in the NDQ group were fewer than in the K-group. Conclusion: NDQ increased Q's anticancer activity, suggesting that NDs have an effective drug delivery property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ophidism is a public health problem in tropical countries, occurring predominantly in rural areas. In Colombia, among the species responsible for snakebite envenomation, inflicting high mortality, is the Chocoan bushmaster, Lachesis acrochorda, better known locally by the names "verrugosa (warty)" and "pudridora (rot-causing)". In this research, the cardiotoxic effect of the venom of L. acrochorda in male Wistar rats weighing 230 ± 20 g was evaluated. A statistical design of randomized blocks was implemented with three treated groups, injected with lyophilized venom (doses of 3.22 μg/g, 6.43 μg/g, 12.86 μg/g), and a control group injected with 0.9% saline solution. Electrocardiographic (ECG) recordings were taken from the anesthetized animals, revealing an increase in the amplitude of the P and T waves and an increase in the duration of the QT intervals in the electrocardiographic recordings. These increases were not observed in the control biomodels. In the analysis of the CK and CK-MB enzyme levels, increases were also observed in the levels of cardiac isoenzymes in the injected animals, but none in the control animals. The histopathological analyses carried out reveal that the injected animals showed effects such as interfibrillar and perivascular edema, cellular shortening of the cardiomyocytes, foci with tissue destructuring, and necrosis with contraction bands. In conclusion, the venom of the Lachesis acrochorda snake increases the P and T waves and the QT interval and increases the CK and CK-MB enzymes in the blood. Additionally, it causes interfibrillar and perivascular edema in the cardiac tissue, cardiocytolysis, and contraction bands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While Mammarenavirus Wenzhouense (WENV) is broadly distributed across Asia, the dynamics of WENV infection remain unclear. In this study, a field-derived strain of WENV was used to inoculate Sprague Dawley (SD) rats by intramuscular injection, and the process of viral infection was observed over the course of 28 d. Viral RNA became detectable in the blood at 3 dpi and remained detectable for about 12 d. In most organ tissues, viral RNA peaked at 7 dpi, and then began to decline by 14 d, but remained detectable in intestine and brain tissues at 21 and 28 dpi. Viral shedding was detected from fecal samples for 5 d, from 6 to 11 dpi using qRT-PCR, and was recovered from feces collected at 8 dpi. Horizontal contact infection occurred among cage-mates at 14 and 21 dpi. Antibodies against the nucleocapsid were detected at 5 dpi, and then increased and persisted until the end of the experiment. These results enabled us to determine the kinetics of viremic response, viral shedding in feces, and horizontal transmission dynamics, as well as the potential sites for WENV replication and viral maintenance in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anticoagulants are widely used as potent cumulative rodenticides; however, they are also associated with adverse environmental effects, such as intoxication of non-target animals. To ensure user safety, in the EU the use of anticoagulants containing active substances of > 30 ppm is restricted to professionals as these substances are toxic to reproduction Kat.1 A or B. Therefore, new products with < 30 ppm anticoagulant substance have been developed and registered. While the biological efficacy of these new products has been evaluated, the effect of their application on liver residues in targeted rodents was not examined before product introduction to the market. Our laboratory no-choice study on wild brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) showed that baits with high (50 ppm) and low (25 ppm) brodifacoum concentrations (with identical nontoxic cereal-based food components) presented 100% efficacy, although the 25 ppm bait exhibited significantly higher palatability and 4.5 times higher liver residues. Rats consumed 13.6 and 167.7 g of the 50 and 25 ppm baits, respectively, which corresponded to 3.16 and 14.91 μg/g of brodifacoum liver residues at their time of death. The experiments demonstrated that a decreased concentration of brodifacoum anticoagulant in rodenticide baits may lead to greater accumulation in rodent liver, thus indicating the urgent need to perform a detailed study of the environmental risks of low-concentration anticoagulant baits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) under hypoxic conditions can produce secretomes containing growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), accelerating angiogenesis in wound healing disorders in diabetic ulcers. This study aimed to prove the influence of gel secretome MSC hypoxia administration on increasing VEGF and P38 gene expression in rats' diabetic wounds. An in vivo study was conducted on 25 male Rattus norvegicus, randomly divided into four groups: base gel as a negative control, Gentamycin as a positive control, and gel secretome at a dose of 100 µL, and 200 µL/kg body weight. The differences in P38 and VEGF gene expression were tested using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Wound closure appeared to be fastest in treatment groups at a dose of 100 µL/kg body weight, followed by a dose of 200 µL/kg body weight, followed by Gentamycin and base gel group. The wound closure rate percentage was significantly different in the intervention group compared to the control group (p = 0.000). The results showed a significant difference in P38 and VEGF gene expression between the treatment and control groups (p = 0.000). This study demonstrates the administration of gel secretome hypoxia mesenchymal stem cells increases P38 and VEGF expression in rats' diabetic wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dental pulp inflammation, often initiated by Gram-negative microorganisms and lipopolysaccharides (LPS), can lead to pulpitis and, subsequently, dental pulp necrosis, compromising tooth structure and increasing susceptibility to fracture. Asiatic acid, derived from Centella asiatica, has demonstrated pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making it a potential candidate for mitigating LPS-induced pulp inflammation. This in vivo study aims to investigate the impact of Asiatic acid on the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway in Rattus norvegicus with LPS-induced pulp inflammation. Methods: This quasi-laboratory experimental in vivo study employed a post-test-only control group design to investigate the effects of Asiatic acid on LPS-induced pulp inflammation in Wistar rats. Thirty rats were randomly divided into six groups subjected to various interventions. LPS was administered to all groups for 6 h except the standard control group (CG, n = 5). The negative control group (NCG, n = 5) received only glass ionomer cement. The positive control group (PCG, n = 5) received Eugenol with glass ionomer cement. Intervention groups 1, 2, and 3 (IG1, IG2, IG3; n = 5 each) received Asiatic acid at concentrations of 0.5%, 1%, and 2%, respectively, with glass ionomer cement. Dental pulp inflammation was confirmed through immunological (tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels), histopathological (inflammatory parameters), and physiological (pain assessment using the rat grimace scale) analyses. Additionally, Nrf2 levels were examined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Asiatic acid administration significantly influenced Nrf2 levels in rats with LPS-induced pulp inflammation. Nrf2 levels were significantly higher in groups treated with 0.5% (IG1) (8.810 ± 1.092 ng/mL; p = 0.047), 1.0% (IG2) (9.132 ± 1.285 ng/mL; p = 0.020), and 2.0% (IG3) (11.972 ± 1.888 ng/mL; p = 0.000) Asiatic acid compared to NCG (7.146 ± 0.706). Notably, Nrf2 levels were also significantly higher in the 2.0% Asiatic acid group (IG3) compared to the PCG treated with Eugenol (8.846 ± 0.888 ng/mL; p = 0.001), as well as IG1 (p = 0.001) and IG2 (p = 0.002). However, no significant difference was observed between administering 0.5% Asiatic acid (IG1), 1.0% Asiatic acid (IG2), and Eugenol (PCG). Conclusion: This research showed that Asiatic acid significantly impacted the Nrf2 levels in rats with LPS-induced pulp inflammation. This suggests that it has the potential to be used as a therapeutic agent for reducing dental pulp inflammation. These findings support the need to further explore Asiatic acid as a promising intervention for maintaining dental pulp health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the carbon fiber obtained from textile PAN fiber, in its different forms, as a potential scaffolds synthetic bone. Thirty‐four adult rats were used (Rattus norvegicus, albinus variation), two critical sized bone defects were made that were 5 mm in diameter. Twenty‐four animals were randomly divided into four groups: control (C)—bone defect + blood clot, non‐activated carbon fiber felt (NACFF)—bone defect + NACFF, activated carbon fiber felt (ACFF)—bone defect + ACFF, and silver activated carbon fiber felt (Ag‐ACFF)—bone defect + Ag‐ACFF, and was observed by 15 and 60 days for histomorphometric, three‐dimensional computerized microtomography (microCT) and mineral apposition analysis. On histomorphometric and microCT analyses, NACFF were associated with higher proportion of neoformed bone and maintenance of bone structure. On fluorochrome bone label, there was no differences between the groups. NACFF has shown to be a promising synthetic material as a scaffold for bone regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synanthropic wild rodents associated with agricultural operations may represent a risk path for transmission of high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) from wild birds to poultry birds. However, their susceptibility to HPAIVs remains unclear. In the present study, house mice (Mus musculus), brown rats (Rattus norvegicus), and black rats (Rattus rattus) were experimentally exposed to H5N1 subtype HPAIVs to evaluate their vulnerability to infection. After intranasal inoculation with HA clade 2.2 and 2.3.2.1 H5N1 subtype HPAIVs, wild rodents did not show any clinical signs and survived for 10- and 12-day observation periods. Viruses were isolated from oral swabs for several days after inoculation, while little or no virus was detected in their feces or rectal swabs. In euthanized animals at 3 days post-inoculation, HPAIVs were primarily detected in respiratory tract tissues such as the nasal turbinates, trachea, and lungs. Serum HI antibodies were detected in HA clade 2.2 HPAIV-inoculated rodents. These results strongly suggest that synanthropic wild rodents are susceptible to infection of avian-origin H5N1 subtype HPAIVs and contribute to the virus ecosystem as replication-competent hosts. Detection of infectious viruses in oral swabs indicates that wild rodents exposed to HPAIVs could contaminate food, water, and the environment in poultry houses and play roles in the introduction and spread of HPAIVs in farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is registered annually among residents of Khabarovsk city, Russia. The aim of the study was to conduct a genetic analysis of hantaviruses, the causative agents of HFRS, in residents of Khabarovsk city and in Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus), a natural reservoir of Seoul virus (SEOV), captured in Khabarovsk and its suburbs. Materials and methods. Blood sera samples from 75 patients with HFRS, collected in 2016–2023 (blood plasma – in 2017) and samples from 1468 Norway rats, captured during 2011–2023, were investigated. Results and discussion. We have demonstrated the presence of the Seoul virus (SEOV) in samples of Norway rats from the city of Khabarovsk and the suburban settlement Priamursky, Jewish Autonomous Region; 2 RNA isolates of the SEOV virus, 33 isolates of the Hantaan virus (HTNV), 9 isolates of the Amur virus (AMRV) – in patients with HFRS from Khabarovsk. Phylogenetic analysis of partial S and L segments of the genome has revealed that three RNA isolates of SEOV from Norway rats and two isolates from HFRS patients are most closely related (99 % homology) to strains from China and are different from the variant of SEOV from Vladivostok. It is assumed that the urban focus of the Seoul virus in Khabarovsk and its environs was formed as a result of the importation of virus carriers from China, where this variant of the virus is widespread. The data obtained indicate that the incidence of HFRS in residents of Khabarovsk, caused by infection with the HTNV and AMRV viruses, is associated with visits to various rural areas of the Far East.

Nanoparticles (NPs) are utilized in various applications, posing potential risks to human health, tissues, cells, and macromolecules. This study aimed to investigate the ultrastructural alterations in hepatocytes and renal tubular cells induced by metallic and metal oxide NPs. Adult healthy male Wistar albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) were divided into 6 (n = 7) control and 6 treated groups (n = 7). The rats in the treated groups exposed daily to silver NPs, gold NPs, zinc oxide NPs, silicon dioxide NPs, copper oxide NPs, and ferric oxide NPs for 35 days. The members of the control group for each corresponding NPs received the respective vehicle. Liver and kidney tissue blocks from all rats were processed for Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) examinations. The hepatocytes and renal tubular cells of all NPs-treated rats demonstrated mitochondrial ultrastructural alterations mainly cristolysis, swelling, membrane disruption, lucent matrices, matrices lysis, and electron-dense deposits. However, other organelles demonstrated injury but to a lesser extent in the form of shrunken nuclei, nuclear membrane indentation, endoplasmic reticulum fragmentation, cellular membranes enfolding, brush border microvilli disruption, lysosomal hyperplasia, ribosomes dropping, and peroxisome formation. One may conclude from the findings that the hepatocytes and the renal tubular cells mitochondria are the main targets for nanoparticles toxicity ending in mitochondrial disruption and cell injury. Further studies taking into account the relation of mitochondrial ultrastructural damage with a weakened antioxidant defense system induced by chronic exposure to nanomaterials are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Leptospirosis is a health problem in tropical countries where rats serve as the reservoir of Leptospira contamination. Previous investigations implementing the Bi-index to assess rat density in Leptospirosis endemic areas are highly limited. This study aimed to use the Bi-index in monitoring rat density and the associated factors in urban Leptospirosis endemic areas. Methods: Four endemic areas in Semarang City were selected as the study sites based on Leptospirosis data in Puskesmas Gayamsari. Live traps were positioned in one case house and 39-49 neighboring houses in a 100m radius, on three consecutive days. Trapped rats were collected for species identification, morphometrics evaluation, and calculation of Bi-index and rat indices, while environmental parameters were obtained through observation. Results and Discussion: 67.1% of participants were women, private employees, and aged 17-55, while trap success ranged from 2.5-26.5% with the Bi, diversity, dominance, and evenness indices of 0.02-0.32, 0.94-1.09, 0.36-0.44, and 0.79-0.96, respectively. Trapped species included Rattus norvegicus, Rattus tanezumi, and Mus musculus with proportions of 61.3%, 34.1%, and 4.7%, respectively. The presence of rats was associated with closeness to the river containing stagnant water, frequent flooding, water entering houses during floods, open trash bins, and rubbish bins around the houses. The high rat density, dominant species, and correlated environmental conditions are strategic targets in controlling Leptospirosis in Semarang City. Conclusion: The rat density (dominated by R. norvegicus) in Semarang City was correlated with water drainage and garbage management, hence further investigation was recommended to determine Leptospira bacterial infection in rodents.

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is steadily increasing. According to the International Diabetes Federation in 2021, the number of diabetes sufferers in Indonesia has rapidly increased in the last ten years. This study aims to determine the effect of red betel leaf extract (Piper crocatum) on kidney histopathology of Wistar white rats (Rattus norvegicus) induced by alloxan. A total of 25 white male Wistar rats aged ± 3 months were used in this study. All samples were divided randomly into five treatment groups, namely: (K-) healthy rats that were only given distilled water; (K+) given a single dose of alloxan 120 mg/kg bw/intraperitoneal; (P1) rats given alloxan 120 mg/kgbw/intraperitoneally and red betel leaf extract 100 mg/kg bw/orally; (P2) rats given alloxan 120 mg/kg bw/intraperitoneally and red betel leaf extract 150 mg/kg bw/orally; (P3) rats were given alloxan 120 mg/kgbw/intraperitoneally and red betel leaf extract 200 mg/kg bw/orally. Treatment was given for 14 days. Blood glucose levels were measured using the Glucometer (EZ Smart) colorimeter method. On the day 15th, all rat were euthanized and necropsied to remove the kidneys and then made into preparations with HE staining. The histopathological lesions observed were necrosis, degeneration, and inflammatory cell infiltration. Histopathological observations were carried out using a microscope with 40x magnification. Data resulting from observations were analyzed using SPSS 20 with Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney (P≤0.05). It revealed that red betel leaf extract has a potential ability to reduce the effects of hyperglycemia, and by inducing 2% of red betel leaf extract at dose of 100 mg/kg bw, 150 mg/kg bw, and 200 mg/kg bw could reduce necrosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, and degeneration significantly in the kidneys of white rats.

Maternal separation in early life has been observed to have lasting, detrimental effects that impair personal and social development and can persist into adulthood. Maternal separation during infancy can be most detrimental during adolescence, leading to long-term adverse effects on development and social behavior. This research study compared the effects of sibling and maternal separation in infancy on anxiety, sociability, or memory later in adolescence (postnatal day, PND, 50–58) in male and female Long-Evans Rats (Rattus norvegicus). Rat pups were semi-randomly assigned into eight conditions for daily isolation (PND 1–14). The groups were separated by the duration of isolation between 15 minutes (control group) or 180 minutes (experimental group) and the sex of the rat. They were also separated by comfort conditions with the dam present in an adjoining cage versus not present and siblings present or not present during isolation. The result was a 2 (15-min vs. 180-min) x 2 (dam vs. no dam) x 2 (single vs. grouped) x 2 (male vs. female) design. Once pups had reached adolescence (PND 50), researchers tested for differences in anxiety, activity, and social behavior using elevated plus-maze, open field habituation, a three-chamber social interaction, and a social discrimination task. Results indicate that longer isolation was more stressful and caused lower body weight. The female rats showed more anxious behavior in the open field but only if they were in the shorter isolation group. Social interaction showed that the rats isolated with the dam had different effects of isolation. In males, shorter isolation with the dam increased sociability but decreased sociability in females. These complicated findings may be due to the effects of inoculation, which describes how moderate stress combined with comfort may produce adaptation or immunity to stress and affect males and females differently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuronostatin suppresses the differentiation of white preadipocytes. However, the role of neuronostatin in brown adipose tissue remains elusive. Therefore, we investigated the impact of neuronostatin on the proliferation and differentiation of isolated rat brown preadipocytes. We report that neuronostatin and its receptor (GPR107) are synthesized in brown preadipocytes and brown adipose tissue. Furthermore, neuronostatin promotes the replication of brown preadipocytes via the AKT pathway. Notably, neuronostatin suppresses the expression of markers associated with brown adipogenesis (PGC‐1α, PPARγ, PRDM16, and UCP1) and reduces cellular mitochondria content. Moreover, neuronostatin impedes the differentiation of preadipocytes by activating the JNK signaling pathway. These effects were not mimicked by somatostatin. Our results suggest that neuronostatin is involved in regulating brown adipogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rats are particularly important from an epidemiological point of view, because they are regarded as reservoirs for diverse zoonotic pathogens including enteric bacteria. This study is the first to report the emergence of Salmonella serovar Ohio in brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) and food-producing animals in Hungary. We first reveal the genomic diversity of the strains and their phylogenomic relationships in the context of the international collection of S. Ohio genomes. This pathogen was detected in 4.3% (4/92) of rats, captured from multiple sites in Hungary. A whole-genome-based genotype comparison of S. Ohio, Infantis, Enteritidis, and Typhimurium strains showed that 76.4% (117/153) of the virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes were conserved among these serovars, and none of the genes were specific to S. Ohio. All S. Ohio strains lacked virulence and resistance plasmids. The cgMLST phylogenomic comparison highlighted a close genetic relationship between rat and poultry strains of S. Ohio from Hungary. These strains clustered together with the international S. Ohio genomes from aquatic environments. Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of the epidemiology of Salmonella spp. in brown rats and highlights the importance of monitoring to minimize the public health risk of rodent populations. However, further research is needed to understand the route of infection and evolution of this serovar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Enterocytozoon bieneusi, an obligatory intracellular fungus, is prevalent among animals and humans. Due to their close interaction with humans and their extensive regional distribution, brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) are important pathogen reservoirs. To assess the zoonotic transmission potential of E. bieneusi, a molecular investigation was conducted on 817 R. norvegicus from four cities in Heilongjiang Province, China. Methods: A total of 817 R. norvegicus were collected from four cities in Heilongjiang Province, China. The genotyping of E. bieneusi was conducted through PCR amplification of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA)'s internal transcribed spacer (ITS) segments. Phylogenetic and similarity analyses were used to examine zoonotic potential and genetic characteristics of the E. bieneusi-positive specimens. Results: Among the 817 R. norvegicus, the total infection rate was 33.3% (272/817). Seventy-five genotypes were identified, including 14 known genotypes D (n = 167), A (n = 15), HLJ-CP1 (n = 12), WR8 (n = 6), EbpC (n = 2), BEB6 (n = 1), CS-4 (n = 1), CHPM1 (n = 1), Henan-II (n = 1), HNH-22 (n = 1), HNH-25 (n = 1), I (n = 1), JLD-XI (n = 1), SDD5 (n = 1), and 61 novel genotypes designated as SHWR1 (n = 10), SYSWR1 (n = 2), and SHWR2 to SHWR17, SYSWR2 to SYSWR36 and QTHWR1 to QTHWR8 (n = 1, each). Moreover, 10 samples exhibited mixed genotype infections, including D+ A (n = 3), D+ EbpC (n = 1), D+ HLJ-CP1 (n = 1), D+ SHWR1 (n = 1), D+ SHWR16 (n = 1), D+ SHWR17 (n = 1), SDD5+ WR8 (n = 1), and CS-4+ SYSWR36 (n = 1). Phylogenetic analysis grouped the genotypes into three main groups: group 1 (n = 67), group 2 (n = 5), and group 9 (n = 3). Discussion: The high prevalence and genetic diversity of E. bieneusi in Heilongjiang Province's R. norvegicus imply that these animals spread the pathogen. The R. norvegicus that E. bieneusi carries can spread zoonotic disease, making it a serious hazard to the local human population. Therefore, it is imperative to raise awareness about the dangers posed by R. norvegicus and implement measures to reduce their population to prevent environmental contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Carbon monoxide (CO), influences ovarian function, pregnancy, and placental health. Heme oxygenase (HO)-1 and its products, including CO, exhibit protective and anti-inflammatory properties. Objective: This study investigates the protective effects of CO released by the carbon dioxide-releasing molecule (CORM)-2 against oxidative stress, functional and structural changes of the ovaries, and HO-1 expressions in female rats suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 24 Rattus norvegicus var. Albinus female rats (180-200 gr, 8 wk) were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 6/each): control, CORM-2 (10 mg/kg), PCOS (induced by 4 mg/kg, intramuscular injection and a single dose of estradiol valerate), PCOS + CORM-2. Ovary histological changes were evaluated by crystal violet staining. Malondialdehyde (MDA) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of ovarian tissue were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. HO-1 expression was evaluated using Western blot. Results: Corpus luteal formation significantly decreased in the PCOS group and was significantly restored with CORM-2 administration compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The expression of ovarian HO-1 protein was reduced in the PCOS group compared to controls (p < 0.01), and administration of CORM in PCOS rats significantly increased its expression (p < 0.0001). In addition, CORM administration markedly reduced ovarian MDA levels and restored SOD activity (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: CORM-2 administration to PCOS rats created protective effects by reducing oxidative stress (reducing MDA level and restoring SOD activity) and increasing ovarian HO-1 protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to prove that administering BBLE as a natural antioxidant can prevent atherosclerosis by maintaining lipid profiles, antioxidant enzymes, and netrin-1 levels in hyperlipidemia in rat models. The research subjects were 20 adult male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus), which were divided into 2 groups using a randomized pretest and posttest control group design. Before treatment and after treatment for 3 months, lipid profiles, MDA, SOD, and netrin-1 were examined. The control group was only given high-cholesterol diets (HCD), while the treatment, apart from HCD, was also given BBLE 4mg/day. The data obtained was tested using paired t-test and group t-test. The results of the study showed that there was a significant decrease in netrin-1 in the control group (p<0.05) after being given HCD for three months. In the treatment group, it also decreased but it was not significant (p>0.05). Netrin-1 levels in the treatment group were higher than the control (p<0.05). The lipid profile experienced a significant increase in HDL in the treatment group accompanied by a significant decrease in MDA and an increase in SOD (p<0.05) when compared with the control group. This study concludes that administering BBLE at a dose of 4 mg/day to rats given HCD caused an increase in netrin-1 levels accompanied by improvements in lipid profiles and prevention of oxidative stress. The findings of this study reveal the novelty of BBLE in treating and maintaining blood vessel function in mice given HCD by increasing netrin-1 levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Extensive attention has been devoted to studies of Trypanosoma lewisi in rodents ever since it became recognised as a zoonotic pathogen known as atypical human trypanosomiasis. Regrettably, although T. lewisi infections of small mammals remain significant public health concerns for humans, there is a lack of comprehensive study in Indonesia. Aim: The aim of the study was to detect T. lewisi from rodents residing in the densely populated residential regions along the coastal areas of Banyuwangi Sub District. Methods: A total of 169 rodents were captured across three villages of Kampung Mandar, Lateng and Kepatihan, using rat single live traps. After being euthanized and identified, the blood samples were collected from each rodent via cardiac puncture. Subsequently, the samples were subjected to native (direct blood microscopic examination), microscopic blood smear examination, and molecular analyses utilizing TRYP1S-TRYP1R (623 bp) and LEW1SLEW1R (220 bp). Results: The results demonstrated that two species of rodents were successfully captured: Rattus norvegicus (65.68%) and Rattus tanezumi (34.32%). Based on the native and microscopic blood smear examinations, the prevalence of T. lewisi across three villages was 23.08% and 24.26% for molecular analysis employing both primers, respectively. The highest prevalence was found in Kampung Mandar Village (31.18%), followed by Kepatihan (16.67%) and Lateng Villages (15.71%). Conclusion: Statistical analysis revealed that T. lewisi was more prevalent in R. tanezumi compared to R. norvegicus. In terms of sex, no statistically significant distinction was observed between female and male infected rodents of either species (p > 0.05), indicating both species can serve as a source of T. lewisi for humans in the surveyed villages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to recognize and differentiate between conspecifics and heterospecifics as well as their signals is critical for the coexistence of closely related species. In the genus Rattus , species are morphologically similar and multiple species often coexist. Here, we investigated the interspecific recognition and signal differentiation of two sympatric rat species, the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus , RN) and the Asian house rat (Rattus tanezumi , RT). In a two-way choice test, both RN and RT females showed a preference for conspecific male rats to heterospecific ones. RT females showed a significant preference for accessible urine of males of same species to those of other species, but not for the inaccessible urine. On the other hand, there were significant differences in the structural characteristics of the ultrasonic vocalization emitted by males of these two rat species. Sodium dodecyl sulphate‒polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‒PAGE) and isoelectric focusing electrophoresis unveiled that major urinary proteins (MUPs) in voided urine were more highly expressed in RN males versus RT males. The interspecific differences of urinary volatile compounds were also discussed. In conclusion, female rats had the ability to distinguish between males of either species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Idiosyncratic drug reactions (IDRs) are associated with significant patient morbidity/mortality and lead to considerable drug candidate attrition in drug development. Their idiosyncratic nature makes the study of IDRs difficult. In particular, nevirapine is associated with a relatively high risk of serious skin rash and liver injury. We previously found that nevirapine causes a similar skin rash in female Brown Norway rats, but these animals do not develop significant liver injury. Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) is an immune checkpoint involved in immune tolerance, and anti-PD-1 antibodies have been used to treat cancer. However, they increase the risk of liver injury caused by co-administered drugs. We found that PD-1−/− mice are more susceptible to drug-induced liver injury, but PD-1−/− mice are not a good model for all drugs. In particular, they do not develop a skin rash when treated with nevirapine, at least in part because they lack the sulfotransferase in their skin that forms the reactive metabolite responsible for the rash. Therefore, we developed a PD-1 mutant (PD-1m/m) rat, with an excision in the ligand-binding domain of PD-1, to test whether nevirapine would cause a more serious skin rash in these animals. The PD-1m/m rat was based on a Sprague Dawley background, which has a lower incidence of skin rash than Brown Norway rats. The treated PD-1m/m rats developed more severe liver injury than PD-1−/− mice, but in contrast to expectations, they did not develop a skin rash. Functional knockouts provide a unique tool to study the mechanisms of IDRs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Juglone is an organic compound found naturally in the leaves, roots, bark, and fruits of plants belonging to the Juglandaceae family. It has toxic and growth inhibiting features in many plant species. Glioma is a type of tumorigenesis that occurs when glial cells begin to proliferate uncontrollably because of various reasons. C6 glioma cell line is a tumour line derived from brain glial cells of Rattus norvegicus. In this study, after juglone application to C6 glioma cell line, MTT and WST-1 tests were performed and IC50 values were found 6.666 µM and 5.646 µM, respectively. The data obtained showed that the results of two tests were closely related and the cytotoxic effects of juglone were present in this cell line. Furthermore, colony formation assay showed a decrease in colony formation abilities of the cells after juglone treatment. These observations were reinforced by wound healing assay and similarly, the migration ability of the cells decreased with juglone application. Morphological examinations of the cell groups were performed under fluorescent microscopy by DAPI staining, which showed a reduction in cell number. As a final step, the expression levels on the cancer related genes were determined by RT-qPCR. While a significant increase was observed in the expression levels of pro-apoptotic genes compared to the control group, a significant decrease was observed in the expression of the anti-apoptotic gene and the gene involved in proliferation. In line with the data presented, the cytotoxic effects of juglone were determined in the C6 glioma cell line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cerebellum has a long, protracted developmental period that spans from the embryonic to postnatal periods; as a result, it is more sensitive to intrauterine and postnatal insults like nutritional deficiencies. Folate is crucial for foetal and early postnatal brain development; however, its effects on cerebellar growth and development are unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of maternal folate intake on the histomorphology and cell density of the developing cerebellum. Twelve adult female rats (rattus norvegicus) were randomly assigned to one of four premixed diet groups: standard (2 mg/kg), folate‐deficient (0 mg/kg), folate‐supplemented (8 mg/kg) or folate supra‐supplemented (40 mg/kg). The rats started their diets 14 days before mating and consumed them throughout pregnancy and lactation. On postnatal days 1, 7, 21 and 35, five pups from each group were sacrificed, and their brains were processed for light microscopic analysis. Histomorphology and cell density of the external granule, molecular, Purkinje and internal granule layers were obtained. The folate‐deficient diet group had smaller, dysmorphic cells and significantly lower densities of external granule, molecular, Purkinje and internal granule cells. Although the folate‐enriched groups had greater cell densities than the controls, the folate‐supplemented group had considerably higher cell densities than the supra‐supplemented group. The folate supra‐supplemented group had ectopic Purkinje cells in the internal granule cell layer. These findings imply that a folate‐deficient diet impairs cellular growth and reduces cell density in the cerebellar cortex. On the other hand, folate supplementation increases cell densities, but there appears to be an optimal dose of supplementation since excessive folate levels may be detrimental. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the epidemic factors of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and compare the S and M gene sequences of hantavirus (HV) between rodents and the infected cases. Methods: Detailed epidemiological investigations were conducted on the cases' working and living areas. Captured rodents were classified by night trapping method, and their lungs and blood were collected for virus carriage detection after aseptic dissection. Viral S and M fragments of HV RNA were amplified and sequenced from positive samples of cases and mice, and their homology was analyzed. Results: After reconstruction, the geographic and living environment changed significantly, altering rodent behaviors. The industrial park, characterized by high population density, poor living conditions, and frequent contact of rodent (feces) and humans, had a high rodent density and HV virus infection ratio. Four workers infected with HV were positive for anti-HV immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM. Among the positive samples, HV RNA was detected in all two cases, and four Rattus norvegicus specimens were Seoul type HV S3 subtype. The virus had the closest relationship with Rod/2012/QHD/4/Gc (Hebei, China) and RuianRn180 (Zhejiang, China), with the 100% homology of M gene segment. The homology of viral S gene segment exhibited the closest relationship with the Jiangxi isolated JiangxiXinjianRn-09–2011, ranging from 99.6% to 99.8%. Conclusion: The HV sequencing showed a strong epidemiological relationship between the cases and host rodents. Improving living environmental health conditions, administering HFRS vaccine, and reducing rodent density and human–rodent contact can mitigate the risk of HFRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existence of cortical columns, regarded as computational units underlying both lower and higher-order information processing, has long been associated with highly evolved brains, and previous studies suggested their absence in rodents. However, recent discoveries have unveiled the presence of ocular dominance columns (ODCs) in the primary visual cortex (V1) of Long-Evans rats. These domains exhibit continuity from layer 2 through layer 6, confirming their identity as genuine ODCs. Notably, ODCs are also observed in Brown Norway rats, a strain closely related to wild rats, suggesting the physiological relevance of ODCs in natural survival contexts, although they are lacking in albino rats. This discovery has enabled researchers to explore the development and plasticity of cortical columns using a multidisciplinary approach, leveraging studies involving hundreds of individuals--an endeavor challenging in carnivore and primate species. Notably, developmental trajectories differ depending on the aspect under examination: while the distribution of geniculo-cortical afferent terminals indicates matured ODCs even before eye-opening, consistent with prevailing theories in carnivore/primate studies, examination of cortical neuron spiking activities reveals immature ODCs until postnatal day 35, suggesting delayed maturation of functional synapses which is dependent on visual experience. This developmental gap might be recognized as 'critical period' for ocular dominance plasticity in previous studies. In this article, I summarize crossspecies differences in ODCs and geniculo-cortical network, followed by a discussion on the development, plasticity, and evolutionary significance of rat ODCs. I discuss classical and recent studies on critical period plasticity in the venue where critical period plasticity might be a component of experiencedependent development. Consequently, this series of studies prompts a paradigm shift in our understanding of species conservation of cortical columns and the nature of plasticity during the classical critical period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractMancozeb is a fungicide of the dithiocarbamate functional group, and it is widely used in agriculture to control various fungal diseases. Thus, studies detailing its toxicological characteristics are necessary, as the population may be exposed through the consumption of food or water contaminated with mancozeb. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic, genotoxic, and mutagenic potentials of this dithiocarbamate using the Allium cepa L. test system as well as its cytotoxicity in erythrocytes of female rats (Rattus norvegicus). The meristematic roots of A. cepa bulbs were exposed to various concentrations of mancozeb (62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/L) for 24, 48, and 72 h to determine cytotoxicity by evaluating the mitotic index (MI), chromosomal aberrations (CA), and nuclear anomalies (NA) for genotoxicity analysis and micronuclei (MN) for mutagenicity analysis. Distilled water and copper sulfate (0.0006 mg/L) were used as the negative control (NC) and positive control (PC), respectively. The MI and the sum of CA and NA of all the mancozeb concentrations showed a significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) in relation to the NC, indicating possible cytotoxicity and genotoxicity induced by mancozeb. Additionally, MN significantly increased with mancozeb concentration from 250 mg/L to 500 mg/L in 24 h when compared to NC. In another study model, mancozeb showed to be cytolytic at concentrations starting from 125 mg/L. Therefore, these results indicate that mancozeb causes cytogenetic alterations and mutagenicity at lower concentrations than those used in agriculture, which emphasizes the need for more care when managing this fungicide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal toxicity from lead affects reproductive organ function by activating reactive oxygen species processes. This study aims to see how α-tocopherol and zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) affect gonads, liver, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, spermatogenesis (the amount of spermatogonia, spermatocytes, and spermatids), and Leydig cells in male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) exposed to lead acetate Pb(CH3COO)2. The samples used were 25 male Wistar rats aged 4 months, separated into five groups. All treatment groups were exposed to Pb(CH3COO)2 at a level of 50 mg/kg body weight (BW). The T1 group was given a dosage of 100 mg/kg BW of α-tocopherol. The ZnSO4 was given to the T2 group at a dose of 0.54 mg/kg BW. Meanwhile, the T3 group was given a mixture of ZnSO4 at 0.54 mg/kg BW and α-tocopherol at 100 mg/kg BW. All treatment is given orally for 30 days. ELISA test was carried out to determine the level of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in a blood plasma sample. Histopathological observations made on the liver included counting damaged cells and seminiferous tubules including counting the amount of spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids, Sertoli cells, and Leydig cells. Using SPSS 20 software, the collected data were analyzed using analysis of variance, followed by Duncan's test with a 95% simultaneous confidence level. The highest average levels of FSH and LH in the T3 group were 3.6162 mIU/mL and 14.9658 mIU/mL. The finding showed that Pb(CH3COO)2 caused disruptions in the spermatogenesis and Leydig cell processes. Exogenous antioxidants in combination with ZnSO4 and α-tocopherol had a significant effect on enhancing reproductive performance in animals exposed to Pb(CH3COO)2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lead exposure inflicts severe damage to various body organs. The present study sought to assess the effect of chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) on the prevention of hepatic and renal damage in rats with chronic lead poisoning. The indicators were the levels of oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines expression. Methods: We used Rattus norvegicus as the animal model. They were assigned to three groups: negative control, positive control, and treatment (n=8 each). The negative control and treatment groups were the models for chronic lead poisoning, and the serum lead levels were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. The treatment group was orally administered chitosan NPs at 64 mg/kg for 30 days. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured using 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate flow cytometry. The hepatic and renal TNF-α and IL-6 gene expressions were also analyzed. Results: The mean serum lead level was 0.52 mg/L, validating the rats as the lead poisoning model. The results indicated that the liver and kidneys in the treatment group had the lowest ROS and TNF-α levels compared to those in other groups. The treatment rats had a lower hepatic IL-6 level compared to those in positive controls, although this was higher than that in the negative controls. The renal IL-6 level in the treatment group was the highest among all groups. Conclusion: As evidenced by the results of this study, chitosan NPs had a protective effect on the liver and kidneys of rats during chronic lead poisoning by reducing the ROS and TNF-α levels; nonetheless, it did not suppress the renal IL-6 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Opioid analgesics like morphine and methadone are widely used for managing severe pain; however, concerns over their potential misuse and adverse effects on the brain and reproductive system are significant. Objective: We aimed to investigate their impacts on spermatogenesis and cognitive function in male Norway rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 36 male Norway rats (250-300 gr, 6 months old) were divided into 6 groups: low-dose morphine, high-dose morphine, low-dose methadone, high-dose methadone, positive control (received normal saline at 5 mg/kg), and negative control (received no treatment). Morphine and methadone were administered intraperitoneally over 30 days at doses of 3 mg/kg and 7 mg/kg, respectively. Behavioral assessments evaluated anxiety, stress, and shortand long-term memory. Sperm parameters (viability, motility, morphology), hormonal analysis (testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol), and gene expressions (Tp53, CatSper1) were assessed. Results: A significant reduction in rat weight was observed in the high-dose morphine group (p = 0.0045), while testicular weights remained unchanged. Sperm abnormalities were observed with high doses of methadone and morphine. High-dose methadone significantly reduced offspring count (p = 0.0004). Levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone, and estradiol varied significantly across treatment groups. Gene expression was altered in response to treatments (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Prolonged exposure to methadone and morphine resulted in memory dysfunction, chronic stress, hormonal disturbances, altered gene expression, and fertility complications. These effects were more pronounced at higher doses, highlighting the importance of careful dosage management in opioid therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To determine SOD2 and CAT expression in lens epithelial cells with the protection of UVblocking spectacle lens and UV-blocking contact lenses after UVB radiation. Methods: 32 eyes of Rattus norvegicus mice were subjected to UVB radiation from Philips PL-S 9W/01 narrowband 311 nm lamps at a distance of 18 cm for 30 minutes. Divided into four groups: a control group, P1 group exposed to radiation, P2 group wearing UV-blocking spectacle lens, and P3 group wearing UV-blocking contact lens. The mice were euthanized three days later and had their eyes removed. Immunohistochemistry analysis was used to evaluate the expression of SOD2 and CAT. Results: P1 demonstrated a statistically significant SOD2 expression (p=0.002) compared to the control group. Neither P2 nor P3 exhibited significant differences in SOD2 expression (p=0.693; p=0.365). The SOD2 of the P1 group was significantly different compared to the P2 and P3 groups (p=0.007; p=0.023). No statistically significant difference between groups P2 and P3 (p=0.606). The CAT levels in the P1 group significantly differed from the control group (p=0.001). The differences between the P2 and P3 groups and the control groups were statistically insignificant (p=0.894; p=0.120). CAT P1 group had a significant difference with P2 and P3 groups (p=0.001; p=0.033). No statistically significant difference was observed between groups P2 and P3 (p=0.154). Conclusions: UV-B exposure decreases the expression of SOD2 and CAT. Both protection can provide equally good protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]