Comparison of three different self-expanding metal stents using rabbit models for the treatment of tracheal collapse

Purpose: To identify an optimal self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) and verify whether a mechanically superior SEMS would result in better clinical outcomes in the treatment of tracheal collapse. Methods: We selected three SEMS (n = 8 each), including an S-type stent with a wire diameter of 0.006 inches (S6) and two D-type stents with wire diameters of 0.006 (D6) and 0.007 inches (D7). Twenty-four New Zealand White rabbits were divided into three equal groups. After the stents were deployed, the clinical signs were recorded daily, and radiographic examinations were performed monthly. All rabbits were euthanized after three months. Results: Two rabbits with S6 stents and one rabbit with a D7 stent died within three months because of stent migration or pneumonia. All rabbits with D6 stents survived for three months. On histological examination, the D6 group had the lowest inflammation score. Conclusions: Both clinically and histopathologically, the results with D-type stents with a wire diameter of 0.006 inches were superior to those of the other groups (p = 0.001). The use of an optimal intraluminal stent may improve the long-term clinical outcomes in the treatment of tracheal collapse in dogs.

Hiperplasia endometrial cística em uma coelha-doméstica (Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus) / Cystic endometrial hyperplasia in a domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus)

Background: Cystic endometrial hyperplasia is a hormone-dependent disease induced by systemic increase in progesteronethat can occur in several domestic species, such as the rabbit. This disease may be associated with sex steroid hormones,especially progesterone, and may be asymptomatic, and it is diagnosed using complementary imaging tests such as totalabdominal ultrasound. However, surgical excisional biopsy with histopathological tissue analysis is the gold standard. Thisstudy reports a case of asymptomatic cystic endometrial hyperplasia in a female Miniature Lion Lop rabbit (Oryctolaguscuniculus domesticus) treated with therapeutic ovariohysterectomy.Case: A domestic, adult, female Miniature Lion Lop rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus), aged approximately 5 yearsand weighing 3.2 kg, was referred to specialized care to undergo ovariohysterectomy, an elective procedure. The tutor onlyreported the occurrence of a single episode of vulvar secretion more than 2 years ago, treated with antibiotics, with remissionof clinical signs. In the intraoperative period after celiotomy, the uterine horn and uterine body showed a significant increasein volume, with abnormal color changes and tissue consistency; however, both changes were clinically asymptomatic. Subsequently, biopsy was performed during the ovariohysterectomy procedure. The excised uterus and ovaries were placed in 10%formalin and histopathologically analyzed. The macroscopic histopathological examination of the sectioned tissue revealed aslight amount of brownish fluid inside the uterine horns, in addition to multiple cystic areas in the uterine mucosa. Microscopicexamination revealed marked hyperplasia of well-differentiated endometrial epithelial cells, occasionally forming cystic structuresof different sizes. Moderate congestion, mild multifocal hemorrhage, and mild multifocal inflammatory infiltrate in the lamina...

Cervical ventral slot in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Piezosurgery versus conventional technique

ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate the applicability of piezosurgery for cervical ventral slot (CVS), comparing it with the conventional technique of using high-speed burs for bone wear. Methods Thirty rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were divided into two treatment groups (T1 and T2) corresponding to CVS between C3-C4. In T1, the surgery was performed with piezoelectric apparatus, and in T2 with high-speed burs. The evaluated parameters were: duration of each stage of surgery, temperature variations during CVS, visibility of the surgical field, intra and postoperative complications, and anesthetic monitoring. At 14, 28, and 56 postoperative days, five animals from each treatment group were submitted for histopathological study of the surgical site. Results Compared with T2, T1 had more precise bone cut, and better visibility of the operative field, although it required longer total surgical time (p = 0.02) and triggered a greater number of intraoperative complications (p < 0.01), microscopic lesions in the spinal cord (p < 0.05), and transient neurological deficits in the postoperatively (p < 0.05). Conclusions It is necessary to perform surgical planning and have several tips of the piezoelectric instrument available for the safe use of the piezoelectric device in neurosurgery.

Cyclosporine reduces the spleen dimensions in rabbits

Purpose To assess the influence of prolonged cyclosporine use on the macro- and microscopic morphology of the spleen. Methods 16 adult rabbits were divided into two groups (n = 8): group 1 a placebo group, which was followed-up over a period of nine months; group 2 which had taken an oral dose of cyclosporine (10 mg·kg1·day1) over nine months. At the end of this period, the splenic histoarchitecture of all animals was evaluated and the splenic corpuscles were measured. Results The spleens of the first group presented normal characteristics and dimensions. The second group, however, had a reduction in all dimensions and its tissue texture had become soft. The white pulp and the perivascular sheath had become reduced in size and the number of lymphoid follicles had also fallen (p = 0.002), manifesting less splenic corpuscles (p = 0.0012) and lymphocyte nuclear pigments (p = 0.03). Conclusions Prolonged use of cyclosporine reduces the spleen size, transforming it into a soft organ associated with a decrease in white pulp, perivascular sheath, lymphoid follicles and nuclear pigments in rabbits.(AU)

Haematological changes in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus f. domesticus) in the course of pregnancy

Abstract The analysis of haematological parameters is an important element of the assessment of the physiological condition of animals. Haematological parameters may change both under the influence of various external factors, and in the course of normal pregnancy, which has been found in various species of mammals, including rabbits. Our study showed statistically significant (p<0.05) changes in basic haematological parameters: RBC (decrease; 5.87±0.48 at day 15 vs. 5.42±0.32 T/L at day 26), MCH (increase; 1.35±0.04 before matching vs. 1.41±0.03 fmol at day 26), RDW (decrease; 15.77±1.80 at day 15 vs. 14.27±1.57% at day 26) MPV (increase; 5.17±0.31 at day 15 vs. 5.92±0.70 fL at day 26), WBC (decrease; 8.60±2.57 at day 15 vs. 4.94±0.88 G/L at day 26) and PLT (decrease; 398.17±91.67 before matching vs. 271.67±61.72 G/L at day 26) in Termond White rabbits and RBC (decrease; 6.18±0.68 before matching vs. 5.68±0.54 T/L at day 26), Hb (decrease; 8.00±0.90 before matching vs. 7.32±0.71 mmol/L at day 26), MCH (decrease; 1.32±0.05 at day 15 vs. 1.29±0.04 fmol at day 26) and WBC (decrease; 9.62±1.81 before matching vs. 5.85±2.23 G/L at day 26 as well as 9.58±2.35 at day 15 vs. 5.85±2.23 G/L at day 26) in Popielno White rabbits. Moreover, in the Popielno White rabbits we recorded a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the percentage of irregular erythrocytes at the end of pregnancy (11.00±10.02 at day 15 vs. 3.00±4.94 at day 26). The changes appear to be physiological but should be considered in studies using rabbits as model organisms.

Use of hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone acetonide or ozone gas in the treatment of induced osteoarthritis in rabbits

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of the intra-articular application of hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone acetonide, and ozone gas in the treatment of induced osteoarthritis in rabbit’s stifles.Methods: Twenty-one Norfolk rabbits were submitted to cranial cruciate ligament transection of the left stifle. After six weeks of the surgery, the rabbits were randomized assigned into three groups: G1 (control) – saline solution (0.9%); G2 – hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone; G3 – ozone gas, submitted to three intra-articular applications every seven days. Results: Significant differences occurred: osteophytes at medial femoral condyle (G2 > G1, G2 > G3) on radiography exam; thickening of the medial condyle (G1 > G3, G2 > G3) on ultrasound exam; osteophytes at lateral tibial condyle (G2 > G1, G2 > G3), and medial femoral condyle (G1 > G2, G3 > G1) on computed tomography. Histologically, mean values of chondrocytes in the femur and tibia in G3 and G2 were statistically lower. Conclusions: The intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone accentuated degenerative joint disease by imaging and macroscopic evaluations, and by histological findings, this treatment and the ozone gas treatment showed similar effects and were inferior to the saline solution (0.9%).

Haematological changes in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus f. domesticus) in the course of pregnancy

The analysis of haematological parameters is an important element of the assessment of the physiological condition of animals. Haematological parameters may change both under the influence of various external factors, and in the course of normal pregnancy, which has been found in various species of mammals, including rabbits. Our study showed statistically significant (p<0.05) changes in basic haematological parameters: RBC (decrease; 5.87±0.48 at day 15 vs. 5.42±0.32 T/L at day 26), MCH (increase; 1.35±0.04 before matching vs. 1.41±0.03 fmol at day 26), RDW (decrease; 15.77±1.80 at day 15 vs. 14.27±1.57% at day 26) MPV (increase; 5.17±0.31 at day 15 vs. 5.92±0.70 fL at day 26), WBC (decrease; 8.60±2.57 at day 15 vs. 4.94±0.88 G/L at day 26) and PLT (decrease; 398.17±91.67 before matching vs. 271.67±61.72 G/L at day 26) in Termond White rabbits and RBC (decrease; 6.18±0.68 before matching vs. 5.68±0.54 T/L at day 26), Hb (decrease; 8.00±0.90 before matching vs. 7.32±0.71 mmol/L at day 26), MCH (decrease; 1.32±0.05 at day 15 vs. 1.29±0.04 fmol at day 26) and WBC (decrease; 9.62±1.81 before matching vs. 5.85±2.23 G/L at day 26 as well as 9.58±2.35 at day 15 vs. 5.85±2.23 G/L at day 26) in Popielno White rabbits. Moreover, in the Popielno White rabbits we recorded a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the percentage of irregular erythrocytes at the end of pregnancy (11.00±10.02 at day 15 vs. 3.00±4.94 at day 26). The changes appear to be physiological but should be considered in studies using rabbits as model organisms.(AU)

Platelet-concentrated and platelet poor-plasma promote different pattern on immunohistochemical expression of TGF-β1, however they impairs the osteoneogensis in calvarial defects treated with autograft due suppression of osteocalcin

ABSTRACT Purpose Herein we evaluated the effects of platelet concentrate (PC) and platelet-poor plasma (PPP) on bone repair using noncritical defects in the calvaria of rabbits and compared them to the presence of TGF-β1 and osteocalcin on reparative sites. Methods Five noncritical defects of 8.7 mm in diameter were created on the calvaria of 15 animals. Each defect was treated differently, using autograft (ABG), ABG associated with PC (ABG + PC), ABG with PPP (ABG + PPP), isolated PPP, and blood clot (control). The animals were submitted to euthanasia on the second, fourth and sixth week post-surgery. Results The defects that received ABG+PC or PPP demonstrated lower bone formation when compared to specimens that received ABG in the same period. These results coincided to significant higher immunopositivity for TGF-β1 for specimens that received PC, and lower presence of cytokine in the group PPP. However, either higher or lower presence of TGF-β1 were also correlated to lower presence of osteocalcin. Likewise, these results were similar to findings in specimens treated only with PPP when compared to control. Conclusions PC and PPP were not effective when applied in association with ABG. Similarly, isolated use of PPP was not beneficial in optimizing the bone repair.

Effect of low-level laser therapy on the membrane induced by the Masquelet technique at an orthotopic site in rabbits

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the membrane induced by the Masquelet technique in rabbits. Methods: Twelve Norfolk rabbits at approximately 3 months of age were used. A 1-cm segmental defect was induced in both radii, which were filled with polymethylmethacrylate cylinder. LLLT was used postoperatively in the bone defect of one of the forelimbs every 48 hours for 15 days. Six rabbits were euthanatized on third and sixth postoperative weeks. Results: In both forelimbs, radiographs showed new bone growth from radius cut ends on the third postoperative week and more advanced stage on the sixth postoperative week. Ultrasound showed induced membrane one week after the surgery. Histologically, there were no significant differences in the semi-quantitative score of inflammation intensity, total number of blood vessels, bone metaplasia, and collagen. The average thicknesses were 2,050.17 and 1,451.96 μm for control membranes and 2,724.26 and 2,081.03 μm for irradiated membranes, respectively, on third and sixth postoperative weeks. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) and platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) expression were present in the induced membranes of control and irradiated forelimbs, but there was no significant difference. Conclusions: Based on assessment methods, it was not possible to demonstrate the effect of LLLT on the induced membrane.

Integration of heterologous bone matrix associated with polymethylmethacrylate in induced tibial bone defects. An experimental study in rabbits

ABSTRACT Purpose To analyze and compare the reactions at the interface between the composite, composed of fragmented heterologous mineralized bone matrix (MOMHF) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and the rabbit's tibias, through macroscopic evaluation and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in different periods. Methods In this study, 12 New Zealand adult rabbits were used (E1: n = 3, E2: n = 3, E3: n = 3 and E4: n = 3). They had the right tibial defects filled with composite and were evaluated immediately after surgery and at 30, 60, 90, and 120 days. Results The composites were incorporated and integrated into the recipient beds in 100% of the cases, defined by the MOMHF osseointegration and the PMMA fibrointegration, with no sign of infection, migration, or rejection. Conclusions The behavior of the composites in the recipient beds demonstrates that these biomaterials have the potential to be used in bone defect repairs, offering, thus, better quality of life to the orthopedic patient.

Beer residue in diets for growing rabbits / Resíduo de cervejaria em dietas para coelhos de corte

Conventional foodstuffs like alfalfa hay have high cost, mainly in developing countries. Due to that there has been a search for unconventional low-cost local ingredients. The purpose for this research was to evaluate performance and dry matter digestibility (DMD) of growing rabbits which were fed diets containing different levels of beer residue (BR) as a substitute for alfalfa hay. Thirty New Zealand rabbits were weaned at 35 days, weighing 650g, and assigned in a completely randomized experimental design to one of the following diets: 0BR - control diet without inclusion of BR; 25BR - diet with 25% of BR as a substitute for alfalfa hay; 50BR - diet with 50% of BR as a substitute for alfalfa hay. The experimental period comprised 42 days. For five days, stool was collected in order to obtain the DMD of the ration. Means were compared statistically by Analysis of Variance of Means and Tukey Test (p<0.05). None of the studied parameters presented differences by the statistical methods used, except for feed consumption in initial phase (from 35 to 56 days) (p=0.001); feed consumption in the final phase (from 56 to 77 days) (p=0.04); and overall performance (p=0.01) that was reduced linearly with the inclusion of BR. It was concluded, based on feed conversion, that it is possible to use up to 50% of BR as a substitute for alfalfa hay in diets for growing rabbits.

Alimentos convencionais, como o feno de alfafa, têm alto custo, principalmente nos países em desenvolvimento, o que justifica a busca por ingredientes locais menos dispendiosos e não convencionais. Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho e a digestibilidade da matéria seca (DMS) de coelhos em crescimento alimentados com dietas contendo diferentes níveis de resíduo de cerveja (RC), em substituição ao feno de alfafa. Trinta coelhos da raça Nova Zelândia foram desmamados aos 35 dias, com peso inicial de 650g, e distribuídos em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, para serem submetidos às seguintes dietas: 0RC - dieta controle sem inclusão de RC; 25RC - dieta com substituição de 25% do feno de alfafa por RC; 50RC - dieta com substituição de 50% do feno de alfafa por RC. O período experimental foi de 42 dias. Durante cinco dias, as fezes foram coletadas para obter o DMS da ração. As médias foram comparadas estatisticamente pela análise de variância de médias (ANOVA), seguida pelo teste de Tukey (p<0,05). Nenhum dos parâmetros estudados apresentou diferenças pelos métodos estatísticos utilizados, exceto o consumo de ração, na fase inicial (35 aos 56 dias) (p=0,001), na fase final (56 aos 77 dias) (p=0,04), e considerando todo o período experimental (p=0,01), que diminuiu linearmente com a inclusão da RC. Concluiu-se, com base na conversão alimentar, que é possível utilizar até 50% de substituição do feno de alfafa por RC em dietas para coelhos em crescimento.

Location and Vascular Classification of 188 parathyroid glands in New Zealand White Rabbits / [Localização e Classificação Vascular de 188 glândulas paratireoidianas em coelhos brancos da Nova Zelândia]

The function and protection of the parathyroid glands are increasingly popular research topics. New Zealand white rabbits are the most commonly used animal model of parathyroid ischemia. However, information on the vasculature of their parathyroid glands is limited. We used 94 healthy New Zealand white rabbits, 3-4 months of age and 2-3kg in weight, for exploration of the parathyroid glands, which were stained using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) after removal. The following types were classified according to the relationship between the position of the inferior parathyroid gland and the thyroid: Type A, Close Type, Type B, and Distant Type. There were 188 cases, 4 where the inferior parathyroid glands were located near the dorsal side of thyroid (2.13%), 8 where the inferior parathyroid glands were located superior to the upper pole of the thyroid (4.26%), 20 where the inferior parathyroid glands were located parallel to the thyroid (10.64%), and 155 cases where the inferior parathyroid glands were located inferior to the lower pole of thyroid (82.45%). Identifying the location and classifying the vasculature of the parathyroid glands in New Zealand white rabbits will provide an anatomical model to assist in future research.(AU)

A função e proteção das glândulas paratireoidianas é um tópico de pesquisa cada vez mais popular. Coelhos brancos da Nova Zelândia são o modelo animal mais comumente usada para isquemia da paratireóide. Porém, informação sobre a vasculatura de suas glândulas paratireóides é limitada. Foram usados 94 coelhos brancos da Nova Zelândia saudáveis, com 3-4 meses de idade, 2-3kg de peso, para exploração das glândulas paratireóides, que foram coradas com hematoxilina e eosina (HE) após a remoção. Os seguintes tipos foram classificados de acordo com a relação entre a posição da glândula paratireoidiana inferior e a tireoide: Tipo A, Tipo Próximo, Tipo B e Tipo Distante. Houve 188 casos, 4 em que as glândulas paratireoidianas inferiores estavam localizadas próximas ao lado dorsal da tireoide (2.13%), 8 onde as glândulas paratireoidianas inferiores estavam localizadas superiores ao polo superior da tireoide (4.26%), 20 onde as glândulas paratireoidianas inferiores estavam localizadas paralelo à tireoide (10.64%) e 155 casos em que as glândulas paratireoidianas inferiores estavam localizadas inferiores ao polo inferior da tireoide (82.45%). A identificação da localização e a classificação da vasculatura das glândulas paratireóides em coelhos brancos da Nova Zelândia fornecerão um modelo anatômico para auxiliar em pesquisas futuras.(AU)

Hemostatic evaluation of rabbits envenomed with Bothrops alternatus treated with anti-bothropic serum, desmopressin and tranexamin acid / Avaliação hemostática de coelhos envenenados com Bothrops alternatus e tratados com soro antibotrópico, desmopressina e ácido tranexâmico

In Brazil, snakes from the Bothrops genus are responsible for thousands of accidents, and their venoms are mainly composed of proteolytic enzymes. Although the antibothropic serum produced by the Brazilian Institutes is remarkably efficient, more studies are necessary, especially in veterinary medicine. The venom contain enzymes and non-enzymatic proteins that interfere with hemostasis leading to hemorrhage or even thrombosis. Possible treatment associations with known bothropic antivenom were the reason for the development of the present study. The aim of this study was to evaluate hemostasis alterations caused by Bothrops alternatus venom in rabbits followed by treatments with anti-bothropic serum, tranexamic acid and desmopressin. Twenty New Zealand rabbits were distributed into five groups (n=4) that were experimentally envenomed with 150mcg/kg of B. alternatus venom via intramuscular injection and treated as follow: Group 1 (G1) was the positive control and received venom and PBS/BSA; Group 2 (G2) was treated with tranexamic acid; Group 3 (G3) with desmopressin; Group 4 (G4) with tranexamic acid and anti-bothropic serum; and Group 5 (G5) with anti-bothropic serum and desmopressin. Blood samples were collected before venom administration, and one, four, eight and 12 hours after, for Partial activated partial thromboplastin time, Prothrombin Time, Thrombin Time and fibrinogen evaluation. Thrombin generation (TG) test was carried out with a pool of samples from final times (8 and 12h). At the end of 12h, all animals were euthanized and necropsy was conducted. Samples from muscle tissue, heart, lungs and kidney were analyzed. Classic coagulation tests showed no significant differences amongst groups and times. However, TG indicated that the venom causes a hypocoagulability state, which was not reversed by proposed treatments. Histology showed muscle inflammation, hemorrhage and necrosis, as well as hemorrhage in other tissues with no differences amongst groups. B. alternatus envenomation causes hypocoagulability detected by TG assay, but not through classical coagulation tests. The use of tranexamic acid and desmopressin for hemostasis stabilization after inoculation of the venom did not show advantage in coagulation restoration.(AU)

No Brasil, as serpentes do gênero Bothrops são responsáveis por milhares de acidentes, e seus venenos são compostos principalmente de enzimas proteolíticas. Embora o soro antiofídico produzido pelos institutos brasileiros seja notavelmente eficiente, mais estudos são necessários, especialmente na medicina veterinária. O veneno contem enzimas e proteínas não-enzimáticas que interferem com a hemostasia levando a hemorragias ou trombose. A associação de outros tratamentos ao soro antibotrópico foi a razão para o desenvolvimento do presente estudo. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as alterações da hemostasia causadas pelo veneno de Bothrops alternatus em coelhos, após tratamento com soro antibotrópico, ácido tranexâmico e desmopressina. Vinte coelhos da Nova Zelândia foram distribuídos em cinco grupos (n = 4) que foram submetidos a experimentos com 150mcg/kg de veneno de B. alternatus por injeção intramuscular. O Grupo 1 (G1) foi o controle positivo e recebeu veneno e PBS / BSA, enquanto o Grupo 2 (G2) foi tratado com ácido tranexâmico, o Grupo 3 (G3) com desmopressina, o Grupo 4 (G4) com ácido tranexâmico e soro antibotrópico, e o Grupo 5 (G5) com soro antibotrópico e desmopressina. As amostras de sangue foram coletadas antes da administração do veneno, e uma, quatro, oito e 12 horas após os tratamentos para realização de tempo de tromboplastina parcial ativada parcial (TTPa), tempo de protrombina (TP), tempo de trombina (TT) e mensuração de fibrinogênio. Para o ensaio de geração de trombina (TG) foi realizado com um pool de amostras nos tempos finais (8 e 12h). Ao final das 12h, todos os animais foram sacrificados e a necropsia foi realizada. Amostras de tecido muscular, coração, pulmões e rins foram analisadas. Os testes TTPa, TP, TT e fibrinogênio não mostraram diferenças significativas entre os grupos e os tempos. No entanto, o TG indicou que o veneno causa um estado de hipocoagulabilidade, que não foi revertido pelos tratamentos propostos. Na histologia, foram observadas inflamação muscular, hemorragia e necrose, além de hemorragia em outros tecidos, sem diferenças entre os grupos. O envenenamento por B. alternatus causa hipocoagulabilidade detectada mais precocemente pelo teste de geração de trombina. O uso de ácido tranexâmico e desmopressina para estabilização da hemostasia após a inoculação do veneno não mostrou vantagem na restauração da coagulação.(AU)

Hemostatic evaluation of rabbits envenomed with Bothrops alternatus treated with anti-bothropic serum, desmopressin and tranexamin acid / Avaliação hemostática de coelhos envenenados com Bothrops alternatus e tratados com soro antibotrópico, desmopressina e ácido tranexâmico

In Brazil, snakes from the Bothrops genus are responsible for thousands of accidents, and their venoms are mainly composed of proteolytic enzymes. Although the antibothropic serum produced by the Brazilian Institutes is remarkably efficient, more studies are necessary, especially in veterinary medicine. The venom contain enzymes and non-enzymatic proteins that interfere with hemostasis leading to hemorrhage or even thrombosis. Possible treatment associations with known bothropic antivenom were the reason for the development of the present study. The aim of this study was to evaluate hemostasis alterations caused by Bothrops alternatus venom in rabbits followed by treatments with anti-bothropic serum, tranexamic acid and desmopressin. Twenty New Zealand rabbits were distributed into five groups (n=4) that were experimentally envenomed with 150mcg/kg of B. alternatus venom via intramuscular injection and treated as follow: Group 1 (G1) was the positive control and received venom and PBS/BSA; Group 2 (G2) was treated with tranexamic acid; Group 3 (G3) with desmopressin; Group 4 (G4) with tranexamic acid and anti-bothropic serum; and Group 5 (G5) with anti-bothropic serum and desmopressin. Blood samples were collected before venom administration, and one, four, eight and 12 hours after, for Partial activated partial thromboplastin time, Prothrombin Time, Thrombin Time and fibrinogen evaluation. Thrombin generation (TG) test was carried out with a pool of samples from final times (8 and 12h). At the end of 12h, all animals were euthanized and necropsy was conducted. Samples from muscle tissue, heart, lungs and kidney were analyzed. Classic coagulation tests showed no significant differences amongst groups and times. However, TG indicated that the venom causes a hypocoagulability state, which was not reversed by proposed treatments. Histology showed muscle inflammation, hemorrhage and necrosis, as well as hemorrhage in other tissues with no differences amongst groups. B. alternatus envenomation causes hypocoagulability detected by TG assay, but not through classical coagulation tests. The use of tranexamic acid and desmopressin for hemostasis stabilization after inoculation of the venom did not show advantage in coagulation restoration.(AU)

No Brasil, as serpentes do gênero Bothrops são responsáveis por milhares de acidentes, e seus venenos são compostos principalmente de enzimas proteolíticas. Embora o soro antiofídico produzido pelos institutos brasileiros seja notavelmente eficiente, mais estudos são necessários, especialmente na medicina veterinária. O veneno contem enzimas e proteínas não-enzimáticas que interferem com a hemostasia levando a hemorragias ou trombose. A associação de outros tratamentos ao soro antibotrópico foi a razão para o desenvolvimento do presente estudo. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as alterações da hemostasia causadas pelo veneno de Bothrops alternatus em coelhos, após tratamento com soro antibotrópico, ácido tranexâmico e desmopressina. Vinte coelhos da Nova Zelândia foram distribuídos em cinco grupos (n = 4) que foram submetidos a experimentos com 150mcg/kg de veneno de B. alternatus por injeção intramuscular. O Grupo 1 (G1) foi o controle positivo e recebeu veneno e PBS / BSA, enquanto o Grupo 2 (G2) foi tratado com ácido tranexâmico, o Grupo 3 (G3) com desmopressina, o Grupo 4 (G4) com ácido tranexâmico e soro antibotrópico, e o Grupo 5 (G5) com soro antibotrópico e desmopressina. As amostras de sangue foram coletadas antes da administração do veneno, e uma, quatro, oito e 12 horas após os tratamentos para realização de tempo de tromboplastina parcial ativada parcial (TTPa), tempo de protrombina (TP), tempo de trombina (TT) e mensuração de fibrinogênio. Para o ensaio de geração de trombina (TG) foi realizado com um pool de amostras nos tempos finais (8 e 12h). Ao final das 12h, todos os animais foram sacrificados e a necropsia foi realizada. Amostras de tecido muscular, coração, pulmões e rins foram analisadas. Os testes TTPa, TP, TT e fibrinogênio não mostraram diferenças significativas entre os grupos e os tempos. No entanto, o TG indicou que o veneno causa um estado de hipocoagulabilidade, que não foi revertido pelos tratamentos propostos. Na histologia, foram observadas inflamação muscular, hemorragia e necrose, além de hemorragia em outros tecidos, sem diferenças entre os grupos. O envenenamento por B. alternatus causa hipocoagulabilidade detectada mais precocemente pelo teste de geração de trombina. O uso de ácido tranexâmico e desmopressina para estabilização da hemostasia após a inoculação do veneno não mostrou vantagem na restauração da coagulação.(AU)

Hepathic, biochemical, hematological, and histological effects of the ultracavitation in rabbits livers

Purpose To collect data capable of pointing out the effects of the ultracavitation treatment on the liver of rabbits after adipose tissue application, by means of histological analyses of the liver and hematological and biochemical exams. Methods This is an experimental study with 12 albino rabbits as sample, which were divided into 3 groups and submitted to a hypercaloric diet for one month. Subsequently, subjects underwent UCV treatment: 3 minutes, 30 W, continuous mode at 100%, every 2 ERAS = 441.02 J/cm2, intensity of 10w/cm2. They were then euthanized and underwent biopsy after 24 hours. Results After 48 hours from the ultracavitation treatment, the animals livers presented greater amount of fat infiltration if compared to the amount presented 96 hours after the treatment. However, laboratory tests showed no alterations. Values were maintained within normal parameters of cholesterol, triglycerides, liver enzymes, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Conclusions This study has identified that infiltrates may appear on livers after the treatment, despite high hematological and biochemical tests results. The fat infiltrates reduction 96 h after treatment suggests lower risks to animal health, if the period between applications is respected.(AU)

Effects of homologous and heterologous rich platelets plasma, compared to poor platelets plasma, on cutaneous healing of rabbits

Purpose: To evaluate and compare the effects of homologous and heterologous PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) on the quality and speed of skin wound healing, compared to Poor Platelet Plasma (PPP). Methods: Twenty-one male adult rabbits were used; two for preparing homologous PRP, with the rest of them separated randomly in three groups, according to the treatment received: PPP - control (n=5), homologous PRP (n=7), heterologous (n=7). Excisional skin wounds were made on the back of the animals, for the application of homologous and heterologous PPP and PRP. At the 14th post-operative day (POD), the animals were subjected to a new wound, and the treatments were inverted. The wounds were evaluated macroscopically and histologically. Results: A larger percentage of scar retraction was observed on the group treated with heterologous PRP, compared to homologous PRP, at the third POD, an increase of 25.03% (p=0.01). No other statistically significant differences among treatments were observed. Among every group, skin healing was efficient, without local adverse effects. Conclusions: Heterologous PRP contributed with more tissue retraction at the beginning of the wound healing process. After this, there were no differences on the wound healing skin process treated with PRP or PPP. However, our findings suggest the presence of others plasmatic factors, besides platelets, which could also contribute to the wound healing process, and thus, should be further investigated.(AU)

Mechanical properties of the sciatic nerve following combined transplantation of analytically extracted acellular allogeneic nerve and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Purpose To investigate the effects of Chemically Extracted Acellular Nerves (CEANs) when combined with Adipose-Derived mesenchymal Stem Cell (ADSC) transplantation on the repair of sciatic nerve defects in rabbits. Methods A total of 71 six-month-old Japanese rabbit were used in this study. Twenty rabbits served as sciatic nerve donors, while the other 51 rabbits were randomly divided into Autologous Nerve Transplantation Group (ANT, n=17), CEAN group (n=17) and CEAN-ADSCs group (n=17). In all these groups, the rabbits left sciatic nerves were injured before the experiment, and the uninjured sciatic nerves on their right side were used as the control (CON). Electrophysiological tests were carried out and sciatic nerves were prepared for histomorphology and stretch testing at 24 weeks post-transplant. Results There were significant differences between ANT and Con groups in amplitude (AMP): P=0.031; motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV): P=0.029; Maximum stress: P=0.029; and Maximum strain P=0.027. There were also differences between the CEAN and CEAN+ADSCs groups in AMP: P=0.026, MNCV: P=0.024; Maximum stress: P=0.025 and Maximum strain: P=0.030. No significant differences in these parameters were observed when comparing the ANT and CEAN+SACN groups (MNCV: P=0.071) or the CEAN and ANT groups (Maximum stress: P=0.069; Maximum strain P=0.077). Conclusion Addition of ADSCs has a significant impact on the recovery of nerve function, morphology, and tensile mechanical properties following sciatic nerve injury.(AU)

A modified rabbit model of tracheal stenosis and a household endoscope: more simplicity and accessibility

Purpose: To develop a simpler animal model for benign tracheal stenosis and introduce a low-cost household endoscope for postmodeling endotracheal evaluation. Methods: Twenty rabbits were randomly divided into a model group (15 rabbits, subjected to transoral nylon brush scraping of the trachea) and a mock group (5 rabbits, merely exempted from scraping), a household endoscope was then introduced for weekly endoscopic examination. Meanwhile, other 15 rabbits (modeling like the model group) underwent batch tracheal resection at different postintervention times for pathological analysis. Results: The model group presented a low mortality and few complications. The endoscope could obtain adequate images for stenosis assessment, which showed that the models presented homogeneous injury after scraping and developed a mature scar stricture at 28 days postoperatively with a mean stenosis degree of 65.9%, and 71.4% (10/14) above MyerCottons grade II. The pathological findings were consistent with the clinicopathological process of human. No stenosis was found in mock group. Conclusion: The modified model is simpler, minimally invasive and reliable, while the household endoscope is competent for models follow-up, providing easily accessible and useful tools for facilitating more extensive studies of benign tracheal stenosis.(AU)

Caprine demineralized bone matrix (DBMc) in the repair of non-critical bone defects in rabbit tibias. A new bone xenograft

Purpose To evaluate the use of demineralized bone matrix of caprine origin in experimental bone defects of the tibia in New Zealand rabbits. Methods Fragments of the tibia diaphysis were collected aseptically from clinically healthy goats. The bones were sectioned into 1 cm fragments and stored at -20°C for subsequent hydrochloric acid (HCL) demineralization. A 70 mg portion of DBMc was used to fill the experimental bone defects. Twenty-four female adult New Zealand rabbits were divided into 2 groups: the MG (matrix group, left tibia) and CG (control group, right tibia). Additionally, they were separated into 4 groups with 6 animals, according to the period of analysis (15, 30, 60 and 90 days postoperatively). Using microCT, volumetric parameters were evaluated: bone volume, relationship between bone volume and total volume, bone surface area, relationship between bone surface area and total volume, number of trabeculae, trabecular thickness and trabecular separation. Results There was a statistically significant difference (P 0.05) between groups considering bone volume (BV) and bone:total volume (BV/TV), on 15, 30 and 90 days postoperatively. Control group showed a statistically significant superiority (P < 0.05) considering the mean of the variables bone surface (BS), number of trabeculae (Tb.N) and between bone surface and total volume (BS/TV) at 15 and 90 days. Conclusions Caprine demineralized bone matrix was safe and tolerable. No signs of material rejection were seen macroscopically. It is an alternative for the treatment of bone defects when autologous graft is not available or in insufficient quantities.(AU)

Substituição do milho pelo sorgo sobre o desempenho zootécnico e na digestibilidade em coelhos / Replacement of corn by sorghum on zootechnical performance and digestibility in rabbits

O milho é a principal fonte de energia nas dietas animais. Em algumas regiões brasileiras, sua disponibilidade, principalmente na entressafra, é insuficiente para atender à demanda, fazendo com que seu preço se eleve. Neste estudo, objetivou-se avaliar a substituição do milho pelo sorgo sobre o desempenho zootécnico e a digestibilidade em coelhos. Foram utilizados 60 animais machos da raça Nova Zelândia Branco, divididos em três tratamentos: ração base milho (TM); ração base sorgo (TS) e ração base 50% de milho + 50% de sorgo (TMS). No ensaio de desempenho, avaliou-se ganho de peso (GP), consumo de ração (CR), conversão alimentar (CA), coeficientes de digestibilidade da matéria seca (CDMS), proteína bruta (CDPB), fibra em detergente neutro (CDFDN) e fibra em detergente ácido (CDFDA). Observou-se que o CRM, a CA e o GPM não foram afetados pela substituição do milho pelo sorgo, nos níveis de 50% e 100%. Os resultados de digestibilidade demonstraram maiores CDPB e CDFDN na ração base milho, não havendo diferenças entre os demais parâmetros estudados. O sorgo com baixo teor de tanino pode ser usado nas rações de crescimento de coelhos em níveis de substituição de 50% ou 100% da participação do milho, sem prejuízos para o desempenho zootécnico e a digestibilidade.(AU)

Corn is the main source of energy in animal diets. In some Brazilian regions, its availability, especially in the off-season, may be insufficient to meet demand, which causes prices to increase. In this context, the aim of this study was to evaluate the substitution of maize by sorghum on the performance and digestibility of rabbits. Sixty New Zealand White bucks were used, divided in three treatments, maize base ration (TM); based on grain sorghum ration (TS) and base ration 50% corn + 50% sorghum grain (TMS). In the performance test, weight gain (GP), feed intake (CR) and feed conversion ratio (CA) were evaluated. In the digestibility assay, 21 animals were used. The total dry matter (CDMS), crude protein (CDPB), gross energy (EB), neutral detergent fiber (CDFDN) and acid detergent fiber (CDFDA) coefficients were evaluated. There was no significant difference for any of the performance parameters studied (P > 0.05). The digestibility results showed higher CDPB and CDFDN in the corn diet (P <0.05), with no differences between the other parameters studied. Low tannin sorghum can be used in rabbit growth diets at substitution levels of 50% or 100% of maize participation without impairing zootechnical performance and digestibility.(AU)