Search Results (3,276)

The increasing penetration of photovoltaic (PV) systems in distribution networks has introduced new challenges in voltage regulation and energy loss mitigation, particularly under time-varying loading conditions. This paper presents a constrained multi-objective mathematical optimization framework for the optimal allocation and sizing of PV-STATCOM devices in radial distribution systems. The problem is formulated as a nonlinear optimization model that minimizes the daily energy losses over a 24 h operating horizon while satisfying network operational constraints, inverter capacity limits, and renewable penetration restrictions. To efficiently solve the resulting non-convex optimization problem, a metaheuristic algorithm based on the weighted mean of vectors (WMV) is employed. The WMV method integrates wavelet-based weighting mechanisms, mean-driven update rules, vector combination strategies, and a local refinement operator to balance global exploration and local exploitation within the feasible search domain. Constraint violations are handled through a penalty-based mathematical transformation of the objective function. The proposed framework is validated on the IEEE 33-bus and IEEE 69-bus distribution systems under realistic daily load variations. The numerical results demonstrate significant reductions in daily energy losses compared to differential evolution, particle swarm optimization, artificial rabbits optimization, and golden search optimization algorithms. Furthermore, convergence analysis confirms the robustness and computational efficiency of the WMV approach in solving large-scale constrained power system optimization problems. Full article

Rabbit manure with high-moisture content exhibits complex adhesive and flow behaviors, which make accurate parameterization in discrete element method (DEM) simulations difficult. To improve the reliability of DEM modeling for rabbit manure composting processes, this study calibrated the contact parameters of rabbit manure at 65% moisture content using the angle of repose as the target response. A physical angle of repose test was first conducted using the cylindrical lifting method, yielding a measured value of 38.77°. The Hertz–Mindlin with Johnson–Kendall–Roberts (JKR) contact model was then adopted to represent the adhesive behavior of the material, and a three-stage optimization strategy consisting of a Plackett–Burman screening test, a steepest ascent test, and a Box–Behnken design was applied to identify and optimize the key parameters. The results showed that the particle restitution coefficient, rabbit manure–PLA rolling friction coefficient, and surface energy were the dominant factors affecting the angle of repose. The optimal parameter combination was a particle restitution coefficient of 0.56, a rabbit manure–PLA rolling friction coefficient of 0.375, and a surface energy of 0.243 J/m². Under these conditions, the simulated angle of repose was 39.21°, with a relative error of 1.13%. These calibrated parameters provide a reliable basis for DEM simulation and engineering optimization of rabbit manure composting equipment. Full article

Background: Psoroptic mange caused by Psoroptes ovis is the most common dermatological disease in rabbits; despite being an ectoparasite, in male rabbits P. ovis alters characteristic hormone-dependent behaviors like chinning and sexual behavior, also inducing a decrease in serum testosterone. Our goal was to evaluate the effect of P. ovis infestation on the histomorphology of testicular and submandibular (chinning) gland tissues of infected rabbits. Methods: Glands were obtained from experimentally infested and healthy rabbits, processed for inclusion in paraffin and stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Results: Testicular degeneration and submandibular gland hypertrophy were observed. In the testes of infested rabbits, lumen area and perimeter, seminiferous tubule area, tubule perimeter and diameter, increased. Conversely, germinal epithelium thickness and Johnsen scores of spermatogenic scale decreased, indicating impaired spermatogenesis. In the submandibular gland, lumen area and perimeter, and the total duct area and perimeter were increased. In addition, the area and perimeter of the acini also increased, while the number of acini decreased, consistent with glandular hypertrophy. Conclusions: The acarosis markedly alters the morphometric characteristics of both tissues, highlighting that psoroptic mange exerts a systemic effect on reproduction of the host altering non-dermal tissues with key roles in male reproductive function and chemical communication. Full article

Animal welfare assessment is a vital component of working with animals in a research environment and is a growing expectation. Rabbits are a common species worked with in biomedical research, but information on rabbit welfare and best practices are limited, making it difficult to assess welfare. To address this gap, a rabbit welfare assessment tool was developed within an international contract research organization and commercial breeder. The tool contained 134 descriptors including input- and output-based measures of welfare across six categories: physical, behavioral, environmental, training, procedural, and culture of care. Benchmarking assessments occurred in March and September 2025, assessing 13 facilities across seven countries. In March, overall scores were in the range of 70–92%, with high scores in the physical category (avg: 97%) and the most room for improvement in training (avg: 73%). In September, overall scores were in the range of 77–88%, with the highest score in the physical category (avg: 98%) and the most room for improvement in culture of care (avg: 74%). The results of the assessments identified strengths in rabbit management programs, as well as identified areas needing refinement. The results allow for development of facility and organizational level goals to improve rabbit welfare and create a culture of continuous improvement. Full article

In response to the growing global demand for food, intensive genetic selection programs have been implemented to improve livestock efficiency and productivity. Understanding how such selection alters metabolism across nutritional stages is essential for optimizing feeding strategies. In this study, we examined the impact of long-term genetic selection for growth rate (GR) on the plasma metabolome of reproductive female rabbits using an untargeted metabolomics approach. Two vitrified–rederived populations from the same paternal line but separated by 18 generations of GR selection (R19V and R37V) were compared under identical environmental and nutritional conditions. We analyzed 48 plasma samples, showing that GR selection significantly influenced the metabolomic profile. Notably, R37V does exhibited a 76% increase in phospholipid LysoPE (0:0/20:4) concentrations (p < 0.0001) than R19V. GR selection affected key metabolites related to lipid metabolism and energy balance, reflecting potential changes in nutrient utilization efficiency. These findings highlight the interplay between genetics and nutrient efficiency in shaping the metabolome, offering insights that may support nutritional management in genetically improved livestock. Full article

Severe full-thickness corneal lacerations disrupt the tight cellular and extracellular matrix (ECM) organization required for corneal transparency. Following injury, an influx of transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) into the corneal stroma signals the formation of haze-inducing myofibroblasts, resulting in excessive stromal remodeling and corneal haze. We hypothesized that MasR activation using NorLeu³Angiotensin (1-7) (NLE) engages the pro-resolving arm of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) to minimize fibrotic corneal repair. In this study, 6 mm stellate-shaped, full-thickness corneal lacerations were induced in New Zealand Black (NZB) rabbits and treated with topical vehicle, or 0.1%, 0.3%, or 0.45% NLE. Corneal healing was evaluated using noninvasive corneal imaging, histology, and the gene expression of RAS- and fibrosis-related targets (MasR, AT1R, TGFβR1). Corneal imaging revealed significantly decreased corneal haze (p < 0.05) and increased keratocyte density with 0.1% NLE treatment (p < 0.05). Immunofluorescence showed significantly reduced α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA), indicating decreased myofibroblast formation (p < 0.05). Additionally, 0.1% NLE reduced stromal TGFβR1, suggesting that NLE mediates its activity by disrupting the TGFβ/TGFβR axis. MasR and AT1R gene expression were downregulated, which contributes to a reduction in fibrosis. Collectively, these findings suggest that the NLE activation of MasR modulates RAS and TGFβ/TGFβR signaling to reduce myofibroblast activity and fibrosis following severe corneal trauma. Full article

Articular cartilage has a limited capacity for self-repair, and effective strategies for its regeneration remain a major clinical challenge. Full-thickness cartilage defects extending to the subchondral bone induce an enhanced inflammatory response and impair spontaneous healing. This study aimed to evaluate the regenerative potential of autologous chondrocyte transplantation using an insoluble polyethersulfone (PES) scaffold in a rabbit model of grade III articular cartilage lesions. Chondrocytes were isolated and expanded in vitro and subsequently seeded onto PES membranes. Sixty-two rabbit knees with defects extending to the subchondral bone were divided into three groups: group I received chondrocyte-seeded PES scaffolds (n = 25), group II received cell-free PES scaffolds (n = 25), and group III served as an untreated control (n = 12). Cartilage regeneration was evaluated macroscopically and histologically over 52 weeks. In addition, the chondrogenic differentiation potential of cells cultured on PES scaffolds was assessed. This study extends our previous investigations of PES scaffolds in grade IV cartilage defects to a clinically relevant grade III lesion model, enabling evaluation of regenerative outcomes at an earlier stage of cartilage degeneration. The results demonstrated superior tissue regeneration in defects treated with chondrocyte-seeded PES scaffolds compared to both control groups. These findings indicate that synthetic PES scaffolds support cartilage repair and represent a promising biomaterial for the development of cell-based therapies in articular cartilage regeneration. Full article

Background: Noninvasive transdermal insulin delivery using ultrasound technology has gained attention for improving the glycemic control of insulin-dependent patients. Methods: Indirect functional comparison and evaluation of insulin dosage, between noninvasive ultrasound-mediated transdermal delivery and needle injection methods, was achieved utilizing in vivo blood glucose measurements of temporary hyperglycemic rabbits. Nine rabbits were divided into three groups: (i) untreated control, (ii) subcutaneous injection and (iii) ultrasound-mediated transdermal delivery. Animals were anesthetized using a combination of ketamine hydrochloride and sodium xylazine to produce temporary hyperglycemic rabbits during the experiments. The rabbits in the control group did not receive insulin, while the animals in the ultrasound group received insulin transdermally for 10 min utilizing a customized single-element piston-shaped ultrasound transducer operated by multi-frequency electrical signals from 100 to 200 kHz. Rabbits in the direct subcutaneous injection group were anesthetized and injected with 0.25 units/kg of insulin. Results: With an initial blood glucose baseline level of 228.7 ± 13.1 (mg/dL) for all rabbits, the in vivo results of control group showed an increase above the baseline by 129.7 ± 27.3 (mg/dL) at the end of the in vivo experimental period (80 min). However, the ultrasound-mediated delivery and subcutaneous injection groups showed noticeable statistically significant percentage reductions in blood glucose levels by 43.9 ± 5.4 and 42.7 ± 6.6, respectively, compared to the control group by the end of the in vivo experiments. Conclusions: In vivo glucose response results confirmed that piston-shaped ultrasound transducers achieved indirectly similar insulin dosage delivery by ultrasound energy for tested animals with no statistically significant differences once compared to the results of the subcutaneous needle injection group. Full article

To date, the problem of mastitis in cattle remains relevant for both the industrial sector and scientific research. Despite numerous active investigations, the causes of this disease have not been fully established. It is postulated that several factors may be involved, such as bacterial pathogens, animal husbandry practices, and weather and climatic conditions. In this study, we selected cows from farms in Yakutia to investigate microbial isolates present in the milk of cows affected by mastitis and treated with antibiotics. Five identified Staphylococcus aureus isolates were investigated using whole-genome sequencing (Illumina sequencing and nanopore sequencing), followed by analysis of virulence factors in the genomes and cultural properties of the isolates. The profile of S. aureus virulence genes (exotoxins, cytotoxins, superantigen-like proteins, adhesins) was identified via WGS. Hemolysin gene (hla) was detected in all isolates. An investigation of the cultural properties of the isolates, specifically through hemolysis of rabbit erythrocytes and Western blot analysis of the culture liquid of S. aureus, revealed different expression levels of alpha-hemolysin among the strains. One isolate (17-21) exhibited the highest secretion level of about 320 ± 37 ng, both in the hemolysis test and immunoblotting assay. An investigation of the isolates’ antibiotic resistance showed that all isolates exhibited multidrug resistance, as confirmed by the presence of antibiotic resistance genes in these isolates. One isolate (7-7) exhibited the broadest range of phenotypic resistance and was resistant to all tested antibiotics (except clindamycin). Phylogenetic analysis suggested that the evolution of these isolates occurred independently in their respective ecological niches, although their transfer from cattle to humans, and vice versa, is possible. Isolates 7-7, 18-22, 33-40, and 35-42 are most typical to Yakutian cattle, while isolate 17-21 might have been introduced from a different region. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first in-depth study into a range of S. aureus isolates associated with mastitis infection in Yakutian cattle. Full article

Mortality events in commercial rabbit production can lead to significant economic losses, highlighting the need for earlier identification of elevated mortality risk at the group level using routinely collected production data. This study presents a machine learning–based framework for predicting mortality risk at future observation points using routinely collected production data. Models were developed using group-level variables and evaluated with StratifiedGroupKFold cross-validation to prevent information leakage. The selected XGBoost model achieved a balanced performance, with a recall of 0.78 ± 0.03, precision of 0.59 ± 0.04, and ROC–AUC of 0.72 ± 0.02. Predictions were translated into an alert system based on a predefined threshold, prioritising sensitivity while maintaining a moderate false alert rate. A scenario-based cost–benefit analysis indicated that economic outcomes are highly dependent on intervention effectiveness, with positive returns observed under moderate to optimistic assumptions. Overall, the framework demonstrates the feasibility of integrating predictive modelling with alert-based decision support in rabbit production, although real-world validation under commercial farm conditions is required to confirm its practical effectiveness. Full article

Background/Objectives: Improving rabbit welfare through alternative housing systems requires a better understanding of how environmental conditions modulate physiological and immune responses at the molecular level. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of different rearing systems on the expression of genes associated with inflammation, immune regulation, and stress response in Termond White rabbits. Methods: After weaning (35 days of age), Termond White females (n = 16 per group) were allocated to five housing systems differing in space allowance and activity opportunities: hutches with outdoor runs, rabbit tractor cages with outdoor runs, single-floor indoor cages without bedding, indoor pens on deep litter, and modified indoor cages (two cages connected with a plastic pipe). At slaughter weight (2600–2900 g; 90–120 days), blood and spleen samples were collected. The relative expression of IL6, CXCR1, IL10, TGFB1, IL8, PTGS2, IL1B, and TNF was quantified by RT-qPCR using the 2^−ΔΔCt method, with ACTB and B2M as reference genes. Results: The housing system significantly affected the expression of most analysed genes in peripheral blood (IL6, CXCR1, IL1B, PTGS2, IL8, TNF, and IL10; p ≤ 0.05), whereas in the spleen significant differences were observed only for selected genes (IL1B, TNF, CXCR1, IL10, and TGFB1), with no effect detected for IL6, IL8, and PTGS2 (p > 0.05). In blood, system-dependent differences were observed for both pro-inflammatory and regulatory genes, with some housing conditions associated with higher expression of inflammatory markers. In the spleen, the response was more selective and gene-specific, suggesting tissue-dependent modulation of immune-related pathways. Conclusions: Rearing environment influences the expression of immune-related genes in Termond White rabbits; however, these effects appear to be tissue-dependent and vary among specific genes. The observed transcriptional changes suggest potential associations between housing conditions and immune responses, but further studies integrating behavioural, physiological, and protein-level data are required to confirm their relevance for animal welfare assessment. Full article

This study evaluated how varying proportions of licorice residue and sweet sorghum affect pellet quality, growth performance, intestinal morphology, and cecal microflora in 120 healthy 30-day-old Ira rabbits, which were randomly assigned to five groups (six replicates of four rabbits each). Five experimental diets were formulated, each containing 30% licorice residue and sweet sorghum (with licorice residue at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% w/w) and 70% other components. We found that licorice residue level significantly affected pellet hardness, powder content, and volumetric weight (p < 0.05). The L25 group had significantly higher final body weight (FBW) and average daily gain (ADG) than other groups (p < 0.05). In the duodenum, villus height (VH) was improved in L25 (p < 0.05). Ileal VH increased significantly in L0, L25 and L50 (p < 0.05). At the phylum level, Firmicutes were most enriched. At the genus level, Faecousia and SFMI01 abundance increased with higher licorice residue. LEfSe analysis confirmed that varying licorice residue levels influenced cecal microbial composition from phylum to genus. The addition of 25% licorice residue to the diet can improve the growth performance of meat rabbits and improved both intestinal tissue morphology and the cecal microbiota of meat rabbits. Full article

Intestinal infections caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi) remain a global health concern, making preventive strategies and diagnostic tools essential. This study aimed to identify mimotope peptides of the Vi antigen using phage display and assess their recognition by rabbit and 46 human sera, as well as their potential for diagnosis and immunogen design. Rabbits were immunized with the Vi antigen (AgVi) from S. Typhi ATCC 6539, and sera-derived IgG was used for phage biopanning. DNA sequences from selected phagotopes were synthesized as Salmonella mimotope peptides (SMPs), either linear or KLH-conjugated. Their reactivity was tested with ELISAs against AgVi and SMPs, using both rabbit sera and 46 human serum samples. Ten phagotopes were identified, with a consensus motif (D/G–A/V–x–P–x–x–G–x–x–x–x–x), suggesting α-helix structures. Immunization with KLH-conjugated peptides generated specific antibodies, particularly SMPVi/5 and SMPVi/10, which recognized AgVi and their respective peptides. Competitive inhibition assays confirmed that SMPVi/5 reduced the anti-AgVi binding in a dose-dependent manner. In human sera, AgVi recognition occurred in 52% of samples, while SMPVi/5 and SMPVi/10 were recognized in 45%. Overall, SMPVi/5 demonstrated immunogenicity and functional mimicry, supporting its use as a synthetic reagent for serological assays and as a candidate for immunogen design. Full article

Reducing the environmental impact of animal production is a major challenge in the context of climate change and sustainable agriculture. Although rabbit farming is generally considered less resource-intensive than other livestock systems, it still contributes to emissions of ammonia (NH₃), hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), and methane (CH₄), which can negatively affect air quality and the climate. This study aimed to evaluate whether dietary supplementation with selected natural feed additives could mitigate gaseous emissions and lower the environmental footprint of rabbit production. An experimental feeding trial was conducted in which gaseous emissions from rabbit housing were monitored, and the gas composition of feces was analyzed. Emissions were quantified and expressed as carbon dioxide equivalents (CO₂e) to allow comparative assessment of environmental impact. The inclusion of natural feed additives significantly reduced the emission of gaseous pollutants compared with the control diet, resulting in a lower calculated environmental footprint of the production system. These findings indicate that targeted modification of rabbit diets using natural feed ingredients can be an effective strategy for reducing harmful gaseous emissions and enhancing the environmental sustainability of rabbit farming. Full article

Background/Objectives: Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) is the most common inflammatory disease affecting the ocular conjunctiva. Tacrolimus (TCR), a potent calcineurin inhibitor, is limited by poor aqueous solubility and low ocular bioavailability. This study aimed to develop TCR-loaded cubosomes (TCR-Cubs) incorporated into HPMC/PVP K90 dissolving microneedles (MNs) to enhance their therapeutic efficacy. Methods: TCR-Cubs were prepared using a modified top-down fragmentation method with glyceryl monooleate and poloxamer 407, optimized via Box–Behnken design, and incorporated into dissolving MNs. The system was evaluated in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo using a rabbit model of allergic conjunctivitis. Results: The optimized formulation exhibited the smallest particle size (210 ± 0.91 nm), polydispersity index (0.29 ± 0.03), zeta potential (−21 ± 0.87 mV), and the highest entrapment efficiency (% 93.3 ± 0.45). The optimized formulation was incorporated into MNs via micro molding. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed well-defined, sharp microneedles, with low height reduction (<10%) by mechanical testing and high penetration efficiency (>85–90%). In vitro release studies revealed sustained drug release of (~75–80%) over 24 h, compared to (~40%) from the TCR suspension, following diffusion-controlled kinetics. Ex vivo permeation studies showed a (~2–3-fold) enhancement in corneal drug flux. In vivo pharmacodynamic evaluation using an ovalbumin-induced allergic conjunctivitis model demonstrated significant reductions in inflammatory mediators, including inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NLRP3), which were reduced by (~50–75%), with modulation of CPA3, BCL2, and TGF-β1 by qRT-PCR. Histopathology and TLR4 analysis confirmed reduced inflammation without irritation. Conclusions: This dual-delivery system offers a promising, non-invasive platform for enhanced ocular delivery of tacrolimus with superior anti-inflammatory efficacy in allergic conjunctivitis. Full article