Veterinární medicína - In Press
Pulsed electromagnetic fields vs. NSAID therapy in canine osteoarthritis: A randomised comparative pilot studyOriginal Paper
S Sassaroli, F Dini, V Sisti, V Riccio, S Meggiolaro, L Bellodi, A Palumbo Piccionello
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a cornerstone in the management of canine osteoarthritis (OA), despite concerns regarding their long-term safety. Among non-pharmacological alternatives, pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy has gained attention for its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, although veterinary-specific evidence remains limited.This randomised, controlled pilot study compared the clinical efficacy of PEMF therapy versus NSAID treatment (Mavacoxib) in 16 dogs with clinically and radiographically confirmed OA. Dogs were randomly assigned to receive either a 12-session PEMF protocol over 45 days or a standard Mavacoxib regimen. Clinical evaluations included pain scores (VAS), pain on palpation, lameness severity (NRS), gait analysis (GLS and TPI), muscle circumference, and radiographic progression. Assessments were performed at baseline (T0), 30 days (T1), and 60 days (T2).PEMF therapy showed earlier improvements in pain, lameness, and muscle mass, and a favourable trend in joint mobility. No significant differences were detected in gait or radiographic parameters between groups. These preliminary findings suggest the non-inferiority of PEMF compared to NSAIDs and highlight its potential role in multimodal OA management. Limitations include small sample size and short follow-up. Further studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results in larger cohorts.
Oral efficacy of controlled-release Doxycycline against Ichthyophthirius multifiliis infestation in SalmonidsOriginal Paper
Z Mikulkova, K Matejickova, J Motlova, P Ginterova, M Jerabek, L Pojezdal
Ichthyophthiriosis, caused by Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, is a major threat in the salmonid aquaculture. This study evaluated the efficacy of orally administered standard doxycycline and controlled-release doxycycline formulations in experimentally infected brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis). Fish received medicated feed for 10 days starting seven days post-infection. Controlled-release doxycycline achieved the highest survival rate (84.2%), followed by standard doxycycline (73.7%), while no control fish survived after day 25 post infection. Both drug formulations eliminated trophonts from the skin and gills by 20 days post-treatment. Despite a 2.5-fold lower dietary dose, the controlled-release doxycycline reached a tissue concentration equivalent to ~32% of the standard doxycycline, with similar retention rates. Levels of doxycycline residues in water declined over time for both groups, indicating limited environmental release. These results demonstrate the effective mitigation of ichthyophthiriosis with orally administered doxycycline and the enhancement of antiparasitic efficacy and the reduction of drug load in the tissues and environment via controlled-release technology, supporting its potential as a sustainable medicated feed strategy in salmonid aquaculture.
An experimental challenge model for infecting African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) with Edwardsiella tardaOriginal Paper
I Toulova, V Vaibarova, I Papezikova, K Matejickova, I Mikulikova, H Novotna, M Palikova
Edwardsiella tarda is an important fish pathogen that causes outbreaks leading to significant losses in aquacultural species such as African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). In order to study host-pathogen interactions and design preventive strategies, it is essential to prepare a reliable experimental infection model. The aim of this study was to develop a reproducible immersion challenge model for E. tarda infection in C. gariepinus. The present study consisted of preliminary experiments and a main experiment evaluating the different routes of infection and the bacterial concentrations and exposure durations in an immersion bath. Preliminary experiments demonstrated that infection could be induced by either intraperitoneal injection or immersion bath, and that infection was more successful at higher concentrations. The main experiment involved two concentrations (10⁸ and 2×10⁸ CFU/ml) of immersion bath and two immersion durations (1 and 2 hrs), each repeated twice. The fish were monitored for clinical signs and mortality throughout the experiment and samples were collected on day 10 post-infection for haematological, immunological, and pathological assessment. High-dose immersion reliably induced infection, with disease progression depending on bacterial concentration and exposure duration. This established model is a practical and reproducible tool for future studies on the pathogenesis and immunity of C. gariepinus, as well as the use of immunostimulants and therapeutics.
Influence of drone brood homogenate on the gut integrity and cellular immunity: a pilot study on pigsOriginal Paper
V Karaffova, D Mudronova, M Levkut, L Rajcakova, Erik Hudec, R Zitnan, P Patras
Drone brood homogenate (DBH), a nutrient-rich bee product, has received limited scientific attention despite its potential immunomodulatory and gut-protective properties. This study evaluated the effects of dietary DBH supplementation on intestinal barrier–related gene expression, phagocytic activity, and lymphocyte subpopulations in pigs. Eighteen weaned pigs were assigned to three groups (control, DBH100, DBH200) and fed DBH at 0, 100, or 200 mg/kg feed for 18 days. Gene expression of tight junction markers (occludin, claudin-1) and mucosal integrity–associated proteins (lumican, OLFM4) was assessed in the ileum by qRT-PCR. Phagocyte function and lymphocyte subpopulations in peripheral blood were analysed using flow cytometry. DBH200 significantly upregulated occludin, claudin-1, lumican, and OLFM4 expression, indicating enhanced intestinal barrier support. Phagocytes from both DBH-treated groups exhibited increased engulfing capacity and elevated oxidative burst index, though the percentage of active phagocytes was only weakly affected. DBH supplementation did not alter total T (CD3+) or B (CD21+) cells; however, both DBH groups showed a significantly increased CD4+:CD8+ lymphocyte ratio, what is consistent with immune stimulation. These findings suggest that DBH may beneficially modulate gut barrier integrity and selected components of innate and adaptive cellular immunity in pigs.
Effect of praziquantel´s 24-hour bath on haematological and biochemical profile and selected parameters of oxidative stress in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)Original Paper
R Dobsikova, P Marsalek, J Velisek, J Blahova
This study assessed the effect of a 24-hour bath with praziquantel (2 and 4 mg/l) on grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) by monitoring haematological parameters, plasma biochemical profile, and oxidative stress indices. Fish were sampled at 24-, 48-, 72-, and 96-hours post-exposure (hpe). Haematological analysis revealed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in white blood cell count immediately after treatment at both concentrations, with no subsequent changes. Within the plasma biochemical profile, a significant decrease (P < 0.05) was observed only in chloride (24 hpe at 2 mg/l; 72 hpe at both concentrations) and in magnesium (48 hpe at 2 mg/l). Oxidative stress responses indicated that the gill was the most responsive tissue. In the gill, catalase and glutathione S-transferase activities increased significantly (P < 0.05) at 48 hpe at 4 mg/l. Lipid peroxidation in the gill decreased at 48 hpe but increased at 72 hpe following exposure to 4 mg/l. In the hepatopancreas, glutathione peroxidase activity significantly decreased at 48 hpe at 2 mg/l. In plasma, significant changes (P < 0.05) were detected only in ceruloplasmin activity, which showed a decrease at 72 hpe at 2 mg/l group. These findings provide essential baseline data supporting the potential future application of praziquantel in aquaculture.
Drugs and products in beekeeping: efficacy and perspectives of natural alternativesReview
I Szabo, L Sabova, R Sabo, M Sucik
Honeybee health is a key factor in sustainable apiculture, with the most significant colony losses attributed to the mite Varroa destructor and microsporidia of the genus Nosema spp. The aim of this review article is to summarise current knowledge on the use of pharmaceuticals and preparations in the prevention and treatment of these diseases and to highlight promising alternatives to synthetic acaricides. Commonly used active substances such as amitraz and pyrethroids show decreased efficacy in many countries due to the development of resistance. Therefore, organic acids (formic, oxalic, and lactic acids), essential oils, and plant extracts are increasingly applied as environmentally friendly, residue-free alternatives. Some plant preparations and extracts have been shown to be effective against Nosema ceranae. In addition to therapeutic interventions, the importance of preventive measures and immune support through supplements containing vitamins, amino acids, and probiotics is emphasised. The article highlights the need for integrated bee health management combining pharmacological, natural, and biotechnological approaches to limit resistance development, minimise residues in bee products, and promote overall colony vitality.
In vitro comparison of anthelmintic efficacy across Gyrodactylus speciesOriginal Paper
M Ondrackova, J Kolarova, K Skocovska
Gyrodactylosis, caused by monogenean parasites of the genus Gyrodactylus, poses a significant threat to aquaculture, particularly under intensive farming conditions. This study evaluated the in vitro effectiveness of three veterinary anthelmintics - fenbendazole (FBZ), levamisole hydrochloride (LHC), and ivermectin (IVM) - against four Gyrodactylus species collected from wild cyprinid hosts. Parasite survival was monitored over 48 hours at 6–7 °C. LHC showed the highest efficacy at both tested concentrations (30 and 50 mg/l), achieving near-complete mortality within 8 hours. FBZ and IVM were significantly less effective, with 23% and 33% of parasites surviving, respectively. Species-specific differences in drug susceptibility were observed, particularly with FBZ and IVM, with G. carassii showing consistently higher sensitivity than G. laevis, G. rutilensis, and G. vimbi. Lower water temperatures probably contributed to reduced drug efficacy and prolonged parasite survival. These findings highlight the importance of species-level evaluation and temperature considerations when selecting anthelmintic treatments for gyrodactylosis. In vitro testing under controlled conditions offers valuable insights into parasite susceptibility and complements in vivo approaches. Further research incorporating broader parasite diversity, temperature ranges, and pharmacological profiles is recommended to optimise treatment strategies in aquaculture.
Protective effect of Loranthus tanakae Franch. & Sav. on allergic asthma induced by ovalbuminOriginal Paper
S-H Park, S-W Pak, W-I Kim, B-R Jin, Y-K Cho, T-W Kim, J-W Ko, J-S Kim, J-C Kim, A Yeong Lee, I-S Shin
Allergic asthma is a widespread disease with elevated eosinophil levels. Although corticosteroids are widely prescribed for allergic asthma, numerous patients experience limited sensitivity and side effects. Loranthus tanakae Franch. & Sav., a traditional herbal plant, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in pulmonary inflammation caused by Asian sand dust and cigarette smoke condensate. To assess protective effects of L. tanakae, we examined the influence of L. tanakae ethanol extract (LTE) in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma. Mice received intraperitoneal sensitization with OVA, and challenged using OVA inhalation. LTE was consecutively orally gavaged for 6 days. Following sacrifice, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue was analyzed. LTE treatment considerably dropped inflammatory cell counts, proinflammatory cytokines in BALF, and immunoglobulin E as opposed to the OVA group, along with a reduction in airway hyperresponsiveness. LTE also improved airway inflammation and suppressed mucus hypersecretion within lung tissues. Additionally, expression of MMP-9 and activation of Erk, JNK, and p-38 were notably diminished in the LTE groups. This study revealed that reduced airway inflammation in OVA-induced asthma via suppressing MMP-9 and mitogen-activated protein kinase associated factors. Consequently, our findings demonstrated that LTE is suggested as a potential remedy for allergic asthma.
From grain to forage: A decade of mycotoxin contamination in ruminant feed in the Czech Republic (2013-2023)Original Paper
J Cahova, L Kvasnickova, J Illek, T Palenik, A Staffa, V Vlasakova, Z Svobodova, L Ravonjison, M Svoboda
This study is based on analytical data focusing on mycotoxin contamination in ruminant feeds in the Czech Republic over a ten-year period (2013—2023), specifically deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEN), T-2 toxin (T-2/HT-2), and ochratoxin A (OTA). Analyses were performed in accredited State Veterinary Institutes using validated immunochemical and chromatographic methods. Samples included forage and concentrate feeds for dairy cows, calf feed and fattening cattle feed. Across the monitoring period, DON was detected within higher concentration ranges, reflecting the susceptibility of field crops to Fusarium infection under local environmental conditions. Forage feeds showed significantly higher concentrations of DON (472.6 ± 13.2 µg/kg), ZEN (61.7 ± 4.4 µg/kg), and T-2/HT-2 toxin (36.2 ± 2.7 µg/kg) than concentrates for dairy cows (P < 0.05). Additionally, ZEN levels differed significantly between concentrates for dairy cows (17.1 ± 2.3 µg/kg) and calf feed (16.2 ± 3.3 µg/kg) (P < 0.05). Although mycotoxin concentrations generally remained below recommended limits, a small proportion of samples exceeded guideline values for DON (0.13%) and ZEN (0.56%). These findings highlight the importance of continued monitoring and preventive strategies to manage mycotoxin risks.
Comparison of the effect of Mospilan SP and its active substance on Artemia franciscanaOriginal Paper
M Falis, K Benova, M Spalkova, L Leskova
Contaminants formed after the use of pesticides raise concerns for human health and aquatic ecosystems, i. a. due to their high persistence in surface waters and their further migration to other components of the environment. In our study, we compared the effect of the preparation Mospilan SP and its active substance acetamiprid on the aquatic crustacean Artemia franciscana. For Mospilan SP LC50 after 120 hours was 367.44 mg/l, and after 144 hours 102.82 mg/l. For the active substance acetamiprid LC50 after 144 hours was 148.04 mg/l and after 168 hours 28.84 mg/l. The commercial preparation Mospilan SP showed a significant suppressing effect on the measured morphological parameters (body length, body width, intestinal diameter, and intestinal wall thickness) which were at a statistically significant level after 10 days of exposure. When comparing the changes after the application of the preparation and the active substance itself, it is impossible to confirm the same effect on the morphological parameters in given time intervals.
Establishment of an experimental pig model for the induction of Staphylococcus hyicus skin infectionOriginal Paper
K Matiaskova, M Reichelova, E Jeklova, M Zouharova, S Kobzova, K Nedbalcova, J Matiasovic, M Faldyna
Staphylococcus hyicus is one of the causative agents of exudative epidermitis in pigs. The aim of this study was to establish a porcine challenge model of skin infection with S. hyicus for the purpose of testing of the effectiveness of a medicinal product intended for local application. Based on the results of presence of toxin encoding genes and antimicrobial resistance (detected resistance to clindamycin, penicilin, ampicilin, erythromycin and tetracycline), three field strains were selected for the trial. At D0, six surface defects were created on the back of six piglets. The defects were inoculated with bacterium in two different concentrations - 1×108 or 1×109 CFU/ml. Every day for the duration of the experiment, pigs were monitored and rectal temperature was measured. On D4, D9 and D14 visual evaluation and indirect bacteriological imprints of defects were performed. Crusts were present from D9 and a lower concentration of bacteria led to the lower secretion and creation of crusts. Based on the results of bacterial cultivation of indirect imprints, however, S. hyicus was present in higher amounts in wound defects infected with the lower concentration of bacteria. As there were differences in obtained results among the strains used, it can be concluded that the strain marked as CAPM 6689 seems to be the most applicable and the lower concentration was enough for the infection development.
Impact of histological and molecular subtype on the potential therapeutic effect of Buparlisib in canine mammary gland tumoursOriginal Paper
A Baykal Ugur, G Guney Eskiler, O Turna
This study aims to evaluate the response of primary cells to Buparlisib, a PI3K inhibitor, at varying concentrations and exposure durations across different histological and molecular subtypes of CMGTs, and to assess PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway activity by measuring Akt and mTOR expression. Three carcinomas (C), three sarcomas (S), and two carcinosarcomas (CS) tumours were collected from the dogs. The primary cells were produced from tissues and treated with Buparlisib at different doses. Subsequently, the WST-1 assay, Annexin V, and AO/PI staining were performed sequentially to evaluate the effects of Buparlisib. PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway inhibition was revealed at the gene level in C, S, and CS cells following 5 µM Buparlisib treatment by RT-PCR analysis. Our results demonstrated that C1 and C2 (basal-like) cells were more sensitive than C3, CS1, and CS2 cells (Luminal A) upon Buparlisib treatment. Liposarcoma S2 cells responded more to Buparlisib than undifferentiated S cells (S1 and S3). Buparlisib also induced apoptosis and inhibited Akt and mTOR mRNA levels in CMGT cells (P < 0.05). A higher rate of apoptotic cell death was observed in the C histological subtype and basal-like cells, with 62.9 ± 0.8% apoptosis in C1 and 79.1 ± 0.3% in C2. The efficacy of Buparlisib was more pronounced in C2 basal-like CMGT cells and liposarcoma S2 cells with the downregulation of Akt and mTOR mRNA levels (P < 0.001). Therefore, PI3K inhibitors could be used to treat CMGT, particularly the basal-like molecular subtype.