Ivaškienė, Marija

Introduction Dermatophytosis caused by Microsporum canis is a common zoonotic skin infection in pets, often requiring prolonged treatment due to persistence in keratinized tissues. Its zoonotic nature highlights its importance within the One Health framework, as infected animals may contribute to transmission to humans. Organic acids represent promising antifungal agents due to their biocompatibility and mechanisms of action. Hydrogel systems may enhance topical drug delivery by enabling controlled release and improved retention. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of selected organic acids and to assess the physicochemical and antifungal properties of acid-based hydrogel formulations. Methods Ethanol-based solutions of gallic, coumaric, ferulic, and cinnamic acids (0.31–5%) were tested against M. canis using the agar well diffusion method. Cinnamic acid demonstrated the highest antifungal efficacy, which led to its selection for incorporation (0.5%) into hydrogel formulations containing poloxamer 407 and hydroxyethylcellulose with varying polymer ratios. Hydrogels were characterized by pH measurement and rheological analysis. Antifungal activity was evaluated using the same diffusion method. In vitro release studies were performed using a modified Franz diffusion cell system. Results Cinnamic acid demonstrated the highest antifungal activity, with inhibition zones increasing from 35.6 ± 1.7 mm (0.31%) to 73.2 ± 13.8 mm (5%). All hydrogel formulations retained antifungal activity against M. canis, producing ~17 mm inhibition zones, indicating diffusion limitations within the polymer matrix. Rheological analysis showed formulation-dependent viscosity (73.1–311.5 Pa·s at 35 °C), and all hydrogels had slightly acidic pH (4.81–4.92). In vitro, 34.8 ± 3.3% of cinnamic acid was released over 5 hours, suggesting a diffusion-controlled release profile. Conclusions Cinnamic acid demonstrated strong antifungal activity and retained its efficacy when incorporated into hydrogel systems, enabling controlled release. These findings indicate that cinnamic acid is a promising candidate for topical antifungal therapy, while poloxamer 407/hydroxyethylcellulose hydrogels may serve as a platform for prolonged local antifungal drug delivery

Background: Canine osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic joint disease associated with pain, reduced mobility and impaired quality of life (1). Multimodal management commonly includes physiotherapy and joint supplementation (2). The Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) is widely used to assess pain severity and functional impact in dogs with OA (3). However, limited data exist evaluating how supplementation and physiotherapy exposure relate to CBPI outcomes. Aim: To assess owner-reported pain severity, pain interference, and quality of life in dogs with OA undergoing physiotherapy and to explore associations between CBPI outcomes and supplement characteristics, physiotherapy exposure, and patient-related factors. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at a canine rehabilitation clinic. Twenty dogs with confirmed osteoarthritis undergoing more than two months of physiotherapy and concurrent joint supplementation were included. Owners completed the CBPI questionnaire, from which Pain Severity Score (PSS) and Pain Interference Score (PIS) were calculated. Owners also retrospectively estimated CBPI scores prior to physiotherapy initiation. Associations between CBPI outcomes, supplement characteristics, physiotherapy exposure and patient-related factors were analysed using descriptive statistics, group comparisons and correlation analysis (p < 0.05). Results: Mean CBPI scores indicated moderate owner-reported pain severity (PSS 3.40 ± 1.42) and pain interference (PIS 3.38 ± 1.33). Most dogs were reported to have a very good quality of life (75%). Retrospectively reported CBPI scores before physiotherapy were higher (PSS 4.66 ± 1.50; PIS 5.42 ± 1.83), and quality of life was most commonly rated as fair (55%). Most dogs received multi-ingredient joint supplements, with glucosamine being the most common component (70%), and supplementation was typically used for more than six months (50%). Hydrotherapy was the most frequently used physiotherapy modality (75%), and 65% of dogs received multiple physiotherapy modalities. Increasing age was moderately associated with higher CBPI scores (PSS ρ = 0.50, p = 0.025; PIS ρ = 0.60, p = 0.005). The number of physiotherapy sessions completed was positively correlated with pain severity (ρ = 0.57, p = 0.009) but not pain interference. Body weight showed a weak positive correlation with CBPI scores (PSS ρ = 0.37; PIS ρ = 0.21), although this did not reach statistical significance. Supplement characteristics, physiotherapy modality, supplement duration, number of ingredients, breed, and sex were not significantly associated with CBPI outcomes (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Dogs with osteoarthritis receiving physiotherapy and joint supplementation demonstrated moderate residual pain despite generally good, reported quality of life. Increasing age was associated with higher CBPI scores (PSS ρ = 0.50, p = 0.025; PIS ρ = 0.60, p = 0.005), and the number of physiotherapy sessions was positively correlated with pain severity (ρ = 0.57, p = 0.009). Supplement characteristics, physiotherapy modality, and body weight were not significantly associated with CBPI outcomes, suggesting that larger studies are needed to further evaluate treatment effects.

Background: Dermatophytosis caused by Microsporum canis is a common infectious skin disease in companion animals requiring prolonged treatment due to the persistence of fungal elements in hair shafts and keratinized tissues (1). Organic acids have demonstrated antifungal properties and may be suitable for topical use (2). Therefore, topical formulations such as hydrogel, a delivery system capable of retaining actives and providing controlled local availability, are of clinical interest (3). Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of various organic acids against Microsporum canis and to investigate how acid incorporation into hydrogel influences its physical properties and antifungal performance. Methods: Twenty acid-ethanol solutions containing gallic, coumaric, ferulic, and cinnamic acids at concentrations 0,31-5% were prepared. Antifungal activity against M. canis was determined by agar well diffusion. The most effective acid was chosen and incorporated into three poloxamer 407 and hydroxyethyl cellulose hydrogels. Physical properties were evaluated by rheology – temperature sweep, creep, and thixotropy tests. Antifungal activity of hydrogels was evaluated using the same well agar diffusion method. The pH was measured using a pH meter. Results: Cinnamic acid demonstrated the highest antifungal activity against M. canis in solution form, with inhibition zones up to 73.2 ± 13.8 mm. Hydrogels produced inhibition zones smaller compared to the solution, with zones reaching 17.3 ± 0.6 mm, 17.7 ± 0.6 mm, 17,0 ± 1,0 mm. Despite measurable rheological differences, complex viscosity at 35 C ranging from 73.1 to 311.5 Pa·s, the antifungal performance of all three hydrogels remained similar. pH was measured at 4.81- 4.92 and remained slightly acidic across all formulations. Conclusion: Incorporation of cinnamic acid into poloxamer 407/hydroxyethyl cellulose hydrogels did not eliminate the antifungal activity of the acid but limited its diffusion from the formulation, resulting in smaller inhibition zones. This effect is likely due to the formation of a three-dimensional polymer network and the higher viscosity of the system. The findings indicate diffusion-controlled availability and support the potential use of hydrogels for prolonged local antifungal exposure. Moreover, these pharmaceutical properties may promote retention of the drug within skin layers and hair follicles. Further studies are required to evaluate release kinetics and in vivo effectiveness.

Background: Acute toxin and foreign body ingestion are common emergencies in canine practice where rapid induction of emesis may prevent systemic absorption and reduce the need for invasive intervention. Subcutaneous apomorphine has traditionally been the standard emetic agent in dogs, whereas ropinirole eye drops represent a newer, non-invasive licensed alternative. Direct comparison under routine clinical conditions remains limited. Aim: To describe and compare the onset time, clinical response characteristics, and adverse effects of SC apomorphine and ropinirole eye drops in dogs, and to assess veterinarians’ experiences influencing drug selection. Methods: A prospective observational study included 24 clinically stable dogs requiring emesis induction (apomorphine n=15; ropinirole n=9). Time to emesis, recovery of ingested material and adverse effects were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using non-parametric testing (p<0.05). Additionally, 119 veterinarians participated in a structured survey evaluating drug preference and perceived safety. Results: Emesis was successfully induced in 100% (24/24) of dogs. Apomorphine induced significantly faster emesis than ropinirole (median 3.5 min [3–9] vs 8 min [6–12]; p=0.001). The number of vomiting episodes did not differ significantly between groups (p=0.813), indicating comparable emetic intensity. Complete recovery of ingested material occurred in 79.2% of cases. No pharmacological termination of emesis was required. Systemic adverse effects were mild and transient in both groups (p>0.05), while ocular redness was significantly more frequent following ropinirole (55.6% vs 0%; p=0.003), typically resolving without treatment. Survey responses reflected similar clinical perceptions: apomorphine was regarded as faster acting, whereas ropinirole was valued as a non-invasive alternative. Conclusion: Both agents were highly effective in clinically stable dogs. Apomorphine provided a more rapid onset, while ropinirole offered ease of administration with predictable, localized ocular effects. These findings support individualized emetic selection based on urgency, patient temperament, concurrent medication, and ocular health.

Background: It is estimated that 25%-33% of dogs are affected by osteoarthritis (1). The hips are a major joint affected by osteoarthritis (2). The Assisi Loop 2.0®, a pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) device, is a non-invasive therapy that emits current pulsed generated magnetic field pulses over a short period of time to living tissue (3). PEMF devices aid in the upregulation of nitric oxide production leading to a decrease in swelling, inflammation and pain (4). Aim: To investigate PEMF therapy and its effectiveness on treating dogs diagnosed with hip osteoarthritis leading to a better quality of life. Methods: This study was conducted at a clinic in Alberta, Canada between 2024- 2025. Inclusion parameters were: 7-15 years old, body weight ≤25 kg, diagnosed with osteoarthritis (COAST stage 2 or 3), currently on medications and/ or supplements to treat osteoarthritis. Thirty dogs were enrolled in the study. A random number generator was used to divide them into either the experimental or control group. The parameters that were analysed were: breed, age, castrated/ intact, gender, body weight, and BCS. There were two 15-minute treatments a day with the Assisi Loop 2.0® over 14 days. The experimental group received treatments with the Assisi Loop 2.0® on their hips. Heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure MM colour, CRT, rectal temperature, and ROM were measured before and after treatments. On days 1, 7, and 14 the short form Glasgow pain scale was used to access the dog’s pain levels. Results: The experimental group demonstrated a decrease in heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and rectal temperature after each treatment with the Assisi Loop 2.0® . The control group’s vital parameters increased after the placement of the inactivated Assisi Loop 2.0® on their hips. In general, there was a noticeable trend for both the standard deviation and standard mean of the experimental group’s vital parameters to be higher than the control group’s vital parameters. As p<0.05, all vital parameters except for blood pressure systolic (p=0.671) and blood pressure diastolic (p=0.052) were statistically significant. The experimental group had decreased Glasgow pain scores at day 7 and 14, 6.47/24 and 5.2/24 respectively and increased ROM after treatments with the Assisi Loop 2.0® . Conclusion: The Assisi Loop 2.0® decreased pain levels and improved quality of life in the dogs in the experimental group. PEMF used in combination with allopathic medicine (pharmacological therapy) to treat osteoarthritis will allow for greater functional capacity and pain relief and may allow for a decrease in the number of medications leading to less adverse side effects. Due to the small number of dogs used in this study it is recommended that future studies include a larger study size.

The degradation of zearalenone (ZEN) in the rumen of dairy cows is influenced by rumen pH, which is a key factor affecting this process. The aim of this study was to investigate the variation of ZEN in interaction with other mycotoxins at different ruminal pH environments (physiological (pH 6.5) and acidic (pH 5.5)) using an in vitro rumen model. Rumen fluid was collected from the caudoventral part of the rumen of cows using a pharyngeal–esophageal probe. To determine the changes in different mycotoxins (ZEN; AFLB1; DON; T-2) in the rumen of cows, a model rumen system was used, and mycotoxins concentrations were detected by HPLC. The study found that at pH 6.5, ZEN alone and in combination with other mycotoxins (DON; T-2; AFLB1) significantly (p < 0.05) reduced ZEN levels compared to the rumen environment at pH 5.5. It was observed that α-zearalenol (α-ZEL) and β-zearalenol (β-ZEL) concentrations were generally higher at a rumen pH of 6.5 compared to pH 5.5, averaging 47.09 µg/L and 35.23 µg/L, respectively. Additionally, the frequency of detection for both α-ZEL and β-ZEL was greater at pH 6.5 than at pH 5.5. A comparison of α-ZEL concentrations in rumen samples at pH 5.5 showed a 20% increase from the 6th to the 9th hour of the test, while β-ZEL levels remained unchanged over the same period.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess how frequently intravenous fluidtherapy is chosen in veterinary clinical practice based on the evaluation of acid-baseresults. Material-Method: The study employed a randomized retrospective quantitative design. A total of 20 emergency cases were randomly selected and clinical records were reviewed to determine the choice of intravenous fluid administered based on the patient's venous acid-base status. Results: The results of the study showed that 100% of patients participating were initially treated with intravenous fluid therapy using Hartmann’s solution, with all patients undergoing initial acid-base and electrolyte status analysis. Of these, 45% exhibited normal pH and electrolyte levels, 20% presented with metabolic acidosis, 20% had compensated metabolic acidosis, 5% showed signs of respiratory alkalosis, 5% had mixed acid-base disturbances, and 5% were indeterminate due to incomplete records. Only 10% of the cases had documented acid-base interpretation and fluid therapy plans, with 5% including a detailed plan that noted a switch to sodium chloride solution based on acid-base results. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that disturbances or alterations in fluid therapyadministration can significantly impact a patient’s recovery rate and cellular repairprocesses. This small-scale investigation highlights a critical deficiency in evidencebased guidelines for fluid therapy selection based on a patient’s acid-base status. The findings emphasize a substantial gap within the veterinary profession regarding the interpretation of acid-base disorders, as clinical records often lacked detailed interpretation of acid-base results or supportive notes outlining the clinician's treatment plan during intravenous fluid therapy.

The design and development of pharmaceutical products require specific knowledge, time, and investment. Response surface methodology (RSM) is a widely used technique in the design of experiments (DoE) to optimize various processes and products. The aim of this study was to model and produce experimental emulgels containing 1% ciclopirox olamine and to evaluate their physical, rheological, and mechanical properties and their ability to release ciclopirox olamine. The objective was to optimize the composition of the experimental emulgel containing 1% ciclopirox olamine by applying a central composite design based on selected criteria. The surfactant (polysorbate 80) had the greatest influence on the physical, rheological, and mechanical properties of the emulgels, as well as on the release of ciclopirox olamine from these systems. During the optimization process, an emulgel of optimal composition was generated containing 38.27% mineral oil, 6.56% polysorbate 80, and 55.17% hydrogel containing 1% ciclopirox olamine, meeting specified criteria (dependent variables) including the maximum flux of ciclopirox olamine, the minimum sol–gel transition temperature (Tsol/gel), and the minimum particle size of the oil phase. The oil phase particle size (D50) of this emulgel was determined to be 0.337 µm, the system Tsol/gel was 9.1 °C, and the flux of ciclopirox olamine from this gel matrix was calculated to be 1.44 mg/cm2. This emulgel of optimal composition could be used to treat fungal skin diseases.

Infectious skin diseases are quite common in veterinary medicine. These diseases can be caused by both bacteria and pathogenic fungi. Antimicrobial drugs are usually used for treatment. An alternative to these drugs could be ozonated oils with antibacterial and antifungal properties. Four different ozonated oils (linseed, hemp seed, sunflower, and olive) were tested in order to develop an optimal pharmaceutical form for the treatment of skin infections in animals. Chemical parameters such as acid and acidity value, iodine and peroxide value, viscosity, and infrared spectres were analysed. The ozonation of oils resulted in changes in their chemical composition. The antimicrobial activity of the tested oils was evaluated by determining the minimum inhibitory concentrations and zones of inhibition in agar. After ozonation, the acid content increased in all the tested oils. The highest acidity was found in linseed oil (13.00 ± 0.11 mg KOH/g; 6.1%). Hemp oil, whose acidity was also significant (second only to linseed oil), was the least acidified by ozonation (11.45 ± 0.09 mg KOH/g; 5.75%). After ozonation, the iodine value in oils was significantly reduced (45–93%), and the highest amounts of iodine value remained in linseed (47.50 ± 11.94 g Iodine/100 g oil) and hemp (44.77 ± 1.41 Iodine/100 g oil) oils. The highest number of peroxides after the ozonation of oils was found in sunflower oil (382 ± 9.8 meqO2/kg). It was found that ozonated hemp and linseed oils do not solidify and remain in liquid form when the temperature drops. The results showed a tendency for the reference strains of S. aureus, E. faecalis, and E. coli to have broader zones of inhibition (p < 0.001) than clinical strains. Overall, ozonated linseed oil had the highest antibacterial activity, and ozonated olive oil had the lowest, as determined by both methods. It was found that ozonated linseed oil was the most effective on bacteria, while the most sensitive were S. aureus ATCC 25923, MRSA, and S. pseudointermedius (MIC 13.5 mg/mL, 4.6 mg/mL, and 13.5 mg/mL, respectively, and sterile zones 20.67 ± 0.98 mm, 20.25 ± 0.45 mm, and 18.25 ± 0.45 mm, respectively). The aim and new aspect of this work is the characterisation of selected ozonated vegetable oils, especially hemp oil, according to chemical and antibacterial parameters, in order to select suitable candidates for preclinical and clinical animal studies in the treatment of bacterial or fungal skin infections in terms of safety and efficacy.

Mokomojoje knygoje pateikiama didaktinė medžiaga apie tai, kokiais kriterijais vadovaujantis reikia rinktis vaistą, kaip vaistai skirstomi, kaip, vadovaujantis Veterinarinių vaistų receptų ir paraiškų rašymo taisyklėmis, rašyti receptus ir paraiškas, kokias santrumpas ir posakius vartoti. Aptariamos dažniausios receptų rašymo klaidos. Mokomoji knyga skirta studentams, studijuojantiems bendrąją ir klinikinę veterinarinę farmakologiją.