Veterinary Clinicians Research Articles

Prevalence of cardiomyopathy and cardiac mortality in a colony of non-purebred cats in New Zealand

ABSTRACT Aims To evaluate the prevalence of subclinical cardiomyopathy and cardiac mortality in a research colony of non-purebred cats, established as a model of the wider cat population in New Zealand. Methods All apparently healthy, compliant, non-pregnant, non-neonatal cats in the colony at the Centre for Feline Nutrition (Massey University, Palmerston North, NZ) underwent physical examination and echocardiography using a 4.4–6.2-MHz probe by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist. Cardiac phenotype was classified following current guidelines. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) phenotype was defined as an end-diastolic left ventricular wall thickness ≥ 6 mm. Colony mortality data from February 2012 to February 2022 was reviewed to determine cardiac mortality. Results Cats (n = 132; 65 females and 67 males) included in the study had a median age of 4.1 (IQR 3.0–8.0) years. Thirty-two (24%) cats had a heart murmur, and three (2%) cats had an arrhythmia. Echocardiography revealed heart disease in 24 (18.2%) cats, including 23 with an HCM phenotype and one with a restrictive cardiomyopathy phenotype. Of the cats with the HCM phenotype, 3/23 had systemic hypertension or hyperthyroidism or both, and these cats were excluded from the final diagnosis of HCM (20/132; 15.2 (95% CI = 9.5–22.4)%). Between 2012 and 2022, 168 colony cats died, with 132 undergoing post-mortem examination. Heart disease was considered the cause of death in 7/132 (5.3%; 95% CI = 2.2–10.6%) cats; five had HCM, one a congenital heart defect, and one myocarditis. The overall prevalence of death related to HCM in the colony during this period was 3.8% (95% CI = 1.2–8.6%). Three cats with HCM and the cat with a congenital heart defect died unexpectedly without prior clinical signs, while congestive heart failure was observed prior to death in two cats with HCM and the cat with myocarditis. Additionally, 30/132 (22.7%) cats had cardiac abnormalities but died for non-cardiac reasons. Conclusions Subclinical cardiomyopathy, specifically HCM, was common in cats in the colony. Given that the colony originated as a convenience selection of non-purebred cats in New Zealand, the true prevalence of HCM in the wider New Zealand population is likely to fall within the 95% CI (9.5–22%). The proportion of deaths of colony cats due to HCM was lower (3.8%) supporting the conclusion that subclinical cardiomyopathy may not progress to clinical disease causing death. Clinical relevance Veterinarians should be aware of the high prevalence of subclinical HCM when treating cats. Abbreviations CAM: Systolic anterior motion of the chordae tendineae; CFN: Centre for Feline Nutrition; HCM: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy; LA/Ao: Left atrial to aortic ratio; LV FS: Left ventricular fractional shortening; LVIDd: Left ventricular internal diameters in end-diastole; LVIDs: Left ventricular internal diameter in end-systole; LVWT: Max Maximum left ventricular wall thickness; SAM: Systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve; 2D: Two-dimensional

Clinical research self-efficacy in academic veterinary clinicians in the United States.

Clinical research is a growing part of the academic clinician's job, and documenting areas of low self-efficacy can inform training initiatives. 182 US academic veterinary clinicians. A survey of academic veterinary clinicians was distributed to 31 US institutions. Self-efficacy was assessed with a modified Clinical Research Appraisal Instrument-12. The relationship between research self-efficacy and completion of formal research training and years of experience was evaluated. Respondents were predominantly junior to midcareer faculty. The lowest reported confidence was in performing advanced statistical analyses (3; 0 to 10). Other low-confidence tasks included designing a qualitative methods study (4; 0 to 10), terminating a collaboration that isn't working (5; 0 to 10), describing a funding agency's review/award process (5; 0 to 10), establishing a timeline for a grant application (5; 0 to 10), establishing collaborator and consultant agreements (5; 0 to 10), and asking staff to leave the project team (5; 0 to 10). Completion of a formal research training program was significantly associated with improved self-efficacy in many tasks. Years of experience was also associated, especially in project management and interpersonal interactions. These results highlight the need for targeted training opportunities for academic veterinary clinicians in biostatistical support, qualitative study design methods, and aspects of communication and interpersonal skills that are important for developing and leading effective research teams. Range of confidence suggests that development opportunities in all domains will improve self-efficacy for some clinicians. Future studies should focus on the impact of formal training sessions on various domains of self-efficacy and on targeted mentoring in supporting confidence in more experiential learning domains.

A 20-year serological survey of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum infection in dogs with neuromuscular disorders from urban areas in Argentina

Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum infections may be associated with neuromuscular disorders in dogs. The aim of this study was to assess the seroprevalence to these protozoan parasites in dogs with neuromuscular disease from urban areas of Buenos Aires province, Argentina, over a period of 20 years, and to evaluate the association of seropositivity and antibody titres with different variables such as sex, breed and age. For this, a total of 7238 serum samples from urban owned dogs were analysed by the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) for specific IgG antibodies. The observed seropositivity rates were 35.7 % for T. gondii and 25.7 % for N. caninum. Crossbred dogs had a significantly higher seroprevalence for T. gondii than purebred dogs (41 % vs. 29.3 %), while a trend towards significance was observed for N. caninum, which was slightly higher in purebred dogs (26 % vs. 23.6 %). Seroprevalence for both parasites increased with age and was higher in older animals. Regarding the distribution of specific antibody titres, the most frequent IFAT T. gondii titre found was 100 and for N. caninum it was ≥800. For toxoplasmosis, there was no association with age group, and low titres (50, 100 and 200) predominated in all groups. However, for neosporosis, age and titres were significantly associated for one age group, with dogs under 12 months of age having a higher proportion of high titres (400 and 800). The trend in the seroprevalence for T. gondii is increasing over the years and lower antibody titres predominate in the dogs studied, which may be more related to the presence of chronic infections and not necessarily to the clinical signs of the animals. Despite the generally low titres observed for toxoplasmosis in this study, it is important to highlight the high seroprevalence found in our region, as dogs can act as sentinels of environmental contamination and as indicators of possible human infection. In the case of neosporosis, although the trend in seroprevalence in dogs with signs appears to be decreasing over the years, our work shows that higher antibody titres predominate, and are probably related to the clinical signs presented by the dogs. This study provides the most recent epidemiological data and serological profiles of T. gondii and N. caninum infections in a large number of canine sera from urban areas in Argentina, providing relevant information for clinical veterinarians and epidemiologists in order to understand the circulation of the parasites.

Assessing and comparing disease prevention knowledge, attitudes, and practices among veterinarians in Illinois, United States of America

Veterinarians play an essential role in safeguarding and promoting animal and human health by timely reporting of notifiable diseases to animal and public health agencies and by educating animal owners on effective disease prevention measures. Moreover, clinical veterinarians can prevent the transmission and spread of zoonotic diseases by adopting effective biosecurity practices in their clinics.An online questionnaire was administered between October and November 2021 to veterinarians registered with the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinarians were surveyed on their disease risk perception, biosecurity practices, and disease reporting knowledge. In total, 104 veterinarians (64 % females and 46 % males) completed the questionnaire, of whom 88 % were veterinarians working in clinical practice (88 % companion animals and 12 % bovine or swine), while 12 % were employed in non-clinical settings. The disease-reporting knowledge score was higher for veterinarians with biosecurity training (IRR: 1.35; 95 % CI: 1.47–1.75). Compared to large animal veterinarians, companion animal veterinarians had lower odds of having biosecurity training (OR=0.68; 95 % CI=0.02–0.28) and were less familiar with current biosecurity guidelines (OR=0.12; 95 % CI = 0.03–0.51). Veterinarians familiar with biosecurity guidelines had a higher probability (OR=4.4; 95 % CI: 1.21–16.28) of perceiving biosecurity practices as practical while working with animals. Conversely, veterinarians who perceived that they could transmit diseases to animals had lower odds (OR: 0.42; 95 % CI: 0.20–0.91) of wearing protective clothing while dealing with confirmed cases of zoonotic diseases.Based on our study results, a gap in disease-reporting knowledge was identified among companion animal veterinarians. Biosecurity training improved the disease-reporting knowledge of veterinarians, suggesting that providing continuing education for veterinarians would be beneficial to disease reporting. A disconnect between disease risk perception and biosecurity practices was identified and further studies are needed to understand this discrepancy to design effective education programs.

Farm-level risk factors and treatment protocols for lameness in New Zealand dairy cattle

ABSTRACT Aims To identify farm-level risk factors for dairy cow lameness, and to describe lameness treatment protocols used on New Zealand dairy farms. Methods One hundred and nineteen farms from eight veterinary clinics within the major dairying regions of New Zealand were randomly enrolled into a cross-sectional lameness prevalence study. Each farmer completed a questionnaire on lameness risk factors and lameness treatment and management. Trained observers lameness scored cattle on two occasions, between October–December (spring, coinciding with peak lactation for most farms) and between January–March (summer, late lactation for most farms). A four-point (0–3) scoring system was used to assess lameness, with animals with a lameness score (LS) ≥2 defined as lame. At each visit, all lactating animals were scored including animals that had previously been identified lame by the farmer. Associations between the farmer-reported risk factors and lameness were determined using mixed logistic regression models in a Bayesian framework, with farm and score event as random effects. Results A lameness prevalence of 3.5% (2,113/59,631) was reported at the first LS event, and 3.3% (1,861/55,929) at the second LS event. There was a median prevalence of 2.8% (min 0, max 17.0%) from the 119 farms. Most farmers (90/117; 77%) relied on informal identification by farm staff to identify lame animals. On 65% (75/116) of farms, there was no external provider of lame cow treatments, with the farmer carrying out all lame cow treatments. Most farmers had no formal training (69/112; 62%). Animals from farms that used concrete stand-off pads during periods of inclement weather had 1.45 times the odds of lameness compared to animals on farms that did not use concrete stand-off pads (95% equal-tailed credible interval 1.07–1.88). Animals from farms that reported peak lameness incidence from January to June or all year-round, had 0.64 times odds of lameness compared to animals from farms that reported peak lameness incidence from July to December (95% equal-tailed credible interval 0.47–0.88). Conclusions Lameness prevalence was low amongst the enrolled farms. Use of concrete stand-off pads and timing of peak lameness incidence were associated with odds of lameness. Clinical relevance Veterinarians should be encouraging farmers to have formal lameness identification protocols and lameness management plans in place. There is ample opportunity to provide training to farmers for lame cow treatment. Management of cows on stand-off pads should consider the likely impact on lameness.

Clinical Use of Molecular Biomarkers in Canine and Feline Oncology: Current and Future.

Molecular biomarkers are central to personalised medicine for human cancer patients. It is gaining traction as part of standard veterinary clinical practice for dogs and cats with cancer. Molecular biomarkers can be somatic or germline genomic alterations and can be ascertained from tissues or body fluids using various techniques. This review discusses how these genomic alterations can be determined and the findings used in clinical settings as diagnostic, prognostic, predictive, and screening biomarkers. We showcase the somatic and germline genomic alterations currently available to date for testing dogs and cats in a clinical setting, discussing their utility in each biomarker class. We also look at some emerging molecular biomarkers that are promising for clinical use. Finally, we discuss the hurdles that need to be overcome in going 'bench to bedside', i.e., the translation from discovery of genomic alterations to adoption by veterinary clinicians. As we understand more of the genomics underlying canine and feline tumours, molecular biomarkers will undoubtedly become a mainstay in delivering precision veterinary care to dogs and cats with cancer.

A case of Brucellosis with neurological and dermatological findings in a thoroughbred Arabian horse

Brucellosis, a zoonotic infection, exhibits varying prevalence across different geographical regions, with a notable incidence in Mediterranean countries, contributing to considerable economic losses. This study focuses on an 11-year-old purebred male Arabian horse, presenting symptoms including weight loss, weakness, environmental indifference, joint swelling, and diverse dermatological manifestations despite sufficient feed intake. A pivotal clinical observation from anamnesis and examination is the animal's inclination to lean its head against walls or fixed objects. In conjunction with hematological and biochemical analyses, the Brucella Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT) and serum agglutination test (SAT) were conducted, revealing seropositivity for brucellosis in the patient. Consequently, it is imperative for professionals in the equine breeding sector, particularly clinical veterinarians, to adhere to biosafety protocols concerning brucellosis cases exhibiting atypical clinical symptoms in horses. Proper diagnostic methods should be employed to assess suspicious cases, underscoring the significance of safeguarding both public and animal health.

Current Advances in Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapies Applied to Wounds and Skin, Eye, and Neuromuscular Diseases in Companion Animals.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are considered a very promising alternative tool in cell therapies and regenerative medicine due to their ease of obtaining from various tissues and their ability to differentiate into different cell types. This manuscript provides a review of current knowledge on the use of MSC-based therapies as an alternative for certain common pathologies in dogs and cats where conventional treatments are ineffective. The aim of this review is to assist clinical veterinarians in making decisions about the suitability of each protocol from a clinical perspective, rather than focusing solely on research. MSC-based therapies have shown promising results in certain pathologies, such as spinal cord injuries, wounds, and skin and eye diseases. However, the effectiveness of these cell therapies can be influenced by a wide array of factors, leading to varying outcomes. Future research will focus on designing protocols and methodologies that allow more precise and effective MSC treatments for each case.

Anatomy of the brain of capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) using magnetic resonance imaging.

Capybara is considered the largest living rodent and is widespread distributed in the South America and in the Brazilian territory. The purpose of this study was to provide the anatomical description of the brain in the capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Brains of ten normal capybaras were imaged and sectioned in the anatomical studies. MRI was acquired on 0.25 Tesla equipment, promoting good-quality images capable to identify and classify the main anatomical structures of clinical interest. MRI reference images were validated by comparing them with gross anatomical sections. The capybara sulci and gyri were named for its similar location and orientation to those described in the previous descriptions in the capybara and in the domestic dog. Capybaras presented prominent cerebral sulcus and gyrus in relation to other caviomorph rodents, but in reduced number when compared to domestic animals and other wild mammals such as elephants and giraffes. The findings of this study indicate that the shape of the capybara brain is remarkably similar to that of the caviomorph rodents with a higher neocortilization. The capybara rhinencephalon was well-developed implying a good sense of smell. Due to this development of the rhinencephalon, we can suggest that capybara brain is a macrosmatic brain. The MRI and gross anatomical sections of capybara brain may help veterinary researchers and clinicians increase the accuracy of brain MRI scans interpretation in these animals.

A survey of the use of ultrasound by small animal veterinary clinicians.

This study aimed to determine the current use of ultrasound amongst small animal veterinarians. A total of 1216 small animal veterinary practitioners responded to an electronic survey that was administered through the Veterinary Information Network to all its members. Descriptive statistics were generated; limited inferential statistics were performed to examine specific relationships. Eighty-four percent of respondents had access to an ultrasound unit, and 86% of respondents reported using their unit multiple times per week. The most common uses were assistance with cystocentesis (93%) and abdominocentesis (71%), pregnancy diagnosis (69%), limited abdominal evaluation (63%), to aid in thoracocentesis (59%), and limited thoracic evaluation (52%). Eighty-nine percent of respondents received some formal training in ultrasound, most commonly from continuing education courses. Most respondents (52%) reported receiving ≤25h of training. Additionally, 88% of respondents believed it was either extremely or very important for there to be ultrasound training for veterinary students prior to graduation. Based on this survey, most small animal practitioners commonly use ultrasound for limited examinations, being most confident in the sonographic evaluation and centesis of the bladder and for the detection and centesis of effusion in a body cavity. With most respondents having ≤25h of training in ultrasound, typically obtained in postgraduate courses, an expansion in standardized basic ultrasound training within the veterinary curriculum may be warranted.

Survey of Animal Neoplastic Cases Diagnosed in Nigerian Veterinary Teaching Hospitals, 2000-2017.

Incidence data from 17-year veterinary neoplasm surveillance and registration were reviewed. Most of the neoplastic cases diagnosed in Nigerian veterinary teaching hospitals (VTHs) were in the avian (49%) and canine species (44%). Fewer cases were recorded in the equine (3.2%), bovine (2.4%), ovine (1.5%), caprine (0.3%) and porcine (0.15%) species. Marek's disease was the most prevalently diagnosed neoplastic disease of domestic animals in Nigerian VTHs from 2000-2017. Also, the Nigerian local breed had a higher mean distribution than any other dog breed and this was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Nearly all of the neoplastic cases diagnosed, were found in females (60.4%) and so the mean distribution of sex was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The digestive system, with 296 (46.25%) cases, was the anatomic location where the majority of the neoplastic cases were found. However, the mean distribution of different neoplastic anatomic sites was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). In conclusion, little emphasis is given to the appropriate diagnosis and recording of neoplastic cases that are diagnosed. The study provides information regarding the prevalence and distribution of tumours in different animal species consulted in Nigeria veterinary teaching hospitals. To illustrate all of this, ArcGIS software was used. Veterinary clinicians, pathologists and epidemiologists from Nigeria may benefit from the results of this study by freely accessing some specific data regarding the breed, the age group or the gender of some animal species diagnosed with different tumours.

Veterinary clinicians prefer template-style reports with personal confidence estimates for cytologic sample evaluations.

To examine preferences of veterinary clinical pathologists, clinicians, and students for cytology report formats. 24 clinical pathologists, 1,014 veterinarians, and 93 veterinary students who were members of the Veterinary Information Network. Members of the Veterinary Information Network responded to an online survey invitation, made available between July 11, 2023, and July 24, 2023. Respondents were randomly directed to 1 of 4 sets of cytology reports, each containing a traditional narrative format, narrative format with terms expressing a degree of confidence and associated numerical ranges, and template format with similar estimates of confidence. Respondents ranked the reports in order of preference and then provided comments about their top-ranked choice. Responses were analyzed mostly with descriptive statistics or comparisons of proportions. 14 of 24 clinical pathologists preferred the traditional narrative format, whereas 449 of 1,042 veterinary clinicians and veterinary students preferred the template format. Respondents (460/1,131) ranked the template format as most preferred, but the narrative format with terms expressing a degree of confidence ranked highest overall. Many respondents appeared to misunderstand the degree of confidence estimates being expressed numerically. Respondents choosing each format often stated that their preferred choice was "easiest to understand" and "most comprehensive." Given the preferences of veterinary clinicians and veterinary students for a template format, clinical pathologists should consider modifying the way they report evaluations of cytologic specimens. Template formats should help standardize reporting of cytologic specimens, thereby improving communication between clinical pathologists and clinicians. However, both clinicians and clinical pathologists need to better understand the purpose of terminology expressing degrees of confidence in such reports.

What do veterinary professionals and clients want? Using discrete choice methods in veterinary research to determine preferences.

Discrete choice methods (DCMs) are a suite of research techniques for identifying individual preferences using choice information. Widely utilized by other fields yet rarely employed in veterinary research, DCMs have tremendous potential to improve veterinary healthcare by understanding and incorporating owner and veterinary professionals' (encompassing veterinarians, veterinary clinicians, technicians, receptionists, attendants, etc) preferences to optimize the care continuum. DCMs have several advantages over other stated preference methods, such as ranking and ratings, including improved data quality and actionability. However, they are not a panacea, and limitations that may affect DCMs' application to the veterinary field are outlined alongside realistic mitigation strategies. The information provided aims to increase awareness of DCMs and their utility in veterinary research and encourage greater uptake as a more robust method for measuring preferences.

A method for teaching depth of corneal lesions using a portable slit lamp (biomicroscope).

A novel, simple, and inexpensive model for teaching depth of lesions within the cornea using slit lamp biomicroscopy to veterinary students, ophthalmology residents, and general clinicians with access to a slit lamp biomicroscope is described. Using common laboratory items, this method can be created in any clinic and can be used to teach and quiz students through independent study with objective self-testing achieved.

Reproductive emergencies in female cats

Reproductive emergencies are common in female cats, so, with the aim of contributing to the knowledge of the most frequent reproductive emergencies in this specie, a prospective study of patients treated at a University Veterinary Hospital was performed. All medical records of feline females, who were admitted like emergency related to the reproductive system, were analyzed. All data from epidemiological and clinical interest were registered. During 64 days, 20 female queen cats were monitored, and 13 had dystocia (65%; 13/20) and seven (35%; 7/20) pyometra. Many reproductive emergencies in the animals studied were related to contraceptive use. These findings should serve as a basis to veterinary clinicians to discourage this practice and encourage the neutering of females, thus providing quality care to clients and patients.

Veterinary Pathology Diseases and Disorders in Domestic and Wild Animals

Veterinary pathology plays a crucial role in understanding and managing diseases and disorders in both domestic and wild animals. This field encompasses the study of various pathologies, from infectious diseases like the Spanish Goat Encephalitis Virus, which causes severe neurological symptoms and high mortality in goats, to toxicological conditions such as oleander poisoning in horses, characterized by renal and cardiac lesions. It also includes the investigation of neoplastic conditions, as seen in canine apocrine gland adenocarcinoma of the anal sac and various tumors in African pygmy hedgehogs. The integration of clinical and histopathological findings is essential for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and management of these diverse conditions, highlighting the importance of veterinary pathology in animal health and welfare. Veterinary pathology, a vital branch of veterinary medicine, is instrumental in diagnosing, understanding, and managing a wide array of diseases and disorders in both domestic and wild animals. It encompasses the study of various pathologies, including infectious diseases, toxicological conditions, and neoplastic diseases. For instance, research into the Spanish Goat Encephalitis Virus sheds light on its neurological impact and high mortality rates in goats, while studies on oleander poisoning in horses focus on its renal and cardiac implications. Additionally, the field addresses neoplastic conditions such as canine apocrine gland adenocarcinoma of the anal sac and various tumors in African pygmy hedgehogs. This discipline is not only pivotal in diagnosing and treating these conditions but also plays a significant role in advancing our understanding of animal health and welfare, emphasizing the need for continuous research and collaboration between veterinary clinicians and pathologists.

Perfil epidemiológico das otites canina e felina em um Hospital Veterinário Universitário: um estudo retrospectivo

The objective of this work was to analyze the cases of otitis in companion animals treated at the Veterinary Hospital Jeremias Pereira da Silva / Universidade Federal do Piauí (UFPI) and the profile of antimicrobial drugs used in the treatment of these infections. A retrospective cross-sectional observational epidemiological study was carried out on the assisted animals with otitis at the Veterinary Hospital Jeremias Pereira da Silva / (UFPI), during the period from January 2015 to December 2020, through access to the registration system called “Doctorvet”, evaluating the characteristics of the patients treated, the diagnosis and therapy adopted and the clinical response to these services. Mixed breed dogs (MBDs), with bilateral presentation of this disease and the presence of comorbidities were frequent occurrences in the animals treated. Antibiotic prescriptions of aminoglycosides (Gentamicin and Neomycin) were the most used, in formulations associated with other substances, such as antifungals and anti-inflammatories, with the commercial presentation Aurivet being the most prescribed and the one that received the greatest number of favorable reports. However, the use of other different therapeutic protocols was evidenced without justification for this choice. Establishing therapeutic protocols to be followed by veterinary clinicians, when treating otitis, and monitoring the success or failure of these prescriptions, will contribute to reveal much more than the epidemiological profile of the etiologic agents, but the adequate use of antimicrobial agents, controlling the increase in rates of antibiotic resistance, as well as consolidating promising therapeutic approaches for these infections.

Avaliação do potencial empreendedor dos veterinários clínicos usando a versão turca do inventário de avaliação do potencial empreendedor (EPAI-TR)

ABSTRACT The present study aimed to determine the unique values of the entrepreneurial potential of clinical veterinarians and to evaluate this potential by using a reliable and valid measurement tool. The study material was the data obtained from a survey conducted between May 2020 and April 2021 that included 343 veterinarians who were actively working in a veterinarian clinic/outpatient clinic. The Turkish version of the Entrepreneurial Potential Assessment Inventory was used to collect the data. On the basis of the results of the explanatory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and improvement (modification) indices calculated from the survey data, a 7-factor structure was obtained. According to the results of the entrepreneurial potential scale for clinical veterinarians, the following sub-dimensions of the scale were listed according to their contribution to the total variance explained: “effective communicative leadership,” “strategic resource development,” “self-efficacy,” “innovative creativity,” “resilience-strength,” “motivation for economic freedom,” and “risk-taking propensity.” This ranking reveals a tendency to possess these characteristics in Türkiye for entrepreneurship potential regardless of the profession. In light of the obtained data, it is recommended to provide clinical veterinarians with training on the topics of forming social networks, taking responsibility, and developing emotional intelligence, which is not included in the scale, as well as to instigate the desire to become independent and economically motivated to improve their entrepreneurial potential.

Problems in Veterinary Pathology: A Focus on Diagnosis

Veterinary pathology is a critical field in veterinary medicine, necessary for the diagnosis of diseases in animals. However, it is faced with numerous challenges that impact the accuracy and efficiency of diagnoses. This manuscript explores into the multifaceted issues within this field, and emphasised on diagnostic challenges. Key areas of concern include the complexity of differentiating between similar pathological conditions, the limitations of current diagnostic tools and techniques, and the variability in the manifestation of diseases across different species. Furthermore, the manuscript highlights the shortage of specialised pathologists, which exacerbates diagnostic delays and errors. Advanced diagnostic technologies, such as molecular pathology and digital imaging, are explored for their potential to enhance diagnostic precision, yet their high cost and limited accessibility present significant barriers. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in veterinary diagnostics is also discussed as a promising avenue to overcome some of these obstacles. Case studies illustrating common diagnostic pitfalls and their consequences on animal health are provided, underscoring the need for continuous education and training in this rapidly evolving field. In conclusion, there is need for a concerted effort to standardise diagnostic procedures and improve collaboration among veterinary pathologists, clinicians, and researchers. By addressing these challenges, the veterinary pathology community can improve diagnostic accuracy, ultimately enhancing animal health outcomes.

Determination of a plasma retinol reference interval in leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius)

BackgroundLeopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) are a popular captive bred species of reptile in the exotic pet trade that are commonly seen for clinical presentations consistent with hypovitaminosis A. There has been a lack of antemortem diagnostics available for minimally invasive and appropriate diagnosis of this disease. Reference intervals for retinol have not been published or validated in leopard geckos or any closely related species. MethodsPlasma, with a sample volume of only 50 µl, from 40 healthy captive bred leopard geckos, 20 males and 20 females were analyzed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) to determine plasma retinol concentrations. ResultsUsing UPLC/MS analysis data was normally distributed and a reference interval for plasma retinol in the leopard gecko was 0.06 to 0.55µg/mL (0.01–0.08µmol/L). A mean of 0.31µg/mL with a lower limit 95% confidence interval being 0.03 to 0.10 µg/mL and upper limit of 0.52 to 0.59 µg/mL. No significant variations of plasma retinol were found based on gecko color morph, age or weight. Female leopard geckos had a slightly higher mean plasma retinol compared to males, but was not significantly different. Conclusions and clinical relevanceThis study will allow veterinary clinicians to better diagnose and treat hypovitaminosis A and to provide advice on dietary supplementation and dietary improvement for the leopard gecko and possibly other gecko species as well. In addition, these values can be used to design and evaluate other studies for nutritional needs of this species. Limitations of this study include only a single season of collection, no same time comparison to liver values, and the evaluation of only captive bred individuals.