Colleges Of Veterinary Medicine Research Articles

Effect of garlic extract loaded on zinc oxide nanoparticles against Sarcocystis in vitro

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of garlic extract loaded on zinc oxide nanoparticles on the viability of Sarcocystis in vitro Samples of the parasite in the study was divided into three group inside to control group each one consists of 20 parasite in petri dish (5 petri dish) for each concentration contain the Phosphate Buffer Saline(PBS). The group treated with one concentration of the hybrid nanoparticles (Garlic extract loaded on zinc oxide nanoparticles) (0.1, 0.3, 0.5) mg/ml in 4 ᵒC and noticed the viability for five days. The nanoparticle measuring by SEM (Scaning Electronic Microscop) in Karbala University, College of Veterinary Medicine, the results showed that process of loading garlic Extract on the surface of zinc oxide nanoparticles was succeed and the hybrid nanoparticles had great effect (100%) in mortality of the parasite in high concentration 0.5 mg/ml followed by 0.3 mg/ml (8.98%) and (17.66%) in 0.1mg/ml. The statistical analytic results showed that there was significant increasing in mortality in all concentrations.

Seasonal Variation in Parasitic Prevalence of Oreochromis niloticus from Upper River Benue, Mutum Biu, Taraba State, Nigeria

Seasonal variation in parasitic prevalence of Oreochromis niloticus from Upper River Benue, Mutum Biu, Taraba State, Nigeria was conducted using standard parasitological methods. 400 samples of varied sizes of Oreochromis niloticus consisting of 200 samples each in dry and rainy seasons were bought from fishermen at the Upper River Benue, Mutum Biu, Taraba State for a period of ten months and transported fresh to the Parasitology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (formerly called University of Agriculture, Makurdi) where they were sorted out into different sizes and sexes. Out of the 400 samples comprising of 200 samples each of Oreochromis niloticus collected in dry and rainy seasons, 211 (52.75%) samples were infested with 605 parasites. Out of the 200 samples collected in dry season, while 105 (52.50%) were infested with 327 parasites, in rainy season, 106 (53.00%) samples were infested with 278 parasites out of the 200 samples. Prevalence of infection (53.00%) was higher in rainy season than dry season with prevalence of infection of 52.50% whereas, percentage parasite load (54.05%) was higher in dry season than rainy season with the percentage parasite load of 45.95%. Among the parasite species in dry season, while Camallanus spp. was the most prevalent (22.02%) Ichthyopthirius multifilis was the least (3.67%). In rainy season, while Diphillobothrium latum was the most prevalent (19.07%), Ichthyopthirius multifilis was the least (1.44%). Among the external parts, while the gill had the highest percentage parasite load in both seasons, the least was recorded for fin and skin, respectively. Percentage parasite load was higher in the intestine than the stomach in both seasons though, there was no significant difference (p>0.05) recorded for percentage parasite load of both external and internal parts of the fish samples in both seasons. Male Oreochromis niloticus had higher prevalence of infection and percentage parasite load than the female though, there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the prevalence of infection and percentage parasite load and the sexes in both seasons. Samples of Oreochromis niloticus with longer lengths and greater weight had higher percentage parasite load than the samples with shorter lengths and smaller weight.

Dispharynx nasuta (Nematoda: Acuarioidea: Acuariidae) infestation in exotic red-rumped parrots (Psephotus haematonotus) in captivity in the State of Michoacan, Mexico

Dispharynx nasuta is a widespread nematode parasite located in the proventriculus. This parasite may cause mortality in free-living birds or in captivity. However, reports of this parasite in psittacines are scarce. In a private aviary, in Zamora, Michoacan, Mexico six red-rumped parrots (Psephotus haematonotus) died in one month, from mid-August to mid-September 2016, and one more specimen died during the examination. Prior to death, the birds presented depression, ruffled feathers, crop atony, and regurgitation. Upon necropsy, ulcers in the proventriculus, and hemorrhagic content associated with the presence of round worms was observed. At histopathology examination, the parasites were identified as Spirurida nematodes, located in the proventricular and ventricular mucosa. Specimens were submitted to the parasitology laboratory of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Husbandry, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), where the parasites were identified as D. nasuta. This is the first report of D. nasuta in P. haematonotus and the first report of D. nasuta in Mexico.

Effect of aspirin administration on body weight and liver enzymes in male rats

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of aspirin on body weight and some liver enzyme in rats. The study was done in Veterinary Medicine College, Baghdad University. We used seventy two male rats and randomly divided into three groups (24 in each group). Group-1 was considered as control, Group-2 animals were treated by 40 mg/kg body weight (low-dose) of asprin and the Group-3 was treated by 100 mg/kg body weight (high-dose) of aspirin. The results showed no significant difference in bodyweight gain from 0 to 10 days in all groups, while the low and high-dose asprin treated rats showed decline in bodyweight gain on day 20 and day 30 of aspirin treatment. The liver enzymes, AST and ALT, increased significantly in high-dose of aspirin treated group on day 20 and 30 while the ALP was increased on all time-points in high-dose asprin treated group.

Prevalence of Hymenolepis spp. in House Mice in Baghdad City, Iraq

The prevalence of house mice (Mus musculus) Hymenolepiasis was determined in Baghdad, Iraq to study the effects of location, sex, and months on the infection rate of Hymenolepis spp. in house mice. Fifty house mice were captured from Abu Ghraib and Al-Ameriya, Baghdad, Iraq and examined for detecting parasites in laboratory in College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Baghdad. The total infection prevalence of intestinal parasites was 11 (22%) out of 50 samples, the higher prevalence was 28.57% and found in Abu Ghraib area, while lower was (13.63%) and recorded in Al-Ameriya area. The study revealed that the house mice were infected with two species of Hymenolepis: Hymenolepis nana 4 (8%) and Hymenolepis diminuta 7(14%). The intestinal parasites revealed a significance prevalence value (P<0.05). There was statistical difference in between males and females in parasites infection, in which the higher rate was 8 (27.58%) and recorded in males and the lower was 3 (14.28%) and observed in females. The monthly distribution of confirmed cases over a 9-month period revealed that reported cases of house mice and Hymenolepiasis increased significantly (P<0.01) in autumn (65.44%), followed by winter (15.38%), and summer (13.33%). The findings showed that house mice play an important role in the spread of zoonotic parasitic illnesses to people, as well as attention must pay to public health.

Immunotherapeutic effect of chitosan and listeriolysin O on Listeria monocytogenes infection in mice

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of dietary chitosan and listeriolysin O (LLO) on the immune response against Listeria monocytogenes infection in mice. L. monocytogenes isolate was obtained from the unit of Zoonotic Disease, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Baghdad. It was reactivated and cultured on PALCAM agar and exposed to a confirmatory diagnostic test. listeriolysin O (LLO) was extracted and purified. Sixty mice were used and divided into four groups each one involving 15 mice; the first group was fed on diet supplemented with a chitosan for 4 weeks. At the end of the 2nd week, normal saline was injected S/C; the second group was fed on a normal diet without any addition. At the end of 2nd week, 0.3 ml of LLO was injected S/C, then the booster dose of LLO was given after 14 days of 1st injection; the third group was fed on a diet supplemented with chitosan as in G1, and treated as in G2 and the fourth group fed on a normal diet without any addition and treated as in G1. A skin test was performed on 5 mice of each group while a Challenge test by injection of 0.2ml of 1x109 CFU/ml of viable L. monocytogenes intraperitoneally was performed on other mice. The concentration of IgG titer and IL6 were measured. The results revealed that the third group recorded significantly higher values in the skin thickness, IgG, and IL6 concentrations when compared with other groups at different times which indicate that LLO and chitosan may support each other to provide the most beneficial effect by eliciting of good cellular and humeral immunity against listeriosis.

Comparative study of Virtual Microscopy versus Traditional Microscopy for introduction into the Histology Curriculum at a Faculty of Medicine

Purpose: We currently employ traditional microscopy with glass slides for teaching purposes. Here, we performed a pilot survey on the potential implementation of virtual microscopy. Experienced peer tutors were asked to participate in the evaluation of virtual microscopy versus traditional microscopy. Our main objectives were to determine: whether there is a statistically significant difference in time to locating a structure on a glass slide versus a virtual slide, the possible advantages and disadvantages of each microscopy method, and the benefits of virtual microscopy over traditional microscopy (1-3).
 Methods: Glass slides were scanned with the Aperio ScanScope CS slide scanner for use as virtual slides. Peer tutors were asked to locate the same structures on each glass slide and the corresponding virtual slides. Times needed to locate these structures were individually measured, and a questionnaire (a modified and translated version of the College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University virtual microscopy survey) on the advantages of practical use of virtual microscopy provided at the end.
 Results: One sample t-test showed significant differences (p<0.01) in mean time to locate a structure on glass (23.0s) versus virtual slides (12.5s). In commentaries, peer tutors reported a preference for a combination of traditional and virtual microscopy in practical sessions.
 Conclusions: Assessors considered virtual microscopy easy to use. Time needed to locate a structure on virtual slides was significantly shorter. After additional surveys, we envisage successful implementation of virtual microscopy in conjunction with traditional microscopy in the histology curriculum.

IIB or not IIB, part 1: retrospective evaluation of Kenney-Doig categorization of equine endometrial biopsies at a veterinary diagnostic laboratory and comparison with published reports.

The Kenney-Doig scale is a histopathology categorization (grading) system often used as the standard for assessing endometrial disease and communicating prognostic fertility information for equine breeding prospects. We investigated how Kenney-Doig categories compared within the same institution and across different institutions to determine if observer variability may contribute to category frequencies. We conducted a retrospective analysis of all equine endometrial submission records between 1998 and 2018 at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) and Prairie Diagnostic Services (PDS). Of 726 biopsies, we found the following category distribution: 46 of 726 (6.3%) I, 307 of 726 (42.3%) IIA, 326 of 726 (44.9%) IIB, and 47 of 726 (6.5%) III. We also conducted a review of the literature and included 6 studies reporting Kenney-Doig category distributions. Chi-square analysis showed significant differences between the category distribution found at WCVM and PDS and the category distribution reported in the 6 studies. To account for differences in mare populations, individual category distributions were generated for 5 pathologists at the WCVM and PDS. The Fisher exact test among these 5 Kenney-Doig categories revealed significant differences in category tendencies, suggesting that observer variation affects the use of the scale. Our results suggest that there is a need for prospective inter-rater and intra-rater agreement studies of the repeatability of the Kenney-Doig scale.

Authentic Conversations about Self-Care with Fourth-Year Veterinary Medical Students.

Expanding literature on well-being within veterinary medicine has been instrumental in recognizing the prevalence of psychological distress among students and practitioners and promoting awareness and advocacy for well-being within teaching institutions, professional associations, and the workplace. However, greater focus on distress has also been critiqued for overemphasizing illness and reactive interventions, and a call has been made for more balanced conversations about veterinary well-being, with focus on strengths and proactive interventions. This Best Practices article highlights a proactive, strengths-focused intervention, aimed at increasing fourth-year students' awareness of self-care while in training and in their transition to the profession. Authentic conversations about self-care is a required part of clinical training at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. All students attend a private meeting with a behavioral scientist, engaging in an authentic conversation about their experience of stress and coping strategies. Current practices in providing stress management interventions are restricted to pre-clinical training. Authentic conversations about self-care are presented here as an alternative to current practices, which the authors argue are not adequately addressing students' needs during clinical training and the transition to the profession. Potential implications of providing self-care interventions during the clinical year of training include greater student engagement, increasing awareness, and self-efficacy as students make efforts to maintain well-being both in training and in the professional realm.

Perceptions of Successful Veterinary School Applicants: Assessment Data to Improve Student Success

Admission to colleges of veterinary medicine has become increasingly more competitive through the years. The increased number of applicants require students and the programs they are attending to help students distinguish themselves in the applicant pool. Many students understand the importance of the science related coursework early on in their undergraduate career. The soft skills along with mentoring have been shown to be important for applicant success. Time management skills can be some of the most vital skills for undergraduate students to practice before matriculation to veterinary school. In addition, group skills and conflict resolution are perceived as important among veterinary alumni and students. Mentoring is critical throughout the education process. The personal aspects and professional guidance given by professors make for the most successful advising of undergraduate pre-veterinary students. Results indicated that students could benefit from communication skills being included throughout the curriculum, especially in context of veterinary science courses.

Effect of Aflatoxin B1 Contaminated Corn and Their Products on Some Physiology Parameters in Laboratory Rats

This study was conducted in the laboratories of the Department of Food Sciences/College of Agriculture and in the animal house of the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Central Laboratory at Tikrit University for the period from the beginning of September 2020 to the end of February 2021, with the aim of identifying the types of fungi contaminating corn grains and their products in Iraqi stores and markets and estimating the concentration of Aflatoxin B1 toxins using ELISA technique, the results of Aflatoxin B1 tests showed that all samples contained a higher percentage of what is allowed to be used in human food, which was between (39.5-29) μg/g. The results also showed that feeding of corn samples and its products contaminated with Aflatoxin B1 to rats fed for 21 days affected the significant decrease (p<0.05) in body weight and weight gained for laboratory rats, as well as liver, kidney and spleen enlargement for those animals. There was also a significant decrease in the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin and an increase in the number of white blood cells compared with the control group. The results also showed a significant increase in the activity of liver enzymes for AST, ALT and ALP, and an increase in the concentration of renal parameters for both urea and creatinine concentrations.

The effect of postoperative oral antibiotic therapy on the incidence of postoperative endophthalmitis after phacoemulsification surgery in dogs: 368 eyes (1997-2010).

PurposeTo assess the effectiveness of postoperative administration of oral antibiotics at reducing the incidence of endophthalmitis following phacoemulsification cataract extraction in dogs.MethodsMedical records of the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine were reviewed for cases having undergone phacoemulsification and divided according to whether or not they had received oral antibiotics postoperatively. Records were then evaluated for a diagnosis of endophthalmitis and incidence rates between the group receiving postoperative oral antibiotics and the group not receiving postoperative oral antibiotics were compared.ResultsA total of 215 patients (368 eyes) were identified by the search. One-hundred twelve patients (197 eyes) were treated with oral antibiotics postoperatively. One-hundred and three patients (171 eyes) were not treated with oral antibiotics postoperatively. Three cases of endophthalmitis were identified, with one in the antibiotic-treated group and two in the non-antibiotic treated group (P > 0.05, Fisher’s exact test).ConclusionsThe overall incidence of endophthalmitis at the University of Tennessee from 1997–2010 was 0.82%. The rate of post-phacoemulsification endophthalmitis was unaffected by the postoperative administration of oral antibiotics.

Sex Differences in Spotted Hyenas.

The apparent virilization of the female spotted hyena raises questions about sex differences in behavior and morphology. We review these sex differences to find a mosaic of dimorphic traits, some of which conform to mammalian norms. These include space-use, dispersal behavior, sexual behavior, and parental behavior. By contrast, sex differences are reversed from mammalian norms in the hyena's aggressive behavior, social dominance, and territory defense. Androgen exposure early in development appears to enhance aggressiveness in female hyenas. Weapons, hunting behavior, and neonatal body mass do not differ between males and females, but females are slightly larger than males as adults. Sex differences in the hyena's nervous system are relatively subtle. Overall, it appears that the "masculinized" behavioral traits in female spotted hyenas are those, such as aggression, that are essential to ensuring consistent access to food; food critically limits female reproductive success in this species because female spotted hyenas have the highest energetic investment per litter of any mammalian carnivore. Evidently, natural selection has acted to modify traits related to food access, but has left intact those traits that are unrelated to acquiring food, such that they conform to patterns of sexual dimorphism in other mammals.

Sedation and Anesthesia of Galapagos (Chelonoidis nigra), Aldabra (Aldabrachelys gigantea), and African Spurred Tortoises (Centrochelys sulcata): A Retrospective Review (2009-2019).

Simple SummaryAnesthesia is often required for the medical management of large tortoise species, but little has been published regarding effective anesthetic regimens for these species. The purpose of this study was to review anesthetic regimens that have been used safely and effectively in Galapagos (Chelonoidis nigra), Aldabra (Aldabrachelys gigantea), and African spurred (Centrochelys sulcata) tortoises, with the aim of improving medical management.Tortoises belong to the taxonomic family Testudinidae, which is considered one of the most imperiled families of the order Testudines. Anesthesia is often required for the medical and surgical management of large tortoises. The objectives of this retrospective study were to review drug regimens used to successfully anesthetize Galapagos (Chelonoidis nigra), Aldabra (Aldabrachelys gigantea) and African spurred (Centrochelys sulcata) tortoises, and to compare the times to effect and to extubation in tortoises administered different premedication protocols. Anesthetic records of giant tortoises admitted to the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine between January 2009 and December 2019 were reviewed. A total of 34 tortoises (six Aldabra, 23 Galapagos, and five African spurred) were included, resulting in 64 anesthetic events. Frequently used premedication protocols included an α2-adrenergic agonist and ketamine combined with either midazolam (group α2−adrenergic agonist, midazolam, ketamine, AMK; n = 34), a μ-opioid receptor agonist (group α2−adrenergic agonist, μ-opioid receptor agonist, ketamine, AOK; n = 13), or a μ−opioid receptor agonist and midazolam (group α2−adrenergic agonist, midazolam, μ-opioid receptor agonist, ketamine, AMOK; n = 10). Inhalant anesthetics (isoflurane, n = 21; sevoflurane, n = 23) were frequently used for maintenance of anesthesia following premedication. Out of the 34 total tortoises, 22 had only one anesthetic event, five had two anesthetic events, three had three anesthetic events, and four had four or more anesthetic events. Few adverse effects were observed and there was no mortality reported during the peri-anesthetic period. Sedation and general anesthesia of giant tortoises can be successfully performed with a combination of an α2-adrenergic agonist and ketamine in combination with midazolam and/or a μ−opioid receptor agonist.

Histological changes in the kidney and liver associated with administration of ethylene glycol in domestic pigeons (Columba liviadomestica )

In order to illustrate the histological changes in kidney and liver associated with water drinking of ethylene glycol (EG) in domestic pigeons (Columba liviadomestica), 24 adult birds, weighing 350- 400 grams, aged 9-12 months were used, for the period from 5/2/2021- 16/3/2021 at Diyala University - College of Veterinary Medicine. They divided into two equal groups. One group control and other group gives EG with water at concentration 8.5ml/L for three weeks. Histological results illustrated normal structures of kidney and liver in the domestic pigeons of control group. It was observed histological alteration in both organs in the group which received EG such as degeneration of tubular epithelium, cellular infiltration, congestion in kidney, while detect increase inflammatory cell, degeneration, and precipitated materials in the lumen of central vein in liver. It concluded that the EG causes toxic injury to the renal and hepatic tissue in domestic pigeons.

Effect of Nicotine Administration on Body Weight and Liver Enzymes in Male Rats

The study was conducted in Basrah University – veterinary medicine college, used about (60) sixty male rats divided into two groups randomly, control group and nicotine treated group with 0.5 mg / kg / BW, the result showed no significant difference in growth rats compared to control group also significant increase of liver enzymes compared to the control groups.

American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology-Recommended Clinical Pathology Competencies for Graduating Veterinarians.

Given the move toward competency-based veterinary education and the subsequent reevaluation of veterinary curricula, there is a need for specialties to provide guidance to veterinary college administrators and educators on the core knowledge and skills pertaining to their specialty to ensure their inclusion in revised or redesigned curricula. The American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology (ASVCP) Education Committee sought to create a list of competencies specific to clinical pathology expected of graduating veterinarians. The stimulus for this project was the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education Standards of Accreditation for Colleges of Veterinary Medicine, further driven by the 2018 publication of the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges Competency-Based Veterinary Education Working Group framework. The recommendations made in this document are the culmination of the 2016 ASVCP Education Forum for Discussion, multiple remote subcommittee communications, and feedback obtained from ASVCP membership. The final framework includes 8 clinical pathology-focused domains of competence with 20 clinical pathology competencies and 61 clinical pathology illustrative sub-competencies. The clinical pathology-focused domains of competence are: the pre-analytical phase of testing, laboratory medicine and instrumentation, principles of test selection and interpretation, hematology and hemostasis, chemistry, endocrinology, urinalysis, and cytology. These are not intended to replace the nine established AAVMC domains of competence with supportive competencies and illustrative sub-competencies but to guide institutions for how clinical pathology aligns within the competency-based veterinary education (CBVE) framework for the practice-ready veterinary graduate. This clinical pathology competency framework may prove useful and empowering during discussions of curriculum revisions and redesigns.

Effect of white mulberry (Morus albas l.) On common carp performance, biological parameters, and blood picture

This study has evaluated the growth performance and health performance of Cyprinus carpio isoenergetic with isonitrogenous diets containing three levels (0, 10, 15, gm of mulberry fruit powder, have been used for a period of 12 weeks in fish diseases lab in the College of Veterinary Medicine/ University of Sulaimani. The effect of white mulberry (Morus albas L.) fruit powder on common carp, T2, was significantly higher than other treatments in each growth performance and feed utilization parameter. the addition of white mulberry fruit powder significantly increased each of CBC counts in T2 of RBC and HCT%. The control was significantly higher in each of MCH, MCHC, MCV, and Platelets count. Cholesterol, triglyceride, and HDL were higher significantly in T2, LDL was significantly higher in control. The white mulberry (M. albas L.) fruit powder effect significantly in, GPT, GOT, in T2 and the CKI and blood sugar were higher significantly in the control, the control was significantly higher in each of total protein, and albumin ratio. T2 was higher significantly in Intestine Length Index in both fish weight and length, and both fish weight without viscera and/ or head. There were no significant differences in the Intestine Weight Index among treatments, blood Glucose ratio, Hemoglobin count, and VLDL.

Mentoring New Veterinary Graduates for Transition to Practice and Lifelong Learning.

A new veterinarian's smooth and rapid transition from education to clinical practice is critical to their success and that of their new professional homes. Successful mentoring relationships are critical to smoothing the transition to practice, particularly when independent clinical decisions are abruptly required. A mentor acts as a personal coach and teacher, providing both career and personal guidance. While the profession has focused on training mentors, it has paid little attention to teaching mentees how to maximize the benefits of the relationship. Veterinary colleges can do more to equip their graduates with the skills they need to manage their change to working life successfully. The Western College of Veterinary Medicine's (WCVM) substantive gap analysis revealed mentee training as an important issue to address in support of mentorship and established a mentee training program within the curriculum. The program teaches needs assessment, goal setting, identification of appropriate learning activities, and reflection skills as an iterative and cyclical process. Learning activities include working with one's selected mentor (or mentors). These skills are important for lifelong learning and continuing professional development, as well as transition to practice.

Basic knowledge and misconceptions on antibiotic use: a comparative survey between Veterinary College and High School students in Bari (Italy).

Misconceptions about the use and effectiveness of antibiotics contribute to the persistence of antimicrobial resistance. The aim of this study was to gather information on appropriate use of antibiotics in students from the Veterinary Medicine College (G1, n = 119) and from High School (G2, n = 220), from Bari (Italy) through a questionnaire. The response rate was 89% in G1 and 89.5% in G2. Fifty‑five % of college students and 79% of high‑school students had taken antibiotics in the last 12 months. Unsurprisingly, high‑school students had more misconceptions about antibiotics than G1. The majority of misconceptions stated that i) antibiotics kill viruses (OR 8.4, CI 4.8‑14.7, p < 0.001); ii) they are active against cold and flu (OR 4.6, CI 2.6‑8.1, p < 0.001); iii) it is possible to purchase antibiotics without a medical prescription (OR 7.3, CI 4.3‑12.5, p < 0.001). Information campaigns among young people are urgently needed to reduce misuse and to improve knowledge on antibiotic.