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Objective: The aim of the project is to teach clinical practical and communication skills in the Clinical Skills Lab (CSL) of the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation (TiHo) during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methodology: As a measure to limit potential SARS-CoV2 infections, the CSL learning stations were digitised and made available on the Moodle learning platform of the TiHo. Online quiz stations were also developed, as well as improvisations that allowed students to practise practical skills at home using everyday materials. Courses for Practical Year (PY) students were digitised and again combined with classroom exercises throughout the year. The teaching formats could be evaluated by the students by means of a questionnaire using a Likert scale (1=agree; 4=disagree).Results: A total of 24.92% of students (n=1272) completed the learning stations with improvisations. The quiz stations were completed with a percentage of 75.08%. Students indicated that the improvisations were easily implementable from home (M=1.33) and assisted in learning the practical skills in question (M=1.89). The quiz stations were considered helpful (M=1.40) and complementary to previous CSL offers (M=1.13). The PY students found the amount of teaching materials adequate (M=1.76) and described communication with the lecturers as problem-free (compulsory electives=1.24).Conclusions: Digital teaching is suitable as a supplement to existing face-to-face courses at the CSL, but cannot replace on-site training under the guidance of trained personnel. The CSL will continue to strive for a combination of online and face-to-face courses for some learning stations in the future.

Context: In medical and veterinary medical education the use of problem-based and cased-based learning has steadily increased over time. At veterinary faculties, this development has mainly been evident in the clinical phase of the veterinary education. Therefore, a consortium of teachers of biochemistry and physiology together with technical and didactical experts launched the EU-funded project “vetVIP”, to create and implement veterinary virtual patients and problems for basic science instruction. In this study the implementation and utilization of virtual patients occurred at the veterinary faculties in Budapest, Hannover and Lublin.Methods: This report describes the investigation of the utilization and acceptance of students studying veterinary basic sciences using optional online learning material concurrently to regular biochemistry and physiology didactic instruction. The reaction of students towards this offer of clinical case-based learning in basic sciences was analysed using quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were collected automatically within the chosen software-system CASUS as user-log-files. Responses regarding the quality of the virtual patients were obtained using an online questionnaire. Furthermore, subjective evaluation by authors was performed using a focus group discussion and an online questionnaire.Results: Implementation as well as usage and acceptance varied between the three participating locations. High approval was documented in Hannover and Lublin based upon the high proportion of voluntary students (>70%) using optional virtual patients. However, in Budapest the participation rate was below 1%. Due to utilization, students seem to prefer virtual patients and problems created in their native language and developed at their own university. In addition, the statement that assessment drives learning was supported by the observation that peak utilization was just prior to summative examinations.Conclusion: Veterinary virtual patients in basic sciences can be introduced and used for the presentation of integrative clinical case scenarios. Student post-course comments also supported the conclusion that overall the virtual cases increased their motivation for learning veterinary basic sciences.

Meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO) represents an umbrella term for inflammatory, non-infectious central nervous system (CNS) diseases in dogs. Current therapeutic approaches, involving long-term glucocorticosteroid use, often fail to provide adequate relief or cure, and the effectiveness of additional immunosuppressive medications remains uncertain. Future advancements in MUO treatment may benefit from patient-specific therapies, potentially enhancing treatment precision, efficacy, and minimizing side effects. However, significant challenges impede this progress, including ambiguity in MUO subtype classification, uncertainties regarding the autoimmune nature vs. infectious triggers, and the lack of reliable diagnostic biomarkers. Clinical heterogeneity and overlapping signs with other encephalopathies further complicate diagnosis and treatment. This review gives an overview about diagnostic findings and immunological features of MUO. It advocates for a more overall characterization of MUO by using a polythetic system to better characterize MUO subtypes, identify immunological treatment targets, and establish a conceptual foundation for future therapeutic trials. Addressing these themes may lead to more effective and less burdensome treatments, improving the quality of life for dogs afflicted with MUO and their owners.

Veterinary studies in Germany are regulated by the Veterinary Certification Act (TAppV). The practical part of the education consists of 1,170 hours, whereby up to 850 hours can be spent on the curative work placement. A curative work placement can result in physical and psychological stress in the sense of a professional overload. It is the aim of this study to find out in what areas and to what extent competence is acquired and psychological stress exists in students during their work placement. Veterinary students (n=142) from all German education institutes participated in a voluntary online-study based on Burnout Screening Scales (BOSS) as well as a questionnaire regarding the acquisition of competence and excessive stress during the work placement (FKÜP). The distribution of values for work placement related stress show that such work placement related stress is generally slightly increased (T=60) and lies above that of occupational stresses within the normal population. Work placement related physical complaints also show a significant slight increase (T=61). A value (T=42) within the normal range was determined for the resource values. Few of the students questioned considered themselves to be excessively stressed in favour of a high subjective acquisition of competences. The largest increase regarding the acquisition of competence was noted for the areas of animal handling/restraint and application and injection techniques. In the sense of a perceived excessive demand regarding practical capabilities the areas of emergency management, surgery and medication dispensation were mentioned. With regard to the load structure and the acquisition of competence by veterinary students during their work placement, more support of the individual and a balancing of teaching/learning goals would be desirable and represents a promising approach.

Abstract Background To determine whether sensory nerve conduction stimulus threshold measurements of the infraorbital nerve are able to differentiate horses with idiopathic trigeminal-mediated headshaking (i-TMHS) from healthy horses and from horses with secondary trigeminal-mediated headshaking (s-TMHS). In a prospective trial, headshaking horses were examined using a standardized diagnostic protocol, including advanced diagnostics such as computed tomography and 3-Tesla-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to differentiate s-TMHS from i-TMHS. Clinically healthy horses served as controls. Within this process, patients underwent general anesthesia, and the minimal sensory nerve conduction stimulus threshold (SNCT) of the infraorbital nerve was measured using a bipolar concentric needle electrode. Sensory nerve action potentials (SNAP) were assessed in 2.5–5 mA intervals. Minimal SNCT as well as additional measurements were calculated. Results In 60 horses, SNAP could be recorded, of which 43 horses had i-TMHS, six had suspected s-TMHS, three horses had non-facial headshaking, and eight healthy horses served as controls. Controls had a minimal SNCT ≥ 15 mA, whereas 14/43 horses with i-TMHS and 2/6 horses with s-TMHS showed a minimal SNCT ≤ 10 mA. Minimal SNCT ≤ 10 mA showed 100% specificity to distinguish TMHS from controls, but the sensitivity was only 41%. Conclusion A minimal SNCT of the infraorbital nerve ≤ 10 mA was able to differentiate healthy horses from horses with TMHS. Nevertheless, a higher minimal SNCT did not exclude i-TMHS or s-TMHS and minimal SNCT does not distinguish s-TMHS from i-TMHS.

[english] The amendments introduced to the current Veterinary Licensing Ordinance (TAppV) by the Veterinary Licensing Regulation (TAppO) have brought a high degree of skills orientation to fill the gap between academic study and preparing for a wide range of professional skills. In order to improve the veterinary skills of students while conveying fundamental methods in a structured and reproducible way, the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, has set up the first central veterinary skills lab in Germany.Practical training is provided by means of a three-tier delivery approach. This involves around 40 simulators on an area of approx. 800 m² under the guidance of 6-8 staff members, along with supplementary resources such as posters, text instructions and YouTube videos. Since it opened in March 2013, there have been 769 visits to the skills lab and 30,734 hits on YouTube.Initial results show that the skills lab helps to maintain student motivation by teaching them practical skills at an early stage of the basic study-based acquisition of knowledge, whilst reinforcing skills acquisition per se in competence-based teaching. It enables veterinary students to prepare for their first examinations and treatments of live patients in a manner compliant with animal welfare.

Idiopathic generalized tremor syndrome is a disorder characterized by an acute onset of full-body tremors, sometimes accompanied by vestibulo-cerebellar signs, that is responsive to treatment with corticosteroids. Although considered to have an overall good outcome, relapsing and persistent mild clinical signs have been described. So far, little is known about the etiopathology of this syndrome, but it is believed to have an immune-mediated origin. In human medicine, description of numerous autoantibodies involved in certain non-infectious neurologic disorders has revolutionized understanding of their pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment. In this multicenter retrospective study, we aimed to describe the clinical signs, course, and outcome of dogs with idiopathic generalized tremor syndrome and correlate potential findings with the presence or absence of autoantibodies associated with autoimmune cerebellar syndromes in humans. Information regarding signalment, history, clinical signs, laboratory findings, diagnostic imaging and testing for regional infectious diseases was gathered and the remaining serum and CSF samples were then analyzed for neural antibodies against targets associated with autoimmune encephalitic diseases of humans. Thirty-three dogs were included, and screening for neural antibodies was performed in 30 of those dogs. The analysis showed an increased titer of mGluR1 antibodies in two dogs, GFAP and later in the course of disease mGluR1 antibodies in one dog and an increase in unspecific autoantibodies which could not be further classified in two dogs. Dogs with detectable neural autoantibodies always had cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities in the form of a pleocytosis, with or without increased protein concentration, and tended to present with hyperthermia, potentially indicating a more severe clinical form of idiopathic generalized tremor syndrome in these cases. In conclusion, idiopathic generalized tremor syndrome is proposed to be an immune-mediated disorder potentially mediated by neural autoantibodies in a subgroup of dogs.

IntroductionThis study investigates the relationship between approaches to learning, self-perceived study burnout, and the level of knowledge among veterinary students. Veterinary educational programs are under regular development and would benefit greatly from detailed feedback on students' knowledge, proficiency, influencing factors, and coping mechanisms.MethodsThe VetRepos consortium developed and calibrated an item repository testing knowledge across the entire veterinary curriculum. Two hundred forty-eight students from seven European veterinary institutions took the VetRepos test, comprising a subset of the repository. They also responded to a questionnaire assessing deep and unreflective learning approaches and self-perceived study burnout, represented by exhaustion and cynicism. Structural equation modeling analyzed the relationship between these latent traits and the VetRepos test score.ResultsThe model failed the exact-fit test but was retained based on global fit indices, inter-item residual correlations, and standardized residual covariances. Root Mean Square Error of Approximation with robust standard errors and scaled test statistic was 0.049 (95% confidence interval 0.033–0.071), scaled and robust Comparative Fit Index 0.95 (0.90–0.98), and scaled Standardized Root Mean Square Residual 0.056 (0.049–0.071). Measurement invariance across study years was not violated (ΔCFI = 0.00, χ2 = 3.78, Δdf = 4, p = 0.44), but it could not be confirmed between genders or universities. The VetRepos test score regressed on the study year [standardized regression coefficient = 0.68 (0.62–0.73)], showed a negative regression on the unreflective learning approach [−0.25 (−0.47 to −0.03)], and a positive regression on the deep approach [0.16 (0.03–0.28)]. No direct association with perceived burnout was observed; however, a significant, medium-sized association was found between the unreflective approach and self-perceived study burnout. No significant differences in learning approaches or perceived burnout were found between study years.DiscussionThe most important source of variance in VetRepos test scores, unrelated to the study year, was the learning approach. The association between the VetRepos test score and self-perceived burnout was indirect. Future research should complement this cross-sectional approach with longitudinal and person-oriented studies, further investigating the relationship between study burnout and learning approaches.

[english] Introduction: Informal and formal lifelong learning is essential at university and in the workplace. Apart from classical learning techniques, Web 2.0 tools can be used. It is controversial whether there is a so-called net generation amongst people under 30.Aims: To test the hypothesis that a net generation among students and young veterinarians exists.Methods: An online survey of students and veterinarians was conducted in the German-speaking countries which was advertised via online media and traditional print media.Results: 1780 people took part in the survey. Students and veterinarians have different usage patterns regarding social networks (91.9% vs. 69%) and IM (55.9% vs. 24.5%). All tools were predominantly used passively and in private, to a lesser extent also professionally and for studying.Outlook: The use of Web 2.0 tools is useful, however, teaching information and media skills, preparing codes of conduct for the internet and verification of user generated content is essential.[german] Einleitung: Informelles und formelles lebenslanges Lernen ist im Studium und Beruf essenziell. Dazu können neben der klassischen Fortbildung auch Web 2.0 Tools benutzt werden. Umstritten in der Literatur ist allerdings, ob es unter den „Unter 30 Jährigen“ eine sogenannte Net-Generation gibt. Ziel: Überprüfung der Hypothese, dass eine Net-Generation unter Studierenden und jungen Tierärzten existiert. Methode: Eine Onlineumfrage unter Studierenden und der Tierärzteschaft wurde im deutschsprachigen Raum durchgeführt, die per Onlinemedien und klassischen Printmedien beworben wurde.Ergebnisse: An der Befragung haben 1780 Personen teilgenommen. Es gibt unterschiedliches Nutzungsverhalten von Studierenden und der Tierärzteschaft bei sozialen Netzwerken (91,9% vs. 69%) und IMs (55,9% vs. 24,5%). Alle Tools wurden hauptsächlich passiv und privat genutzt, im geringeren Maße auch für den Beruf und das Studium.Ausblick: Der Einsatz von Web 2.0 Tools ist sinnvoll, jedoch ist eine Vermittlung von Informations- und Medienkompetenz, Erstellung von Verhaltensregeln im Internet und Überprüfung von „user generated content“ essentiell.

[english] Objective: NOVICE (Network Of Veterinary ICT in Education, ), is a professional online social network for veterinarians, lecturers and students of veterinary medicine as well as for e-Learning advisers and others working in establishments that teach veterinary medicine. This study sets out to investigate to what extent German veterinarians, lecturers, students of veterinary medicine and e-Learning representatives would accept a specialist network, what requirements would have to be met by an online social network, how to use web 2.0 tools , and what advantages a specialist network could offer. Methodology: The investigation was carried out by analysing data from the Elgg platform database as well as using Google Analytics. Annual focus group surveys and individual interviews were carried out in order to perform an analysis of acceptance among network users.Results: 1961 users from 73 different countries registered on the NOVICE site between 1 September 2010 and 21 March 2012. Germany represents the biggest user group, with 565 users (28.81%). During this period, most individual hits on the website came from Germany too. In total, 24.83% of all members are active, while 19.22% of German members participate actively. In terms of gender, there are significantly more female members than male members, both in the NOVICE network as a whole as well as in Germany. The most used web 2.0 tools are chat and email messaging services as well as writing wikis and contributing to forum discussions. The focus group surveys showed that respondents generally make use of other online communities too. Active members generally use more web 2.0 tools than in other networks, while passive members are generally more reluctant in all networks. All participants of the survey welcomed the idea of having a network specifically set up for the profession and believe that it could be very useful for veterinary medicine.Conclusions: The network and its membership figures developed very positively during the assessed time period. Until now, the focus of the content of contributions in NOVICE (Network of Veterinary ICT in Education) has been on veterinary medicine teaching supported by e-Learning. An increase in the number of members would, however, be beneficial in order to further develop the network so that valuable exchange of information and informal learning can also take place in other specialist areas of veterinary medicine. [german] Zielsetzung: NOVICE (Network Of Veterinary ICt in Education, ) ist ein soziales professionelles online-Netzwerk für Tiermediziner, Dozierende und Studierende der Tiermedizin sowie für E-Learning-Berater bzw. Didaktiker der veterinärmedizinischen Bildungsstätten. In dieser Arbeit sollte untersucht werden, wie die Akzeptanz bei deutschen Tierärzten, Dozierenden und Studierenden der Veterinärmedizin sowie E-Learning-Beauftragten für ein fachspezifisches Netzwerk ist, welche Anforderungen durch die Nutzer an soziale online-Netzwerke gestellt werden, wie der Umgang mit Web 2.0-Werkzeugen , erfolgt und welches Potential ein berufsspezifisches Netzwerk bieten könnte. Methodik: Die Untersuchung erfolgte mittels Datenanalyse durch die Datenbank der Elgg-Plattform sowie zusätzlich mit google analytics. Jährliche Fokusgruppenbefragungen und Einzelinterviews wurden durchgeführt, um eine Akzeptanzanalyse der Netzwerk-Nutzer vorzunehmen.Ergebnisse: In NOVICE haben sich zwischen dem 01. September 2010 und 21. März 2012 1961 Mitglieder aus 73 Ländern registriert, dabei hat Deutschland mit 565 Nutzern (28,81%) den größten Anteil. In diesem Zeitraum kamen auch die meisten Einzelbesuche der Webseite aus Deutschland. Insgesamt sind im Netzwerk 24,83% aller Mitglieder und 19,22% der deutschen Mitglieder aktiv. In Bezug auf das Geschlecht befinden sich sowohl in Hinblick auf alle Mitglieder als auch auf die deutschen Mitglieder deutlich mehr Frauen als Männer in NOVICE. Die am häufigsten verwendeten Web 2.0-Werkzeuge sind das Versenden von Chat- und Email-Nachrichten sowie das Schreiben von Wiki- und Diskussionsbeiträgen. Aus den Fokusgruppenbefragungen ging hervor, dass von den Befragten in der Regel auch andere online-communities in Anspruch genommen werden, die aktiven Mitglieder mehr Web 2.0-Werkzeuge nutzen als in anderen Netzwerken, während die passiven Mitglieder in allen Netzwerken eher zurückhaltend sind. Über ein eigenes berufsständisches Netzwerk zu verfügen, begrüßten alle Teilnehmer der Befragung und sahen darin ein großes Potential für die Veterinärmedizin.Schlussfolgerung: Die Entwicklung des Netzwerkes sowie die Zahl der Mitglieder sind in diesem Zeitraum durchaus positiv zu bewerten. Bisher liegt der inhaltliche Fokus der Beiträge dem Namen des Netzwerkes (Network Of Veterinary ICt in Education) entsprechend auf der durch E-Learning unterstützten veterinärmedizinischen Lehre. Für die Weiterentwicklung des Netzwerkes wäre ein Zuwachs der Mitgliederzahl jedoch wünschenswert, damit in anderen veterinärmedizinischen Fachgebieten ebenfalls hochwertiger Informationsaustausch und informelles Lernen stattfinden können.

[english] The purpose of this study was to evaluate the benefits of checklists for clinical practical courses. Clinical externships are a component of the practical part of the veterinary medicine curriculum. The control is under the responsibility of the training centres. Guidelines and checklists for extramural clinical courses were developed in order to facilitate control mechanisms. The analysis of such checklists should give an overview over the actual situation to enable the setting of minimum standards for extramural courses. The guidelines list practical activities carried out by the students in the veterinary practices or clinics. Data of 360 checklists were assessed in this study to evaluate whether checklists constitute a useful tool to control extramural studies.The results show that checklists are useful to enhance the knowledge of the training centre about the training of students to be adapted. However, the advantage is not completely clear to students. The communication of the importance of the extramural training sessions has to be enhanced.[german] In der vorliegenden Studie soll der Nutzen von Checklisten für klinische Praktika überprüft werden. Im veterinärmedizinischen Studium sind im praktischen Studienteil extramurale klinische Praktika vorgesehen. Die Kontrolle obliegt dabei den Ausbildungsstätten. Um diese Kontrolle übersichtlich zu gestalten, wurden ein Leitfaden und Checklisten für klinische Praktika entwickelt. Die Auswertung soll das Erlangen einer Übersicht über die derzeitige Situation und die Schaffung von Mindeststandards bei der Praktikumsgestaltung gewährleisten. In den Leitfäden werden ausgeführte Tätigkeiten der Studierenden in den externen kurativen Praxen oder Tierkliniken aufgeführt. Im Rahmen dieser Arbeit wurden die Daten von insgesamt 360 Checklisten erhoben. Die Auswertung soll darüber Aufschluss geben, ob die Einführung von Checklisten eine sinnvolle Ergänzung für die Lehre darstellt. Die Ergebnisse verdeutlichen, dass mit Checklisten ein enormer Erkenntnisgewinn für die Hochschule zu erreichen ist, dieses Potential in der praktischen Anwendung jedoch häufig nicht vollständig ausgeschöpft wird und somit die Vermittlung ihrer Wichtigkeit zunehmende Bedeutung erlangt.

The interpretation of acoustic findings during the examination of the heart in dogs is a great challenge for newcomer veterinarians. To raise the quality of teaching in this area a blended learning elective course was developed in cooperation between the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover and the Szent István University Budapest to prove the acceptance and effectiveness of integrated learning in this special field of veterinary medicine. The course was divided into three parts: I. Kick-off-meeting face-to-face (approx. 1.5 h). II. Self-study with web-based training (80 courselab pages with short text passages, figures, video-clips and mp3-files of heart sounds, approx. 3 h in a 5-day period). III. Face-to-face seminar (approx. 4 h). To evaluate the learning success, a pre-test with 20 MCQ (TypeApos) was written. This test was repeated after the self-study phase and again after the final face-to-face meeting. The acceptance of the web-based training (WBT) was evaluated after part II with a survey containing Likert scale questions (1=no, bad, 2=not very good/much, 3=quite good/much, 4=yes, very good). The course was offered three times as an elective class for third-year students (group A, n=36) and for comparison, twice for fifth-year students in the clinical practical year (group B, n=33). Group B only had the possibility to participate in parts I and II. The students rated the WBT positive (3.3) with good practical relevance (3.2). They had different feelings about the learning success (2.7) and worked with the WBT for 2.3 hours (mean duration of learning). As advantages in the qualitative feedback mainly the mp3-files of the heart sounds and the possibility of independent learning were mentioned. Disadvantages were technical problems with downloading video- and audio-files and with short explanations in the text passages. There were no significant differences between either group in the pre-test. The students in both groups raised their test-score significantly (p

[english] As the result of the introduction of the TAppV (regulations governing the licensing of veterinarians), enormous growth of knowledge, and the continually changing conditions and uses of working and companion animals, the teaching of veterinary medicine is faced with new challenges. One of the solutions under discussion internationally would include a change from a general licensing program to a program of study with an early focus on one subject, i.e. specialization. The Veterinary Medicine Working Group of the GMA describes three types of curriculum (general license, tracking, postgraduate specialization), with all their advantages and disadvantages, as a basis for discussion within the veterinary medical fraternity. A precise description of the veterinary profession and a standardized list of learning targets (day-1 skills) will be necessary to advance this discussion. [german] Nach Einführung der TAppV, durch einen enormen Wissenszuwachs und durch laufende Änderung der Haltungsbedingungen unserer Nutz- und Haustiere befindet sich die Lehre in der Tiermedizin in einem Umbruch. Als eine der Problemlösungen wird international die Änderung des umfassenden Studiums in eine frühzeitige Spezialisierung diskutiert. Der Ausschuss Tiermedizin der GMA beschreibt drei Studienformen (Generalapprobation, Spezialisierung und Fachtierarztmodell) mit ihren Vor- und Nachteilen, um der Tierärzteschaft eine Diskussionsgrundlage für weitere Erörterungen vorzulegen. Als Grundvoraussetzung für ein weiteres Vorgehen werden die genaue Beschreibung des tierärztlichen Berufsbildes und die Entwicklung eines einheitlichen Lernzielkataloges gesehen.

[english] The introduction of a year of practice-oriented education should provide students of the University of Veterinary Medicine in Hanover greater integration in the clinical and scientific setting in order to gain “real-life” experience for their later profession before the end of their studies. This year replaces the old 9th and 10th semesters and builds a bridge between the well-organized and structured studies and the later profession. It includes internships outside the university in private practice, private clinics, slaughterhouses, etc., and a practical semester that can be completely at any time of the year in clinics and other institutes of the university. The online evaluation of this year has been positive. [german] Mit der Einführung des praktischen Jahres sollen die Studierenden der Tierärztlichen Hochschule Hannover (TiHo) stärker in den klinischen und wissenschaftlichen Alltag eingebunden werden, um schon vor Ende des Studiums praxisnahe Erfahrungen zu sammeln. Das praktische Jahr ersetzt das bisherige 9. und 10. Semester und bildet so die Überleitung zwischen dem eng organisierten Studium und der anschließenden beruflichen Laufbahn. Es beinhaltet die Praktika außerhalb der TiHo in Tierarztpraxen, Privatkliniken, Schlachthöfen, etc. und ein internes praktisches Semester, welches das gesamte Jahr über in den Einrichtungen der TiHo abgeleistet werden kann. Die Online-Evaluierung dieses Jahres verlief positiv.

The digitalization of university teaching has been taking place for many years and, in addition to traditional teaching formats such as practicals and face-to-face lectures, more and more e-learning courses have been used in veterinary education for several years. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, universities across Germany had to switch to an ad-hoc, purely digital summer semester. This study evaluated the experiences and implementation of the digital summer semester 2020 at the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (TiHo) Foundation from the perspective of the teaching staff. In addition to the technical equipment used by lecturers, this survey also focused on the effects of the digital semester on teaching and the future practicality of digital teaching formats and strategies in veterinary education. Therefore, a questionnaire was designed and distributed among lecturers involved in the digital summer semester 2020. One hundred and three completed questionnaires were evaluated. The results of the evaluation show that teachers see huge potential in blended learning as a teaching method in veterinary education. In addition, teachers were able to digitize teaching well with the available hardware and software. The teaching staff saw difficulties above all in the loss of practical training and in the digitalization of practical exercises. Teachers also needed significantly more time to plan and implement digital teaching compared to pure face-to-face teaching. In summary blended learning offers many advantages, such as increased flexibility for students and teaching staff. In order to be able to use digital teaching methods and strategies profitably in veterinary education in the future, well thought-out didactic concepts and further technical expansion of the universities are required. In addition, the digital skills of teaching staff should be further trained and promoted.

IntroductionThis study investigates the log data and response behavior from invigilated in-person electronic timed exams at the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Germany. The primary focus is on understanding how various factors influence the time needed per exam item, including item format, item difficulty, item discrimination and character count. The aim was to use these results to derive recommendations for designing timed online distance examinations, an examination format that has become increasingly important in recent years.MethodsData from 216,625 log entries of five electronic exams, taken by a total of 1,241 veterinary medicine students in 2021 and 2022, were analyzed. Various statistical methods were employed to assess the correlations between the recorded parameters.ResultsThe analysis revealed that different item formats require varying amounts of time. For instance, image-based question formats and Kprim necessitated more than 60 s per item, whereas one-best-answer multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and individual Key Feature items were effectively completed in less than 60 s. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between character count and response time, suggesting that longer items require more time. A negative correlation could be verified for the parameters “difficulty” and “discrimination index” towards response time, indicating that more challenging items and those that are less able to differentiate between high- and low-performing students take longer to answer.ConclusionThe findings highlight the need for careful consideration of the ratio of item formats when defining time limits for exams. Regarding exam design, the literature mentions that time pressure is a critical factor, since it can negatively impact students’ exam performance and some students, such as those with disabilities, are particularly disadvantaged. Therefore, this study emphasizes finding the right time limits to provide sufficient time for answering questions and reducing time pressure. In the context of unsupervised online exams, the findings of this study support previous recommendations that implementation of a stringent time limit might be a useful strategy to reduce cheating.

Abstract Background Syringomyelia is a spinal cord cavity containing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-like fluid. If syringomyelia asymmetrically involves the dorsal horn grey matter of the spinal cord, affected dogs show increased signs of dysesthesia and neuropathic pain, like increased itching behaviour. In the dorsal horn, amongst others, receptors for Interleukin-31 (IL-31) can be found. IL-31 is one of the main cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of pruritus in atopic dermatitis in different species. This study investigates suspected elevated levels of IL-31 in serum and CSF of dogs showing signs of pain or increased itching behaviour related to syringomyelia. The IL-31 were measured in archived samples (52 serum and 35 CSF samples) of dogs with syringomyelia (n = 48), atopic dermatitis (n = 3) and of healthy control dogs (n = 11) using a competitive canine IL-31 ELISA. Results Mean serum IL-31 level in dogs with syringomyelia was 150.1 pg/ml (n = 39), in dogs with atopic dermatitis 228.3 pg/ml (n = 3) and in healthy dogs 80.7 pg/ml (n = 10). Mean CSF IL-31 value was 146.3 pg/ml (n = 27) in dogs with syringomyelia and 186.2 pg/ml (n = 8) in healthy dogs. Individual patients with syringomyelia (especially dogs with otitis media or otitis media and interna or intervertebral disc herniation) showed high IL-31 levels in serum and CSF samples, but the difference was not statistically significant. IL-31 serum and CSF levels did not differ significantly in dogs with syringomyelia with or without itching behaviour and with or without signs of pain. Conclusion Based on this study, increased IL-31 levels seem not to be correlated with itching behaviour or signs of pain in dogs with syringomyelia, but might be caused by other underlying diseases.

Background: Canine otitis externa is a common presentation in small animal practice. The clinical signs vary individually from patient to patient. Regardless of the expression, they all decrease the quality of life. Therefore, this study aimed to identify factors that showed reduced odds for otitis externa. Methods: Clinical case records were searched for key terms regarding canine otitis. Statistical analyses were applied to evaluate associations with otitis externa. p-values of Results: Rhodesian Ridgeback and dogs with underlying infectious diseases had a reduced risk for otitis externa, while Retrievers and dogs with allergies had an increased risk. Furthermore, in the group of dogs with endocrinopathies, those with normal weight showed a reduced risk of developing canine otitis in comparison to those which were overweight. Conclusions: These results show a new point of view to reduce the prevalence of canine otitis by reducing the animals’ weight due to an additional risk of otitis in obese or overweight dogs. Furthermore, for the first time, Rhodesian Ridgebacks were identified in our study population to have a lower risk of developing otitis externa. Thus, breeders should reflect—within other responsibilities for the quality of life in their offspring—on breed-specifics about otitis when planning ahead.

Abstract Background Autoimmune mechanisms represent a novel category for causes of seizures and epilepsies in humans, and LGI1‐antibody associated limbic encephalitis occurs in cats. Hypothesis/Objectives To investigate the presence of neural antibodies in dogs with epilepsy or dyskinesia of unknown cause using human and murine assays modified for use in dogs. Animals Fifty‐eight dogs with epilepsy of unknown cause or suspected dyskinesia and 57 control dogs. Methods Serum and CSF samples were collected prospectively as part of the diagnostic work‐up. Clinical data including onset and seizure/episode type were retrieved from the medical records. Screening for neural antibodies was done with cell‐based assays transfected with human genes for typical autoimmune encephalitis antigens and tissue‐based immunofluorescence assays on mouse hippocampus slices in serum and CSF samples from affected dogs and controls. The commercial human und murine assays were modified with canine‐specific secondary antibody. Positive controls were from human samples. Results The commercial assays used in this study did not provide unequivocal evidence for presence of neural antibodies in dogs including one dog with histopathologically proven limbic encephalitis. Low titer IgLON5 antibodies were present in serum from one dog from the epilepsy/dyskinesia group and in one dog from the control group. Conclusion and Clinical Importance Specific neural antibodies were not detected using mouse and human target antigens in dogs with epilepsy and dyskinesia of unknown origin. These findings emphasize the need for canine‐specific assays and the importance of control groups.

Abstract Background Intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH) is one of the most common causes of spinal cord injury (SCI) in dogs. As a result of acute SCI, a complex inflammatory response occurs in the spinal cord. Th17 cells (Th17) produce pro-inflammatory cytokines, while regulatory T cells (Treg) have opposite effects producing anti-inflammatory cytokines. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether Th17- and Treg cells are involved in the pathogenesis of SCI or whether cellular changes occur due to coexisting inflammatory diseases. We hypothesized that chronic alterations in the Th17/Treg ratio are associated with a worse outcome after SCI. Methods Twenty-six paretic or plegic dogs with IVDH with and without coexisting inflammatory disease were investigated in the acute stage of the disease and after recovery of SCI. In addition, a healthy control group was included (n = 14). Quantification of Th17 and Treg cells, from peripheral blood samples, was performed by multicolor flow cytometry and IL17 was measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results After recovery significantly higher levels of Th17 (p = 0.0265) and Treg cells (p = 0.00025) were detected compared to acute IVDH but Th17/Treg ratio did not differ significantly. Recovered dogs and the control group did not differ significantly from each other. No association between an imbalance in the ratio and neurologic severity or underlying inflammatory diseases was found. Conclusion This study demonstrated that altered Th17 and Treg levels in peripheral blood are altered in the acute stage of IVDH, preexisting inflammatory diseases seem not to influence these cell populations. Th17 and Treg cells could be considered when evaluating new treatment strategies for SCI.

In steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis (SRMA), inflammatory dysregulation is driven by neutrophilic granulocytes resulting in purulent leptomeningitis. Neutrophils can generate neutrophil extracellular traps (NET). Uncontrolled NET-formation or impaired NET-clearance evidently cause tissue and organ damage resulting in immune-mediated diseases. The aim of the study was to verify that NET-formation is detectable in ex vivo samples of acute diseased dogs with SRMA by visualizing and measuring NET-markers in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples. CSF-samples of dogs with acute SRMA (n = 5) and in remission (n = 4) were examined using immunofluorescence (IF)-staining of DNA-histone-1-complexes, myeloperoxidase and citrullinated Histone H3 (H3Cit). Immunogold-labeling of H3Cit and neutrophil elastase followed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to determine ultrastructural NET-formation in the CSF of one exemplary dog. H3Cit-levels and DNase-activity were measured in CSF and serum samples using an H3Cit-ELISA and a DNase-activity-assay, respectively in patients with the following diseases: acute SRMA (n = 34), SRMA in remission (n = 4), bacterial encephalitis (n = 3), meningioma with neutrophilic inflammation (n = 4), healthy dogs (n = 6). NET-formation was detectable with IF-staining in n = 3/5 CSF samples of dogs with acute SRMA but were not detectable during remission. Vesicular NET-formation was detectable in one exemplary dog using TEM. DNase-activity was significantly reduced in dogs suffering from acute SRMA compared to healthy control group (p < 0.0001). There were no statistical differences of H3Cit levels in CSF or serum samples of acute diseased dogs compared to dogs under treatment, dogs suffering from meningioma or bacterial encephalitis or the healthy control group. Our findings demonstrate that NET-formation and insufficient NET-clearance possibly drive the immunologic dysregulation and complement the pathogenesis of SRMA. The detection of NETs in SRMA offers many possibilities to explore the aetiopathogenetic influence of this defence mechanism of the innate immune system in infectious and non-infectious canine neuropathies.

Im Rahmen dieser Studie wurden die Studierenden, die zum Wintersemester 2021/22 ihr Studium an der Tierärztlichen Hochschule Hannover begannen, prospektiv zu den Erwartungen und retrospektiv zu ihren Erfahrungen mit der Studieneingangsphase befragt. Dazu erhielten sie jeweils zu Beginn und zum Ende ihres ersten Semesters einen vergleichbaren Fragebogen zu ihren individuellen Voraussetzungen, ihren Einschätzungen zu Studienzielen und -anforderungen sowie den Lehrveranstaltungen des ersten Semesters und der Studieneingangsphase allgemein. Für die Auswertung konnten 50 verbundene Stichproben generiert werden. Die Ergebnisse verdeutlichen, dass persönliche Herausforderungen die Studierenden der Veterinärmedizin vor die größten Probleme stellen. Die relevantesten Stressoren sind lernbezogene Schwierigkeiten und der Leistungsdruck der höheren Bildung. Durch das umfangreiche Curriculum verstärkt, zeigt sich dies noch mehr als in anderen Fachrichtungen. Hervorzuheben sind im ersten Studienjahr auch scheinbar nicht berufsrelevante Grundlagenfächer und zu wenige obligatorische klinisch-praktische Inhalte sowie soziale Herausforderungen während der COVID-19-Pandemie. Auffallend ist außerdem die rasche Berufswunschänderung weg von der tierärztlichen Praxis vom ersten zum zweiten Befragungszeitpunkt.Auf der anderen Seite konnte gezeigt werden, dass Tiermedizinstudierende schon zu Beginn ihres Studiums eine herausragend hohe Zielbindung und Identifikation mit dem Studienfach aufweisen, sodass die anspruchsvolle Studieneingangsphase größtenteils erfolgreich bewältigt wird. Durch Unterstützung bei den als problematisch definierten Anforderungen mit entsprechenden Wahlpflichtveranstaltungen in der vulnerablen Studieneingangsphase sollte die Wahrscheinlichkeit eines möglichst reibungslosen Einstiegs in das Leben und Lernen an der Hochschule und den tierärztlichen Berufsstand erhöht werden.

Abstract Background Blood‐brain barrier (BBB) permeability can be assessed quantitatively using advanced imaging analysis. Hypothesis/Objectives Quantification and characterization of blood‐brain barrier dysfunction (BBBD) patterns in dogs with brain tumors can provide useful information about tumor biology and assist in distinguishing between gliomas and meningiomas. Animals Seventy‐eight hospitalized dogs with brain tumors and 12 control dogs without brain tumors. Methods In a 2‐arm study, images from a prospective dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE; n = 15) and a retrospective archived magnetic resonance imaging study (n = 63) were analyzed by DCE and subtraction enhancement analysis (SEA) to quantify BBB permeability in affected dogs relative to control dogs (n = 6 in each arm). For the SEA method, 2 ranges of postcontrast intensity differences, that is, high (HR) and low (LR), were evaluated as possible representations of 2 classes of BBB leakage. BBB score was calculated for each dog and was associated with clinical characteristics and tumor location and class. Permeability maps were generated, using the slope values (DCE) or intensity difference (SEA) of each voxel, and analyzed. Results Distinctive patterns and distributions of BBBD were identified for intra‐ and extra‐axial tumors. At a cutoff of 0.1, LR/HR BBB score ratio yielded a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 100% in differentiating gliomas from meningiomas. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Blood‐brain barrier dysfunction quantification using advanced imaging analyses has the potential to be used for assessment of brain tumor characteristics and behavior and, particularly, to help differentiating gliomas from meningiomas.

Abstract Canine drug-resistant epilepsy is a prevailing issue in veterinary neurology. Alternative or additional treatment with cannabinoids is showing promising results in seizure management. A crucial component of the endocannabinoid system, cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R), is heavily involved in the control of neurotransmitter release. Knowledge of its distribution in the epileptic brain would serve a better understanding of disease pathology and application of cannabinoids in dogs with epilepsy. CB1R distribution was assessed in sub-regions of hippocampus of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy, structural epilepsy and without cerebral pathology. In dogs with idiopathic epilepsy, significantly decreased CB1R expression compared to control animals was observed in CA1. In dogs with structural epilepsy, a significant increase in CB1R signal intensity in comparison to controls was observed. CB1R expression was higher in the structural group as compared to the idiopathic. Double immunofluorescence showed co-localization between CB1R and an astrocytic marker in about 50% of cells, regardless of the diagnosis. In summary, CB1R expression in canine hippocampus undergoes modification by the epileptic process and the direction of this change depends on the etiology of the disease. The distinct disease-associated CB1R expression needs to be considered in new treatment development for dogs with epilepsy.

Abstract Background Increased cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein concentration is a common finding in neurological diseases of dogs. Distinguishing between intrathecally‐produced proteins and proteins that have passed the blood‐CSF barrier because of barrier disruption facilitates diagnosis. Albumin is a microprotein mainly produced extrathecally that can be used as a reference marker for blood‐CSF barrier dysfunction. Objectives Develop a quotient graph based on the CSF/serum quotient of albumin and immunoglobulin A (IgA; Reibergram) to visualize intrathecal IgA synthesis and blood‐CSF barrier dysfunction. Animals and Methods Retrospective single‐center cohort study. A hyperbolic function was developed using data from 6 healthy Beagles and 38 dogs with neurological diseases in which an isolated blood‐CSF barrier dysfunction was expected. The function was validated using data from 10 dogs with expected intrathecal IgA synthesis and was visualized as a quotient graph. Finally, the graph was used to evaluate data of 118 dogs with various neurological diseases. Results Within the Reibergram, the function QLimIgA=0.13QAlb2+11.9·10−6−1.01·10−3 describes the upper values of physiological IgA quotients. It detects diseases with expected intrathecal IgA synthesis with higher sensitivity (85%) and specificity (89%) than the IgA index. The upper value of the physiological albumin quotient is 2.22 and detects diseases with expected blood‐CSF barrier dysfunction (sensitivity: 81%; specificity: 88%). Conclusion and Clinical Importance The canine Reibergram can detect blood‐CSF barrier dysfunction and intrathecal IgA synthesis in the majority of cases. The graphical visualization simplifies data evaluation and makes it a feasible tool in routine CSF diagnostic testing.

The OSCE is a proven instrument for testing practical skills of students, not only in the (veterinary) medical field. At the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation (TiHo), students must complete a 10-week rotation in one of the university’s own clinics during the practical year in the 9th and 10th semesters in addition to other practical training. Within this framework, the first training for acquiring clinical practical skills with a formative examination (OSCE; Objective Structured Clinical Examination) was developed in the Clinical Skills Lab (CSL) in 2014. Since 2018, the TiHo has been the first veterinary medical training institution in Germany to conduct electronic OSCEs (eOSCEs). In the future, eOSCEs will also be introduced as a summative examination at the TiHo. For this reason, students in the practical year of the winter semester 2021/2022 and summer semester 2022 as well as former and current examiners were surveyed regarding their satisfaction with the eOSCE examination format as part of this study. The 175 analyzed questionnaires from students and 27 analyzed questionnaires from examiners showed a high level of satisfaction with the eOSCE overall, but at the same time indicated problems that should be ironed out before it is introduced as a summative examination in the state examination. In addition to its standardization and objectivity, the examination format also convinced with its quality-assurance review procedure and the direct feedback possibility with regard to the students’ performance.

Based on the importance of communication and teamwork in veterinary practice, we explored the impact of a blended learning course designed to enhance interprofessional communication skills among veterinary students and apprentice assistants. The blended learning course design included online modules, synchronous (online) seminars, and simulation training sessions. The asynchronous online elements should complement the varied schedules of different professions and meet the individual needs of participants, especially considering the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The course structure, evaluations, and outcomes were documented, showing a positive impact on knowledge gain concerning communication and self-assessment in communication skills. In the pretest, the participants scored 43.18% correct answers to a knowledge test, whereas 71.50% correct answers were given in the posttest. Some participants indicated an improvement in the self-assessment of their skills. For example, before the training only 13.64% answered the question “How prepared do you feel regarding your communication skills for entering the profession?” with “Very good” or “Good”, versus 50.00% in the posttest. There were also only 22.73% of participants who agreed to having sufficient understanding of the roles of other professional groups, while in the posttest, 81.82% agreed. The evaluations highlighted positive feedback on the organization, learning environment, and overall course structure. However, challenges such as limited resources, especially time and financial constraints, influenced the implementation and ongoing development of the course. Subsequent runs of the course could gather more data to further improve the teaching of veterinary interprofessional communication. This ongoing data collection would allow continuous insights into and adjustments to the teaching methods, ensuring maximum benefit for veterinary students and apprentice assistants.

The integration of interprofessional collaboration is becoming increasingly crucial in veterinary care settings, emphasising the need for interprofessional education (IPE) in veterinary programmes. This study explores the readiness for interprofessional learning among German veterinary students, apprentices and related occupations before and after an interprofessional communication course. It assesses the impact of this course on the participants’ attitudes using the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS). The course, offered in two iterations, combined asynchronous online modules, live seminars and practical training elements. The RIPLS was administered before and after the course to gauge attitude shifts towards interprofessional learning. Statistical analyses, including McNemar, Cohen’s Kappa and exact Fisher tests, were employed to compare pre- and post-test responses. Despite challenges in participant linking, significant findings emerged between the student and apprentice groups in specific areas of the RIPLS, notably in the “Professional Identity” subscale post-course. However, correlations between face-to-face contact and RIPLS ratings were not observed, suggesting a need for more integrated interprofessional learning experiences. While some limitations in sample size and profession distribution hinder generalisability, this study indicates a high receptiveness to interprofessional learning in veterinary education, emphasising the potential for attitude changes with more interactive participation and programme adjustments.

Mit dieser Studie wurde die Durchführung und Umsetzung der im Zuge der Covid-19-Pandemie an der Tierärztlichen Hochschule Hannover durchgeführten Hybridsemester (WiSe 20/21 und SoSe 21) aus Sicht der Studierenden evaluiert. Durch die Ergebnisse dieser Evaluation soll die zukünftige veterinärmedizinische Lehre, vor allem im Hinblick auf die eingesetzten Lehrformate, an die Bedürfnisse und Wünsche der Studierenden angepasst werden.Dafür wurde eine Befragung unter den im Sommersemester 2021 an der TiHo immatrikulierten Studierenden durchgeführt und ausgewertet. 492 vollständig ausgefüllte Fragebogen flossen in die Analyse ein. Themenschwerpunkte der Umfrage waren technische Voraussetzungen für das Studium, das Lernen im Hybridsemester, Auswirkungen der Hybridsemester auf das Studium der Studierenden und allgemeine Studienbedingungen.Die Ergebnisse der Studie zeigen eine positive Bewertung der hybriden Semester durch die Studierenden. Als Vorteile der digitalen Lehre hoben die Studierenden vor allem die erhöhte Flexibilität und die Aufzeichnung von Vorlesungen hervor. Mit der vorhandenen Hardware konnte die große Mehrheit der Studierenden immer am Studium teilhaben. Sie gaben jedoch an, dass die digitale Lehre soziale Interaktion erschwere. Um die Vorteile der digitalen Lehre zu erhalten, aber auch die Nachteile auszugleichen, sollte das Tiermedizinstudium in Zukunft mit dafür geeigneten Vorlesungen als digitale Veranstaltungen oder im Blended-Learning-Format und praktischen Übungen als Präsenzveranstaltungen durchgeführt werden.

Meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO) represents an umbrella term for inflammatory, non-infectious central nervous system (CNS) diseases in dogs. Current therapeutic approaches, involving long-term glucocorticosteroid use, often fail to provide adequate relief or cure, and the effectiveness of additional immunosuppressive medications remains uncertain. Future advancements in MUO treatment may benefit from patient-specific therapies, potentially enhancing treatment precision, efficacy, and minimizing side effects. However, significant challenges impede this progress, including ambiguity in MUO subtype classification, uncertainties regarding the autoimmune nature vs. infectious triggers, and the lack of reliable diagnostic biomarkers. Clinical heterogeneity and overlapping signs with other encephalopathies further complicate diagnosis and treatment. This review gives an overview about diagnostic findings and immunological features of MUO. It advocates for a more overall characterization of MUO by using a polythetic system to better characterize MUO subtypes, identify immunological treatment targets, and establish a conceptual foundation for future therapeutic trials. Addressing these themes may lead to more effective and less burdensome treatments, improving the quality of life for dogs afflicted with MUO and their owners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Idiopathic generalized tremor syndrome is a disorder characterized by an acute onset of full-body tremors, sometimes accompanied by vestibulo-cerebellar signs, that is responsive to treatment with corticosteroids. Although considered to have an overall good outcome, relapsing and persistent mild clinical signs have been described. So far, little is known about the etiopathology of this syndrome, but it is believed to have an immune-mediated origin. In human medicine, description of numerous autoantibodies involved in certain noninfectious neurologic disorders has revolutionized understanding of their pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment. In this multicenter retrospective study, we aimed to describe the clinical signs, course, and outcome of dogs with idiopathic generalized tremor syndrome and correlate potential findings with the presence or absence of autoantibodies associated with autoimmune cerebellar syndromes in humans. Information regarding signalment, history, clinical signs, laboratory findings, diagnostic imaging and testing for regional infectious diseases was gathered and the remaining serum and CSF samples were then analyzed for neural antibodies against targets associated with autoimmune encephalitic diseases of humans. Thirty-three dogs were included, and screening for neural antibodies was performed in 30 of those dogs. The analysis showed an increased titer of mGluR1 antibodies in two dogs, GFAP and later in the course of disease mGluR1 antibodies in one dog and an increase in unspecific autoantibodies which could not be further classified in two dogs. Dogs with detectable neural autoantibodies always had cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities in the form of a pleocytosis, with or without increased protein concentration, and tended to present with hyperthermia, potentially indicating a more severe clinical form of idiopathic generalized tremor syndrome in these cases. In conclusion, idiopathic generalized tremor syndrome is proposed to be an immune-mediated disorder potentially mediated by neural autoantibodies in a subgroup of dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two stimulators were developed, one simplified and one realistic, in the present study for learning abomasal surgery for veterinary students. The simulators were tested in a pilot study: The upcoming blended learning format was compared with traditional face-to-face teaching. A total of 21 5th-year students participated in the study. While one group learned the surgical technique in traditional face-to-face simulator training, the second group completed interactive video training asynchronously. Afterwards, skills were examined in person. The results showed that the different groups did not lead to different performance results. Participation in the study increased self-assessment of skills by an average of about 7 of 36 points, as well as the learning success and motivation of students in both groups. The simulators developed were well liked by the students and rated as appropriate by 12 practicing bovine veterinarians. The pilot study indicates that blended learning could be a suitable alternative to traditional face-to-face teaching. This should be followed by further research to support the use of blended learning in the veterinary education of clinical skills.

Abstract Background Reduced pelvic limb reflexes in dogs with spinal cord injury typically suggests a lesion of the L4‐S3 spinal cord segments. However, pelvic limb reflexes might also be reduced in dogs with a T3‐L3 myelopathy and concurrent spinal shock. Hypothesis/Objectives We hypothesized that statistical models could be used to identify clinical variables associated with spinal shock in dogs with spinal cord injuries. Animals Cohort of 59 dogs with T3‐L3 myelopathies and spinal shock and 13 dogs with L4‐S3 myelopathies. Methods Data used for this study were prospectively entered by partner institutions into the International Canine Spinal Cord Injury observational registry between October 2016 and July 2019. Univariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between independent variables and the presence of spinal shock. Independent variables were selected for inclusion in a multivariable logistic regression model if they had a significant effect (P ≤ .1) on the odds of spinal shock in univariable logistic regression. Results The final multivariable model included the natural log of weight (kg), the natural log of duration of clinical signs (hours), severity (paresis vs paraplegia), and pelvic limb tone (normal vs decreased/absent). The odds of spinal shock decreased with increasing weight (odds ratio [OR] = 0.28, P = .09; confidence interval [CI] 0.07‐1.2), increasing duration (OR = 0.44, P = .02; CI 0.21‐0.9), decreased pelvic limb tone (OR = 0.04, P = .003; CI 0.01‐0.36), and increased in the presence of paraplegia (OR = 7.87, P = .04; CI 1.1‐56.62). Conclusions and Clinical Importance A formula, as developed by the present study and after external validation, could be useful for assisting clinicians in determining the likelihood of spinal shock in various clinical scenarios and aid in diagnostic planning.

IntroductionInformation on the use of telemedical approaches in the context of veterinary medicine is evolving. As in human medicine, veterinary medicine is subject to an increasing digitalization effort. The aim of the current study was to investigate the perspective of German veterinarians regarding their awareness and usage of telemedical approaches. Furthermore, the degree of implementation of different digital approaches in the context of German veterinary medicine was elaborated.MethodsA literature review, that also aimed to address the necessary framework or standardization of these digitalization efforts and potential barriers such as legal or infrastructural aspects, provided information for the empirical research. Using a quantitative research approach, the perspective of German veterinarians was surveyed.ResultsIn total, responses from 169 veterinarians were analyzed. The results show that digital approaches were used by veterinarians and the usage was enhanced by the COVID-19 crisis.DiscussionHowever, the lack of a clear legal framework may be a significant barrier for further implementation. This survey provides a basis for a critical discussion on the use of veterinary telemedicine in Germany. The results may contribute to future strategies for the implementation and development of necessary policies, training, and service applications within Germany, which may be transferable for the profession in other countries.

Steroid responsive meningitis arteritis (SRMA) is an aberrant Th2-mediated systemic inflammatory disease in dogs. The etiopathogenesis still remains unclear as no triggering pathogen or autoantigen could be found so far.HypothesisLarge high-density peptide microarrays are a suitable screening method to detect possible autoantigens which might be involved in the pathogenesis of SRMA.MethodsThe IgA and IgG profile of pooled serum samples of 5 dogs with SRMA and 5 dogs with neck pain due to intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH) without ataxia or paresis were compared via commercially available high-density peptide microarrays (Discovery Microarray) containing 29,240 random linear peptides. Canine distemper virus nucleoprotein (CDVN) served as positive control as all dogs were vaccinated. Common motifs were compared to amino acid sequences of known proteins via databank search. One suitable protein was manually selected for further analysis with a smaller customized high-density peptide microarray.ResultsPooled serum of dogs with SRMA and IVDH showed different IgA and IgG responses on Discovery Microarray. Only top IgG responses of dogs with SRMA showed a common motif not related to the control protein CDVN. This common motif is part of the interleukin 1 receptor antagonist protein (IL1Ra). On IL1Ra, dogs with SRMA displayed IgA binding to an additional epitope, which dogs with IVDH did not show.DiscussionIL1Ra is an anti-inflammatory acute phase protein. Different immunoglobulin binding patterns on IL1Ra could be involved in the pathogenesis of SRMA and IL1Ra might be developed as future biomarker for SRMA.

Consumption of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) has been shown to improve seizure control, reduce behavioural comorbidities and improve cognitive function in epileptic dogs. However, the exact metabolic pathways affected by dietary MCT remain poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to identify changes in the metabolome and neurotransmitters levels relevant to epilepsy and behavioural comorbidities associated with the consuming of an MCT supplement (MCT-DS) in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (IE). Metabolic alterations induced by a commercial MCT-DS in a population of 28 dogs with IE were evaluated in a 6-month multi-centre, prospective, randomised, double-blinded, controlled cross-over trial design. A metabolic energy requirement-based amount of 9% MCT or control oil was supplemented to the dogs' stable base diet for 3 months, followed by the alternative oil for another 3 months. A validated, quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy platform was applied to pre- and postprandially collected serum samples to compare the metabolic profile between both DS and baseline. Furthermore, alterations in urinary neurotransmitter levels were explored. Five dogs (30%) had an overall reduction in seizure frequency of ≥50%, and were classified as MCT-responders, while 23 dogs showed a ≤50% reduction, and were defined as MCT non-responders. Amino-acid metabolism was significantly influenced by MCT consumption compared to the control oil. While the serum concentrations of total fatty acids appeared similar during both supplements, the relative concentrations of individual fatty acids differed. During MCT supplementation, the concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids and arachidonic acid were significantly higher than under the control oil. β-Hydroxybutyric acid levels were significantly higher under MCT supplementation. In total, four out of nine neurotransmitters were significantly altered: a significantly increased γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) concentration was detected during the MCT-phase accompanied by a significant shift of the GABA-glutamate balance. MCT-Responders had significantly lowered urinary concentrations of histamine, glutamate, and serotonin under MCT consumption. In conclusion, these novel data highlight metabolic changes in lipid, amino-acid and ketone metabolism due to MCT supplementation. Understanding the metabolic response to MCT provides new avenues to develop better nutritional management with improved anti-seizure and neuroprotective effects for dogs with epilepsy, and other behavioural disorders.

Steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis (SRMA) is a predominantly Th-2 immune-mediated disease, but the exact pathomechanism remains unclear. Interleukin-31 (IL-31) is predominantly produced by T cells with a Th-2 phenotype during proinflammatory conditions. We hypothesize that IL-31 might be involved in the pathogenesis of SRMA. IL-31 was measured in archived samples (49 serum and 52 CSF samples) of dogs with SRMA, meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO), infectious meningoencephalitis, and atopic dermatitis, and of healthy control dogs using a competitive canine IL-31 ELISA. The mean serum IL-31 level in dogs with SRMA (n = 18) was mildly higher compared to dogs with atopic dermatitis (n = 3, p = 0.8135) and MUO (n = 15, p = 0.7618) and markedly higher than in healthy controls (n = 10, p = 0.1327) and dogs with infectious meningoencephalitis (n = 3, no statistics). Dogs with SRMA in the acute stage of the disease and without any pre-treatment had the highest IL-31 levels. The mean CSF IL-31 value for dogs with SRMA (n = 23) was quite similar to that for healthy controls (n = 8, p = 0.4454) and did not differ markedly from dogs with MUO (n = 19, p = 0.8724) and infectious meningoencephalitis. Based on this study, an involvement of IL-31 in the pathogenesis of the systemic Th-2 immune-mediated immune response in SRMA can be assumed as a further component leading to an aberrant immune reaction.