VirginiaVirginia marylandmaryland Summer-Fall 2000 Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine

Tech President Steger Sets Research Agenda During Keynote Proclaiming ideas “the raw material of the information economy,” President Steger chal- lenged university faculty assembled for the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine’s annual research conference to “turn up the Bunson burners” as Virginia Tech begins to focus on “vaulting” itself into a top 30 research institution during the decade ahead. Steger delivered his remarks as the keynote speaker of the college’s 12th Annual Research Symposium, a In this digitally enhanced photograph, members of the College’s Class of 2004 participate three-day event that featured a in leadership and team-building exercises at an outdoor adventure center in nearby Giles presentation on Iraq’s biological County. The entering DVM students were the first to participate in the college’s newly warfare program, a day-long sympo- introduced week-long orientation process. The enhanced orientation process for new sium on comparative gerontology veterinary students is one of the strategic responses the college is taking to challenges identified in the KPMG MegaStudy of the veterinary profession. Please see Steger: page 26

Veterinary College, Medical College of Virginia, State Associations to Present Second in Three-Year Symposium Series Year 2000 Focus is on Zoonotic Diseases diseases that can be spread by animals to people. The many virtues of the “human- These diseases, termed zoonotic, animal bond” are readily apparent. and the risks they present, will be Dr. Jeff R. Wilcke But close relationships between explored by a series of experts during people and companion animals can a symposium entitled “Educating Wilcke named to First Endowed present some hazards too, chiefly in Physicians and Veterinarians on the Professorship on VMRCVM’s the form of parasitic and infectious Risks of Animal Interactions to Human Health and Well-being” Blacksburg Campus hosted by the Virginia-Maryland The first endowed professorship ever Inside Regional College of Veterinary established on the Virginia-Maryland Medicine on Friday, September 22. Regional College of Veterinary Medicine’s The event will be held at the Blacksburg campus will support a profes- 2000 Commencement...... 12 Donaldson Brown Hotel and Confer- sor who is exploring and defining the new ence Center on the campus of Vir- field of veterinary medical informatics. ginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. Dr. Jeff R. Wilcke, a professor in the EMC News...... 20 Department of Biomedical Sciences and Please see Symposium: page 27 Please see Wilcke: page 6 Maryland News...... 23 virginia-maryland 1 Virginia Maryland is published periodi- Dean’s Desk cally by the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine. We welcome your comments, suggestions and questions. Please address all correspondence to: Virginia-Maryland A Bold Agenda VMRCVM Dean Peter Eyre Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061 Newly inaugurated University President Charles Steger has set an ambitous goal EDITORIAL ADVISORY for Virginia Tech over the next ten years. Becoming one of the nation’s top 30 BOARD research universities will require enormous energy and dedication from every sector of this university community. th, Peter Eyre, B.V.M.S., Ph.D., M.R.C.V.S. According to National Science Foundation data, Virginia Tech is currently 48 Dean with annual research expenditures of about $170 million. We will need to raise that by more than $100 million in order to achieve the president’s goal by the close of the John Lee, Ph.D. decade. Yet knowing this university and its people as I do, I consider this goal Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies achievable. Dr. Steger’s bold vision has led me to reflect upon our own stature as one of the Grant Turnwald, B.V.Sc., M.S. nation’s 27 colleges of veterinary medicine. While we certainly remain one of the Associate Dean for Academic newest, we are in the midst of our 20th year of full-scale operations. We have Affairs recruited an excellent faculty and staff, we have trained and graduated 17 classes, William D. Hueston, D.V.M., Ph.D. and we have funded and built a three-campus system operating on about 400,000 Associate Dean - Maryland square feet of physical plant. Campus We are doing many things well, and by several measures, compare favorably Donald Barber, D.V.M., M.S. with our peers. National data reveal that state support for the college is about Head, Department of Small Animal average. Whereas external sponsored support for research is not as good as it should Clinical Sciences be, we are above average in the amount of private support we have achieved and rank seventh in terms of clinical revenues when you combine our teaching hospital Craig Thatcher, D.V.M., M.S., Ph.D. Head, Department of Large Animal enterprises in Blacksburg and Leesburg. Based on the whole spectrum of national Clinical Sciences data, we are ranked at the median of our peers. Yet this is not a time to rest on our laurels. Lud Eng, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. All of you reading these words will be aware of the way technology, economics Head, Department of Biomedical Sciences & Pathobiology and demographics will forever change higher education as we have known it. The production of new knowledge in all of its forms, from the engineering and computer G. Frederick Fregin, V.M.D. sciences through the life and social sciences, will become an even more robust facet Director, Marion duPont Scott of university life in the years ahead. Scientific inquiry is moving quickly from Equine Medical Center solving problems to creating economic opportunity. It is a bridge between academia Robert A. Martin, D.V.M. and the private sector, where it is transformed into products and services and Medical Director, Veterinary progress. Teaching Hospital Like the university, our college must now turn its attention toward research and Jeffrey S. Douglas, MS, APR economic development more vigorously than before. In the keynote address Managing Editor President Steger presented during our annual research symposium, he outlined Terry Lawrence shifting priorities in federal funding for the health sciences that may spell opportuni- Art Director ties for us. Angela Brogan Other important initiatives and opportunities are also emerging here in Blacks- Editorial Assistant Frank Pearsall, Ann Nadjar burg. Virginia Tech’s partnership in the Carilion Biomedical Institute and the Contributing Editors promising new Bioinformatics Institute present many opportunities for collabora- Jerry Baber, Don Massie tion, and these models may soon re-emerge in the form of other similar institutes for Photography the environment, food and nutrition, and others… all of which can benefit from the comparative animal research which can be found within a college of veterinary Virginia Tech does not discriminate medicine. against employees, students, or As an institution, our college is maturing well. And like the university, we have applicants on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, excellent momentum. Perhaps, as the university has committed itself to a new plane veteran status, national origin, religion, of excellence, so should we. It seems entirely reasonable to me that we can move or political affiliation. Anyone having ourselves into the “top ten” realm of North American veterinary colleges during this questions concerning discrimination pivotal first decade of the 21st century. In the near future, I expect to make further should contact the Equal Opportunities/ Affirmative Action Office. comments about this goal for our college. In the meantime, I sincerely thank all of you, internal and external, who have contributed to the success of our first 20 years. virginia-maryland 2 virginia maryland news briefs

Drug Information such as authority, accuracy, Lab Honored by ISI currency, navigation and design, applicability and content, scope, The College’s Drug Informa- audience level and quality. tion Laboratory was recently “We work to produce a recognized by the Institute for useful high-quality publication for Scientific Information (ISI) for its our subscribers. Recognition of on-line version of the FDA “Green our site by ISI suggests we have Book.” Published by the Food & accomplished that goal,” said Dr. Drug Administration’s Center for Jeff Wilcke, the Dorothy A. and Veterinary Medicine, the “Green Richard G. Metcalf Professor of book” contains detailed product Veterinary Medical Informatics. and licensing information about all government approved animal Animal Welfare drugs The digital publication will Expo Held Congressman Rick Boucher (D-9th), left, listens to veterinary radiologist now be included in the ISI’s on-line Dr. Jeri Jones (right) discuss the Alphin Radiology Center’s computed A “Spring 2000 Animal tomography (CT) scanner while veterinary college Dean Peter Eyre looks awareness database called Welfare Expo” recently hosted by on. Congressman Boucher visited the VMRCVM in early August. Current Web Contents. Current the college featured a day filled Contents, a database that provides with educational events and information in the fields of science, open discussion forums Considered one of the most social science, technology and the concerning animal welfare popular of the museum’s summer arts, recently created Current Web issues. science camps, the veterinary Contents, which features a daily Co-sponsored by the camp offers students an update of the database and an Virginia Partnership for Animal opportunity to experience option to link to selected and Welfare and Support (VAPAWS) veterinary medicine first-hand, evaluated Web sites. and the Virginia Tech Student right down to practicing “surgery” Following passage of the Animal Welfare Committee, the and first aid on animal mannequins Generic Animal Drug and Patent expo focused on developing Saker has built. Term Restoration Act in 1988, the regional, long-term solutions to The 30 students enrolled laboratory began publishing a print Dr. Larry Freeman difficult animal problems such as also spend a day on the college’s version of the FDA “Green Book” irresponsible reproduction. Blacksburg campus during the in 1989 and has published it Presentations on the Freeman Leads week-long camp, where they tour annually ever since. The lab human-animal bond, state and National Veterinary facilities and watch veterinarians manages the Food & Drug local ordinances regarding conduct the clinical business of Administration Center for shelter policies, dogs in Anatomists’ Group companion and large animal Veterinary Medicine’s “Approved literature, achieving the animal veterinary medicine. Dr. Larry Freeman, Animal Drug Database” which is welfare medical mission, animals associate professor, Depart- College Working used to produce both versions of in community disaster planning ment of Biomedical Sciences the “Green Book.” and others were featured. and Pathobiology, has been with Macromolecule The reference guide includes The expo also included a information concerning animal elected president of the Biomolecule variety of demonstrations by American Association of drugs’ trade and generic assistance dogs, Canine Good Veterinary Anatomists. Interfaces Group names,label indications, patent Citizens and Therapy Dog Founded in 1949, the information, and other related International tests, canine search AAVA exists to advance Under the leadership of Dr. facts. and rescue and others. veterinary anatomical science Craig Thatcher, head of the ISI editors evaluated the and includes several hundred Department of Large Animal Green Book Web site using criteria members from the 31 North Clinical Sciences, the college is American veterinary colleges, cooperating in an innovative new and from organizations around Macromolecule Biomolecule the world. Interfaces research and education program at Virginia Tech. The consortium seeks to Saker Leads promote research, development and technology transfer to Veterinary Camp at industrial partners of new scientific Science Museum information on how synthetic molecules interface with of Western Virginia biomolecules. The discipline has significant implications for Training the next everything from food and medicine generation of veterinarians is a to commercial packaging. passion Dr. Korinn Saker does Tech facilities cooperating in not limit to her classrooms. the MBI include the Departments For the fifth year in a row, of Biochemistry, Biological the veterinary nutritionist has Systems Engineering, Chemical Eight DVM students were enrolled in the year 2000 Summer Fellowship led a week-long veterinary Engineering, Chemistry, Environ- Program. Sponsored by the Office of Research and Graduate Studies, camp in conjunction with the mental Engineering, Food Science the program offers specialized experiences in leadership, science and Science Museum of Western and Technology, Materials Science public policy training through an extensive summer program. Pictured, from left to right, front row, Anne Van Auken, Jody Dickey, Lindsey Virginia’s annual summer camp and Engineering and the program for school-children. Savage, Margaret Bowman. Back row,Jennifer Landolfi, Rachel VMRCVM. Johnson, Cheryl Kay Gruver, Karen Nelson Wolf. virginia-maryland 3 support for the VMRCVM. disorder later in life. tive careers in the veterinary The Alphins, residents of Using the Penn Hip profession, and included Clifton, Virginia, have been long- examination procedure, Johnston presentations on preparing a time contributors to Virginia Tech. can make recommendations competitive application for Colonel Alphin is a 1934 Virginia about an animal’s suitability as a veterinary school. Tech graduate in dairy science. service animal. The service is a The college’s 2001 Open The Alphins have provided over critical part of the screening House will be held on April 7, 2001. Dr. Christiane $2 million in support to Virginia criteria used by the foundation in Massicotte Tech. The VMRCVM’s radiology selecting dogs for the program, Abbott joins DSACS center is named the Horace E. since the training is so time- Massicotte Earns and Elizabeth F. Alphin Imaging consuming and expensive. in Cardiology Center in honor of their philan- Johnston is board certified Graduate Research thropy. by the American College of Dr. Jonathan Abbott has Honors Stuart, who died in 1996, left Veterinary Surgeons. joined the college as a veterinary nearly $2.7 million to be divided cardiologist in the Department of A VMRCVM graduate equally between the College of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. student claimed top honors in Agriculture and Life Sciences and Abbott earned his DVM from the agricultural and animal the VMRCVM. Stuart, a life-long the Ontario Veterinary College at sciences category of the16th horse enthusiast who lived in the University of Guelph in Annual Research Symposium Albemarle County, earmarked the Canada. He completed an at Virginia Tech. gift to support equine programs in internship at the University of Dr. Christiane Massicotte the two colleges. Saskatchewan and a residency at of Repentigny, Quebec, Canada, The centerpiece of the $3.6 the University of Florida. He is a Ph.D. student in the facility is a 31,250 square-foot board certified by the American Department of Biomedical arena floor with seating for 800 College of Veterinary Internal Sciences and Pathobiology people. The structure will also Medicine. was honored for her presenta- house classrooms, an office, a Jeffrey S. Prior to joining the college, tion “Adenosine triphosphate kitchen-concession area, and Douglas Abbott served on the veterinary (ATP) concentration in hen animal holding facilities. college faculties of the University sciatic nerves affected with Douglas Leads of Florida and the University of organophosphorus ester- National Veterinary Saskatchewan. induced delayed neuropathy (OPIDN).” College Advance- ATP supplies energy for ment Organization many biochemical cellular processes and is critical for Jeffrey S. Douglas, APR, nerve fiber functions. public relations director for the Massicotte evaluated College, has been elected concentrations of the molecule president of the Association for in hen peripheral nerves Dr. Spencer Veterinary Advancement Profession- following exposure to an Johnston als (AVAP). organophosphate that causes The organization, which consists of development, public Dr. David delayed degeneration of the Moore nervous system. Johnston Honored by relations and alumni relations Their results suggest that directors of the North American variations in sciatic nerve ATP St. Francis Service veterinary schools and colleges, Moore Appointed concentrations are early events Dog Group holds its annual meeting in Research Compliance in the development of OPIDN. conjunction with the American The college’s Laboratory A veterinary surgeon on Veterinary Medical Association. Head for Neurotoxicity Studies is one faculty has been honored for Douglas, who joined the University Veterinarian and of the nation’s leading research distinguished service by the St. College in 1983, is professionally Director of the Office of Animal centers for organophosphate Francis of Assisi Service Dog accredited by the Public Relations Resources Dr. David Moore has toxicity. Foundation. Society of America and also been appointed Assistant Vice Organized by the Dr. Spencer Johnston, serves as an adjunct professor of Provost for Research Compliance university’s Graduate Student associate professor, Department public relations at Radford at Virginia Tech, according to Dr. Assembly and judged by faculty of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University. Leonard Peters, vice provost for members, the event was was presented the year 2000 research and dean of the themed “Bridging Research “Veterinarian of the Year Award” College Presents graduate school. Boundaries.” There were 109 from the Roanoke-based Moore, who joined the entries and $3,650 in prizes foundation which trains service Annual Open House university community in 1985, has were awarded. dogs to assist the disabled. Hundreds and hundreds of been in charge of animal care Johnston was recognized for curious animal lovers turned out and regulatory compliance Livestock Arena to his work in conducting orthopedic to visit the college during its assurance for animals used in Honor Alphins, examinations on dogs being annual Spring Open House. teaching and research at the considered for the group’s Guided tours were provided university. Stuart training programs. Many of the throughout the day and dozens of His broadened responsibili- A livestock teaching breeds commonly used as activities showcased the ties now include oversight and facility to be built on the assistance animals, such as profession and the college. regulatory compliance issues for campus of Virginia Tech will be Labrador and Golden Retrievers A “Teddy Bear Repair Clinic” all animal and human subjects named the Alphin-Stuart Arena suffer from hip dysplasia. delighted children, and more used in university research in honor of university benefac- Johnston is certified to serious presentations liked programs, plus radiation safety, tors Colonel and Mrs. Horace conduct “Penn Hip” radiographic “Parasites and Toxicants” and laboratory safety programs. Alphin and the late Patricia examinations, a sophisticated provided useful information for Among other duties, he will Bonsall Stuart. procedure for evaluating a dog’s guests. chair the university’s Institutional Both have provided hips and predicting the animal’s The open house also Review Board, Radiation Safety substantial philanthropic chances of developing the featured information on alterna- Committee, and serve on the virginia-maryland 4 Animal Care Committee and Laboratory and Hazardous Dr. Nino Aloro, a veterinarian Materials Safety Committee. who operates a practice in Moore will also provide Virginia Beach, recently federally mandated training donated a series of veterinary programs for faculty, staff, and antiquities to the College. students in the areas of human Aloro, who earned his subjects compliance and veterinary degree in Italy, has appropriate animal care and use. practiced in the Tidewater area for more than 30 years. The collection of artifacts included several antique “crossbow” style venipuncture devices which were designed and built by Aloro’s grandfather. The instruments were used for blott-letting in horses and other large animals. College Art & Archives Committee Chair Dr. Carl J. Pfeiffer, who authored a paper on the history of blood- Dr. Peter Shires letting in the horse in 1986, described them as “special Shires Heading artifacts in veterinary history” that are very “unique.” University’s Biological Sciences Initiative Dr. Peter Shires, a Eastern Equine Martin Assumes Presidency of AAVC professor in the Department of Encephalitis in Small Animal Clinical Sci- Dr. Robert A. Martin, director of veterinary medicine,” he ences, has been selected to Virginia of the college’s Veterinary continued. lead Virginia Tech’s Biological Teaching Hospital, has been As president-elect, Martin Sciences Initiative. The National Veterinary named president of the American served as program chair for the As university BSI Services Laboratory of the U.S. Association of Veterinary recent AAVC forum held in Coordinator, Shires will head a Department of Agriculture Clinicians (AAVC). Seattle in conjunction with the multidisciplinary program that (USDA) has confirmed that That 600-member organiza- annual meeting of the American unites 400 professors in five three horses in Southeastern tion includes veterinarians based College of Veterinary Internal colleges in an effort that seeks Virginia have died of Eastern at colleges, institutions and Medicine. to enhance undergraduate Equine Encephalitis (EEE), veterinary practices who are He will also plan and preside teaching and learning in the according to Dr. Jim Bowen, engaged in teaching, service, over an upcoming conference in life sciences. extension equine specialist. and/or research in clinical Arlington, Virginia entitled “We’re pleased and Horse owners, especially veterinary medicine. “Education in the 21st Century” excited to have Peter those living near the Eastern Martin says changing market that will focus on the value of coordinate the BSI, particularly Shore, are strongly encouraged dynamics in the veterinary practice-based clinical education. because he brings a keen to vaccinate their animals profession are creating human The AAVC operates the interest in innovative teaching against Eastern Equine resource challenges for academic Veterinary Internship/Residency and learning pedagogies for Encephalitis twice yearly in veterinary medicine. Matching Program and provides the life sciences,” said Dr. Ron order to afford the best possible “Upon completion of their programmatic leadership for Daniel, associate provost for protection, Bowen said. training, clinical specialists are veterinarian’s seeking post-DVM undergraduate programs. Eastern Equine Encephali- now entering private specialty training in internal medicine, “Peter has a well developed tis can also cause encephalitis practices throughout the U.S. surgery and other specialties. history of collaborations with in humans, with children and rather than remaining in Martin, who earned his DVM the Center for Excellence in the elderly especially at risk. academia,” said Martin. from Auburn University in 1976, is Undergraduate Teaching and “There is no vaccine for the “The American Association board certified by the American the Faculty Development human population, so it is of Veterinary Clinicians is actively College of Veterinary Surgeons Institute.” essential that you guard against involved in seeking ways to and the American Board of Participating colleges mosquito bites by using insect encourage the best and brightest Veterinary Practitioners. include Agriculture and Life repellents and avoiding being to consider careers in academic He joined the faculty at Sciences, Arts and Sciences, outside when the mosquitoes veterinary medicine in order to Virginia-Maryland in 1983, and Human Resources and are most active, namely dawn meet the needs of clinical has directed the Veterinary Education, Forestry and and dusk,” said Bowen. instruction in the veterinary Teaching Hospital since 1993. Wildlife Resources, and the Eastern Equine Encephalitis teaching hospitals of our colleges Virginia-Maryland Regional should not be confused with College of Veterinary Medi- West Nile Virus, which has been cine. reported in the Northeast over Special support in the past two years, he said. learning theory, instructional This, too, will cause design and educational encephalitis in horses and technologies is being provided humans, Bowen said, but has for faculty participating in the only been reported to date in BSI. Enhanced student New York State, New Jersey, AAVC Incoming advising is another program Connecticut and Massachu- President Dr. Robert A. goal. setts. Martin (R) accepts the gavel from outgoing President Dr. Richard DeBowes. virginia-maryland 5 New Residents and Henry County Animal Clinic. Wilcke: Drug Information Laboratory for Dr. Jacob Rohleder has most of the past decade. The lab Interns Announced joined as a resident in radiology. continued from page 1 manages the Food & Drug Thirteen new veterinarians He received his DVM at Purdue Pathobiology who has been Administration Center for Veteri- have been hired as residents University and has completed an working in the emerging field for nary Medicine’s electronic Animal and interns. internship at Metropolitan the past 15 years, has been Drug Database and several similar Internships and residen- Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Rohleder named to the Dorothy A. and initiatives. Following passage of cies are advanced clinical/ also practiced at an Animal Richard G. Metcalf Endowed the Generic Animal Drug and educational programs pursued Emergency Clinic. Professorship in Veterinary Patent Term Restoration Act in by DVM’s seeking advanced Dr. David Grant earned his Medical Informatics. 1988, the laboratory began training and eventual board DVM and completed an internship “I’m extremely honored by publishing the FDA “Greenbook” in certification by organizations at the University of Florida. He is this appointment,” said Wilcke, a 1989 and has published it annually like the American College of now a resident in small animal veterinary pharmacologist. ever since. The reference guide Veterinary Surgeons, the medicine. “Personally and professionally, includes information concerning American College of Veterinary Dr. Tisha Harper has joined this is a very gratifying opportu- animal drugs’ trade and generic Internal Medicine, the American as a resident in small animal nity,” he continued. “But in a names, label indications, patent College of Veterinary Radiology, surgery. Dr. Harper received her larger sense, this move goes a information, and other related or the American College of DVM at the University of the West long way toward underscoring facts. The laboratory soon Veterinary Ophthalmology. Indies in St. Augustine. She has the legitimacy of this new thereafter developed and began There are three new practiced at Fiddler’s Dream discipline on a national scale.” maintaining the expanded residents and interns in the Veterinary Clinic and has also Veterinary informatics is a electronic version known as the Department of Large Animal served as a lecturer/clinician at scientific discipline that involves FDA Approved Animal Drug Clinical Sciences. the University of the West Indies. the application of modern Products Database System. Dr. David M. Wong has Dr. Nancy Zimmerman- information technology to manage Wilcke serves as director of joined as a resident in Large Pope, who earned her DVM at vast amounts of medical data. the American Veterinary Medical Animal Medicine. He attended the University of Wisconsin, has The professorship has been Association’s Secretariat to Michigan State University and also joined as a resident in small made possible as a result of a $2 SNOMED International. That has practiced at Four Winds animal surgery. She has million gift from philanthropist international system of medical Equine Hospital in Bridgeport, completed internships at the Dorothy A. Metcalf of the Eastern nomenclature, which was Michigan. VMRCVM and Dallas Veterinary Shore of Maryland through her established by the American Dr. Kara L. Kreitner, who Surgical Center. private foundation. Half of Mrs. College of Pathology, serves as a earned her DVM at Colorado Dr. Max Banwell and Dr. Metcalf’s gift will be used to unifying standard for electronic State University, and Dr. Jacob Christopher Kunze, both received support the professorship, and medical record systems in human R. Werner, who earned his their DVM from Kansas State another half will support other and veterinary medicine. DVM at the University of University and are new interns. new initiatives under develop- Looking ahead, Wilcke Pennsylvania, are interns in Other new interns are Dr. Heidi ment in the college. describes the next ten years as a large animal medicine and MacLean, who received her DVM “We’re extremely grateful “building block” period for the field Production Management at the University of Prince Edward for both the spirit of philanthropy of veterinary informatics as Medicine. Island, Dr. Brett Wood, who and the foresight which is medical information networks and Ten new veterinarians received his from North Carolina demonstrated by Mrs. Metcalf’s information standards are were also hired as residents State University, and Dr. Kelly gift,” said VMRCVM Dean Peter established and adopted. and interns in the Department Wang, who earned her DVM at Eyre. “It seems especially “Ultimately, veterinarians are of Small Animal Clinical Michigan State University. appropriate that our first going to have access to vastly Sciences. Blacksburg based endowed greater amounts of information as Dr. Stephanie Hamilton, a professorship be placed in such they diagnose and treat animals in VMRCVM alumnus, is a an exciting and innovative area of their practices, and that is going to resident in anesthesiology. Dr. inquiry.” lead to better patient care.” he said. Hamilton recently practiced at Wilcke has led the college’s The VMRCVM has operated nationally recognized programs in veterinary medical informatics throughout the past decade. The late founding Dean Richard Talbot established the first graduate programs in the field and key relationships with the FDA during a time when the internet and web- based communications were emerging as the defining communi- cations technology of an era. Wilcke, who joined the VMRCVM in 1982, was one of the first faculty members in the college to begin using computer technol- ogy to enhance student instruction in the mid-80’s. He earned his DVM from Iowa State University and his M.S. in clinical pharmacol- ogy from the University of Illinois. Three professorships have been endowed at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center in Leesburg, Virginia, which Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine functions as the college’s northern Retired Faculty Luncheon, April 20, 2000 Virginia campus. However, the Metcalf Professorship is the first to Left to Right: Joyce Morgan, Jeff Douglas, John Lee, Fred Carlisle, Gordon Carter, John Wilson, Charles be endowed on the Blacksburg Domermuth, Bob Hammond, Gerry Colmano, Bernie Gross, Gordon MacInnis, Peter Eyre, Kent Roberts, Lud Eng, Bob Martin, John Perry, Frank Pearsall, Craig Thatcher, Donna Pitt campus. virginia-maryland 6 VMRCVM’S Lindsa y Honored By American Societ y Of Parasitology

A parasitologist on faculty was through in the understanding of an recently recognized with the most economically significant parasitic distinguished honor conferred by the disease afflicting cattle. American Society of Parasitology. Working in the college’s Center Dr. David S. Lindsay, associate for Molecular Medicine and Infectious professor, Department of Biomedical Disease, Lindsay and colleagues Science and Pathobiology, was pre- demonstrated that the dog is a “defini- Dr. David S. Lindsay sented the Henry Baldwin Ward Medal tive host” for Neospora caninum, a for 2000. Lindsay received the award single-celled parasitic organism which with extremely talented people.” He during the society’s annual meeting in causes pregnant cows to abort their then chronicled the scientists and the San Juan, Puerto Rico in June. fetuses. organizations he has been affiliated with Lindsay has been a major figure in He is also working on an improved during a career that has coincided with international parasitology research for diagnostic test for Equine Protozoal major advancements in the field of much of the past two decades. Much of Myelitis (EPM), a recently identified parasitology. his work has involved the examination disease which causes a range of Lindsay worked at Auburn Univer- of the protozoal parasites causing neurological problems in horses. sity and the American Parasitology diseases like cryptosporidiosis, coccidi- In the Ward Medal acceptance Institute at Beltsville, Maryland prior to osis infection in pigs, and toxoplasmosis. speech Lindsay delivered at the joining the Virginia Tech faculty in More recently, he has been recog- society’s annual meeting this summer 1997. nized for his work as part of a USDA in Puerto Rico, he attributed the honor funded team that made a major break- to “a great deal of luck and association

plastics and lubricants. $1 milli on Resear ch Grant Suppo rt- The work is directly related to ing Gulf W ar Illness Investi gations efforts undertaken by military, govern- ment and medical officials to critically examine what has been referred to in the media as “Gulf War Illness.” Victims of Gulf War Illness report a number of maladies, ranging from malaise to neurological disorders and immunosup- Dr. Bernie Jortner and pression as a result of their experiences Dr. Marion Ehrich and during the Gulf War. technical support The targeted chemical compounds personnel in the were both in use during the Gulf War laboratory for Neurotox- icity studies have theatre of operations. collaborated on a Faculty involved with the project number of projects include Drs. Bernie Jortner, professor; designed to learn more Marion Ehrich, professor; Steven about a health disorder Holladay, associate professor; and Hara which has been described by some as Misra, professor; all in the Department “Gulf War Illness.” of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology. Scientists in the college’s Labora- and Materials Command, the program The three-year progam is evaluating tory for Neurotoxicity Studies (LNS) is helping researchers examine the behavioral, neurochemical, neuropatho- and the Immunotoxicity Risk Assess- individual and interactive effects of logical and immunological changes that ment Laboratory (IRAL) are well stress and two chemical compounds on may be caused by stress and the underway on an almost $1 million neurological and immunologic well- chemical agents acting individually or research contract from the U.S. Army being. interactively, Jortner said. designed to assess how stress and Those chemicals include VMRCVM scientists have con- various organophosphate compounds chlorpyrifos, which is commonly used ducted a number of investigations in this may affect health. in insecticides, and triorthotolyl- area for the U.S. Army. However, the Awarded in late 1999 by the phosphate, commonly used as an $910,000 program grant is the largest United States Army Medical Research additive in everything from jet fuel to project funded to date. virginia-maryland 7 Roseanne R obertson Memorial Fund Equippin g Ophthalm ology

Mr. Dick Robertson (center, forefront) and some of his extended family recently gathered for a day at the college. Also pictured on Mr. Robertson’s right are his friends and former Virginia Tech President Dr. William Lavery and his wife Peggy.

To hear veterinary ophthalmolo- dog regaining his vision. ogy service and its personnel, Mr. gist Dr. J. Phillip Pickett tell the story, Yet the combination of Dr. Pickett’s Richardson has worked with the he was just doing his job. skill and Mr. Robertson’s heroic, matching charitable gift program at But an honest day’s work and a around-the-clock nursing care brought Philip Morris to help the college acquire good deed he turned almost a decade success once again. Following surgery about $100,000 worth of ophthalmic ago has led to the establishment diagnostic and surgical equipment. of the Roseanne Robertson The first piece of equipment Memorial Fund and helped the funded was a stationary photo slit Ophthalmology Service acquire lamp biomicroscope with digital more than $100,000 in new video equipment, which has equipment. developed into an excellent Thanks to retired Philip resource for both clinical care, Morris executive Richard “Dick” teaching and outreach. Dr. Pickett Robertson, the service is rapidly says the equipment will serve well becoming one of the defining as a “platform” resource for “on- pieces of the Veterinary Teaching line” veterinary ophthalmology Hospital’s highly acclaimed continuing education courses in the clinical service programs. future. The Roseanne Robertson The fund has also helped the Memorial Fund is a tribute to hospital acquire a Zeiss surgical Dick Robertson’s late wife, yet microscope and digital video it’s genesis can be traced to Mr. camera which have proven ex- Robertson’s first association with tremely useful for ophthalmic the VMRCVM. surgery, as well as in other areas of It was March 1991 when his the hospital where micro-surgery is beloved female Lhasa Apso required. “Chiri” first presented with a Most recently, Mr. Robertson corneal ulcer so severe it was has provided funding that has threatening to burst. enabled the service to acquire a Robertson, a former WWII phaco-emulsification unit for fighter pilot had dropped cataract surgery that is as good a everything, loaded the pet into unit as is available anywhere in his plane and flown immediately both human and veterinary ophthal- to Virginia Tech to seek emer- mology, according to Pickett. gency care for “Chiri’s” critical Mr. Robertson has taken a “hands-on” Pickett says the Robertson condition. approach to his philanthropic involve- ment with the college. Here, he philanthrophy has enabled the Dr. Pickett not only cured examines some of the equipment he service to acquire the high-end the dog, he played host to Mr. has helped the Veterinary Teaching Hospital acquire. equipment much more swiftly than Robertson, driving him around would have been possible through town to find lodging and gather conventional large-scale equipment the essentials he required during acquisition programs such as the his impromptu visit to Blacksburg. SCHEV Trust Fund. Six years later, Mr. Richardson “He’s a tremendous friend of and Chiri were back, but this time and medical therapy, Chiri was seeing the college,” said Pickett, associate things were even more critical. Chiri again. So enamored was Mr. professor, Department of Small Animal was almost blind from complications Richardson of the high-quality service Clinical Sciences. “He’s a dynamic, of Kerato-conjunctivitis sicca and he experienced, he decided to take some energetic guy who has decided he is cataracts; in fact, Mr. Richardson had action. And take action he did. going to do all he can to help us do the been told there was no hope for the Almost “adopting” the ophthalmol- best job possible. We’re very grateful.” virginia-maryland 8 Molecul ar Diagnostics Laboratory Established Carilion Biomedical Institute Funds Effort

A Molecular Diagnostics Labora- Sharova, expect to focus on four major tory is being established in the college, projects in the early phases of the thanks to $50,000 in start-up funding project. from the Carilion Biomedical Institute’s Under Holladay’s leadership, the Optical Science Research and Engineer- lab will support ongoing investigations ing Center. designed to learn more about the role The laboratory will enable clini- environmental toxins and contaminants cians and scientists to investigate the may play in teratology, or the develop- genetic foundations of disease and may ment of health disorders prior to birth. ultimately lead to spin-off corporations Holladay has been examining the role in the private sector, according to Dr. these substances may play in the Mark Crisman, associate professor, development of immunological disor- Department of Large Animal Clinical ders. Sciences. Another program will look at Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in horses, an asthma-like disease which causes severe respiratory problems in horses. Advances in “The lab will enable us to analyze understanding the mechanisms of that gene expression accurately and disorder may lead to improved treat- quickly. We can look at hundreds or ments for human asthma. Dr. Rick Howard, assistant even thousands of different genes in professor, Department of Large Animal one preparation.” Clinical Sciences, will use the labora- Dr. Mark Crisman tory to support his ongoing research into the molecular foundations of osteoar- thritis in horses, another disorder that has significant comparative implications for human arthritis and degenerative The laboratory will be equipped to joint disease. conduct microarray analysis, a new Finally, the laboratory will provide technology for rapidly evaluating high support for investigations on how volumes of genetic samples. diabetes leads to pregnancy complica- “The lab will enable us to analyze tions. gene expression accurately and quickly,” The research team is also in the said Crisman. “We can look at hundreds process of building a library of human, or even thousands of different genes in mouse, and horse “probes,” genetic one preparation.” markers required in order to conduct Scientists are increasingly looking microarray analysis. at the genetic and proteomic foundations They plan to seek funding from of disease in an effort to better under- additional sources, and have already stand the causes, and ultimately the submitted a grant to a National Institutes cures, for all forms of disease. Under- of Health program which provides standing which genes are expressed and funding for life sciences research with which remain “quiet” during states of strong potential for commercial devel- health and disease will eventually help opment in the private sector. scientists develop improved drug therapies, Crisman said. Crisman, along with colleagues Dr. Steven Holladay, associate professor, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, and Dr. Lioudmilla

virginia-maryland 9 Resear cher’s Seek Secret t o Birth Defect Reversal by Meg Conlon Fetal development is a highly choreographed process. But all too often it is disrupted when a mother is exposed to a teratogen Ð an agent known to cause a variety of birth defects. In the United States alone, 150,000 babies are born with defects like these, making birth defects the leading cause of infant mortality. But what if there was a way to reduce or even reverse these defects? Call it unbelievable, call it magic, or call it as toxicologist Dr. Steven Holladay does, “immunoteratology.” The name comes from the influence the mother’s immune system can have in assuring fetal development remains on track. Recognizing the tremendous impact this could have on the number of babies born with birth defects every year, Holladay and his team of research- ers have set out to discover just how this Immunotoxicologist Dr. Steven Holladay and Dr. Lioudmilla Sharova examine data in the magic really works. Immunotoxicity Risk Assessment Laboratory. Scientists have reported that response in the fetus. fetus, immunostimulation of the mother injecting pregnant mice with an inert So instead of a direct effect from may cause an increase in that same growth substance large enough will alert and set maternal immune cells, they looked for an factor in the fetus. In this way, Holladay’s into action one of the body’s frontline indirect effect. team was able to reduce the incidence of immune cells called “macrophages.” Once set into action, immune cells clubbed digits from 20 percent to zero, These macrophages essentially engulf secrete a vast array of proteins called and cut the number of cleft palates by half. and break down what they see as cytokines or growth factors that regulate The implications of Holladay’s foreign Ð a process called phagocytosis. immune responses through cell-to-cell research could be enormous. Traditional In the past, other researchers had communication. Similar or sometimes thinking has long held that the fetus is a hypothesized that the macrophages were identical growth factors are also required preprogrammed entity that derives acting directly on the fetus. Under this for the timed expression of cell-cycle nutrition from the mother, but otherwise scenario, the cells would cross the genes. Cell-cycle genes control carefully directs its own development. But the placenta from the mother, then find and orchestrated waves of cellular prolifera- observation that maternal immune eliminate abnormally developing cells tion, differentiation, or cell death neces- stimulation causes altered expression of in the fetus that were causing birth sary for normal development. Consider critical genes in the fetus indicates it’s defects such as cleft palates, digit the development of the hand as an time for another look. anomalies and neural tube defects example. Cells proliferate, but at some Holladay says these observations affecting the brain and spinal cord. point, some of the cells must undergo may suggest that there is routine cross-talk But that proved to be a dead end. programmed cell death Ð apoptosis Ð to between fetus and mother via chemical Holladay and his co-worker on this create separate digits. mediators, and that mothers may play a project, Dr. Lioudmila Sharova, decided To test this hypothesis, Holladay and much greater role than once believed in to turn down a different road. While Sharova looked at the expression of a fetal development. Not only does this their own tests clearly showed that limited panel of genes that regulate cell indicate that optimal maternal immune immune stimulation did reduce birth cycle and apoptosis during fetal develop- health may be important for protection defects in mice, they believed some- ment of the palate. Using laboratory against agents or events that lead to many thing other than maternal immune cells animals, they found that when the mother birth defects, but it also raises the question crossing the placenta was causing this is injected with a known teratogen like whether individuals with a compromised phenomenon. urethane, there is decreased expression of immune system are at greater risk for They knew that fundamental these critical development genes, resulting having babies with birth defects. reproductive immunology suggests in cleft palates. Answering these questions could help maternal immune cells don’t routinely Repeated studies also verified that unlock some of the secrets to fetal traffic across the placenta. This is in stimulation of the maternal immune development and a mother’s early role in part because the fetus is genetically system has the opposite effect on activity ensuring things go right. different from the mother and will be of these cell cycle genes in the fetus, Meg Conlan is a veterinary student who is recognized by her immune cells as significantly increasing their expression currently taking a brief sabbatical from her foreign, resulting in what is known as a level. So while a chemical like urethane studies to care for her infant. She is working negative “graft-vs- host” rejection part-time in the Office of Research and might reduce the growth factor in the Graduate Studies. virginia-maryland 10 Chi Chapter Phi Zet a Induc ts Member s, Awards Sch olarships

Twenty-three DVM students, a some of the expenses incurred during Class of 2001 members inducted faculty member and a Ph.D student these educational opportunities. were Carrie Lynn Ellis, G. Anthony were inducted into the College’s “We are extremely grateful for Gray, Jessica S. Mikszewski, Sara most prestigious academic honor the scholarship support we receive Monahan, Leela Elise Noronha, Elissa society, the National Society of Phi from organized veterinary medicine Randall, Valeria Rickard, Cassandra Zeta, during recent ceremonies in and corporations,” said Carrig, who Lynn Thomas, and Phillip Turfle. Blacksburg. The honorees were noted that 18 organizations donated a Dr. Otto I. Lanz, an assistant inducted by Chi Chapter President total of $5500 to support Phi Zeta professor in the Department of Small Dr. Mark Smith, and about $5,500 scholarships. Animal Clinical Sciences, and Dr. in scholarship support was awarded Scholarship support was provided Christiane Massicotte, a veterinarian during the event. by the Roanoke Valley Veterinary pursuing her Ph.D. degree, were also Dr. Leon Geyer, a professor in Medical Association, the Central inducted during the event. Virginia Tech’s Department of Virginia Veterinary Medical Associa- The Chi Chapter of Phi Zeta also Agricultural and Applied Econom- tion, the Southwest Virginia Veterinary recognized winners of their annual ics and chair of the university’s Medical Association, the Greater scientific manuscript contest. Dr. Honors Peninsula Veterinary Medical Associa- Massicotte was honored for her work in System tion, the South Hampton Roads Veteri- basic sciences, and Dr. Henry Bianucci, Review nary Medical Association, the Prince a former resident in the Department of Board, William Veterinary Medical Associa- Small Animal Clinical Sciences, was congratu- tion, the Blue Ridge Veterinary Medical recognized for his work in the clinical lated the Association, the Montgomery County sciences. “We are extremely inductees Veterinary Medical Association, the grateful for the on their Fredericksburg Veterinary Medical scholarship support achieve- Association, and the Harford County ments and Veterinary Medical Association. The we receive from discussed past presidents of the Chi chapter of Phi organized veterinary the Zeta also provided scholarship support. National Phi Zeta medicine and corpo- impor- Corporations providing scholarship tance of Research Awards rations.” support included Bayer Corporation academic Animal Health, Pfizer Inc. Animal Presented integrity, Dr. Colin Carrig Health Group, Schering-Plough Animal honor and Health, Novartis Animal Health US A former surgical resi- profes- Inc., Ralston Purina Company, dent in the VMRCVM has sionalism VAMVESS-Hill’s, and Professional won top honors in the Phi during a Educational Enterprises. Textbook Zeta national manuscript keynote awards were provided by Harcourt address. Health Sciences and Lippincott, contest. Williams & Wilkins, and the The 2000 National Phi Phi Zeta is the honor society of VMRCVM provided additional support Zeta Award in the clinical veterinary medicine that recognizes for the event. high scholarship, stands for constant Membership in Phi Zeta is open sciences category was pre- advancement of the veterinary to faculty members and graduate sented to Dr. Henri C. profession, and promotes research in students who have made significant Bianucci. Dr. Bianucci’s matters pertaining to the welfare and contributions to veterinary medicine manuscript was entitled diseases of animals. The VMRCVM’s and to veterinary students who rank in Chi Chapter was established in 1984. the top 10 percent of the third year “Periodontal healing of The event marked the fifth time class and the top 25 percent of the canine experimental grade- that scholarships have been pro- fourth year class. III furcation defects treated vided for inductees, according to Class of 2000 members inducted with autologous fibrinogen Dr. Colin Carrig, Secretary- were Philip Edward Bailey, Patricia A. Treasurer of Phi Zeta. Coles, Jennifer Noelle Collins, and absorbable barrier Fourth year veterinary students Stephanie C. Flaherty, Michelle Lynn membrane.” participate in three-week off-campus Gorbutt, Erin Ellen Hardam, Douglas C. Biannuci is now a surgi- elective clerkships that sometimes Humphrey, Barbara M. Leotta, involve national and international Katherine Marie Newhart, Reema T. cal specialist with Coastal travel. The scholarship support is Patel, Richard P. Streett, III, and Earl Carolina Veterinary Surgery designed to assist students in meeting Willis. in South Carolina. virginia-maryland 11 222

Dr. John Robertson, professor, Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, urged the graduates to be confident in their abilities to serve animals and people during the commencement ceremony’s keynote address. VMRCVM Gradu ates 17th Cl ass

The former Maryland governor who began Maryland’s official involvement with 000 helped create the College’s regional founda- the regional veterinary college. Memorializing tions was honored during the 17th annual the late Virginia governor who signed its commencement ceremony. founding legislation, the Dalton Society The Honorable Harry R. Hughes was honors those who have provided distinguished inducted into the college’s John N. Dalton service for the college. Society during the ceremonies. Hughes Eighty-eight DVM degrees, one Ph.D served two terms as governor of Maryland, degree, eight M.S. degrees and five Certifi- from 1978 until 1986. He signed the Memo- cates of Residency were awarded during the randum Of Understanding with the late ceremony. 000 Virginia Governor John N. Dalton which Featuring dignitaries from both Virginia

Dean Peter Eyre presents former Maryland Governor Harry R. Hughes with a commemorative following his 000 induction into the John N. Dalton Society. virginia-maryland 12 Santini Named Class of 2000 Outstanding Dr. Dale L. Cupp, president of the Virginia Veterinary Medical Association, welcomed Student the new veterinarians into the profession on behalf of organized veterinary medicine.

by Colleen Kuenzig, Office of University Relations intern

Elizabeth Santini’s outstanding academic performance and demon- strated leadership talents earned her the VMRCVM’s Outstanding Senior Award Dr. Michael Erskine, (Class of ‘88), for 2000. president of the Maryland Veterinary While maintaining a 3.5 grade Medical Association, administered the “Veterinarian’s Oath” to the graduates. point average, the Maryland native gained experience through externships with the U. S. Department of Agricul- ture and Ashby Herd Health Services. She also worked as an assistant for Breton Veterinary Hospital for Compan- ion Animals and the University of Martlan Veterans’ Administration Dr. Anthony T. Blikslager (Class of ‘89), Medical Center. a faculty member at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary “Elizabeth was selected for her Medicine, was honored as the academic performance, clinical skills College’s Outstanding Young Alumna and outstanding leadership skills,” said for 2000. Dr. Dru Forrester, director of student affairs. “She is admired by her peers and will serve as an excellent role model in the veterinary profession.” Santini served as the president and president-elect of the Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association, and participated in many Veterinary ophthalmologist Dr. J. Phillip other organizations, including the Food Pickett was presented the Dr. and Mrs. Animal Practitioner’s Club, American Dorsey Taylor Mahin Award for Clinical Excellence. Association of Bovine Practitioners, American Association of Small Rumi- nant Practitioners, Equine Practitioners Club, American Association of Equine Tech and the University of Maryland, Mahin Award for Clinical Excellence, Practitioners, and Alpha Psi Veterinary the colorful pageant included the an award that honors veterinarians Fraternity. administration of the “Veterinarian’s who display skill and compassion in The former valedictorian of her Oath,” the “Hooding Ceremony,” and service to animals and people, was high school class has continued to earn the presentation of numerous awards presented to veterinary ophthalmolo- honors throughout her collegiate and and honors. gist Dr. J. Phillip Pickett, associate post-graduate education. Dr. John L. Robertson, a professor professor, Department of Small She has won: E.L. Tyler and C.W. in the Department of Biomedical Animal Clinical Sciences. Jeremy Vaughan, Jr. Endowed Scholarship, Sciences and Pathobiology, presented Smedley, the Class of 2000 valedicto- W.R. Winslow Trust Scholarship, the year 2000 address. Dr. Michael rian, was presented with the Richard Student Chapter of the American Erskine, vice-president of the Mary- B. Talbot Award, and Dr. Anthony T. Veterinary Medical Association Schol- land Veterinary Medical Association, Blikslager was named the College’s arship, Maryland Veterinary Foundation administered the “Veterinarian’s Outstanding Young Alumna for 2000. Scholarship, Maryland Delegate Award, Oath,” and Dr. Dale L. Cupp, president Earlier in the day, scores of St. Mary’s College of Maryland Scholar of the Virginia Veterinary Medical scholarship donors and student Award, and the Beta Beta Beta National Association, welcomed the new recipients were recognized during the Biological Honor Society. veterinarians on behalf of organized college’s annual Awards Luncheon. veterinary medicine. The Dr. and Mrs. Dorsey Taylor virginia-maryland 13 SAVMA 2000

Virginia Tech H osts 2000 SA VMA Conferen ce

exhibit hall featuring new information and the latest in veterinary medical and surgical technology. The SAVMA 2000 House of Delegates, which is the governing and policy body for the national association of veterinary students, also convened during the first two days of the meeting. Topics explored throughout the meeting included small animal, equine, food animal, emergency medicine, exotics, wildlife, small ruminant medicine, and others. Some of the non- traditional programs offered included alternative medicine, animal behavior, About 1200 veterinary students and government and corporate opportu- and scores of representatives from nities and experiences. corporations serving the profession of The SAVMA symposium also veterinary medicine converged at included a “Look Back to New Orleans Virginia Tech in Blacksburg March Party,” a “Welcome to Blacksburg, 15-18, 2000 for SAVMA Symposium Virginia” party, a “Betting on the Future 2000. and Blowing out the Old Century” SAVMA, which stands for party, and a 5K run. Student American Veterinary Medical Excursions to The Biltmore in Association, is a national association Asheville, North Carolina, Baltimore- of veterinary students affiliated with Washington to look at the College’s the American Veterinary Medical Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Association. The meeting is hosted Center, the Smithsonian and the annually by an American college of Baltimore Aquarium, and other regional veterinary medicine. This is the first sites, were also offered. time in the history of the Virginia- The keynote speaker for the final Maryland Regional College of evening event was Dr. David G. Pugh, Veterinary Medicine that it has hosted currently Director of Llama Research Veterinary students from around the nation the event. participated in a series of about 100 and Assistant Professor of Large Animal lectures, laboratory experiences, and SAVMA Symposium 2000, Surgery and Medicine at Auburn intercollegiate scholastic competitions “Bridging the Millennia/Uniting University College of Veterinary during their visit to Blacksburg for SAVMA Tradition and Technology in Veteri- Medicine. Dr. Pugh, a former professor 2000. The event also included a variety of nary Medicine,” featured almost 100 social and athletic events. at the VMRCVM, discussed how the lectures, laboratories and intercolle- practices of the past and the technology giate competitions. For the first time, of the future can combine successfully the symposium featured a commercial in veterinary medicine. virginia-maryland 14 Dr. Michael Leib, professor, recently published in Brazil. Carter, a veterinary Veterinary Hematology, published by Lippincott, Department of Small Animal Clinical microbiologist, worked extensively in Brazil during Williams and Wilkins. This classic text has been and Sciences, recently made a series of his career. is the definitive veterinary hematology text for the continuing education presentations at the Dr. Beverly Purswell, associate professor, past 40 years. It was last published 15 years ago. British Small Animal Veterinary Association Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Published in late June 2000, the new edition has Congress in Birmingham, England. Those presented two posters and three abstracts at the 4th 1400 pages, over 500 illustrations, 192 chapters, included “Chronic vomiting: a diagnostic International Conference on Canine and Feline 222 authors and includes over 100 clinical case approach,” “Upper GI endoscopy,” Reproduction in Oslo, Norway. Purswell also descriptions. “Therapy of gastric diseases,” “Chronic represented the Virginia Veterinary Medical Dr. Marie Suthers-McCabe, extension vomiting: refractory cases,” “Chronic Association as an alternate delegate during a meeting human/companion animal interaction specialist, vomiting: interactive cases,” and “Fluid of the American Veterinary Medical Association’s recently presented “Safe Pets program for Domestic therapy for GI diseases.” Leib also made House of Delegates in Salt Lake City, Utah. Violence” at the Action Ohio Domestic Violence presentations on “Chronic diarrhea: a case Dr. Spencer Johnston, associate professor, Research Symposium in Columbus. She was also a oriented diagnostic approach,” “Acute Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, was keynote presenter at the “Horse Trailer Emergency pancreatitis,” and “Helicobacter gastritis” at recently presented with a Distinguished Post- Rescue” seminar for emergency and rescue a meeting of the Louisiana Academy of doctoral Veterinary Alumnus Award from Michigan personnel, veterinarians, veterinary technicians, Veterinary Medicine in Baton Rouge, LA. State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. horse owners and horse carriers which was Leib also made a presentation on Johnston, who conducted a surgical residency at sponsored by the Maryland Fire and Rescue “Esophageal Strictures” and served as a MSU from 1987-90, was honored for his perfor- Institute at the Maryland State Fair Grounds in special interest group presentation leader mance as an exemplary faculty member in the Timonium. She also made a presentation entitled on “Endoscopy: What’s your Diagnosis” at VMRCVM, where he has earned nine teaching “Beneficial Effects of Animal Companionship in the American College of Veterinary Internal awards in seven years and established an excellent Human Health and Well-being” at a meeting of the Medicine’s 18th annual Veterinary Medical reputation for research and clinical activities. Fredericksburg Veterinary Medical Association. Forum in Seattle. Leib also made Jeffrey S. Douglas, APR, director of public Suthers-McCabe also made a presentation on “The presentations on acute pancreatitis, relations, VMRCVM, moderated a panel discussion Link Between Violence to People and Cruelty to chronic vomiting: the role of Helicobacter, on “Live Animals in Teaching and Research: How is Animals” at a meeting sponsored by the Richmond therapy of gastric diseases, acute it Playing in Peoria?” during a recent meeting of the ws SPCA in conjunction with the Prevent Child Abuse diarrhea, and inflammatory bowel disease Association of Veterinary Advancement Profession- Virginia Conference in Richmond. She also at a meeting of the Vermont Veterinary als in Salt Lake City, Utah. presented “A holistic Approach to Humane Medical Association in Vergennes, Vermont. Dr. Xiang-Jin Meng, assistant professor, Education: Animals in the Community” during the Dr. David Lindsay, associate Department of Biomedical Sciences and “Safe Pets” program of the 2nd Annual Humane professor, Department of Biomedical Pathobiology, has recently been awarded several Education Seminar held at the University of Illinois. Sciences and Pathobiology, recently had research grants as principal investigator (including She also made several presentations on the human- two articles published in professional two NIH grants). These grants support him to study animal bond and the use of birds as therapy animals journals. “Isolation and characterization of the pathogenesis, zoonotic and xenozoonotic risks in long-term care centers at the annual conference Sarcocystis neurona from a Southern sea of swine hepatitis E virus, to develop a vaccine of the Mid-Atlantic States Association of Avian otter (Enhydra lutris nereis)” was published against porcine circovirus-associated disease, and Veterinarians in Williamsburg. She also made a in the International Journal of Parasitology to study the molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis presentation entitled “Human Animal Bond: The and “Activity of decoquinate against by porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome Challenge of Evacuation Compliance and Facing Cryptosporidium parvum in cell cultures virus and hepatitis C virus. Pet Loss” at the National Disaster Medical System and neonatal mice” was published in He recently chaired the review panel of “STEP 2000 Conference in Las Vegas. She also made two Veterinary Parastitology. Lindsay also N: Hepatitis Vaccines” for the U.S. Army’s Intramural presentations on the link between cruelty to animals presented “Oocyst production in dogs fed Military Infectious Diseases Research Program and interpersonal violence at a program sponsored tissue cysts of a cloned bovine strain of (FY99 Report). Meng has recently been appointed by the Washington County Animal Defense League Neospora caninum” and chaired a session to the Editorial Board of the Infectious Disease in Abingdon. She also made a presentation on “Pets on “Life cycles and Epidemiology” at a joint Review and the Journal of Clinical Microbiology. and Primary Care” at an interdepartmental primary meeting of the American Society of Meng has recently authored and co-authored care conference entitled “The Impact of Companion Parasitologists (75th Annual meeting) and seven articles in peer-reviewed journals on swine Animals on Patient Well-being” sponsored by the The Society of Protozoologists in San hepatitis E virus, porcine reproductive and MCV-VCU in Richmond. Juan, Puerto Rico. respiratory syndrome virus and porcine circovirus Dr. W. Edward Monroe, professor, Depart- Lindsay was also awarded the (two published in Journal of Clinical Microbiology, ment of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, presented prestigious Henry Baldwin Ward medal and one each published in Journal of Medical lectures on Cushing’s Disease, diabetes, feline from the American Society of Parasitolo- Virology, Journal of Virology, Infectious Disease hyperthyroidism and other topics during a meeting of gists in recognition of his leadership in the Review, Veterinary Microbiology, and American the Virginia Academy of Small Animal Medicine in field of parasitology at the meeting. Dr. Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene). He was Portsmouth, Virginia. Monroe also made a Lindsay has also been appointed to the invited to write an editorial for the Journal of presentation entitled “Insulin Treatment of Canine Editorial Board of the Journal of Zoo and Hepatology on the emerging issues of the hepatitis Diabetes Mellitus” at the American College of Wildlife Medicine. E virus. Veterinary Internal Medicine’s annual Forum in Alexa C. Rosypal, graduate student Meng recently gave an invited lecture on Seattle. in Parasitology, Department of Biomedical xenozoonotic risk of swine hepatitis E virus at the Dr. Larry Freeman, associate professor, Sciences and Pathobiology, was elected Xenotransplantation Workshop in Minneapolis, MN, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Patho- the graduate student representative to the an invited talk on virus xenozoonosis at the IBC’s biology, served as program chair for the annual American Association of Veterinary Biological Safety and Products 2000 Conference in meeting of the American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists at their recent annual Washington DC, and invited seminars at PPL Anatomists in San Diego, California. He also meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah. Therapeutics, Inc. and Fralin Biotech Center on presented a paper entitled “Double cranial vena Sharonda Meade, a graduate swine hepatitis E virus. Meng was a co-author of cava in a horse” at the meeting, which was held in student working toward her Ph.D. in the seven presentations at recent national meetings on conjuction with the annual convention of the College’s Department of Large Animal swine hepatitis E virus and porcine reproductive and American Association of Anatomists/Federation of Clinical Sciences, recently received an respiratory syndrome virus (three at the 80th American Societies of Experimental Biology. award for “Best Research Paper” during Conference of Research Workers in Animal Dr. Peter Eyre, dean, has made a series of the 72nd Northeastern Conference on Diseases, Chicago, IL, three at American Society for presentations before varying groups around the Avian Diseases held at the University of Virology 18th Annual Meeting, Amherst, MA, and one nation regarding the strategic responses that names in the ne Delaware. Meade’s paper was entitled at the 2000 Annual Meeting of American Association academic veterinary medicine may mount in “The effectiveness of fenbendazole, of Swine Practitioner, Indianapolis, IN). One of response to challenges outlined in the KPMG roxarsone, and itroimidazole derivatives in Meng’s graduate students, Martijn Fenaux, won the MegaStudy. Eyre made presentations before the the treatment of Cochlosoma anatis second place award in basic sciences at the annual meeting of the Association of Veterinary infections in turkeys.” College’s 12th Annual Research Symposium. Advancement Professionals in Salt Lake City and Don Massie, supervisor of the Dr. Marion Ehrich, professor, Department of during an economic symposium sponsored by the Biomedical Media Unit, has been named Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, has been American Veterinary Medical Association during their recipient of the year 2000 Dean & accepted as a Fellow of the Academy of Toxicologi- annual meeting in Salt Lake City. Eyre also made Department Area Staff Award. Massie cal Sciences. Established in 1981 to honor and similar presentations during the AVMA’s Annual joined the veterinary college in 1984. certify toxicologists who have achieved peer Leadership Conference in Chicago, during a Dr. Gordon Carter, professor recognition, the academy includes 130 fellows from meeting of the South Carolina Veterinary Medical emeritus in the VMRCVM, has collabo- 12 different countries. Association in Charleston, at the North Carolina rated with a former Brazilian graduate Dr. Bernard Feldman, professor, Department State University College of Veterinary Medicine in student to write a book entitled “Brazilian of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, served as Raleigh, during the SAVMA 2000 Symposium in Portuguese For Travelers” which has been senior editor of the Fifth Edition of Schalm’s Blacksburg, and at the University of Illinois. virginia-maryland 15 Development Report from the Blacksburg Campus by E. Frank Pearsall, II – DVM ’84

It has been another great year for the University and for our College. We continue to be blessed with loyal donors who give year after year and with new ones joining the college family to advance our mission with their gifts of time and resources. To say we are thankful is a tremendous understatement. As reported by the university, the Blacksburg campus experienced a 54% increase over last year with $1,423,898 and the Equine Medical Center a four-fold increase with $2.4 million in funds received. When we add funds pledged, it gets even better: $3,035,466 for the Blacksburg Campus and $2,437,353 for the EMC for a total of $5,472,819. And this still does not include revocable gifts, such as wills. So you have been generous once again. Thank you!

As you have no doubt heard, our new President, Dr. Charles Steger, has set a goal for the university to move into the top 30 research universities in America by the year 2010. We can do that, but it will take some work. Part of that will be a major campaign beginning in 2003. Complementing that goal Dean Eyre has interpreted in his article in this issue what that means for us. We will move into the top 10 veterinary colleges in America by the same date. We can do that too. What will we have to change to make it possible? - continue doing what we do well, embrace new opportunities, and expand our circle of friends.

To address the latter, Jeff Douglas, our Public Relations Director, and I will develop ways to open communication with the animal lovers that we know about and may have communicated with at one time, but with whom we have not maintained any kind of dialogue. The two largest groups are our former Teaching Hospital clients and those who have participated in the Veterinary Memorial Fund program. But we know that these are not the only constituencies that we need to address. If you know of a group or of individuals that would be interested in knowing more about our college, please let me know. Our goal is to identify our friends and begin to develop those relationships. As we are successful at that, those who want to be supporters financially will step forward. We are fortunate that there is no shortage of animal lovers, nor any scarcity of funds. It is only a process of developing relationships, and from them every other opportunity will evolve. If you have suggestions, please let me know by calling 540-231-4259 or through email at [email protected]. Thank you for your partnership with us in the exciting move to the next tier of excellence for the college serving our two states.

Gifts of $10,000 or More Received or Pledged July 1, 1999 - June 30, 2000

Ms. Dorothy A. Metcalf Dr. JoAnne S. O’Brien, one of the $26,000. His total giving with matches has made an extremely first female veterinarians to practice in for this purpose now totals $122,477 as generous pledge of $2,000,000 the District of Columbia and an accom- a result of the special care by Dr. Phil over the next 10 years to plished dog breeder and judge, has Pickett and all those in his section and advance two areas of critical established two life-income gifts with the whole Teaching Hospital. We are importance in the growth of the college to support Canine and Feline excited to be working with Dick to raise leadership for the college. Theriogenology. Dr. O’Brien was first a the level of service and teaching in Half will be used to support client of Dr. Beverly Purswell’s and was ophthalmology. the Dorothy A. and Richard G. impressed with her expertise and with Mr. and Mrs. Cecil and Nancy Metcalf Professorship of the college supporting the first female Pruitt have created The Serendipity Informatics and half will faculty member to be president of the Animal Sanctuary, Inc. Scholarship support the like named Virginia Veterianry Medical Association. Endowment with a gift of $97,079 to Human-Animal Interaction Dr. O’Brien is also active in assisting the provide scholarships to veterinary Fund. These two areas will be college in its efforts to develop a closer students “who are pursuing a clerkship, of increasing importance to the relationship for admissions with the internship, or research in the medicine, DEVELOPMENT profession over the next District. treatment, public policy, or program decade and beyond. The Mr. Richard D. Robertson has approaches to the pet over-population efforts and individuals continued to add to the Roseanne issue.” They are great animal lovers supported now will help define Robertson Memorial Fund towards his who devote significant time and these areas of the profession in goal of making our Ophthalmology resources to helping animals. We the future. We thank Ms. Section among the tops in the country appreciate their support to help students Metcalf for the $450,000 with gifts of $50,000 and matches from make lasting contributions to address already received to accelerate Philip Morris Companies, Inc. of this problem. this growth. virginia-maryland 16 Ms. Carolyn Adele Russell has of their generosity and active interest in the DVM program with financial need. made a pledge of at least $50,000 the affairs of the college, as well as Bell Jim is a loyal Hokie, a generous with gifts of $5000 a year for the next Atlantic Foundation’s support of their supporter of programs within our ten years or more and a bequest commitment. college and across the university, and he provision to support a neurology Anonymous donors in Richmond and his wife are great animal lovers and fellowship for post-DVM students, have made a charitable lead trust which servers. They do not just admire pets with a preference for neurosurgery. benefits the college and its research from afar, but roll up their sleeves and Ms. Russell has a background in efforts on behalf of dogs and cats. The nurture them first hand. We appreciate nursing and was especially pleased donors have kindly made it possible to their dedication to the university, to the with the diligence, skill, and compas- use the $36,575 donated so far as seed college, and to animals. sion of Dr. Otto Lanz as he helped money for an educational research Dr. and Mrs. John G. Salsbury her dog Ginger return to normal program. Under the guidance of Dr. have again added to their endowment activity through back surgery. Her Bob Martin, our Hospital Director, the named for his father, Dr. Joseph E. gifts will assure talented students college is attempting to create a new, Salsbury, a pioneer in the production have assistance in developing their higher certification opportunity for and use of vaccines for animals, expertise in this area. veterinary technicians to recognize and especially in the poultry industry, with a Mrs. Francis Farr Young has support these valued members of the gift of $20,000. Dr. Salsbury has kindly once again made an early distribution profession. We anticipate that this may allowed us to diversify his endowment’s of the $2,000,000 estate provision become a national model and appreciate use to not only support fourth year made by her and her late husband, Dr. the opportunity to seek new answers for DVM students who “demonstrate Tyler Young, by giving a second an increasingly complex profession. superior scholarship, initiative, persever- $50,000 towards their endowed The Ralston Purina Company has ance, potential for leadership, and scholarship fund. Both Dr. and Mrs. generously provided $30,000 to the financial need”, but also a multi-year Young have had extensive careers in college to partially fund a nutrition fellowship to support students in the veterinary medicine as practice technician in the Teaching Hospital for Government and Corporate Veterinary owners, as presidents of the Southern its Veterinary Nutrition Support Service, Medicine track preparing for a career Veterinary Medical Association and while also continuing its annual scholar- serving the poultry industry. The its Auxiliary respectively, and as ship support of $1000. Our nutrition Salsbury’s giving now totals $233,000 supporters of the veterinary colleges program is now one of the tops, if not and their endowment has grown to at Auburn and Virginia Tech. They the tops, in the country due in part to $475,720. have exemplified the best in the support from corporations in the animal The Virginia Federation of Dog profession by their life-long dedica- feed business. We appreciate Ralston Clubs and Breeders has given $12,100 tion to veterinary medicine as a team. Purina for being among those supporters. during this time period which covers We are honored to be a part of their The Virginia Kennel Club has two years’ support of a $1500 scholar- efforts to advance the profession. pledged $30,000 over the next six years ship to a member of each class who is The W. R. Winslow Residuary to create an annual scholarship award of “financially deserving Virginia student Trust has not only continued its $500 and an endowment to perpetuate based on academic merit, financial need, support of the named scholarship support of veterinary students with an and an interest in purebred dogs.” The endowment which supports students interest in pure bred dogs. We appreci- Federation has been an important ally of without discrimination from Mary- ate the partnership which this represents the College dating back to its members’ land, Virginia, the District, or North between owners, breeders, dog lovers, phone and letter campaign to get state Carolina enrolled at the College, but and the profession dedicated to serving government release of funds for the also has increased its support through them and their animals. We are honored creation of the college. Their loyal diligent stewardship and management to be a part of it. support now totals $156,650. of the Trust. We are both grateful to Mr. and Mrs. W. Stuart Johnson, The Marion Bradley Via Memo- Mr. Winslow and to those carrying great supporters of the university, have rial Foundation has again provided out his wishes at First Union. Giving made a gift of $26,151 to establish the $12,000 to support the Peter L. Via this year was $38,931 for a cumula- Freda B. and W. Stuart Johnson Animal Scholarship which provides major tive total of $696,111 to our college Compassion Endowment to “provide support for four years for an individual and the College of Agriculture and assistance to owners coming to the student showing academic achievement Life Sciences. VMRCVM Teaching Hospital so that and overall leadership potential as Frank A. and Helen D. Spurr, Jr. pets which can be reasonably helped to recommended by the Dean. It is an have generously continued their recover and live out a full life are given honor to be able to make such a signifi- support of canine and feline research that chance and not euthanized due cant award annually. through assistance to students in the solely to financial constraints.” We Summer Internship program with an thank them for their gift to the College additional gift of $37,197, which and for giving us the opportunity to give includes a $10,000 match from the the gift of life to pets and their owners. Bell Atlantic Foundation. Their total James M. Stevens has for the 6th support with matches for their year in a row given $25,000 to his endowment is $125,500, not counting named scholarship endowment to assist planned giving. We are appreciative Virginia residents in good standing in

virginia-maryland 17 DearDear Thagy…Thagy…

Thagy, short for Pythagoras Ð his Mom is a Math Professor - lives with Steve Clark, Director of Planned Giving at Virginia Tech. In addition to completing basic obedience class, he has acquired some experience in various estate planning issues.

Dear Thagy,

I want to make a gift to help the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, but I am concerned that I may need my assets to pay for future health care costs. Is there a way that I still could support the College?

Willing in Williamsburg

Dear Thagy, Dear Willing,

I’m confused. I hear a lot of people talking about how a certain Absolutely! One of the easiest ways to make a big difference amount of the assets my wife and I own will be protected from at the College is through your Will. By making a gift estate taxes. However, I keep hearing different amounts. How through your Will, you can provide significant support that much is it? And what do I have to do to take advantage of it? you might not otherwise be able to provide during your lifetime. More importantly, you continue to have access to Curious in Culpeper your assets. Thus, you would continue to be able to meet whatever expenses may arise. For those with estates subject to estate taxes, such a gift will have the added benefit of Dear Curious, reducing (or even eliminating) such taxes.

You are referring to an amount shielded by the “unified credit” Larger gifts (currently $25,000 or more) can allow you to (as the tax code calls it). This credit effectively shields a certain create an endowment in the College. An endowment is a amount of your estate from estate taxes. If your estate doesn’t fund that provides perpetual financial support for scholar- exceed this amount, it will owe no estate taxes. ships, professorships, research, and other needs at the College. Any gifts made through your Will should be For a number of years, the amount shielded by the credit was directed to the Virginia Tech Foundation, Inc. $600,000. Since the credit had not been raised in a number of years, a law was enacted several years ago to gradually raise it. In 2000 and 2001 the credit will shield $675,000 in assets. This There are also some other ways that you can make a gift amount will rise to $1,000,000 by 2006. while still providing for future health care costs. They involve gifts through retirement accounts, life insurance, and A person doesn’t have to do anything to take advantage of the “life income gifts”—gifts that can pay you money back. To unified credit—it automatically applies. However, married learn more about how you can make such a gift, call Dr. couples are often advised to do some special estate planning to Frank Pearsall at the College Ð 540-231-4259. take advantage of both spouses’ credits. While couples can generally pass assets to spouses free of estate taxes, this Well, I’ve got to go bury some bones. Talk to you next time. provision is not enough to get the most benefit out of both Arf! spouses’ credit. For maximum tax savings, special trusts called “credit shelter trusts” (also known as “A-B” trusts or “bypass Thagy. trusts”) would need to be created and funded. virginia-maryland 18 Alumni News

Dozens of guests turned out Lynn Young to enjoy the college’s alumni reception on the College Park Dear Alumni Society Member: campus.

My first six months in my new position have certainly flown by and I have enjoyed every moment of it! I have met many wonderful people affiliated with this excellent college and am truly impressed by both their professionalism and warm hospitality. During my time here, I have been juggling ideas and events for the three colleges with which I am affiliated —the Colleges of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Natural Resources, and Veterinary Medicine. With such a large number of resources available to me through each program, I am confident that each college will benefit greatly. The College of Veterinary Medicine can look forward to the following ways in which Alumni Association has been actively working on their behalf: I recently attended the 25th annual National Agriculture Alumni and Development Association (NAADA) conference at Purdue University to learn more from other institutions of programming for alumni. Trina Murphy was recently hired to assist with events and programming for the Colleges of Veterinary Medicine and Natural Resources. Trina is a vet med student, expected to graduate in 2002. I recently took part in the week-long orientation for first year students. Hopefully, this will enable the students to have a better understanding of how the Alumni Association can help them as students before they become alums. The College of Veterinary Medicine recently held its first off-campus regional alumni reception at the College Park campus in Maryland on May 21. Dean Eyre, Will Hueston, Fred Fregin, Grant Turnwald, Bob Martin, and about 35 other alumni and friends attended. The annual VMRCVM Alumni Reunion will be held on September 23. The Saturday night dinner will be catered and held at a shelter at the Caboose Park (Hand-in-Hand) playground in Blacksburg. Children will be cared for during the event at the playground and will be supervised by members of the Student Alumni Associates (SAA) from the Virginia Tech Alumni Association. The first Alumni Society board meeting, led by President Julie Holland ’89, will also take place during this weekend. Many new events are planned for alumni beginning in October! On October 14, the annual Morven Park Steeplechase Races will include an alumni reception. Also, an alumni pre-game tailgate will be held at the University of Maryland homecoming football game on October 21! Look for registration materials in late August or early September. I look forward to meeting you at one or all of the events scheduled.

Sincerely,

Lynn Young Alumni Coordinator Alumni Society Calendar of Events: Sept. 22-23, 2000 VVMA and VMRCVM Alumni Reunion, Blacksburg Oct. 14, 2000 Morven Park Steeplechase Races and Alumni Reception, Leesburg Oct. 21, 2000 University of MD Homecoming Football Game and Alumni pre-game tailgate, College Park Jan. 13-17, 2001 North American Veterinary Conference, Orlando Feb. 1-4, 2001 VVMA, Williamsburg Mar. 1-3, 2001 DC Academy, NOVA (place not yet determined)

virginia-maryland 19 News from the Leesburg campus

Virginia Gold Cup 2000

Dr. G. Frederick Fregin, along with Virginia Tech President Charles W. Steger and his son David, braved the 90-degree weather at the Equine Medical Center’s annual hospitality tent at the Virginia Gold Cup steeplechase in The Plains, Virginia. More than 150 supporters and friends of the EMC joined the center’s faculty members and President Steger to watch the day’s races. Each year, Dr. Fregin serves as the veterinary medicine coordinator for this event, which attracts a crowd of more than 50,000 spectators.

Photo by Richard Frasier

EMC’s Caring Volunteers Conclude “Foal Watch 2000 By Ann Nadjar More than 80 people volunteered ing. During foal season, volunteers sit knowledge of how the volunteers can and assisted the Equine Medical with the sick foals for four-hour shifts at best assist the clinicians. Maria also Center during a busy 2000 foaling all hours. During their shift they takes the time to help educate the season. Between January and June, monitor I.V. and oxygen lines, and assist volunteers so they can gain even more volunteers donated time and energy to in hand feeding and grooming the foals from their experiences. “Volunteers aid in the care of more than 50 as directed by the veterinarians and who care about our program and our premature or critically ill foals nurses. patients make the difference at the brought to the EMC for treatment. The volunteer program was initiated EMC,” says Maria. “When a horse is Throughout the year, volunteers in 1992 by Shelley Duke, a horse owner, sick and feels terrible, the additional perform a variety of helpful duties, client, and active supporter of the center grooming and attention given by the depending upon their interests and who now chairs the EMC’s Council. volunteers provides the extra comfort skills. People assist in filing records, Since 1997, Maria Wakefield has served beyond what the doctors, nurses and entering data, and supporting the staff as the volunteer coordinator. Maria is a grooms can do when they are taking with special events and tours. Natu- 1987 graduate of Virginia Tech who care of many patients.” rally, many of the volunteers are worked as a veterinary technician at the One busy volunteer, Sandy experienced in handling horses and EMC for six years before taking on her Danielson, works in Washington DC, want to work with the animals, and so new job. trains her horse in Middleburg and they are kept busiest during the late Maria’s background and experience makes time to volunteer at the EMC winter and spring with the “mat- have been extremely valuable in this throughout the year. She works four babies” in need of constant monitor- new role because of her working hours a week during foal season and beyond. “Working with the foal watch program is an opportunity to contribute and learn at the same time,” says Sandy. “If I can provide even a little bit of comfort and assistance to the recovery of these lovely animals, I am thankful.” The EMC’s volunteer program has also served some as their first experi- ence with Virginia Tech. In the past three years, five volunteers have gone on to college at Virginia Tech and five EMC volunteer Sandy others have entered the VMRCVM. Danielson comforts a sick patient. Photo by Jack Strawther. virginia-maryland 20 New Isolation Unit Project Getting Bequest from Paul Mellon Fosters Underway at EMC His Commitment to Equine Welfare Planning and engineering work is underway on the construction of a new isolation unit at the Equine Since its founding, the Equine Medical Center has Medical Center. Lead architects for the project are from benefited through the munificent patronage of the late Paul Mosely, Harris and McClintock of Virginia Beach. Mellon, culminating recently in a discretionary bequest of $1 Gralla Architects, specialists in equine and equestrian million. Dr. Fred Fregin, the Director, suggested that the facilities, will act as a consultant. bequest be applied to the new Isolation Unit now in the A recent bequest from the estate of the late Paul planning stage. This will provide for not only a substantial Mellon for $1 million, along with smaller private part of the construction cost and equipment but also will contributions and support, will cover construction costs, enable the EMC to reserve a portion of the bequest to endow equipping the new building and starting an endowment maintenance of the structure. for the facility. Funding from the state’s pari-mutuel For most of his life Mr. Mellon had keen interests in racing industry earmarked for Virginia Tech programs horses and participated in fox hunting and steeplechasing. designed to support the horse industry were used to His paramount interest was in Thoroughbred racing, both in support the feasibility study. America and England, and he maintained a large stable at his A stable source of funding to staff the unit, which is beloved Rokeby near Upperville, Virginia. He is the only part of the Emergency Care service, is still needed. The breeder and owner to win both the American and English new Isolation Facility is important for the college’s Derbies as well as the Prix de L’arc de Triomphe in France. accreditation review this fall. Because of his life-long commitment to the welfare of the The finished unit will contain eight isolation stalls horse, Mr. Mellon supported several veterinary colleges and with access from a center aisle and outside covered agricultural research programs, including the Middleburg walkways. The building also will contain rooms for Agricultural Research & Extension Center which he founded equipment, feed, hay and bedding storage, and steriliza- through a gift of a 420-acre farm to Virginia Tech 51 years tion. To facilitate the needs of isolated patients, the stalls ago. He often was receptive to projects that otherwise would are designed with specialized drains and wash stations. not attract private funding such as the new morgue for the “Gralla has designed for us an isolation unit that will University of London’s Royal Veterinary College. At the be spacious and filled with light,” said Dr. G. Frederick Equine Medical Center he participated by equipping the Fregin, the Jean Ellen duPont Shehan Professor and present building in concert with its founder, the late Marion Director of the Center. “Between the architects’ and duPont Scott. Mr. Mellon continued to make grants in his faculty members’ ideas, we can look forward to a unit lifetime to the EMC for new equipment and research. that will be practical, pleasant to be in, and within a In reflecting on his career as a horseman, including budget that still leaves funds for the unit’s endowment.” winning the Old Dominon 100 mile endurance ride three years “Mr. Mellon was a fine gentleman and generous in a row on Christmas Goose, Mr. Mellon once wrote a poem philanthropist who has given a great deal to the equine containing these famous and heartfelt lines: community,” said Fregin. “We are deeply appreciative of Mr. Mellon’s support of the EMC during his lifetime “I’ll thank the Lord the life I’ve led and now of the legacy he has left for us through his Was always near a Thoroughbred.” estate.”

Treadmill Facility to Open Early 2001 Thanks to the generous contribu- through its new treadmill facility. heart, lung, muscle, respiratory and gait tions and support of many friends, the The climate-controlled treadmill functions under high speed, working Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical facility will provide EMC veterinarians conditions. Center will soon begin offering clients with clinical information important in A Stratton high-speed treadmill, state of the art diagnostic services diagnosing problems associated with capable of simulating speeds of up to 55 miles per hour and elevating its plat- form10 degrees in 20 seconds, has been ordered and will be installed in a specially renovated 2500 square-foot facility on the campus of the EMC. EMC officials chose to renovate an existing building as opposed to con- The new treadmill facility structing a new one in order to make the will provide EMC clinicians new service available as soon as with another advanced tool possible. Work on the renovation is for diagnosing equine expected to be complete in early 2001 health problems associ- ated with the circulatory, The building will contain two respiratory, and musculo- holding stalls, a wash stall and stocks, as skeletal systems. well as an equipment room. virginia-maryland 21 New Faculty and Computed Tuesday Talks Series Residents Radiography Service Slated for 2000-2001 The EMC’s faculty and staff coming To EMC Tuesday Talks, a community welcomed three additional doctors in The Equine Medical Center will education series annually hosted by the July. soon acquire a Fuji computed radiogra- Equine Medical Center, will offer four Dr. David Adam-Castrillo has phy system that will enable clinicians to sessions this season. The informal joined the Equine Medical Center as a electronically capture extremely detailed lecture series began four years ago in resident in equine surgery. Adam- radiographs and then output and trans- response to the equine community’s Castrillo received his BS degree from port them in a variety of digital formats. enthusiastic request for information on Suffolk University, Boston in 1994. Replacing the existing xeroradiogra- equine health and medical issues. He received his VMD from the phy system, the new computed system is At each Tuesday evening session, University of Pennsylvania School of expected to provide the detail of horse owners, trainers, managers and Veterinary Medicine in 1998. He also conventional xeroradiography with the veterinarians are invited to gather at completed a Large Animal Medicine storage and networking possibilities of the Leesburg campus for presentations and Surgery Clinical Fellowship at the electronic age. on relevant topics in veterinary Oregon State University, College of A single computed radiograph medicine. Presentations are made by Veterinary Medicine from 1999-2000. enables clinicians to evaluate the digital faculty members from the Leesburg Dr. Julia Georgesen has joined image for bone detail or soft tissue and Blacksburg campuses. the EMC as an intern in equine detail. The image may also be enlarged Topics for the 1999 series included medicine and surgery. She received and enhanced to reveal problems that “Corrective Shoeing and Lameness her DVM from Purdue University cannot be identified in standard film Problems,” “Preparing Your Horse for School of Veterinary Medicine in x-rays. Anesthesia,” “Feeding the Equine May 2000. Digital images are easily archived Athlete,” and “Laser Treatment for Dr. Christopher Meyer joined and stored with patient records and may Upper Airway Problems.” Topics are the EMC as an intern in equine be sent electronically anywhere in the taken from the faculty and suggestions medicine and surgery. Meyer world. This new technology is expected from members of the equine commu- received his DVM from North to be brought on-line at the Equine nity who attend the lectures. Carolina State University College of Medical Center in Fall 2000, thanks to Veterinary Medicine in May 2000. the generous support of friends of the EMC.

Equine Medical Center Names in the News

Dr. Michael Murray, Adelaide C. Dr. Kenneth E. Sullins, associate Grayson Jockey Club Research Riggs Professor of Equine Medicine, professor, Marion duPont Scott Equine Foundation and “Changes in the Plasma Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Medical Center, and Dr. Douglass B. Berry Levels of Atrial Natriuretic Peptide in Center, recently presented four lectures II, resident, have received a grant from the Response to Enteral and Intravenous on equine gastric ulcer syndrome for Virginia Horse Industry Board on “Topical Fluid Therapy” was awarded by the the Michigan Veterinary Medical Antimicrobial Effects on Equine Wound American Quarter Horse Association. Association. In February he presented Healing.” Sullins recently presented a lecture Dr. White also lectured at the Washing- a seminar sponsored by Merial Ltd. on entitled “Noninvasive Laser Lithotripsy in ton State University College of Veteri- equine gastric ulcer syndrome to horse Geldings” at a meeting of the American nary Medicine’s Annual Conference. owners and veterinarians at the Society for Lasers in Medicine and Surgery in Those lectures included “Intestinal Injury, Wellington Horse Festival, West Palm Reno, Nevada. Sullins also conducted a Diagnosis and Decision for Surgery,” Beach, FL. Murray also presented lecture and instructional laboratory on “Laser “Motility Disturbances,” “Shock and “Preliminary Study on the Effect of Surgery in Horses” at the annual meeting of Endotoxemia,” “Epidemiology of Colic,” Topical Administration of l-NAME on the the American Veterinary Medical Association and “Medical Treatment of Colic.” White Gastric Mucosa of the Antrum in in Salt Lake City, Utah. In September, he also presented “Diagnosis and Surgery Ponies” and gave a specialist lecture on served as program chairman and presented a Decision,” “Intestinal Injury,” “Medical equine gastric physiology at the laser surgery course for the American College Treatment for Colic,” and “Epidemiology American College of Veterinary Internal of Veterinary Surgeons annual ACVS of Colic” at the Oregon Veterinary Medicine’s annual ACVIM Forum in Symposium in Crystal City/Leesburg, VA. Medical Association’s annual confer- Seattle, Washington. He also ence. presented four lectures on equine Dr. Nathaniel A. White II, Theodora gastric ulcer syndrome for the Georgia Ayer Randolph Professor of Surgery, has Veterinary Medical Association and been elected to the Board of Directors of the conducted gastroscopy clinics at Laurel, American Association of Equine Practitioners. Pimlico, and Bowie Racetracks in White has recently been awarded two Maryland. Those were sponsored by research grants from equine organizations. Merial Ltd. “Effect of Diet and Fluid Administration on Colonic Ingesta” was awarded by the virginia-maryland 22 News from the maryland campus

Hammer Building Consensus, Vision AVMA District 2 Delegate Dr. Greg Hammer of Dover, Delaware has moved decisively to create a greater sense of community among the many state veterinary medical associations within his jurisdiction.

In an effort to promote mutual understand- ing and unified vision, he has organized several meetings which have joined state VMA officials and other veterinary leaders in a forum that looks at common issues and shared concerns.

Almost 40 people from throughout the Mid- Atlantic States met in early March at the Gudelsky Center at College Park for the first meeting, and another was held in conjunction with the annual meeting of the Maryland Veterinary Medical Association. A third meeting is tentatively scheduled for this Fall in College Park.

Salmonella Risk Reduction at the Farm End of the Food Chain University of Maryland exten- when the cells introduced are either uniform patterns of airflow in close sion poultry veterinarians Dr. Ed killed or inactivated and kept from proximity to litter/manure surfaces Mallinson (emeriti) and Dr. multiplying. could be major features of a HACCP Nathaniel Tablante say recent With funding support from the U.S. program for poultry production. research suggests that some of the Poultry and Egg Association, data has same techniques used to minimize recently been obtained which suggests continued next page salmonella problems at home and in that minimizing water spillage and commercial kitchens may be leakage and effective in reducing the risks in using gently production houses. drying Low-level introductions of Salmonella cells are essentially inevitable, say Mallinson and Tablante; however, the risks of such introductions are largely neutralized

Dr. Edward T. Mallinson (right), extension poultry veterinarian emeritus, accepts a commendation from Andrew Rohrer (left) senior coordinator of the National Poultry Improvement Plan (USDA sponsored). Mallinson was recognized for his outstand- ing efforts and research in the area of Salmonella isolation and identification from poultry and poultry environments. virginia-maryland 23 Mallinson and Nablante stress the new perspective does not diminish the importance of other established control practices such as good hatchery sanitation, properly palletized feeds, fly and rodent control. But the new perspective does suggests that just as proper food prepara- With funding sup- tion and port from the U.S. handling Poultry and Egg procedures can Association, data neutralize has recently been those occa- obtained which sional intro- ductions of suggests that mini- contamination mizing water spill- at the kitchen age and leakage and end of the using gently drying food safety uniform patterns of continuum, sound litter/ airflow in close manure proximity to litter/ Programmatic advancements continue to enhance the “regional” nature of the college, management which is jointly operated by the land-grant universities of Virginia Tech in Blacksburg and manure surfaces strategies that the University of Maryland at College Park. Two recent examples involve the renaming of could be major deter the an “extension” veterinary publication to better reflect the college’s constituencies, and an proliferation expanded distribution network for “Veterinarian’s Notebook.” The syndicated radio features of a program, which features college veterinarians discussing a variety of animal health topics, HACCP program for of salmonella organisms are is now being shared with radio stations throughout the state of Maryland. poultry production. vitally important farm management practices. For more information about the work, please contact Drs. Mallinson or Tablante on the Maryland Campus at ACVPM Prep Course Offered for 1-301-935-6083. Prospective Diplomates Big Success

An innovative preparatory course through a half-dozen four-hour sessions Maryland Center offered through the College’s Center at the Avrum Gudelsky Veterinary for Aquatic Pathology for Government and Corporate Center. The course was digitally Veterinary Medicine (CGCVM) for simulcast to the Centers for Disease Moves to College Park veterinary epidemiologists seeking Control in Atlanta as well as a major diplomate status in the American health sciences center in San Antonio, The Center for Aquatic Pathology College of Veterinary Preventive Texas. formerly located at the University of Medicine (ACVPM) appears to have About 20 board certified veterinary Maryland College of Medicine in paid off for those that participated. epidemiologists made presentations as Baltimore has been relocated to the Thirteen of the 47 candidates part of the course, which was also Avrum Gudelsky Veterinary Center, who sat the examination passed it, video-taped and made available for according to College Park Associate according to CGCVM Associate those who could not participate live, Dean Dr. Will Hueston. Director Dr. Bettye Walters, and nine Walters said. A $160,000 renovation at the of those who passed participated in Participants said the prep course Gudelsky Center has provided the prep course. was of exceptional value, and have quarters for the new center, which is The course was the brainchild of established an e-group to stay in touch under the leadership of Dr. Andy Walters and Maryland Campus on topical issues. Kane. Kane, his graduate students Associate Dean Dr. Will Hueston, The course will be offered again and technical support staff have who recognized the need for the next year. relocated and are resuming work in course in the midst of growing aquaculture and environmental health demand for trained and board certified supported by about $600,000 in U.S. veterinary epidemiologists. Army, Environmental Protection Eighteen individuals enrolled in Agency, and other funding. the course, which was presented virginia-maryland 24 Epidemiology “Grand University College of Veterinary Medicine Dr. Lonnie King to create the Maryland State Fair Rounds” Promoting program. Presents Scholarships “One Medicine” The Fellows will participate in three four-day sessions, Hueston said, with Maryland State Fair officials were Epidemiologists from the meetings scheduled for the Washington so pleased with the success of a new College’s College Park Campus are D.C. area, Michigan State in East program presented by the College that meeting regularly with epidemiolo- Lansing, and an international venue that they decided to do something in kind. gists at the University of Maryland may be in either Mexico or Paris. That reciprocal gesture has come in College of Medicine’s Department of The October meeting scheduled for the form of $3,000 in scholarship Preventive Medicine through a new early October will include an innovative support for Maryland students entering epidemiology “Grand Rounds” program. program on risk communication at the in the college’s Class of 2004. Three “We see this as a great way to “Newseum” in Arlington. The students will each receive $1,000 in stimulate exchange” that really Newseum is a national museum for support during their first year of the promotes the “one-medicine” concept, journalism and communications. DVM program as a result of the gift. said Maryland Campus Associate “They wanted to do something in Dean Dr. Will Hueston. response to the overwhelming success of A number of public health Communications the birthing center,” said Dr. Will problems facing society today require Official Appointed on Hueston, associate dean of the Maryland medical and veterinary medical Campus. expertise and perspective, he said, Maryland Campus Under the leadership of extension including West Nile Virus, anti- veterinary leaders Dr. W. Dee Whitter, microbial resistance, food safety, Valerie McAlpin has been ap- Blacksburg Campus, and Dr. Robert rabies and others. pointed associate dean for communica- Dyer, College Park Campus, faculty and About ten people from each tions and information technology in the students have been presenting animal school are meeting during the forums, University of Maryland’s College of birthing exhibits at the Virginia, Hueston said, which generally include Agriculture and Natural Resources. Maryland and Delaware State Fairs. presentations about ongoing projects The University of Maryland’s The exhibits have proved enor- and topics of concern. CANR provides the administrative mously popular with fair-goers at all The goal of the program is to help home for the VMRCVM’s College Park three states. foster a unified approach to addressing Campus. public health problems, examine McAlpin is responsible for public current trends in epidemiology and relations and outreach, as well as identify opportunities for collabora- distance education, for the college. tion, Hueston said. The inaugural meeting was held at the Gudelsky Center in the Spring, and the next meeting is scheduled for September in Baltimore. Executive Fellowship Program Shaping up for 2000-2001 Program

The Executive Fellowship Program in Science, Politics, and Animal Health Policy has enrolled its second class of Fellows and will meet this October at College Park. The 24 Fellows include animal health professionals from government, industry and academia and hail from five different countries, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Switzerland and the Netherlands. The program was founded to help animal health professionals more effectively participate in the public policy process, according to College VMRCVM Dean Peter Eyre presents Dr. Siba K. Samal of the College Park Campus with Park Associate Dean Dr. Will Hueston, the 2000 Pfizer Award for Research Excellence. Pfizer presents the award annually to who worked with Michigan State recognize distinguished researchers whose innovative work is advancing the frontiers of science. Samal for recognized for his work in molecular virology. virginia-maryland 25 Steger: continued from page 1 produced in conjunction with the College of Human Resources and Education, and dozens of profiles of research currently underway in veterinary college laboratories. The VMRCVM and the univer- sity are in a good position to take advantage of shifting priorities in federal research funding, Steger said. Federal research presently accounts for about 64% of Virginia Tech’s research funding. However, research funding from the National Institutes of Health, which accounts for about 53% of all federal research funding, is fairly nominal at Virginia Tech. Terming the “Research 30” goal as “formidable” yet “achievable,” Dr. Steger said he was pleased with the Virginia Tech President Dr. Charles Steger is presented with a College sweatshirt by VMRCVM response he has received from Dean Peter Eyre following Steger’s delivery of the year 2000 keynote address for the college’s university faculty since articulating 12th Annual Research Symposium. the Research 30 goal. “Faculty want to make a difference,” said Steger, Kelly said, closing his presentation with Long term relationships between outlining the need for more interdisci- suggestions that Iraq may have pre- elderly people and their pets can also plinary collaborations at the univer- served remnants of the program. create some special grieving problems sity. “They want to be part of Some of the common ground shared for older people when their pets die. something exciting.” by aging people and aging pets was “Older people tend to have older pets,” The recently funded explored on the third day of the sympo- said Troy. “As a result they tend to have bioinformatics initiative, which Steger sium. Department of Small Animal a stronger bond.” described as the largest “infusion of Clinical Sciences Professor and former Other highlights of the program base research support in the history of Veterinary Teaching Hospital Director included a presentation on cognitive the institution” is an example dysfunction in companion animals of the creative new programs by VMRCVM alumnus Dr. Sharon that must be developed to move L. Campbell (‘93) of the Animal the university ahead in the The VMRCVM and the university Health Group at Pfizer, Inc., and early 21st century. are in a good position to take advantage more than sixty individual presenta- Partnerships with other of shifting priorities in federal research tions concerning biomedical and organizations, such as the clinical research underway in collaborations with the Univer- funding, Steger said. Federal research college laboratories. sity of Virginia and Carilion presently accounts for about 64% of Students winning awards in the Health Sytems in the new Virginia Tech’s research funding. How- Basic Sciences competition for best Carilion Biomedical Institute, research project included Brandy are another good example of ever, research funding from the National Cowing, first place; Martijn Fenaux, how the university must Institutes of Health, which accounts for second place; and Timothy proceed toward the goal, Steger about 53% of all federal research fund- LaBranche, third place. Winners in said. the Clinical Sciences competition On Thursday, former ing, is fairly nominal at Virginia Tech. included Anne Cook, first place; United Nations official Dr. Dagny Leininger, second place; and David Kelly outlined UN John Rossmeisl, third place. efforts to profile and contain The annual symposium is Iraq’s biological warfare program. Dr. Greg Troy told registrants that 13% designed to foster increased collabora- The UN monitoring team determined of the United States population was now tion among researchers by generating that Iraq had generated some 465,000 over 65 and that the figure would double greater awareness of the college’s litres of toxic weapon materials, as between 2010-2030. research activities, according to Dr. John well as developed rocket and bomb- Advancements in clinical care are C. Lee, associate dean for research and based biological and chemical helping pets lead longer lives, Troy said, graduate studies. It was sponsored by weapons delivery systems. noting that the oldest dog on record the VMRCVM, the College of Human Their containment project was lived to 29 and the oldest cat lived to 34. Resources and Education, the Center for eventually thwarted by Iraq’s success- Geriatric animals and people all suffer Gerontology, the Center for Animal ful manipulation of a power struggle from heart, renal and joint disease and Human Relationships, Pfizer, Inc., coursing through the foundations of research underway can benefit both Novartis Animal Health and Hill’s Pet the United Nations’ Security Council, groups, he said. Nutrition. virginia-maryland 26 Symposium:

continued from page 1 This electron micrograph of a The event is the second in a Toxoplasma gondii series of three annual symposiums tissue cyst depicts hosted by the veterinary college one example of a designed to explore the linkages zoonotic parasite that can cause serious between human and veterinary harm to people. medicine. Entitled “The Bridge Toxoplasma gondii Between Veterinary Medicine and causes birth Human Health,” the series was defects and mental created to generate increased profes- retardation in babies when their mother sional and public awareness of the becomes infected therapeutic aspects of human-animal by eating these tissue interaction, human threats posed by cysts in under-cooked human-animal interaction, and public meat. health and food safety issues related Also, Peter Schantz, VMD, PhD, Health & Well-Being.” to human-animal interaction. Centers for Disease Control & Preven- The three year series concludes in The series is sponsored by the tion at the National Center for Infectious September 2001 with a seminar entitled VMRCVM, the Medical College of Diseases in Atlanta, will present “Educating Physicians about their Joint Virginia at Virginia Commonwealth “Zoonotic Risks of Intestinal Parasites Responsibilities in Public Health and University (MCV-VCU) and the of Dogs and Cats and Strategies for Food Safety.” Topics scheduled for Virginia and the Maryland Veterinary Preventing Them,” and Leonard examination during that event include Medical Associations (VVMA and Marcus, VMD, MD, Consultant in microbiological and chemical safety of MVMA). Corporate sponsorship is Tropical, Zoonotic and Vector-Borne foods of animal origin, antimicrobial being provided by Hill’s Pet Products Diseases for Travelers’ Health and drug resistance and others. and Merial, Inc. Immunization Services, will present a While most people think of veteri- “Physicians and veterinarians session on “Bite Associated Zoonosis.” nary and human medicine as distinct recognize the benefits of animal During afternoon sessions, Phyllis professions, they share a common companionship and both are con- Cassano, DVM, MA of Merial, Inc. will history. The earliest known medical cerned with zoonotic disease threats, discuss “Zoonotic Diseases in the 21st writings, the Kahun Papyrus, circa 1800 food safety issues, biomedical Century and Immunocompromised B.C. Egypt, described two cattle research and the complex interdepen- Patients,” Rochelle Klinger, MD, PhD, diseases, one dog disease, and an dencies between people and animals,” Director, Medical Psychiatry Program of obstetrical procedure. At the time of its said VMRCVM Dean Peter Eyre, MCV-VCU, will present “The Role of destruction in the fourth century A.D., “Through these symposia, we hope to Companion Animals in the Psychologi- the 70 volumes of the “Corpus create a forum in which these areas of cal Health of People with HIV/AIDS,” Hippocraticum” in the Great Library of mutual interest can be examined from and Mark Haines, DVM, MS, Animal Alexandria, viewed by some as the first a more integrated perspective.” Program Director of the Clinical Center medical school, contained extensive During opening remarks, Eyre at National Institutes of Health, will information on both human and animal will update the group on the status of present “Animals in the NIH Clinical health. a joint academic center which is Center: Service, Therapy & Risk of Over the centuries, human and being established between the Zoonosis.” veterinary medicine became more VMRCVM and MCV-VCU to Also, Kevin Connelly, DO, FAAP, specialized and evolved independently. examine animal-human relationships FACOP, Director of the Paws for Health But today, the compelling inter-relation- from a more systemic perspective. Pet Visitation Program at MCV-VCU, ships which bind them together are Dr. Marie Suthers McCabe, associate will present “Children, Pets, and Pests: significant enough to warrant academic professor and extension specialist The Realities and Myths of Zoonotic exploration, Eyre said. Each promotes human-companion animal interaction Diseases.” Finally, Marie Suthers- the public health and works to contain is leading that effort. McCabe, DVM, associate professor of the threats of infectious disease. Each is Ten speakers from around the Human-Companion Animal Interaction involved with the human health implica- country will then make presentations and Director of the emerging Center for tions of an animal protein-based food on different aspects of the symposium Animal Human Relationships will supply, and each is concerned with the topic. Jorge Guerrero, DVM, PhD, challenge veterinary and medical physical and psycho-social benefits of Executive Director of Veterinary students to more fully explore this the human-animal bond. Professional Services at Merial, Inc., emerging discipline in the years ahead A luncheon will be held in Virginia will present “One Medicine,” and during her closing presentation. Tech’s Owen’s Dining Hall, and tours of Jeannie Perron, JD, DVM, an The first in the series, which the college’s Veterinary Teaching associate at the law firm of Covington featured a presentation by Dr. Michael Hospital will be offered after the event. and Burling in Washington, D.C., will Blackwell, Assistant Surgeon General of Registration is $60. For more informa- present “Liability Issues and Problem the United States, was held in Fall 1999 tion, contact Dr. Marie Suthers-McCabe Solving for the Veterinarian and the and focused on “Beneficial Effects of at 540-231-7133. Physician.” Animal Companionship on Human virginia-maryland 27 The Curi ous Lives o f Horsehoe Crabs subject of inquiry in university laborato- ries. Horseshoe crabs donate blood that plays an important role in the biomedical industry. The crabs’ copper-based blue blood contains a clotting agent called Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) which is used to detect bacteria that may contaminate injectable drugs and implantable medical devices such as pacemakers. A quart of horseshoe crab blood can be worth up to $15,000. Commercial laboratories such as Maryland-based BioWhittaker harvest the creatures, extract some blood and then return them to the sea. But scien- tists estimate that as many as 15% of those donors may not survive the process. With $125,000 in funding from Bio- Whittaker and other funding from the Virginia Sea Grant Program, the scien- tists are attempting to learn more about the creatures’ blood chemistry, the effect Don’t worry... the horseshoe crab hasn’t gotten by for 350 million years on of blood donation on their health and its looks alone. well-being, and other information that As Roanoke Times higher educa- been working with Aquatic Medicine might shed some insight on proper tion writer Michael Sluss called it, “they Laboratory Director Dr. Stephen Smith on population management procedures. look like creatures from a science fiction a study designed to determine how current film” and have “blood as blue as the harvesting and management procedures ocean they call home.” may be affecting the population. With two sets of eyes and five sets About three million a year are of legs, the arachnid-like crabs look currently being harvested, and conserva- exactly like what they are: 350 million- tionists and commercial interests are year old creatures that have found little beginning to square off about whether or reason to change from their, well… ugly not those numbers should be reduced. old selves. While the crabs were caught and “They” are horseshoe crabs, and ground for fertilizer from the 1880’s because of some concern about the through the 1960’s, there are now two future viability of the species, they are a primary commercial applications for the subject of study in the Aquatic Medicine bizarre-looking crustaceans. Fisherman Laboratory at the College’s Price’s Fork use about three million a year as bait for research center. eel and conch in the fishing industry. Virginia Tech Fisheries and But it is the role they play in an Aquatic Medicine Laboratory Director Wildlife Professor Dr. Jim Berkson and operation that is almost as curious as their Dr. Stephen Smith examines a specimen. graduate student Elizabeth Wells have appearance itself that has found them the

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