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Topic:Animal Study
Animal studies involving horses encompass a wide range of research activities aimed at understanding various aspects of equine biology, behavior, health, and management. These studies can include investigations into equine physiology, nutrition, reproduction, and disease processes. Research often involves controlled experiments or observational studies to gather data on how horses respond to different interventions, environments, or management practices. This topic includes peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore methodologies, findings, and implications of animal studies in equine science, contributing to the broader understanding of horse welfare and management.
Additional Evidence Fails to Associate Variation in KCNE4 With Equine Anhidrosis. A prior genome-wide association (GWA; N = 200) including Thoroughbreds and stock horses implicated chromosome 6 (NC_009149.3) in owner-reported equine anhidrosis. A missense variant in KCNE4 (NC_009149.3:g.11813731A>G) was proposed as a risk allele, although its association with anhidrosis was not reported. Variant annotation and protein modelling in the original study suggested the G allele conferred risk. We reported no association of the G allele with anhidrosis in 50 horses phenotyped by an intradermal terbutaline sweat test (ITST); all horses produced sweat regardless of genotype. ...
The incidence of fatal and non-fatal injury in thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racehorses in Louisiana (2014-2022). The objectives of the study were to report the incidence of race-related injuries and equine fatalities in racehorses at the Louisiana racetracks from 2014 to 2022 for both Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racehorses. Additionally, this study evaluated several factors that may be related to the occurrence of race-related injuries in racehorses in Louisiana. The average rates of equine fatal injuries (euthanized on or off track within 72 h of the race) were 1.70 ± 0.76 and 1.94 ± 0.89 per 1000 starts in Thoroughbred and Quarter racehorses, respectively. The average rates of non-fatal injur...
Effects of shoeing on forelimb biomechanics in walking horses. Hoof trimming and shoeing techniques are used to manage and prevent equine limb injuries. However, quantitative studies comparing the effects of different shoeing techniques on equine joint biomechanics over the full gait cycle are lacking. Objective: To measure and compare joint motion and net torques at the distal forelimb joints when horses walk overground unshod, with a standard flat shoe, and with a rocker shoe. Methods: In vivo study. Methods: Gait data were recorded from 12 sound horses during walking. Three shoeing conditions were tested: unshod, flat shoe, and rocker shoe. Data were r...
Assessment of acute and chronic pain in working horses and donkeys in Egypt and the influence of observer training. Pain assessment can support monitoring welfare in working equids. Objective: To assess agreement of structured pain scores before and after training observers and to assess differences in pain scores between working equids with or without acute or chronic pain and to compare them to non-working equids. Methods: In part 1, eleven veterinarians and nine technicians performed pain scores before and after training. Agreement with reference scores was analyzed with Intra Class Correlation (ICC) analysis. In part 2, pain assessments were performed in 96 donkeys (n=40 fit-to-work, n=21 acute pain, n=...
Efficacy of an iron absorption test on assessing iron status in horses. Iron absorption tests (IATs) are used to evaluate iron absorption in humans. However, this testing has not been conducted in horses. Objective: The objective was to assess how a large dose of iron affects blood iron parameters during an IAT. Methods: Mixed-breed geldings (n=12) were offered 2% of their bodyweight (BW) in mixed-grass hay and an iron-free vitamin-mineral supplement. A baseline IAT (Baseline IAT) was performed, where horses received 25 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of BW of iron (ferrous sulfate) orally. Jugular venous samples were taken before the iron dose, and 3-, 6-, 12-, a...
Application of 3D scanning for modeling and morphometric assessment of Mangalarga Marchador Horses. Morphometric traits are essential for assessing conformation, locomotion, and selection in equine breeding programs. However, manual measurements are laborious, require physical contact, and may cause stress to animals, highlighting the need for alternative technologies. Objective: This study evaluated the use of a portable 3D scanner for three-dimensional modeling and morphometric assessment of Mangalarga Marchador horses. Methods: Fifty-two adult horses were measured using manual and 3D scanning methods to assess ten morphometric traits: withers height (WH), hip height (HH), head length (HL)...
Epidemiology of open and closed diastemata in equine cheek teeth and associations with periodontal pathology. Cheek-tooth diastemata are a common dental abnormality in horses and are considered a major predisposing factor for periodontal disease. However, the influence of diastema type and anatomical location on disease severity remains incompletely understood. To determine the prevalence and distribution of open and closed cheek-tooth diastemata and evaluate their association with periodontal disease severity in horses, while assessing the influence of age, sex, jaw location and laterality, fifty equine cadaver heads obtained from an abattoir were examined. Diastemata were identified through visual a...
Search for Equus caballus papillomavirus type 2 in tissues of asymptomatic horses in southern brazil. Equus caballus papillomavirus type 2 (EcPV-2) has been recently associated with the development of genital squamous cell carcinomas in horses. Nevertheless, its circulation among healthy, asymptomatic horses remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the presence of EcPV-2 DNA in asymptomatic horses submitted to necropsy in southern Brazil. A total of 54 horses without clinical or histological evidence of genital lesions were investigated: 40 necropsied animals and penile mucosa specimens collected from 14 horses at a local abattoir. Tissue samples were subjected to histologica...
Evaluation of the tolerance and effects of 1-deoxynojirimycin on insulin and glucose dynamics in healthy horses and horses at risk for insulin dysregulation. Insulin dysregulation (ID) is common and diminishes welfare of horses. Current management relies on diet and exercise, with variable responses and limited medical options. Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs) might provide adjunctive therapy. Objective: To evaluate the tolerance and effects of Reducose®, a Morus alba leaf extract standardized to 5% 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), in healthy horses and horses at risk of ID. We hypothesized DNJ would be well-tolerated and reduce insulin responses to oral sugar tests (OSTs). Methods: Twenty-seven horses: 6 healthy (Phase I), 5 at risk for ID (Phase II)...
Holding immature equine oocytes for up to 3 nights prior to ICSI under practical shipping conditions (10-22 °C) is compatible with blastocyst development. In vitro embryo production via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is widely used in equine reproductive management. Shipping of immature oocytes allows oocyte recovery for ICSI to be performed by referring veterinarians. However, delays in oocyte shipment are common, and their effect on outcomes is unclear. Shipping is typically done at about 22 °C, but previous studies have shown that holding at 15 °C maintains equine oocyte developmental competence. We hypothesized that lower temperatures may better support oocyte viability if the case that delays occur. Oocytes (n = 664) were rec...
Post exercise hydration responses to an electrolyte, glycerol, and creatine supplement in horses: a preliminary study. Electrolyte supplementation is utilized to support hydration in horses. However, limited data are available on formulations that include osmotically active compounds such as glycerol and creatine. These additional ingredients may enhance fluid retention, yet their physiologic effects in equine athletes have not been evaluated. This preliminary study assessed hematologic responses, body mass recovery, and voluntary water intake following moderate exercise with and without supplementation using a commercially available hydration supplement containing electrolytes, creatine, and glycerol. Six hea...
Genomic diversity and structure in arabian horses revealed by whole-genome sequencing: establishment of an allele frequency database of common genetic variation. BACKGROUND: The Arabian horse is a culturally and historically influential breed that has contributed to the development of many modern horse populations. However, genomic resources for this breed remain limited, particularly population-level allele frequency datasets that support studies of genetic diversity, selection, and disease. The aim of this study was to generate a comprehensive allele frequency database for Arabian horses using representative sampling and high-coverage whole-genome sequencing. RESULTS: We generated the first publicly available allele frequency database for the Arabian...
Extraction of Kinematic Parameters and Comparative Study of Endurance Levels in Mongolian Horses. Mongolian horses are an indigenous Chinese breed known for their endurance capacity, yet quantitative descriptions of their gait-related kinematic characteristics remain limited. This pilot exploratory study aimed to describe the kinematics of Mongolian horses during walk, slow trot, and fast trot, and to examine whether selected variables differed between race-result groups in a 12 km endurance race. Forty-six horses were classified into an excellent group and an ordinary group based on the result of a single race. Kinematic data were collected using optical motion capture and three-dimension...
Social enrichment mitigates facial expressions and physiological indicators of short-term stress in horses. This study aimed to evaluate the ability of social noncontact environmental enrichment to facilitate social buffering and to characterize the emotional experience of horses subjected to restraint in stock by assessing physiological parameters and facial expressions. Pantaneiro horses (n = 11) were evaluated in a crossover design with two treatments: social noncontact enrichment during stock restraint and social isolation during stock restraint. Physiological parameters (heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, ocular temperature by infrared thermography, and auricular temperat...
Trendelenburg positioning with or without norepinephrine infusion for haemodynamic support in anaesthetised hypovolemic horses. Intraoperative haemorrhage during equine anaesthesia is a rare but potentially fatal complication requiring prompt haemodynamic support. Postural manoeuvres such as Trendelenburg (TL) positioning and vasopressor support augment venous return and improve cardiac output (CO), yet their efficacy in anaesthetised hypovolemic horses remains unstudied. Objective: To evaluate haemodynamic effects of TL positioning during normovolemia and acute haemorrhagic hypovolemia, and to determine whether concurrent norepinephrine (NE) infusion enhances cardiovascular stabilisation. Methods: In vivo experiments....
Exploring the relationship between inhibitory control and coping behaviour in horses. The ability to flexibly adapt to the demands of a stressful situation is a key factor in successful coping. Appropriate coping is of critical importance in artificial environments, which may include novel and potentially stressful situations. Being able to inhibit immediate but counterproductive reactions, and thus exert inhibitory control, might allow to better adapt to the environment. Horses are required to flexibly adapt to various housing conditions and training techniques; however, not all horses successfully cope as evidenced by the prevalence of stereotypical behaviours. We tested 31 m...
Klossiella equi, an underreported parasite of equids in the Americas. Klossiella equi Baumann, 1946 (Apicomplexa: Coccidia) is a globally distributed adeleorinid parasite that infects the kidneys of equid hosts. Considered an uncommon parasite, when K. equi is detected, it is typically an incidental finding during histologic examination of the kidneys as part of routine necropsy. In the present study, kidney was collected opportunistically from 3 different equine populations: 1) routine necropsies at the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC; n = 48); 2) natural mortalities from the Sable Island wild horse herd (n = 25); and 3) routine necropsies of animals fr...
Efficacy of an Oral Chondroprotective Joint Supplement on Stride Length and Gait Symmetry in Aged Geldings with Chronic Lameness. Oral joint supplements (OJSs), specifically those containing glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, are some of the most popular feed additives fed by horse owners. However, evidence of the efficacy of these nutraceuticals in vivo is lacking. To investigate the impacts of an OJS on equine lameness, 40 geldings (18 ± 7 yr) with chronic lameness and AAEP lameness grades between 2 and 4 (as scored by a veterinary sports medicine and rehabilitation specialist) were enrolled in the study. Horses were stratified by lameness grade, BCS, and weight, and then randomly assigned to receive a placebo powde...
Erythrocyte sequestration of metformin in horses: impact on matrix-specific pharmacokinetics and detection windows. BACKGROUND: Metformin is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and is one of the most prescribed medications in human medicine. It is less commonly prescribed in equine medicine, and its use is tightly regulated in several performance horse disciplines. In horseracing, it is considered a banned substance. A previous pharmacokinetic study of metformin in horses demonstrated a prolonged, unpredictable elimination phase. In the current study it was hypothesized that this was due to sequestration of metformin in a “deep” compartment, specifically red blood cells. This could result in pharm...
Comparative Morphological and Proteomic Characterization of Adipose Tissues from Different Anatomical Sites in Yili Horses. Adipose tissue functions not only as a primary energy reservoir but also as a metabolically active endocrine organ. However, the morphological and molecular differences among adipose depots from different anatomical sites in Yili horses remain unclear. This study aimed to compare the morphological characteristics and proteomic profiles of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and pericardial adipose tissue (PCAT). To this end, adipose tissue samples from 18 Yili horses were analyzed using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, while a subset of samples from 6 horses was subjected to proteomic a...
Presurgical acetone and chlorhexidine aseptic preparation of the equine hoof lowers bacterial counts below surgically acceptable threshold. The objectives were to determine whether topical applications of acetone and 4% chlorhexidine following removal of the superficial hoof wall reduces tissue bacterial load below 5 log10 microorganisms per gram (CFUs/g) of tissue and whether Dey-Engley neutralizing broth (DENB) neutralizes residual chlorhexidine in vitro within equine hoof tissue samples. Unassigned: In a clinical prospective study with a total of 24 hooves, the superficial hoof was mechanically removed followed by disinfection with acetone and 5-minute rough and aseptic preparations with 4% chlorhexidine. Dorsal wall, frog, and...
Exploratory evaluation of equine placental extract supplementation on ageing indicators in geriatric dogs: a single-arm pre-post study. BACKGROUND: Recent advances in preventive veterinary healthcare, nutritional management, and owner engagement have extended the longevity of domestic dogs. However, this increased lifespan has led to a higher prevalence of age-associated physiological and functional decline. Equine placental extract contains a variety of bioactive constituents, with reported antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. Although the use of equine placental extract in veterinary practice is expanding, empirical evidence supporting its effects on ageing-related clinical outcomes in dogs remains limited. In thi...
Genetic diversity in the Criollo Argentino horse from SNP array data. The Criollo Argentino horse is a national symbol and a heritage breed that represents both cultural identity and a key component of traditional production systems in Argentina. This study aimed to assess the genetic differentiation of the Criollo Argentino relative to other horse breeds and to infer potential factors shaping its diversity through the genomic analysis of 24 representative animals. Samples were genotyped using a medium-density SNP array containing 65,157 markers, and genetic diversity analyses were conducted across autosomal SNP sets filtered under different criteria. Contempora...
Haplotype GWAS in swedish warmblood horses for conformation and jumping traits. The aim of this study was to better understand the genomic architecture behind performance-related traits in sport horses. In this study, we conducted a haplotype-based genome-wide association study (GWAS) for 36 conformation and free jumping phenotypes recorded during routinely conducted young horse evaluation tests involving 380 Swedish Warmblood (SWB) horses. The horses were evaluated by expert judges using both traditional and linear evaluation systems. All samples were genotyped using the 670K Affymetrix® Axiom® Equine Genotyping Array, haplotypes were first phased, and haplotype blocks...
Evaluating Protein Enrichment Methods to Improve Biomarker Discovery in Equine Cerebrospinal Fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a valuable source of biomarkers for neurological diseases, but detection of low-abundance proteins is often masked by highly abundant proteins. Enrichment strategies can enhance proteomic coverage and improve biomarker discovery, yet comparative evaluations of such methods in equine CSF are limited. Objective: This study compared the ProteoMiner Small-Capacity Enrichment Kit and the PreOmics Enrich-iST Kit for their ability to deplete high-abundance proteins and enhance detection of low-abundance proteins relevant to neuropathology. Methods: Equine CSF samples were...
Atropine induces narrowing of the superior and inferior iridocorneal angle and ciliary cleft in normal horse eyes. To investigate the effects of atropine on the iridocorneal angle (ICA) and ciliary cleft (CC) of normal equine eyes using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM). Unassigned: 12 normal adult horses underwent measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP), vertical and horizontal pupil diameter, and UBM of the superior, temporal, inferior, and nasal ICA/CC in both eyes. Measurements were repeated 2 hours following ophthalmic atropine 1% solution application. Measurements of the ICA and CC, including pectinate ligament distance (PLD), CC length (CCL), height of opening distance (HOD), CC area (CCA), and pecti...
Learning in the arena: healthcare students’ lived experience of interprofessional education in equine-assisted services. This qualitative study explored healthcare students' lived experiences during an interprofessional education (IPE) event incorporating equine-assisted services (EAS). Traditional IPE events often rely on classroom settings that may limit interprofessional engagement, collaboration, and application. Utilizing interpretive phenomenological analysis, researchers examined how the equine environment influenced interprofessional learning among fourteen graduate students from diverse healthcare disciplines at a western United States public university. Participants engaged in experiential demonstratio...
Diagnostic Threshold Identification for Equine Laminitis Using Smoothed Receiver Operating Characteristic Analysis. Radiographic measurement parameters play a key role in diagnosing acute and subacute laminitis in horses, with diagnostic thresholds typically derived from empirical receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. However, these methods often produce unstable results, particularly in small or noisy datasets. This study applies nonuniform rational B-spline (NURBS)-based ROC smoothing to radiographic data from laminitic and healthy horses to evaluate its effectiveness in refining diagnostic thresholds. Thresholds are determined using Youden's index based on NURBS-smoothed ROC curves and compar...
Effect of season of collection and storage method on equine hair cortisol concentration. Serum cortisol concentration is one of the common physiological reference standards for evaluating stress in animals. However, it only evaluates acute stress at the moment of blood collection. Hair cortisol concentrations (HCC) could provide a method for assessing cortisol concentrations over extended periods of time, giving an estimate of chronic stress levels. In this case, high HCC results could help equine managers alter management practices to improve welfare. Objective: To evaluate the effect of the month of collection and the storage method on equine HCC. Methods: Tail hair was collecte...
