Weight prediction from linear measures of growing Thoroughbreds.
Abstract: Monitoring weight of foals is a useful management practice to aid in maximising athletic potential while minimising risks associated with deviations from normal growth. Objective: To develop predictive equations for weight, based on linear measurements of growing Thoroughbreds (TBs). Methods: Morphometric equations predicting weight from measurements of the trunk and legs were developed from data of 153 foals. The accuracy, precision and bias of the best fitting equation were compared to published equations using a naive data set of 22 foals. Results: Accuracy and precision were maximised with a broken line relating calculated volumes (V(t + l)) to measured weights. Use of the broken line is a 2 step process. V(t + l) is calculated from linear measures (m) of girth (G), carpus circumference (C), and length of body (B) and left forelimb (F). V(t + I) = ([G2 x B] + 4[C2 x F]) 4pi. If V(t + l) or = 0.27 m3: Weight (kg) = V(t + l) x 984 + 24. The broken line was more accurate and precise than 3 published equations predicting the weight of young TBs. Conclusions: Estimation of weight using morphometric equations requires attention to temporal changes in body shape and density; hence, a broken line is needed. Including calculated leg volume in the broken line model is another contributing factor to improvement in predictive capability. Conclusions: The broken line maximises its value to equine professionals through its accuracy, precision and convenience.
Publication Date: 2004-03-25 PubMed ID: 15038438DOI: 10.2746/0425164044868585Google Scholar: Lookup
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- Journal Article
- Research Support
- Non-U.S. Gov't
Summary
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The study involves developing a predictive mathematical model to estimate the weight of growing Thoroughbred foals based on their body and leg measurements. The goal of the weight prediction model is to help equine caregivers optimize the growth and athletic potential of these foals, minimizing risks associated with abnormal growth rates.
Methodology
- The research involved the collection of data from 153 foals with the goal of establishing predictor equations for their weight based on linear measurements. Their measurements were mainly on the trunk and the legs.
- The measurements considered in this research were girth or the circumference of the body (G), carpus or wrist-like part of the forelimb circumference (C), body length (B), and forelimb length (F).
- The optimal mathematical model was then compared with previously published equations utilizing a separate set of data from 22 foals.
Results
- The research found that a two-step, ‘broken line’, model provided the most accurate and precise weight predictions.
- This model calculates the volume of the body and leg (V(t + l)) from linear measurements (G, C, B and F) and then uses this volume to predict weight depending on whether the calculated volume is less than, or equal to or greater than, 0.27 cubic meters (m3).
- This broken line method was deemed more accurate and reliable than three other previously published formulas for estimating the weight of young Thoroughbreds.
Conclusion
- The study concludes that the broken line model is highly beneficial for equine professionals due to its greater accuracy, precision, and convenience.
- Accurate weight estimation using morphometric (size and shape) equations requires consideration of changes in body shape and density over time, which is why the ‘broken line’ model is effective.
- Additionally, the inclusion of leg volume in the broken line model further contributes to its superior predictive capability.
Cite This Article
APA
Staniar WB, Kronfeld DS, Hoffman RM, Wilson JA, Harris PA.
(2004).
Weight prediction from linear measures of growing Thoroughbreds.
Equine Vet J, 36(2), 149-154.
https://doi.org/10.2746/0425164044868585 Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061-0306, USA.
MeSH Terms
- Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
- Animals
- Biometry
- Body Weight / physiology
- Female
- Horses / anatomy & histology
- Horses / growth & development
- Male
- Mathematics
- Predictive Value of Tests
- Reproducibility of Results
- Sensitivity and Specificity
Citations
This article has been cited 3 times.- Satoła A, Łuszczyński J, Petrych W, Satoła K. Body Weight Prediction from Linear Measurements of Icelandic Foals: A Machine Learning Approach.. Animals (Basel) 2022 May 11;12(10).
- Fradinho MJ, Mateus L, Bernardes N, Bessa RJB, Caldeira RM, Ferreira-Dias G. Growth patterns, metabolic indicators and osteoarticular status in the Lusitano horse: A longitudinal study.. PLoS One 2019;14(7):e0219900.
- Gorissen BMC, Wolschrijn CF, Serra Bragança FM, Geerts AAJ, Leenders WOJL, Back W, van Weeren PR. The development of locomotor kinetics in the foal and the effect of osteochondrosis.. Equine Vet J 2017 Jul;49(4):467-474.
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