Pub Date : 2025-10-29DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105709
P. Warren , D. Mc Crudden , S. O’Reilly , C. Mc Eleney
Macroalgae have been used in supplements and feedstuffs for equines and other animals for many years. Health-related attributes of macroalgal bioactive compounds, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anthelmintic effects, have been largely reported in non-equine species to date. Given the prevalence of resistance to antimicrobial and anthelmintic drugs, sourcing naturally occurring alternatives is of high priority in the current One Health strategy.
Nutritionally, seaweed contains a broad range of macro and micro nutrients. These nutrients, combined with the bioactive compounds such as alginates and fucoidans, can favour a healthy gut biome and act as a mucosal protectant to promote gastrointestinal health and equine welfare.
Perusal of the literature indicates the many potential applications of the constituent compounds in macroalgae to the veterinary sector, and further research may indeed evince support for the multifarious animal health benefit claims made by seaweed supplement manufacturers, and to quantify the amounts required. Oversight or regulation is necessary to maintain biosafety for humans and other animals alike.
{"title":"A review of current and potential applications of macroalgae to equine veterinary science","authors":"P. Warren , D. Mc Crudden , S. O’Reilly , C. Mc Eleney","doi":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105709","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105709","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Macroalgae have been used in supplements and feedstuffs for equines and other animals for many years. Health-related attributes of macroalgal bioactive compounds, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anthelmintic effects, have been largely reported in non-equine species to date. Given the prevalence of resistance to antimicrobial and anthelmintic drugs, sourcing naturally occurring alternatives is of high priority in the current One Health strategy.</div><div>Nutritionally, seaweed contains a broad range of macro and micro nutrients. These nutrients, combined with the bioactive compounds such as alginates and fucoidans, can favour a healthy gut biome and act as a mucosal protectant to promote gastrointestinal health and equine welfare.</div><div>Perusal of the literature indicates the many potential applications of the constituent compounds in macroalgae to the veterinary sector, and further research may indeed evince support for the multifarious animal health benefit claims made by seaweed supplement manufacturers, and to quantify the amounts required. Oversight or regulation is necessary to maintain biosafety for humans and other animals alike.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":15798,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Equine Veterinary Science","volume":"156 ","pages":"Article 105709"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-10-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145421857","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-14DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105707
P. Memarian , G. Basso , M. Rigo , M.E. Falomo , M. Isola
Patellar luxation is a rare orthopedic condition in horses, with congenital lateral patellar luxation being the most frequently reported form. A few sporadic reports have described surgical options for addressing equine patellar luxation. This report details the clinical presentation of a 2-month-old Italian Trotter foal diagnosed with bilateral lateral patellar luxation. Staged surgical correction of both stifles was performed, including block recession trochleoplasty combined with the application of polypropylene mesh for reinforcing medial imbrication sutures. Intra- and post-operative evaluations confirmed proper patellar positioning, tracking, and quadriceps mechanism alignment with positive functional outcomes. This case highlights the potential benefits of block recession trochleoplasty and polypropylene mesh application in managing equine patellar luxation, particularly when underlying bone deformities are present.
{"title":"Surgical repair of bilateral lateral patellar luxation in a foal using block-recession trochleoplasty and polypropylene mesh reinforcement: Case report and review of literature","authors":"P. Memarian , G. Basso , M. Rigo , M.E. Falomo , M. Isola","doi":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105707","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105707","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Patellar luxation is a rare orthopedic condition in horses, with congenital lateral patellar luxation being the most frequently reported form. A few sporadic reports have described surgical options for addressing equine patellar luxation. This report details the clinical presentation of a 2-month-old Italian Trotter foal diagnosed with bilateral lateral patellar luxation. Staged surgical correction of both stifles was performed, including block recession trochleoplasty combined with the application of polypropylene mesh for reinforcing medial imbrication sutures. Intra- and post-operative evaluations confirmed proper patellar positioning, tracking, and quadriceps mechanism alignment with positive functional outcomes. This case highlights the potential benefits of block recession trochleoplasty and polypropylene mesh application in managing equine patellar luxation, particularly when underlying bone deformities are present.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":15798,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Equine Veterinary Science","volume":"155 ","pages":"Article 105707"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-10-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145308219","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Accurate monitoring of grazing behavior in horses is essential for pasture management and welfare evaluation; however, conventional observation methods are labor-intensive and lack temporal resolution.
Aims/objectives
This pilot study aimed to develop and validate a deep learning model using jaw-mounted accelerometer data to classify grazing and non-grazing behaviors in yearling horses under various pasture conditions.
Methods
Four yearling Thoroughbred horses were equipped with triaxle accelerometers mounted under their jaws. Data were recorded at 10 Hz (100 ms) during a 19 h free-grazing period in a 4.0 ha paddock. A total of 230,286 data points were annotated as grazing (G) or non-grazing (NG) using synchronized video observation. Three deep learning models—one-dimensional convolutional neural network (CNN), long short-term memory (LSTM), and combined CNN+LSTM—were trained and evaluated under varying sampling rates (100–10,000 ms) and time windows (5–60 s). Model performance was assessed using accuracy, F1 score, precision, recall, and area under the curve (AUC).
Results
The CNN+LSTM model demonstrated the highest classification performance with a test accuracy of 98.0 % and an AUC of 1.00. F1 scores were 0.99 for G and 0.97 for NG behavior. Across the full observational period, the proportion of grazing behavior was 58.3 % (±2.1 %). Spatial analysis revealed that grazing was concentrated along paddock peripheries, whereas non-grazing was more frequent in central zones.
Conclusion
A deep learning framework that combines CNN and LSTM can accurately classify grazing behavior in horses using jaw-mounted accelerometers. This non-invasive, high-resolution method offers a promising tool for automated behavioral monitoring in pasture-based systems.
{"title":"Deep learning approach for classifying grazing behavior in yearling horses using triaxial accelerometer data: A pilot study","authors":"Uta Kamiya , Kasumi Kakiuchi , Kensuke Kawamura , Koichiro Ueda , Masahito Kawai , Akira Matsui , Natsuko Negishi","doi":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105706","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105706","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Accurate monitoring of grazing behavior in horses is essential for pasture management and welfare evaluation; however, conventional observation methods are labor-intensive and lack temporal resolution.</div></div><div><h3>Aims/objectives</h3><div>This pilot study aimed to develop and validate a deep learning model using jaw-mounted accelerometer data to classify grazing and non-grazing behaviors in yearling horses under various pasture conditions.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Four yearling Thoroughbred horses were equipped with triaxle accelerometers mounted under their jaws. Data were recorded at 10 Hz (100 ms) during a 19 h free-grazing period in a 4.0 ha paddock. A total of 230,286 data points were annotated as grazing (G) or non-grazing (NG) using synchronized video observation. Three deep learning models—one-dimensional convolutional neural network (CNN), long short-term memory (LSTM), and combined CNN+LSTM—were trained and evaluated under varying sampling rates (100–10,000 ms) and time windows (5–60 s). Model performance was assessed using accuracy, F1 score, precision, recall, and area under the curve (AUC).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The CNN+LSTM model demonstrated the highest classification performance with a test accuracy of 98.0 % and an AUC of 1.00. F1 scores were 0.99 for G and 0.97 for NG behavior. Across the full observational period, the proportion of grazing behavior was 58.3 % (±2.1 %). Spatial analysis revealed that grazing was concentrated along paddock peripheries, whereas non-grazing was more frequent in central zones.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>A deep learning framework that combines CNN and LSTM can accurately classify grazing behavior in horses using jaw-mounted accelerometers. This non-invasive, high-resolution method offers a promising tool for automated behavioral monitoring in pasture-based systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":15798,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Equine Veterinary Science","volume":"155 ","pages":"Article 105706"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145225114","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105705
MM Friend, EM McGaffigan, SM Hall, WB Staniar, DN Smarsh
Background
Early detection of inflammation using a common test could be a valuable tool for preserving horse health.
Hypothesis
This observational study aimed to identify variation in complete blood count (CBC) parameters and inflammatory indices with inflammation, and to develop reference intervals (RIs) from horses with known inflammatory states, hypothesizing that RIs developed from horses with normal acute phase protein concentrations would improve the ability to predict inflammation.
Methods
Concentrations of serum amyloid A (SAA) and haptoglobin from clinically healthy horses and horses under veterinary care (n=199) were used to categorize horses as inflamed (SH+; n=48) or not inflamed (SH-; n=150). Non-inflamed RIs were created using 95 % RIs from horses classified as SH- (non-inflamed). Differences in median values of CBC parameters and inflammatory indices were determined using the Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn’s post-hoc analysis and a Bonferroni correction. Predictive value was determined using ROC analysis, and odds ratios were calculated to determine the value of industry and non-inflamed RIs in detecting inflammation. Significance was set at P ≤ 0.05.
Results
All three inflammatory indices revealed greater median values in SH+ horses and predictive value greater than all other metrics (AUC=0.64, 0.64, 0.66, respectively). Horses falling above or below all three inflammatory index RIs (SII, SIRI, and AISI) were 6.32, 4.54, and 7 times more likely to be SH+. Additionally, a greater number of non-inflamed RIs yielded increased likelihood of SH+ categorization than industry RIs.
Conclusion
These results suggest inflammatory indices and non-inflamed RIs may be a valuable tool to aid in the detection of inflammation in horses.
{"title":"Changes in equine complete blood count parameters and inflammatory indices with inflammation","authors":"MM Friend, EM McGaffigan, SM Hall, WB Staniar, DN Smarsh","doi":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105705","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105705","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Early detection of inflammation using a common test could be a valuable tool for preserving horse health.</div></div><div><h3>Hypothesis</h3><div>This observational study aimed to identify variation in complete blood count (CBC) parameters and inflammatory indices with inflammation, and to develop reference intervals (RIs) from horses with known inflammatory states, hypothesizing that RIs developed from horses with normal acute phase protein concentrations would improve the ability to predict inflammation.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Concentrations of serum amyloid A (SAA) and haptoglobin from clinically healthy horses and horses under veterinary care (n=199) were used to categorize horses as inflamed (SH+; n=48) or not inflamed (SH-; n=150). Non-inflamed RIs were created using 95 % RIs from horses classified as SH- (non-inflamed). Differences in median values of CBC parameters and inflammatory indices were determined using the Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn’s post-hoc analysis and a Bonferroni correction. Predictive value was determined using ROC analysis, and odds ratios were calculated to determine the value of industry and non-inflamed RIs in detecting inflammation. Significance was set at <em>P</em> ≤ 0.05.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>All three inflammatory indices revealed greater median values in SH+ horses and predictive value greater than all other metrics (AUC=0.64, 0.64, 0.66, respectively). Horses falling above or below all three inflammatory index RIs (SII, SIRI, and AISI) were 6.32, 4.54, and 7 times more likely to be SH+. Additionally, a greater number of non-inflamed RIs yielded increased likelihood of SH+ categorization than industry RIs.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>These results suggest inflammatory indices and non-inflamed RIs may be a valuable tool to aid in the detection of inflammation in horses.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":15798,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Equine Veterinary Science","volume":"155 ","pages":"Article 105705"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145225090","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-28DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105704
F. Meistro, M.V. Ralletti, R. Rinnovati, A. Spadari
Background
Subjective lameness evaluation during lungeing is routinely performed in equine practice, but its consistency remains limited, especially in cases of mild or complex asymmetry.
Aims
This study aimed to assess the agreement between subjective gait evaluations and a markerless AI-based gait analysis system (OAI-MS) in traditional racehorses during lungeing. Intra- and inter-observer agreement of subjective evaluations was also investigated.
Methods
24 traditional racehorses were assessed during routine pre-race inspections (T0) while trotting on a soft surface. Two experienced equine clinicians independently evaluated each horse on both reins using the AAEP 0–5 scale; scores were then converted to a 3-level ordinal scale (0 = sound, 1 = mild, 2 = severe). Simultaneously, gait data were collected using the OAI-MS. A subset of 10 horses was re-evaluated after 10 days (T1) to assess short-term repeatability of the OAI-MS. Video-based reassessment (T2) was used to evaluate intra-observer agreement. Agreement was calculated using weighted Cohen’s and Fleiss’ kappa. p < 0.05.
Results
Inter-observer agreement ranged from κ = –0.20 to 0.36. Agreement between subjective evaluators and the OAI-MS ranged from slight to moderate (κ = 0.13–0.47). Intra-observer agreement was fair (κ ≈ 0.22), and OAI-MS repeatability reached κ = 0.43. Agreement was higher for forelimbs than hindlimbs. Most discrepancies were of low magnitude.
Conclusion
Subjective gait evaluations during lungeing showed limited agreement. The OAI-MS demonstrated moderate repeatability, supporting its usability in the field and its potential role as a complementary tool in clinical decision-making, particularly when asymmetries are mild or disagreement occurs.
{"title":"Agreement between subjective evaluations and a markerless AI-based gait analysis system during lungeing assessment in traditional racehorses","authors":"F. Meistro, M.V. Ralletti, R. Rinnovati, A. Spadari","doi":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105704","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105704","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Subjective lameness evaluation during lungeing is routinely performed in equine practice, but its consistency remains limited, especially in cases of mild or complex asymmetry.</div></div><div><h3>Aims</h3><div>This study aimed to assess the agreement between subjective gait evaluations and a markerless AI-based gait analysis system (OAI-MS) in traditional racehorses during lungeing. Intra- and inter-observer agreement of subjective evaluations was also investigated.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>24 traditional racehorses were assessed during routine pre-race inspections (T0) while trotting on a soft surface. Two experienced equine clinicians independently evaluated each horse on both reins using the AAEP 0–5 scale; scores were then converted to a 3-level ordinal scale (0 = sound, 1 = mild, 2 = severe). Simultaneously, gait data were collected using the OAI-MS. A subset of 10 horses was re-evaluated after 10 days (T1) to assess short-term repeatability of the OAI-MS. Video-based reassessment (T2) was used to evaluate intra-observer agreement. Agreement was calculated using weighted Cohen’s and Fleiss’ kappa. <em>p</em> < 0.05.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Inter-observer agreement ranged from κ = –0.20 to 0.36. Agreement between subjective evaluators and the OAI-MS ranged from slight to moderate (κ = 0.13–0.47). Intra-observer agreement was fair (κ ≈ 0.22), and OAI-MS repeatability reached κ = 0.43. Agreement was higher for forelimbs than hindlimbs. Most discrepancies were of low magnitude.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Subjective gait evaluations during lungeing showed limited agreement. The OAI-MS demonstrated moderate repeatability, supporting its usability in the field and its potential role as a complementary tool in clinical decision-making, particularly when asymmetries are mild or disagreement occurs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":15798,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Equine Veterinary Science","volume":"154 ","pages":"Article 105704"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-09-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145191545","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-13DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105703
Mariana A. Mousquer , Cahuê F. R. Paz , Leandro A. Rafael , Camila G. Wendt , Bruna R. Curcio , Rafaela P. de Souza , Isadora P. O. dos Santos , Rafaela B. da Silva , Vitória Müller , Carlos Eduardo W. Nogueira
Background
Obesity is common in some horse breeds, raising concerns about health and performance. Criollo horses in morphological events often undergo intensive management promoting early adiposity.
Aims/objectives
This study aimed (1) to assess morphometric traits, metabolic profile, hoof morphology, and tarsal joint alterations in Criollo horses participating in morphological trials; (2) to evaluate sex-related differences; and (3) the associations between morphometric measurements, hoof morphology, and tarsal osteoarthritis grades.
Methods
Fifty-five horses (30 mares, 25 stallions) were evaluated for body condition score (BCS), cresty neck score (CNS), morphometric measurements and metabolic parameters including cholesterol, lipoproteins, leptin, adiponectin and muscle enzymes. Forelimb hooves (n=49) radiographs were analyzed for morphology and tarsal joints (n=48) radiographs were analyzed for the presence of degenerative alterations.
Results
A high prevalence of overweight horses (BCS ≥7) was observed. Males had greater neck circumference (p < 0.05), females had higher body fat percentage (p < 0.05). Distal phalanx descent correlated positively with body fat (r=0.31, P=0.01) and tailhead fat (r=0.31, P=0.01). Distal lamellar zone distance positively correlated with body fat (r=0.34; P=0.009) and tailhead fat (r=0.34; P=0.009), and hoof angle correlated negatively with neck fat (r=-0.41; P=0.02). Males showed longer P2 (p < 0.05). All horses had tarsal radiographic lesions; females exhibited higher lesion scores than males (p = 0.005).
Conclusion
These findings highlight the prevalence of overweight animals in Criollo breed morphological trials and the occurrence of tarsal joint degeneration in this population. The association between hoof measurements and adiposity variables emphasizes the potential impact of elevated body condition on musculoskeletal alterations and laminitis development.
{"title":"Morphometric parameters, metabolic profile and musculoskeletal alterations in Criollo horses competing in the morphology trial","authors":"Mariana A. Mousquer , Cahuê F. R. Paz , Leandro A. Rafael , Camila G. Wendt , Bruna R. Curcio , Rafaela P. de Souza , Isadora P. O. dos Santos , Rafaela B. da Silva , Vitória Müller , Carlos Eduardo W. Nogueira","doi":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105703","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105703","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Obesity is common in some horse breeds, raising concerns about health and performance. Criollo horses in morphological events often undergo intensive management promoting early adiposity.</div></div><div><h3>Aims/objectives</h3><div>This study aimed (1) to assess morphometric traits, metabolic profile, hoof morphology, and tarsal joint alterations in Criollo horses participating in morphological trials; (2) to evaluate sex-related differences; and (3) the associations between morphometric measurements, hoof morphology, and tarsal osteoarthritis grades.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Fifty-five horses (30 mares, 25 stallions) were evaluated for body condition score (BCS), cresty neck score (CNS), morphometric measurements and metabolic parameters including cholesterol, lipoproteins, leptin, adiponectin and muscle enzymes. Forelimb hooves (<em>n</em> <em>=</em> <em>49</em>) radiographs were analyzed for morphology and tarsal joints (<em>n</em> <em>=</em> <em>48</em>) radiographs were analyzed for the presence of degenerative alterations.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A high prevalence of overweight horses (BCS ≥7) was observed. Males had greater neck circumference (<em>p</em> < 0.05), females had higher body fat percentage (<em>p</em> < 0.05). Distal phalanx descent correlated positively with body fat (<em>r</em> <em>=</em> <em>0.31, P</em> <em>=</em> <em>0.01</em>) and tailhead fat (<em>r</em> <em>=</em> <em>0.31, P</em> <em>=</em> <em>0.01</em>). Distal lamellar zone distance positively correlated with body fat <em>(r</em> <em>=</em> <em>0.34; P</em> <em>=</em> <em>0.009</em>) and tailhead fat <em>(r</em> <em>=</em> <em>0.34; P</em> <em>=</em> <em>0.009)</em>, and hoof angle correlated negatively with neck fat (<em>r=-0.41; P</em> <em>=</em> <em>0.02</em>). Males showed longer P2 (<em>p</em> < 0.05). All horses had tarsal radiographic lesions; females exhibited higher lesion scores than males (<em>p</em> = 0.005).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>These findings highlight the prevalence of overweight animals in Criollo breed morphological trials and the occurrence of tarsal joint degeneration in this population. The association between hoof measurements and adiposity variables emphasizes the potential impact of elevated body condition on musculoskeletal alterations and laminitis development.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":15798,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Equine Veterinary Science","volume":"154 ","pages":"Article 105703"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-09-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145069774","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-11DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105701
M. Robel , P. Grest , B. Riond , Y. Zablotski , A. Schoster
Background
Limited data are available on immune cells in the intestinal wall of healthy horses, hampering interpretation of results in case of disease.
Objectives
Characterize and quantify the immune cell populations and their distribution in duodenal and rectal biopsies of horses without gastrointestinal disease; compare immune cell counts (ICCTs) between full thickness- and mucosal biopsies.
Animals
Twenty horses fit for slaughter, slaughtered for meat production.
Materials and Methods
Full-thickness and endoscopic forceps obtained mucosal biopsies were taken within 30 min after slaughter from the duodenum and rectum. Samples were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and analyzed using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Immune cells were evaluated in epithelium, lamina propria and Brunner’s glands or submucosa. Differences between location and biopsy type were assessed using a generalized linear mixed effects model.
Results
Significantly more intraepithelial lymphocytes were found in duodenal full thickness biopsies (DFTs, median 9.0 epithelial lymphocytes/100 cells) compared to duodenal mucosal biopsies (DMs, median 5.35/100 cells, p = 0.002). Lymphocyte counts were significantly higher in the lamina propria of DFTs (median 7/0.01mm2 ) compared to DMs (median 5/0.01mm2,p < 0.001). Plasma cell counts were significantly higher in the lamina propria of DFTs (median 8.0/0.01mm2) compared to rectal full thickness and mucosal biopsies (median 4 and 3/0.01mm2). The combined number of B- and T-cells (IHC) in the duodenal lamina propria was higher than the number of lymphocytes (HE-stain, p < 0.001).
Conclusions
As ICCTs varied depending on location and biopsy type, separate reference values for both should be established. Immunohistochemistry facilitates identification of immune cells.
{"title":"Quantification of immune cells in full thickness and mucosal biopsies of the duodenum and rectum in a group of slaughter horses","authors":"M. Robel , P. Grest , B. Riond , Y. Zablotski , A. Schoster","doi":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105701","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105701","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Limited data are available on immune cells in the intestinal wall of healthy horses, hampering interpretation of results in case of disease.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Characterize and quantify the immune cell populations and their distribution in duodenal and rectal biopsies of horses without gastrointestinal disease; compare immune cell counts (ICCTs) between full thickness- and mucosal biopsies.</div></div><div><h3>Animals</h3><div>Twenty horses fit for slaughter, slaughtered for meat production.</div></div><div><h3>Materials and Methods</h3><div>Full-thickness and endoscopic forceps obtained mucosal biopsies were taken within 30 min after slaughter from the duodenum and rectum. Samples were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and analyzed using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Immune cells were evaluated in epithelium, lamina propria and Brunner’s glands or submucosa. Differences between location and biopsy type were assessed using a generalized linear mixed effects model.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Significantly more intraepithelial lymphocytes were found in duodenal full thickness biopsies (DFTs, median 9.0 epithelial lymphocytes/100 cells) compared to duodenal mucosal biopsies (DMs, median 5.35/100 cells, <em>p</em> = 0.002). Lymphocyte counts were significantly higher in the lamina propria of DFTs (median 7/0.01mm<sup>2</sup> ) compared to DMs (median 5/0.01mm<sup>2,</sup> <em>p</em> < 0.001). Plasma cell counts were significantly higher in the lamina propria of DFTs (median 8.0/0.01mm<sup>2</sup>) compared to rectal full thickness and mucosal biopsies (median 4 and 3/0.01mm<sup>2</sup>). The combined number of B- and T-cells (IHC) in the duodenal lamina propria was higher than the number of lymphocytes (HE-stain, <em>p</em> < 0.001).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>As ICCTs varied depending on location and biopsy type, separate reference values for both should be established. Immunohistochemistry facilitates identification of immune cells.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":15798,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Equine Veterinary Science","volume":"154 ","pages":"Article 105701"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-09-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145058530","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-10DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105699
B.H. Baxley , A. Stellato , N.C. Anderson
Background
Horses involved in equine-assisted services (EAS) support the psychological and physiological health of individuals through mounted activities; however, limited research exists on how these sessions affect the horse’s movement.
Aim
This study aimed to investigate the influence of rider presence and posture on horses’ gait parameters in EAS settings.
Methods
Horses (n = 22) were observed during walk and trot, both with and without a mounted rider, in four EAS centers in the United States. Distal limb-mounted inertial measurement units collected peak ground reaction force (pGRF), stride duration, stride symmetry, stride length, and stationary proportion. Rider posture angular metrics were calculated using static images. Mixed linear regression models assessed effects of rider presence, posture, life stage, and horse-related factors (e.g., age, breed) on each gait parameter.
Results
Rider presence increased pGRF (walk: +2.36 N, P < 0.01; trot: +6.69 N, P < 0.001) increased and stride length (walk: +0.13 m, P < 0.001; trot: +0.23 m, P < 0.001). Stationary proportion increased during the walk (+2.2 %, P = 0.03). Rider left trunk lean increased forelimb pGRF (walk: +0.39, P = 0.03) and stationary proportion (trot: +0.68, P = 0.02). Draft cross breeds (vs. cobs) had increased pGRF (walk: +14.04, P < 0.01; trot: +27.74, P = 0.02), and stride length (trot: +0.82, P = 0.02). Child (vs. adult) riders increased stationary proportion (trot: +4.47, P = 0.04) and reduced stride duration (trot:52.41, P < 0.01).
Conclusion
Rider presence, posture, and rider life stage influenced horse gait in EAS contexts. These findings highlight the importance of considering rider-horse interactions in EAS when assessing horse welfare and longevity.
背景：参与马辅助服务（EAS）的马通过骑马活动支持个体的心理和生理健康；然而，关于这些训练如何影响马的运动的研究有限。目的：探讨骑手在场和姿态对EAS环境下马的步态参数的影响。方法：在美国的四个EAS中心，观察了马（n=22）在步行和小跑时的情况，包括有和没有骑马的骑手。安装在远端肢体上的惯性测量单元收集了峰值地面反作用力（pGRF）、步幅持续时间、步幅对称性、步幅长度和静止比例。使用静态图像计算骑手姿态角度量。混合线性回归模型评估骑手存在、姿势、生命阶段和马相关因素（如年龄、品种）对每个步态参数的影响。结果：骑手在场增加了马的pGRF（步行：+2.36 N, p）。结论：骑手在场、骑手姿势和骑手生命阶段影响EAS环境下马的步态。这些发现强调了在评估马的福利和寿命时，考虑EAS中骑手与马的相互作用的重要性。
{"title":"The tipping point: Exploring the influence of rider presence and posture on gait parameters in horses working in mounted equine-assisted services","authors":"B.H. Baxley , A. Stellato , N.C. Anderson","doi":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105699","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105699","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Horses involved in equine-assisted services (EAS) support the psychological and physiological health of individuals through mounted activities; however, limited research exists on how these sessions affect the horse’s movement.</div></div><div><h3>Aim</h3><div>This study aimed to investigate the influence of rider presence and posture on horses’ gait parameters in EAS settings.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Horses (<em>n</em> = 22) were observed during walk and trot, both with and without a mounted rider, in four EAS centers in the United States. Distal limb-mounted inertial measurement units collected peak ground reaction force (pGRF), stride duration, stride symmetry, stride length, and stationary proportion. Rider posture angular metrics were calculated using static images. Mixed linear regression models assessed effects of rider presence, posture, life stage, and horse-related factors (e.g., age, breed) on each gait parameter.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Rider presence increased pGRF (walk: +2.36 N, <em>P</em> < 0.01; trot: +6.69 N, <em>P</em> < 0.001) increased and stride length (walk: +0.13 m, <em>P</em> < 0.001; trot: +0.23 m, <em>P</em> < 0.001). Stationary proportion increased during the walk (+2.2 %, <em>P</em> = 0.03). Rider left trunk lean increased forelimb pGRF (walk: +0.39, <em>P</em> = 0.03) and stationary proportion (trot: +0.68, <em>P</em> = 0.02). Draft cross breeds (vs. cobs) had increased pGRF (walk: +14.04, <em>P</em> < 0.01; trot: +27.74, <em>P</em> = 0.02), and stride length (trot: +0.82, <em>P</em> = 0.02). Child (vs. adult) riders increased stationary proportion (trot: +4.47, <em>P</em> = 0.04) and reduced stride duration (trot:52.41, <em>P</em> < 0.01).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Rider presence, posture, and rider life stage influenced horse gait in EAS contexts. These findings highlight the importance of considering rider-horse interactions in EAS when assessing horse welfare and longevity.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":15798,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Equine Veterinary Science","volume":"154 ","pages":"Article 105699"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-09-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145054029","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-10DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105702
F. Aragona , M. Rizzo , F. Arfuso , F. Arrigo , F. Fazio , E. Giudice , C. Faggio , G. Piccione , C. Giannetto
Background
Homeostasis and inflammation are two opposing physiological processes that are driven by the circadian clock.
Aims/objectives
The study aim was to investigate the biological rhythm of the C-reactive protein (CRP) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in horses.
Methods
Eight clinically healthy Italian saddle gelding horses, housed in individual boxes and subjected to a natural 12/12 L/D cycle, were enrolled. Blood samples were performed every 4 hours over a 48-hour period.
Results
A positive correlation was found between CRP and IL-6 on both days of monitoring. Both parameters showed a daily rhythm; CRP acrophase was in the middle of the scotophase, IL-6 acrophase at the beginning of the light phase, and both parameters had a high percentage of robustness (>75%).
Conclusion
This preliminary information improves the knowledge about the daily rhythm and possible correlation of some inflammatory biomarkers in horses. Further studies are necessary to investigate how different environmental conditions, management, and physical exercise might influence this rhythmicity.
{"title":"Preliminary insights on the daily rhythm of CRP and IL-6 in athletic horses","authors":"F. Aragona , M. Rizzo , F. Arfuso , F. Arrigo , F. Fazio , E. Giudice , C. Faggio , G. Piccione , C. Giannetto","doi":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105702","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105702","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Homeostasis and inflammation are two opposing physiological processes that are driven by the circadian clock.</div></div><div><h3>Aims/objectives</h3><div>The study aim was to investigate the biological rhythm of the C-reactive protein (CRP) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in horses.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Eight clinically healthy Italian saddle gelding horses, housed in individual boxes and subjected to a natural 12/12 L/D cycle, were enrolled. Blood samples were performed every 4 hours over a 48-hour period.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A positive correlation was found between CRP and IL-6 on both days of monitoring. Both parameters showed a daily rhythm; CRP acrophase was in the middle of the scotophase, IL-6 acrophase at the beginning of the light phase, and both parameters had a high percentage of robustness (>75%).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This preliminary information improves the knowledge about the daily rhythm and possible correlation of some inflammatory biomarkers in horses. Further studies are necessary to investigate how different environmental conditions, management, and physical exercise might influence this rhythmicity.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":15798,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Equine Veterinary Science","volume":"154 ","pages":"Article 105702"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-09-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145054071","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-10DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105700
Ignacio Lizarraga , Fernanda Castillo-Alcala
Donkeys have contributed to the development and livelihoods of humans for almost 7,000 years. They have been used for traction and transportation, kept as pets, utilized in animal-assisted therapies, or farmed as food-producing animals. Over the past two decades, significant progress has been made in bridging the knowledge gap in veterinary medicine between donkeys and horses. Veterinary practitioners are now more aware that donkeys have important behavioral, anatomical, and physiological characteristics that distinguish them from horses. These peculiarities should be considered when treating donkeys. For instance, donkeys are highly efficient in compartmentalizing and conserving water and metabolizing xenobiotics via cytochrome P450 enzymes. This affects the selection of drugs and their dosages. Estimating live weight and recognising and assessing pain accurately are also important factors when instituting pharmacological treatments for donkeys. Therapeutic regimens have been established for some drugs in donkeys, but many are still directly extrapolated from horses. Because donkeys are classified as a minor species, there are relatively few medications approved for their use. In addition, some cultures also consider donkeys as to have lower economic value than horses, which may preclude donkeys from receiving appropriate veterinary care. Veterinary education on donkey-specific topics would improve the health and ultimately the welfare of these animals. This review explores the characteristics of donkeys and offers guidance on their care and treatment, aiming to enhance their overall quality of life.
{"title":"Intrinsic characteristics of donkeys that affect drug treatment","authors":"Ignacio Lizarraga , Fernanda Castillo-Alcala","doi":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105700","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105700","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Donkeys have contributed to the development and livelihoods of humans for almost 7,000 years. They have been used for traction and transportation, kept as pets, utilized in animal-assisted therapies, or farmed as food-producing animals. Over the past two decades, significant progress has been made in bridging the knowledge gap in veterinary medicine between donkeys and horses. Veterinary practitioners are now more aware that donkeys have important behavioral, anatomical, and physiological characteristics that distinguish them from horses. These peculiarities should be considered when treating donkeys. For instance, donkeys are highly efficient in compartmentalizing and conserving water and metabolizing xenobiotics via cytochrome P450 enzymes. This affects the selection of drugs and their dosages. Estimating live weight and recognising and assessing pain accurately are also important factors when instituting pharmacological treatments for donkeys. Therapeutic regimens have been established for some drugs in donkeys, but many are still directly extrapolated from horses. Because donkeys are classified as a minor species, there are relatively few medications approved for their use. In addition, some cultures also consider donkeys as to have lower economic value than horses, which may preclude donkeys from receiving appropriate veterinary care. Veterinary education on donkey-specific topics would improve the health and ultimately the welfare of these animals. This review explores the characteristics of donkeys and offers guidance on their care and treatment, aiming to enhance their overall quality of life.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":15798,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Equine Veterinary Science","volume":"154 ","pages":"Article 105700"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-09-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145053859","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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