Horseback Research Articles

Hypoallergenic animals: A promise of hope for allergic patients?

Furry pets are beloved companion animals; horse riding is a popular leisure activity. So-called hypoallergenic animals have gained high interest as sensitization to animal dander and allergy to furry animals are widespread. Allergen immunotherapy to furry animals is still limited, and allergen avoidance in addition to symptomatic pharmaceutical treatment is often the only available option. Patients with an existing allergy to furry animals or with an atopic background are seeking for a hypoallergenic alternative. This review summarizes current knowledge and discusses future strategies.

Analysis of the impact of osteochondral fragments detached inside the hock joint depending on the histological characteristics in sport horses

Analysis of the impact of osteochondral fragments detached inside the hock joint depending on the histological characteristics in sport horses

The therapeutic utility of mesenchymal stem cells and platelet-rich plasma in tendon injuries in sport horses

The therapeutic utility of mesenchymal stem cells and platelet-rich plasma in tendon injuries in sport horses

Men and Women Competing on Equal Terms? A Cross-Sectional Study of Young Women About the Impact of Menstrual Concerns on Equestrian Sport Participation

In equestrian sport, women are popularly thought to compete on equal terms with men. This ideal has been critiqued by studies documenting how women’s participation is impacted by gendered equestrian cultures and society more broadly. However, one physiological process has been overlooked—menstruation. This is the first study to focus specifically on the impacts of menstruation and menstrual concerns on women’s participation in horse sport and to locate those concerns within broader equestrian traditions of attire and discourses of control. The authors conducted a cross-sectional survey of 328 female riding members of Pony Club Australia aged 10–17 years. Findings challenge the idea of equestrian as a sport where men and women compete “on equal terms.” In particular, they illustrate how traditional dress codes of white-/light-colored riding pants exacerbate menstrual concerns, limit/prevent participation, and pose safety concerns due to distraction. The majority (80%) of participants supported changing the formal uniform to allow darker-colored riding pants. However, longstanding equestrian associations between white pants, prestige, and respect are a barrier to the adoption and therefore normalization of period-friendly attire. While discriminatory rules or standards need to be revised, they are insufficient to challenge entrenched gendered, socio-historical, and esthetic constructions of some organized sports. The authors therefore recommend that rule changes be supported by other practical and educational initiatives necessary to create period-friendly cultures for equestrian sport.

Natural Resources for Adventure Tourism in the Western Region of Mongolia

The tourism industry has become one of the major economic sectors and has been contributing significantly to the socioeconomic development of the country. In the recent years, special interest tourism which is driven by one’s personal interest, passion and novelty has grown dramatically among the various types of tourism. Out of all special interest tourism types, we selected and researched adventure tourism. The range of adventure tourism services that are currently being developed in Mongolia is limited, not particularly inventive and lacks the ability to take the full advantage of accessible opportunities. This kind of tourism is restricted to only a few types of activities, such as horse and camel riding, cycling, hiking and mountain climbing. According to the researchers, the majority of travelers are more interested in skill-based adventure tourism in remote areas and less skill-based adventure tourism in well-known tourist hotspots. The natural resources found in the western region of Mongolia are uncommon in other countries of the world, which is advantageous for the development of adventure tourism. Nevertheless, it is necessary to study these natural resources carefully to identify opportunities particularly for the development of adventure tourism. Natural resources for adventure tourism are categorized into two primary groups: land and water including elements such as mountains, rocks and sand dunes, rivers and lakes. In this manuscript we present indicators for identifying mountains, each element’s potential. As a result, potential natural resources for the growth of adventure tourism industry in the western region of Mongolia were defined.

A broad-spectrum peptide screening method using an optimized solid-phase extraction and liquid chromatography-high-field asymmetric ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry for doping control in equine urine.

The abuse of prohibited peptide-based drugs with a broad spectrum of chemical characteristics poses a significant concern for the horseracing industry. Recently, there has been a notable increase in positive cases of small-peptide drugs reported in equine and canine sports. In addition to small peptides, large peptides (over 2 kDa) with structural diversity have also entered the market in increasing numbers as drugs for humans and livestock. However, the simultaneous analysis of both small- and large-peptide-based drugs is still challenging. In this study, a screening method was developed to cover 74 analytes, including peptides, their catabolites, and/or their mimetics, with molecular weights ranging from 0.3 kDa to greater than 5 kDa. The simultaneous extraction of both small and large peptides was achieved using a weak cation-exchange solid-phase extraction cartridge with a mixture of different pore sizes (suitable for large peptides), followed by analysis using liquid chromatography high-field asymmetric ion mobility spectrometry tandem mass spectrometry (LC-FAIMS-MS/MS). For method validation, the limits of detection (LoDs), reproducibility, recovery, matrix effect, selectivity, and carryover were evaluated. Remarkably, the LoDs of ∼80% of the analytes were less than or equal to 50 pg ml-1, with the lowest LoD (1 pg ml-1) being observed for selected peptides in horse urine. These results indicate a substantial advancement in achieving comprehensive coverage for both small and large peptides with high sensitivity for the purpose of doping control in horseracing and equestrian sports.

Exploring the Potential of Adventure Tourism in Mongolia’s Eastern Region: A Resource-Based Approach

The tourism industry has emerged as a significant economic sector, playing a pivotal role in the socio-economic advancement of the nation. In recent years, special interest tourism has experienced rapid growth among various forms of tourism. This type of travel is characterized by individuals pursuing their unique interests, aspirations, and desire for novelty. Among the various types of special interest tourism, we have chosen adventure tourism. Currently, the range of adventure tourism services emerging in Mongolia is constrained, exhibiting limited innovation and failing to capitalize fully on available prospects. This form of tourism is confined to a select few activities, including horseback riding, cycling, hiking, camel riding, and mountain climbing. According to researchers, the majority of tourists exhibit a preference for skill-based adventure tourism in remote regions, as opposed to less skill-intensive adventure tourism in popular tourist destinations. The presence of abundant natural resources in the eastern region of Mongolia constitutes a distinct advantage for the advancement of adventure tourism. Nonetheless, a thorough examination of these natural resources is imperative to ascertain their suitability for the development of tourism, particularly adventure tourism. Adventure tourism natural resources can be categorized into two primary groups: land resources, encompassing mountains, rocks, sand dunes, steppes, and forest areas, and water resources, including rivers and lakes. Each of these two groups and their seven elemental resources exhibit distinct characteristics and indicators. This article delineates the indicators used to assess each element of these resources, presents the outcomes of research conducted to gauge their potential level (corresponding level), and highlights select findings from studies aimed at identifying natural resources for the advancement of adventure tourism in the eastern region of Mongolia.

Termografia infravermelha como ferramenta na avaliação do bem-estar de equinos manejados soltos ou estabulados

ABSTRACT This study aims to describe the effects of stabling on thermographic characteristics of adult equine limbs, to compare the level of animal welfare between horses kept loose and those under continuous stabling and to investigate whether the Infrared Thermography (IRT) can be an effective tool to evaluate the welfare of equines. 24 gelding horses of Brazilian Sport Horse breed, aged between 5 and 9 years and weighing 500 ± 50kg were used in a 6-week trial. They were divided into 2 groups: 1) Paddock - equines kept in paddocks and ridden exclusively on urban patrol; 2) Stall - animals that ridden exclusively on urban patrol, but were kept in continuous stabling, housed in 12m² with concrete and bedless stables. Every animal was evaluated once a week over six weeks. Animal behavior and temperature of the eyes and distal extremities of the limbs as well as blood samples were collected. The confined horses showed stereotyped behavior and higher serum cortisol, indicating lower animal welfare when compared to those managed in a pasture. Limb IRT showed predictive potential for identifying chronic stress as the discriminating analysis showed 74.5% hits while eye temperature was not efficient for this purpose.

Intussuscepção cecocecal após administração do dipropionato de imidocarb em equino - relato de caso

ABSTRACT The intussusception of the large intestine in adult horses has been poorly reported. The aim of this study is to report a case of an acute abdomen due to cecocolic intussusception in a Brazilian Sport Horse mare, aged eight, after the administration of imidocarb dipropionate. The drug used for the treatment of piroplasmosis caused a state of dysmotility in the large intestine and subsequent abdominal discomfort. Surgical intervention was necessary, performed through a median celiotomy, opting for partial typhlectomy due to tissue and circulatory compromise. The postoperative evolution was satisfactory and without serious complications, with a good short- and long-term prognosis, as the patient continued to perform its athletic functions.

Videodermoscopic analysis of the skin of purebred arabian horses and polish sport horses.

Videodermoscopy is a modern method of skin examination that significantly facilitates diagnosis. The purpose of the study was to determine and compare the characteristic features of the skin and its derivatives for Purebred Arabian and Polish Sports horses. The study was conducted in the winter of 2018/2019, with written consent obtained from the horses’ owners before examinations. The study involved 33 healthy horses not previously used for breeding, consisting of 21 purebred Arabian mares and twelve clinically healthy Polish Sports horses (SP). Videodermoscopic evaluations were performed of seven selected areas of the body: the forehead, mane, neck, chest, flank, rump, and tail. For the dermoscopic examination, an Italian Video-Dermascope 7 (Medici Medical SRL with 3 VIDIX 5Mpx camera and VX1 – Contact type cap Ø 3.5 cm) was used. The Olympus cellSens specialized software was used to analyze microscopic images and perform measurements. The comparison of hair thickness showed significant differences between the two groups: in most of the assessed body areas, the hair thickness was greater for the Arabian horses than for the Polish Sports horses. The hair thickness ranged from 52.70 μm on the chest to 87.45 μm on the mane in the Arabian horses and from 30.18 μm on the flank to 47.33 μm on the rump in the SP horses. In conclusion, the breed of the horse is an important factor that must be taken into consideration in both qualitative and quantitative evaluations of the skin and its derivatives.

Adaptação óssea ao exercício em cavalos árabes praticantes de enduro equestre de 120-160 km - análise quantitativa e funcional

ABSTRACT Seeking the improvement of equine sports medicine, the present work aimed to determine quantitative data from different bone structures. Therefore, the objective of this work was to quantify the thickness of the cortex in a comparative way to determine the bone densitometry and also the bone density of the bone trabeculae of the spongy substance of the radius, calcaneus, and metacarpal III bones of horses practicing equestrian enduro long-distance running tests. Six thoroughbred Arabian horses and long-distance competitors (120 and 160km) were evaluated for metacarpal III, calcaneus, and accessory carpal bone. Long bones have a different micro functional structure than short bones. The sites that received and dissipated energy varied in distal, proximal epiphysis, and diaphysis according to the bone. The calcaneus and accessory carpal bone had a lower transverse thickness of the compact substance and greater density of the same, this increase was related to the improvement of local resistance. The density of the spongy substance varied with different bones. Thus, it was concluded that stress directly influenced the quantity and quality of the compact and spongy substance.

Compulsory vaccination against Equine Herpes Virus-1 (EHV-1) infection – A critical appraisal of the compulsory vaccination stipulated by horse sport organisations in Germany

Compulsory vaccination against Equine Herpes Virus-1 (EHV-1) infection – A critical appraisal of the compulsory vaccination stipulated by horse sport organisations in Germany

Molecular Analysis of Alternative Spliced Transcripts of Equine Pleckstrin Homology and RhoGEF Domain Containing G1 (PLEKHG1) gene

Since horse industry get bigger with horse racing and horse riding, athletic performance become most important trait on horses, but the molecular analysis and regulatory pathway studies remain insufficient for evaluation and prediction of horse athletic abilities. In our previous study, we conducted RNA-sequencing analysis with muscle and blood samples by exercise in Thoroughbreds. Through RNA-sequencing, we identified Pleckstrin Homology and RhoGEF Domain Containing G1 (PLEKHG1) gene expressed differentially by alternative spliced isoforms in skeletal muscle during exercise. In this study, we conducted reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to validate two isoforms of equine PLEKHG1 transcripts (PLEKHG1a, PLEKHG1b), and cloned the transcripts to confirm the sequences. Additionally, we validated expression pattern of PLEKHG1a (long form of transcript) and PLEKHG1b (short form of transcript) in horse tissue by quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). Prediction of protein structure of these isoforms revealed two putative phosphorylation sites at the amino acid sequences encoded in exon 7, which is deleted in PLEKHG1b. Expression pattern of PLEKHG1a and PLEKHG1b shows cross expressed pattern as RNA-sequencing data. PLEKHG1a increased after exercise whereas PLEKHG1b decreased after exercise. Collectively, it is assumed that the expression patterns of PLEKHG1a and PLEKHG1b transcripts would be involved in regulation of myogenic differentiation and myogenic proliferation through the Ras signaling pathway. Further study should be necessary to uncover biological function(s) and significance of the alternative splicing isoforms in equine skeletal muscle

The relationship of personality traits with breed, sex, and racing performance in sport horses

The aim of the study was to evaluate the personality components of Arabian and Thoroughbred horses (TB) using the Horse Personality Questionnaire (HPQ) and examine their relationship with breed, sex, and racing performance. Within the scope of the research, race data of 96 horses from Thoroughbred (n = 56) and Arabian horse (n = 40) breeds that participated in flat races were taken from the official websites of Turkish Jockey Club. HPQ was constructed using 26 behaviorally defined adjectives. Thereafter, latent class analysis was carried out to determine distinct classes (subgroups) by using the questionnaire that described the personalities of horses. Three distinct personality classes of both TB and Arabian horses were compared. While there was a significant difference in sex distribution among the personality classes of TB (P = 0.023), this difference was not observed in the classes of Arabian horses (P = 0.580). There was no significant difference in terms of age and some racing characteristics in the per- sonality classes of both Arabian and TB horses (P > 0.05). In conclusion, it was seen that some personality classes of the horses could not be determined in the type of management system where there was no paddock and horses cannot display some of their intra-species social behaviors. For understanding horse personality, it is crucial to observe their intra-species interactions Simultaneously, by evaluating the data on horse personality from a scientific perspective and appraising the sportive performance of horses with a holistic approach, ethical equitation would be possible.

A COMPARATIVE REVIEW OF NON-INVASIVE SCOLIOSIS TREATMENT IN CHILDREN AND TEENAGERS

Pediatric and adolescent scoliosis is one of the most common and prevailing orthopedic pathologies leading to spinal deformation. Cases of scoliosis where curving of the spine is <45% treated mostly surgically. However, when the spine is straightened with an implant, there are risks and complications. Hence, interest to conservative treatment methods has increased significantly. This article discusses advantages and disadvantages of non-invasive methods for treating scoliosis. The disadvantage is the duration of treatment: treating scoliosis using conservative methods such as physical therapy and wearing bondages can take a long time to achieve results. Also, there is a need for regular control: conservative treatment of scoliosis requires regular control by doctors and specialists to assess progress and change treatment plan if necessary. The most promising methods of conservative treatment, including correction of the muscular system, have been identified – adaptation physical exercises and gymnastics due to physical impact on kyphotic and scoliotic deformity. This includes breathing and physical exercises, therapeutic horse riding and wearing rigid torsion brace.

Некоторые аспекты военно-патриотического воспитания

The substantive role of batyrs in the education of national patriotism is considered. Horse riding, fights, conquests, love for military affairs developed a special «institute of batyrs», which solved almost all the most complex problems that arose in traditional Turkic-Kazakh society. Military history played an important role in the process of educating young soldiers. The moral and ethical norms that have developed in nomadic society give full reason to believe that the institution of great heroes served as the main source of inspiration for young people and performed an important function of patriotic education. Military-patriotic education is one of the important factors in ensuring military security, especially in the context of the changes that are taking place in the modern world. In all universities where there are military departments, it is necessary to introduce the subject of «Military History». Students studying at military departments should know the theory and practice in the construction of the Armed Forces, the theoretical foundations of military affairs and military art, learn to think about the military and get educated in the spirit of respect and friendship of peoples. The outward-political situation in the world requires enormous responsibility for strengthening the country's defense capability. The study of military history, national spiritual and moral values accumulated from the ancient period, a prerequisite among other areas in the military-patriotic education of students of Higher Educational Institutions. The huge role of the military history of the Kazakhs is revealed, where honor and dignity were the main factor in the development of the civilian position of the younger generation

Effects of intra-articular administration of hyaluronic acid or platelet-rich plasma as a complementary treatment to arthroscopy in horses with osteochondritis dissecans

Although arthroscopy is the treatment of choice for horses with osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), it is not yet known whether intra-articular therapies in the postoperative period can bring any benefit to the recovery of these animals. This study evaluated the effects of the intra-articular application of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), hyaluronic acid (HA) or lactated Ringer's solution (LR) in horses with OCD undergoing arthroscopy. Eighteen male and female Brazilian Sport horses aged between 2 and 6 years were evaluated. All animals presented OCD fragments in the middle crest of the tibia. Ten days after surgery, animals were randomly distributed into three groups and received intra-articular application of PRP (n = 6), HA (n = 6), or LR (control group, n = 6). Clinical, radiographic, ultrasound and synovial fluid evaluations were performed on the day of surgery and after 10, 30 and 60 days. An increase in the thickness of the joint capsule was observed 30 days after surgery in the three groups evaluated. In the control group, there was significant improvement in the flexion test 30 and 60 days after surgery, and in the PRP group, there was worsening of this parameter in the same evaluations. In the control group, there was a reduction in the degree of synovial effusion, and in the PRP and HA groups, there was increased effusion. There was a significant increase in the number of leukocytes in the HA group. Intra-articular use of PRP or HA ten days after arthroscopy did not promote positive effects on the recovery of horses with OCD.

Follow-Up Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Sagittal Groove Disease of the Equine Proximal Phalanx Using a Classification System in 29 Non-Racing Sports Horses.

Evolution of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in horses with sagittal groove disease (SGD) of the proximal phalanx is relatively sparsely described. This retrospective, descriptive, longitudinal study describes the findings of sequential low-field MRI fetlock examinations in horses with SGD of the proximal phalanx using a classification system. Twenty-nine horses were included, predominantly warmbloods used for show jumping (79%). For 29 limbs re-examined during the initial rehabilitation period, classification remained constant (n = 18), increased (n = 2), decreased (n = 7), and fluctuated (n = 2). Notably, two limbs with initial classification 4b (bone oedema-like signal with subchondral microfissure) and one with 4c (bone oedema-like signal with subchondral demineralisation) progressed to classification 5 (incomplete macrofissure/fracture), highlighting their potential as prodromal or imminent fissure pathology. Following conservative (n = 28) and surgical (n = 1) treatment, 86% of the horses re-entered full training and competition with a mean ± sd recovery time of 9.4 ± 4.4 months. In total, 20% of horses in the study subsequently presented for repeat MRI due to recurrent lameness after resuming full work, with classification that was the same (n = 2), increased (n = 2), or decreased (n = 2) compared with the last scan. This study underscores the variability in progression of SGD MRI findings, emphasising the need for further larger-scale research into patterns of progression.

Clinical study of palmar foot pain in 30 polo ponies with forelimb lameness in Thailand

Palmar foot pain is an important chronic problem that impairs the abilities of sport horses. Though there are several research on different types of horses, there is a lack of information regarding polo horses, which are known for using in unique sport. Therefore, this research aimed to find the prevalence of palmar foot pain in polo ponies with forelimb lameness in Thailand. The horses included in this study were 30 Argentine polo ponies: 10 geldings and 20 mares, aged from 7 to 20 years old. All were barefoot and had not exercised for at least 2 months. The ponies underwent lameness examination procedures with subjective and objective evaluation, including a trot on a straight line, left and right lunging, a full forelimb flexion test and a toe wedge test. Close inspections of hoof conformation, hoof percussion and hoof testing were done before performing a palmar digital nerve block. The result showed that 25 (83.33%) of 30 polo ponies had forelimb lameness, which can be divided into 56.7% with unilateral forelimb lameness, and 26.7% with bilateral forelimb lameness. There were 17 (56.7%) polo ponies that responded positively to the full flexion test and 25 (83.33%) that responded positively to the hoof tester and percussion at the frog area. However, only 9 ponies (30%) were positive to palmar nerve block. In conclusion, this study reveals a notable incidence of forelimb lameness and palmar foot pain. Understanding palmar foot pain prevalence is vital for further equine health management.

Pictorial graffiti of a horse rider and an orans from Byzantine Shivta: some thoughts on context and interpretation

ABSTRACTThe ruins of Byzantine Shivta, dominated by its three monumental churches, are visible from afar in the Negev Desert environment. They attract occasional visitors, tourists, pilgrims, and nomads who for centuries have recorded their personal marks and expressions in the form of written and pictorial graffiti. Commonly considered as vandalism, graffiti now is a recognized means of informal communication and recently has become an eligible field of research. The study of graffiti contributes to understanding social, cultural, religious, and even political contexts of ancient sites, and thereby they become an inseparable part of their history. This study surveys pre-modern pictorial graffiti discovered in Shivta and especially emphasizes two incised graffiti, a horse rider at the entrance to the North Church and an orans figure on the doorway of the ‘Governor’s House’ next to the Central Church. Published here for the first time, they constitute seldomly seen relics from the times when Shivta was still teeming with life. Discussed in context of their iconography, local and regional parallels, and spatial settings, these minute personal images seemingly reflect the main aspects of life in this desert settlement, religious and military, emerging from recent archaeological, artistic, and historical research of the site.