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The Apollo basin is a well-preserved double-ringed impact basin located on the northeastern edge of the South Pole–Aitken (SPA) basin. The Apollo basin has been flooded and filled with large volumes of mare lavas, indicating an active volcanism history. Based on orbital data, we reveal that the Apollo basin exhibits an overall asymmetric configuration in the distribution of mare basalts as well as its topography, chemical compositions, and crustal thickness. The Apollo basin is an excellent example for assessing the influences of the above factors on mare basalts petrogenesis and evaluating mare basalt genesis models. It was found that the generation of mare basalt magmas and their emplacement in the Apollo basin seems to be strongly related to local thin crust (<30 km), but the formation of basaltic magmas should be independent of the decompression melting because the mare units (3.34–1.79 Ga) are much younger than the pre-Nectarian Apollo basin. The mare basalts filled in the Apollo basin exhibits a large variation of TiO2 abundances, indicating the heterogeneity of mantle sources, which is possible due to the lunar mantle overturn after the LMO solidification or the impact-induced mantle convection and migration. However, the prolonged mare volcanic history of the Apollo basin is not well explained, especially considering the low Th abundance (<2 ppm) of this region. In addition, the central mare erupted earlier than other mare units within the Apollo basin, which seems to contradict the predictions of the postbasin loading-induced stresses model. Laboratory investigations of the Chang'E-6 mare basalt samples could possibly answer the above questions and provide new insight into the mare volcanic history of the lunar farside and the connections between mare volcanism and impact basin formation/evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Slow hoof growth poses a clinical challenge when hoof wear exceeds natural growth. Many treatment options have been reported without controlled prospective trials. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of transdermal CO2 on the rate of growth in treated hooves. METHODS: A prospective, randomized, blinded, crossover study of 14 Warmblood mares. Horses were randomly assigned a number and allocated for treatment of the front feet with room air or CO2 for 30 minutes 3 times per week, and groups were switched after 5 weeks. Hoof growth was measured on the dorsal midline and the quarters of each front foot. The distance from coronary band to lines made on the hoof wall was measured at the beginning, middle, and end of the study. The percentage of change in length at each location relative to baseline was evaluated at 5 weeks and 10 weeks using nonparametric analyses. RESULTS: All treatments were successfully administered. The left front medial (P = .028) and right front lateral (P = .03) sites of the CO2-treated hooves increased growth compared to the room air group at the 5-week point. CONCLUSIONS: The Results of this study suggest that repeated, noninvasive transdermal application of CO2 may accelerate hoof growth in normal horses over a 5-week treatment period. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study suggests that transdermal CO2 may increase the rate of hoof growth in normal horses. The mechanism of action of this treatment is unclear, and further studies are required to fully elucidate the potential effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past, small population sizes and unequal ancestor contributions have resulted in high inbreeding rates (ΔF) in the Friesian horse. Two decades ago, the studbook implemented a mating quota and started publishing individual kinships and reduced ΔF below 1% per generation. However, since then, the breeding population size has decreased and this raises the question whether current breeding strategies are sufficient to keep ΔF below desired rates. The aim of this study was to (1) reflect on past inbreeding trends and their main determinants, using pedigree analysis and (2) evaluate the effectiveness of the current and additional breeding strategies using stochastic simulations. We estimated the current ΔF (2013–2022) at 0.72% per generation. While the total contribution of the top 10 sires to the number of offspring per year has decreased from 75% in 1980 to 35% in 2022, this was mainly due to an increased number of approved studbook sires, and not due to more equalized contributions among sires. Of the simulated breeding strategies, selecting only breeding stallions with a below average mean kinship (i.e., "mean kinship selection") was most effective to decrease ΔF (from 0.66% to 0.33%). Increasing the number of breeding sires only had an effect when also a mating quota was applied. However, its effect remained limited. For example, a ~1.5 fold increase, combined with a mating quota of 80 offspring per sire per year, reduced ΔF from 0.55% to 0.51%. When increasing the number of breeding mares, a practically unfeasible large increase was needed for a meaningful reduction in ΔF (e.g. twice as many mares were needed to reduce ΔF from 0.66% to 0.56%). Stratified mating quotas, a novel approach in which we assigned each sire a mating quota (of 60, 80, 100 or 120 offspring per year) based on its mean kinship to recently born foals, resulted in a lower ΔF (0.43%) than a general mating quota of 90 offspring per sire per year (0.55%). Overall, while the current ΔF is below 1%, we recommend to implement additional strategies to further reduce ΔF below 0.5% in the Friesian horse population. For this breed and similar populations, we recommend to focus on breeding strategies based on kinship levels to effectively reduce ΔF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary This case describes a mare with fungal placentitis of a novel aetiology with megaallantoic and megaamniotic vesicles in a late gestation pregnancy and subsequent fetal death. Management of the case revealed decreased fetal movement apparently due to the vesicles' large size. Pathological investigation of the fetal membranes and fetus showed severe fungal placentitis by Curvularia and Bipolaris spp., both saprophytic fungi never previously described in literature as aetiologic agents of placentitis in mares. Full consequence of the vesicles' relation to the placentitis and involvement in fetal death have yet to be determined or completely understood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The samples from lunar farside have great significance for the study of the Moon, and even the solar system. Chang'e-6 landed successfully on the southern mare of the Apollo basin and returned ~2 kg of samples from lunar farside. To provide a better understanding for the background of the returned samples, we conducted detailed crater size-frequency distribution (CSFD) measurements in the Chang'e-6 landing region, the southern mare of the Apollo basin. The southern mare is divided into the western mare (W region) and the eastern mare (E region), and then subdivided into five subunits (W1, W2, W3, W4, W5) and three units (E1, E2, E3), respectively, according to the elevation, TiO2, and FeO abundances. Within the W2 and W5 region, more detailed subunits were separated out. The results show that the southern mare surface was active during two epochs, the Imbrian period and the Eratosthenian period. The basalt eruption lasted for ~1.7 Ga, from 3.28 Ga of the eastern mare to 1.54 Ga of the western mare. The W region is younger than the E region, while the three units of the E region have an age of ~3.2 Ga. The ages of the western mare basalts range from 2.98 Ga to 1.54 Ga, lasting for 1.4 Ga. It is worth noting that the age of the basalt at the Chang'e-6 sampling site is ~1.68 Ga, indicating the samples returned may include components with this very young age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring equine parturition effectively is essential for preemptive intervention in periparturient issues and ensuring the overall well-being of both mares and foals. However, its implementation in breeding farms is challenging due to variable gestational lengths and nocturnal births. Predictive techniques have the potential to streamline the monitoring process, reduce labor intensity, and minimize costs. Research on foaling prediction in mares carrying mule or equine clone fetuses is scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to comparatively analyze foaling prediction parameters in mares pregnant with mule, equine, or equine clone fetus. The study included vulvar relaxation, sacroiliac ligament tension, pH, BRIX index, and concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, and potassium in prepartum mammary secretions. Sixty pregnant mares were used for this study and grouped as follows: 25 mares with mule fetuses (MF), 20 with equine clone fetuses (CF), and 15 with equine control fetuses (EF). Results showed significant differences in vulvar relaxation and sacroiliac ligament tension only in MF group (p < 0.05) on the day of parturition compared to the other days evaluated, different from the other groups. Levels of pH notably decreased on parturition day (mean 5.7 ± 0.04, p < 0.0001), with lower values in MF (6.05 ± 0.02) and CF (6.08 ± 0.04) compared to EF (6.26 ± 0.04) (p < 0.03). The BRIX index showed variation across mares and was not a good parameter for foaling prediction. Electrolytes correlated positively with impending parturition, showing no significant differences among groups. The MF and CF groups exhibited a substantial increase (102.13 % and 110.66 %, respectively) in mean calcium concentrations on the day before foaling, unlike EF (38.29 %). In conclusion, the pH values were different in mammary secretions between mares carrying mule and clone fetuses, in contrast to equine control fetuses. Nevertheless, there was a trend of decreasing pH values closer to parturition in all groups. Conversely, the BRIX index serves as a valuable indicator of colostrum quality yet does not offer insights into the proximity of parturition. While electrolyte concentrations did not reveal significant differences among groups, it is worth noting that the evaluation of phosphorus emerges as a new parameter to explore in mares nearing parturition, since it obtained a pattern similar to calcium. • Mule had an increasing relaxation of physical parameter on the day of birth. • PH values were lower in mammary secretions of mares carrying mule and clone foals. • BRIX does not offer insights into the proximity of parturition. • Electrolyte concentrations did not reveal significant differences among pregnancies. • Phosphorus emerges as a new parameter to explore in mares nearing parturition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovum pick-up (OPU) by transvaginal ultrasound guided follicle aspiration in mares is a common assisted reproductive technique used for oocyte recovery and in vitro production of horse embryos. There has been relatively little research into the factors influencing oocyte recovery in OPU from live mares. The objective of this study was to compare oocyte recovery and morphology of ultrasound-guided follicle puncture and aspiration in live mares and in postmortem excised ovaries, in order to validate an experimental model for research purposes of the efficiency of OPU in mares. Data from OPU performed in 12 mares from a commercial program (follicle numbers, oocyte recovery and oocyte morphology) were compared to that obtained from ultrasound-guided follicle puncture of 13 postmortem excised ovaries from slaughtered mares processed within 2 h of slaughter. In both groups, the OPU was performed by the same operator using the same equipment and OPU technique. The recovered oocytes per aspirated follicle was higher (P < 0.05) in the postmortem group (105/166, 63.2 %) than in live mares (138/261, 52.9 %). There was more (P < 0.05) expanded cumulus oocyte complexes in the postmortem than in the live mares (18 % vs. 2.9 %). Several oocytes (5 oocytes from 81 aspirated follicles) were found in the leaked fluid which overflowed during follicle flushing of postmortem ovaries. In conclusion, the higher recovery rate obtained in the excised ovaries and the finding of oocytes in the leaked fluid during OPU, suggests that there is still room for improvement in the in vivo OPU technique. Utilizing postmortem excised ovaries could offer an alternative for further research into factors affecting oocyte recovery and oocyte leakage during OPU procedures. • Ultrasound-guided follicle puncture during OPU in postmortem excised ovaries is a valid method to obtain oocytes, yielding an average of 8.8 oocytes per ovary. • The oocyte recovery rate in the postmortem group was 10 % higher than in live mares. • Approximately one oocyte per ovary was found in the leaked fluid out of the ovary during OPU in excised ovaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In humans' and experimental animals' components of the somatotropic axis, such as growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) concentrations, decrease with advancing age. Although there is evidence regarding IGF-1, the effect of age on GH in mares, as well as the relationships between both parameters, have not yet been elucidated. On the other hand, although GH and IGF-1 are related to follicular development, it is unknown if they could be correlated with the circulating concentrations of ovarian steroids in mares, as occurs in other species. The hypothesis of this study was that both GH and IGF-1 could experience physiological changes with advancing age also in mares, and that both GH/IGF-1 could be correlated with oestradiol-17β (E 2) and progesterone (P 4), as recorded for other species. Hence, the objective of this study was to evaluate the concentrations of GH, IGF-1, E 2 , and P 4 in mares, according to the different ages. Blood samples were drawn from 56 healthy cyclic Spanish Purebred mares belonging to four different age groups: 6–9 years, 10–13 years, 14–16 years and >16 years. Mares aged 6–9 years and 10–13 years showed higher GH concentrations (P < 0.05) than mares of 14–16 and >16 years; and mares aged 14–16 showed higher GH concentrations (P < 0.05) than >16 years (P < 0.05). Mares aged >16 years showed lower IGF-1 concentrations (P < 0.05) than mares of 6–9, 10–13 and 14–16 years (P < 0.05). The concentrations of E 2 and P 4 showed no significant differences among different age groups. Both GH and IGF-1 were not correlated with each other or with E 2 and P 4. The concentrations of E 2 and P4 did not change with age. Advancing age leads to a decrease in the activity of the somatotropic axis in physiological cyclic mares, represented by a significant GH reduction, which, however, was ascribed for IGF-1 exclusively to mares over 16 years of age, without alterations in steroid hormone patterns. • Age-related changes on GH, IGF-1, oestradiol-17β, and progesterone concentrations in mares were evaluated. • Mares aged 6–9 years and 10–13 years showed higher GH than mares of 14–16 and >16 years. • Mares aged 14–16 showed higher GH concentrations than >16 years. • Mares aged >16 years showed lower IGF-1 concentrations compared to all three age groups. • No correlations between GH, IGF-1, and ovarian steroids were observed. • Advancing age leads to a significant GH reduction which was ascribed for IGF-1 exclusively to mares >16 years [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: In females of various species and experimental animals, iron (Fe) status in follicular fluid (FF) is associated with local physiological reproductive events related to follicle development, steroidogenesis, and oocyte maturation. However, these mechanisms remain unknown. This study aimed to determine and compare the intrafollicular and plasma concentrations of Fe, ferritin (Ferr), and transferrin (TRF) in cycling mares. Materials and Methods: Sixty ovaries were collected during the breeding season from 30 clinically normal mares raised for slaughterhouse meat production. Blood samples were collected before slaughter. Follicles were classified into three categories according to size: Small (20-30 mm; n = 20), medium (=31-40 mm; n = 20), and large (=41 mm; n = 20). The FF samples, after collection, were immediately taken to the laboratory for processing and were centrifuged, and the Fe and Ferr concentrations in the supernatant and plasma were determined by spectrophotometry. Results: Although intrafollicular Fe and Ferr were similar to plasma, TRF was significantly higher in FF than in systemic circulation (p < 0.05). Follicular development does not modify the status of Fe in the mare. Conclusions: Based on this evidence, it is possible that the acquisition of this molecule possibly originated from a local de novo source, whereas their diffusion through ultrafiltration does not play a relevant role. These results provide new scientific insights into the status of follicle Fe, suggesting its involvement in normal ovarian functions in mares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finnhorse is Finland's native and national horse breed and it has genetic affinities to northern European and Asian horses. It has historical importance for agriculture, forest work and transport and as a war horse. Finnhorse has four breeding sections in the studbook and is under conservation and characterisation efforts. We sequenced and annotated the genome of a Finnhorse mare from the working horse section using PacBio and Omni‐C data. This genome can complement the existing Thoroughbred reference genome (EquCab 3.0) and facilitate genetic studies of horses from northern Eurasia. We assembled 2.4 Gb of the genome with an N50 scaffold length of 83.8 Mb and the genome annotation resulted in a total of 19 748 protein coding genes of which 1200 were Finnhorse specific. The assembly has high quality and synteny with the current horse reference genome. We manually curated five genes of interest and deposited the final assembly in the European Nucleotide Archive under the accession no. PRJEB71364. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kenney–Doig scale is considered the international standard method for classifying uterine biopsies in mares; however, its objectivity has been questioned by various studies. In the present study, we analysed the degree of agreement between two pathologists when assessing the same set of 201 uterine biopsies, obtaining a slight to moderate level of agreement (κ =.34/κw =.57). Subsequently, we developed a numerical scale based on the evaluation of histological parameters, including inflammation, fibrosis, glandular density and lymphatic lacunae. Partial scores were summed to obtain a fifth parameter called Summation. The correlation between both scales was demonstrated (p <.0001), and their combined use resulted in a notable increase in the degree of agreement between the two pathologists (κ =.53/κw =.67). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Fungal endometritis and placentitis have been reported as a rare but important cause of infertility in the mare. There are no reported clinical cases of fungal endometritis causing embryonic loss in the mare. This case report aims to highlight the potential of fungal endometritis as an aetiological agent in embryonic loss in the mare; an incidental diagnosis of a case of fungal endometritis and embryonic loss while undertaking routine pregnancy assessments in a Standardbred mare. After a positive pregnancy diagnosis after 13 days post‐ovulation, a mare was diagnosed with endometritis and pregnancy loss associated with the growth of an unusual fungus, likely of the Acremonium spp., 28 days post‐ovulation. While fungal embryonic loss is rare, it should be considered a potential reason for pregnancy wastage in the mare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer has become one of the most common and deadliest diseases worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. As a contribution to finding ways how to combat this problem by well balanced nutrition, the current research compared the levels of medium and longchain saturated fatty acids in the milk of three distinct domestic animal species, including cattle, goats, and horses, intending to identify their potential anti-cancer properties. The study analysed milk samples from three different animal species in Slovenia and Croatia - the Simmental cows, the Saanen goats, and the Lipizzaner mares. The samples were evaluated for their fatty acid profiles, which included five medium-chain fatty acids (caprylic, pelargonic, capric, undecylic, and lauric) and ten long-chain fatty acids (myristic, pentadecylic, palmitic, margaric, stearic, nonadecylic, arachidic, behenic, tricosylic, and lignoceric). By analysing the fatty acid profiles, the research study aimed to contribute to the development of new nutritional recommendations for cancer and to help improve the lives of those affected by the cancer. The results indicate that milk from different animal species varies in the concentration of medium and long-chain saturated fatty acids. Goat’s milk has a high concentration of caprylic acid that may help prevent certain cancers (colorectal, skin, and breast cancer), whereas cow’s milk has more capric and lauric acid that can have beneficial effects against cancer. All three species have high concentrations of long-chain fatty acids (myristic, palmitic, and stearic acid), with cow’s milk having the highest value. These fatty acids have potential benefits in the prevention of diverse types of cancer (leukemia, prostate cancer, gastric cancer, and breast cancer). Therefore, consumption of milk, especially cows’ milk, may offer some protection against cancer prevalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work predicts, hot flow curves of 2205 DSS using strain-compensated Arrhenius rate-type constitutive model. Twenty-five (25) × Ø10 diameter × 15 mm height cylindrical samples were hot compressed at a temperature between 850 and 1050 °C at an interval of 50 °C and strain rates between 0.001 and 5 s−1, using Gleeble 1500D. After the tests, corrected flow curves were plotted followed by computation of deformations constants at various deformation conditions using steady state stress. The values of the constants were (α = 0.009708, Q = 445 kJ/mol and n = 3.7) and seemed comparable to the previous studies of DSS. Steady state predictive model was then constructed using the calculated constants and showed a reasonably good accuracy with low value of MARE = 7.78%. Furthermore, calculated strain compensated Arrhenius rate type model was used to predict flow curves at various deformation. The model had a good estimation of flow curves of flow curves at 900–1050 °C across all strain rates as reflected by MARE = 5.47%. A notable discrepancy between predicted and experimental flow stress was observed at 850 °C and across all the strain rates. A model refinement using generalised reduced gradient improved the accuracy of the model by 34.7% despite deformation conditions at 850 °C and low strain rates (0.01/ 0.1) s−1 showing minimum improvement. Further modification of Z-parameter by compensating for the strain rate improved the accuracy of the model at 850 °C/0.01 s−1/0.1 s−1. Lastly, a comparison of the current model with the other non-linear model showed that the latter was more accurate in estimation of flow curves since it relied on characteristics flow stress points controlled by underlying active deformation mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equine endometritis is one of the main causes of subfertility in the mare. Unraveling the molecular mechanisms involved in this condition and pinpointing proteins with biomarker potential could be crucial in both diagnosing and treating this condition. This study aimed to identify the endometritis-induced changes in the endometrial proteome in mares and to elucidate potential biological processes in which these proteins may be involved. Secondly, biomarkers related to bacterial endometritis (BE) in mares were identified. Uterine lavage fluid samples were collected from 28 mares (14 healthy: negative cytology and culture, and no clinical signs and 14 mares with endometritis: positive cytology and culture, in addition to clinical signs). Proteomic analysis was performed with a UHPLC-MS/MS system and bioinformatic analysis was carried out using Qlucore Omics Explorer. Gene Ontology enrichment and pathway analysis (PANTHER and KEGG) of the uterine proteome were performed to identify active biological pathways in enriched proteins from each group. Quantitative analysis revealed 38 proteins differentially abundant in endometritis mares when compared to healthy mares (fold changes >4.25, and q-value = 0.002). The proteins upregulated in the secretome of mares with BE were involved in biological processes related to the generation of energy and REDOX regulation and to the defense response to bacterium. A total of 24 biomarkers for BE were identified using the biomarker workbench algorithm. Some of the proteins identified were related to the innate immune system such as isoforms of histones H2A and H2B involvement in neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, complement C3a, or gelsolin and profilin, two actin-binding proteins which are essential for dynamic remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton during cell migration. The other group of biomarkers were three known antimicrobial peptides (lysosome, equine cathelicidin 2 and myeloperoxidase (MPO)) and two uncharacterized proteins with a high homology with cathelicidin families. Findings in this study provide the first evidence that innate immune cells in the equine endometrium undergo reprogramming of metabolic pathways similar to the Warburg effect during activation. In addition, biomarkers of BE in uterine fluid of mares including the new proteins identified, as well as other antimicrobial peptides already known, offer future lines of research for alternative treatments to antibiotics. • Mares with bacterial endometritis exhibited a significantly higher relative abundance of endometrial proteins compared to clinically healthy mares. • The proteins upregulated in the secretome of mares with bacterial endometritis were involved in biological processes related to the generation of energy and REDOX regulation and to the defense response to bacterium (neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation pathway). • A total of 24 biomarkers for bacterial endometritis were identified. Some of the proteins identified were related to the innate immune system such as isoforms of histones H2A and H2B, complement C3a, or gelsolin and profilin. The other group of biomarkers were three known antimicrobial peptides (lysosome, equine cathelicidin 2 and MPO) and two uncharacterized proteins with a high homology with cathelicidin families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sedlár and Vigiani [18] have developed an approach to propositional epistemic logics wherein (i) an agent's beliefs are closed under relevant implication and (ii) the agent is located in a classical possible world (i.e., the non-modal fragment is classical). Here I construct first-order extensions of these logics using the non-Tarskian interpretation of the quantifiers introduced by Mares and Goldblatt [12], and later extended to quantified modal relevant logics by Ferenz [6]. Modular soundness and completeness are proved for constant domain semantics, using non-general frames with Mares–Goldblatt truth conditions. I further detail the relation between the demand that classical possible worlds have Tarskian truth conditions and incompleteness results in quantified relevant logics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variations in temperature throughout the reproductive tract have been noted in many species. A recent study found the cervix–rectum temperature differential (CR‐TD) in cattle was related to fertility. The present study aimed to assess the CR‐TD in mares around the time of ovulation and relate it to embryo recover. Over 52 cycles, mares were inseminated with a fertile stallion and embryo recovery was undertaken on Day 7 post ovulation. Further 10 control mares were not inseminated. Rectal and cervical temperatures were measured using a precision thermometer on four or five occasions: the day of deslorelin administration and insemination, the day before ovulation, the day of ovulation (Day 0), the day after ovulation and, for inseminated mares, before embryo recovery on Day 7. One‐way ANOVA showed that the CR‐TD was significantly lower on the day of ovulation in the 36 positive cycles, in which an embryo was recovered, versus the 16 in which the embryo flush was negative (0.21 ± 0.17 vs. 0.40 ± 0.09°C; p < 0.001). Control cycles showed equivalent CR‐TD to positive (0.13 ± 0.22 vs. 0.21 ± 0.17°C; p = 0.196) but not negative cycles (0.13 ± 0.22 vs. 0.40 ± 0.09°C; p < 0.001). A positive embryo recovery was associated with lower CR‐TDs from the time of insemination and deslorelin to the day after ovulation compared to the day of embryo flushing (RM ANOVA; p < 0.001; Pairwise comparisons; p ≤ 0.01, in all cases). Rectal or cervical temperatures per se showed no significant differences between positive, negative or control cycles at any time point. In conclusion, a thermoregulatory process occurs close to ovulation which results in a lower CR‐TD in cycles that produced an embryo versus those which did not. Further characterisation of TDs within the reproductive tract of the mare would increase our understanding of the conditions required for optimum fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate and compare the overall and breed‐specific seasonal breeding patterns, fertility rates, cyclicity, and follicular dynamics of Arab, Thoroughbred, and Percheron mares under the subtropical conditions of Pakistan. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of climatic data and breeding records of eleven breeding studs spanning four years (2020–2023) was made to find out the overall seasonality in the breeding pattern of mares. Fifty mares of each breed (n = 150 in total) were scanned by ultrasonography for a calendar year to find the cyclicity pattern and follicular dynamics (follicular growth rate, size of ovulatory follicle, and days from estrus till ovulation). Results and Discussion: The statistical analysis of breeding records demonstrated a clear pattern of seasonal breeding (p< 0.05). The highest monthly foalings were noted in March (247 ± 45.37), and overall breeding activities peaked in Spring season (p< 0.05). Breed‐specific results of Arab, Thoroughbred, and Percheron mares revealed that Arab mares maintained stable breeding activity throughout the year, with the highest activity in spring and peak conception rate in winter (56.25% ± 32.78; p > 0.05). Thoroughbred mares experienced significant seasonal declines from spring to winter with a peak conception rate in winter (63.89% ± 27.37, p > 0.05). Percherons showed the most pronounced seasonal effects, especially with a high fall conception rate (73.04% ± 19.61) and a sharp decrease in winter breeding metrics (p< 0.05). Furthermore, Thoroughbred and Percheron mares displayed the most pronounced seasonal effects on the percentage of cyclic mares 77.3% and 56% in winters (p< 0.05). Moreover, the follicular dynamics of the three breeds also exhibited significant differences (p< 0.05). Conclusion: The current study concludes that seasonal and breed‐specific variability exists among the reproductive parameters of Arab, Thoroughbred, and Percheron mares in subtropics, necessitating breed‐specific reproductive management measures to maximize mare breeding efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Mammary gland secretions (MGS), electrolytes, and pH are used to detect impending parturition in mares. Questions remain about whether all mares present sodium potassium inversion at labor. This study demonstrated that all mares had sodium potassium inversion and acidic pH at the time of parturition. Milk pH is neutral in the first seven days postpartum; the clinical significance of this remains to be determined. The pH of MGS can be measured with minimal variation stored at three different temperatures, except when the pH is ~7.5, which went up to ~8 immediately after the storage; however, the clinical significance of this variation can likely be negligible. This present study is the first to address these two physiological and practical questions about the pH of MGS in periparturient mares. The objectives of this study were (i) to determine pH and electrolyte concentrations in MGS collected prepartum and at parturition, (ii) to characterize mare milk pH during the first week postpartum, and (iii) to evaluate pre-foaling MGS pH at three storage temperatures. This study outlined two hypotheses: (i) all mares exhibit acidic pH, increased calcium, magnesium, and potassium, and reduced sodium concentrations regardless of prepartum pH and electrolytes; (ii) pre-foaling MGS pH varies with storage temperature and time in an initial value-dependent manner. Twenty-three multiparous mares were monitored daily from 320 days of gestation until parturition. Pre-foaling MGS was collected, and pH was immediately measured using a hand-held pH meter. Aliquots were preserved for further electrolyte analysis. Postpartum, samples from day −7 to 0 (day of foaling) were thawed, and electrolyte concentrations (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium) were determined. For the three storage temperatures, pH was measured at 0, 15, 30, 45, and 60 min after storage, and hourly for 10 h post-collection. A range of pH 8 to 6.5 was included to avoid bias towards a specific pH value. The chosen pH groups were 8 (range 7.8–8.2), 7.5 (range 7.3–7.7), 7 (6.7–7.2), and 6.5 (6.2–6.6). Overall, storage temperature affects pH (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the majority of the mares had sodium–potassium inversion and acidic pH at foaling. Milk pH is neutral up to four days after foaling, becoming slightly alkaline afterwards, with undetermined clinical significance. The pH of MGS showed minimal variation across storage temperatures, except for pH ~7.5, which increased to ~8 post-storage. This study is the first to address these physiological and practical questions about MGS pH in periparturient mares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometrosis in mares is a disease resulting from chronic inflammation characterized by peri glandular fibrosis. There is no effective treatment so far, which opens the door for exploring the use of stem cells as a candidate. Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) is crucial for the establishment and progression of fibrosis in mare's endometrosis. We aimed to develop regenerative approaches to treat endometrosis by using mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), for which understanding the effect of TGFβ on exogenous MSC is crucial. We isolated and characterized equine adipose MSC from six donors. Cells were pooled and exposed to 10 ng/ml of TGFβ for 0, 4, and 24 h, after which cells were analyzed for proliferation, migration, mesodermal differentiation, expression of fibrosis-related mRNAs, and prostaglandin E2 secretion. At 24 h of exposition to TGFβ, there was a progressive increase in the contraction of the monolayer, leading to nodular structures, while cell viability did not change. Exposure to TGFβ impaired adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation after 4 h of treatment, which was more marked at 24 h, represented by a decrease in Oil red and Alizarin red staining, as well as a significant drop (p < 0.05) in the expression of key gene regulators of differentiation processes (PPARG for adipose and RUNX2 for osteogenic differentiation). TGFβ increased chondrogenic differentiation as shown by the upsurge in size of the resulting 3D cell pellet and intensity of Alcian Blue staining, as well as the significant up-regulation of SOX9 expression (p < 0.05) at 4 h, which reached a maximum peak at 24 h (p < 0.01), indicative of up-regulation of glycosaminoglycan synthesis. Preconditioning MSC with TGFβ led to a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the expression of myofibroblast gene markers aSMA, COL1A1, and TGFβ at 24 h exposition time. In contrast, the expression of COL3A1 did not change with respect to the control but registered a significant downregulation compared to 4 h (p < 0.05). TGFβ also affected the expression of genes involved in PGE 2 synthesis and function; COX2 , PTGES, and the PGE 2 receptor EP4 were all significantly upregulated early at 4 h (p < 0.05). Cells exposed to TGFβ showed a significant upregulation of PGE 2 secretion at 4 h compared to untreated cells (p < 0.05); conversely, at 24 h, the PGE 2 values decreased significantly compared to control cells (p < 0.05). Preconditioning MSC for 4 h led to an anti-fibrotic secretory phenotype, while a longer period (24 h) led to a pro-fibrotic one. It is tempting to propose a 4-h preconditioning of exogenous MSC with TGFβ to drive them towards an anti-fibrotic phenotype for cellular and cell-free therapies in fibrotic diseases such as endometrosis of mares. • TGF beta induces an anti-fibrotic phenotype in MSC exposed to it for 4h • TGF beta induces a pro-fibrotic phenotype in MSC exposed to it for 24h • TGF beta impairs osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of MSC. • TGF beta improves chondrogenic differentiation. • The anti-fibrotic action of TGF beta seems to be mediated by PGE 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A 17‐year‐old Quarter Horse broodmare was taken to surgery for signs of colic unresponsive to medical management. The small colon was strangulated by a pendulous ovarian pedicle. The strangulation was freed, and the affected ovary was removed. The mare developed signs of a small colon obstruction 4 days after surgery. The mare was euthanised 6 days after surgery because of a GI rupture. A post‐mortem examination revealed necrosis of the previously strangulated portion of small colon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was performed to evaluate whether intrafollicular treatment of PGE2 or PGF2α administered in early estrus would induce normal ovulation, progesterone production (Experiment 1) and pregnancy (Experiment 2). In Experiment 1, mares in estrus after 2 days of endometrial edema were injected in all largest dominant follicles (28–35 mm in diameter) with 0.5 mL of sterile water containing 500 μg PGE2 (n = 6), 125 μg PGF2α (n = 6) or placebo (n = 7) (Hour 0). Ultrasound examinations were performed daily, until ovulation or anovulation was detected, and daily blood samples were taken for 8 days. In Experiment 2, mares with a dominant follicle ≥35 mm after at least three days of slight-to-moderate endometrial edema, were injected with 500 μg PGE2 diluted in 0.5 mL of sterile water for injection in the follicle (PGE2 group; n = 9 mares and 11 dominant follicles). No puncture was performed in the control group (n = 9 mares and 11 dominant follicles). Mares from both groups were inseminated. In Experiment 1, all mares (6/6) in the PGE2 group ovulated within 24 h of treatment. The mean interval from intrafollicular injection to ovulation was shorter (P < 0.001) in PGE2 mares (24 ± 0 h) than in control mares (77 ± 9 h). Mares from the PGF2α group developed hemorrhagic anovulatory follicles (HAF) more often (7/7) than control mares (2/7); P < 0.05). The progesterone concentration in mares from the PGF2α group was lower (P < 0.004) than control mares in the early post-ovulatory period. The first significant increase in post-ovulatory progesterone concentration occurred earlier (P < 0.05) in mares from the control group than in mares from the PGF2α and PGE2 groups. In Experiment 2, more mares from the control group (7/9, 78 %) became pregnant than from the PGE2 group (2/9, 22 %) (P = 0.015). In conclusion, PGE2 alone induced follicle collapse in all treated mares within 24 h of administrations, while PGF2α blocked ovulation and induced formation of HAFs. However, the post-ovulatory rise in progesterone production was delayed and the fertility reduced in mares with ovulation induced by PGE2 compared to control mares. • Intrafollicular administration of PGE2 at early-mid estrus hastened dramatically the time to ovulation. • The fertilization was possible, although the pregnancy rate was lower. • Intrafollicular administration of PGE2 at early-mid estrus did not alter progesterone secretion. • Intrafollicular administration of PGF2α alone blocked ovulation and induced formation of HAFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Commercial embryo flushing of horses has required hormonal management of both the donor and recipient mares throughout the breeding season. Aim: This study aimed to find out the effect of using human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and prostaglandin F2α (PG) on the ovarian and uterine dynamics and hemodynamics, estradiol, progesterone, oxidants-antioxidants, and blood biochemicals in embryo donor mares during the hottest months of the year in a subtropical climate. Methods: Three Control estrous cycles of native mares (10-20 years; N=10) followed by two treated cycles with hCG and PGF2α were examined daily from May to August using Doppler ultrasound with blood sampling. Circulating estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), total cholesterol, total proteins, albumin, haptoglobin, nitric oxide (NO), catalase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and myeloperoxidase were measured in blood serum. Results: Days during the control estrous cycle impacted the dominant follicle (DF) diameter (P [Open Vet J 2024; 14(8.000): 2057-2072]

Summary Uterine torsion (UT) is a common obstetrical problem in Straight Egyptian Arabian mares, causing a medical emergency for both the mare and the fetus. This case report describes, for the first time, the management of a case of UT in both directions during a single gestation period in a 5‐year‐old Straight Egyptian Arabian mare. The mare was 8 months pregnant and experienced intermittent unresponsive colic signs. Rectal examination revealed clockwise 180° UT and ultrasonography showed a viable fetus. The haematological findings were within the normal range. The mare was surgically treated immediately by standing flank laparotomy (SFL) on the right side. 4 days later, the mare was returned to the clinic with the same complaint. Rectal and ultrasonography examinations revealed counterclockwise 180° UT and a viable fetus. The animal was subjected again to SFL on the left side. After surgeries, the mare recovered well, foaled at term and gave birth to a viable filly. She was bred again and conceived. This case is documented to demonstrate the occurrence of a UT in both directions during the same gestation period in mares, as well as the efficacy of SFL in rectifying the condition and allowing both the mother and foal to survive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Commercial embryo flushing of horses has required hormonal management of both the donor and recipient mares throughout the breeding season. Aim: This study aimed to find out the effect of using human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and prostaglandin F2α (PG) on the ovarian and uterine dynamics and hemodynamics, estradiol (E2), progesterone, oxidants-antioxidants, and blood biochemicals in embryo donor mares during the hottest months of the year in a subtropical climate. Methods: Three Control estrous cycles of native mares (10–20 years; N = 10) followed by two treated cycles with hCG and PGF2α were examined daily from May to August using Doppler ultrasound with blood sampling. Circulating, progesterone (P4), total cholesterol, total proteins, albumin, haptoglobin, nitric oxide (NO), catalase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and myeloperoxidase were measured in blood serum. Results: Days during the control estrous cycle impacted the dominant follicle (DF) diameter (p < 0.0001), antrum diameter (p < 0.0001), area (p < 0.0001), antral area (p < 0.0001), and color area % (p > 0.05), and corpus luteum (CL) diameter (p < 0.0001). PG tended to impact DF diameter (p > 0.05) but influenced its antrum diameter (p < 0.05), color area (p < 0.05), CL diameter (p < 0.01), and area (p = 0.013). Days after hCG tended to impact DF antrum diameter (p > 0.05) and the antrum area (p > 0.05), but influenced CL diameter (p < 0.0001). PGF2α and hCG increased uterine horn area (p = 0.016) and color area (p = 0.023), total cholesterol (p < 0.0001), and NO (p < 0.0001) levels but hCG increased the levels of myeloperoxidase (p < 0.005), total proteins (p < 0.001), and albumin (p < 0.0001). Globulins achieved the highest level (p = 0.054) but the Albumin/globulin ratio reached a minimum value on Day 0 of the control mares (p < 0.0001). PGF2α increased LDH (p < 0.0001) and sharply declined (p = 0.028) progesterone. Conclusion: In conclusion, the treatment protocols of hCG and PGF2α showed minimal effects on the produced ovulating follicles and can be used during the summer season to manage embryo donor mares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to determine the effect of the embryo flushing technique and the number of flushing attempts performed by operators of different experience on embryo recovery (ER). Ten non-lactating mares were inseminated with the same stallion in six cycles each (n = 60). Embryo flushing (EF) was performed 7–9 days after ovulation by three operators (OP; 20 EF cycles each): OP1 had performed >500 EF before the study, while OP2 and 3 had performed 0 EF. Each EF was performed with 2 flushing attempts (FA) using 1L of ringer's lactate "in-and-out" using two EF techniques: 1) uterine massage (UM): continuous ballottement and massage of the uterus per rectum during ringer lactate recovery, 2) gravity flow (GF): the ringer lactate was allowed to flow back without massaging the uterus. In both groups, 20 IU of oxytocin were administered at the second FA and the ringer lactate was allowed to remain in the uterus for 3 min before recovery. An extra FA was performed in each group using 0.5 L of ringer lactate and uterine massage. More embryos (P < 0.05) per ovulation were recovered in the UM (17/33, 0.51) than in the GF group (8/36, 0.22). For the UM group, 16/17 embryos (94.1 %) were recovered in the first FA, while only one embryo in the second FA (1/17, 5.9 %). In the GF group, 4 embryos were recovered in each FA. No embryo was found in the extra FA in the UM group, while seven additional embryos were found in the GF group (5/7 flushed by OP1; P < 0.05). The overall ER per cycle was 70, 40, and 45 % for OP1, 2 and 3, respectively. In conclusion, highest embryo recovery is achieved in EF performed with UM, with the majority of embryos being flushed in the first FA. • Uterine massage is more effective than gravity flow to flush out embryos. • The majority of embryos are recovered in the 1st flushing attempt by uterine massage. • The degree of expansion of the uterine horns with flushing media influences embryo recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A more refined 3-D structure of study area was determined. • 3-D morphology of a high-density anomaly bodies inside Mare Crisium was obtained for the first time. • A clear crust-mantle interface uplift rebound is found in center of Mare Crisium. Mare Crisium is a typical Mascon on the Moon, and a detailed 3-D structure of the lunar crust and upper mantle is essential to explore the causes of the lunar Mascon. However, research in the Mare Crisium region has focused more on surface rather than internal structure in the past few decades. With the development of space exploration technology, lunar gravity data have been applied several times to determine the internal structure of the Moon. Nevertheless, the gravity method has limitations in terms of vertical resolution. To address this issue, this paper adopts the wavelet multi-scale analysis method to decompose the gravity anomaly data in the Mare Crisium region. The power spectrum method is then used to estimate the mean source depth of the decomposed gravity anomaly signal. On the one hand, the gravity anomaly signal and its corresponding mean source depth at different scales can be used to stratify the structure of the lunar crust and upper mantle in the Mare Crisium region, and then obtain the density structure of each layer. On the other hand, the gravity anomaly signals from the crust-mantle undulations are extracted and combined with prior information to invert the depth of the crust-mantle interface in the Mare Crisium region. As a result, the 3-D structure of the lunar crust and upper mantle in the Mare Crisium region was obtained. The study indicates that there are two high-density bodies with a large range in the interior of Mare Crisium. The first high-density body is located in the western part of the Mare Crisium, and the centre of its bottom is about 54°E longitude and 17°N latitude. The second high-density body is located in the northeast of the Mare Crisium, and the centre of its base is about 63°E longitude and 25°N latitude. Additionally, the study found that the crust-mantle interface of the Mare Crisium is obviously uplifted, and the uplifting rebound phenomenon exists in the centre of the basin. Considering the depth and size of the high-density body, Mare Crisium probably experienced two high-angle, high-speed impacts at least. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catecholamines (CATs) are neurotransmitters and allostatic hormones whose plasma concentrations are physiologically modified in various species such as human, rats, mice and donkeys, with advancing age. However, currently these mechanisms are less well elucidated in horses and more specifically in mares. The hypothesis of this study was that, as in afore mentioned species, the CATs could experience physiological changes with advancing age. The objective of this study was to evaluate the concentrations of adrenaline (A), noradrenaline (NA), dopamine (DA), and serotonin (5-HT) in mares of different ages. Blood samples were drawn from 56 non-pregnant Spanish Purebred mares belonging to four different age groups: 6 to 9 years, 10 to 12 years, 13 to 16 years and > 16 years. The concentrations of A, NA, DA, and 5-HT were determined by competition EIA-Technical 3-CAt EIA, specifically validated for horses. Mares aged > 16 years showed lower A, DA, and 5-HT but higher NA concentrations than 6–9, 10–12, and 13–16 years (p < 0.05). Mares of 13–16 years showed lower A and higher NA than 6–9 and 10–12 years (p < 0.05). A and NA (r=-0.72; p < 0.05), and NA and 5-HT (r=-0.67; p < 0.05) were negatively correlated, and A and 5-HT (r = 0.74; p < 0.05) were positively correlated. Advanced age leads to a predominance of sympathetic nervous activity and lower serotonergic activity in non-pregnant mares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum iron status and its relation to hematological indexes in cyclic mares. Blood samples were taken from 40 Spanish Purebred mares on days − 5, 0, + 5 and + 16 of their cycle. Concentration of transferrin (TRF) was significantly lower on day 0 than on days + 5 and + 16, transferrin saturation (TSAT) decreased significantly on days 0 and + 16 compared to day − 5, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) on day + 16 was significantly higher than those on days − 5 and 0, and on day + 5 it was also significantly higher than that on day 0, unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC) was reduced on day + 16 compared to days − 5 and 0, red blood cell (RBC) count on day + 16 was higher than that on days − 5 and 0 (p < 0.05), with no differences in the concentration of hemoglobin (HB) and packed cell volume (PCV). TRF and TIBC (r = 0.95), RBC and HB (r = 0.64), RBC and PCV (r = 0.78), and HB and PCV (r = 0.63) were positively and significantly correlated (P < 0.05). The estrous cycle in the Spanish Purebred mare is characterized by an increase in TRF and TIBC during the follicular phase and an increase in TSAT, UIBC and RBC in the luteal phase, without changes in other hematological parameters. The coordinated activity of these parameters guarantees an adequate iron (Fe) transfer and utilization during follicular development, ovulation, and the luteal period in the mare. Therefore, the estrous cycle must be considered in the evaluation of the mare's iron status, in light of significant changes observed both in early and at late luteal phases. The magnitude of these changes and the meaning to the physiology of the mares showed that in cyclic mares, hematological parameters and indicators of iron status evolve differently depending on the phase of the cycle, and their interpretation can help to veterinarians involved in equine practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mare domes (interpreted to be a type of shield volcano) represent one important endmember of a variety of volcanic edifices occurring across the volcanic plains on the Moon, whereas Ring‐Moat Dome Structures (RMDSs) are interpreted to reflect the thermodynamic behavior of plain‐forming mare flows during their emplacement and cooling. A comprehensive study of the direct association between mare domes and RMDSs can not only provide deep insights into their formation mechanisms but also yield key information on the nature of mantle sources. We characterized a total of 200 mare domes and more than 6,400 RMDSs within Mare Tranquillitatis using multiple sets of imagery and topography data. RMDS‐bearing domes (80 out of 200) are on average larger than those hosting no RMDSs (average diameter 10.2 vs. 5.5 km) and have lower height/diameter (H/D) ratios (0.01 vs. 0.02) and flank slopes (1.2° vs. 2°). We attribute the presence of RMDSs on some domes to be due to relatively higher effusion rates forming longer thinner flows, producing favorable conditions for the formation of RMDSs. The average diameter of the RMDSs on mare domes (226 m, n = 1,027) appears to be slightly smaller than those located in mare plains (256 m, n = 527). This may be due to slope effects and that the relatively thicker off‐dome part of flows undergoes a relatively higher degree inflation process, producing slightly larger RMDSs. We adapt the RMDS‐formation theoretical model to shallow subcrustal magma reservoir model to account for the Tranquillitatis dome‐RMDS associations. Plain Language Summary: Ring‐moat dome structures (RMDSs) are common features across a large expanse of the lunar mare surface, but their nature is poorly understood. A key recent observation is that RMDSs have a close relationship with mare dome‐style volcanism, which represents a typical eruption style on the Moon, providing a useful window into the composition and geophysical evolution of the lunar interior. In this study, a total of 80 mare domes in Mare Tranquillitatis were found to be superimposed by varying numbers of RMDSs on their tops and flanks. RMDSs were also found in the maria surrounding these domes. The nature, correlation, and morphologic properties of the RMDSs and their host mare domes were measured. Based on new observations, a basalt flow emplacement scenario for the formation of both mare domes and associated volcanic features (e.g., RMDSs) related to dike‐closing in the late stages of eruptions is reviewed and updated to account for these observed associations. Key Points: The presence of RMDSs on some mare domes is attributed to be due to relatively higher effusion rates forming longer thinner flowsDike‐fed volcanic eruptions from the shallow subcrustal magma reservoirs are likely to favor the production of domes around the ventThe Tranquillitatis dome‐RMDS association can be explained by adapting the RMDS theoretical model to the shallow subcrustal magma reservoir model [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Summary Hysteroscopy is a complementary tool to the traditional transrectal palpation and ultrasonography commonly performed by equine practitioners. Once mastered, it is a quick and useful diagnostic tool for the general and targeted evaluation of the endometrium and provides real time information about potential causes of subfertility. Samples of intrauterine fluid and the endometrium can be taken via transendoscopic catheters or infusion pipettes or via the use of traditional endometrial biopsy forceps. In addition to being a useful diagnostic tool, treatments can often be performed at the same time the pathologies are identified, providing mare owners with information and resolution of problems. With the development of additional technologies, hysteroscopy allows for optical biopsies to be performed, which will likely increase in use as the software moves from the research laboratories to clinical practice. Hysteroscopy is an easily learned, useful clinical skill for the identification of abnormalities in the mares' reproductive tract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the measurements of regolith thicknesses on the lunar maria (basalts), the lunar regolith was determined to have accumulated at a rate of about 1 m/Gyr since the era of the late heavy bombardment. However, regolith production on porous targets (e.g., crater ejecta deposits) is less studied, especially for Copernican units, and how target properties affect regolith production is not well understood. Here, we measured regolith thicknesses on the ejecta blanket of the Copernicus crater, showing that the regolith production rate sensitively depends on the initial target properties. The regolith production rate of the Copernicus ejecta blanket (3.0 ± 0.1 m/Gyr) is significantly larger than that of the Copernicus impact melt, which was previously estimated to be 1.2 ± 0.2 m/Gyr. Although crater production varies with different targets, our observed crater density of the Copernicus impact melt is indistinguishable from that of the Copernicus ejecta because impacts fracture the melt, causing it to resemble the ejecta. However, due to the fact that the formation of crater ejecta had already caused them to undergo fragmentation, ejecta require fewer fragmentation times to become regolith compared to impact melt; thus, the growth of regolith on the ejecta is faster than the melt. This indicates that similar observed size–frequency distributions do not indicate similar regolith production, especially for the targets with significant differences in initial physical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mares enrolled in assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) programs are often treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), particularly phenylbutazone (Bute), due to chronic lameness. The current study was performed to determine the effect of Bute administration on the developmental competence of in vitro -matured equine oocytes subjected to Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). In a Preliminary Study, immature cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) recovered by post-mortem ovary harvested from two healthy mares (n = 2) treated for 10 days with Bute (4.4 mg/kg, PO, BID), and four non-treated healthy mares (n = 4), were matured in vitro and subjected to Piezo-driven ICSI. Lower oocyte in vitro maturation [Bute: 25% (3/12) vs. Control: 61% (28/46)] and blastocyst rates [Bute: 0% (0/12) vs. Control: 18% (5/28)] were observed in the Bute-treated when compared to the Control mares (P < 0.05). In the Main Experiment, a group of healthy mares (n = 9) received a daily dose of Bute (4.4 mg/kg, orally, SID) for 10 days. A control group of mares (n = 10) was treated with an equal volume of placebo. Mares in both groups were subjected to ultrasound-guided transvaginal oocyte aspiration (TVA) on days 3, 33, and 77 following the last dose of Bute (PT). Recovered COCs from both mare groups were matured in vitro and subjected to Piezo-driven ICSI. By day-3 PT, oocyte in vitro maturation rate was similar between mare groups [Bute: 65% (36/55) vs. Control: 67% (78/116); P > 0.05], while oocyte recovery [Bute: 53% (55/103) vs. Control: 70% (116/166)], cleavage [Bute: 31% (11/36) vs. Control: 62% (48/78)] and blastocyst rates [Bute: [0%] (0/36) vs. Control: 28% (22/78)] were significantly different (P < 0.05). By day 33 PT and 77 PT, differences on oocyte recovery, in vitro maturation, cleavage, and blastocyst rates were not observed between mare groups. In summary, the administration of Bute for 10 consecutive days (4.4 mg/kg, PO, SID, or BID) is associated with a decrease in the ability of immature equine oocytes to undergo in vitro -maturation (Preliminary Study) and develop to the blastocyst stage following ICSI (Preliminary Study and Main Experiment). This negative effect appeared to be transient, as 30- and 77-days post-treatment, no differences on in vitro maturation, cleavage or blastocyst rates were observed. • Oral phenylbutazone impaired in vitro competence of equine oocytes. • Highest dose of phenylbutazone resulted in no blastocyst production after ICSI. • Recommended dose of phenylbutazone had a transient negative effect on blastocyst production after ICSI. • Embryo production was similar to non-treated mares after one month post-treatment with phenylbutazone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This retrospective study aimed at identifying factors that contribute to the success of equine in vitro embryo production by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). A total of 7993 ovum pick-up (OPU) sessions were performed, totaling 2540 donor mares and semen from 396 stallions. Oocytes were aspirated at multiple sites in Brazil and were sent to the laboratory, within 6 h from OPU, in pre-maturation medium where they were in vitro matured (IVM) followed by ICSI and in vitro embryo culture for 7–8 days. The number of recovered oocytes, matured oocytes, cleaved embryos and blastocysts were used to explore the effect of age and breed of the donor mare, time of year in which the mare was aspirated and phase of the estrous cycle on the day of follicular aspiration. Mares between 6 and 15 years old were superior to other age groups in most parameters evaluated, including the average number of blastocysts per OPU. The impact of age was similar when evaluated within two breeds, American Quarter Horse (AQHA) and Warmblood mares. We observed that breed (AQHA, Warmblood, Crioulo, Lusitano and Mangalarga) had an important effect on most of the parameter evaluated, including number of oocytes recovered, blastocysts produced per OPU, and blastocyst rates. The overall impact of season was less pronounced than age and breed, with the only statistically significant difference being a higher rate of oocyte maturation during the summer season. Finally, most of the parameters evaluated were superior in follicular phase mares, with or without dominant follicle than luteal phase mares. In conclusion, this retrospective study revealed that breed, age, season and stage of estrous at the time of OPU are all important parameters for the success of equine embryo production by ICSI. This technology enables producing embryos all-year-round from mares of different breeds and ages from OPU-derived oocytes collected at multiple sites. • Embryo produced per OPU was greater in mares between 6 and 15 years old. • The time of the year did not influence the number of oocytes recovered. • Mares in estrus produce more embryos per opu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nutritional benefits of mare milk are attracting increasing consumer interest. Limited availability due to low yield poses a challenge for widespread adoption. Although lysine and threonine are often used to enhance protein synthesis and muscle mass in horses, their impact on mare milk yield and nutrient composition remains underexplored. This study investigated the effects of lysine and threonine supplementation on 24 healthy Yili mares, mares at day 30 of lactation, over a 120-day period. The mares were divided into control and three experimental groups (six mares each) under pure grazing conditions. The control group received no amino acid supplementation, while experimental groups received varying daily doses of lysine and threonine: Group I (40 g lysine + 20 g threonine), Group II (60 g lysine + 40 g threonine), and Group III (80 g lysine + 60 g threonine). Supplementation in Group II notably increased milk yield, while Groups I and II showed higher milk fat percentages, and all experimental groups exhibited improved milk protein percentages. Additionally, blood levels of total protein, albumin, triglycerides, and glucose were reduced. Detailed analyses from Group II at peak lactation (day 60) included targeted metabolomics and microbial sequencing of milk, blood, and fecal samples. Amino acid metabolomics assessed amino acid content in mare milk and serum, while 16S rRNA gene sequencing evaluated rectal microbial composition. The results indicated that lysine and threonine supplementation significantly increased levels of threonine and creatine in the blood, and lysine, threonine, glutamine, and alanine in mare milk. Microbial analysis revealed a higher prevalence of certain bacterial families and genera, including Prevotellaceae, p_251_o5, and Rikenellaceae at the family level, and unclassified_p_251_o5, Prevotellaceae_UCG_001, and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group at the genus level. Multi-omics analysis showed positive correlations between specific fecal genera and amino acids in mare milk. For instance, Prevotellaceae_UCG_003, unclassified Bacteroidetes_BS11_gut_group, and Corynebacterium were positively correlated with lysine, while unclassified Prevotellaceae was positively correlated with alanine and threonine, and Unclassified_Bacteroidales_BS11_gut_group was positively correlated with glutamine. In summary, lysine and threonine supplementation in grazing lactating mares enhanced milk production and improved milk protein and fat quality. It is recommended that herders, veterinarians, and technicians consider amino acid content in the diet of lactatingmares. The optimal supplementation levels under grazing conditions for Yili horses were determined to be 60 g lysine and 40 g threonine per day. Future research should explore the molecular mechanisms by which these amino acids influence milk protein and lipid synthesis in mare mammary epithelial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Bone‐derived exosomes are considered nano‐sized extracellular vesicles secreted by the bone marrow stromal cells. Objectives: This study used exosomes derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells to treat chronic endometritis in Arabian mares with follow‐up alterations in haemodynamics, hormonal and histopathological expressions. Methods and study design: Fourteen (n = 14) Arabian mares (aged 13–15 years old) were equally divided into the control group and an endometritis group (chronic type). Exosomes were infused twice 21 days apart at the first and second ovulations. Follow‐up was done ultrasonographically, and samples were taken for histopathology. Blood samples were taken to estimate hormonal levels. Results: Uterine biopsy samples before treatment showed a marked degree of degeneration, while the second exosomal treatment showed regression of fibrous tissue and restoration of healthy endometrial glands with normal epithelium. Uterine body and horns thickness/mm were decreased after treatment at day 0 of the 3rd ovulation compared to day −1 before treatment, the uterine body‐coloured area and total uterine coloured areas/pixels were elevated (p < 0.05) at day 0 of the 3rd ovulation compared to day −1 before treatment. Uterine artery blood parameters (pulsatility index, resistance index, peak systolic and end‐diastolic points) did not change before, during and after treatment, but the blood flow rate was elevated (p < 0.05) on day 0 of the 3rd ovulation compared to day −1 before treatment. Oestradiol level was decreased (p < 0.05), while progesterone level was increased (p < 0.05) on day 0 of the 3rd ovulation compared to day −1 before treatment. Conclusion: Two intrauterine administrations of exosomes restored the normal endometrial appearance after chronic endometritis resulting in the elevation of the conception rate in infertile mares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inbreeding depression is a genetic phenomenon associated with the loss of fitness and mean phenotypic performance due to mating between relatives. Historically, inbreeding coefficients have been estimated from pedigree information. However, the onset of genomic selection programs provides large datasets of individuals genotyped using SNP arrays, enabling more precise assessment of an individual's genomic‐level inbreeding using genomic data. One of the traits most sensitive to issues stemming from increased inbreeding is reproduction. This is particularly important in equine, in which fertility is only moderate compared to other livestock species. To explore this further, we evaluated the effect of inbreeding on five reproductive traits (age at first foaling (AFF), average interval between foalings (AIF), total number of foalings (NF), productive life (PL) and reproductive efficiency (RE)) in Pura Raza Español mares using genomic data. Residual predicted phenotypes were obtained by purging these traits through the REML (wgResidual) and ssGREML (gResidual) approaches in reproductive data of 29,847 PRE mares using the BLUPF90+ program. Next, we used pedigree‐based (Fped) and ROH‐based genomic (FROH) inbreeding coefficients derived from 1018 animals genotyped with 61,271 SNPs to estimate the inbreeding depression (linear regression). Our results indicated significant levels of inbreeding depression for all reproductive traits, with the exception of the AIF trait when Fped was used. However, all traits were negatively affected by the increase in genomic inbreeding, and FROH was found to capture more inbreeding depression than Fped. Likewise, REML models (ssGREML) using genomic data for estimated predicted residual phenotypes resulted in higher variance explained by the model compared with the models not using genomics (REML). Finally, a segmented regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the effect of inbreeding depression, revealing that the levels of genealogical and genomic homozygosity do not manifest uniformly in reproductive traits. In contrast, the levels of inbreeding depression ranged from low to high as homozygosity increased. This analysis also showed that reproductive traits are very sensitive to inbreeding depression, even with relatively low levels of homozygosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 17-y-old Arabian mare was presented to the Auburn Large Animal Veterinary Teaching Hospital with a long-term history of intermittent mild recurrent colic that responded to medical treatment. CBC revealed mild lymphopenia; serum biochemistry findings were of increased gamma-glutamyl transferase and creatine kinase activities, hyperferremia, hyperglycemia, hypomagnesemia, and hypokalemia. Abdominocentesis was compatible with low-protein transudate. Due to the progression and duration of clinical signs, the owner elected euthanasia. Postmortem examination and histopathology confirmed a cholangiocarcinoma. The neoplastic cells were arranged in large cysts containing lakes of mucin that comprised 90% of the tumor volume; thus, a mucinous variant was determined. The neoplastic cells had strong cytoplasmic immunolabeling for cytokeratin 19 and lacked immunolabeling for hepatocyte paraffin 1, supporting bile duct origin. Cholangiocarcinomas are infrequent tumors in horses with nonspecific and slow progressive clinical signs, including recurrent colic. Mucinous cholangiocarcinomas are seldom reported in veterinary medicine and, to our knowledge, have not been reported previously in horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Simple Summary: The female reproductive tract has a complex mix of microorganisms that are important for keeping the reproductive system healthy. When the balance of these microorganisms is disrupted, it may predispose to diseases. One such disease, endometritis, commonly causes fertility problems in mares and is difficult to diagnose and treat using standard tests. Although advanced DNA sequencing provides useful information about the microorganisms in the reproductive tract of mares, it is still challenging to define what a "normal" microbiota looks like. This review aims to summarize current knowledge about the microorganisms in the reproductive tract of mares, including the vagina, cervix, and uterus. It also explores factors that can affect these microorganisms, such as the stage of the estrous cycle, the types of bacteria, the season, and geographic location. The female reproductive tract microbiota is a complex community of microorganisms that might be crucial in maintaining a healthy reproductive environment. Imbalances in the bacterial community (dysbiosis) and the reduction of beneficial organisms and pathogen proliferation are associated with disease. Endometritis is a common cause of fertility problems in mares, and it is still challenging to diagnose and treat based on routine culture results of certain microorganisms. Although high-throughput sequencing studies provide helpful information regarding the composition of the reproductive tract microbiota in mares, there are still challenges in defining a "normal" microbiota. The primary objective of this literature review is to summarize the current knowledge regarding the microbiota present in the reproductive tract of mares, including the vagina, cervix, and uterus. The second objective is to describe the relevant factors that can impact the reproductive microbiota of mares, including the estrous cycle stage, the type of species (genera) investigated, season, and geographic location. The rationality of identifying the normal microbiota in the reproductive tract of a mare will likely aid in understanding the impact of the microbiota on the host's reproductive health and contribute to the treatment and prevention of equine sub and infertility issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study explored the different types of bacteria found in the reproductive tract of healthy maiden mares during their estrus cycle. Vaginal, uterine, clitoral fossa, and perineal skin swabs were collected from 12 mares, and the bacterial communities were characterized using a high-throughput sequencing methodology. The types and number of bacteria detected in the uterus and vagina were similar to each other but different from those in the clitoral area and skin. Specific bacteria, such as those from the families Streptococcaceae and Staphylococcaceae, were common in the uterus and vagina, but Lactobacillaceae were rare. Some bacteria associated with reproductive diseases were also found in these healthy mares, suggesting that these bacteria are naturally present even in healthy animals. This descriptive cross-sectional study compared the microbiota of the uterus, vagina, clitoral fossa (CF), and perineal skin in healthy maiden mares during estrus. Twelve synchronized, healthy maiden mares (3–4 years old) from one single recipient mare herd were included. Microbial communities were characterized by amplifying the V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene using the Illumina MiSeq platform. The uterine and vaginal microbiota had significantly lower richness (Chao-1) than the skin (p < 0.05). The uterine and vagina bacterial composition was similar in presence and abundance and could be differentiated from that of the CF and perineal skin. The microbial composition (Jaccard and Bray–Curtis distances) significantly differed across body-site locations (p < 0.05), which explained approximately 14% and 19% of the variation in microbial composition for Jaccard and Bray–Curtis distances, respectively. Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Bacteroidetes were the dominant taxa in the uterus and vagina, with higher proportions of Proteobacteria in the vaginal samples compared to the uterine samples. Streptococcaceae and Staphylococcaceae were present in high abundance in the uterine and vaginal samples, while Lactobacillaceae were not (<10%). We demonstrate that the uterine and vaginal microbiota of healthy maiden mares during estrus is similar but both distinct from that of the CF and perineal skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Obesity is a complex disease associated with augmented risk of metabolic disorder development and cellular dysfunction in various species. The goal of the present study was to investigate the impacts of obesity on the metabolic health of old mares as well as test the ability of diet supplementation with either a complex blend of nutrients designed to improve equine metabolism and gastrointestinal health or L-carnitine alone to mitigate negative effects of obesity. Mares (n = 19, 17.9 ± 3.7 years) were placed into one of three group: normal-weight (NW, n = 6), obese (OB, n = 7) or obese fed a complex diet supplement for 12 weeks (OBD, n = 6). After 12 weeks and completion of sample collections, OB mares received L-carnitine alone for an additional 6 weeks. Obesity in mares was significantly associated with insulin dysregulation, reduced muscle mitochondrial function, and decreased skeletal muscle oxidative capacity with greater ROS production when compared to NW. Obese mares fed the complex diet supplement had better insulin sensivity, greater cell lipid metabolism, and higher muscle oxidative capacity with reduced ROS production than OB. L-carnitine supplementation alone did not significantly alter insulin signaling, but improved lipid metabolism and muscle oxidative capacity with reduced ROS. In conclusion, obesity is associated with insulin dysregulation and altered skeletal muscle metabolism in older mares. However, dietary interventions are an effective strategy to improve metabolic status and skeletal muscle mitochondrial function in older mares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to develop a comparative perspective that allows the reader to explore the traces of authoritarian systems in contemporary Polish and Spanish culture. The point of departure is the research of Polish scholars from the Post-Dependence Studies Centre, who examine Polish culture with postcolonial tools adapted to the post-communist context. From there, the article attempts to formulate a methodological framework – the so-called post-authoritarian subaltern studies – applicable to post-Franco and post-communist culture, particularly the presence of subaltern characters in contemporary cultural texts. In accordance with the proposed methodology, the author analyses three texts: Homo Polonicus (1992) by Marek Nowakowski, Los mares del sur by Manuel Vázquez Montalbán (1979) and Amado amo (1988) by Rosa Montero. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Understanding the genetic makeup of microorganisms provides information on their evolutionary relationship with other similar organisms. It also sheds light on their ability to cause disease in susceptible individuals and to resist the hosts' defense mechanisms, including the effects of antimicrobial therapy. In this study, we performed complete genome sequencing and characterization of bacteria called Arcanobacterium hippocoleae, which were isolated from the reproductive tract of infected mares. These bacteria displayed small and large phenotypes when grown on artificial media. The whole genome sequences between the large phenotypes were closely related, while the small and large types were distant from each other in terms of sequence size and identity. Putative genetic elements that might be associated with disease conditions were identified in both bacterial phenotypes. Several genes that express hypothetical proteins with unknown functions were also detected. This study provides the complete genetic structure and analysis of different phenotypes of Arcanobacterium hippocoleae and will serve as a benchmark for future studies to identify the potential function and role of the bacterial proteins in the ability of the bacterium to produce reproductive tract diseases in mares. Arcanobacterium hippocoleae is a Gram-positive fastidious bacterium and is occasionally isolated from the reproductive tract of apparently healthy mares (Equus caballus) or from mares with reproductive tract abnormalities. Apart from a few 16S rRNA gene-based GenBank sequences and one recent report on complete genome assembly, detailed genomic sequence and clinical experimental data are not available on the bacterium. Recently, we observed an unusual increase in the detection of the organism from samples associated with mare reproductive failures in Atlantic Canada. Two colony morphotypes (i.e., small, and large) were detected in culture media, which were identified as A. hippocoleae by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Here, we report the whole genome sequencing and characterization of the morphotype variants. The genome length of the large phenotypes was between 2.42 and 2.43, and the small phenotype was 1.99 Mbs. The orthologous nucleotide identity between the large colony phenotypes was ~99%, and the large and small colony phenotypes was between 77.86 and 78.52%, which may warrant the classification of the two morphotypes into different species. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA genes or concatenated housekeeping genes grouped the small and large colony variants into two different genotypic clusters. The UvrA protein, which is part of the nucleotide excision repair (NER) system, and 3-isopropoylmalate dehydratase small subunit protein expressed by the leuD gene were identified as potential virulence factors in the large and small colony morphotypes, respectively. However, detailed functional studies will be required to determine the exact roles of these and other identified hypothetical proteins in the cellular metabolism and potential pathogenicity of A. hippocoleae in mares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Simple Summary: Embryo reinsertion into the same donor mare after embryo flushing would be useful for some reproductive techniques. However, this procedure has been unsuccessful in the past. This study envisages to gain insights into the mechanisms by which embryos fail after embryo flushing and reinsertion in the same mare. The results of this study showed that embryo mortality after embryo reinsertion is not due to luteal deficiency. In contrast, it seems that changes in the endometrial environment due to bacterial contamination and/or inflammation during the uterine lavage are more likely to be responsible for the destruction of most reinserted embryos. The effect of embryo reinsertion immediately after embryo flushing was studied. In Experiment 1, eight mares were used during 32 cycles (8 cycles in each group). For the first two groups, inseminated mares were flushed 8 days after ovulation and prostaglandin F2α was not administered: in group EF-ET (embryo flushing and embryo transfer) the embryo was reinserted in the same donor mare, while in the EF group, no further procedure was performed. In the third group (ET), non-inseminated mares (recipients) received a Day 8 embryo. Progesterone concentration was measured before EF/ET and 72 h after in the three groups. In Experiment 2, twelve mares were used during 17 cycles in two groups, EF-ET (n = 11) and ET (n = 6), as in Experiment 1, except that every mare was flushed 24 h after embryo transfer to retrieve the embryo. Fewer pregnancies resulted after transfer in EF-ET cycles (0/8, 0%) than in the ET group (6/8, 75%). Progesterone concentration decreased significantly (p = 0.05) 72 h after EF-ET but not in EF or ET cycles (p > 0.1). Three mares from the EF-ET showed full luteolysis and signs of endometritis. In Experiment 2, more (5/6; p = 0.08) grade 1 embryos were recovered in the ET compared to the EF-ET group (3/7); 4 embryos were graded 3–4 (were broken or had signs of degeneration) in the EF-ET group but none in the ET group. In both groups, capsule fragments were obtained as indicative of the presence of a recently destroyed embryo in the EF-ET (n = 3) and ET (n = 1) groups. Positive bacterial cultures were obtained in 2/11 and 1/6 embryo flushes from the EF-ET and ET groups, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Simple Summary: The post-partum gross examination of the fetal membranes is an efficient tool for detecting the abnormalities that might influence the survival, health, and future development of a newborn. The routine on-field gross evaluation of the placenta performed by veterinarians could represent a valuable tool for the management of dromedary camel (Camelus dromedaries) newborns. A description of the dromedary camel placenta was therefore performed in this study. Female dromedary camel parturitions were attended and placentas were collected, cleaned of sand, and observed. The chorionic surface appeared velvety and non-uniform in color, varying from pink to pale or bright red and often with dark red areas; the latter were located mainly around the uterine body portion or in the area outside the insertion of the umbilical cord. The pregnant horn portion was always bigger in size than that of the non-pregnant portion; the uterine body portion showed variability in shape and size. The allantoic surface showed variable appearance, from pearly white, to pink or red-bluish, depending on the background color of the chorionic surface, and was characterized by the presence of several blood vessels. The dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) fetal membranes, commonly referred to as "the placenta", are epitheliochorial, diffuse, and microcotyledonary, similarly to the mare's placenta. The evaluation of the placenta is an essential component of the neonatal evaluation in the equine species. However, post-partum or post-abortion placental assessment in dromedary camels is unfortunately too frequently neglected and, to the best of the authors' knowledge, the dromedary camel species lacks a comprehensive description of the normal placenta's gross morphology. In order to facilitate its on-field evaluation, the current study describes the macroscopic features of the placenta of the dromedary camel after full-term pregnancy and spontaneous parturition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The International Society for Animal Genetics (ISAG) currently advocates for a transition towards single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers as a potential alternative for equine parentage verification. To ascertain the efficacy of this transition, it is imperative to evaluate the performance of parentage testing using SNPs in juxtaposition with short tandem repeats (STRs). As per ISAG's recommendation, we used an equine genotyping‐by‐sequencing panel with 144 SNPs for this purpose. Equine parentage is currently realized using 16 microsatellites (STRs) excluding the LEX3 marker. In this study, 1074 horses were genotyped using the 144 SNPs panel, including 432 foals, 414 mares, and 228 stallions, from five different breeds: 293 Arabians, 167 Barbs, 189 Thoroughbreds, 73 Anglo‐Arabians, and 352 Arabian‐Barbs. As a result, two SNPs markers were eliminated from the panel system due to inconsistent amplification across all examined individuals leaving 142 SNPs markers for analysis. A comparative analysis between SNPs and STRs markers revealed that the mean expected heterozygosity was 0.457 for SNPs and 0.76 for STRs, while the mean observed heterozygosity stood at 0.472 for SNPs and 0.72 for STRs. Furthermore, the probability of identity was calculated to be 5.722 × 10−57 for SNPs and 1.25 × 10−15 for STRs markers. In alignment with the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in polyploids test, 110 out of the total SNPs were consistent with the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in polyploids test (p > 0.05). Employing both SNPs and STRs markers, the mean polymorphic information content was discerned to be 0.351 for SNPs and 0.72 for STRs. The cumulative exclusion probabilities for SNP markers exceeded 99.99%, indicating that the 142 SNPs panel might be adequate for parentage testing. In contrast, when utilizing STRs markers, the combined average exclusion probabilities for one and both parents were determined to be 99.8% and 99.9%, respectively. Our comprehensive study underscores the potential of SNPs in equine parentage verification, especially when compared to STRs in terms of exclusion probabilities. As a corollary, the application of SNPs for parentage verification and identification can significantly contribute to the conservation initiative for the five Moroccan horse breeds. Nonetheless, further research is required to address and replace the deficient SNPs within the panel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]