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Endometritis is one of the main reproductive disorders in mares and due to the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance, the use of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of endometritis in mares has gained interest, given their potential to restore and maintain a healthy uterine microbiota. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of total metabolites of Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA) and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LP) against common equine endometrial pathogenic bacteria in vitro (Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli (1), Escherichia coli (2), Escherichia coli (3), Escherichia coli (4), Enterobacter cloacae, Streptococcus equi, Staphylococcus warneri, Actinobacillus equi and Klebesiella pneumoniae), as well as to assess their low molecular weight metabolites (loM) and extracellular vesicle (EVs) inhibition capacity over a multidrug-resistant E. coli isolated from mares with clinical endometritis. The total metabolites of LA showed better inhibition on A. baumannii, E. coli (1) and E. cloacae, while those of LP inhibited E. coli (4), S. equi and A. equi. Besides total metabolites, loM of LA and LP can inhibit E. coli. LA EVs were more effective in preventing E. coli (2) compared to LA loM, while LP EVs presented inhibition but below 90%. The use of LA and LP in the mare’s uterus may be an interesting approach to controlling endometritis. In addition to metabolites, EVs can contribute to the inhibition of multidrug-resistant E. coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mares with endometrosis exhibit histological changes not only in the endometrium but also in the myometrium that suggest possible functional impairment. The molecular background of these changes is not well understood. We hypothesize that the transcriptomic profile of the mare myometrium varies depending on the degree of endometrosis in mares. Myometria were collected from mares in the mid-luteal phase of the estrous cycle with endometrium categories I, IIA, IIB, and III (∑n = 23), according to Kenney and Doig´s histopathological classification. Myometrial RNA was isolated and subjected to RNA-seq analysis to identify differentially expressed transcriptionally active regions (deTARs) and their contribution to signaling pathways (KEGG database) and biological processes (GO terms). In results, 665, 491 and 499 deTARs were found in the myometrium of mares with endometrium IIA vs I, IIB vs I and III vs I, respectively. 200 common deTARs in the myometrium across all stages of endometrosis (IIA, IIB, and III) vs I were identified. Evaluated deTARs enriched several KEGG pathways including calcium signaling, cAMP signaling, oxytocin signaling, ECM-receptor interaction, and focal adhesion, and were classified into various GO terms including adaptive immune response, tissue homeostasis, muscle contractions, muscle development, and other. In conclusion, transcriptomic alterations in the myometrium of mares with endometrosis may indicate an impaired function of the contractile machinery, mechanisms regulating calcium influx and handling, as well as changes in ECM composition, leading to a decreased contractile activity and structural changes in the myometrium of affected mares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study discussed in the document examines the ability of individuals to synchronize motor responses with auditory signals, focusing on speech-to-speech synchronization. The research highlights differences in sensorimotor synchronization abilities among individuals, particularly in response to auditory sequences containing variable units. However, the study is critiqued for overlooking the P-center effect, which is crucial for understanding temporal structure in speech and other complex sounds. The findings suggest that individuals categorized as "low synchronizers" struggle to synchronize with varied prompts but can improve with sensorimotor priming using identical units. The study raises questions about the interplay between feedback and feedforward control mechanisms during speech production and the role of the P-center in auditory-motor synchronization tasks. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Prostaglandins (PG) are important regulators of the myometrial contractility in mammals. Endometrosis, a condition characterized by morphological changes in the equine endometrium, also affects endometrial secretory function. However, it remains unclear whether and how endometrosis affects myometrial function. Methods: This study investigated: (i) mRNA transcription of genes encoding specific enzymes responsible for PG synthesis, such as prostaglandin—endoperoxide synthase (PTGS2), PGE2 synthase (PTGES), PGF2α synthase (PTGFS) and PG receptors : PGE2 receptors (PTGER1- 4), and PGF2α receptor (PTGFS) in equine myometrium and, (ii) the effects of PGE2 and PGF2α on myometrial contractile activity, during endometrosis in mares. The myometria used in experiments 1 and 2 were collected from mares in the mid-luteal (n = 23) and follicular (n = 20) phases of the estrous cycle, according to the histological classification of the endometrium (Kenney and Doig categories I, IIA, IIB, and III). Results: In experiment 1, changes in mRNA transcription of PG synthase or PG receptors in the myometrium during the course of endometrosis were determined using qPCR. During the mid-luteal phase, myometrial mRNA transcription of PTGES increased in mares with endometrial category IIB compared to category I. However, myometrial mRNA transcription of PTGER1 decreased during the progression of endometrosis compared to category I. During the follicular phase, mRNA transcription of PTGER1 and PTGER2 increased in mares with endometrial categories III or IIA, respectively. In addition, mRNA transcription of PTGFS increased in mares with endometrium category IIA compared to category I. In experiment 2, the force of myometrial contractions was measured using an isometric concentration transducer. In the follicular phase, PGE2 decreased the force of contractions in mares with endometrial categories IIA, IIB, and III compared to the respective control groups. Prostaglandin F2α increased the force of myometrial contractions in mares with category IIA endometrium, whereas it decreased in category IIB compared to the respective control groups. Discussion: We concluded that in the progression of endometrosis there are changes in the myometrial transcription of mRNA encoding PG synthases and receptors , particularly PTGER1 and PTGER2. Mares with endometrosis had abnormal myometrial contractile responses to PG. These findings suggest that myometrial function may be compromised during the progression of endometrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

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]

Introduction: Prostaglandins (PG) are important regulators of the myometrial contractility in mammals. Endometrosis, a condition characterized by morphological changes in the equine endometrium, also affects endometrial secretory function. However, it remains unclear whether and how endometrosis affects myometrial function. Methods: This study investigated: (i) mRNA transcription of genes encoding specific enzymes responsible for PG synthesis, such as prostaglandin—endoperoxide synthase (PTGS2), PGE2 synthase (PTGES), PGF2α synthase (PTGFS) and PG receptors : PGE2 receptors (PTGER1- 4), and PGF2α receptor (PTGFS) in equine myometrium and, (ii) the effects of PGE2 and PGF2α on myometrial contractile activity, during endometrosis in mares. The myometria used in experiments 1 and 2 were collected from mares in the mid-luteal (n = 23) and follicular (n = 20) phases of the estrous cycle, according to the histological classification of the endometrium (Kenney and Doig categories I, IIA, IIB, and III). Results: In experiment 1, changes in mRNA transcription of PG synthase or PG receptors in the myometrium during the course of endometrosis were determined using qPCR. During the mid-luteal phase, myometrial mRNA transcription of PTGES increased in mares with endometrial category IIB compared to category I. However, myometrial mRNA transcription of PTGER1 decreased during the progression of endometrosis compared to category I. During the follicular phase, mRNA transcription of PTGER1 and PTGER2 increased in mares with endometrial categories III or IIA, respectively. In addition, mRNA transcription of PTGFS increased in mares with endometrium category IIA compared to category I. In experiment 2, the force of myometrial contractions was measured using an isometric concentration transducer. In the follicular phase, PGE2 decreased the force of contractions in mares with endometrial categories IIA, IIB, and III compared to the respective control groups. Prostaglandin F2α increased the force of myometrial contractions in mares with category IIA endometrium, whereas it decreased in category IIB compared to the respective control groups. Discussion: We concluded that in the progression of endometrosis there are changes in the myometrial transcription of mRNA encoding PG synthases and receptors , particularly PTGER1 and PTGER2. Mares with endometrosis had abnormal myometrial contractile responses to PG. These findings suggest that myometrial function may be compromised during the progression of endometrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Case reports Conclusion Equine Coronavirus (ECoV) can cause gastrointestinal disease and was first described in 2000 in the USA followed by several international outbreak case reports. Disease manifestation is characterised by vague clinical signs, including mild pyrexia, lethargy and anorexia. Morbidity ranges greatly from 10% to 83%. Although uncommon, ECoV may result in death secondary to disruption to the gastrointestinal barrier causing endotoxaemia and hyperammonaemic encephalopathy. Unfortunately to date, there is no vaccine available to prevent ECoV.Three faecal quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR)‐positive ECoV cases are described that presented with mild to severe colic signs: a 2‐year‐old Miniature Pony gelding from South Australia, an 8‐year‐old Arabian Riding Pony gelding, and a 6‐year‐old Warmblood mare, both from Western Australia. The diagnosis was based on a positive faecal qPCR, which is currently the gold standard diagnostic tool. All horses in this case series survived after medical management. The Miniature Pony presented with anorexia and mild colic signs. On day 5, the pony revealed severe colic signs unresponsive to analgesia along with severe abdominal distension secondary to caecal distension requiring surgical intervention.To the authors' knowledge, this case series is the first published report of ECoV cases in Australia, and it adds both to the clinical description of the disease in horses and to the differential diagnosis list of colic signs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five years before the discovery in 1865 of Dodo Raphus cucullatus fossil remains at the Mare aux Songes, Mauritius, local physician Philip Ayres had inadvertently unearthed a fragmented dodo bone from an unknown cave in the Black River District, south of the capital Port Louis. The bone got muddled with fossil material from the dodo's closest relative, the Solitaire Pezophaps solitaria, before being sent to comparative anatomist Richard Owen at the then British Museum. Denied access by Owen to these specimens when compiling data for their Solitaire osteological monograph, comparative anatomist Alfred Newton and his brother Edward were understandably enraged, which resulted in some bad-tempered correspondence between them and Owen. Rather, inexplicably, Owen never scientifically described the Ayres dodo bone, now ignored for over 170 years, and its identification to element type is still in doubt. Here, I describe the probable cave in which this Dodo fossil was discovered, its true identification, the correspondence between Ayres, the Newton brothers and Owen, and the likely reasons why Owen did not follow up Ayres's discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compressional stresses from the basalt basins on the lunar are responsible for the formation of wrinkle ridges in lunar mare basalts. According to the wide angle multispectral camera (WAC) mosaic image, we selected 62, 75, 73, and 58 single wrinkle ridges in Mare Imbrium, Mare Serenitatis, Mare Fecunditatis, and Mare Tranquillitatis, respectively, for this paper. Several topographic profiles near the midpoint of each wrinkle ridge are generated to measure the maximum displacement (D max ) and height of the wrinkle ridges using digital elevation model (LOLA) data. After that, we create 2D plots of displacement-length (L) for the ridge population in the four Maria and compare the results. A linear fit method derives the D max / L ratios (γ) from the D-L data. We calculated the contractional strains in each mare area based on the cap D sub m a. x over cap L data. Moreover, each mare's gravity pattern, mare thickness, and formation age are also presented. The ridges in Mare Imbrium and Mare Serenitatis have a higher γ value (1.83 × 10−2 and 1.98 × 10−2) than the ridges in Mare Fecunditatis and Mare Tranquillitatis, which have γ values of (1.67 × 10−2 and 1.75 × 10−2). Finally, the contractional strains (ε) in Mare Imbrium, Mare Serenitatis, Mare Fecunditatis, and Mare Tranquillitatis are estimated to be 0.23 %, 0.41 %, 0.39 %, and 0.18 % (considering 25° is the fault plane dip θ), respectively. The maximum values of the free-air gravity anomalies in Mare Fecunditatis range from −30 to 250 mGal, while minimum gravity anomalies in Mare Serenitatis range from −80 to 140 mGal. Mare Imbrium, Mare Serenitatis, Mare Fecunditatis, and Mare Tranquillitatis have an average thickness of 300 m, 910 m, 652 m, and 760 m, respectively. Furthermore, the Mare Imbrium ridge group is older than the Lunar Wrinkle Ridges in Mare Serenitatis. Mare Tranquillitatis ridge group formation takes longer than Mare Imbrium ridge group formation. Therefore, we believe that it has thicker basaltic units, a longer wrinkle ridge formation time, and higher gravity anomaly than the Mare Imbrium and Mare Serenitatis basins, even though the formation of the Mare Tranquillitatis and Mare Fecunditatis basins occurred earlier. [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]

Simple Summary: Herds of free-roaming, unowned horses can grow rapidly on rangelands with limited resources. Contraception can offer a humane, publicly acceptable method for slowing or stopping horse population growth and protecting the range. The best-tested and most widely used contraceptive for wild horses, porcine zona pellucida (PZP), a protein-based vaccine, has successfully stabilized or reduced free-roaming horse herds in different environments. While extensive research has shown that the PZP vaccine is safe, concerns still exist about its possible effects on the behavior and well-being of treated mares, and especially the survival of their offspring. Reporting the results of an eight-year study of PZP contraception in wild horses at two sites in the western USA, we show here that mares without foals improved the body condition faster than mares with foals. We also found that the foaling seasons of the PZP-treated herds were later in the year and more spread out. However, deaths of the foals born to PZP-treated mares through their second year of life were very rare and no more frequent than those of foals born to untreated mares. Thus, at our study sites, the timing of breeding was changed by PZP treatments, but we found no evidence that these changes were harmful either to the treated mares or their foals. Wildlife managers and the public have expressed considerable interest in the use of contraception to help manage the populations of wild horses and burros (Equus caballus and E. asinus). Field testing has shown that two preparations of the porcine zona pellucida (PZP) vaccine, a simple emulsion (ZonaStat-H) and PZP-22 (which supplements ZonaStat-H with a controlled-release component) effectively prevent pregnancy in individual mares and can substantially reduce population foaling rates. To determine whether some PZP preparations might have secondary effects that harm treated mares or their foals, we examined the effects of PZP-22 vaccinations and the follow-up boosters of either PZP-22 or ZonaStat-H on adult female body condition, foaling season, and foal mortality in two wild horse herds in the western USA, Cedar Mountains Herd Management Area, Utah (CM; 2008–2015), and Sand Wash Basin Herd Management Area, Colorado (SWB; 2008–2014). At both sites in every study year, summer body condition scores improved faster in mares without foals than mares with foals (p < 0.001; CM, n = 234; SWB, n = 172), but PZP treatments did not affect mare body condition apart from their contraceptive effects. Births to mares treated with PZP within the previous three years were delayed and spread out over the foaling season, but foal mortality rates through the first and second year were low, unrelated to date of birth, and virtually identical for the foals of PZP-treated and untreated mothers (all comparisons n.s.; CM, n = 775, SWB, n = 640). Thus, in these two populations, we found no evidence that changes in reproductive timing associated with PZP treatments were harmful to either mares or foals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestation length (GL) in horses varies widely, influenced by multiple variables, including maternal, fetal, and environmental factors. This study aimed to investigate and quantify the relative contributions of climatic (photoperiod and temperature-humidity index – [THI]), maternal (age and parity), fetal (sex) and environmental (year and month of foaling) variables influencing gestation length in Thoroughbred mares. Retrospective data encompassing 704 pregnancies across nine breeding seasons in tropical and subtropical Brazilian climates were analyzed. Stepwise regression analysis identified foaling month and year as the primary determinants of gestation length, with additional contributions from foal sex, mare age, parity, and THI. Subsequent multiple regression analysis ranked foaling month, mare age, and foaling year as the most significant factors, while parity, THI, and foal sex demonstrated smaller but statistically significant impacts. Gestation length in Thoroughbred mares is influenced by a complex interplay of environmental, maternal, and fetal factors, with foaling month, mare age, and foaling year being the most critical. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing breeding management in tropical and subtropical climates. • Gestation lengths were shorter in mares exposed to elevated temperature-humidity index (THI) during the foaling period. • Male foals exhibited gestation periods that were, on average, two days longer than those of female foals. • Foaling month was the most significant determinant of gestation length, followed by foaling year, foal sex, and mare age. • No significant correlation was found between photoperiod and gestation length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Senility influences fertility in women and companion animals specially horses. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of aging in horses on the daily changes in the dominant follicle dynamics and hemodynamics, antimullerian hormone, enzymes, antioxidants, and ovarian hormones during the estrous cycle. Methods: Ovaries of old mares (n=5, age >20 years) and young native mares (n=6, age [Open Vet J 2024; 14(11.000): 3132-3143]

Lunar mare basalts represent melting of mantle material, buoyant ascent in dikes, and eruption onto <20% of the surface. Global mare distribution is distinctly asymmetrical, with a paucity on the farside, plausibly interpreted to be related to thicker farside low‐density crust inhibiting buoyant magma rise to the surface. Challenging this hypothesis is the presence of the huge, ancient farside South Pole‐Aitken (SPA) basin, site of the thinnest crust and deepest depression observed on the Moon. We hypothesize that an oblique impact stripped the farside crust within the SPA basin, permitting early mare basalt emplacement as cryptomaria due to thin/absent crust. However, removal of the SPA thermally insulating megaregolith/crust accelerated lithosphere thickening beneath the basin. This deepening rheological barrier inhibited buoyant rise of mantle diapirs below SPA, resulting in early abatement of mare basalt extrusions compared to the nearside, and retention of the deep, underfilled SPA impact basin observed today. Plain Language Summary: The cause of the observed asymmetry in nearside/farside mare basalt distribution (nearside ∼15% of the surface, farside ∼1%) has been attributed to differences in crustal thickness and the magma buoyancy at the base of the thicker crust, but this single factor is challenged by the presence of the ancient very deep SPA basin (average ∼5 km), significantly underfilled by mare basalts compared to the nearside. We examine the effects of the formation of the giant (∼2,300 km) SPA basin in removing the insulating megaregolith/crust, and show that it could first result in rapid cryptomaria emplacement due to near‐absent crust, accompanied by enhanced heat loss within the basin, and formation of anomalously early thick sub‐SPA lithosphere, inhibiting its mare filling due to a rheological barrier to basaltic magma eruptions, analogous to that which occurs later in lunar history on the lunar nearside. Key Points: The nearside‐farside asymmetry in mare basalt volcanic deposits has been attributed to thicker farside crust inhibiting eruptionChallenging this hypothesis is the very deep, thin‐crust ancient SPA impact basin, significantly underfilled by mare basaltsAfter SPA impact‐removal of insulating crust, sub‐SPA lithosphere thickens anomalously early, inhibiting mare fill following cryptomaria [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Background Objective Study design Methods Results Conclusion Uterine torsion (UT) is an infrequent serious obstetric disorder in pregnant mares.To record the outcome of standing flank laparotomy (SFL) for correction of UT in Straight Egyptian Arabian mares.Retrospective analysis of medical records.Hospital records of all pregnant mares that underwent SFL for correction of UT between 2018 and 2022 were analysed. The signalment, history, clinical signs, results of diagnostic techniques, direction and degree of UT, treatment and outcome, rebreeding and recurrence were retrieved and analysed.Out of 97 mares treated with SFL for correction of UT, 87 (89.7%) animals were Straight Egyptian Arabian mares. The median age of the Straight Egyptian Arabian mares presented with UT was 12 ± 2.3 years (Range: 5–18 and IQR: 7–15 years). The median gestational age at the time of occurrence of UT was 270 ± 2.4 days (Range: 210–315 and IQR: 255–260 days). The majority of UT (75.9%) was recorded ≤270 days. The direction of torsion was clockwise in 36 (41.4%) mares and anticlockwise in 51 (58.6%) mares. The degree of UT ranged between <180° and ≥360°. After surgery, 82/87 (94.3%) mares successfully delivered a live foal. However, four mares (4.6%) aborted after 2–15 days of surgery and one mare (1.1%) died after surgery due to rectal tears and intestinal prolapse. Following SFL, 86/87 (98.9%) mares survived. Of the surviving 86 mares, 82 (95.3%) gave birth to viable mature foals. In contrast to the direction of torsion and gender of the foal, the stage of gestation at which UT occurred significantly affected foal survival (p = 0.018).Pregnant Straight Egyptian Arabian mares are at risk of developing UT during the third trimester of pregnancy. Standing flank laparotomy is an effective operation for treating UT in mares, with good foal and mare survival rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Welfare concerns in the Thoroughbred racing industry increasingly focus on the rehoming of retired racehorses. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe the characteristics and sales variables of Thoroughbred racehorses rehomed after their racing career. Horse details (pre-sale photos, age, sex, height and career history) from 500 sales advertisements between August 2021 and November 2023 were examined using descriptive statistics. Body Condition Score (BCS) was assessed from photos using a modified Henneke 9-point scale. Horses sold had previous careers in New Zealand (70%) or Hong Kong (30%), were 5 (IQR4–7) years old and 163 (IQR153–163) cm high. Horses that had raced within 2 weeks of arrival were lighter (451 [IQR432–479] kg) and had a lower BCS (BCS 5.5 [IQR5.5–6]) than horses who had been out of racing for longer (528 kg, IQR494–550 with BCS 6 IQR5.5–6, P < 0.001). Mares were fewer (23%), smaller (158 [IQR153–163] cm, P < 0.05) and sold faster (7 [IQR2–16] days) than geldings (13 [IQR 6–26] days, P < 0.05). Grey horses sold faster (5%, 7 [IQR2–18] days) than bay horses (69%, 13 (IQR 6–27) days, P < 0.05). Consumer preference and market specificity are important considerations for rehoming racehorses. [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]

This case report describes the poisoning of two mares from the same paddock with Robinia pseudoacacia (Black locust) bark. The poisoning manifested itself by the sudden onset of weakness and fever with transient improvement after the administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and fluids. After the initial stabilisation, the mares were left unattended overnight. One of them was found dead in the morning. The surviving mare developed colic and severe encephalopathy and had to be referred to the clinic. Blood tests revealed severe hyperammonaemia. After four days of symptomatic treatment, she fully recovered. Robinia pseudoacacia with bark freshly bitten off was found in the paddock. The necropsy of the dead mare revealed oedema of the brain and lungs, pleural haemorrhages, and hyperaemia and haemorrhages of the glandular mucosa of the stomach. The intestinal content was watery, without macroscopic findings of the bark. Due to the peracute onset in both mares at the same time, hyperammonaemia and paralytic ileus in the surviving mare, and the presence of Robinia pseudoacacia in the paddock, poisoning with this tree was highly suspected. The diagnosis was confirmed by the microscopic findings of Robinia pseudoacacia bark tissue in the gastric content of the dead mare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

Background: Understanding and finding the correlation between morphometric measurements and horse blood parameters is crucial for predicting equine metabolic issues. Objective: This study aims to analyse morphometric measurements and blood samples in horses with varying adiposity levels. Study design: Cross‐sectional observational. Methods: A total of 50 horses were included in the study and categorized into groups based on their body condition score (BCS) and cresty neck score (CNS). Results: The insulin concentration was significantly higher in overweight horses (p = 0.022). Female horses exhibited higher cortisol concentrations (p = 0.025) and girth circumference at the withers (p = 0.004) compared to males. Lactating mares exhibited higher concentrations of serum total protein (p = 0.012) and globulin (p = 0.003). A positive correlation was observed between BCS and insulin concentrations (r = 0.290, p = 0.041). Negative correlations were found between neck circumference to height at withers and glucose (r = −0.309, p = 0.029), CNS and glucose (r = −0.315, p = 0.026) as well as between crest diameter and cortisol (r = −0.360, p = 0.01). Main limitations: Increasing the sample size and conducting longitudinal studies would enhance the study's validity and reliability. Conclusion: Although insulin, glucose and cortisol concentrations have predictive capabilities based on signs and certain morphometric measurements, their correlations are not always strong. Therefore, this study challenges the notion that all overweight horses are unhealthy, as overweight horses can still have good metabolic health. Conversely, lean horses may also experience metabolic issues. Hence, relying solely on visual cues is insufficient to diagnose the metabolic status of horses. Other factors must also be considered to assess their health status accurately. [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]

Background: Senility influences fertility in women and companion animals, especially horses. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of aging in horses on the daily changes in the dominant follicle (DF) dynamics and hemodynamics, antimüllerian hormone (AMH), enzymes, antioxidants, and ovarian hormones during the estrous cycle. Methods: Ovaries of old mares (n = 5, age >20 years) and young native mares (n = 6, age <10 years) were scanned during 6 different estrous cycles from March 2022 to August 2023 with Doppler ultrasound. The DF diameter and color area, the corpus luteum (CL) diameter, and the uterine horn area and color area were determined. In collected blood samples with each ultrasound and Doppler scanning, AMH, estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), cholesterol, myeloperoxidase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase, and nitric oxide (NO) concentrations were determined. Results: Age significantly affected the DF area (p < 0.0001), color area (p < 0.0001), color area % (p = 0.020), CL area (p = 0.033), uterine horn area (p < 0.0001), ovarian artery pulsatility index (PI, p < 0.05), E2 (p < 0.001), cholesterol (p < 0.0001), LDH (p < 0.0001), and NO (p < 0.0001). Aging tended (p > 0.05) to decrease the DF antrum diameter but significantly decreased (p < 0.05) its area, antrum area, and color area % in addition to the decrease (p < 0.01) in the uterine horn diameter and area, estradiol, total cholesterol, LDH, NO, aging increased (p < 0.05) CL area and the ovarian artery PI, and tended (p > 0.05) to increase the ovarian artery resistance index. Conclusion: Aging in mares did not disturb AMH, the ovarian macro-environmental dynamics, follicle growth, and recruiting but the disrupted blood flow mediators, enzymes, and antioxidant status may affect the intrafollicular mediators and influence the oocyte quality. [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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

To describe the indications for and surgical technique of mastectomy of mares and to describe the outcome of 10 mares that underwent mastectomy in a retrospective case series. ANIMALS 10 mares having disease of one or both mammary glands. CLINICAL PRESENTATION Medical records (1995 to 2022) from 2 university teaching hospitals were searched to identify mares that had undergone unilateral or bilateral mastectomy. Data regarding history, signalment, diagnostic tests, preoperative treatment, surgical procedure, and postoperative management were reviewed. Follow-up information was obtained by interviewing the owners by telephone. RESULTS One (n = 4 mares) or both mammary glands (6 mares) were excised for the following reasons: chronic bacterial mastitis (4), neoplasia (3), lymphangiectasia (1), pythiosis (1), and Iymphoid hamartoma (1). None of the mares experienced intraoperative complications. The surgical site was closed primarily in 2 mares and left unsutured in 8 mares. Both sutured wounds developed a seroma, and 1 dehisced. The owners reported that the surgical wound, whether sutured or unsutured, was healed within 3 months. All mares returned to use for their intended purpose, but 3 mares were euthanized 2 to 4 years after surgery due to progression of disease. One mare drowned 1 year after discharge. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Mastectomy can be an effective treatment for mares suffering from disease of one or both mammary glands when the mare is refractory to medical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report describes a multicentric intermediate‐size B‐cell lymphoma with epitheliotropism in a Freiberger mare affecting multiple mucous membranes, skin and internal organs. The clonal neoplastic B‐cell population was accompanied by numerous reactive polyclonal small T cells. Differential diagnoses for these unusual findings are discussed. [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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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: 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]

• 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]

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]