bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Towards a common equine rationing system across the European Union
Authors: Martin–Rosset W 
Published: June 2019

SummarySince the 1980’s, two feed evaluation systems, the NRC and the INRA, have been proposed, suggesting allowances for energy and protein (Cuddeford, 1998). NRC recommendations include suggestions for digestible energy (DE) and digestible crude protein (DCP in 1978) and later crude protein (CP in 1989). INRA, (from 1984-1990), have firstly suggested the Net Energy System (NE), also referred to as the UFC system in French, (so called, as the NE system relies on expressing the NE value of a feed relative to a reference feed [barley], or Horse Feed Unit). The INRA have also gone on to recommend the Horse Digestible Crude Protein system (HDCP, or MADC in French). Whilst the INRA and NRC systems have both proposed nutritional requirements, the NRC is exclusive in its use of a protocol called the ‘factorial method’.The factorial method was initially contrived to allow for the determination of physiological expenditure, where the efficiencies of the nutrients were known and relevant. Other influences could then be considered by implementing feed trials to determine allowances which would take into account most environmental factors. Both the NRC and the INRA have proposed a range of Dry Matter Intake (DMI) values, which intend to meet the nutritional requirements of differing types of horses. DMI values provided by the INRA have been drawn directly from feeding experiments conducted over the last 30 years. Ingestibility of the main types of forages have also been extensively measured in horses, using feeding trials devoted to that purpose. The following chapter will review existing methods and suggest a progression strategy towards a common rationing system.
Study of crib–biting and gastric ulceration and mucosal inflammation in foals
Authors: Badnell–Waters A J , Wilson A D , Harris P A , Davidson H B , Nicol C J 
Published: June 2019

Crib–biting is a stereotypic behaviour performed by approximately 5% of captive domestic horses. Dietary factors have been strongly associated with the development of oral stereotypies and risk factors for crib–biting, identified in recent epidemiological studies, include feeding high concentrate and/or low forage diets (Waterset al., 2002). Experimental work has shown that such diets are likely to result in increased gastric acidity (Murray and Eichorn, 1996; Nadeauet al., 2000). We therefore propose that young horses initiate crib–biting in an attempt to produce alkaline saliva to buffer their stomachs when alternative opportunities for mastication are limited. The aim of this study was to determine whether there was an association between crib–biting behaviour and stomach condition in foals.Foals that had recently started to perform crib–biting were recruited into the study and compared with non–stereotypic foals. The stomachs of 15 crib-biting foals and 9 normal foals were examined using a video endoscope.
The effect of mirrors for the control of stereotypic weaving in the stabled horse
Authors: Grime E , Northrop A , Rosbotham M E , Howells K L 
Published: June 2019

The exhibition and aetiology of abnormal behaviour in the equine is a coping response to a sub-optimal environment (McBride and Cuddeford, 2001). Physical prevention of performance of these behaviours could however lead to compromised welfare so alternative welfare enhancement methods have been sought as alternatives. Nicol (1999) indicated that the cause of weaving as a specific stereotypic behaviour is related to the management of the stabled horse. Enrichment devices have been successful in reducing abnormal behaviour and fostering increased expression of more normal behaviours in many animal species but studies have remained limited in relation to the equine. By strategic placement of mirrors in the stable the current study aimed to reduce the stabled horses need to perform stereotypic weaving behaviour without the use of physical restraint in order to enhance the welfare outcome.Four horses, two males and two females were housed individually in 10*12m loose boxes and provided with straw bedding.
Comparative methods of preventing stereotypic behaviour in horses
Authors: Lebatteux E , Rosbotham M E , Northrop A , Howells K L 
Published: June 2019

Over fifteen per cent of domesticated horses exhibit a form of stereotypic behaviour (Luescher, McKeown and Halip, 1991). These behaviours can represent or develop into health and welfare disequilibrium and crib–biting and weaving are two of the most commonly performed behaviours of this type. As these behaviours have been described as having no obvious function (Mason, 1991), procedures concerned with their ultimate prevention have been promoted within the equine industry. The aim of this study was to review the success of the physical, pharmacological, dietary, environmental and surgical methods available to horse owners for the prevention of equine stereotypies.A total of 300 questionnaires were distributed between riding schools, trekking centres and livery yards throughout the Northern counties of England along with horse owning BSc Equine students at Myerscough College, Lancashire. Of the total, 200 were distributed by post and the remainder researcher administered.
Oxidative DNA damage in equine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) induced by acute natural allergen challenge
Authors: Kingston D A , Marlin D J , Smith N C , Deaton C M , Saunders K , Kydd J , Harris P A 
Published: June 2019

Oxidative stress occurs when antioxidant defence mechanisms are overwhelmed by free radicals and may lead to damage to DNA, which has been implicated in processes such as ageing and cancer. The Comet assay allows detection of oxidative DNA damage in individual cells. As horses with recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) have been shown to demonstrate low antioxidant status and oxidative stress, we hypothesised that peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of horses with RAO would demonstrate increases in DNA damage following natural allergen challenge.Six horses (mean age 15 years, range 8-23 years) diagnosed with RAO (in remission) and 6 healthy breed matched controls (mean age 9 years, range 5-15 years) were studied. Blood samples were collected 7 days prior to challenge and immediately and 3 days after stabling on mouldy hay and straw for 24h. All animals were kept at grass prior to and after the challenge period. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed and neutrophil counts determined.
A comparative analysis of population characteristics of the competing progeny (within UK) of UK elite show jumping sires and all competing show jumping horses within the UK
Authors: Whitaker T C , Hill J 
Published: June 2019

The UK currently has limited success at producing show jumping horses of international standard (WBFSH, 2002). For improvement to occur a greater understanding of the population dynamics of the show jumping population is requiredA selected group of progeny (n=304) sired by elite show jumping stallions was examined. Elite sires were defined as those that were ranked 1-10 in the 2001 Sport Horse Annual (British Horse Database, 2000) by total lifetime earnings of progeny competing in 2000. Comparative analysis was conducted with all competing show jumping horses (n=22421) in 2000 (British Horse Database, 2000). Data collected comprised of total lifetime money won at show jumping, total lifetime points won at eventing and dressage. Descriptive statistics were produced for each data set (Table 1). Product Moment Correlations were performed for all discipline areas (Table 2). Data transformation was applied using LOG+1(Hassenstein, Roehe and Kalm, 1996) to account for the skewness in all data sets.
The occurrence and outcome of multiple ovulation and pregnancy in the Thoroughbred mare
Authors: Davies Morel M C G , Dennis S 
Published: June 2019

Multiple pregnancies (MP) are almost always the result of multiple ovulations (MO) (Ginther and Bergfelt, 1988). Twinning is the most common non-infectious cause of abortion in the mare (Roberts and Myhre, 1983) and represents a significant economic loss. As a consequence, further investigation into its occurrence and outcome is warranted in order to determine effective management practices.Ultrasonic scanning was used to monitor and classify ovulation in 1582 Thoroughbred mares. Further ultrasonic scanning at Day 13 was used to identify and classify the resulting pregnancies (single pregnancy (SP), or MP)) in varying samples of mares. All MP mares underwent manual reduction of the smallest embryo at Day 13. 1170 mares, both SP and crushed MP, were monitored for the remainder of pregnancy with regard to pregnancy failure or success. Chi squared was used to test for significance throughout.
Equine feeding side preference – incidence and age effect
Authors: Bottom S H , Owen H , Lawson R E , Harris P A , Hall S 
Published: June 2019

Two choice preference testing is used in animals to determine food preference or taste response (Nicol, 1997). This relies upon selection from a theoretical mean of 0.5, if no preference is shown. The aims of this study were two fold: to measure the incidence of side preference in the horse when given the choice of two identical feeds; and to assess the influence of age on side preference.18 TB x horses were used in this study. Six horses were allocated to each of the age groups; young (2-4 years), middle (8-14 years) and old (over 16 years). All horses were housed in stables of identical design. 1.5kg DM of basal feed was offered in two containers, positioned left and right, for a ten–minute period over nine days. All spillages were collected and recorded. Intake was calculated as the (amount of feed offered – amount of feed remaining – 0.5x the Spillage).
The conservation of animal genetic resources – a European perspective
Authors: Martyniuk E. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractThe paper provides an historical overview of conservation activities undertaken in Europe to maintain native livestock breeds, including the motivation and methods applied in conservation programmes and the contribution of various stakeholders. The current state of conservation activities is presented, based on reports provided by the National Coordinators on animal genetic resources (AnGR) during annual Workshops. These Workshops have been convened jointly by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the European Association for Animal Production since 1995, and are conducted within the framework of the FAO Global Strategy for Management of Farm Animal Genetic Resources. Analysis includes policy and legislation development, state and mode of financial support, conservation approaches and public awareness and education initiatives. The paper describes the establishment of the European Regional Focal Point for AnGR, its terms of reference, and ongoing and future activities. Questions regarding a vision of future needs and developments in AnGR are raised in this paper, both from a technical and policy context.
The UK Government policy on farm animal genetic resource conservation
Authors: Roper M. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractHistorically the UK has not had or needed a defined Government policy on the conservation and utilisation of farm animal genetic resources. However, this situation has changed recently, partly as a result of international efforts, stimulated by the Convention on Biological Diversity, and led by the Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations, to co-ordinate national strategies for conservation and utilisation of farm animal genetic resources. As part of this international effort, a National Consultative Committee was set up in the UK in 2001. This committee produced the UK Country Report on farm animal genetic resources, which was published in 2002 and submitted to FAO. This paper outlines the structure and recommendations of this report, and discusses government policy on farm animal genetic resources.
Conservation genetics of UK livestock: from molecules to management
Authors: Bruford M.W. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractAnalysis of molecular genetic diversity in livestock potentially allows for rational management of genetic resources experiencing the serious pressures now facing the livestock sector. The potentially damaging effects of genetic erosion are an ongoing threat, both through loss of breeding stock during the 2001 FMD crisis and potentially as a result of the ongoing National Scrapie Plan. These factors and an increasing focus through the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) on the conservation of animal genetic resources force us to consider seriously how to measure, monitor and conserve diversity throughout the genomes of livestock. Currently debated ways to optimally conserve livestock diversity, particularly the ‘Weitzman Approach’, may fail to take into account the significance of within-breed genetic diversity and its structuring, and apply relatively simplistic models to predict the probability of extinction for breeds over defined periods of time under certain management scenarios. In this paper I argue, using examples from our work and that of others, that within-breed diversity, in particular, should not be ignored when conserving livestock diversity, since breeds may be genetically structured at a variety of scales and there is little evidence for a convincing relationship between effective population size and genetic diversity within rare UK breeds. Furthermore, until we understand the population genetic forces that shape diversity in breeds in more detail, using raw indices of genetic variation or distances to rank or prioritise breeds in terms of some notional threat of extinction has questionable conservation value.
Role of new and current methods in semen technology for genetic resource conservation
Authors: Holt W.V. , Watson P.F. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractThe establishment of repositories of frozen semen, for the conservation of agricultural genetic resources, is not a simple matter of collecting and freezing semen in the hope that one day it will be suitable for use in an artificial insemination procedure. Important genetic issues need to be considered; for example, how many samples should be stored and from how many individuals? Aside from these, many biological and logistic issues must be considered. Cryopreservation technology does not work equally well in all species, often because of anatomical differences in the female reproductive tract leading to significant variability in the number of spermatozoa needed in order to achieve an acceptable conception rate. Moreover, spermatozoa from different species are not equally susceptible to cryoinjury. However, it is also emerging that semen samples from individuals within a species are also of different quality; several studies have revealed that these differences reflect the quality of DNA within the spermatozoon itself and also the efficacy of biochemical functions, including metabolic and signalling systems, within individual cells. As new possibilities to select spermatozoa for insemination arise, especially the use of flowsorting for gender selection, these issues may become more significant. In this article we interpret the way in which some of this new information may impact upon the practical implementation of genetic resource conservation.
Conserving animal genetic resources: making priority lists of British and Irish livestock breeds
Authors: Hall S.J.G. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractPrioritisation of livestock breeds for conservation is agreed to depend upon the genetic distinctiveness of breeds, on census data and degree of endangerment, and on other factors relating to the present, future, or past function of the breeds in the livestock industry. How these factors can be combined to yield a prioritised list needs to be considered. An objective framework for prioritisation can be deduced if breeds are compared with each other by plotting genetic distinctiveness against distinctiveness of function. In this paper, the native British and Irish cattle breeds (n = 31 commercial, minority and rare breeds) have been prioritised in this way. Those with highest conservation priority are Chillingham, Gloucester, Guernsey, Jersey, Shetland and Irish Moiled. The 25 native British sheep breeds that are not on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) Watchlist were also considered. The structure of the British sheep industry means that functional distinctiveness of breeds is not easily deduced. The only fully comparable characterisation data relate to wool fibre fineness class, so genetic distinctiveness was plotted against distinctiveness of this attribute. The non-rare breeds with highest conservation priority by this measure were Herdwick, Hampshire Down and Clun Forest.
Genetic diversity in European and Chinese pig breeds – the PigBioDiv project
Authors: Blott S. , SanCristobal M. , Chevalet C. , Haley C.S. , Russell G. , Plastow G. , Siggens K. , Groenen M.A.M. , Boscher M.-Y. , Amigues Y. , Hammond K. , Laval G. , Milan D. , Law A. , Fimland E. , Davoli R. , Russo V. , Gandini G. , Archibald A. , Delgado J.V. , Ramos M. , Désautés C. , Alderson L. , Glodek P. , Meyer J.-N. , Foulley J.-L. , Andersson L. , Cardellino R. , Li N. , Huang L. , Li K. , Ollivier L. 
Published: June 2019

Characterisation of genetic diversity in a large number of European pig populations has been undertaken with EC support. The populations sampled included local (rare) breeds, national varieties of the major international breeds, commercial lines and the Chinese Meishan breed. A second phase of the project will sample a further 50 Chinese breeds. Neutral genetic markers (AFLP and microsatellites), with individual or bulk typing, were used and compared.DNA from 59 European pig populations was extracted on samples of about 50 individuals per population. Individuals were typed for 50 microsatellites and for 148 AFLP bands. A subset of 25 populations was typed for 20 microsatellites on pools of DNA. Allele frequencies were estimated by direct allele counting for the co-dominant markers. Frequencies of AFLP negative alleles (absent bands) were obtained by taking the square root of absent band frequencies. Within-breed variability was summarised using standard statistics: expected and observed heterozygosity, mean observed and effective numbers of alleles, and F statistics. Between-breed diversity analysis was based on a bootstrapped Neighbor-Joining (NJ) tree derived from Reynolds distances (DR). The standard distance of Nei (DS) was also calculated.
Equine hair analysis: a non-invasive technique for identifying exposure to drugs and toxins
Authors: Dunnett M. , Tracy S. , Lees P. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractHair analysis has been evaluated as a retrospective non-invasive diagnostic technique to identify and quantify drug administration and exposure to mycotoxins and plant toxins in horses. The purpose of this review is to describe and discuss in detail the development and application of this technique to equine hair, and to interpret data generated thus far. Particular attention is paid to both extrinsic and intrinsic factors, including pigmentation and hair growth-rates, that impinge on the conduct of hair analysis and which can be potential sources of error. In the absence of research specific to the horse, this review draws upon comparative data in humans and other species, on hair analysis and potential toxins of particular relevance to the horse.
Osteopathy and its application in the treatment of musculoskeletal dysfunction in horses
Authors: Brooks J , Pusey AG 
Published: June 2019

Physical treatments have been found to be effective in treating musculoskeletal problems in the human field (UK BEAM trial, 2004). Osteopathy is one such beneficial treatment, (Williams, Wilkinson, Russell , Edwards, Linck, Hibbs, 2003) which has been applied to musculoskeletal dysfunction in horses. (Colles, Pusey, 2003).Osteopathy as a medical philosophy was developed in the 1880s by Andrew Taylor Still, a doctor from the American mid–west. Dr Still was disillusioned with medical practice at that time when treatments such as bleeding, purgatives and emetics were common practice. Instead, his anatomical studies led him to envisage a system of the healing art, which placed chief emphasis on the structural integrity of the body as being most important in the well being of the organism. In other words, if the structure is normal, then the body can function at optimum levels (Still, 1902). This still forms the basis of the osteopathic philosophy, though the ground breaking new discoveries over the succeeding 125 years have brought a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underpinning this form of treatment (Kuchera, Kuchera, 1992).
Nutritional supplements in support of equine welfare
Authors: Harris P 
Published: June 2019

In the wild, the horse would spend most of the day roaming and foraging in an externally variable environment as part of a herd. As non-ruminant herbivores they are well suited to a high fibre, low starch diet. They rarely fast voluntarily for more than 2 –4 hrs at a time and would naturally forage for 16-18hrs a day. Modern horse management often brings the horse into a small enclosed, isolated environment and limits the feeding occasions. What and when they are able to eat, is now predominantly determined by ourselves and we therefore have to take responsibility for the effects of our choice of management practices on their health and welfare. It is becoming increasingly apparent that some of these practices may not be optimal for the welfare of horses (Davidson and Harris 2003).Animal welfare has been defined ecologically as the good fit of an animal to its environment (Kronfeld et al 1998).
Quality and standards in health care
Authors: Irvine Donald , Donaldson Liam 
Published: June 2019

SynopsisThe chapter describes the professional and regulatory landmarks which have influenced the development of the quality movement in health care in the UK and the USA. They reflect the similarities and differences in the approach to quality which have evolved within the National Health Service in Britain when compared with a free market system of health care such as that in North America.A conceptual framework is used to approach the definition and assessment of quality of health care, noting in particular Donabedian's seminal triad of structure, process and outcome as well as the outcomes movement and other theoretical approaches to defining quality.The characteristics of criteria, standards, guidelines and protocols are described and the terminological problems in this field are discussed. The use of standards for improving quality includes their application in clinical audit, for accreditation and re-accreditation, in contracting for health services and in regulation and inspection.There is a new and unfolding relationship between clinical standard setting and management. Concepts such as continuous quality improvement and total quality management are challenging traditional assumptions about the need for a separation between professional, consumer and managerial approaches to improving quality. The National Health Service, following implementation of an internal market for public health care provision in Britain, is well placed to absorb and synthesise the many differing philosophies in the health care quality movement to the benefit of both patients and the health professions alike.