bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Using historical biogeography to test for community saturation
Authors: Pinto‐Sánchez Nelsy Rocío , Crawford Andrew J. , Wiens John J. 
Published: June 2014

AbstractSaturation is the idea that a community is effectively filled with species, such that no more can be added without extinctions. This concept has important implications for many areas of ecology, such as species richness, community assembly, invasive species and climate change. Here, we illustrate how biogeography can be used to test for community saturation, when combined with data on local species richness, phylogeny and climate. We focus on a clade of frogs (Terrarana) and the impact of the Great American Biotic Interchange on patterns of local richness in Lower Middle America and adjacent regions. We analyse data on species richness at 83 sites and a time‐calibrated phylogeny for 363 species. We find no evidence for saturation, and show instead that biotic interchange dramatically increased local richness in the region. We suggest that historical biogeography offers thousands of similar long‐term natural experiments that can be used to test for saturation.
A Pilot Study on Genetic Speed Markers in Turkish Thoroughbreds
Authors: Gür E , Onmaz AC , Steinborn R , van den Hoven R 
Published: June 2014

IntroductionThe 227‐bp SINE insertion in the promoter region of the MSTN gene, the intronic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of MSTN, g.66493737C>T, and the SNPs BIEC2‐417274 and BIEC2‐417495 located upstream and downstream of MSTN seem appropriate QTL markers for racing performance of elite Thoroughbreds. This pilot study aimed to find if these markers of racing ability can be used to optimize the management of the racing careers of Turkish Thoroughbreds.MethodsHair roots were used for DNA extraction. The promoter insertion was analysed by agarose gel electrophoresis of the PCR product. The SNPs were typed by the amplification refractory mutation system‐real‐time PCR. Best racing distance was defined as the distance of the races in which the horse obtained the best results. Results were semi quantified by a point score based on wining and places.ResultsBIEC2‐417274, BIEC2‐417495 SNP variants and the 227‐bp SINE were strongly associated with g.66493737C>T. For the latter, the genotype frequencies were: C/C 0.23, C/T 0.52 and T/T 0.25. In total 39% of the Turkish races are distances >1600 m. Analysis of the racing career showed that both the sprinters (C/C) and the medium distance horse (C/T) were not entered optimally in races that fit with their genetic ability.ConclusionsTurkish race programing should create more opportunities for the g.66493737 C/T genotypes to show their ability. This implies that more 1700 to 2800 m races should be scheduled in the racing calendar.Ethical Animal ResearchOwner informed consent was obtained. Sources of funding: Jockey Club of Turkey. Competing interests: none.
A Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (BIEC2‐808543) on Eca3 Is Associated with Recurrent Laryngeal Neuropathy Independent of Height in Thoroughbred Horses
Authors: Herdan C , McGivney B , Gough K , Hill E , Katz L 
Published: June 2014

IntroductionRecurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN) is considered height‐linked in Thoroughbreds. A SNP (BIEC2‐808543) proximal to the LCORL/NCAPG gene significantly influences height variation in horses. It has been suggested that the C‐allele of this SNP is associated with RLN risk. Our objective was to investigate the association between the BIEC2‐808543 C‐allele, RLN and height in a cohort of Thoroughbreds.MethodsResting and exercising upper respiratory tract endoscopic videos, laryngeal ultrasonograms, wither height, age and sex were recorded in 79 Thoroughbreds (age 34 ± 11 months). The Havemeyer grading scale was used to characterise RLN cases (Grade B or C at exercise) and controls (Grade 1.1 or 2.1 at rest, Grade A at exercise, normal laryngeal ultrasound). All horses were genotyped for the BIEC2‐808543 SNP using a custom TaqMan SNP Genotyping assay. Logistic regression was performed measuring additive effects of allele dosage with sex, age and height as covariates (P≤0.05). Horses were subcategorised into tall (T,≥162 cm) and short (S,<162 cm) groups for C‐allele frequency determination, with data presented as mean ± SD.ResultsThere were 16 RLN cases (height 164.5 ± 4 cm) and 32 controls (height 156.2 ± 4 cm). With sex and age as covariates, a significant association between the C‐allele and RLN cases was observed (P = 0.01). With height included as a covariate, a strong trend of association between the C‐allele and RLN remained (P = 0.06). C‐allele frequency was 41.7% for the T‐RLN group (n = 12, height 166.2 ± 3 cm), 12.5% for the S‐RLN group (n = 4, height 159.5 ± 2 cm), 13% for the T‐Control group (n = 16, height 165.1 ± 2 cm) and 14% for the S‐Control group (n = 16, height 156.2 ± 4 cm).ConclusionsThe association between the BIEC‐808543 C‐allele and RLN appears to be independent of height.Ethical Animal ResearchInstitutional Animal Research Ethics Committee approval was obtained. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study is not stated. Sources of funding: Science Foundation Ireland under Grant Number 11/PI/1166. Competing interests: Dr Hill is a co‐founder and Chairman of Equinome Ltd.
Faecal Microbiome of the Thoroughbred Racehorse and Its Response to Dietary Amylase Supplementation
Authors: Proudman C , Darby A , Escalona E 
Published: June 2014

IntroductionThe horse has evolved to survive on a low‐energy, high‐fibre diet. The addition of starch, in the form of cereals, to the diet of racehorses to satisfy the high energy demands of extreme exercise has been identified as a risk factor for intestinal dysfunction. In this study we use 454 pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA genes to characterize the gut microbiome of 8 Thoroughbred (Tb) racehorses and study the response to dietary supplementation.MethodsFaecal samples were collected from 8 Tb racehorses in training. A second sample was collected from all horses six weeks after commencement of twice daily dietary supplementation with an amylase‐rich malt extract, designed to enhance pre‐caecal digestion. Amplicons for the V1‐V3 region of the 16S rDNA gene were multiplexed and sequenced on the 454 resulting in ∼25,000 reads per sample. Differences in bacterial community structure were detected by linear discriminant analysis.ResultsCommunities were composed of an equal balance between Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes with a ∼5% contribution from other bacterial phyla. The number of observed operational taxonomic units sharing ≥97% nucleotide sequence in our racehorse population was 6000–8000. Horses showed no significant change in the number of OTUs observed after diet supplementation, but significant changes in the relative abundance of both Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes families were observed.ConclusionsWe demonstrated a highly diverse and complex faecal microbial community in Tb racehorses in the UK. Inter‐horse variability is low amongst horses in the same training yard. We identified significant shifts in community profile following dietary supplementation and speculate that these may enhance intestinal health.Ethical Animal ResearchThis study was conducted under the University of Liverpool research ethics approval: RETH000363. The informed consent of the trainer was obtained and all samples were obtained non‐invasively. Sources of funding: private donation. Competing interests: none.
Skin Displacement in the Equine Neck
Authors: Bergh A , Egenvall A , Olsson E , Uhlhorn M , Rhodin M 
Published: June 2014

IntroductionKinematic studies, using reflective skin markers, are commonly used to investigate equine neck motion in equitation science and for rehabilitation purposes. In order to interpret the registrations accurately, the degree of skin displacement has been described for the limbs and back, but not for the neck. The aim of the present study was to investigate the degree of skin displacement in the equine neck.MethodsRadiopaque skin markers were applied to the skin over the first six cervical vertebrae of six healthy horses. Radiographs were taken in three standardized neck positions in the sagittal plane: control (horizontal neck), “on the bit” and “nose to carpus”. The scales of the images were normalized and calculation of skin displacement was performed by use of a coordinate system, dividing the displacement into measurements on an x‐axis parallel to the vertebra's longitudinal axis and a y‐axis perpendicular to the x‐axis. The non‐parametric paired Wilcoxon rank test was employed to study the differences in distances in x‐ and y‐directions, and statistical significance was set to P<0.05.ResultsBetween control and “nose to carpus” positions, there were significant differences in the marker locations, related to the underlying vertebra, in x‐line for C1–6, and in y‐line for C3–6. The differences in marker locations were between 3 ± 9 and 44 ± 14 mm, depending on the marker.ConclusionsThe outcome of this study indicates that skin displacement is an important factor to consider when investigating equine neck motion with skin marker methodology.Ethical Animal ResearchThe study was approved by a local Ethical Committee on Animal Experiments (Uppsala, Sweden), with written consent from the horse owners. Sources of funding: none. Competing interests: none.
Effect of Gait and Turn Direction on Body Lean Angle in the Horse
Authors: Brocklehurst C , Weller R , Pfau T 
Published: June 2014

IntroductionTurning is commonly used as a diagnostic aid in lameness examinations. Systematic movement deviations compared to locomotion in a straight line are noted across horses with variation at an individual level. This study aimed to investigate whether deviations from the expected body lean angle, predicted from the ratio of gravitational and centripetal accelerations, are consistent between trot and canter. It was hypothesized that, independent of gait, there would be agreement between the observed and predicted angle with variations on an individual horse level.MethodsA GPS‐aided inertial measurement unit was attached over the sacrum in twenty horses and quantified body lean angle, speed and circle radius in trot and canter on left and right rein. Predicted body lean angle was calculated from speed and circle radius and was compared to the observed body lean (Δobs,pred). A generalized linear model was implemented to study the effect of horse, lungeing direction and gait.ResultsMean speed and circle radius were 3.3 m/s and 4.9 m in trot and 4.5 m/s and 5.7 m in canter. On average Δobs,pred was −1.1°in trot and −0.8°in canter and was found to be significantly different between horses (P<0.0001) and between lungeing directions (P<0.0001) but not between gaits (P = 0.14). Interactions between horse and direction (P<0.0001) and horse and gait (P = 0.011) were also found to be significant.ConclusionsHorses leaned marginally less into the circle than predicted. However, showing significant differences in body lean angle between horses and turn directions but not between gaits, we provide evidence for horse specific adaptations. Whether these are related to laterality or to underlying subclinical lameness needs to be further investigated.Ethical Animal ResearchThe study was approved by the local ethics committee. Sources of funding: none declared. Competing interests: none.
An Investigation of Relationships between Horse and Rider Pelvic Asymmetry
Authors: Browne L , Cunliffe C 
Published: June 2014

IntroductionAsymmetry of the horse and rider partnership is a challenging and complex area. There is limited scientific research regarding the occurrence of misalignments in the horse and rider, and if there is any relationship between the two. This study investigated asymmetry of single horse and rider combinations focusing on pelvis asymmetry.Methods14 single horse/rider combinations (minimum 6 month partnership) on the same daily routine were assessed. Horses and riders were assessed for misalignments of the pelvis, spine, and neck by a fully qualified human and animal (McTimoney) practitioner on the same day. Triplicate measurements of rider dorsal iliac crest (IC) distance (nearest 0.2 cm) and degree of tilt (0d.p) were recorded, sitting and standing, using a PALM palpation meter to calculate IC height discrepancy. Triplicate horse tuber coxae (TC) heights (nearest 0.5 cm) were measured using a plumb line. Difference between means indicated direction and value of asymmetry relative to symmetry of zero. Student's t‐test and Pearson's Product Moment correlation examined asymmetry relationships.ResultsMean rider IC height discrepancy, standing, was 0.89 ± 0.64 cm and sitting, 1.00 ± 0.66 cm. Mean TC height discrepancy was 1.3 ± 1.6 cm. Asymmetry of the pelvis was a feature of 93% of horse/rider combinations, 85% occurring in the same direction. There was a significant positive correlation between horse TC and rider IC height discrepancies (r2 = 0.4, F = 8.24, P = 0.014).ConclusionsThis study provides positive evidence of a relationship between the direction of horse pelvic rotation and rider pelvic tilt and also between the degree of tilt and rotation. This has implications for physical therapy treatment of horse and rider. Further research of causal effect relationships of the asymmetries is recommended.Ethical Animal ResearchProcedures were reviewed by the McTimoney Chiropractic College Ethical Review Committee. Sources of funding: none. Competing interests: none.
Effect of Speed on Stride Parameters and Limb Loading: Comparison between Forelimb and Hindlimb at Training Trot on a Firm Surface
Authors: Crevier‐Denoix N , Camus M , Pourcelot P , Pauchard M , Falala S , Ravary‐Plumioen B , Denoix JM , Desquilbet L , Chateau H 
Published: June 2014

IntroductionDirect measurement of peak vertical force in equine forelimbs and hindlimbs under training conditions has not been achieved to date. This measurement is possible using dynamometric horseshoes (DHSs). The objectives of this study were to investigate, on a firm surface, the effect of speed on stride parameters and on vertical loading in the forelimb (FL) compared to the hindlimb (HL).MethodsRight front and hind hooves of 5 trotters were equipped with a DHS. A linear corridor was delimited on a firm sand training track. Each horse alternately repeated trials (harness trot) at 25, 35 and 40 km/h (4 to 6 times at each speed). For each trial, stride parameters and dynamic variables (peak vertical force and impulse, vertical loading rate) were analysed for 10 successive strides. Correlation coefficients were calculated to quantify the association between speed and the studied variables; linear mixed‐effects regression models were used to test the significance (P<0.05) of these associations.ResultsStance and stride duration, and their ratio (duty factor) were linearly correlated with speed (r<‐0.82), both in FL and HL. Peak vertical force was the only variable for which r was higher in HL (r = 0.80 vs. 0.50 in FL). The relationship between vertical loading rate and speed had the highest r of all dynamic variables (r = 0.87 and 0.83, respectively in FL and HL; r = ‐0.75 and −0.60 for vertical impulse).ConclusionsThe linear relation between peak vertical force and speed demonstrated in the hindlimb differs from previous studies at lower speed. These results stress the necessity of performing biomechanical measurements under real training conditions.Ethical Animal ResearchFormal approval provided by the local Animal Care and Ethics Committee. Sources of funding: the Région Basse‐Normandie, the FEDER, the Fonds Eperon and the IFCE. Competing interests: none.
Variations in Muscle Activity of Vastus Lateralis and Gastrocnemius Lateralis with Increasing Draft Load
Authors: Crook T , Hodson‐Tole E , Wilson A 
Published: June 2014

IntroductionMinimal research has examined the effect of draft loading on equine muscle activity. It is hypothesised that increases in draft load of 10 and 20% body mass (BM) will increase EMG intensity and duration of vastus lateralis (VL) and gastrocnemius lateralis (GL) during walk.MethodsData were collected from six Irish Cob geldings (11 ± 4 years; height: 1.47 ± 0.05 m; BM: 490 ± 65 kg) all trained to draft‐load. A modified lorry tyre was used as a loading platform. Surface EMG electrodes were positioned over VL and GL. An accelerometer placed on the left hind hoof collected kinematic data. EMG and accelerometer data at a draft load equivalent to 0 (zero load), 10 and 20% BM were recorded as the horses were led at walk in a 20 m straight line. A stopwatch determined mean speed over 20 m. Mean kinematic and EMG values were determined for 10 consecutive strides. EMG intensities were normalised to each horse. Kolmogorov‐Smirnov test explored data normality. Friedman test (P<0.05) compared between conditions. A pair‐wise Wilcoxon signed ranks test identified where the differences lay.ResultsData for one horse was excluded because of poor accelerometer data. The remaining horses (n = 5) maintained a constant velocity (1.10 ± 0.02 m/s {SD}) between conditions (P>0.7). VL and GL increased their muscular activity in terms of EMG intensity and duration of contraction with increasing draft load from 0 to 10% and 10 to 20% BM (P = 0.04; n = 5).ConclusionsDraft loading can be utilised for strength training following injury or to improve athletic performance.Ethical Animal ResearchThe study was approved by the Royal Veterinary College Ethics Committee. Sources of funding: Royal Veterinary College. Competing interests: none.
Effect of X‐Ray Beam Angle and Superimposition on Radiographic Evaluation of Kissing Spines Syndrome
Authors: Djernæs J , Vedding Nielsen J , Berg L 
Published: June 2014

IntroductionKissing Spines Syndrome (KSS) represents a major challenge in equine practice. Radiographic examination of dorsal spinous processes (DSP) is therefore often included in sale and insurance cases and in diagnosis of back problems. Measurement of interspinous spaces (ISS) on radiographs is often used when evaluating DSPs. Radiographic examination of the equine back usually consists of two to four images causing beam angle differences between the image center and image borders. In addition, radiographs are 2D representations of 3D structures causing superimposition of anatomical structures. The aim of this study was to investigate if x‐ray beam angle and superimposition affect radiographic evaluation of ISSs.MethodsBeam angle effect was investigated using latero‐lateral radiographs of the thoracic DSPs. Importance of superimposition of anatomical structures was investigated by comparing radiographic measurements with measurements in comparable CT and MR images. Cadaver backs from six horses were included. Four had a diagnosis of KSS, while two were considered normal. Backs were placed in an upright position on a flat surface for all images. Data were analysed using a linear mixed model with a single random factor, ISS. Significance was set at P<0.05.ResultsX‐ray beam angle significantly influenced measurement of ISS (P<0.02) with differences of up to 2 mm, when measured three positions apart. ISS widths measured in radiographs were significantly lower than in comparable CT (P<0.0001) and MR (P<0.0001) images with differences of up to 3 mm.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that radiographic assessment may result in incorrect evaluation of ISSs.Ethical Animal ResearchCadaver material was included in the study with signed consent from the horse owners. Sources of funding: Access to imaging facilities was kindly donated by the participating equine clinics and Gentofte Hospital (CT). There was no additional funding. Competing interests: none.
Track Surface Identification Using an Instrumented Horseshoes
Authors: Martin C , Merritt J , Davies H 
Published: June 2014

IntroductionTrack conditions in Thoroughbred racing significantly impact performance and injury. However, surface effects on limb biomechanics at racing speeds are poorly understood.MethodsA racing shoe was modified to contain inertial transducers and a strain gauge to provide motion kinematics and a measure of hoof/surface interaction load. A two‐phase non‐linear surface reaction model was defined to represent the hoof deceleration phase, and the hoof penetration phase where the surface reaction force was represented by a quartic stiffness profile and a fixed damping term. Model parameters were determined using an “output error” iteration method for 25 strides at medium gallop. Parameters were compared using a standard t‐test.ResultsThe sand track had a significantly greater (P<0.0001) maximum penetration of 61 ± 10 mm (mean ± SD), than the grass track (41 ± 0.5 mm). Both stiffness parameters were significantly different between the two tracks (P<0.0001), but damping parameters did not differ significantly. Hoof impact at high speed involved decelerations of over 100 ‘g’ occurring within milliseconds.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that a surface reaction model using data acquired from an instrumented horseshoe, distinguished between surface reaction profiles of a sand track and a grass track, as a step towards improving track rating methods. A further challenge will be to develop independent checks on instrument calibrations.Ethical Animal ResearchThe study was approved by the University of Melbourne Animal Ethics Committee. Sources of funding: This study was funded by the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation under project PRJ‐006479, and by a University of Melbourne Research Collaboration Grant. Competing interests: Colin Martin is the Director of SPERERO Pty. Ltd. a consulting and innovations company.
Comparison Between Inertial Sensors and Motion Capture System to Quantify Flexion‐Extension Motion in the Back of a Horse
Authors: Martin P , Chateau H , Pourcelot P , Duray L , Cheze L 
Published: June 2014

IntroductionThe development of miniaturized inertial sensor technology (IMU) opens new possibilities to assess equine back motion in real‐life situations. The consistency of IMU for measuring dorsoventral displacement of the back has been assessed but orientation has not. The aim of this study was to assess accuracy and consistency of miniaturized inertial sensors for quantification of flexion‐extension of the equine back, compared to motion capture (mocap) as a gold standard.MethodsOne sound horse was trotted (3.5 m/s) and cantered (9 m/s) on a treadmill with synchronized mocap and IMU data collection. The amplitudes of two flexion‐extension angles were calculated between 3 IMUs (T12‐T16‐L2) and with a triad of markers linked to each IMU during 15 consecutive strides for two recordings at each gait. Consistency of sensor measurements was assessed using Lin correlation coefficient.ResultsThoracic and thoracolumbar angles showed respectively a Lin correlation coefficient of 0.96 (excellent) and 0.87 (good). The difference (mean ± SD) between IMU and mocap were, respectively for the thoracic and thoracolumbar angles, 0.57 ± 0.44 and 0.65 ± 0.47 degrees during trotting, and 0.83 ± 0.67 and 0.63 ± 0.44 degrees during canter.ConclusionsAngle values calculated with IMU data showed acceptable accuracy consistency for quantification of flexion‐extension movement in a horse's back. These results are encouraging for future development of the method in real‐life situations where mocap systems are unsuited for the quantification of back movements.Ethical Animal ResearchNone declared. Sources of funding: The authors thank the Institut Français du Cheval et de l′Equitation, the Association Nationale de la Recherche et de la Technologie and the Conseil Régional d′Aquitaine for financial support, the Pôle Hippolia for logistical support, and CIRALE for loaning the treadmill and the horse. Competing interests: none.