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Schumacher A, Gehlen H. Health of Polo Horses. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1735. [PMID: 38929354 PMCID: PMC11201175 DOI: 10.3390/ani14121735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This literature review analyzes the historical development of polo, its organizational structure, the course of the game, as well as the breeding, rearing, and training practices of polo horses. Frequently occurring ailments, such as musculoskeletal injuries, respiratory diseases, and internal illnesses, are highlighted. Lameness is a major problem, with injuries to the superficial digital flexor tendon being the most common cause. Other notable diseases include exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), myositis, rhabdomyolysis, and equine infectious anemia (EIA). To ensure the welfare of polo horses, effective prevention and management strategies are crucial. These include proper training, the adaptation of the ground surface, appropriate shoeing, and compliance with animal welfare guidelines and association rules. Collaboration between associations, players, organizers, and veterinarians is crucial. Promoting responsible management practices and raising awareness among stakeholders can help ensure that polo continues to thrive while maintaining high animal welfare standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton Schumacher
- Equine Clinic, Veterinary Department, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
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2
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Mouncey R, Arango-Sabogal JC, de Mestre A, Verheyen KL. Associations between turn out practices and rates of musculoskeletal disease and injury in Thoroughbred foals and yearlings on stud farms in the United Kingdom. Equine Vet J 2023. [PMID: 38146768 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early-life locomotor activity during turn out may alter susceptibility to musculoskeletal disease and injury via modulation of behaviours and tissue development during growth. OBJECTIVES Investigate associations between turn out practices and rates of musculoskeletal disease and injury in young Thoroughbreds on stud farms in the United Kingdom. STUDY DESIGN Prospective cohort. METHODS Daily records were kept on location and duration of turn out for 134 Thoroughbred foals on six stud farms, from birth until leaving the farm or study exit. Data on veterinary-attended episodes of musculoskeletal disease or injury were collated concurrently. Average daily turn out times (hours), areas (acres) and group size (n foals) were calculated for rolling 7- and 30-day periods of age. Multivariable Cox regression, including farm as a random effect, was used to investigate associations between turn out practices and musculoskeletal disease and injury. RESULTS The overall incidence of musculoskeletal disease or injury was 5.3 cases/100 foal-months at risk (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.2-6.6). Compared with 24/7 turn out, average daily turn out times of between 9 and 23 hours over a 7-day period were associated with a 4.6-fold increase in musculoskeletal injury rate (95% CI: 1.7-12.3; P < 0.001), adjusting for farm and paddock area. Each 1-acre increase in the average daily turn out area during the 4th month of life, reduced the rate of musculoskeletal disease and injury between 6 and 18 months of age by 24% (hazard ratio 0.76, 95% CI: 0.58-0.99; P < 0.001), adjusting for farm and turn out time. MAIN LIMITATIONS Non-random sample of participants may affect generalisability. Use of veterinary-attended events likely underestimates disease/injury rates. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that disruptions or alterations to turn out time routines increase injury risk and should be avoided where possible. Turn out in larger paddocks, particularly before weaning, may confer protection against subsequent musculoskeletal disease and injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Mouncey
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Juan C Arango-Sabogal
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Amanda de Mestre
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Kristien L Verheyen
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
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3
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Adepu S, Lord M, Hugoh Z, Nyström S, Mattsson-Hulten L, Abrahamsson-Aurell K, Lützelschwab C, Skiöldebrand E. Salivary Biglycan-neo-epitope-BGN262: a novel surrogate biomarker for equine osteoarthritic sub-chondral bone sclerosis and to monitor the effect of short-term training and surface arena. OSTEOARTHRITIS AND CARTILAGE OPEN 2023; 5:100354. [PMID: 36968250 PMCID: PMC10033749 DOI: 10.1016/j.ocarto.2023.100354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective We aimed to delineate a novel soluble Biglycan Neo-epitope-BGN262 in saliva from young reference and osteoarthritic horses in conjunction with the influence of short-term training exercise, riding surface hardness, circadian rhythm, and feeding on its soluble levels. Design A custom-made inhibition ELISA was used for the quantification of BGN262 in saliva. Cohort 1: A cross-sectional study comprising reference (N = 19) and OA horses (N = 9) with radiographically classified subchondral bone sclerosis. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to evaluate the robustness of BGN262. Cohorts 2 (N = 5) & 3 (N = 7): Longitudinal studies of sampling during a short-term training exercise (sand-fibre) and a cross-over design of short-training exercise on 2 different riding arenas (sand and sand-fibre), respectively. Capillary western immunoassay was used to determine the BGN262 molecular size in a selection of saliva samples collected from cohort 1. Results Cohort 1: Salivary BGN262 levels were significantly higher in the OA group. The Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed an area under the curve of 0.8304 [0.6386 to 1.022], indicating a good separation from the reference group. Cohorts 2 & 3: Salivary BGN262 levels significantly changed during the exercise on sand and sand-fibre arena, with a trend towards higher levels for sand-fibre. The size of the BGN262 fragment determined by Capillary western assay was 18 kDa. Conclusions The data presented show saliva BGN262 levels as a novel biomarker in evaluating the influence of exercise, and interaction with riding arenas alongside assessing osteoarthritis severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Adepu
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
- Corresponding author.
| | - M. Lord
- Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Z. Hugoh
- Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - S. Nyström
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Transfusion Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - L. Mattsson-Hulten
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Transfusion Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - K. Abrahamsson-Aurell
- Hallands Djursjukhus Kungsbacka Hästklinik, Älvsåkers Byväg 20, 434 95 Kungsbacka, Sweden
| | - C. Lützelschwab
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - E. Skiöldebrand
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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A Bioeconomic Model for the Thoroughbred Racing Industry-Optimisation of the Production Cycle with a Horse Centric Welfare Perspective. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030479. [PMID: 36766368 PMCID: PMC9913657 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The Thoroughbred racing industry faces new and competing pressures to operate within a modern, changing society. Three major moderators drive the focus and productivity of the industry worldwide: economic sustainability, horse biology and social licence to operate. This review proposes that despite the apparent homogeneity in the structure of racing across jurisdictions due to international regulation of the sport, there are significant differences within each jurisdiction in each of the three moderators. This creates challenges for the comparison of injury risk factors for racehorses within the industry across different jurisdictions. Comparison of the relative distribution of racing and gambling metrics internationally indicates that the Asian jurisdictions have a high focus on gambling efficiency and high economic return of the product, with a high number of starts per horse and the highest relative betting turnover. In contrast, the racing metrics from the USA have proportionally low racing stakes and fewer horses per race. These differences provide insight into the sociology of horse ownership, with a shift from the long-term return on investment held by most jurisdictions to a short-term transitional view and immediate return on investment in others. Wastage studies identify varying risks influenced by the predominant racing culture, training methods, production focus and environment within individual jurisdictions. Increasing societal pressure to maintain high racehorse welfare and reduce the negative impact of gambling poses fluctuating risks to each jurisdiction's social licence to operate. Based on the data presented within this review, the authors propose that the use of a bioeconomic model would permit consideration of all three moderators on industry practice and optimisation of the jurisdiction-specific production cycle with a horse-centric welfare perspective.
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Rosanowski SM, Parkes RSV, Khan RZU. A preliminary assessment of hoof morphometry in a population of lame and non-lame working donkeys in Pakistan. Equine Vet J 2022; 55:435-445. [PMID: 35837758 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hoof morphometry, conformation and shoeing practices have all been associated with lameness in horses. Hoof morphometry in working donkeys in Pakistan has not been objectively measured. OBJECTIVES To quantitatively assess hoof morphology in donkeys, to identify factors underlying hoof morphology, and interrelationships between conformation, lameness, and shoeing status. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS Donkeys were assessed in-harness using a modified five-point lameness scale by two veterinarians and digital photographs of front hooves taken alongside a grid. Factor analysis was used to examine the interrelationships among morphometric data. Associations between conformation, shoeing, age and lameness were assessed. RESULTS Sixty-one donkeys were examined; 28 were unshod. There were significant left-right hoof asymmetries between heel height (0.27 (Standard Deviation [SD]) 0.92 cm; p=0.02), toe-heel angle (2.97° SD 8.85°; p=0.03) and medio-lateral symmetry (0.5, SD 1.75 cm; p=0.05). Ten percent of donkeys (n=6) were sound and 64% donkeys (n=39) were consistently lame. Conformational defects were seen in 41% (n=25) of donkeys. Eleven factors were extracted, accounting for 83% of the variance encountered in the original variables. Shoeing, and asymmetry between or within feet were not associated with lameness in donkeys; older donkeys were more likely to be lame (P=0.02). MAIN LIMITATIONS As a convenience sample of draught donkeys, most of which were lame, the study may not reflect non-pathological hoof morphology in working donkeys. There are no validated objective lameness measures for donkeys and donkeys were in harness when assessed. CONCLUSION This study represents a snapshot of hoof morphology and lameness in a single population and under various limitations. Further work should use larger datasets and more homogenous samples to discriminate between 'normal' and 'abnormal' feet and how these might contribute to lameness. Factor analysis highlighted the clustering of hoof morphometric features in donkeys, suggesting the potential for targeted studies in the future. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Rosanowski
- EVC Limited, Hong Kong.,Digital Agriculture, Grasslands Research Center, AgResearch Limited, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - R S V Parkes
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - R Z U Khan
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, USA
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Dittmer KE, Edgar S, Pinckney G, Thompson KG. Angular limb deformities due to distal radial physeal osteochondrosis in farmed deer stags in New Zealand. N Z Vet J 2022; 71:42-48. [PMID: 35711117 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2022.2091678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
CASE HISTORY Three different farms reported cases of angular limb deformities in rising 2-year-old velvet, mostly red deer, stags with the earliest recorded cases occurring in 2010. Farm 1 reported a prevalence of 10-35%, farm 2, 5-11.5% and farm 3, 2-5%. Farms 1, 2 and 3 are located in South Canterbury, northern Southland and the Waikato, respectively. CLINICAL FINDINGS Affected animals developed angular limb deformities, with predominantly varus forelimb (bowed) deformities. On all farms serum calcium and phosphorus concentrations in affected animals were normal. Serum and liver copper concentrations were variable across the period of the study and between farms. Although some measurements were below the reference ranges, there was no evidence for a statistical association with the prevalence of abnormalities. PATHOLOGICAL FINDINGS The distal radius from 25 affected and four control red and red-wapiti cross deer from Farm 1 in 2010/2011, two affected red deer from Farm 2 in 2016, and one affected red deer from Farm 3 in 2021, were examined. The most consistent lesions were present in the distal radial physis, most commonly the lateral edge. There was mild-to-severe segmental thickening of the physis and, in some animals, physeal cartilage was duplicated with both sections of physis varying in thickness. Microscopically, in severely affected animals there was massive segmental thickening of physeal cartilage which often contained large cystic cavities. The cartilage matrix was eosinophilic and showed a loss of metachromatic staining with toluidine blue. In less severe cases, necrotic physeal vessels were present, consistent with vascular failure. In more chronic cases, there was duplication of the physis, the two layers being separated by a combination of normal trabecular bone and dense fibrous connective tissue. DIAGNOSIS Physeal osteochondrosis. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Osteochondrosis has a multifactorial aetiology and we propose that an increased requirement for nutrients for velvet production and increased weight bearing stress (behaviour and rapid weight gain) may lead to progression of osteochondrosis and angular limb deformities in these deer. The involvement of periods of copper deficiency is unclear at this time.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Dittmer
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - S Edgar
- Northern Southland Veterinary Services, 101 Berwick Street, Riversdale, New Zealand
| | - G Pinckney
- Vetplus Reporoa, 605 Settlers Road, Reporoa, New Zealand
| | - K G Thompson
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Northrop AJ, Martin JH, Peterson ML, Roepstorff L, Hernlund E, Hobbs SJ. The challenges of equestrian arena surfaces: the unprecedented use of a raised platform at the 2012 Olympic Games. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 109:103838. [PMID: 34923071 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The design of equestrian arenas can be challenged by time constraints and specific restrictions at a venue but are nonetheless a critical element to the success and sustainability of equestrian sport. The equestrian arenas for the 2012 Olympic Games were an example of a temporary arena constructed on a raised platform and supported by struts, a design unprecedented for equestrian activities. This study assessed the developmental stages of the Olympic surfaces from 2011 to the actual event in 2012 and aimed to confirm that accelerations and forces experienced by horses were comparable to those on solid ground. Assessment took place at i) the Olympic test-event; ii) a developmental mock-up arena and iii) the Olympic venue in 2012. A Clegg impact hammer measured peak vertical deceleration and an Orono Biomechanical Surface Tester quantified peak load and peak loading rate. General Linear Models using the arena's structural features as explanatory variables highlighted surface heterogeneity. Peak vertical deceleration (P < .0001) and peak load (P < .0001) were significantly higher and peak loading rate was significantly lower (P < .0001) following iterative testing and modifications to the arena. Data were comparable with surfaces on solid ground by the final testing at the 2012 Olympic Games. Findings highlighted the importance of testing surfaces throughout their development and demonstrated the impact that surface composition, time elapsed since installation, water management, and type of construction have on surface functional properties, with relevance to future temporary arena initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison J Northrop
- School of Animal Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom.
| | - Jaime H Martin
- School of Animal Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Michael L Peterson
- Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering and UK Ag Equine Programs, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - Lars Roepstorff
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Elin Hernlund
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sarah Jane Hobbs
- Centre for Applied Sport, Physical Activity and Performance, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, United Kingdom
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Caure S, Bonomelli N, Carro M, Leveillard D, Blanville F, Mortagne P, Cousty M, Weller R. Effects of sand, asphalt and 3-degree hind toe or heel elevation on horse kinematics. Vet Rec 2021; 188:e23. [PMID: 34651727 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the effects of both the surfaces and plantar angles on equine locomotion have been widely discussed, limited scientific data are available. METHODS Our objectives were to determine the effects of two surfaces (asphalt and sand) and of 3-degree hind toe or heel elevation on horse kinematics in an experimental study. Six saddle horses were shod with a reference shoeing (REF), characterized by a fore aluminium (REF F) and hind steel racehorse (REF H) shoeing. Two dimensional kinematic videos compared horse's kinematic parameters when walking and trotting on asphalt and sand. On asphalt, REF was also compared with REF F and a modified REF H with additional 3-degree hind-toe or -heel wedges. RESULTS On asphalt versus sand, horses had, at the trot, a shorter stride duration and forelimb maximal retraction, and at walk and trot, a greater fetlock, carpus, elbow and tarsus extension, a greater fore and hind limbs maximal protraction and a shorter hind limbs maximal retraction. Increasing the plantar angle decreased the tarsus and hind fetlock extension, in contrast to fore-limb, on asphalt during the stance phase. CONCLUSIONS These findings could be useful to adapt rehabilitation programs related to fore and hind limb pathologies, at slow gaits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Caure
- Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Equin de Livet, 1487, Route de Castillon, Livarot-Pays d'Auge 14 140, France
| | - Natacha Bonomelli
- Ontario Veterinary College, Large Animal Clinic, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Marielle Carro
- Clinique Vétérinaire des Noés, parc d'activité des Noés, Plelan Le Grand 35 380, France
| | - Denis Leveillard
- Continuing Education in Farriery, 6, Rue des Dolmens, Saint Piat 28 130, France
| | - Faustine Blanville
- Clinique Vétérinaire Equine de Méheudin, 12, rue des Peupliers, Ecouché Les Vallées 61 150, France
| | - Perrine Mortagne
- Greshippo, 209, Lot barde, Saint Vincent de Mercuze 38 660, France
| | - Matthieu Cousty
- Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Equin de Livet, 1487, Route de Castillon, Livarot-Pays d'Auge 14 140, France
| | - Renate Weller
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
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Horan K, Coburn J, Kourdache K, Day P, Harborne D, Brinkley L, Carnall H, Hammond L, Peterson M, Millard S, Pfau T. Influence of Speed, Ground Surface and Shoeing Condition on Hoof Breakover Duration in Galloping Thoroughbred Racehorses. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092588. [PMID: 34573553 PMCID: PMC8472780 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In the stride cycle of a horse, there is a period of time when the hoof pushes off from the ground surface and rotates through an angle of approximately 90 degrees before it is lifted off. This time period is known as hoof breakover. Using slow-motion video footage, this study measured breakover duration in retired Thoroughbred racehorses galloping at a range of speeds on two surfaces (artificial and turf) in four shoeing conditions (aluminium, barefoot, GluShu and steel). Hooves from different limbs were assessed separately in this asymmetric gait. Increasing speed was correlated with decreasing breakover duration, and this trend was more enhanced in the hindlimbs than in the forelimbs at high gallop speeds. Breakover duration was faster on the artificial surface compared to the turf surface for all limbs, under the ground conditions studied. The first limb to contact the ground surface after the suspension phase (the ‘non-leading’ hindlimb), was additionally influenced by shoeing condition and an interaction that occurred between shoeing condition and speed. Determining parameters that alter breakover duration will be important for lowering the risk of musculo-skeletal injuries, optimising gait quality and improving performance in galloping racehorses during both training and racing. Abstract Understanding the effect of horseshoe–surface combinations on hoof kinematics at gallop is relevant for optimising performance and minimising injury in racehorse–jockey dyads. This intervention study assessed hoof breakover duration in Thoroughbred ex-racehorses from the British Racing School galloping on turf and artificial tracks in four shoeing conditions: aluminium, barefoot, aluminium–rubber composite (GluShu) and steel. Shoe–surface combinations were tested in a randomized order and horse–jockey pairings (n = 14) remained constant. High-speed video cameras (Sony DSC-RX100M5) filmed the hoof-ground interactions at 1000 frames per second. The time taken for a hoof marker wand fixed to the lateral hoof wall to rotate through an angle of 90 degrees during 384 breakover events was quantified using Tracker software. Data were collected for leading and non-leading forelimbs and hindlimbs, at gallop speeds ranging from 23–56 km h−1. Linear mixed-models assessed whether speed, surface, shoeing condition and any interaction between these parameters (fixed factors) significantly affected breakover duration. Day and horse–jockey pair were included as random factors and speed was included as a covariate. The significance threshold was set at p < 0.05. For all limbs, breakover times decreased as gallop speed increased (p < 0.0005), although a greater relative reduction in breakover duration for hindlimbs was apparent beyond approximately 45 km h−1. Breakover duration was longer on turf compared to the artificial surface (p ≤ 0.04). In the non-leading hindlimb only, breakover duration was affected by shoeing condition (p = 0.025) and an interaction between shoeing condition and speed (p = 0.023). This work demonstrates that speed, ground surface and shoeing condition are important factors influencing the galloping gait of the Thoroughbred racehorse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Horan
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Brookmans Park, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK; (P.D.); (S.M.); (T.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - James Coburn
- James Coburn AWCF Ltd., 14 Church Lane Close, Barton Mills, Bury St Edmunds IP38 6AX, UK; (J.C.); (D.H.); (L.B.); (H.C.)
| | - Kieran Kourdache
- The British Racing School, Snailwell Road, Newmarket CB8 7NU, UK; (K.K.); (L.H.)
| | - Peter Day
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Brookmans Park, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK; (P.D.); (S.M.); (T.P.)
| | - Dan Harborne
- James Coburn AWCF Ltd., 14 Church Lane Close, Barton Mills, Bury St Edmunds IP38 6AX, UK; (J.C.); (D.H.); (L.B.); (H.C.)
| | - Liam Brinkley
- James Coburn AWCF Ltd., 14 Church Lane Close, Barton Mills, Bury St Edmunds IP38 6AX, UK; (J.C.); (D.H.); (L.B.); (H.C.)
| | - Henry Carnall
- James Coburn AWCF Ltd., 14 Church Lane Close, Barton Mills, Bury St Edmunds IP38 6AX, UK; (J.C.); (D.H.); (L.B.); (H.C.)
| | - Lucy Hammond
- The British Racing School, Snailwell Road, Newmarket CB8 7NU, UK; (K.K.); (L.H.)
| | - Mick Peterson
- Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0503, USA;
| | - Sean Millard
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Brookmans Park, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK; (P.D.); (S.M.); (T.P.)
| | - Thilo Pfau
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Brookmans Park, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK; (P.D.); (S.M.); (T.P.)
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10
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O'Brien C, Marr N, Thorpe C. Microdamage in the equine superficial digital flexor tendon. Equine Vet J 2021; 53:417-430. [PMID: 32772396 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The forelimb superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) is an energy-storing tendon that is highly susceptible to injury during activities such as galloping and jumping, such that it is one of the most commonly reported causes of lameness in the performance horse. This review outlines the biomechanical and biothermal effects of strain on the SDFT and how these contribute to the accumulation of microdamage. The effect of age-related alterations on strain response and subsequent injury risk is also considered. Given that tendon is a slowly healing and poorly regenerative tissue, prompt detection of early stages of pathology in vivo and timely adaptations to training protocols are likely to have a greater outcome than advances in treatment. Early screening tools and detection protocols could subsequently be of benefit in identifying subclinical signs of degeneration during the training programme. This provides an opportunity for preventative strategies to be implemented to minimise incidences of SDFT injury and reduce recovery periods in elite performance horses. Therefore, this review will focus on the modalities available to implement early screening and prevention protocols as opposed to methods to diagnose and treat injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Neil Marr
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK
| | - Chavaunne Thorpe
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK
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Wang P, Takawira C, Taguchi T, Niu X, Nazzal MD, Lopez MJ. Assessment of the effect of horseshoes with and without traction adaptations on the gait kinetics of nonlame horses during a trot on a concrete runway. Am J Vet Res 2021; 82:292-301. [PMID: 33764831 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.82.4.292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of horseshoes with and without traction adaptations on the gait kinetics of nonlame horses during a trot on a concrete runway. ANIMALS 5 nonlame adult light-breed horses. PROCEDURES Kinetic data were obtained for each horse when it was trotted across a force platform within a concrete runway unshod (control) and shod with standard horseshoes; standard horseshoes with high profile-low surface area calks, with low profile-high surface area calks, and coated with a thin layer of tungsten carbide (TLTC); and plastic-steel composite (PSC) horseshoes. Kinetic data were obtained for the control treatment first, then for each of the 5 shoe types, which were applied to each horse in a random order. Kinetic variables were compared among the 6 treatments. RESULTS Body weight distribution did not differ among the 6 treatments. Compared with the control, the greatest increase in forelimb peak vertical force was observed when horses were shod with PSC shoes. In the hind limbs, the greatest increase in peak braking force was observed when horses were shod with PSC shoes, followed by the TLTC and low profile-high surface area calked shoes. The PSC shoes yielded the greatest coefficient of friction in both the forelimbs and hind limbs. Stance time was longest when horses were shod with standard shoes. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that PSC and TLTC shoes provided the best hoof protection and traction and might be good options for horses that spend a large amount of time traversing paved surfaces.
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Trot Accelerations of Equine Front and Hind Hooves Shod with Polyurethane Composite Shoes and Steel Shoes on Asphalt. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9121119. [PMID: 31835771 PMCID: PMC6940983 DOI: 10.3390/ani9121119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated accelerations of the front and hind hooves of horses comparing two different shoe types. A standard steel shoe, with studs, pins, and in some instances with toe grabs, was compared to a steel shoe covered on the bottom with a layer of polyurethane. Four horses were used; they trotted in hand on an asphalt track at their self-selected speed. The results showed significantly reduced decelerations during the stance phase with the polyurethane-covered shoes (10th percentile median steel -2.77 g, polyurethane -2.46 g; p = 0.06) and significantly increased decelerations in front hooves compared to hind hooves with steel shoes (70th percentile median -1.04 g front hooves, 0.12 g hind hooves, p = 0.04). Horses trotted faster using longer strides with the polyurethane-covered shoes compared to the steel shoes. The results show that effects of shoe types should be investigated simultaneously in front and hind hooves, and that PU shoes may aid in reducing the overload present in the front limbs of horses.
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Al-Agele R, Paul E, Taylor S, Watson C, Sturrock C, Drakopoulos M, Atwood RC, Rutland CS, Menzies-Gow N, Knowles E, Elliott J, Harris P, Rauch C. Physics of animal health: on the mechano-biology of hoof growth and form. J R Soc Interface 2019; 16:20190214. [PMID: 31238833 PMCID: PMC6597769 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2019.0214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Global inequalities in economic access and agriculture productivity imply that a large number of developing countries rely on working equids for transport/agriculture/mining. Therefore, the understanding of hoof conditions/shape variations affecting equids' ability to work is still a persistent concern. To bridge this gap, using a multi-scale interdisciplinary approach, we provide a bio-physical model predicting the shape of equids' hooves as a function of physical and biological parameters. In particular, we show (i) where the hoof growth stress originates from, (ii) why the hoof growth rate is one order of magnitude higher than the proliferation rate of epithelial cells and (iii) how the soft-to-hard transformation of the epithelium is possible allowing the hoof to fulfil its function as a weight-bearing element. Finally (iv), we demonstrate that the reason for hoof misshaping is linked to the asymmetrical design of equids' feet (shorter quarters/long toe) together with the inability of the biological growth stress to compensate for such an asymmetry. Consequently, the hoof can adopt a dorsal curvature and become 'dished' overtime, which is a function of the animal's mass and the hoof growth rate. This approach allows us to discuss the potential occurrence of this multifaceted pathology in equids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramzi Al-Agele
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, College Road, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK
- Department of Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Diyala, Baqubah, Iraq
| | - Emily Paul
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, College Road, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Sophie Taylor
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, College Road, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Charlotte Watson
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, College Road, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Craig Sturrock
- CIPB, Hounsfield Building, University of Nottingham, College Road, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Michael Drakopoulos
- BL12, Diamond Light Source Ltd, Diamond House, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, UK
| | - Robert C. Atwood
- BL12, Diamond Light Source Ltd, Diamond House, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, UK
| | - Catrin S. Rutland
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, College Road, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Nicola Menzies-Gow
- The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL97TA, UK
| | - Edd Knowles
- The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL97TA, UK
| | - Jonathan Elliott
- The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL97TA, UK
| | - Patricia Harris
- Equine Studies Group, WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition, Melton Mowbray, Leicester LE14 4RT, UK
| | - Cyril Rauch
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, College Road, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK
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Brunsting J, Dumoulin M, Oosterlinck M, Haspeslagh M, Lefère L, Pille F. Can the hoof be shod without limiting the heel movement? A comparative study between barefoot, shoeing with conventional shoes and a split-toe shoe. Vet J 2019; 246:7-11. [PMID: 30902192 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2019.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Conventional shoeing restricts heel movement, which may have a negative effect on the orthopaedic health of the horse. A randomised crossover experimental study using noninvasive techniques was performed to compare the mediolateral heel movement in barefoot horses, horses shod with a conventional toe clipped shoe and with a new type of shoe with a split toe. In eight horses, 16 forelimbs were tested barefoot, shod with a conventional shoe and with the split-toe (ST) shoe, in random order. A displacement sensor was secured on the heels and measurements were collected continuously at a frequency of 679Hz while horses were exercised on a treadmill at the walk (1.8m/s), trot (3.5m/s) and canter (8m/s). Differences in heel movement between the conditions were analysed using a generalised estimating equations approach. The conventional shoe was associated with significantly less heel expansion compared with the ST shoe and barefoot situation in all gaits (P≤0.001). Heel expansion with the ST shoe was not significantly different from the barefoot condition. For all gaits, shoeing was associated with a significant reduction in heel contraction compared with the barefoot situation (P≤0.038), except for the heel contraction at the canter using a conventional shoe. In conclusion, the heel expansion with the ST shoe did not differ significantly from when the horse was barefoot, in contrast with the significant restriction of the heel movement when a conventional shoe was used.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Brunsting
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesiology of Domestic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - M Dumoulin
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesiology of Domestic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - M Oosterlinck
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesiology of Domestic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - M Haspeslagh
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesiology of Domestic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - L Lefère
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Biology of Large Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - F Pille
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesiology of Domestic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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Weller R, Barstow A, Price H, Pfau T. Evidence-based farriery - does it exist? Equine Vet J 2018; 50:552-553. [PMID: 29995340 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R Weller
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - A Barstow
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - H Price
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - T Pfau
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
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Stutz JC, Vidondo B, Ramseyer A, Maninchedda UE, Cruz AM. Effect of three types of horseshoes and unshod feet on selected non-podal forelimb kinematic variables measured by an extremity mounted inertial measurement unit sensor system in sound horses at the trot under conditions of treadmill and soft geotextile surface exercise. Vet Rec Open 2018; 5:e000237. [PMID: 29955366 PMCID: PMC6018867 DOI: 10.1136/vetreco-2017-000237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic farriery is part of the management of certain orthopaedic conditions. Non-podal parameters are important as most horses shod with therapeutic shoes are expected to perform again and the choice of shoe type may be influenced by the effects they may have on gait. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the effects of three different shoe designs and unshod front feet on forelimb non-podal kinematic variables using an extremity mounted inertial measurement unit (IMU) system under conditions of treadmill and overground exercise on a soft geotextile surface at the trot. Ten sound horses with no underlying orthopaedic problem were instrumented with eight IMUs at distal radii, tibia and third metacarpal/tarsal regions. Measurements were performed during four consecutive days. During the first three days, the three shoe types were randomly selected per horse and day. On the fourth day, all horses were tested unshod. Data were collected at the trot on a treadmill, and on a soft geotextile surface. Specifically designed software and a proprietary algorithm processed the accelerometer and gyroscope signals to obtain orientation and temporal data to describe selected kinematic variables predetermined by the system. Repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to assess differences between shoe type and surface. The presence of shoes produced significant changes in spatiotemporal variables which seemed to be related to shoe mass rather than shoe design as there were no significant differences found between different shoe types. Shod horses showed a gait characterised by an increased range of motion (ROM) of the fore limbs. Previously reported effects of the investigated shoes on podal kinematics do not seem to affect the investigated kinematic variables indicating perhaps a compensatory effect occurring at some level in the extremity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Beatriz Vidondo
- Institute suisse de médicine équine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Veterinary Public Health Institute, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Antonio M Cruz
- Institute suisse de médicine équine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
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Basu C, Wilson AM, Hutchinson JR. The locomotor kinematics and ground reaction forces of walking giraffes. J Exp Biol 2018; 222:jeb.159277. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.159277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis Linnaeus 1758) possess specialised anatomy. Their disproportionately elongate limbs and neck confer recognised feeding advantages, but little is known about how their morphology affects locomotor function. In this study, we examined the stride parameters and ground reaction forces from three adult giraffes in a zoological park, across a range of walking speeds. The patterns of GRFs during walking indicate that giraffes, similar to other mammalian quadrupeds, maintain a forelimb-biased weight distribution. The angular excursion of the neck has functional links with locomotor dynamics in giraffes, and was exaggerated at faster speeds. The horizontal accelerations of the neck and trunk were out of phase, compared with the vertical accelerations which were intermediate between in and out of phase. Despite possessing specialised morphology, giraffes’ stride parameters were broadly predicted from dynamic similarity, facilitating the use of other quadrupedal locomotion models to generate testable hypotheses in giraffes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Basu
- Structure & Motion Laboratory, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Alan M. Wilson
- Structure & Motion Laboratory, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - John R. Hutchinson
- Structure & Motion Laboratory, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
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Comparing subjective and objective evaluation of show jumping competition and warm-up arena surfaces. Vet J 2017; 227:49-57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Labuschagne W, Rogers CW, Gee EK, Bolwell CF. A Cross-Sectional Survey of Forelimb Hoof Conformation and the Prevalence of Flat Feet in a Cohort of Thoroughbred Racehorses in New Zealand. J Equine Vet Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2016.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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20
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Spatial Variation of the Physical and Biomechanical Properties Within an Equestrian Arena Surface. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.proeng.2016.06.288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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