The impact of skin preparation method on electrocardiogram quality in horses.

Objective: Several skin preparation techniques are used in electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring of horses. The objective of this study was to determine which methods produce the greatest signal quality using textile electrodes and standard silver/silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) electrodes. Animals and samples: Electrocardiogram data were collected using textile and Ag/AgCl electrodes simultaneously for 4 skin preparation techniques in 6 horses. Procedure: The effects of skin preparation (cleansing with isopropyl alcohol, with or without shaving the hair) and the effects of the application of a conductive gel were assessed using metrics of signal quality. Results: Shaving and cleansing with alcohol had no effect on signal quality for either electrode type. The Ag/AgCl electrodes contain a solid gel, and the application of additional gel did not affect signal quality. Data quality was significantly improved when gel was applied to textile electrodes. Furthermore, there was no difference in signal quality between electrode types when gel was used. Conclusion and clinical relevance: This study suggests that skin preparation by cleansing and/or shaving does not have a significant effect on equine ECG signal quality. When gel is used, textile electrodes are a practical alternative for Ag/AgCl electrodes, as they produce ECG recordings of the same quality.

Impact de la méthode de préparation de la peau sur la qualité de l'électrocardiogramme chez le cheval. Objectif: Plusieurs techniques de préparation de la peau sont utilisées lors de la surveillance électrocardiographique (ECG) des chevaux. L'objectif de cette étude était de déterminer quelles méthodes produisent la meilleure qualité de signal en utilisant des électrodes textiles et des électrodes standard argent/chlorure d'argent (Ag/AgCl). Animaux et échantillons: Les données d'électrocardiogramme ont été obtenues simultanément à l'aide d'électrodes textiles et d'électrodes Ag/AgCl pour 4 techniques de préparation cutanée chez 6 chevaux. Procédure: Les effets de la préparation de la peau (nettoyage à l'alcool isopropylique, avec ou sans rasage des cheveux) et les effets de l'application d'un gel conducteur ont été évalués à l'aide de métriques de qualité du signal. Résultats: Le rasage et le nettoyage à l'alcool n'ont eu aucun effet sur la qualité du signal pour les deux types d'électrodes. Les électrodes Ag/AgCl contiennent un gel solide et l'application de gel supplémentaire n'a pas affecté la qualité du signal. La qualité des données a été considérablement améliorée lorsque le gel a été appliqué sur des électrodes textiles. De plus, il n'y avait aucune différence dans la qualité du signal entre les types d'électrodes lorsque du gel était utilisé. Conclusion et pertinence clinique: Cette étude suggère que la préparation de la peau par nettoyage et/ou rasage n'a pas d'effet significatif sur la qualité du signal ECG équin. Lorsque du gel est utilisé, les électrodes textiles constituent une alternative pratique aux électrodes Ag/AgCl, car elles produisent des enregistrements ECG de même qualité.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Clinical efficacy of crushed prednisolone and hydrocolloid powder in the primary treatment of peristomal pyoderma gangrenosum and correlation to in vitro drug release data.

We evaluated the primary application of crushed prednisolone combined with hydrocolloid powder for clinically diagnosed peristomal pyoderma gangrenosum (PPG). We present our data on this cohort and follow-up of our previous patients. Of the 23 patients who were commenced on this regime, 18 healed (78%). Twenty-two patients commenced on this regime as the primary treatment for their PPG, and for one, it was a rescue remedy after failed conventional therapy. Four patients with significant medical comorbidities failed to heal and one had their stomal reversal surgery before being fully healed. The proposed treatment regime for PPG is demonstrated to be effective, inexpensive and able to be managed in the patient's usual home environment. In vitro drug release analysis was undertaken, and data are presented to provide further insights into the efficacy of this regime.

Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: Treatment of a Complex Abdominal Wound with Vitamin C and Mesenchymal Stromal Cells.

ABSTRACT: Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDSv) can present with life-threatening surgical complications. The article describes the case of a patient with EDSv who developed total abdominal wound dehiscence and multiple enterocutaneous fistulas. Treatment with IV allogeneic mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and high-dose vitamin C was trialed with success. Near-complete wound healing of the abdominal dehiscence with a 94% reduction in the size of the wound bed occurred. Maturation of the enterocutaneous fistulas also ensued.There is no current consensus on the management of large cutaneous wounds in EDSv. This article discusses the pathophysiology of wound healing with regard to nutrition requirements and growth factors with special reference to collagen deficits in EDSv. A potential therapy with IV vitamin C supplementation and MSCs is proposed following the patient's positive outcome. Medium-dose MSCs and high-dose IV vitamin C may offer significant benefits to complex and problematic wounds.

Effects of a nutraceutical supplement on gastrointestinal health in racing standardbreds.

BACKGROUND: Feed additives that accelerate gastrointestinal transit time may help support normal gastrointestinal function in horses at risk for impaction colic. Previous research has demonstrated significant stimulatory effect of a hemp-based nutraceutical product (Gs Formula; GF) on contractility of gastric smooth muscle and gastrin production in vitro. OBJECTIVES: To quantify effects of GF on indicators of GIT transit time and tight junction proteins. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized placebo-controlled cross-over study. METHODS: Eight Standardbreds were administered 200 plastic beads by nasogastric tube before (baseline; BL) and after receiving a diet containing GF (CON: 0 g/day, LO: 160 g/day or HI: 480 g/day) for 28 days. Total manure collection occurred every 2 hours for 72 hours after bead administration. Outcome measures included GIT transit time, faecal dry matter (DM), water intake, and complete biochemistry and haematology screens. RESULTS: There was no effect of GF on GIT transit time. Faecal output was significantly lower in LO and HI horses than CON horses after 28 days on the supplement. HI horses have significantly lower rouleaux formation and lower faecal DM on Day 28 compared with BL. GF also produced changes in electrolytes associated with pH balance, which may indicate a role for GF as an alkalinizing compound in exercising horses. Clinical pathology results support the safety of GF up to 480 g/day for 28 days with no adverse effects being observed in haematology or biochemistry results. MAIN LIMITATIONS: Future studies on GF should focus on evaluating effect of GF on gastrointestinal transit in horses with naturally or experimentally delayed gastrointestinal motility, and its effect on exercise performance and onset of fatigue. CONCLUSIONS: GF may help support normal gastrointestinal function in horses at risk for impaction colic by reducing faecal DM and rouleaux formation.

Culturing Articular Cartilage Explants in the Presence of Autologous Adipose Tissue Modifies Their Inflammatory Response to Lipopolysaccharide.

The purpose of the current study was to explore the effect of autologous adipose tissue on cartilage responses to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We hypothesized that LPS elicits an inflammatory response in cartilage, and that response is augmented in the presence of adipose tissue. Furthermore, we hypothesized that this augmented inflammatory response is due, at least in part, to increased exposure of cartilage to adipose tissue-derived c3a. Porcine cartilage explants from market-weight pigs were cultured in the presence or absence of autologous adipose tissue for 96 hours, the final 48 hours of which they were stimulated with LPS (0 or 10 µg/mL). Adipose tissue explants were also cultured alone, in the presence or absence of LPS. Media from all cartilage treatments was assayed for c3a/c3a des Arg, PGE2, GAG, and NO, and the viability of cartilage tissue was determined by differential fluorescent staining. Media from adipose tissue explants was assayed for c3a/c3a des Arg and PGE2. LPS produced a significant increase in PGE2, GAG, and NO production when cartilage was cultured in the absence of adipose tissue. Coculture of adipose tissue prevented a significant increase in PGE2 in cartilage explants. There was no effect of adipose tissue on LPS-induced GAG or NO, but the presence of adipose tissue significantly reduced cell viability in LPS-stimulated cartilage explants. Adipose tissue explants from lean animals reduced inflammatory responses of cartilage to LPS via a c3a/c3a des Arg-independent mechanism and were associated with a significant decline in cell viability. Thus, contrary to our hypothesis, adipose tissue from lean animals does not augment the inflammatory response of cartilage to stimulation by LPS. The mechanism of modulatory effects of adipose tissue on LPS-induced increase in PGE2 and decline in chondrocyte viability requires further research but appears to have occurred via a mechanism that is independent of adipocentric c3a/c3a des Arg.

The influence of a simulated digest of an equine dietary feed additive G's formula on contractile activity of gastric smooth muscle in vitro.

G's Formula is a novel equine feed additive formulated to promote optimal GI function. The objective of this study was to determine whether the addition of a simulated digest of the composite feed additive G's Formula (FA) would alter the contractile response of gastric smooth muscle to acetylcholine (Ach). Smooth muscle strips from porcine stomachs were excised and attached to an isometric force transducer. An experiment was run to compare tissue contraction between tissue exposed to FA (FA; n = 8, simulated digest of FA was added to the bath) and control tissue (CO; n = 8, no additions made). Increasing concentrations of Ach were added into the bath such that the concentration increased from 10-8 -10-3  M. Based on the analysis of these data, a difference between FA and CO was observed. Therefore, another trial was run which included a blank group (BL n = 6) in which the tissue was exposed to the simulated digest without FA. More CO (n = 5) and FA (n = 4) tissue was also run. Force was compared to baseline and between groups. In FA group, mean force for 1-min following all Ach additions was higher than baseline (p < .05) and by 2-min the integral-under-force/time curve (AUC) was higher than baseline from 10-7 -10-3  M compared to lower concentrations of Ach in both CO (10-6  M for both) and BL (10-5  M and 10-6  M, respectively). By 8-min AUC of all Ach concentrations were higher than baseline in FA compared to an Ach of 10-6  M in both CO and BL. A simulated digest of FA appears to sensitize gastric smooth muscle to Ach in vitro. FA may increase GI contractility, and the functional effect of this should be studied further in vivo.

A biological extract of turmeric (Curcuma longa) modulates response of cartilage explants to lipopolysaccharide.

BACKGROUND: Turmeric is commonly used as a dietary treatment for inflammation, but few studies have evaluated the direct effect of turmeric on cartilage. The purpose of this study was to characterize cartilage explants' inflammatory responses to lipopolysaccharide in the presence of a simulated biological extract of turmeric. METHODS: Turmeric was incubated in simulated gastric and intestinal fluid, followed by inclusion of liver microsomes and NADPH. The resulting extract (TURsim) was used to condition cartilage explants in the presence or absence of lipopolysaccharide. Explants were cultured for 96 h (h); the first 24 h in basal tissue culture media and the remaining 72 h in basal tissue culture media containing TURsim (0, 3, 9 or 15 µg/mL). Lipopolysaccharide (0 or 5 µg/mL) was added for the final 48 H. media samples were collected immediately prior to lipopolysaccharide exposure (0 h) and then at 24 and 48 h after, and analyzed for prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), glycosaminoglycan (GAG), and nitric oxide (NO). Explants were stained with calcein-AM for an estimate of live cells. Data were analyzed using a 2-way repeated measures (GAG, PGE2, NO) or 1-way ANOVA without repeated measures (viability). Significance accepted at p < 0.05. RESULTS: TURsim significantly reduced PGE2, NO and GAG, and calcein fluorescence was reduced. CONCLUSIONS: These data contribute to the growing body of evidence for the utility of turmeric as an intervention for cartilage inflammation.

A novel topical therapy for resistant and early peristomal pyoderma gangrenosum.

Peristomal pyoderma gangrenosum (PPG) is an under-recognised and difficult condition to treat. We describe a case series using a novel topical combination therapy that promotes wound healing and allows for adhesion of the stoma appliance. A crushed oral prednisolone tablet mixed with Stomahesive Protective Powder (ConvaTec) was applied topically to seven patients with PPG and resulted in pain relief and wound healing in six of seven patients. Only one patient experienced recurrence. The novel topical therapy we describe is cost-effective, readily available, and easily applied in any inpatient or outpatient setting.

Disseminated Cutaneous Mucormycosis Developing in Peristomal Pyoderma Gangrenosum.

A patient on long-term glucocorticoid therapy for peristomal pyoderma gangrenosum (PPG) who developed mucormycosis (MM) of the wound with dissemination was presented. The importance of skin biopsy, together with clinical evaluation in patients with PPG who are resistant to conventional therapy or who develop new symptoms related to their PPG is stressed. The risk and pathogenesis of invasive fungal infections with long-term corticosteroid therapy were explored. The epidemiology and detection of mucormycosis is discussed in this article.

The balance of n-6 and n-3 fatty acids in canine, feline, and equine nutrition: exploring sources and the significance of alpha-linolenic acid.

Both n-6 and n-3 fatty acids (FA) have numerous significant physiological roles for mammals. The interplay between these families of FA is of interest in companion animal nutrition due to the influence of the n-6:n-3 FA ratio on the modulation of the inflammatory response in disease management and treatment. As both human and animal diets have shifted to greater consumption of vegetable oils rich in n-6 FA, the supplementation of n-3 FA to canine, feline, and equine diets has been advocated for. Although fish oils are commonly added to supply the long-chain n-3 FA eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a heavy reliance on this ingredient by the human, pet food, and equine supplement industries is not environmentally sustainable. Instead, sustainable sourcing of plant-based oils rich in n-3 α-linolenic acid (ALA), such as flaxseed and camelina oils, emerges as a viable option to support an optimal n-6:n-3 FA ratio. Moreover, ALA may offer health benefits that extend beyond its role as a precursor for endogenous EPA and DHA production. The following review underlines the metabolism and recommendations of n-6 and n-3 FA for dogs, cats, and horses and the ratio between them in promoting optimal health and inflammation management. Additionally, insights into both marine and plant-based n-3 FA sources will be discussed, along with the commercial practicality of using plant oils rich in ALA for the provision of n-3 FA to companion animals.

In the realm of companion animal nutrition, the balance between the n-6 and n-3 fatty acids (FA) is important. The shared metabolic pathway of these two FA families and the respective signaling molecules produced have implications for the well-being of companion animals such as dogs, cats, and even horses. The n-6:n-3 FA ratio of the diet can directly influence inflammatory responses, disease management, and overall health. Given the prevalent use of n-6 FA-rich vegetable oils in both human and animal diets, there is a growing need to supplement these animals' diets with n-3 FA. While fish oils containing the long-chain n-3 FA eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have been the conventional choice, their overreliance is environmentally unsustainable. Plant-based oils abundant in the n-3 FA α-linolenic acid (ALA) such as flaxseed and camelina oils should be considered, especially given the health benefits of ALA that extend beyond its role as a precursor to EPA and DHA. This review examines the importance of n-3 FA and the n-6:n-3 FA ratio in companion animal diets on animal health while discussing environmentally sustainable alternatives to fish oil to supplement n-3 FA.

Cartilage-Sparing Properties of Equine Omega Complete in an Organ Culture Model of Cartilage Inflammation.

The purpose of this study was to determine anti-inflammatory and/or chondroprotective effects of Equine Omega Complete (EOC) on cartilage explants stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Explants were aseptically prepared from the intercarpal joints of 17 market-weight pigs and placed in culture at 37°C for a total of 120 hours. For the final 96 hours, explants were conditioned with a simulated digestion extract of EOC (0, 36 or 180 µL/mL), and for the final 48 hours explants were stimulated with LPS (0 or 15µg/mL). Media was removed and replaced every 24 hours. Samples from the final 48 hours were analyzed for biomarkers of cartilage inflammation (prostaglandin E2 [PGE2] and nitric oxide [NO]) and cartilage structure (glycosaminoglycan [GAG]). At the end of the culture period cartilage explants were stained for an estimate of cell viability. Stimulation of unconditioned explants with LPS significantly increased media concentrations of PGE2, GAG and NO compared with that from unstimulated explants. LPS stimulation did not significantly affect cell viability. Both concentrations of EOC prevented significant LPS-stimulated cartilage release of GAG without impairing chondrocyte viability. No other effects of treatment were observed. These data provide evidence for a non-cytotoxic, chondroprotective effect of EOC in cartilage. This in vitro experiment supports the use of EOC in protecting against the detrimental effects of inflammation on cartilage structure.

The Effect of Dietary Synbiotics in Actively Racing Standardbred Horses Receiving Trimethoprim/Sulfadiazine.

Synbiotics are often provided to horses receiving antibiotics to protect against microbiome disturbances, despite a lack of evidence for efficacy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a synbiotic product in horses receiving antibiotics. Sixteen actively racing Standardbred horses were randomly allocated (four-way crossover) to one of four groups: antibiotics (10 days; AB), synbiotics (28 days; PROBIOPlusTM; PBP), PBP + AB, or Control. The fecal microbiome was investigated using 16S rRNA sequencing, and fecal dry matter (DM; %), pH, and scores (FS; 0-9) were measured. Data were analyzed with two-way ANOVA. Results found microbiota differences in community membership between PBP + AB and all other treatments during and after antibiotic treatment. During antibiotic treatment, AB and PBP + AB were significantly different from Control. After antibiotic treatment, PBP + AB was significantly different from all other treatments. The few differences found in relative abundance of phyla or predominant genera were mostly in fiber degrading bacteria. The Fibrobacter population was significantly higher in AB and PBP + AB horses than Control. Unclassified Ruminococcaceae was significantly higher in Control than AB and PBP. After antibiotic treatment, PBP + AB horses were significantly higher than PBP horses. In conclusion, these data provide support for the ability of PROBIOPlus™ to maintain healthy gastrointestinal microbiome during antibiotic treatment.

Validation of an Equine Smart Textile System for Heart Rate Variability: A Preliminary Study.

Electrocardiograms (ECGs), and associated heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) measurements, are essential in assessing equine cardiovascular health and fitness. Smart textiles have gained popularity, but limited validation work has been conducted. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare HR and HRV data obtained using a smart textile system (Myant) to the gold-standard telemetric device (Televet). Simultaneous ECGs were obtained using both systems in seven horses at rest and during a submaximal exercise test. Bland-Altman tests were used to assess agreement between the two devices. Strong to perfect correlations without significant differences between the two devices were observed for all metrics assessed. During exercise, mean biases of 0.31 bpm (95% limits of agreement: -1.99 to 2.61) for HR, 1.43 ms (-11.48 to 14.33) for standard deviation of R-R intervals (SDRR), and 0.04 (-2.30 to 2.38) for the HRV triangular index (TI) were observed. A very strong correlation was found between the two devices for HR (r = 0.9993, p < 0.0001) and for HRV parameters (SDRR r = 0.8765, p < 0.0001; TI r = 0.8712, p < 0.0001). This study demonstrates that a smart textile system is reliable for assessment of HR and HRV of horses at rest and during submaximal exercise.

The combination of trailer transport and exercise increases gastrointestinal permeability and markers of systemic inflammation in horses.

BACKGROUND: Leaky gut syndrome (LGS) is an idiopathic disorder characterised by alterations in intestinal permeability and low-grade systemic inflammation. Factors contributing to development of LGS are not well-understood but physiological stressors such as exercise and transport may play a role which may be of pathophysiological relevance in horses. OBJECTIVES: To characterise the combined effect of transport stress and exercise on gastrointestinal permeability, and to determine whether these effects are associated with increased inflammatory biomarkers in plasma. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled, randomised and cross-over study. METHODS: Horses (n = 8 per group) were given a gastrointestinal permeability tracer (iohexol; 5.6% solution; 1 ml/kg bwt) via nasogastric entubation prior to being assigned to a stressed (EX; 1 h of trailer transport immediately followed by 30 min moderate intensity exercise; n = 4) or sedentary control (CON; n = 4) group. Plasma samples were obtained prior to iohexol administration (P1), after transport (P2), at exercise cessation (P3), and at 1 (P4), 2 (P5), 4 (P6) and 8 (P7) hours after cessation of exercise and were analysed for iohexol, inflammatory biomarkers (SAA, LPS, IFABP and LBP) and tight junction proteins (zonulin). Faecal samples were collected at times corresponding to before and after stress from both groups and analysed for zonulin. Data were analysed using a 2-way RM ANOVA. RESULTS: In EX horses, a significant increase in iohexol was observed at P2 (1.5 ± 0.24 µg/ml; p = 0.03), P3 (2.1 ± 0.29 µg/ml; p < 0.001), P4 (2.1 ± 0.17 µg/ml; p < 0.001) compared with P1 (0.7 ± 0.21 µg/ml); iohexol was significantly higher in EX than CON horses at P3 (p < 0.001), P4 (p < 0.001) and P5 (p = 0.003). LPS and SAA were significantly higher in EX than CON at P4 (p < 0.001) and P6 (p = 0.04), respectively. MAIN LIMITATIONS: Data from our small sample size may not be generalisable to the larger equine population. CONCLUSIONS: Combined transport and exercise increases gastrointestinal permeability and systemic SAA and LPS. The model described herein may be useful in further studies on the role of alterations in gastrointestinal permeability in equine disease.

The influence of a probiotic/prebiotic supplement on microbial and metabolic parameters of equine cecal fluid or fecal slurry in vitro.

The microbes that reside within the equine hindgut create a complex and dynamic ecosystem. The equine hindgut microbiota is intimately associated with health and, as such, represents an area which can be beneficially modified. Synbiotics, supplements that combine probiotic micro-organisms with prebiotic ingredients, are a potential means of influencing the hindgut microbiota to promote health and prevent disease. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the influence of an equine probiotic/prebiotic supplement on characteristics of the microbiota and metabolite production in vitro. Equine cecal fluid and fecal material were collected from an abattoir in QC, CAN. Five hundred milliliters of cecal fluid was used to inoculate chemostat vessels maintained as batch fermenters (chemostat cecal, N = 11) with either 0 g (control) or 0.44 g of supplement added at 12 h intervals. One hundred milliliters of cecal fluid (anaerobic cecal, N = 15) or 5% fecal slurry (anaerobic fecal, N = 6) were maintained in an anaerobic chamber with either 0 g (control) or 0.356 g of supplement added at the time of vessel establishment. Samples were taken from vessels at vessel establishment (0), 24, or 48 h of incubation. Illumina sequencing of the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene and bioinformatics were performed for microbiome analysis. Metabolite data was obtained via NMR spectroscopy. All statistical analyses were run in SAS 9.4. There was no effect of treatment at 24 or 48h on alpha or beta diversity indices and limited taxonomic differences were noted. Acetate, propionate, and butyrate were higher in treated compared to untreated vessels in all methods. A consistent effect of supplementation on the metabolic profile with no discernable impact on the microbiota of these in vitro systems indicates inoculum microbe viability and a utilization of the provided fermentable substrate within the systems. Although no changes within the microbiome were apparent, the consistent changes in metabolites indicates a potential prebiotic effect of the added supplement and merits further exploration.

This research investigated the impact of an equine prebiotic/probiotic supplement on the equine cecal microbiota by utilizing an in vitro fermentation system. By using two types of fermentation systems and inocula obtained using a fecal slurry and cecal contents, we evaluated how the addition of the supplement changed the microbial function over the 48 h experimental period. Although the supplement did drastically influence the production of volatile fatty acids produced by the microbes in all systems, the microbial composition did not change. Thus, indicating the supplement did not, in this in vitro context, provide probiotic or prebiotic potential. However, the systems remained viable and the microbes actively metabolized substrate for the duration of the experiment.

Effects of dietary camelina, flaxseed, and canola oil supplementation on transepidermal water loss, skin and coat health parameters, and plasma prostaglandin E2, glycosaminoglycan, and nitric oxide concentrations in healthy adult horses.

Camelina oil is derived from a low-input, high-yield crop and, in comparison to many other dietary fat sources currently used in equine diets, provides a greater amount of α-linolenic acid [ALA; (n-3)], than linoleic acid [LA; (n-6)]. However, no research exists assessing the effects of feeding camelina oil to horses in contrast to other commonly used oils. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of supplementing camelina oil to that of flaxseed and canola oil supplementation, on outcomes related to skin and coat health in horses. Thirty adult horses [23 mares, 7 geldings; 14.9 years ±â€…5.3 years; 544 ±â€…66 kg body weight (BW) (mean ±â€…SD)] underwent a 4-week wash-in period consuming hay and sunflower oil. Following the wash-in period, horses were blocked by location, age, and BW, and assigned to one of three treatment oils for 16 weeks (370 mg oil/kg BW): camelina (CAM), canola (OLA), or flaxseed (FLX) oil. Blood samples were collected and plasma prostaglandin E2 (PGE2; ELISA), nitric oxide (NO; Griess Reaction), and glycosaminoglycan (GAG; DMMB) concentrations were measured on weeks 0 (n = 30), 14 (n = 24), and 16 (n = 30). On weeks 0, 2, 4, 8, and 16, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured pre- and post-acetone application using a VapoMeter (n = 26), and a 5-point-Likert scale was used to assess skin and coat characteristics on the side and rump of the horses (n = 30). All data were analyzed with repeated measures ANOVA using PROC GLIMMIX in SAS. Independent of treatment, coat color, and quality increased from baseline. There were no differences in the outcomes assessed between the horses supplemented camelina oil and those supplemented canola or flaxseed oil. These results suggest that independent of treatment, all oil supplements improved coat color and quality in horses. This provides indication that camelina oil is comparable to existing plant-based oil supplements in supporting skin and coat health and inflammation in horses.

Horses cannot produce omega-3 α-linolenic acid or omega-6 linoleic acid in the body, and as a result, these fatty acids are required in the diet. Camelina oil contains a lower ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids (1:1.8) in comparison to alternative fat ingredients commonly included in many horse diets, such as soybean oil (1:0.12). Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed oil or marine-based oils can support skin and coat health and lower inflammation in horses; however, there is a lack of research investigating camelina oil supplementation and its benefits in horses. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the effects of camelina oil on skin and coat health in horses. Horses were supplemented with sunflower oil for 4 weeks before being assigned to one of three treatment oils (camelina, canola, or flaxseed) for 16 weeks. Skin barrier function was assessed by measuring the transepidermal water loss of the chest, inner elbow, withers, and rump. Blood markers, including prostaglandin E2, nitric oxide, and glycosaminoglycan, were measured. Skin and coat parameters, including shine, softness, hair quality, color intensity, and moisture, were assessed using a 5-point scale on the rump and side of the horses. No differences in transepidermal water loss, blood markers, or skin and coat parameters were observed among treatments. Our results suggest that camelina oil is comparable to existing oil supplements in supporting skin and coat health and inflammation in horses.

Dietary Fermentation Product of Aspergillus Oryzae Prevents Increases in Gastrointestinal Permeability ('Leaky Gut') in Horses Undergoing Combined Transport and Exercise.

Equine leaky gut syndrome is characterized by gastrointestinal hyperpermeability and may be associated with adverse health effects in horses. The purpose was to evaluate the effects of a prebiotic Aspergillus oryzae product (SUPP) on stress-induced gastrointestinal hyperpermeability. Eight horses received a diet containing SUPP (0.02 g/kg BW) or an unsupplemented diet (CO) (n = 4 per group) for 28 days. On Days 0 and 28, horses were intubated with an indigestible marker of gastrointestinal permeability (iohexol). Half the horses from each feeding group underwent 60 min of transport by trailer immediately followed by a moderate-intensity exercise bout of 30 min (EX), and the remaining horses stayed in stalls as controls (SED). Blood was sampled before iohexol, immediately after trailering, and at 0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 h post-exercise. At the end of the feeding period, horses were washed out for 28 days before being assigned to the opposite feeding group, and the study was replicated. Blood was analyzed for iohexol (HPLC), lipopolysaccharide (ELISA), and serum amyloid A (latex agglutination assay). Data were analyzed using three-way and two-way ANOVA. On Day 0, the combined challenge of trailer transport and exercise significantly increased plasma iohexol in both feeding groups; this increase was not seen in SED horses. On Day 28, EX increased plasma iohexol only in the CO feeding group; this increase was completely prevented by the provision of SUPP. It is concluded that combined transport and exercise induce gastrointestinal hyperpermeability. Dietary SUPP prevents this and therefore may be a useful prophylactic for pathologies associated with gastrointestinal hyperpermeability in horses.

Effects of dietary camelina, flaxseed, and canola oil supplementation on inflammatory and oxidative markers, transepidermal water loss, and coat quality in healthy adult dogs.

Introduction: Camelina oil contains a greater concentration of omega-3 (n-3) a-linolenic acid (C18:3n-3; ALA) than omega-6 (n-6) linoleic acid (C18:2n-6; LA), in comparison to alternative fat sources commonly used to formulate canine diets. Omega-3 FAs are frequently used to support canine skin and coat health claims and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress; however, there is a lack of research investigating camelina oil supplementation and its effects on these applications in dogs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of camelina oil supplementation on coat quality, skin barrier function, and circulating inflammatory and oxidative marker concentrations. Methods: Thirty healthy [17 females; 13 males; 7.2 ± 3.1 years old; 27.4 ± 14.0 kg body weight (BW)] privately-owned dogs of various breeds were used. After a 4-week wash-in period consuming sunflower oil (n6:n3 = 1:0) and a commercial kibble, dogs were blocked by age, breed, and size, and randomly assigned to one of three treatment oils: camelina (n6:n3 = 1:1.18), canola (n6:n3 = 1:0.59), flaxseed (n6:n3 = 1:4.19) (inclusion level: 8.2 g oil/100 g of total food intake) in a randomized complete block design. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured using a VapoMeter on the pinna, paw pad, and inner leg. Fasted blood samples were collected to measure serum inflammatory and oxidative marker concentrations using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits and spectrophotometric assays. A 5-point-Likert scale was used to assess coat characteristics. All data were collected on weeks 0, 2, 4, 10, and 16 and analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX in SAS. Results: No significant changes occurred in TEWL, or inflammatory and oxidative marker concentrations among treatments, across weeks, or for treatment by week interactions. Softness, shine, softness uniformity, color intensity, and follicle density of the coat increased from baseline in all treatment groups (P < 0.05). Discussion: Outcomes did not differ (P > 0.05) among treatment groups over 16-weeks, indicating that camelina oil is comparable to existing plant-based canine oil supplements, flaxseed, and canola, at supporting skin and coat health and inflammation in dogs. Future research employing an immune or exercise challenge is warranted, as the dogs in this study were not subjected to either.

A Smart Textile Band Achieves High-Quality Electrocardiograms in Unrestrained Horses.

Electrocardiography (ECG) is an essential tool in assessing equine health and fitness. However, standard ECG devices are expensive and rely on the use of adhesive electrodes, which may become detached and are associated with reduced ECG quality over time. Smart textile electrodes composed of stainless-steel fibers have previously been shown to be a suitable alternative in horses at rest and during exercise. The objective of this study was to compare ECG quality using a smart textile girth band knit with silver and carbon yarns to standard adhesive silver/silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) electrodes. Simultaneous three-lead ECGs were recorded using a smart textile band and Ag/AgCl electrodes in 22 healthy, mixed-breed horses that were unrestrained in stalls. ECGs were compared using the following quality metrics: Kurtosis (k) value, Kurtosis signal quality index (kSQI), percentage of motion artifacts (%MA), peak signal amplitude, and heart rate (HR). Two-way ANOVA with Tukey's multiple comparison tests was conducted to compare each metric. No significant differences were found in any of the assessed metrics between the smart textile band and Ag/AgCl electrodes, with the exception of peak amplitude. Kurtosis and kSQI values were excellent for both methods (textile mean k = 21.8 ± 6.1, median kSQI = 0.98 [0.92−1.0]; Ag/AgCl k = 21.2 ± 7.6, kSQI = 0.99 [0.97−1.0]) with <0.5% (<1 min) of the recording being corrupted by MAs for both. This study demonstrates that smart textiles are a practical and reliable alternative to the standard electrodes typically used in ECG monitoring of horses.

A Comparison of Methods to Maintain the Equine Cecal Microbial Environment In Vitro Utilizing Cecal and Fecal Material.

The equine gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota is intimately related to the horse. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the microbiome and metabolome of cecal inoculum maintained in an anaerobic chamber or chemostat batch fermenter, as well as the fecal slurry maintained in an anaerobic chamber over 48 h. Cecal and fecal content were collected from healthy adult horses immediately upon death. Cecal fluid was used to inoculate chemostat vessels (chemostat cecal, n = 11) and vessels containing cecal fluid (anaerobic cecal, n = 15) or 5% fecal slurry (anaerobic fecal, n = 6) were maintained in an anaerobic chamber. Sampling for microbiome and metabolome analysis was performed at vessel establishment (0 h), and after 24 h and 48 h of fermentation. Illumina sequencing was performed, and metabolites were identified via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Alpha and beta diversity indices, as well as individual metabolite concentrations and metabolite regression equations, were analyzed and compared between groups and over time. No differences were evident between alpha or beta diversity in cecal fluid maintained in either an anaerobic chamber or chemostat. The microbiome of the fecal inoculum maintained anaerobically shifted over 48 h and was not comparable to that of the cecal inoculum. Metabolite concentrations were consistently highest in chemostat vessels and lowest in anaerobic fecal vessels. Interestingly, the rate of metabolite change in anaerobic cecal and chemostat cecal vessels was comparable. In conclusion, maintaining an equine cecal inoculum in either an anaerobic chamber or chemostat vessel for 48 h is comparable in terms of the microbiome. However, the microbiome and metabolome of fecal material is not comparable with a cecal inoculum. Future research is required to better understand the factors that influence the level of microbial activity in vitro, particularly when microbiome data identify analogous communities.