Postnatal outcome of children with antenatal colonic hyperechogenicity

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the postnatal outcome of children with antenatal colonic hyperechogenicity, currently considered as a sign of lysinuria-cystinuria, but which may also be a sign of other disorders with a more severe prognosis.

METHOD

We carried out a French multi-centric retrospective study via 15 Multidisciplinary Center for Prenatal Diagnosis from January 2011 to January 2021. We included pregnancies for which fetal colonic hyperechogenicity had been demonstrated. We collected the investigations performed during pregnancy and at birth as well as the main clinical features of the mother and the child. We then established the prevalence of pathologies such as lysinuria-cystinuria (LC), hypotonia-cystinuria syndrome (HC), or lysinuric protein intolerance (LPI).

RESULTS

Among the 33 cases of colonic hyperechogenicity collected, and after exclusion of those lost to follow-up, we identified 63% of children with lysinuria-cystinuria, 8% with lysinuric rotein intolerance, and 4% with hypotonia-cystinuria syndrome.

CONCLUSION

Management of prenatal hyperechoic colon should include a specialized consultation with a clinical geneticist to discuss further investigations, which could include invasive amniotic fluid sampling for molecular diagnosis. A better understanding of diagnoses and prognosis should improve medical counseling and guide parental decision making.

Extending the prenatal Noonan's phenotype by review of ultrasound and autopsy data

OBJECTIVES

The antenatal phenotypic spectrum of Noonan Syndrome (NS) requires better characterization.

METHODS

This multicenter retrospective observational included 16 fetuses with molecularly confirmed NS admitted for fetopathological examination between 2009 and 2016.

RESULTS

Among 12 pathogenic variants (PV) in PTPN11 (80%), 5 (42%) fell between position c.179 and c.182. Ultrasound showed increased nuchal translucency (n=13/16, 93%), increased nuchal fold after 15 weeks of gestation (n=12/16, 75%), pleural effusions (n=11/16, 69%), polyhydramnios (n=9/16, 56%), hydrops (n=7/16, 44%), cardiovascular (n=6/16, 38%) and cerebral (n=4/16, 25%) anomalies. Fetopathological examination found dysmorphic features in all cases, cardiovascular anomalies (n=12/15, 80%), pulmonary hypoplasia (n=10/15, 67%), effusions (n=7/15, 47%) and neuropathological anomalies (n=5/15, 33%). Hydrops was significantly (p=0.02) more frequent in the four fetuses with RIT1, NRAS and RAF1 PV versus the 12 fetuses with PTPN11 PV.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased nuchal translucency and nuchal fold is common in NS. NS antenatal phenotype showed high in utero fetal death, hydrops, prenatal pleural effusion and pulmonary hypoplasia, although the inclusion of only deceased fetuses will have selected more severe phenotypes. Non-specific cardiovascular and neurological abnormalities should be added to NS antenatal phenotype. Next generation sequencing will help detect more genotypes, clarifying the prenatal phenotype and identifying genotype-phenotype correlations. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

[Training simulation during the announcement of fetal malformation discovered on screening ultrasound: Results of a pilot study]

OBJECTIVES

Breaking bad news (BBN) to a pregnant woman with fetal abnormalities (FA) on ultrasound (US) examination is a challenge. Announcement technique influences patient reaction. Physicians receive little training in BBN. The simulation and using a BBN protocol as the English SPIKES protocol which guides the announcement consultation according to 6 steps (Setting Up, Perception, Invitation, Knowledge, Emotions and Empathy, Strategy and Summary) can be used for this teaching. The objective was to assess feasibility simulation scenarii of BBN for FA discovered during US and to evaluate the usefulness of SPIKES protocol in this situation.

METHODS

Two scenarios have been created combining US simulator (US Mentor, Symbionix®) with simulated patient (SP). Scenarii objectives were to diagnose FA and break it to SP. Checklist derived from SPIKES was fulfilled by two investigators thanks to video recording, the SP and every participant (residents, physicians, fetal medicine specialists [FMS]). Participants filled out survey about the usefulness of this exercise too.

RESULTS

Nine physicians (3 residents, 4 physicians, 2 FMS) produced 18 scenarii. Seventy-eight percent of physicians thought simulation was like real situation of BBN during US examination. Majority of participant (88%) found that this simulation training could help them to increase their ability to BBN and that it can be used to teach residents (89%) or physicians (100%). FMS had better SPIKES checklist than physicians (P<0,05).

CONCLUSION

Simulation scenario of BBN for FA discovered during US is feasible by combining US simulator and SP. SPIKES protocol can be useful but a validated checklist should be created.

Prenatal imaging of genital defects: clinical spectrum and predictive factors for severe forms

OBJECTIVES

To report the clinical spectrum of genital defects diagnosed before birth, identify predictive factors for severe phenotypes at birth, and determine the rate of associated malformations.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective study (2008-2017) of 4580 fetuses, identified prenatally with abnormalities evaluated by our Reference Center for Fetal Medicine, included cases with fetal sonographic findings of abnormal genitalia or uncertainty of fetal sex determination. Familial, prenatal and postnatal data were collected via a standardised questionnaire.

RESULTS

In all, 61 fetuses were included. The positive predictive value (PPV) of the prenatal diagnosis of genital defects was 90.1%. Most cases were 46,XY-undervirilized boys, 42 cases (68.8%), which included 29 with mid-penile or posterior hypospadias, nine with anterior hypospadias, and epispadias, micropenis, scrotal transposition, and buried penis (one each). In all, 46,XX-virilized girls were identified in seven cases (11.5%), which included four with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, two with isolated clitoromegaly, and one with ovotestis. Other defects included prune belly syndrome and persistent cloaca (six cases). Early detection during the second trimester (58.1% vs 18.8%, P = 0.03), intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR) (45.2% vs 9.1%, P = 0.06), and curvature of the penis (38.7% vs 0%, P = 0.02), were more frequently related to severe defects in male newborns. Associated malformations (14 cases, 22.9%) and genetic defects (six) were frequent in undervirilized boys.

CONCLUSION

Prenatal imaging of genital defects leads to a wide range of phenotypes at birth. Its PPV is high and extra-urinary malformations are frequent. Early diagnosis during the second trimester, associated IUGR, and curvature of the genital tubercle, should raise suspicion of a severe phenotype and may justify delivery near a multidisciplinary disorders/differences of sex development team.

Prenatal diagnosis of antenatal midgut volvulus: Specific ultrasound features

OBJECTIVE

To assess specific, direct, and indirect prenatal ultrasound features in cases of fetal midgut volvulus.

METHODS

Retrospective case series of neonatal volvulus, based on postnatal and prenatal imaging findings that occurred from 2006-2017. Prenatal and postnatal signs including the specific "whirlpool sign" were computed. Postnatal volvulus was confirmed by pathology examination after surgery or neonatal autopsy.

RESULTS

Thirteen cases of midgut volvulus were identified. Though not a specific sign, a decrease in active fetal movements was reported in eight patients (61.5%). The prenatal whirlpool sign was directly seen in 10 cases, while an indirect but suggestive sign, a fluid-filled level within the dilated loops, was present in five cases. No intestinal malrotation was observed. Pregnancy outcomes were two terminations of pregnancy, both associated with cystic fibrosis, one early neonatal death, three prenatal spontaneous regressions, and seven favorable outcomes after neonatal surgery with resection of midgut atresia.

CONCLUSIONS

Identification of the whirlpool sign or of a fluid-filled level within the dilated loops improves the accuracy of ultrasound findings for suspected volvulus. In the absence of total volvulus (in cases of intestinal malrotation) or association with cystic fibrosis, the prognosis appears good.

A score-based method for quality control of fetal hard palate assessment during routine second-trimester ultrasound examination

INTRODUCTION

When an orofacial cleft lip is discovered, precise characterization of this malformation is necessary, especially the extension of this cleft to the secondary palate. We aimed to develop and evaluate the feasibility/reproducibility of a score-based quality control for the visualization of the fetal hard palate during the second-trimester scan.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

All ultrasound images of fetal hard palate assessed routinely during second-trimester scan were retrospectively retrieved for a 6-month period. One hundred of these images were randomly selected and analyzed by two blinded reviewers, according to a scoring system (0-6 points). Criteria retained in the score were complete palate bone horizontal plate, presence of two pterygoid processes, visible alveolar ridge, and horizontal axis of insonation. A score ≥4 defined images of good quality. Inter- and intra-reviewer reproducibility was assessed.

RESULTS

Inter-reviewer reproducibility was excellent with significant correlation (Pearson coefficient 0.953; P < .0001), global adjusted κ coefficient (0.86, 95% CI 0.79-0.94) and individual criteria adjusted κ coefficient always > 0.8. Rates of images of good quality (score ≥ 4) were 75%-77%, also with excellent agreement (κ coefficient 0.89, 95% CI 0.79-0.99). Intra-reviewer reproducibility retrieved the same results (excellent agreement) except for the axis of insonation (satisfactory agreement).

CONCLUSIONS

This simple image scoring system for the fetal palate is easy, has excellent inter- and intra-reviewer reproducibility and could also help sonographers to correctly identify the palate structure.

Prenatal and postnatal evolution of isolated fetal splenic cysts

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence, the prenatal, and postnatal evolution of isolated fetal splenic cysts.

METHODS

All cases of suspected fetal splenic cyst or abdominal unidentified cyst discovered during routine ultrasound scan, from 2007 to 2017, and referred to a French tertiary care center, were retrospectively collected. For each case, several prenatal parameters and postnatal evolution were reported.

RESULTS

Among 5450 cases of fetal anomalies, 14 patients (0.3%) had a prenatal diagnosis of fetal splenic cysts. Median gestational age at diagnosis was 30.1 weeks. A unique cyst was present in 78.6%, whereas 2 cysts were observed in 14.3% and 3 cysts in 7.1%. During the pregnancy, cysts remained the same (78.6%) or disappeared (21.4%). Ultrasound scans at 6 months of age found total disappearance of the cysts (36.4%), spontaneous reduction from 2 to 1 cyst (18.2%) or persistence of the cysts (45.4%).

CONCLUSION

Fetal splenic cysts are rare images, always isolated, usually unique and mainly found during third trimester of pregnancy. Their evolution is to disappear spontaneously during pregnancy or at 6 months of age leaving only half of them to remain beyond that age but without any symptoms.

Social motivation in Japanese quail coturnix coturnix japonica chicks selected for high or low levels of treadmill behaviour

Social motivation (as measured by a visually isolated chick's tendency to establish visual contact with, move towards and remain in proximity to a group of conspecifics) was assessed in lines of Japanese quail which had been selected for high (HSR line) or low (LSR line) levels of an index of treadmill behaviour which combined the tendency to run towards conspecifics with the tendency to move away from them. HSR line chicks peeded sooner and more frequently before establishing visual contact with conspecifics and spent more time close to conspecifics after visual contact had been established than LSR line chicks. HSR line chicks also tended to have shorter latencies to establish visual contact with conspecifics, jump more and interact more with conspecifics than LSR chicks. It is suggested that these results indicate that selection for treadmill behaviour, which is considered to be a measure of social reinstatement tendencies, has influenced overall levels of social motivation. Furthermore, it would also appear that the phenotypic differences between the HSR and LSR lines are relatively intensive to genotype x environment interactions.

Social discrimination in Japanese quail Coturnix japonica chicks genetically selected for low or high social reinstatement motivation

Japanese quail chicks of two lines genetically selected for low levels of social reinstatement behaviour (LSR) or high levels of social reinstatement behaviour (HSR) were housed in groups of three. The approach/avoidance tendencies of an individual chick from each group towards a familiar cagemate and a stranger from another group placed at opposite ends of a runway were measured at 7 days of age. Quail chicks of both genetic lines preferentially approached, spent longer near, and showed shorter mean distances from the cagemate than the stranger. Irrespective of stimulus type, the HSR quail generally showed shorter approach latencies, spent longer within 15 cm of the goal boxes, made more entries into these areas, and travelled further during the test than did their LSR counterparts. These findings demonstrated that Japanese quail chicks, of two genetic lines reared in small groups, successfully discriminated between familiar cagemates and strangers. They also suggest that there are no straightforward relationships between underlying social motivation and social preferences.

Inter-individual distances during open-field tests in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) selected for high or low levels of social reinstatement behaviour

Inter-individual distances (IIDs), during open-field tests, were measured in single sex pairs of quail of lines divergently selected for high (HSR) or low (LSR) levels of social reinstatement (SR) behaviour. Tests were carried out when the chicks were 1-, 3- and 6-weeks of age. IIDs were established within 1 min and remained stable thereafter. In HSR and mixed line pairs, but not LSR line pairs, IIDs increased with age. IIDs were shorter in HSR line pairs than in LSR or mixed line pairs at 1- and 3-weeks of age but not at 6-weeks of age when IIDs were similar in all pair-types. At 1- and 3-weeks of age, IIDs in mixed line pairs were intermediate to those in HSR and LSR line pairs. The sex of the pair-members did not influence IIDs. Previous studies have shown that selection for SR behaviour, in quail chicks, has effects that persist into later life and influence characters not present in the birds' behavioural repertoire at the time of testing for the purposes of selection. Such behaviour patterns include aggression, sexual behaviour and socio-sexual proximity behaviour. All of these behaviour patterns are expressed at higher levels in HSR line birds than LSR line birds. Differences in IIDs between HSR and LSR line birds may, therefore, be due to an interaction between environmental and genetic effects. In young HSR chicks, social reinstatement is the primary motivation and IIDs are short. However, as the HSR line chicks' age, IIDs reflect an interaction between social attraction and aggression related avoidance behaviour that tends to increase IIDs. In LSR line chicks aggression and social motivation are low at all ages and IIDs tend to remain stable.

Effects of test age, line and sex on tonic immobility responses and social reinstatement behaviour in Japanese quail Coturnix japonica

The tonic immobility (TI) response and social reinstatement (SR) behaviour (as assessed in a treadmill test) were measured in 1, 2, 4, 6 and 10 week old Japanese quail of lines selected for long (LTI) and short (STI) duration of TI weighted for independence from SR behaviour or high (HSR) and low (LSR) levels of SR behaviour weighted for independence from durations of TI. Irrespective of age, LTI line birds had the longest and STI line birds the shortest duration of TI. The duration of TI did not differ between the HSR and LSR lines. Levels of SR behaviour were always higher in HSR line birds than in birds of the LSR line. SR behaviour did differ significantly between the LTI and STI lines and was shown at levels intermediate between those of the HSR and LSR lines although pairwise comparisons of line differences were not necessarily significant. The age and sex of the birds did not influence the duration of TI but levels of SR behaviour were lower at 2 and 4 weeks than at other ages and males showed more SR behaviour than females.

Place preferences of Japanese quail given a permanent choice between a social or a non-social but enriched situation

Japanese quail from two lines selected for high (HSR) or low (LSR) levels of social reinstatement behaviour were permanently placed from 2 days to 6 weeks of age in a situation where one tested animal had the choice between being in social contact with a stimulus animal in a bare compartment of the cage or out of visual contact with the stimulus animal in a relatively rich environment containing food, water and wood shavings. The young (1 or 2 weeks of age) quails spent most of their time (over 80%) in the social compartment, about 10% feeding and drinking, and about 10% performing other activities in the non-social compartment. Hardly any differences appeared between the two lines when 1 or 2 weeks old, but at 4 weeks of age the LSR quails started to decrease the time spent in the social compartment and this phenomenon only appeared at 6 weeks of age and to a lesser extent in the HSR quails. At 4 and 6 weeks the differences between lines were significant. The lack of difference between the two lines in young quails can be explained by the very high social motivation expressed even by LSR quails in the conditions of the study. When they are older line differences are expressed. This change coincides with the time when the natural coveys start to disperse and also with the beginning of sexual development. These results confirm the hypothesis of François et al. (François, N., Mills, A.D., Faure, J.M., 1997. Inter-individual distances in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) selected for high or low levels of sociability. Behav. Process. (in press)) that line differences in social motivation persist into adult or near adult life and can still be demonstrated, provided the circumstances are such that aggression does not prevent close social contact.

The role of fear in one-trial passive avoidance learning in Japanese quail chicks genetically selected for long or short duration of the tonic immobility reaction

Emotional arousal has been shown to affect learning in mammals, but little is known about the relationship between fear and learning in birds. In order to investigate this relationship, the learning abilities of Japanese quail chicks from lines that have been divergently selected for high or low levels of underlying fearfulness, as measured by the duration of tonic immobility behaviour, were compared. Day-old chicks from both lines were trained in a one-trial passive avoidance task. In this task, young chicks spontaneously peck at a small, visually conspicuous bead. If the bead has been coated with a gustatory aversant, the chicks learn in a single trial not to peck a similar, uncoated bead upon subsequent presentation. Significantly more chicks of the low fear line pecked the training bead compared to those of the high fear line. However, 2 h later, chicks of both lines trained on a methyl anthranilate-coated bead showed similar avoidance of the test bead. Therefore, although fear affected performance during training, it did not appear to directly affect memory formation in this task.

Prenatal Assessment of the Antero-Posterior Jaw Relationship in Human Fetuses: From Anatomical to Ultrasound Cephalometric Analysis

Objectives

We wished to develop an ultrasound cephalometric analysis, particularly of the antero-posterior jaw relationship, to increase the accuracy of prenatal diagnosis of retrognathism during the routine midterm test.

Methods

Anatomical cephalometric analysis was performed in 18 formalin-fixed human fetuses (between 16 and 39 gestational weeks), and ultrasound cephalometry was prospectively carried out in 52 pregnant women (21 to 25 gestational weeks). The same landmarks were used in the anatomical and ultrasound median sagittal planes for comparison. Four cephalometric angles were measured relative to the anterior cranial base: alveolar projection of the maxilla and the mandible, chin projection, and facial angle. The antero-posterior jaw discrepancy was calculated.

Results

The projection of the maxilla was similar in the two cephalometric analyses (IC [–3.39, 0.23]), whereas the values of the projection of the mandible were lower in the ultrasound sample. The slope of the regression line of the antero-posterior jaw discrepancy on fetuses' age did not show significant differences (IC [–0.05, 1.54]) between anatomical and ultrasound cephalometry, although a difference of 3.23° ± 0.78° (IC [1.69, 4.77]) was observed. Despite this variability, the projections of mandible and chin were well determined by the projection of the maxilla both in the anatomical and ultrasound sample.

Conclusions

Cephalometric analysis by prenatal sonography can be performed to study the antero-posterior jaw relationship. We think that this procedure could be useful to improve prenatal diagnosis of retrognathism in high-risk pregnancies. Further studies should address the reproducibility and accuracy of such analysis.

Prader-Willi syndrome: is there a recognizable fetal phenotype?

OBJECTIVES

To determine fetal features, which could lead to the diagnosis of Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) during pregnancy.

METHODS

We analyze the ultrasound features, genetic studies and pathologic findings in two cases of PWS diagnosed during pregnancy.

RESULTS

In the first case, diminished fetal movement, polyhydramnios and oddly positioned hands and feet suggested PWS. Methylation studies confirmed diagnosis and a deletion was detected in the 15q11-q13 region. In the second case, similar ultrasound findings led to prenatal diagnosis of PWS with an abnormal methylation pattern compatible with uniparental disomy. Both fetuses had a characteristic appearance at 28 and 30 weeks' gestation, which included a peculiar position of hands with flexed wrists and dorsi-extended feet with flexed toes.

CONCLUSIONS

The peculiar position of the extremities combined with diminished fetal movement and polyhydramnios seems to be characteristic and should suggest PWS.

Anatomy and Growth of the Fetal Soft Palate: A Cadaveric Study to Improve Its Ultrasonographic Observation

Objective:

To determine the anatomy of the soft and hard palate during fetal growth in order to improve its ultrasonographic prenatal visualization.

Design:

Anatomic study in human formalin-fixed fetus.

Methods:

The heads of 18 second and third trimester fetuses were studied in the median sagittal plan. Measurements of the soft palate, the velopharynx, the root of the tongue, and the oral floor were taken. The hard palate/soft palate angle and the anterior cranial base/soft palate angle were measured.

Results:

The growth of the hard palate was linear, and the growth of the soft palate was polynomial (second order) during the period studied. The hard palate/soft palate angle was 150.33° ± 7.62 and 150.20° ± 6.67 in the second and third trimester, respectively. The anterior position of the soft palate in relation to the anterior cranial base was 48.8° ± 3.13 in the second trimester and 52.26° ± 3.31 in the third trimester. Its posterior position was 89.66° ± 5.51 in the second trimester and 92.97° ± 4.01 in the third trimester. Throughout the fetal period, the soft palate moved downward relative to the clivus and cervical spine.

Conclusions:

Despite the nonlinear growth and downward displacement of the soft palate during fetal life, its position remains stable. These results may be useful to explore the fetal soft palate using 2D and 3D ultrasonography and to improve the prenatal diagnosis of isolated cleft palate.

Correlated response in yolk testosterone levels following divergent genetic selection for social behaviour in Japanese quail

Maternal effects are a powerful tool that parents can use to modify the phenotype of their offspring. In birds, the amount of androgens that females deposit in their eggs has been shown to influence early development and adult behavioural phenotypes. Differences in such behavioural strategies have been used as the target of artificial selection programmes with a view to improve animal welfare. In this study, we tested whether artificial selection for divergent social behaviour in Japanese quail had resulted in correlated changes in yolk androgen levels. We used lines that had been selected at the chick stage for high and low motivation to regain contact with a group of conspecific chicks. This procedure has led to important behavioural differences in the high and low line in a suite of behavioural correlates of sociality. We found that eggs laid by the line selected for high motivation for social reinstatement contained more than twice the amount of yolk testosterone of eggs laid by females from the low line, while the unselected line laid eggs with intermediate levels. This finding strongly suggests a functional link between these two traits, and underlines the possible role of yolk androgen modulation in promoting the evolution of behavioural syndromes.

Behavioural and endocrine fear responses in Japanese quail upon presentation of a novel object in the home cage

Most tests used to study fear in birds involve transferring them to a novel environment, which constitutes a bias in studies aiming at identifying the neural correlates of a specific fear-inducing situation. In order to investigate fear in birds with minimum interference by humans, behavioural and endocrine responses to the presentation of a novel object in the home cage were investigated in two lines of Japanese quail divergently selected for long or short duration of tonic immobility, a behavioural index of fear. Presentation of the novel object induced typical fear responses (avoidance of the object, increased pacing and increased plasma corticosterone levels) that were similar in the two lines of quail. Presentation of a novel object in the home cage thus appears to be a suitable stimulus to induce fear reactions in quail, with minimum interference from other motivational systems. The fact that quail of both lines reacted similarly in this test, while they are known to differ greatly in their behavioural responses to other fear-inducing tests, illustrates the multidimensional nature of fear.

Sonographic assessment of normal fetal palate using three-dimensional imaging: a new technique

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to describe a novel three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound rendering technique to examine the normal fetal posterior palate and to assess its correspondence with the real fetal anatomy.

METHODS

A prospective longitudinal study was conducted from January to October 2005 and included 100 fetuses in a low-risk population. Fetal ultrasound examinations were performed at 17, 22, 27 and 32 weeks' gestation to determine the normal 3D ultrasound view of the fetal palate at different gestational ages. The ultrasound scans were performed using the strict anterior axial plane of the starting reconstruction volume and the underside 3D view of the fetal palate. The 3D view of the fetal palate was compared with the normal anatomical view of the fetal palate obtained by surgical fetopathological examination of fetuses at the same gestational ages. The sonographic visualization rates of seven defined anatomical landmarks of the fetal palate were computed for each gestational age. The visualization rates across gestational ages were compared by use of the Cochrane Q test. The reliability of detection of each anatomical landmark across gestational ages was determined by Cronbach's Alpha.

RESULTS

In all cases a 3D ultrasound view of the fetal maxilla and secondary palate was obtained at each period of gestation and corresponded well to the fetal anatomical specimens. The seven defined anatomical landmarks of the fetal palate were identified in 42-100% of cases. The visualization rates across gestational ages were significantly different in five of these anatomical landmarks. These differences can be explained by different developmental processes of these anatomical structures. The overall reliability of visualization across the gestational ages for the anatomical landmarks was medium to very high (0.73-0.96), except for the landmark interpalatal suture which was low (0.48).

CONCLUSIONS

This technique of anterior axial 3D view reconstruction of the fetal palate seen by an underside view can provide unique diagnostic information on the integrity of the secondary palate. This innovative, simple and rapid technique may become the reference technique in ultrasound investigation of the fetal palate, and should be of value in diagnosing isolated secondary cleft palate or palatal involvement when cleft lip and alveolus are diagnosed.

Effects of beak trimming and cage design on laying hen performance and egg quality

1. Conventional cages are to be replaced by furnished cages or aviary systems to improve the welfare of hens. We compared the performance and egg quality of hens reared in two designs of furnished cages and of two standard cages. We also explored the consequences of the absence of beak trimming when using these designs. 2. Hens (2028) were housed from 18 to 70 weeks of age in 108 standard cages at 6 per cage (60 cmx63.5 cm), in 96 cages at 5 per cage (59.5 cmx55.5 cm) or in two designs of furnished cage at 15 per cage (24 F15M cages and 36 F15P cages made by two manufacturers) which contained equipment varying in size and location (nests, dust baths and perches). Half of the hens were beak-trimmed in each design. 3. Mortality was low in beak-trimmed hens (<5%) but was unacceptably high in non-beak-trimmed hens due to cannibalism (>40%, 516 hens). Mortality was worse in standard cages than in furnished cages. Consequently, hen-housed egg production was significantly lowered in non-beak-trimmed hens. 4. Egg laying in beak-trimmed hens reared in furnished cages occurred mainly in the nest (80 and 84.8% in F15M and F15P) but also in the dust bath (13.3 and 9.4% in F15M and F15P) and in other parts of the cage (6.7 and 5.8% in F15M and F15P). 5. The total percentage of broken (visual observation) and hair-cracked eggs (candling) was high in the furnished cage designs (15.4 and 19.6% in F15M and F15P, respectively) compared with standard cage designs (8.1 and 12.2% in S6 and S5). This was mainly due to hair-cracked eggs, the highest percentages occurring in the nests, especially in the design with a narrow nest and no egg saver (11.1% in F15M compared to 17.6% in F15P) as a consequence of egg accumulation in the cradle and relatively low frequency of manual egg collection. 6. Eggshell quality (index and breaking strength) was only slightly influenced by cage effects so differences in egg breakage were attributable to impacts related to cage design. 7. It is concluded that beak trimming remains the most effective way to prevent cannibalism, although furnished cages with a large group of hens slightly reduced the incidence, and that further development and optimisation of furnished cages is needed to reach egg quality similar to standard cages.

Daily and photoperiod variations of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis responsiveness in Japanese quail selected for short or long tonic immobility

The aims of this study were to investigate the existence of a circadian rhythm of basal corticosterone (B) plasma concentrations in male and female Japanese quail lines divergently selected for long (LTI) or short (STI) duration of tonic immobility (TI) and the possible effects of photoperiod length on corticotropic axis reactivity. Significant peaks in B levels were observed throughout the day in 3 out of the 4 groups used in our experiments. However, B levels remained very low for all groups (< 5.0 ng/mL) and there was no consensus between groups. We therefore have no evidence from our results that basal B levels follow a circadian rhythm in adult STI and LTI quail held under a long photoperiod (16L:8D). We also showed that rearing under a long photoperiod (16L:8D) was associated with higher basal B levels and higher B adrenal response capacity to 1-24 adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) injection in the STI and LTI lines compared with a shorter period (8L:16D). Higher hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis responsiveness to restraint in a crush cage was also measured in female quail reared under the long photoperiod, and similar responses were measured under both photoperiods in males. This result suggests that the effects of photoperiod length involve both local and more central mechanisms in the control of HPA axis responsiveness according to sex. On the other hand, we showed that the genetic selection program for TI responses induced greater increases in the B level following restraint in STI quail than in LTI quail of both sexes under both photoperiods, but the B adrenal response capacity was similar for both lines and sexes. Although further investigations on both lines regarding adrenal sensitivity are necessary before being able to conclude definitively, our findings strongly suggest that the differences observed in HPA axis responsiveness to restraint between lines are probably not due to differences in adrenal function itself but may involve upstream structures of the HPA axis.

Relationship between hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis responsiveness and age, sexual maturity status, and sex in Japanese quail selected for long or short duration of tonic immobility

The influences of age (4 to 12 wk), sexual maturity status, and sex on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis responsiveness were investigated by measuring changes in peripheral basal levels of corticosterone (B) and responses to 10 min of physical restraint in a crush cage or injection of 1-24 adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in 2 genotypes of Japanese quail divergently selected for long (LTI) or short (STI) duration of tonic immobility (TI). Although gonad development was more advanced in male STI quail, most birds were still immature at 4 wk of age, but sexual maturity was fully acquired by 6 wk of age in both sexes and genotypes. This change was associated with increases in basal B levels in both genotypes and sexes. On the other hand, HPA axis responsiveness to restraint and adrenal responsiveness to 1-24 ACTH injection remained stable in STI quail, whatever the age. Conversely, significant responses to restraint compared with basal B levels were only observed at 4 and 6 wk of age, and adrenal responsiveness increased with age in LTI quail. Moreover, higher B levels were measured in response to restraint in STI than in LTI quail, whereas similar adrenal responses were measured at 9 and 12 wk of age. We concluded that an increase in basal B levels is associated with the stage of sexual maturity acquired, but it did not affect HPA axis responsiveness or adrenal B response capacity. On the other hand, age affected HPA axis responsiveness and adrenal B response capacity in LTI quail of both sexes but not in STI quail. It is hypothesized that functional HPA axis maturity occurs after 6 wk of age in the LTI genotype, but it is reached by 4 wk of age in the STI genotype. In conclusion, the divergent selection program for TI conducted on quail resulted in changes in HPA responsiveness that probably resulted from differences in development rate and function of the adrenal glands or other upstream structures of the HPA axis.

A genome scan with AFLP markers to detect fearfulness-related QTLs in Japanese quail

A quantitative trait loci (QTL) study was undertaken to identify genome regions involved in the control of fearfulness in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). An F2 cross was made between two quail lines divergently selected over 29 generations on duration of tonic immobility (DTI), a catatonic-like state of reduced responsiveness to a stressful stimulation. A total of 1065 animals were measured for the logarithm of DTI (LOGTI), the number of inductions (NI) necessary to induce the immobility reaction, open-field behaviour including locomotor activity (MOVE), latency before first movement (LAT), number of jumps (JUMP), dejections (DEJ) and shouts (SHOUT), corticosterone level after a contention stress (LOGCORT) and body weight at 2 weeks of age (BW2). A total of 310 animals were included in a genome scan using selective genotyping with 248 AFLP markers. A total of 21 suggestive or genome-wide significant QTL were observed. Two highly significant QTL were identified on linkage group 1 (GL1), one for LOGTI and one for NI. In the vicinity of the QTL for LOGTI, a nearly significant QTL for SHOUT and a suggestive QTL for LAT were also identified. On GL3, genome-wide significant QTL were observed for JUMP and DEJ as well as suggestive QTL for LOGTI, MOVE, SHOUT and LAT. A significant QTL for BW2 was observed on GL2 and a nearly significant one on GL1. These results may be useful in the understanding of fearfulness in quail and related species provided that fearfulness has the same genetic basis.

AFLP linkage map of the Japanese quail Coturnix japonica

The quail is a valuable farm and laboratory animal. Yet molecular information about this species remains scarce. We present here the first genetic linkage map of the Japanese quail. This comprehensive map is based solely on amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers. These markers were developed and genotyped in an F2 progeny from a cross between two lines of quail differing in stress reactivity. A total of 432 polymorphic AFLP markers were detected with 24 TaqI/EcoRI primer combinations. On average, 18 markers were produced per primer combination. Two hundred and fifty eight of the polymorphic markers were assigned to 39 autosomal linkage groups plus the ZW sex chromosome linkage groups. The linkage groups range from 2 to 28 markers and from 0.0 to 195.5 cM. The AFLP map covers a total length of 1516 cM, with an average genetic distance between two consecutive markers of 7.6 cM. This AFLP map can be enriched with other marker types, especially mapped chicken genes that will enable to link the maps of both species and make use of the powerful comparative mapping approach. This AFLP map of the Japanese quail already provides an efficient tool for quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping.

Fear and stress reactions in two species of duck and their hybrid

Susceptibility to fear and stress has often been studied in birds using selection experiments. Crosses between different species of the same genus have also been used to study the type of transmission observed for "fixed action patterns." In this experiment we used a cross between two species (male muscovy and female pekin ducks) to study the genetic transmission of various characteristics of fear reactions and adrenal activity. Males of the three genetic types (two parental species and the hybrid) were submitted to tonic immobility and fear of man tests. Blood was collected for corticosterone assay before and after physiological stress or injection of 5 microg/kg of immediate synacthen (ACTH agonist). The muscovy duck showed lower levels of fear reactions than the pekin duck in the majority of behavioral tests (six of eight). Corticosterone levels were also nearly always the lowest in muscovy ducks (five of six). Generally speaking, the muscovy duck appeared to be less fearful and less susceptible to stress than the pekin duck. The mule duck was similar to one parent, midway between the two, or showed heterosis for fear of man at 10 weeks of age (more fearful than the two parents). Corticosterone levels were midway between the two parents in the mule duck with only one exception, i.e., where the pekin duck was dominant. The existence of heterosis for fear is surprising, as this character is classically considered to be submitted to stabilizing selection. The transmission of corticosterone levels and other fear characteristics is, however, compatible with stabilizing selection. The results are discussed in terms of adaptability.

Sequential feeding can increase activity and improve gait score in meat-type chickens

This study investigated the short- and long-term effects of sequential feeding by alternating low-and high-lysine diets during the day on growth, gait score (GS), and behavior in broilers. From Days 2 to 12, 6 pens of 10 birds were assigned to control treatment and fed a standard normal lysine diet (NL) (ME = 3,250 kcal/kg, CP = 23%, Lys = 1.19%) and six pens of 10 birds were assigned to the sequential treatment and fed a low-lysine diet (LL) (Lys = 0.85%) for half of the day and NL for the other half of the day. From Days 13 to 21, all groups were fed NL, and from Days 21 to 42, they were fed a grower diet. Sequential (S) chicks were lighter than Control chicks at Days 13 (304 +/- 6 vs. 378 +/- 7 g) and 42 (2,588 +/- 31 vs. 2,714 +/- 10 g) and had better leg condition at Day 42 (mean GS = 1.6 +/- 0.1 vs. 2.1 +/- 0.1, P < or = 0.05). During a day of S feeding, S birds ate less and wasted more LL than NL. Sequential birds spent less time standing and more time lying idle when fed LL than when fed NL. Sequential birds spent more time eating than Control birds, and they gradually increased the number of pecks in the litter during a sequential feeding day. The results suggest a major effect of food composition on behavior. Sequential feeding could be a means of decreasing leg problems in broilers.

[Role of fetal urine sampling in the prenatal diagnosis of malformative uropathies]

OBJECTIVE

To define the diagnostic and therapeutic value of foetal urine sampling (FUS).

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Between 1996 and 2001, FUS was performed in 16 patients for three indications: assessment of renal function (Group 1, n = 12), diagnosis of a cystic mass (Group 2, n = 2), prevention of dystocia (Group 3, n = 2). The anomaly was detected by ultrasound. Urine was aspirated from the two renal pelves and/or bladder, or the cystic mass in the other cases. b2-microglobulin and urinary sodium were assayed and karyotyping was performed at the same time.

RESULTS

20 FUS were performed In 4 cases, two samples were taken at an interval of 2 weeks. No complications were observed. Group 1: 9 pregnancies were terminated for potential renal failure (6 posterior urethral valves (PUV), 1 Prune Belly syndrome, 2 cases of recessive polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Three pregnancies were continued for 2 foetuses with normal renal function (1 PUV, 1 ureterocele) and one foetus died with severe renal failure (bilateral hydronephrosis). Group 2: one termination of pregnancy was performed in a case of hepatic cyst with portobiliary dysplasia and a giant bladder diverticulum was operated. Group 3: in both cases, evacuating aspiration allowed normal delivery of one live infant (left polycystic dysplasia), and one neonatal death from megabladder-megacolon syndrome.

DISCUSSION

The value of FUS is controversial. We usually performed this examination for assessment of renal function. The results of FUS are useful for management decisions when they are in favour of potential impaired renal function. They usually confirmed the ultrasound results that already indicated a poor prognosis and they did not change the decision already based on ultrasound findings in any of our cases. For the diagnosis of cystic masses, after drainage of the mass, FUS facilitated investigation of the urinary tract and adjacent organs. When FUS was performed during labour, it reduced the size of the mass and the abdomen, allowing vaginal delivery with a better ventilatory adaptation of the infant.

Influence of increased environmental complexity on leg condition, performance, and level of fearfulness in broilers

We hypothesized that increased distance between resources and stimulation of foraging behavior, through altering the degree of environmental complexity by using moving lights and scattering whole wheat in the litter, would improve physical activity of broiler chickens. Increased activity may potentially improve leg condition and performance and decrease the level of fearfulness in broilers. To test this hypothesis, 1,800 1-d-old male broilers were divided into 40 groups of 45 birds each (10 birds/m2). Each group was assigned to one of four treatments (10 replicates) as follows: barrier treatment (B) contained three barriers placed between the drinker line and the feeder. The light treatment (L) consisted of brightly colored moving lights projected on the pen floor for four 1-h periods/d throughout rearing. For the wheat treatment (W) wheat was dispersed on the floor from Days 8 to 17. Control birds (C) were maintained under standard management. Body weights and consumption were obtained throughout the rearing period. Gait score (GS), tibia length and diameter, fluctuating asymmetry (FA), bone ash, tibial dyschondroplasia (TD), bone breaking strength, and tonic immobility (TI) were measured at slaughter age. Mortality, body weight, feed conversion, FA, bone ash, TD, bone breaking strength, and TI duration did not differ significantly among groups. L birds had a higher GS than C and B birds and W birds had a higher GS than C birds (P < 0.05). Provision of barriers significantly increased the diameter of the tibia diaphysis (P = 0.05), which is a promising result for further studies to improve leg condition.

Fearfulness and performance related traits in selected lines of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)

Fearfulness and economic traits were studied in three lines of Japanese quail. Two of the lines were of the same genetic origin and were subjected to divergent selection for the duration of tonic immobility (TI), a measure of fearfulness. Birds were selected for long (LTI) or short (STI) duration of TI. The third line (DD) was of a different genetic origin and had been selected for early egg production. Fear, growth, residual feed intake, and measures of egg composition and production varied among lines. The distribution of TI in Line DD was closer to that from Line STI. Residual feed intake and shell content were lowest in the DD line. The DD birds laid more broken eggs than quail of the other lines. The STI line birds had higher BW and laid more, but smaller, eggs than LTI line birds. Eggs laid by LTI line birds had higher albumen content, but lower percentage shell, than those laid by STI line birds. When all traits were considered together, there was an overall tendency for STI line birds to out perform LTI birds with DD line birds showing intermediate performance. This finding supports the notion that there is a relationship between fearfulness and productivity. However, the skewed distribution of TI precluded estimation of correlation with production traits in the LTI and STI lines. No significant relationships among fear and production-related traits were found in the DD line, which contradicts the notion that fearfulness and production are related.

Force-feeding procedure and physiological indicators of stress in male mule ducks

1. The effects of the force-feeding procedure and its different components on various physiological indicators of acute and chronic stress were investigated in male mule ducks before and during a 12-d cramming period. 2. The highest concentration of corticosterone were measured after injection of ACTH agonist, during the pre-experimental period when the ducks were still housed in collective floor pens and at the time of transfer. 3. During the cramming period, corticosterone measured before and after force-feeding did not differ significantly though there was a non-significant trend towards an increase in certain cases. 4. The different components of force-feeding, including manipulation, intubation, force-feeding with a standard or a large amount of food had no significant effect upon corticosterone concentrations. 5. There was no indication from ACTH agonist challenge either of a change in adrenal sensitivity or a change in its responsiveness. 6. The heterocyte-lymphocyte ratio measured before and at the end of the cramming period did not differ significantly. 7. In conclusion, we observed no significant indication that force-feeding is perceived as an acute or chronic stress by male mule ducks, in our experimental conditions. Nevertheless, it remains to be shown that their adrenocorticotropic axis is responsive to acute stressors.

The effects of mifepristone on uterine sensitivity to oxytocin and on fetal heart rate patterns

OBJECTIVE

To compare the incidences of tachysystole, hypertonia and fetal heart rate (FHR) abnormalities in women treated by mifepristone plus prostaglandins (PGs), mifepristone alone or PGs alone for an unfavourable cervix.

STUDY DESIGN

In this retrospective study, all women between 37 and 42 weeks were eligible for the study if they had undergone cervical ripening prior to labour induction. In group 1, the women were treated with mifepristone plus PGs (n=103). Group 2 women were treated with mifepristone alone (n=96) and group 3 women with PGs alone (n=100). Incidences of tachysystole, hypertonia and FHR abnormalities were compared.

RESULTS

During induction of labour, tachysystole and hypertonia occurred more frequently in women treated with mifepristone. Severe bradycardia and recurrent late decelerations were more frequent after the initiation of oxytocin in groups 1 and 2 than in group 3.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, mifepristone increased the incidences of tachysystole, hypertonia and FHR abnormality.

Time structure of behavioral patterns related to feed pecking in chicks

Nonrandom time patterns of pecking acts by 16 chicks were detected using the software Theme during three videotaped pecking sessions (M, C, and A). At 15 days of age pecking session, M (mash) was recorded when chicks ate a mash diet. Pecking session C (change) at 16 or 17 days of age was recorded immediately after the change of the diet to pellets presented either as regular cylinders (P) to eight chicks, or as semiovoid (Po) to eight other chicks. Pecking session A (adapted) was recorded 5 or 6 days after adaptation to P and Po. Successful (consumatory) pecks were 72%, 52%, and 61% of all pecks for sessions M, C, and A, respectively. The head of the chicks remained in a steady position between two consecutive pecks for a longer period during C (65% of the time) than M and A (54%). During C, the pecking rate was less for P (0.54 pecks/s) than for Po (0.79 pecks/s). Two consistent time patterns involving four acts frequently observed were: head rotation (or exploratory peck)-->head in steady position-->consumatory peck-->head in steady position with jaw movements. Time intervals within a pattern were stable throughout sessions. However, the proportion of synchronized (included in a pattern) vs. nonsynchronized (not included in a pattern) acts decreased immediately after the change of feed form (session C). These results suggest that pecking at feed is composed of two distinct sets of acts: consistently organized patterns little affected by the form of the pecked particles and nonsynchronized acts that may be involved in sensory information.

Multifetal reduction of triplets to twins: a prospective comparison of pregnancy outcome

The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of triplets managed expectantly or by multifetal reduction to twins to assess the potential benefit of fetal reduction. The study design was prospective, comparative and monocentric and the study was conducted in a teaching hospital. Out of 148 women with triplets mostly obtained after infertility treatment, 83 were expectantly managed while 65 chose reduction to obtain twins. Main outcome measures were fetal loss before 24 weeks, premature deliveries before 28, 32 and 34 weeks, rate of low birthweight infants and neonatal and perinatal mortality rates. The fetal loss rate before 24 weeks did not differ between the ongoing group and the reduced group (6 versus 5.4%). Reducing triplets was associated with a significantly lower incidence of the following: prematurity before 28, 32 and 34 weeks (P < 0.001), low birthweight infants whose weights were under the third centile (P < 0.002) and infants whose weights were less than 1000, 1500 and 2000 g (P < 0.001). Neonatal (although apparently lower in the reduced group) and perinatal mortality did not significantly differ. Our results indicate that reduction of triplets to twins is effective to improve preterm birth and fetal growth.

B19 parvovirus-induced fetal hydrops:good outcome after intrauterine blood transfusion at 18 weeks of gestation

We report a successful treatment of a B19 parvovirus-induced fetal hydrops diagnosed at 16 weeks of gestation. This disease could be corrected by means of a unique intraperitoneal blood transfusion performed at 18 weeks, once diagnosis was established. The delivery occurred at 36 weeks, leading to the birth of a healthy baby. This case suggests that transfusion should be attempted, as the spontaneous fetal recovery remains uncertain and shows that intraperitoneal blood transfusion is an effective therapeutic option of the B19 parvovirus-induced anemia, in the absence of a viral myocarditis.

Corticosterone plasma concentration in male mule ducks: effects of sampling sites, repeated samplings and ACTH injections

1. Changes in plasma corticosterone concentrations according to puncture sites and various challenges including injections of an ACTH agonist (Immediate Synacthen) were investigated in male mule ducks. 2. Lower concentrations were measured in samples drawn by puncture from the occipital sinus than at a wing vein site. 3. Immobilisation and a single intramuscular injection of saline solution (1 ml, 0.9%) had no effect on plasma corticosterone after 15 min. 4. A single intramuscular injection of ACTH (5 microg/kg body weight) produced a rise (P<0.05) in corticosterone. Maximum concentrations were measured after 10 min and, in the absence of further sampling, a return to initial levels was observed by 1 h. 5. On the other hand, repeated bleedings following ACTH challenge maintained higher corticosterone concentrations. 6. A single intramuscular injection of ACTH at doses ranging between 0.625 to 20 microg/kg body weight increased corticosterone concentrations (P<0.05) in a dose-dependent manner, with the responses plateauing at doses of 1.25 microg/kg and higher.

Ultrasound-assisted laparoscopic creation of a neovagina by modification of Vecchietti's operation

BACKGROUND

In performing Vecchietti's operation laparoscopically, it is important to ensure bladder and rectum integrity. We report new techniques of ultrasonography and suture retrieval that simplify and improve the ease and speed of this operation.

TECHNIQUE

The pneumoperitoneum is emptied and the bladder filled with 200 mL of sterile water. The ultrasound probe is placed on the suprapubic wall for a sagittal image. The needle progresses medially through the vesicorectal space, with ultrasound guidance, and its emergence into the pelvis is controlled with laparoscopy. The nylon sutures carrying the dilation ball are threaded through the needle and brought back through the abdominal wall.

EXPERIENCE

Seven patients with vaginal aplasia had this procedure. There were no complications, and the mean operative time was 43 minutes (range 35-55). Mean vaginal length was 7 cm (range 6-10). Four women defined sexual intercourse as very satisfying and two as moderately satisfying.

CONCLUSION

This original technique was used for easy, safe, and rapid creation of neovaginas.

Cervical ripening with mifepristone before labor induction: a randomized study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy and safety of mifepristone for cervical ripening in post-term pregnancies.

METHODS

Women with post-term pregnancies and Bishop scores less than 6 were assigned randomly to mifepristone (41 patients) or placebo (42 patients). Mifepristone was given orally in a dose of 400 mg. Efficacy was assessed by change in the Bishop score within 48 hours after treatment; a score of 6 or greater was considered a "strict" success. An "extended" success rate was defined, including all patients with scores of at least 6 or those who delivered within 48 hours of treatment. Antenatal safety was assessed by fetal heart rate testing before and throughout labor. Neonatal safety was assessed by Apgar score, arterial or venous pH of cord blood, and blood glucose level during the first 48 hours. Analysis used Student t test for continuous variables, Kruskal-Wallis test for ordinal data, and chi2 for categoric variables.

RESULTS

Strict success was achieved in 10 of 18 mifepristone patients (55%) evaluated for Bishop score on day 2 versus 8 of 29 placebo patients (27.5%) (P=.004). Extended success was achieved in 33 mifepristone patients (80.5%) and 21 placebo patients (50.0%) (P=.004). There were no statistical differences with regard to number of cesareans or fetal and neonatal safety.

CONCLUSION

Mifepristone proved effective for cervical ripening and reduced the time to delivery compared with placebo, but it did not improve the rate of cesarean. Our study did not include enough pregnancies to reach conclusions about fetal or neonatal safety.

[Creation of a neovagina using ultrasonography-assisted laparoscopy (modified Vecchietti technique]

Ultrasonography-assisted laparoscopic creation of a neavagina was performed on 6 patients suffering from vaginal aplasia. As the needle progress through the vesicorectal space, ultrasonography provided an accurate check of the bladder and rectal integrity, and improved the ease of the surgical procedure. Ultrasound can be considered an effective and reliable advance for laparoscopic management of vaginal aplasia.

Effect of cage area, cage height and perches on feather condition, bone breakage and mortality of laying hens

1. The health of 2 flocks of 896 ISA Brown laying hens were studied successively over the years 1995 and 1996 under different caging conditions. Hens were kept in groups of 4 in a total of 224 cages. The treatments (7 different types of cages) differed in area per hen (450, 600 or 800 cm2) and height (40 or 60 cm). In the large (800 cm2/hen) and high (60 cm cage) treatment, half of the cages were equipped with perches (20 cm/hen). Each study lasted 48 weeks. 2. Feather condition was found to be independent of cage type. 3. No differences were apparent between the 7 treatments in tibia breaking strength (using the 3-point breakage technique). A significant increase in humerus breaking strength was observed in the high cages. The frequency of broken wings recorded after slaughter was lower in high cages (23%) than in low ones (36%). 4. Mortality was different between treatments. This was explained by a higher proportion of birds killed by 'body cannibalism' in the 60 cm high cages, and by a higher proportion of birds killed by 'vent cannibalism' in the cages with perches.

Self-selection of dietary protein and energy by broilers grown under a tropical climate: adaptation when exposed to choice feeding at different ages

Three hundred broiler chicks (Hubbard) of both sexes were assigned to five feeding treatments: T0 received a complete diet (control), T1 was a choice feeding system with simultaneous access to an energy-rich feed (ground corn) and a protein concentrate (43.7% CP), and T2, T3, and T4 were introduced to choice feeding after 1, 3, and 5 wk, respectively, of consuming the complete diet. At 1-d-old, T1 chicks showed a marked preference for corn, with only 21.4% of their intake being the protein concentrate diet. Intake of the concentrate progressively increased to 40 to 45% after 3 d of adaptation, resulting in diets with 22.5 to 24.3% CP. When broilers fed the complete diet for 1 to 5 wk (T2, T3, T4) were changed to choice feeding, on the 1st d, their feed choice intake was similar to that of T1 chicks at the same age. Visual observation and tactile assessment of the feed particles during the initial period allowed the chicks to quickly evaluate the new feeds and to adapt their feeding behavior. Although total feed intake to 6 wk of age was not significantly affected by the feeding treatments, broilers on choice feeding selected diets with a lower percentage of CP and had lower live body weights at 6 wk than those fed the complete diet (T0).