The physiological consequences of crib-biting in horses in response to an ACTH challenge test.

Stereotypies are repetitive and relatively invariant patterns of behavior, which are observed in a wide range of species in captivity. Stereotypic behavior occurs when environmental demands produce a physiological response that, if sustained for an extended period, exceeds the natural physiological regulatory capacity of the organism, particularly in situations that include unpredictability and uncontrollability. One hypothesis is that stereotypic behavior functions to cope with stressful environments, but the existing evidence is contradictory. To address the coping hypothesis of stereotypies, we triggered physiological reactions in 22 horses affected by stereotypic behavior (crib-biters) and 21 non-crib-biters (controls), using an ACTH challenge test. Following administration of an ACTH injection, we measured saliva cortisol every 30 min and heart rate (HR) continuously for a period of 3h. We did not find any differences in HR or HR variability between the two groups, but crib-biters (Group CB) had significantly higher cortisol responses than controls (Group C; mean ± SD: CB, 5.84 ± 2.62 ng/ml, C, 4.76 ± 3.04 ng/ml). Moreover, crib-biters that did not perform the stereotypic behavior during the 3-hour test period (Group B) had significantly higher cortisol levels than controls, which was not the case of crib-biters showing stereotypic behavior (Group A) (B, 6.44 ± 2.38 ng/ml A, 5.58 ± 2.69 ng/ml). Our results suggest that crib-biting is a coping strategy that helps stereotypic individuals to reduce cortisol levels caused by stressful situations. We conclude that preventing stereotypic horses from crib-biting could be an inappropriate strategy to control this abnormal behavior, as it prevents individuals from coping with situations that they perceive as stressful.

[Vaginal tridimensionel ultrasound interest for the assessment of correct Essure sterilization micro-insert placement]. / Intérêt de l'échographie 3D vaginale pour le contrôle du positionnement des dispositifs Essure.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the interest and simplicity of 3D ultrasound for the 3-month check in place of the recommended routine radiologic in a general gynecology practice. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Twenty-five patients had routine radiologic and transvaginal 3D ultrasound (Voluson 730 Expert) 3 months after placement of Essure micro-insert. RESULTS: Twenty-one 3D acquisitions were realized. In all cases, the micro-insert are easily visualized. Ideally, the echogenic micro-insert appears in the cornuale portion of the fallopian tube. The relationship between the micro insert and the uterine cavity is well documented. CONCLUSION: Easy-to-use, good reproducibility, absence of radiation, make the 3D ultrasound an interesting alternative for the 3-month check. The coronal view gives a directly exploitable document for the surgeon.