Clinical Pregnancy Outcomes Research Articles

Clinical outcomes of frozen-thawed embryo transfer in natural cycles with luteinized unruptured follicles

ObjectiveTo assess the effect of luteinized unruptured follicles (LUF) on frozen–thawed embryo transfer cycles performed in natural cycles (FET-NC). MethodsRetrospective cohort study, held in a university hospital with 3415 cycles for frozen-thawed embryo transfer, performed between June 2019 and September 2022. Using propensity score matching, 242 patients with a diagnosis of LUF (LUF group) were matched with 484 ovulated patients (ovulation group). Stratified by the type of embryo transferred, the LUF group included 168 blastocyst transfer patients (blastocyst group) and 74 cleavage-stage embryo transfer patients (cleavage-embryo group). The ovulation group included 324 patients with blastocyst transfer (blastocyst group) and 160 patients with transferred cleavage-stage embryos. Clinical pregnancy rate was retrospectively analyzed between the LUF and ovulation groups, as well as between each subgroup. ResultsAfter using propensity score matching, the general characteristics of the LUF and ovulation groups were similar. The implantation and clinical pregnancy rates in the LUF group were not significantly different from those in the ovulation group (44.98 % vs. 45.29 %, p = 0.93; 53.72 % vs. 52.48 %, p = 0.75). The implantation and pregnancy rates of transferred cleavage-stage embryos in the LUF group were also not significantly different from those in the ovulation group (32.39 % vs. 36.40 %, p = 0.42; 47.30 % vs. 47.50 %, p = 0.98). The implantation and pregnancy rates of transferred blastocysts in the LUF group were also not significantly different from those in the ovulation group (53.11 % vs. 52.03 %, p = 0.82; 56.55 % vs. 54.94 %, p = 0.73). There was also no significant difference in the miscarriage rate between the groups. ConclusionIn the natural cycle, LUF does not affect the clinical pregnancy outcomes of FET. If adequate luteal support is given, the clinical pregnancy outcomes were similar between the LUF group and ovulation group.

Effects of ovarian response prediction index and follicle-oocyte index on pregnancy outcomes: a retrospective cohort study of 12,218 fresh transfer cycles

Objective: To investigate the potential relationships among the ovarian response prediction index (ORPI), follicle-oocyte index (FOI), and clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) in women undergoing their first in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection-embryo transfer (IVF/ICSI-ET) fresh cycle transfer. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we included 12,218 women who underwent their first IVF/ICSI-ET cycle between December 2014 and January 2021. The primary and secondary outcomes of our study were CPR and cumulative live birth rate (CLBR), respectively. The data were divided into three groups according to the ORPI and FOI tertiles. Multivariate logistic regression analyses, stratification analyses, interaction, restricted cubic splines, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to identify the relationships among ORPI, FOI, and CPR. Results: A statistically significant increase in CPR was detected from the lowest to the highest tertile group (ORPI: 48.12%, 54.07%, and 53.47%, P <0.001; FOI: 49.99%, 52.95%, and 52.71%, P = 0.012). A higher CLBR was observed in the high group (ORPI: 38.63%, 44.62%, and 44.19%, P <0.001; FOI: 41.02%, 43.78%, and 42.59%, P = 0.039). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between ORPI, FOI, and neither CPR (odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval {CI}], 0.99 [0.97–1.00] vs. [1.02 {0.84–1.24}]) nor CLBR (OR [95% CI], 0.99 [0.97–1.01] vs. 0.99 [0.81–1.20]). No significant association was found among FOI, ORPI, and CPR, even in the subgroups. Restricted cubic spline analyses indicated the existence of a non-linear relationship across the entire range of FOI and ORPI. The ORPI and FOI variables had poor predictive ability (AUC < 0.60) for CPR. Conclusions: Both ORPI and FOI are not reliable predictors of clinical pregnancy or live birth outcomes in fresh ETs. Clinicians and researchers should avoid using FOI and ORPI to assess pregnancy outcomes after fresh ET because of their limited relevance and predictive value.

Risk of Placenta Accreta Spectrum Following Myomectomy: A Nationwide Cohort Study

ABSTRACT Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is described as a partial or total lack of decidua with adherence or invasion of the placenta to the myometrium and is a major cause of postpartum hemorrhage and peripartum hysterectomy. The risk of PAS is approximately 1 in 272 in the United States. Prior uterine surgeries including myomectomy disrupt the integrity of the endometrium and myometrium and may increase the risk of PAS. However, the association between myomectomy and PAS remains controversial. This retrospective nationwide cohort study aimed to investigate the effect of myomectomy, stratified by method of myomectomy, on the risk of PAS. Data were obtained from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, which includes prenatal, perinatal, demographic, and treatment data on nearly all pregnant patients in Taiwan. All pregnant people who gave birth after 20 weeks of gestation between January 2008 and December 2017 were included. Patients with incomplete data, previous history of PAS before myomectomy, robotic-assisted myomectomy, or a diagnosis of adenomyosis were excluded. Patients were classified into 3 groups according to method of myomectomy: laparotomic, laparoscopic, and hysteroscopic. A 1:1 propensity-score estimation matching with logistic regression was used for patients with and without history of myomectomy to minimize selection bias. The primary outcome was placenta accreta, whereas secondary outcomes included placenta previa, postpartum hemorrhage, placenta abruption, uterine rupture, and preterm delivery. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the association between myomectomy and adverse pregnancy outcomes and the risk of placenta accreta for the entire population. Analysis of variance and post hoc tests were used to analyze differences in clinical characteristics and adverse pregnancy outcomes according to different methods of myomectomy. A total of 1,393,628 patients were included in this study. Among them, 11,255 patients had a history of myomectomy. Placenta accreta spectrum occurred in 0.96% of those with a history of myomectomy and 0.20% of those without. The risk of PAS was significantly higher in patients with a history of myomectomy, compared with those without (adjusted odds ratio, 2.28; confidence interval [CI], 1.85–2.81; P < 0.01). There was an elevated risk of other adverse pregnancy outcomes including placenta previa, postpartum hemorrhage, cesarean hysterectomy, uterine rupture, preterm delivery, and placenta abruption among those with a history of myomectomy compared with those without. The presence of placenta previa significantly increased risk of PAS, as did the number of prior myomectomies. The propensity score–matched cohort analysis found a similar increase in PAS risk associated with myomectomy. Compared with subjects without a history of myomectomy, the risk of PAS was greater after hysteroscopic (adjusted odds ratio, 3.88; 95% CI, 2.68–5.63), laparoscopic (2.02; 95% CI, 2.79–5.62), and laparotomic myomectomy (1.86; 95% CI, 1.33–2.60). The results of this study find that a history of myomectomy is significantly associated with increased risk of PAS in subsequent pregnancies. Hysteroscopic myomectomy was associated with the highest risk of PAS, and the presence of placenta previa or history of multiple myomectomies further increased the risk.

Small extracellular vesicles in follicular fluids for predicting reproductive outcomes in assisted reproductive technology

BackgroundAssisted reproductive technology accounts for an increasing proportion of infertility treatments, and assessments to predict clinical pregnancy outcomes are desired. Extracellular vesicles exist in follicular fluid, and small non coding RNAs in extracellular vesicles underline the possibility of reflecting pregnancy potential.MethodsFollicular fluid samples are collected from 20 ovarian follicles of 15 infertile patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology. Extracellular vesicles are isolated by serial centrifugation and small RNA sequencing is performed to investigate the profiles of microRNAs and P-element-induced wimpy testis-interacting RNAs.ResultsSmall extracellular vesicles with a size range of approximately 100 nm are successfully isolated, and the small non coding RNA profiles of pregnant samples (n = 8) are different from those of non-pregnant samples (n = 12). Fourteen dysregulated small non coding RNAs are selected to identify the independent candidates [mean read count >100, area under the curve >0.8]. Among them, we find that a specific combination of small non coding RNAs (miR-16-2-3p, miR-378a-3p, and miR-483-5p) can predict the pregnant samples more precisely using a receiver operating characteristics curves analysis (area under the curve: 0.96). Furthermore, even in the same patients, the three microRNAs are differentially expressed between pregnant and non-pregnant samples.ConclusionsOur results demonstrate that small non coding RNAs derived from small extracellular vesicles in follicular fluid can be potential non-invasive biomarkers for predicting pregnancy, leading to their probable application in assisted reproductive technology. Further large-scale studies are required to validate the clinical usefulness of these small non coding RNAs.

Recurrent miscarriage and low-titer antiphospholipid antibodies

ObjectiveTo evaluate the clinical features and pregnancy outcomes in patients experiencing recurrent miscarriage (RM) with either low-titer or medium-high titer positivity of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL).MethodsA retrospective review of medical records was conducted for patients with aPL positivity and recurrent miscarriage between 2018 and 2022. The clinical features, treatment strategies, outcomes were compared between the patients with low (n = 92) and medium (n = 32) titer of aPL.ResultsA total of 118 patients, resulting in 124 obstetric episodes (pregnancies), with a mean age of 33. 15 ± 4.56 and 31.47 ± 4.41 years between the two groups. The low-titer group exhibited a higher frequency of anti-cardiolipin antibodies IgM (P < 0.001), whereas the medium-high titer group demonstrated a higher frequency of anti-β2-glycoprotein 1 antibodies IgG (P < 0.001) and IgM (P = 0.032). Moreover, the medium-high titer group displayed a significantly elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate compared to the low-titer group (P < 0.05). In the low-titer group, 71 patients (77.2%) received appropriate treatment, resulting in 48 live births (67.6%) and 23 repeat abortions (32.4%). In the medium-high titer group, 29 patients (90.6%) received relevant treatment, leading to 23 live births (79.3%) and 6 repeat abortions (20.7%). No significant differences were observed in live births or maternal-fetal complications between the two groups (all P > 0.05).ConclusionNoteworthy distinctions in laboratory parameters were identified between the low-titer and medium-high titer groups. However, when appropriately treated, the fetal-maternal outcomes were comparable in both groups. Timely intervention by clinicians is imperative to enhance pregnancy outcomes in patients experiencing recurrent miscarriage with low levels of aPL.Key Points• This study challenges the conventional belief that only the higher antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) titers directly correlated with worse pregnancy outcomes, which emphasized the importance of patients with low titer positive aPL-positive RM.• The results underscore the need for timely intervention in women with low titer aPL-positive RM, as it leads to favorable maternal–fetal outcomes.

Effect of repeated vitrification of human embryos on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes

BackgroundRepeated cryopreservation of embryos should occasionally be considered when embryos were not suitable for transfer. The effect of re-cryopreservation on embryos remains contentious.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of twice vitrificated blastocyst derived from once vitrified embryos. Total 410 vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer cycles were divided into two groups according to the times of embryo vitrification: (1) vitrified blastocysts derived from fresh blastocysts (control group, n = 337); (2) twice vitrified blastocysts derived from once vitrified embryos (n = 73). The primary outcome was live birth rate. Multivariable logistic or linear regression analysis model was performed to describe the association between embryo cryopreservation times and clinical outcomes.ResultsNo difference was observed in female age at retrieval and transfer, infertility period, body mass index (BMI), infertility type, endometrial thickness, and embryo transfer numbers between the two groups. The pregnancy outcomes of embryos in repeated cryopreservation group were comparable to those of embryos in control group, including implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and live birth rate. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the cryopreservation times did not affect the outcomes of biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, and live birth. Moreover, there was no difference in gestational age, birthweight and sex ratio of singleton newborns between groups. After correcting several possible confounding variables, no significant association was observed between cryopreservation times and neonatal birthweight.ConclusionIn conclusion, pregnancy and neonatal outcomes achieved with twice vitrified blastocyst transfer were comparable to those achieved with vitrified blastocyst transfer in control group.

Clinical characteristics and pregnancy outcome analysis of 20 cases of acute pancreatitis during pregnancy.

This study investigated the clinical characteristics and pregnancy outcomes of acute pancreatitis during pregnancy (APIP). A retrospective analysis was conducted on 20 cases of APIP admitted to Hubei Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January 2017 to September 2021. The etiology, clinical manifestations, and perinatal outcomes of APIP were analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis of the collected data. The incidence of APIP in our hospital was 20 (0.02%) cases, all of which occurred in the late stage of pregnancy. Hypertriglyceridemic acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP) was the primary cause of APIP in 10 (50.0%) patients. A total of 11 (55.0%), seven (35.0%) and two (10.0%) patients had mild acute pancreatitis (MAP), moderately severe acute pancreatitis (MSAP) and severe acute pancreatitis (SAP), respectively. Pregnant women with HTG-AP had significantly elevated serum triglyceride levels, had higher prepregnancy body mass indices, were more prone to developing diabetes and were more likely to progress to SAP. With a multidisciplinary approach and individualized treatment plans, there were no maternal deaths, and fetal death only occurred in one (5.0%) case. HTG-AP is prone to advancing to more severe states, and it is becoming more common every year. Therefore, blood lipid management during pregnancy should be emphasized. Pregnant women with digestive symptoms or severe hyperlipidaemia should be screened for APIP in a timely manner and receive clinical intervention to improve maternal and fetal outcomes during the perinatal period.

A comparative analysis of the clinical pregnancy and perinatal outcomes between oocyte vitrification and embryo vitrification based on the propensity score matching method.

This study investigated the safety and effectiveness of oocyte vitrification by comparing the clinical pregnancy and perinatal outcomes between transfer cycles of vitrified oocytes and those of vitrified embryos. A retrospective cohort study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of patients who underwent cleavage-stage embryo transfer at the Department of Reproductive Medicine between January 2011 and June 2021. Seventy-seven transfer cycles of fresh cleavage-stage embryos developed from vitrified-thawed oocytes (oocyte vitrification group) and 2170 transfer cycles of vitrified-thawed cleavage-stage embryos developed from fresh oocytes (embryo vitrification group) were included. Further, 293 cases were selected from the embryo vitrification group after applying propensity score matching at 1:4. The primary outcomes were miscarriage rate, live birth rate, and neonatal birth weight. No statistically significant differences were observed in the baseline data, pregnancy, perinatal outcomes, or neonatal outcomes for either singleton or twin births between the two groups after matching. Backwards stepwise regression was used to analyze the length of gestation. The age of female participants (β = - 0.410, 95% CI = - 1.339 ~ - 0.620, P < 0.001) had a statistically significant effect. Oocyte vitrification results in similar clinical pregnancy and perinatal outcomes as does embryo vitrification; hence, it is a relatively safe assisted reproductive technique.

Follow-up outcome analysis of 324 cases of early-onset and late-onset mild fetal ventriculomegaly: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundMild fetal ventriculomegaly (VM) is a nonspecific finding common to several pathologies with varying prognosis and is, therefore, a challenge in fetal consultation. We aimed to perform a constant, detailed analysis of prenatal findings and postnatal outcomes in fetuses with early-onset and late-onset mild ventriculomegaly, and provide a new evidence basis and new perspective for prenatal counseling.MethodsThis is a retrospective cohort study of women with a diagnosis of mild fetal VM between January 2018 and October 2020. The population was divided into two groups according to the gestational ages (GAs) at initial diagnosis: the early-onset group (diagnosed at/before 24+6 weeks) and the late-onset group (diagnosed after 24+6 weeks). Clinical data and pregnancy outcomes were obtained from hospital records. The children’s neurodevelopment status was assessed using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Third Edition (ASQ-3) and telephone interviews.ResultsOur study cohort comprised 324 fetuses, out of which 94 (29%) were classified as early-onset group and 230 (71%) late-onset group. Early-onset group was more likely to have concurrent additional abnormalities, whereas in the late-onset group, isolated enlargement was more common (P = 0.01). Unilateral enlargement was more common in the late-onset group (P = 0.05), and symmetrical enlargement in the early-onset group (P < 0.01). In addition, early-onset mild VM cases were more likely to have intrauterine progression (P = 0.03), and many had a higher proportion of complex multisystem abnormalities. Compared with the late-onset group, the early-onset group was more often associated with congenital brain structure malformations. Approximately 11% of fetuses with mild VM had postnatal neurodevelopmental delay/disorders, and the risk was higher in the early-onset group (19.4% vs. 7.4%). Regression analysis showed that the GA at first diagnosis, non-isolated, and intrauterine progression significantly correlated with neurodevelopmental abnormalities.ConclusionsEarly-onset and late-onset mild VM had significantly different ultrasound features and outcomes. Early-onset mild VM may have more complex potential abnormalities and are more likely to predict poor prognosis than the late-onset.

Contributing factors for pregnancy outcomes in women with PCOS after their first FET treatment: a retrospective cohort study

Objective We aim to explore the contributing factors of clinical pregnancy outcomes in PCOS patients undergoing their first FET treatment. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 574 PCOS patients undergoing their first FET treatment at a private fertility center from January 2018 to December 2021. Results During the first FET cycle of PCOS patients, progesterone levels (aOR 0.109, 95% CI 0.018-0.670) and endometrial thickness (EMT) (aOR 1.126, 95% CI 1.043-1.419) on the hCG trigger day were associated with the clinical pregnancy rate. Similarly, progesterone levels (aOR 0.055, 95% CI 0.007-0.420) and EMT (aOR 1.179, 95% CI 1.011-1.376) on the hCG trigger day were associated with the live birth rate. In addition, AFC (aOR 1.179, 95% CI 1.011-1.376) was found to be a risk factor for preterm delivery. Conclusions In women with PCOS undergoing their first FET, lower progesterone levels and higher EMT on hCG trigger day were associated with clinical pregnancy and live birth, and AFC was a risk factor for preterm delivery. During FET treatment, paying attention to the patient’s endocrine indicators and follicle status may have a positive effect on predicting and improving the pregnancy outcome of PCOS patients.

Proximal tubal occlusion first or oocyte retrieval first for patients with hydrosalpinx?

Our study aimed to investigate the best time to manage hydrosalpinx to improve pregnancy outcomes during in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET). Patients with hydrosalpinx who received IVF treatment were analyzed retrospectively. And two groups were included to compare the effects of different timing treatment of hydrosalpinx on IVF pregnancy outcomes, "Proximal Tubal Occlusion First Group" (Group Ligation-COH) and "Oocyte Retrieval First Group" (Group COH-Ligation). The main outcome measures included: ovarian response indexes, laboratory indexes and clinical pregnancy outcomes. Univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analysis was performed for outcome indicators, and the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used. A total of 1490 patients were included (n = 976 Ligation-COH and n = 514 COH-Ligation). The Gn starting dose and MII rate in group Ligation-COH were significantly higher than those in group COH-Ligation (203.33 ± 58.20 vs. 203.33 ± 58.20, 81.58% vs. 80.28%, P < 0.05). The number of oocytes obtained and the number of available D3 embryos in group COH-Ligation were higher than those in group Ligation-COH (15.10 ± 7.58 vs. 13.45 ± 6.42, 10.92 ± 5.81 vs. 9.94 ± 5.15, P < 0.05). Although the number of ET cycles per IVF cycle in group COH-Ligation was higher than that in group Ligation-COH (1.88 ± 1.00 vs. 1.48 ± 0.70, P < 0.05), the biochemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, multiple pregnancy rate, live birth rate and cumulative live birth rate in group Ligation-COH were significantly higher than those in group COH-Ligation (60.83% vs. 46.27% for biochemical pregnancy, 55.69% vs. 38.5% for clinical pregnancy, 26.18% vs. 17.74% for multiple pregnancy, 47.08% vs. 25.26% for live birth, 69.47% vs. 47.47% for cumulative live birth, P < 0.05), and the miscarriage rate in group Ligation-COH was lower than that in group COH-Ligation (10.47% vs. 17.20 for early abortion, 4.49% vs. 15.86% for late abortion, P < 0.05). In logistic regression analysis, after adjustment for age and multiple factors, the above results were still statistically significant differences (P < 0.001). For elderly patients, the clinical pregnancy rate, multiple birth rate and live birth rate in group Ligation-COH were also higher than those in group COH-Ligation (P < 0.001). No significant differences were detected for patients with diminished ovarian reserve. For the choice of ligation operation time, we recommend that patients choose tubal ligation first and then ovulation induction and oocyte retrieval treatment.

Non-invasive cumulus cell analysis can be applied for oocyte ranking and is useful for countries with legal restrictions on embryo generation or freezing.

Can a strategy for scoring oocyte quality, based on cumulus cell (CC) gene expression, prioritize oocytes with the highest implantation potential, while limiting the number of embryos to be processed in culture and the number of supernumerary embryos to be vitrified? An interventional, blinded, prospective cohort study was retrospectively analyzed. In the original study, patients underwent a fresh Day3 single embryo transfer with embryos ranked based on morphology and CC gene expression (Aurora Test). The additional ranking of the embryos with the Aurora Test resulted in significant higher clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. Now it is investigated if the Aurora Test ranking could be applied to select oocytes. The effect of an Aurora Test based restriction to 2 and 3 2PN or MII oocytes on clinical pregnancy and other outcomes, was analyzed in two subsets of patients with all 2PN (n = 83) or all MII oocytes (n = 45) ranked. Considering only the top three ranked 2PN oocytes, 95% of the patients would have received a fresh SET on Day3 resulting in 65% clinical pregnancies. This was not different from the pregnancy rate obtained in a strategy using all oocytes but significantly reduced the need for vitrification of supernumerary embryos by 3-fold. Considering only top-ranked MII oocytes gave similar results. In countries with legal restrictions on freezing of embryos, gene expression of CC can be used for the selective processing of oocytes and would thus decrease the twin pregnancy rate and workload, especially for embryo morphology scoring and transfers as the handling and processing of lower competence oocytes is prevented, while improving the ART outcome.

THE ROLE OF MAGNESIUM SUPPLEMENTS ON HYPERTENSION IN PREGNANCY AND PREECLAMPSIA

Objective:This article aims to discuss the effects of magnesium supplementation on clinical outcomes of pregnancy and highlights the benefits of magnesium supplementation in reducing the risk of hypertension in pregnancy and preeclampsia. Method: In this systematic review article, the author conducted a literature search using certain keywords and selected articles that were published from 2013-2023, can be accessed in full-text in pdf format, and are in Indonesian or English. The methods used were in accordance with the reporting guidelines provided in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P). Results: After carefully searching the database and eliminating articles that were not related to the topic, 6 articles were obtained for review. Hypertension in pregnancy and preeclampsia are serious health problems that can harm both mother and baby. Magnesium supplements have been studied as a way to reduce the risk of hypertension in pregnancy and preeclampsia. Conclusion: Magnesium supplements may help reduce the risk of hypertension in pregnancy and preeclampsia.

THE ROLE OF MAGNESIUM SUPPLEMENTS ON HYPERTENSION IN PREGNANCY AND PREECLAMPSIA

Objective:This article aims to discuss the effects of magnesium supplementation on clinical outcomes of pregnancy and highlights the benefits of magnesium supplementation in reducing the risk of hypertension in pregnancy and preeclampsia. Method: In this systematic review article, the author conducted a literature search using certain keywords and selected articles that were published from 2013-2023, can be accessed in full-text in pdf format, and are in Indonesian or English. The methods used were in accordance with the reporting guidelines provided in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P). Results: After carefully searching the database and eliminating articles that were not related to the topic, 6 articles were obtained for review. Hypertension in pregnancy and preeclampsia are serious health problems that can harm both mother and baby. Magnesium supplements have been studied as a way to reduce the risk of hypertension in pregnancy and preeclampsia. Conclusion: Magnesium supplements may help reduce the risk of hypertension in pregnancy and preeclampsia.

Clinical Characteristics, Laboratory, Maternal and Fetal Outcomes in Pregnancy with Covid-19 at RSUP dr. M. Djamil Padang

Introduction : The data obtained from various studies about covid-19 conducted in severalhospitals in the world are currently considered not sufficient to provide a clinical picture thatoccurs in pregnancies with Covid-19 infection. The aims to provide an overview of the clinical,laboratory, maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnancy with Covid-19 infection at dr. M. DjamilPadang.Methods: This study used a descriptive design with data collection starting from March 01,2020 - March 31, 2021 based on medical record data. Carried out in a single center at RSUPdr. M. Djamil Padang in pregnant patients with confirmed Covid-19 by PCR examination.Results: Total 136 pregnant patients confirmed Covid-19 by PCR examination. Most of thesymptoms were asymptomatic (47.1%) and without any comorbidities (76.5%). There were 3patients who experienced critical symptoms (2.2%). Maternal mortality was found at 2.3% andfetal death 4.7%. The values of d-dimer and NLR were found increasing significantly,2025.35±1392.18 for d-dimer and 6.39±4.43 for NLR. Pregnancy terminations done for 77.9%patients with cesarean section is the most method (83%). There were 4 cases (3.8%) of babiesinfected with Covid-19 from mothers who had pregnancy terminations.Conclusions: Most cases had asymptomatic clinical symptoms (47.1%). There are 2.3%cases of maternal death and 4.7% cases of fetal death. Most of the pregnancy terminationswere performed by cesarean section (88%). On laboratory examination, there was a significantincrease in maternal d-dimer (2,025.35±1.392.18) and NLR (6.39±4.43) in pregnancies withCovid-19.

Melatonin and Outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland and it has antioxidant properties. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of melatonin on assisted reproductive technologies through a systematic review and a meta-analysis. Materials and methods: Search strategies were used in PubMed and in other databases covering the last 15 years. After screening for eligibility, 17 articles were selected for the systematic review. For the meta-analysis statistics, two groups were formed, the treatment group (with melatonin) and the control group (without melatonin) for various assisted reproduction outcomes. Results: The main results were that no statistical differences were found concerning the clinical pregnancy outcome (p = 0.64), but there was a statistical difference with respect to mature oocytes (MII) (p = 0.001), antral follicle count (p = 0.0002), and the fertilization rate (p ≤ 0.0001). Conclusions: Melatonin had beneficial effects on outcomes in assisted reproductive technologies, but it had no influence on pregnancy.

Assessing the influence of preconception diet on male fertility: a systematic scoping review.

The last decade has seen increased research on the relationship between diet and male fertility, but there are no clearly defined nutritional recommendations for men in the preconception period to support clinical fertility outcomes. The purpose of this scoping review is to examine the extent and range of research undertaken to evaluate the effect(s) of diet in the preconception period on male clinical fertility and reproductive outcomes. Four electronic databases (MEDLINE and EMBASE via Ovid, CAB Direct, and CINAHL via EBSCO) were searched from inception to July 2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies (prospective/retrospective, case-control, and cross-sectional). Intervention studies in male participants or couples aiming to achieve dietary or nutritional change, or non-intervention studies examining dietary or nutritional components (whole diets, dietary patterns, food groups or individual foods) in the preconception period were included. Controls were defined as any comparison group for RCTs, and any/no comparison for observational studies. Primary outcomes of interest included the effect(s) of male preconception diet on clinical outcomes such as conception (natural or via ART), pregnancy rates and live birth rates. Secondary outcomes included time to conception and sperm parameters. A total of 37 studies were eligible, including one RCT and 36 observational studies (prospective, cross-sectional, and case-control studies; four studies in non-ART populations) published between 2008 and 2023. Eight reported clinical outcomes, 26 reported on secondary outcomes, and three reported on both. The RCT did not assess clinical outcomes but found that tomato juice may benefit sperm motility. In observational studies, some evidence suggested that increasing fish or reducing sugar-sweetened beverages, processed meat or total fat may improve fecundability. Evidence for other clinical outcomes, such as pregnancy rates or live birth rates, showed no relationship with cereals, soy and dairy, and inconsistent relationships with consuming red meat or a 'healthy diet' pattern. For improved sperm parameters, limited evidence supported increasing fish, fats/fatty acids, carbohydrates and dairy, and reducing processed meat, while the evidence for fruits, vegetables, cereals, legumes, eggs, red meat and protein was inconsistent. Healthy diet patterns in general were shown to improve sperm health. Specific dietary recommendations for improving male fertility are precluded by the lack of reporting on clinical pregnancy outcomes, heterogeneity of the available literature and the paucity of RCTs to determine causation or to rule out reverse causation. There may be some benefit from increasing fish, adopting a healthy dietary pattern, and reducing consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and processed meat, but it is unclear whether these benefits extend beyond sperm parameters to improve clinical fertility. More studies exploring whole diets rather than singular foods or nutritional components in the context of male fertility are encouraged, particularly by means of RCTs where feasible. Further assessment of core fertility outcomes is warranted and requires careful planning in high-quality prospective studies and RCTs. These studies can lay the groundwork for targeted dietary guidelines and enhance the prospects of successful fertility outcomes for men in the preconception period. Systematic search of preconception diet suggests that increasing fish and reducing sugary drinks, processed meats and total fat may improve male fertility, while consuming healthy diets, fish, fats/fatty acids, carbohydrates and dairy and reducing processed meat can improve sperm health.

Metabolic imaging of human embryos is predictive of ploidy status but is not associated with clinical pregnancy outcomes: a pilot trial.

Does fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM)-based metabolic imaging assessment of human blastocysts prior to frozen transfer correlate with pregnancy outcomes? FLIM failed to distinguish consistent patterns in mitochondrial metabolism between blastocysts leading to pregnancy compared to those that did not. FLIM measurements provide quantitative information on NAD(P)H and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD+) concentrations. The metabolism of embryos has long been linked to their viability, suggesting the potential utility of metabolic measurements to aid in selection. This was a pilot trial enrolling 121 IVF couples who consented to have their frozen blastocyst measured using non-invasive metabolic imaging. After being warmed, 105 couples' good-quality blastocysts underwent a 6-min scan in a controlled temperature and gas environment. FLIM-assessed blastocysts were then transferred without any intervention in management. Eight metabolic parameters were obtained from each blastocyst (4 for NAD(P)H and 4 for FAD): short and long fluorescence lifetime, fluorescence intensity, and fraction of the molecule engaged with enzyme. The redox ratio (intensity of NAD(P)H)/(intensity of FAD) was also calculated. FLIM data were combined with known metadata and analyzed to quantify the ability of metabolic imaging to differentiate embryos that resulted in pregnancy from embryos that did not. De-identified discarded aneuploid human embryos (n = 158) were also measured to quantify correlations with ploidy status and other factors. Statistical comparisons were performed using logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves with 5-fold cross-validation averaged over 100 repeats with random sampling. AUC values were used to quantify the ability to distinguish between classes. No metabolic imaging parameters showed significant differences between good-quality blastocysts resulting in pregnancy versus those that did not. A logistic regression using metabolic data and metadata produced an ROC AUC of 0.58. In contrast, robust AUCs were obtained when classifying other factors such as comparison of Day 5 (n = 64) versus Day 6 (n = 41) blastocysts (AUC = 0.78), inner cell mass versus trophectoderm (n = 105: AUC = 0.88) and aneuploid (n = 158) versus euploid and positive pregnancy embryos (n = 108) (AUC = 0.82). The study protocol did not select which embryo to transfer and the cohort of 105 included blastocysts were all high quality. The study was also limited in number of participants and study sites. Increased power and performing the trial in more sites may have provided a stronger conclusion regarding the merits of the use of FLIM clinically. FLIM failed to distinguish consistent patterns in mitochondrial metabolism between good-quality blastocysts leading to pregnancy compared to those that did not. Blastocyst ploidy status was, however, highly distinguishable. In addition, embryo regions and embryo day were consistently revealed by FLIM. While metabolic imaging detects mitochondrial metabolic features in human blastocysts, this pilot trial indicates it does not have the potential to serve as an effective embryo viability detection tool. This may be because mitochondrial metabolism plays an alternative role post-implantation. This study was sponsored by Optiva Fertility, Inc. Boston IVF contributed to the clinical site and services. Becker Hickl, GmbH, provided the FLIM system on loan. T.S. was the founder and held stock in Optiva Fertility, Inc., and D.S. and E.S. had options with Optiva Fertility, Inc., during this study. The study was approved by WCG Connexus IRB (Study Number 1298156).

Analysis of the clinical diagnosis and treatment of fetal meconium peritonitis

Background The purpose of this study was to improve diagnostic and therapeutic standards by examining the clinical features, treatment, and prognosis of fetal meconium peritonitis (FMP), as well as the diagnostic efficacy of ultrasound for FMP. Methods The clinical data of 41 infants and pregnant women diagnosed with meconium peritonitis (MP) and treated at the Fujian Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January 2013 to January 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. Clinical data, imaging data, complications, treatment strategies, pregnancy outcomes, neonatal prognoses, and follow-up outcomes were all analyzed. Results The MP prenatal diagnosis rate was 56.1% (23/41), the neonatal surgery rate was 53.7% (22/41), and the survival rate was 85.4% (35/41). Intraperitoneal calcification (23 pregnant women, 56.1%), intestinal dilatation (13 pregnant women, 31.7%), peritoneal effusion (22 pregnant women, 53.7%), intraperitoneal pseudocyst (7 pregnant women, 17.1%), and polyhydramnios were diagnosed via prenatal ultrasound (18 pregnant women, 43.9%). Twenty-two pregnant women were assigned to the surgical treatment (operation) group, while 18 were assigned to the conservative treatment group. In the operation group, there were 9 cases of ileal atresia (40.9%), 7 cases of jejunal atresia (31.8%), 2 cases of atresia at the jejunum-ileum junction (9.1%), 2 cases of ileal perforation (9.1%), 1 case of ileal necrosis (4.5%), and 1 case of adhesive obstruction (4.5%). There was no statistically significant difference (p > .05) in the occurrence of various prenatal ultrasound findings by etiology. Conclusion Multiple prenatal ultrasound markers have been identified for MP. To improve the efficacy of newborn treatment for FMP and reduce neonatal mortality, dynamic monitoring of ultrasound image alterations and strengthened integrated perinatal management are necessary.

Effect of paternal age on clinical outcomes of in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer cycles.

This study aimed to investigate the impact of paternal age > 40 years on clinical pregnancy and perinatal outcomes among patients undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment. We selected 75 male patients (aged > 40 years) based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Propensity score matching was performed in a 1:3 ratio, resulting in a control group (aged ≤ 40 years) of 225 individuals. Various statistical tests, including the Mann-Whitney U test, Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and binary logistic regression, were used to analyze the association between paternal age and clinical outcomes. We found no statistically significant differences in semen routine parameters, clinical pregnancy outcomes, and perinatal outcomes between paternal aged > 40 and ≤ 40 years. However, in the subgroup analysis, the live birth rate significantly decreased in those aged ≥ 45 compared to those aged 41-42 and 43-44 years (31.25% vs. 69.23% and 65%, respectively; all p < 0.05). Additionally, the clinical pregnancy rate was significantly lower among those aged ≥ 45 than among those aged 41-42 (43.75% vs. 74.36%; p=0.035). Paternal age ≥ 45 years was associated with lower live birth and clinical pregnancy rates.