Intravaginal Device Research Articles

Reproductive performance of fixed-time artificial insemination in heifers supplemented with a homeopathic complex

For this study, ½ blood nelore × aberdeen angus heifers (n = 40; 14 months) were divided into two groups: control (n=20; 310 kg) and pró-cio (n=20; 304 kg). for pró-cio group, 20g of homeopathic product (pró-cio®, real h, campo grande, brazil) was supplied together with corn eighteen days prior (d-18) to the beginning of the fixed-time artificial insemination protocol (ftai). on d0, all females received an intravaginal p4 device and 2 mg be. on d5, the afc was assessed by ultrasound and blood was collected for amh dosage. on d8, p4 device was removed; 300 iu ecg, 0.530 mg of cloprostenol sodium and 0.5 mg of ec were administered; an estrus-identifying adhesive was fixed at the tail insertion and the diameter of the dominant follicle (df) was measured. on d10, all heifers were inseminated, estrus manifestation was assessed and the preovulatory follicle (pof) was measured. on d20, the cl area was measured and blood flow was assessed using doppler ultrasound. data were analyzed by student, mann-whitney or friedman test. the rates of heat expression, ovulation, and blood flow score with doppler were analyzed using fisher’s exact test and pregnancy rate by binary logistic regression model (p ≤ 0.05). there was no difference in afc or amh dosage (p > 0.05). pró-cio group had greater diameters of the df (9.94 ± 0.42 mm) and pof (11.61 ± 0.56 mm) than the controls (df: 7.72 ± 0.34 mm and pof: 9.91 ± 0.37 mm), as well a larger cl area (3.26 ± 0.26 versus 2.35 ± 0.16 cm2) and a higher mean cl vascularization score (3.06 versus 2.26; p < 0.05). there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between estrus manifestation or conception rate for control and pró-cio groups. heifers supplemented with the homeopathic product showed larger follicular diameters at the end of the ftai protocol and cl with better blood flow scores compared to the control group.

Targeted Proteomics Analysis of Staphylococcal Superantigenic Toxins in Menstrual Fluid from Women with Menstrual Toxic Shock Syndrome (mTSS).

Menstrual toxic shock syndrome (mTSS) is a rare life-threatening febrile illness that occurs in women using intravaginal menstrual protection. It is caused by toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 (TSST-1) produced by Staphylococcus aureus, triggering a sudden onset of rash and hypotension, subsequently leading to multiple organ failure. Detecting TSST-1 and S. aureus virulence factors in menstrual fluid could accelerate the diagnosis and improve therapeutic management of mTSS. However, menstrual fluid is a highly complex matrix, making detection of bacterial toxins challenging. Here, we present a mass-spectrometry-based proteomics workflow for the targeted, quantitative analysis of four S. aureus superantigenic toxins in menstrual fluids (TSST-1, SEA, SEC, and SED). This method was applied to characterize toxin levels in menstrual fluids collected from patients with mTSS and healthy women. Toxins were detectable in samples from patients with mTSS and one healthy donor at concentrations ranging from 0 to 0.46 µg/mL for TSST-1, and 0 to 1.07 µg/mL for SEC. SEA and SED were never detected in clinical specimens, even though many S. aureus strains were positive for the corresponding genes. The method presented here could be used to explore toxin production in vivo in users of intravaginal devices to improve the diagnosis, understanding, and prevention of mTSS.

Development of 3D-printed vaginal devices containing metronidazole for alternative bacterial vaginosis treatment

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an abnormal condition caused by the change of microbiota in the vagina. One of the most common bacteria found in the case of BV is Gardnerella vaginalis, which is categorised as anaerobic facultative bacteria. Currently, the available treatment for BV is the use of antibiotics, such as metronidazole (MTZ), in topical and oral dosage forms. The limitation of the currently available treatment is that multiple administration is required and thus, the patient needs to apply the drug frequently to maintain the drug efficacy. To address these limitations, this research proposed prolonged delivery of MTZ in the form of intravaginal devices made from biodegradable and biocompatible polymers. Semi-solid extrusion (SSE) 3D printing was used to prepare the intravaginal devices. The ratio of high and low molecular weight poly(caprolactone) (PCL) was varied to evaluate the effect of polymer composition on the drug release. The versatility of SSE 3D printer was used to print the intravaginal devices into two different shapes (meshes and discs) and containing two different polymer layers made from PCL and a copolymer of methyl vinyl ether and maleic anhydride (Gantrez™-AN119), which provided mucoadhesive properties. Indeed, this layer made from Gantrez™-AN119 increased ca. 5 times the mucoadhesive properties of the final 3D-printed devices (from 0.52 to 2.57 N). Furthermore, MTZ was homogenously dispersed within the polymer matrix as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy analysis. Additionally, in vitro drug release, and antibacterial activity of the MTZ-loaded intravaginal devices were evaluated. Disc formulations were able to sustain the release of MTZ for 72 h for formulations containing 70/30 and 60/40 ratio of high molecular weight/low molecular weight PCL. On the other hand, the discs containing a 50/50 ratio of high molecular weight/low molecular weight PCL showed up to 9 days of release. However, no significant differences in the MTZ release from the MTZ-loaded meshes (60/40 and 50/50 ratio of high molecular weight/low molecular weight PCL) were found after 24 h. The results showed that the different ratios of high and low molecular weight PCL did not significantly affect the MTZ release. However, the shape of the devices did influence the release of MTZ, showing that larger surface area of the meshes provided a faster MTZ release. Moreover, MTZ loaded 3D-printed discs (5% w/w) were capable of inhibiting the growth of Gardnerella vaginalis. These materials showed clear antimicrobial properties, exhibiting a zone of inhibition of 19.0 ± 1.3 mm. Based on these findings, the manufactured represent a valuable alternative approach to the current available treatment, as they were able to provide sustained release of MTZ, reducing the frequency of administration and thus improving patient compliance.

126 Effect of oestrus synchronisation protocol with a high dose of oestradiol and an intravaginal progesterone-releasing device on the endometrial epidermal growth factor concentrations and fertility in recipient cows

Reproduction, Fertility and Development is an international journal publishing original research , review and comment in the fields of reproduction and developmental biology in humans, domestic animals and wildlife

Effects of additional gonadotropin-releasing hormone and prostaglandin F2α treatment to an estradiol/progesterone-based embryo transfer protocol for recipient lactating dairy cows

This study was designed to evaluate whether the utilization of a second PGF2α treatment at the end of an estradiol/progesterone (E2/P4)-based protocol with or without GnRH at the beginning of the protocol would improve pregnancy rates of lactating Holstein cows assigned to timed embryo transfer. A total of 501 lactating Holstein cows in 5 farms were enrolled in the experiment. Within farm, cows were blocked by parity and, within block, were assigned randomly to (1) insertion of an intravaginal P4 device (controlled internal drug-releasing device; CIDR) and estradiol benzoate on d -11, PGF2α on d -4, CIDR withdrawal and an injection of estradiol cypionate on d -2, and timed embryo transfer on d 7 (1-PGF; n = 164); (2) the same treatments as 1-PGF, but with PGF2α administered on d -4 and -2 (2-PGF; n = 171); and (3) 2-PGF with the addition of a GnRH treatment on d -11 (GnRH+2-PGF; n = 166). Ovaries were scanned by transrectal ultrasonography on d -11, -4, and 7, and blood samples were collected on d -11, -4, 0, and 7 for P4 determination. Treatment comparisons were performed using contrasts. The proportion of cows with a new corpus luteum on d -4 was greater in GnRH+2-PGF cows. Cows in 1-PGF had a greater P4 concentration on d 0 but lesser P4 on d 7 compared with cows in the other groups. Cows assigned to receive 2-PGF (2-PGF and GnRH+2-PGF) had greater estrus expression, and a greater proportion of cows ovulated to estradiol cypionate. No further contrast effects were observed for follicle diameter, double ovulation rate, pregnancy per embryo transfer (P/ET) on d 32 and 60, or pregnancy loss. As P4 concentration on d -4 increased, P/ET on d 60 tended to increase. Cows with P4 ≥3.66 ng/mL on d -4 had greater P/ET on d 32 and 60 than those with P4 below that threshold. Regardless of treatment, cows with P4 concentration ≥3.66 ng/mL also had a greater pregnancy per synchronized protocol (P/SP) on d 60. Also, a P4 concentration on d -4 (low or high) × follicle diameter (continuous) interaction tendency was observed when evaluating P/ET. Although P/ET did not differ among cows with different follicles sizes with reduced P4 concentration on d -4 (<3.66 ng/mL), it increased in cows with larger follicles exposed to increased P4 concentration (≥3.66 ng/mL). When P4 on d 0 was evaluated, P/ET on d 32 and 60 was greater for cows with low (≤0.09 ng/mL) versus high (>0.21 ng/mL) P4; as P4 concentration on d 0 increased, P/ET linearly decreased. In summary, cows with increased P4 concentrations during growth of the ovulatory follicular wave had improved P/ET. Administering a second PGF2α dose reduced P4 concentration on d 0 and increased ovulatory response to the protocol, but no benefits were observed on P/ET or P/SP.

Effect of oestrous expression prior to timed artificial insemination with sexed semen on pregnancy rate in dairy cows.

The objectives of the study were to determine (1) oestrous expression rate and (2) the effect of oestrous expression prior to progesterone-based Ovsynch protocol on pregnancy rate in Holstein cows. All cows (n=917) were subjected to 7-day progesterone-based Ovsynch protocol. In this protocol, cows that expressed oestrus before (HEAT1) the scheduled second GnRH were inseminated 20 h later after the onset of oestrus without GnRH administration. Cows that expressed oestrus after the second GnRH administration (HEAT2) or did not express oestrus (NOHEAT) received fixed-timed AI. Oestrous expression was determined by using activity-rumination monitoring system and all cows were inseminated with sexed semen. Oestrous expression rate prior to FTAI was 40.5% and the majority (p< .01) of oestrous expression were in HEAT2 compared with HEAT1 in both primiparous (71.8 vs. 28.1%) and multiparous cows (69.5 vs. 30.5%). The mean interval from intravaginal device removal to the onset of oestrus was 47.4± 0.9h and 62.9± 0.5 in HEAT1 and HEAT2, respectively. Primiparous cows (47.7%) had a higher (p< .01) expression rate compared with multiparous cows (37.2%). Overall pregnancy rate was 37.4% and there was two-way significant interaction between parity and oestrous expression on pregnancy rate (p< .01). Both primiparous (48.1 vs. 35.8%) and multiparous cows (47.4 vs. 28.4%) that expressed oestrus had greater (p< .01) pregnancy rate compared with cows that did not express oestrus. There was no difference in pregnancy rates of HEAT1 and HEAT2 in both primiparous (44.7 vs. 49.5%) and multiparous cows (47.2 vs. 47.6%). Pregnancy rate was not influenced (p =.21) by milk production (high or low) in both primiparous (47.6 vs. 48.6%) and multiparous (54.9 vs. 42.1%) cows that expressed oestrus, respectively. In conclusion, cows showing oestrus before or after second GnRH of the Ovsynch protocol had greater pregnancy rate than cows not showing oestrus.

Prevalence of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding and Use of Hormonal Therapy Among Women Type 1 Von Willebrand Disease from the Zimmerman Program

Background: Women with von Willebrand disease (VWD) experience substantial reproductive tract bleeding, including heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). Over 80% of women with VWD experience HMB resulting in morbidity from decreased quality of life, lost productivity, and iron deficiency. Hormonal birth control is a standard treatment and can elevate VW activity (RCo/GPB1M) and antigen (Ag) levels. Little is known about the impact of such therapy on bleeding assessment tools (BATs). We hypothesized that women on hormonal therapy (HT) would have lower ISTH-BAT scores and higher VWD levels than those not on HT. Women who participated in the Zimmerman Program (PPG) for the Molecular and Clinical Biology of VWD, a natural history study (NHLBI HL081588), had demographic, medication history, and laboratory samples collected. We sought to identify differences in patient, disease-specific factors, and BATs between type 1 VWD women on HT and those not on HT. Methods: Women with type 1 VWD and reported menstrual history were selected from the PPG. Women were split into those taking HT (OCPs, injectable progestins, hormone replacement therapy, intravaginal devices, and IUDs) vs. those who were not. Women >50 years of age were excluded from the group analysis due to their assumed postmenopausal status. Descriptive statistics were calculated to characterize the demographics, VWD testing (VWF:Ag, VWF:RCo, GPIbM), and ISTH-BATs (total, HBM, and PPH) of the two groups. Continuous variables were compared between groups using two sample t-test and categorical variables by Fischer's exact test. A two-sided p-value of< 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: In the full cohort, 269 women answered yes to experiencing menstrual cycles. The group was predominantly pediatric/young adult with a mean age of 25.3 years (range 11-76). Whites comprise 86% of subjects. Women were further defined by disease laboratory testing with 186 women (69.1%) diagnosed as VWF:Ag 0.3-0.5 IU/mL, 57 women (21.2%) VWF:Ag <0.3 IU/mL, and 26 women (9.7%) clearance type VWD (genetic result). The mean VWF:Ag for the entire cohort was 0.37 IU/mL (Standard Deviation 0.14 IU/mL). The mean VWF: RCo was 0.36 IU/mL (SD 0.15 IU/mL). The ISTH-BAT scores ranged from 0-29, with a mean of 7.6 (SD 5.1). An evaluation of the HMB domain of the ISTH-BAT demonstrated that 94% (253) of women reported HMB with >1 point (on a 4-point scale) overall, 47% (119) of whom reported severe HMB with 3 or 4 points. Of the 269 women, 108 were taking HT at enrollment. The types of HT included OCPs (71), medroxyprogesterone acetate (11), levonorgestrel IUD (11), contraceptive implant (3), and etonogestrel/ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring (1). After excluding women with presumed postmenopausal status, we identified 105 women on hormonal therapy and 143 who were not. Graph 1 provides an overlay of the ISTH-BAT scores by hormone treatment status. Table 1 demonstrates the demographic and disease features of the two groups. On average, women on HT were younger, 20.7 years vs. 24.5 years (p= 0.003), than those who were not. Other disease characteristics, including disease subtype, VWF laboratories (VWF:Ag, VWF: RCOF, VWF GPIbM), and ISTH-BAT HMB and PPH specific domains were not significantly different between the groups. Higher total ISTH-BAT scores were observed for women not on HT (7.4± 5.1) compared to those who were (6.8± 4.2); however, the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions: For women with type 1 VWD, HMB is widespread, affecting 94% of the subjects enrolled in the PPG. Hormone therapy was common, with 47% receiving treatment. Apart from age, there were no significant differences in the disease characteristics or BATs between women with type 1 VWD who are and are not receiving hormone therapy in this cohort. Figure 1View largeDownload PPTFigure 1View largeDownload PPT Close modal

Comparison of Estradiol Cypionate, Estradiol Benzoate and Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone in Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination in Multiparous Murrah Buffaloes

The present study was aimed to evaluate the efficiency of estradiol cypionate, estradiol benzoate and gonadotropin-releasing hormone during fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocols in multiparous Murrah buffaloes. A total of 35 buffaloes were used between September and November 2021 and subjected to a synchronization protocol. On day 0, insertion of an intravaginal progesterone device (CIDR, 1.38 g) was made with intramuscular (i/m) injection of estradiol benzoate (EB, 2 mg); On day 9: CIDR removed with i/m injections of Dinoprost (12.5 mg) and eCG (400 IU), and then buffaloes were randomized into three treatment group: 1) EB 1 mg on day 10 (n=13). 2) estradiol cypionate (EC) 1 mg on day 9 (n=12), and 3) Buserelin acetate (GnRH) 0.0105 mg on day 10 (n=10). The estrus signs observed during the FTAI (56 h after CIDR withdrawal) and conception rate at 90 days after FTAI were recorded. The conception rates were 61.5, 58.3 and 60.0% for EB, EC and GnRH treatment groups, respectively. There was no significant difference between the treatment groups for conception rate and signs of estrus. Therefore, it was concluded that all three treatments can be efficiently used during estrus synchronization protocol with FTAI in multiparous Murrah buffaloes.

Intravaginal devices impregnated with medroxyprogesterone acetate avoid early parturition and synchronize farrowing in sows

Two experiments were performed to evaluate the use of an intravaginal device (IVD) impregnated with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) to avoid early parturition and synchronize farrowing in sows. In both experiments with IVDs, the gestation length, stillbirth rate, birth weight, colostrum yield, lactational litter performance, and subsequent reproductive performance of sows were assessed. In Experiment 1 (Exp. 1; n = 91), sows were assigned to four treatments to evaluate the minimum required MPA dose: without IVD (CONT; control), 400 mg (MPA400), 600 mg (MPA600), and 800 mg (MPA800) of MPA in the IVD. The IVD was inserted on day 110 of gestation and removed on day 115. No sows farrowed during IVD treatment. Gestation length was increased in treatments with MPA (116.4 days) compared to the control (CONT; 114.9 days; P < 0.01), without effects on piglet birth weight (P = 0.98). A lower percentage of deaths around the farrow (P = 0.02) was observed in the CONT (1.8%) compared to MPA treatments (6.8%). The dose of 400 mg of MPA, validated in Exp. 1, was used in Experiment 2 (Exp. 2; n = 84) to evaluate the performance of sows and piglets in a sow farrowing synchronization protocol. Sows were treated with MPA from days 110–114 of gestation with or without 0.168 mg of cloprostenol sodium (PGF2α), for luteolysis induction, at IVD removal. Thus, four treatments were considered: CONT – without MPA or luteolysis induction (no interventions); PGF2α – luteolysis induction on day 114 of gestation without MPA; MPA114 – MPA treatment till 114 days of gestation without luteolysis induction; MPA114 + PGF2α – MPA treatment and luteolysis induction on day 114 of gestation. The gestation length in treatments with IVDs was longer (P < 0.01) than CONT without a difference for PGF2α treatment (P = 0.46). No impact of IVD use on piglet birth weight (P = 0.67) and deaths around the farrow (P = 0.50) were observed. The colostrum yield (P = 0.65), immunocrit (P = 0.72), piglet performance during lactation (P = 0.81), and weaning-to-estrus interval (P = 0.21) were similar among treatments. In conclusion, the use of IVDs impregnated with 400 mg of MPA between days 110 and 114 of gestation prevented early parturition with no implications for piglet survival at birth, colostrum yield, or litter performance.

Comparison of the efficiency of progesterone, ketoprofen, or GnRH administration on the day of fixed-time transfer (FTET) of in vitro produced (IVP) embryos in suckled crossbred beef cows

ABSTRACT The objective is to treat cows receiving IVP embryos with injectable progesterone, ketoprofen, and gonadorelin on the day of FTET and to compare the reproductive efficiency of untreated cows with that of treated cows, using pregnancy per ET as the response variable. 32 oocyte donor cows were used and 392 embryo transfers were performed in multiparous cows. Recipient cows were synchronised with the protocol: on day zero (d0), an intravaginal progesterone device was inserted (1.0 g P4), and 2.0 mg estradiol benzoate (EB;im) was administered; on d8, the P4 device was removed, and 150 µg of cloprostenol was administered; on d9, 1.0 mg EB was administered; and on d17, embryo transfers were performed. On d17, recipient cows were randomly assigned to one of four groups: those treated with injectable progesterone (iP4G, 150 mg; n = 84), ketoprofen (KetoprofenG, 1000 mg; n = 104), gonadorelin (GonadorelinG, 100 µg; n = 80), or the control (untreated) group (NTG, n = 124). Pregnancy diagnosis was performed 35 days following embryo transfer, showing pregnancy per FTET of 42.8, 57.6, 55.0, and 43.5% for iP4G, KetoprofenG, GonadorelinG, and NTG, respectively. It is concluded that ketoprofen improves FTET pregnancy rates when compared to injectable progesterone and control group. Gonadorelin demonstrated comparable efficacy to ketoprofen.

Equine chorionic gonadotropin administered on day 5 of a 7-days fixed-time artificial insemination program improves ovulation synchrony and corpus luteum function in anestrous beef cows

In order to assess the effect of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) administered on Day 5 or 7 of a fixed-time artificial insemination protocol (FTAI) in anestrous suckled beef cows, two experiments were performed to determine the following endpoints: Experiment 1 (n = 22), preovulatory follicle (POF) diameter, ovulation time, corpus luteum (CL) area, estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) concentrations; and Experiment 2 (n = 676), a field trial to evaluate conception rate using the same experimental design. In both experiments, a synchronization protocol using estradiol benzoate (EB) (Day 0), intravaginal progestin device (IVD) (Days 0 through 7), prostaglandin (PGF) (Day 7), eCG (Day 5 or 7), and GnRH (Day 9). Treatment consisted of administering 400 IU of eCG on Day 5 (T5) or Day 7 (T7 or control) concomitant with treatment with PGF2α. In experiment 1, all cows of T5 ovulated by 16 h after GnRH administration. The POF tended (P = 0.06; P = 0.07) to be larger at 1 and 2 d before ovulation in T5. The day before ovulation, E2 tended to be lower (P = 0.06) in T5 compared with T7. The CL area and the P4 concentrations were greater (P = 0.04) on day 9 in T5 compared with T7. In experiment 2, the conception rate was greater (P = 0.04) in T5 (72.2%) compared with T7 (61.0%) group. Therefore, administration of eCG on Day 5 of the designed protocol hastened ovulation of a greater follicle, which produced a larger CL and greater concentrations of progesterone by Day 9 after ovulation, resulting in 11.2% increase in cows pregnant.

Use of injectable progesterone to replace the intravaginal progesterone device on the ovulation synchronization protocol reduces the pregnancy rate in Bos indicus cows

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of using different doses of injectable progesterone (P4i) in a new ovulation synchronization protocol in place of progesterone (P4)-releasing intravaginal devices in Bos indicus cows. For this, three experiments were carried out. To determine the P4-release curve (Experiment 1), 55 Bos indicus cows were distributed into 5 experimental groups for the administration of different doses of P4i at D0 (P4i60, n = 11; P4i105, n = 11; P4i150, n = 11; P4i195, n = 11 and P4i240, n = 11) and submitted to the ovulation synchronization protocol (D0: P4i + EB; D8: PGF2α + EC + eCG). Daily blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture from D0 to D12 for analysis of the serum P4 profile. To evaluate ovarian follicular dynamics and the timing of ovulation (Experiment 2), three studies were conducted with different doses of P4i at the beginning of the ovulation synchronization protocol (Study a: 150 mg and 105 mg P4i; Study b: 75 mg P4i; Study c: 60 mg P4i). At the end of the ovulation synchronization protocol, after ovulation inducing administration, ultrasound examinations were performed every 24 h until 96 h or until ovulation was detected (Studies a, b and c). To evaluate the pregnancy rate (Experiment 3), 132 Bos indicus cows were subjected to an ovulation synchronization protocol using either a 75 mg progesterone injection (Group P4i75) or an intravaginal P4 device (control group) on D0. Pregnancy was determined by ultrasound 30 days after the end of the ovulation synchronization protocol. All statistical analyses were performed by SAS®. In the P4-release curve, the peak occurred on D1 and on D3 all concentrations remained below 1 ng/mL until the end of the study (D12) in all groups. The ovulation rates were similar between the 75 mg dose group and the Control group (P = 0.24 - Experiment 2 – study b), result not observed with other doses of P4i (study a and c). The pregnancy rate (Experiment 3) was greater [P4i Group 27% and Control Group 72.7% (P = 0.0001)] in cows receiving the intravaginal P4 device. In conclusion, the use of long-acting P4i (75 mg) to replace the intravaginal P4 device negatively affects the conception rate of Bos indicus cows submitted to ovulation synchronization protocol.

The feasibility of pelvic floor training to treat urinary incontinence in women with breast cancer: a telehealth intervention trial

PurposeTo investigate the feasibility of recruiting into a pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) program delivered via telehealth to treat urinary incontinence (UI) in women with breast cancer on aromatase inhibitors.MethodsWe conducted a pre-post single cohort clinical trial with 54 women with breast cancer. Participants underwent a 12-week PFMT program using an intra-vaginal pressure biofeedback device: femfit®. The intervention included eight supervised individual PFMT sessions over Zoom™ and a 12-week home exercise program. The primary outcome of this study was feasibility, specifically consent rate. Secondary outcomes which included prevalence and burden of UI measured using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire–Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF), and pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength measured as intravaginal squeeze pressure were compared using McNemar’s and paired t tests.ResultsThe mean age of participants was 50 years (SD ± 7.3). All women who were eligible to participate in this study consented (n = 55/55, 100%). All participants reported that the program was beneficial and tailored to their needs. The results showed a statistically significant decline in the prevalence (percentage difference 42%, 95% CI 28, 57%) and burden (ICIQ-UI SF score mean change 9.4, 95% CI 8.5, 10.4) of UI post intervention. A significant increase in PFM strength was observed post-intervention (mean change 4.8 mmHg, 95% CI 3.9, 5.5).ConclusionThis study indicated that PFMT delivered via telehealth may be feasible and potentially beneficial in treating stress UI in women with breast cancer. Further studies such as randomized controlled trials are required to confirm these results.

PSV-B-15 Comparison of the 7-day Cosynch and 8-day Estradiol-Based Protocols for Synchronization of Ovulation and Timed Artificial Insemination in Suckled Bos Taurus Cows

Abstract The objective was to compare pregnancy rates (PR) on day 30 and pregnancy loss between days 30 and 60 (PL) after timed artificial insemination (TAI; day 0) using 2 synchronization protocols, and plasma progesterone on day 18 in suckled beef cows. Angus cows were randomly assigned to either 7-d progesterone CoSynch (7-d P + GnRH) or 8-d progesterone + estradiol (8-d P + ES) synchronization protocols for TAI. On day -10, cows in the 7-d P + GnRH treatment group (n=574) received a progesterone-releasing intravaginal device (PIVD) and GnRH, on day -3 the PIVD was removed and cows received cloprostenol. On day 0 (64 h after PIVD removal), cows received GnRH and were subjected to TAI. On Day -10, cows in the 8-d P + ES treatment group (n=574) received a PIVD and estradiol benzoate, on Day -2 the PIVD was removed, and cows received cloprostenol and estradiol cypionate. On day 0 (48 h after PIVD removal), cows were subjected to TAI. The TAI pregnancy rates for each treatment were determined on day 30 and day 60. In a subset of cows [n=81, (7-d P + GnRH, n=41; 8-d P + ES, n=40)], serum progesterone concentration was evaluated on day 18. The PR (7-d P + GnRH=48.9%; 8-d P + ES=45.6%) and PL (7-d P + GnRH=3.6%; 8-d P + ES=4.6%) did not differ (P≥0.28) between treatment groups. In a subset of cows, serum progesterone concentration on day 18 did not differ (P=0.67) between treatment groups but tended to be less (P=0.07) in cows that had PL compared with cows that had no PL. In conclusion, there was no difference in PR and PL between suckled beef cows using 7-d CoSynch or 8-d estradiol-based protocols for synchronization of ovulation and TAI.

171 Sex-Sorted Sperm Used for Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination and in Vitro Fertilization in Wood Bison

Abstract Wood bison (Bison bison athabascae) are a threatened species native to Canada. In a conservation setting such as zoos, females are preferred over males and sex-sorted sperm may help skew the proportion of females born. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of sex-sorted sperm in fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI, Experiment 1) and in vitro fertilization (IVF, Experiment 2). In Experiment 1, females in bison herds at the University of Saskatchewan and Toronto Zoo were synchronized with 3.3 mg estradiol-17ß + 50 mg progesterone and given a progesterone-releasing intravaginal device for 8 days. At device removal, bison were given 500 µg of cloprostenol, and 72 h later were given 2500 IU human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and inseminated with either sex-sorted or conventional sperm. A second insemination occurred 24 h after hCG. Pregnancy diagnosis and fetal sexing was done by transrectal ultrasonography at 30- and 70-days post-AI, respectively. In Experiment 2, cumulus oocyte complexes collected transvaginally from live bison were fertilized in vitro with either sex-sorted or conventional sperm. Cleavage and embryo rates were determined at 3- and 7-days post fertilization, respectively. Proportional data were compared by chi-square. In Experiment 1, there was no effect of herd (P=0.17) or sperm (P=0.68) on pregnancy per AI (P/AI) at 30 days (total=25/51 [49%]). The proportion of female calves was greater in the sex-sorted than conventional group (9/10 [90%] vs 3/11 [27%]; P&amp;lt; 0.01). In Experiment 2, the cleavage (122/222 [55%] vs 62/94 [66%];P=0.07) and embryo rate (18/222 [8%] vs 14/94 [15%]; P=0.07) tended to be lower in the sex-sorted than the conventional group. In summary, sex-sorted sperm increased the proportion of female bison calves born following FTAI. Future efforts will include improving embryo production rates following IVF with sex-sorted sperm. Funding provided by Toronto Zoo, Mitacs, and STGenetics.

Injectable progesterone for estrus and ovulation induction in seasonal anestrous ewes

We evaluated, for the first time, the effects of long-acting injectable progesterone (iP4) for estrus induction in ewes during non-breeding season. To evaluate the serum progesterone (P4) curve induced by the application of iP4 in sheep and the effect of its use prior to the cyclicity induction protocol, for Experiment 1, 39 ewes were allocated into three groups: no-treatment, control (n = 14); 37.5 mg of iP4 im (iP4 37.5, n = 13), and 75 mg of iP4 im (iP4 75, n = 12). P4 dosage in a subset of animals (5 per group) showed the highest P4 level at 48 h and reduction to basal levels 10 days after injection, when all females received an intravaginal device (IVD) containing 60 mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) that remained for 11 days. At withdrawal the animals received 400 IU of eCG im, and rams remained for three days with ewes. On days 6 and 12 after IVD removal, blood samples were collected from a subset (n = 5 per group) of ewes that manifested estrous. iP4 75 group had lower luteal P4 concentration, and lower conception rate (35 days after mating) when compared to the other groups. To evaluate the possibility of replacing IVD with iP4, on experiment 2, 36 ewes were allocated into two treatments: control (n = 10), IVD for nine days and 300 IU of eCG at withdrawal; and iP4 75 (n = 26) 75 mg of iP4 im and, after 9 (n = 13) or 10 (n = 13) days, animals were injected with 300 IU of eCG. Estrus manifestation and conception rates were lower in groups treated with iP4. Eleven days after estrus, 93.3% of a subset of animals (5 from control and 10 from iP4 75) exhibited P4 concentrations above 1 ng/mL, indicating ovulations. In conclusion, the injection of 75 mg of long acting iP4 maintained levels above 1 ng/mL for at least 7 days, and negatively affected P4 luteal concentration and conception rate after a subsequent cyclicity induction protocol. Treatment with 75 mg of iP4 associated to eCG is suitable for inducing ovulations, although inhibits estrus manifestation.

Conservative interventions for treating urinary incontinence in women: an Overview of Cochrane systematic reviews.

Conservative interventions for treating urinary incontinence in women: an Overview of Cochrane systematic reviews.

Comparing the effect of estradiol benzoate and 17β-estradiol plus progesterone on follicular turnover and development, and pregnancy outcomes in a timed artificial insemination protocol

The objective of this study was to compare the efficiency of estradiol benzoate (EB) and 17β-estradiol (E2) associated with progesterone (P4) in a fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocol. We hypothesized that E2+P4 induces an earlier emergence of a new follicular wave (NFW), improving pre-ovulatory follicle diameter and pregnancy rates to FTAI (P/FTAI). In Exp.1, on Day 0 (D0), all Bos indicus cows (n = 12/group) received an intravaginal P4 device and a dose of PGF2α analogue. On D0, females were randomly assigned to receive EB or E2+P4. On D8.5, P4 intravaginal devices were removed and a dose of PGF2α and EB were administered in all females followed by fixed-timed AI on D10. Between D0 and D10, the dominant follicular growth was determined by ovary ultrasonography exams. On D8.5 and D10 the percentage of color power-Doppler signals in the dominant follicular wall was evaluated. In Exp. 2, 467 females (2-year-old nulliparous [n = 76], primiparous [n = 92] and pluriparous [n = 299]) were subjected to the similar FTAI and assigned to be treated with EB (n = 243) or E2+P4 (n = 224). Pregnancy diagnosis was performed 30 days after FTAI by ultrasonography. The day to emergence of NFW was similar between treatments (EB: 3.7 ± 0.37 vs. E2+P4: 3.3 ± 0.3, P = 0.76). Females treated with E2+P4 presented greater (P = 0.06) follicular growth between the emergence and D9 (1.18 ± 0.07) than those treated with EB (0.97 ± 0.08). There was also a positive effect (P < 0.05) of E2+P4 on diameter of the dominant follicle on D9 (13.0 ± 0.6 vs. 10.9 ± 0.55) and blood perfusion of the follicle wall on D8.5 (49 vs. 40%). There was a treatment by parity category interaction effect on P/FTAI (P < 0.05). Treatment with E2+P4 was advantageous to P/FTAI of primiparous cows (E2+P4: 58% and EB: 30%). However, for nulliparous and pluriparous cows, P/FTAI was similar between treatments (∼50%). In conclusion, in a E2/P4-based protocol for FTAI, E2+P4 is as efficient as EB in inducing new follicular emergence within a similar day range, but it results similar or greater P/FTAI.

Current State of Non-surgical Devices for Female Stress Urinary Incontinence.

The purpose of this review is to summarize and assess the current non-surgical devices for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Devices for SUI can generally be divided into two categories. One category is the augmentation of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), wherein devices such as vaginal cones, intravaginal biofeedback, and electrical or magnetic stimulation are used to strength the pelvic floor musculature, though none are more effective than traditional PFMT. The second category of devices mechanically occludes the outlet and includes incontinence pessaries, intravaginal occlusion devices, and urethral plugs and patches. While these are palliative rather than curative, they share similar rates of improvement in leakage. A number of novel devices exist for the treatment and management of SUI. Though no single device has been shown to be more effective than PFMT alone, they may be beneficial for women who have difficulty isolating their pelvic floor muscles, desire accountability, or prefer technology-based engagement. Outlet occlusion devices are less comfortable for the patient, but remain an option for women who do not desire surgery.

The effect of progesterone length in timed AI in ewes.

This study aimed to evaluate the reproductive performance of ewes submitted to timed AI protocol with 7 (D7) or 9 (D9) days of progesterone. A total of 220 crossbred ewes (Doper × Santa Ines) were distributed in the treatments according to body weight (52.67 ± 11.76kg), body condition score (2.5 ± 0.8; scale of 1-5), and the female category (multiparous, nulliparous and primiparous). Ewes received an intravaginal device of 0.3g of progesterone (CIDR® Easy breed) on day 0, keeping in ewes for 7 or 9days, which were the experimental treatments. At the time of P4 withdrawal, ewes received 300IU of eCG (Novormon®) and 6.70mg of dinoprost tromethamine (Lutalyse®). Insemination by laparoscopy was performed between 46 and 59h after device removal, lasting from 1 to 5min/ewe, which did not differ between protocols. The estrus detection rate was higher in the 9-day protocol compared to the 7-day protocol (82% and 65%, respectively, P = 0.0096). However, the 7-day protocol tended to increase pregnancy rate on the TAI compared to the 9-day protocol (45% and 33%, respectively, P = 0.09). The plasma concentration of progesterone at device removal was higher in the 7-day protocol than in the 9-day protocol (2.35 and 1.22ng/mL, respectively, P = 0.04). We conclude that reducing the length of the estrus synchronization protocol to 7days is recommended, which improved the reproductive response in ewes.