Mean Serum Progesterone Concentrations Research Articles

O-252 Cumulative live birth rates (CLBR) in in vitro fertilization per oocyte used, embryo transferred, and embryo transfer impair with increasing female body mass index (BMI)

Abstract Study question Does the number of oocytes used, embryos transferred, or embryo transfers to achieve specific cumulative live birth rates differ according to female body mass index? Summary answer The greater the female BMI, the higher the number of oocytes, embryos and embryo transfers needed to achieve a liveborn, indicating a lower reproductive potential. What is known already The negative impact of high female BMI on in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles has been extensively described in the medical literature, although there is no clear agreement on the potential role of oocytes, embryos, and endometrial receptivity on these results. However, the clinical outcome is commonly assessed per embryo transfer in isolated cycles and less frequently in cumulative cycles from the same cohort of oocytes. The number of oocytes or embryos needed to reach specific clinical goals has been never estimated in comparison to women with other BMIs, which gives a relevant multicycle overview of reproductive outcomes. Study design, size, duration This is a multicenter retrospective observational cohort study including a total of 31,289 women undergoing IVF with known BMI and 35,430 embryo transfers performed in 15 IVIRMA centers in Spain, from January 1, 2017, to October 1, 2023 with known outcome. Patients were grouped as Underweight (U, BMI<18.5 kg/m2), Normoweight (N, BMI 18.5-<25 kg/m2), Overweight (Ov, BMI 25-<30 kg/m2), and Obese (Ob, BMI≥30 kg/m2). Participants/materials, setting, methods IVF-ICSI cycles with autologous oocytes and partner’s sperm were analyzed according to female BMI. CLBR per oocyte used, embryos replaced, and embryo transfers in consecutive treatments until reaching live birth or abandon were calculated by survival curve analyses with Kaplan-Meier’s methods estimating hazard ratios (HR), and BMI groups compared by with Log-Rank test. Outcomes per embryo transfer/completed cycle and descriptives were compared by chi square tests, and ANOVA where appropriate. Main results and the role of chance Mean women’s age was 37.6years, 95%CI(37.5-37.6), 36.9 years95%CI(36.7-37.1), 37.7years95%CI(37.6-37.8), and 37.2years95%CI(37.0-37.4) for N, U, Ov, and OB respectively. Mean stimulation days and serum progesterone concentrations the day of hCG administration were comparable. Estradiol on triggering day was statistically higher(p < 0.05) on U group, 2073pg/ml95%CI(2008-2138), compared to the other groups, N 1942pg/ml95%CI(1926-1957), Ov 1840pg/ml95%CI(1808-1872), and Ob 1789pg/ml 95%CI(1742-1835). Number of aspirated oocytes was higher on Ob 9.47,95%CI(9.23-9.71), compared with N 9.1,95%CI(9.02-9.17),p<0.05. LBR per embryo transfer was 35.0%95%CI(32.9-37.3) for U, 33.3%95%CI(32.7-33.9) for N, 32.13%95%CI(30.9-33.4) for Ov ad 28.3%95%CI(26.6-30.1) for Ob, p < 0.001. LBR per completed IVF-ICSI cycle (until reaching live birth or using all embryos) was 41.8%95%CI(69.7-43.9) for U, 40.6%95%CI(40.0-41.18) for N, 39.50%95%CI(38.4-40.6) for Ov, and 39.6%95%CI(37.9-41.37) for Ob, being statistically comparable. Using N as a reference group, HR were 1.07,95%CI(0.98-1.17) for U, 0.98,95%CI(0.93-1.03) for Ov, and 0.90,95%CI(0.84-0.98) for Ob, p-value=0.011, being Ob significantly different compared to N. Regarding HR per embryo transfer, 0.96,95%CI(0.82-1.13) for U, 0.87,95%CI(0.79-0.96) for Ov and 0.76,95%CI(0.66-0.89) for Ob, being statistically different Ov (p = 0.0055) and OB (p < 0.001) from N. With the total number of embryos transferred, HR were better than N in U group, 1.11,95%CI(1.02-1.20), p = 0.0192 and significantly worse in Ov and Ob, 0.91,95%CI(0.87-0.96) and 0.85,95%CI(0.79-0.92), p < 0.001 on both. Limitations, reasons for caution Despite the huge sample of patients included and the statistical approach used, the retrospective design of the study represents its main limitation, thus needing to interpret the findings with caution. Wider implications of the findings IVF-ICSI cycles in women high BMI are less efficient than in normoweight women since a greater number of oocytes, embryos and embryo transfers are needed to reach similar CLBRs. This finding highlights again the advice of initiating IVF with an adequate female body weight. Trial registration number not applicable

Luteal phase support using micronized vaginal progesterone as pessaries or capsules in artificial cycles: is there any difference?

Research questionIs there a difference between the proportion of patients with serum progesterone <8.8 ng/ml on the day of embryo transfer when micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP) for luteal phase support (LPS) is given as pessaries versus capsules? DesignThis retrospective, matched-cohort, single-centre study compared pessaries (Cyclogest) versus capsules (Utrogestan, Progeffik) for LPS in hormone replacement treatment–embryo transfer (HRT-ET) cycles. Patients under 50 years old with a triple-layer endometrial thickness of ≥6.5 mm underwent transfer of one or two blastocysts. Serum progesterone concentrations were measured on the day of transfer; patients with concentrations <8.8 ng/ml received a single ‘rescue’ dose of additional progesterone by subcutaneous injection. ResultsIn total 2665 HRT-ET cycles were analysed; 663 (24.9%) used pessaries for LPS and 2002 (75.1%) used capsules. Mean serum progesterone concentrations with standard deviations on the day of embryo transfer were significantly higher in the group using MVP pessaries compared with those using capsules (14.5 ± 5.1 versus 13.0 ± 4.8 ng/ml; P = 0.000). The percentage of participants with suboptimal serum progesterone concentrations on the day of embryo transfer (<8.8 ng/ml) was significantly lower in the pessary group than the capsule group (10.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 7.9–12.6% versus 17.9%, 95% CI 16.2–19.6%; adjusted odds ratio 0.426, 95% CI 0.290–0.625; P = 0.000). No differences in pregnancy outcome were observed between the groups. ConclusionsUsing MVP pessaries rather than capsules for LPS resulted in significantly fewer patients having suboptimal serum progesterone concentrations on the day of embryo transfer. Consequently, almost 50% fewer patients in the pessary group needed rescue treatment.

Evaluation of the ideal vaginal Progesterone effectiveness doses for luteal support in embryo thawing cycles after endometrial preparation without using the GnRh analogue.

Frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles require the use of luteal phase support (LPS) for supporting implantation, endometrial and embryo maturity. Individualized LPS should be chosen according to the used endometrial preparation protocol. The aim of the study was to analyze the effectiveness of two different vaginal Progesterone doses for women who underwent FET cycle and the same endometrial preparation without using the GnRh analogue. 607 women who underwent FET cycle were included in the study. 305 patients received luteal support with 600 mg/day vaginal Progesterone and 302 patients were treated with 800 mg/day of vaginal Progesterone. In the 800 mg/day group, the mean serum Progesterone concentration on the day of embryo transfer was higher than in the 600 mg group (14.00±6.18 ng/mL and 12.22±5.39, respectively, p < 0.001). Moreover, human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) positive and ongoing pregnancy rates were higher in the group of patients who received LPS with 800 mg/day of Progesterone than in the group of patients treated with 600 mg/day of Progesterone. CONCLUSIONS: In patients undergoing FET cycles following endometrial preparation made without previously using the GnRh analogue, 800 mg doses of vaginal Progesterone as LPS improve reproductive outcomes.

Seasonal changes of gonadal activity of invasive vermiculated sailfin catfish (Pterygoplichthys disjunctivus) from Polgolla reservoir in Sri Lanka

The present study elucidates the pattern of the reproductive activity of the invasivePterygoplichthys disjunctivusmale (n = 113) and female (n = 124) fish in Polgolla Reservoir, Sri Lanka. The reproductive activity was studied based on the gonadosomatic index (GSI), macroscopic and microscopic features of the testes and ovaries, and the serum testosterone and progesterone level during a 12-month study period. The monthly GSI of male fish (P = 0.0001) was the highest (0.333 ± 0.08%) in October and the lowest (0.044 ± 0.01%) in January whereas in the female fish, the GSI was not changed significantly (P = 0.1780) during the 12-month period of sampling. The mean monthly serum testosterone concentration (P = 0.0244) was the highest (0.396 ± 0.332 ng/ml) in March and the lowest (0.085 ± 0.156 ng/ml) in August, while the mean serum progesterone concentration of female fish showed no significant difference (P = 0.4798). Histological examination revealed that the testes with seminiferous tubules filled with sperm and the ovaries with mature oocytes were present throughout the year. Therefore, based on the results of histology and reproductive characteristics, we concluded that both male and femaleP. disjunctivusin Polgolla Reservoir are breeding throughout the year.

Serum progesterone concentrations are reduced in obese women on the day of embryo transfer

Research questionDoes serum progesterone concentration vary on the day of embryo transfer according to female body mass index (BMI)? DesignRetrospective analysis including 3210 infertile patients undergoing an embryo transfer in the context of an artificial endometrial preparation cycle with sequential administration of oestrogens and micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP) (400 mg/12 h). Serum progesterone was measured on the day of embryo transfer, 6 ± 2 h after last MVP administration. Serum progesterone concentrations were subdivided into optimal (≥9.2 ng/ml) or suboptimal (<9.2 ng/ml) concentrations, and the cut-off point was defined according to our previous results. The primary objective was the correlation between progesterone concentrations on the day of embryo transfer and patient BMI, as a continuous variable and according to four ranges (underweight: <18.5 kg/m2; normal weight: 18.5–24.9 kg/m2; overweight: 25–29.9 kg/m2; and obesity: ≥30 kg/m2), according to the World Health Organization classification. Secondary objectives included the evaluation of reproductive outcome according to patient BMI and progesterone concentrations on the day of embryo transfer. ResultsMean serum progesterone concentrations and the ratio of patients with progesterone concentrations above the cut-off point of 9.2 ng/ml fell progressively as BMI increased. Overweight and obese patients had lower mean serum progesterone concentrations than underweight and normal weight women (P < 0.001). A trend was observed towards impaired reproductive results in obese patients with suboptimal progesterone concentrations, absent when concentrations were optimal. ConclusionsSerum progesterone concentrations on the day of embryo transfer in artificial cycles with MPV decrease as BMI increases. It is highly recommended that serum progesterone concentrations are moitored to ensure optimal concentrations and reproductive outcomes.

Physico-chemical properties of cervical mucus discharge and endocrine profile during oestrus and metoestrus period in crossbred dairy cows with and without metoestrual bleeding

The physicochemical properties of cervical mucus discharge (CMD), serum oestrogen and progesterone profiles during oestrus (day 0) and metoestrus (day 2) period in crossbred cows with (Group I, n=12) and without (Group II, n=12) history of profuse metoestrual bleeding were studied. Majority of group I cows exhibited clear and transparent CMD (83.33 per cent) with thin consistency (100 per cent), typical fern pattern (83.33 per cent), pH (7.58±0.12) and spinnbarkeit value of 12.64±0.50 cm during oestrus. However, during metoestrus all the cows (100 per cent) exhibited bloody CMD with thin consistency (66.67 per cent), ‘nil’ fern pattern (0.0 per cent), mean pH of 7.96±0.10 and mean spinnbarkeit value of 9.35±0.5 cm. In group I cows, the mean pH and spinnbarkeit values of CMD (7.96±0.10 and 9.35±0.5 cm, respectively) was significantly (p&lt;0.01) higher than that of group II cows (7.64±0.07 and 7.75±0.30 cm, respectively) during metoestrus. The mean serum progesterone concentration of group I cows (1.61±0.55 ng/mL) was significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher than that of group II cows (0.36±0.07 ng/mL) on day of oestrus. The mean serum oestradiol concentration of group I cow (6.85±0.53 pg/mL) was significantly (p&lt;0.05) lower when compared to group II cows (8.48±0.49 pg/mL) during metoestrus. In conclusion, the physicochemical properties of CMD, serum progesterone and oestrogen profiles significantly altered in group I cows during oestrus and metoestrus which showed lower conception rate than that of group II cows.

Shortening of dioestrus in female dogs using cloprostenol sodium at different stages of dioestrus.

A study was conducted in 18 healthy, fertile, non-pregnant, dioestrous female dogs to evaluate the efficacy of PGF2? analogue (cloprostenol sodium) in shortening the dioestrus. Bitches that were diagnosed non-pregnant by trans-abdominal ultrasonography, on day 30 of breeding and their dioestrual stage confirmed by serum progesterone assay, were randomly allotted to three groups of six bitches each. Group I and II bitches were treated with cloprostenol sodium @ 2.5 µg/kg b. wt., subcutaneously, thrice at 48 h interval, beginning on day 30 and 45 of last breeding, respectively. Group III animals were assigned as control and were left untreated. Fifty days from first injection of cloprostenol, serum progesterone assay was carried out among the animals in Group I and II whereas the same was done among Group III bitches on day 90 after last breeding. Among Group I and II, mean serum progesterone concentrations were 0.93 ± 0.04 and 0.87 ± 0.01ng/ mL, respectively whereas the level was 1.72 ± 0.9 ng/mL among control group; highly significant difference (p&lt;0.01) existed between control and treatment groups. The present study indicated that administration of PGF2? analogue during dioestrus enhances the pace of luteal regression among non-pregnant bitches.

Subcutaneous luteal phase progesterone rescue rectifies ongoing pregnancy rates in hormone replacement therapy vitrified–warmed blastocyst transfer cycles

Research questionWill luteal phase rescue with additional progesterone increase serum progesterone concentrations and improve reproductive outcomes in patients with low serum progesterone concentrations undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) cycles? DesignCase–control study including 40 consecutive patients with serum progesterone concentrations <8.75 ng/ml on the 5th day of progesterone supplementation who underwent rescue with a daily bolus of 25 mg s.c. progesterone, starting on the afternoon of the 5th day of progesterone administration. For every patient who underwent progesterone rescue, three patients matched by age, body mass index, number of previous attempts and number of blastocysts transferred, with serum progesterone concentration >8.75 ng/ml on the 5th day of progesterone administration served as controls (n = 120). The main outcome measure was ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR). ResultsBaseline demographic features and embryological data of the rescue and control groups were comparable. As expected, the mean serum progesterone concentration was lower in the rescue group on the 5th day of progesterone administration (7.84 ± 0.92 versus 15.32 ± 5.02 ng/ml; P < 0.001). Following rescue, the mean serum progesterone concentration on the day of vitrified–warmed embryo transfer (6th day of progesterone administration) was 33.43 ± 10.83 ng/ml (range 14.61–82.64 ng/ml), and the OPR of the rescue and control groups were comparable. ConclusionsIn patients undergoing HRT vitrified–warmed blastocyst transfer with serum progesterone concentrations lower than 8.75 ng/ml 1 day prior to the scheduled embryo transfer (6th day of progesterone administration), additional supplementation with a 25 mg s.c. daily progesterone dose seems to rescue the cycle, resulting in OPR comparable to those of patients with serum progesterone >8.75 ng/ml.

Endocrine profiles and kidney function markers of apparently healthy pregnant and lactating Duroc sows

This experiment was carried out to evaluate the effects of reproductive activities (pregnancy and lactation) on certain serum endocrine profiles and kidney function markers of Duroc sows. Thirty (30) sexually matured cycling apparently healthy Duroc sows and eight (8) Duroc boars (38 pigs), of mean weight 55.36±0.48 kg, aged between13and 15 months were used for this study. The sows (30) were randomly assigned to five groups (A to E) of six sows per group in a completely randomized design (CRD). Group A: Nonpregnant (control), Group B: Early gestation (38 days), Group C: Mid gestation (78 days), Group D: Late gestation (110 days) and Group E: Post gestation (7 days postpartum). The mean serum progesterone (P4) concentration of group D sows was significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased when compared to group E. The mean serum thyroxine (T4) concentration of group D sows (3rd trimester) was significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased when compared to groups C and E. The mean blood urea nitrogen (BUN) concentration of the treated group (C) was significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher when compared to group B. The mean creatinine concentration of group D was significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher when compared to groups E, B and the control. The mean BUN/CRT ratio of group B sows was significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher when compared to groups C, D, E and the control. There were, however, no significant variations (p&gt;0.05) in the mean oestradiol (E2), cortisol (C), creatinine (CRT) concentrations and BUN/CRT ratio among all the groups. In conclusion, the serum endocrine and kidney function markers of Duroc sows in this study were significantly influenced by gestation. This study has established reference values of the endocrine profiles and kidney function markers of Duroc sows during gestation that are consistent with normal health.

Day 7 embryo quality and suboptimal uterine environment influence morphometry of Day 16 conceptus in dairy cows

The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of Day 7 embryo quality and subclinical endometritis (SCE) in repeat breeder recipient cows on morphometry of Day 16 embryo and to determine the association of %PMN, serum progesterone and Day 16 conceptus length. Holstein dairy cows that failed to conceive at least 3 times, (parity, 3 and 4; body condition score, 3 to 3.5 out of 5) with subclinical endometritis (n = 180; SCE, >6% PMN on endometrial cytology) or without subclinical endometritis (n = 180; No-SCE, ≤ 6% PMN) were selected. Cows in each group received single, frozen-thawed, quality 1 (n = 60), 2 (n = 60) and 3 (n = 60) embryos (compact morula or early blastocyst) on Day 7 post estrus in the uterine horn ipsilateral to the ovary containing a corpus luteum, using standard nonsurgical techniques. Only cows that expressed estrus (Select-Synch protocol) and with acceptable corpus luteum (≥1.5 cm in size) were included. Conceptuses were collected on Day 16 from all recipient cows by standard non-surgical uterine flushing technique, using an 18-g embryo collection catheter with Phosphate Buffered Saline (pH 7.4). Blood samples were collected on Day 16 to determine serum progesterone concentrations. After collection, conceptuses were weighed and measured, and were categorized as tubular (underdeveloped, 10–20 mm) or filamentous (normal, >25 mm). Between cows with SCE and No-SCE, mean (±SEM) width (1.68 ± 0.13 mm vs. 1.84 ± 0.16 mm), length (34.4 ± 9.6 mm vs. 55.8 ± 13.4 mm) and weight (22.3 ± 3.7 vs. 40.6 ± 6.4 mg) of Day 16 conceptuses differed (P < 0.05). The mean width (1.75 ± 0.19 mm vs. 1.81 ± 0.22 mm), length (57.7 ± 11.2 vs. 51.1 ± 13.6 mm) and weight (34.3 ± 6.4 vs. 38.5 ± 8.2 mg) of Day 16 embryo following transfer of Day 7 embryo quality grade 1 and grade 2 embryos were not different (P > 0.1), but both differed from the mean width (1.59 ± 0.11 mm), length (28.9 ± 9.7 mm) and weight (25.3 ± 4.6 mg) of Day 16 embryo from Day 7 embryo quality grade 3 (P < 0.05). Total percentage of embryos recovered differed between SCE and No-SCE groups (P < 0.05; 36.1 vs 48.9%). Total percentage of embryos recovered on Day 16 following transfer of grade 1 (53.3%) and 2 (44.2%) Day 7 embryos were greater (P < 0.05) compared with transfer of grade 3 embryos (29.2%) (P < 0.001). Total percentage of filamentous embryos recovered was lower for SCE cows compared with No-SCE cows (P < 0.01; 15.0 vs. 25.6%). Total percentage of tubular embryos recovered did not differ between SCE and No-SCE cows (P > 0.1; 21.1% vs. 22.8%). Filamentous embryo recovered for grade 3 was lower (P < 0.05) compared with grade 1 in both SCE (8.3 vs. 21.7%) and No-SCE groups (15.0 vs. 33.3%). The mean (±SEM) CL volume (cm3; 11.8 ± 0.29 vs. 15.9 ± 0.31) and progesterone concentrations (ng/mL; 5.17 ± 1.8 vs. 8.2 ± 1.2) on Day 16 differed between SCE and No-SCE groups (P < 0.05) but not among Day 7 embryo grade groups (P > 0.1). The mean (±SEM) CL volume (cm3; 15.6 ± 0.28 vs 12.1 ± 3.9) and serum progesterone concentrations (ng/mL; 8.6 ± 1.4 vs. 4.9 ± 1.9) on Day 16 differed (P < 0.05) between cows yielded filamentous and tubular embryos. When all cows were considered, multiple regression analysis showed that the %PMN (P < 0.0001), progesterone concentrations (P < 0.0001), embryo qulaity (P < 0.05) and %PMN by progesterone interactions (P < 0.0001) influenced the length of Day 16 conceptus. Among cows without subclinical endometritis, only progesterone concentrations (P < 0.0001) and among cows with subclinical endometritis, only %PMN (P < 0.04) influenced the length of Day 16 conceptus. Progesterone concentrations (P < 0.0001) influenced the length of Day 16 conceptus in cows that received embryo quality 1 and 2. Progesterone concentration by %PMN interaction (P < 0.05) also influenced the length of Day 16 conceptus in cows that received embryo quality 2. The %PMN (P = 0.05) influenced the length of Day 16 conceptus in cows that received embryo quality 3. In conclusion, poor quality Day 7 embryo and presence of SCE negatively influenced early embryo development between Days 7 and 16 of gestation probably by dysregulated embryo-maternal interactions due to lower progesterone, prompting loss of the conceptus in sub-optimal uterine environment.

Serum Endocrine Profile in Relation to Estrus Synchronization in Surti Does

The serum progesterone and estradiol profiles during synchronization of estrus by buck effect and PGF2α treatments were monitored in Surti does. Total eighteen non-pregnant does selected were evenly divided into 3 groups, 6 does in each group. The does of Group I were teased with a sexuallyactive- apronized buck; and those of Group II were treated with PGF2α, i.e., Inj. Lutalyse® @ 7.5 mg/doe IM twice 11 days apart, while the Group III served as untreated control. Blood samples were collected from all the animals on day 0 (before 1st PGF2α injection), 3rd day (during treatment), 11th day (before 2nd PGF2α injection), 14th day (after treatment) and 40th day (post-service) by jugular vein puncture. The serum separated was stored at -20°C till further analysis. In all the three groups, 83.33% does, conceived at first service in the sampling cycle. The overall mean serum progesterone concentration of Group I does (5.82±0.72 ng/ml) was significantly higher (p less than 0.01) as compared to Group II (2.93±0.38 ng/ml) and III (2.88±0.30 ng/ml). Similarly, the overall mean serum progesterone concentration of Surti does on day 0 (2.65±0.46 ng/ml), 3rd (2.56±0.80 ng/ml), 11th (4.45±0.84 ng/ml) and 14th (3.40±0.63 ng/ml) did not differ significantly, but the overall mean level at day 40 (6.31±0.45 ng/ml) was significantly (p less than 0.01) higher, because most of animals became pregnant at that time. The overall mean serum oestradiol-17β levels of Group I (24.40±2.98 pg/ ml) was significantly higher (p less than 0.01) than in Group II (15.77±1.77 pg/ml) and III (12.21±1.45 pg/ ml). On the other hand, the overall mean serum oestradiol-17β levels of Surti does on day 0 (12.89±1.21 pg/ml), 3rd (15.84±1.74 pg/ml), 11th (14.81±1.96 pg/ml), 14th (22.15±2.97 pg/ml) and 40th (21.64±5.16 pg/ml) did not differ significantly (p&gt;0.05) and the slightly higher overall mean level found at 40th day might be the influence of the non-pregnant does at first service in the cumulative animals. The hormonal profile reflected the initiation of cyclicity and establishment of pregnancy in treated and control animals.

Is progestogen supplementation necessary to prevent abortion?

A prospective study was conducted to evaluate the effect of progestogens on the pregnancy outcome of threatened abortion (TA). A total of 251 pregnant women less than 20 weeks of gestational age (GA) were included. Group 1 consisted of women with vaginal bleeding who had already been under treatment with progestogens and Group 2 was composed of women with vaginal bleeding who were only followed without progestogen therapy, whereas Group 3 was the control group without any vaginal bleeding or progestogen therapy. The pregnancy outcomes and serum progesterone levels were compared among the groups. The mean serum progesterone concentrations were statistically significantly higher in Group 1 in comparison to Group 2 and 3 (p < 0.001). Abortion rates were similar among the study groups. Although progestogen supplementation leads to increased level of serum progesterone, this finding does not translate to its beneficial effect on the pregnancy outcomes in cases of TAs.

Characterization of ovarian follicular development and steroid profile during estrous cycle and seasonal anestrous in buffalo

The experiment was conducted to study ovarian follicular population, its diameter, steroid profile (estradiol 17ß and progesterone) and corpus luteum development during estrous cycle and seasonal anestrous in Murrah buffaloes. They were categorized into 2 groups based on the estrus signs i.e. cyclic (6) and anestrous (6) and subjected to ultrasound scanning of ovaries on day 0 (day of estrus in cyclic and day of first scanning in anestrous buffaloes), 6, 10 and 16 using B-mode scanner equipped with 6.0 MHz linear array transducer. Blood samples were collected on the above days for the estimation of the progesterone and estradiol-17ß. The mean number of small follicles on day 0 and 10 and medium follicles on day 10 were significantly higher within as well as between the cyclic and anestrous buffaloes, while mean number of large follicles on day 0, 10 and 16 were significantly higher in the cyclic as compared to anestrous buffaloes. However, mean number of total follicles were significantly higher in cyclic as compared to anestrous buffaloes on all the days of scanning. The maximum diameter of large follicle was observed in cyclic buffaloes on day 0 (1.40±0.49 cm). The diameter of CL increased with its development and reached to its peak on day 10 (1.39±0.04 cm), thereafter, it reduced on day 16 (0.72±0.30 cm) of the cycle. The mean serum progesterone concentration was significantly higher on day 6, 10 and 16 than day 0 of the estrous cycle indicating development of functional corpus luteum, however, mean serum estradiol-17ß concentration was significantly higher on day 0 than the other days of cycle signifying follicular growth and development secreting higher amount of estrogen.

Evaluation of treatment with a 5-day versus 7-day controlled internal drug-release insert on reproductive outcomes of beef heifers using a modified timed–artificial insemination protocol

The objective of this experiment was to determine the effect of reducing the duration of controlled internal drug-release insert (CIDR) exposure in a CIDR-based, fixed-time-AI protocol on pregnancy per AI (P/AI) and pregnancy rates in beef heifers. The experiment was conducted in 4 consecutive years. British crossbred heifers (yr 1, n = 82; yr 2, n = 68; yr 3, n = 86; yr 4, n = 53) were stratified by BW and age and were assigned randomly to 1 of 2 treatments: (1) CIDR7 heifers (n = 145) received a CIDR insert for 7 d; and (2) CIDR5 heifers (n = 144) received a CIDR insert for 5 d. Heifers in CIDR7 and CIDR5 were given prostaglandin F2α (25 mg) upon CIDR removal followed by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (75 μg) and fixed-time AI 56 to 59 h after CIDR removal. Estrual behavior was monitored following CIDR removal. In all 4 yr, heifers received AI by a single inseminator. Fourteen days after AI, heifers were exposed to bulls for 40 d. Blood samples were collected on the day of CIDR insertion. Pregnancy status was determined by ultrasonography at d 35 and d 67 to 82 after AI. Data were analyzed by logistic regression and ANOVA. Percentage of heifers detected in estrus was different (P 0.2) between treatments. At CIDR insertion, mean serum progesterone concentrations were similar between CIDR7 and CIDR5, and there was no effect of treatment-by-year interaction on progesterone concentrations (P > 0.2). There was a treatmentby-year interaction effect on P/AI (P < 0.05). For CIDR7 and CIDR5, in yr 1, P/AI was 39 and 65.8% (P < 0.05), respectively; in yr 2, P/AI was 64.7and 41.1% (P < 0.05), in yr 3, P/AI was 59 and 73.8% (P = 0.09), and in yr 4, P/AI was 50 and 70.4% (P = 0.25). Overall, P/AI tended (P = 0.07) to be greater for CIDR5 compared with CIDR7 (63.8 vs. 53%). Regardless of treatment, heifers detected in estrus had a greater (P < 0.01) P/AI compared with those not detected in estrus (65.9 vs 47.9%). The final pregnancy rates of heifers were unaffected by the treatment protocols or year (92 and 95.5% for CIDR7 and CIDR5, respectively). The P/AI results from this study suggest that reducing the duration of CIDR treatment from 7 to 5 d in a CIDR-based and single-prostaglandin-injection, fixed-time-AI protocol may improve P/AI in beef heifers.

Effects of preovulatory estradiol on embryo survival and pregnancy establishment in beef cows

The role of preovulatory estradiol on post-fertilization embryo survival and pregnancy establishment has not been well characterized in beef cows. We hypothesized that preovulatory estradiol is important for embryo survival and pregnancy establishment in beef cows. Twenty-four ovariectomized multiparous cows were used in a replicated 3×3 Latin Square design. Cows received estradiol cypionate (ECP) 36h, estradiol benzoate (EB) 12h, or no estradiol (CON) before a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (d 0) induced LH surge. Luteal phase progesterone was mimicked with twice daily progesterone injections from d 3 to 6. On d 7 cows received one embryo and progesterone was supplemented with progesterone-releasing devices (CIDR). Expression of interferon stimulated genes, ISG15, MX2, and OAS1, in leukocytes was determined on d 17, 19, 21, and 28 to determine capability of embryonic signaling. Pregnancy specific protein B concentrations were measured in serum samples from d 17 through 29 to determine embryonic attachment. Transrectal ultrasonography was performed on d 29 and 32 to determine pregnancy viability (heartbeat). Serum estradiol profiles during simulated proestrus/estrus were different (P<0.001) between treatments. Mean serum progesterone concentrations from d 17 to 24 were decreased (P=0.05) in EB and ECP cows compared to CON. Transrectal ultrasonography indicated that fewer CON (4%) cows had a viable embryo present compared to estradiol treated cows (25%). Embryonic loss in cows that did not receive estradiol during the simulated preovulatory period occurred following maternal recognition of pregnancy, indicating that its impact was likely on uterine receptivity and embryonic attachment.

The relationship between serum progesterone concentration and anesthetic and analgesic requirements: a prospective observational study of parturients undergoing cesarean delivery.

In clinical practice, pregnant women have lower anesthetic requirements for general anesthesia than nonpregnant women. Although the hormonal changes such as progesterone associated with pregnancy may affect the minimum alveolar concentration of volatile anesthetics, the relationship between the anesthetic or analgesic requirements and progesterone level in full-term women has not been studied. In this study, we attempted to identify relationships between anesthetic or analgesic requirements and maternal serum concentrations of progesterone. We studied 100 parturients >36 weeks' gestation who were scheduled for planned cesarean delivery under general anesthesia. Venous blood was collected to measure the maternal progesterone concentration. Anesthesia was induced with 4 to 5 mg/kg thiopental and 0.8 mg/kg rocuronium. During anesthetic maintenance, sevoflurane 0.5% to 2.0% and nitrous oxide 50% in oxygen were titrated based on arterial blood pressure, heart rate, and bispectral index value. Vital signs, bispectral index, end-tidal sevoflurane concentration, and sevoflurane consumption per hour were recorded. Visual analog scale pain scores and cumulative analgesic consumption were recorded at 2, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively. The mean serum progesterone concentration was 128.2 ± 83.0 ng/mL. There was a significant negative correlation between sevoflurane consumption per hour and serum progesterone concentration (Pearson correlation r = -0.26; 95% confidence interval, -0.44 to -0.05, P = 0.01). Cumulative analgesic consumption at postoperative hours 2 (r = -0.20, P = 0.05), 24 (r = -0.25, P = 0.02), and 48 (r = -0.28, P = 0.01) were correlated inversely with serum progesterone concentration. Women with high progesterone levels (higher than the median value) had lower sevoflurane consumption per hour (P = 0.02) and 48-hour postoperative cumulative analgesic consumption (P = 0.02) than women with low (below the median value) levels. The decreased anesthetic and analgesic requirements of near full-term parturients might partially depend on serum progesterone concentration.

Ovulatory response and luteal function after eCG administration at the end of a progesterone and estradiol’ based treatment in postpartum anestrous beef cattle

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) administration associated to fixed-time AI (FTAI) on follicular dynamics, ovulation, corpus luteum (CL) development and serum progesterone concentrations. Multiparous suckled Hereford cows (n=46) in anestrus with 60–75 days postpartum were used. Females received an intravaginal device containing 0.5g of progesterone during 8 days and 2mg of estradiol benzoate i.m. at device insertion. At device removal 500μg of cloprostenol and 0.5mg of estradiol cypionate were administered i.m., and FTAI was performed 52–56h later. Cows were divided into two experimental groups to receive 400IU of eCG i.m. at device removal (n=23), while control group did not receive eCG (n=23). Daily ovarian ultrasonography (7.5MHz transducer) and progesterone concentrations determined by RIA were assayed from device removal until 30 or 14 days after FTAI, respectively. Treatment with eCG increased ovulation rate [65.2% (15/23) vs. 30.4% (7/23); P=0.018], ovulatory follicle diameter (14.5±0.4 vs. 13.1±0.7mm, mean±SEM; P=0.081), CL area from 6 to 14 days after FTAI (344.3±25.1 vs. 274.2±23.9mm2; P=0.045) and mean serum progesterone concentrations from FTAI to 14 days later (3.0±0.2 vs. 1.8±0.2ng/ml; P=0.001), in comparison with control cows. In conclusion, the addition of eCG to a progesterone and estradiol’ based treatment for FTAI improves ovulation rate and luteal function in anestrous cows. These findings have implications in order to increase pregnancy rates in FTAI treatments in Bos taurus beef cattle.

Ovarian responses and pregnancy rate with previously used intravaginal progesterone releasing devices for fixed-time artificial insemination in sheep

The objective was to determine serum progesterone concentrations, ovarian responses, and pregnancy rate in sheep inseminated following a short-term protocol (6 days of treatment) with a previously used controlled internal drug release-G (CIDR-G) device. In experiment 1, 30 ewes were put on a short-term protocol using a CIDR-G of first use (new devices, N = 10), second use (previously used for 6 days, N = 10), or third use (previously used twice for 6 days, N = 10). All ewes were given prostaglandin F2α (10 mg dinoprost) and eCG (300 IU) im at device withdrawal. Mean serum progesterone concentrations were greater for ewes treated with new versus reused devices (P < 0.05), but there were no significant effects on ovarian follicular development, namely: proportion of ewes that reached ovulation/treated ewes (8/10, 9/10, and 10/10); day of emergence of the ovulatory follicle (2.9 ± 1.8, 1.8 ± 2.4, and 2.5 ± 1.1 days after CIDR-G insertion); and lifespan of the ovulatory follicle (5.4 ± 1.8, 6.5 ± 2.2, and 5.6 ± 1.0 days) for devices of first, second, and third use, respectively. The proportion of ewes that ovulated from a new follicle emerging after CIDR-G insertion was 100% (10/10) with new devices, and 77.8% (7/9) and 80% (8/10) with devices used two and three times, respectively (P = not significant). In experiment 2, ewes (N = 319) received the short-term protocol as in experiment 1, using CIDR-G of first or third use (N = 158 and N = 161, respectively) for 6 days, with prostaglandin F2α and eCG given im at device withdrawal. Intrauterine (laparoscopy) fixed-time AI with fresh semen (100 × 106 sperm) was done 52 to 57 hours after device withdrawal. Pregnancy rates were 80.4% (127/158) and 71.4% (115/161) for devices of first and third use, respectively (P = 0.06). We concluded that the CIDR-G with short-term protocol was effective for estrous synchronization and ovulation, with lower serum progesterone concentrations for reused devices. Three times used CIDR-G yielded a pregnancy rate >70%, which tended to be lower than that obtained with new devices, adding evidence of the detrimental effect of low serum progesterone concentrations on fertility in sheep.

Trends in serum relaxin concentration among elite collegiate female athletes

Purpose:This study was designed to investigate the relationship between serum relaxin concentration (SRC) and menstrual history and hormonal contraceptive use among elite collegiate female athletes. Evaluation of SRC in athletes is necessary, because relaxin has been associated with increased knee joint laxity and decreased anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) strength in animal models.Methods:National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I female athletes participating in sports at high risk for ACL tears – basketball, field hockey, gymnastics, lacrosse, soccer, and volleyball – were invited to participate. All participants completed a questionnaire about their menstrual history and hormonal contraceptive use. Venipuncture was performed to obtain samples of serum progesterone and relaxin. Samples were obtained during the mid-luteal phase from ovulating participants, and between the actual or projected cycle days 21 to 24, from anovulatory participants. Serum concentration of relaxin and progesterone was determined by ELISA and the data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software with significance set at P = 0.05.Results:169 female athletes participated. The mean SRC among all participants was 3.08 ± 6.66 pg/mL). The mean SRC differed significantly between those participants using hormonal contraceptives (1.41 pg/mL) and those not using hormonal contraceptives (3.08 pg/mL, P = 0.002). Mean SRC was lowest among amenorrheic participants (1.02 pg/mL) and highest among oligomenorrheic participants (3.71 pg/mL) and eumenorrheic participants (3.06 pg/mL); these differences were not significant (P = 0.53). Mean serum progesterone concentration (SPC) differed significantly between those participants using hormonal contraceptives (2.80 ng/mL), and those not using hormonal contraceptives (6.99 ng/mL, P < 0.0001).Conclusions:There is a positive correlation between serum progesterone and SRC and an attenuation of SRC with hormonal contraceptive use. Our results underscore the significant role that hormonal contraceptives can play in decreasing relaxin levels, if future investigations establish a link between relaxin levels and ligamentous injury among female athletes.

The effects of a low therapeutic dose of βCG fragment–lytic peptide conjugates on ovarian function and gonadotropin secretion in ewes: A randomized controlled trial

The main objective of this experiment was to determine and compare the effects of two lytic peptide conjugates, Phor21-ßCG(ala) and ßCG(ala)-Phor21, at a low therapeutic dose (0.2 mg/kg body weight i.v.), on periovulatory ovarian and endocrine activity, and ensuing luteal function in an ovine experimental model. We hypothesized that the dense expression of LH/hCG receptors on the preovulatory follicle would present an appropriate target for the drugs and disrupt normal ovarian dynamics in sheep. Serum levels of reproductive hormones and ultrasonographic images were used for the assessment of periovulatory events following drug administration in 14 Rideau Arcott ewes; seven animals served as controls. Ovulations were synchronized with intravaginal progestogen-releasing sponges (medroxyprogesterone acetate, 60 mg) that were left in place for 12 days and a single i.m. injection of 750 IU of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) given at sponge withdrawal. Both drugs were administered by i.v. injection 36 h post sponge removal/eCG injection, during the period of increasing LH responsiveness of potential ovulatory follicles and around the expected onset of the preovulatory surge of gonadotropins. No difference (p>0.05) was detected in the number of luteal structures per ewe in control versus treated animals during early luteogenesis. After drug administration, peak FSH concentrations were higher (p<0.05) in Phor21-ßCG(ala)-treated compared to control ewes and circulating estradiol concentrations were lower (p<0.05) in ßCG(ala)-Phor21-treated animals. Mean serum progesterone concentrations were lower (p<0.05) in ßCG(ala)-Phor21-treated than control ewes during the luteal phase post-treatment. There were no differences (p>0.05) in the percentage of ewes that lambed or lamb characteristics between the three groups at lambing 9 months post-treatment. In summary, neither Phor21-ßCG(ala) nor ßCG(ala)-Phor21 demonstrated adverse effects on the ovulatory process but the treatment with ßCG(ala)-Phor21 significantly depressed follicular and luteal steroidogenesis. With a lack of evidence for disruptive effects on endocrine function and fertility, these obsevations support the use of Phor21-ßGG(ala) as a cancer pharmaceutical.