Detection Of Ovulation Research Articles

Evaluation of ovulation by urinary LH surge kits versus transvaginal sonography

The study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of urinary LH surge kits and transvaginal ultrasonography (TVS) to detect ovulation in induced cycles and to compare the ovulation rates by both methods. Prospective observational cohort study on 144 women with anovulatory infertility aged 18-35 years, fulfilling the inclusion criteria were given letrozole for ovulation induction. All were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 women were asked to check ovulation by urinary LH surge kits and group 2 women were called for follicle monitoring by TVS. Letrozole has no negative effect on the endometrium; the induced cycle has a larger diameter of follicle (median: 22 mm). In the induced cycle ovulation occurs later compared to normal cycle (D-16) and half of the women had a BMI more than the recommended WHO criteria (average was 25.28 kg/m2). Number of letrozole cycles (p=0.2642), dose requirement (p=0.0812) and pregnancy rates (10.26% versus 18.19%) were comparable in both groups. TVS is objective, accurate, and thus a standard modality for ovulation detection. LH surge kit is subjective, having more chances of error but can be used as a good alternative in certain settings like women from the remote area, and women having fear of invasive modality.

The effect of exercise on gastrointestinal symptoms and body composition at different phases of the menstrual cycle

Women commonly experience bloating, stomach cramps, water retention, and weight gain at the beginning of their menstrual cycle, which cause fluctuations in body composition through extracellular changes, this may affect osmotic pressure, leading to gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the menstrual cycle phase on extracellular changes and GI symptoms in females in response to exercise. Seven healthy premenopausal female recreational athletes (maximal O2 consumption: 50 ± 5.8 ml·kg-1) performed two running trials in an experimental crossover design during two distinct phases of the menstrual cycle, early follicular phase (EFP) and the mid-luteal phase (MLP). Each trial consisted of 120 min of running, 60 min at 110% lactate threshold and 60 min at 90%. Determination of cycle was calculated from calendar-based counting and urinary ovulation detection kits. The EFP was determined by self-reporting onset of menses. The day before each trial, participants followed a low FODMAP diet and completed a gastrointestinal symptom rating scale questionnaire. On the morning of the trial, a standard breakfast was consumed, upon arrival at the laboratory, body composition was recorded. Each hour, finger prick samples were taken to measure lactate and ensure performance did not exceed maximum, every 15 minutes, a visual analog scale (VAS) of subjective ratings between 0-10 cm of gut comfort was taken. Data was analysed using mean and standard deviation (subsequent statistical analysis will be conducted if an n = 10 is reached prior to the conference). During exercise, participants experienced a higher prevalence of GI issues throughout the EFP compared with the MLP. The most common complaints reported from the VAS were nausea; EFP 1 ± 1 cm, MLP 0 ± 0 cm. Flatulence; EFP 4 ± 3 cm, MLP 1 ± 1 cm, and stomach cramps; EFP 3 ± 2 cm, MLP 1 ± 1 cm. Total body weight (TBW) differences were noted between the EFP and MLP. TBW EFP pre-exercise was higher than MLP pre-exercise phase EFP pre-exercise: 38.7 ± 2.8 L compared to MLP pre-exercise at 35.8 ±5.5 L. Similar differences were demonstrated with extra cellular water pre-exercise EFP; 16.1 ± 1.1 L MLP; 15.2 ±1.0 L. During the EFP fluid retention is known to be higher than the MLP, and results are as expected. While the data suggests a seemingly minimal variation in Gl symptoms, individually, there appears to be a higher level of difference. More gastrointestinal symptoms were reported during exercise, which is consistent with the findings. There is a slight difference in GI symptoms between the EFP and MLP at this stage, indicating a slight shift in total body water.

Detecting partial premature ovulation during follicular aspiration compromises the quantity, but not the quality, of the oocytes retrieved in stimulated in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles.

To analyze if partial premature ovulation (PPO) detection during oocyte pick-up (OPU) impairs the quality of the retrieved oocyte cohort. The PPO concept refers to the situation when premature ovulation happens only in some of the follicles and it is detected during OPU. This study constitutes a retrospective analysis performed in an infertility clinic (Spain) during 2016-2021 with patients undergoing OPU after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for an in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Study code: 2110-VLC-091- VG, registered on December 9 2021. Data from women with PPO (n=111) were compared to a matched control sample of cycles without PPO (n=333) at a proportion of 1:3. Cycles were matched for age, body mass index (BMI), treatment year, embryo genetic analysis and stimulation protocol type. The mean numbers of oocytes (6.1 vs. 11.2), mature oocytes (4.7 vs. 8.8), correctly fertilized oocytes (3.6 vs. 6.6) and top-quality blastocysts (0.9 vs. 1.8) were significantly lower in the PPO group than the nonPPO group (p<0.05). However, maturation, fertilization, top-quality blastocyst and pregnancy rates were statistically comparable among groups (p>0.05). Cycles with PPO have fewer available oocytes and, thus, fewer available embryos for transfer, al though their quality is intact, and still offer chances of pregnancy in these cases. Hence cycle cancellation may not be worth associated money, time and morale losses once PPO is detected.

Relationship Between Ovulation and Body Temperature in the Mare: A Preliminary Study

In the equine industry, monitoring of the reproduction cycle is key to be able to produce one foal per mare and per year. Ovulation detection is difficult partly due to the variability of the estrus length. Currently, the most reliable method for ovulation detection is transrectal ultrasonography. This technique, however, implies handling of the mare as well as veterinary costs. The aim of this experimentation is to study body temperature variations around ovulation. Nine reproduction cycles were monitored around ovulation. Transrectal ultrasonographies were performed each day as well as blood sampling to dose estradiol-17β and progesterone to confirm ultrasonographic results. Body temperature was automatically recorded every 10 minutes using an identification chip equipped with a temperature sensor implanted in the mares’ neckline. Data were analyzed using linear mixed models. Daily body temperature pattern did not vary between the phases of the reproductive cycle (follicular, ovulatory and luteal). Temperature differences between phases, however, were identified and appeared hourly-specific. There was an increase of temperature at ovulation compared to the end of the follicular phase ranging from 0.51°C ± 0.21°C to 0.92°C ± 0.26°C and occurring between 04:30 and 08:00. Moreover, a significant increase of body temperature was measured during the first days of luteal phase, ranging from 0.29°C ± 0.17°C to 0.60°C ± 0.16°C, between 10:30 and 16:00. Body temperature varied around ovulation and it might be a promising tool for mare reproduction monitoring. A more complete study, however, focusing on the whole cycle is required.

Analyzing the atypical – Methods for studying the menstrual cycle in adolescents

BackgroundThe female pubertal transition is characterized by a rapidly changing hormone milieu, which is heavily influenced by the first menstrual cycle – menarche. The first year following menarche is associated with menstrual cycles that are irregular and anovulatory. Peripuberty also marks the beginning of a female-biased risk for suicidality and depression, suggesting some influence by the menstrual cycle and ovarian hormone fluctuations. However, there are limited methods and guidelines for studying the menstrual cycle and related affective symptoms in this developmental window. Thus, this study’s objective was to identify the most accurate methods for detecting ovulation in irregular cycles (Part 1) and develop guidelines based on these methods for determining menstrual cycle phases. These methods were applied to investigate hormones and affective symptoms based on cycle phase and ovulation status in a sample of peripubertal females (Part 2). MethodsThirty-two peripubertal females (ages 11–14) provided daily urine samples of estrogen (E1G) and progesterone (PdG) metabolites and luteinizing hormone (LH), and ratings of affective symptoms for one menstrual cycle. Ten literature-derived methods for determining the presence of an LH-peak or PdG rise were compared, focusing on their feasibility for psychological research. ResultsMethods by Sun et al. (2019) and Park et al. (2007) most accurately detected PdG rises and LH peaks in this sample, identifying 40.6% of cycles as ovulatory. As expected, ovulatory participants showed greater LH in the periovulatory phase (p = .001), greater PdG in the mid-luteal phase (p < .0001), and greater E1G in the periovulatory phase (p = .001) compared with anovulatory participants. Exemplary methods to compare psychological symptoms between both groups are provided. ConclusionsRecommendations and guidelines for studying the menstrual cycle in irregular cycling adolescents are offered. Novel methods for ovulation detection identified phase-specific hormonal patterns in anovulatory and ovulatory adolescent cycles.

Is It Necessary to Adapt Training According to the Menstrual Cycle? Influence of Contraception and Physical Fitness Variables.

(1) Background: The influence of the menstrual cycle on physical fitness in athletes is controversial in the scientific literature. There is a marked fluctuation of sex hormones at three key points of the menstrual cycle, where estrogen and progesterone vary significantly. Hormonal contraception induces hormonal levels different from the natural menstrual cycle, requiring specific study in relation to physical fitness. (2) Method: Women aged 18 to 40 years with regular natural menstrual cycles and women using hormonal contraception were recruited, creating two study groups. All participants needed to be athletes classified as level II-III, based on training volume/physical activity metrics, among other variables. To assess their physical fitness, cardiorespiratory fitness (measured by V˙O2max), high-speed strength, hand grip strength, and flexibility were evaluated. Blood samples were taken to determine the menstrual cycle phase through analysis of sex hormone levels. Additionally, urine tests for ovulation detection were performed for the natural menstrual cycle group. Neurosensory stimulation tests were incorporated to measure sensory thresholds and pain thresholds in each phase. Body composition in each phase and its relationship with the other variables were also taken into account. (3) Results: Athletes in the natural cycling group showed differences in V˙O2max (mL·kg-1·min-1) (phase I = 41.75 vs. phase II = 43.85 and (p = 0.004) and phase I vs. phase III = 43.25 mL·kg-1·min-1 (p = 0.043)), as well as in body weight (phase I = 63.23 vs. phase III = 62.48 kg; p = 0.006), first pain threshold (phase I = 1.34 vs. phase II = 1.69 (p = 0.027) and phase III = 1.59 mA (p = 0.011)), and sensitive threshold (phase I = 0.64 vs. phase II = 0.76 mA (p = 0.017)). The pain threshold was found to be an important covariate in relation to V˙O2max, explaining 31.9% of the variance in phase I (p = 0.006). These findings were not observed between the two phases of contraceptive cycling. (4) Conclusion: The natural menstrual cycle will cause significant changes in the physical fitness of athletes. The use of hormonal contraception is not innocuous. Women with natural cycles show an increase in cardiorespiratory fitness in phases II and III, which is a factor to be considered in relation to training level and workload.

Increase of Body Temperature Immediately After Ovulation in Mares.

To successfully inseminate mares, precise detection of ovulation time is crucial, especially when using frozen-thawed semen. Monitoring body temperature, as has been described in women, could be a noninvasive way to detect ovulation. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between the time of ovulation and the variation of body temperature in mares based on automatic continuous measurements during estrus. The experimental group included 21mares for 70analyzed estrous cycles. When the mares showed estrous behavior, they were administered intramuscular deslorelin acetate (2.25mg) in the evening. At the same time, monitoring of body temperature using a sensor device fixed at the left lateral thorax was started and continued for over 60hours. In 2-hour intervals, transrectal ultrasonography was performed to detect ovulation. Estimated body temperature in the 6 hours following ovulation detection was on average 0.06°C +/- 0.05°C (mean+/-SD) significantly higher when compared with body temperature at the same time on the preceding day (P=.01). In addition, a significant effect of PGF2α administration for estrus induction on the body temperature was found, being significantly higher until 6hours before ovulation compared to that of uninduced cycles (P=.005). In conclusion, changes in body temperature during estrus in mares were related to ovulation. The increase in body temperature immediately after ovulation might be used in the future to establish automatized and noninvasive systems to detect ovulation. However, the identified temperature rise is relatively small on average and hardly identifiable in the individual mares.

P-621 Machine learning software significantly increase clinical pregnancy rates in natural frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles

Abstract Study question To study the effect of physician support software for determining ovulation time on pregnancy outcomes in natural cycle frozen embryo transfers (NC-FET) Summary answer Match between the physician and the algorithm regarding the time of ovulation in NC-FET cycles resulted in significant 14.4% increase in clinical pregnancy rates. What is known already Today the preferred method for frozen embryo transfer is natural cycle based on ovulation detection. As of today, an algorithm for predicting ovulation has not been developed and its use and its effect on success rates have not been tested. The aim of this study was to test a physician support artificial intelligence (AI) software for determining ovulation time and to study the effect of its use on pregnancy outcomes in frozen-thawed embryo transfers (NC-FET). Study design, size, duration NC-FET cycles from September 2018 to June 2021 were used to develop ovulation detection algorithm. Next, the effect of the selection of the ovulation date by the algorithm on pregnancy rates was tested by retrospective analysis on NC-FET cycles performed between July 2021 to June 2022. Cycles were divided into two groups: The Matched group in which there was a match between the ovulation date set by the physician and the algorithm and Mismatched group. Participants/materials, setting, methods Study group included 349 single embryo transfer patients after applying strict inclusion criteria. The Matched group included 198 patients and 151 patients in the Mismatched group. Patient's age, BMI, smoking, number of past retrievals and past embryo transfers, endometrium thickness, embryos age and quality, number of tests per cycle and pregnancy rates were compared. Statistical analysis included multivariable logistic regression to study the association between Match/Mismatch and clinical pregnancy rates while controlling for potential confounders Main results and the role of chance Matched group and Mismatched group had similar characteristics. Mean patients age at oocyte retrieval were 34.5 + 5.5 vs. 34.7 + 5.5 respectively (p=0.72). Clinical pregnancy rate in the Matched group were 38.9% compared to 24.4% in the Mismatched group (p =0.006). The difference was particularly noticeable when day 3 embryos were transferred (39.8% vs. 17.6% respectively p=0.009), and was also observed on day 5 embryos transfer, although non-significant (39.1% vs. 30.0% respectively, p=0.197). In the Matched group the chance of pregnancy actually almost doubled (OR = 1.97, CI 95% 1.23-3.17, p=0.005) while controlling potential confounders. Further analysis of the Mismatch group found that in 120 cycles (%) the doctor set the ovulation date one day or more before the date set by the algorithm and in 31(%) cases the date was a day or more after the ovulation date according to the algorithm. Logistic regression showed that the chance of pregnancy was significantly affected when the doctor determines the day of ovulation earlier than the algorithm (OR = 0.42, CI 95% 0.29-1.43, p=0.005) Limitations, reasons for caution Although cycles selected for comparison were controlled for key factors that affect pregnancy outcomes, The main drawback is the retrospective analysis. Further prospective randomized trials are needed to study the effectiveness of the algorithm and its effect on treatment results. Wider implications of the findings This is the first AI algorithm designed to predict ovulation. Using AI algorithms in NC-FET can help in identifying ovulation accurately and reliably and may increase pregnancy rate Trial registration number Not applicable

P-656 Machine learning algorithm automatically manages and accurately predicts ovulation in natural frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles.

Abstract Study question Can an Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithm automatically manage frozen-thawed embryo transfer (NC-FET) treatment cycles and give an accurate prediction of ovulation day. Summary answer An AI algorithm automatically managed and predicted the ovulation of NC-FET treatment cycles with 94.8% accuracy using an average of 3.01 test days. What is known already Today the preferred method for frozen embryo transfer is natural cycle based on ovulation detection. Currently, there is no software capable of managing the treatment cycle automatically and identifying the time of ovulation to support doctor decisions. The aim of this study is to develop a physician support AI software for determining ovulation time reliably with high accuracy. Study design, size, duration 2083 NC-FET cycles from September 2018 to June 2021 were used to develop the ovulation detection and treatment management algorithms. Each cycle had data from at least 2 visits including: hormonal levels (Estrogen/Progesterone/LH) and follicle sizes. The dataset was divided into a train set and two test sets. In the 1st test set ovulation was determined by experts’ opinions and the 2nd test set included cycles in which follicle rupture was documented in consecutive ultrasounds. Participants/materials, setting, methods Two algorithms were developed, an ovulation prediction algorithm based on an NGBoost model and a treatment management algorithm that used the model to determine if and when to call for a new test or declare the ovulation day. Both algorithms were jointly tuned to reach the highest success rate, defined as providing the correct day of ovulation using the available cycle data, with as few test days as possible. Main results and the role of chance On the first test set, which consisted of 176 cycles in which ovulation was determined through the majority decision of 2 independent experts and the attending physician, the treatment management algorithm required on average 3.01 tests to reach a prediction and successfully predicted the ovulation day in 94.8% of cycles. In the second test set, which consisted of 29 cycles in which ovulation was determined through the follicular rupture in two consecutive ultrasounds, only the ovulation prediction model was tested. To ensure that the model provides a reliable answer and does not rely solely on the follicular disappearances, examined cycles were tested twice: Once using the ovulation day without the day prior to it, and again using only the day prior to ovulation without the ovulation day itself. The algorithm accurately predicted ovulation in 28 out of 29 instances (96.6%) using the day of ovulation and in 28 out of 29 instances (96.6%) using the day before ovulation. Limitations, reasons for caution The main drawback is this being a retrospective study: while the algorithm was trained to maximize accuracy when it selects the test days, the dataset test days were selected by the attending physicians. Statistical methods were used to overcome this, however further prospective trials are needed to validate the results. Wider implications of the findings This is the first AI algorithm designed to automatically manage NC-FET IVF treatment cycles and predict ovulation. The high accuracy and low average tests count might improve treatment outcomes, reduce the patients’ life disruption, and allow physicians to spend less time monitoring their patients’ treatments. Trial registration number not applicable

Induced ovulation and timed recovery of suitably sized embryos for transfer in mares

Studying the size of equine embryos recovered from uterine flushes 8-9d after ovulation has established that size and age of embryos post-ovulation are directly related (Cuervo-Arango et al., Theriogenology. 2018; 115: 90-93). In the field, daily tracking and detection of ovulation are not practical in a commercial embryo transfer program. Considering that induced ovulation with deslorelin acetate (DES) occurs in most mares 38-44h after administration (Spencer et al., Theriogenology. 2022: 140-148), estimated time of ovulation induction may be used to predict the time of embryo recovery. The objective herein is to evaluate embryo size at the time of recovery after DES administration and ovulation and determine its fit within a 0.25mL or 0.5mL embryo transfer straw. Healthy, adult cycling mares (n=15 total) were subjected to ovulation induction with 1mg of DES i.m. when the dominant follicle first reached 35mm. Mares were artificially inseminated 24h later and monitored daily to detect ovulation (D0) with uterine flushes done 8 (D8) or 9 (D9) d later. Recovered embryos were measured by a micrometric ruler and compared: 1) D8 vs D9 after ovulation, 2) <250h vs >250h after DES, and 3) fit into 0.25mL (embryos <1500µm) vs 0.5mL (embryos from 1500 to 2500 µm)straws. Student's t-tests were used to analyze the size of embryos on D8 (n=8) vs D9 (n=5) after ovulation and <250h (n=8) vs >250h (n=7) after DES. Z-score test was used to analyze the probability of fit into a 0.25mL vs 0.50mL straw. All mares ovulated 24-48h after DES. There was no difference (P=0.25) in size of embryos recovered on D8 (mean diameter = 828±193.4µm) vs D9 (mean diameter = 1320±411µm) after ovulation. Relative to induced ovulation, embryos recovered <250h after DES (mean diameter = 828±193.4µm) were smaller (P=0.0474) than those recovered >250h after DES (mean diameter = 1971±514µm). The probability of embryos fitting into a 0.25mL straw was 89% for D8, 57.8% for D9, 89% for <250h, and 36.5% for >250h. Correspondingly, the probability of embryos fitting into a 0.5mL straw was 99.9% for D8, 90% for D9, 99.9% for <250h, and 65.1% for >250h. Thus, these preliminary results indicate that, without daily tracking and detection of ovulation, the predicated time from induced ovulation to recovery of embryos at 236-247h (i.e. 10 days) to 258-264h (i.e. 11 days) after DES yield suitably sized embryos for transfer using a 0.25 or 0.5mL straw.

Usefulness of pulsatility and resistive index for detection of mares with and without endometritis

Endometritis, a condition which causes inflammatory or degenerative alterations of the endometrium, is one of the most serious causes of infertility or subfertility in equine reproduction, whether associated or not with the presence of infectious agents (Mattos et al. Revista Brasileira de Reprodução Animal. 2003; 27:150-156). A complementary diagnosis, carried out with the use of Doppler ultrasonography (US), will enable an assessment of local blood flow and a more accurate analysis of the physiology of the ovaries and uterus (Ginther et al. Animal Reproduction Science. 2007; 102:314-321; Ferreira et al. Ciência Rural. 2011; 41:1063-1069). The main purpose of the present study was to assess potential alterations in the uterine vasculature of mares with clinical or subclinical endometritis and mares with no endometritis. Twenty-one mares were organized into three groups: CG: without endometritis; GCE: with clinical endometritis; GSE: with subclinical endometritis. In the latter group, mares had no alteration in the B-mode US but had positive cytology and/or bacterial and/or fungal culture. Based on this, the estrous cycle was closely observed until the preovulatory follicle appeared and subsequently, samples were collected for cytological examination, bacterial and fungal culture. After the induction and detection of ovulation, B-mode transrectal US and spectral-mode Doppler US of the left and right uterine arteries near the bifurcation with internal iliac arteries was undertaken.These ultrasound examinations were performed on a daily basis, until the next ovulation so that the complete estrous cycle could be assessed. Statistical analysis was performed by means of ANOVA using the Tukey test for one factor. According to the results of this study, no statistical difference was found in the evaluation of the pulsatility index between groups of mares without endometritis (158.71±38.27) and with subclinical endometritis (166.60±41.68) and between groups with subclinical (166.60±41.68) and clinical endometritis (171.27±44.75). However, a significant statistical difference was observed in the pulsatility index between groups of mares without endometritis (158.71±38.27) and mares with clinical endometritis (171.27±44.75) (p<0.01). As for the evaluation of the resistive indices, no statistical difference was observed between the groups of mares with subclinical (0.72±0.08) and clinical (0.72±0.08) endometritis. However, a statistically significant difference was identified in the resistive index between groups of mares without endometritis (0.69±0.07) and subclinical endometritis and clinical endometritis (p<0.01). Thus, the indexes evaluated were inversely proportional to vascular perfusion. It is concluded that spectral mode Doppler ultrasonography can be used as a complementary diagnostic tool in the identification of subclinical and clinical endometritis, by evaluating vascular perfusion of the uterine arteries.

Influence of Intrauterine Fluid Detection, Number of Transfers and Age of the Recipient on Pregnancy Rate and Early Embryonic Loss in a Commercial Embryo Transfer Program.

The selection of the recipient mare is one of the most important factors involved in the success of equine embryo transfer. The aim of this study was to determine whether the age of the recipient, the number of transfers and the detection of intrauterine fluid during the follicular phase or after ovulation can affect pregnancy rate at 14 and 45 days (PR 14 and PR 45) or early embryonic loss (EEL). A total of 1222 ETs were included in the study. Mares receiving the first embryo of the year had a higher PR 14 and 45 days compared to mares at the third transfer (78.8% and 70.1% vs. 65.6% and 54.1%, respectively). The detection of intrauterine fluid post ovulation negatively affected PR 14 (60.5% vs. 77.6%) and should therefore be considered an abnormal finding, probably being a sign of uterine inflammation or delayed uterine clearance. On the contrary, the age of the recipient mare and detection of fluid during follicular phase did not affect PR 14. Only the age of the recipient mare influenced the EEL, since mares aged 10-13 years had a higher EEL compared to mares aged 3-5 years (15.6% vs. 6.4%). Embryo size and grade affected PR 14 and 45.

Development of an Automated Temperature Measuring Device: A Potential Tool for Ovulation Detection

Temperature spike during ovulation is one of the methods of detecting ovulation in women thus aiding fertility awareness. Some of the methods of ovulation detection are intrusive while some methods of temperature measurements are not convenient especially when temperature has to be measured for a long period of time. This research is therefore focused on development of on-the-skin temperature measuring devices using locally available tools and human resources; provision of a non-intrusive temperature measuring device that is convenient for use especially when temperature has to be measured for a long period of time and validation of the developed device with other standard measuring tools as a potential device for ovulation detection. Results obtained indicate that measurement of the automated temperature device calibrated against standard mercury-in-glass thermometer returned a correlation coefficient of 0.790996276; comparison with clinical and infrared thermometer revealed that 45 percent of the 50 respondents subscribed to the use of the device due to the comfort experienced and ease of use. The research concludes that human skin can be a possible means of obtaining accurate temperature with potential for ovulation detection. The developed device is convenient, non-intrusive, portable and easy to use especially when thermometer needs to be held in place to measure temperature for a period of time. Other possible applications include temperature measurements for special needs such as babies, the aged and the physically challenged.

A Comparison of Two Hormonal Fertility Monitoring Systems for Ovulation Detection: A Pilot Study.

Background and Objectives: Accuracy in detecting ovulation and estimating the fertile window in the menstrual cycle is essential for women to avoid or achieve pregnancy. There has been a rapid growth in fertility apps and home ovulation testing kits in recent years. Nevertheless, there lacks information on how well these apps perform in helping users understand their fertility in the menstrual cycle. This pilot study aimed to evaluate and compare the beginning, peak, and length of the fertile window as determined by a new luteinizing hormone (LH) fertility tracking app with the Clearblue Fertility Monitor (CBFM). Materials and Methods: A total of 30 women were randomized into either a quantitative Premom or a qualitative Easy@Home (EAH) LH testing system. The results of the two testing systems were compared with the results from the CBFM over three menstrual cycles of use. Potential LH levels for estimating the beginning of the fertile window were calculated along with user acceptability and satisfaction. Results: The estimates of peak fertility by the Premom and EAH LH testing were highly correlated with the CBFM peak results (R = 0.99, p < 0.001). The participants had higher satisfaction and ease-of-use ratings with the CBFM compared to the Premom and EAH LH testing systems. LH 95% confidence levels for estimating the beginning of the fertile window were provided for both the Premom and EAH LH testing results. Conclusions: Our pilot study findings suggest that the Premom and EAH LH fertility testing app can accurately detect impending ovulation for women and are easy to use at home. However, successful utilization of these low-cost LH testing tools and apps for fertility self-monitoring and family planning needs further evaluation with a large and more diverse population.

Changes in Total Protein Level in Human Female Saliva during Ovulatory Functions and Metabolic Disorders

Saliva has been studied extensively as a potential diagnostic tool over the last decade due to its ease and non-invasive accessibility along with its abundance of biomarkers, such as genetic material and proteins.The activity of protein in saliva increased during ovulation. When we monitored salivary protein activity in 40 different women volunteers during various stages of reproduction like (prepubertal, parous, non-parous, menopausal and in the metabolic disorder state diabetic condition it has been observed that highly significant (p&lt;0.001) increase in parous ovulatory &amp; non parous ovulatory whereas, highly significant (p&lt;0.01)increase was observed in non-parous postovulatory and a highly significant (p&lt;0.001) decrease was observed in menopause and diabetic in comparison to prepubertal. A highly significant (p&lt;0.001) decrease was observed in menopause in comparison to parous preovulatory, ovulatory, post ovulatory &amp; non-parous ovulatory and postovulatory. A highly significant (p&lt;0.01) decrease was observed in diabetic in comparison to menopausal human female subjects. The result revealed that the total protein was considered as testing the saliva instead of blood isa non-invasive loom and it can be used as a biomarker for ovulation detection.

The influence of weaning age and biocholine supplementation to post-weaning growth and puberty in Brangus heifers

This experiment was conducted to determine the effect of earlier weaning in addition to biocholine supplementation on age at puberty of Brangus heifers. Brangus calves were randomized and divided into three weaning ages groups, at 30 (Hyper-early weaning; HW), 75 (Early weaning; EW) and 180 days (Conventional weaning; CW). Then, calves were supplemented using the additive Biocholine (BIO) or not (CON). Animals were subjected to puberty induction and the presence of estrus was observed for 7 days. In addition, transrectal ultrasonography was performed to assess the ovarian activity and the presence of corpus luteum to determine heifer puberty. We also evaluated the body weight (BW; Kg), hip height (HH; cm), thoracic perimeter (TP; cm) and BW:HH ratio during the experimental period. BIO group showed higher ADG (>226 g/day) when the animals were exposed to ryegrass pasture compared to CON (P < 0.05). We observed an interaction between weaning x biocholine and CW-BIO heifers showed greater HH more compared to CW-CON (P < 0.05). Overall, animals that have reached puberty at day 8 after puberty induction showed 331.0 ± 5.04 kg BW, 122.0 ± 0.56 cm HH and 165.4 ± 0.75 cm TP and 2.7 ± 0.03 BW:HH. At the time of ovulation detection, the heifers from the HW group had 32.1 kg BW, 3.93 cm HH and 0.18 cm BW:HH greater compared to CW (P < 0.05). The BIO supplementation together with ryegrass pasture, led to an increase in ADG weight throughout the evaluated period. We concluded that HW heifers showed an adequate body development throughout the experimental period until puberty appearance at the same age as others weaned groups.

O-178 Timed intercourse for couples trying to conceive: an updated Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Study question Does timing intercourse around the ‘fertile window’ using ovulation detection methods increase the chance of pregnancy in couples trying to conceive? Summary answer This update suggests that timed intercourse using urinary ovulation detection may increase the chances of pregnancy in couples trying to conceive. What is known already Development of health apps has surged, with many tracking menstrual cycles, generating ‘fertile window’ predictions for couples hoping to conceive as well as avoid pregnancy. Adjuncts have been marketed to improve the accuracy of ovulation detection, using LH/oestrogen urinary tests and fertility-based awareness method (FAMB) biosensors. These may all influence sexual behaviours, making timed intercourse more widely practiced. Thus, there is an increased need for clinicians and couples to understand the effectiveness of these methods and potential adverse effects such as stress. Study design, size, duration A Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. The Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility (CGF) Group trials register, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO were searched in January 2022 to identify relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs). In addition, relevant references lists were checked, and study authors were contacted to obtain unpublished data. Participants/materials, setting, methods Participants: Couples (fertile and subfertile) trying to conceive. Intervention: Timed intercourse using ovulation detection methods such as digital apps, LH/oestrogen urine ovulation tests, and FABM. Comparison: Intercourse not timed around the ‘fertile window’. Two independent authors screened studies and extracted data. Risk ratios (RR) were calculated for dichotomous data and mean differences (MD) for continuous data, with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Heterogeneity was examined via the I² statistic. Main results and the role of chance In this update, 881 references were screened. Six studies were included, involving 2,374 women. We are uncertain whether timed intercourse using FAMB resulted in a difference in live birth (RR 0.92, 95%CI 0.73 to 1.16, I²= 0%, 2 studies, 160 women: low-certainty evidence). No other studies reported live birth. We are uncertain whether timed intercourse using FAMB resulted in a difference in clinical or self-reported pregnancy (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.8 to 1.15, I²=0, 2 studies, 160 women; low-certainty evidence). However, timed intercourse using urinary ovulation detection was associated with higher clinical or self-reported pregnancy (RR 1.28, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.50, I²=0, four studies, 2214 women; moderate-certainty evidence). This suggested that if the chance of a clinical or self-reported pregnancy following intercourse without ovulation prediction is assumed 18%, the chance following timed intercourse with urinary ovulation detection would be 20% to 28%. Subgroup analysis of all ovulation detection methods showed no difference between couples trying to conceive for under 12 months versus couples trying for over 12 months (subfertile). Finally, we are uncertain whether timed intercourse using urinary ovulation detection resulted in a difference in stress (MD 1.98, 95 CI% -0.87 to 4.83, 1 study, 77 women, low-certainty evidence). Limitations, reasons for caution Insufficient studies reported our specified outcomes including live birth (primary outcome), time to pregnancy, stress, and quality of life. Moreover, there were insufficient studies with large sample sizes assessing FABM, a key method used in timed intercourse and fertility apps. Wider implications of the findings This update provides evidence for the practice of timed intercourse using urinary ovulation detection. However, the majority of menstrual cycle apps use FABM for which there is currently insufficient evidence to support the use of when trying to conceive. This review highlights key areas where future research should be conducted. Trial registration number not applicable

P-650 Partial premature ovulation detection during follicular aspiration compromises the quantity but not the quality of the retrieved oocytes in stimulated fresh IVF cycles

Abstract Study question Is partial premature ovulation (PPO) detection during the oocyte pick-up (OPU) a sign of poor prognosis in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles with own oocytes? Summary answer PPO halves the number of metaphase II oocytes available for an IVF treatment without reducing their quality, demonstrated by unaltered fertilization and top-quality blastocyst rates. What is known already PPO detected during the OPU procedure has not been extensively studied in the literature. This phenomenon may result in a reduction in the number and/or competence of the oocytes retrieved, due to the potential loss of the already expelled oocytes, as well as the likely dominance exerted by the ruptured follicle/s in the rest of the cohort. Despite this, several authors have demonstrated that competent oocytes can be retrieved from these already ruptured follicles, suggesting that oocyte extrusion frequently does not occur after follicle rupture. The potential negative effect exerted in the rest of sibling oocytes remains unknown. Study design, size, duration Retrospective cohort analysis performed in IVIRMA Valencia (Spain), including 8994 cycles of controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) for an IVF treatment with fresh own oocytes, between January 2016 and May 2021. OPU procedures for oocyte cryopreservation, as well as mixed cycles with both fresh and frozen oocytes, were discarded. PPO diagnosis was based on ultrasound visualization of any already formed corpus luteum structure/s, a lower follicular count than expected, and/or free fluid. Participants/materials, setting, methods Female patients undergoing OPU after COS for a fresh IVF treatment. Cycles in which PPO has been detected will be compared with a random, and of the same size, sample without PPO. Mean number of oocytes, metaphase II, fertilized oocytes and top-quality embryos, as well as IVF success rates, will be compared between both groups. Patients’ basal characteristics and COS parameters will be analyzed in order to detect any potential early indicator of PPO. Main results and the role of chance PPO was detected in 123 of the 8994 cycles (1.37%) performed. A random control group of 123 cycles without PPO was selected. Patients’ mean age was 37.6±3.6, with a BMI of 23.3±4.1 kg/m2 and an anti-mullerian hormone of 1.62±1.3 ng/mL. Patient’s basal characteristics and COS parameters were statistically comparable among groups (p &amp;gt; 0.05), except for lower serum estradiol levels (2037.64 vs. 1582.24 pg/mL; p = 0.004) in the PPO group on the last ultrasound prior to OPU. Patients with PPO showed lower aspiration rates (88.95% vs. 55.78% in the PPO gr.), as well as a reduced mean number of oocytes (10.69 vs. 5.68 in the PPO gr.), metaphase II (8.41 vs. 4.33 in the PPO gr.), fertilized oocytes (6.23 vs. 3.26 in the PPO gr.) and top-quality blastocysts (2.77 vs. 1.35 in the PPO gr.) (p = 0.000). In contrast, maturation (80.72% vs. 76.57% in the PPO gr.), fertilization (73.52% vs. 75.18% in the PPO gr.) and top-quality blastocyst rates (44.03% vs. 38.68% in the PPO gr.) were statistically similar between both groups (p &amp;gt; 0.05). Limitations, reasons for caution The main limitations of the present study are its retrospective design and its small sample size, derived from the low frequency of the PPO phenomenon in our clinic. Larger prospective studies should be proposed in order to accurately define the negative impact of PPO in IVF success rates. Wider implications of the findings PPO clearly reduces the number of oocytes available for an IVF treatment, although it does not seem to impair the competence of the remaining cohort. Once PPO is detected, cycle cancellation may not be worth the associated loss of money, time and morale, especially given its low prevalence (around 1%). Trial registration number Not applicable

Pregnancy rates in Equids after Interspecific and Intraspecific Artificial Insemination

Horses and Donkeys are known to differ phenotypically and karyotypically, although they can interbreed freely (Allen et al., Journal of Heredity, 1997;88(5), 384-392). The present study aimed to describe the outcome in terms of pregnancy rates of mares and jennets, after AI with either pooled horse or donkey semen of proven fertility. Semen was collected from four fertile horse (N=2) or donkey (N=2) stallions. Each insemination dose consisted of 1 × 10 9 total spermatozoa, at a 1:1 ratio for the two stallions of the same species, diluted with INRA96 to a final volume of 10 ml and with subjective total motility > 85%. AIs were performed every 48 hours until the detection of ovulation. A first pregnancy diagnosis was performed on day 10 after ovulation and repeated every day until embryo detection or day 16. At the first detection, embryos were collected for other studies. Differences between groups were examined using Fisher's Exact test, and differences were considered statistically significant when P<0.05. Results of the pregnancy rates are presented in Table 1. No statistical differences were found (P>0.05) when comparing interspecific artificial inseminations (mare x donkey versus jennet x stallion), or the male effect (horse versus jack). In the literature, the interspecies mating of a mare to a jack donkey is reported to be as fertileor even more than the intraspecies mating (Allen et al., Journal of Heredity, 1997;88(5), 384-392); by contrast, the cross between the jennet and the horse stallion is reported to be considerably less fertile. In our study, jennets gave much poorer results than mares, and hinny hybrids (jennet x horse) resulted in the lowest number of pregnancies. Further studies are required to better investigate the mechanism involved in this apparently poorly compatible gamete interaction between jennets and stallions.

The timing of the maternal recognition of pregnancy signal is specific to individual mares

Over several breeding seasons, eighteen inseminated mares were examined at 8(±1)h intervals from late oestrus until after ovulation. The time of ovulation was determined as 4h before the first detection of ovulation. Examinations for pregnancy began at 8h intervals between 236 to 260h (late Day 9 to 10) post ovulation. When present an embryo was reduced by compression with a total of 132 reductions on Days 10 (n=15), 11 (n=47), 12 (n=36), 13 (n=27), 14 (n=5) and 15 (n=2). Ten mares were used on multiple occasions, undergoing between 3 and 16 embryo reductions each. Mares were subsequently examined, first to determine non-pregnancy, and then to determine whether luteolysis or luteostasis occurred. Luteostatic mares maintained an ultrasonically identifiable corpus luteum, and between Days 22 and 25 were returned to oestrus by administration of PGF2α. Increasing numbers of mares became luteostatic following embryo reduction as the number of days post ovulation increased. The earliest initiation of luteostasis occurred when an embryo was reduced at 252h (10.5 days). Between the 8h examinations on Days 10 to 12 there was an increase in the proportion of mares undergoing luteostasis. When mares were used on multiple occasions, individual animals had aset time point within a ±8h window post ovulation when they responded to the MRP signal and after which, but not before, embryo reduction resulted in luteostasis. For the eight mares which had embryos reduced ≥6 occasions, the time when luteostasis occurred was consistent in an individual but varied between mares between Day 10 (244–252h) and Day 14 (348h). For example, one mare which did not recognise the presence of an embryo until Day 14 (348h), had 10 reductions undertaken between Days 11 to 13 (268–332h) and all resulted in luteolysis, but all 3 reductions at or after Day 14 (348h) resulted in luteostasis. Despite the late timing of when the MRP signal in this animal was recognised, no spontaneous embryo loss had been seen in three previous pregnancies. These results suggest that the timing of the luteolytic cascade is variable between mares but relatively constant in its timing in an individual animal. This would imply a consistent set of physiological processes that program the endometrium for the luteolytic cascade in any given animal. Further data is needed to investigate whether oestrous cycle length and variation in the oestrous and dioestrous phases of the mare play a role in initiating the mechanisms that enable the uterus to respond to the MRP signal.