Percentage Of Pregnancies Research Articles

Clinical outcomes of magnetic activated sperm sorting in infertile men candidate for ICSI

Magnetic activated cell sorting (MACS) with annexin V microbeads deselected apoptotic sperm with externalized phosphatidylserine (PS) residues on their surface and decrease chance of such sperm to be inseminated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate efficiency of MACS procedure in a prospective randomized trial. Sixty-two semen samples were allocated into two groups and processed according to: (i) a combination of MACS with density gradient centrifugation (MACS–DGC) as study group (N = 29); and (ii) DGC alone as a control group (N = 33). Fertilization, embryo quality, pregnancy and implantation rates were compared between the two groups. Although, no significant difference was observed in fertilization rates between the two groups, the percentage of high-quality embryos, pregnancy and implantation rates was significantly higher in the MACS–DGC group compared to DGC alone. Therefore, MACS may help to select the most fertile sperm and improve clinical outcomes of intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Does women\u2019s caste make a significant contribution to adolescent pregnancy in Nepal? A\xa0study of Dalit and non-Dalit adolescents and young adults in Rupandehi district

BackgroundAdolescent pregnancy is a public health concern worldwide. There are disparities in the occurrence of adolescence pregnancy in different social groups and settings; however, few studies have focused on the contribution of a woman’s caste in early pregnancy in Nepal. This study aimed to examine the association between caste and adolescent pregnancy; and investigate factors that influence this among women of Dalit and non-Dalit caste groups.MethodsA cross sectional survey among 457 women, age between 14 and 24 years was carried out in Rupandehi district of Nepal. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis using a stepwise entry method was performed to assess the association of women’s caste, ethnicity and other socio-demographic and individual factors with early pregnancy.ResultsOver two thirds of the participants (69%) were pregnant during adolescence. The highest percentage of adolescent pregnancies were reported among women from Janajati groups (77%) and the lowest in Brahmin/Chhetri caste groups (45%); while 72.5% of women from Dalit caste groups reported adolescent pregnancy. When adjusted for demographic and individual variables, early pregnancy was less likely among women who were from Brahman/Chhetri (OR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.30, 1.22) and Madhesi/Muslim (OR 0.56; 95% CI: 0.23, 1.36) compared to women from the Dalit caste, but multivariate regression analysis found none of these were statistically significant. Women who had secondary level education (OR: 0.34; 95% CI: 0.17, 0.65), had married after 17 years of age (OR: 0.02; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.14) and had attended fairs/clubs (OR: 0.40; CI: 0.21, 0.79) were significantly less likely to experience early age pregnancy. Women who drank alcohol (OR: 5.18; 95% CI: 1.02, 26.32) were significantly more likely to become pregnant during adolescence compared to women who did not drink alcohol.ConclusionsWomen’s caste had no direct contributory role in the early pregnancy of the sample. Education, age at marriage and individual behaviours were the key contributing factors. Reducing the number of adolescent pregnancies requires addressing the factors that lead to and perpetuate child marriage; keeping girls within education systems for longer; increase the knowledge and control of girls over their own reproductive health and planning; and actions that promote gender respect within relationships, decision-making and negotiation among both girls and boys.

Comparative study of antiepileptic drug use during pregnancy over a period of 12 years in Spain. Efficacy of the newer antiepileptic drugs lamotrigine, levetiracetam, and oxcarbazepine

IntroductionThe prescription pattern of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) during pregnancy is changing but to what extent this is occurring in Spain remains unknown. The efficacy of newer drugs for controlling seizures is a key issue and may have changed over the years as doctors gained familiarity with these drugs during pregnancy. To assess these 2 topics, we report the results from the Spanish EURAP register gathered over a 12-year period. Material and methodsAfter signing informed consent forms, patients were included in the register and evaluated at onset of pregnancy, at the end of the second and third trimesters, after delivery, and one year after delivery. For the purposes of this study, we analysed AEDs, type of epilepsy, seizure frequency per trimester and throughout pregnancy, percentage of seizure-free pregnancies, and frequency of congenital malformations. We then compared data from 2 periods (June 2001 to October 2007 and January 2008 to May 2015). ResultsWe compared 304 monotherapies from the older period to 127 from the more recent one. There was a clear increase in the use of levetiracetam (LEV) with declining use of carbamazepine (CBZ), phenytoin, and phenobarbital; a slight decline in use of valproate (VPA), and a slight increase in the use of lamotrigine (LTG) and oxcarbazepine (OXC). Epilepsy types treated with CBZ and VPA remained unchanged, whereas fewer cases of generalised epilepsy were treated with LTG in the new period. This trend was not associated with significant changes in seizure frequency, but rather linked to better control over de novo seizures in the third trimester. LEV was similar to CBZ and VPA with regard to levels of seizure control, and more effective than LTG. Generalised epilepsy accounted for 64% of the cases treated with LEV. ConclusionsThe prescription pattern of AEDs during pregnancy has changed in Spain, with diminishing use of CBZ, phenytoin, and phenobarbital. Changes also reflect the type of epilepsy, since there is less use of LTG for generalised epilepsy. LEV provides similar seizure control to that of the older AEDs, and it is more effective and better than LTG.

Correlates of Unintended Pregnancies in Ivory Coast: Results from a National Survey

As in most of Africa, unintended pregnancy remains a major reproductive health challenge in Ivory Coast. The 3 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) conducted in the country in 1994, 1999, and 2012, revealed a decreasing trend in the percentage of unwanted pregnancies: 7.8%, 4.9%, 3.3% in 1994, 1999, and 2012 respectively. However, the percentage of births that were wanted later remained regularly high, around 20% with a pic on 23.8% in 1999. Understanding the extent of unintended pregnancy and the factors associated is crucial to conduct evidence-based interventions and avoiding women’s resort to unsafe abortions. A secondary analysis of the DHS 2011-2012 of Ivory Coast allowed to include 1032 pregnant women at the time of data collection. A bivariate analysis and multivariate was conducted with Stata 14.0 for identifying associated factors with unintended pregnancy. In total, 26.4% of the pregnancies were unintended. Age was not found as a correlate of unintended pregnancy. Women in primary and secondary education categories were more likely to have unintended pregnancy as compared to the no education category (OR (95%CI): 2.0 (1.3-3.1) and 2.1 (1.1-4.0) respectively). Ever use of family planning, high parity (5 children and more), and one as well as two and more deliveries in the past five years were associated with unintended pregnancy (OR (95%CI): 2.1 (1.4-3.2), 3.5 (1.2-10.2) and 2.8 (1.5-5.5), respectively). Partner’s desire for less children was also found to be associated with unintended pregnancy (OR (95% CI): 1.9 (1.1-3.1)). Women already burdened with higher fertility were suffering from unintended pregnancy. Efforts to increase the use of family planning services among these women should be strengthened.

鄱阳湖区黄毛鼠(Rattus losea)繁殖生态

PDF HTML阅读 XML下载 导出引用 引用提醒 鄱阳湖区黄毛鼠(Rattus losea)繁殖生态 DOI: 10.5846/stxb201708021384 作者: 作者单位: 江西省科学院生物资源研究所,江西省科学院生物资源研究所,中国科学院亚热带农业生态研究所,江西省科学院生物资源研究所,中国科学院亚热带农业生态研究所,江西省科学院生物资源研究所 作者简介: 通讯作者: 中图分类号: 基金项目: 江西省自然科学基金项目（20151BAB204010）；江西省科技计划项目（20151BBG70065）；国家自然科学基金项目（41561056）；江西省科学院项目（2014-YYB-05，2014-XTPH1-05） Reproductive ecology of Rattus losea populations in the Poyang Lake region Author: Affiliation: Institute of Biological Resources,Jiangxi Academy of Sciences,Institute of Biological Resources,Jiangxi Academy of Sciences,Institute of Subtropical Agriculture,Chinese Academy of Sciences,Institute of Biological Resources,Jiangxi Academy of Sciences,Institute of Subtropical Agriculture,Chinese Academy of Sciences,Institute of Biological Resources,Jiangxi Academy of Sciences Fund Project: 摘要 | 图/表 | 访问统计 | 参考文献 | 相似文献 | 引证文献 | 资源附件 | 文章评论 摘要:2015-2016年对鄱阳湖区的滨湖农田和湖滩草洲的黄毛鼠种群繁殖进行了研究。研究结果表明，其种群雌雄比为81.36%，在不同的季节、生境和年龄组之间都有一定的差别，雌雄比在夏季较低，春、秋、冬季的雌雄比都超过了50.00%，其中冬季的达到了133.33%。农田和湖滩草洲上的雌雄比也都超过了50.00%，且农田的高于湖滩草洲的。在不同的年龄组之间，雌雄比最高的为幼体组140.00%，其次为成体90.20%。所有雌鼠全年的怀孕率为45.26%，平均胎仔数为6.74只，繁殖指数为1.36。夏和秋季的怀孕率都较高，冬季未捕获到怀孕鼠，仅捕获到有怀孕经历（有宫斑）的雌鼠。从繁殖指数看，春、秋季维持高峰水平，且秋峰高于春峰。雌性黄毛鼠总的参产率为71.58%，各季节间变化呈现单峰曲线，夏季最高，其次是秋季和春季，冬季停止怀孕。随着年龄的增长，平均胎仔数有明显增加的趋势，成体组胎仔数最高，而繁殖指数也是以成体组最高，说明成体组是种群中繁殖的主体。雄性黄毛鼠的睾丸下降率全年总计为81.36%，分四季平均为79.64%，春、夏、秋季都维持在较高水平，冬季最低。下位睾丸的大小季节性差异极显著（P < 0.01），春季与冬季相比，有显著性差异，说明开春后，雄性黄毛鼠在生殖潜能上已有明显变化。这些特征与雌鼠的繁殖高峰基本吻合。说明黄毛鼠主要在春、夏、秋季繁殖，繁殖盛期在春、秋季。从不同的年龄组看，幼体组个体不参与繁殖，亚成体组个体开始参与繁殖，繁殖主体是成体组个体。 Abstract:Rattus losea individuals were collected from beaches and farmland of the Poyang Lake region in 2015 to 2016. A total of 175 specimens were captured, and 171 animals were autopsied to determine their reproductive condition. Position and size of testes were noted in males. For females, the reproductive tract was examined for the tubal condition of the uterus, number and size of embryos, and placental scars. Specimens were assigned to three age classes based on carcass weight:juvenile (carcass weight ≤ 36 g), sub-adult (carcass weight from 36 to 55 g), and adult (carcass weight > 55 g). Males with testes that had dropped into the scrota and females for which the uterus was tubal were considered sexually mature. Females with embryos or visible uterine scars were considered reproductive animals. The total sex ratio (F/M) was 81.36%, but it varied in different seasons and among different age classes. The proportion of males was higher than that of females, except during summer, and the female-male ratio in spring, autumn, and winter was greater than 50.00%, reaching 133.33% in winter. The female-male ratio was also more than 50% in farmland and beaches, although it was higher in farmland. Among the different age groups, the ratio was the highest in juveniles (140.00%), followed by that of adults (90.20%). The total percentage of pregnancy in captured females was 45.26%. The average number of embryos in a litter was 6.74, and the index of reproduction for all females was 1.36. Rates of pregnancy were higher in summer and autumn, with no breeding in winter. The index of reproduction was higher in spring and autumn, and exhibited an obvious bimodal characteristic, of which the major peak was in autumn. It was shown that spring and autumn were the peak breeding periods for females. The total rate of reproductive in females was 71.58%. Seasonal variation showed a single peak curve, which was the highest in summer, followed by autumn and spring, with no pregnant females in winter. With increasing age, the average number of embryos in a litter increased significantly. Litter size and the reproductive index were highest in the adult group. The main group to reproduce was the adult class. For males, the rate of testes in scrota for all males was 81.36%, and the four seasons averaged 79.64%. Almost all captured males had scrotal testes in spring, summer, and autumn, whereas the rate of scrotal testes in winter (25.93%) was lower. The size of testes in scrota of mature males changed significantly among seasons (P < 0.01), and there was a significant difference between spring and winter. These data showed that the reproductive potential of males exhibited obvious changes after spring. Reproductive traits of males were similar to those of females by season and age class. As such, it could be concluded that the rat breeds during the spring to autumn, and stops breeding in winter. The most favorable breeding seasons of this species are spring and autumn, and the adult group is the main reproductive class. 参考文献 相似文献 引证文献

Increased proportion of mature oocytes with sustained-release growth hormone treatment in poor responders: a prospective randomized controlled study.

Supplementation of growth hormone (GH) during controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) has been suggested to improve ovarian response. Despite potential benefits in poor responders, multiple injections of GH during COS are inconvenient. We conducted a randomized controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of sustained-release human GH in poor responders undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). This was a single-center, randomized, open-label, parallel study. Infertile women who satisfied the Bologna criteria for poor responders were randomized into GH treatment and control groups. The treatment group received a sustained-release GH (Eutropin Plus® 20mg) three times before and during COS (mid-luteal, late luteal, and menstrual cycle day 2). The baseline characteristics and IVF outcomes were compared between the two groups. A total of 127 patients were included in the analysis. The mean age was 39.6years and mean anti-Müllerian hormone level was 0.6ng/ml. There was no significant difference in the baseline characteristics between GH treatment and control groups. The number of follicles on the human chorionic gonadotropin triggering day (3.1±2.3 vs. 2.4±1.6, P=0.043) and the proportion of metaphase II oocytes (67.5 vs. 52.3%, P=0.030) were higher in the GH group than in controls. The percentage of clinical and ongoing pregnancy and miscarriage was not different between the two groups. Supplementation of sustained-release GH before and during COS improved ovarian response, with an increase in mature oocytes in poor responders. Further studies are needed to ensure this benefit in general infertility patients.

Fetoscopic laser coagulation in 1020 pregnancies with twin-twin transfusion syndrome demonstrates improvement in double-twin survival rate.

To investigate the growing experience and learning curve of fetoscopic laser coagulation of the placental vascular anastomoses in severe mid-trimester twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and its influence on perinatal outcome in a single-center setting. Between January 1995 and March 2013 we performed laser therapy in 1020 consecutive pregnancies with TTTS between 15.1 and 27.4 weeks' gestation. We compared perinatal outcome in blocks of five sequential groups of 200 cases, taking into account several covariates in order to adjust for case mix and to demonstrate learning curves and success rates. The percentage of pregnancies with survival of both fetuses increased from 50.0% (n = 100) in the first 200 cases to 69.5% (n = 153) in the last 220 cases (P = 0.018 for trend) and the overall survival rate for both fetuses in the complete series of 1019 cases with known outcome was 63.3% (n = 645). The survival rate of at least one fetus increased from 80.5% (161/200) in the first group to 91.8% (202/220) in the last group (P = 0.072 for trend) and the overall survival rate of at least one fetus in the complete series was 86.7% (883/1019). In the total population, the mean gestational age at delivery of pregnancies with at least one liveborn neonate was 33.7 ± 3.2 weeks, with a mean interval of 12.9 ± 4.0 weeks between intervention and delivery. Among the first two groups, 124 pregnancies had anterior placentae and were treated with a 0° fetoscope. These cases had the poorest overall outcome, with a double-twin survival rate of 44.4% (55/124), which increased to 65.1% (207/318; P = 0.001) after the introduction of a 30° fetoscope for cases with anterior placenta. The success rate for double-twin survival reached a plateau of 69% at 600 procedures, a rate equalled by a new operator who was trained hands-on and performed 174 of the last 400 procedures. We report the largest single-center experience of laser coagulation in TTTS. We observed a continuous increase in double-twin survival rate owing to the growing experience based on the learning curve and refinements in fetoscopic instruments and techniques. These data provide strong arguments for the centralization of minimally invasive intrauterine surgery in specialized high-volume centers. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Resultados maternos y neonatales de trillizos nacidos por diferentes métodos de embarazo

BackgroundThe incidence of multiple pregnancies has been increasing steadily for more than 30 years. The aim of this study is to analyse the clinical outcomes of mothers and triplets born by different pregnancy methods. Material and methodsA longitudinal, observational, and analytical study conducted on a cohort of triplets born from January 2000 to December 2010. ResultsThe analysis included a total of 82 sets of triplets, 246 (100%) neonates, with 12 (4.8%) deaths. The distribution of pregnant women according to the method was: 28 (34.1%) spontaneous pregnancies, 20 (24.3%) ovulation inducers 13 (15.8%), artificial insemination, and 21 (25.6%) by IVF-ET. The most frequent pathologies, in general, of all pregnancies were urinary tract infection 13.4%. The mean gestational age was 32.6 ± 1.7, range 25-36. The mean weight was 1561.52 ± 271.6, range 620-2460g. Although intrauterine growth retardation occurred in 34% of all methods, there was no statistical difference. Respiratory disease was present in 34.6% of the total sample, with a statistical difference, P=.00014, respiratory distress syndrome was present in all methods P=.00014. Sepsis for the entire sample was 23.5%, and was distributed evenly for all methods. Only 2cases of enterocolitis 2A were seen. ConclusionThe highest percentage of pregnancies was spontaneous. All neonates were premature with low birth weight <2500g. Respiratory problems (RDS, TTNB, and PAS) were statistically significant.

The impact of combined oral contraceptives on ocular tissues: a review of ocular effects.

The aim of this manuscript is to review the action and adverse effects of combined oral contraceptives (COCs) on ocular tissues. The percentage of unwanted pregnancies and the subsequent abortions make contraception crucial worldwide. Over 100 million women around the world use common contraceptive methods, including intrauterine devices, combined estrogen and progestin oral contraceptives, as well as progestin only preparations (oral contraceptives, implants or injections). COCs are widely used for contraception, but they are also indicated in menorrhagia, endometriosis, acne and hirsutism, fibroid uterus and premenstrual syndrome. However, they have been associated with high rates of cardiovascular events, venous thromboembolic disease, ischemic strokes and breast cancer. The incidence of COCs-related ocular complications is estimated to be 1 in 230 000, including dry eye symptoms, corneal edema, lens opacities and retinal neuro-ophthalmologic or vascular complications. We may infer that the serious ocular complications of COCs can be prevented by eliminating the estrogen dosage and choosing third-generation progestins. In any case, doctors should take into consideration the systemic and ocular history of the patients before selecting any method of contraception.

Registro FIV/ICSI de la Sociedad Española de Fertilidad de los años 2012 y 2013

IntroductionThis report shows the IVF/ICSI Registry activity of the Spanish Society of Fertility during 2012 and 2013. Material and methodsDescriptive study of the data registered from 113 Spanish clinics during 2012, and 130 during 2013. An analysis was performed on IVF/ICSI cycles with own eggs (35,430 in 2012, and 38,591 in 2013), IVF/ICSI cycles from egg donation (7,605 in 2012 and 8,320 in 2013), frozen embryo replacement cycles (11,736 in 2012 and 14,255 in 2013), pre-implantation genetic diagnosis/screening cycles (2,744 in 2012 and 2,890 in 2013), and cryopreserved oocytes cycles (6,452 in 2012 and 8,056 in 2013). ResultsA total of 9,750 clinical pregnancies were reported in 2012 with IVF and own eggs treatment, and 9,775 in 2013 (37.9% and 37.3% pregnancy rate per embryo transfer, respectively), leading to 23.9% of multiple pregnancies in 2012 and 22.9% in 2013. By egg donation cycles, 4,569 pregnancies were obtained (53.3%) from a total of 8,571 fresh embryo transfers in 2012, and 4,607 (55.9%) from 8.238 in 2013, leading to 31,1% of multiple pregnancies in 2012 and 30,1% in 2013. In 2012, 568 (20.7%) pregnancies were obtained from 2,744 egg collections for PGD treatment, and 484 (16.7%) from 2,890 in 2013. The number of cycles performed with vitrified own eggs was 1,949 in 2012 and 2,899 in 2013. ConclusionsMultiple pregnancy rates are still high. The data shows a significant increase of the number of cycles with cryopreserved oocytes. A high percentage of pregnancies are unknown, lacking data on their follow-up.

Clinic characteristics of women with advanced maternal age and perinatal outcomes

Objective: To explore the association between maternal age and perinatal outcomes. Methods: Totally, 3 151 women with advanced maternal age and 6 098 women younger than 35 years old who delivered in Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital in 2016 were recruited. Their clinic characteristics and perinatal outcomes were collected to divide into 3 groups based on delivery age, Group 1 (aged 35-39 years, 2 683 cases), Group 2 (aged ≥40 years, 366 cases) and the control group (aged<35 years, 6 098 cases). The association between maternal age and adverse perinatal outcomes were analyzed, including hypertensive disorder complicating pregnancy, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), preterm birth and postpartum hemorrhage. Results: The rate of cesarean section history (27.39%, 33.61%, 5.53%) or previous myomectomy history (2.80%, 5.46%, 0.72%) were compared between the advanced maternal age groups and the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). The percentage of prepregnancy overweight and obesity (29.67%, 27.05%, 18.47%), complicated with myoma (14.83%,19.95%, 5.64%) were compared among the three groups, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). The percentage of pregnancy through assisted reproductive technology (9.84%, 15.03%, 3.12%) also had statistically significant differences (P<0.05). The incidence of fetal chromosomal abnormalities (1.23%, 3.01%, 0.36%) and fetal malformations (1.94%, 4.37%, 0.48%) increased with the maternal age, with statistically significant differences (P<0.01). The mobidity of hypertensive disorders (9.84%, 13.11%, 9.23%), pregestational diabetes mellitus (1.83%, 2.19%, 0.72%), gestational diabetes mellitus (22.70%, 28.42%, 14.87%), premature rupture of membranes (25.57%, 19.40%, 31.42%), placenta previa (2.05%, 2.46%, 0.92%), preterm birth(8.35%, 11.20%, 5.51%), postpartum hemorrhage (25.11%, 18.31%, 20.27%) and forceps delivery (5.42%, 2.33%, 5.71%) were compared, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). The cesarean section rate in primipara (45.42%, 75.74%, 21.33%) and multipara (51.46%, 61.54%, 30.95%) had statistically significant difference (P<0.05). The proportion of macrosomia (10.80%, 8.85%, 7.96%) and neonates transferred into neonatal ICU (9.63%, 11.48%, 5.21%) in term neonates had statistically significant difference (P<0.05). Conclusions: Women with advanced maternal age increase after new family planning policy put into effect, so do the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. Attention and interventions should be made to cope with the occurrence of adverse perinatal outcomes.

Safety of vaccination against brucellosis with the rough strain in pregnant cattle.

Brucellosis is an infectious and contagious disease that profoundly impacts public health. However, in many countries, disease prevention is restricted to the vaccination of calves, and there is no prophylactic strategy for pregnant heifers and cows. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of the rough strain vaccine against brucellosis in pregnant cattle. Crossbred cows (N=96) at three gestational periods (early, mid, or late pregnancy) were randomly allocated into the vaccine treatment group or to the control group. We then compared the percentage of pregnancies reaching full term, live calves 60days after delivery, and seropositive calves. There was no effect of vaccination in any of the gestational periods on the evaluation endpoints. In conclusion, vaccination against brucellosis with the rough strain is safe for pregnant cattle at all gestational periods.

The effect of dha omega-3 feeding in the high yielding holstein herd

The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of supplementary feeding of DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) rich algae product (Algae STM Alltech Inc.) on production of milk, fat and protein as well as on reproduction of high yielding Holstein dairy herd. Field trial was set up on Top 10 dairy farm in western part of Slovakia, under commercial conditions. The data of high yielding dairy cows, separated in two groups of 30 (control) and 29 (trial) animals, were recorded for period of 3 subsequent months from October to December 2015. Animals were fed once a day Total Mixed Ration based diet with different feed mixture composition in trial group (+100 g Algae STM Alltech Inc. per cow and day). Performance data were collected in accordance with official milk recording system of Breeding Services of Slovak Republic s. e. and milk samples were collected once per month according to the A4 standard methodology. The control group showed higher level of milk production compared to trial. Our study indicated that the feeding of algae caused milk fat depression and generally lower protein content in milk. Significant impact of algae feeding was found also for the level of urea in milk. In addition, the supplementary feeding of DHA may represent effective strategy to increase the percentage of pregnancies per inseminations in lactating dairy cows.

Freezing dog semen using −80 °C ultra-freezer: Sperm function and in vivo fertility

Long term storage of canine frozen semen is conventionally performed in liquid nitrogen (LN2). However, previous works in freezing canine semen using a −80 °C ultra-freezer (−80°C-UF) showed no differences on sperm quality after thawing. The main objective of this study was to compare the effects of the freezing techniques using LN2 or -80°C-UF on sperm function and in vivo fertility of frozen–thawed dog semen. The sperm-rich fraction of the ejaculate was collected separately from five Chihuahua breed, and each one divided into two aliquots, and frozen and stored in LN2 or -80°C-UF. Sperm function was analyzed for motility and viability, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial function and phosphatidylserine translocation by flow cytometry before and after cryopreservation. A total of 10 bitches were intravaginal inseminated (IVAI; LN2 frozen-thawed semen = 5 and −80°C-UF frozen–thawed semen = 5). Pregnancy status was confirmed 30 d after IVAI by transabdominal ultrasonography and live born puppies at term were recorded. Sperm function parameters were affected for both freezing protocols. Differences (P < 0.05) were found between freezing and storage methods in most of the parameters of sperm function analyzed, except in the phosphatidylserine translocation. The percentages of pregnancies were not different between the two freezing and storage protocols used. Semen freezing and storage using −80 °C UF is an effective technique for long-term preservation of canine spermatozoa.

Transvaginal ultrasound-guided embryo transfer in IVF

ObjectivesTo determine whether transvaginal ultrasound-guided embryo transfer is a technique that can be used routinely, whether it improves IVF outcomes and whether it makes difficult transfers easier and more successful. Material and methodNon-randomized retrospective study conducted between 2012 and 2016 in the fertility center of the Diaconesses-Croix St-Simon hospital group. The outcomes of 3910 transfers, performed by 5 senior operators, under transabdominal ultrasound guidance are compared with those of 800 transfers, performed by 1 senior operator under transvaginal ultrasound guidance. The criteria studied are the feasibility of the technique and the percentage of pregnancies per transfer in the two populations described, as well as in the difficult and very difficult transfer populations. ResultsAll the transfers were feasible under transvaginal ultrasound guidance without the use of forceps or additional instruments. The percentage of pregnancies per transfer is significantly increased, when the transfer is performed under transvaginal ultrasound guidance compared with that performed under transabdominal ultrasound guidance, in the general population (38%, n=800 vs 30%, n=3910; P 0.0004) and in the reference population characterized by age <38 years and >6 oocytes collected per puncture (45%, n=490 vs 36%, n=1968; P 0.002). The percentage of pregnancies per transfer (P/T) is not significantly different in the populations of easy transfers (n 695, 38% P/T), difficult transfers (n 58, 46% P/T; P=ns) and very difficult transfers (n 47, 34% P/T; P=ns). ConclusionsEmbryo transfer is a key stage in IVF, in which the quality of performance determines the outcome. In this study, transvaginal ultrasound guidance of the transfer, which is the reference procedure in gynaecological imaging, significantly increases the percentage of pregnancies per transfer, both in the general population and in the reference population, compared with transfers performed under transabdominal ultrasound guidance. Transvaginal ultrasound facilitates the performance of difficult transfers and in particular achieves outcomes in these situations that are not significantly different from those of easy transfers. Visual monitoring of transcervical passage, which is rendered more precise and less traumatic and precision of embryo deposition are the factors that probably account for the improvement in outcomes.

Eficacia de dos tratamientos hormonales para la inducción del celo en la vaca lechera

Para evaluar la eficiencia de dos tratamientos para la inducción del estro en vacas lecheras en anoestro de la región central de Cuba y los factores que la afectan se realizó este experimento en el periodo lluvioso del año 2013. Se seleccionaron 174 vacas de 6 a 8 años de edad, periodo de espera voluntario mayor de 60 días y condición corporal (CC) de 2,5 a 4 (escala 1-5). Se conformaron dos grupos, uno de 90 animales que recibió P4(3) + BE2 [P4 (90 mg) + P4 (60 mg) + P4 (60 mg) + BE2 (1 mg)] y otro de 84 tratado con P4(3) + eCG [P4 (90 mg) + P4 (60 mg) + P4 (60 mg) + eCG (500 UI)]. Se determinaron los factores que afectan a la respuesta de los tratamientos de inducción del celo mediante un modelo de regresión logística. Se compararon las proporciones de presentación de celo y gestación entre tratamientos mediante comparación binomial de proporciones y según la puntuación de CC dentro de cada protocolo hormonal mediante comparación múltiple de proporciones. No se hallaron diferencias (p&gt;0,05) entre tratamientos para la detección de celo; en cambio las proporciones de gestación al primer servicio fueron superiores (p

Effect of using various doses of Bromocriptine in estrus induction and subsequent fertility in lactating anestrus Iraqi Ewes

Forty eight (48) anestrus lactating Iraqi ewes aged between 2-4 years were undertaken 40 days postpartum in Babylon province (Technical institute in Al-Mussaib). Ewes were randomly divided into 4 equal groups according to type of treatment implemented. Group 1 (G1) were treated with vaginal sponges impregnated with 60 mg Medroxy Progesterone acetate for 10 days. Immediately after sponge removal, each ewe was injected IM. with 500 IU. Equine choriogonadotropines. Ewes of G2 were treated with Medroxy Progesterone acetate and Equine choriogonadotropines as mentioned above in addition n to 10 mg bromocriptine/day orally for 10 successive days at the same time of sponges insertion. Animals of G3 were treated with Medroxy Progesterone acetate and Equine choriogonadotropines in addition to 20 mg bromocriptine/day orally for 10 days. Ewes of G4 were treated with Medroxy Progesterone acetate and Equine choriogonadotropines in addition to 30 mg bromocriptine /day orally for 10 days. All ewes were mixed free with 5 fertile rams for 7 days after hormonal treatment to detect estrus and natural mating. Results showed that the duration of response to treatment was significantly longer P&lt;0.05 in G1 (3.42±0.17) days than that recorded in G4 (1.14±0.12), G3 (1.20±0.21) and G2 (2.16±0.14) days. Consequently, the number of ewes which showed estrus was significantly high P&lt;0.05 in G4 (100%) compared to G3 (75%), G1 (83.3%) and G2 (91.6%). The percentage of pregnancy was significantly higher P&lt;0.05 in G3 (100%) versus 70%, 83.3% and 90.9% in G1, G4 and G2, respectively. Serum estrogen values were gradually increased with the increased doses of bromocriptine in all groups while progesterone value was decreased at the last days before sponges removal in all ewes.

Counting unreported abortions: A binomial-thinned zero-inflated Poisson model

(ProQuest: ... denotes formulae omitted.)1.IntroductionIn most demographic surveys, the number of intentional abortions is significantly underreported. For example, in the National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG), a survey of US women, only 38% of intentional abortions done during the years 20062013 are reported according to the estimates of the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). This estimate assumes that the data collected from abortion-service providers through a separate survey is accurate. Reporting rates of intentional abortions at the previous waves of the also have been estimated to be in the range of 35%-48%. Other major surveys of US women, such as the National Surveys of Young Women (NSYW) and the National Longitudinal Surveys of Work Experience of Youth (NLSY), too suffer from this limitation (Jones and Forrest 1992). Underreporting of this magnitude strictly limits the usefulness of self-reported abortion data. The warns that NSFG data on abortion should not be used for substantive research (USDHHS 2014: 35).When intentional abortions are underreported, the total number of reported pregnancies is also automatically underreported, even if other pregnancy outcomes are accurately reported.2 It hinders the accurate estimation of pregnancy timing, contraceptive efficiency, and many other impact-assessment studies in which the number of abortions or pregnancies could potentially be the dependent variable. Nevertheless, in many studies, self-reported abortion counts are analyzed to make strong conclusions while ignoring the impact of underreporting. For example, in Grindlay and Grossman (2013), cross-sectional data from the Department of Defense's survey of health-related behaviors among active-duty military personnel in 2005 and 2008 are analyzed to conclude that the rate of unwanted pregnancies (per 1000 women of reproductive age) has increased from 97 to 105 during the two years, notwithstanding the declared national goal of the government to reduce unwanted pregnancies. They also estimate that the unintended-pregnancy rate in the US military is 50% higher than that rate of the general US population, despite many formal and informal restrictions on sexual relationships faced by women (and men) in the military. Both of these observations could potentially be artifacts of differential reporting rates, across time periods in the first case and among the two groups in second case, due to the differences in the extent of perceived social undesirability of abortion. Another recent study, Tapales and Finer (2015), relies on the assumption that the reporting rates of intentional abortions of different subgroups do not vary across time periods.Some researchers attempt to correct the bias due to underreported abortions before producing a related estimate. Lindberg (2011), another study on the unintendedpregnancy rate in the US military that analyzes data from the same survey as Grindlay and Grossman (2013), assumes that everyone in their sample reports only a fixed percentage of intentional abortions and therefore a fixed percentage of true pregnancies. The unreported pregnancies are assumed to be 11.9% of the number of reported cases based on two previous studies that estimate the reporting rates of intentional abortions in the in comparison to provider surveys. In addition to ignoring the differences in reporting rates across various subgroups, this study simply ignores that the average reporting rate could vary significantly across different surveys.If the reporting rates of intentional abortions are known, preferably at the individual level, it is possible to correct for any potential bias due to underreporting in many studies. When the reporting rate at a particular survey is not known, researchers in most cases simply ignore misreporting, as in Grindlay and Grossman (2013), or use an estimate from a previous study, which may or may not be based on the same survey, as in Lindberg (2011). …

Results of a clinical and genealogical analysis of pedigrees of children with cerebral palsy in the population of Rostov region

To perform clinical and genealogical pedigree analysis and determine the proportion of hereditary factors in the etiopathogenesis of cerebral palsy (CP) in children in the Rostov Region. Pedigrees and the prevalence of CP, congenital malformations and other related diseases among relatives of I, II and III degrees of kinship of 229 probands with CP were studied. The family concentration of the disease was detected in 15 (6.6%) cases. There were 96 (41.9%) pedigrees with probands with a family history and 118 (51.5%) without family history of CP. The frequency of CP was by 19.2 times higher in the relatives of probands in the families with a history of disease and 2.2 times higher in the siblings compared to the population frequency. The frequency of congenital malformations in the relatives of probands in this group was 23.8 times higher, while in the group of probands with a family history 14.9 times higher than the expected value. Miscarriages and stillbirths preceded the birth of children with CP in 29.2-33.3% of the mothers, and percentage of unrealized pregnancies ranged from 16.7 to 18.7%. CP in 51.5% of cases can be considered as a sporadic disease, and in 48.5% of cases it was genetically determined and can be attributed to a group of multifactorial diseases with polygenic determination of genetic predisposition components.

Medicinal Chemistry as Foundation for Contraception, Birth Control, Family Planning and Fertility

Contraception plays a pivotal role in birth control and family planning and thus affects millions of women not only in the U.S. but also world-wide. Efforts are made in the U.S. to reduce the percentage of unwanted pregnancies, i.e., 49%, which compares unfavorably with Western Europe's percentage of 34% [1,2]. Despite a vast and steadily-increasing literature on the issues of family planning and birth control, several questions are still awaiting clarification, especially with regard to medicinal chemistry, i.e., effects of chemical substances on human endocrinology. The following analysis aims at identifying problem areas in contemporary research and draws attention to flawed data in scholarly publications.