MedWorm: Reproduction Medicine

Does the duration of infertility affect semen parameters and pregnancy rate after varicocelectomy?: a retrospective study

International Braz J Urol — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:58:42 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Surgical varicocelectomy improves the total sperm motility counts especially in patients who have a TMCS more than 5 million and improves the spontaneous pregnancy rates. The improvement in the spontaneous pregnancy rates after varicocelectomy correlates negatively with the duration of infertility. Therefore, duration of infertility should be considered in treating a patient with a varicocele as a cause of infertility. (Source: International Braz J Urol)

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Plateauing IVF Pregnancy Rates in Europe a Stark Contrast to the US...

PRWeb: Medical Pharmaceuticals — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:10:07 +0100

The differing approaches toward infertility treatments between the US and Europe may be responsible for the enormous discrepancy in pregnancy rates.(PRWeb February 06, 2012)Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/ivf-treatment/infertility-treatments/prweb9167101.htm (Source: PRWeb: Medical Pharmaceuticals)

Contraceptive uptake among women receiving abortion care in a midlevel health facility in Kumasi, Ghana

Contraception — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:36:55 +0100

To examine background characteristics, exposure to repeat abortion, fertility preferences and postabortion contraceptive uptake among women receiving comprehensive abortion care in a midlevel health facility in Kumasi. (Source: Contraception)

Scheduling A Tubal Reversal Is Easy

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Scheduling your tubal reversal surgery may seem like a time consuming process. Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center staff understands that some of their patients live in other time zones and have busy lives that may interfere in their ability to begin the scheduling process during their normal office operating hours in the Eastern U.S. Time Zone. With this in mind, an experienced tubal reversal nurses is available by phone, email, and fax 365 days a year from 8am to 8pm EST to assist women interested in scheduling a tubal reversal procedure (yes, this includes weekends, and holidays!). The staff of Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center answer any questions or concerns patients may have and will assist them through the reversal surgery scheduling process to make it an easy one. (Source: Tubal Liga...

12 More Pregnancies After Tubal Reversal Reported This Week

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center announced 12 new pregnancies reported during the week of January 28 to February 3, 2012. Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center publishes a weekly listing of newly announced pregnancies after tubal ligation reversals performed there. This week, three of the tubal reversal pregnancies reported were achieved by women who were age 40 or older and some pregnancies that were reported were by women with remaining tubal lengths of 4 cm or less, proving that reverse tubal ligation surgery can be a successful even in difficult situations. Dr. Gary Berger and Dr. Charles Monteith, the most experienced tubal reversal doctors, are able to repair the tubes in 98% of cases. There is no other medical facility in the world that has helped more women to have children after tuba...

Too Posh for Pregnancy?

Psychology Today Parenting Center — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 23:22:56 +0100

How many women hire surrogates because they are too busy to be pregnant or want to avoid stretch marks?read more (Source: Psychology Today Parenting Center)

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Banishing Your Heartache on Valentine's Day

Psychology Today Relationships Center — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 21:45:49 +0100

Valentine's Day can be a challenge if your heart is aching. Here are some creative strategies to add some "zing" to your love life ...read more (Source: Psychology Today Relationships Center)

Detection of Chromosome X;18 Breakpoints and Translocation of the Xq22.3;18q23 Regions Resulting in Variable Fertility Phenotypes

Clinical and Developmental Immunology — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:20:54 +0100

We describe a familial pattern of gonosomal-autosomal translocation between the X and 18 chromosomes, balanced and unbalanced forms, in male and female siblings. The proposita was consulted for hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. Karyotype analysis revealed a balanced 46, X, t(X;18)(q22.3;q23) genotype. The sister of the proband presented with oligomenorrhea with irregular menses and possesses an unbalanced form of the translocation 46, X, der(X), t(X;18)(q22.3;q23). The brother of the proband was investigated and was found to possess the balanced form of the same translocation, resulting in disrupted spermatogenesis. Maternal investigation revealed the progenitor karyotype 46, X, t(X;18)(q22.3;q23). Maternal inheritance and various genomic events contributed to the resultant genotypes. Primar...

Painful Periods Eased By Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

A large Scandinavian study, that has been running for 30 years, has finally provided convincing evidence that the combined oral contraceptive pill does, indeed, alleviate the symptoms of painful menstrual periods reports scientists from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. The research is published in EuropeÂ´s leading reproductive medicine journal Human Reproduction... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Hope For Effective Endometriosis Screening Following Gene Mutation Discovery

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Researchers at Yale School of Medicine have, for the first time, described the genetic basis of endometriosis, a condition affecting millions of women that is marked by chronic pelvic pain and infertility. The researchers' discovery of a new gene mutation provides hope for new screening methods. Published in the early online issue of EMBO Molecular Medicine, the study explored an inherited mutation located in part of the KRAS gene, which leads to abnormal endometrial growth and endometrial risk... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Juggling Priorities: Female Mating Tactics in Phayre's Leaf Monkeys

American Journal of Primatology — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

We examined female mate preferences across defined receptive periods (N = 59) in a group of wild Phayre's leaf monkeys (Trachypithecus phayrei crepusculus) at Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary (February–September 2006; 2,603 contact hours). The group contained seven cycling adult females and three reproductively active males (one adult and two adolescents). We predicted that females would prefer the adult male during periovulatory (POP) receptive periods, but the adolescent males during nonperiovulatory (NPOP) and postconceptive (PC) periods. We collected focal and ad libitum data on sexual and agonistic behaviors to determine female preferences and male awareness of female fertility. We also determined the degree of mating overlap to assess if males were capable of monopolizing females. Our ...

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Female fertility affects men's linguistic choices

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Public Library of Science) The likelihood that a man will match his language to that of a female conversation partner depends on how fertile she is. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Anxious For Tests Results Prior To Tubal Reversal

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

In anticipation of scheduling tubal ligation reversal surgery, a Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center message board member anxiously awaits the results of her pre-op lab results. Blood work is required prior to surgery but not necessarily prior to scheduling a date for surgery. Dr. Berger and Dr. Monteith, tubal reversal surgeons, require four blood tests prior to tubal reversal surgery which include testing for the HIV antibody, Hepatitis B and C and a complete blood count. Additional lab tests may be required depending upon an individual's medical history. Testing should be performed within 3 to 5 days of scheduling the procedure but not more than 90 days prior to the tubal reversal date. The blood work can be ordered by your local physician and the results faxed to the office at (919)-967-...

A Common Mis-interpretation With HSG

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

The tubal reversal doctors at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center recommend having a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) after tubal ligation reversal if not pregnant within a year. The HSG images should be sent to Dr. Berger and Dr. Monteith to review. A common error in an HSG is being interpreted by a radiologist as "blocked tube". This is especially true in cases where the dye does not reach the tubal anastomosis sites in the fallopian tubes due to tubal spasm. It is important to have Dr. Berger review and compare with your tubal reversal operative report. In many cases it could be a problem with the testing rather than a problem with the tubes. (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

Mouse females devoid of exposure to males during fetal development exhibit increased maternal behavior

Psychoneuroendocrinology — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:13:24 +0100

Summary: Many sex differences can be found in the expression of aggression and parental nurturing behaviors. It is important to determine if these are modulated by prenatal conditions. Here, using assisted reproduction technologies, we generated females that were (mixed-sex) or were not (same-sex) exposed to males during fetal development, raised them by cross fostering among fosters’ own female only pups to control for effects of postnatal environment, and compared their reproductive abilities and behavior. There were no differences between females from the two prenatal conditions in estrus cycle length and length of time spent at individual estrus cycle stages. Both types of females had similar ovulation efficiency and bred equally well yielding comparable litter size and progeny sex r...

After Clips Women Have Great Success With Tube Length And Pregnancy

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Many women who contact Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center want to know about getting pregnant after clip removal from their fallopian tubes. Some types of clips used during sterilizations include Hulka clips, Filshie clips, rings and bands. Not only does removal of clips, rings and bands possibly provide the greatest success with remaining tube length after tubal reversal but reversal of tubal clip procedures had the highest pregnancy rate (75%), followed by tubal rings (72%), coagulation (66%) and ligation/resection (63%). Patients with other or unknown methods of tubal ligation had the lowest pregnancy rate (54%). If a woman had sterilization using some type of clips and would like to have tubal reversal surgery, she should call Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center today at (919) 968-4656. (...

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Think You Can't Get Pregnant? Try Again, Study SaysThink You Can't Get Pregnant? Try Again, Study Says

Medscape Medical News Headlines — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 20:20:36 +0100

Almost half of women who said they'd been struggling to get pregnant for at least a year ended up having a baby despite not getting fertility treatment, in a new study from Australia. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Medical News Headlines)

Pregnancy outcomes in oocyte donation recipients: vaginal gel versus intramuscular injection progesterone replacement

Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:37:44 +0100

Conclusions Pregnancy outcomes were comparable for progesterone replacement with vaginal gel and intramuscular progesterone in an oocyte donation program. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ASSISTED REPRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIESPages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s10815-011-9691-9Authors Brian M. Berger, Boston IVF, Inc., 130 Second Avenue, Waltham, MA 02451, USAJames A. Phillips, Sage Statistical Solutions, Inc., 3737 Borland Rd, Efland, NC 27243, USA Journal Journal of Assisted Reproduction and GeneticsOnline ISSN 1573-7330Print ISSN 1058-0468 (Source: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics)

A "view from nowhen" on time perception experiments. - Riemer M, Trojan J, Kleinböhl D, Hölzl R.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:54:53 +0100

Systematic errors in time reproduction tasks have been interpreted as a misperception of time and therefore seem to contradict basic assumptions of pacemaker-accumulator models. Here we propose an alternative explanation of this phenomenon based on methodo... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))

Annual Summary of Vital Statistics: 2009. - Kochanek KD, Kirmeyer SE, Martin JA, Strobino DM, Guyer B.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:54:53 +0100

Reversible male infertility under treatment with an anti-TNF{alpha} agent: a case report

Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

We describe here a rare case of reversible oligoasthenozoospermia in a young patient. Case report This case concerns a 35-year-old father of a healthy 4-year-old child who was successfully treated for 3 years with adalimumab, a monoclonal human antibody against TNFα, 40 mg subcutaneously every 2 weeks for ankylosing spondylitis (AS). The therapy was well tolerated except for transient mild increases of liver enzymes. Three years after therapy onset, the patient was investigated for infertility. The sperm analysis revealed an oligoasthenozoospermia with a substantially decreased sperm concentration of 0.9 mil/ml (N>15 mil/ml, WHO 20101) and decreased sperm... (Source: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases)

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Gene mutation discovery sparks hope for effective endometriosis screening

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Yale University) Researchers at Yale School of Medicine have, for the first time, described the genetic basis of endometriosis, a condition affecting millions of women that is marked by chronic pelvic pain and infertility. The researchers' discovery of a new gene mutation provides hope for new screening methods. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

More Americans Seeking Love Online: Study

Fertility News - Doctors Lounge — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Dating websites offer romance, but 'science' behind claims is called sketchy (Source: Fertility News - Doctors Lounge)

Clinical Efficacy of Macrophage-Activating Chinese Mixed Herbs (MACH) in Improvement of Embryo Qualities in Women with Long-Term Infertility of Unknown Etiology.

The American Journal of Chinese Medicine — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 03:06:02 +0100

Authors: Ushiroyama T, Yokoyama N, Hakukawa M, Sakuma K, Ichikawa F, Yoshida S Abstract Despite the recent technological advances in in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET), a significant proportion of women still do not become pregnant after long-term infertility, whether it is originally due to older age or other undetermined factors. In the present study, macrophage activating Chinese herbs (MACH) were evaluated for their effects on embryo qualities in women who were undergoing repeated IVF-ET because of long-term infertility. Thirty women, who had significantly low rates of developing good quality cleaved embryos and did not become pregnant after three or more cycles of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedure, were included in the study. Oral administration...

Tubal Reversal Baby Testimonial # 1251

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Many people contact Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center and ask if it is possible to have a baby after Falope ring tubal ligation. Falope rings, sometimes called tubal rings or tubal bands, can be removed and the remaining tubal segments rejoined to allow pregnancy to occur again. This Pregnancy Report gives an example of the results of this kind of tubal reversal procedure. Stacie F. of Powell, Wyoming had her Falope ring ligation reversed by Dr. Berger in March of 2009 and gave birth to a tubal reversal baby girl in March of 2010 and then a tubal reversal baby boy in November of 2011. (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

A Date For Tubal Reversal Chosen!

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

A very excited member of the Tubal Reversal Message Board announces that she has chosen April 9, 2012 for her tubal reversal surgery. She contacted a tubal reversal nurse to help her with scheduling her ligation reversal surgery. Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center is available 7 days a week to assist patients and potential patients. A free consultation with an experienced Tubal Reversal Nurse is offered to women interested in a Tubal Ligation Reversal. Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center is the best place to have your tubal ligation reversed. (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

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Mortality and morbidity risks and economic behavior

Health Economics — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

SUMMARYThere are theoretical reasons to expect that high risk of mortality or morbidity during young adulthood decreases investment in human capital. However, investigation of this hypothesis is complicated by a variety of empirical challenges, including difficulties in inferring causation due to omitted variables and reverse causation. For example, to compare two groups with substantially different mortality rates, one typically has to use samples from different countries or periods, making it difficult to control for other relevant variables. Reverse causation is important because human capital investment can affect mortality and morbidity. To counter these problems, we collected data on human capital investments, fertility decisions, and other economic choices of people at risk for Hunt...

endocrine therapies for breast cancer

About.com Breast Cancer — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer can be treated with endocrine therapies, also called hormonal therapies. These drugs come in two classes: selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs)and aromatase inhibitors. These lower your estrogen levels, and may affect your fertility, as well as preventing a recurrence of breast cancer. Learn more about endocrine therapies for breast cancer. (Source: About.com Breast Cancer)

Tubal Reversal Baby Testimonial #1250

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

A tubal reversal patient of Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center writes in with her baby testimonial. Vanessa L. from Grantbsburg, Wisconsin had her tubes untied in April of 2010 and gave birth to her tubal reversal baby boy in January of 2012. She writes, "God bless you Dr. Berger for making this TR miracle happen! My husband and I are so happy and thankful to have you perform the tubal reversal surgery to make this possible! The journey post tubal reversal to get where we are today is totally and completely worth it, and we couldn't be any more satisfied!" (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

Tubal Reversal By Microsurgical Salpingostomy

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

A member of the Tubal Reversal Message Board writes in to inquire about the tubal reversal technique called microsurgical salpingostomy. Microsurgical salpingostomy is performed by creating a small opening in the remaining end of the fallopian tube with a microsurgical needle electrode. The newly created opening is then enlarged and gently folded back like the petals of a flower to allow the internal endothelial lining to emerge and extend over the opened tubal end. Since healthy tubal endothelium is covered with cilia - the hairline projections that beat in coordinated waves - the new tubal opening or ostium can capture an egg as it is released from the ovary and propel it into the tube just as the fimbrial end of the tube does normally. Fine sutures are carefully placed around the circum...

Preparing For Tubal Reversal Surgery

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

A member of the Tubal Reversal Message Board posts that she is planning to see her local doctor to have a consult to prepare for having ligation reversal surgery at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center. Other message board members give their support and encouragement. The Tubal Reversal Message Board is a very helpful resource that many Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal patients use. Patients and potential patients can join the Tubal Reversal Message Board to help find support as well as answers to many of their questions. Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center is the only facility in the United States dedicated solely to the practice of tubal reversal surgery. Dr. Berger and his staff have developed helpful tools to educate and inform women and their families about the options for being able to become p...

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Measurement of active shoulder proprioception: dedicated system and device

European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:52:41 +0100

Abstract Proprioception is an essential part of shoulder stability and neuromuscular control. The purpose of the study was the development of a precise system of shoulder proprioception assessment in the active mode (Propriometr). For that purpose, devices such as the electronic goniometer and computer software had been designed. A pilot study was carried out on a control group of 27 healthy subjects, the average age being 23.8 (22–29) in order to test the system. The result of the assessment was the finding of the error of active reproduction of the joint position (EARJP). EARJP was assessed for flexion, abduction, external and internal rotation. For every motion, reference positions were used at three different angles. The results showed EARJP to range in 3–6.1°. Th...

Struggling for a year to get pregnant? You should try again, says study

the Mail online | Health — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:43:33 +0100

If you have been struggling to get pregnant for a year, you still have almost as much chance of having a baby naturally as of conceiving by using fertility hormones or IVF, Australian doctors found. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Abnormal male meiosis explains pollen sterility in the polyploid medicinal plant Pinellia ternata (Araceae).

Genetics and Molecular Research — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:24:05 +0100

Abnormal male meiosis explains pollen sterility in the polyploid medicinal plant Pinellia ternata (Araceae). Genet Mol Res. 2012;11(1):112-20 Authors: Liu Y, Hui RK, Deng RN, Wang JJ, Wang M, Li ZY Abstract Pinellia ternata is an important traditional Chinese medicinal plant. Its different populations in China have various ploidy levels, based on x = 13, as well as extensive aneuploid series. The microsporogenesis process was observed in specimens from three populations from three regions of Hubei Province; they were characterized by normal and abnormal meiotic divisions in pollen mother cells (PMCs) at all stages simultaneously. Meiotic abnormalities including univalents/multivalents, chromosomal laggards/bridges and micronuclei appeared in about 50% of the PMCs, together ...

Men With Reduced Fertility At Reduced Risk For Prostate Cancer

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Involuntary childlessness owing to reduced fertility is a concern for many men. However, these men do have one advantage - they run a significantly lower risk of suffering from prostate cancer. Researchers are interested in whether this phenomenon could be used in the fight against cancer. There is a clear link between male subfertility and a lower risk of prostate cancer. According to a new thesis from Lund University in Sweden, involuntarily childless men have around a 50 per cent lower risk of suffering from prostate cancer than men who have fathered at least one child... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Tainted juice saga reveals shocking truth about how much food we import

NaturalNews.com — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 06:00:00 +0100

Last month, the Coca-Cola Company notified the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that imported orange juice it uses in some of its drink products was found to be tainted with carbendazim, an illegal crop fungicide linked to infertility and testicular damage. Less... (Source: NaturalNews.com)

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Comparison of pregnancy outcomes in natural cycle IVF/M treatment with or without mature oocytes retrieved at time of egg collection.

Systems Biology in Reproductive Medicine — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, for natural cycle IVF/M treatment, although the clinical pregnancy rates are not different regarding the retrieval of mature oocytes or the time of the egg retrieval, the live birth rate is higher (P < 0.05) when the mature oocytes are obtained at the time of the egg retrieval. PMID: 22300260 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Systems Biology in Reproductive Medicine)

Reflections on having children in the future-interviews with highly educated women and men without children.

Upsala Journal of Medical Sciences — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion. Highly educated women and men reflect on various factors when considering family planning. Being of reasonable age and having good living conditions, in particular a sound personal economy, were important. Given their goals, it is not surprising that many postpone parenthood until ages when female reproductive capacity is decreased. PMID: 22300332 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Upsala Journal of Medical Sciences)

[Original Articles] Fertility Treatment Response: Is It Better to Be More Optimistic or Less Pessimistic?

Psychosomatic Medicine — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Being pessimistic may be a risk factor for IVF treatment failure. Future research should attempt to delineate the biological and behavioral mechanisms by which pessimism may negatively affect treatment outcomes. (Source: Psychosomatic Medicine)

Flap over Designer Sperm in India

Psychology Today Parenting Center — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 01:10:31 +0100

An ad for sperm from “tall and fair” technology students sparks a debate in India about designer babies.read more (Source: Psychology Today Parenting Center)

Tubal Reversal Pregnancies 4th week January 2012

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Pregnancy announcements from Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center for the 4th week of January, 2012. Lynn F., from Laguna Niguel, California writes, "I've always felt something was missing after my tubes were tied and will now feel complete with my dream of having four children. With our sincerest gratitude to Dr. Berger!" (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

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Requirements For Lab Work at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Many women who are new to Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center are anxious to get started with planning for their reverse tubal ligation surgery. They want to have orders for lab work faxed over to their preferred labs prior to scheduling. It may be better to wait until actually scheduled before having the lab work done as lab results are good only for 90 days prior to surgery. Scheduling surgery with Dr. Gary Berger and Dr. Charles Monteith should be done at least four weeks prior to the desired surgical date. This will leave plenty of time for all requirements to be fulfilled and to secure the date that you want. (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

Countertransference: When Is Yours Mine?

Psychology Today Depression Center — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 22:21:37 +0100

Meeting Lyn and Rob was hard from the start. I knew from her phone message that they had lost their dear son after nine months gestation, during delivery. It never gets any easier even after years of hearing one very sad story after another. "He was perfect," she sat close to her husband in my office and shook her head in disbelief.read more (Source: Psychology Today Depression Center)

Think you can't get pregnant? Try again, study says

Reuters: Health — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 21:25:13 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Almost half of women who said they'd been struggling to get pregnant for at least a year ended up having a baby despite not getting fertility treatment, in a new study from Australia. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Think You Can't Get Pregnant? Try Again, Study Says

MedlinePlus Health News — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 21:25:06 +0100

Almost half of women who said they'd been struggling to get pregnant for at least a year ended up having a baby despite not getting fertility treatment, in a new study from Australia.Source: Reuters Health Related MedlinePlus Page: Female Infertility (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Vitamin E effect on controlled ovarian stimulation of unexplained infertile women

Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:13:00 +0100

Conclusion Vit E administration may improve the endometrial response in unexplained infertile women via the likely antioxidant and the anticoagulant effects. It may also modulate the antiestrogenic effect of clomiphene citrate and the problem of a thin endometrium in these cycles may be adjusted. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ASSISTED REPRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIESPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s10815-012-9714-1Authors Nedim Cicek, Zekai Tahir Burak Women Education and Research Hospital, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Devlet Mah. Subay Loj.Hızırreis Apt.No:19/11 Yenisehir, Ankara, TurkeyOzlem Gun Eryilmaz, Zekai Tahir Burak Women Education and Research Hospital, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Devlet Mah. Subay Loj.Hızırreis Apt.No:19/11 Yenisehir, Ankara, TurkeyEsma Sarikaya, Z...

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The effect of micronutrient supplements on female fertility: a systematic review

Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:57:18 +0100

Conclusion Although some studies suggest possible effects of micronutrients on female fertility general recommendations are not possible since all studies had methodological or statistical limitations. Further investigations using evidence-based criteria are necessary to analyze and to confirm these non-evident appearances. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Reproductive MedicinePages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s00404-012-2237-2Authors Donata Grajecki, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, GermanyBirgit-Christine Zyriax, Endocrinology and Metabolism of Ageing, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, GermanyKai J. Buhling, Department of Gynecological Endocrin...

New European pill works against uterine fibroids

CTV Health — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:14:35 +0100

New research offers hope for the first pill to treat a common problem in young women: fibroids in the uterus. The growths can cause pain, heavy bleeding and fertility problems, and they are the leading cause of hysterectomies. (Source: CTV Health)

Detailed Analysis of Peripheral Blood Natural Killer Cells in Women with Repeated IVF Failure

American Journal of Reproductive Immunology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:09:23 +0100

ConclusionsPeripheral blood NK cell activity is significantly higher in women with RIF than in fertile controls. Future trials of immune therapy in women undergoing IVF should target those with high NK activity. (Source: American Journal of Reproductive Immunology)

Women Over Age 50 Not At Increased Risk During Pregnancy Via Egg Donation Compared To Younger Women

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Although women over age 50 who become pregnant via egg donation are at an elevated risk for developing obstetrical complications, their complication rates are similar to those of younger recipients, according to a study by Columbia University Medical Center researchers to be published in the February 2012 issue of the American Journal of Perinatology. This is contrary to epidemiological data suggesting that these women are at greater risk of certain complications of pregnancy, including hypertension, gestational diabetes, premature birth, and placenta abnormalities... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Cellular and molecular basis for endometriosis-associated infertility

Cell and Tissue Research — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:56:39 +0100

Abstract Endometriosis is a gynecological disease characterized by the presence of endometrial glandular epithelial and stromal cells growing in the extra-uterine environment. The disease afflicts 10%–15% of menstruating women causing debilitating pain and infertility. Endometriosis appears to affect every part of a woman’s reproductive system including ovarian function, oocyte quality, embryo development and implantation, uterine function and the endocrine system choreographing the reproductive process and results in infertility or spontaneous pregnancy loss. Current treatments are laden with menopausal-like side effects and many cause cessation or chemical alteration of the reproductive cycle, neither of which is conducive to achieving a pregnancy. However, despite t...

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Evaluation of the Role of Functional Constraints on the Integrity of an Ultraconserved Region in the Genus Drosophila

PLoS Genetics — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

by Carlos Díaz-Castillo, Xiao-Qin Xia, José M. Ranz Why gene order is conserved over long evolutionary timespans remains elusive. A common interpretation is that gene order conservation might reflect the existence of functional constraints that are important for organismal performance. Alteration of the integrity of genomic regions, and therefore of those constraints, would result in detrimental effects. This notion seems especially plausible in those genomes that can easily accommodate gene reshuffling via chromosomal inversions since genomic regions free of constraints are likely to have been disrupted in one or more lineages. Nevertheless, no empirical test has been performed to this notion. Here, we disrupt one of the largest conserved genomic regions of the Drosophila genome by...

Association between obesity and alteration of sperm DNA integrity and mitochondrial activity

BJU International — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION• Increased BMI values are associated with decreased mitochondrial activity and progressive motility and increased DNA fragmentation. (Source: BJU International)

Novel Serum Markers for Early Diagnosis of EndometriosisNovel Serum Markers for Early Diagnosis of Endometriosis

Medscape Today Headlines — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0100

Are there certain biomarkers that can help clinicians make a definitive diagnosis of endometriosis? Human Reproduction (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Planning Your Tubal Reversal Surgery

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

A member of the Tubal Reversal Message Board asks what steps she needs to take to have her tubes untied at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center. It is helpful for patients to obtain the records from their tubal ligation procedure. If tubes were cut and tied, a pathology report from the hospital should also be available. Once your records are received at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center, a Tubal Reversal Nurse will contact you within 24 hours. If you are not able to obtain your records right away, you can still schedule your tubal ligation reversal with Dr. Gary Berger or Dr. Charles Monteith, the top two tubal reversal doctors in the world. (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

How Soon Can I Have Tubal Reversal Surgery?

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Women with a tubal ligation who want to have more children have two treatment options: tubal ligation reversal or in-vitro fertilization (IVF). The best option to become pregnant for most women is tubal ligation reversal. At Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center, Tubal Reversal Nurses are available 7 days a week to assist potential patients with scheduling tubal reversal surgery with Dr. Berger or Dr. Charles Monteith. It is often possible to schedule surgery within 1-3 weeks. The tubal reversal doctors at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center are the only doctors in the world who specialize solely in reverse tubal ligation surgery. (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

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Seed therapy for prostate cancer may zap fertility

Reuters: Health — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 21:38:52 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Radioactive "seeds" that are sometimes used to treat early prostate cancer may do widespread damage to the DNA in a man's sperm, a small study finds. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Seed Therapy for Prostate Cancer May Zap Fertility

MedlinePlus Health News — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 21:38:48 +0100

Radioactive "seeds" that are sometimes used to treat early prostate cancer may do widespread damage to the DNA in a man's sperm, a small study finds.Source: Reuters Health Related MedlinePlus Pages: Male Infertility, Prostate Cancer (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Current Concepts of Diagnosis and Management

Current Infectious Disease Reports — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:11:35 +0100

Abstract Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), one of the most common infections in non-pregnant women of reproductive age, remains an important public health problem. It is associated with major long-term sequelae, including tubal factor infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. In addition, treatment of acute PID and its complications incurs substantial health care costs. Prevention of these long-term sequelae is dependent upon clinicians having a high index of suspicion in order to make an early diagnosis and development of treatment strategies based on knowledge of the microbiologic etiology of acute PID. It is well accepted that acute PID is a polymicrobic infection. The sexually transmitted organisms, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis, are pr...

Uganda: The Ongoing Perils of Child Birth

AllAfrica News: Pregnancy and Childbirth — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:48:54 +0100

[Independent] Fertility rates in Rwanda have been falling steadily over the past several years, but this year close to 400,000 Rwandan women will become pregnant and give birth. Next door in Uganda, four times as many women will become pregnant, approximately 1.5 million. If recent trends hold, nearly 10,000 of these women will lose their lives during or shortly after their pregnancy. Many of them will suffer from bleeding and infections that can be treated or prevented. (Source: AllAfrica News: Pregnancy and Childbirth)

Ultrasound Male Contraceptive, Overlooked For Decades, Confirmed To Work

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Imagine a contraceptive that could, with one or two painless 15-minute non-surgical treatments, provide months of protection from pregnancy. And imagine that the equipment needed were already in physical therapists' offices around the world. Sound too good to be true? For years, scientists thought so too. But new research headed by Dr. James Tsuruta in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, published Monday in the journal Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, is gaining the contraceptive method increased respect... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Effects of Folic Acid on the Development and Oxidative Stress of Mouse Embryos Exposed to Heat Stress

Reproduction in Domestic Animals — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ContentsThe development of mammalian pre‐implantation embryos is inhibited by heat stress, and the inhibitory effect is associated with excess reactive oxygen species (ROS). Folate is a nutrient with various physiological functions including antioxidative effects. We first investigated the transcript expression for 10 enzymes in the cycle of folate metabolism (folate–methionine cycle) in mouse embryos at the 1‐cell, 2‐cell, 4‐ to 8‐cell, morula and blastocyst stages using reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. All of the transcripts were consistently expressed, except for Mat1a, which was not detected from the 4‐ to 8‐cell stage onward. Next, the effects of folic acid (the synthetic form of folate) on the development and ROS levels of heat‐stressed embryos wer...

Dynamic changes of the Golgi apparatus during bovine in vitro oocyte maturation.

Reproduction — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, for the first time we show basic mechanisms critically involved in the regulation of the dynamic changes of Golgi during meiosis of the bovine oocyte. PMID: 22301886 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Reproduction)

The primordial follicle reserve is not renewed after chemical or γ-irradiation mediated depletion.

Reproduction — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Kerr JB, Brogan L, Myers M, Hutt KJ, Mladenovska T, Ricardo S, Hamza K, Scott CL, Strasser A, Findlay JK Abstract Reports indicate that germ-line stem cells present in adult mice can rapidly generate new oocytes and contribute to the primordial follicle reserve following conditions of ovotoxic stress. We further investigated the hypothesis that adult mice have the capacity to generate new oocytes by monitoring primordial follicle numbers throughout post-natal life and following depletion of the primordial follicle reserve by exposure to doxorubicin (DXR), trichostatin A (TSA) or whole body γ-irradiation. We show that primordial follicle number remains stable in adult C57BL/6 mice between the ages of 25 and 100 days. However, within 2 days of treatment with DXR or TSA, pri...

Early Cleaved Bovine Embryos Show Reduced Incidence of Chromosomal Aberrations and Higher Developmental Potential on Day 4.5 Post‐Insemination

Reproduction in Domestic Animals — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ContentsThe present study aimed to investigate whether the timing of the first zygotic cleavage (FZC) influences the speed of embryo development expressed by the total cell count and the rate of chromosomally aberrant embryos. Bovine embryos were produced in vitro and divided into two categories according to the timing of FZC: early cleavers (at 30 hpi; EC) and non‐early cleavers (at 48 hpi; NEC). On day 4.5 pi, embryos were grouped into three classes depending on the number of blastomeres: delayed (<8 BL), normal (8–16 BL) and advanced (>16 BL). We applied fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with probes for bovine chromosomes 6 and X. The only form of chromosomal imbalance observed was mixoploidy [(2n/3n; 2n/4n); 19.9%, 54/271]. Early cleavers were less often chromos...

Characterization of the mechanical properties of a new grade of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene and modeling with the viscoplasticity based on overstress.

Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Khan F, Yeakle C, Gomaa S Abstract Enhancements to the service life and performance of orthopedic implants used in total knee and hip replacement procedures can be achieved through optimization of design and the development of superior biocompatible polymeric materials. The introduction of a new or modified polymer must, naturally, be preceded by a rigorous testing program. This paper presents the assessment of the mechanical properties of a new filled grade of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) designated AOX(TM) and developed by DePuy Orthopaedics Inc. The deformation behavior was investigated through a series of tensile and compressive tests including strain rate sensitivity, creep, relaxation, and recovery. The polymer was found to exhibit rate-reversal ...

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Synform issue 2012/02

Synlett — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Synlett 2012; 23: A10-A19DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1289997© Georg Thieme Verlag, Rüdigerstr. 14, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany. All rights reserved. This journal, including all individual contributions and illustrations published therein, is legally protected by copyright for the duration of the copyright period. Any use, exploitation or commercialization outside the narrow limits set by copyright legislation, without the publisher's consent, is illegal and liable to criminal prosecution. This applies in particular to photostat reproduction, copying, cyclostyling, mimeographing or duplication of any kind, translating, preparation of microfilms, and electronic data processing and storage.Article in Thieme eJournals:Table of contents (Source: Synlett)

Effects of (−)‐Epigallocatechin Gallate on the Motility and Penetrability of Frozen–Thawed Boar Spermatozoa Incubated in the Fertilization Medium

Reproduction in Domestic Animals — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The objective of the present study was to examine the effects of EGCG during in vitro fertilization (IVF) on the sperm quality and penetrability into oocytes. In the first experiment, the effects of concentration and incubation period of EGCG on the motility and penetrability of spermatozoa were examined. When frozen–thawed spermatozoa were incubated in IVF medium supplemented with 0 (control), 1, 50 and 100 μm EGCG for 1, 3 and 5 h, supplementation with 50 and 100 μm EGCG improved motility of the spermatozoa (p < 0.05), but not viability, as compared with the control group. When frozen–thawed spermatozoa were co‐incubated with in vitro‐matured (IVM) oocytes in IVF medium supplemented with 50 and 100 μm EGCG for 5 h, supplementation of EGCG had positive effects ...

The limits for detection of activated caspases of spermatozoa by western blot in human semen

Andrologia — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

SummaryDetection of activated caspases of spermatozoa could be helpful to evaluate male infertility. Although western blot is validated as a highly specific method to detect the proteins extracted from cells, the ability of this technique to detect activated sperm caspases in human semen may be limited. Indeed, round cells, which potentially contain some activated caspases, may be present in semen and interfere with the detection of activated sperm caspases. Moreover, it is necessary to evaluate the minimum amount of spermatozoa necessary to optimise the detection of activated caspases in semen samples. Our results showed that interference due to round cells contained in semen with activated caspase‐3 requires separation of spermatozoa by density migration. This sperm preparation selects...

Subfertile effects of quinestrol and levonorgestrel in male rats.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Liu M, Wan X, Yin Y, Li YX, Sun F, Zhang Z, Wang YL Abstract The contraceptive regimen consisting of levonorgestrel and quinestrol (EP-1) has been shown to be effective in several types of wild rodents. In the present study, we investigated the effect of EP-1 and its two components on fertility and spermatogenesis to elucidate the mechanisms underlying its contraceptive effect. Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with 0.33mgkg(-1) quinestrol (E group), 0.67mgkg(-1) levonorgestrel (P group) or their combination (EP group) for 7 days and then killed on Days 21 or 42 after treatment for tissue analysis. On Day 21, the weight of the cauda epididymis decreased significantly, while the weight of the adrenal gland increased significantly in the E and EP groups compared with the weig...

Inclusion of bovine lipoproteins and the vitamin E analogue, Trolox, during in vitro culture of bovine embryos changes both embryo and fetal development.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, the interactive effects of lipoprotein and Trolox inclusion on in vitro embryo development were also evident in fetal development at Day 70. PMID: 22281076 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Reproduction, Fertility, and Development)

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Providing a diet containing only maintenance levels of energy and protein during the latter stages of pregnancy resulted in a prolonged delivery time during parturition in rats.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Tanaka Y, Kadokawa H Abstract In mammals, a prolonged delivery time during parturition is dangerous for both mother and fetus, although the mechanisms that prolong delivery are unclear. To investigate whether nutrition affects delivery time, we administered two feeds containing maintenance (L-feed) or higher (H-feed) levels of energy and protein at different points during the latter half of pregnancy and compared the effects of the various treatments on delivery time in rats. After the rats had been maintained on the L-feed and then copulated on pro-oestrus (Day 0), pregnant females were randomly allocated to one of three groups: (1) the no-improvement group, which was fed L-feed throughout gestation; (2) the early group, which was fed L-feed until Day 11 of gestation and ...

Human spermatozoa vitrified in the absence of permeable cryoprotectants: birth of two healthy babies.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Isachenko V, Isachenko E, Petrunkina AM, Sanchez R Abstract Herein, we report the birth of two healthy babies to a woman following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) using motile spermatozoa vitrified without permeable cryoprotectants. Spermatozoa (in a case of oligoasthenoteratozoospermia) were cooled in cut standard straws in human tubal fluid supplemented with 0.5% human serum albumin and 0.25M sucrose. Sperm motility, capacitation-like changes, acrosome reaction and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were compared in fresh and vitrified spermatozoa. Eight mature (MII) oocytes were microinjected with the vitrified-warmed motile spermatozoa. Although the motility of vitrified-warmed spermatozoa was markedly lower than that of fresh spermatozoa (60% v. 90%, respe...

Granulosa cells are refractory to FSH action in individuals with a low antral follicle count.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Scheetz D, Folger JK, Smith GW, Ireland JJ Abstract The reason ovarian function and fertility are diminished in women with a low antral follicle count (AFC), despite significant numbers of follicles remaining in ovaries, is unknown. The bovine model is unique to address this question because cattle and women with a low AFC exhibit similar phenotypic characteristics including a diminished ovarian reserve, reduced circulating concentrations of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) but heightened FSH secretion during reproductive cycles. Because women and cattle with a low AFC respond minimally to gonadotropin stimulation during IVF cycles or superovulation, granulosa cells in individuals with a low AFC are hypothesised to be refractory to FSH. The present study evaluates this hypoth...

Xenogeneic and endogenous spermatogenesis following transplantation of rat germ cells into testes of immunocompetent mice.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Qu N, Naito M, Li J, Terayama H, Hirai S, Itoh M Abstract Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the foundation of spermatogenesis, and are characterised by their ability to self-renew and to produce differentiated progeny that form spermatozoa. It has been demonstrated that rat spermatogenesis can occur in the seminiferous tubules of congenitally immunodeficient recipient mice after transplantation of rat SSCs. However, the testis is often viewed as an immune-privileged site in that autoimmunogenic antigens on germ cells do not normally elicit an immune response in situ. In the present study, we tried to transplant rat SSCs into immunocompetent mice after depletion of their own germ cells by means of busulfan. The results showed that some transplanted SSCs could undergo com...

Differential glycolytic and glycogenogenic transduction pathways in male and female bovine embryos produced in vitro.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Garcia-Herreros M, Aparicio IM, Rath D, Fair T, Lonergan P Abstract Previous studies have shown that developmental kinetic rates following IVF are lower in female than in male blastocysts and that this may be related to differences in glucose metabolism. In addition, an inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K) inhibits glucose uptake in murine blastocysts. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify and compare the expression of proteins involved in glucose metabolism (hexokinase-I, HK-I; phosphofructokinase-1, PFK-1; pyruvate kinase1/2, PK1/2; glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, GAPDH; glucose transporter-1, GLUT-1; and glycogen synthase kinase-3, GSK-3) in male and female bovine blastocysts to determine whether PI3-K has a role in the regulation of ...

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Booroola BMPR1B mutation alters early follicular development and oocyte ultrastructure in sheep.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Reader KL, Haydon LJ, Littlejohn RP, Juengel JL, McNatty KP Abstract Booroola ewes homozygous (BB) for a mutation in the bone morphogenetic protein receptor-1b (BMPR1B) gene exhibit higher ovulation rates, have larger diameter oocytes at earlier stages of follicular development (i.e. Type 3) and smaller diameter follicles at ovulation than wild-type (++) sheep. However, it is not known when BMPR1B is first expressed in the developing ovary or the cell types involved. In addition, the effects of the BMPR1B mutation on primordial (Type 1) follicles or during growth to the Type 3 stage are unknown. In the present study, BB and++fetal ovaries at Days 30-135 of gestation were screened by in situ hybridisation for BMPR1B mRNA. Ovaries from BB and++lambs were examined by microsco...

Glycosaminoglycans in the accessory sex glands, testes and seminal plasma of alpaca and ram.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Kershaw-Young CM, Evans G, Maxwell WM Abstract The viscous nature of alpaca semen limits its use in cryopreservation and other assisted reproductive technologies. The cause and source of this viscosity is unknown although it has been postulated, but never proven, that glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) secreted by the bulbourethral gland are responsible. The present study investigated the concentration and composition of GAGs in alpaca seminal plasma, testes, bulbourethral gland and prostate gland and compared them to those in the ram to determine the relationship between seminal plasma GAGs and viscosity and to identify the source of seminal plasma GAGs. Alpaca seminal plasma contained more GAGs than ram (P<0.001) and the predominant GAG, keratan sulfate, was correlated with vi...

Gene expression profile differences in embryos derived from prepubertal and adult Japanese Black cattle during in vitro development.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Dorji , Ohkubo Y, Miyoshi K, Yoshida M Abstract The present study was carried out to compare the gene expression profiles of in vitro-generated embryos derived from adult and prepubertal Japanese Black cattle oocytes using GeneChip Bovine Genome Array (containing 24072 probe sets representing over 23000 transcripts). Microarray experiments were performed on populations of 8- to 16-cell stage embryos and blastocysts derived from adult (24-35 months old) versus prepubertal (9-10 months old) Japanese Black cattle oocytes matured and fertilised in vitro. In total, 591 (2.4%) and 490 (2.0%) genes were differentially expressed in prepubertal and adult bovine in 8- to 16-cell and blastocyst stage embryos, respectively. Out of these, 218 and 248 genes were upregulated, while 373 a...

KPNA7, an oocyte- and embryo-specific karyopherin α subtype, is required for porcine embryo development.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Wang X, Park KE, Koser S, Liu S, Magnani L, Cabot RA Abstract Coordinated partitioning of intracellular cargoes between nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments is critical for cell survival and differentiation. The karyopherin α/β heterodimer functions to import cytoplasmic proteins that possess classical nuclear localisation signals into the nucleus. Seven karyopherinαsubtypes have been identified in mammals. The aim of this study was to determine the relative abundance of transcripts encoding seven karyopherinαsubtypes in porcine oocytes and embryos at discrete stages of cleavage development, and to determine the developmental requirements of karypopherinα7 (KPNA7), an oocyte and cleavage stage embryo-specific karyopherinαsubtype. We hypothesised that knockdown of KPN...

Expression of steroidogenic proteins in bovine placenta during the first half of gestation.

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Verduzco A, Fecteau G, Lefebvre R, Smith LC, Murphy BD Abstract The aim of the present study was to determine the occurrence and localisation of the principal steroidogenic proteins in bovine placenta from Day 50 to Day 120 of pregnancy. Immunohistochemistry revealed that, at all stages investigated, bovine steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cytochrome P45011A1 and hydroxy-δ-5-steroid dehydrogenase, 3β- and steroid δ-isomerase 1 proteins were found principally at the fetomaternal interdigitations: the chorionic villus and maternal septum. Moreover, caruncular epithelial cells and uninucleate trophoblast cells were the principal cells detected that were positive for the three markers. Western blot analysis showed that only caruncular tissue expressed all thre...

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The role of the male cloacal gland in reproductive success in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica).

Reproduction, Fertility, and Development — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Singh RP, Sastry KV, Pandey NK, Singh KB, Malecki IA, Farooq U, Mohan J, Saxena VK, Moudgal RP Abstract The adult male Japanese quail has a well developed cloacal gland that produces meringue-like white foam. The physiological significance of the cloacal gland and its foam is still unclear. Therefore, we conducted two experiments to establish the functional role of the cloacal gland and its foam in natural mating and oviducal sperm transport. In the first experiment, artificial insemination of equal numbers of spermatozoa diluted in foam extract and normal saline once in a week were used to determine the role of foam in sperm transport in the female oviduct. After artificial insemination, eggs were collected to measure fertility, the duration of the fertile period, sperm h...

Annual Summary of Vital Statistics: 2009

PEDIATRICS — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The number of births in the United States decreased by 3% between 2008 and 2009 to 4 130 665 births. The general fertility rate also declined 3% to 66.7 per 1000 women. The teenage birth rate fell 6% to 39.1 per 1000. Birth rates also declined for women 20 to 39 years and for all 5-year groups, but the rate for women 40 to 44 years continued to rise. The percentage of all births to unmarried women increased to 41.0% in 2009, up from 40.6% in 2008. In 2009, 32.9% of all births occurred by cesarean delivery, continuing its rise. The 2009 preterm birth rate declined for the third year in a row to 12.18%. The low-birth-weight rate was unchanged in 2009 at 8.16%. Both twin and triplet and higher order birth rates increased. The infant mortality rate was 6.42 infant deaths per 1000 live births i...

Prostate cancer risk halved for subfertile men

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Lund University) Involuntary childlessness owing to reduced fertility is a concern for many men. However, these men do have one advantage - they run a significantly lower risk of suffering from prostate cancer. Researchers are interested in whether this phenomenon could be used in the fight against cancer. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Ashanti fertility dolls (Akua'ba) - psychiatry in pictures [Extras]

The British Journal of Psychiatry — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: The British Journal of Psychiatry)

Post Tubal Ligation Symptoms Relieved By Tubal Reversal Surgery

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Pain can be a symptom of Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome (PTLS), but more frequently women will experience a greater pain in the search for a sympathetic health care professional to listen to their symptoms. The physicians at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center, Dr. Gary Berger and Dr. Charles Monteith, are two such professionals. Many women have come to the Tubal Reversal Center to have their tubal ligations reversed to relieve PTLS symptoms. Many women report that having their tubes untied help relieve abnormal and painful symptoms that developed after tubal ligation. Women who suffer from Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome report symptoms such as depression, joint pain, headaches, severe menstrual cramps, weight gain, and mood swings that appeared after having a tubal ligation. Many of these condi...

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Woman, 21, who was told she was infertile after battling cancer twice has 'miracle' baby

the Mail online | Health — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:20:34 +0100

Madeleine Telfer from Kilmarnock in Scotland thought she had lost the chance to become a mother after having 300 hours of chemotherapy to battle Hodgkin's Lymphoma twice. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Clinical Research Fellow in reproductive medicine, early pregnancy & gynaecological ultrasound

Society for Endocrinology — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Via www.jobs.ac.uk. Applications are invited for the above post based at NURTURE Fertility (Nottingham University Research and Treatment Unit in Reproduction), which is part of the School of Clinical Sciences and situated within the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust on the Queen's Medical Centre campus. The successful candidate will be expected to participate in the research programme of the School, and to pursue personal research leading to the award of a higher research degree. Current research interests include subfertility, gynaecological ultrasound, reproductive surgery, polycystic ovaries, gynaecological endocrinology, and early pregnancy. This particular post will focus on reproductive medicine and assisted conception and involves the provision of the clinical service to th...

Clinical Lecturer in Diabetes & Endocrinology, University of Edinburgh

Society for Endocrinology — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Via www.jobs.ac.uk. There is a vacancy for a clinical lecturer in diabetes and endocrinology at Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh (salary: £31,523 - £46,708). The post provides outstanding opportunities for postdoctoral research in parallel with clinical training in diabetes and endocrinology and general medicine. The University's endocrinology research groups are based in the UoE/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science and the MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, both large internationally renowned groups of clinical and biomedical researchers with expertise in many aspects of steroid hormone action in reproduction, obesity, type 2 diabetes, neuroendocrinology and cardiovascular disease. Clinical training will be provided in the Edinburgh Centre for Endoc...

Successful Conservative Treatment of a Cesarean Scar Pregnancy with Systemically Administered Methotrexate and Subsequent Dilatation and Curettage: A Case Report

International Journal of Photoenergy — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:10:23 +0100

Cesarean scar pregnancy is a rare type of ectopic pregnancy associated with severe complications such as uterine rupture, uncontrollable bleeding which may lead to hysterectomy, and definitive infertility. Many therapeutic options are available such as Dilatation & Curetage, excision of trophoblastic tissues using either laparotomy or laparoscopy, systemically administered Methotrexate, and more recently uterine artery embolization. The use of Methotrexate sometimes required laparotomy later because of severe hemorrhage. Through this paper, we demonstrated that viable cesarean scar pregnancy can be managed safely by systemically delivered Methotrexate at the cost of a prolonged followup. (Source: International Journal of Photoenergy)

Epigenetics and its role in male infertility

Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:09:40 +0100

Abstract Male infertility is a common and complex problem affecting 1 in 20 men. Despite voluminous research in this field, in many cases, the underlying causes are unknown. Epigenetic factors play an important role in male infertility and these have been studied extensively. Epigenetic modifications control a number of processes within the body, but this review will concentrate on male fertility and the consequences of aberrant epigenetic regulation/modification. Many recent studies have identified altered epigenetic profiles in sperm from men with oligozoospermia and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia. During gametogenesis and germ cell maturation, germ cells undergo extensive epigenetic reprogramming that involves the establishment of sex-specific patterns in the sperm and oo...

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An introduction to infertility counseling: a guide for mental health and medical professionals

Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:09:40 +0100

Abstract The practice of infertility counseling delivered by mental health and medical professionals has become more sophisticated and widespread over the past decade. This paper summarizes information presented at the second campus workshop of the Special Interest Group of Psychology and Counseling of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE). This group is dedicated to improving infertility services by creating meaningful connections between mental health and medical professionals. The paper identifies key issues that infertility counselors must consider in their work with couples experiencing infertility. The use of supportive psychosocial interventions and treatments are highlighted. The paper also details the process for choosing the most appro...

A cheer for the diaphragm.

The European Journal of Contraception and Reproductive Health Care — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Loeber O PMID: 22292510 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The European Journal of Contraception and Reproductive Health Care)

Backgrounds of women applying for hymen reconstruction, the effects of counselling on myths and misunderstandings about virginity, and the results of hymen reconstruction.

The European Journal of Contraception and Reproductive Health Care — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Most women requesting hymen reconstruction had a history complicated by critical life events related to their request. All women were afraid they would not bleed and/or would not be 'tight' enough during the wedding night. For 75% of the women empowerment by means of extensive counselling resulted in a decision against operation. Hymenoplasty alone does not help women because most operated women will not bleed and because they often also have to prove to be 'tight' enough. PMID: 22292534 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The European Journal of Contraception and Reproductive Health Care)

Feeding strategies of anthropophilic mosquitoes result in increased risk of pathogen transmission.

Trends in Parasitology — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Scott TW, Takken W Abstract Vector-borne disease specialists have traditionally assumed that in each egg-laying cycle mosquitoes take a single bloodmeal that is used for egg development and feed on plant sugars for flight and production of energy reserves. Here we review research showing that for two of the most important vectors of human pathogens (Anopheles gambiae and Aedes aegypti) imbibing multiple bloodmeals during a gonotrophic cycle while foregoing sugar feeding is a common behaviour, not an exception. By feeding preferentially and frequently on human blood these species increase their fitness and exponentially boost the basic reproduction rate of pathogens they transmit. Although the epidemiological outcome is similar, there are important differences in processes ...

The content of five sex steroids in human testis.

Physiological Research — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Zamrazilová L, Sosvorová L, Heráček J, Sobotka V, Hampl R Abstract In order to assess whether intratesticular hormone content may be helpful for prediction of successful conception in men with fertility problems, five sex steroids, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, androstenedione, estradiol and, for the first time epitestosterone, were measured in testicular tissue obtained by surgical retrieval from total 84 men. The group consisted of non-obstructive azoospermic men, aged 21-67 years who attended the centre for in vitro fertilization. Steroids after ether extraction and solvent partition were separated by high performance liquid chromatography and then measured by specific radioimmunoassays. The values varied considerably with means+/-S.D. 2.43+/-2.47, 0.27+/-0.24,...

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Cohort Differences in the Availability of Informal Caregivers: Are the Boomers at Risk?

The Gerontologist — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Ryan LH, Smith J, Antonucci TC, Jackson JS Abstract Purpose of the Study:We compare the close family resources of Baby Boomers (BBs) to previous cohorts of older adults at population level and then examine individual-level cohort comparisons of age-related trajectories of informal care availability from midlife into old age. DESIGN AND METHODS: Population data from the U.S. Census and from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) are used to identify a cohort similar to the BBs on marital status and fertility rates. Using generalized linear mixed models and 10-year longitudinal data from Depression and WWII parents (DWP; n = 1,052) and the parents of BBs (PBB; n = 3,573) in the HRS, we examine cohort differences in the time-varying likelihoods of being married and of having a...

Telomere length in early life predicts lifespan [Physiology]

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The attrition of telomeres, the ends of eukaryote chromosomes, is thought to play an important role in cell deterioration with advancing age. The observed variation in telomere length among individuals of the same age is therefore thought to be related to variation in potential longevity. Studies of this relationship are hampered by the time scale over which individuals need to be followed, particularly in long-lived species where lifespan variation is greatest. So far, data are based either on simple comparisons of telomere length among different age classes or on individuals whose telomere length is measured at most twice and whose subsequent survival is monitored for only a short proportion of the typical lifespan. Both approaches are subject to bias. Key studies, in which telomere leng...

Experimental evolution of multicellularity [Evolution]

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Multicellularity was one of the most significant innovations in the history of life, but its initial evolution remains poorly understood. Using experimental evolution, we show that key steps in this transition could have occurred quickly. We subjected the unicellular yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to an environment in which we expected multicellularity to be adaptive. We observed the rapid evolution of clustering genotypes that display a novel multicellular life history characterized by reproduction via multicellular propagules, a juvenile phase, and determinate growth. The multicellular clusters are uniclonal, minimizing within-cluster genetic conflicts of interest. Simple among-cell division of labor rapidly evolved. Early multicellular strains were composed of physiologically similar ce...

Proteomic analysis of seminal plasma in men with different spermatogenic impairment

Andrologia — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

SummarySeminal plasma is a potential source of biomarkers for many disorders of the male reproductive system including male infertility. The identification and characterisation of differentially expressed proteins in seminal plasma of man with normal and impaired spermatogenesis can help in the elucidation of the molecular basis of male infertility. We compared the protein expression profiles of seminal plasma from four different groups of men as follows: normozoospermic, asthenozoospermic, oligozoospermic and azoospermic groups, using two‐dimensional differential gel electrophoresis (2‐D DIGE). We found eight proteins with statistically significant increased expression in azoospermia compared with at least one of the other studied groups. The differentially expressed spots were fibron...

Questions of Copyright

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The Berne Convention and the national laws on intellectual property fully apply to PRO instruments. The identification of and access to an original PRO instrument is often associated with copyright ownership. This is the copyright holder of the instrument who will control its access (distribution and reproduction), its adaptation or modification, and its translation. Copyright is a means to protect the integrity of an instrument. The ownership of an instrument should be defined in the beginning between all parties involved, and each step of the instrument's life, including distribution should be anticipated for purpose of copyright. (Source: Health and Quality of Life Outcomes)

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Relational uncertainty, partner interference, and privacy boundary turbulence: Explaining spousal discrepancies in infertility disclosures

Journal of Social and Personal Relationships — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study explored what relational aspects contribute to spouses managing private, infertility-related information differently. We examined associations among relational uncertainty and partner interference and three manifestations of boundary turbulence: discrepancies in disclosures, relative discomfort, and perceived spousal acceptability. Using data from 50 infertile couples reporting on 250 social network relationships, we used multi-level modeling to test our predictions that relational uncertainty and partner interference would positively correlate with boundary turbulence. Results were partially consistent with the predictions for relational uncertainty and inconsistent with regard to partner interference. These findings suggest that relational features of a partnership coincide wi...

Innovation in male infertility research

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona) Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona patented an innovative system to specify in a simple, cost-effective and reliable manner the infertility of a person through the study of oxidative stress on sperm, a parameter rarely studied until now. The method was developed by professor Jordi Benet and doctoral researcher Agustí Garcia Peiró from the UAB Unit in Cellular Biology and Medical Genetics. The Centre d'Infertilitat Masculina i Anàlisis de Barcelona was founded to commercialize the method. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Varicocele Surgery Raises Testosterone LevelsVaricocele Surgery Raises Testosterone Levels

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:12:32 +0100

The most common cause of male infertility can be corrected through surgery, a meta-analysis finds. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Fertility and Sterility — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:13:41 +0100

(Source: Fertility and Sterility)

Editorial Board

Fertility and Sterility — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:13:41 +0100

(Source: Fertility and Sterility)

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Androstenedione induces abnormalities in morphology and function of developing oocytes, which impairs oocyte meiotic competence

Fertility and Sterility — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:13:41 +0100

Conclusion(s): These results demonstrate that excess androgen induces abnormalities in the morphology and function of developing oocytes, which impairs oocyte meiotic competence. (Source: Fertility and Sterility)

Human spermatozoal RNAs

Fertility and Sterility — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:13:41 +0100

Conclusion(s): A specific set of functional RNAs are delivered into oocytes during fertilization and are thought to contribute extragenomically to early embryonic development. Even if spermatozoal RNAs is merely residual, it still has the potential to greatly improve the investigative and diagnostic potential of male infertility. (Source: Fertility and Sterility)

Epigenetics of the male gamete

Fertility and Sterility — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:13:41 +0100

Conclusion(s): The sperm epigenome implies a poising of the paternal genome for embryogenesis and a possible role in the establishment of totipotency of the embryo and may help in understanding some causes of reduced fertility and transmission of disease risk. (Source: Fertility and Sterility)

Semen analysis: looking for an upgrade in class

Fertility and Sterility — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:13:41 +0100

Conclusion(s): Semen analysis, when performed according to WHO guidelines, will yield accurate and precise clinical laboratory data on traditional semen parameters. Due to the biological nature of the specimen in question definitive diagnosis of subfertility and its cause(s) remains enigmatic. Novel tests that may be easily standardized for subsequent multi-center, prospective randomized trials need to be integrated so more meaningful clinical diagnoses can be made. (Source: Fertility and Sterility)

Development and current applications of assisted fertilization

Fertility and Sterility — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:13:41 +0100

Since the very early establishment of in vitro insemination, it became clear that one of the limiting steps is the achievement of fertilization. Among the different assisted fertilization methods, intracytoplasmic sperm injection emerged as the ultimate technique to allow fertilization with ejaculated, epididymal, and testicular spermatozoa. This work describes the early steps that brought forth the development of intracytoplasmic sperm injection and its role in assisted reproductive techniques. The current methods to select the preferential male gamete will be elucidated and the concerns related to the offspring of severe male factor couples will be discussed. (Source: Fertility and Sterility)

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Contemporary aspects of male gamete (dys)function: aiming towards optimizing the treatment of fertilization disorders

Fertility and Sterility — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:13:41 +0100

At its inception, in vitro fertilization (IVF) was a relatively straightforward procedure encompassing the in vitro insemination of surgically retrieved oocytes and the trans-cervical uterine placement of the ensuing embryos with the goal of overcoming tubal infertility. Since that time, IVF has become the ultimate treatment modality for all infertility indications when standard treatments have failed. While IVF has revolutionized our clinical armamentarium, it has also served as a remarkable scientific tool allowing direct visualization of male and female gamete interaction and assessment of human embryo development, thus enabling reproductive specialists to dissect and better understand the early human reproductive processes. In its earliest stages, IVF was directed at the treatment of...

Can vitamin D help infertile couples conceive?

NHS News Feed — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:15:00 +0100

Conclusion This systematic review looked for all available studies prior to October 2011 that had looked at fertility and vitamin D. Besides this very broad search the review included animal, laboratory and observational studies, which means that it is difficult to draw conclusions on the implications of this data for people. The researchers noted that there was a real lack of human controlled studies. As a result, it is not possible to say that fertility problems in men and women could be helped by vitamin D supplementation, increasing vitamin D through diet or spending time in the sun. Vitamin D and its human effects is currently a topic of immense interest to the public and to policy makers. This research looked at another angle, that of fertility, and is useful in giving a broad overvi...

Potential For Male Contraception By Sonicating Sperm

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0100

The ideal male contraceptive would be inexpensive, reliable, and reversible. It would need to be long acting but have few side effects. New research published in BioMed Central's open access journal Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology used commercially available therapeutic ultrasound equipment to reduce sperm counts of male rats to levels which would result in infertility in humans. Ultrasound's potential as a male contraceptive was first reported nearly 40 years ago. However the equipment used is now outdated and no longer available... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Evaluation of two dairy herd reproductive performance indicators that are adjusted for voluntary waiting period

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: PV30 is the single best performance indicator for estimating the level of both herd management efficiency and reproductive physiology followed by NotIC200 and IC100. This indicates that PV30 could be a potential candidate for inclusion in dairy herd improvement schemes. (Source: Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica)

Ultrasound As a Male Contraceptive?

Fertility News - Doctors Lounge — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

High-frequency treatment lowered sperm counts in rats, study says (Source: Fertility News - Doctors Lounge)

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New form of male contraception possible

OnMedica Latest News — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Study tests ultrasound zap Related items from OnMedicaOne in four young adults not using contraceptionSexual health gets scant attention in general practiceNICE to review fertility guidanceUnprotected sex among British teens – soarsSexual health risk rises due to embarrassment over condoms (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

Sunny break may be alternative to IVF: How the sunshine vitamin can help boost fertility

the Mail online | Health — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:59:13 +0100

Sunlight boosts fertility in both men and women by increasing their levels of vitamin D, a study has found. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Another Satisfied Tubal Reversal Patient

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Tina V. from San Antonia, Texas writes in to Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center to express her satisfaction with her tubal reversal success: "I had my first prenatal visit today and we saw a gestational sac in my uterus at 5 weeks : ) Thank you so much Dr. Berger!" Dr. Berger recommends monitoring your early pregnancy with quantitative serum HCG assays twice a week (at 2-3 day intervals) and a vaginal ultrasound exam when the HCG level reaches 1500. When serum HCG reaches 1500, a vaginal ultrasound exam will show a gestation sac within the uterus in a normally developing intrauterine pregnancy. (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

Tubal Reversal Pregnancy Report

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center congratulates their patients who have reported new pregnancies during the week of January 21st through January 27th. The Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Message Board posts a Weekly Pregnancy Report to announce their patients' pregnancies following tubal reversal surgery. Twelve pregnancies were reported just this week with maternal ages ranging from 33 to 41. One of the advantages of tubal reversal surgery is that once the fallopian tubes are repaired fertility is restored and pregnancy can occur at any time. For detailed statistics about pregnancy rates and pregnancy outcomes after tubal reversal procedures performed by Dr. Berger and Dr. Monteith click on "Our Success Rates" in the navigation menu on Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center's website. (Source: Tuba...

Does Acupuncture Boost IVF Success?

MedlinePlus Health News — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 20:50:00 +0100

Acupuncture may help some women conceive through in-vitro fertilization (IVF), a new analysis of past research concludes. But the true benefit in the real world, if any, remains unclear.Source: Reuters Health Related MedlinePlus Pages: Acupuncture, Infertility (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

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Sonicating sperm -- the future of male contraception

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(BioMed Central) The ideal male contraceptive would be inexpensive, reliable, and reversible. It would need to be long acting but have few side effects. New research published in BioMed Central's open-access journal Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology used commercially available therapeutic ultrasound equipment to reduce sperm counts of male rats to levels which would result in infertility in humans. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Tubal Reversal Baby #2!

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Women who have their tubes untied by the tubal reversal experts in Chapel Hill, NC are able to have more than one baby without further treatment or surgery. A satisfied tubal reversal patient writes in to Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center to announce she is pregnant with tubal reversal baby #2: "I am happy to report that today I heard the heartbeat of our surprise pregnancy and #2 TR baby. Our #1 TR baby is 10 and half months old. Thanks to Dr. Berger and the staff of CHTRC my tubes work great. I got pregnant with this baby about 2-3 weeks after I had a D&E performed. My Ob/Gyn says you did a great job, Dr. Berger!" Miriam P., Reno, Nevada. (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

Tubal Reversal Baby Testimonial # 1248

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

A Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Patient writes in with her tubal reversal baby story: "It is almost unbelievable to think of how far we have come since researching our tubal reversal options. It has been an amazing journey that has far exceeded our sweetest expectations! Dr. Monteith and staff could not have been more welcoming, informative or supportive, and really had such a positive effect on our spirits during an emotional and uncertain time. To conceive just six weeks after our tubal reversal was nothing short of a miracle, and we are eternally grateful to Dr. Monteith for not only his expertise, but his honesty, kindness and understanding bedside manner as well. We have been blessed with Nicholas, our hearts dearest dream recognized. He has brought such happiness and hope to our family....

Endocrine manifestations related to inherited metabolic diseases in adults

Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Most inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) are recessive, genetically transmitted diseases and are classified into 3 main groups according to their mechanisms: cellular intoxication, energy deficiency, and defects of complex molecules. They can be associated with endocrine manifestations, which may be complications from a previously diagnosed IEM of childhood onset. More rarely, endocrinopathies can signal an IEM in adulthood, which should be suspected when an endocrine disorder is associated with multisystemic involvement (neurological, muscular, hepatic features, etc.). IEM can affect all glands, but diabetes mellitus, thyroid dysfunction and hypogonadism are the most frequent disorders. A single IEM can present with multiple endocrine dysfunctions, especially those involving energy deficien...

Fertility Drugs and Cancer

About.com Eating Disorders — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Do fertility drugs cause or increase your risk of cancer? A few studies seemed to find a connection between fertility drug use and an increased risk of breast or uterine cancer, but that's only half the story. Learn what you need to know about fertility drugs and cancer risks in this article. (Source: About.com Eating Disorders)

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Prepare For Pregnancy Care Before Having Tubes Untied

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Patients of Dr. Gary Berger and Dr. Charles Monteith at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center suggest women who are scheduling reverse tubal ligation surgery find an OB/GYN doctor in their home area prior to having the surgery. This assures that the doctor providing the pregnancy care is on the same page as far as the Early Pregnancy Monitoring Protocol these fertility specialists recommend. The easiest way to find an agreeable doctor is to copy the page from the Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal website that explains the pregnancy protocol. Take it to the doctor and ask specifically if this is a protocol he or she is willing to follow. If you get a negative reaction you should seek another doctor. The early pregnancy monitoring protocol is important because it can help prevent an ectopic pregnancy f...

In vitro and In vivo Association of Porcine Hepatic Cytochrome P450 3A and 2C Activities with Testicular Steroids

Reproduction in Domestic Animals — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:55:28 +0100

This study improved our understanding of the role of testicular steroids in the regulation of porcine CYP450 activity. (Source: Reproduction in Domestic Animals)

Predictive factors of a successful testicular biopsy and subsequent clinical pregnancy

Andrologia — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:08:22 +0100

SummaryForecast of success with testicular sperm extraction and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) remains unknown, as predictive factors have rarely been studied. We evaluated the association among possible predictive factors and a successful biopsy and clinical pregnancy. A consecutive sample of men submitted to a testicular open biopsy in S. João Hospital was used. Patient's age, medical history, testicular volume, spermogram, genetic testing, endocrinologic results, biopsy results and clinical pregnancy information were collected. From the 113 men included, it was possible to retrieve spermatozoa in 79.6% of the cases, which resulted in 58 fertilisations and 22 clinical pregnancies. Retrieving viable spermatozoa on biopsy was associated with the identification of spermatozoa in t...

Removal And Storage Of Ovarian Tissue Enables Birth After Cancer Treatment

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0100

For the first time in Germany, a woman has given birth to a child after removal and preservation of tissue from one of her ovaries. This course of action was necessary to avoid infertility owing to chemo- and radiotherapy. Andreas MÃ¼ller and his colleagues report the case in the current issue of Deutsches Arzteblatt International (Dtsch Arztebl Int 2012; 109[1-2]: 8-13). The majority of young female patients who need radio- or chemotherapy for treatment of a tumor express concerns about fertility... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Population Structure and Mycotoxin Production of Fusarium graminearum from Maize in Korea.

Applied and Environmental Microbiology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In this study, we examined 568 isolates of F. graminearum collected from maize at eight locations in Korea. We used amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs) to identify four lineages (2, 3, 6 and 7); lineage 7 was the most common (75%), followed by lineage 6 (12%), lineage 3 (12%) and lineage 2 (1%). The genetic identity among populations was high ( > 0.98) and the effective migration rate between locations was higher than that between lineages. Female fertility varied by lineage: all lineage 7 isolates were fertile while 70%, 26%, and 14% of the isolates in lineages 6, 3 and 2, respectively, were fertile. All lineage 3 and lineage 7 isolates produced deoxynivalenol, whereas most lineage 2 and 6 isolates produced nivalenol. Genotypic diversity in lineage 3 and lineage 6 populatio...

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RF9 powerfully stimulates gonadotrophin secretion in the ewe: Evidence for a seasonal threshold of sensitivity

Journal of Neuroendocrinology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractGPR147 and its endogenous ligands, RFRPs, are emerging as important actors in hypothalamo‐pituitary axis control. The role of this system would be to inhibit gonadotrophins secretion. However, data on the subject are contradictory. The discovery of RF9 (adamantanecarbonyl‐RF‐2‐NH2), a GPR147 antagonist, prompted us to use this new tool to further investigate this system in the ewe. To this aim we tested the effect of intracereboventricular (icv) administration of RF9 on gonadotrophin secretion in the ewe during both anestrous and breeding season. Icv injections of RF9 (from 50 to 450 nmoles) caused a clear elevation in peripheral blood plasma LH concentration. RF9 effect on LH was more pronounced during the anoestrous season. Also peripheral administration of RF9 as a bolus...

Validation of a new point‐of‐care assay for determination of β‐carotene concentration in bovine whole blood and plasma

Veterinary Clinical Pathology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsConcentrations of β‐carotene can be measured in blood and plasma from cattle easily and rapidly using a POC assay, and results are comparable to those obtained by the highly sophisticated HPLC method. Immediate feedback regarding β‐carotene deficiency facilitates rapid and appropriate optimization of β‐carotene supplementation in feed. (Source: Veterinary Clinical Pathology)

Fine-scale temporal and spatial variation of taxon and clonal structure in the Daphnia longispina hybrid complex in heterogeneous environments

BMC Evolutionary Biology - Latest articles — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our study, tracing clonal lineages of Daphnia in time and space by the fine-resolution markers, contributes to the understanding of how clonal reproduction impacts community structure in cyclically parthenogenetic organisms. (Source: BMC Evolutionary Biology - Latest articles)

Global gene analysis of oocytes from early stages in human folliculogenesis shows high expression of novel genes in reproduction

Molecular Human Reproduction — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The pool of primordial follicles in humans is laid down during embryonic development and follicles can remain dormant for prolonged intervals, often decades, until individual follicles resume growth. The mechanisms that induce growth and maturation of primordial follicles are poorly understood but follicles once activated either continue growth or undergo atresia. We have isolated pure populations of oocytes from human primordial, intermediate and primary follicles using laser capture micro-dissection microscopy and evaluated the global gene expression profiles by whole-genome microarray analysis. The array data were confirmed by qPCR for selected genes. A total of 6301 unique genes were identified as significantly expressed representing enriched specific functional categories such as &lsq...

Developmentally regulated IL6-type cytokines signal to germ cells in the human fetal ovary

Molecular Human Reproduction — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Fetal ovarian development and primordial follicle formation are imperative for adult fertility in the female. Data suggest the interleukin (IL)6-type cytokines, leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF), IL6, oncostatin M (OSM) and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), are able to regulate the survival, proliferation and differentiation of fetal murine germ cells (GCs) in vivo and in vitro. We postulated that these factors may play a similar role during early human GC development and primordial follicle formation. To test this hypothesis, we have investigated the expression and regulation of IL6-type cytokines, using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Expression of transcripts encoding OSM increased significantly across the gestational range examin...

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Data-driven assessment of the human ovarian reserve

Molecular Human Reproduction — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Human ovarian physiology is still poorly understood, with the factors and mechanisms that control initiation of follicular recruitment and loss remaining particularly unclear. Conventional hypothesis-led studies provide new data, results and insights, but datasets from individual studies are often small, allowing only limited interpretation. Great power is afforded by the aggregation of data from multiple studies into single datasets. In this paper, we describe how modern computational analysis of these datasets provides important new insights into ovarian function and has generated hypotheses that are testable in the laboratory. Specifically, we can hypothesize that age is the most important factor for variations in individual ovarian non-growing follicle (NGF) populations, that anti-M&uu...

Uterine transplantation research: laboratory protocols for clinical application

Molecular Human Reproduction — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The aim of this review is to summarize the state-of the-art methods that are used in clinical organ transplantation today, as well as the major findings of recent experimental uterus transplantation (UTx) research regarding organ donation/retrieval, ischemic preservation, surgical techniques for anastomosis, immunosuppression and pregnancy. Absolute uterine factor infertility lacks treatment despite the major developments in infertility treatment and assisted reproduction. Concerning uterine factor infertile patients, genetic motherhood is only possible through gestational surrogacy. The latter can pose medical, ethical and legal concerns such as lack of control of life habits during surrogate pregnancy, economic motives for women to become surrogate mothers, medical/psychological pregnanc...

Ovary cryopreservation and transplantation for fertility preservation

Molecular Human Reproduction — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The aim of this review is to summarize the state-of-the-art of ovarian transplantation and cryopreservation. This field has progressed over the last half century from simple animal experiments to sophisticated application in humans. The initial poor results in humans began to improve when a series of nine monozygotic (MZ) twin pairs discordant for premature ovarian failure (POF) underwent ovary transplantation at one center. All of these fresh ovary transplants were successful, resulting in 11 healthy babies in 7 of the 9 recipients. The same surgical techniques were then applied to 3 frozen ovary tissue transplants, up to 14 years after the ovary had been frozen, resulting in 3 more healthy babies. Around the world, the number of healthy babies has now risen to 28. Even ovary allotranspla...

Modern methods of fertility preservation: a tribute to Roger Gosden

Molecular Human Reproduction — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Molecular Human Reproduction)

Pregnancy After Vasectomy and Tubal Ligation Reversal

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

A member of the Tubal Reversal Message Board of Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center wants to know is there is any chance for her and her husband to have a child together. They have each had a procedure to reverse sterility. Once fertility is restored there is always hope pregnancy will occur. This is a relatively common scenario because many individuals will remarry or change partners. Dr. Gary Berger and Dr. Charles Monteith are the most experienced tubal fertility specialists having performed over 10,000 tubal reversal surgeries to date. (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

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Are My Tubes Open? An HSG X-ray Can Answer

Tubal Ligation Reversal News — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

A patient of Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center posted on the Tubal Reversal Message Board she had a HSG (hysterosalpingogram x-ray) in 2007 and found one of her tubes was blocked at the surgical site and the other one was wide open. She did not try to conceive until recently and had an early miscarriage. She asks about whether to have another HSG. Dr. Gary Berger and Dr. Charles Monteith would not recommend this as the recent pregnancy confirms at least one of her fallopian tubes is open after her tubal reversal procedure. She can conceive another pregnancy with only one tube. (Source: Tubal Ligation Reversal News)

Proteomics Analysis of Plasma for Early Diagnosis of Endometriosis.

Obstetrics and Gynecology — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:43:08 +0100

CONCLUSION:: A noninvasive test using proteomic analysis of plasma samples obtained during the menstrual phase enabled the diagnosis of endometriosis undetectable by ultrasonography with high sensitivity and specificity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:: II. PMID: 22270279 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Progestin intrauterine device in an adolescent with grade 2 endometrial cancer.

Obstetrics and Gynecology — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:35:09 +0100

CONCLUSION: : A progestin-releasing IUD may be a valid treatment option for grade 2 endometrial cancer in young women who desire to retain fertility. PMID: 22270425 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Pregnancy in a Woman With Congenital Generalized Lipodystrophy: Leptin's Vital Role in Reproduction.

Obstetrics and Gynecology — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:32:55 +0100

CONCLUSION: : Adipose tissue is important to normal female reproductive function. Leptin in particular appears to play a key role in adipose-mediated regulation of fertility. PMID: 22270436 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Male Fertility and Reduction in Semen Parameters: A Single Tertiary-Care Center Experience

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:56:20 +0100

Conclusion. Our data highlights the possibility of a spontaneous conception with semen parameters below WHO reference values. Therefore, we support the importance of defining reference values on a population of fertile men. Finally, we analyzed the related ethical issues. (Source: Advances in Pharmacological Sciences)

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New Life Agency Rolls Out Assisted Reproduction Insurance Program

Medical News (via PRIMEZONE) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:22:00 +0100

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif., Jan. 26, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- New Life Agency has announced a new Assisted Reproduction Insurance Program(r) (ARI). The Program will be spearheaded by infertility nurse, Ellen Argall, RN. New Life Agency, the only company specializing exclusively in Assisted Reproduction Insurance(r), thus far has partnered with three Fertility Centers to provide insurance for fertility patients. The ARI program provides a tremendous cost savings, as well as a peace of mind, to patients in need of in vitro fertilization (IVF). The average IVF cost is roughly $12,000 and is generally only for one cycle. Also, frozen embryos are typically not included in the cost and could result in another $3,000 for a frozen embryo transfer (FET). The ARI program includes both FET, as we...

Evaluating the Potential of Effluents and Wood Feedstocks from Pulp and Paper Mills in Brazil, Canada, and New Zealand to Affect Fish Reproduction: Chemical Profiling and In Vitro Assessments

Environmental Science and Technology — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:49:44 +0100

Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/es203382c (Source: Environmental Science and Technology)

The role of melatonin as an antioxidant in the follicle

Journal of Ovarian Research — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Melatonin is secreted during the dark hours at night by pineal gland, and it regulates a variety of important central and peripheral actions related to circadian rhythms and reproduction. It has been believed that melatonin regulates ovarian function by the regulation of gonadotropin release in the hypothalamus-pituitary gland axis via its specific receptors. In addition to the receptor mediated action, the discovery of melatonin as a direct free radical scavenger has greatly broadened the understanding of melatonin's mechanisms which benefit reproductive physiology. Higher concentrations of melatonin have been found in human preovulatory follicular fluid compared to serum, and there is growing evidence of the direct effects of melatonin on ovarian function especially oocyte maturation and...

Macro-level Modeling of the Response of C. elegans Reproduction to Chronic Heat Stress

PLoS Computational Biology — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

by Patrick D. McMullen, Erin Z. Aprison, Peter B. Winter, Luis A. N. Amaral, Richard I. Morimoto, Ilya Ruvinsky A major goal of systems biology is to understand how organism-level behavior arises from a myriad of molecular interactions. Often this involves complex sets of rules describing interactions among a large number of components. As an alternative, we have developed a simple, macro-level model to describe how chronic temperature stress affects reproduction in C. elegans. Our approach uses fundamental engineering principles, together with a limited set of experimentally derived facts, and provides quantitatively accurate predictions of performance under a range of physiologically relevant conditions. We generated detailed time-resolved experimental data to evaluate the ability o...