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The Human League - Blind Youth - Video
Category Archives: Human Reproduction
Human Anatomy 361 – Male Reproductive System – Video
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Human Anatomy 361 - Male Reproductive System - Video
Eugenics – Human Sperm Created in British Lab – Video
British scientists claim a first in medical history by using embryonic stem cells to create human sperm in a laboratory. Researchers at Newcastle Uni hope it will help infertile couples but it has sparked an ethical debate. Sky's Gerard Tubb reports
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Eugenics - Human Sperm Created in British Lab - Video
Sample clip "From Darwin to Hitler" V056 – Video
This is a low-res sample from a DVD Product available from http://www.arn.org.
From Darwin to Hitler – Video
In his book, From Darwin to Hitler: Evolutionary Ethics, Eugenics, and Racism in Germany (2004), Richard Weikart explains the revolutionary impact Darwinism had on ethics and morality.
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From Darwin to Hitler - Video
Rotunda-CHR Corporate HQ Virtual Walk Thru Tour.mpg – Video
The Mahurat for the Official Inauguration of our Assisted Reproduction Center
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Rotunda-CHR Corporate HQ Virtual Walk Thru Tour.mpg - Video
SPERM HEALTH – ACROSOME ASSESSMENT – Video
The role of the human sperm acrosome is presented together with an original lab procedure to assess acrosome integrity, important in managing human reproductive problems and in basic research on spermatozoa
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SPERM HEALTH - ACROSOME ASSESSMENT - Video
Introduction to Human Reproduction – Video
Explains reproduction
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Introduction to Human Reproduction - Video
Increased live birth rates with GnRH agonist addition for luteal support in ICSI/IVF cycles: a systematic review and meta-analysis
BACKGROUND
The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate whether the addition of GnRH agonist for luteal support in ICSI/IVF cycles enhances the probability of live birth.
METHODS
Systematic literature search (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and RCT registries) was conducted to identify relevant randomized controlled trials published as full manuscripts. Meta-analysis of data yielded pooled risk differences (RDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A random effects model was applied for pooling the studies.
RESULTS
Six relevant RCTs were identified including a total of 2012 patients. The probability of live birth rate (RD: +16%, 95% CI: +10 to +22%) was significantly higher in patients who received GnRH agonist support compared with those who did not. The subgroup analysis according to the type of GnRH analogue used for LH suppression did not change the effect observed (studies in which GnRH agonist was used during ovarian stimulation, RD: +15%, 95% CI: +5 to +23%); (studies in which GnRH antagonist was used during ovarian stimulation, RD: +19%, 95% CI: +11 to +27%).
CONCLUSIONS
The best available evidence suggests that GnRH agonist addition during the luteal phase significantly increases the probability of live birth rates.
Rotunda – The Center For Human Reproduction Inauguration.m4v – Video
"Excellence can be attained if you Care more than others think is wise, Risk more than others think is safe, Dream more than others think is practical, and Expect more than others think is possible." - Author Unknown Rotunda - The Center For Human Reproduction 36, Turner Road, #101, 1st floor, B-Wing (Opp Crossword Bookstore) Bandra (W) 400 050 India Tel:+91 22 61996500/26405000 Email: wecare@rotundaivf.com http://www.iwannagetpregnant.com The Mahurat for the Official Inauguration of our Assisted Reproduction Center
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Rotunda - The Center For Human Reproduction Inauguration.m4v - Video
Effects of advanced selection methods on sperm quality and ART outcome: a systematic review
BACKGROUND
Current routine semen preparation techniques do not inclusively target all intrinsic sperm characteristics that may impact the fertilization potential. In order to address these characteristics, several methods have been recently developed and applied to sperm selection. The objective of this study was to systematically review the literature describing these advanced sperm selection methods focusing on their anticipated benefits on sperm quality and assisted reproductive technique (ART) outcome.
METHODS
Systematic literature review was conducted by means of a Medline literature search. Sperm quality parameters assessed included: motility, morphology, viability, DNA integrity, apoptosis and maturity. ART outcomes assessed included: fertilization, embryo quality, pregnancy, abortion and live birth rates.
RESULTS
A total of 44 studies were identified describing four advanced sperm selection methods based on: (i) surface charge (electrophoresis and zeta potential), (ii) apoptosis (magnetic cell sorting and glass wool), (iii) membrane maturity (hyaluronic acid binding) and (iv) ultramorphology (high magnification). Selection of high-quality sperm including improvements in DNA integrity, resulted from the application of these methods. Fertilization and pregnancy rates showed improvement following some of the advanced sperm selection techniques.
CONCLUSIONS
While some of the advanced sperm selection methods are of value in specific clinical ART settings, others are in need of further evaluation. More clinical studies on safety and efficacy are needed before the implementation of advanced sperm selection methods could be universally recommended in ART.
Meta-analysis of cardiovascular disease risk markers in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
BACKGROUND
The relation between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains unclear. In an attempt to provide high-quality evidence on the relation between PCOS and CVD, relevant literature for CVD risk markers [C-reactive protein (CRP), homocysteine (Hcy), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)], advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), endothelin-1 (ET-1) and fibrinogen] in women with PCOS was reviewed and analyzed.
METHODS
A systematic search was conducted electronically using specific eligibility criteria. Weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated and combined appropriately. To ensure synthesis of the best available evidence, sensitivity analyses were performed.
RESULTS
A total of 130 data sets were included in 11 different outcomes, involving 7174 and 5076 CVD markers in women with PCOS and controls, respectively. Women with PCOS demonstrated significantly elevated CRP [WMD (95% CI) 0.99 (0.77–1.21)], Hcy [2.25 (1.46–3.03)], PAI-1 antigen [16.96 (7.25–26.28)], PAI-1 activity [0.71 (0.18–1.23)], VEGF [1.72 (0.96–2.48)], ADMA [0.19 (0.08–0.3)], AGEs [3.91 (2.36–5.45)] and Lp(a) [0.81 (0.58–1.04)] concentrations compared with controls, yet with significant between-study heterogeneity. Borderline significance (not robust in the sensitivity analyses) was detected for TNF-α [0.75 (0.07–1.44)], ET-1 [1.06 (0.52–1.59)] and fibrinogen [0.20 (0.01–0.39)], whereas no difference was detected for IL-6 [0.71 (–0.16 to 1.59)].
CONCLUSIONS
Women with PCOS have increased serum concentrations of CVD risk markers compared with controls. Whether this apparent risk is translated into increased incidence of CVD in later life remains to be elucidated.
The prevalence of congenital uterine anomalies in unselected and high-risk populations: a systematic review
BACKGROUND
The prevalence of congenital uterine anomalies in high-risk women is unclear, as several different diagnostic approaches have been applied to different groups of patients. This review aims to evaluate the prevalence of such anomalies in unselected populations and in women with infertility, including those undergoing IVF treatment, women with a history of miscarriage, women with infertility and recurrent miscarriage combined, and women with a history of preterm delivery.
METHODS
Searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Cochrane register were performed. Study selection and data extraction were conducted independently by two reviewers. Studies were grouped into those that used ‘optimal’ and ‘suboptimal’ tests for uterine anomalies. Meta-analyses were performed to establish the prevalence of uterine anomalies and their subtypes within the various populations.
RESULTS
We identified 94 observational studies comprising 89 861 women. The prevalence of uterine anomalies diagnosed by optimal tests was 5.5% [95% confidence interval (CI), 3.5–8.5] in the unselected population, 8.0% (95% CI, 5.3–12) in infertile women, 13.3% (95% CI, 8.9–20.0) in those with a history of miscarriage and 24.5% (95% CI, 18.3–32.8) in those with miscarriage and infertility. Arcuate uterus is most common in the unselected population (3.9%; 95% CI, 2.1–7.1), and its prevalence is not increased in high-risk groups. In contrast, septate uterus is the most common anomaly in high-risk populations.
CONCLUSIONS
Women with a history of miscarriage or miscarriage and infertility have higher prevalence of congenital uterine anomalies compared with the unselected population.
Growth factors and myometrium: biological effects in uterine fibroid and possible clinical implications
BACKGROUND
Growth factors are proteins secreted by a number of cell types that are capable of modulating cellular growth, proliferation and cellular differentiation. It is well accepted that uterine cellular events such as proliferation and differentiation are regulated by sex steroids and their actions in target tissues are mediated by local production of growth factors acting through paracrine and/or autocrine mechanisms. Myometrial mass is ultimately modified in pregnancy as well as in tumour conditions such as leiomyoma and leiomyosarcoma. Leiomyomas, also known as fibroids, are benign tumours of the uterus, considered to be one of the most frequent causes of infertility in reproductive years in women.
METHODS
For this review, we searched the database MEDLINE and Google Scholar for articles with content related to growth factors acting on myometrium; the findings are hereby reviewed and discussed.
RESULTS
Different growth factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α), heparin-binding EGF (HB-EGF), acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and TGF-β perform actions in myometrium and in leiomyomas. In addition to these growth factors, activin and myostatin have been recently identified in myometrium and leiomyoma.
CONCLUSIONS
Growth factors play an important role in the mechanisms involved in myometrial patho-physiology.
Genetic association studies of angiogenesis- and vasoconstriction-related genes in women with recurrent pregnancy loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis
BACKGROUND
Angiogenesis and an adequate blood supply are critical for several steps in human early pregnancy. Some studies have reported angiogenesis- and vasoconstriction-related genes are associated with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), but their sample size was limited. This study was conducted to investigate the genetic association between these angiogenesis- and vasoconstriction-related genes and idiopathic RPL, using meta-analyses.
METHODS
A systematic review of the published literature from MEDLINE and EMBASE databases was conducted and investigations of an angiogenesis- and vasoconstriction-related gene polymorphism in RPL reported more than three times were selected. Aggregating data from eligible studies were integrated into meta-analyses by means of random effects models.
RESULTS
Of 185 potentially relevant studies, 18 case–control studies comprising a total of 2397 RPL patients and 1760 controls were included into the meta-analyses. Among these genetic association studies were 4 reports of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (–1154G>A) polymorphisms, 4 reports of p53 (codon72) and 10 reports of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) (B/A, Glu298Asp) with RPL. The integrated results showed that VEGF (–1154G>A), p53 (codon 72) and eNOS (Glu298Asp) polymorphisms were significantly associated with RPL, and their summary odd ratios [95% confidence interval (CI)] were 1.51 (1.13–2.03), 1.84(1.07–3.16) and 1.37 (1.11–1.69), respectively. The summary odd ratio of the eNOS (B/A) polymorphism in RPL was 1.15 (0.94–1.41), and failed to show significance at meta-analysis.
CONCLUSIONS
Meta-analyses of available data showed significant associations between the VEGF (–1154G>A), p53 (codon72) and eNOS (Glu298Asp) polymorphisms and idiopathic RPL. These angiogenesis- and vasoconstriction-related genes jointly confer higher susceptibility to idiopathic RPL.
The translational challenge in the development of new and effective therapies for endometriosis: a review of confidence from published preclinical efficacy studies
BACKGROUND
Endometriosis is a benign gynaecological condition that presents symptoms of chronic pelvic pain and the ectopic growth of endometrial lesions at sites on the peritoneum. Few new approaches to the management of the disease symptoms and progression have emerged in decades. The cornerstone of developing new therapies is the confidence and translational value placed in the preclinical models used to assess efficacy of emerging approaches.
METHODS
We systematically reviewed preclinical efficacy data from rodent and non-human primates, evaluating the effects of an investigational agent or target reported in PubMed between 2000 and 2010. We evaluated the reports for which model and end-points had been used to determine efficacy, whether there was evidence of independent replication, whether techniques had been incorporated into the experimental design to eliminate potential bias and whether there was a confirmation of drug exposure or target engagement in the study.
RESULTS
We identified 94 publications that met our criteria for review. Efficacy studies were conducted in a wider range of different models with no clear consensus on which model or end-point has the most translational value. The large majority of studies either did not report what measures were incorporated into the design to address potential bias or account for it or did not confirm whether the specified target was engaged.
CONCLUSIONS
Greater scrutiny of the preclinical efficacy models, end-points and experimental designs is needed if the desire of translating novel treatment approaches is to be realized for women with endometriosis.
Contemporary genetic technologies and female reproduction
BACKGROUND
The Fifth Evian Annual Reproduction (EVAR) Workshop Meeting discussed knowledge regarding contemporary genetics in female reproduction.
METHODS
Specialist reproductive medicine clinicians and geneticists delivered presentations based on published literature and current research. The content of this report is based on the expert presentations and subsequent group discussions that took place during this Workshop.
RESULTS
Numerous ovarian genes with a role in infertility have been identified. Future challenges for genetic screening of patients, such as those with polycystic ovary syndrome, primary ovarian insufficiency or endometriosis, include the identification of high-throughput strategies and how to apply these findings to infertile patients. The identification of high-quality embryos in IVF using objective technologies remains a high priority in order to facilitate single-embryo transfer. Gene expression profiling of cumulus cells surrounding the oocyte, and proteomic and metabolomic approaches in embryo culture media may significantly improve non-invasive embryo quality assessment.
CONCLUSIONS
The way forward in advancing the knowledge of genes involved in reproduction was considered to be through genome-wide association studies involving large numbers of patients. Establishing international collaboration is required to enable the application of such technologies in sufficient numbers of patients.
Why do people postpone parenthood? Reasons and social policy incentives
BACKGROUND
Never before have parents in most Western societies had their first children as late as in recent decades. What are the central reasons for postponement? What is known about the link between the delay of childbearing and social policy incentives to counter these trends? This review engages in a systematic analysis of existing evidence to extract the maximum amount of knowledge about the reasons for birth postponement and the effectiveness of social policy incentives.
METHODS
The review followed the PRISMA procedure, with literature searches conducted in relevant demographic, social science and medical science databases (SocINDEX, Econlit, PopLine, Medline) and located via other sources. The search focused on subjects related to childbearing behaviour, postponement and family policies. National, international and individual-level data sources were also used to present summary statistics.
RESULTS
There is clear empirical evidence of the postponement of the first child. Central reasons are the rise of effective contraception, increases in women's education and labour market participation, value changes, gender equity, partnership changes, housing conditions, economic uncertainty and the absence of supportive family policies. Evidence shows that some social policies can be effective in countering postponement.
CONCLUSIONS
The postponement of first births has implications on the ability of women to conceive and parents to produce additional offspring. Massive postponement is attributed to the clash between the optimal biological period for women to have children with obtaining additional education and building a career. A growing body of literature shows that female employment and childrearing can be combined when the reduction in work–family conflict is facilitated by policy intervention.
Genetic predictors of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation: where do we stand today?
BACKGROUND
Nowadays, the use of IVF has improved the prospects of infertility treatment. The expected outcome of IVF depends greatly on the effectiveness of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH), where exogenous gonadotrophins are used to induce folliculogenesis. The response to stimulation varies substantially among women and is difficult to predict. Several predictive markers of COH outcome have been proposed (e.g. maternal age and ovarian reserve), but the search for optimal predictors is ongoing. Pharmacogenetic studies demonstrate the effects of individual genetic variability on COH outcome and the potential for customizing therapy based on the patient's genome.
METHODS
MEDLINE, EMBASE, DARE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library, and references from relevant articles were investigated up to February 2011 regarding any common genetic variation and COH/IVF outcome.
RESULTS
Several polymorphisms in genes involved in FSH signalling, estrogen biosynthesis, folliculogenesis, folate metabolism and other aspects influence the response to exogenous gonadotrophin administration, resulting in differences in COH and IVF outcomes. Nevertheless, the most studied polymorphism FSHR Asn680Ser is practically the only genetic marker, together with ESR1 PvuII T/C, that could be applied in clinical tests.
CONCLUSIONS
Although data are accumulating with evidence suggesting that the ovarian response to COH is mediated by various polymorphisms, the optimal biomarkers and the efficacy of the tests still remain to be evaluated.
Grease 2 – Reproduction – Video
Reproduction from the 1982 movie Grease 2.
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Grease 2 - Reproduction - Video