Extraction and separation feasibility of cerium (III) and lanthanum (III) from aqueous solution using modified graphite adsorbent

Graphite (GR) and graphite/alginate (GRA) composite were synthesized utilizing the thermal annealing technique and used as a new adsorbent material for the selective separation and removal of La(III) and Ce(III) from aqueous solutions. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermal analysis (DTA, TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), surface area, porosity, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were also used to characterize the generated material. Distinct experiments were performed to test the ability of the GRA to La(III) and Ce(III) removal, which include the effect of pH, shaken time, initial concentration of La(III), and Ce(III) at different temperatures range. After 20 min, both ions have reached equilibrium. The pseudo second-order kinetic model was chosen as one which best fits the experimental evidence and better reflects the chemical sorption process. Adsorption isotherm was studied using the Langmuir, Freundlich, and D-R models. The Langmuir model was used to better fit the results obtained. At 25 °C, Ce(III) and La(III) have maximum monolayer capacities of 200 and 83.3 mg/g, respectively. The sorption was endothermic reaction and spontaneous, as illustrated by the data of thermodynamics studies. GRA has the ability to be used as a novel lanthanide adsorbent material, especially for selective separation between Ce(III) and La(III).

Standardizing definitions and reporting guidelines for the infertility core outcome set: an international consensus development study† ‡

STUDY QUESTION

Can consensus definitions for the core outcome set for infertility be identified in order to recommend a standardized approach to reporting?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Consensus definitions for individual core outcomes, contextual statements and a standardized reporting table have been developed.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Different definitions exist for individual core outcomes for infertility. This variation increases the opportunities for researchers to engage with selective outcome reporting, which undermines secondary research and compromises clinical practice guideline development.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

Potential definitions were identified by a systematic review of definition development initiatives and clinical practice guidelines and by reviewing Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group guidelines. These definitions were discussed in a face-to-face consensus development meeting, which agreed consensus definitions. A standardized approach to reporting was also developed as part of the process.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Healthcare professionals, researchers and people with fertility problems were brought together in an open and transparent process using formal consensus development methods.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Forty-four potential definitions were inventoried across four definition development initiatives, including the Harbin Consensus Conference Workshop Group and International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies, 12 clinical practice guidelines and Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group guidelines. Twenty-seven participants, from 11 countries, contributed to the consensus development meeting. Consensus definitions were successfully developed for all core outcomes. Specific recommendations were made to improve reporting.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

We used consensus development methods, which have inherent limitations. There was limited representation from low- and middle-income countries.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

A minimum data set should assist researchers in populating protocols, case report forms and other data collection tools. The generic reporting table should provide clear guidance to researchers and improve the reporting of their results within journal publications and conference presentations. Research funding bodies, the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials statement, and over 80 specialty journals have committed to implementing this core outcome set.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This research was funded by the Catalyst Fund, Royal Society of New Zealand, Auckland Medical Research Fund and Maurice and Phyllis Paykel Trust. Siladitya Bhattacharya reports being the Editor-in-Chief of Human Reproduction Open and an editor of the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group. J.L.H.E. reports being the Editor Emeritus of Human Reproduction. R.S.L. reports consultancy fees from Abbvie, Bayer, Ferring, Fractyl, Insud Pharma and Kindex and research sponsorship from Guerbet and Hass Avocado Board. B.W.M. reports consultancy fees from Guerbet, iGenomix, Merck, Merck KGaA and ObsEva. C.N. reports being the Editor-in-Chief of Fertility and Sterility and Section Editor of the Journal of Urology, research sponsorship from Ferring, and a financial interest in NexHand. E.H.Y.N. reports research sponsorship from Merck. A.S. reports consultancy fees from Guerbet. J.W. reports being a statistical editor for the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group. A.V. reports that he is a Statistical Editor of the Cochrane Gynaecology & Fertility Review Group and of the journal Reproduction. His employing institution has received payment from Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority for his advice on review of research evidence to inform their 'traffic light' system for infertility treatment 'add-ons'. N.L.V. reports consultancy and conference fees from Ferring, Merck and Merck Sharp and Dohme. The remaining authors declare no competing interests in relation to the work presented. All authors have completed the disclosure form.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials Initiative: 1023.

Developing a core outcome set for future infertility research: an international consensus development study† ‡

STUDY QUESTION

Can a core outcome set to standardize outcome selection, collection and reporting across future infertility research be developed?

SUMMARY ANSWER

A minimum data set, known as a core outcome set, has been developed for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews evaluating potential treatments for infertility.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Complex issues, including a failure to consider the perspectives of people with fertility problems when selecting outcomes, variations in outcome definitions and the selective reporting of outcomes on the basis of statistical analysis, make the results of infertility research difficult to interpret.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

A three-round Delphi survey (372 participants from 41 countries) and consensus development workshop (30 participants from 27 countries).

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Healthcare professionals, researchers and people with fertility problems were brought together in an open and transparent process using formal consensus science methods.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

The core outcome set consists of: viable intrauterine pregnancy confirmed by ultrasound (accounting for singleton, twin and higher multiple pregnancy); pregnancy loss (accounting for ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, stillbirth and termination of pregnancy); live birth; gestational age at delivery; birthweight; neonatal mortality; and major congenital anomaly. Time to pregnancy leading to live birth should be reported when applicable.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

We used consensus development methods which have inherent limitations, including the representativeness of the participant sample, Delphi survey attrition and an arbitrary consensus threshold.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Embedding the core outcome set within RCTs and systematic reviews should ensure the comprehensive selection, collection and reporting of core outcomes. Research funding bodies, the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials (SPIRIT) statement, and over 80 specialty journals, including the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group, Fertility and Sterility and Human Reproduction, have committed to implementing this core outcome set.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This research was funded by the Catalyst Fund, Royal Society of New Zealand, Auckland Medical Research Fund and Maurice and Phyllis Paykel Trust. The funder had no role in the design and conduct of the study, the collection, management, analysis or interpretation of data, or manuscript preparation. B.W.J.M. is supported by a National Health and Medical Research Council Practitioner Fellowship (GNT1082548). S.B. was supported by University of Auckland Foundation Seelye Travelling Fellowship. S.B. reports being the Editor-in-Chief of Human Reproduction Open and an editor of the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility group. J.L.H.E. reports being the Editor Emeritus of Human Reproduction. J.M.L.K. reports research sponsorship from Ferring and Theramex. R.S.L. reports consultancy fees from Abbvie, Bayer, Ferring, Fractyl, Insud Pharma and Kindex and research sponsorship from Guerbet and Hass Avocado Board. B.W.J.M. reports consultancy fees from Guerbet, iGenomix, Merck, Merck KGaA and ObsEva. C.N. reports being the Co Editor-in-Chief of Fertility and Sterility and Section Editor of the Journal of Urology, research sponsorship from Ferring, and retains a financial interest in NexHand. A.S. reports consultancy fees from Guerbet. E.H.Y.N. reports research sponsorship from Merck. N.L.V. reports consultancy and conference fees from Ferring, Merck and Merck Sharp and Dohme. The remaining authors declare no competing interests in relation to the work presented. All authors have completed the disclosure form.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials Initiative: 1023.

Batch kinetics of 134Cs and 152+154Eu radionuclides onto poly-condensed feldspar and perlite based sorbents

Sorption of fission products onto polycondensed aluminosilicates (PC-AS_(s)) is a relatively recent and gets out the mechanisms by which the formers are trapped. Here, PC feldspar (PC-FD), perlite (PC-PR) and their blend (PC-FDPR) were synthesized by the alkaline activation using Na-/K-silicates at Si-modulus of 1.35. XRD patterns revealed the semi-crystalline natures of sorbents. Na- and K-feldspars were detected in PC-FD while Na-based carbonate crystals were detected in others. Components of the poly(sialate-disiloxo) structure were detected in FT-IR spectra. Thermographs were deconvoluted and the amounts of the sticking and zeolitic water were estimated. Kinetic batches for sorption of ¹³⁴Cs and ^152+154Eu onto the elaborated yields were constructed. Ranking of sorbed amounts (q_e) was varied from ¹³⁴Cs (PC-FDPR>PC-FD>PC-PR) to ^152+154Eu (PC-PR>PC-FD>PC-FDPR). Maximum q_e was recorded at elevated temperature (323 K) to be 4.28 and 1.45 mg/g for ¹³⁴Cs/PC-FDPR and ^152+154Eu/PC-PR, respectively. Along all batches, chemi-sorption mechanism is common denominator. The effective diffusion coefficients (D_i) were in the order of 10^-14 m²/s. Both PC-FD and PC-FDPR recorded greater D_i values of ¹³⁴Cs than ^152+154Eu. The low values of E_a (kJ/mol) reflected the weak adsorbats-adsorbents interactions. While, the high negative values of ∆S^‡ suggested that the studied radionuclides were sorbed in associative reaction mechanism.

Developing a core outcome set for future infertility research: an international consensus development study

STUDY QUESTION

Can a core outcome set to standardize outcome selection, collection, and reporting across future infertility research be developed?

SUMMARY ANSWER

A minimum data set, known as a core outcome set, has been developed for randomized controlled trials (RCT) and systematic reviews evaluating potential treatments for infertility.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Complex issues, including a failure to consider the perspectives of people with fertility problems when selecting outcomes, variations in outcome definitions, and the selective reporting of outcomes on the basis of statistical analysis, make the results of infertility research difficult to interpret.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

A three-round Delphi survey (372 participants from 41 countries) and consensus development workshop (30 participants from 27 countries).

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Healthcare professionals, researchers, and people with fertility problems were brought together in an open and transparent process using formal consensus science methods.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

The core outcome set consists of: viable intrauterine pregnancy confirmed by ultrasound (accounting for singleton, twin, and higher multiple pregnancy); pregnancy loss (accounting for ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, stillbirth, and termination of pregnancy); live birth; gestational age at delivery; birthweight; neonatal mortality; and major congenital anomaly. Time to pregnancy leading to live birth should be reported when applicable.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

We used consensus development methods which have inherent limitations, including the representativeness of the participant sample, Delphi survey attrition, and an arbitrary consensus threshold.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Embedding the core outcome set within RCTs and systematic reviews should ensure the comprehensive selection, collection, and reporting of core outcomes. Research funding bodies, the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials (SPIRIT) statement, and over 80 specialty journals, including the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group, Ferility and Sterility, and Human Reproduction, have committed to implementing this core outcome set.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This research was funded by the Catalyst Fund, Royal Society of New Zealand, Auckland Medical Research Fund, and Maurice and Phyllis Paykel Trust. Siladitya Bhattacharya reports being the Editor-in-Chief of Human Reproduction Open and an editor of the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility group. Hans Evers reports being the Editor Emeritus of Human Reproduction. José Knijnenburg reports research sponsorship from Ferring and Theramex. Richard Legro reports consultancy fees from Abbvie, Bayer, Ferring, Fractyl, Insud Pharma and Kindex and research sponsorship from Guerbet and Hass Avocado Board. Ben Mol reports consultancy fees from Guerbet, iGenomix, Merck, Merck KGaA and ObsEva. Craig Niederberger reports being the Co Editor-in-Chief of Fertility and Sterility and Section Editor of the Journal of Urology, research sponsorship from Ferring, and retains a financial interest in NexHand. Annika Strandell reports consultancy fees from Guerbet. Ernest Ng reports research sponsorship from Merck. Lan Vuong reports consultancy and conference fees from Ferring, Merck and Merck Sharp and Dohme. The remaining authors declare no competing interests in relation to the work presented. All authors have completed the disclosure form.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials Initiative: 1023.

Standardizing definitions and reporting guidelines for the infertility core outcome set: an international consensus development study

STUDY QUESTION

Can consensus definitions for the core outcome set for infertility be identified in order to recommend a standardized approach to reporting?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Consensus definitions for individual core outcomes, contextual statements, and a standardized reporting table have been developed.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Different definitions exist for individual core outcomes for infertility. This variation increases the opportunities for researchers to engage with selective outcome reporting, which undermines secondary research and compromises clinical practice guideline development.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

Potential definitions were identified by a systematic review of definition development initiatives and clinical practice guidelines and by reviewing Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group guidelines. These definitions were discussed in a face-to-face consensus development meeting, which agreed consensus definitions. A standardized approach to reporting was also developed as part of the process.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Healthcare professionals, researchers, and people with fertility problems were brought together in an open and transparent process using formal consensus development methods.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Forty-four potential definitions were inventoried across four definition development initiatives, including the Harbin Consensus Conference Workshop Group and International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies, 12 clinical practice guidelines, and Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group guidelines. Twenty-seven participants, from 11 countries, contributed to the consensus development meeting. Consensus definitions were successfully developed for all core outcomes. Specific recommendations were made to improve reporting.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

We used consensus development methods, which have inherent limitations. There was limited representation from low- and middle-income countries.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

A minimum data set should assist researchers in populating protocols, case report forms, and other data collection tools. The generic reporting table should provide clear guidance to researchers and improve the reporting of their results within journal publications and conference presentations. Research funding bodies, the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials statement, and over 80 specialty journals have committed to implementing this core outcome set.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This research was funded by the Catalyst Fund, Royal Society of New Zealand, Auckland Medical Research Fund, and Maurice and Phyllis Paykel Trust. Siladitya Bhattacharya reports being the Editor-in-Chief of Human Reproduction Open and an editor of the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility group. Hans Evers reports being the Editor Emeritus of Human Reproduction. Richard Legro reports consultancy fees from Abbvie, Bayer, Ferring, Fractyl, Insud Pharma and Kindex and research sponsorship from Guerbet and Hass Avocado Board. Ben Mol reports consultancy fees from Guerbet, iGenomix, Merck, Merck KGaA and ObsEva. Craig Niederberger reports being the Editor-in-Chief of Fertility and Sterility and Section Editor of the Journal of Urology, research sponsorship from Ferring, and a financial interest in NexHand. Ernest Ng reports research sponsorship from Merck. Annika Strandell reports consultancy fees from Guerbet. Jack Wilkinson reports being a statistical editor for the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility group. Andy Vail reports that he is a Statistical Editor of the Cochrane Gynaecology & Fertility Review Group and of the journal Reproduction. His employing institution has received payment from HFEA for his advice on review of research evidence to inform their 'traffic light' system for infertility treatment 'add-ons'. Lan Vuong reports consultancy and conference fees from Ferring, Merck and Merck Sharp and Dohme. The remaining authors declare no competing interests in relation to the work presented. All authors have completed the disclosure form.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials Initiative: 1023.

Purification of liquid scintillation waste from binding radionuclides using different adsorbents

The quantity of liquid organic radioactive wastes produced by the use of radioactive materials in nuclear research facilities is small compared to aqueous radioactive waste, but a special and low-cost treatment method is needed. Here we investigated the adsorption performance of five materials, namely: KU-2 resin, bentonite, charcoal (M&S) and clay adsorbents for the successful removal of 90Sr/90Y from liquid scintillation cocktail waste. The batch adsorption technique (influence of pH, contact time, and temperature), sequential, and column technique were investigated. The efficiency of these adsorbents for the removal of 90Sr/90Y is in this order, resin > bentonite > clay with removal efficiency 90 ± 5.2, 68 ± 3.25, and 65 ± 5.3%, respectively. While charcoal has lower affinity for the sorption processes. Purification of liquid scintillation (LS) cocktail by separation of 90Sr/90Y was successfully carried out by packed column with KU-2 resin. The exhausted loaded column with 90Sr/90Y is successfully regenerated by 25 mL, 1 M HNO3. Characterizations of the original and the purified LS cocktail were carried out using FTIR analysis. The efficiency of the purified liquid scintillation waste (LSW) for the determination of radionuclide is about 62.67 ± 4.8.

Preparation of novel nano composite materials from biomass waste and their sorptive characteristics for certain radionuclides

The aim of this work is directed to prepare nanoparticles of egg shell hydroxyapatite-humic acid (ESHAP-HA) as a novel composite material. FTIR, EDX, TEM, XRD, and SEM identified it. Sorption characteristic studies on ESHAP-HA at different pH of solutions, shaking time, initial ion concentration and complexing agent were performed at 152,154Eu, 99Mo and 63Ni. The results were demonstrated that selectivity removal of 152,154Eu (~96 %) rather than 99Mo (8.5 %) and 63Ni (26.7 %). The sorption capacity of 152,154Eu(III), 63Ni(II) and 99Mo(VI) are 80.1, 12.5 and 2.3 mg/g, respectively, onto the ESHAP-HA nanoparticles. Application on the eclectic removal of 152,154Eu from mixed radionuclides (152,154Eu, 60Co, and 137Cs) solution has been evaluated. It concluded that the prepared ESHAP-HA composite material is a promising and recommended for separation of radio lanthanides and/or actinides (such as Am) from nuclear liquid waste and/or contaminated aquatic environmental.

All Solid-State Poly (Vinyl Chloride) Membrane Potentiometric Sensor Integrated with Nano-Beads Imprinted Polymers for Sensitive and Rapid Detection of Bispyribac Herbicide as Organic Pollutant

All-solid-state potentiometric sensors were prepared by using polyaniline (PANI) as the solid contact material. A film of PANI (thickness approximately being 0.25 µm) was deposited on a solid substrate (carbon screen printed platform). The PANI layer was subsequently coated with an ion-selective membrane (ISM) containing uniform-sized molecularly imprinted nanoparticles to produce a solid-contact ion-selective electrode (SC/ISE) for bispyribac herbicide (sensor I). In addition, aliquat 336 was also used as an ion exchanger in plasticized PVC membrane (sensor II). The proposed sensors revealed a remarkably improved sensitivity towards bispyribac ions with anionic slopes of −47.8 ± 1.1 (r² = 0.9995) and −44.4 ± 1.4 (r² = 0.9997) mV/decade over a linear range 1.0 × 10⁻²–8.6 × 10⁻⁶ M, 1.0 × 10⁻²–9.0 × 10⁻⁶ M and detection limits of 1.33 and 1.81 µg/mL for sensors I and II, respectively.Selectivity of both sensors is significantly high for different common pesticides and inorganic anions. The potential stability of the SC/ISEs was studied using chronopotentiometry. Electrochemical impedance spectrometry was used to understand the charge-transfer mechanisms of the different types of ion-selective electrodes studied. The impedance response of the electrodes was modelled by using equivalent electrical circuits. The sensors were used for a direct measurement of the bispyribac content in commercial herbicide formulations and soil samples collected from agricultural lands planted with rice and sprayed with bispyribac herbicide. The results agree fairly well with data obtained using HPLC method.

Sorption behavior of Eu(III) from an aqueous solution onto modified hydroxyapatite: kinetics, modeling and thermodynamics

Nano-pore hydroxyapatite (HAP) was prepared using physical activation of raw and chemically modified [using Acid; HNO₃ (HAPA) or Base; NaOH (HAPB)] bone char (BC) by heating at 900°C for 1 hr to obtain HAP9, HAPA9 and HAPB9, respectively. Investigation the effects of thermal and chemical treatment of prepared nano-hydroxyapatite on elemental analysis, FTIR, scanning electron microscopy, surface area and consequently, the sorption behavior of Eu (III) ions onto the prepared nano-pore hydroxyapatite. Batch adsorption technique was used and the obtained results revealed that the optimum pH = 5.0. The % removal of europium (III) using HAPA9 and HAPB9 reach to 100% within 15 min, while HAP9 after 180 min and the pseudo-second-order was found to be fit to the experimental data. According to Langmuir model, the maximum sorption capacities (q_m) were 123.8, 384.9 and 74.2 mg g^-1 for HAP9, HAPA9 and HAPB9, respectively. The reaction is spontaneous according to ΔG° value. HCl (0.5 M) was the most efficient desorbing agent for recovery of Eu(III) and regeneration of adsorbents. Finally, nano-pore hydroxyapatite (HAP) was low cost and very effective adsorbent for sorption or recovery of Eu(III) from aqueous solutions and remediation of environmental pollution.

A protocol developing, disseminating and implementing a core outcome set for infertility

STUDY QUESTIONS

We aim to produce, disseminate and implement a core outcome set for future infertility research.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating infertility treatments have reported many different outcomes, which are often defined and measured in different ways. Such variation contributes to an inability to compare, contrast and combine results of individual RCTs. The development of a core outcome set will ensure outcomes important to key stakeholders are consistently collected and reported across future infertility research.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

This is a consensus study using the modified Delphi method. All stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, allied healthcare professionals, researchers and people with lived experience of infertility will be invited to participate.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

An international steering group, including people with lived experience of infertility, healthcare professionals, allied healthcare professionals and researchers, has been formed to guide the development of this core outcome set. Potential core outcomes have been identified through a comprehensive literature review of RCTs evaluating treatments for infertility and will be entered into a modified Delphi method. Participants will be asked to score potential core outcomes on a nine-point Likert scale anchored between one (not important) and nine (critical). Repeated reflection and rescoring should promote convergence towards consensus ‘core’ outcomes. We will establish standardized definitions and recommend high-quality measurement instruments for individual core outcomes.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This project is funded by the Royal Society of New Zealand Catalyst Fund (3712235). BWM reports consultancy fees from Guerbet, Merck, and ObsEva. R.S.L. reports consultancy fees from Abbvie, Bayer, Fractyl and Ogeda and research sponsorship from Ferring. S.B. is the Editor-in-Chief of Human Reproduction Open. The remaining authors declare no competing interests.

A mild ovarian stimulation strategy in women with poor ovarian reserve undergoing IVF: a multicenter randomized non-inferiority trial

STUDY QUESTION

In subfertile women with poor ovarian reserve undergoing IVF does a mild ovarian stimulation strategy lead to comparable ongoing pregnancy rates in comparison to a conventional ovarian stimulation strategy?

SUMMARY ANSWER

A mild ovarian stimulation strategy in women with poor ovarian reserve undergoing IVF leads to similar ongoing pregnancy rates as a conventional ovarian stimulation strategy.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Women diagnosed with poor ovarian reserve are treated with a conventional ovarian stimulation strategy consisting of high-dose gonadotropins and pituitary downregulation with a long mid-luteal start GnRH-agonist protocol. Previous studies comparing a conventional strategy with a mild ovarian stimulation strategy consisting of low-dose gonadotropins and pituitary downregulation with a GnRH-antagonist have been under powered and their effectiveness is inconclusive.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

This open label multicenter randomized trial was designed to compare one cycle of a mild ovarian stimulation strategy consisting of low-dose gonadotropins (150 IU FSH) and pituitary downregulation with a GnRH-antagonist to one cycle of a conventional ovarian stimulation strategy consisting of high-dose gonadotropins (450 IU HMG) and pituitary downregulation with a long mid-luteal GnRH-agonist in women of advanced maternal age and/or women with poor ovarian reserve undergoing IVF between May 2011 and April 2014.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Couples seeking infertility treatment were eligible if they fulfilled the following inclusion criteria: female age ≥35 years, a raised basal FSH level >10 IU/ml irrespective of age, a low antral follicular count of ≤5 follicles or poor ovarian response or cycle cancellation during a previous IVF cycle irrespective of age. The primary outcome was ongoing pregnancy rate per woman randomized. Analyses were on an intention-to-treat basis. We randomly assigned 195 women to the mild ovarian stimulation strategy and 199 women to the conventional ovarian stimulation strategy.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Ongoing pregnancy rate was 12.8% (25/195) for mild ovarian stimulation versus 13.6% (27/199) for conventional ovarian stimulation leading to a risk ratio of 0.95 (95% CI: 0.57-1.57), representing an absolute difference of -0.7% (95% CI: -7.4 to 5.9). This 95% CI does not extend below the predefined threshold of 10% for inferiority. The duration of ovarian stimulation was significantly lower in the mild ovarian stimulation strategy than in the conventional ovarian stimulation strategy (mean difference -1.2 days, 95% CI: -1.88 to -0.62). Also, a significantly lower amount of gonadotropins was used in the mild simulation strategy, with a mean difference of 3135 IU (95% CI: -3331 to -2940).

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

A limitation of our study was the lack of data concerning the cryopreservation of surplus embryos, so we are not informed on cumulative pregnancy rates. Another limitation is that we were not able to follow up on the ongoing pregnancies in all centers, so we are not informed on live birth rates.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

The results are directly applicable in daily clinical practice and may lead to considerable cost savings as high dosages of gonadotropins are not necessary in women with poor ovarian reserve undergoing IVF. A health economic analysis of our data planned to test the hypothesis that mild ovarian stimulation strategy is more cost-effective than the conventional ovarian stimulation strategy is underway.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS

This study was supported by NUFFIC scholarship (the Netherlands) and STDF short-term fellowship (Egypt).

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NTR2788 (Trialregister.nl).

TRIAL REGISTER DATE

01 March 2011.

DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLMENT

May 2011.

Volume expanders for the prevention of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

BACKGROUND

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a serious and potentially fatal complication of ovarian stimulation which affects 1% to 14% of all in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. A number of clinical studies with conflicting results have reported on the use of plasma expanders such as albumin, hydroxyethyl starch (HES), mannitol, polygeline and dextran as a possible intervention for the prevention of OHSS. Women with very high estradiol levels, high numbers of follicles or oocytes retrieved, and women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), are at particularly high risk of developing OHSS. Plasma expanders are not commonly used nowadays in ovarian hyperstimulation. This is mainly because clinical evidence on their effectiveness remains sparse, because of the low incidence of moderate and severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and the simultaneous introduction of mild stimulation approaches, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocols and the freeze-all strategy for the prevention of OHSS.

OBJECTIVES

To review the effectiveness and safety of administration of volume expanders for the prevention of moderate and severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in high-risk women undergoing IVF or ICSI treatment cycles.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched databases including the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Specialised Register of controlled trials, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase and trial registers to September 2015; no date restrictions were used as new comparators were included in this search. The references of relevant publications were also searched. We attempted to contact authors to provide or clarify data that were unclear from trial or abstract reports.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing volume expanders versus placebo or no treatment for the prevention of OHSS in high-risk women undergoing ovarian hyperstimulation as part of any assisted reproductive technique.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected the studies, assessed risk of bias and extracted relevant data. The primary review outcome was moderate or severe OHSS. Other outcomes were live birth, pregnancy and adverse events. We combined data to calculate pooled Peto odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each intervention. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I(2) statistic. We assessed the overall quality of the evidence for each comparison, using GRADE methods.

MAIN RESULTS

We included nine RCTs (1867 women) comparing human albumin (seven RCTs) or HES (two RCTs) or mannitol (one RCT) versus placebo or no treatment for prevention of OHSS. The evidence was very low to moderate quality for all comparisons. The main limitations were imprecision, poor reporting of study methods, and failure to blind outcome assessment.There was evidence of a beneficial effect of intravenous albumin on OHSS, though heterogeneity was substantial (Peto OR 0.67 95% CI 0.47 to 0.95, seven studies, 1452 high risk women; I² = 69%, very low quality evidence) . This suggests that if the rate of moderate or severe OHSS with no treatment is 12%, it will be about 9% (6% to12%) with the use of intravenous albumin. However, there was evidence of a detrimental effect on pregnancy rates (Peto OR 0.72 95% CI 0.55 to 0.94, I² = 42%, seven studies 1069 high risk women, moderate quality evidence). This suggests that if the chance of pregnancy is 40% without treatment, it will be about 32% (27% to 38%) with the use of albumin.There was evidence of a beneficial effect of HES on OHSS (Peto OR 0.27 95% CI 0.12 to 0.59, I² = 0%, two studies, 272 women, very low quality evidence). This suggests that if the rate of moderate or severe OHSS with no treatment is 16%, it will be about 5% (2% to 10%) with the use of HES. There was no evidence of an effect on pregnancy rates (Peto OR 1.20 95% CI 0.49 to 2.93, one study, 168 women, very low quality evidence).There was evidence of a beneficial effect of mannitol on OHSS (Peto OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.64, one study, 226 women with PCOS, low quality evidence). This means that if the risk of moderate or severe OHSS with no treatment is 52%, it will be about 29% (19% to 41%) with mannitol. There was no evidence of an effect on pregnancy rates (Peto OR 0.85 95% CI 0.47 to 1.55; one study, 226 women, low quality evidence).Live birth rates were not reported in any of the studies. Adverse events appeared to be uncommon, but were too poorly reported to reach any firm conclusions.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence suggests that the plasma expanders assessed in this review (human albumin, HES and mannitol) reduce rates of moderate and severe OHSS in women at high risk. Adverse events appear to be uncommon, but were too poorly reported to reach any firm conclusions, and there were no data on live birth. However, there was evidence that human albumin reduces pregnancy rates. While there was no evidence that HES, or mannitol had any influence on pregnancy rates, the evidence of effectiveness was based on very few trials which need to be confirmed in additional, larger randomised controlled trials (RCTs) before they should be considered for routine use in clinical practice.

Menstrual patterns and disorders among secondary school adolescents in Egypt. A cross-sectional survey

BACKGROUND

To our knowledge, no large population - based studies have been performed on the topic of menstrual patterns among Egyptian adolescent in recent years. The aims of this study were to identify menstrual patterns and associated disorders as well as the sources of menstrual health knowledge among Egyptian adolescents.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey. A total of 800 questionnaires were administered to post-menarcheal Egyptian adolescents attending secondary schools in Giza, Egypt, from September 1, 2012, to December 1, 2013. Participants were asked to respond to a semi-structured questionnaire on menstrual health awareness. The questionnaire included items on girl's socio-demographic and menstrual pattern characteristics, concerning their age at menarche, menstrual cycle length and regularity, duration and amount of flow, type and severity of pain related to menstruation, need for analgesia; and symptoms suggestive of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) Main Outcome Measure: description of menstrual patterns, disorders and source of knowledge.

RESULTS

Four hundred twelve (51.5 %) out of 800 adolescents completed the questionnaire. The mean age of the girls was 14.67 ± 1.7 years. Mean age at menarche was 12.49 ± 1.20 years. 382 respondents reported various menstrual disorders, giving a prevalence rate of 95 %. Dysmenorrhea was the most prevalent (93 %) menstrual disorder in our sample, followed by PMS (65 %), and abnormal cycle lengths (43 %). Menstrual disorders interfered with social and academic life of 33 and 7.7 % of respondents respectively. Most participants lacked menstrual health knowledge and only 8.9 % of girls reported consulting a physician.

CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge, this is one of the largest studies on menstrual pattern and disorders among Egyptian adolescent girls. Our Findings of the present study are consistent with other studies and reported higher than expected prevalence of menstrual disorders.

Effects of Site Preparation for Pine Forest/Switchgrass Intercropping on Water Quality

A study was initiated to investigate the sustainability effects of intercropping switchgrass ( L.) in a loblolly pine ( L.) plantation. This forest-based biofuel system could possibly provide biomass from the perennial energy grass while maintaining the economics and environmental benefits of a forest managed for sawtimber. Operations necessary for successful switchgrass establishment and growth, such as site preparation, planting, fertilizing, mowing and baling, may affect hydrology and nutrient runoff. The objectives of this study were (i) to characterize the temporal effects of management on nutrient concentrations and loadings and (ii) to use pretreatment data to predict those treatment effects. The study watersheds (∼25 ha each) in the North Carolina Atlantic Coastal Plain were a pine/switchgrass intercropped site (D1), a midrotation thinned pine site with natural understory (D2), and a switchgrass-only site (D3). Rainfall, drainage, water table elevation, nitrogen (total Kjedahl N, NH-N, and NO-N), and phosphate were monitored for the 2007-2008 pretreatment and the 2009-2012 treatment periods. From 2010 to 2011 in site D1, the average NO-N concentration effects decreased from 0.18 to -0.09 mg L, and loads effects decreased from 0.86 to 0.49 kg ha. During the same period in site D3, the average NO-N concentration effects increased from 0.03 to 0.09 mg L, and loads effects increased from -0.26 to 1.24 kg ha. This study shows the importance of considering water quality effects associated with intensive management operations required for switchgrass establishment or other novel forest-based biofuel systems.

Plant proteins as binders in cellulosic paper composites

Plant proteins are used - for the first time - in this work as bulk binders for cellulosic fibers in paper composites. Soy bean protein and wheat gluten were denatured by two methods, namely by: urea+NaOH and by urea+NaOH+acrylamide. Addition of increased amounts of the denatured proteins resulted in a significant increase in all paper strength properties. Soy protein led, in addition, to a remarkable enhancement in opacity. The use of proteins increased kaolin retention in the paper composites, while keeping the paper strength higher than the blank protein-free paper. The results show that plant proteins are favorable than synthetic adhesives; because they are biodegradable and do not cause troubles in paper recycling i.e. they are environmentally friendly.

Laparoscopically assisted balloon vaginoplasty for management of vaginal aplasia

OBJECTIVE

To report the intra-operative and post-operative results of laparoscopically assisted balloon vaginoplasty, a new technique for management of vaginal aplasia.

METHODS

Eight women with vaginal aplasia due to Mullerian agenesis who were referred for apareunia, dyspareunia. All had a poor penetration score and sexual satisfaction score. A Foley's catheter was laparoscopically inserted in the space between the urethra and rectum. Gradual traction and distension were used to create a neovagina. Outcomes measured were intra-operative complications, post-operative complications, length of the neovagina and post-operative complications and sexual satisfaction score in both partners.

RESULTS

Mean operative time was 25.5+/-5.5 min. No operative complications were recorded. Pain scores ranged from zero to 30 points at rest and from 30 to 60 points during dressing, traction and distension. Penetration and satisfaction scores increased significantly after the operation.

CONCLUSIONS

Balloon vaginoplasty is a simple, safe and satisfactory technique for management of blind vagina.

Cetirizine dihydrochloride interaction with some diclofenac complexes

IR, 1H NMR and mass spectrometric studies showed that cetirizine dihydrochloride interacted strongly with diclofenac sodium, even when the latter was metal bound, forming high molecular weight stable adducts. These new formations were unaffected by the possible steric constraints that may exist because of coordination yet did not have the power to break the formed coordinate bonds. The formed ionic bond took place between the carbonyl ion of diclofenac and the positively charged piperazine ring of cetirizine, forming a ternary compound in the case of the divalent metal clusters (Ca{(dic)2.2H2O}, Mg{(dic)2.2H2O}, Zn{(dic)2.2H2O}) and a quaternary one with the trivalent iron cluster (Fe{dic}3.3H2O). IR bands assigned to nuNH, deltaNH and nuC-N were shifted to lower frequency values in the spectra of the complexes; thus showing that coordination took place at the NH of the diphenylamine. TG and elemental analysis confirmed these results.

Drug–drug interaction between diclofenac, cetirizine and ranitidine

The interactions between diclofenac (1), cetirizine (2) and ranitidine (3) were investigated by thermal analyses and UV, IR and (1)H NMR spectroscopic studies. In aqueous solution interaction occurred only between 1 and 2, yielding a high molecular weight (1:1), water insoluble ionic salt. Weak charge transfer (CT) interaction exists between the doubly charged piperazine moiety in 2, acting as an electron acceptor and (1). This CT interaction originates from the aromatic groups in 1. The CT band observed at approximately 315 nm exhibits very low absorbance as a result of the partial neutralization of the two positive charges present in the ionic salt. The IR bands of the mixture have wave numbers at nu 3323.1, 1695.3, and delta 1321.1-1210 cm(-1) indicating the presence of the NH group and the neutralized carbonyl group of 1, as well as the carboxylic group of 2. The 1,2,3-substitutions in the benzene ring of 1 in the mixture appear at 1161.1 cm(-1). The (1)H NMR of the mixed drugs shows singlet, triplet and multiplet proton signals due to the same effect.

Histopathological picture of two cases of ectopic fascioliasis in Mansoura, Dakhalia

Two cases of ectopic fascioliasis were reported. The first case was detected in a haematoma in the anterior abdominal wall in a diabetic patient, the second was in an abscess in the upper part of the thigh. The clinical and laboratory findings were discussed.

Prevalence of Giardia lamblia antibodies in serum and milk in lactating women from different social classes in Egypt

Prevalence and levels of systemic and milk antibodies to G. lamblia in the different social classes of the population were studied using the IFAT and nor-partigen immunoglobulin plates. Blood and milk samples were collected simultaneously from lactating women in urban (Cairo) and rural (Benha) areas. Serum IgG was present in 90% of rural low standard mothers, 58% of urban moderate standard mothers, and 25% or urban high standard mothers (P less than 0.01, P less than 0.001 and P less than 0.01). Antilog of mean of antibody titers was significantly higher in the low standard rural mothers than in the urban moderate and high standard ones. Specific secretory IgA antibody in milk was found in 71% of rural low standard mothers, 31% of urban moderate standard mothers, and 16.6% of urban high standard mothers (P less than 0.001, P less than 0.01 and P greater than 0.05). The antilog of mean S-IgA titers was also higher in the low standard rural mothers. The titer levels of S-IgA in the three classes did not show any correlation with the quantitative levels of total IgA in milk, while specific IgG showed a positive correlation with the total serum IgG in the low standard rural mothers only (P less than 0.05). This study documented the widely different antibody response to G. lamblia in individuals living in different social classes.