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Objective Evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of transrectal ultrasound and transcutaneous ultrasonography across the right flank between days 31 and 196 of pregnancy in the dairy cow. Procedure Pregnancy status and stage of gestation at date of pregnancy diagnosis by transcutaneous and transrectal ultrasonography were determined for 1570 dairy cattle. Sensitivity and specificity values and probabilities of a correct diagnosis for both techniques were determined and compared. Possible effects of gestational age, herd, method of transcutaneous ultrasound diagnosis, cow age, cow and bull breed, and calf sex on the determination of a correct diagnosis of pregnancy status were evaluated for both techniques. Results The overall sensitivity and probability of a correct diagnosis of pregnancy status from days 31 to 196 of gestation were significantly higher when using transrectal ultrasound relative to transcutaneous ultrasound over the right flank. However, the sensitivity of transcutaneous ultrasound changed over the course of pregnancy: it was low (7–8%) before day 84, increased to 89% between days 141 and 154, and was close to 100% thereafter. The specificity of both methods did not differ significantly. Herd and gestational age at date of pregnancy diagnosis were significantly associated with making a correct test result using transcutaneous ultrasound, although only the latter predictor was significantly associated with making a correct test result using transrectal ultrasound. Conclusion Transcutaneous ultrasound can not be recommended as an accurate method for early pregnancy diagnosis in the dairy cow, particularly on a whole-herd basis. However, if pregnancy testing is undertaken in mid to late gestation, this technique could provide an accurate and rapid alternative to transrectal ultrasound or manual palpation per rectum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of this study was to investigate use of digital infrared thermal imaging (DITI) to determine whether surface temperature gradient differences exist between pregnant and nonpregnant mares as a noncontact method to determine pregnancy status. On the day measurements were collected, each pregnant mare (n=10; beginning at 292.4±1.4 d of gestation) was paired with a nonpregnant mare (n=17). Ambient temperature, DITI measurements (left and right flank, wither temperatures [i.e., animal surface control] and background temperature), and rectal temperatures were obtained every 7 d for 5 wk before parturition and for 3 wk after parturition. There were no differences (P>0.10) in temperature of the left and right side within groups; therefore, data were pooled. Pregnant mares had a higher (P<0.01) flank temperature than that of nonpregnant mares (36.0±0.2°C vs. 34.2±0.2°C, respectively). Moreover, the difference (2.4°C) in flank temperatures between the pregnant and nonpregnant mares was greater when the ambient temperature was <19°C. Flank and wither temperatures were positively correlated (R=0.72; P<0.01) and were positively correlated with ambient temperature (R=0.48 and 0.64, respectively; P<0.01). However, wither temperatures (skin control site) did not differ (P>0.10) between pregnant and nonpregnant mares. In conclusion, late-gestation mares had higher flank temperatures than those of nonpregnant mares, regardless of environmental conditions, however discriminating abilities were greater when ambient temperature was lower. We inferred that DITI may have value in confirming mid- to late-gestation pregnancies in some species by noncontact means, as observed in the mare. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fifty Corriedale ewes were used in this study to evaluate pregnancy diagnosis in sheep. Ewes were bred under a pen mating system and pregnancy diagnosis was initiated from day 15 post-mating, applying the diagnostic techniques of trans-abdominal real-time B-mode ultrasonography, Preg-alert (A-mode ultrasonography), the Doppler ultrasonic fetal pulse detector or the plasma progesterone concentration assay (EIA). These tests were repeated fortnightly on all the ewes until the onset of lambing. The accuracy of trans-abdominal real-time B-mode ultrasonography (68%) at days 15–30 of pregnancy increased to 100% by days 61–75 and remained constant until lambing. The accuracy of the Preg-alert (56%) diagnosis at days 31–45 increased to 94% by days 91–105 of gestation and then decreased to 82% from days 136 of gestation to lambing. The accuracy of both the Doppler ultrasound (56%) at days 31–45 and plasma progesterone assay (98%) at days 15–30 of gestation increased to 100% at days 76–90 and 46–60 of gestation, respectively and remained constant until parturition. The mean plasma progesterone concentration at days 0–6 (1.41±0.21ng/ml) increased to 4.0±0.87ng/ml at days 16–30 (days 18.23±0.78) post-mating. Animals returning to estrus recorded less than 1ng/ml at days 18.23±0.78 post-mating. The accuracy of both the B-mode ultrasonic technique (78%) and plasma progesterone assay (98%) was significantly higher (P <0.05) than the accuracy obtained with the A-mode and Doppler ultrasound (both 56%) at days 31–45 of gestation. The study concluded that real-time B-mode ultrasonography is the earliest, most accurate, safest, fastest and most economical method of pregnancy diagnosis in sheep at farm level. The A-mode and Doppler methods can also be used under field conditions, where sophisticated laboratory facilities are not available. Plasma progesterone assays (EIA) can be used as a means of early pregnancy diagnosis in organized sheep farms with fair accuracy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article focuses on a study which examined the various constraints faced by cattle keepers in adoption of recommended breeding, feeding and housing management practices. The most important constraint identified was the lack of artificial intelligence (AI) center, poor services and location of veterinary hospital. The highest constraint mean score was attributed to lack of awareness about hay and silage making followed by lack of awareness about treatment of poor quality roughages.

Abstract: The ECF™ lateral flow assay test is marketed to detect non-pregnancy in mares. The objectives of the present study were to determine the accuracy of the ECF test, the accuracy of the electronic reader accompanying the ECF test, and agreement between two human readers and the electronic reader. Serum samples were collected from anestrus, cycling but not inseminated, and inseminated mares, and were evaluated with the ECF™ test (EDP Biotech Company, Knoxville, TN, USA) at The Ohio State University and at the EDP Biotech Laboratory. Specificity ranged from 0.07 to 0.16, the negative predictive value ranged from 0.15 to 0.33, and accuracy ranged from 0.43 to 0.52. The electronic reader did not add improve the accuracy or predictive values of the test. Based on the electronic reader, 80.0% of the serum samples collected from the anestrus mares were false positives; Readers 1 and 2 had 60.0 and 33.3% false positives, respectively. For samples collected during the estrous cycle, 83.9% were false positives by the electronic reader, whereas Readers 1 and 2 had 43.7 and 26.4% false positives. We concluded that, regardless of whether the test strips were evaluated by a human or electronic reader, this assay was not accurate for determination of the non-pregnant mare. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Diagnosis of pregnancies is an important management tool for the Iberian lynx Conservation Breeding Program, a program geared to recover the world''s most endangered felid. Non-invasive methods such as fecal hormone analyses are not applicable to the lynx, since fecal progestin does not follow the typical pregnancy pattern of felids. Therefore, we aimed to test whether urine can be used as an alternative substance for pregnancy diagnosis in the Iberian lynx. Progesterone immunoreactive metabolites were determined in urine samples of pregnant and non-pregnant females before and during breeding season. Additionally, we used the Witness®Relaxin test to determine relaxin in blood and urine. No differences were found in progestin concentrations determined in urine samples collected from pregnant and non-pregnant animals between day 1 and 65 following mating. Although the Witness®Relaxin test was positive in serum samples collected from animals between day 32 and 56 of pregnancy, it failed in both fresh and frozen urine samples collected from the same stage of pregnancy. A weak relaxin reaction in urine samples collected from animals between day 29 and 46 of pregnancy was detectable after urines were concentrated by ultrafiltration (>50×). Concentrated samples obtained from non-pregnant and early pregnant animals yielded negative test results. In conclusion, the Witness®Relaxin test can be applied for pregnancy diagnosis in Iberian lynx in both serum and concentrated urine samples obtained during the second half of pregnancy. A positive relaxin test indicates an ongoing pregnancy, whereas negative tests must be judged carefully as hormone concentrations might be below detection thresholds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The objective of this experiment was to evaluate corpus luteum blood flow (CLBF) as an early indicator of pregnancy status in bovine embryo recipients. Fifty crossbred beef cows were submitted to embryo transfer on Day 7 after estrus. On Days 7, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 26, 33, and 40, a blood sample was taken, the CL examined using a color-flow Doppler ultrasound scanner, and video was recorded of each scanning session. Ultrasound data were grouped by the first day progesterone concentrations were <1ng/mL (indicating early embryo loss, EEL) through Day 21 (EEL-17, n =3; EEL-19, n =9; EEL-21, n =3), absence of an embryo on Days 26, 33, or 40 (late embryo loss; LEL; n =12), or remained pregnant (P; n =23). The first decrease in CLBF of EEL-17, EEL-19, and EEL-21 cows compared to P cows occurred on Days 17, 19, and 21, respectively (P <0.05). There was no difference in CLBF between LEL and P cows on Days 17, 19, and 21. Six evaluators diagnosed pregnancy from randomized video clips on Days 17, 19, and 21. Evaluators made more (P <0.004) correct diagnoses on Day 19 than Day 17. Sensitivity (82.9±10.1%) was not affected by day. From Days 17 to 19, diagnostic specificity increased (P =0.046) from 43.2±3.0 to 54.3±3.0% but remained unchanged thereafter. Due to low specificity and sensitivity, evaluation of CLBF alone was insufficient for early pregnancy diagnosis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Precocity and efficiency of ultrasonography for pregnancy diagnosis and determination of litter size in mice were assessed on a total of 46 adult mice of different lines (19 BALB/c, 15 C57BL/6 and 12 CD1) from Day 4.5 after vaginal plug. Different commercial ultrasound machines and probes (linear versus sectorial; 7.5 MHz versus 10 MHz) were compared. The best images were obtained by the use of 10 MHz linear transducers. The first visualization compatible with pregnancy, specifically with the implantation sites, was observed at Day 4.5 in three animals. Presence of embryonic vesicles was differentiated at Day 5.5 in all the females. The embryos and remaining gestational structures inside the vesicles were clearly distinguished at Day 8.5. Data were validated not only after delivery but also by comparison with postmortem findings on crucial days (Days 4.5 and 8.5). The efficiency for counting the exact number of embryos was very low, due mostly to underestimation in highly prolific females. Conversely, the estimation of the range of the number of conceptuses, instead of the total number, was more accurate. Sensitivity, specificity and total efficiency reached 100% at Day 8.5. Ultrasonography can be accurately used as an alternative non-invasive technique for pregnancy diagnosis and determination of litter size in the mouse from very early stages of gestation, replacing other procedures currently used and increasing efficiency in animal management and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interest in the use of assisted reproductive technology in reindeer husbandry has gradually increased during the last decades. This article reviews Western and Russian literature on reindeer semen collection, semen cryopreservation and artificial insemination. In addition, literature on the synchronisation of the stage of reindeer oestrous cycle among females, recovery of in vivo embryos, embryo transfer, the production of in vitro -produced embryos and pregnancy diagnosis is reviewed. • Several of the reindeer subspecies are regarded as vulnerable or near threatened. • Genome resource banking would be possible for reviving endangered deer species. • Five reindeer offspring have been produced by AI of frozen-thawed spermatozoa. • One reindeer offspring has been produced by transfer of fresh in vivo -produced embryos. • The first reindeer IVP blastocysts have been produced using the bovine IVP protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective was to validate a high-sensitivity chemiluminescent assay of serum progesterone concentrations for pregnancy diagnosis in manatees. Assay analytical sensitivity was 0.1ng/mL, with mean intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation of 9.7 and 9.2%, respectively, and accuracy had a mean adjusted R 2 of 0.98. Methods comparison (relative to Siemen''s Coat-A-Count RIA) demonstrated r =0.98, Deming regression slope of 0.95, and an intercept of 0.01. Based on ROC analysis, a progesterone concentration ≥0.4ng/mL was indicative of pregnancy. Assay results were not significantly altered by two freeze–thaw cycles of samples. Characteristic progesterone concentrations during pregnancy were Months 1–4 (1.7–4.7ng/mL), 5–8 (∼1.0ng/mL), and 10 and 11 (0.3–0.5ng/mL), whereas two late-pregnant females with impending abortion had progesterone concentrations of 0.1ng/mL. Among pregnant females, maximum progesterone concentrations occurred in autumn (3.9±1.8ng/mL), and were greater during all seasons than concentrations in non-pregnant females (0.1–0.2ng/mL). Progesterone concentrations were also significantly higher in pregnant females than in non-pregnant females and males. This highly sensitive, specific, and diagnostic assay will be valuable for monitoring pregnancy and abortion in manatees. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Accurate diagnosis of non-pregnancy and prompt re-enlistment of “non-pregnant” cattle into an appropriate breeding protocol are essential components of successful reproductive programs. Various methods aimed at improving detection of pregnancy and identification of non-pregnant cows earlier and more accurately are the focus of previous review articles and beyond the scope of this manuscript. Recently, the ability to measure pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) in cattle has changed how pregnancy and, more importantly, non-pregnancy are detected. This presentation provides an overview of current research on the pregnancy-associated glycoprotein family, and how these glycoproteins might be utilized as indicators of pregnancy wastage in cattle. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim: To clarify the location of primordial germ cells (PGC) in an embryo of target-age and to examine the culture environment of the PCG. Methods: The days of ovulation and fertilization were estimated by measuring the serum concentration of estrogen. Pregnancy was confirmed by measurement of the serum concentration of the beta subunit of macaque chorionic gonadotropin and by ultrasonography. We also examined the location of PGC in the embryo at the time of retrieval. Results: Results showed that PGC in an embryo were in the hindguts at day 30 postfertilization, arrived at the genital ridges via mesenteries at approximately day 33 postfertilization, and colonized the gonads by day 36 postfertilization. Conclusions: In conclusion, embryos collected on day 33 postfertilization are more suitable for obtaining PGC from cynomolgus monkeys. The PGC collected from cynomolgus monkey fetuses were cultured under conditions for the derivation and culture of human embryonic germ cells; enzymatically dispersed single cells were cultured on a SIM thioguanine-resistant ouabain-resistant cells (STO) feeder layer with recombinant human leukemia inhibitory factor, recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor and forskolin. The cells from genital ridges and mesenteries at day 33 postfertilization had alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in vitro for a maximum of 13 days. In contrast, ALP activity had been held for 2 months under the same culture condition when the cells were derived from the gonads at day 66 postfertilization. Derivation of an embryonic germ cell from a cynomolgus monkey was not achieved from these cultures. (Reprod Med Biol 2007; 6: 203–210) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aims of the present study were to evaluate and compare the accuracy of transrectal ultrasonography and pregnancy-associated glycoprotein radioimmunoassay (PAG-RIA) test for diagnosis of pregnancy in buffaloes. Two hundred and seventy-five buffalo cows and heifers were examined once for pregnancy diagnosis by transrectal ultrasonography using a 5MHz linear-array transducer between Days 19 and 55 after mating. After ultrasound scanning, a blood sample was withdrawn from jugular vein of each animal for measuring pregnancy-associated glycoprotein using a heterologous double-antibody RIA. Based on palpation of the uterus per rectum at Days 75–90, 87 animals were designated pregnant and 188 as non-pregnant. The sensitivity of transrectal ultrasonography at Days 19–24 was 44.4%, reaching 100% from Day 31 after mating. The specificity of transrectal ultrasonography ranged between 92.5 and 100% from Days 19 to 55 after mating. The sensitivity of PAG-RIA test was 11.1% at Days 19–24 and reached 100% from Day 31 after mating. The specificity of PAG-RIA test ranged from 90 to 100% from Days 19 to 55 after mating. There were no significant differences between the sensitivity and specificity of the two tests in all examined periods. In conclusion, transrectal ultrasonography and PAG-RIA test are highly accurate tests for detecting pregnant buffaloes from Day 31 after mating onwards. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To determine the accuracy of a pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) ELISA in identifying pregnancy status 27 d after timed artificial insemination (TAI), blood samples were collected from lactating Holstein cows (n = 1,079) 27 d after their first, second, and third postpartum TAI services. Pregnancy diagnosis by transrectal ultrasonography (TU) was performed immediately after blood sample collection, and pregnancy outcomes by TU served as a standard to test the accuracy of the PAG ELISA. Pregnancy outcomes based on the PAG ELISA and TU that agreed were considered correct, whereas the pregnancy status of cows in which pregnancy outcomes between PAG and TU disagreed were reassessed by TU 5 d later. The accuracy of pregnancy diagnosis was less than expected when using TU 27 d after TAI (93.7 to 97.8%), especially when pregnancy outcomes were based on visualization of chorioallantoic fluid and a corpus luteum but when an embryo was not visualized. The accuracy of PAG ELISA outcomes 27 d after TAI was 93.7, 95.4, and 96.2% for first, second, and third postpartum TAI services, respectively. Statistical agreement (kappa) between TU and the PAG ELISA 27 d after TAI was 0.87 to 0.90. Pregnancy outcomes based on the PAG ELISA had a high negative predictive value, indicating that the probability of incorrectly administering PGF2α to pregnant cows would be low if this test were implemented on a commercial dairy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty five pregnant buffaloes (Bufalypso breed) between 3 and 7 years of age were used in this study. By ultrasonographic appearance, the conceptus was examined trasrectally each week, using a real-time, B-mode, diagnostic ultrasound scanner ALOKA- SSD-500 equipped with a 5-MHz linear- array transducer. The study was conducted from 1 to 10 months. The results obtained in this study support the concept that manual palpation (more than 90%) and transrectal ultrasonic scanning serve as accurate techniques for the determination of bovine fetus age and development. The application of transrectal real-time ultrasonography, as a research tool to study buffalo reproduction, represents a technological breakthrough which has changed our understanding of reproductive bi [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Concentration of progesterone in milk may be used to predict pregnancy status of dairy cattle by the 21st day after insemination. However, the accuracy of this method may be affected by fat-solubility of progesterone and sample storage conditions. After coagulation of a milk sample with rennet, an alternative method is to quantify progesterone concentration in whey with a novel, validated EIA. In this experiment, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to estimate the optimal discrimination point for whey progesterone concentration, using a sample of 991 Friesian cows evaluated between the 42nd and 44th day after insemination. Cows also were diagnosed for pregnancy by rectal palpation at this time. The overall conception rate at palpation was 57%. ROC analysis indicated that 259pg/mL progesterone in whey was the most effective cutoff to discriminate correctly between pregnant and non-pregnant cows. Using this point for prediction, sensitivity was 98.2%, specificity was 70.9% and the area under ROC curve was 0.859, levels generally considered to denote moderate accuracy. The negative likelihood ratio at the cutoff of 259pg/mL was 0.02, indicating satisfactory performance in detecting negative subjects, while the positive likelihood ratio (+LR=3.37) suggested average performance. In conclusion, EIA of progesterone concentration in whey is a viable method for predicting pregnancy status in cows. However, operators should take management objectives for the herd into account in determining the cutoff point and also considering important influencing variables such as conception rate in the herd. This method can provide diagnostic support for efforts to improve reproductive success, especially in low-fertility herds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The objective was to estimate the effect of palpation per rectum (for early pregnancy diagnosis) on embryo/fetal viability in dairy cattle. A controlled, randomized block-design experiment with two blocks, one by category, and the other by number of embryos, was conducted. Five-hundred-and-twenty pregnant dairy cows and heifers with a viable embryo detected by transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) between days 29 and 32 after AI were included. The pregnant females were randomly allocated into two nearly equal groups: palpation per rectum (PAL group; n =258) and no palpation per rectum (NPAL group; n =262). The PAL group was submitted to palpation per rectum (PPR) using the fetal membrane slip (FMS) technique once between days 34 and 41 of pregnancy. The fetal membrane slip consisted of compressing the pregnant uterine horn and allowing the chorioallantoic membrane to slip between the fingers. Both groups were submitted to two additional TRUS at days 45 and 60 of pregnancy, to monitor the potential immediate and delayed deleterious effects of PPR on embryo and fetal viability, respectively. A diagnosis of embryo/fetal death was made when there was no embryo/fetal heart beat or the absence of positive signs of pregnancy in an animal previously diagnosed pregnant, or the presence of signs of embryo/fetal degeneration. The overall rate of embryo/fetal death was 14.0% (73/520). Embryonic death (10%; 52/520) was higher than fetal death (4.5%; 21/468; P <0.001). Embryo/fetal mortality was higher in cows (16.4%; 59/360) than in heifers (8.8%; 14/160; P <0.025) and in cattle with twin (25.5%; 12/47) versus singleton pregnancies (12.9%; 61/473; P <0.025), but was not different (P >0.05) between PAL (14.7%; 38/258) and NPAL (13.4%; 35/262). In conclusion, PPR between days 34 and 41 of pregnancy using the fetal membrane slip technique did not affect embryo/fetal viability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Determination of plasma concentrations of pregnancy associated glycoproteins (PAG) has been used for early pregnancy diagnosis in cows. However, this is complicated by the presence of PAG in plasma for an extended period postpartum. The main objective of the present study was to investigate the postpartum elimination rates of pregnancy associated glycoproteins (PAG) in sheep, goats and cows in order to gain background information applicable to the use of PAG for pregnancy diagnosis in domestic ruminants. A second objective was to investigate whether PAG are transferred to the foetus and newborn, by measuring plasma PAG concentrations in calves, lambs and goat kids before and after colostrum feeding. PAG in the blood at parturition were eliminated by a first order process in the cows and ewes, while a two-step log-linear decline occurred in the goats. Estimated postpartum half-life of plasma PAG in the cows and ewes was 9 and 4.5 days, respectively. In the goats, half-lives were 3.6 and 7.5 days in the initial fast and terminal slow phase. Basal levels were reached 80–90 days postpartum in cows. Plasma PAG concentration can be used for pregnancy diagnosis from day 28 after AI, provided that the time interval from calving to AI is >60 days. Using a heterologous antibody RIA, we found 4ng/mL to be the appropriate cut-off. Due to the presence of PAG residues from the previous gestation, the interval from AI to pregnancy diagnosis should increase by approximately 0.5 days beyond 28 days for each day of AI closer to calving than 60. Measurements in newborn ruminants suggested that PAG enter the foetal blood in utero and that colostral PAG are transferred to the newborn. Following the peak plasma concentration observed 1 day after birth in most of the animals, PAG were rapidly eliminated in a log-linear fashion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The incidence of ectopic pregnancy in the United States has been reported to be as high as 20 per 1000 pregnancies, a more than 4-fold increase over the last 20 years. Clinical presentation can range from subtle, nonspecific abdominal complaints to acute onset pain or hemorrhagic bleeding. This article reviews the associated risk factors, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of ectopic pregnancy. Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion whenever women who might be pregnant have abdominal complaints. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The objective of the present study was to determine differences in time of detection of pregnancy between heifers and cows and the interval after insemination at which the maximum sensitivity and negative predictive value of transrectal ultrasonography were obtained. One-thousand-four-hundred transrectal ultrasonographies (TRUS-1; 1079 in cows and 321 in heifers) were performed using a 5-MHz linear-array transducer. The cattle were randomly assigned to have TRUS performed once between days 24 and 30 (estrus=day 0) in cows or between days 21 and 27 in heifers. Every TRUS diagnosis was subsequently compared with a second TRUS diagnosis (TRUS-2), performed 3–8 days later, after day 30 (range 31–38) for cows and after day 27 (range 28–35) for heifers. The sensitivity and specificity between cows and heifers for the common days of TRUS (from 24 to 27) were compared. In cows, sensitivity increased gradually from 74.5% at day 24 to 100% at day 29 (P <0.01). Specificity increased from days 24–25 and reached a plateau of 96.6% on day 26 (P <0.01). In heifers, sensitivity increased from 50% at day 21 to 100% at day 26 (P <0.01). Specificity increased from 87.5% at day 21 and remained steady at 94% starting on day 23 (P >0.05). The sensitivity for cows and heifers was 89.2 and 96.8%, respectively (P <0.05) and the specificity was 93.0 and 93.4% (P >0.05). In this study, heifers were diagnosed pregnant earlier than cows, and the maximum sensitivity and negative predictive value were obtained 3 days earlier in heifers than cows (days 26 and 29, respectively). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Presents abstracts of several studies on dairy science. "Use of Infrared Thermography to Non-Invasively Determine Surface Temperatures of Limbs of Non-Lame Dairy Cows," by B. A. Munsell et al; "Growth Performance of Holstein Dairy Calves Fed Distillers Grains," by M. Thomas et al; "Milk Production and Preganancy Rate of Dairy Cows in an In-Vitro Fertlization Embryo ransfer Program," by L. E. Rensink et al.

Abstract: The present study was undertaken to examine whether pregnancy diagnosis was possible by measuring fecal progesterone concentrations in beef and dairy heifers and beef cows. Rectal fecal samples collected on days 18–24 after insemination or days 11–17 after embryo transfer were mixed with methanol and shaken for preparation of a fecal solution. After centrifugation, the supernatant was extracted with petroleum ether followed by an enzyme immunoassay for progesterone. All pregnant animals showed fecal progesterone concentrations greater than 50ng/g of fecal material on days 18–24 after AI or estrus. In non-pregnant animals, however, the fecal progesterone concentrations ranged widely from 5 to 180ng/g of fecal material. In non-pregnant cattle, the percentage of cattle with <50ng progesterone/g of fecal material compared with the total number was 37–60% on days 18–20, whereas the percentages increased more than 70% to a maximum of 78.1% on day 23. When 50ng/g was considered as the cut-off value, the sensitivity and specificity of positive pregnancy tests were less than 70% on days 21–24, and 100% for negative pregnancy tests on days 18–24. There were significant differences in the mean fecal progesterone concentrations between pregnant and non-pregnant cattle on days 19–24. These results suggest that feces can be utilized to substitute for plasma and milk to measure progesterone for the purpose of pregnancy diagnosis in heifers and cows. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The horse early conception factor (ECF) test is designed for qualitative determination of the ECF glycoprotein in the mare that has conceived. The objectives of this study were to determine the performance of the horse ECF test for the detection of the non-pregnant mare, and to determine the agreement among subjects or “readers” regarding the interpretation of the test. Blood samples from 60 mares were collected on Days 0, 5, 8, 11 and 18 following ovulation. Pregnancy status diagnosed with the ECF test was compared (2×2 table) to pregnancy status diagnosed by palpation per rectum and ultrasound examination on Day 18 following ovulation. Three readers interpreted the ECF test outcome independently. Two laboratories independently interpreted the ECF test outcome from the same serum samples. Agreement was tested by κ coefficient. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy ranged from 0.74 to 0.84, 0.14 to 0.33, 0.62 to 0.66, 0.33 to 0.44 and 0.57 to 0.60, respectively. Agreement between readers was substantial (0.60&#60; κ &#60;0.77), but agreement among readers was fair (κ =0.28). Agreement between laboratories was fair (κ =0.28). We concluded that non-pregnancy status cannot be determined by the ECF test in the early pregnant mare with high accuracy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We measured metabolites of progesterone (progestins) in fecal samples collected from captive Arabian oryx (Oryx leucoryx) females in postpartum (n=8), nonpregnant (n=9), and pregnant (n=8) reproductive stages between 1996 and 1998. We analyzed progestins using enzyme-immunoassays for pregnanediol and 20-oxo-pregnanes, respectively. Progestin concentrations were elevated for 3 days after parturition and then decreased to basal anestrous concentrations. Ovarian cyclicity resumed 25±2.4 days after parturition in 5 of the 8 females monitored. In nonpregnant females, excretion of fecal progestins followed a cyclic pattern increasing 6- to 12-fold from the follicular to the luteal phase. Fecal progestin concentrations allowed discrimination between pregnant and nonpregnant females after 3 months of gestation (P<0.01), mean concentration of the tested hormone metabolites being at least 3 times higher during mid and later stages of gestation (>3 months) than during early pregnancy (0-3 months). These data were subsequently used to set criteria for designation of a cow as pregnant in 55 free-ranging Arabian oryx in the reserve of Mahazat as-Sayd, Saudi Arabia sampled in 1998-1999 and 2003. The proportion of pregnant and nonpregnant oryx correctly identified by the test was 81% and 83%, respectively, when using both progestin assays. Despite a limited sample size, our results provide evidence that fecal progestin analysis is a reliable non- invasive method to determine the reproductive status of captive Arabian oryx and that it also can provide reasonably accurate physiological indices of pregnancy status in free- ranging specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: New and traditional techniques for pregnancy diagnosis in the dog are reviewed. Imaging techniques yield the most information, with ultrasonography the preferred technique for assessment of fetal viability and radiography the preferred technique for assessment of litter size. Diabetes mellitus and pregnancy toxemia are uncommon complications of pregnancy. Pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of infectious and non-infectious causes of pregnancy loss are reviewed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ultrasound imaging has been used to elucidate certain aspects of the reproductive biology of wild or endangered species. However, to our knowledge, this tool has not been used for reproductive monitoring of the collared peccary (Tayassu tajacu). In this study, real-time ultrasonography was used in 16 collared peccary females to diagnose early pregnancy status and predict gestational age. Based on the detection of an embryo, the earliest pregnancy diagnosis was made on Day 18 after mating, with the mean time needed for diagnosis being 22 days. Overall accuracies on Days 22, 26 and 28 were 56, 93, and 100%, respectively. On Days 26 and 28, all pregnancy and non-pregnancy diagnoses, respectively, were correct. The fetal measurements that best correlated with gestational age were crown-rump-length (CRL) and the length and diameter of the thorax. CRL was considered the most practical measurement because, contrary to thoracic fetometry, it could be determined when the embryo was first detected. Our findings revealed real-time ultrasound scanning to be a very accurate method for early pregnancy diagnosis and prediction of gestational age in the collared peccary. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The endocrinology was studied throughout pregnancy in reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) located in Oulu, Finland (65°N, 25°E) with 13 captive, semi domestic adult females. Blood samples were analyzed for plasma progesterone (P4), estradiol (E2) and estrone sulphate (E1SO4), 15-ketodihydro-PGF2α (PG-metabolite) and pregnancy associated glycoproteins (PAG). The mean plasma P4 concentration peaked twice during gestation: at around 24 and three weeks prior to calving. In pregnant females the plasma PAG concentration increased over basal concentrations 21–30 days after the estimated day of conception and peaked at the time of calving. The concentrations of E2 and E1SO4 remained low until 60 days before calving when a rapid increase was found for both hormones. The mean plasma concentration of PG-metabolite increased throughout pregnancy to a maximum at parturition. The estimated mean (range) gestation length was 216 (212–220) days. Judged from measures on reproductive organs collected from 86 free-ranging, semi-domestic female reindeer of unknown age presented for slaughter at Røros, Norway (63°N, 11°E) in the second week of December 1999, it was concluded that the breeding season lasted from early September until the end of November. The results also showed that plasma PAG concentration could provide a tool for detection of pregnancy in reindeer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Real-time ultrasound scanning (US) via the transrectal route, progesterone (P4) assay, and pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) detection can be used to diagnose pregnancy at around 3 weeks after breeding. Although several studies have been carried out to evaluate each of these different methods individually, it is difficult to establish adequate comparisons due to differences, such as the breed of goat, age, and farming conditions, among others. The aim of the present paper is to compare the accuracy of diagnosis of pregnancy using transrectal US, P4 assay and PAG detection at the same time and on the same animals. Canary dairy goats (n=143) were synchronized with an 11-day fluorogestone acetate (FGA) intravaginal sponge followed by PGF2α and eCG 2 days before the FGA withdrawal. Blood samples were collected on Days 20, 22, 24, and 26 after mating to determine P4 and PAG concentrations. Transrectal US examinations were performed at the same time. There were 79 pregnant goats and another 64 non-pregnant. The US via the transrectal method and the determination of PAG concentrations provide very accurate pregnancy diagnosis at 24–26 days after breeding; on the contrary, P4 assay on plasma samples performed on Day 22 after breeding was accurate, in this case, in detecting pregnant animals but did not always detect the non-pregnant does. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The present study was performed to investigate the effect of previous fasting and lifting of the abdomen of the ewes during transrectal ultrasonographic scanning on the results of early pregnancy diagnosis.Ewes of four flocks (A, B, C and D; all Awassi×Merino ewes, n=1247) aged 0.7–10 years were used in this study. These ewes were estrus synchronized and artificially inseminated. From 2 weeks later onwards, fertile rams were kept with the ewes of flocks A, B and C (n=949) for natural breeding, while ewes of flock D (n=298) were re-inseminated 17 days later. Transrectal ultrasonography (5 MHz) was carried out in ewes of flocks A, B and C on four separate occasions but only once in ewes of flock D. For final analysis, animals were divided over two groups: ewes of Group 1 (n=949 scans) were scanned in a standing position within the milking parlor. Animals of Group 2 (n=764 scans) were scanned by the same operator and with the same scanning technique, but these ewes were fasted for 12 h prior to scanning and the abdominal wall was lifted, just in front of the udder during scanning.The sensitivity of the test for diagnosing pregnancy at Days 18–24, 25–30, 31–40 and 41–50 was 21.8, 32.3, 63.3 and 50% in Group 1, and 46, 92.5, 92.3 and 96.8% in Group 2, respectively. Only within Group 1, the sensitivity of the test was higher in young ewes (0.7–2 years) than in older ones (>2–10 years). Significant differences were observed at scan periods Days 18–24 and Days 41–50 of gestation. It is concluded that, fasting prior to scanning and lifting the abdomen during scanning significantly improve the accuracy of transrectal ultrasonographic pregnancy diagnosis in Awassi×Merino ewes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Transrectal or transabdominal examinations of 13 pluriparous reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) by ultrasonography from the start of mating until week 20 of gestation were conducted to find out when pregnancy could first be detected and to describe fetal development in early pregnancy. The examinations (n=35 per animal) were performed with a 5 MHz linear transducer from 7th October until 1st January and with a 3 MHz sector transducer from that time until 24th February. Time of pregnancy diagnosis by ultrasonography, the first fetal heartbeat and measurements of crown-rump length, chest width and chest depth were recorded during the examinations.Pregnancy was diagnosed by transrectal ultrasonography between the weeks 3 and 7 of gestation. The accuracy of the pregnancy diagnosis, defined as the proportion of females correctly detected to be pregnant, was 15% at week 3, 46% at week 4, 77% at week 5, and 92% at week 6 of gestation. Fetal heartbeat was first detected between the weeks 5 and 8 of gestation. The first measurements of crown-rump length were made on week 3 of gestation, of chest width on week 4 and of chest depth on week 5 of gestation. Chest width and depth were detectable until the end of the study at week 20 of gestation.Transrectal ultrasonography is an efficient tool in early pregnancy diagnosis of reindeer. The fetal growth curves obtained by ultrasonography resembled those obtained in previous morphological studies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Our objective was to determine the feasibility of prompt reinsemination of dairy cows when diagnosed not pregnant 27–29 days after first-service timed AI (TAI). We assumed that a first-wave dominant follicle was present at that time that would ovulate in response to GnRH once precocious luteal regression was induced after administration of PGF2α. Cows that had not been detected in estrus and reinseminated by Days 27–29 after a first-service TAI were diagnosed not pregnant by ultrasonography. Nonpregnant cows from three herds were assigned randomly to receive either no further treatment until reinsemination (controls; n=189); 25 mg i.m. of PGF2α and then reinsemination according to detected estrus (81 of 108) or at 72–80 h after PGF2α treatment (PGF) in the absence of estrus (27 of 108); or 25 mg i.m. of PGF2α followed by 100 μg i.m. of GnRH 48 h later (PGF+GnRH) and then reinsemination after detection of estrus (9 of 160) or at 16–20 h after GnRH (151 of 160). Blood samples were collected at the time of the not-pregnant diagnosis and again 48 h later. Concentrations of progesterone before treatment with PGF2α were elevated (<1 ng/ml) in 61% of the cows when PGF2α was administered and 81% of the cows given PGF2α had low (<1 ng/ml) concentrations of progesterone 48 h after PGF2α. Treated cows were re-inseminated earlier (P<0.01; 31±1 days) after first-service TAI than controls (55±1 days). Conception rates after treatment were not different among treatments: PGF (22%), PGF+GnRH (23%), and control (23%). Average intervals from calving to conception were 22–23 days less (P<0.001) in treated cows than in controls. We concluded that treating nonpregnant cows with PGF2α on Days 27–29 after insemination produced acceptable conception rates when inseminations were made after detected estrus or when TAI was used after GnRH treatment. Further, both treatments reduced days between first-service TAI and second inseminations, and days from calving to conception. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of the progesterone (P4) and pregnancy associated glycoprotein (PAG) tests for determination of early pregnancy in sheep. Estrus was synchronized in 182 Awassi×Merino ewes and blood samples were collected at Days 0 (day of the insemination), 18, 22, 29, 36, and 50 after artificial insemination (AI). Plasma P4 concentrations at Days 0 and 18 were determined by double antibody radioimmunoassay, while PAG concentrations at Days 22, 29, 36 and 50 were determined by a heterologous, double-antibody radioimmunoassay (RIA) using the bovine PAG 67 kDa subunit as tracer and standard and rabbit antiserum raised against a mixture of caprine 55 and 59 kDa PAG subunits as the first antibody. The discriminatory value for diagnosis of pregnancy by the P4 and the PAG-RIA tests was ≥1 ng/ml. Based on lambing data, the accuracy for diagnosing pregnant (sensitivity) and non-pregnant ewes (specificity) and predictivity of both tests were calculated. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for P4 and PAG tests were 100, 95.4, 81.6, and 100% at Day 18 (P4) and 93.5, 100, 100 and 98.7% at Day 22 (PAG), respectively. For diagnosis of non-pregnant ewes the PAG test had significantly higher specificity than the P4 test (P<0.05). It is concluded that ovine pregnancy can be reliably diagnosed at Day 22 after AI by using a heterologous radioimmunoassay of PAG. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The efficacy of the detection of vaginal plug formation after mating for pregnancy diagnosis, and the degree of embryonic resorption were studied in 67 wild greater cane rats (Thryonomys swinderianus) at Esiam in the Ekumfi District, Ghana, over a period of 3 months. Vaginal plug formation was first observed on day 59 of gestation, and could be used for pregnancy diagnosis on or after that date. However, the vaginal orifice subsequently opened a couple of times prior to day 105 of gestation and further checks for pregnancy after day 59 of gestation are suggested. Animals with unplugged vaginas 105 days after mating could, however, be considered as not pregnant. The mean (±SE) number of implantation sites and litter size in the greater cane rat were 7.2±0.18 and 3.4±0.29, respectively, the embryonic resorption rate being 42.7±6.66%. The significant positive correlation between the number of implanted embryos and the bled-out carcase weight suggests a positive role of maternal nutrition in increasing the litter size in the greater cane rat. The incidence of post-partum oestrus during the study period was 42.1%, which suggests that the greater cane rat can be re-bred immediately after parturition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the seed germination inhibition technique was applied to diagnose pregnancy in Malnad Gidda cattle breed, a dwarf breed found in coastal and neighboring heavy rainfall areas in Karnataka. The urine samples collected from six inseminated Malnad Gidda cows at two months of post insemination served as positive group and the urine from six non inseminated Malnad Gidda cows served as negative group. In both the cases, the urine was diluted at the ratio of 1:4 with distilled water. In each sterile Petri dish fifteen wheat seeds were taken on the blotting paper and 15 ml of diluted urine was added. For each cow the test was conducted with a replica of six tests in six Petri dishes. Control test was also carried out with the addition of water only to the wheat seeds. The Petri dishes were covered with the trays to avoid evaporation. After three days, the seeds were examined for germination inhibition percentage in positive, negative and control groups, wherein the mean germination inhibition percentage was 73.65 ± 2.81, 27.90 ± 2.56 and 21.48 ± 2.69, respectively. The mean shoot length of the germinated wheat seeds on fifth day was 0.95 ± 0.47, 3.62 ± 0.51 and 5.54 ± 0.68 cm in positive, negative and control groups, respectively. Mean germination inhibition percent and reduced shoot length in positive group of Malnad Gidda cattle was indicative of pregnancy state. It was concluded that the seed germination inhibition technique is useful to detect pregnancy in Malnad Gidda cattle as a simple, non-invasive and economical method. [Vet. World 2010; 3(3.000): 107-108]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of luteal color doppler (CD) ultrasonography and plasma concentrations of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAG) for early pregnancy diagnosis in Bos taurus beef cows. Additionally, CD and PAG were evaluated as potential predictors of late embryonic/early fetal mortality (LEM). Postpartum beef cows (n = 212) were exposed to estrus synchronization followed by fixed-time artificial insemination (day 0). On days 20 and 22, B-mode and CD ultrasonography were performed to evaluate corpus luteum (CL) morphometries and blood perfusion. Moreover, blood samples were collected on days 25 and 29 to quantify circulating concentrations of PAG. Conventional ultrasonography on days 29 and 100 was utilized as the gold-standard method for pregnancy diagnosis. Cows that experienced pregnancy loss between days 29 and 100 were classified as LEM. Pregnant cows had larger and more vascularized CL compared with nonpregnant cows on days 20 and 22 (P < 0.001 for all response variables). Accuracy for CD on days 20 and 22 were 87% and 92%, respectively. Accuracy for PAG on days 25 and 29 were 84% and 99%, respectively. No false negative (FN) results were observed for CD on both days 20 and 22; however, there were 7.1% FN results for PAG on day 25. Cows that experienced LEM had decreased (P = 0.04) circulating PAG on day 29 of gestation compared with cows that maintained pregnancy; however, there were no differences in luteal blood perfusion on days 20 and 22 (P ≥ 0.53) or circulating PAG on day 25 (P = 0.46) between LEM cows and cows that maintained pregnancy. Sensitivity and specificity of PAG on day 29 as predictors of LEM were 83% and 77%, respectively. In conclusion, CD resulted in accurate pregnancy diagnosis in B. taurus beef cows on both days 20 and 22 of gestation, while having no FN results. Circulating concentrations of PAG were decreased in cows that experienced LEM; however, further research is required to utilize PAG as a predictor of LEM commercially., (© The Author(s) 2022. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Society of Animal Science. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

• Protocols for early resynchronization can be effectively used in multiparous ewes. • Inserting intravaginal sponges 12 days after insemination did not affect ewes' pregnancy. • Nulliparous and multiparous ewes had similar results after resynchronization protocol. • Reproductive results were lower in postpartum ewes. • Resynchronization protocol could not overcome the results in postpartum lactating ewes. The aims of this study were to: 1) determine if the insertion of a second MAP sponge in ewes 12 days after the first FTAI affects the pregnancy rate; 2) compare the responses to resynchronization protocol in multiparous and nulliparous ewes; and 3) compare the responses to resynchronization protocol in multiparous and postpartum lactating ewes. Three trials were performed with 186 Corriedale ewes: 111 multiparous [(control – CON (n = 60) and synchronization – SYNC groups (n = 51)], forty-two 1.5 yr-old nulliparous (group NUL), and 33 lactating ewes with at least 28 postpartum (group PtP). All ewes were treated with a MAP sponge for 6 days. Twenty-four hours before the sponge withdrawal, all animals received 0.24 mg of cloprostenol sodium and 300 IU of eCG, and 0.05 mg of gonadorelin 36 h after sponge withdrawal and artificially inseminated (AI) 27-30 h after the GnRH administration (Day 0). A second intravaginal sponge was inserted to all groups (except for SYNC group), on Day 12. On Day 17, early pregnancy diagnosis was performed with doppler ultrasound in all ewes. Sponge withdrawal occurred on Day 18, and a new GnRH dose (0.05 mg) was administrated 36 h after it. Once again, AI 27-30 h after the GnRH administration. A final pregnancy diagnosis on Day 42 was performed in all ewes for confirmation of first diagnosis and the data were confirmed by parturition. Ewes in all groups presented estrus signs (SYNCH – 94.1%; CON – 71.7%; NUL – 83.3%; PtP – 39.4% at first AI and CON – 65.2%; NUL – 76.5%; PtP – 62.5% at the second). Pregnancy rate and pregnancy loss were not different between synchronized and resynchronized multiparous ewes (SYNCH – 56.9% vs. CON – 58.3% pregnant at D42 and SYNCH – 5.9% vs. CON – 7.1% fetal loss at D42). No differences were found between resynchronized multiparous and nulliparous ewes at the first FTAI, only fecundity was higher in multiparous ewes [CON – 0.88 vs. NUL – 0.62 (P = 0.04)]. Resynchronized multiparous ewes had higher reproductive performance than postpartum ewes that only presented pregnancy after the second FTAI [CON – 73.3% vs. PtP – 15.1% total pregnancy (P = 0.003)]. Overall, synchronization-resynchronization FTAI treatments may be included in reproductive programs in nulliparous ewes, but the treatments cannot superimpose to the limiting conditions imposed by postpartum lactating status. The resynchronization treatments allow to include practical managements with no deleterious effects in the results of the first FTAI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four infants in whom choledochal cyst was diagnosed by maternal ultrasound examinations are reviewed. The infants, from different institutions, represent a spectrum with regard to clinical presentation and subsequent course. They show that choledochal cyst can develop at different stages of gestation and is often not associated with biliary obstruction or biliary atresia. Definitive surgery can be safely performed in the neonatal period and is the treatment of choice. Follow-up data indicate that despite marked differences in the initial severity of their hepatic parenchymal disease, all four infants have done well in their early years, with essentially normal liver function. These unique patients provide insights into the possible etiology and pathophysiology of choledochal cyst and suggest guidlines for future evaluation and management of such infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a prospective 2-year study, milk progesterone and oestrone sulphate determinations were used to monitor and assess pregnancy in lactating cows. The testing was done centrally at a government regional veterinary establishment which was responsible for providing semen to the farms of the area and also had available specialist expertise in animal reproduction. Sample collection and dissemination of test results were achieved through the network of the artificial insemination service. This approach was preferred because it was considered ergonomic, cost-effective and reliable. Comparison of oestrus behavioural signs and progesterone on the day of insemination revealed that 7·8% (89/1133) of the animals tested had high progesterone levels. Single progesterone testing on day 21 post insemination was not satisfactory for pregnancy diagnosis as the positive predictive value was 83·0% (147/177). The combination of low progesterone on day 0 and high progesterone on day 21 improved the positive predictive value to 87·4% (235/269). Results from 400 samples taken 110 to 130 days post insemination from 53 animals revealed that cows with oestrone sulphate concentrations greater than 0·1 μg/l actually calved. This assay appears to be particularly suitable as a pregnancy confirmation test. A pilot field study implementing a programme of testing on days 0, 21 and 42 for progesterone and between days 110 to 130 for oestrone sulphate not only achieved almost absolute pregnancy predictive values but careful result analysis strongly indicated that the approach of systematic testing can also reveal the fertility profile of a given herd and help to identify potential causes of pregnancy failure from the period of the reproduction cycle in which they occur. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A possible case of delayed implantation after in-vitro fertilization (IVF) is described. The patient was sterilized in 1981, and made fertile again by tubal anastomosis in 1988. In 1990 and 1992 the patient had two right-sided tubal pregnancies, the first was treated with prostaglandin instillation, the second with salpingectomy. In connection with the salpingectomy in 1992, the left tube was observed to be constricted in the middle part and with phimosis of the ostium. In 1994 three IVF embryos were transferred, but 15 days after the transfer, serum human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) was negative (< 10 IU/ml). Seven weeks after the embryo transfer, menstruation was still missing, and the serum HCG was now positive (329 IU/ml). Subsequent ultrasound scans were compatible with an intrauterine pregnancy, progressing normally, but 5 weeks delayed compared with the oocyte aspiration. The pregnancy was successfully carried to term. Such a long delay in detection of HCG, in association with a normal pregnancy, has not been described in the literature before. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance characteristics of time-resolved fluoroimmunoassays (FIAs) for oestradiol and progesterone were evaluated in an in-vitro fertilization/embryo transfer (IVP/ET) programme and for use in differential diagnosis of early pregnancy. Comparisons were made with commercially available radioimmunoassays (RIAs) and the correlations between the results obtained were analysed. The possible clinical impact of the differences was assessed in 30 women undergoing ovarian stimulation for IVF/ET and also in 68 women presenting with suspected pathological gestation. There was good agreement between the performance characteristics observed in the present study and those claimed by the manufacturer. There was also a strong correlation between RIA and FIA within the working ranges of the assays. The differences in the results obtained with the two methods were within the normal limits of variation of the assays, and, consequently, the clinical relevance was minimal. In conclusion, for the clinical purposes in question, the FIAs perform at least as well as commercially available RIAs, and may, therefore, be regarded as an alternative to RIAs for many laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]