Panminerva medica
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Oocyte retrieval (ovum pick-up) and embryo transfer (ET) are essential steps in in-vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection and over the years, the two procedures were developed in order to improve the clinical outcome. Many suggestions were proposed and applied before, during and after oocyte retrieval such as timing of HCG trigger, pre-operative pelvic scan, vaginal cleansing, type of anesthesia, type and gauge of aspiration needles, aspiration pressure, follicle flushing, and the need for prophylactic antibiotics. ⋯ Complications were also reported with oocyte retrieval and ET. The aim of this review is to evaluate the current practice of these two procedures in the light of available evidence.
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The continuous progress in cardiovascular risk prevention strategies has led to an impressive reduction in mortality and recurrent ischemic events in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the control of several cardiovascular risk factors remains suboptimal in many CAD patients, with a high rate of recurrent events, underlying the need for more new prevention strategies. ⋯ The current review summarizes the evidence to date on each of its components, with respect to clinical outcomes and economic feasibility. The current evidence points to an efficacy of GAPS-I in reducing major adverse cardiovascular events and mortality, without a compromise on safety, albeit with the need for longer follow-up data.
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Biobanks are imperative infrastructures, particularly during outbreaks, when there is an obligation to acquire and share knowledge as quick as possible to allow for implementation of science-based preventive, diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic strategies. ⋯ Having a solid research infrastructure already in place, along with flexibility and adaptability to new requirements, allowed for the quick building of a COVID-19 biobank that will help expand and share the knowledge of SARS-CoV-2.