Fertility and sterility
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Fertility and sterility · Jan 2012
Use of laptop computers connected to internet through Wi-Fi decreases human sperm motility and increases sperm DNA fragmentation.
To evaluate the effects of laptop computers connected to local area networks wirelessly (Wi-Fi) on human spermatozoa. ⋯ To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the direct impact of laptop use on human spermatozoa. Ex vivo exposure of human spermatozoa to a wireless internet-connected laptop decreased motility and induced DNA fragmentation by a nonthermal effect. We speculate that keeping a laptop connected wirelessly to the internet on the lap near the testes may result in decreased male fertility. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to prove this contention.
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Fertility and sterility · Jan 2012
The ART of social networking: how SART member clinics are connecting with patients online.
To study and describe the use of social networking websites among Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) member clinics. ⋯ Almost all SART member clinics have a website. Nearly one-third of these clinics host a social networking website such as Facebook, Twitter, and/or a blog. Large-volume clinics commonly host social networking websites. These sites provide new ways to communicate with patients, but clinics should maintain policies on the incorporation of social networks into practice.
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To evaluate the suggested association between IVF, retinoblastoma, and tumor methylation characteristics. ⋯ Examination of retinoblastoma tumors of seven children conceived by IVF or ICSI did not show hypermethylation of the RB1 promoter. This demonstrates that an association between IVF or ICSI and retinoblastoma through this epigenetic mechanism is unlikely.
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Fertility and sterility · Jan 2012
Expensive but worth it: older parents' attitudes and opinions about the costs and insurance coverage for in vitro fertilization.
To describe older parents' attitudes and opinions about the costs and insurance coverage for IVF. ⋯ Despite a generally favorable opinion about the appropriateness of insurance coverage by those who have successfully undergone IVF treatment, the affordability of IVF remains an unresolved dilemma in the United States.