Materials Characterization of Stereolithography 3D Printed Polymer to Develop a Self-Driven Microfluidic Device for Bioanalytical Applications.

Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing is a rapid prototyping technique and reproducible manufacturing platform, which makes it a useful tool to develop advanced microfluidic devices for bioanalytical applications. However, limited information exists regarding the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the photocured polymers printed with SLA. This study demonstrates the characterization of a commercially available SLA 3D printed polymer to evaluate the potential presence of any time-dependent changes in material properties that may affect its ability to produce functional, capillary-action microfluidic devices. The printed polymer was analyzed with Fourier transform infrared-attenuated total reflectance, contact angle measurements, tensile test, impact test, scanning electron microscopy, and fluid flow analysis. Polymer biocompatibility was assessed with propidium iodide flow cytometry and an MTT assay for cell viability. The material characterization and biocompatibility results were then implemented to design and fabricate a self-driven capillary action microfluidic device for future use as a bioanalytical assay. This study demonstrates temporally stable mechanical properties and biocompatibility of the SLA polymer. However, surface characterization through contact angle measurements shows the polymer's wettability changes over time which indicates there is a limited postprinting period when the polymer can be used for capillary-based fluid flow. Overall, this study demonstrates the feasibility of implementing SLA as a high-throughput manufacturing method for capillary action microfluidic devices.

Successful pregnanacy by in vitro fertilization using corifullitropin alfa (ELONVA) for controlled ovaian stimuation: The first reported local experience

The need for simplified in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment approaches with the aim of reducing treatment burden and to prevent drop-outs after a failed IVF cycle can be met by the use of corifollitropin alfa for COS in association with a GnRH antagonist protocol. This is a report of the first local case of a successful pregnancy using corifollitropin alfa in IVF. This is a case of a 33 year-old G3 PO (0030) whose partner has teratozoospermia. COS using corifollitropin alfa yielded eight mature oocytes with no occurrence of OHSS. Six oocytes were fertilized using ICSI with six good quality embryos reaching cleavage stage. Two grade 1 embryos at day 3 cleavage stage were transferred. A clinical pregnancy was documented at 7 weeks age of gestation. Congenital anomaly scanning at 24 weeks age of gestation revealed a grossly normal fetus. Patient delivered a healthy, live, term baby boy. Review of literature suggests that corifollitropin alfa is as effective as rFSH in delivering live birth rate, ongoing pregnancy rate and clinical pregnancy rate. The sustained and higher FSH immunoreactivity concentrations and the inability for dose adjustment after treatment with a single dose of corifollitropin compared with the daily rFSH regimen underscores the need for careful patient selection in the use of corifollitropin alfa.

Exploring the ethical issues of disclosure in androgen insensitivity syndrome

The term "disorders of sexual development" (DSD) is defined by congenital conditions in which there is atypical development of the chromosomal, gonadal and anatomical sex. As an expert in this field of subspecialty, should the physician always disclose the truth to the patient regarding their medical condition? This is a case of androgen insensetivity syndrome diagnosed in adulthood. The aim of this paper was to discuss issues of disclosure or truth-telling as an integral part of management of AIS. The multidisciplinary team approach appears to provide the patient the best options in dealing with the syndrome and living as normal a life as possible despite it.