Expanded carrier screening in gamete donors of Venezuela.

Objective: To discuss the implications of expanded genetic carrier screening for preconception purposes based on our practice.

Methods: One hundred and forty-three potential gamete donors aged 20-32 years old (µ=24, 127 females and 16 males), signed informed consent forms and were selected according to the REDLARA guidelines. Blood or saliva samples were examined by one of these genetic carrier screening methods: Genzyme screening for Cystic Fibrosis (CF), Fragile X and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA); Counsyl Universal panel or Recombine Carrier Map.

How long do the consequences of parental preference last: A study of twins from pregnancy to young adulthood.

We analyzed depressive and psychosomatic symptoms in relation to parental preference in 419 twins at the age of 22 to 30 years. Depressiveness was elicited with Children's Depression Inventory and reported as a total score and three subscales (low self-confidence, anhedonia and sadness) based on factor analysis as reported in a previous epidemiological study conducted in Finland. Items assessing nervous complaints and somatic symptoms were adapted from Finnish studies of juvenile health habits.