Objective: To investigate the gonadotrophin drug Luveris? (L) and Gonal-F? (G) effects on bovine immature oocyte in vitro maturation culture. Methods: In total, 2000 bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were purchas...Objective: To investigate the gonadotrophin drug Luveris? (L) and Gonal-F? (G) effects on bovine immature oocyte in vitro maturation culture. Methods: In total, 2000 bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were purchased commercially and cultured in media with ovulation stimulation drugs Gonal-F and Luveris (0, 5, 10, 20, 40 IU/mL), individually, for maturation in vitro. 2000 Oocytes were divided evenly into two groups, Luveris and Gonal-F groups, individually, 1000 Oocytes. After 24 and 48h culture, cumulus expansion was assessed under dissecting microscopes. Oocyte maturation (GV, MI, MII) was determined by examining nuclear maturation and polar body formation under inverted microscopes. Results: Luveris and Gonal-F enhanced oocyte maturation in vitro in a dose-dependently manner. Culture media supplemented with L or G significantly improved MⅡ Oocyte maturation rates after culture for 24 h and 48 h in comparison with the control group. Oocyte maturation rates were 33.3% and 37.5%(20 IU/mL), individually, 33.3% and 53.6% (40 IU/mL);20 IU/mL G was 15.1% and 16.2%;40 IU/mL G was 38.9% and 39.5%, respectively. Conclusion: LH (Luveris) can promote prophase bovine immature oocytes developmental competence in vitro, which is mostly likely stimulated by FSH(Gonal-F ). Furthermore, LH can delay oocytes GVBD that is very useful for IVF clinical medication guidance.展开更多
Objective: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture(EA) on reproductive outcomes in women with Shen(Kidndy) deficiency syndrome after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer(IVF-ET),and explore the underlying molec...Objective: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture(EA) on reproductive outcomes in women with Shen(Kidndy) deficiency syndrome after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer(IVF-ET),and explore the underlying molecular mechanism.Methods: Sixty-six infertile patients with Shen de?ciency syndrome undergoing IVF-ET were divided into EA or control groups according to a random table,33 cases in each group.Before undergoing IVF,patients in the EA and control groups received EA therapy and placebo needle puncture,respectively,for 3 menstrual cycles.Shen de?ciency syndrome scores were assessed.Other outcome measures included the number of retrieved oocytes and fertilization,high-quality embryo and clinical pregnancy rates.Follicular ?uid was collected on the day of oocyte retrieval,and granulosa cell expression of phosphatidylinositide3-kinases(PI3 K),serine-threonine kinase(Akt) and forkhead box O3(Foxo3 a) m RNA were measured by reverse transcribed and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.Results: Syndrome scores for pre-versus post-treatments decreased significantly(16.53±1.75 to 8.67±1.61) in the EA group(P<0.05),but showed no signi?cant change in the control group(17.18±1.58 to 14.74±1.58).A signi?cant difference in score change was found between the EA and control groups(P<0.05).High-quality embryo and clinical pregnancy rates were both increased in the EA group compared with the control group [69.15%(195/282) vs.60.27%(176/292) and 66.67%(22/33) vs.42.42%(14/33),respectively,P<0.05].The fertilization rate was equivalent in EA and control groups.No difference was found in the number of retrieved oocytes between the two groups.Granulosa cell expression levels of PI3 K and Akt m RNA were signi?cantly increased in the EA group compared with the control group,while the expression of Foxo3 a was reduced(all P<0.05).Conclusions: For infertile patients with Shen de?ciency syndrome undergoing IVF,EA for tonifying Shen as an adjunct treatment may alleviate clinical symptoms and improve the high-quality em展开更多
Traditional Chinese medicine Pseudostellaria heterophylla fibrous roots have been widely studied and applied in non-antibiotic clinical breeding of livestock and poultry. In vitro probiotic effect of P. heterophylla f...Traditional Chinese medicine Pseudostellaria heterophylla fibrous roots have been widely studied and applied in non-antibiotic clinical breeding of livestock and poultry. In vitro probiotic effect of P. heterophylla fibrous roots extract on feed probiotics Bacillus subtilis BD-K010 was studied, and the feasibility of solid fermentation of P. heterophylla fibrous roots was preliminarily evaluated. For in vitro probiotic effect, the increased concentration of P. heterophylla fibrous roots extract dependently increased the total biomass of B. subtilis BD-K010;1.0% P. heterophylla fibrous roots extract received the best effect, and the final p H of 1.0% experimental group was closer to neutral. Meantime, B. subtilis BD-K010 with optimum concentration of P. heterophylla fibrous roots showed significantly higher in vitro antibacterial effect than the control group(P<0.01),and the antibacterial effects on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were improved by 51.99% and 63.16%, but it was ineffective to Salmonella. For solid fermentation, the profile of substrate complex and appendage flocculent structure on substrate surface at the end of fermenta-tion in experimental groups added with B. subtilis BD-K010 and cellulase plus BD-K010 were more complex;the live bacteria number, polysaccharide content and saponin content at fermentation end-point in two experimental groups were extremely higher than those in the control group(P<0.01).P. heterophylla fibrous roots extract had good in vitro probiotic effect on B. subtilis BD-K010 and promoted its antibacterial effect, and it is feasible to use probiotics for solid fermentation of P. heterophylla fibrous roots and to improve effective components. It is of great significance to further de-velop and utilize P. heterophylla fibrous roots resources in modern animal husbandry.展开更多
BACKGROUND An isthmocele is a scar defect in the uterine wall due to a cesarean section. Its prevalence is unknown, but it has been associated with secondary infertility. Here, we present a case where the patient suff...BACKGROUND An isthmocele is a scar defect in the uterine wall due to a cesarean section. Its prevalence is unknown, but it has been associated with secondary infertility. Here, we present a case where the patient suffered from an isthmocele that was associated with persistent hydrometra, which developed during in vitro fertilization. CASE SUMMARY The patient underwent hysteroscopic surgery, which successfully resolved the isthmocele as well as the hydrometra. Afterward, two high-quality, euploid embryos, determined by morphological assessment and pre-implantation genetic diagnostic testing, were transferred. This resulted in uterine pregnancy, as determined byserum β-human chorionic gonadotropin levels on day 14 (180 mU/mL) and ultrasound-confirmed presence of a gestational sac with a positive embryocardia at week 6. The pregnancy reached 36 wk without any complications, and the product was born in good health. We report a successful isthmocele treatment in a patient with secondary infertility, in which the isthmocele was the cause of persistent hydrometra. CONCLUSION Hydrometra caused by secondary cesarean is an infertility factor, which can be corrected by hysteroscopy plus ablation of the isthmocele.展开更多
Research on in vitro culture and gene editing of domestic spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) is of considerable interest but remains a challenging issue in animal science. In recent years, some progress on the isolation...Research on in vitro culture and gene editing of domestic spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) is of considerable interest but remains a challenging issue in animal science. In recent years, some progress on the isolation, purification, and genetic manipulation of porcine SSCs has been reported. Here, we summarize the characteristics of porcine SSCs as well current advances in their in vitro culture, potential usage, and genetic manipulation. Furthermore, we discuss the current application of gene editing in pig cloning technology. Collectively, this commentary aims to summarize the progress made and obstacles encountered in porcine SSC research to better serve animal husbandry, improve livestock fecundity, and enhance potential clinical use.展开更多
Juniperus thurifera L.is an endemic Cupressaceae from the Aures Mountains of north eastern Algeria and endangered,in part,due to the scarcity of viable seeds.It is threatened by other abiotic factors and the lack of a...Juniperus thurifera L.is an endemic Cupressaceae from the Aures Mountains of north eastern Algeria and endangered,in part,due to the scarcity of viable seeds.It is threatened by other abiotic factors and the lack of an effective management strategy will increase its risk of extinction.The dearth of information on its in vitro regeneration impedes its application in forest management programs.We therefore developed a micropropagation protocol using microcuttings with auxiliary buds.Cuttings were grown on different combinations of media supplemented with plant growth regulators at different concentrations.The highest number of shoots and branches regenerated from original shoots was obtained on Woody Plant Medium(WPM)supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine(BAP)(0.5 mg L^-1)and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid(2,4-D)(0.25 mg L^-1).The best elongation of shoots was achieved with WPM supplemented with 0.5 mg L^-1 of BAP and 0.25 or 1 mg L^-1 of 2,4-D.On the second subculture,shoots had a higher number of branches than those of the first.The highest rooting rate,38.8%,was obtained with shoots cultured in 1/2 Murashige and Skoog(MS)medium supplemented with 5.0 mg L^-1 each of indol-3-butyric(IBA)and naphthalene acetic acid(NAA).Similarly,the highest root numbers and lengths were produced on 1/2 MS medium supplemented with IBA and NAA(5.0 mg L^-1 each).During transfer to acclimatization,rates of plant losses of 50%occurred.The second part of the experiment showed that the best shoot callusing was on WPM supplemented with BAP and 2,4-D,with either the combination 0.5+0.25 or 0.25+0.25 mg L^-1.The results of this research provide a starting point for further studies on in vitro regeneration of J.thurifera for the sustainable management of its unique ecosystem in the Mediterranean basin.展开更多
Objective: To assess the secondary sex ratio (SSR) of assisted reproduction technology babies within a fertility clinic in Melbourne, Australia. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 3369 babies who w...Objective: To assess the secondary sex ratio (SSR) of assisted reproduction technology babies within a fertility clinic in Melbourne, Australia. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 3369 babies who were born following single embryo transfer between 2011 and 2016. Variables examined included embryo creation date, maternal and paternal ages, maternal body mass index (BMI), type of infertility, sperm parameters, fertilization method, type of embryo and stage of transfer. Multivariate regression analysis was performed on the data set using STRATA V9.2. Results: More males were found to be born to embryos created in summer (adjusted odds ratio=1.46, 95% confidence interval: 1.08-1.95;P=0.01). Lower BMI of mother (≤30 kg/m 2) and younger age of parents (≤35 years) were associated with an increase in SSR (50.1% vs. 47.1%;50.6% vs. 48.8%;50.0% vs. 48.9%) respectively. Decreased SSR value was associated with primary subfertility, using in-vitro fertilization procedure and fresh embryo compared to those with secondary subfertility, using intracytoplasmic sperm injection procedure and thawed embryo (49.3% vs. 50.6%;47.1% vs. 50.8%;49.4% vs. 50.1%) respectively. Conclusions: The fertilization methods, type of embryo, stage of embryo transfer, parameters of the sperm and status of subfertility do not significantly affect the SSR. SSR is affected by the seasonality, maternal age, and BMI.展开更多
Cinnamic acid and its analogues (pyragrel and ozagrel) undergo chain-shortened (β-oxidative) and reductive metabolism on acyl side chain. In this study, we characterized the β-oxidative and reductive metabolism on a...Cinnamic acid and its analogues (pyragrel and ozagrel) undergo chain-shortened (β-oxidative) and reductive metabolism on acyl side chain. In this study, we characterized the β-oxidative and reductive metabolism on acyl side chain of cinnamic acid and its analogues using primary rat hepatocytes, hepatic mitochondrial, and microsomal systems. A compartmental model including parent compounds and metabolites was developed to characterize in vivo β-oxidative and reductive metabolism following an intravenous dose of parent compounds to rats. The ?tted total in vivo clearance values were further compared with the in vitro values predicted by the well-stirred model. We showed that hepatic microsomal CYP450s did not catalyze β-oxidative or reductive metabolism of the three compounds. Similar to β-oxidation of fatty acids,β-oxidative metabolism on their acyl side chain occurred mainly in mitochondria, which was highly dependent on ATP, CoA and NAD+. Fatty acids and NADH inhibited the β-oxidative metabolism. Reductive metabolism occurred in both mitochondria and microsomes. Reduction in mitochondria was ATP-, CoA-, and NAD(P)H-dependent and reversible, which was suppressed by enoyl reductase inhibitor triclosan. Reduction in microsomes was ATP-, CoA-, and NADPH-dependent but little affected by triclosan. Both plasma concentrations of β-oxidative metabolites and reductive metabolites were successfully ?tted using the compartmental model. The estimated total in vivo clearance values were consistent with those predicted from hepatocytes and organelles, implicating signi?cance of in vitro kinetics. These ?ndings demonstrate the roles of hepatic mitochondria and microsomes in β-oxidative and reductive metabolism on acyl side chain of cinnamic acid and its analogues along with their metabolic characteristics.展开更多
The intermingling of regenerated nerve fibers inside nerve grafts is the main reason for mismatched nerve fibers. This is one of the key factors affecting limb function recovery after nerve injury. Previous research h...The intermingling of regenerated nerve fibers inside nerve grafts is the main reason for mismatched nerve fibers. This is one of the key factors affecting limb function recovery after nerve injury. Previous research has shown that the accuracy of axon regeneration can be improved by a bionic structural implant. To this aim, iodine and freeze-drying high-resolution micro-computed tomography was performed to visualize the 3D topography of the New Zealand rabbit sciatic nerve (25 mm). A series of 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-custom anatomy-based nerve conduits (CANCs) were fabricated based on the anatomical structure of the nerve fascicle. The match index, luminal surface, and mechanical properties of CANCs were evaluated before implanting in a 10-mm gap of the sciatic nerve. Recovery was evaluated by histomorphometric analyses, electrophysiological study, gastrocnemius muscle weight recovery ratio, and behavioral assessments at 12 and 24 weeks postoperatively. The accuracy of nerve regeneration was determined by changes in fluorescence-labeled profile number during simultaneous retrograde tracing. Our results showed that the optimal preprocessing condition for high-resolution micro-computed tomography visualization was treatment of the sciatic nerve with 40% Lugol’s solution for 3 days followed by lyophilization for 2 days. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the match index was highest in the 3-CANC group, followed by the 2-, 1-, and 4-CANC groups. The luminal surface was lowest in the 1-CANC group. Mechanical properties (transverse compressive and bending properties) were higher in the 3- and 4-CANC groups than in the 1-CANC group. In vivo experiments demonstrated that the recovery (morphology of regenerated fibers, compound muscle action potential, gastrocnemius muscle weight recovery ratio, pain-related autotomy behaviors, and range of motion) in the 3-CANC group was superior to the other CANC groups, and achieved the same therapeutic effect as the autograft. The simultaneous retrograde tracing results showed that th展开更多
The aim of this study was to determine the association between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level and pregnancy outcomes in euthyroid women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intra-cytoplasmic sperm injectio...The aim of this study was to determine the association between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level and pregnancy outcomes in euthyroid women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).A total of 1185 women were enrolled in the retrospective study,and 12 studies with a total of 6624 women were included in the meta-analysis (including the data of the present retrospective study).Participants in the retrospective study were divided into two groups in terms of their serum TSH levels:TSH <2.5 mIU/L group (w=830) and TSH >2.5 mIU/L group (h=355).They were monitored for the status of clinical pregnancy or miscarriage.In the TSH <2.5 mIU/L group,441 (53.1%) women achieved clinical pregnancy,while 48 (5.8%) had early pregnancy loss and 12 (1.4%) had ectopic pregnancy.In the TSH >2.5 mIU/ L group,175 (49.3%) women achieved clinical pregnancy,while 21 (5.9%) had early pregnancy loss and 3 (0.8%) had ectopic pregnancy.No significant differences were observed between the two groups in pregnancy outcomes (P=0.126,P=0.512,P=0.297).The meta-analysis also revealed no significant difference in the clinical pregnancy rate and the miscarriage rate between women with serum TSH <2.5 mIU/L and those with serum TSH >2.5 mIU/L.In conclusion,high TSH levels (TSH level >2.5 mIU/L) did not affect clinical pregnancy rate or increase miscarriage rate in euthyroid women undergoing IVF/ICSI.展开更多
Functional impairment of mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs),osteoblast progenitor cells,has been proposed to be a pathological mechanism contributing to bone disorders,such as osteoporosis(the most common bone disease)and o...Functional impairment of mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs),osteoblast progenitor cells,has been proposed to be a pathological mechanism contributing to bone disorders,such as osteoporosis(the most common bone disease)and other rare inherited skeletal dysplasias.Pathological bone loss can be caused not only by an enhanced bone resorption activity but also by hampered osteogenic differentiation of MSCs.The majority of the current treatment options counteract bone loss,and therefore bone fragility by blocking bone resorption.These socalled antiresorptive treatments,in spite of being effective at reducing fracture risk,cannot be administered for extended periods due to security concerns.Therefore,there is a real need to develop osteoanabolic therapies to promote bone formation.Human MSCs emerge as a suitable tool to study the etiology of bone disorders at the cellular level as well as to be used for cell therapy purposes for bone diseases.This review will focus on the most relevant findings using human MSCs as an in vitro cell model to unravel pathological bone mechanisms and the application and outcomes of human MSCs in cell therapy clinical trials for bone disease.展开更多
Porous metal scaffolds play an important role in the orthopedic field, due to their wide applications in prostheses implantation. Some previous studies showed that the scaffolds with trabecular bone structure reconstr...Porous metal scaffolds play an important role in the orthopedic field, due to their wide applications in prostheses implantation. Some previous studies showed that the scaffolds with trabecular bone structure reconstructed via computed tomography had satisfactory biocompatibility. However, the reverse modeling scaffolds were inflexible for customized design. Therefore, a top-down designing biomimetic bone scaffold with favorable mechanical performances and cytocompatibility is urgently demanded for orthopedic implants. An emerging additive manufacturing technique, selective laser melting, was employed to fabricate the trabecular-like porous Ti-6Al-4 V scaffolds with varying irregularities(0.05-0.5) and porosities(48.83%–74.28%) designed through a novel Voronoi-Tessellation based method. Micro-computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the scaffolds’ morphology.Quasi-static compression tests were performed to evaluate the scaffolds’ mechanical properties. The MG63 cells culture in vitro experiments, including adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, were conducted to study the cytocompatibility of scaffolds. Compressive tests of scaffolds revealed an apparent elastic modulus range of 1.93–5.24 GPa and an ultimate strength ranging within 44.9–237.5 MPa, which were influenced by irregularity and porosity, and improved by heat treatment. Furthermore, the in vitro assay suggested that the original surface of the SLM-fabricated scaffolds was favorable for osteoblasts adhesion and migration because of micro scale pores and ravines. The trabecular-like porous scaffolds with full irregularity and higher porosity exhibited enhanced cells proliferation and osteoblast differentiation at earlier time, due to their preferable combination of small and large pores with various shapes. This study suggested that selective laser melting-derived Ti-6Al-4 V scaffold with the trabecular-like porous structure designed through Voronoi-Tessellation method, favorable mechanical performanc展开更多
This observational study included 21 patients at remarkably high risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome(OHSS),characterized by more than 30 follicles measuring≥11 mm in diameter on trigger day and/or pre-trigger p...This observational study included 21 patients at remarkably high risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome(OHSS),characterized by more than 30 follicles measuring≥11 mm in diameter on trigger day and/or pre-trigger peak estradiol exceeding 10 000 pg/mL.which was also the feature of women with established severe early OHSS followed by gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist(GnRHa)trigger and freeze-all policy that previously have been reported.All patients received a second dose of GnRHa 12 h after the first GnRHa trigger combined with administration of GnRH antagonist at 0.25 mg/day for a period of 3 days from the day of oocyte retrieval onwards.The in vitro fertilization(IVF)outcomes may be preferable compared with a bolus of GnRHa trigger and none of the included patients developed moderate-to-severe OHSS.Moreover,patients'symptoms,reproductive honnone levels and ultrasound findings were improved significantly.This new strategy seems to be efficacious and could be a further supplement of GnRHa trigger with or without applying freeze-all strategy to completely prevent early-onset moderate to severe OHSS,especially for the patients characterized by≥30 follicles measuring≥11 mm in diameter on trigger day and/or pre-trigger peak estradiol exceeding 10 000 pg/mL.Further studies should be performed to compare this regimen with conventional methods of OHSS prevention.展开更多
Objective: The study examines the effect of the hydro-alcoholic extract of Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume bark on crystallization of calcium oxalate. Methods: The antilithiatic effect of various concentrations of the hyd...Objective: The study examines the effect of the hydro-alcoholic extract of Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume bark on crystallization of calcium oxalate. Methods: The antilithiatic effect of various concentrations of the hydro-alcoholic extract of C. zeylanicum was investigated at various stages of stone formation, using Cystone as a stan da rd refere nee drug. The effect on calcium oxalate crystallization was evaluated by measuring the change in turbidity over time, during crystal nucleation, growth and aggregation, in the metastable solution of calcium chloride and sodium oxalate. The slope from the change in turbidity over time was measured using a spectrophotometer at 620 and 214 nm in respective tests. The inhibition rate was estimated by comparing turbidity in the presence and absence of extract. Crystals formed under experimental conditions were observed under a light microscope, and number and shape of the crystals were assessed in a randomly selected field. Phytochemical analysis and high-performance thin-layer chromatography of the extract was also carried out. Results: C. zeylanicum significantly reduced crystal nucleation at concentrations of 4, 8 and 10 mg/mL (P< 0.001). The inhibition percentage of crystal growth was between 28.30% and 92.46% in the presence of C. zeylanicum extract and from 20.76% to 64.15% with various concentrations of Cystone. The maximum inhibition of crystal growth was obtained from C. zeylanicum at 2 mg/mL (92.46%). Microscopic examination revealed a reduction in the number and size of crystals. In the aggregation assay, the inhibition percentage of C. zeylanicum was between 16.27% and 100%, while Cystone was from -214.68% to 100% at different concentrations. The highest (100%) inhibition of aggregation was found at 4 mg/mL of both the test and standard drugs. Conclusion: We found that C. zeylanicum hydro-alcoholic extract has notable inhibitory effects on various stages of crystallization, in terms of turbidity of solution, as well as the crystal size, number and morphology.展开更多
Objective: To determine the effect of preparation to play a maternal role in mothers fertilized through in vitro fertilization on maternal anxiety. Methods: A total of 60 mothers undergoing in vitro fertilization were...Objective: To determine the effect of preparation to play a maternal role in mothers fertilized through in vitro fertilization on maternal anxiety. Methods: A total of 60 mothers undergoing in vitro fertilization were assigned into intervention group and control group. Pregnancy concerns and stress questionnaires were research tools. Questionnaires were completed in both groups before organizing preparation program. Then, the preparation program was held for four sessions for the mothers in the intervention group, and the subjects in both groups were immediately investigated again after completion of preparation program and one month later. Data analyses about pregnancy stress and concerns of mothers and its dimensions were performed by repeated measure (analysis of variance), Mann-Whitney, Friedman and Wilcoxon tests. Analysis of demographic variables was performed by using independent t-test and Chi-square test in SPSS 21. Results: The score of pregnancy stress and concerns before the intervention was not significantly different between the two groups. There was a significant difference in the intervention group in the score of pregnancy stress and concerns before and after the intervention (P<0.001), before and one month after the intervention (P<0.001), immediately after and one month after the intervention (P<0.001) which was not significant in the control group. Conclusions: Maternal preparation program can be effective in reducing maternal stress and concerns.展开更多
Background: Estradiol, as an important hormone in follicular development and endometrial receptivity, is closely related to clinical outcomes of fresh in vitro fertilization embryo transfer (IVF-ET) cycles. The aim of...Background: Estradiol, as an important hormone in follicular development and endometrial receptivity, is closely related to clinical outcomes of fresh in vitro fertilization embryo transfer (IVF-ET) cycles. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the association between elevated serum estradiol (E2) levels on the day of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) administration and IVF-ET pregnancy and birth outcomes. Methods: A total of 1771 infertile patients with their first fresh IVF-ET cycles were analyzed retrospectively between January 2011 and January 2016 in Peking University First Hospital. Patients were categorized by serum E2 levels on the day of hCG administration into six groups: group 1 (serum E2 levels < 1000 pg/mL, n = 205), group 2 (serum E2 levels 1001-2000 pg/mL, n = 457), group 3 (serum E2 levels 2001-3000 pg/mL, n = 425), group 4 (serum E2 levels 3001-4000 pg/mL, n = 310), group 5 (serum E2 levels 4001- 5000 pg/mL, n = 237), and group 6 (serum E2 levels > 5000 pg/mL, n — 137). The retrieved oocyte and Mil oocyte numbers and implantation and clinical pregnancy rates of the groups were compared as the first objective of the study. For the 360 women with singleton births among all patients, the area under the corresponding receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) was calculated to assess the predictive value of the E2 change for the probability of low birth weight (LBW) infants as the second objective. Results: The retrieved oocyte and Mil oocyte numbers and implantation and clinical pregnancy rates gradually increased from groups 1 to 5 but decreased in group 6. The parameters of group 1 were statistically worse than those of the other groups, from group 2 to group 6 (the number of retrieved oocytes, t = 13.096, t = 23.307, t = 23.086, t = 26.376, t = 19.636, P < 0.003;the number of retrieved Mil oocytes, t = 10.856, t = 20.868, t = 21.874, t = 23.374, t = 19.092, P < 0.003;the implantation rate,χ^2= 12.179,χ^2= 22.239,χ^2= 23.993,χ^2= 23.344,χ^2= 16.758, P < 0.003;the cl展开更多
During in vitro replication of DNA by DNA Polymerase,The diverse palindromic StructuresOn templates of DNA can lead to replication jumping and cause fragments to be missing from daughter strands.We recorded replicatio...During in vitro replication of DNA by DNA Polymerase,The diverse palindromic StructuresOn templates of DNA can lead to replication jumping and cause fragments to be missing from daughter strands.We recorded replication jumping in which a 564 bp fragment was missing from daughter DNA.The original template was a 1126 bp fragment of the introduction of the temporary gene of black-spotted frog(Pelophylax nigromaculatus).The replication jump was recorded after amplifica-tion of this template using polymerase chainREaction,Closing Using Vector,And sequencing using the Sanger Method.The replication jump was elevated to rise from this series of events.展开更多
Calculus bovis is commonly used for the treatment of stroke in traditional Chinese medicine. Hyodeoxycholic acid(HDCA) is a bioactive compound extracted from calculus bovis. When combined with cholic acid, baicalin an...Calculus bovis is commonly used for the treatment of stroke in traditional Chinese medicine. Hyodeoxycholic acid(HDCA) is a bioactive compound extracted from calculus bovis. When combined with cholic acid, baicalin and jas-minoidin, HDCA prevents hypoxia-reoxygenation-induced brain injury by suppressing endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptotic signaling. However, the effects of HDCA in ischemic stroke injury have not yet been studied. Neurovascular unit(NVU) dysfunction occurs in ischemic stroke. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of HDCA on the NVU under ischemic conditions in vitro. We co-cultured primary brain microvascular endothelial cells, neurons and astrocytes using a transwell chamber co-culture system. The NVU was pre-treated with 10.16 or 2.54 μg/mL HDCA for 24 hours before exposure to oxygen-glucose deprivation for 1 hour. The cell counting kit-8 assay was used to detect cell activity. Flow cytometry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling were used to assess apoptosis. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1β, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, and neurotrophic factors, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor. Oxidative stress-related factors, such as superoxide dismutase, nitric oxide, malondialdehyde and γ-glutamyltransferase, were measured using kits. Pretreatment with HDCA significantly decreased blood-brain barrier permeability and neuronal apoptosis, significantly increased transendothelial electrical resistance and γ-glutamyltransferase activity, attenuated oxidative stress damage and the release of inflammatory cytokines, and increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor expression. Our findings suggest that HDCA maintains NVU morphological integrity and function by modulating inflammation, oxidation stress, apoptosis, and the expression o展开更多
Mesenchymal stem cells are undifferentiated cells able to acquire different phenotypes under specific stimuli. In vitro manipulation of these cells is focused on understanding stem cell behavior, proliferation and plu...Mesenchymal stem cells are undifferentiated cells able to acquire different phenotypes under specific stimuli. In vitro manipulation of these cells is focused on understanding stem cell behavior, proliferation and pluripotency. Latest advances in the field of stem cells concern epigenetics and its role in maintaining self-renewal and differentiation capabilities. Chemical and physical stimuli can modulate cell commitment, acting on gene expression of Oct-4, Sox-2 and Nanog, the main stemness markers, and tissue-lineage specific genes. This activation or repression is related to the activity of chromatin-remodeling factors and epigenetic regulators, new targets of many cell therapies. The aim of this review is to afford a view of the current state of in vitro and in vivo stem cell applications, highlighting the strategies used to influence stem cell commitment for current and future cell therapies. Identifying the molecular mechanisms controlling stem cell fate could open up novel strategies for tissue repairing processes and other clinical applications.展开更多
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China.Project No:81260124.
文摘Objective: To investigate the gonadotrophin drug Luveris? (L) and Gonal-F? (G) effects on bovine immature oocyte in vitro maturation culture. Methods: In total, 2000 bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were purchased commercially and cultured in media with ovulation stimulation drugs Gonal-F and Luveris (0, 5, 10, 20, 40 IU/mL), individually, for maturation in vitro. 2000 Oocytes were divided evenly into two groups, Luveris and Gonal-F groups, individually, 1000 Oocytes. After 24 and 48h culture, cumulus expansion was assessed under dissecting microscopes. Oocyte maturation (GV, MI, MII) was determined by examining nuclear maturation and polar body formation under inverted microscopes. Results: Luveris and Gonal-F enhanced oocyte maturation in vitro in a dose-dependently manner. Culture media supplemented with L or G significantly improved MⅡ Oocyte maturation rates after culture for 24 h and 48 h in comparison with the control group. Oocyte maturation rates were 33.3% and 37.5%(20 IU/mL), individually, 33.3% and 53.6% (40 IU/mL);20 IU/mL G was 15.1% and 16.2%;40 IU/mL G was 38.9% and 39.5%, respectively. Conclusion: LH (Luveris) can promote prophase bovine immature oocytes developmental competence in vitro, which is mostly likely stimulated by FSH(Gonal-F ). Furthermore, LH can delay oocytes GVBD that is very useful for IVF clinical medication guidance.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81703958)Provincial Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province,China(No.ZR2017PH015)+1 种基金Chinese Medicine Development Project of Science and Technology in Shandong province,China(No.2017-067)State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs,China(No.P172023018).
文摘Objective: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture(EA) on reproductive outcomes in women with Shen(Kidndy) deficiency syndrome after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer(IVF-ET),and explore the underlying molecular mechanism.Methods: Sixty-six infertile patients with Shen de?ciency syndrome undergoing IVF-ET were divided into EA or control groups according to a random table,33 cases in each group.Before undergoing IVF,patients in the EA and control groups received EA therapy and placebo needle puncture,respectively,for 3 menstrual cycles.Shen de?ciency syndrome scores were assessed.Other outcome measures included the number of retrieved oocytes and fertilization,high-quality embryo and clinical pregnancy rates.Follicular ?uid was collected on the day of oocyte retrieval,and granulosa cell expression of phosphatidylinositide3-kinases(PI3 K),serine-threonine kinase(Akt) and forkhead box O3(Foxo3 a) m RNA were measured by reverse transcribed and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.Results: Syndrome scores for pre-versus post-treatments decreased significantly(16.53±1.75 to 8.67±1.61) in the EA group(P<0.05),but showed no signi?cant change in the control group(17.18±1.58 to 14.74±1.58).A signi?cant difference in score change was found between the EA and control groups(P<0.05).High-quality embryo and clinical pregnancy rates were both increased in the EA group compared with the control group [69.15%(195/282) vs.60.27%(176/292) and 66.67%(22/33) vs.42.42%(14/33),respectively,P<0.05].The fertilization rate was equivalent in EA and control groups.No difference was found in the number of retrieved oocytes between the two groups.Granulosa cell expression levels of PI3 K and Akt m RNA were signi?cantly increased in the EA group compared with the control group,while the expression of Foxo3 a was reduced(all P<0.05).Conclusions: For infertile patients with Shen de?ciency syndrome undergoing IVF,EA for tonifying Shen as an adjunct treatment may alleviate clinical symptoms and improve the high-quality em
基金Supported by Innovation Fund Project of Fujian Provincial Department of Science and Technology (2018C0041)Soft Science Project of Fujian Provincial Intellectual Property Office (2018ER019).
文摘Traditional Chinese medicine Pseudostellaria heterophylla fibrous roots have been widely studied and applied in non-antibiotic clinical breeding of livestock and poultry. In vitro probiotic effect of P. heterophylla fibrous roots extract on feed probiotics Bacillus subtilis BD-K010 was studied, and the feasibility of solid fermentation of P. heterophylla fibrous roots was preliminarily evaluated. For in vitro probiotic effect, the increased concentration of P. heterophylla fibrous roots extract dependently increased the total biomass of B. subtilis BD-K010;1.0% P. heterophylla fibrous roots extract received the best effect, and the final p H of 1.0% experimental group was closer to neutral. Meantime, B. subtilis BD-K010 with optimum concentration of P. heterophylla fibrous roots showed significantly higher in vitro antibacterial effect than the control group(P<0.01),and the antibacterial effects on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were improved by 51.99% and 63.16%, but it was ineffective to Salmonella. For solid fermentation, the profile of substrate complex and appendage flocculent structure on substrate surface at the end of fermenta-tion in experimental groups added with B. subtilis BD-K010 and cellulase plus BD-K010 were more complex;the live bacteria number, polysaccharide content and saponin content at fermentation end-point in two experimental groups were extremely higher than those in the control group(P<0.01).P. heterophylla fibrous roots extract had good in vitro probiotic effect on B. subtilis BD-K010 and promoted its antibacterial effect, and it is feasible to use probiotics for solid fermentation of P. heterophylla fibrous roots and to improve effective components. It is of great significance to further de-velop and utilize P. heterophylla fibrous roots resources in modern animal husbandry.
文摘BACKGROUND An isthmocele is a scar defect in the uterine wall due to a cesarean section. Its prevalence is unknown, but it has been associated with secondary infertility. Here, we present a case where the patient suffered from an isthmocele that was associated with persistent hydrometra, which developed during in vitro fertilization. CASE SUMMARY The patient underwent hysteroscopic surgery, which successfully resolved the isthmocele as well as the hydrometra. Afterward, two high-quality, euploid embryos, determined by morphological assessment and pre-implantation genetic diagnostic testing, were transferred. This resulted in uterine pregnancy, as determined byserum β-human chorionic gonadotropin levels on day 14 (180 mU/mL) and ultrasound-confirmed presence of a gestational sac with a positive embryocardia at week 6. The pregnancy reached 36 wk without any complications, and the product was born in good health. We report a successful isthmocele treatment in a patient with secondary infertility, in which the isthmocele was the cause of persistent hydrometra. CONCLUSION Hydrometra caused by secondary cesarean is an infertility factor, which can be corrected by hysteroscopy plus ablation of the isthmocele.
基金This work was supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities in China (KYDS201807)Ministry of Science and Technology, China (2016YFE0128500).
文摘Research on in vitro culture and gene editing of domestic spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) is of considerable interest but remains a challenging issue in animal science. In recent years, some progress on the isolation, purification, and genetic manipulation of porcine SSCs has been reported. Here, we summarize the characteristics of porcine SSCs as well current advances in their in vitro culture, potential usage, and genetic manipulation. Furthermore, we discuss the current application of gene editing in pig cloning technology. Collectively, this commentary aims to summarize the progress made and obstacles encountered in porcine SSC research to better serve animal husbandry, improve livestock fecundity, and enhance potential clinical use.
基金The General Directorate of Scientific Research and Technological Development of the Algerian Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
文摘Juniperus thurifera L.is an endemic Cupressaceae from the Aures Mountains of north eastern Algeria and endangered,in part,due to the scarcity of viable seeds.It is threatened by other abiotic factors and the lack of an effective management strategy will increase its risk of extinction.The dearth of information on its in vitro regeneration impedes its application in forest management programs.We therefore developed a micropropagation protocol using microcuttings with auxiliary buds.Cuttings were grown on different combinations of media supplemented with plant growth regulators at different concentrations.The highest number of shoots and branches regenerated from original shoots was obtained on Woody Plant Medium(WPM)supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine(BAP)(0.5 mg L^-1)and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid(2,4-D)(0.25 mg L^-1).The best elongation of shoots was achieved with WPM supplemented with 0.5 mg L^-1 of BAP and 0.25 or 1 mg L^-1 of 2,4-D.On the second subculture,shoots had a higher number of branches than those of the first.The highest rooting rate,38.8%,was obtained with shoots cultured in 1/2 Murashige and Skoog(MS)medium supplemented with 5.0 mg L^-1 each of indol-3-butyric(IBA)and naphthalene acetic acid(NAA).Similarly,the highest root numbers and lengths were produced on 1/2 MS medium supplemented with IBA and NAA(5.0 mg L^-1 each).During transfer to acclimatization,rates of plant losses of 50%occurred.The second part of the experiment showed that the best shoot callusing was on WPM supplemented with BAP and 2,4-D,with either the combination 0.5+0.25 or 0.25+0.25 mg L^-1.The results of this research provide a starting point for further studies on in vitro regeneration of J.thurifera for the sustainable management of its unique ecosystem in the Mediterranean basin.
文摘Objective: To assess the secondary sex ratio (SSR) of assisted reproduction technology babies within a fertility clinic in Melbourne, Australia. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 3369 babies who were born following single embryo transfer between 2011 and 2016. Variables examined included embryo creation date, maternal and paternal ages, maternal body mass index (BMI), type of infertility, sperm parameters, fertilization method, type of embryo and stage of transfer. Multivariate regression analysis was performed on the data set using STRATA V9.2. Results: More males were found to be born to embryos created in summer (adjusted odds ratio=1.46, 95% confidence interval: 1.08-1.95;P=0.01). Lower BMI of mother (≤30 kg/m 2) and younger age of parents (≤35 years) were associated with an increase in SSR (50.1% vs. 47.1%;50.6% vs. 48.8%;50.0% vs. 48.9%) respectively. Decreased SSR value was associated with primary subfertility, using in-vitro fertilization procedure and fresh embryo compared to those with secondary subfertility, using intracytoplasmic sperm injection procedure and thawed embryo (49.3% vs. 50.6%;47.1% vs. 50.8%;49.4% vs. 50.1%) respectively. Conclusions: The fertilization methods, type of embryo, stage of embryo transfer, parameters of the sperm and status of subfertility do not significantly affect the SSR. SSR is affected by the seasonality, maternal age, and BMI.
基金The project was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 81573490, 81872930, 81473273 and 81673505)Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province of China (BK20161457)and the "333","Six Talent Peaks" and "Cyan Blue" Projects of Jiangsu Province. We thank Hefei Industrial Pharmaceutical Institute Co., Ltd.(Hefei, China) for kindly providing the pyragrel and its two metabolites and the Department of Medicinal Chemistry of China Pharmaceutical University (Nanjing, China) kindly providing the ozagrel-M2.
文摘Cinnamic acid and its analogues (pyragrel and ozagrel) undergo chain-shortened (β-oxidative) and reductive metabolism on acyl side chain. In this study, we characterized the β-oxidative and reductive metabolism on acyl side chain of cinnamic acid and its analogues using primary rat hepatocytes, hepatic mitochondrial, and microsomal systems. A compartmental model including parent compounds and metabolites was developed to characterize in vivo β-oxidative and reductive metabolism following an intravenous dose of parent compounds to rats. The ?tted total in vivo clearance values were further compared with the in vitro values predicted by the well-stirred model. We showed that hepatic microsomal CYP450s did not catalyze β-oxidative or reductive metabolism of the three compounds. Similar to β-oxidation of fatty acids,β-oxidative metabolism on their acyl side chain occurred mainly in mitochondria, which was highly dependent on ATP, CoA and NAD+. Fatty acids and NADH inhibited the β-oxidative metabolism. Reductive metabolism occurred in both mitochondria and microsomes. Reduction in mitochondria was ATP-, CoA-, and NAD(P)H-dependent and reversible, which was suppressed by enoyl reductase inhibitor triclosan. Reduction in microsomes was ATP-, CoA-, and NADPH-dependent but little affected by triclosan. Both plasma concentrations of β-oxidative metabolites and reductive metabolites were successfully ?tted using the compartmental model. The estimated total in vivo clearance values were consistent with those predicted from hepatocytes and organelles, implicating signi?cance of in vitro kinetics. These ?ndings demonstrate the roles of hepatic mitochondria and microsomes in β-oxidative and reductive metabolism on acyl side chain of cinnamic acid and its analogues along with their metabolic characteristics.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China, No. 81360270, 81560357 (both to AY)31670986 (to QTZ)+2 种基金the Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, Ministry of Health, Chinathe Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery of China, No. 17DZ2270500 (to AY)the Science and Technology Project of Guangdong Province of China, No. 2014B020227001, 2017A050501017 (both to QTZ).
文摘The intermingling of regenerated nerve fibers inside nerve grafts is the main reason for mismatched nerve fibers. This is one of the key factors affecting limb function recovery after nerve injury. Previous research has shown that the accuracy of axon regeneration can be improved by a bionic structural implant. To this aim, iodine and freeze-drying high-resolution micro-computed tomography was performed to visualize the 3D topography of the New Zealand rabbit sciatic nerve (25 mm). A series of 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-custom anatomy-based nerve conduits (CANCs) were fabricated based on the anatomical structure of the nerve fascicle. The match index, luminal surface, and mechanical properties of CANCs were evaluated before implanting in a 10-mm gap of the sciatic nerve. Recovery was evaluated by histomorphometric analyses, electrophysiological study, gastrocnemius muscle weight recovery ratio, and behavioral assessments at 12 and 24 weeks postoperatively. The accuracy of nerve regeneration was determined by changes in fluorescence-labeled profile number during simultaneous retrograde tracing. Our results showed that the optimal preprocessing condition for high-resolution micro-computed tomography visualization was treatment of the sciatic nerve with 40% Lugol’s solution for 3 days followed by lyophilization for 2 days. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the match index was highest in the 3-CANC group, followed by the 2-, 1-, and 4-CANC groups. The luminal surface was lowest in the 1-CANC group. Mechanical properties (transverse compressive and bending properties) were higher in the 3- and 4-CANC groups than in the 1-CANC group. In vivo experiments demonstrated that the recovery (morphology of regenerated fibers, compound muscle action potential, gastrocnemius muscle weight recovery ratio, pain-related autotomy behaviors, and range of motion) in the 3-CANC group was superior to the other CANC groups, and achieved the same therapeutic effect as the autograft. The simultaneous retrograde tracing results showed that th
基金This work was supported by grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China (No.2018YFC1002103)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.81601348).
文摘The aim of this study was to determine the association between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level and pregnancy outcomes in euthyroid women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).A total of 1185 women were enrolled in the retrospective study,and 12 studies with a total of 6624 women were included in the meta-analysis (including the data of the present retrospective study).Participants in the retrospective study were divided into two groups in terms of their serum TSH levels:TSH <2.5 mIU/L group (w=830) and TSH >2.5 mIU/L group (h=355).They were monitored for the status of clinical pregnancy or miscarriage.In the TSH <2.5 mIU/L group,441 (53.1%) women achieved clinical pregnancy,while 48 (5.8%) had early pregnancy loss and 12 (1.4%) had ectopic pregnancy.In the TSH >2.5 mIU/ L group,175 (49.3%) women achieved clinical pregnancy,while 21 (5.9%) had early pregnancy loss and 3 (0.8%) had ectopic pregnancy.No significant differences were observed between the two groups in pregnancy outcomes (P=0.126,P=0.512,P=0.297).The meta-analysis also revealed no significant difference in the clinical pregnancy rate and the miscarriage rate between women with serum TSH <2.5 mIU/L and those with serum TSH >2.5 mIU/L.In conclusion,high TSH levels (TSH level >2.5 mIU/L) did not affect clinical pregnancy rate or increase miscarriage rate in euthyroid women undergoing IVF/ICSI.
文摘Functional impairment of mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs),osteoblast progenitor cells,has been proposed to be a pathological mechanism contributing to bone disorders,such as osteoporosis(the most common bone disease)and other rare inherited skeletal dysplasias.Pathological bone loss can be caused not only by an enhanced bone resorption activity but also by hampered osteogenic differentiation of MSCs.The majority of the current treatment options counteract bone loss,and therefore bone fragility by blocking bone resorption.These socalled antiresorptive treatments,in spite of being effective at reducing fracture risk,cannot be administered for extended periods due to security concerns.Therefore,there is a real need to develop osteoanabolic therapies to promote bone formation.Human MSCs emerge as a suitable tool to study the etiology of bone disorders at the cellular level as well as to be used for cell therapy purposes for bone diseases.This review will focus on the most relevant findings using human MSCs as an in vitro cell model to unravel pathological bone mechanisms and the application and outcomes of human MSCs in cell therapy clinical trials for bone disease.
基金supported by the Advanced Research Project of Army Equipment Development (No.301020803)the Key Research and Development Program of Jiangsu (No.BE 2015161)+3 种基金the Young Scientists Fund of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.51605473)the Jiangsu Provincial Research Foundation for Basic Research, China (No.BK 20161476)the Science and Technology Planning Project of Jiangsu Province of China (No.BE 2015029)the Science and Technology Support Program of Jiangsu (Nos.BE 2014009-1, BE 2014009-2 and BE 2016010-3).
文摘Porous metal scaffolds play an important role in the orthopedic field, due to their wide applications in prostheses implantation. Some previous studies showed that the scaffolds with trabecular bone structure reconstructed via computed tomography had satisfactory biocompatibility. However, the reverse modeling scaffolds were inflexible for customized design. Therefore, a top-down designing biomimetic bone scaffold with favorable mechanical performances and cytocompatibility is urgently demanded for orthopedic implants. An emerging additive manufacturing technique, selective laser melting, was employed to fabricate the trabecular-like porous Ti-6Al-4 V scaffolds with varying irregularities(0.05-0.5) and porosities(48.83%–74.28%) designed through a novel Voronoi-Tessellation based method. Micro-computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the scaffolds’ morphology.Quasi-static compression tests were performed to evaluate the scaffolds’ mechanical properties. The MG63 cells culture in vitro experiments, including adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, were conducted to study the cytocompatibility of scaffolds. Compressive tests of scaffolds revealed an apparent elastic modulus range of 1.93–5.24 GPa and an ultimate strength ranging within 44.9–237.5 MPa, which were influenced by irregularity and porosity, and improved by heat treatment. Furthermore, the in vitro assay suggested that the original surface of the SLM-fabricated scaffolds was favorable for osteoblasts adhesion and migration because of micro scale pores and ravines. The trabecular-like porous scaffolds with full irregularity and higher porosity exhibited enhanced cells proliferation and osteoblast differentiation at earlier time, due to their preferable combination of small and large pores with various shapes. This study suggested that selective laser melting-derived Ti-6Al-4 V scaffold with the trabecular-like porous structure designed through Voronoi-Tessellation method, favorable mechanical performanc
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81401177)Guangdong Province Natural Science Foundation(No.2015A030313286)Milstein Medical Asian American Partnership Foundation Fellowship Award in Reproductive Medicine,Nanfang Hospital High-level Project Matching Funds(No.G2014005).
文摘This observational study included 21 patients at remarkably high risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome(OHSS),characterized by more than 30 follicles measuring≥11 mm in diameter on trigger day and/or pre-trigger peak estradiol exceeding 10 000 pg/mL.which was also the feature of women with established severe early OHSS followed by gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist(GnRHa)trigger and freeze-all policy that previously have been reported.All patients received a second dose of GnRHa 12 h after the first GnRHa trigger combined with administration of GnRH antagonist at 0.25 mg/day for a period of 3 days from the day of oocyte retrieval onwards.The in vitro fertilization(IVF)outcomes may be preferable compared with a bolus of GnRHa trigger and none of the included patients developed moderate-to-severe OHSS.Moreover,patients'symptoms,reproductive honnone levels and ultrasound findings were improved significantly.This new strategy seems to be efficacious and could be a further supplement of GnRHa trigger with or without applying freeze-all strategy to completely prevent early-onset moderate to severe OHSS,especially for the patients characterized by≥30 follicles measuring≥11 mm in diameter on trigger day and/or pre-trigger peak estradiol exceeding 10 000 pg/mL.Further studies should be performed to compare this regimen with conventional methods of OHSS prevention.
文摘Objective: The study examines the effect of the hydro-alcoholic extract of Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume bark on crystallization of calcium oxalate. Methods: The antilithiatic effect of various concentrations of the hydro-alcoholic extract of C. zeylanicum was investigated at various stages of stone formation, using Cystone as a stan da rd refere nee drug. The effect on calcium oxalate crystallization was evaluated by measuring the change in turbidity over time, during crystal nucleation, growth and aggregation, in the metastable solution of calcium chloride and sodium oxalate. The slope from the change in turbidity over time was measured using a spectrophotometer at 620 and 214 nm in respective tests. The inhibition rate was estimated by comparing turbidity in the presence and absence of extract. Crystals formed under experimental conditions were observed under a light microscope, and number and shape of the crystals were assessed in a randomly selected field. Phytochemical analysis and high-performance thin-layer chromatography of the extract was also carried out. Results: C. zeylanicum significantly reduced crystal nucleation at concentrations of 4, 8 and 10 mg/mL (P< 0.001). The inhibition percentage of crystal growth was between 28.30% and 92.46% in the presence of C. zeylanicum extract and from 20.76% to 64.15% with various concentrations of Cystone. The maximum inhibition of crystal growth was obtained from C. zeylanicum at 2 mg/mL (92.46%). Microscopic examination revealed a reduction in the number and size of crystals. In the aggregation assay, the inhibition percentage of C. zeylanicum was between 16.27% and 100%, while Cystone was from -214.68% to 100% at different concentrations. The highest (100%) inhibition of aggregation was found at 4 mg/mL of both the test and standard drugs. Conclusion: We found that C. zeylanicum hydro-alcoholic extract has notable inhibitory effects on various stages of crystallization, in terms of turbidity of solution, as well as the crystal size, number and morphology.
文摘Objective: To determine the effect of preparation to play a maternal role in mothers fertilized through in vitro fertilization on maternal anxiety. Methods: A total of 60 mothers undergoing in vitro fertilization were assigned into intervention group and control group. Pregnancy concerns and stress questionnaires were research tools. Questionnaires were completed in both groups before organizing preparation program. Then, the preparation program was held for four sessions for the mothers in the intervention group, and the subjects in both groups were immediately investigated again after completion of preparation program and one month later. Data analyses about pregnancy stress and concerns of mothers and its dimensions were performed by repeated measure (analysis of variance), Mann-Whitney, Friedman and Wilcoxon tests. Analysis of demographic variables was performed by using independent t-test and Chi-square test in SPSS 21. Results: The score of pregnancy stress and concerns before the intervention was not significantly different between the two groups. There was a significant difference in the intervention group in the score of pregnancy stress and concerns before and after the intervention (P<0.001), before and one month after the intervention (P<0.001), immediately after and one month after the intervention (P<0.001) which was not significant in the control group. Conclusions: Maternal preparation program can be effective in reducing maternal stress and concerns.
基金a grant from the National Key Research and Development Program of China (No. 2017YFC1001200).
文摘Background: Estradiol, as an important hormone in follicular development and endometrial receptivity, is closely related to clinical outcomes of fresh in vitro fertilization embryo transfer (IVF-ET) cycles. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the association between elevated serum estradiol (E2) levels on the day of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) administration and IVF-ET pregnancy and birth outcomes. Methods: A total of 1771 infertile patients with their first fresh IVF-ET cycles were analyzed retrospectively between January 2011 and January 2016 in Peking University First Hospital. Patients were categorized by serum E2 levels on the day of hCG administration into six groups: group 1 (serum E2 levels < 1000 pg/mL, n = 205), group 2 (serum E2 levels 1001-2000 pg/mL, n = 457), group 3 (serum E2 levels 2001-3000 pg/mL, n = 425), group 4 (serum E2 levels 3001-4000 pg/mL, n = 310), group 5 (serum E2 levels 4001- 5000 pg/mL, n = 237), and group 6 (serum E2 levels > 5000 pg/mL, n — 137). The retrieved oocyte and Mil oocyte numbers and implantation and clinical pregnancy rates of the groups were compared as the first objective of the study. For the 360 women with singleton births among all patients, the area under the corresponding receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) was calculated to assess the predictive value of the E2 change for the probability of low birth weight (LBW) infants as the second objective. Results: The retrieved oocyte and Mil oocyte numbers and implantation and clinical pregnancy rates gradually increased from groups 1 to 5 but decreased in group 6. The parameters of group 1 were statistically worse than those of the other groups, from group 2 to group 6 (the number of retrieved oocytes, t = 13.096, t = 23.307, t = 23.086, t = 26.376, t = 19.636, P < 0.003;the number of retrieved Mil oocytes, t = 10.856, t = 20.868, t = 21.874, t = 23.374, t = 19.092, P < 0.003;the implantation rate,χ^2= 12.179,χ^2= 22.239,χ^2= 23.993,χ^2= 23.344,χ^2= 16.758, P < 0.003;the cl
文摘During in vitro replication of DNA by DNA Polymerase,The diverse palindromic StructuresOn templates of DNA can lead to replication jumping and cause fragments to be missing from daughter strands.We recorded replication jumping in which a 564 bp fragment was missing from daughter DNA.The original template was a 1126 bp fragment of the introduction of the temporary gene of black-spotted frog(Pelophylax nigromaculatus).The replication jump was recorded after amplifica-tion of this template using polymerase chainREaction,Closing Using Vector,And sequencing using the Sanger Method.The replication jump was elevated to rise from this series of events.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81430102(to QGW).
文摘Calculus bovis is commonly used for the treatment of stroke in traditional Chinese medicine. Hyodeoxycholic acid(HDCA) is a bioactive compound extracted from calculus bovis. When combined with cholic acid, baicalin and jas-minoidin, HDCA prevents hypoxia-reoxygenation-induced brain injury by suppressing endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptotic signaling. However, the effects of HDCA in ischemic stroke injury have not yet been studied. Neurovascular unit(NVU) dysfunction occurs in ischemic stroke. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of HDCA on the NVU under ischemic conditions in vitro. We co-cultured primary brain microvascular endothelial cells, neurons and astrocytes using a transwell chamber co-culture system. The NVU was pre-treated with 10.16 or 2.54 μg/mL HDCA for 24 hours before exposure to oxygen-glucose deprivation for 1 hour. The cell counting kit-8 assay was used to detect cell activity. Flow cytometry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling were used to assess apoptosis. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1β, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, and neurotrophic factors, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor. Oxidative stress-related factors, such as superoxide dismutase, nitric oxide, malondialdehyde and γ-glutamyltransferase, were measured using kits. Pretreatment with HDCA significantly decreased blood-brain barrier permeability and neuronal apoptosis, significantly increased transendothelial electrical resistance and γ-glutamyltransferase activity, attenuated oxidative stress damage and the release of inflammatory cytokines, and increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor expression. Our findings suggest that HDCA maintains NVU morphological integrity and function by modulating inflammation, oxidation stress, apoptosis, and the expression o
文摘Mesenchymal stem cells are undifferentiated cells able to acquire different phenotypes under specific stimuli. In vitro manipulation of these cells is focused on understanding stem cell behavior, proliferation and pluripotency. Latest advances in the field of stem cells concern epigenetics and its role in maintaining self-renewal and differentiation capabilities. Chemical and physical stimuli can modulate cell commitment, acting on gene expression of Oct-4, Sox-2 and Nanog, the main stemness markers, and tissue-lineage specific genes. This activation or repression is related to the activity of chromatin-remodeling factors and epigenetic regulators, new targets of many cell therapies. The aim of this review is to afford a view of the current state of in vitro and in vivo stem cell applications, highlighting the strategies used to influence stem cell commitment for current and future cell therapies. Identifying the molecular mechanisms controlling stem cell fate could open up novel strategies for tissue repairing processes and other clinical applications.