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Background: Lipid metabolism plays important roles in the whole process of pregnancy. Previous studies have demonstrated abnormalities of lipid metabolism in the placentas of pregnancies obtained by assisted reproductive technology (ART). Therefore, we hypothesized that ART micromanipulation may affect lipid metabolism in offspring, and focused on the fatty acid metabolism in ART male offspring in this study., Methods: The fatty acid metabolism in the liver, adipose tissue and testis was detected. The comparison between naturally conceived (NC), controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH), in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) mice was made to analyze the effect of ART on offspring. The mice models in this study included two age groups: adult group and old group. The fatty acid composition and the expression of lipid metabolism-related genes were analyzed by GC-MS and qRT-PCR., Results: The fatty acid composition in the liver and adipose tissue were significantly altered in ART mice, but no significant difference was found in the testis. In adipose tissue, ART mice showed decreased monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and increased polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in both adult and old mice, while the alteration of saturated fatty acids (SFAs) in the adult disappeared in the old. In liver, the changes were much complex in adult mice, while increased MUFAs and decreased PUFAs were found in ART old mice. The activities of fatty acid metabolism-related enzymes and the expression of lipogenic and lipolytic proteins changed in ART groups, with the adult mice and old mice showing inconsistent alterations. Further analysis indicated that SFAs was closely associated with the alterations of fatty acid metabolism-related enzyme activities and the expression of lipogenic and lipolytic proteins. Furthermore, we also found that the effect of separated ART treatments on fatty acid metabolism varied with different ages and tissues., Conclusions: ART treatments had effect on the fatty acid composition in adipose tissue and liver of male mice. The alteration of SFAs content was crucial for the regulation of fatty acid composition. These changes might have potential effects on the health of ART male offspring which need further investigation.

Objective: To investigate the genetic feature of Schnyder corneal dystrophy identified in a four-generation Chinese family., Method: Ophthalmologic examinations were performed in 3 affected members and 2 unaffected members of a family with Schnyder corneal dystrophy and controls. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood. The coding regions, 3'UTR and 5'UTR of UBIAD1 gene from all samples were screened by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and direct DNA sequencing using the primers designed according to the sequence of UBIAD1, and comparatively analyzed with data from Genebank., Result: The family has 15 members over 4 generations with similar signs and symptoms among proband and affected members. All affected members of the family demonstrated central discoid crystalline deposition with arcus lipoide. Confocal microscopy examination showed multiple depositions of crystalline materials in anterior stroma. OCT showed the high reflective material localized within the anterior stroma. A missense mutation c.305A > G in 1 exon of UBIAD1 gene resulting in a substitution of Asparagine to Serine at codon 102 (p.Asn102Ser) was found in all affected members of the family who were clinically diagnosed as Schnyder corneal dystrophy while not in the unaffected members of the family and controls., Conclusion: The missense mutation c.305A > G(p.Asn102Ser) of UBIAD1 gene may cause the disease of the family. Gene screen can assist clinicians in making definitive diagnosis, presymptomatic diagnosis and prenatal diagnosis.

Objective: To analysis the clinical characteristics of corneal interface fluid syndrome (IFS)., Methods: This is a retrospective study. During Jun. 2007 to Oct. 2011. Eight cases (12 eyes) of IFS were diagnosed at Henan Eye Institute. The history and complete ophthalmic examination that include Slit-lamp examination, Slit-lamp photography, IOP, anterior segment OCT (AS-OCT), confocal microscopic exams were recorded., Results: In total 8 cases (12 eyes), 4 cases were bilateral, 4 cases were unilateral. Six patients were male and 2 were female. The age of the patients ranged from 19 to 35 years. Post-lasik steroid-induced elevated IOP was 4 eyes in 2 patients. Primary open angle glaucoma was 4 eyes in 2 patients. 1 patient (1 eye) was Posner-Shlossman syndrome, 1 patient (1 eye) was pigmented glaucoma, 1 patient (1 eye) was post-lasik traumatic iritis. 1 patient (1 eye) got IFS after repeated flap reposition because of epithelium ingrowth. Slit-lamp exam indicated edematous corneal, lamellar haze, interface fluids accumulation. AS-OCT showed obvious interface dark area. Confocal microscopy exam showed edematous corneal flap, more oval and large keratocytes' nuclei but no inflammatory cells., Conclusions: IFS is a rare but serious complication after LASIK. The main causes are high intraocular pressure and/or dysfunction of corneal endothelium. Careful exam by slit-lamp may help diagnosis, and further AS-OCT and/or in vivo confocal microscopy exam will confirm it.

Five new Mn(II) coordination polymers, namely [Mn(2)(tbip)(2)(bix)] (1), [Mn(3)(tbip)(3)(bix)(2)] (2), [Mn(3)(tbip)(2)(Htbip)(2)(bib)(2)]·4H(2)O (3), [Mn(4)(tbip)(4)(bbp)(2)(H(2)O)(2)] (4), and [Mn(4)(tbip)(4)(bip)]·2H(2)O (5), were prepared by hydrothermal reactions of Mn(II) acetate with H(2)tbip (5-tert-butyl isophthalic acid) in the presence of different di-imidazolyl coligands (bix =1,4-bis(imidazol-1-ylmethyl)benzene, bib =1,4-bis(imidazol) butane, bbp =1,3-bis(benzimidazol)propane, bip =1,3-bis(imidazol)propane). All complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectra, thermogravimetric analysis, single-crystal X-ray crystallography, and powder X-ray diffraction. Single crystal X-ray studies show that these coordination polymers contain homometallic clusters varying from dimeric, trimeric, and tetrameric motifs to polymeric chains depending upon the coligands used. Complex 1 has a 3D 6-connected polycatenane network with dinuclear [Mn(2)O(2)] secondary building units. Complex 2 possesses a 3D 8-connected structure with trinuclear [Mn(3)(COO)(6)] units. Complex 3 shows a 3D pcu net based on trinuclear [Mn(3)(COO)(6)] clusters as nodes. Complex 4 features a 3D 8-connected structure constructed from the distorted square-grid tetranuclear [Mn(4)(μ(2)-COO)(8)(μ(2)-H(2)O)] units. Complex 5 shows a 3D (4,5,6)-connected net containing 1D μ-O/μ-COO alternately bridged chains. Magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate that complexes 1 and 3-5 show weak antiferromagnetic interactions between the adjacent Mn(II) ions, whereas 2 is a three-spin center homometallic ferromagnetic system.

Objective: To analyze the changes of ocular bacterial isolates and their susceptibility to ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, levofloxacin, gatifloxacin and tobramycin in Henan Province in the past six years., Methods: Retrospective study of ocular bacterial isolates and their in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility test results of Henan Eye Institute in the past six years., Results: A total of 2044 bacterial isolates were classified into 39 kinds in the past six years, which were mainly from the conjunctival sac. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most common, followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. All kinds of the ocular bacteria had the highest susceptibility to gatifloxacin (92.3%) among the tested drugs. Rods were more sensitive to quinolone drugs than cocci and gram-positive rods were more sensitive to tobramycin than the other types of germs. The drug's susceptibility of the four kinds of quinolone except ciprofloxacin decreased year by year with a decreasing ladder fashion every two years in the susceptibility change of levofloxacin in the past six years, while the susceptibility of tobramycin increased slowly from 2004 to 2008 and then decreased. Staphylococcus epidermidis susceptibility to every drug had the similar trend with the general changes in the past six years, that is, their susceptibility to ofloxacin decreased significantly since 2008, their susceptibility to gatifloxacin and tobramycin reduced significantly in 2009. Although Pseudomonas aeruginosa susceptibility to all the drugs had no significant change, for all gram-negative rods, their susceptibility to the four kinds of quinolone drugs were higher than their susceptibility to tobramycin while their susceptibility to levofloxacin and gatifloxacin reduced significantly as time passed by, especially from the year 2008 to 2009., Conclusions: The most common ocular bacterial isolates were Staphylococcus epidermidis, followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Ocular bacterial isolates' susceptibility to gatifloxacin in vitro was significantly higher than to other drugs in every year but decreased significantly in 2009 while their susceptibility to ofloxacin and levofloxacin decreased significantly since 2008. Their susceptibility to tobramycin increased slowly from 2004 to 2008 and then decreased.

Objective: The microbial culturing results were analysed from samples of the microkeratome blade and sponges in laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) procedures as for crossing the rational antibiotic eye drops for preventing infectious keratitis., Method: In this prospective study, 106 microkeratome blades and 212 sponges were cultured in routine LASIK procedure, at Excimer laser center in Henan Eye Institute During March to April 2009. Positive cultures were then sent for routine sensitivities and the results were analysed., Results: 8 of the 106 blades were culturing positive, the positive rate was 7.55%. Each four positive cultures were in male and female patients. There was no statistical difference with gender (P = 1.000). 23 of the 212 sponges cultures were positive. The positive rate was 10.38%. All positive cultures grew Staphylococcus epidermidis. Twelve sponge positive cultures were in right eye and 11 were in left eye. There was no statistical difference between the right eye and left eye (P = 0.825). All of the 31 positive cultures were sensitive to gatifloxacin. The sensitivity of gatifloxacin, tobramycin, levofloxacin, ofloxacin, and ciprofloxacin were 100.00%, 96.77% (30/31), 93.55% (29/31), 90.32% (28/31) and 74.20% (23/31) respectively. All the patients have no infectious keratitis followed-up more then 6 monthes., Conclusion: There could be positive cultures from samples of the microkeratome blade and sponges in routine LASIK procedures but no patients with positive cultures developed postoperative infectious keratitis. The main positive bacteria was Staphylococcus epidermidis. They are sensitive to third and the fourth-generation fluoroquinolones and tobramycin antibiotics. Pre and post-operative supply of sensitive antibiotics can prevent post-operative infection.

Small RNA-mediated RNA silencing is a widespread antiviral mechanism in plants and other organisms. Many viruses encode suppressors of RNA silencing for counter-defense. The p126 protein encoded by Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) has been reported to be a suppressor of RNA silencing but the mechanism of its function remains unclear. This protein is unique among the known plant viral silencing suppressors because of its large size and multiple domains. Here, we report that the methyltransferase, helicase, and nonconserved region II (NONII) of p126 each has silencing-suppressor function. The silencing-suppression activities of methyltransferase and helicase can be uncoupled from their enzyme activities. Specific amino acids in NONII previously shown to be crucial for viral accumulation and symptom development are also crucial for silencing suppression. These results suggest that some viral proteins have evolved to possess modular structural domains that can independently interfere with host silencing, and that this may be an effective mechanism of increasing the robustness of a virus.

Investigation and numerical simulation, based on RT3D (reactive transport in 3-dimensions)were used to identify the source of tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and trichloroethylene (TCE) in the groundwater of a city in the north of China and reverse the input intensity. Multiple regressions were applied to analyze the influenced factors of input intensity of PCE and TCE using Stepwise function in Matlab. The results indicate that the factories and industries are the source of the PCE and TCE in groundwater. Natural attenuation was identified and the natural attenuation rates are 93.15%, 61.70% and 61.00% for PCE, and 70.05%, 73.66% and 63.66% for TCE in 173 days. The 4 source points identified by the simulation have released 0.910 6 kg PCE and 95.693 8 kg TCE during the simulation period. The regression analysis results indicate that local precipitation and the thickness of vadose zone are the main factors influencing organic solution transporting from surface to groundwater. The PCE and TCE concentration are found to be 0 and 5 mg x kg(-1) from surface to 35 cm in vadose zone. All above results suggest that PCE and TCE in groundwater are from the source in the surface. Natural attenuation occurred when PCE and TCE transporting from the surface to groundwater, and the rest was transported to groundwater through vadose zone. Local precipitation was one of the critical factors influencing the transportation of PCE and TCE to aquifer through sand, pebble and gravel of the Quaternary.

Two novel 3-D coordination polymers with different Cu(II) subunits as nodes and mixed bridging ligands as linkers, namely [Cu(5)(μ(3)-OH)(2)(1,3-bip)(2)(CH(3)O-ip)(4)](n) (1) and {[Cu(4)(1,3-btp)(2)(CH(3)O-p)(4)(H(2)O)(2)]·2H(2)O}(n) (2) (CH(3)O-H(2)ip = 5-methoxyisophthalate, 1,3-bip = 1,3-bis(imidazol)propane, 1,3-btp = 1,3-bis(1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)propane), were prepared under hydrothermal conditions. Complex 1 exhibits a CsCl-type network with [Cu(5)(μ(3)-OH)(2)](8+) clusters acting as nodes, which represents the first 3-D network based on pentanuclear Cu(II) clusters. Complex 2 features a 3-D pillared-layer network with (4,6)-connected (4(4).6(2))(4(4).6(8).8(3))-fsc topology, which is a rare example of homometallic coordination polymers constructed by alternate binuclear metal clusters and single metal centres. Variable-temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements show dominant ferromagnetic interactions in the pentanuclear clusters of 1 and strong antiferromagnetic interactions in the dinuclear paddle-wheel units of 2.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the osteogenic response of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) under mechanical and/or chemical stimulation. hASCs were divided into three groups. In group A, the cells were cultured without any stimulation, in group B, the cells were induced with chemical stimulation, and in group C, the cells were induced with a combination of chemical stimulation and stretch loading. Stretch loading and chemical stimulation were applied using a four-point bending apparatus (0.5 Hz, 2,000 µε, 2 h/day) and osteogenic differentiation medium, respectively. At the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 7th day following initiation of stretch loading, we detected alkaline phosphatase activity, mRNA expression (RUNX2, ALPL, osteonectin, osteopontin and type I collagen) and protein expression (RUNX2 and osteopontin) by colorimetric assay, real-time PCR and Western blot methods, respectively. Alkaline phosphatase activity, mRNA expression and protein expression all increased in groups B and C along with the culture time, but were observed to be downregulated by the 7th day in group C (p < 0.05). Compared to group A, most of the above markers were significantly higher in groups B and C (p < 0.05). All of the above markers in group C were higher than those in group B before the 5th day (p < 0.05), except at the 1st day. These results indicated that stretch loading promoted osteogenic differentiation of hASCs and that the combination of mechanical and chemical stimulation could enhance the osteogenic capability up to the 5th day relative to chemical stimulation alone., (Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Background: Spontaneous and stress-induced germ cell apoptosis during spermatogenesis of multicellular organisms have been investigated broadly in mammals. Spermatogenetic process in urodele amphibians was essentially like that in mammals in spite of morphological differences; however, the mechanism of germ cell apoptosis in urodele amphibians remains unknown. The Chinese fire-belly newt, Cynops orientalis, was an excellent organism for studying germ cell apoptosis due to its sensitiveness to temperature, strong endurance of starvation, and sensitive skin to heavy metal exposure., Methodology/principal Findings: TUNEL result showed that spontaneous germ cell apoptosis took place in normal newt, and severe stress-induced apoptosis occurred to spermatids and sperm in response to heat shock (40°C 2 h), cold exposure (4°C 12 h), cadmium exposure (Cd 36 h), and starvation stress. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reactions (qRT-PCR) showed that gene expression of Caspase3 or Caspase7 was obviously elevated after stress treatment. Apaf1 was not altered at its gene expression level, and p53 was significantly decreased after various stress treatment. Caspase assay demonstrated that Caspase-3, -8, -9 enzyme activities in newt testis were significantly elevated after heat shock (40°C 2 h), cold exposure (4°C 12 h), and cadmium exposure (Cd 36 h), while Caspase3 and Caspase8 activities were increased with Caspase9 significantly decreased after starvation treatment., Conclusions/significance: Severe germ cell apoptosis triggered by heat shock, cold exposure, and cadmium exposure was Caspase3 dependent, which probably involved both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways. Apaf1 may be involved in this process without elevating its gene expression. But starvation-induced germ cell apoptosis was likely mainly through extrinsic pathway. p53 was probably not responsible for stress-induced germ cell apoptosis in newt testis. The intriguing high occurrence of spermatid and sperm apoptosis probably resulted from the sperm morphology and unique reproduction policy of Chinese fire-belly newt, Cynops orientalis.

The craniomaxillofacial defect and deformity always leads to serious dysfunction in mastication and facial contour damage, significantly reducing patients' quality of life. However, surgical reconstruction of a craniomaxillofacial hard tissue defect or deformity is extremely complex and often does not result in desired facial morphology. Improving the result for patients with craniomaxillofacial defect and deformity remains a challenge for surgeons. Using digital technology for surgical diagnosis and treatment may help solve this problem. Computer-assisted surgical technology and surgical navigation technology are included in the accurate digital diagnosis and treatment system we propose. These technologies will increase the accuracy of the design of the operation plan. In addition, the intraoperative real-time navigating location system controlling the robotic arm or advanced intelligent robot will provide accurate, individualized surgical treatment for patients. Here we propose the hypothesis that a digital surgical diagnosis and treatment technology may provide a new approach for precise surgical reconstruction of complicated craniomaxillofacial defect and deformity. Our hypothesis involves modern digital surgery, a three-dimensional navigation surgery system and modern digital imaging technology, and our key aim is to establish a technological platform for customized digital surgical design and surgical navigation for craniomaxillofacial defect and deformity. If the hypothesis is proven practical, this novel therapeutic approach could improve the result of surgical reconstruction for craniomaxillofacial defect and deformity for many patients., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

An association between assisted reproductive technology (ART) and neurobehavioral imprinting disorders has been reported in many studies, and it seems that ART may interfere with imprint reprogramming. However, it has never been explored whether epigenetic errors or imprinting disease susceptibility induced by ART can be inherited transgenerationally. Hence, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) on transgenerational inheritance in an inbred mouse model. Mice derived from IVF-ET were outcrossed to wild-type C57BL/6J to obtain their female and male line F2 and F3 generations. Their behavior, morphology, histology, and DNA methylation status at several important differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were analyzed by Morris water maze, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, and bisulfite genomic sequencing. No significant differences in spatial learning or phenotypic abnormality were found in adults derived from IVF (F1) and female and male line F2 and F3 generations. A borderline trend of hypomethylation was found in H19 DMR CpG island 3 in the female line-derived F3 generation (0.40±0.118, P=0.086). Methylation status in H19/Igf2 DMR island 1, Igf2 DMR, KvDMR, and Snrpn DMR displayed normal patterns. Methylation percentage did not differ significantly from that of adults conceived naturally, and the expression of the genes they regulated was not disturbed. Transgenerational integrity, such as behavior, morphology, histology, and DNA methylation status, was maintained in these generations, which indicates that exposure of female germ cells to hormonal stimulation and gamete manipulation might not affect the individuals and their descendents.

An efficient 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition method was performed for the synthesis of a series of monofluoro- and trifluoromethane-3,5-disubstituted 1,2,4-triazoles. This efficient cycloaddition method was to react hydrazonoyl hydrochlorides with a series of aldehydes in the presence of NEt(3) as catalytic basic agent to provide the corresponding product in 28-94%. Their growth inhibitory results against cancer cells indicated that some of the fluorine- and trifluoromethane-containing compounds could effectively inhibit the growth of NCI-H226 and T-cell leukemia (Jurkat) cells. Among the compounds, trifluoromethane-containing 1,2,4-triazoles possessed the five-membered ring groups on the C-5 position of the triazolic ring, including cyclopentyl, 3-furyl, 3-thienyl, and 2-pyrrolyl, possessed the significant inhibitory activity for NCI-H226 cancer cells., (Crown Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To compare the wavefront characteristics of normal and keratoconus eyes with and without rigid gas-permeable contact lens (RGPCL), and to evaluate the visual quality in keratoconus eyes corrected by RGPCL., Methods: Retrospective study. Higher order aberrations (HOAs) of 90 eyes in 56 keratoconus patients and 30 eyes of 17 subjects with refractive errors were quantified with a Bausch&Lomb Zywave Wavefront Analyzer. The keratoconus eyes were divided into mild (28 eyes), moderate (33 eyes) and severe (29 eyes) groups. Zernike's polynomial was used to describe the wavefront measurements. Root mean square (RMS) values of the total HOAs, S3, S4, S5, total coma (T. Coma) and total spherical aberrations (T. Sph) were obtained in the same eye with and without contact lenses. We used paired sample t-test and independent-samples t-test to analyze the data., Results: Mean RMS values for High (F = 72.12, P(1) = 0.00), S3 (F = 68.15, P = 0.00), S4 (F = 24.95, P(1) = 0.00), T. Coma (F = 44.67, P = 0.00), T. Sph (F = 28.90, P = 0.01) increased significantly from mild to sever keratoconus eyes RMS values of the total HOAs (t = 4.83), S3 (t = 4.39), total coma (t = 3.71) of refractive error eyes decreased significantly after fitting with RGPCL (P < 0.05). RMS values of the total HOAs (t = 8.27), S3 (t = 8.14), S4 (t = 2.29), total coma (t = 4.38) of mild keratoconus eyes decreased significantly after fitting with RGPCL (P < 0.05) RMS values of the total HOAs (t = 8.03), S3 (t = 7.22), s4 (t = 4.38), S5 (t = 4.53), total coma (t = 5.26) and total spherical (t = 2.77) of moderate keratoconus eyes decreased significantly after fitting with RGPCL (P < 0.05). Every high front-wave aberration of mild keratoconus eyes decreased to refractive error eyes'level after RGPCL fitting. Moderate (t(HOAs) = 0.63, t(s3) = 0.31, t(s4) = 1.70, t(s5) = 0.95, t(coma) = 0.06, t(spherical) = 1.99) and sever keratoconus eyes' higher order aberrations decreased significantly after RGPCL fitting (t(HOAs) = 7.50, t(s3) = 5.25, t(s4) = 5.50, t(s5) = 3.02, t(coma) = 5.90, t(spherical) = 4.60), but they still degrade compared with refractive error eyes (P < 0.05)., Conclusions: RGPCL could reduce high aberrations and improve optical quality in keratoconus eyes. But the visual performance in moderate and severe keratoconus eyes with a RGPCLs is still poorer than that of normal eyes even if the corrected visual acuity is good.

It is known that estrogen promotes the proliferation of breast cancer cells. Agonists to P2Y(2) receptors promote or suppress proliferation in different cancers. In the present study, the methods of methylthiazoltetrazolium (MTT) assay, real-time RT-PCR, Western blot and fluorescent calcium imaging analysis were used to investigate whether P2Y(2) receptors play a role in the effects of estrogen on the breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. We found that P2Y(2) receptors were expressed in both the estrogen receptor alpha (ER(α))-positive breast cancer cell line MCF-7 and the ER(α)-negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. 17β-Estradiol (17β-E(2)) (1 pM to 1000 nM) promoted proliferation of MCF-7 cells, which was blocked by the ER antagonist ICI 182,780 (1 μM) and the ER(α) antagonist methyl-piperidino-pyrazole (MPP, 50 μM), but not by the ER(β) antagonist 4-[2-phenyl-5,7-bis(trifluoromethyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl]phenol (PHTPP, 50 μM) or ER(β) small interfering RNA. The P2Y(2) and P2Y(4) receptor agonist UTP (10-100 μM) suppressed the viability of breast cancer cells in both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. The effect was blocked by suramin (10-100 μM), known to be an effective antagonist against P2Y(2), but not P2Y(4), receptor-mediated responses. 17β-E(2) played a more positive role in promoting proliferation in MCF-7 cells when suramin blocked the functional P2Y(2) receptors. 17β-E(2) (0.1-1000 nM) downregulated the expression of P2Y(2) receptors in terms of both mRNA and protein levels in MCF-7 cells. The effect was blocked by ICI 182,780 and MPP, but not PHTPP or ER(β) small interfering RNA. 17β-E(2) did not affect the expression of P2Y(2) receptors in MDA-MB-231. UTP (10-100 μM) led to a sharp increase in intracellular Ca(2+) in MCF-7 cells. Pre-incubation with 17β-E(2) (0.1 μM) attenuated UTP-induced [Ca(2+)](i), which was blocked by ICI182,780 and MPP, but not PHTPP. It is suggested that estrogen, via ER(α) receptors, promotes proliferation of breast cancer cells by down-regulating P2Y(2) receptor expression and attenuating P2Y(2)-induced increase of [Ca(2+)](i)., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To research the clinical features and in vivo confocal microscopic findings of posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy (PPCD)., Methods: It was a retrospective consecutive case study. Ten patients with PPCD, attended at Optometry Department of Henan Eye Institute from March 2007 to August 2009, were analyzed. All the subjects were examined by slit-lamp, OrbscanII, specular microscopy, HRT3/RCM confocal microscopy. Mann-Whitney U test was used to analysis the data., Results: The age of the patients ranged from 8 to 35 years. Seven eyes of the 4 patients have the vesicular lesions, five eyes of the 5 patients were band lesions and 1 patient had bilateral diffused opacities, this patient also had iridocorneal adhesions with associated papillary ectropion but without glaucoma. In total, 14 eyes of the 10 patients had PPCD. Two eyes had abnormal OrbscanII topography, it showed both anterior and posterior surface protrusion. Specular microscopy exam indicated large cells in size and reduced endothelium density. The mean size of the affected eye was 584 µm(2), the normal eye was 316 µm(2). The difference was statistically significant (U = 0.000, P = 0.002). The density of the endothelium was 1746 cells/mm(2) in affected eye and 3201 cells/mm(2) in normal eye. The difference was also statistically significant (U = 0.000, P = 0.002). In vivo confocal microscopy showed endothelial polymorphism. Occasional bright endothelial nuclei were seen. A variety of curvilinear and vesicular abnormalities were imaged including orange or finger like lesion, round or oval dark area with hyper reflectivity border. Some large lesions may lose endothelium with rough surface have a dike appearance., Conclusions: Careful exam by slit-lamp may help to diagnose PPCD and further specular microscopy and(or) in vivo confocal microscopy exam will confirm it. Some cases may have abnormal topography, or associated with high intraocular pressure.

Hydrothermal reactions of mixed ligands 5-methoxyisophthalate (CH(3)O-H(2)ip) and dipyridyl with Cu(OAc)(2).2H(2)O afford five new coordination polymers, including {[Cu(CH(3)O-ip)(bpa)].H(2)O}(n) (1), [Cu(2)(CH(3)O-ip)(2)(bpa)(0.5)(H(2)O)](n) (2), [Cu(2)(CH(3)O-ip)(2)(bpp)(H(2)O)](n) (3), {[Cu(3)(CH(3)O-ip)(3)(bpp)(2)(H(2)O)].3H(2)O}(n) (4) and [Cu(4)(CH(3)O-ip)(3)(bpe)(OH)(2)](n) (5) (bpp = 1,3-di(4-pyridyl)propane, bpa = 1,2-bi(4-pyridyl)ethane, and bpe = 1,2-di(4-pyridyl)ethylene). Compound 1 consists of CH(3)O-ip anion-bridged 1D Cu(II) chains that are linked by trans-bpa into a 2D layer. Compound 2 is a 2D (4,4) layer that is connected by CH(3)O-ip anions. The gauche bpa in 2 lies in the cavity and meets the coordination requirement of the paddle-wheel dimeric copper unit. Compound 3 is an extended 3D polythreading network consisting of 2D (4,4) motifs with dangling bpp lateral arms. Compound 4 exhibits a 3D (4,6)-connected self-penetrating (6(5).8)(6(14).8) network that is composed of binuclear and mononuclear metal nodes. Compound 5 exhibits a 3D network with the tetranuclear [Cu(4)(mu(3)-OH)(2)](6+) cluster acting as nodes, which is constructed by the interconnection of 2D helical layers via bpe pillars. The results of magnetic determination show that the syn-anti carboxylato bridges in our cases induce a weak antiferromagnetic interaction in 1, and the syn-syn carboxylato bridge in 3 and 4 mediates a strong antiferromagnetic interaction.

Two unprecedented 2D coordination polymers with 4- and 6-connected topological nets, arising from the different linkages of two adjacent 4(4) layers, were prepared from Co(II), 1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane, and different isophthalate tectons.

Oocyte quality has long been considered as a main limiting factor for in vitro fertilization (IVF). In the past decade, extensive observations demonstrated that the mitochondrion plays a vital role in the oocyte cytoplasm, for it can provide adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for fertilization and preimplantation embryo development and also act as stores of intracellular calcium and proapoptotic factors. During the oocyte maturation, mitochondria are characterized by distinct changes of their distribution pattern from being homogeneous to heterogeneous, which is correlated with the cumulus apoptosis. Oocyte quality decreases with the increasing maternal age. Recent studies have shown that low quality oocytes have some age-related dysfunctions, which include the decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, increase of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damages, chromosomal aneuploidies, the incidence of apoptosis, and changes in mitochondrial gene expression. All these dysfunctions may cause a high level of developmental retardation and arrest of preimplantation embryos. It has been suggested that these mitochondrial changes may arise from excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) that is closely associated with the oxidative energy production or calcium overload, which may trigger permeability transition pore opening and subsequent apoptosis. Therefore, mitochondria can be seen as signs for oocyte quality evaluation, and it is possible that the oocyte quality can be improved by enhancing the physical function of mitochondria. Here we reviewed recent advances in mitochondrial functions on oocytes.

A solution experiment with a range of lower cadmium concentrations (0.01-0.64 micromol/L) was conducted to study micronutrients uptake and production of phytochelatins (PCs) in a submerged aquatic plant Ceratophyllum demersum after exposure for 7 d, 14 d, 21 d. The results showed the uptake of Cu, Zn in Ceratophyllum demersum was promoted when exposed to lower concentrations of cadmium, whereas Mn uptake was inhibited. Unlike Cu, Zn and Mn, the content of Fe was unaffected by Cd uptake. Our data showed that Ceratophyllum demersum had stronger Cd tolerance and obvious absorption and cumulative effects to external lower concentrations of Cd exposure. The inhibition of growth was observed after 21 d in 0.08 micromol/L Cd. The production of PCs was significantly induced by 0.02-0.64 micromol/L Cd for 7 d (p < 0.05), while declined after exposure for 14 d, 21 d. The good dose-related response of PCs was observed in manner of linear for 7 d and parabola for 14 d and 21 d. Regressive analysis showed that there was a significantly positive correlation between PC contents and Cd toxicity in Ceratophyllum demersum. The results suggested that PCs could be a sensitive biomarker for estimating Cd phytotoxicity and subsequently a qualitative tool for studies on Cd contamination.

A series of interesting Co(II)-H(2)tbip coordination polymers incorporating different auxiliary ligands, {[Co(tbip)(bipy)(H(2)O)(3)] x 0.5(bipy) x H(2)O}(n) (1), [Co(tbip)(bipy)](n) (2), {[Co(3)(tbip)(3)(dpe)(3)] x 0.5(dpe) x 3 H(2)O}(n) (3), [Co(2)(tbip)(2)(dpe)(H(2)O)](n) (4), [Co(2)(tbip)(2)(bpa)(H(2)O)](n) (5), and {[Co(2)(tbip)(2)(bpa)(2)] x 2.5 H(2)O}(n) (6) (H(2)tbip = 5-tert-butyl isophthalic acid; bipy = 4,4'-bipyridine; dpe = 1,2-di (4-pyridyl)ethylene; bpa = 1,2-bi(4-pyridyl)ethane) were synthesized. X-ray structural analyses of 1-6 reveal a diverse range of structures, ranging from 1D (1) to 2D (2, 6) to 3D (3, 4, 5). Complex 1 shows 1D zigzag bipy-bridged polymeric chains with the terminal tbip ligands as pendants, which are extended to a 3D hydrogen-bonded supramolecular framework involving 1D open channels which encapsulate guest bipy molecules. Polymers 2 and 6 feature similar 2D infinite layer frameworks consisting of cobalt dimers. The structure of 3 is constructed from [Co(2)(tbip)(2)](n) layers, which consists of alternating left- and right-handed helical chains, and further pillared by dpe ligands into a 3D six-connected self-penetrating 4(8).6(6).8 network. The prominent cavities in 3 are parallel to the (101) plane and encapsulate free dpe as guest molecules. Polymers 4 and 5 are isostructural, showing 2-fold interpenetrating 3D alpha-Po networks constructed from binuclear cobalt nodes. The thermal stabilities and X-ray powder diffraction studies indicate that the framework of 3 can keep stable after the loss of guest molecules. Studies of the magnetic susceptibilities of 2-6 reveal weak antiferromagnetic exchange interactions between adjacent Co(II) centers.

Objective: To establish a method for fast diagnosis of mycotic keratitis using multi-PCR system., Methods: Detecting 9 important medical fungi species (Fusarium solani, Fusarium moniliform, Fusarium equiseti, Fusarium graminum, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium implicatum and Curvularia lunata) through a multi-PCR system. This method was used to identify the clinical cultured isolates and clinical samples., Results: In this multi-PCR system, Fusarium species amplified a fragment of 360 bp, Aspergillus species amplified a fragment of 430 bp, Penicillium implicatum species amplified a fragment of 245 bp, and Curvularia lunata species amplified a fragment of 300 bp. Human DNA and DNA of other microorganism in human ocular infection obtained negative results in this multi-PCR system. The sensitivity of the multi-PCR system was 10 fg., Conclusions: Important clinical fungi could be detected and identified by the multi-PCR system. The multi-PCR method was proved to be a fast, sensitive and specific technology and has a good prospect in clinical application.

Objective: To study the clinical and pathogenic characteristics of keratitis caused by Alternaria alternata and to provide evidence for the diagnose and treatment of mycotic keratitis., Methods: The patients with keratitis were examined by lamp microscope; the direct smears of corneal scrapings were stained using 10% potassium hydroxide and Giemsa's staining and the results were observed under microscope. After hypha was found, the samples from corneal were taken for fungal culture and fungal susceptibility test in vitro according to the National Community of Clinical Laboratory Standard (NCCLS) document M38-A at the same time. Ketoconazole, Amphotericin B and Fluconazole eye drops were applied into eyes frequently and alternately. The affectivity of the treatment were also observed. The isolates of Alternaria alternata from patients were used to induce keratitis in rabbits. The rabbits were sacrificed by air after 5 days and 14 days and their corneas were taken for pathology and inoculating for fungi., Results: All the patients have only one eye with Alternaria alternata's keratitis and their average age was 50 years old. The lesions of corneal necrosis in the patients and Alternaria alternata's keratitis in the rabbits were appeared as light grey, shallow and a diffused edge. Alternaria alternata showed as thick transparent hypha and a great of spherical chlamydospores on the top of hypha or cluster one and the other in corneal scraping under microscope. The hypha and spores of Alternaria alternata in the culture medium were all brown and the spores were separated into cells like wall brick and grew on the top of spores linking like chains. Anti-microbial susceptibility testing in vitro showed that Alternaria alternata was susceptible to Voriconazole, Amphotericin B, Ketoconazole, Miconazole, Econazole, Terbinafine and Fluconazole but it was resistant to Clotrimazole, Flucytosine ang Itraconazole. 22 of the patients were cured by dropping Amphotericin B, Ketoconazole and Fluconazole frequently and alternately but surgery was performed in one case. The mean cured time was 34 day. The lesion of rabbits keratitis caused by Alternaria alternata was thin and localized only in the region of lacking epicytes. The isolate from the rabbit's keratitis model was Alternaria alternata., Conclusions: The keratitis caused by Alternaria alternata has its distinct clinical and laboratory characteristics. The virulence of Alternaria alternata is relatively low to cornea and the combination of anti-fungal agents could cure Alternaria alternata keratitis.

Objective: To compared the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of 0.2% ganciclovir (GCV) in-situ gelling eye drops (GCV-ISG) with common GCV eye drops (GCV-ED) in rabbits., Methods: Forty-eight healthy albino rabbits were randomly divided into 2 groups, each group included 24 rabbits and 3 rabbits (6 eyes) were used at each time points. Each eye received 50 microl of GCV-ISG in experimental group, and the same amount of GCV-ED was given in the other group as the control. The tears and aqueous humors were collected at 5, 10, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 minutes following topical application of GCV-ISG and GCV-ED, respectively, and the corneas were immediately dissected after euthanized. The samples from 6 eyes (3 animals) were obtained at each designed time point. All samples were stored -60 degrees C and then were assayed by reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). An unpaired Student's t-test and 3p97 pharmacokinetics software were used as statistical analysis., Results: The drug levels in tears corneas and aqueous were significantly higher for GCV-ISG group than GCV-ED group at 5, 10 minutes (P < 0.05) and 120 minutes (P < 0.01). The areas under the curve (AUC0-120) of the drug concentrations versus times in tears, corneas and aqueous humors for GCV-ISG group were 2.22, 5.47 and 3.40 times as high as GCV-ED group within designed duration, respectively. The peak concentrations of GCV in aqueous humors for GCV-ISG group and the GCV-ED group were 4.79 microg/ml and 0.96 microg/ml, respectively. The half-lives of GCV in aqueous humors and corneas for GCV-ISG group were 59 minutes and 223 minutes, and for GCV-ED group were 43 minutes and 87 minutes, respectively. The peak concentration of GCV in aqueous humor in GCV-ISG group was 4.99 times higher than that in GCV-ED group (P < 0.01)., Conclusions: 0.2% ganciclovir in-situ gelling eye drops significantly increases the drug penetration into cornea and aqueous humor, and prolongs the residence time in cornea and aqueous humor. The results suggest that 0.2% ganciclovir in-situ gelling eye drops may enhance the ocular bioavailability of ganciclovir in rabbit eye.

Objective: To elucidate the therapeutic effect and the influence on PI3K-Akt-PKB-BAD-CREB-PCREB pathway in focal cerebral ischemia rat responses before and after treatment with baicalin and jasminoidin given alone or in combination., Method: Rat model of ischemia reperfusion was established with thread. Generally accepted methods were used, including TTC staining, behavior test, as well as micro and ultra microscopy which can dynamically and accurately monitor pathological and physiological changes after cerebral ischemia on earlier period, to evaluate the brain injury induced by ischemia and the attenuations by the drugs. The difference of PI3K-Akt-PKB-BAD-CREB-PCREB expression was detected by western-blot technology., Result and Conclusion: The combination of baicalin and jasminoidin composition can be potential neuroprotective agent. TTC staining technology combined with behavior grade and ultrmicro-structure observation on brain tissue is effective method to evaluate protective agent, which is related to signal transduction PI3K-Akt-PKB-BAD-CREB-PCREB pathway. The results provide benofical basis for revealing the complex of therapeutic mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine Qingkai Ling (QKL).

Objective: To observe the effect of M1-selective muscarinic antagonist, pirenzepine, on form deprivation myopia and investigate the expression of MMP-2 and its inhibitor TIMP-2 in the fibrous sclera in order to better understand the mechanism by which pirenzepine inhibits myopia., Methods: 40 chicks after birth one day were divided into 4 groups randomly: I. Control group; II. Form deprivation group; III. Vehicle application group; IV. Pirenzepine injected group. Form deprivation myopia was established in right eyes of group II, III, IV by placement of a translucent occluder. The deprived eyes of group III and IV received daily subconjunctival administration of vehicle PBS and pirenzepine respectively. Optical measures such as refraction, axial length, equatorial diameter were made at the end of the experiment. Total RNA and protein were extracted from the posterior fibrous sclera chicks. The expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 mRNA and protein were investigated with RT-PCR and Western blot analysis respectively., Results: Refraction status, axial length, equatorial diameter of the eyes in pirenzepine injected group were significantly lower when compared with form deprivation group (P < 0.01), but the parameters were higher when compared with normal control group therefore relatively myopic changes were detected. There were no significant difference between drug control and pirenzepine injected group when optical measures and the expression of MMP-2, TIMP-2 were concerned (P > 0.05). The expressions (mRNA and protein) of both MMP-2 and TIMP-2 were significantly different in form deprivation group when compared with normal control group (MMP-2 mRNA increased by 143.51%, P < 0.01; protein increased by 114.60%, P < 0.01; TIMP-2 mRNA decreased by 55.05%, P < 0.01; protein decreased by 53.73%, P < 0.01). In pirenzepine injected group the relative expression of MMP-2 mRNA and protein were decreased obviously by 41.95% (P < 0.01) and by 36.16% (P < 0.01), while TIMP-2 mRNA and protein expression was increased significantly by 72.46% (P < 0.01) and by 53.05% (P < 0.01) respectively compared with the form deprived group., Conclusion: Subconjunctivally administration of the M1 selective muscarinic antagonist, pirenzepine, partly prevents or restrains form deprivation induced myopia. It may exert its inhibitory effect by modulating the expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in fibrous sclera.

Objective: To investigate the optimal time and method of the early repair of the full layer eyelid defect caused by chemical burn., Methods: Free nasal septum mucosal cartilage flap with muscle flap, skin grafting, or skin flap were performed in 18 cases (19 eyelids) with chemical burn within 4 postburn weeks. Eyelid reconstruction and corneal transplantation were performed at the same time in 4 patients., Results: All the reconstructed eyelids and transplanted cornea survived. The incidence of severe complications, such as exposure keratitis, corneal ulcer and eyeball perforation decreased., Conclusion: Full layer eyelid defect caused by chemical burn should receive early reconstruction and repair, including timely reconstruction of eyelid for the sake of protecting the eyesight and of alleviating the inflammatory reactions, and the corneal transplantation should be done at the same time to avoid corneal perforation. Nasal septum mucosal cartilage flap could be ideal for the eyelid reconstruction.

Objective: To observe the effect of Shenfu injection (SFI) on recovery of intestinal function, T-lymphocyte subsets (CD4, CD8 and CD4/CD8), interleukin-2 (IL-2) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) in children with intestinal obstruction after surgical operation., Methods: Ninety-eight children suffering from intestinal obstruction after emergent surgical operation were divided into the SFI group (n = 50, treated with SFI after operation) and the control group (n = 48, treated with surgical operation alone). The intestinal function recovery rate (IFRR), T-lymphocyte subsets, serum levels of IL-2 and TNF-alpha in them were observed., Results: After being treated for 7 days, the IFRR in the SFI group was 84.0%, which was significantly higher than that in the control group (62.5%, P < 0.05). CD4, CD4/CD8 levels increased in the SFI group after treatment (P < 0.05), while in the control group, CD8 increased significantly after treatment (P < 0.05) and higher than that in SFI group (P < 0.01). IL-2 level was much higher in the SFI group after treatment than that in the control group (P < 0.05). TNF-alpha level significantly lowered in both groups (P < 0.01), and the level in the SFI group was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05)., Conclusion: SFI could promote the recovery of intestinal function, improve and regulate the immune function of the children after operation for intestinal obstruction.

The first azide(mu1,1)-bridged binuclear cobalt(II) complex with a chelated imino nitroxide radical, [Co2(immepy)2(N3)(4)].2EtOH, was structurally and magnetically characterized, where immepy = 4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-2-(6'-methyl-2'-pyridyl) imidazoline-1-oxyl. Five nitrogen atoms complete the coordination sphere of the Co(II) ion, showing a distorted trigonal bipyramid geometry. Two N(3)(-) anions act as bridges between cobalt ions in the mu1,1 coordination mode, resulting in a binuclear structure with an inversion center. Magnetic studies show that ferromagnetic couplings occurred between the adjacent cobalt(II) ions through N3(-)(mu1,1)) bridges, and antiferromagnetic couplings between the cobalt(II) ions and organic radicals.