Effects of Oxysterols on Chondrogenesis of Human Adipose-derived Stem Cells.

Human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) have been implicated as a high potency source of chondrocytes in cell therapy for cartilage defects. However, appropriate stimulators for the chondrogenesis of hADSCs are needed. Oxysterols have the potential to act as a stimulator.

Decreased amniotic fluid leptin levels in the second trimester in Down's syndrome.

Objective: To investigate a possible role of leptin contributing to the pathophysiology of Down's syndrome by assessing amniotic fluid leptin levels in the 2nd trimester of normal pregnancy and pregnancy complicated by Down's syndrome.

Methods: We retrospectively assessed leptin levels of 2nd trimester amniotic fluid from 15 pregnancies diagnosed with Down's syndrome and 15 matched unaffected singleton pregnancies (controls). All amniotic fluid samples were obtained from women undergoing genetic amniocentesis at 16-20 weeks of gestation.

Correlation of synovial fluid leptin concentrations with the severity of osteoarthritis.

Leptin is known to play an important role in the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis (OA). This study investigated whether synovial fluid (SF) leptin level is related to the radiographic severity of OA and its role as a quantitative marker for the detection of OA. SF was obtained from 42 OA patients who underwent knee surgery and 10 who had no abnormality of articular cartilage during arthroscopic examination.

Serum estradiol levels during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation influence the pregnancy outcome of in vitro fertilization in a concentration-dependent manner.

Objective: To determine an optimal serum E(2) level on the day of hCG administration in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) during IVF-ET without compromising pregnancy outcome.

Design: Retrospective study.

Setting: Large urban medical center.