[Structure and ecological functions of soil micro-food web.].

Soil micro-food web, as a part of the detritus food webs, directly or indirectly participates in nutrient cycling by feeding on substrate and microorganisms and consequently influences the functions of terrestrial ecosystems. Here, we reviewed the research progress of soil micro-food web in recent years by focusing on its composition, structure and ecological function in soil ecosystem. The important roles of soil micro-food web in driving carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) transformation, organic matter decomposition and plant growth were reviewed through the description of energy channel and trophic cascade effects of soil micro-food web.

Growth hormone co-treatment within a GnRH agonist long protocol improves implantation and pregnancy rates in patients undergoing IVF-ET.

Objective: The efficacy of growth hormone (GH) co-treatment within a GnRH agonist long regimen, in women with a normal ovarian response to controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH), for IVF was assessed.

Methods: This retrospective clinical trial was performed in a private-assisted reproduction centre. The study involved 1114 patients who responded normally to high-dose gonadotropin treatment.

Low plasma levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor are potential risk factors for diabetic retinopathy in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients.

Previous studies suggested that neurotrophins play a role in the diabetic retinopathy (DR). We therefore evaluated the role of plasma brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients with and without diabetic retinopathy (DR). Plasma levels of BDNF were determined in type 2 diabetic patients (N=344).