bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant and anti-hyperlipidemic activities of Melastoma malabathricum Linn. leaves in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats
Authors: Kumar Vikas , Ahmed Danish , Gupta Pushpraj S , Anwar Firoz , Mujeeb Mohd 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
Background
Melastoma malabathricum (MM) Linn leaves traditionally use in the treatment of diabetic conditions. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic and antidiabetic activity of methanolic extract taken from Melastoma malabathricum Linn (Melastomaceae).

Methods
The methanolic leaves extract of MM Linn leaves used for the study. Chemical test of different extract, acute toxicity study and oral glucose test was performed. Diabetes was induced in rat by single intra-peritoneal injection of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg). The rats were divided into following groups: Group I – normal control, Group II (Vehicle) – diabetic control, Group III (STZ-toxic) – MM I (100 mg/kg, p.o.), Group IV – MM II (250 mg/kg, p.o.), Group V – MM III (500 mg/kg, p.o.), Group VI – glibenclamide (10 mg/kg, p.o.). Bodyweight of each rat in the different groups was recorded daily. Biochemical and antioxidant enzyme parameters were determined on day 28. Histology of different organ (heart, liver, kidney, and pancreas) was performed after sacrificing the rats with euthanasia.

Results
The methanolic extract of MM did not show any acute toxicity up-to the dose of 2000 mg/kg and shown better glucose utilization in oral glucose tolerance test. Orally treatment of different doses of MM leaves extract decreased the level of serum glucose, glycated hemoglobin, glucose-6-phosphatase, fructose-1-6-biphosphate and increased the level of plasma insulin, hexokinase. MM treatment decreased liver malondialdehyde but increased the level of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase. In oral glucose tolerance test observed increased utilization of glucose. Streptozotocin induced diabetes groups rat treated with different doses of MM leaves extract and glibenclamide significantly increased the body weight. Histopathology analysis on different organ of STZ (streptozotocin) induced diabetic rat show there regenerative effect on the liver, kidney, heart and pancreas.

Conclusion
The antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic and antidiabetic effect of methanolic extract from Melastoma malabathricum Linn suggests a potential therapeutic treatment to antidiabetic conditions.
Simultaneous splicing of multiple DNA fragments in one PCR reaction
Authors: Luo Wei-Gui , Liu Hui-Zhen , Lin Wan-Huang , Kabir Mohammed Humayun , Su Yi 
Published: September 2013

Abstract

Background
Rapid and simultaneous splicing of multiple DNA fragments is frequently required in many recombinant DNA projects. However, former overlap extension PCRs, the most common methods for splicing DNA fragments, are not really simultaneous fusing of multiple DNA fragments.

Results
We performed an optimized method which allowed simultaneous splicing of multiple DNA fragments in one PCR reaction. Shorter outermost primers were prior mixed with other PCR components at the same time. A sequential thermo cycling program was adopted for overlap extension reaction and amplification of spliced DNA. Annealing temperature was relatively higher in the overlap extension reaction stage than in the fused DNA amplification. Finally we successfully harvested target PCR products deriving from fusion of two to seven DNA fragments after 5–10 cycles for overlap extension reaction and then 30 cycles for fused DNA amplification.

Conclusions
Our method provides more rapid, economical and handy approach to accurately splice multiple DNA fragments. We believe that our simultaneous splicing overlap extension PCR can be used to fuse more than seven DNA fragments as long as the DNA polymerase can match.
In situ growth of well-dispersed CdS nanocrystals in semiconducting polymers
Authors: Laera Anna Maria , Resta Vincenzo , Piscopiello Emanuela , Miceli Valerio , Schioppa Monica , Scalone Anna Grazia , Benedetto Francesca Di , Tapfer Leander 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
A straight synthetic route to fabricate hybrid nanocomposite films of well-dispersed CdS nanocrystals (NCs) in poly[2-methoxy-5-(2'-ethyl-hexyloxy)-1,4-phenylene vinylene] (MEH-PPV) is reported. A soluble cadmium complex [Cd(SBz)2]2·MI, obtained by incorporating a Lewis base (1-methylimidazole, MI) on the cadmium bis(benzyl)thiol, is used as starting reagent in an in situ thermolytic process. CdS NCs with spherical shape nucleate and grow well below 200°C in a relatively short time (30 min). Photoluminescence spectroscopy measurements performed on CdS/MEH-PPV nanocomposites show that CdS photoluminescence peaks are totally quenched inside MEH-PPV, if compared to CdS/PMMA nanocomposites, as expected due to overlapping of the polymer absorption and CdS emission spectra. The CdS NCs are well-dispersed in size and homogeneously distributed within MEH-PPV matrix as proved by transmission electron microscopy. Nanocomposites with different precursor/polymer weight ratios were prepared in the range from 1:4 to 4:1. Highly dense materials, without NCs clustering, were obtained for a weight/weight ratio of 2:3 between precursor and polymer, making these nanocomposites particularly suitable for optoelectronic and solar energy conversion applications.
Niacin supplementation increases the number of oxidative type I fibers in skeletal muscle of growing pigs
Authors: Khan Muckta , Ringseis Robert , Mooren Frank-Christoph , Krüger Karsten , Most Erika , Eder Klaus 
Published: September 2013

Abstract

Background
A recent study showed that niacin supplementation counteracts the obesity-induced muscle fiber switching from oxidative type I to glycolytic type II and increases the number of type I fibers in skeletal muscle of obese Zucker rats. These effects were likely mediated by the induction of key regulators of fiber transition, PGC-1α and PGC-1β, leading to muscle fiber switching and up-regulation of genes involved in mitochondrial fatty acid import and oxidation, citrate cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondrial biogenesis. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether niacin supplementation causes type II to type I muscle and changes the metabolic phenotype of skeletal muscles in growing pigs.

Results
25 male, 11 wk old crossbred pigs (Danzucht x Pietrain) with an average body weight of 32.8 ± 1.3 (mean ± SD) kg were randomly allocated to two groups of 12 (control group) and 13 pigs (niacin group) which were fed either a control diet or a diet supplemented with 750 mg niacin/kg diet. After 3 wk, the percentage number of type I fibers in three different muscles (M. longissismus dorsi, M. quadriceps femoris, M. gastrocnemius) was greater in the niacin group and the percentage number of type II fibers was lower in the niacin group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The mRNA levels of PGC-1β and genes involved in mitochondrial fatty acid catabolism (CACT, FATP1, OCTN2), citrate cycle (SDHA), oxidative phosphorylation (COX4/1, COX6A1), and thermogenesis (UCP3) in M. longissimus dorsi were greater in the niacin group than in the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions
The study demonstrates that niacin supplementation induces type II to type I muscle fiber switching, and thereby an oxidative metabolic phenotype of skeletal muscle in pigs. Given that oxidative muscle types tend to develop dark, firm and dry pork in response to intense physical activity and/or high psychological stress levels preslaughter, a niacin-induced change in the muscle´s fiber type distribution may influence meat quality of pigs.
Prevalence of hepatitis B and C viral co-infections among HIV-1 infected individuals in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Muriuki Beatrice Mukami , Gicheru Michael Muita , Wachira Dorcas , Nyamache Anthony Kebira , Khamadi Samoel Ashimosi 
Published: September 2013

AbstractBackgroundHepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) co-infections among HIV-1 infected individuals are growing worldwide health problems characterized by lack of effective vaccines, need for expensive treatment, chronicity of morbidity and associated mortality. Their prevalence and distribution patterns continue to vary across geographical locations with high prevalence being detected among high risk populations. To determine the prevalence of HBV and HCV among HIV-1 infected individuals, blood samples were collected from consenting study subjects visiting comprehensive HIV clinics in Nairobi during the period between October and December 2009.MethodsBlood samples from volunteers were screened with ELISA tests for detecting HIV, HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibodies.ResultsIn a total of three (300) hundred infected individuals consisting of 129 (43%) males and 171 (57%) females 15.3% (46/300) were HIV-1 co-infected with either HBV or HCV or both, 10.3% (31/300) with HIV-1 and HCV and 6% (18/300) with HIV-1 and HBV infections. However, only three individuals (1%) were coinfected with the three viruses (HIV/HBV/HCV).ConclusionThough, low levels of co-infection with all three viruses were reported, there could be higher prevalence rates than reported here especially among high risk populations.
Home treatment in paediatric patients with Hunter syndrome: the first Italian experience
Authors: Ceravolo Ferdinando , Mascaro Italia , Sestito Simona , Pascale Elisa , Lauricella Antonino , Dizione Elio , Concolino Daniela 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
Hunter syndrome (mucopolysaccharidosis type II [MPS II], OMIM309900) is a rare X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by the deficiency of the enzyme iduronate-2-sulphatase, resulting in accumulation of glycosaminoglycans, progressive multisystem organ failure, and early death. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with weekly intravenous infusions of idursulfase, a treatment for MPS II and commercially available since 2007, has been shown to improve certain symptoms and signs of the disease. The efficacy and safety data of this enzyme preparation have been widely reported and, after a change to the idursulfase Summary of Product Characteristics in March 2010, home ERT by infusion is now an option for selected patients. Previously reported experiences of home therapy in MPS II have shown increased treatment compliance and an improvement in quality of life for both patients and families. We report the results of the home therapy experience of 3 paediatric patients with MPS II in southern Italy. This pilot experience with home infusion is the first reported from Italy.
Paradoxical roles of autophagy in different stages of tumorigenesis: protector for normal or cancer cells
Authors: Sun Kai , Deng Weijie , Zhang Shanshan , Cai Ning , Jiao Shufan , Song Jianrui , Wei Lixin 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
Autophagy serves as a dynamic degradation and recycling system that provides biological materials and energy in response to stress. The role of autophagy in tumor development is complex. Various studies suggest that autophagy mainly contributes to tumor suppression during the early stage of tumorigenesis and tumor promotion during the late stage of tumorigenesis. During the tumorization of normal cells, autophagy protects genomic stability by retarding stem cells-involved damage/repair cycle, and inhibits the formation of chronic inflammatory microenvironment, thus protecting normal cell homeostasis and preventing tumor generation. On the other hand, autophagy also protects tumor cells survival during malignant progression by supporting cellular metabolic demands, decreasing metabolic damage and supporting anoikis resistance and dormancy. Taken together, autophagy appears to play a role as a protector for either normal or tumor cells during the early or late stage of tumorigenesis, respectively. The process of tumorigenesis perhaps needs to undergo twice autophagy-associated screening. The normal cells that have lower autophagy capacity are prone to tumorization, and the incipient tumor cells that have higher autophagy capacity possibly are easier to survival in the hash microenvironment and accumulate more mutations to promote malignant progression.
Analysis of functional xylanases in xylan degradation by Aspergillus niger E-1 and characterization of the GH family 10 xylanase XynVII
Authors: Takahashi Yui , Kawabata Hiroaki , Murakami Shuichiro 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
Xylanases produced by Aspergillus niger are industrially important and many types of xylanases have been reported. Individual xylanases have been well studied for their enzymatic properties, gene cloning, and heterologous expression. However, less attention has been paid to the relationship between xylanase genes carried on the A. niger genome and xylanases produced by A. niger strains. Therefore, we examined xylanase genes encoded on the genome of A. niger E-1 and xylanases produced in culture. Seven putative xylanase genes, xynI–VII (named in ascending order of the molecular masses of the deduced amino acid sequences), were amplified from the strain E-1 genome using primers designed from the genome sequence of A. niger CBS 513.88 by PCR and phylogenetically classified into three clusters. Additionally, culture supernatant analysis by DE52 anion–exchange column chromatography revealed that this strain produced three xylanases, XynII, XynIII, and XynVII, which were identified by N-terminal amino acid sequencing and MALDI-TOF-MS analyses, in culture when gown in 0.5% xylan medium supplemented with 50 mM succinate. Furthermore, XynVII, the only GH family 10 xylanase in A. niger E-1, was purified and characterized. The purified enzyme showed a single band with a molecular mass of 35 kDa by SDS-PAGE. The highest activity of purified XynVII was observed at 55°C and pH 5.5. The enzyme was stable in the broad pH range of 3–10 and up to 60°C and was resistant to most metal ions and modifying regents. XynVII showed high specificity against beechwood xylan with K
m and V
max values of 2.8 mg mL–1 and 127 μmol min–1mg–1, respectively. TLC and MALDI-TOF-MS analyses showed that the final hydrolyzed products of the enzyme from beechwood xylan were xylose, xylobiose, and xylotriose substituted with a 4-o-metylglucuronic acid residue.
Mapping Yeast Transcriptional Networks
Authors: Hughes Timothy R , de Boer Carl G 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The term “transcriptional network” refers to the mechanism(s) that underlies coordinated expression of genes, typically involving transcription factors (TFs) binding to the promoters of multiple genes, and individual genes controlled by multiple TFs. A multitude of studies in the last two decades have aimed to map and characterize transcriptional networks in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We review the methodologies and accomplishments of these studies, as well as challenges we now face. For most yeast TFs, data have been collected on their sequence preferences, in vivo promoter occupancy, and gene expression profiles in deletion mutants. These systematic studies have led to the identification of new regulators of numerous cellular functions and shed light on the overall organization of yeast gene regulation. However, many yeast TFs appear to be inactive under standard laboratory growth conditions, and many of the available data were collected using techniques that have since been improved. Perhaps as a consequence, comprehensive and accurate mapping among TF sequence preferences, promoter binding, and gene expression remains an open challenge. We propose that the time is ripe for renewed systematic efforts toward a complete mapping of yeast transcriptional regulatory mechanisms.
Functional Genetics in the Post-Genomics Era: Building a Better Roadmap in Drosophila
Authors: Kulathinal Rob J 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
In this commentary, Rob Kulathinal describes two articles from the Perrimon lab, each describing a new online resource that can assist geneticists with the design of their RNA interference (RNAi) experiments. Hu et al.’s “UP-TORR: online tool for accurate and up-to-date annotation of RNAi reagents” and “FlyPrimerBank: An online database for Drosophila melanogaster gene expression analysis and knockdown evaluation of RNAi reagents” are published, respectively, in this month’s issues of GENETICS and G3.
Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials in idiopathic posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
Authors: Talaat Hossam Sanyelbhaa , Metwaly Mohamed Akram , Khafagy Ahmed Hafez , Abdelraouf Hatem Ragaa , Moussa Isak Hoda Abu 
Published: September 2013

Objective:
The involvement of the utricle and possibly the saccule in the pathogenesis of BPPV encouraged many investigators to study VEMP in patients with BPPV. The current study investigated VEMP results in patients with BPPV to determine different forms of VEMP abnormalities (if any) in patients with BPPV.

Study design:
The study group comprised 112 patients (52 males, 60 females; age range 26−60 years (46.2 ± 10.2)). The group was subdivided into a recurrent BPPV subgroup (32 patients) and a non-recurrent BPPV subgroup (80 patients). The control group included 100 healthy volunteers with matched age and gender distribution. Both ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (oVEMP) and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMP) were registered in the different study subgroups. Abnormal VEMP was defined as: 1) VEMP pattern of ‘no response’; 2) VEMP asymmetry exceeding the mean + 2 SD of the control group; 3) delayed peak latency (P13 or N1) exceeding the mean + 2 SD of the control group.

Results:
The prevalence of VEMP abnormalities in patients with BPPV was 9.8% for oVEMP, 13.4% for cVEMP and 20.5% when VEMP abnormality was defined as an abnormal oVEMP and/or abnormal cVEMP. VEMP abnormalities in the recurrent BPPV patients were 40.3%, and 12.5% in the non-recurrent BPPV group. All forms of VEMP abnormalities were detected in the study group (i.e. absent, asymmetrical or delayed VEMP peaks); the absent VEMP was the most prevalent form of abnormality. The recurrent BPPV group had significantly higher oVEMP and cVEMP compared to either control or non-recurrent groups. cVEMP was significantly higher in the non-recurrent BPPV than controls, but oVEMP was not.

Conclusions:
VEMP abnormalities were detected more in patients with recurrent attacks of BPPV suggesting that VEMP abnormality may be indicative of the risk of BPPV recurrence. cVEMP may be a more sensitive tool for detection of early mild effects of pathological disorders causing dual affection of the utricle and saccule.
Factors Influencing Survival of White-tailed Deer Fawns in Coastal South Carolina
Authors: McCoy J. Clint , Ditchkoff Stephen S. , Raglin Joshua B. , Collier Bret A. , Ruth Charles 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
The social and environmental pressures exerted on white-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus in the southeastern United States are dynamic. Understanding factors that contribute to neonatal white-tailed deer mortality is vital to population management. To determine survival rates and causes of mortality, we captured and radio-monitored neonate white-tailed deer in the coastal plain of South Carolina. Using date of birth, mass, sex, age, and year as predictor variables, we created a candidate set of survival models to evaluate which factors influenced daily survival rates. We captured and monitored 210 fawns and recorded 68 total mortalities (32.3%). We recorded few mortalities in 2006 (n  =  5; 12.8%) and 2007 (n  =  5; 12.5%), but we observed a significant increase in mortality in 2008 (n  =  18; 37.5%), 2009 (n  =  28; 53.8%), and 2010 (n  =  12; 38.7%). Predation accounted for the majority of mortalities (n  =  29; 42.6%). We found that male fawns were more than twice as likely to survive as females, and older fawns were more likely to succumb to predation than younger fawns. Overall survival in our study was higher than estimates recently reported in the southeastern United States. Recent increases in coyote predation have been cause for concern in some parts of the Southeast, but our results indicate that although it appeared coyote predation increased over the course of our study, predation did not reach levels that have been reported elsewhere, possibly due to predator-control activities on our study site. Close monitoring of the deer population at Brosnan Forest allowed managers to adequately adjust harvest prescriptions to maintain deer populations at the desired level despite an apparent decline in fawn survival.
VON WILLEBRAND FACTOR, ANGIODYSPLASIA AND ANGIOGENESIS
Authors: Randi Anna M. , Laffan Mike A , Starke Richard D. 
Published: September 2013

The large multimeric glycoprotein Von Willebrand factor (VWF) is best known for its role in haemostasis; however in recent years other functions of VWF have been identified, indicating that this protein is involved in multiple vascular processes. We recently described a new role for VWF in controlling angiogenesis, which may have significant clinical implications for patients with Von Willebrand disease (VWD), a genetic or acquired condition caused by the deficiency or dysfunction of VWF. VWD can be associated with angiodysplasia, a condition of degenerative blood vessels often present in the gastrointestinal tract, linked to dysregulated angiogenesis. Angiodysplasia can cause severe intractable bleeding, often refractory to conventional VWD treatments. In this review summarise the evidence showing that VWF controls angiogenesis, and review the angiogenic pathways which have been implicated in this process. We discuss the possible mechanisms though which VWF regulates angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) and integrin αvβ3, leading to signalling through vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2), one of the most potent activators of angiogenesis. We also review the evidence that links VWF with angiodysplasia, and how the newly identified function of VWF in controlling angiogenesis may pave the way for the development of novel therapies for the treatment of angiodysplasia in congenital VWD and in acquired conditions such as Heyde syndrome.
Detection and Screening of Chemicals Related to the Chemical Weapons Convention
Authors: Murray George M. 
Published: September 2013

Abstract
Spurred by recent events, there is an ever‐growing interest in the detection of hazardous chemicals in both military and civilian contexts. The threat of chemical weapons has spread from the battlefield to cities and towns due to the threat of international terrorism. Detection of hazardous chemicals and now chemical weapons is a requirement for first responders of all sorts. While a plethora of devices and materials exist, they all have certain inherent weaknesses and no one device can be relied upon to give an unambiguous response. As usual in chemical detection, two orthogonal methods give a much higher confidence than does any single method.
This article identifies hazardous chemicals identified by the Chemical Weapons Convention and provides a description of materials and devices for sensing and responding to chemical agent contamination and releases. It comparatively evaluates current and near‐term sensor options for detecting the most likely current threats. It also identifies sensor technologies that may be capable of responding to a wider range of substances (e.g., hazardous industrial chemicals and new chemical warfare agents) to provide options for coping with new threats as they develop. Previous research results on the principal background contaminants that have the potential of introducing unwanted false alarms in chemical agent detection systems are collated, and techniques that may be capable of reducing the impact of toxic material releases are suggested.