bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT SALT CONTENTS ON SOME QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS DURING PROCESSING OF DRY‐CURED TURKISH PASTIRMA
Authors: UĞUZ ŞEVKAT , SOYER AYLA , DALMIŞ ÜLKÜ
Published: June 2011

This study examined the effects of different salt contents (3, 6 and 9%) during process stages on physicochemical, lipid oxidation and microbial quality of a dry‐cured meat product, pastırma, throughout 21 days of processing. Significant changes in moisture content, NaCl content, pH and water activity (aw) were observed in pastırma after the third drying and pasting stages. There were significant decreases (P < 0.05) in objective color characteristics (L*, a* and b*) between raw material and final product for all pastırma samples. However, no significant effect of salt level (P > 0.05) was detected on L* and a*. Salt level significantly (P < 0.05) affected thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) formation, which was lower in low‐salt pastırma samples, while the combination of salting, drying and pressing stages increased TBARS values in high‐salt pastırma samples. Higher salt content (6% and 9%) and last drying resulted in reduction of microbial count.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Salt (NaCl) is an important agent in inhibiting microbial growth, reducing water activity and imparting a salty taste to dry‐cured meat products such as ham and pastırma. Salt content in pastırma varies from 5% to 10% in the final product and has an impact on product quality parameters. The effects of different NaCl contents (3, 6 and 9%) and processing stages on pH, water activity (aw), color parameters, lipid oxidation and microbial count were studied during processing of pastırma. Low‐salt concentration had some negative impacts on pastırma characteristics, giving high aw, pH and microbial count, but low Thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances value and NaCl content. Drying, pressing and pasting with çemen mixture during pastırma processing had a positive impact on reduction of moisture, aw and microbial count.
DETERMINATION AND PREDICTION OF ODOR THRESHOLDS FOR ODOR ACTIVE VOLATILES IN A NEUTRAL APPLE JUICE MATRIX
Authors: CLIFF MARGARET , STANICH KAREEN , TRUJILLO JUDITH MORAN , TOIVONEN PETER , FORNEY CHARLES F.
Published: June 2011

Odor thresholds were determined for 10 odor active compounds (OAC) in apple juice, using three‐alternate forced choice methodology. Thresholds were determined in a neutral juice matrix by 25–30 panelists in duplicate at 22C. Individual thresholds were calculated using the best estimate threshold method. Group thresholds were determined using the geometric mean of the individual thresholds. OAC differed substantially in their concentration ranges, aroma thresholds (0.06–5.49 µL/L) and response rates (1.5–234.5% correct response/[µL/L]). Juice thresholds exceeded water thresholds by ∼5–600 times. Multiple linear regressions were used to develop models to predict juice thresholds from water thresholds and physical constants, for apple juice (AJ) and published orange juice (OJ) values. The simplest most practical models utilized just one variable, the logarithm of the water threshold. Coefficients of correlation (R2) for the AJ and OJ models were 71.7 and 72.8%, respectively, and provided satisfactory estimates of juice thresholds.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This research established aroma thresholds in a juice matrix for 10 prevalent esters in apples and related them to water thresholds using log models. These thresholds allow industry to calculate more realistic odor activity values for quality control and research purposes in the apple juice industry.
PROTEOLYTIC CHANGES DURING PROCESSING IN TURKISH DRY‐CURED MEAT PRODUCT (PASTIRMA) WITH DIFFERENT SALT LEVELS
Authors: SOYER AYLA , UĞUZ ŞEVKAT , DALMIŞ ÜLKÜ
Published: June 2011

The effects of different salt (NaCl) contents on proteolytic changes during processing in the dry‐cured meat product pastırma were investigated. Pastırma samples were produced with three different NaCl levels (3, 6 and 9%) and proteolytic changes were monitored.

A progressive increase in nonprotein nitrogen (NPN) and free amino acids (FAAs) was detected during processing. High‐salt pastırma samples had the highest FAAs. Drying and pressing stages before pasting with çemen resulted in a decrease in water‐soluble nitrogen (WSN) and a slight increase in NPN and FAA. High salt level and processing time resulted in the accumulation of FAAs. The increase in WSN, NPN and FAA contents after çemen treatment indicated that the çemen used in the pasting process had an impact on accumulation of these components in pastırma. However, no significant effect of salt level was observed on WSN and NPN. Sarcoplasmic proteins decreased considerably after salting due to drainage. Myofibrillar proteins degraded during processing, particularly in samples with 6 and 9% NaCl.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Proteolysis is one of the most important biochemical changes occurring during the processing of dry‐cured meat products such as ham or pastırma. The effect of additional salt concentrations and processing stages on proteolysis in Turkish dry‐cured meat product, pastırma, was studied during processing. Processing stages (salting, drying, pressing and pasting with çemen mixture) resulted in increases in NPN and FAA contents. High salt level (9% NaCl) and processing stages, particularly pasting with çemen mixture, facilitated the accumulation of FAA. Salting resulted in denaturation or insolubilization of proteins. Insolubilization of sarcoplasmic proteins was clearly seen in samples with 6 and 9% NaCl, depending on increased salt concentration during processing. In contrast, myofibrillar proteins in samples with 6 and 9% NaCl degraded during processing. From these results, processing conditions (salt concentration of pastırma and pasting with çemen) can determine the compounds released from protein breakdown during processing.
EFFECT OF PE/AG2O NANO‐PACKAGING ON THE QUALITY OF APPLE SLICES
Authors: ZHOU LING , LV SINING , HE GUIPING , HE QIANG , SHI BI
Published: June 2011

Effects of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) packaging and nano‐structured silver‐polyethylene (PE/Ag2O) packaging on the overall sensory quality, color, weight and solute loss of fresh‐cut apples stored at 5 and 15C were studied in this research. Results showed that, compared with normal LDPE packaging, the PE/Ag2O packaging helped to maintain the freshness of apple slices. Nano‐structured PE/Ag2O bag delayed apple browning and decreased the weight loss of apple slices during storage. In addition, it can also prevent apple slices from microbial spoilage. As a result, the quality of apple slices saved at 5C in PE/Ag2O bag was acceptable in 12 days, while those held in LDPE bag showed some deterioration in 6 days. Furthermore, considering the potential health risk resulting from silver leak, the safety of PE/Ag2O bag was evaluated, and the result indicated an acceptable safety for food packaging.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Types of nano‐structured bags are recently commercialized for food packaging in many countries, but few documents report their performance in quality maintenance. This study indicates that nano‐structured PE/Ag2O bag is effective in maintaining the freshness of apple slices with extended shelf‐life. Results of this work may be useful for promoting the acceptance and application of similar nano‐packaging in the quality maintenance of fresh‐cut products.
RANKING BEEF MUSCLES FOR WARNER–BRATZLER SHEAR FORCE AND TRAINED SENSORY PANEL RATINGS FROM PUBLISHED LITERATURE
Authors: SULLIVAN G.A. , CALKINS C.R.
Published: June 2011

Meat scientists have long studied palatability traits of beef muscles, but few characterized numerous muscles over significant numbers of animals. The objective of this project was to rank the major beef muscles for Warner–Bratzler shear force (WBS) and sensory traits based on a comprehensive study of the literature, thereby compiling a large number of observations for each muscle. Muscles with three or more literature sources were ranked for WBS (n = 40), sensory tenderness (n = 14), juiciness (n = 13) and beef flavor (n = 9). Psoas major and infraspinatus were the top ranked for mechanical and sensory tenderness. Semitendinosus, gluteus medius, supraspinatus and pectoralis profundus were major muscles that were among the least tender. The Pearson correlation coefficient of WBS and sensory tenderness means was −0.84 (P = 0.001). These rankings may be useful as a reference for relative palatability of muscles.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Knowledge of the relative palatability and rank of individual muscle can serve as a resource at the retail and foodservice establishment to better meet consumers' needs, and through use in educational materials. The popularity and demand of the flat iron (infraspinatus) and petite tender (teres major) steaks are examples of better utilizing and merchandizing the carcass. Furthermore, it can aid processors and product development specialists in identifying additional muscles suitable for value‐added processing and possibilities for acceptable muscle substitutions. Utilization by academics will be through reference for research needs and classroom instruction. The results of this ranking can be utilized by all sectors of the meat industry to ultimately provide an improved product for the consumer.
ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY, SCAVENGING RADICAL ACTIVITY AND SELECTED CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF NATIVE APPLE CULTIVARS FROM CENTRAL EUROPE
Authors: ROP OTAKAR , JURIKOVA TUNDE , SOCHOR JIRI , MLCEK JIRI , KRAMAROVA DANIELA
Published: June 2011

The main aim of this study was to focus on 10 typical native apple cultivars from Central Europe and to determine the basic characteristics such as dry matter, soluble solid content, titrable acidity, the content of pectins, phenolics, ascorbic acid, antioxidant capacity and the scavenging effect of 10% apple fruit extracts on hydroxyl radical, nitric oxide and superoxide radical in them. In our experiments, it was found out that the highest content of organic acids was shown by the “Jeptiska” cultivar (5.40 g/kg of FM). As far as the content of pectins was concerned, the highest levels were found out in the “Strymka” cultivar (32.60 g/kg FM). In case of total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, ascorbic acid content and scavenging activity of reactive oxygen species (hydroxyl radical, nitric oxide and superoxide anion), high efficiency was determined in the local cultivars, namely, in “Matcino,”“Panenske ceske” and “Strymka.”

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The results shown have wide use in the alimentary industry and human nutrition as apples belong to the most widespread core fruit. There exist many apple cultivars that have not been described in detail in literature and this study provides an insight into 10 not very common cultivars in the world; and although in Central Europe these cultivars are cultivated successfully, so far they have not been utilized commercially. However, their genetic uniqueness represents an irreplaceable ecological wealth and for that reason these local cultivars could become a new and outstanding source of nutrients and food. Today, they can also be used as a potential material for further breeding and selection.
Commitment strength in motivational interviewing and movement in exercise stage of change in women
Authors: Perry Cynthia K. , Butterworth Susan W.
Published: June 2011

Purpose: Motivational interviewing (MI) increasingly is used in behavior change counseling. We explored whether commitment verbalized in an initial MI session predicted subsequent physical activity behavior.

Data sources: As part of a 12‐week walking program targeted at rural women, an initial MI session was held that was audio‐recorded. We measured commitment strength during this MI session, stage of change (SOC) pre‐ and postintervention, and minutes of physical activity performed during the 12‐week intervention for the 20 women in the intervention.

Conclusions: Commitment strength was significantly correlated with SOC, and SOC was significantly correlated with physical activity behavior. However, commitment strength did not predict physical activity. Further research is needed to determine if commitment strength predicts subsequent physical activity.

Implications for practice: Understanding the role of the strength of a commitment statement made during an initial MI session could assist the APN in directing follow‐up MI sessions. This information could be useful in improving the cost effectiveness and efficiency of conducting MI.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Antimalarial Activity of Oxygenated 3‐alkylpyridine Marine Alkaloid Analogues
Authors: Hilário Flaviane F. , de Paula Renata Cristina , Silveira Mariana L. T. , Viana Gustavo H. R. , Alves Rosemeire B. , Pereira Juliana R. C. S. , Silva Luciana Maria , de Freitas Rossimiriam P. , de Pilla Varotti Fernando
Published: June 2011

A series of new oxygenated analogues of marine 3‐alkylpyridine alkaloids were prepared from 3‐pyridinepropanol in few steps and in good yields. The key step for the synthesis of these compounds was a Williamson etherification under phase‐transfer conditions. All new compounds were evaluated for their antiplasmodial activity and cytotoxicity. A significant reduction in parasitaemia was observed for some of the prepared compounds, and the majority of them exhibited a selectivity index (SI) ranging from 2.78 to 15.58, which suggests that these compounds may be a promising class of substances with antimalarial activity.
High‐Throughput Analysis of an RNAi Library Identifies Novel Kinase Targets in Trypanosoma brucei
Authors: Mackey Zachary B. , Koupparis Kyriacos , Nishino Mari , McKerrow James H.
Published: June 2011

New drugs are needed to treat human African trypanosomiasis because the currently approved treatments are toxic or limited in efficacy. One strategy for developing new drugs involves discovering novel genes whose products can be targeted for modulation by small‐molecule chemotherapeutic agents. The Trypanosoma brucei genome contains many genes with the potential to become such targets. Kinases represent one group of genes that regulate many important cell functions and can be modulated by small molecules, thus representing a promising group of enzymes to screen for potential therapeutic targets. RNAi screens could help identify the most promising kinase targets, but the lack of suitable assays represents a barrier for optimizing the use of this technology in T. brucei. Here, we describe an RNAi screen of a small RNAi library targeting 30 members of the T. brucei kinome utilizing a luciferase‐based assay. This screen both validated the luciferase‐based assay as a suitable method for conducting RNAi screens in T. brucei and also identified two kinases (CRK12 and ERK8) that are essential for normal proliferation by the parasite.
Effect of logging on rodent scatter‐hoarding dynamics in tropical forests: implications for plant recruitment
Authors: GUTIÉRREZ‐GRANADOS Gabriel
Published: June 2011

The present study tested the hypothesis that logging affects the scatter‐hoarding behavior of rodents, which, in turn, negatively affects the quantity and quality of Pouteria campechiana (Sapotaceae) seed dispersal. A series of seed stations was established in logged and unlogged forests of ejido Señor, Yucatan Peninsula, and comparisons were made between logged and unlogged forests in terms of: (i) seed removal; (ii) number of seeds hoarded; (iii) hoarding distance; and (iv) the number of recruits and the survival of hoarded seeds. The number of both hoarded and removed seeds was significantly higher in unlogged sites. Furthermore, the mean distance of hoarding was greater in unlogged compared with logged sites. Although recruitment and survival were present in both logged and unlogged sites, there were more surviving seedlings in unlogged sites. The data indicate that both the quantity and quality of seed dispersal are negatively affected by logging because of a change in the rodent scatter‐hoarding dynamics. These changes suggest that plant‐animal interactions are crucial to the understanding of the ecology and conservation of managed tropical forests.
Seed dispersal in Hong Kong, China: past, present and possible futures
Authors: CORLETT Richard T.
Published: June 2011

In the present article, published and unpublished information regarding seed dispersal in the degraded landscape of Hong Kong, China, is reviewed. Information was available for 1681 native plant species, of which 1165 were assigned to probable seed dispersal modes. Endozoochory accounted for one‐third (34.4%) of all species evaluated, half (54.4%) of those from forests, and more than two‐thirds (69.2%) of all trees and tall shrubs. Wind dispersal (25.9%) and dispersal by an unknown agent (30.7%) accounted for most of the rest, with the unknown species mostly small‐seeded herbs. Although the frugivore fauna of the Hong Kong region has been truncated since the late Pleistocene, there are few clear examples of failed mutualisms. The most striking is the absence of scatter‐hoarding rodents from Hong Kong, despite the presence of forest trees that appear to require them for effective dispersal. There are also some large Lauraceae fruits that appear to be targeted at larger‐gaped birds than currently present. Most endozoochorous species are dispersed by 3 small passerine birds (Pycnonotus jocosus, P. sinensis, and Zosterops japonicus), with larger birds, fruit bats (Cynopterus sphinx, Rousettus leschenaulti), rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta), civets (Paguma larvata, Viverricula indica), and muntjacs (Muntiacus muntjac) accounting for the remainder. The low plant diversity in frugivore droppings, seed traps, and secondary vegetation suggests plant succession may be dispersal limited, although this has not been investigated experimentally. Planting underdispersed species is the simplest solution but, in the longer term, the (re)introduction of a scatter‐hoarding rodent should be considered as well as that of other locally and regionally extinct frugivores.
Frugivory and seed dispersal in the Galápagos: what is the state of the art?
Authors: HELENO Ruben , BLAKE Stephen , JARAMILLO Patricia , TRAVESET Anna , VARGAS Pablo , NOGALES Manuel
Published: June 2011

The Galápagos are considered a model oceanic archipelago, with unique flora and fauna currently threatened by alien invasive species. Seed dispersal is an important ecosystem function with consequences for plant population dynamics and vegetation structure. Hence, understanding the seed dispersal abilities of the assemblages of frugivores will inform scientists and managers of the dynamics of plant invasions and improve management planning. Here we provide the first comprehensive review of published information on frugivory and animal seed dispersal in the Galápagos. We collected data from a variety of sources, including notes of the first naturalist expeditions, gray literature available only in Galápagos collections, and peer‐reviewed journal articles. Plant–animal frugivorous interactions were retrieved from 43 studies and compiled into an interaction matrix describing 366 unique interactions. Most studies focused on fruit consumption as a driving force for natural selection, but seed fate was seldom considered. Although most (71%) of the interactions involved native plants, more than one‐quarter (28%) involved introduced species. Interactions involving birds are considerably more common than those of reptiles and mammals, probably reflecting a research bias towards birds. Despite the historical importance of the archipelago as the laboratory for evolutionary and ecological research, understanding of its seed dispersal systems is limited. We end the review by suggesting 3 priority areas of research on frugivory and seed dispersal in the Galápagos: (i) target research to close knowledge gaps; (ii) the use of a network approach to frame seed dispersal at the community level; and (iii) evaluation of the effect of seed dispersal as a selective pressure acting upon plants and frugivores. Finally, the output of this research has to be properly delivered to the Galápagos National Park Services to help increase management effectiveness.
Oxidative stress physiology in relation to life history traits of a free‐living vertebrate: the spotted snow skink, Niveoscincus ocellatus
Authors: ISAKSSON Caroline , WHILE Geoffrey M. , OLSSON Mats , KOMDEUR Jan , WAPSTRA Erik
Published: June 2011

Recent research suggests that oxidative stress, via its links to metabolism and senescence, is a key mechanism linking life history traits such as fecundity and growth with survival; however, this has rarely been put under empirical scrutiny within free‐living populations. Using a wild population of live‐bearing skinks, we explored how plasma antioxidant activity (OXY), reactive oxidative metabolites (ROM), and the estimated oxidative stress index are associated with female and male life history. We found that male skinks have a significantly higher ROM and estimated oxidative stress index than female skinks, but this was not accompanied by a sex difference in mortality. Both sexes showed a non‐linear association between OXY and age, indicating that the oldest and youngest individuals had the lowest OXY. Interestingly, female skinks with high OXY showed a decreased probability of survival to the following season. However, we found no significant associations between female reproductive investment (litter size or litter mass) or parturition date (i.e. metabolism) and oxidative status. Combined, our results offer mixed support for a role of oxidative stress in mediating life history traits and suggest that future studies need to explore oxidative stress during vitellogenesis in addition to using an intra‐individual approach to understand the cost of reproduction and patterns of aging.
Blood electrolytes of the freshwater catfish Heteropneustes fossilis in response to treatment with a botanical pesticide (latex of Euphorbia royleana)
Authors: PRASAD ManiRam , KUMAR Abhishek , MISHRA Diwakar , SRIVASTAV Sunil K. , SRIVASTAV Ajai K.
Published: June 2011

The aim of the present study was to determine changes in blood electrolytes (calcium and phosphate) in the freshwater catfish Heteropneustes fossilis following short‐ and long‐term exposure to latex of Euphorbia royleana. To investigate the effects of short‐term exposure, fish were exposed to 80% of the 96‐h LC50 of E. royleana latex (2.47 mg/L) for 96 h. To assess the effects of long‐term exposure, fish were exposed to 20% of the 96‐h LC50 of E. royleana latex (0.618 mg/L) for 28 days. Fish were killed after 24, 48, 72 and 96 h (short‐term experiments) or after 7, 14, 21 and 28 days (long‐term experiments). Blood samples were collected and sera were analyzed to determine calcium and inorganic phosphate levels. Serum calcium levels decreased progressively in H. fossilis after 48 h exposure to E. royleana latex. This decrease persisted until the end of the experiment (96 h). Serum inorganic phosphate levels in treated fish decreased progressively from 72 h. After 7 days exposure to E. royleana latex, decreased serum calcium levels were noted in H. fossilis that persisted until the end of the experiment. Serum phosphate levels were decreased in H. fossilis on days 21 and 28 of exposure to E. royleana latex. It is concluded that E. royleana latex alters the blood electrolyte content of the fish. The change in these electrolytes, particularly calcium levels, may cause disturbances in the normal vital physiological functions of the fish, its growth rate, and even its ability to survive in nature.
Ranging behavior of the François' langur (Trachypithecus francoisi) in limestone habitats of Nonggang, China
Authors: ZHOU Qihai , HUANG Chengming , LI Ming , WEI Fuwen
Published: June 2011

Ranging behavior is an important aspect of animal behavior that researchers use to investigate ecological influences on individual behavior. We collected data on the ranging behavior of one group of François' langurs (Trachypithecus francoisi) between August 2003 and July 2004 in a limestone habitat within Nonggang Nature Reserve, China. We evaluated the influences of food availability, water resources and sleeping sites on ranging behavior. During the study period, the total home range size for the study group was 64.5 or (69.3 ha if the lacunae within the borders in which langurs were not observed were included), and the mean daily path length was 541 m. These are well within the range of variation reported in Trachypithecus species. The monthly range size was between 9.8 and 23.3 ha, and monthly range size correlated negatively with young leaf availability. The langurs tended to use a larger range size during young leaf‐lean periods. The langurs did not use their home range uniformly, and 74% of their activities occurred within 35% of their home range. The most heavily used quadrats in the home range were located near the most frequently used sleeping sites, suggesting that sleeping sites have a significant influence on the ranging behavior of François' langurs in limestone habitats.
Habitat differences in dung beetle assemblages in an African savanna–forest ecotone: implications for secondary seed dispersal
Authors: KUNZ Britta K. , KRELL Frank‐Thorsten
Published: June 2011

The probability and pattern of secondary seed dispersal by dung beetles (Scarabaeinae) depend on their community structure and composition at the site of primary deposition, which, in turn, seem to be strongly determined by vegetation. Consequently, we expected pronounced differences in secondary seed dispersal between forest and savanna in the northern Ivory Coast, West Africa. We found 99 dung beetle species at experimentally exposed dung piles of the olive baboon (Papio anubis (Lesson, 1827)), an important primary seed disperser in West Africa. Seventy‐six species belonged to the roller and tunneler guilds, which are relevant for secondary seed dispersal. Most species showed a clear habitat preference. Contrary to the Neotropics, species number and abundance were much higher in the savanna than in the forest. Rollers and tunnelers each accounted for approximately 50% of the individuals in the savanna, but in the forest rollers made up only 4%. Seeds deposited into the savanna by an omnivorous primary disperser generally have a higher overall probability of being more rapidly dispersed secondarily by dung beetles than seeds in the forest. Also, rollers disperse seeds over larger distances. In contrast to other studies, small rollers were active in dispersal of large seeds, which were seemingly mistaken for dung balls. Our results suggest that rollers can remove seeds from any plant dispersed in primate dung in this ecosystem.
Xanthine Oxidase Inhibition For The Treatment Of Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Higgins Peter , Dawson Jesse , Lees Kennedy R. , McArthur Kate , Quinn Terrence J. , Walters Matthew R.
Published: June 2011

Background

Xanthine oxidase inhibition (XOI) reduces oxidative stress in the vasculature. Moreover it reduces uric acid levels, a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. As such, XOI holds a potentially dual mechanism for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

Aims

Through systematic review, we sought to clarify the extent of available evidence that has evaluated the effect of XOI upon clinical or surrogate markers of cardiovascular disease and function in humans.

Methods

A systematic search strategy was used to interrogate the Ovid Medline (1950–June Week 4 2010) and Embase (1980–2010 Week 25) databases, to identify relevant studies. Meta‐analysis was planned for frequently studied endpoints.

Results

Thirty‐eight publications (reporting 40 studies) were identified. There was heterogeneity between studies in all aspects of study design, including the outcome measures of interest. Prospective assessment of surrogate markers predominated. Combined meta‐analysis was feasible for three outcome parameters, with favorable modifications in each following xanthine oxidase inhibition: brachial artery flow mediated dilatation (five studies: XOI n = 75, control n = 69) increased by 2.50% (95% CI, 0.15–4.84); forearm blood flow responses to acetylcholine infusion (five studies: XOI n = 74, control n = 74) increased by 68.80 (95% CI, 18.70–118.90; percent change relative to noninfused control arm); circulating markers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde, six studies: XOI n = 78, control n = 68) reduced by 0.56 nmol/mL (95% CI, 0.26–0.87).

Conclusions

XOI improves endothelial function and circulating markers of oxidative stress in patients with, or at risk of, cardiovascular disease. Large prospective studies examining definitive end points are lacking but now appear indicated.
Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic effects of friedelin isolated from Azima tetracantha Lam. in mouse and rat models
Authors: Antonisamy Paulrayer , Duraipandiyan Veeramuthu , Ignacimuthu Savarimuthu
Published: June 2011

Objectives

Friedelin was isolated from Azima tetracantha Lam. leaves collected from Kallakurichi, Villuppuram district, Tamil Nadu, India. The anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activities of friedelin have been investigated in Wistar rats and mice.

Methods

Friedelin was isolated from the hexane extract of leaves of A. tetracantha using column chromatography. The effects of friedelin on inflammation were studied by using carrageenan-induced hind paw oedema, croton oil-induced ear oedema, acetic acid-induced vascular permeability, cotton pellet-induced granuloma and adjuvant-induced arthritis. The analgesic effect of friedelin was evaluated using the acetic acid-induced abdominal constriction response, formalin-induced paw licking response and the hot-plate test. The antipyretic effect of friedelin was evaluated using the yeast-induced hyperthermia test in rats.

Key findings

In the acute phase of inflammation, maximum inhibitions of 52.5 and 68.7% (P < 0.05) were noted with 40 mg/kg friedelin in carrageenan-induced paw oedema and croton oil-induced ear oedema, respectively. Administration of friedelin (40 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the formation of granuloma tissue induced by cotton pellet at a rate of 36.3%. In the adjuvant-induced arthritis test friedelin inhibited 54.5% of paw thickness. Friedelin inhibited acetic acid-induced vascular permeability in mice. Friedelin also produced significant (P < 0.05) analgesic activity in the acetic acid-induced abdominal constriction response and formalin-induced paw licking response. In the hot-plate test, friedelin did not show any significant results when compared with control. Treatment with friedelin showed a significant (P < 0.05) dose-dependent reduction in pyrexia in rats.

Conclusions

The results suggested that friedelin possessed potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activities.
A derivative of 2-aminothiazole inhibits melanogenesis in B16 mouse melanoma cells via glycogen synthase kinase 3β phosphorylation
Authors: Kim Su Yeon , Hahn Hoh-Gyu , Nam Kee Dal , Park Kyoung-Chan , Yun Hye-Young , Baek Kwang Jin , Kwon Nyoun Soo , Kim Dong-Seok
Published: June 2011

Objectives

We have investigated whether KHG25855 (2-cyclohexylamino-1,3-thiazole hydrochloride) affected melanogenesis in B16 mouse melanoma cells, and the mechanisms involved.

Methods

Melanin content and tyrosinase activity were measured using an ELISA reader after cells were treated with KHG25855. KHG25855-induced signalling pathways were examined using Western blot analysis.

Key findings

KHG25855 decreased melanin production in a dose-dependent fashion, but KHG25855 did not directly inhibit tyrosinase, the rate-limiting melanogenic enzyme. The expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor, tyrosinase, and the related signal transduction pathways were also investigated. The effects of KHG25855 on the extracellular signal-regulated kinase and cAMP response element binding protein signalling pathways were determined, and KHG25855 was shown to have no effect on these signalling pathways. The Wnt signalling pathway is also deeply involved in melanogenesis, and so glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) phosphorylation was assessed after KHG25855 treatment; KHG25855 caused GSK3β phosphorylation (inactivation), but the level of β-catenin was not changed by KHG25855. Furthermore, α-melanocyte stimulating hormone-induced tyrosinase expression was downregulated by KHG25855.

Conclusions

We propose that KHG25855 showed hypopigmentary activity through tyrosinase downregulation via GSK3β phosphorylation.
Up-regulation of P-glycoprotein reduces intracellular accumulation of beta amyloid: investigation of P-glycoprotein as a novel therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Abuznait Alaa H , Cain Courtney , Ingram Drury , Burk David , Kaddoumi Amal
Published: June 2011

Objectives

Several studies have suggested the efflux transporter P-glycoprotein (P-gp) to play a role in the etiology of Alzheimer's disease through the clearance of amyloid beta (Aβ) from the brain. In this study, we aimed to investigate the possibility of P-gp as a potential therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease by examining the impact of P-gp up-regulation on the clearance of Aβ, a neuropathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.

Methods

Uptake studies for 125I-radiolabelled Aβ1–40, and fluorescent immunostaining technique for P-gp and fluorescent imaging of Aβ1–40 were carried out in LS-180 cells following treatment with drugs known to induce P-gp expression.

Key findings

Approximately 10–35% decrease in 125I-Aβ1–40 intracellular accumulation was observed in cells treated with rifampicin, dexamethasone, caffeine, verapamil, hyperforin, β-estradiol and pentylenetetrazole compared with control. Also, fluorescent micrographs showed an inverse relationship between levels of P-gp expression and 5-carboxyfluorescein labelled Aβ (FAM-Aβ1–40) intracellular accumulation. Quantitative analysis of the micrographs revealed that the results were consistent with those of the uptake studies using 125I-Aβ1–40.

Conclusions

The investigated drugs were able to improve the efflux of Aβ1–40 from the cells via P-gp up-regulation compared with control. Our results elucidate the importance of targeting Aβ clearance via P-gp up-regulation, which will be effective in slowing or halting the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Pre-emptive intrathecal quinidine alleviates spinal nerve ligation-induced peripheral neuropathic pain
Authors: Cheng Kuang-I , Wang Hung-Chen , Lai Chung-Sheng , Tsai Hung-Pei , Kwan Aij-Lie , Ho Shung-Tai , Wang Jhi-Joung , Chang Lin-Li
Published: June 2011

Objectives

Quinidine, a class I anti-arrhythmic agent, is a sodium channel blocker that is more potent than lidocaine and mexiletine. This study tested pre-emptive intrathecal quinidine to attenuate neuropathic pain induced by lumbar spinal nerve ligation (SNL).

Methods

Ninety-six adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were grouped equally (n = 24 per group) as follows: group S (sham), removal of transverse process only; group L, SNL; group Q35, SNL pretreated with intrathecal quinidine 35 mm (50 µl); group Q70, SNL pretreated with intrathecal quinidine 70 mm (50 µl). Neuropathic pain was measured by thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. Other measurements included dys-regulation of sodium channel Nav1.3 in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and spinal microglia activation in spinal dorsal horn.

Key findings

Spinal nerve ligation induced abnormal mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, up-regulated Nav1.3 in DRG, and activated microglia in spinal cord. Group Q70 showed attenuated thermal hyperalgesia (P < 0.001) and mechanical allodynia (P < 0.05) on postoperative day 5 (POD5) but not on POD7, reversed up-regulated expression of Nav1.3 on POD3 and POD7 in DRG and significantly attenuated microglia activation on POD7 (P = 0.032) in spinal cord.

Conclusions

Pretreatment with intrathecal quinidine 70 mm before SNL attenuates nerve ligation-induced neuropathic pain. The duration of the effect is 5 days.
Conservatism and its relationship to general and specific ethnocentrism in Northern Ireland
Authors: Mercer G. William , Cairns Ed
Published: June 2011

Measures of conservatism, general ethnocentrism and ethnocentrism specifically related to Northern Irish ethnopolitical ideas were obtained from Protestant and Catholic, male and female adolescents. These suggested that while both groups are equally conservative this was related to specific Northern Irish ethnocentrism only for the Protestant group. It was suggested that this may be related to the fact that the Catholic (minority) group fail to see Protestants simply as another out‐group or to greater awareness of ethnopolitical ideas among the minority group. Evidence from a study involving whites and American Indians suggests that this latter idea may apply to other minority groups.
A test of theories of social facilitation using a musical task
Authors: Abrams Dominic , Manstead A. S. R.
Published: June 2011

A study is reported which examined the effects of the presence of others, recording equipment, and a mirror on performance of a musical task. These three performance conditions were designed to test predictions derived from the mere presence, evaluation apprehension, and objective self‐awareness accounts of social facilitation phenomena. The relationship between task performance and individual differences in test anxiety was also assessed. Eighty subjects were each assigned to one of 16 conditions in a 2 (male vs. female) × 2 (well‐practised vs. poorly practised) × 4 (others present, evaluation, mirror, alone) design. Results showed that task performance, as measured by melodic errors, did not conform to any of the theoretical predictions. The findings are discussed in the context of other social facilitation research, and an attentional model of social facilitation phenomena is advanced as a possible explanation for failures to obtain effects predicted by drive‐based theories.
Attribution of responsibility to a victim of rape
Authors: Kanekar Suresh , Kolsawalla Maharukh B. , D'Souza Audrey
Published: June 2011

Two experimental studies of attribution in a rape situation were conducted. In Study 1,240 graduate students read the case report of a rape and gave their opinions regarding the rapist's punishment and the victim's fault. A provocative victim was attributed greater fault than an unprovocative victim, but this effect of provocativeness was significant only with male subjects judging a low status victim and with female subjects judging a high status victim. In study 2,240 undergraduate students read a case report of a rape and gave their opinions regarding the rapist's punishment and the likelihood of rape. Female subjects recommended longer imprisonment for the rapist than did male subjects. Greater likelihood of rape was indicated with a provocative, rather than unprovocative, victim and female subjects indicated greater likelihood of rape than did male subjects in the case of a physically unattractive victim. The results of the two studies were discussed with reference to defensive attribution and in the light of a proposed distinction between causal and moral responsibility.
Effects of Machiavellianism and communication on helping behaviour during an emergency
Authors: Wolfson Sandra L.
Published: June 2011

Studies relating Machiavellianism and helping behaviour have yielded contradictory data. The present experiment examined situational effects (subjects alone, in communicating triads, and in non‐communicating triads) on the helping behaviour of low and high Machs. While working on an apparent experimental task, university students heard a loud crash and cries for help coming from outside the experimental room. Low Machs helped significantly more often than high Machs, though the effect was mainly due to decreased helping by high Mach communicating triads. Contrary to previous helping behaviour research, face‐to‐face communication led to decreases in helping. Analysis of communication indicated that cue exchange was in fact more facilitated in non‐communicating groups, where ‘startle responses’ were more obvious. The results are discussed in terms of the social influence explanation of group size effects on helping. It is suggested that differences in low and high Mach communication patterns rather than differences in their sympathy for fellow human beings might account for the greater helping by low Machs. The need to explore the interaction of individual and situational factors in future research is stressed.
Social facilitation and social monitoring: A new look at Zajonc's mere presence hypothesis
Authors: Guerin B. , Innes J. M.
Published: June 2011

Fifteen years ago Zajonc proposed a drive theory of social facilitation to account for the discrepancies in the literature at that time (Zajonc, 1965). That article has since been catalyst to as many, if not more, studies as had previously existed. It is now suggested that refinements are needed to this drive theory to explain discrepancies in the more recent literature. Specifically, a model based on the conditions of monitoring other persons can plausibly account for the data. A survey of the empirical studies shows that the conditions for which social monitoring is not possible are those conditions for which the mere presence of others affects task performance.
Self‐interest and collective action: The economics and psychology of public goods
Authors: Stroebe Wolfgang , Frey Bruno S.
Published: June 2011

Social psychology has become increasingly interested in problems posed by social dilemma situations such as ‘The Tragedy of the Commons’, where individuals acting in their own self‐interest end up being worse off than if they had considered the interest of the ‘community as a whole’. The paper attempts to integrate social psychological thinking in this area with the economic theory of public goods. The economic distinction between private and public goods centres around the issue of ‘excludeability of consumption’: in contrast to private goods, which can only be consumed by the purchasers, a public good (e.g. clean air), once it has been provided, can be consumed by everybody, regardless of whether they contributed towards it. This non‐excludeability of consumption induces ‘free‐riding’, i.e. the temptation to share in the consumption of the public good without contributing to its provision. The temptation to free‐ride is assumed to increase with increasing group size. The paper reviews evidence relevant to the free‐rider hypothesis from four areas: behaviour in experimental games, simulations of market transactions, group productivity, and helping behaviour in emergency situations. It is argued that each of these situations involves the provision of a public good and evidence of free‐riding as well as support for the relationship between free‐riding and group size is presented. Based on the economic theory of public goods, a psychological interpretation of these findings is developed.
Economic socialization in the pre‐adult years
Authors: Stacey Barrie G.
Published: June 2011

Research on economic socialization in the pre‐adult years is reviewed. Four interrelated categories are used to order the research: money, possessions, social differentiation and inequality, socioeconomic understanding. A number of theoretical issues are also examined. To conclude, major findings are summarized.
Equity and sexual satisfaction in dating couples
Authors: Traupmann Jane , Hatfield Elaine , Wexler Philip
Published: June 2011

This study was designed to determine whether or not equity considerations are important in dating couples' most intimate of relationships—their sexual relations. To answer this question, we interviewed 189 college men and women. We proposed: Men and women who feel their relationships are equitable (1) should be more content, and (2) should have more satisfying sexual relations than those who feel either overbenefited or underbenefited. We found strong support for the first hypothesis and some, far weaker support, for the second hypothesis.
Toward fundamental measurement of dimensionality
Authors: Peterson Christopher , Scott William A.
Published: June 2011

Dimensionality, the number of independent dimensions used to describe a domain of objects, was assessed with three questionnaires (pertaining to nations of the world) administered to 47 undergraduates. Scores from these three questionnaires tended to converge, not just by similarly ordering the subjects but also by agreeing in absolute magnitude. Convergence was not perfect, however, showing that scalar invariance was not fully achieved. Implications of fundamental measurement of dimensionality were discussed.
Catholic and Protestant young people's ratings of stereotyped Protestant and Catholic faces*
Authors: Stringer Maurice , Cairns Ed
Published: June 2011

The present paper describes a series of studies which suggest that facial stimuli may provide a method of assessing intergroup attitudes in children in Northern Ireland. Experiments 1 and 2 outline the selection and testing of suitable stereotyped face stimuli; while Expt 3 describes an attempt to measure adolescents' attitudes toward both their own and other groups using these faces. Results indicated differences between the two religious groups in their ratings of the two face types, which produce an insight into young people's perceptions of in‐group and out‐group membership in Northern Ireland.
Sex bias in the evaluation of students
Authors: Bradley Clare
Published: June 2011

Sex differences in academic achievement have often been observed but have usually been attributed to inherent differences between men and women students rather than to differential marking by examiners. The present study indicates that this may not be the case. Sex bias was shown to occur in the evaluation of students' projects. These results cannot be attributed to actual differences in achievement of men and women students. The implications of these findings for marking in general are discussed and recommendations are made for examination procedures which would help to eliminate such bias.
Predicting mothers' choice of infant feeding method
Authors: Manstead A. S. R. , Plevin C. E. , Smart J. L.
Published: June 2011

There is relatively little published research concerning the relationship between mothers' attitudes towards methods of feeding infants and their choice of breast‐feeding or bottle‐feeding as methods of feeding their own babies. The present study used Fishbein & Ajzen's theory of reasoned action to analyse the impact of the attitudes, perceived norms and beliefs of 50 primiparous mothers on (i) their intentions to breast‐feed or bottle‐feed, assessed antenatally; and (ii) their self‐reported use of breast‐feeding and bottle‐feeding during the first six weeks of the baby's life. The findings were generally consistent with the theory of reasoned action. Attitudes to the infant feeding methods accounted for a large and significant amount of variation in intentions, and intentions in turn accounted for a large and significant amount of variation in infant feeding behaviour. However, there were some aspects of the findings that were not entirely consistent with the theory. Attitudes to behaviour contributed significantly and independently to the prediction of behaviour, and beliefs about the consequences of behaviour explained a near‐significant amount of variation in intentions, beyond that already accounted for by attitudes and normative beliefs. Theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.