bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Postjunctional α1‐adrenoceptors in the vasculature of the pithed mouse are of the α1A‐subtype
Authors: López‐Guerrero J. J. , Ibarra M. , Villalobos‐Molina R. 
Published: June 2005

Summary 1 The pressor action of noradrenaline and its blockade by selective α1‐adrenoceptor antagonists in the pithed mouse were evaluated. 2 Chloroethylclonidine (α1B/D‐adrenoceptor alkylating agent) or BMY 7378 (α1D‐adrenoceptor antagonist), both at 1 mg kg−1, did not block the increase in blood pressure induced by noradrenaline. 3 5‐Methylurapidil (α1A‐adrenoceptor antagonist), at 0.1 mg kg−1, displaced the dose–response curve approximately six‐fold to the right. 4 The results support the idea that the pithed mouse vasculature express α1A‐adrenoceptors and suggest that it is a good model to study the roles of α1‐adrenoceptors in gene knockout or overexpression.
An index for assigning distances between odor‐baited spheres on perimeter trees of orchards for control of apple maggot flies
Authors: Prokopy Ronald J. , Jácome Isabel , Bigurra Everardo 
Published: June 2005

AbstractPreviously, the distances between odor‐baited spheres deployed on perimeter trees of apple orchards for behavioral control of apple maggot flies, Rhagoletis pomonella (Walsh) (Diptera: Tephritidae), have been assigned largely arbitrarily. Here, we report a new approach for assigning distances that employs an index incorporating the state of four environmental variables: the size of orchard trees, quality of pruning, cultivar composition, and nature of bordering habitat. The deployment of odor‐baited spheres on the perimeters of 12 plots of apple trees (each ∼0.4 ha) in commercial orchards in 2003 resulted in an apple maggot control which was no different from that achieved by insecticide sprays in adjacent plots in 2003, and no different from that achieved by an arbitrary assignment of distances between odor‐baited spheres on perimeter trees in these same plots in 2001 and 2002. However, only 61–67% of spheres were used under the new index approach compared with the previous arbitrary approach, thereby substantially reducing the cost of behavioral control. Our findings are discussed in relation to use of the index for blocks of trees which are large in size and pruned poorly vs. small in size and pruned well, and in relation to the cost‐competitiveness of odor‐baited perimeter spheres vs. insecticidal sprays for the control of apple maggots.
Resistance to the rice leaf bug, Trigonotylus caelestialium, is conferred by Neotyphodium endophyte infection of perennial ryegrass, Lolium perenne
Authors: Shiba Takuya , Sugawara Koya 
Published: June 2005

Abstract Neotyphodium fungal endophytes form mutualistic symbiotic associations with many grasses of the subfamily Pooideae, including important forage and turfgrass species. This relationship provides a competitive advantage to the host plant by increasing abiotic/biotic stress tolerance, such as its resistance to drought, diseases, and insect pests. The insect deterrent effects of endophytes are now receiving attention in Japan, as insect pests growing in meadows are causing problems in adjacent rice paddies. One of the most serious problems is the kernel spotting of rice grains caused by the rice leaf bug, Trigonotylus caelestialium Kirkaldy (Heteroptera: Miridae), which reproduces on Lolium species grown as forage. To determine the potential of Neotyphodium endophytes to reduce the invasion of rice crops by T. caelestialium from adjacent Lolium crops, we carried out choice and no‐choice feeding tests using endophyte‐infected and endophyte‐free clonal perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) (Poaceae). Our experiments revealed that the presence of the Neotyphodium endophyte strongly deterred the feeding of both first‐instar larvae and adults of T. caelestialium. These results show the potential of Neotyphodium endophytes to reduce the number of T. caelestialium in forage fields and grasslands, and thus to reduce the damage to rice grains caused by this insect pest.
Measuring and causes of inequality in farm sizes in the United States
Authors: Miljkovic Dragan 
Published: June 2005

AbstractThis article examines the notion of farm size inequality expressed as sales inequality in the United States. The farm size index (FSI) is developed as a measure of farm size inequality. FSIs are calculated for the farming sector in all 50 states and large variation in farm size across the states and over time is determined. The largest FSIs are calculated for a number of Southern, Southwestern, and Pacific states. Increasing FSIs over time are observed in all states as well. The spatial and temporal (between 1987 and 1997) differences in FSIs are explained by running a pooled, cross‐sectional time‐series model. The most influential variables accounting for the differences have to do with the ownership structure, where a larger presence of individual and family farms relative to corporate farms and cooperatives leads to a lower degree of farm size inequality. Also, states and regions having relatively larger number of farms owned by minorities have higher FSIs. Shrinking opportunities in the agricultural sector relative to the rest of the economy, primarily services, are reflected in a declining share of agricultural sector state income in total gross state product (GSP). This in turn leads to an increase in the farming sector's FSI suggesting that only larger, more profitable operations are the likely candidates to pursue farming activities. Finally, grains farming regions have all lower degree of farm size inequality than livestock or fruits and vegetables regions. Profitable grains farming requires relatively large farm size and equipment investments, which leads to a relatively homogeneous structure of grains farms. A larger variation in the size of profitable farm operations is possible in fruits and vegetables and livestock. This leads to the existence of a large number of very small but still sustainable farms, and a relatively small number of large farms that capture most of market sales share.
How much do farmers value their independence?
Authors: Key Nigel 
Published: June 2005

AbstractA farmer's decision to contract or produce independently depends on the distribution of income and the nonpecuniary attributes associated with both business arrangements. The benefits to growers from contracting (such as risk reduction) may be overestimated if the nonpecuniary benefits enjoyed by independent producers (such as the right to make management decisions and own the commodity produced) are not accounted for. This study uses data from a U.S. national survey of hog producers to estimate (1) the difference in expected net returns between contracting and independent production, (2) the premium a representative farmer would pay for the risk reduction provided by a contract, and (3) the premium a farmer would pay for the nonpecuniary benefits associated with independent production. Results indicate that growers have a strong preference for autonomy—with moderately risk‐averse growers being willing to pay more for the attributes of independent production than they would for the risk‐reducing benefits of a contract.
Premorbid adjustment in first episode schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders: a comparison of social and academic domains
Authors: Norman R. M. G. , Malla A. K. , Manchanda R. , Townsend L. 
Published: June 2005

Objective: Recent evidence suggests that premorbid adjustment in schizophrenia and related disorders can be separated into social and academic domains. In this paper, we examine the correlates of and prognostic significance of social and academic premorbid adjustment in a sample of 113 patients.Method: Premorbid adjustment, symptoms and cognitive functioning were assessed at presentation for treatment and symptoms were re‐assessed after a year of treatment.Results: Females and those with a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder were found to have better premorbid adjustment in the academic domain, but not in the social domain. Neurocognitive functioning was more consistently related to academic than social adjustment. Better social and academic premorbid adjustment was correlated with lower negative symptoms after 1 year of treatment, but neither was a significant predictor of positive symptoms.Conclusion: Social and academic premorbid adjustments show different relations to gender, specific diagnosis and neurocognitive functioning in schizophrenia and related disorders.
UV‐induzierte regulatorische T‐Zellen
Authors: Schwarz Thomas 
Published: June 2005

ZusammenfassungRegulatorische T‐Zellen stellen eine Untergruppe von T‐Zellen dar, die Immunreaktionen in Antigen‐spezifischer Weise unterdrücken. Sie spielen eine wichtige Rolle bei der Kontrolle der Entstehung von Autoimmunerkrankungen. Ultraviolette (UV) Strahlung unterdrückt das Immunsystem in Antigen‐spezifischer Weise. Dies wird über UV‐induzierte regulatorische T‐Zellen vermittelt. Diese exprimieren CD4 und CD25 und setzen nach Aktivierung das immunsuppressive Zytokin Interleukin‐10 frei. Nach intravenöser Injektion migrieren UV‐induzierte regulatorische T‐Zellen primär in die Lymphknoten, was erklärt, daß sie primär eine Sensibilisierung verhindern. Kürzlich konnte in einem experimentellen Modell gezeigt werden, daß Photopherese ebenfalls regulatorische T‐Zellen induzieren dürfte. Die genauere Charakterisierung dieser Zellen wird entscheiden, ob es in Zukunft möglich sein wird, diese Zellen therapeutisch einzusetzen, mit dem Ziel eine spezifische Immunsuppression zu induzieren.
Improving the efficacy of nutritional supplementation in the hospitalised elderly
Authors: Jukkola Katja , MacLennan Penny 
Published: June 2005

Background:  Protein‐energy malnutrition delays wound healing, extends length of stay, and increases complication rates. Identification of patients at risk of malnutrition, together with early intervention, may prevent further deterioration of nutritional status. Objectives:  Through the use of nutrition screening and assessment, prioritise nutrition intervention to those at greatest nutritional risk. To improve the consumption rate of nutritional supplements, using a ‘nutrition as medication’ program. Methods:  We assessed 200 acute aged care patients for malnutrition risk using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) tool (Nestle SA, Vevey, Switzerland) within 72 h of hospital admission. Patients ‘at risk’ or malnourished, received either mid meal supplements (control group) or 60 mL of a 2 kcal per ml supplement, given four times daily (trial group). Outcome measures included comparison of supplement consumption changes in MNA scores on fortnightly reassessment or discharge. Results:  Thirty per cent of patients were malnourished on admission, with a further 42%‘at risk’. Patient compliance with the ‘nutrition as medication’ program was excellent (95%) compared with current practice (48%). On reassessment patients in the trial group showed a trend towards a greater improvement in score for appetite (P = 0.065), number of meals consumed (P = 0.01) and protein intake (P = 0.007). Improvement in score for weight was significant in the trial group (P = 0.027). Length of stay was shorter in the trial group (P = 0.044).Conclusion:  Routine use of a validated assessment tool is essential for early identification of malnutrition risk. A ‘nutrition as medication’ program is effective in attenuating deterioration in nutritional status.
Perceptions of older people about falls injury prevention and physical activity
Authors: Snodgrass Suzanne J , Rivett Darren A , Mackenzie Lynette A 
Published: June 2005

Objectives:  The purpose of this study was to explore the beliefs and perceptions of older people about falls injury prevention services, and to identify incentives and barriers to attending falls prevention services, including programs targeting physical activity. Methods:  Seventy‐five people over age 60 years who were members of community groups completed a 23‐item survey that was returned by mail. Survey items included self‐reported falls and confidence when walking, awareness of falls prevention strategies, desirable programs for a falls prevention service, and incentives and barriers to participation in physical activity programs. Results:  Twenty‐eight per cent of respondents had fallen within the previous 6 months, yet just over half (54%) were aware there were strategies to prevent falling, despite the majority of the sample being physically active (81%) and at least reasonably confident about walking (84%). The features that were considered most desirable for a falls prevention service were group exercise programs (61%), educational talks about health issues (57%), and vision/eye glasses assessment (52%). The most commonly reported incentives for attending a physical activity group included having a doctor advise them to attend (61%) or having a friend who attended the group (55%), and the most common barrier to attending a physical activity group was transportation (43%). Conclusions:  Despite consistent numbers of older people experiencing falls, there is little awareness among older people that strategies exist to prevent falling. It appears that motivating older people to participate in physical activity with the aim of falls prevention will largely depend on the encouragement of their doctor or their peers.
The Efficacy of Tadalafil in Clinical Populations
Authors: Lewis Ronald W. , Sadovsky Richard , Eardley Ian , O'Leary Michael , Seftel Allen , Wang Wei Christine , Shen Wei , Walker Daniel J. , Wong David G. , Ahuja Sanjeev 
Published: June 2005

ABSTRACT

Objectives
To evaluate the efficacy of tadalafil in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) by demographic and ED characteristics, in patients having various comorbid medical conditions, and in patients receiving drug treatment for other medical conditions.

Methods
This is an analysis of 11 double-blind, placebo-controlled trials with 2,102 men with a broad spectrum of ED etiology and various comorbid medical conditions as participants. The variables analyzed in this report included race, age, body mass index (BMI), ED etiology, ED severity, ED duration, smoking, prior sildenafil use, presence of comorbid conditions (diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, hyperlipidemia, depression, benign prostatic hyperplasia), and treatment with antihypertensives or antidepressants. Patients were randomly assigned to receive tadalafil 10 mg (N = 321), tadalafil 20 mg (N = 1,143), or placebo (N = 638). The primary efficacy variables included mean changes from baseline in the erectile function (EF) domain score of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire, and the mean per-patient percentage of “yes” responses to the Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP) diary question 3 (SEP3––successful intercourse). The Global Assessment Question 1 (GAQ) was evaluated, as was the percentage of men attaining a normal IIEF EF domain score at end point.

Results
Patients taking tadalafil 10 mg or 20 mg demonstrated significant improvement (P &lt; 0.005) from baseline to end point on the IIEF EF domain score in all subpopulations analyzed compared with patients receiving placebo. The mean-per-patient percentage of “yes” responses to SEP3 increased significantly in all subpopulations taking tadalafil compared with placebo (P &lt; 0.05). Tadalafil-treated patients had a significantly greater positive response rate on the GAQ in all subpopulations analyzed compared with placebo-treated patients (P &lt; 0.03) except for the tadalafil 10 mg cardiovascular subpopulation (placebo, 46.8%; tadalafil 10 mg, 71.0%; P = 0.127). The percentage of positive responses ranged from 72% to 91% for patients on tadalafil 20 mg and from 52% to 94% for tadalafil 10 mg compared with a range of 20% to 47% for placebo-treated patients.

Conclusions
Tadalafil was effective in improving erectile function across a wide spectrum of ED patients including patients with various comorbid conditions.
Testosterone Therapy Can Enhance Erectile Function Response to Sildenafil in Patients with PADAM: A Pilot Study
Authors: Shamloul Rany , Ghanem Hussein , Fahmy Ibrahim , El-Meleigy Amr , Ashoor Shedeed , Elnashaar Abdelrahman , Kamel Ihab 
Published: June 2005

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Recent studies suggest a direct relationship between free testosterone and cavernous vasodilatation. Some men with erectile dysfunction (ED) associated with PADAM (partial androgen deficiency in aging men) might possibly benefit from testosterone undecanoate therapy (TRT).

Objectives
To determine the efficacy of testosterone undecanoate in facilitating the erectile response and patient satisfaction with sildenafil in men 40–70 years old with PADAM symptoms.

Design and Methods
Prospective study including 40 patients recruited after a sildenafil therapeutic trial. Total testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were measured to calculate the free androgen index. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) was measured and repeated 2 months after treatment. A rating score was used for PADAM symptoms, and the 5-point abbreviated version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) to assess erectile function. Men failing to respond to sildenafil were randomized into two groups receiving sildenafil plus continuous TRT (group 1ST), and TRT (group 1T) alone. Men partially responding to sildenafil were randomized into two groups receiving sildenafil plus continuous TRT for 2 months (group 2ST), or sildenafil alone (group 2S). Treatment efficacy was assessed by analysis of between-group differences.

Results
Groups 1T, 2S, and 2ST showed significant improvement in PADAM scores (P &lt; 0.05, Wilcoxon matched pairs test). Patients receiving both sildenafil plus continuous TRT (groups 1ST and 2ST) showed significant improvement in IIEF-5 scores (P &lt; 0.5, paired t-test). No significant changes in serum levels of PSA were detected (paired t-test).

Conclusions
We conclude that TRT appears to be beneficial and safe in facilitating the erectile response and patient satisfaction with sildenafil in men with PADAM symptoms. Androgen supplementation should be carried out cautiously with careful monitoring to avoid possible adverse effects.
Association Between Erectile Dysfunction and Sleep Disorders Measured by Self-Assessment Questionnaires in Adult Men
Authors: Heruti Rafi , Shochat Tzipi , Tekes-Manova Dorit , Ashkenazi Itschak , Justo Dan 
Published: June 2005

ABSTRACT

Background
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often associated with sleep disorders and sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) in mostly middle-aged and elderly men. Sleep disorders and ED are also prevalent in younger men.

Purpose
To study the association between ED, sleep disorders, and SAS, particularly among adult men.

Methods
A health screening program is offered by the Israel Defense Force (IDF) for career servicemen older than 25 years, for the purpose of early detection of ED and sleep disorders, among other concealed morbidities. The Sexual Health Inventory for Man questionnaire (SHIM) was used to measure ED. The Sleep Quality (SQ) questionnaire, developed by the medical services of the IDF, was used to characterize SAS and other sleep disorders.

Results
From 2002 through 2003, 3,363 men (mean age, 36.1 ± 6.8 years) replied to the SHIM and SQ questionnaires. Of these men, 337 (10%) scored high (≥25) in the SQ questionnaire, suggesting moderate to severe sleep disorders, and 870 men (25.8%) scored low (≤21) in the SHIM questionnaire, suggesting ED. There was a negative correlation between the scores in the SHIM questionnaire and in the SQ questionnaire (r = −0.29, P &lt; 0.0001)—even after age adjustment and after excluding men with risk factors for both ED and SAS (such as essential hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and obesity; r = −0.21, P &lt; 0.0001). This correlation was consistent with all severity levels of ED and sleep disorders.

Conclusions
Sleep  disorders,  in  particular  SAS,  and  ED  are  prevalent  and  may  be  related  in adult  men.  Either  ED  or  sleep  disorders  should  be  considered  whenever  the  other  is  suspected in adult men. Sleep disorders and ED should also be investigated for the purpose of treating underlying systemic diseases and emotional disorders, and in order to prevent late complications of atherosclerosis.
The Use of the Sexual Function Questionnaire as a Screening Tool for Women with Sexual Dysfunction
Authors: Quirk Frances , Haughie Scott , Symonds Tara 
Published: June 2005

ABSTRACT

Aim
To determine if the validated Sexual Function Questionnaire (SFQ), developed to assess efficacy in female sexual dysfunction (FSD) clinical trials, may also have utility in identifying target populations for such studies.

Methods
Data from five clinical trials and two general population surveys were used to analyze the utility of the SFQ as a tool to discriminate between the presence of specific components of FSD (i.e., hypoactive sexual desire disorder, female sexual arousal disorder, female orgasmic disorder, and dyspareunia).

Results
Sensitivity/specificity analysis and logistic regression analysis, using data from all five clinical studies and the general population surveys, confirmed that the SFQ domains have utility in detecting the presence of specific components of FSD and provide scores indicative of the presence of a specific sexual disorder.

Conclusions
The SFQ is a valuable new tool for detecting the presence of FSD and identifying the specific components of sexual functions affected (desire, arousal, orgasm, or dyspareunia).
Practical Methods Using Boronic Acid Compounds for Identification of Class C β-Lactamase-ProducingKlebsiella pneumoniaeandEscherichia coli
Authors: Yagi Tetsuya , Wachino Jun-ichi , Kurokawa Hiroshi , Suzuki Satowa , Yamane Kunikazu , Doi Yohei , Shibata Naohiro , Kato Haru , Shibayama Keigo , Arakawa Yoshichika 
Published: June 2005

ABSTRACTDetection of the resistance mediated by class C β-lactamases remains a challenging issue, considering that transferable plasmid-mediated class C β-lactamases are of worldwide concern. Methods for the identification of strains that produce extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) or metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs) have been developed and applied for routine use in clinical microbiology laboratories, but no practical methods for identification of plasmid-mediated class C producers have been established to date. We therefore developed three simple methods for clinical microbiology laboratories that allow identification of plasmid-mediated class C β-lactamase-producing bacteria using a boronic acid derivative, 3-aminophenylboronic acid (APB), one of the specific inhibitors of class C β-lactamases. Detection by the disk potentiation test was based on the enlargement of the growth-inhibitory zone diameter (by greater than or equal to 5 mm) around a Kirby-Bauer disk containing a ceftazidime (CAZ) or a cefotaxime (CTX) disk in combination with APB. In a double-disk synergy test, the discernible expansion of the growth-inhibitory zone around the CAZ or the CTX disk toward a disk containing APB was indicative of class C β-lactamase production. A greater than or equal to eightfold decrease in the MIC of CAZ or CTX in the presence of APB was the criterion for detection in the microdilution test. By using these methods,Escherichia coliandKlebsiella pneumoniaeisolates producing plasmid-mediated class C β-lactamases, ACT-1, CMY-2, CMY-9, FOX-5, LAT-1, and MOX-1, were successfully distinguished from those producing other classes of β-lactamases, such as ESBLs and MBLs. These methods will provide useful information needed for targeted antimicrobial therapy and better infection control.