bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cheng Sammy K. , Dizon Janine
Published: May 2012

Background: Computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (CCBT) is an innovative mode of delivering services to patients with psychological disorders. The present paper uses a meta-analysis to systematically review and evaluate the effectiveness of CCBT for insomnia (CCBT-I). Method: A comprehensive search was conducted on 7 databases including MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Social Sciences Citation Index and PubMed (up to March 2011). Search terms covered 3 concepts: (1) [internet, web, online, computer-aided, computer-assisted, computer-guided, computerized OR computerised] AND (2) [CBT, cognitive therapy, behavio(u)ral therapy OR behavio(u)r therapy] AND (3) [insomnia, sleep disorders OR sleeping problem]. Results: 533 potentially relevant papers were identified, and 6 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that met the selection criteria were included in the review and analysis. Two RCTs were done by the same group of investigators (Ritterband and colleagues) using the same internet programmes. Post-treatment mean differences between groups showed that the effects of CCBT-I on sleep quality, sleep efficiency, the number of awakenings, sleep onset latency and the Insomnia Severity Index were significant, ranging from small to large effect sizes. However, effects on wake time after sleep onset, total sleep time and time in bed were non-significant. On average, the number needed to treat was 3.59. The treatment adherence rate for CCBT-I was high (78%). Conclusion: The results lend support to CCBT as a mildly to moderately effective self-help therapy in the short run for insomnia. CCBT-I can be an acceptable form of low-intensity treatment in the stepped care model for insomnia.
Is the Addition of the Ductus Venosus Useful when Screening for Aneuploidy and Congenital Heart Disease in Fetuses with Normal Nuchal Translucency?
Authors: Prats Pilar , Ferrer Queralt , Comas Carmina , Rodríguez Ignacio
Published: May 2012

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the possible role of Doppler ultrasound assessment of ductus venosus (DV) blood flow at 11+0–13+6 weeks’ gestation in fetuses with normal nuchal translucency (NT) in screening for autosomal trisomies (AT) and for congenital heart diseases (CHD) in chromosomally normal fetuses. Methods: First-trimester combined screening for trisomy 21 (T21) was carried out prospectively for 7 years in singleton pregnancies. NT and the pulsatility index for DV (DVPI) were calculated. The DV was analyzed according to its association with AT and CHD. The detection rate (DR), false-positive rate (FPR), positive predictive value (PPV), and odds ratio (OR) for abnormal DV were calculated. Results: Abnormal DV as an early marker of euploid CHD gives a DR of 12.5%, an FPR of 4.3%, a PPV of 1.4%, and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 99.5%, with an OR of 3.1 (95% CI 1.3–7.4). Moreover, abnormal DV as an early marker of AT shows a DR of 35.7%, an FPR of 4.3%, a PPV of 1.2%, an NPV of 99.9%, and an OR of 12.3 (95% CI 4.1–36), and the values are 33.3, 4.3, 0.97, and 99.9% and 11 (95% CI 3.2–36.9), respectively, for T21. Conclusions: Our data supports the association between increased DVPI and CHD or AT. The sensitivity of this marker is not strong enough to be used a screening test.
Pharmacoeconomic Impact of Different Regimens to Prevent Cytomegalovirus Infection in Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Kielberger Lukas , Bouda Mirko , Jindra Pavel , Reischig Tomas
Published: May 2012

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the cost impact of four different strategies for prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease after renal transplantation. Methods: Hospitalization data and medical resource utilization data were prospectively collected alongside two randomized trials. In the first trial, the patients were randomized to 3-month prophylaxis with either oral ganciclovir (1 g t.i.d., n = 36) or valacyclovir (2 g q.i.d., n = 35), and to the control group (n = 12) managed by deferred therapy. In the second trial, the patients were randomly assigned to 3-month valacyclovir prophylaxis (n = 34) or preemptive therapy with valganciclovir (900 mg b.i.d. for a minimum of 14 days, n = 36) for significant CMV DNAemia. The cost analysis involved all real costs directly related to CMV during the first year after renal transplantation. Results: The mean CMV-associated costs per patient were EUR 4,581, 2,577, 4,968, and 8,050 in patients in the ganciclovir, valacyclovir, preemptive, and deferred therapy groups, respectively (p < 0.001). Valacyclovir prophylaxis was significantly less expensive than any other regimen. The cost of one episode of CMV disease was EUR 7,510 per patient. Due to excessive incidence of CMV disease, deferred therapy was the most expensive strategy (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Valacyclovir prophylaxis is less expensive strategy compared with any other regimen.
Vaginal Bleeding in Early Pregnancy and Associations with Physical, Psychological and Environmental Factors among Chinese Women: From the C-ABC Cohort Study
Authors: Sun Lu , Tao Fangbiao , Hao Jiahu , Su Puyu , Xu Rong , Liu Fang
Published: May 2012

Objectives: To examine sociodemographic, physical, psychological and environmental factors that may be associated with vaginal bleeding (VB) in the first trimester. Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted on 14,752 women by trained doctors, when pregnant women came for the first antenatal examination, including sociodemographic characteristics, prior adverse pregnancy outcomes, diseases history, life event stress, adverse environmental exposure and detailed information on VB. Results: VB occurred among 3,466 pregnant women, the prevalence of VB was 23.4% in the first trimester, 35.9% of whom did not see a doctor, 59.7% of whom went to clinic and only 4.4% of whom were hospitalized for VB. Multinomial logistic regression demonstrated that the following risk factors may be associated with VB with seeing a doctor: age >25 years, education greater than primary school, urban residence, prior spontaneous abortion, prior surgical abortion and previous stillbirth, having gynecological inflammation, chest X-ray examination and life events stress score >2 during the periconception period. Age >25 years, urban residence, prior surgical abortion, having gynecological inflammation and a life event stress score >2 during the periconception period may be related to VB without seeing a doctor. Conclusions: This epidemiologic study provided more information on predictors of VB: physical, psychological and adverse environmental exposure were all associated with VB in the first trimester.
Effects of Anidulafungin and Voriconazole, Singly and in Combination, on Cytokine/Chemokine Production by Human Monocyte-Derived Macrophages Infected with Candida glabrata or Activated by Lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Baltch Aldona L. , Lawrence David , Ritz William J. , Andersen Nancy , Bopp Lawrence H. , Michelsen Phyllis B. , Carlyn Cynthia J. , Smith Raymond P.
Published: May 2012

Background:Candida glabrata causes infections associated with severe sepsis, production of high concentrations of cytokines/chemokines, and high mortality. This study describes the effects of anidulafungin (ANF) and voriconazole (VRC), singly and in combination, on the production of eight cytokines/chemokines by human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) infected with C. glabrata or activated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Methods: MDM monolayers were established, infected with C. glabrata or activated with LPS, and then treated with high or low concentrations of ANF, VRC, or both. Cytokine/chemokine levels in MDM supernatants were determined. Results: Levels of cytokines/chemokines were significantly elevated in supernatants of infected or LPS-activated MDM. Except for interleukin-10, all significant decreases in cytokine/chemokine concentrations (p < 0.01) occurred in supernatants of infected MDM treated with high concentrations of ANF or ANF + VRC. Conclusions: Decreases in cytokine/chemokine levels in supernatants of infected MDM treated with high concentrations of ANF or ANF + VRC suggest that similar treatment could improve survival in patients with severe, invasive C. glabrata infections and markedly elevated levels of serum cytokines/chemokines.
Can Left Atrial Strain and Strain Rate Imaging Be Used to Assess Left Atrial Appendage Function?
Authors: Arslan Sakir , Simsek Ziya , Gundogdu Fuat , Aksakal Enbiya , Kalkan Mehmet Emin , Gurlertop Yekta , Erol Mustafa Kemal , Karakelleoglu Sule
Published: May 2012

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of left atrial strain (S) and strain rate (SR) imaging in assessing left atrial appendage (LAA) function. Methods: We studied 78 consecutive patients (35 females and 43 males; mean age 38 ± 15 years) referred for transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). LAA late emptying velocity (LAA-EV) was calculated. Real-time color Doppler myocardial velocity imaging (MVI) data were recorded from the LAA by TEE and the lateral wall of the left atrium (LA) by transthoracic echocardiography. Longitudinal S and SR were measured in the mid portion of the lateral LA wall and lateral LAA wall during the contractile period. LAA late systolic velocity (LSV) and LA-LSV were obtained from Doppler analysis. Results: A significant positive correlation was detected between LAA-EV and MVI parameters (for LAA-S, r = 0.88, p < 0.001; for LAA-SR, r = 0.84, p < 0.001; for LAA-LSV, r = 0.83, p < 0.001; for LA-S, r = 0.84, p < 0.001; for LA-SR, r = 0.79, p < 0.001, and for LA-LSV, r = 0.70, p < 0.001). In addition, a significant positive correlation was detected between LAA-S and LA-S (r = 0.85, p < 0.001). Conclusion: We suggest that LA-S and LA-SR imaging is a beneficial method to evaluate LAA functions noninvasively.
Telogen Effluvium following Bivalent Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Administration: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Tuccori Marco , Pisani Chiara , Bachini Laura , Pardini Milena , Mantarro Stefania , Antonioli Luca , Fornai Matteo , Rubinelli Marinella , Cirinei Carlo , Blandizzi Corrado
Published: May 2012

We describe two cases of telogen effluvium occurring in two 11-year-old children following bivalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine administration. The two children began to lose their hair following the second HPV vaccine dose. Alopecia worsened following the third vaccine dose and then resolved spontaneously within a few months. In both cases, laboratory analysis and psychiatric evaluation excluded causes other than anti-HPV vaccine. Social discomfort and isolation were associated with alopecia in the two children. The clinical presentation was consistent with a pattern of telogen effluvium. The identification of specific vaccine components responsible for triggering the adverse event remains difficult. In similar cases, suspension of immunization is not recommended, as it provides health benefits that overcome the possible adverse effect of transient telogen effluvium. Caregivers should ensure psychiatric support to their patients to manage the social and emotional distress that might be associated with hair loss.
Association of Early versus Late Initiation of Dialysis with Mortality: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pan Yu , Xu Xu Dong , Guo Li Li , Cai Ling Ling , Jin Hui Min
Published: May 2012

Background/Aims: The association of the timing of dialysis initiation with mortality is controversial. We conducted a meta-analysis to determine the relationship between the risk of death and early initiation of dialysis, when the patient has a greater estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Methods: Prospective and retrospective cohort studies that independently measured the effect of early vs. late initiation of dialysis on risk of death were identified by review of several databases. Odds ratios (ORs) were estimated by comparison of the highest and lowest quartiles and combined by a random-effects model. Results: 15 studies (1,285,747 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Summary estimates indicated that early start of dialysis was associated with increased risk of mortality (OR = 1.33, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.18–1.49, p < 0.00001). Subgroup analysis indicated that early starters were 6.61 years older (p < 0.00001) and more likely to have diabetes (OR = 2.23, 95% CI: 1.83–2.71, p < 0.00001) than late starters. Analysis of pooled results of early and late starters indicated that older age (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.05–1.33, p = 0.006), diabetes (OR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.38–1.87, p < 0.00001), and high comorbidity index score (OR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.75–3.25, p < 0.00001) were strongly associated with increased risk of death. Conclusion: Our meta-analysis indicates that early initiation of dialysis (at higher eGFR) was associated with an increased risk of death. Older age, greater likelihood of diabetes, and the presence of severe comorbid disease(s) partly explain this effect.
Pathophysiologic Role of Histamine: Evidence Clarified by Histidine Decarboxylase Gene Knockout Mice
Authors: Ohtsu Hiroshi
Published: May 2012

The role of histamine in various murine disease models has been clarified using histidine decarboxylase gene knockout mice. The mice were generated using conventional gene-targeting methods. Studies, including ours, using knockout mice have shown that the activity of histamine is not limited to allergic, peptic and neurologic functions as in the old paradigm, but extends to other processes related to wound healing, circulatory disease, immunology, oncology and infectious disease. The recent observation of the activity of newly cloned histamine receptors and a pathophysiologic effect of histamine has dramatically expanded our understanding of the scope of histamine function.
Murine T Cell-Derived Contractile Activity for Bronchial Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Abe Akemi , Koyama Satoshi , Ohtomo Takayuki , Kitamura Noriko , Kaminuma Osamu , Mori Akio
Published: May 2012

Background: Adoptive transfer of helper T (Th) cells conferred a late asthmatic response upon antigen challenge. A possible production of a contractile activity for bronchial smooth muscle (BSM) by activated Th cells was examined. Method: Murine Th clones were stimulated with immobilized anti-CD3 antibody in the presence or absence of anti-CD28 antibody. Culture supernatants were dialyzed and then applied to the collagen gels containing cultured human BSM cells. Results: Culture supernatants of activated but not resting murine Th clones that conferred a late asthmatic response, induced the contraction of human BSM cell-containing collagen gels. Conclusion: Activated Th cells produce a contractile activity for BSM in vitro.
Higher Sensitivity of Male CD4+ T Cells to Suppressive Effects of CD8+ T Cells on IL-5 Production Compared to Female CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Okuyama Kaori , Kashimura Tsuyoshi , Kawano Tasuku , Ohkawara Yuichi , Takayanagi Motoaki , Kikuchi Toshiaki , Ohno Isao
Published: May 2012

Background: Asthma prevalence and severity are higher in females than in males after puberty. The underlying mechanisms of this gender difference are not fully understood. More severe airway inflammation in female mice has been reported to be associated with higher levels of T helper type 2 (Th2) cytokines in asthma models. The aim of this study was to investigate sex differences in CD4+ and CD8+ T cell functions in Th2 cytokine production. Methods: Splenocytes from naive mice were stimulated with anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies and the proportions of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were analyzed. CD4+ T cells were stimulated in the presence of CD8+ T cells. The concentrations of interleukin (IL)-5, IL-10 and interferon (IFN)-γ in the cultures were measured. Results: The concentration of IL-5, but not IFN-γ, was significantly higher in female splenocytes than in male splenocytes. There were no sex differences in the proportions of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the splenocytes. Although the IL-5 production levels in male and female CD4+ T cells were similar, IL-5 production in male CD4+ T cells, but not female CD4+ T cells, was suppressed by both male and female CD8+ T cells. While IL-5 and IL-10 were not detected in the cultures from both male and female CD8+ T cells, IFN-γ concentration in female CD8+ T cells was significantly higher than in male CD8+ T cells. Conclusions: The sex difference in the sensitivity of CD4+ T cells to CD8+ T cell suppression might contribute to the sex difference in IL-5 production by splenocytes.
Roles of CRTH2+ CD4+ T Cells in Immunoglobulin G4-Related Lacrimal Gland Enlargement
Authors: Saito Yukari , Kagami Shin-ichiro , Kawashima Saki , Takahashi Kentaro , Ikeda Kei , Hirose Koichi , Oshitari Toshiyuki , Yamamoto Shuichi , Okamoto Yoshitaka , Nakajima Hiroshi
Published: May 2012

Background: Lacrimal gland enlargement (LGE) is one of the characteristics of Mikulicz’s disease (MD). Recently, marked serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G4 elevation and infiltration of IgG4-positive plasma cells in the enlarged exocrine glands have been reported in MD patients. Moreover, we have reported that in patients with LGE and elevated serum IgG4 levels (IgG4-related LGE), T helper type 2 (Th2) cell-mediated immune responses are enhanced. Although prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) and its receptor CRTH2 (chemoattractant receptor-homologous molecule expressed on Th2 cells) have been shown to be involved in Th2 cell-related diseases such as bronchial asthma, their roles in IgG4-related diseases remain unknown. Aim: The aim of this study is to address the role of CD4+ T cells expressing CRTH2 (CRTH2+ CD4+ T cells) in IgG4-related LGE. Methods: We examined the expression of CCR4, CXCR3 and CRTH2 on peripheral blood CD4+ T cells in patients with IgG4-related LGE, in patients with bronchial asthma and in healthy controls. Results: The ratio of CCR4+ to CXCR3+ in CD45RO+ CD4+ T cells was increased in patients with IgG4-related LGE when compared to that in healthy controls, confirming that Th2 cells are predominant in patients with IgG4-related LGE. In addition, the frequency of CRTH2+ cells in CD4+ T cells was significantly increased in these patients, compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, although not statistically significant, the frequency of CRTH2+ cells in CD4+ T cells tended to correlate with the levels of serum IgE and the number of blood eosinophils in patients with IgG4-related LGE. Conclusion: CRTH2+ CD4+ T cells may be involved in the pathogenesis of IgG4-related LGE.
1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 Upregulates Functional C-X-C Chemokine Receptor Type 4 Expression in Human Eosinophils
Authors: Hiraguchi Yukiko , Tanida Hisashi , Sugimoto Mayumi , Hosoki Koa , Nagao Mizuho , Tokuda Reiko , Fujisawa Takao
Published: May 2012

Background: Epidemiological studies suggest that vitamin D may be protective against the inception and exacerbation of allergic diseases. However, the direct effect of vitamin D on eosinophils, the major effector cells in allergic inflammation, is not known. It has been reported that C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) in eosinophils is induced in non-Th2 cytokine milieu or in response to glucocorticoids, recruiting the cell to noninflammatory sites. Objectives: To test whether 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25-(OH)2D3 or calcitriol], the active metabolite of vitamin D, acts directly on eosinophils to induce upregulation of CXCR4. Methods: Peripheral blood eosinophils from normal volunteers were isolated by CD16 immunomagnetic beads. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression was detected by RT-PCR. Eosinophils were cultured with 1,25-(OH)2D3 and the survival and expression of CXCR4 on eosinophils were measured by flowcytometry. Eosinophil migration by CXCL-12/SDF-1 in the presence of 1,25-(OH)2D3 was also analyzed. Results: Eosinophils expressed VDR. 1,25-(OH)2D3 prolonged eosinophil survival and upregulated eosinophil surface expression of CXCR4 in a concentration-dependent manner. Interleukin (IL)-5 significantly reduced CXCR4 expression and migration induced by the ligand CXCL-12/SDF-1. 1,25-(OH)2D3 reversed the negative effects of IL-5 on the CXCR4-CXCL12 pathway. Conclusion: 1,25-(OH)2D3 regulates CXCR4 expression in eosinophils. The mechanism may be involved in eosinophil recruitment to noninflammatory sites where the ligand of CXCR4 is constitutively expressed.
Possible Regulatory Role of Galectin-9 on Ascaris suum-Induced Eosinophilic Lung Inflammation in Mice
Authors: Katoh Shigeki , Oomizu Souichi , Niki Toshiro , Shimizu Hiroki , Obase Yasushi , Korenaga Masataka , Oka Mikio , Hirashima Mistuomi
Published: May 2012

Background: Galectin-9 (Gal-9) is a member of the galectin family of lectins that exhibit binding affinity for β-galactosides. We found a T cell line-derived Gal-9 with novel eosinophil chemoattractant activity, but its role in eosinophilic inflammation of the lung is unknown. We evaluated the role of Gal-9 in Ascaris suum-induced eosinophilic lung inflammation in mice. Methods: To evaluate the role of Gal-9 in Ascaris suum-induced eosinophilic lung inflammation, we developed a mouse model of eosinophilic pneumonia induced by the Ascaris suum antigen, and analyzed eosinophilic inflammation in Gal-9-deficient mice. The therapeutic effects of recombinant Gal-9 on lung inflammation were also examined in this mouse model. To evaluate lung inflammation, numbers of inflammatory cells and cytokine levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were estimated by flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Results: The BALF of this mouse model of eosinophilic pneumonia induced by the Ascaris suum antigen contained increased numbers of inflammatory cells and elevated Gal-9 levels. Compared with wild-type mice, the BALF of Gal-9-deficient mice contained higher numbers of both eosinophils and T helper type 2 (Th2) cells. Th2 cytokines and eotaxin levels were also higher, and levels of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells were lower in Gal-9-deficient mice than in wild-type mice. Intranasal administration of recombinant Gal-9 prevented eosinophilic inflammation of the lung and upregulated the release of endogenous Gal-9. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that Gal-9 negatively regulates Th2-mediated eosinophilic inflammation of the lung and that Foxp3+ regulatory T cells might be involved in suppressing allergic inflammation.
Trial of Chinese Medicine Wu-Ling-San for Acute Low-Tone Hearing Loss
Authors: Okada Kazunari , Ishimoto Shin-ichi , Fujimaki Yoko , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: May 2012

Purpose: We used new criteria to elucidate the demographics of acute low-tone sensorineural hearing loss (ALHL) and tested the Chinese medicine Wu-Ling-San as a treatment for ALHL. Procedures: We reviewed the medical records of patients with ALHL seen at the outpatient clinic of the Social Insurance Central General Hospital in Tokyo from April 2006 through August 2011. Patients were treated with an oral steroid, a diuretic, or Wu-Ling-San; alone or in combination. Results: We identified 130 definite and 48 probable ALHL cases. The mean age and male-to-female ratio in probable cases were significantly higher than those in definite cases (p < 0.05). The steroid-Wu-Ling-San combination was significantly more effective (100% recovery) than the diuretic alone (59%), Wu-Ling-San alone (62%), or the steroid-diuretic combination (60%, p < 0.05). Conclusions: ALHL can develop in older patients more frequently than we expected. The steroid-Wu-Ling-San combination is a possible new treatment for ALHL.
Increased Plasma Levels of High Mobility Group Box 1 in Patients with Acute Liver Failure
Authors: Oshima G. , Shinoda M. , Tanabe M. , Ebinuma H. , Nishiyama R. , Takano K. , Yamada S. , Miyasho T. , Masugi Y. , Matsuda S. , Suda K. , Fukunaga K. , Matsubara K. , Hibi T. , Yagi H. , Hayashida T. , Yamagishi Y. , Obara H. , Itano O. , Takeuchi H. , Kawachi S. , Saito H. , Hibi T. , Maruyama I. , Kitagawa Y.
Published: May 2012

Background: High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a monocyte-derived late-acting inflammatory mediator, which is released in conditions such as shock, tissue injury and endotoxin-induced lethality. In this study, we determined the plasma and hepatic tissue levels of HMGB1 in patients with acute liver failure (ALF). Patients and Methods: We determined the plasma levels of HMGB1 and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in 7 healthy volunteers (HVs), 40 patients with liver cirrhosis (LC), 37 patients with chronic hepatitis (CH), 18 patients with severe acute hepatitis (AH), and 14 patients with fulminant hepatitis (FH). The 14 patients with FH were divided into two subgroups depending upon the history of plasma exchange (PE) before their plasma sample collection. The hepatic levels of HMGB1 were measured in tissue samples from 3 patients with FH who underwent living-donor liver transplantation and from 3 healthy living donors. Hepatic tissue samples were also subjected to immunohistochemical examination for HMGB1. Results: The plasma levels of HMGB1 (ng/ml) were higher in patients with liver diseases, especially in FH patients with no history of PE, than in HVs (0.3 ± 0.3 in HVs, 4.0 ± 2.0 in LC, 5.2 ± 2.6 in CH, 8.6 ± 4.8 in severe AH, 7.8 ± 2.7 in FH with a history of PE, and 12.5 ± 2.6 in FH with no history of PE, p < 0.05 in each comparison). There was a strong and statistically significant relationship between the mean plasma HMGB1 level and the logarithm of the mean AST level (R = 0.900, p < 0.05). The hepatic tissue levels of HMGB1 (ng/mg tissue protein) were lower in patients with FH than in healthy donors (539 ± 116 in FH vs. 874 ± 81 in healthy donors, p < 0.05). Immunohistochemical staining for HMGB1 was strong and clear in the nuclei of hepatocytes in liver sections from healthy donors, but little staining in either nuclei or cytoplasm was evident in specimens from patients with FH. Conclusion: We confirmed that plasma HMGB1 levels were increased in patients with ALF. Based on a comparison between HMGB1 contents in normal and ALF livers, it is very likely that HMGB1 is released from injured liver tissue.
Timing of Arteriovenous Fistula Placement and Medicare Costs during Dialysis Initiation
Authors: Solid Craig A. , Carlin Caroline
Published: May 2012

Background/Aims: Arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) appear to be clinically superior to catheters as vascular access for maintenance hemodialysis, but higher insertion costs and high disease burden and mortality obscure the issue of whether AVF placement before hemodialysis initiation represents a net cost savings. We aimed to investigate Medicare costs for patients beginning maintenance hemodialysis, as related to timing of AVF placement. Methods: Data were from Medicare claims for incident hemodialysis patients aged ≥67 years in 2006. The study period extended from 2 years before to 1 year after dialysis initiation. Patients identified as having AVFs were categorized by timing of placement (mature AVF at dialysis initiation, maturing AVF at initiation, postinitiation AVF placement). Because timing may be influenced by factors that also influence overall costs, the model accounted for this nonrandom treatment assignment. An ordered probit extension of the classic Heckman correction was employed after identifying an appropriate instrumental variable. A cohort with Medicare coverage before and after dialysis initiation was identified, and Medicare claims were used to identify comorbid conditions and treatment costs. Results: Principal findings are that earlier AVF placement leads to lower costs, with the potential for about USD 500 million in savings. Additionally, the effect of nonrandom treatment assignment is real and significant. In our data, the impact of AVF placement timing was understated when treatment selection was ignored. Conclusions: For appropriate AVF candidates, having a mature AVF in place at the time of dialysis initiation appears to confer cost savings.
Stem Cells in
Circulation
and the
Circulation
Subspecialty Journals
Authors:   The Editors
Published: May 2012

The following articles are being highlighted as part of
Circulation's
Topic Review series. This series will summarize the most important manuscripts, as selected by the editors, published in
Circulation
and the
Circulation
subspecialty journals. The studies included in this article represent the articles related to stem cells that were published in
Circulation
and the
Circulation
subspecialty journals in 2010 and 2011.
A Sub-Band Approach to Modification of Musical Transients
Authors: Zaunschirm Markus , Reiss Joshua D. , Klapuri Anssi
Published: May 2012

The transient modifier is a type of audio effect that changes the level of the transient parts in a musical signal while leaving the steady-state parts unchanged. This article presents a high-performance algorithm for transient detection and modification, one that is capable of modifying transients in polyphonic or multi-voiced signals, and capable of modifying both hard (percussive) and soft (non-percussive) transients. The detection and modification of transients are performed in the frequency-domain using a sub-band approach. Detection is based on both phase and energy information using an adaptive threshold, and modification is carried out independently at each sub-band. The performance of the proposed sub-band approach was compared with other transient-modification algorithms using subjective listening tests. We show that the sub-band approach with adaptive threshold mostly outperforms other approaches.
Natural Deficiency or Social Oppression? The Capabilities Approach to Justice for People with Disabilities
Authors: Barclay Linda
Published: May 2012

Theories of distributive justice are often criticised for either excluding people with disabilities from the domain of justice altogether, or casting them as deficient in personal attributes. I argue that the capabilities approach to justice is largely immune to these flaws. It has the conceptual resources to locate most of the causes of disadvantage in the interaction between a person and her environment and in doing so can characterise the disadvantages of disability in a way that avoids the imputation of natural deficiency. However, I also argue that the capabilities approach cannot accommodate some of the stronger claims advanced by some disability scholars. No plausible capabilities approach can guarantee that social change will always be the just or fair remedy for disadvantage, and there is a small number of severe cases of disability where capability shortfalls will be attributed to the person’s ‘deficient’ physical and mental impairments.
Moral Entanglements: Ad Hoc Intimacies and Ancillary Duties of Care
Authors: Richardson Henry S.
Published: May 2012

This paper develops and explores the idea of moral entanglements: the ways in which, through innocent transactions with others, we can unintendedly accrue special obligations to them. More particularly, the paper explains intimacy-based moral entanglements, to which we become liable by accepting another’s waiver of privacy rights. Sometimes, having entered into others’ private affairs for innocent or even helpful reasons, one discovers needs of theirs that then become the focus of special duties of care. The general duty to warn them of their need cannot directly account for the full extent of these duties, but does indicate why a silent retreat is impermissible. The special duties of care importantly rest on a transfer of responsibilities that accompanies the privacy waivers. The result is a special obligation of beneficence that, while grounded in a voluntary transaction, was never voluntarily undertaken. Impartialist views of beneficence cannot capture the relevant phenomena well.
The Ethics of Reasoning from Conjecture
Authors: Schwartzman Micah
Published: May 2012

An important objection to political liberalism is that it provides no means by which to decide conflicts between public and non-public reasons. This article develops John Rawls’ idea of ‘reasoning from conjecture’ as one way to argue for a commitment to public reason. Reasoning from conjecture is a form of non-public justification that allows political liberals to reason from within the comprehensive views of at least some unreasonable citizens. After laying out the basic features of this form of non-public justification, this article responds to three objections based on concerns about insincerity, cultural imperialism, and the epistemic authority of those who reason from conjecture.
El significado psicológico de las actitudes de conservación y uso: un estudio basado en la técnica de la red semántica natural
Authors: Milfont Taciano L. , del Río Miguel
Published: May 2012

Las actitudes hacia el medio ambiente (AMA) son una tendencia psicológica a valorar el entorno natural de forma positiva o negativa. Varios estudios recientes han llevado a cabo evaluaciones cuantitativas sobre la dimensionalidad de la estructura de los niveles de orden superior de las AMA, proponiendo ya un solo factor generalizado de orden superior, ya dos factores de orden superior, denominados Conservación y Uso. Este artículo presenta una evaluación cualitativa de la Conservación y el Uso, planteándose si la gente establece diferencias mentales entre ambas. Los datos cualitativos proceden de participantes de 16 países de los seis continentes habitados, y se obtuvieron empleando la técnica de la red semántica natural (Natural Semantic Network Technique), que consiste en pedir a los participantes que propongan definiciones para los términos “conservación del medio ambiente” y “uso del ambiente”, y en asignar pesos a cada una de dichas definiciones para clasificarlas según su importancia. Aunque no son concluyentes, los datos obtenidos indican que los significados psicológicos de las actitudes de conservación y uso están bastante diferenciados, lo que aporta una base cualitativa al modelo bifactorial de la estructura de orden superior de las AMA.
Consecuencias emocionales de las propiedades instrumentales y simbólicas de los medios de transporte urbano
Authors: Sevillano Verónica , López-Sáez Mercedes , Mayordomo Sonia
Published: May 2012

La investigación sobre la función que cumplen los medios de transporte ha identificado la existencia de tres funciones principales: instrumental, simbólica y afectiva. Sin embargo, no hay consenso sobre las relaciones que se establecen entre dichas funciones. Los resultados obtenidos a través del análisis de 6 grupos de discusión muestran que las consecuencias emocionales se vinculan con las características asociadas tanto a la función instrumental como a la función simbólica de los medios de transporte. Las características instrumentales que conllevan consecuencias emocionales positivas y negativas son, principalmente, las asociadas con la temporalidad (tiempo que se invierte en el trayecto) y la versatilidad (disponibilidad de uso en diferentes situaciones) del funcionamiento de los medios de transporte. Las características simbólicas con carga emocional, por su parte, son aquellas relacionadas con la auto-expresión (expresión de identidad) y la categorización social (estatus y prestigio) identificadas con los medios de transporte. Se discuten las implicaciones de los resultados para la estructuración de las funciones asociadas a los medios de transporte.
Predictores de la percepción de riesgo y del comportamiento ante el cambio climático. Un estudio piloto
Authors: Hidalgo M. Carmen , Pisano Ignacio
Published: May 2012

Diferentes estudios han mostrado como determinantes de la percepción de riesgo del cambio climático diversas variables tales como las actitudes hacia el medio ambiente, los conocimientos sobre el cambio climático o la autoeficacia (Heath y Gifford, 2006; Sundblad, Biel y Gärling, 2007). Sin embargo, la falta de consenso en estos trabajos, así como la ausencia de escalas de actitudes específicas hacia el cambio climático sugieren la necesidad de profundizar en esta línea. En este estudio piloto se analizan conjuntamente los predictores de la percepción de riesgo y de la disposición a actuar contra el cambio climático más relevantes hallados en la literatura previa. Para ello se ha elaborado una escala tipo Likert para evaluar las variables objeto de estudio: conocimiento, actitudes hacia el cambio climático y autoeficacia como variables predictoras y percepción de riesgo e intención de conducta como variables criterio. Esta escala ha sido puesta a prueba en una muestra de 84 estudiantes universitarios. La consistencia interna de las escalas son aceptables, excepto la variable actitud hacia el cambio climático que obtiene un nivel bajo. Los resultados de los análisis de regresión indican que la percepción sobre la realidad del cambio climático se explica, en un 44% de la varianza, a partir del nivel de conocimientos, la actitud hacia el cambio climático y la autoeficacia. La intención de conducta se predice en un 17% a partir de la actitud hacia el cambio climático y la autoeficacia.
Predictors of recycling behavior among primary school students in Mexico
Authors: Juárez-Lugo Carlos-Saúl , Moorby Anna
Published: May 2012

This research paper assessed the recycling behavior of 1040 third and sixth grade students in primary education. Three predictive variables were tested: environmental knowledge, attitude and ability. The purpose of this study was to compare the recycling behavior characteristics observed in the two grades and to identify the specific influence of the three predictive variables on the recycling behavior of students. Sixth grade students performed better than third grade students in the variables knowledge and ability and a statistically significant difference was found (α =.001). This was not the case when testing attitude, where third grade students, particularly girls, showed more willingness to protect the environment. Knowledge and ability have a greater influence on recycling behavior than environmental attitude.
Determinants of risk perception and willingness to tackle climate change. A pilot study
Authors: Hidalgo M. Carmen , Pisano Ignacio , Moorby Anna
Published: May 2012

Different research papers have demonstrated that risk perception related to climate change can be attributed to different variables such as general environmental beliefs, knowledge about climate change and self-efficacy (Heath and Gifford, 2006; Sundblad, Biel and Gärling, 2007). However, the lack of agreement in the work carried out so far and the need to define specific scales of attitudes towards climate change indicate that further research must be conducted along these lines. This pilot study analyzes the determinants of risk perception and behavioral intentions in relation to climate change found in the literature. A Likert-type scale was developed to assess the following variables: knowledge, attitudes towards climate change and self-efficacy as predictive variables and risk perception and behavioral intentions as criteria variables. This scale was tested on 84 university students. The internal consistency of the scale was acceptable for all variables with the exception of attitude toward climate change where consistency was low. The results of the regression analyses showed that 44% of the variance observed in risk perception related to climate change can be explained by the level of knowledge, attitudes toward climate change and self-efficacy. 17% of the variance observed in relation to behavioral intentions can be predicted by attitudes toward climate change and self-efficacy.
Physical Oceanographic Influences on Central Benguela Fish Catch
Authors: Jury Mark R.
Published: May 2012

Ocean and atmosphere reanalysis fields are used to study environmental conditions and their relation to commercial fish catch in the central Benguela upwelling zone, using both targeted and objective techniques. Composite maps and sections indicate a 10%–20% weakening of southeasterly winds, a 0.5°C warming of sea temperatures over the shelf, and changes in currents and subsurface upwelling associated with higher fish catch. During periods of high fish catch, recirculating gyres form that may aid the retention of eggs and larvae. Offshore winds contribute to poleward Ekman transport in a 50-m-deep layer within 100 km of the coast.

In addition to composite analysis, the natural variability is studied by principal component analysis of wind stress, sea level, temperature, salinity, currents, and vertical motion in the period 1970–2007. Comparison of interannual time scores and fisheries data indicate that anomalous poleward winds and warmer temperatures in the Lüderitz plume, driven by an atmospheric trough in the South Atlantic, are associated with higher catch rates.
The Influence of the QBO on the Propagation of Equatorial Waves into the Stratosphere
Authors: Yang Gui-Ying , Hoskins Brian , Gray Lesley
Published: May 2012

The variation of stratospheric equatorial wave characteristics with the phase of the quasi-biennial oscillation (QBO) is investigated using ECMWF Re-Analysis and NOAA outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) data. The impact of the QBO phases on the upward propagation of equatorial waves is found to be consistent and significant. In the easterly phase, there is larger Kelvin wave amplitude but smaller westward-moving mixed Rossby–gravity (WMRG) and n = 1 Rossby (R1) wave amplitude due to reduced propagation from the upper troposphere into the lower stratosphere, compared with the westerly phase. Differences in the wave amplitude exist in a deeper layer in summer than in winter, consistent with the seasonality of ambient zonal winds. There is a strong evidence of Kelvin wave amplitude peaking just below the descending westerly phase, suggesting that Kelvin waves act to bring the westerly phase downward. However, the corresponding evidence for WMRG and R1 waves is less clear.

In the lower stratosphere there is zonal variation in equatorial waves. This reflects the zonal asymmetry of wave amplitudes in the upper troposphere, the source for the lower-stratospheric waves. In easterly winters the upper-tropospheric WMRG and R1 waves over the eastern Pacific region appear to be somewhat stronger compared to climatology, perhaps because of the accumulation of waves that are unable to propagate upward into the lower stratosphere. Vertical propagation features of these waves are generally consistent with theory and suggest a mixture of Doppler shifting by ambient flows and filtering. Some lower-stratosphere equatorial waves have a connection with preceding tropical convection, especially for Kelvin and R1 waves in winter.
On the Wind Power Input to the Ocean General Circulation
Authors: Zhai Xiaoming , Johnson Helen L. , Marshall David P. , Wunsch Carl
Published: May 2012

The wind power input to the ocean general circulation is usually calculated from the time-averaged wind products. Here, this wind power input is reexamined using available observations, focusing on the role of the synoptically varying wind. Power input to the ocean general circulation is found to increase by over 70% when 6-hourly winds are used instead of monthly winds. Much of the increase occurs in the storm-track regions of the Southern Ocean, Gulf Stream, and Kuroshio Extension. This result holds irrespective of whether the ocean surface velocity is accounted for in the wind stress calculation. Depending on the fate of the high-frequency wind power input, the power input to the ocean general circulation relevant to deep-ocean mixing may be less than previously thought. This study emphasizes the difficulty of choosing appropriate forcing for ocean-only models.
Reconceptualising Rights in Creative Society
Authors: Mohanty Manoranjan
Published: May 2012

Challenging the traditional notion of rights as claims recognised by law, the article argues that the history of social movements suggests a different concept of rights. It shows that rights are political affirmations of a desirable human condition in course of struggle and the constitutional and legal embodiment of a claim is only one stage of the process of political affirmation. Rights should be delinked from duties as the two are important on their own and one should not be seen as a condition for the other. As human consciousness grows about what are desirable human conditions at a new stage of the human civilisation, the realm of rights as human rights continues to expand in a dynamic, contested and inter-dependent process.
Implications of Industrial Relocation on Workers in Delhi
Authors: Chand Prakash
Published: May 2012

Industrial relocation in Delhi in the mid-1990s and early 2000 was supposed to ensure a pollution-free environment in the capital city. The apex court’s concern for quality of life in Delhi is commendable. However, disproportionate responsibility is placed on those who sell their labour power in order to secure a life of dignity. This article, based on a field study, explores that industrial relocation has badly affected the workers not only economically, but also socially and culturally. It has made majority of workers jobless, declined their bargaining capacity, forced the workers to work in a more exploitative market economy and brought with it isolation, frustration and social tension for the workers and their family. The sections most affected by industrial pollution are the workers themselves but the issue of workers’ safety, health and working conditions do not find a place in the whole process of industrial relocation. In contrast, workers have paid a disproportionately high price for a clean Delhi. This article primarily looks into the various effects of industrial relocation on workers and their families in Delhi.
A Diachronic Study of the Political Economy of Ranikhera Village in Delhi
Authors: Ghosh Arun Kumar
Published: May 2012

This article highlights the changes that have taken place in the political economy of Ranikhera village between 1953 and 2008. Urbanisation is the key factor in transforming the village life. Agriculture has lost its traditional importance as a major source of livelihood. The social relations of production between the landowning Jajmans and landless servicing castes have been affected by opening up of new employment opportunities in the metropolitan city of Delhi. Many Dalits have ‘emancipated’ themselves from their earlier dependence on their Jajmans. The growth of unauthorised colonies adjacent to the village has led to the emergence of new economic and political relations between the migrant population and the villagers. Recent acquisition of agriculture land by the Delhi government has further affected the village life.
Women and International Migration: A Cross-cultural Analysis
Authors: Dhar Ruby
Published: May 2012

Women have generally been considered passive agents of migration. The present article is based on a study that has attempted to throw light on the role of South Asian women in migration—how have they been able to cope with changes due to migration, their adjustment pattern, their coping strategies, their status in the family and society, their economic profile, their relationship with their husband and children, their personal growth, social networks which have been influenced as a result of migration. The article aims to offer a culturally sensitive viewpoint about the life of South Asian women in Britain.