bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weight‐neutral effect of once‐daily insulin detemir in Chinese type 2 diabetes patients: Subgroup analysis of the SOLVE study 一天一次地特胰岛素对中国2型糖尿病患者体重的中性影响：SOLVE研究亚组分析
Authors: Pan Changyu , Han Ping , Ji Linong , Ji Qiuhe , Lu Juming , Lin Jing , Liu Jie , Su Benli , Shi Jingmei , Wang Penghua
Published: June 2014

Background

The present subanalysis of the Study of Once Daily Levemir (SOLVE) study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of once‐daily insulin detemir as add‐on to oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs) in Chinese type 2 diabetes patients according to body mass index in a real‐life setting.

Methods

In all, 3272 eligible patients who were treated with diet, exercise, and one or more OAD were prescribed once‐daily insulin detemir by their physician according to routine clinical practice and were followed‐up for 24 weeks. The incidence of serious adverse reactions (SADRs), including major hypoglycemia, was the primary endpoint. Subanalyses were performed on patients in the following BMI groups: normal weight (BMI < 25 kg/m2); overweight (25 ≤ BMI < 30 kg/m2); and obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2).

Results

No SADRs were reported during the study. Significant improvements in glycemic levels were observed in all subgroups. For normal weight, overweight, and obese patients, the mean change in HbA1c (%/[mmol/mol]) was −1.26/−14, −1.09/−12, and −1.06/−12, respectively. The mean change in fasting plasma glucose in normal weight, overweight, and obese patients was −2.77, −2.57, and −2.71 mmol/L, respectively. Slight weight gain (0.25 kg), slight weight loss (–0.36 kg), and weight loss (–1.32 kg) were observed in the normal weight, overweight, and obese patients, respectively (P < 0.001). Linear regression analysis revealed a negative relationship between weight change and baseline BMI (slope = −0.16; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Once‐daily insulin detemir as add‐on to OADs in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes showed effective glycemic control and a low risk of hypoglycemia. Weight‐neutral effects were observed in different BMI subgroups.
Role of oxidative stress‐induced systemic and cavernosal molecular alterations in the progression of diabetic erectile dysfunction在糖尿病性勃起功能障碍的进展过程中氧化应激所诱导的全身以及海绵体分子变化的影响
Authors: Castela Angela , Gomes Pedro , Domingues Valentina F. , Paíga Paula , Costa Raquel , Vendeira Pedro , Costa Carla
Published: June 2014

Background

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent complication of diabetes, and oxidative stress is an important feature of diabetic ED. Oxidative stress‐induced damage plays a pivotal role in the development of tissue alterations. However, the deleterious effects of oxidative stress in the corpus cavernosum with the progression of diabetes remain unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate systemic and penile oxidative stress status in the early and late stages of diabetes.

Methods

Male Wistar streptozotocin‐diabetic rats (and age‐matched controls) were examined 2 (early) and 8 weeks (late) after the induction of diabetes. Systemic oxidative stress was evaluated by urinary H2O2 and the ratio of circulating reduced/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG). Penile oxidative status was assessed by H2O2 production and 3‐nitrotyrosine (3‐NT) formation. Cavernosal endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) was analyzed by quantitative immunohistochemistry. Dual immunofluorescence was also performed for 3‐NT and α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and eNOS–α‐SMA.

Results

There was a significant increase in urinary H2O2 levels in both diabetic groups. The plasma GSH/GSSG ratio was significantly augmented in late diabetes. In cavernosal tissue, H2O2 production was significantly increased in late diabetes. Reactivity for 3‐NT was located predominantly in cavernosal smooth muscle (SM) and was significantly reduced in late diabetes. Quantitative immunohistochemistry revealed a significant decrease in eNOS levels in cavernosal SM and endothelium in late diabetes.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that the noxious effects of oxidative stress are more prominent in late diabetes. Increased penile protein oxidative modifications and decreased eNOS expression may be responsible for structural and/or functional deregulation, contributing to the progression of diabetes‐associated ED.
Glucose series complexity at the threshold of diabetes 糖尿病阈值的血糖序列的复杂性
Authors: Varela Manuel , Rodriguez Carmen , Vigil Luis , Cirugeda Eva , Colas Ana , Vargas Borja
Published: June 2014

Background

One of the earliest signs of dysfunction in a complex system is the simplification of its output. A well‐accepted method to measure this phenomenon is detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA). Herein, we evaluated the usefulness of DFA at the threshold of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

We report on the clinical and glucometric characteristics of a sample of 103 patients at increased risk of developing T2DM. All patients had HbA1c levels 5%–6.4% and met at least one of the following criteria: body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2, essential hypertension or a first‐degree relative with T2DM. For each patient, a 24‐h glucose time series was obtained, and the clinical and glucometric variables were compared.

Results

There was a significant correlation between the number of National Cholesterol Education Program – Adult Treatment Panel (ATP III) metabolic syndrome (MS)‐defining criteria and DFA (ρ = 0.231, P = 0.019), and DFA differed significantly between patients meeting or not the ATP III definition of MS (1.443 vs 1.399, respectively; P = 0.018). The DFA was not correlated with HbA1c. Depending on how it was calculated, the area under the log(Fn)∼log(n) curve correlated with HbA1c levels or the number of MS criteria. Conventional variability metrics (mean amplitude of glycemic excursions) did not differ between patients complying or not with the definition of MS.

Conclusions

Complexity analysis is capable of detecting differences in variables related to the risk of developing T2DM and could be a useful tool to study the initial phases of glucoregulatory dysfunction leading to T2DM.
Potential avoidability of planned cesarean sections in a French national database
Authors: Coulm Benedicte , Blondel Beatrice , Alexander Sophie , Boulvain Michel , Le Ray Camille
Published: June 2014

Objective

To study the frequency and determinants of potentially avoidable planned cesarean sections, with a classification based on their indications, maternal obstetric history, and information about the current pregnancy.

Design

Cross‐sectional population‐based study.

Setting

All maternity units in France (n = 535).

Population

A total of 14 681 women from the 2010 French National Perinatal Survey, a routine survey of a representative sample of births.

Methods

Planned cesareans were classified in two groups: potentially avoidable and unavoidable. The classification was based on the French national guidelines and used data from medical records. We used logistic regression analyses to compare characteristics of the mothers with potentially avoidable cesareans with those of women who had a trial of labor. Analyses were performed separately in primiparas and multiparas.

Main outcome measure

Rate of potentially avoidable planned cesarean sections.

Results

The overall planned cesarean rate was 10.9%; 28% of these cesareans were found to be potentially avoidable. Breech presentation and history of one previous cesarean accounted for 83% of them. Determinants of potential avoidability were maternal age >35 years, intensive surveillance during pregnancy, and private status of the unit [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.9, 95% CI 1.2–3.2 among primiparas; adjusted OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.5–4.3 among multiparas]. Obesity was also a significant determinant but only among multiparas (adjusted OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.9–3.8). No association was found with maternal social characteristics.

Conclusion

Our results suggest a high proportion of potentially avoidable cesareans and highlight the associated obstetric situations. They can help to target policies aimed at reducing cesarean rates.
Birth experience of women conceiving with assisted reproduction: a prospective multicenter study
Authors: Poikkeus Piia , Saisto Terhi , Punamaki Raija‐Leena , Unkila‐Kallio Leila , Flykt Marjo , Vilska Sirpa , Repokari Leena , Tulppala Maija , Tiitinen Aila
Published: June 2014

Objective

To determine how infertility and subsequent assisted reproductive treatment (ART) affect a woman's childbirth experience.

Design

Prospective multicenter case‐control study.

Setting

We recruited women pregnant with a singleton fetus after either ART (n = 324) or spontaneous conception (n = 304) from five infertility clinics and one university maternity clinic in Finland.

Methods

We studied their childbirth experience with the Delivery Satisfaction Scale. We compared how psychosocial and obstetric factors affected satisfaction and dissatisfaction with childbirth between and within the ART and the control group. Logistic regression was then used to analyse the most important contributors to the experienced dissatisfaction.

Results

Dissatisfaction with childbirth was as common in the ART group (11%) as in the control (10%) group. In the ART group, the women's education level, cesarean section (CS) and their partner's absence from the delivery were associated with dissatisfaction. In the control group, significant factors for dissatisfaction were nulliparity, severe pregnancy‐related anxiety, emergency CS, recalled intense pain and the partner's absence from the delivery. According to adjusted logistic regression analysis of the whole sample, the independent risk factors were elective CS [odds ratio (OR) 5.7; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.2–14.1] and emergency CS (OR 2.9; 95% CI 1.3–6.5), recalled intense pain (OR 6.8; 95% CI 3.3–16.2) and the partner's absence from the delivery (OR 2.7; 95% CI 1.1–7.3).

Conclusion

ART is not a risk factor for dissatisfaction with childbirth by itself. However, the contributors to an unsatisfactory childbirth differ partly between women conceiving with ART and those conceiving spontaneously.
Arrhythmic substrate, slowed propagation and increased dispersion in conduction direction in the right ventricular outflow tract of murine Scn5a+/− hearts
Authors: Zhang Y. , Guzadhur L. , Jeevaratnam K. , Salvage S. C. , Matthews G. D. K. , Lammers W. J. , Lei M. , Huang C. L.‐H. , Fraser J. A.
Published: June 2014

Aim

To test a hypothesis attributing arrhythmia in Brugada Syndrome to right ventricular (RV) outflow tract (RVOT) conduction abnormalities arising from Nav1.5 insufficiency and fibrotic change.

Methods

Arrhythmic properties of Langendorff‐perfused Scn5a+/− and wild‐type mouse hearts were correlated with ventricular effective refractory periods (VERPs), multi‐electrode array (MEA) measurements of action potential (AP) conduction velocities and dispersions in conduction direction (CD), Nav1.5 expression levels, and fibrotic change, as measured at the RVOT and RV. Two‐way anova was used to test for both independent and interacting effects of anatomical region and genotype on these parameters.

Results

Scn5a+/− hearts showed greater arrhythmic frequencies during programmed electrical stimulation at the RVOT but not the RV. The Scn5a+/− genotype caused an independent increase of VERP regardless of whether the recording site was the RVOT or RV. Effective AP conduction velocities (CV†s), derived from fitting regression planes to arrays of observed local activation times were reduced in Scn5a+/− hearts and at the RVOT independently. AP conduction velocity magnitudes derived by averaging MEA results from local vector analyses, CV*, were reduced by the Scn5a+/− genotype alone. In contrast, dispersions in conduction direction, were greater in the RVOT than the RV, when the atrioventricular node was used as the pacing site. The observed reductions in Nav1.5 expression were attributable to Scn5a+/−, whereas increased levels of fibrosis were associated with the RVOT.

Conclusions

The Scn5a+/− RVOT recapitulates clinical findings of increased arrhythmogenicity through reduced CV† reflecting reduced CV* attributable to reduced Nav1.5 expression and increased CD attributable to fibrosis.
Review article: the efficacy of biomarkers in chronic fibroproliferative diseases – early diagnosis and prognosis, with liver fibrosis as an exemplar
Authors: Karsdal M. A. , Krarup H. , Sand J. M. B. , Christensen P. B. , Gerstoft J. , Leeming D. J. , Weis N. , Schaffalitzky de Muckadell O. B. , Krag A.
Published: June 2014

Background

Nearly 45% of all deaths are associated with chronic fibroproliferative diseases, of which the primary characteristic is altered remodelling of the extracellular matrix. A major difficulty in developing anti‐fibrotic therapies is the lack of accurate and established techniques to estimate dynamics of fibrosis, regression or progression, in response to therapy.

Aim

One of the most pressing needs in modern clinical chemistry for fibroproliferative disorders is the development of biomarkers for early diagnosis, prognosis, and early efficacy for the benefit of patients and to facilitate improved drug development. The aim of this article was to review the serological biomarkers that may assist in early diagnosis of patients, separate fast from slow‐ or nonprogressors, and possibly assist in drug development for fibroproliferative diseases, exemplified by liver fibrosis. The lack of success of biochemical markers and the possible reasons for this is discussed in the context of other fields with biomarker success.

Method

This is a personal opinion review article.

Results

Biochemical markers, originating from the fibrotic structure, may have increased specificity and sensitivity for disease. Assessment of the tissue turnover balance by measurement of tissue formation and tissue degradation separately by novel technologies may provide value.

Conclusions

Novel technologies focused on the protein fingerprint in addition to biomarker classification, may increase the quality of biomarker development and provide the much needed biomarkers to further the fibroproliferative field. This is in direct alignment with the Food and Drug Administration and European Medicinal Agencies initiatives of personal health care.
A five‐year follow‐up study of neurocognitive functioning in bipolar disorder
Authors: Santos José Luis , Aparicio Ana , Bagney Alexandra , Sánchez‐Morla Eva María , Rodríguez‐Jiménez Roberto , Mateo Jorge , Jiménez‐Arriero Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2014

Objectives

Cognitive dysfunction in bipolar disorder has been well‐established in cross‐sectional studies; however, there are few data regarding the longitudinal course of cognitive performance in bipolar disorder. The aim of this study was to examine the course of cognitive function in a sample of euthymic patients with bipolar disorder during a five‐year follow‐up period.

Methods

Eighty euthymic outpatients with a DSM‐IV diagnosis of bipolar disorder and 40 healthy control comparison subjects were neuropsychologically assessed at baseline (T1) and then at follow‐up of five years (T2). A neurocognitive battery including the main cognitive domains of speed of processing, working memory, attention, verbal memory, visual memory, and executive function was used to evaluate cognitive performance.

Results

Repeated‐measures multivariate analyses showed that progression of cognitive dysfunction in patients was not different to that of control subjects in any of the six cognitive domains examined. Only a measure from the verbal memory domain, delayed free recall, worsened more in patients with bipolar disorder. Additionally, it was found that clinical course during the follow‐up period did not influence the course of cognitive dysfunction.

Conclusions

Cognitive dysfunction that is characteristic of bipolar disorder is persistent and stable over time. Only dysfunction in verbal recall was found to show a progressive course that cannot be explained by clinical or treatment variables.
The Concept of Human Dignity in the Ethics of Genetic Research
Authors: Chan David K.
Published: June 2014

Despite criticism that dignity is a vague and slippery concept, a number of international guidelines on bioethics have cautioned against research that is contrary to human dignity, with reference specifically to genetic technology. What is the connection between genetic research and human dignity? In this article, I investigate the concept of human dignity in its various historical forms, and examine its status as a moral concept. Unlike Kant's ideal concept of human dignity, the empirical or relational concept takes human dignity as something that is affected by one's circumstances and what others do. I argue that the dignity objection to some forms of genetic research rests on a view of human nature that gives humans a special status in nature – one that is threatened by the potential of genetic research to reduce individuals to their genetic endowment. I distinguish two main philosophical accounts of human nature. One of these, the Aristotelian view, is compatible with the use of genetic technology to help humans realize their inherent potential to a fuller extent.
Event sedimentation in low‐latitude deep‐water carbonate basins, Anegada passage, northeast Caribbean
Authors: Chaytor Jason D. , ten Brink Uri S.
Published: June 2014

The Virgin Islands and Whiting basins in the Northeast Caribbean are deep, structurally controlled depocentres partially bound by shallow‐water carbonate platforms. Closed basins such as these are thought to document earthquake and hurricane events through the accumulation of event layers such as debris flow and turbidity current deposits and the internal deformation of deposited material. Event layers in the Virgin Islands and Whiting basins are predominantly thin and discontinuous, containing varying amounts of reef‐ and slope‐derived material. Three turbidites/sandy intervals in the upper 2 m of sediment in the eastern Virgin Islands Basin were deposited between ca. 2000 and 13 600 years ago, but do not extend across the basin. In the central and western Virgin Islands Basin, a structureless clay‐rich interval is interpreted to be a unifite. Within the Whiting Basin, several discontinuous turbidites and other sand‐rich intervals are primarily deposited in base of slope fans. The youngest of these turbidites is ca. 2600 years old. Sediment accumulation in these basins is low (<0.1 mm year−1) for basin adjacent to carbonate platform, possibly due to limited sediment input during highstand sea‐level conditions, sediment trapping and/or cohesive basin walls. We find no evidence of recent sediment transport (turbidites or debris flows) or sediment deformation that can be attributed to the ca. M7.2 1867 Virgin Islands earthquake whose epicentre was located on the north wall of the Virgin Islands Basin or to recent hurricanes that have impacted the region. The lack of significant appreciable pebble or greater size carbonate material in any of the available cores suggests that submarine landslide and basin‐wide blocky debris flows have not been a significant mechanism of basin margin modification in the last several thousand years. Thus, basins such as those described here may be poor recorders of past natural hazards, but may provide a long‐term record of past oceanographic conditions in ocean passages.
Population‐based epidemiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in an ageingEurope – theFrench register ofALSinLimousin (FRALim register)
Authors: Marin B. , Hamidou B. , Couratier P. , Nicol M. , Delzor A. , Raymondeau M. , Druet‐Cabanac M. , Lautrette G. , Boumediene F. , Preux P. M. ,   the French register of ALS in Limousin (FRALim)
Published: June 2014

Background and purpose

The main objective of establishing theFrench register of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in theLimousin region (FRALim), was to assess the incidence ofALS, in this ageing region ofEurope, over a 12‐year period (2000–2011).

Methods

Patients were included if they lived inLimousin at the time of diagnosis ofALSaccording toElEscorial revised criteria and were identified by at least one of the following sources: (i) theFrench national body coordinatingALSreferral centres; (ii) public and private hospitals in the region; (iii) health insurance data related to long‐term diseases.

Results

TheFRALim register identified 279 incident cases (2000–2011). The crude andEuropean population standardized incidences ofALSwere as high as 3.19/100 000 person‐years of follow‐up (95%CI2.81–3.56) and 2.58/100 000 person‐years of follow‐up (95%CI2.27–2.89) respectively. Median age at onset was 70.8 years (interquartile range 63.1–77.1). The standardized sex incidence ratio (male/female) was 1.3 overall, but 1.1 under the age of 65 years, 1.7 between 65 and 75 years and 1.9 above 75 years. The exhaustiveness of the register has been estimated at 98.4% (95%CI95.6–99.4) by capture–recapture analysis.

Conclusion

It was possible for the first time in France to monitor accurately the incidence ofALSover a long time period. It appears to be in the upper range of data reported in western countries. Patterns displayed here might anticipate the epidemiology ofALSin ageing western countries.
A study on the association between infectious burden and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Bu X.‐L. , Yao X.‐Q. , Jiao S.‐S. , Zeng F. , Liu Y.‐H. , Xiang Y. , Liang C.‐R. , Wang Q.‐H. , Wang X. , Cao H.‐Y. , Yi X. , Deng B. , Liu C.‐H. , Xu J. , Zhang L.‐L. , Gao C.‐Y. , Xu Z.‐Q. , Zhang M. , Wang L. , Tan X.‐L. , Xu X. , Zhou H.‐D. , Wang Y.‐J.
Published: June 2014

Background and purpose

Previous studies suggested that the overall burden of prior infections contributes to cardiovascular diseases and stroke. In the present study, the association between infectious burden (IB) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) was examined.

Methods

Antibody titers to common infectious pathogens including cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1), Borrelia burgdorferi, Chlamydophila pneumoniae and Helicobacter pylori were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in 128 AD patients and 135 healthy controls. IB was defined as a composite serological measure of exposure to these common pathogens.

Results

Seropositivities toward zero−two, three and four−five of these pathogens were found in 44%, 40% and 16% of healthy controls but in 20%, 44% and 36% of AD patients, respectively. IB, bacterial burden and viral burden were independently associated with AD after adjusting for age, gender, education, APOE genotype and various comorbidities. Mini‐Mental State Examination scores were negatively correlated with IB in all cases. Serum beta‐amyloid protein (Aβ) levels (i.e. Aβ40, Aβ42 and total Aβ) and inflammatory cytokines (i.e. interferon‐γ, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin‐1β and interleukin‐6) in individuals exposed to four−five infectious pathogens were significantly higher than those exposed to zero−two or three pathogens.

Conclusions

IB consisting of CMV, HSV‐1, B. burgdorferi, C. pneumoniae and H. pylori is associated with AD. This study supports the role of infection/inflammation in the etiopathogenesis of AD.
Structure of RPA32 bound to the N‐terminus of SMARCAL1 redefines the binding interface between RPA32 and its interacting proteins
Authors: Xie Si , Lu Yao , Jakoncic Jean , Sun Hongzhe , Xia Jiang , Qian Chengmin
Published: June 2014

Replication protein A subunit RPA32 contains a C‐terminal domain that interacts with a variety of DNA damage response proteins including SMARCAL1, Tipin, UNG2 and XPA. We have solved the high‐resolution crystal structure of RPA32 C‐terminal domain (RPA32C) in complex with a 26‐amino‐acid peptide derived from the N‐terminus of SMARCAL1 (SMARCAL1N). The RPA32C–SMARCAL1N structure reveals a 1 : 1 binding stoichiometry and displays a well‐ordered binding interface. SMARCAL1N adopts a long α‐helical conformation with the highly conserved 11 residues aligned on one face of the α‐helix showing extensive interactions with the RPA32C domain. Extensive mutagenesis experiments were performed to corroborate the interactions observed in crystal structure. Moreover, the α1/α2 loop of the RPA32C domain undergoes a conformational rearrangement upon SMARCAL1N binding. NMR study has further confirmed that the RPA32C–SMARCAL1N interaction induces conformational changes in RPA32C. Isothermal titration calorimetry studies have also demonstrated that the conserved α‐helical motif defined in the current study is required for sufficient binding of RPA32C. Taken together, our study has provided convincing structural information that redefines the common recognition pattern shared by RPA32C interacting proteins.

Database

The atomic coordinates of RPA32C in complex with 26‐aa SMARCAL1 (SMARCAL1N) peptide have been deposited at the Protein Data Bank with accession code 4MQV.

Structured digital abstract

RPA32 and SMARCAL1 bind by isothermal titration calorimetry(1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)

RPA32 and SMARCAL1 bind by molecular sieving (View interaction)

RPA32 and SMARCAL1 bind by x-ray crystallography (View interaction)

Tipin and RPA32 bind by isothermal titration calorimetry (1, 2)

RPA32 and UNG2 bind by isothermal titration calorimetry (1, 2, 3)

SMARCAL1 and RPA32 bind by nuclear magnetic resonance (View interaction)

UNG2 and RPA32 bind by nuclear magnetic resonance (View interaction)

Tipin and RPA32 bind by nuclear magnetic resonance (View interaction)
Distinctive patterns in prokaryotic community composition in response to viral lysis and flagellate grazing in freshwater microcosms
Authors: Pradeep Ram Angia Sriram , Sime‐Ngando Telesphore
Published: June 2014

We conducted microcosm experiments to examine the effect of viruses and heterotrophic nanoflagellates (together referred to as top‐down factors) on prokaryotic standing stock and prokaryotic community composition during the clear water phase (autumn season) in the oligotrophic Lake Pavin in France.

In the experimental treatments containing viruses and viruses plus flagellates, the dissolved organic matter released through top‐down activity appeared to stimulate prokaryotic biomass production and viral proliferation.

About 68% of the total prokaryotic abundance detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) revealed the dominance of typical freshwater groups, which included Beta‐proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Cytophaga‐Flavobacterium subgroups at the start of the experiments.

The manipulation of viruses and flagellates (presence or absence) was successful in inducing significant changes in prokaryotic community composition at a broad phylogenetic level, suggesting that prokaryotic lifestyles are influenced by top‐down factors. The Beta‐proteobacteria subgroup, which outgrew other prokaryotic groups in the absence of viruses and flagellates, was strongly suppressed and vulnerable to mortality in the presence of both the factors. Alpha‐proteobacteria and Actinobacteria subgroups grew significantly in the presence of top‐down factors, suggesting that the dissolved organic matter (regenerated nutrients) released through their activity favoured the development of these groups. The Cytophaga‐Flavobacterium subgroup failed to show any functional response in the presence or absence of top‐down factors.

Low prokaryotic diversity in the experimental treatment containing viruses and high diversity in the presence of both top‐down factors were observed. We found synergistic interactions in treatments when both top‐down factors were present, suggesting that the process of nutrient regeneration was crucial in sustaining stable prokaryotic communities.
Evapotranspiration of tropical peat swamp forests
Authors: Hirano Takashi , Kusin Kitso , Limin Suwido , Osaki Mitsuru
Published: June 2014

In Southeast Asia, peatland is widely distributed and has accumulated a massive amount of soil carbon, coexisting with peat swamp forest (PSF). The peatland, however, has been rapidly degraded by deforestation, fires, and drainage for the last two decades. Such disturbances change hydrological conditions, typically groundwater level (GWL), and accelerate oxidative peat decomposition. Evapotranspiration (ET) is a major determinant ofGWL, whereas information on theETofPSFis limited. Therefore, we measuredETusing the eddy covariance technique for 4–6 years between 2002 and 2009, including El Niño and La Niña events, at three sites in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. The sites were different in disturbance degree: aPSFwith little drainage (UF), a heavily drainedPSF(DF), and a drained burnt ex‐PSF(DB);GWLwas significantly lowered atDF, especially in the dry season. TheETshowed a clear seasonal variation with a peak in the mid‐dry season and a large decrease in the late dry season, mainly following seasonal variation in net radiation (Rn). TheRndrastically decreased with dense smoke from peat fires in the late dry season. AnnualETforced to close energy balance for 4 years was 1636 ± 53, 1553 ± 117, and 1374 ± 75 mm yr−1(mean ± 1 standard deviation), respectively, atUF,DF, andDB. The undrainedPSF(UF) had high and rather stable annualET, independently of El Niño and La Niña events, in comparison with other tropical rainforests. The minimum monthly‐meanGWLexplained 80% of interannual variation inETfor the forest sites (UFandDF); the positive relationship betweenETandGWLindicates that drainage by a canal decreasedETatDFthrough loweringGWL. In addition,ETwas decreased by 16% atDBin comparison withUFchiefly because of vegetation loss through fires.
Extreme temperature events alter demographic rates, relative fitness, and community structure
Authors: Ma Gang , Rudolf Volker H. W. , Ma Chun‐sen
Published: June 2014

The frequency and magnitude of extreme events are predicted to increase under future climate change. Despite recent advancements, we still lack a detailed understanding of how changes in the frequency and amplitude of extreme climate events are linked to the temporal and spatial structure of natural communities. To answer this question, we used a combination of laboratory experiments, field experiments, and analysis of multi‐year field observations to reveal the effects of extreme high temperature events on the demographic rates and relative dominance of three co‐occurrence aphid species which differ in their transmission efficiency of different agricultural pathogens. We then linked the geographical shift in their relative dominance to frequent extreme high temperatures through a meta‐analysis. We found that both frequency and amplitude of extreme high temperatures altered demographic rates of species. However, these effects were species‐specific. Increasing the frequency and amplitude of extreme temperature events altered which species had the highest fitness. Importantly, this change in relative fitness of species was consistent with significant changes in the relative dominance of species in natural communities in a 1 year long field heating experiment and 6 year long field survey of natural populations. Finally, at a global spatial scale, we found the same relationship between relative abundance of species and frequency of extreme temperatures. Together, our results indicate that changes in frequency and amplitude of extreme high temperatures can alter the temporal and spatial structure of natural communities, and that these changes are driven by asymmetric effects of high temperatures on the demographic rates and fitness of species. They also highlight the importance of understanding how extreme events affect the life‐history of species for predicting the impacts of climate change at the individual and community level, and emphasize the importance of using a broad range of approaches when studying climate change.
MODERNISM'S STRUGGLE FOR THE SOUL: RAINER MARIA RILKE'S DIE AUFZEICHNUNGEN DES MALTE LAURIDS BRIGGE AND INGEBORG BACHMANN'S MALINA
Authors: Minden Michael
Published: June 2014

Rainer Maria Rilke's Die Aufzeichnungen des Malte Laurids Brigge and Ingeborg Bachmann's Malina, despite their distance from one another in time and many other profound differences, are, it is argued here, comparable in that they both mimic the modern deformation of the soul in order to mount aesthetic opposition to it. Since the advent of postmodernism in the 1970s, this struggle for the soul belongs to the past. However, a structure of hope for a newly conceived idea of the soul remains in place, even though this structure must remain without a content. Only the complex clear‐sightedness of Modernism could have left such a legacy.
A New Paradigm for Primary Prevention Strategy in People with Elevated Risk of Stroke
Authors: Feigin Valery L. , Norrving Bo
Published: June 2014

Existing methods of primary stroke prevention are not sufficiently effective. Based on the recently developed Stroke Riskometer app, a new ‘mass-elevated risk stroke/cardiovascular disease prevention’ approach as an addition to the currently adopted absolute risk stroke/cardiovascular disease prevention approach is being advocated. We believe this approach is far more appealing to the individuals concerned and could be as efficient as the conventional population-based approach because it allows identification and engagement in prevention of all individuals who are at an increased (even slightly increased) risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease. The key novelty of this approach is twofold. First, it utilizes modern far-reaching mobile technologies, allowing individuals to calculate their absolute risk of stroke within the next 5 to 10 years and to compare their risk with those of the same age and gender without risk factors. Second, it employs self-management strategies to engage the person concerned in stroke/cardiovascular disease prevention, which is tailored to the person's individual risk profile. Preventative strategies similar to the Stroke Riskometer could be developed for other non-communicable disorders for which reliable predictive models and preventative recommendations exist. This would help reduce the burden of non-communicable disorders worldwide.
Transplantation and inflammation: implications for the modification of chemokine function
Authors: Barker Catriona E. , Ali Simi , O'Boyle Graeme , Kirby John A.
Published: June 2014

Oxidative stress is a major and recurring cause of damage during inflammation, especially following organ transplantation. Initial ischaemia–reperfusion injury causes the production of many reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and subsequent recruitment and activation of inflammatory cells can lead to further oxidative stress. This stress is well known to cause damage at the cellular level, for example by induction of senescence leading to the production of a characteristic senescence‐associated secretory phenotype. Chemokines are an important component of the senescence‐associated secretory phenotype, recruiting further leucocytes and reinforcing the stress and senescence responses. As well as inducing the production of proteins, including chemokines, oxidative stress can alter proteins themselves, both directly and by induction of enzymes capable of modification. These alterations can lead to important modifications to their biological activity and also alter detection by some antibodies, potentially limiting the biological relevance of some immunochemical and proteomic biomarkers. Peroxynitrite, a reactive nitrogen species generated during inflammation and ischaemia, can cause such modifications by nitrating chemokines. Matrix metalloproteinases, released by many stressed cells, can cleave chemokines, altering function, while peptidylarginine deiminases can inactivate certain chemokines by citrullination. This review discusses the relationship between inflammation and post‐translational modification, focusing on the functional modulation of transplant‐relevant pro‐inflammatory chemokines.
Pancreatic Islet Transplantation: From Dogs to Humans and Back Again
Authors: Vrabelova Daniela , Adin Christopher , Gilor Chen , Rajab Amer
Published: June 2014

Pancreatic islet transplantation is a cell‐based therapy that provides a potential cure for type 1 diabetes mellitus. After the introduction of an automated method for islet isolation and steroid‐free immunosuppressive protocols, reversal of diabetes by islet transplantation is now performed at major human medical centers around the world. Despite extensive use of animal models in islet transplantation research, practical concerns have slowed the introduction of the technique into clinical veterinary practice and only a small number of studies have reported results of transplantation in dogs with spontaneously occurring diabetes mellitus; however, recent advances in islet isolation and encapsulation may make it possible to perform islet transplantation without immunosuppression in companion animals. This review summarizes experimental and clinical studies of pancreatic islet transplantation in dogs, including future directions for cell therapy in animals with naturally occurring disease.
The Intergenerational Continuity of Fathers' Absence in a Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Sample
Authors: Pougnet Erin , Serbin Lisa A. , Stack Dale M. , Ledingham Jane E. , Schwartzman Alex E.
Published: June 2014

Fathers' absence is a pattern that shows intergenerational continuity, most notably within disadvantaged populations. The process whereby this pattern is repeated across generations is not well understood. Using data from the Concordia Longitudinal Risk Project, the authors investigated pathways between fathers' absence in 1 generation and the experience of fathers' absence by their children. The current sample included 386 socioeconomically at‐risk individuals across 2 waves of data collection: (a) when they were children and (b) when they were adults with their own children. Analyses based on structural equation modeling revealed that men whose fathers were absent when they were children were more likely to become absent fathers, and women whose fathers were absent when they were children were more likely to have children with absent partners. Indirect pathways between fathers' absence in 2 generations through aggression, education, and substance abuse were illustrated for women. These findings add to the literature suggesting that fathers' absence during childhood has intergenerational effects.
The Legacy of Leaving Home: Long‐Term Effects of Coresidence on Parent – Child Relationships
Authors: Leopold Thomas
Published: June 2014

This study investigated how early, “on‐time,” and late home leavers differed in their relations to parents in later life. A life course perspective suggested different pathways by which the time spent in the parental home may set the stage for intergenerational solidarity in aging families. Using fixed‐effects models with data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (N = 14,739 parent – child dyads), the author assessed the effects of previous coresidence on intergenerational proximity, contact frequency, and support exchange more than 5 years after children had left home. The results indicated that, compared with siblings who moved out “on time,” late home leavers lived closer to their aging parents, maintained more frequent contact, and were more likely to be providers as well as receivers of intergenerational support. Overall, this evidence paints a positive picture of extended coresidence, revealing its potential to promote intergenerational solidarity across the life course.
The Attitude Toward Voluntary Childlessness in Europe: Cultural and Institutional Explanations
Authors: Merz Eva‐Maria , Liefbroer Aart C.
Published: June 2014

The prevalence and social acceptance of childlessness have increased in recent decades. Still, little is known about how this social acceptance is shaped, the extent to which approval of childlessness differs across Europe, and what factors cause potential cross‐national variation. The authors used data from the European Social Survey 2006 (N =36,187) to examine the attitude toward voluntary childlessness in 20 countries. Results from multilevel models were largely in line with expectations derived from Second Demographic Transition theory concerning traditional orientation, age, religiousness, education, and stage of Second Demographic Transition in a country. The results also corroborated individual‐level expectations on the role of gender and socioeconomic status based on New Home Economics theory. One country‐level indicator, child‐care availability, was not related to the attitude toward childlessness. The current study provides new insights into explaining cross‐national differences in the attitude toward childlessness and more generally into the process of fertility decision making.
Cohabitation and U.S. Adult Mortality: An Examination by Gender and Race
Authors: Liu Hui , Reczek Corinne
Published: June 2014

This study is the first to explore the relationship between cohabitation and U.S. adult mortality using a nationally representative sample. Using data from the National Health Interview Survey‐Longitudinal Mortality Follow‐up files 1997–2004 (N = 193,851), the authors found that divorced, widowed, and never‐married White men had higher mortality rates than cohabiting White men, and never‐married Black men had higher mortality rates than cohabiting Black men. In contrast, the mortality rates of nonmarried White and Black women were not different from those of their cohabiting counterparts. The results also revealed that mortality rates of married White men and women were lower than their cohabiting counterparts and that these mortality differences tended to decrease with age. The authors found no significant mortality differences when they compared married Black men or women to their cohabiting counterparts. The identified mortality differences were partially—but not fully—explained by income, psychological, or health behavior differences across groups.
Young Adults' Fertility Expectations and Events: Associations With College Enrollment and Persistence
Authors: Raley R. Kelly , Kim Yujin , Daniels Kimberly
Published: June 2014

The analyses described in this article investigated the association between adolescent fertility expectations and college enrollment (N = 7,838). They also explored the potential impact of fertility expectations and events on college persistence among 4‐year (n = 2,605) and 2‐year (n = 1,962) college students. The analysis, which used data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 cohort, showed a significant association between expectations for early parenthood and the likelihood of going to a 4‐year college or 2‐year college for both men and women. In addition, the authors found that pregnancies were associated with an increased risk of college dropout for women; however, if all of the estimated effect of pregnancies on the risk of dropout were causal, they would still not be a major factor contributing to educational attainment because fertile pregnancies among college women are so rare.
Deviations From Desired Age at Marriage: Mental Health Differences Across Marital Status
Authors: Carlson Daniel L.
Published: June 2014

Although several factors condition mental health differences between married and never‐married adults, given recent increases in marriage delay and permanent singlehood, one modifying factor—deviation from desired age at marriage—has yet to be examined. Using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 (N = 7,277), the author tested whether deviation from desired age at marriage shapes the mental health of married and never‐married adults as well as mental health differences between them. The results showed that most respondents failed to meet their initial preference for age at marriage. Marrying both earlier and later than desired (compared to on time) resulted in poorer mental health and fewer benefits compared to never marrying. For the never‐married, mental health was best, and differences compared to the married were nonsignificant, for those nearest their desired age at marriage. As timing deviations increased, however, a mental health deficit among the never‐married emerged.
Jackpot? Gender Differences in the Effects of Lottery Wins on Separation
Authors: Boertien Diederik
Published: June 2014

In this study, information on small to modest lottery wins from the British Household Panel Survey (N = 2,563) was used to investigate the effect of income on separation. The analysis demonstrated that money matters within relationships. Lottery wins temporarily reduced the odds of separation after men won. Men spent more on leisure and became more satisfied with their leisure time and social lives after winning. Nevertheless, most of the effect of lottery wins on union stability was not mediated by changes in satisfaction; instead, a direct effect of wins on the threshold to leave relationships was observed. No effect on union stability was found when women won. Women did not spend their winnings on leisure time but instead saved or spent money on durable items. These types of spending did not increase satisfaction. The findings suggested that, within families, men acted relatively independently, whereas the behavior of women was more family oriented.
Pregnancy Intentions and Parents' Psychological Well‐Being
Authors: Su Jessica Houston
Published: June 2014

Extant research suggests that parents are more depressed than childless adults, yet the role of pregnancy intentions is largely absent from the discussion. Using 2 waves of data from the National Survey of Families and Households (n = 825 women, n = 889 men), the author found that pregnancy intentions are an important consideration for parents' well‐being. The results suggest that unintended births are associated with increased depressive symptoms among fathers and decreased happiness among mothers. This association persisted even after accounting for union status and measures of depressive symptoms and happiness prior to the birth. The author also investigated the social, psychological, and economic mechanisms that explain this relationship. Self‐efficacy and financial strain partially explain the link between unintended births and poorer well‐being.
The Division of Household Labor: Longitudinal Changes and Within‐Couple Variation
Authors: Lam Chun Bun , McHale Susan M. , Crouter Ann C.
Published: June 2014

This study examined how the division of household labor changed as a function of marital duration and whether within‐couple variation in spouses' relative power and availability were linked to within‐couple variation in the division of labor. On 4 occasions over 7 years, 188 stably married couples reported on their housework activities using daily diaries. Multilevel models revealed that wives' portions of household responsibilities declined over time and that changes in spouses' relative income and work hours were linked to changes in housework allocation. Wives with husbands who perceived greater marital control, on average, did proportionally more housework, and for couples with husbands who had highly autonomous jobs, changes in spouses' relative psychological job involvement were linked to changes in housework allocation. The findings highlight the importance of understanding household division of labor as a life span phenomenon, the distinction between within‐ versus between‐couple associations, and the multidimensional nature of power and availability.
Sibling Relationships and Influences in Childhood and Adolescence
Authors: McHale Susan M. , Updegraff Kimberly A. , Whiteman Shawn D.
Published: June 2014

The authors review the literature on sibling relationships in childhood and adolescence, starting by tracing themes from foundational research and theory and then focusing on empirical research during the past 2 decades. This literature documents siblings' centrality in family life, sources of variation in sibling relationship qualities, and the significance of siblings for child and adolescent development and adjustment. Sibling influences emerge not only in the context of siblings' frequent and often emotionally intense interactions but also by virtue of siblings' role in larger family system dynamics. Although siblings are building blocks of family structure and key players in family dynamics, their role has been relatively neglected by family scholars and by those who study close relationships. Incorporating study of siblings into family research provides novel insights into the operation of families as social and socializing systems.