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Background: Contemporary patients with primary hyperparathyroidism are often diagnosed with mildly raised serum calcium levels. Previous studies have reported increased mortality in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. This retrospective cohort study aimed to examine whether contemporary patients operated for primary hyperparathyroidism have higher mortality than the general population, and whether mortality in these patients is associated with serum calcium concentration, adenoma weight or multiglandular disease. Methods: Patients from a Swedish national cohort consisting of patients registered in the Scandinavian Quality Register for Thyroid, Parathyroid, and Adrenal Surgery 2003-2013, were matched with population controls. The National Patient Register, the Swedish Cause of Death Register, and socioeconomic data were cross-linked. End of follow-up was 10 years after surgery, 31 December 2015, or emigration. Mortality was analysed by standardized mortality ratio, Kaplan-Meier survival estimates, and univariable and multivariable Cox regression. Multiple imputation by chained equations was performed on missing data. Results: After exclusions, there were 5009 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and 14 983 controls. Multivariable Cox regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, Charlson Co-morbidity Index, marital status, level of education, disposable income, and period of surgery showed lower mortality in patients than controls (hazard ratio (HR) 0.83, 95 per cent c.i. 0.75 to 0.92). In univariable Cox regression of mortality in patients, serum calcium concentration (mmoles per litre) was associated with mortality (HR 2.20, 1.53 to 3.16). This association remained in multivariable Cox regression after multiple imputation (HR 1.79, 1.19to2.70). Conclusion: Mortality was not increased in patients operated for primary hyperparathyroidism compared with controls in a contemporary setting. Preoperative serum calcium concentration might, however, influence survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Deliberate self-harm (DSH) is a common symptom in psychiatric disorders. It is a cross-diagnostic symptom, although it has mainly been associated with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Research has suggested an association between DSH and deficits in executive functioning. The main aim of the current study was to assess three specific aspects of executive functioning (EF) (working memory, inhibition and cognitive flexibility) among psychiatric patients with DSH, compared to a clinical and a healthy comparison group. Methods: Thirty psychiatric patients with DSH, 29 psychiatric patients without DSH and 29 healthy individuals were assessed with regard to psychiatric illness, self-harming behavior, EF, general cognitive functioning level and measures of psychopathology. The results were analyzed by means of ANOVA, regression analysis, Chi-square, and correlation analysis. Results: The patients with DSH showed deficits in cognitive flexibility and inhibition as compared to healthy individuals. In addition, the patients with DSH had greater deficits in cognitive flexibility than the patients without DSH; this effect was independent of concurrent severity of depressive symptoms but not independent of borderline symptomatology. Conclusion: Psychiatric patients with DSH may have deficits in cognitive flexibility as compared to both the healthy and clinical comparison groups. The results partly differ from previous related studies in the field. It is unclear to which extent the deficits in cognitive flexibility are due to other factors. More research is needed to understand the implications of such deficits, and if the results could be used for adapting treatment services and strategies. Future studies should include more similar comparison groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern treatment of esophageal cancer is multimodal and highly dependent on a detailed diagnostic assessment of clinical stage, which includes nodal stage. Clinical appraisal of nodal stage is highly dependent on knowledge of normal radiological appearance, information of which is scarce. We aimed to describe lymph node appearance on computed tomography (CT) investigations in a randomly selected cohort of healthy subjects. In a sample of the Swedish Cardiopulmonary bioimage study, which investigates a sample of the Swedish population aged 50–64 years, the CT scans of 426 subjects were studied in detail concerning intrathoracic node stations relevant in clinical staging of esophageal cancer. With stratification for sex, the short axis of visible lymph nodes was measured and the distribution of lymph node sizes was calculated as well as proportion of patients with visible nodes above 5 and 10 millimeters for each station. Probability of having any lymph node station above 5 and 10 millimeters was calculated with a logistic regression model adjusted for age and sex. In the 214 men (aged: 57.3 ± 4.1 years) and 212 women (aged: 57.8 ± 4.4 years) included in this study, a total of 309 (72.5%) had a lymph node with a short axis of 5 mm or above was seen in at least one of the node stations investigated. When using 10 mm as a cutoff, nodes were visible in 29 (6.81%) of the subjects. Men had higher odds of having any lymph node with short axis 5 mm or above (OR 3.03 95% CI 1.89–4.85, P < 0.001) as well as 10 mm or above (OR 2.31 95% CI 1.02–5.23, P = 0.044) compared to women. Higher age was not associated with propensity for lymph nodes above 5 or 10 millimeters in this sample. We conclude that, in a randomly selected cohort of patients between 50 and 64 years, almost 10% of the men and 4% of the women had lymph nodes above 10 millimeters, most frequently in the subcarinal station (station 107). More than half of the patients had nodes above 5 millimeters on CT and men were much more prone to have this finding. The probability of finding lymph nodes in specific stations relevant of esophageal cancer is now described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Calcium imaging is based on the detection of minute signal changes in an image time-series encompassing pre- and post-stimuli. Depending on the function of the elicited response, change may be pronounced, as in the case of a genetically encoded calcium-reporter protein, or subtle, as is the case in a bath-applied dye system. Large datasets are thus often acquired and appraised only during post-processing where specific Regions of Interest (ROIs) are examined. New method The scintillate software provides a platform allowing for near instantaneous viewing of time-sequenced tiffs within a discrete GUI environment. Whole sequences may be evaluated. In its simplest form scintillate provides change in florescence (Δ F ) across the entire tiff image matrix. Evaluating image intensity level differences across the whole image allows the user to rapidly establish the value of the preparation, without a priori ROI-selection. Additionally, an implementation of Independent Component Analysis (ICA) provides additional rapid insights into areas of signal change. Results We imaged transgenic flies expressing Calcium-sensitive reporter proteins within projection neurons and moth mushroom bodies stained with a Ca 2+ sensitive bath-applied dye. Instantaneous pre-stimulation background subtraction allowed us to appraise strong genetically encoded neuronal Ca 2+ responses in flies and weaker, less apparent, responses within moth mushroom bodies. Comparison with existing methods At the time of acquisition, whole matrix Δ F analysis alongside ICA is ordinarily not performed. We found it invaluable, minimising time spent with unresponsive samples, and assisting in optimisation of subsequent acquisitions. Conclusions We provide a multi-platform open-source system to evaluate time-series images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A mutation found in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene of a breast tumor could be either germline or somatically acquired. The prevalence of somatic BRCA1/2 mutations and the ratio between somatic and germline BRCA1/2 mutations in unselected breast cancer patients are currently unclear. Patients and methods: Paired normal and tumor DNA was analyzed for BRCA1/2 mutations by massively parallel sequencing in an unselected cohort of 273 breast cancer patients from south Sweden. Results: Deleterious germline mutations in BRCA1 (n = 10) or BRCA2 (n = 10) were detected in 20 patients (7%). Deleterious somatic mutations in BRCA1 (n = 4) or BRCA2 (n = 5) were detected in 9 patients (3%). Accordingly, about 1 in 9 breast carcinomas (11%) in our cohort harbor a BRCA1/2 mutation. For each gene, the tumor phenotypes were very similar regardless of the mutation being germline or somatically acquired, whereas the tumor phenotypes differed significantly between wild-type and mutated cases. For age at diagnosis, the patients with somatic BRCA1/2 mutations resembled the wild-type patients (median age at diagnosis, germline BRCA1: 41.5 years; germline BRCA2: 49.5 years; somatic BRCA1/2: 65 years; wild-type BRCA1/2: 62.5 years). Conclusions: In a population without strong germline founder mutations, the likelihood of a BRCA1/2 mutation found in a breast carcinoma being somatic was ~1/3 and germline 2/3. This may have implications for treatment and genetic counseling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

About 85% of the ashes produced in Sweden originated from the incineration of municipal solid waste and biofuel. The rest comes from the thermal treatment of recycled wood, peat, charcoal and others. About 68% of all ashes annually produced in Sweden are used for constructions on landfills, mainly slopes, roads and embankments, and only 3% for construction of roads and working surfaces outside the landfills ( SCB, 2013 ). Since waste bottom ash (BA) often has similar properties to crushed bedrock or gravel, it could be used for road constructions to a larger extent. However, the leaching of e.g. Cr, Cu, Mo, Pb and Zn can cause a threat to the surrounding environment if the material is used as it is. Carbonation is a commonly used pre-treatment method, yet it is not always sufficient. As leaching from aged ash is often controlled by adsorption to iron oxides, increasing the number of Fe oxide sorption sites can be a way to control the leaching of several critical elements. The importance of iron oxides as sorption sites for metals is known from both mineralogical studies of bottom ash and from the remediation of contaminated soil, where iron is used as an amendment. In this study, zero valent iron (Fe(0)) was added prior to accelerated carbonation in order to increase the number of adsorption sites for metals and thereby reduce leaching. Batch, column and pH stat leaching tests were performed and the leaching behaviour was evaluated with multivariate data analysis. It showed that leaching changed distinctly after the tested treatments, in particular after the combined treatment. Especially, the leaching of Cr and Cu clearly decreased as a result of accelerated carbonation. The combination of accelerated carbonation with Fe(0) addition reduced the leaching of Cr and Cu even further and reduced also the leaching of Mo, Zn, Pb and Cd compared to untreated BA. Compared with only accelerated carbonation, the Fe(0) addition significantly reduced the leaching of Cr, Cu and Mo. The effects of Fe(0) addition can be related to binding of the studied elements to newly formed iron oxides. The effects of Fe(0) addition were often more distinct at pH values between 7 and 9, which indicates that a single treatment with only Fe addition would be less effective and a combined treatment is recommended. The pH stat results showed that accelerated carbonation in combination with Fe(0) 0 addition widens the pH range for low solubility of about one unit for several of the studied elements. This indicates that pre-treating the bottom ash with a combination of accelerated carbonation and Fe(0) addition makes the leaching properties of the ash less sensitive to pH changes that may occur during reuse. All in all, the addition of Fe 0 in combination with carbonation could be an effective pre-treatment method for decreasing the mobility of potentially harmful components in bottom ash. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Segmental distribution of colorectal volume is relevant in a number of diseases, but clinical and experimental use demands robust reliability and validity. Using a novel semi-automatic magnetic resonance imaging-based technique, the aims of this study were to describe: (i) inter-individual and intra-individual variability of segmental colorectal volumes between two observations in healthy subjects and (ii) the change in segmental colorectal volume distribution before and after defecation. Methods The inter-individual and intra-individual variability of four colorectal volumes (cecum/ascending colon, transverse, descending, and rectosigmoid colon) between two observations (separated by 52 ± 10) days was assessed in 25 healthy males and the effect of defecation on segmental colorectal volumes was studied in another seven healthy males. Key Results No significant differences between the two observations were detected for any segments (All p > 0.05). Inter-individual variability varied across segments from low correlation in cecum/ascending colon (intra-class correlation coefficient [ ICC] = 0.44) to moderate correlation in the descending colon ( ICC = 0.61) and high correlation in the transverse ( ICC = 0.78), rectosigmoid ( ICC = 0.82), and total volume ( ICC = 0.85). Overall intra-individual variability was low (coefficient of variance = 9%). After defecation the volume of the rectosigmoid decreased by 44% ( p = 0.003). The change in rectosigmoid volume was associated with the true fecal volume ( p = 0.02). Conclusions & Inferences Imaging of segmental colorectal volume, morphology, and fecal accumulation is advantageous to conventional methods in its low variability, high spatial resolution, and its absence of contrast-enhancing agents and irradiation. Hence, the method is suitable for future clinical and interventional studies and for characterization of defecation physiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To evaluate the anterior chamber angle in keratoconus eyes by use of the Visante™ OCT and Orbscan™ II. Methods Anterior chamber angle was measured with the Visante™ OCT and Orbscan™ II in 52 subjects, 26 KC subjects and 26 age and control subjects. Results When comparing the nasal and temporal angles obtained with the two techniques no correlation was found ( R 2 always below 0.01) in either the control subjects or in the KC subjects. Despite this, there was an overall statistically significant difference in mean anterior chamber angles ( p < 0.001) between Visante™ OCT and Orbscan™ II. There was no statistical difference ( p > 0.05) between nasal and temporal anterior chamber angles when comparing controls and KC subjects with either of the two instruments. In general, the Visante™ OCT gave a smaller estimate of the anterior chamber angle. Conclusion The values from the Visante™ OCT and Orbscan™ II cannot be interchanged since the difference in measurement of the anterior chamber angle was significantly different between the two instruments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of the General Self-Efficacy Scale ( GSE) in people with Parkinson's disease ( PD). More specifically, we investigated data completeness, scaling assumptions, targeting, reliability, and construct validity. Materials and methods This study involves data available from two different projects that included people diagnosed with PD for at least 1 year, yielding two samples (1 and 2). The combined total sample ( N = 346; 60% men) had a mean ( SD) age and PD duration of 71 (8.9) and 9 years (6.3), respectively. Both samples received a self-administered survey by mail, which was administered twice in sample 2. Additional data (e.g., clinical assessments) were available for Sample 1. Results Total GSE scores were computable for 336 participants (97%). Corrected item-total correlations exceeded 0.4. Principal component analyses identified one component (the eigenvalue of the first component extracted was 6.9), explaining 69% of the total variance. Floor and ceiling effects were < 6%. Internal consistency (coefficient alpha) was 0.95. Analyses of test-retest reliability yielded ( ICC) values from 0.69 to 0.80. The highest value refers to those ( n = 47) with identical self-ratings of mobility (in the on condition) at both tests; the standard error of measurement was 3.1 points. Construct validity was further supported by correlations in accordance with a priori expectations. Conclusions This study provides support for the validity and reliability of GSE scores in people with PD; the GSE can thus serve as a valuable outcome measurement in clinical practice and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel portable, sensitive and selective DNA sensor methods for bio-sensing applications are required that can rival conventionally used non-portable and expensive fluorescence-based sensors. In this paper, rolling circle amplification (RCA) products are detected in solution and on magnetic particles using a resistive pulse sensing (RPS) nanopore. Low amounts of DNA molecules are detected by padlock probes which are circularized in a strictly target dependent ligation reaction. The DNA-padlock probe-complex is captured on magnetic particles by sequence specific capture oligonucleotides and amplified by a short RCA. Subsequent RPS analysis is used to identify individual particles with single attached RCA products from blank particles. This proof of concept opens up for a novel non-fluorescent digital DNA quantification method that can have many applications in bio-sensing and diagnostic approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, a web-based questionnaire was used with the aim to investigate perceived relevance of 14 behavioural traits in horses regarding quality of match between horse and rider. The responses of approximately 2800 participants indicate a high interest in the topic. All traits were considered relevant by at least 50% of the respondents. ‘Easy to bring to new environments’ was the trait indicated as relevant by the highest proportion (85%) of respondents, followed by ‘spirited and forward’ (84%) and ‘tolerant towards humans’ (80%). Respondents’ age as well as preferred equitation discipline was shown to have a profound influence on perception of relevance (P< 0.05). The results suggest a need for methods to objectively evaluate individual differences in behavioural traits to enable selection of horses to optimize horse–rider match. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The prognostic impact of several histopathological prognostic features in cutaneous malignant melanoma ( CMM) remains controversial. Objectives To assess the independent prognostic value of mitotic rate, regression, tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes ( TILs) and growth phase in primary stage I and II CMMs. Methods Clinicohistopathological data were obtained from the Stockholm-Gotland registry for 4237 patients diagnosed with an incident primary stage I or II CMM followed up to December 2011. The risk of CMM-specific death was evaluated by a Cox regression model. Results A mitotic rate of 1-10 mitoses per mm2 [hazard ratio ( HR) 1·69, 95% confidence interval ( CI) 1·16-2·45] and > 10 mitoses per mm2 ( HR 2·27, 95% CI 1·46-3·52) were significant; TILs and regression were not. A more detailed analysis of data assessed between 1989 and 1995 confirmed significantly increased HRs for the presence vs. absence of mitoses ( HR1-5/mm² 2·25, 95% CI 1·36-3·76; HR6-10/mm² 2·34, 95% CI 1·23-4·44; HR> 10/mm² 2·64, 95% CI 1·39-4·99). Other prognosticators were increasing T-stage vs. T1, presence of ulceration and presence of vertical growth phase ( VGP). In T1 CMMs, an increasing tumour thickness vs. < 0·7 mm ( HR0·7-0·8 mm 2·24, 95% CI 1·24-4·04; HR>0·8 mm 2·92, 95% CI 1·57-5·43) and presence of ulceration were significantly associated with higher HRs; mitotic rate, TILs, regression and growth phase were not. Conclusions Determinants of increased risk of CMM death in stage I and II CMMs were increasing T-stage, presence of ulceration, presence of mitoses and VGP. This was not found for TILs or regression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tributyl Phosphate (TBP), used in chemical separation processes for used nuclear fuel, is susceptible to radiolysis causing losses in process performance. We have studied its degradation by exposing dry 1M TBP/n-dodecane solutions to gamma radiation from a cesium-137 source and in a mix of low and high linear energy transfer (LET) radiation by irradiating samples in the UC Irvine TRIGA®reactor and utilizing the10B(n,α)7Li reaction. In a 1 M solution of TBP in n-dodecane the degradation of TBP (G−TBP) was found to be 0.36 and 0.14 μmol/J for low and high LET radiation, respectively. The formation of dibutyl phosphoric acid, DBP, (G+DBP) in this solution was found to be 0.18 and 0.047 μmol/J for low and high LET radiation, respectively. In samples exposed to low LET as well as a mix of low and high LET a variety of TBP degradation products containing phosphorus were observed indicating that other degradation products than DBP and the monobutyl diacid (MBP) were formed. Our results for both low and high LET radiation compare well with previous studies on these systems indicating that high LET degrades TBP to a lesser extent than gamma radiation. Available data for high LET is not as abundant as for low LET making such comparisons challenging. Nevertheless, our method yields a value for G+DBPthat agrees well with previous alpha radiolysis studies indicating that our method shows promise for studying high LET radiolysis in liquid-liquid extraction systems. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background Application of evidence-based perioperative care protocols reduces complication rates, accelerates recovery and shortens hospital stay. Presently, there are no comprehensive guidelines for perioperative care for gastrectomy. Methods An international working group within the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery ( ERAS®) Society assembled an evidence-based comprehensive framework for optimal perioperative care for patients undergoing gastrectomy. Data were retrieved from standard databases and personal archives. Evidence and recommendations were classified according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation ( GRADE) system and were discussed until consensus was reached within the group. The quality of evidence was rated 'high', 'moderate', 'low' or 'very low'. Recommendations were graded as 'strong' or 'weak'. Results The available evidence has been summarized and recommendations are given for 25 items, eight of which contain procedure-specific evidence. The quality of evidence varies substantially and further research is needed for many issues to improve the strength of evidence and grade of recommendations. Conclusion The present evidence-based framework provides comprehensive advice on optimal perioperative care for the patient undergoing gastrectomy and facilitates multi-institutional prospective cohort registries and adequately powered randomized trials for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water soluble tetradentate Schiff base, N,N -bis(5-sulfonato-salicylidene)-diaminoethane (H2salen-SO3), will readily coordinate to the uranyl(VI) cation, but not to the same extent to trivalent anthanide cations. This allows for the reversal of conventional solvent extraction properties and opens the possibility for novel separation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim The Nordic countries have similar health care systems and registries simplifying epidemiological research. Differences in treatment traditions can, however, hamper the possibility to assess results and to harmonize control arms in joint randomized trials. In the process to set up a Nordic multi-center randomized trial regarding use of nasogastric tube (NG-tube) decompression after esophagectomy, we aimed to investigate perioperative routines in 12 University Hospitals in Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland. Methods All Nordic University Hospitals were contacted regarding a Nordic randomized controlled trial exploring effects and complications associated with the use of nasogastric tube use after esophagectomy for cancer. Those who chose to join the trial were sent a questionnaire regarding surgical and perioperative routines. Results Twelve centers with a combined catchment area of 16 million inhabitants and an annual volume of 400 esophagectomies joined the trial network. All but one used totally minimally invasive or hybrid surgical approach. All 12 centers reported routine use of NG-tube and 5 employed continuous suction. The NG-tube was removed between 3 and 7 days postoperatively. A routine pylorus drainage procedure was reported from two centers. Jejunostomy was used universally in 5 centers and selectively in 6 centers. One center did not use jejunostomy. Conclusion Differences in perioperative care after esophagectomy is apparent in the Nordic countries, highlighting the need for high-level evidence regarding these practices. A unified approach may facilitate clinical trial initiatives. There is a paucity of evidence regarding optimal NG-tube use after esophagectomy for cancer and a randomized trial investigating this issue is under way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The microstructure, mechanical and tribological properties for three different materials, high speed steel, high chromium iron and indefinite chill iron, used for hot strip mill work rolls have been evaluated. Microstructural characterisation was performed using light optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The mechanical and tribological properties were evaluated using micro-Vickers indentation and scratch testing in combination with post-test microscopy. The microstructures of the investigated materials were found to be rather complex with a number of secondary phases and also materials with similar nominal composition display significant differences with respect to distribution, size and morphology of carbides. Scratch testing, including detection of friction coefficient, acoustic emission and penetration depth, gives valuable information concerning the mechanical and tribological response on a microscopic level of the investigated materials. Type, amount, distribution, size and morphology of the secondary phases in the materials have a strong impact on the surface deformation and wear mechanisms during scratching. Cracking and chipping are frequently observed in connection to the ridges surrounding the scratches. However, cross-sectional analyses of the scratched microstructures reveal that cracking of the brittle carbide phases may extend to significant depths>100µm, reducing the mechanical strength of the material. Based on the results, it is believed that a more isotropic microstructure, e.g., obtained via a powder metallurgy process, with finer carbides would result in improved properties and performance in a hot rolling application. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Poster: Physics track: Quantitative functional and biological imaging PO-1688: Impact of coil selection on tensor-valued dMRI for imaging of the brain using RT fixation P. Brynolfsson, M. Nilsson, L.E. Olsson, F. Szczepankiewicz. [Extracted from the article]

Background To better understand processes affecting return to work (RTW) after breast cancer, more knowledge from the perspective of sickness absentees is warranted. Still, research based on women's own reasoning and actions in RTW is very scarce. This study aims to elucidate how women with breast cancer reflect and act on work-related issues. Material and methods Thematic analyses of data from four focus group interviews with 23 women who had had breast cancer surgery in the previous 3-13 months were carried out. Results The five following themes of reflections regarding RTW were identified: 'health and functioning', 'self-esteem/integrity', 'value of work', 'relationships at work', and 'social circumstances'. These reflections were associated with the three identified themes of actions taken by the women: 'to work or to be sickness absent', 'to adjust work according to own needs or not', and 'to disclose or to hide one's cancer'. There was a distinct difference between women who experienced work as a source of well-being and those who needed a respite from work. Conclusion This study adds knowledge to the process of RTW after breast cancer and focuses on factors that lead the women to an active role in this process. We point to the interplay between women's own preferences, perceived competence, outer opportunities, and the actions each woman take with regard to RTW, which need to be recognized by all stakeholders involved. Furthermore, it continues to be essential to address the specific issue of disclosure in the workplace because this may be distressing for women. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In this population-based study of 24-year-old men, we have investigated the association between sport-specific exercise loading and different bone parameters. We reveal that the association between exercise loading and bone parameters is sport-specific, indicating that nonspecific resistance exercise does not impact bone density, geometry, or microstructure in young men. Introduction: In this cross-sectional study, the association between nonspecific resistive exercise and areal and volumetric bone density, bone geometry, or bone microstructure was investigated in young adult men. Methods: A total of 184 male athletes, 24.0 ± 0.6 years of age (mean ± SD), representing nonspecific resistive exercise and soccer (proportion of recreational athletes, 93.4 and 7.7 %, respectively), and 177 nonathletic age-matched controls were measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Radius and tibia were measured by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) at the diaphysis and by three-dimensional pQCT at the metaphysis. Results: Men in the nonspecific resistive exercise group had higher grip strength(9.1 % or 0.4 SD) and higher lean mass(5.6 % or 0.5 SD) than those in the nonathletic group( p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). However, men who participated in nonspecific resistive exercise did not have higher bone density or a more favorable bone microstructure or geometry than their nonathletic referents. In contrast, men playing soccer had higher areal bone mineral density (aBMD) at the femoral neck (19.5 % or 1.2 SD) and lumbar spine (12.6 % or 1.0 SD), as well as larger cortical cross-sectional area (16.4 % or 1.1 SD) and higher trabecular bone volume fraction (14.5 % or 0.9 SD), as a result of increased trabecular number (8.7 % or 0.6 SD) and thickness (5.7 % or 0.4 SD) at the tibia than men in the nonathletic group( p < 0.001). Conclusions: Weight-bearing exercise with impacts from varying directions (playing soccer) is associated with aBMD and volumetric BMD, cortical bone geometry, as well as trabecular microstructure of weight-bearing bone. Nonspecific recreational resistance exercise does not appear to be a strong determinant of bone density, geometry, or microstructure in young adult men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Inhalation of nitric oxide ( INO) exerts both local and distant effects. INO in healthy pigs causes down-regulation of endogenous nitric oxide ( NO) production and vasoconstriction in lung regions not reached by INO, especially in hypoxic regions, which augments hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction. In contrast, in pigs with endotoxemia-induced lung injury, INO causes increased NO production in lung regions not reached by INO. The aim of this study was to investigate whether INO exerts distant effects in surfactant-depleted lungs. Methods Twelve pigs were anaesthetised, and the left lower lobe ( LLL) was separately ventilated. Lavage injury was induced in all lung regions, except the LLL. In six pigs, 40 ppm INO was given to the LLL ( INO group), and the effects on endogenous NO production and blood flow in the lavage-injured lung regions were studied. Six pigs served as a control group. NO concentration in exhaled air ( ENO), NO synthase ( NOS) activity and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (c GMP) in lung tissue, and regional pulmonary blood flow were measured. Results The calcium ( Ca2+)-dependent NOS activity was lower ( P < 0.05) in the lavage-injured lung regions in the INO group than in the control group. There were no measurable differences between the groups for Ca2+-independent NOS activity, c GMP, ENO, or regional pulmonary blood flow. Conclusions Regional INO did not increase endogenous NO production in lavage-injured lung regions not directly reached by INO, but instead down-regulated the constitutive calcium-dependent nitric oxide synthase activity, indicating that NO may inhibit its own synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Treatment of common bile duct stones has changed. Open surgery has gradually been replaced by endoscopic and laparoscopic procedures. The aims of this study were to see how common bile duct stones have been treated in Sweden, to establish whether there were differences in morbidity and mortality between these approaches, and to identify factors influencing mortality. Methods: All persons undergoing inpatient common bile duct exploration or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) during 1965-2009 in the Swedish Hospital Discharge Registry, but without a diagnosis of malignancy in the Swedish Cancer Registry, were included. The outcome death was identified by cross-linkage to the Causes of Death Registry. Registry data on possible risk factors for mortality were collected. Results: A total of 126 885 procedures were performed in 110 119 patients. Open surgery was initially the only available method, but during the 1990s ERCP became predominant. Later, laparoscopic bile duct clearance became an established but uncommon method. A 90-day mortality rate of 0·2 per cent after open surgery, 0·8 per cent after ERCP, 0 per cent after laparoscopic exploration and 0·7 per cent after combined procedures was recorded. After adjustment for confounding, there was no difference in mortality between open surgery and ERCP. Biliary reintervention within 90 days was identified as a risk factor for death, whereas a concomitant diagnosis of pancreatitis reduced the risk. Conclusion: The laparoscopic technique had the lowest mortality and morbidity rates. After adjustment for confounding factors, there was no difference in mortality after open surgery and ERCP. The favourable outcome for laparoscopy may have been due to selection bias, owing to treatment of younger, healthier subjects with less severe disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nilsson MH, Rehncrona S, Jarnlo G-B. Fear of falling and falls in people with Parkinson's disease treated with deep brain stimulation in the subthalamic nuclei. Acta Neurol Scand: 2011: 123: 424-429. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S. No previous study prospectively investigated the effects of subthalamic deep brain stimulation on fear of falling (FOF) and falls. The aim was to prospectively explore whether FOF and fall rate were affected after STN stimulation in people with Parkinson's disease (PD). Twenty participants (mean age: 65 , SD 6.4) were included. Falls and near falls were recorded (fall diary) during 3 months before and 1 year after surgery. FOF was evaluated using the Falls-Efficacy Scale, Swedish version, FES(S), and the modified Survey of Activities and Fear of Falling in the Elderly (SAFFE). Results- After surgery, the FES(S) scores of complex activities improved ( P = 0.026), i.e. median 34 (q1-q3, 26-50) vs 43 (32-55). SAFFE scores also improved ( P = 0.007): median 25 (22-30) versus 22 (18-27). The rate of near falls decreased ( P = 0.014). Nine participants reported no near falls. For the remaining ten participants, the median near fall rate decreased from 6 (3-17) to 2 (1-8). The rate of falls showed no significant ( P > 0.3) difference. After surgery, fewer activities were avoided owing to the risk of falling, and fall-related self-efficacy had improved during complex activities. The rate of near falls decreased. The results cannot support any change in fall rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the severely ill intensive care patients metabolic acidosis and hypoxia often co-exist. We studied the effects of metabolic acidosis on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) dependent and NOS independent nitric oxide (NO) production in hypoxic and hyperoxic lung (HL) regions in a pig model. Eighteen healthy anaesthetized pigs were separately ventilated with hypoxic gas to the left lower lobe (LLL) and hyperoxic gas to the rest of the lung. Six pigs received HCl infusion (HCl group), six pigs received the non-specific NOS inhibitor N-nitro--arginine methyl ester (-NAME) and HCl infusions (-NAME + HCl group) and six pigs received buffered Ringer's solution (control group). NO concentration in exhaled air (ENO), NOS activity in lung tissue, and regional pulmonary blood flow were measured. Metabolic acidosis, induced by infusion of HCl, decreased the relative perfusion to the hypoxic LLL from 7 (3) [mean (SD)] to 3 (1) % in the HCl group ( P < 0.01), and from 4 (1) to 1 (1) % in the -NAME + HCl group ( P < 0.05), without any measurable significant changes in ENO from hypoxic or HL regions There were no significant differences between the HCl and control groups for Ca-dependent (cNOS) or Ca-independent NOS (iNOS) activity in hypoxic or HL regions. Metabolic acidosis augmented the hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction, without any changes in pulmonary NOS dependent or NOS independent NO production. When acidosis was induced during ongoing NOS blockade, the perfusion of hypoxic lung regions was almost abolished, indicating acidosis-induced pulmonary vasoconstriction was not NO dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver antimonate, AgSbO3, in both its defective pyrochlore and ilmenite structural polymorphs, has been suggested as a possible candidate mixed metal oxide for use in the photocatalytic splitting of water in visible light. In this study, we report electronic-structure calculations, using both standard and hybrid density-functional-theory approaches, on both structural forms of AgSbO3 to fully characterize the band structure and composition of the valence and conduction bands. Analysis of conduction properties and optical absorption is also used to compare the predicted properties of the two materials. Results show that the valence band is dominated by O 2p and Ag 4d states, whereas the conduction band is composed mainly of Ag and Sb 5s states. Band-edge effective-mass calculations indicate the materials operate via an n-type mechanism, with conduction properties being comparable for the two materials. The fundamental and optical band gaps are also predicted to be compatible with visible light adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Specific parameters of the neuronal tissue microstructure, such as axonal diameters, membrane permeability and intracellular water fractions are assessable using diffusion MRI. These parameters are commonly estimated using analytical models, which may introduce bias in the estimated parameters due to the approximations made when deriving the models. As an alternative to using analytical models, a database of signal curves generated by fast Monte Carlo simulations can be employed. Simulated diffusion MRI measurements were generated and evaluated using the two-compartment Kärger model as well as the simulation model based on a database containing signal curves from approximately 60000 simulations performed with different combinations of microstructural parameters. A protocol based on a pulsed gradient spin echo sequence with diffusion times of 30 and 60ms and with gradient amplitudes obtainable with a clinical MRI scanner was employed for the investigations. When using the analytical model, a major negative bias (up to approximately 25%) in the estimated intracellular volume fraction was observed for short exchange times, while almost no bias was seen for the simulation model. In general, the simulation model improved the accuracy of the estimated parameters as compared to the analytical model, except for the exchange time parameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel treatment approaches are needed for children with advanced neuroblastoma. Studies with neuroblastoma cells have indicated the presence of a hypoxia-driven vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/VEGF receptor (VEGFR)-1 autocrine loop modulating hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1α). Whether other receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are capable of modulating HIF-1α levels and whether RTKs can regulate HIF-2α as well is largely unknown. We evaluated neuroblastoma cell lines for expression of various RTKs. Although cell lines were heterogeneous in the expression of VEGFR-1, -3, c-Kit and RET, most cells expressed PDGFR-α and -β. Ligand-induced activation of multiple RTKs upregulated HIF-1α levels, whereas activation of VEGFR-1 alone upregulated HIF-2α. Multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor sunitinib reduced hypoxia-induced rises in HIF-1α and HIF-2α through mechanisms involving effects on both mRNA levels and protein stability. In addition, sunitinib and sorafenib had direct effects on tumor cell viability in vitro. In a neuroblastoma xenograft model, tumor growth inhibition by sunitinib was associated with inhibition of angiogenesis and reduced HIF-1α levels. These findings show that multiple RTKs may regulate the HIF axis in normoxia and hypoxia and suggest that multikinase inhibitors may exert antiangiogenic effects not only by direct effects on endothelial cells, but also by blocking compensatory hypoxia- and ligand-induced changes in HIF-1α and HIF-2α. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have established that amplification of the MET proto-oncogene can cause resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines with EGFR-activating mutations. The role of non-amplified MET in EGFR-dependent signaling before TKI resistance, however, is not well understood. Using NSCLC cell lines and transgenic models, we demonstrate here that EGFR activation by either mutation or ligand binding increases MET gene expression and protein levels. Our analysis of 202 NSCLC patient specimens was consistent with these observations: levels of MET were significantly higher in NSCLC with EGFR mutations than in NSCLC with wild-type EGFR. EGFR regulation of MET levels in cell lines occurred through the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α pathway in a hypoxia-independent manner. This regulation was lost, however, after MET gene amplification or overexpression of a constitutively active form of HIF-1α. EGFR- and hypoxia-induced invasiveness of NSCLC cells, but not cell survival, were found to be MET dependent. These findings establish that, absent MET amplification, EGFR signaling can regulate MET levels through HIF-1α and that MET is a key downstream mediator of EGFR-induced invasiveness in EGFR-dependent NSCLC cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: : The authors explored associations between anxiety disorders and advanced cancer patients' physical performance status, physician-patient relationships, end-of-life (EOL) treatment preferences and outcomes, and quality of death.Methods: : The Coping with Cancer study was a National Cancer Institute/National Institute of Mental Health-sponsored, prospective, longitudinal, multicenter cohort study of patients with advanced cancer. Six hundred thirty-five patients completed the anxiety disorders module of the Structured Clinical Interview for the Diagnostic Statistical Manual IV. The results were compared with patients' baseline physical performance status, treatment preferences, perceptions of the physician-patient relationship, and advance care planning (ACP).Results: : Approximately 7.6% of patients met criteria for an anxiety disorder. Patients who were diagnosed with an anxiety disorder were more likely to be women and younger and to have a worse physical performance status. Although there were no significant differences in patients' EOL treatment preferences or care, ACP, hospice enrollment, or patients' location of death, there were significant differences in how patients with anxiety disorders perceived the physician-patient relationship. Patients with anxiety disorders had less trust in their physicians, felt less comfortable asking questions about their health, and felt less likely to understand the clinical information that their physicians presented. They also were more likely to believe that their physicians would offer them futile therapies and would not adequately control their symptoms.Conclusions: : Women, patients who were more physically impaired, and younger patients with advanced cancer were more likely to meet criteria for an anxiety disorder. Patients with advanced cancer who had an anxiety disorder were more likely to experience greater challenges to the physician-patient relationship. Cancer 2010. (c) 2010 American Cancer Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Port-wine stains (PWS) are congenital capillary malformations that persist throughout life. Laser therapy is a common treatment for PWS, and pulsed-dye laser is the current treatment of choice. Aim. To compare the clinical results on untreated PWS of two dye lasers with different wavelengths and pulse duration: a flashlamp-pumped dye laser (FPDL) and a long-pulse-duration dye laser (LPDL). Methods. In total, 24 patients were treated on 4–6 test areas with both laser types using high-energy and low-energy fluences. An FPDL with 0.45 ms pulse duration tuned to 585 nm was compared with an LPDL with 1.5 or 3.0 ms pulse duration tuned to 595 nm. Twelve weeks later the degree of lightening was evaluated by a blinded assessor. Pain was assessed directly after treatment with both lasers, using a visual analogue scale. Result. There was no significant difference overall between the two systems in lightening of the lesion or in patient-reported pain. Conclusion. Both laser systems are equivalent in terms of efficacy and pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a highly representative sample of young adult Swedish men ( n = 2,384), we demonstrate that physical activity during childhood and adolescence was the strongest predictor of calcaneal bone mineral density (BMD), and that peak bone mass was reached at this site at the age of 18 years. The purpose of the present study was to determine if physical activity during growth is associated with peak calcaneal BMD in a large, highly representative cohort of young Swedish men. In this study, 2,384 men, 18.3 ± 0.3 (mean ± SD) years old, were included from a population attending the mandatory tests for selection to compulsory military service in Sweden. BMD (g/cm2) of the calcaneus was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Training habits were investigated using a standardized questionnaire. Regression analysis (with age, height, weight, smoking, and calcium intake as covariates) demonstrated that history of regular physical activity was the strongest predictor and could explain 10.1% of the variation in BMD (standardized β = 0.31, p < 0.001). A regression model with quadratic age effect revealed maximum BMD at 18.4 years. We found that history of physical activity during growth was the strongest predictor of peak calcaneal BMD in young men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background – Patient-reported assessments of freezing of gait (FOG) in Parkinson’s disease (PD), such as the FOG questionnaire (FOGQ), are needed because FOG is difficult to assess objectively. However, the measurement properties of the FOGQ have been sparsely assessed. Aim – To assess the measurement properties of the Swedish FOGQ, and to explore relationships between FOGQ scores and other aspects of PD. Methods – Thirty-seven people with PD were assessed with the FOGQ, Unified PD Rating Scale (UPDRS), Hoehn and Yahr (HY), Falls-Efficacy Scale [FES(S)], timed gait tests, and the SF-36 physical functioning (PF) scale. Results – Mean (SD) FOGQ item scores ranged between 1.3 and 2.1 (1.2–1.5); corrected item–total correlations ranged between 0.80 and 0.94. Reliability was 0.95. Mean (SD) and median (q1–q3) FOGQ scores were 9.6 (7.4) and 10 (2–15). Floor and ceiling effects were ≤5.4%. FOGQ correlated strongest with UPDRS part II (ADL), UPDRS item 14 (freezing), and HY ( rS 0.65–0.66). FOGQ scores correlated with PD duration, the Timed Up and Go test, dyskinesia, motor fluctuations, FES(S), and PF scores ( rS 0.40–0.62). Fallers had higher FOGQ scores than non-fallers (median 12.5 vs 5.0). Conclusion – Data support the measurement properties of the Swedish FOGQ by replicating and extending previous psychometric reports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the utility of Advanced Wide Field Sensor (AWiFS) data in relation to stem volume estimation for managed boreal forest stands was investigated. Multiple linear regressions were used to predict stem volume (m3 ha-1) with standwise mean spectral values as the independent variables. For comparison, two SPOT-5 images were used, one with nearly simultaneous acquisition. The adjusted coefficient of determination (R2adj) using AWiFS data to predict stem volume was 0.573 (SE = 56.9%) while SPOT had an R2adj of 0.598 (SE = 55.2%). All bands were negatively correlated, with the shortwave infrared (SWIR) band having the single strongest correlation with stem volume. When stem volume was predicted based on stand size, AWiFS and SPOT produced R2adj values of 0.310 and 0.293, respectively, for stands less than 2 ha in size. Predictive ability increased with stand size, with the highest R2adj at 20 ha (R2adj = 0.677 AWiFS, R2adj = 0.692 SPOT). For stands of 20 ha and larger, the correlation between stem volume and near-infrared (NIR) reflectance increased while decreasing for the visible bands. The explanation behind the trends observed may be due to the management practices in the area. The best two-band predictor of stem volume was the NIR and red band combination for AWiFS, and the NIR and SWIR bands for SPOT. Discriminant analysis of basic forest types showed similar results for AWiFS (65.6% correct) and SPOT (66.4% correct). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many countries have ongoing national forest inventories (NFIs) that provide reliable information on current forest conditions and changes in the forest landscape. These inventories are often based on data collected using field inventory procedures and the results are presented in terms of forest statistics for different geographical areas. The Swedish NFI has decided to combine their field data with optical satellite data by using post-stratification to obtain improved and unbiased estimates of forest variables. The method has been shown to reduce the sampling error (standard error) by 10-35% for variables such as stem volume and forest area. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect on sampling error for the estimated annual clear-felled area when the NFI plots are post-stratified by cuttings mapped from multi-temporal satellite images. Clear-felled areas mapped by the Swedish Forest Agency using image pairs (SPOT and Landsat) from the years 2001/2002, 2002/2003, 2003/2004, and 2004/2005 were used to post-stratify the NFI plots. The study area covers approximately a 1.3 Mha forest land area in Coastal Vasterbotten. It was found that the sampling error (standard error) for the annually clear-felled area was reduced by 31% using post-stratification compared to use of field data alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this population-based study of 75-year-old men ( n = 498), we investigated the association between physical activity (PA) early in life and present bone mineral density (BMD). We demonstrate that a high frequency of competitive sports early in life is associated with BMD at several bone sites, indicating that increases in BMD following PA are preserved longer than previously believed. Physical activity (PA) increases bone mineral density (BMD) during growth. It is unclear if the positive effects remain at old age. In this study, we aimed to determine if PA early in life was associated with BMD in elderly men. In this population-based study, 498 men, 75.2 ± 3.3 (mean±SD) years old, were included. BMD was assessed using DXA. Data concerning lifetime PA, including both competitive (CS) and recreational sports (RS), and occupational physical load (OPL), were collected at interview. Subjects in the highest frequency group of CS in the early period (10–35 years), had higher BMD at the total body (4.2%, p < 0.01), total hip (7.0%, p < 0.01), trochanter (8.7%, p < 0.01), and lumbar spine (7.9%, p < 0.01), than subjects not involved in CS. A stepwise linear regression model showed that frequency of CS in the early period independently positively predicted present BMD at the total body (β = 0.12, p < 0.01), total hip (β = 0.11, p < 0.01), trochanter (β = 0.12, p < 0.01), and lumbar spine (β = 0.11, p = 0.01). We demonstrate that PA in CS early in life is associated with BMD in 75-year-old Swedish men, indicating that increases in BMD following PA are preserved longer than previously believed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: To investigate perceptions of graft rejection and different methods to obtain knowledge about graft rejection among adult organ transplant recipients. BACKGROUND: Rejection is the most common cause of graft loss and graft dysfunction in clinical transplantation. Little is known about the recipients' own explanation models related to graft rejection. DESIGN: Phenomenography. METHOD: A strategic selection included patients who had undergone a kidney, liver, heart or lung transplant. Sixteen patients, six males and 10 females, aged 21-63 years with a follow-up time of between three months and 10 years were interviewed. RESULTS: The result comprised five domains of variations in perceptions of graft rejection: the abstract threat to life; the concrete threat to health; trust in the body; striving to control the threat; and one's identity. The inner perspective and personal explanation models involved threat, fear, trust, control and identity adjustment. Different approaches had the same purpose; 'striving to control the uncontrollable'. CONCLUSION: Learning about graft rejection revealed security, lack of security and uncertainty. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: The inner perspective of graft rejection in this result leads to several clinical implications in terms of patient education and recipients' differing ways of obtaining knowledge about graft rejection. We suggest that patient's education should be tailored in a different way, offering support and advice in line with their personal models of explanation of graft rejection as a complement to the explanation from the biomedical model of disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fitting a prism-ballasted soft toric contact lens unilaterally may potentially induce a vergence error that the subject cannot compensate. In the present study, a prism-ballasted (1.5Δ base down) soft toric contact lens was fitted in the right eye only of 10 subjects with normal binocular vision. The effect on binocular vision was evaluated by measuring vertical phoria adaptation and vertical fixation disparity adaptation. The results show that the vertical vergence error induced was well compensated and fully adapted to. However, care might be needed when fitting these lenses unilaterally in subjects with vertical phoria-related problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The initial interaction and interface formation between Cu(100) and the organic semiconductors 3,4,9,10-perylene tetracarboxylic dianhydride (PTCDA) and copper phtalocyanine (CuPc) has been studied by means of angle-resolved UV photoelectron spectroscopy (ARUPS). Both CuPc and PTCDA are known to adsorb strongly on the Cu(100) surface. The bonding interaction is revealed via interface-related structures in photoemission spectra. However, the spectra develop rather differently in the low coverage regime: while CuPc molecular states are observed below monolayer coverage, the first PTCDA layer is found to be reacted such that the adsorbate-induced emission is strongly modified relative that of intact PTCDA molecules. We find a number of structures that are neither PTCDA- nor Cu-derived, and that the oxygen-related component of the PTCDA spectrum is completely missing in spectra from the monolayer. Importantly for device applications, we find evidence of interfacial electronic states in the form of new peaks located in the former HOMO–LUMO gap for both molecules. In the case of PTCDA these support a chemisorptive bonding model, whereas in the case of CuPc we interpret the state as a monolayer-specific resonance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

1. Ecosystem retrogression occurs during the very long-term absence of major disturbances, and it is characterized by decreases in productivity, decomposition rates and nutrient availability. Ratios of total soil nitrogen (N) to phosphorus (P) also characteristically increase during retrogression, but the nature of N inputs to ecosystems undergoing retrogression has seldom been explored. 2. We studied a 5000-year-old chronosequence involving 30 islands that differed greatly in history of disturbance (wildfire through lightning strike), with increasing time since disturbance leading to ecosystem retrogression. For each island, we quantified N inputs through biological fixation by cyanobacteria hosted by each of two feather moss species that dominate the ground layer vegetation ( Pleurozium schreberi and Hylocomium splendens), and compared these with N inputs through atmospheric deposition. 3. Both N2 fixation per unit land area and fixation per unit moss mass increased significantly with increasing time since disturbance for both moss species. As retrogression progressed, the amount of total N input through biological fixation increased to levels comparable to that of input through atmospheric deposition. 4. Across the chronosequence, N has been accumulating in the humus layer at a rate of 1·8 kg ha−1 year−1 in the absence of fire during the past 5000 years. The added N input from biological fixation in this area of low atmospheric N deposition helps explain this relatively high rate of sequestration. 5. Our results show that, contrary to several claims in the literature, biological N2 fixation is not only important in early-successional ecosystems but also in late-successional systems that have undergone retrogression. This fixation can contribute both to the elevated N : P ratios that occur during retrogression and to accumulation of N capital in the soil. However, much of this N may exist in forms that are relatively unavailable to co-existing plant species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of systemic administration of the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist MK-801 on different stages of non-spatial object recognition memory processing in mice. To this end we used the object recognition test, where the animal is tested for its ability to discriminate between an old, familiar, and a novel object. MK-801 (0.1 or 0.2 mg/kg) or saline was administered 1) 30 min before or 2) directly after the first, introductory, session or 3) 30 min before the recognition session. Memory retention was evaluated 1.5 h after the introductory session. MK-801 appeared to decrease memory retention when given prior to the introductory session, but not when given directly after the introductory session or before the recognition session, where MK-801 instead induced an increased interest for the novel object. These results suggest that activation of NMDA receptors is a requisite for encoding of recognition memory in mice but not for consolidation and retrieval processes. The increased interest for the novel object showing up when MK-801 was given directly after the introductory session or before the recognition session may reflect a facilitation of retention. Alternatively, the phencyclidine-like, psychotogenic properties of MK-801 could result in an amplification of the perceived salience of the novel object, and/or anxiolytic mechanisms could result in neophilic effects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective:To determine whether oestrogen receptor (ER)α messenger RNA (mRNA) levels or single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are associated with obesity in Swedish women.Design:ERα mRNA expression levels were measured by real-time qPCR in subcutaneous adipose tissue from non-obese (N=16, BMI <30) and obese (N=17, BMI 30) women. In addition, ERα mRNA expression levels were determined in isolated adipocytes. ERα promoter usage was characterized by 5′ RACE and by real-time qPCR in subcutaneous adipose tissue from the same non-obese and obese women. Two ERα SNPs were scored in 509 non-obese and 489 obese females.Results:ERα mRNA expression levels were lower in obese compared to non-obese women in both subcutaneous adipose tissue and in adipocytes. We show that two ERα promoters are differentially utilized in obese and non-obese individuals. We did not find any significant association between obesity and the ERα SNPs or haplotypes assayed.Conclusion:The reduced ERα mRNA levels observed in adipose tissue from obese compared to non-obese women support a role for oestrogen signaling via ERα, in control of body weight. Mechanistic studies of the role of ERα in adipocytes and how its expression is regulated in relation to fat mass should be performed. The latter studies should focus on the two promoters that are used differently in obese and non-obese individuals.International Journal of Obesity (2007) 31, 900–907; doi:10.1038/sj.ijo.0803528; published online 16 January 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Due to the different types and quality of forensic evidence materials, their DNA content can vary substantially, and particularly low quantities can impact the results in an identification analysis. In this study, the quantity of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA was determined in a variety of materials using a previously described real-time PCR method. DNA quantification in the roots and distal sections of plucked and shed head hairs revealed large variations in DNA content particularly between the root and the shaft of plucked hairs. Also large intra- and inter-individual variations were found among hairs. In addition, DNA content was estimated in samples collected from fingerprints and accessories. The quantification of DNA on various items also displayed large variations, with some materials containing large amounts of nuclear DNA while no detectable nuclear DNA and only limited amounts of mitochondrial DNA were seen in others. Using this sensitive real-time PCR quantification assay, a better understanding was obtained regarding DNA content and variation in commonly analysed forensic evidence materials and this may guide the forensic scientist as to the best molecular biology approach for analysing various forensic evidence materials. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Some chemical equilibrium constants for 2‐bromodecanoic acid were investigated. The dimerization constant of 2‐bromodecanoic acid, k 2 =278 M -1 , in tert ‐butylbenzene was first derived from IR spectroscopy measurements. Secondly, the distribution coefficient, k d =799, was found by combining the value of k 2 with distribution data obtained from solvent extraction experiments evaluated with the aid of neutron activation analysis. Finally the dissociation constant, k a =3.18 *10 -3 M, was estimated from two‐phase titrations. A theoretical calculation was made based on the obtained constants and this calculation was validated by a second solvent extraction experiment that gave a good correspondence between calculated and experimental values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: In spite of numerous investigations, the relation between respiratory symptoms and reflux symptoms in the general population remains unclear, since population-based studies are few. STUDY OBJECTIVES: To investigate the relation between respiratory symptoms and reflux symptoms in the population.Subject and methods: In a cohort of 65,363 individuals representing 71.2% of the adult population in the Norwegian county of Nord-Trøndelag, 58,596 individuals (89.6%) responded to questions concerning reflux symptoms. The 3,153 persons (5.4%) with severe and recurrent reflux symptoms constituted the case group, and the 40,210 persons (68.6%) without reflux symptoms served as the control group. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) represented relative risks. Potential confounding was tested in multivariable logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Persons with asthma had reflux to a 60% greater extent than those without asthma after including adjustment for asthma medication (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.4 to 1.9). There was a statistically significant dose-response association between breathlessness and reflux symptoms (p for trend < 0.0001), and the OR of severe breathlessness was 12.0 (95% CI, 9.5 to 15.2). Persons with heavy and wheezy breathing, daily cough, daily productive cough, or chronic cough showed a twofold to threefold statistically significant increase in risk of reflux symptoms. Adjustment for asthma or use of asthma medication did not substantially influence the risk estimates for any of the studied respiratory disorders. CONCLUSIONS: Reflux symptoms commonly coexist with asthma and other respiratory symptoms on a population-based level, seemingly irrespective of asthma medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Conventional visual tests are not sensitive enough to detect low degree neural damage, as 6/6 (1.0) visual acuity can be upheld with less than two-thirds of the normal number of optic nerve axons. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the physiologic properties of a new computerised test, the Rarebit Fovea Test (RFT), using very small stimuli, by quantifying the effect of age and binocular summation in relation to stimulus luminance. Methods: The RFT relies on the perception of very small (less than 0.5 minutes of arc) bright stimuli. Two different experiments were performed. 1. Thirty-five subjects (age 19 to 63 years) were tested with five different stimulus luminances, 158, 64, 53, 41 and 33 cd/m2. 2. Nineteen subjects (age 19 to 63 years) were tested using binocular stimulation to define the binocular summation. Results: Significantly reduced median hit rates were observed at luminances of 53 cd/m2 or below. Age and mean hit rate correlated negatively at all luminance levels below 158 cd/m2. The mean hit rate from binocular stimulation, compared to the highest value from monocular stimulation in the same subject, was increased by a factor of 1.54 ± 0.45 (SD). No age effect was found regarding binocular summation. Conclusions: The results in the current study indicate that RFT can identify some of the well-known features of the visual system, that is, the effects of age and binocular summation, provided that the stimulus luminance is adequately selected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromosome segment 12q13→q15 recombines with many different chromosome bands in lipomas and at least ten recurrent translocations have been identified. The HMGA2 gene is often rearranged, but little is known about the molecular consequences at other breakpoints. Fusion genes between HMGA2 (12q14→q15) and LPP (3q27→q28), LHFP (13q12) and CMKOR1 (2q37) have been reported. In the present study, eight lipomas with rearrangements involving chromosome bands 12q14→q15 and 5q32→q33 were analyzed. In chromosome 5, five of the cases had a breakpoint in the 5′ part of EBF in 5q33, while three cases had breakpoints located about 200 kb 3′ of EBF. In chromosome 12, the breakpoints clustered to the region of HMGA2. Four cases had breaks within the gene and four had breaks 5′ to HMGA2 where the gene BC058822 is located. Two versions of an HMGA2/EBF fusion transcript were detected in one case; one transcript was in frame and the other out of frame. Identical EBF/BC058822 fusion transcripts, seen in two cases, one of which also had the HMGA2/EBF transcript, were out of frame and resulted in truncation of EBF. Since EBF and HMGA2 have different orientations, the findings must be explained by complex aberrations including multiple breaks. The combined data indicate that the pathogenetically significant event is fusion, truncation or transcriptional activation of HMGA2, but it can not be excluded that EBF, which has been implicated in adipogenesis, contributes to the tumor development. Copyright © 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The electronic interaction between the transparent anode material indium tin oxide (ITO) and the common organic hole injection material copper phtalocyanine has been investigated by means of angle-resolved UV photoemission. The study was made on two differently treated ITO substrates, both cleaned in common organic solvents and one of them heated in air after the cleaning. The heat treatment efficiently removes surface carbon-containing contamination, and has also an oxidizing effect. As a result, the ITO work function is increased by 0.4–0.6eV. This surface preparation has significant impact on the electronic properties of adsorbed CuPc. We find that the Pc HOMO level, important for transport properties, is shifting by 0.5eV depending on surface conditions. This is interpreted as an effect of Fermi level pinning within the gap of the spin-split Cu derived b1g molecular orbitals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]