PK3Vf8C:mrefs.MYD|?MMatto, M. Raunio, A. R. Postila, V. Huttunen, K. Hirvonen, M. R. Pelkonen, J.2008MHuman B cells and macrophages cooperate in T-cell-independent type 2 response209-217"Scandinavian Journal of Immunology673ArticleMarRWe have analysed separately the role of B-cell receptor (BCR) stimulation and the soluble second signal in the T-cell-independent type 2 (TI-2) B-cell response. We were able to show that human B cells and macrophages (M phi) could function together in TI-type microbial response. Interestingly, BCR cross-linking of peripheral blood (PB) B cells enhanced IgG production induced by M phi-derived growth factors whereas interleukin (IL)-12 + IL-18 had milder effect on IgG production. We demonstrated that B-cell-derived soluble mediators primed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated M phi for tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and IL-6 production significantly better than IFN-gamma, confirming the role of B cells in the activation of M phi. We could show that human PB B cells were active cytokine producers and could be induced to produce interferon (IFN)-gamma mRNA in the presence of known M phi cytokines, like IL-12 and IL-18. BCR stimulation also stabilized and enhanced the IFN-gamma mRNA production induced by IL-12 and IL-18. In addition, our novel finding was that a known M phi cytokine, IL-10, induced the expression of IFN-gamma mRNA from human B-cell line (HF28R0) cells. In summary, we propose a model for the active role of B cells in the induction of the inflammatory response during TI antigen challenge in close collaboration with M phi.://000252901600001OMatto, M. Raunio, A. -R. Postila, V. Huttunen, K. Hirvonen, M. -R. Pelkonen, J. 0300-9475ISI:0002529|?XPoikonen, K. Lajunen, T. Silvennoinen-Kassinen, S. Paldanius, M. Leinonen, M. Saikku, P.2008Susceptibility of human monocyte-macrophages to Chlamydia pneumoniae infection in vitro is highly variable and associated with levels of soluble CD14 and C-Pneumoniae IgA and human HSP-IgG antibodies in serum279-284"Scandinavian Journal of Immunology673ArticleMarChlamydia pneumoniae, an intracellular microbe, causes respiratory infections and may participate in the development of atherosclerosis. It is able to survive and multiply in macrophages. The susceptibility of monocyte-macrophages from healthy individuals to C. pneumoniae infection in vitro was studied. Intracellular growth of C. pneumoniae, as an indicator of susceptibility to infection, was compared to serum levels of C-reactive protein, soluble CD14 (sCD14), human heat shock protein (HSP)-IgG, human HSP-IgA, C. pneumoniae IgG and IgA antibodies. The production of C. pneumoniae in infected macrophages was highly variable, ranging from 0 to 638 chlamydial genomes per human genome. Chlamydia pneumoniae production associated positively with serum C. pneumoniae IgA (titre: >= 10) and hHSP-IgG and negatively with sCD14 concentration. The association between sCD14 concentration, C. pneumoniae IgA and human HSP-IgG antibodies and C. pneumoniae production was statistically significant only among males. Age and gender did not correlate with the production. We hypothesize that persons whose macrophages cannot restrict the growth of C. pneumoniae are more prone to chronic infection by this agent.://000252901600009XPoikonen, K. Lajunen, T. Silvennoinen-Kassinen, S. Paldanius, M. Leinonen, M. Saikku, P. 0300-9475ISI:00025290o|?`Keskitalo, K. Silventoinen, K. Tuorila, H. Perola, M. Pietilainen, K. H. Rissanen, A. Kaprio, J.2008QGenetic and environmental contributions to food use patterns of young adult twins235-242Physiology & Behavior931-2ArticleJanThe contribution of genetic factors to individual differences in food use was estimated in a large population-based twin cohort of young adults (22- to 27-year-old). Male and female twins (n=2009 complete twin pairs) evaluated use-frequencies of 24 food items using 5 categories (1=never-5=several times a day) in a postal questionnaire. Foods were categorized by factor analysis. Estimates of the relative proportions of additive genetic, shared environmental, and unshared environmental effects on the use-frequency of food items and factor scores were obtained by quantitative genetic modeling of twin data based on linear structural equations. Four factors of food use were identified: "healthy" foods, high-fat foods, sweet foods, and meats. The variance of the use-frequency of food items and food categories was explained by additive genetic and unshared environmental influences, whereas shared environmental factors did not contribute to food use. The average proportions of genetic effects on the total variance of the use-frequency of food items and food categories were 40% and 45%, respectively. Sex differences were observed in the magnitude of genetic influences for use-frequency of four food items (chocolate, other sweets, fried foods, and meat), and in genetic factors underlying the use of three (fresh vegetables, fruits, and cheeses) items. In conclusion, family environment does not appear to influence the food use of young adults and thus nutritional education should be targeted at this age group to support development of healthy eating patterns. In addition, the results illuminate the importance of the sex-specific genetic effects on food use. (C) 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.://000253034700030vKeskitalo, Kaisu Silventoinen, Karri Tuorila, Hely Perola, Markus Pietilaeinen, Kirsi H. Rissanen, Aila Kaprio, Jaakko 0031-9384ISI:00025 X G|?MMarschan, E. Honkanen, J. Kukkonen, K. Kuitunen, M. Savilahti, E. Vaarala, O.2008oIncreased activation of GATA-3, IL-2 and IL-5 of cord blood mononuclear cells in infants with IgE sensitization132-139 Pediatric Allergy and Immunology192ArticleMarRisk of allergic diseases has been linked to abnormal patterns of fetal immune development, suggesting that priming of the immune system may occur in utero. The aim of the study was to investigate whether the pattern of immune response in cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC) shows association with allergic diseases and IgE sensitization at 2 yr of age, and to study the effect of maternal probiotic supplementation on CBMC immune responses. CBMC were isolated from 98 neonates in a randomized double-blinded intervention study. CBMC were stimulated with beta-lactoglobulin, and phytohemaglutinin (PHA). Secretion of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), interleukin-5 (IL-5), and IL-13 was measured by an ELISA; IL-2, IL-4, and IL-10 by a cytokine bead assay. T-cell polarization-associated IL-4 receptor and IL-12R expressions, and the respective transcription factors GATA-3 and T-bet were analyzed with RT-PCR. The above responses were compared with the development of allergic diseases and IgE sensitization at 2 yr of age, and with the maternal probiotic or placebo supplementation. PHA-stimulated GATA-3 expression and IL-2 secretion in CBMC were higher in IgE-sensitized children at an age of 2 yr than in the non-sensitized, non-allergic children (p = 0.03 and 0.026). PHA-induced expression of GATA-3 correlated with IL-5 (p = 0.003, r = 0.300) and IL-13 (p = 0.007, r = 0.278) secretion of CBMC, and IL-5 secretion of beta-lactoglobulin-stimulated CBMC was higher in IgE-sensitized children at 2 yr of age than in the non-sensitized, non-allergic children (p = 0.013). Probiotic bacteria had no effect on CBMC immune responses. In CBMC-enhanced induction of GATA-3, which activates several Th2 cytokines genes, was a risk factor for IgE sensitization. The immune deviation towards Th2-type immunity developed already in utero and seemed to modulate the pattern of immune response favoring an IgE response to environmental antigens.://000252900400005`Marschan, Emma Honkanen, Jarno Kukkonen, Kaarina Kuitunen, Mikael Savilahti, Erkki Vaarala, Outi 0905-6157ISI:000252  |?|Pietilainen, K. H. Kaprio, J. Borg, P. Plasqui, G. Yki-Jarvinen, H. Kujala, U. M. Rose, R. J. Westerterp, K. R. Rissanen, A.20081Physical inactivity and obesity: A vicious circle409-414Obesity162ArticleFeb:objective: Physical activity (PA) begins to decline in adolescence with a concomitant increase in weight. We hypothesized that a vicious circle may arise between decreasing PA and weight gain from adolescence to early adulthood. Methods and Procedures: PA and self-perceived physical fitness assessed in adolescents (16-18 years of age) were used to predict the development of obesity (BMI >= 30 kg/m(2)) and abdominal obesity (waist >= 88 cm in females and >= 102 cm in males) at age 25 in 4,240 twin individuals (90% of twins born in Finland, 1975-1979). Ten 25-year-old monozygotic (MZ) twin pairs who were discordant for obesity (with a 16 kg weight difference) were then carefully evaluated for current PA (using a triaxial accelerometer), total energy expenditure (TEE, assessed by means of the doubly labeled water (DLW) method), and basal metabolic rate (BMR, assessed by indirect calorimetry). Results: Physical inactivity in adolescence strongly predicted the risk for obesity (odds ratio (OR) 3.9, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4-10.9) and abdominal obesity (4.8, 1.9-12.0) at age 25, even after adjusting for baseline and current BMI. Poor physical fitness in adolescence also increased the risk for overall obesity (5.1, 2.0-12.7) and abdominal obesity (3.2, 1.5-6.7) in adulthood. Physical inactivity was both causative and secondary to the development of obesity discordance in the MZ pairs. TEE did not differ between the MZ co-twins. PA was lower whereas BMR was higher in the obese co-twins. Discussion: Physical inactivity in adolescence strongly and independently predicts total (and especially) abdominal obesity in young adulthood, favoring the development of a self-perpetuating vicious circle of obesity and physical inactivity. Physical activity should therefore be seriously recommended for obesity prevention in the young.://000252883600027Pietilainen, Kirsi H. Kaprio, Jaakko Borg, Patrik Plasqui, Guy Yki-Jarvinen, Hannele Kujala, Urho M. Rose, Richard J. Westerterp, Klaas R. Rissanen, Aila 1930-7381ISI:00025 U CT|?WAhola, K. Kivimaki, M. Honkonen, T. Virtanen, M. Koskinen, S. Vahtera, J. Lonnqvist, J.2008lOccupational burnout and medically certified sickness absence: A population-based study of Finnish employees185-193!Journal of Psychosomatic Research642ArticleFebsObjective: Occupational burnout is a common problem in working populations, but its association with sickness absence is poorly understood. The contribution of occupational burnout to medically certified sickness absence was examined in a population-based sample of employees. Methods: A representative sample of 3151 Finnish employees aged 30-60 years participated in a comprehensive health study in 2000-2001, including an assessment of physician-diagnosed physical illnesses and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) mental disorders based on the Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Burnout was measured with the Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey. Sickness absences longer than 9 days in 2000-2001 were extracted from a register of the Social Insurance Institution of Finland. Results: The occurrence of medically certified sickness absence was more prevalent among employees with burnout than among those without burnout. After adjusting for sociodemographic factors and mental and physical disorders, the odds ratio of sickness absence for severe burnout was 6.9 [95% confidence interval (95% CI)=2.7-17.8] for men and 2.1 (95% CI=1.1-4.0) for women. Among employees with mental or physical disorders, severe burnout was associated with a 7.7-fold risk of sickness absence among men and with a 2.6-fold risk among women. The duration of absence was related to burnout among men with absences, for whom severe burnout accounted for 52 excess sickness absence days during the 2-year period after adjusting for sociodemographic factors, mental disorders, and physical illnesses. Conclusions: Severe burnout is associated with a substantial excess risk of medically certified sickness absence among both men and women. This association is independent of prevalent mental disorders and physical illnesses. (c) 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.://000252967500008pAhola, Kirsi Kivimaeki, Mika Honkonen, Teiia Virtanen, Marianna Koskinen, Seppo Vahtera, Jussi Loennqvist, Jouko 0022-3999ISI:00025TC@|?1Sillanpaa, M. Kaukinen, P. Melen, K. Julkunen, I.2008Hepatitis C virus proteins interfere with the activation of chemokine gene promoters and downregulate chemokine gene expression432-443Journal of General Virology89ArticleFebThe hepatitis C virus (HCV) non-structural (NS) 3/4A protein complex inhibits the retinoic acid inducible gene I (RIG-1) pathway by proteolytically cleaving mitochondria-associated CARD-containing adaptor protein Cardif, and this leads to reduced production of beta interferon (IFN-beta). This study examined the expression of CCL5 (regulated upon activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted, or RANTES), CXCL8 (interleukin 8) and CXCL10 (IFN-gamma-activated protein 10, or IP-10) chemokine genes in osteosarcoma cell lines that inducibly expressed NS3/4A, NS4B, core-E1-E2-p7 and the entire HCV polyprotein. Sendai virus (SeV)-induced production of IFN-beta, CCL5, CXCL8 and CXCL10 was downregulated by the NS3/4A protein complex and by the full-length HCV polyprotein. Expression of NS3/4A and the HCV polyprotein reduced the binding of interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) 1 and 3 and, to a lesser extent, nuclear factor (NF)-kappa B (p65/p50) to their respective binding elements on the CXCL10 promoter during SeV infection. Furthermore, binding of IRF1 and IRF3 to the interferon-stimulated response element-like element, and of c-Jun and phosphorylated c-Jun to the activator protein 1 element of the CXCL8 promoter, was reduced when NS3/4A and the HCV polyprotein were expressed. In cell lines expressing NS3/4A and the HCV polyprotein, the subcellular localization of mitochondria was changed, and this was kinetically associated with the partial degradation of endogenous Cardif. These results indicate that NS3/4A alone or as part of the HCV polyprotein disturbs the expression of IRF1- and IRF3-regulated genes, as well as affecting mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase- and NF-kappa B-regulated genes.://000253004600009FSillanpaa, Maarit Kaukinen, Pasi Melen, Krister Julkunen, Ilkka Part 2 0022-1317ISI:000253 : +|?OCastaneda, A. E. Tuuio-Henriksson, A. Marttunen, M. Suvisaari, J. Lonnqvist, J.2008bA review on cognitive impairments in depressive and anxiety disorders with a focus on young adults1-27Journal of Affective Disorders1061-2ReviewFebBackground: There is growing evidence for cognitive dysfunction in depressive and anxiety disorders. Nevertheless, the neuropsychological profile of young adult patients has not received much systematic investigation. The following paper reviews the existing literature on cognitive impairments in depressive and anxiety disorders particularly among young adults. Additionally, the focus of young adult age group and the effect of confounding variables on study results are discussed. Methods: Electronic database searches were conducted to identify research articles focusing on cognitive impairments in depressive or anxiety disorders among young adults published in English during years 1990-2006. Results: Cognitive impairments are common in young adults with major depression and anxiety disorders, although their nature remains partly unclear. Accordingly, executive dysfunction is evident in major depression, but other more specific deficits appear to depend essentially on disorder characteristics. The profile of cognitive dysfunction seems to depend on anxiety disorder subtype, but at least obsessive-compulsive disorder is associated with deficits in executive functioning and visual memory. The conflicting results may be explained by heterogeneity within study participants, such as illness status, comorbid mental disorders, and medication, and other methodological issues, including inadequate matching of study groups and varying testing procedures. Limitations: The study is a comprehensive review, but not a formal meta-analysis, due to methodological heterogeneity. Conclusions: Cognitive impairments are common in major depression and anxiety disorders. However, more research is needed to confirm and widen these findings, and to expand the knowledge into clinical practice. Controlling of confounding variables in future studies is highly recommended. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.://000252905300001_Castaneda, Anu E. Tuuio-Henriksson, Annamari Marttunen, Mauri Suvisaari, Jaana Lonnqvist, Jouko 0165-0327ISI:00025290,|? 8Pelkonen, M. Marttunen, M. Kaprio, J. Huurre, T. Aro, H.2008Adolescent risk factors for episodic and persistent depression in adulthood. A 16-year prospective follow-up study of adolescents123-131Journal of Affective Disorders1061-2ArticleFeb[Background: We examined mid-adolescent psychosocial problems as risk factors for subsequent depression up to adulthood proper, and differences in these for episodic and persistent depression. Methods: In a 16-year follow-up of an urban Finnish community cohort (547 males and 714 females) from age 16 years risk factors for subsequent depression (S-BDI) were studied. Data were collected with a classroom questionnaire at 16 years and a postal questionnaire at 22 and 32 years. Differences in predictors for episodic depression (only at age of 22 or 32 y) and persistent depression (both at 22 and 32 y) were studied using logistic and multinomial regression analyses. Results: Mid-adolescent depressive symptoms predicted persistent and female sex episodic depression. Low self-esteem, dissatisfaction with academic achievement, problems with the law, having no dating experiences, and parental divorce all predicted both episodic and persistent depression. Limitations: We had two assessment points in adulthood, but no information about depression between these. Conclusions: The associations between mid-adolescent psychosocial problems and subsequent depression extended up to adulthood proper, somewhat differently for episodic and persistent depression. Preventive efforts should be focused towards young people at risk. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.://000252905300012LPelkonen, Mirjami Marttunen, Mauri Kaprio, Jaakko Huurre, Taina Aro, Hillevi 0165-0327ISI:0002529|? TLamberg, M. E. Kangasperko, R. Partinen, R. Lillsunde, P. Mukala, K. Haavanlammi, K.20081The Finnish legislation on workplace drug testing95-98Forensic Science International1742-3ArticleJanIn Finland, the Act on the Protection of Privacy in Working Life (759/2004) that entered into force in 2004 incorporates provisions related to drug use testing, e.g. on the employers' right to process in certain situations information on job applicants' and employees' drug use. In the same context, provisions were added to the Occupational Health Care Act (1383/2001) on the employer's obligation to draw up, together with the staff, a written programme dealing with alcohol and drugs for the workplace. The programme defines the overall objectives for and the practices to be observed at the workplace in order to prevent substance abuse and to refer the problem users to treatment. The Occupational Health Care Act also includes provisions on drug tests and the drug test certificate as well as on reimbursement of the expenses of drug tests. Furthermore, the Act lays down a definition of drug tests. Every workplace shall have a plan/programme on drug-free workplace, where the jobs in which the workers have to present a drug test certificate to the employer must be defined. This plan/programme shall be discussed in cooperation on tripartite basis at the workplace. A Government decree on drug use testing (218/2005) has been issued in virtue of the Occupational Health Care Act. It lays down provisions on the practical performance of drug tests, i.e. taking and analysis of samples, and interpretation of the test results. The purpose of the Government decree is to ensure that workplace drug testing is carried out in a way presupposed by a good occupational health care practice and the laboratory quality standards, taking into account the integrity and protection of privacy of the persons tested as well as their other fundamental rights. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.://000253033800003nLamberg, Matti E. Kangasperko, Raila Partinen, Ritva Lillsunde, Pirjo Mukala, Kristiina Haavanlammi, Katariina 0379-0738ISI:00025303|? ALillsunde, P. Haavanlammi, K. Partinen, R. Mukala, K. Lamberg, M.2008-Finnish guidelines for workplace drug testing99-102Forensic Science International1742-3ArticleJanThe Finnish guidelines for workplace drug testing outlined here represent what is considered the best practice for workplace drug testing to be followed in Finland. The guidelines are based on the act on the protection of privacy in working life (759/2004), the occupational health care act (1383/2001) and the decree on workplace drug testing (218/2005). They start by defining situations in which workplace testing is allowed and continue up to the point where the certificate is submitted to the employer. The role of the occupational health care system is crucial in the procedure. The guidelines include the best practice procedures to be followed by laboratories providing workplace drug testing services. The laboratory recommendations are based on general principles established internationally. In the Finnish guidelines, accreditation is an absolute prerequisite for a laboratory functioning as a workplace drug testing laboratory. The laboratory section of the guidelines includes specimen collection, laboratory organisation, analysis procedure, quality assurance and quality control measures. These largely conform to the European laboratory guidelines for legally defensible workplace drug testing published by the European workplace drug testing society (EWDTS), but there are differences. In addition to using urine as a specimen, the Finnish guidelines also encompass blood. (C) 2007 Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.://000253033800004XLillsunde, Pirjo Haavanlammi, Katariina Partinen, Ritva Mukala, Kristiina Lamberg, Matti 0379-0738ISI:0002530tc|? 1Lillsunde, P. Mukala, K. Partinen, R. Lamberg, M.2008>Role of occupational health services in workplace drug testing103-106Forensic Science International1742-3ArticleJanIn Finland, workplace drug testing is mainly performed in accordance with the Act on the Protection of Privacy in Working Life (759/2004), (http://www.finlex.fi/en/laki/kaannokset/2004/20040759) [1], the Occupational Health Care Act (1383/2001), (http://www.finlex.fi/en/laki/kaannokset/2001/20011383) [2] and the Decree on Workplace Drug Testing (218/2005) [3]. The role of occupational health services is stated in the Occupational Health Care Act. All workplace drug tests are carried out by health services according to good occupational health care practice. A referral for a drug test is given by a physician or a nurse working in health care services. When giving the referral, the physician or nurse should inform the person to be tested of the purpose and content of the test, record any medication they may be using, and make sure they are aware that they can later dispute the result of the test. The identity of the person should be checked before taking a sample. The analysis laboratory sends the result of the drug test to the health care service unit that has given the referral. If the test result is positive, the laboratory gives a detailed analysis of the test result. The health care service personnel provide the testee with the result. If it is negative, it may be given by a nurse. When the test result is positive, a Medical Review Officer (MRO) should interpret the answer and evaluate whether the positive result is due to medication, or another reasonable explanation offered by the person tested. The MRO informs the person of the options of rehabilitation treatment available to drug abusers stated in the written drug testing policy/programme of the employer/company. The testee takes the test result report to his/her employer personally. (C) 2007 Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.://000253033800005@Lillsunde, Pirjo Mukala, Kristina Partinen, Ritva Lamberg, Matti 0379-0738ISI:000253|? FBidel, S. Silventoinen, K. Hu, G. Lee, D. H. Kaprio, J. Tuomilehto, J.2008PCoffee consumption, serum gamma-glutamyltransferase and risk of type II diabetes178-185&European Journal of Clinical Nutrition622ArticleFebObjectives: To study the joint association of coffee consumption and serum gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) levels on the risk of developing type II diabetes. Design, setting and subjects: A total of 21 826 Finnish men and women who were 35-74 years of age and without any history of diabetes at baseline (years 1982, 1987, 1992 and 1997) were included in the present analyses. They were prospectively followed up for onset of type II diabetes (n = 862 cases), death or until the end of the year 2002. Coffee consumption, serum GGT and other study parameters were determined at baseline using standardized measurements. Analyses were stratified by the serum GGT level classified into two classes using the 75th sex-specific percentiles as the cut point. Results: Coffee consumption was significantly and inversely associated with incident diabetes among both men and women. Serum GGT modified the association between coffee consumption and incident diabetes. Subjects in the high category of coffee consumption with the GGT level >= 75th percentile showed a significant inverse association for women, and for both sexes combined. The association was not significant in subjects with the GGT level <= 75th percentile. There was a significant interaction effect of GGT and coffee consumption on risk of type II diabetes in data of women (P = 0.05) and in both sexes combined (P = 0.02). Conclusions: Habitual coffee consumption is associated with lower incidence of type II diabetes particularly in those with higher baseline serum GGT levels.://000252932900004DBidel, S. Silventoinen, K. Hu, G. Lee, D-H Kaprio, J. Tuomilehto, J. 0954-3007ISI:00025293|?]Strandberg, T. E. Strandberg, A. Y. Pitkala, K. Salomaa, V. V. Tilvis, R. S. Miettinen, T. A.20082Chocolate, well-being and health among elderly men247-253&European Journal of Clinical Nutrition622ArticleFebObjective: We hypothesized that chocolate preference would be related to health and psychological well-being in old men. Design, setting and participants: We have followed up a socio-economically homogenous group of men, born in 1919-1934, since the 1960s. In 2002-2003, a mailed questionnaire was used to assess the health and well-being (including questions related to positive life orientation, visual analogue scales and the Zung depression score) of survivors. In addition, candy preference was inquired. Those men who reported no candy consumption (n = 108) were excluded from the analyses. Outcome measures: Psychological well-being in old age. Results: The response rate was 69% (1367 of 1991). Of the respondents, 860 and 399 preferred chocolate and other type of candy, respectively. The average age in both candy groups was 76 years. Of the respondents, 99% were home-dwelling, 96% were retired and 87% were presently married, without differences between the candy groups. Men preferring chocolate had lower body mass index and waist circumference, and they also reported more exercise and better subjective health (P = 0.008) than other candy consumers. Variables related to psychological well-being were consistently better in those preferring chocolate. The differences were statistically significant in feeling of loneliness (P = 0.01), feeling of happiness (P = 0.01), having plans for the future (P = 0.0002) and the Zung depression score (P = 0.02). Conclusions: In this socioeconomically homogenous male cohort, chocolate preference in old age was associated with better health, optimism and better psychological well-being. Sponsorship: The Academy of Finland, the Pa ivikki and Sakari Sohlberg Foundation, the Helsinki University Central Hospital and the Finnish Foundation for Cardiovascular Research.://000252932900013_Strandberg, T. E. Strandberg, A. Y. Pitkaelae, K. Salomaa, V. V. Tilvis, R. S. Miettinen, T. A. 0954-3007ISI:00025$|?nLamagni, T. L. Neal, S. Keshishian, C. Alhaddad, N. George, R. Duckworth, G. Vuopio-Varkila, J. Efstratiou, A.2008CSevere Streptococcus pyogenes infections, United Kingdom, 2003-2004202-209Emerging Infectious Diseases142ArticleFeb4As part of a Europe-wide initiative to explore current epidemiologic patterns of severe disease caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, the United Kingdom undertook enhanced population-based surveillance during 2003-2004. A total of 3,775 confirmed cases of severe S. pyogenes infection were identified over 2 years, 3.33/100,000 population, substantially more than previously estimated. Skin/soft tissue infections were the most common manifestation (42%), followed by respiratory tract infections (17%). Injection drug use was identified as a risk factor for 20% of case-patients. One in 5 infected case-patients died within 7 days of diagnosis; the highest mortality rate was for cases of necrotizing fasciitis (34%). Nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs, alcoholism, young age, and infection with emm/M3 types were independently associated with increased risk for streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. Understanding the pattern of these diseases and predictors of poor patient outcome will help with identification and assessment of the potential effect of targeted interventions.://000252969600002Lamagni, Theresa L. Neal, Shona Keshishian, Catherine Alhaddad, Neelarn George, Robert Duckworth, Georgia Vuopio-Varkila, Jaana Efstratiou, Androulla 1080-6040ISI:000252 G 7t|?Auro, K. Kristiansson, K. Zethelius, B. Berne, C. Lannfelt, L. Taskinen, M. R. Jauhiainen, M. Perola, M. Peltonen, L. Syvanen, A. C.2008bUSF1 gene variants contribute to metabolic traits in men in a longitudinal 32-year follow-up study464-472 Diabetologia513ArticleMarAAims/hypothesis Genetic variants of upstream transcription factor 1 (USF1) have previously been associated with dyslipidaemias in family studies. Our aim was to further address the role of USF1 in metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular traits at the population level in a large Swedish male cohort (n = 2,322) with multiple measurements for risk factors during 32 years of follow-up. Methods Participants, born in 1920-1924, were examined at 50, 60, 70 and 77 years of age. The follow-up period for cardiovascular events was 1970-2002. We genotyped three haplotype tagging polymorphisms capturing the major allelic variants of USF1. Results SNP rs2774279 was associated with the metabolic syndrome. The minor allele of rs2774279 was less common among individuals with metabolic syndrome than among healthy controls [p = 0.0029 when metabolic syndrome was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III; p = 0.0073 when defined according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF)]. The minor allele of rs2774279 was also associated with lower BMI, lower fasting glucose values and higher HDL-cholesterol concentrations in longitudinal analyses. With SNP rs2073658, a borderline association with metabolic syndrome was observed (p = 0.036, IDF), the minor allele being the risk-increasing allele. The minor allele of rs2073658 also associated with higher total and LDL-cholesterol, apolipoprotein B-100 and lipoprotein(a) concentrations in longitudinal analyses. Importantly, these trends with respect to the allelic variants prevailed throughout the follow-up time of three decades. Conclusions/interpretation Our results suggest that USF1 variants associate with the metabolic syndrome at population level and influence the cardiovascular risk factors throughout adulthood in a consistent, longitudinal manner.://000252888200013Auro, K. Kristiansson, K. Zethelius, B. Berne, C. Lannfelt, L. Taskinen, M. -R. Jauhiainen, M. Perola, M. Peltonen, L. Syvanen, A. -C. 0012-186XISI:0002528`|?6Gao, W. Dong, Y. H. Nan, H. R. Tuomilehto, J. Qiao, Q.2008YThe likelihood of diabetes based on the proposed definitions for impaired fasting glucose151-155'Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice791ArticleJan]The current study aimed to evaluate whether individuals with fasting plasma glucose (FPG) of 5.6-6.0 mmol/l has a similar risk profiles for diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) to those with FPG of 6.1-6.9 mmol/l. A community-based cross-sectional survey in Chinese adults (20-74 years) was conducted during April July in 2002. Participants without a prior history of diabetes underwent a standardized 2-h 75 g oral glucose tolerance test. Positive likelihood ratios were calculated to estimate the odds of having diabetes or IGT for subjects with different FPG levels. Among 1856 participants, prevalence of IFG increased from 12.4 to 28.2% with the cut-off value of FPG lowered from 6.1 to 5.6 mmol/l. Individuals with FPG of 6.1-6.9 mmol/l were more obese and insulin resistant than those with FPG of 5.6-6.0 mmol/l. The positive likelihood ratio for diabetes and IGT were 1.83 (1.28-2.61) and 2.60 (1.96-3.44) in subjects with FPG of 6.1-6.9 mmol/l, and 0.54 (0.30-0.95) and 1.47 (1.11-1.95) for those with FPG of 5.6-6.0 mmol/l, respectively. In conclusion, the likelihood of diabetes and IGT was lower in subjects with FPG of 5.6-6.0 mmol/l than in those with FPG of 6.1-6.9 mmol/l. The clinical and social implication of labelling more individuals with impaired fasting glucose needs to be further studied. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.://000253031800026BGao, Weiguo Dong, Yanhu Nan, Hairong Tuomilehto, Jaakko Qiao, Qing 0168-8227ISI:0002530k[L|??Hamalainen, J. Isometsa, E. Sihvo, S. Pirkola, S. Kiviruusu, O.2008LUse of health services for major depressive and anxiety disorders in Finland27-37Depression and Anxiety251ArticleFactors associated with people suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD) or anxiety disorders seeking or receiving treatment are not well known. In the Health, 2000 Study, a representative sample (n = 6005) of Finland's general adult (>= 30 years) population was interviewed with, the M-CIDI for mental disorders and health, service use for mental problems during the last 12 months. Predictors for service use among those with DSM-IV MDD (n = 298) or anxiety disorders (n = 242) were assessed. Of subjects with MDD, anxiety disorders, or both, 34%, 36%, and 59% used health services, respectively. Greater severity and perceived disability, psychiatric comorbidity, and living alone predicted health care use for MDD subjects, and greater perceived disability, psychiatric comorbidity, younger age, and parent's psychiatric problems for anxiety disorder subjects. The use of specialist-level mental health services was predicted by psychiatric comorbidity, but not characteristics of the disorders per se. Perceived disability and comorbidity are factors influencing the use of mental health services by both anxiety disorder and MDD subjects. However, still only approximately one-half of those suffering from even severe and comorbid disorders use health services for them.://000252871500004CHaemaelaeinen, J. Isometsae, E. Sihvo, S. Pirkola, S. Kiviruusu, O. 1091-4269ISI:00025284F|?Qiao, Q. Osterholm, A. M. He, B. Pitkaniemi, J. Cordell, H. J. Sarti, C. Kinnunen, L. Tuomilehto-Wolf, E. Tryggvason, K. Tuomilehto, J.2007zA genome-wide scan for type 1 diabetes susceptibility genes in nuclear families with multiple affected siblings in Finland Bmc Genetics8ArticleNovBackground: A genome-wide search for genes that predispose to type 1 diabetes using linkage analysis was performed using 900 microsatellite markers in 70 nuclear families with affected siblings from Finland, a population expected to be more genetically homogeneous than others, and having the highest incidence of type 1 diabetes in the world and, yet, the highest proportion in Europe of cases (10%) carrying neither of the highest risk HLA haplotypes that include DR3 or DR4 alleles. Results: In addition to the evidence of linkage to the HLA region on 6p21 (nominal p = 4.0 x 10(-6)), significant evidence of linkage in other chromosome regions was not detected with a single-locus analysis. The two-locus analysis conditional on the HLA gave a maximum lod score (MLS) of 3.1 (nominal p = 2 x 10(-4)) on chromosome 9p13 under an additive model; MLS of 2.1 (nominal p = 6.1 x 10(-3)) on chromosome 17p12 and MLS of 2.5 (nominal p = 2.9 x 10(-3)) on chromosome 18p11 under a general model. Conclusion: Our genome scan data confirmed the primary contribution of the HLA genes also in the high-risk Finnish population, and suggest that non-HLA genes also contribute to the familial clustering of type 1 diabetes in Finland.://000253155800001Qiao, Qing Oesterholm, Anne-May He, Bing Pitkaeniemi, Janne Cordell, Heather J. Sarti, Cinzia Kinnunen, Leena Tuomilehto-Wolf, Eva Tryggvason, Karl Tuomilehto, Jaakko 1471-2156ISI:000253155800001 F|?3Gasbarra, D. Pirinen, M. Sillanpaa, M. J. Arjas, E.2007CEstimating genealogies from linked marker data: a Bayesian approachBmc Bioinformatics8ArticleOctBackground: Answers to several fundamental questions in statistical genetics would ideally require knowledge of the ancestral pedigree and of the gene flow therein. A few examples of such questions are haplotype estimation, relatedness and relationship estimation, gene mapping by combining pedigree and linkage disequilibrium information, and estimation of population structure. Results: We present a probabilistic method for genealogy reconstruction. Starting with a group of genotyped individuals from some population isolate, we explore the state space of their possible ancestral histories under our Bayesian model by using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling techniques. The main contribution of our work is the development of sampling algorithms in the resulting vast state space with highly dependent variables. The main drawback is the computational complexity that limits the time horizon within which explicit reconstructions can be carried out in practice. Conclusion: The estimates for IBD (identity-by-descent) and haplotype distributions are tested in several settings using simulated data. The results appear to be promising for a further development of the method.://000252937600001>Gasbarra, Dario Pirinen, Matti Sillanpaa, Mikko J. Arjas, Elja 1471-2105ISI:0002529376000013.617  |?\Tikkanen, M. Surcel, H. M. Bloigu, A. Nuutila, M. Hiilesmaa, V. Ylikorkala, O. Paavonena, J.2008uPrediction of placental abruption by testing for C-reactive protein and chlamydial antibody levels in early pregnancy486-491;Bjog-an International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology1154ArticleMar+Objective Placental abruption may be a manifestation of acute and chronic inflammatory process. We wanted to assess the association of first-trimester serum C-reactive protein (CRP), Chlamydia pneumoniae antibodies, Chlamydia trachomatis antibodies or chlamydial heat-shock protein 60 (CHSP60) antibodies to placental abruption. Design Retrospective case-control study. Setting University Hospital. Population A total of 181 women with subsequent placental abruption and 261 control women with normal pregnancy. Methods Serum samples collected at first trimester (mean 10.4 gestational weeks) were analysed for CRP levels, C. pneumoniae-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies and C. trachomatis-specific IgG, IgA and CHSP60 antibodies. Main outcome measure Placental abruption. Results The levels of CRP showed no difference between the cases and the controls (median 2.35 mg/l [interquartile range {IQR} 1.09-5.93] versus 2.28 mg/l [IQR 0.92-5.01], not significant). C. pneumoniae-specific IgG and IgA as well as C. trachomatis-specific IgG, IgA and CHSP60 antibody frequencies were similar between the groups. There was no association between CRP levels and chlamydial antibodies. Conclusion These markers of inflammation in early pregnancy failed to predict subsequent placental abruption.://000252982800009ZTikkanen, M. Surcel, H-M Bloigu, A. Nuutila, M. Hiilesmaa, V. Ylikorkala, O. Paavonena, J. 1470-0328ISI:000252|?NMantere, O. Suominen, K. Arvilommi, P. Valtonen, H. Leppamaki, S. Isometsa, E.2008>Clinical predictors of unrecognized bipolar I and II disorders238-244Bipolar Disorders102ArticleMar&Objectives: Bipolar disorder (BD) is correctly diagnosed in only 40-50% of patients. No previous study has investigated the characteristics of bipolar patients in psychiatric care with or without clinical diagnoses of BD. We investigated the demographic and clinical predictors of the absence of a clinical diagnosis of BD I and II among psychiatric patients. Methods: In the Jorvi Bipolar Study, 1,630 psychiatric in- and outpatients were screened with the Mood Disorder Questionnaire. Suspected cases were diagnosed with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders-Patient version (SCID-I/P) for BD. Patients with no preceding clinical diagnosis of BD, despite previous manic, hypomanic or mixed phases and treatment in psychiatric care, were classified as undiagnosed. The clinical characteristics of unrecognized BD I patients (23 of 90 BD I patients) and BD II patients (47 of 93 BD II patients) were compared to those of patients who had been correctly diagnosed. Results: No previous hospitalizations [odds ratio (OR) = 10.6, p = 0.001] or psychotic symptoms (OR = 4.4, p = 0.045), and the presence of rapid cycling (OR = 11.6, p = 0.001) predicted lack of BD I diagnosis. No psychotic symptoms (OR = 3.3, p = 0.01), female gender (OR = 3.0, p = 0.03), and shorter time in treatment (OR = 1.1, p = 0.03) predicted the lack of a BD II diagnosis. Conclusions: Correct diagnosis of BD I is related to the severe phases of illness leading to hospitalizations. In BD II, the illness factors may not be as important as time elapsed in treatment, a factor that often leads to a delay in diagnosis or none at all. Excessive reliance on typical and cross-sectional presentations of illness likely explain the non-recognition of BD. The challenge for correctly diagnosing bipolar patients is in outpatient settings.://000252982300002aMantere, Outi Suominen, Kirsi Arvilommi, Petri Valtonen, Hanna Leppaemaeki, Sami Isometsae, Erkki 1398-5647ISI:00025298|?$Moltchanov, V. A. Mikhal'skii, A. I.2008GEstimation of dynamics of risk factors by the dynamic regression method125-140Automation and Remote Control691ArticleJanA problem is considered for the estimation of dynamics of risk factors and other indicators of health by the data of a number of population studies performed in various years on the same age category of the population. In the case of the nonlinear time dependence of mean values of the quantities under study, the simple interpolation of the indices by all groups leads to incorrect estimates in view of the neglect of the cohort dynamics. A methods is described for the development and identification of the dynamic regression model of the population health, which is based on the estimation of the cohort dynamics of indices. This makes it possible to prognose the expected lavels of risk factors and to clarify causal relations. The efficiency of the model is demonstrated by an example of the processing of results of the examinations performed in the years 1982, 1987, and 1992 in North Karelia (Finland).://000252890500012$Moltchanov, V. A. Mikhal'skii, A. I. 0005-1179ISI:000252 ] KF|7YJuonala, M. Viikari, J. S. Ronnemaa, T. Marniemi, J. Jula, A. Loo, B. M. Raitakari, O. T.2008Associations of Dyslipidemias From Childhood to Adulthood With Carotid Intima-Media Thickness, Elasticity, and Brachial Flow-Mediated Dilatation in Adulthood. The Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns StudyArterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2008/03/01Feb 28%Background-Dyslipidemias are the major cause for atherosclerosis. They may act synergistically with nonlipid risk factors to increase atherogenesis. In the present study, we examined the effects of dyslipidemias from childhood to adulthood and their interaction with nonlipid risk factors on markers of subclinical atherosclerosis. METHODS AND RESULTS: Study subjects were participants of the longitudinal Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study started in 1980 (n=2265, age 3 to 18 years). To phenotype type IIa, IIb, and IV dyslipidemias and hypoHDL-cholesterolemia, we calculated age and sex-specific z scores for lipid values for each subject in 1980, 1983, 1986, and 2001. Subjects with mean z score over 90th percentile for LDL-cholesterol or triglycerides were considered having type IIa or IV dyslipidemia. Subjects with mean z score over 90th percentile for LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides had type IIb dyslipidemia, and those with mean z score below 10th percentile for HDL-cholesterol had hypoHDL-cholesterolemia. Compared to controls, subjects with type IIb dyslipidemia had increased carotid IMT (P<0.01). This difference remained significant when adjusted with other risk factors (P<0.05). Carotid IMT also increased significantly more with increasing number of nonlipid risk factors (P<0.001) or presence of the metabolic syndrome (P<0.05) in subjects with type IIb than in controls. Subjects with type IIb or type IV dyslipidemia had decreased carotid elasticity (P<0.05), but these differences became nonsignificant (P>0.3) when adjusted with blood pressure. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that type IIb dyslipidemia has deleterious effects on vasculature already since childhood. Subjects with type IIb dyslipidemia are more vulnerable to the effects of cardiovascular risk factors and metabolic syndrome._Arteriosclerosis, thrombosis, and vascular biology Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2008 Feb 28;.1524-4636 (Electronic)183091116.883Centre of Applied and Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, and the Departments of Medicine, and Clinical Physiology, University of Turku; and the Department of Health and Functional Capacity, National Public Health Institute, Turku, Finland.9ATVBAHA.108.163329 [pii] 10.1161/ATVBAHA.108.$F|7pLajunen, T. Vikatmaa, P. Ikonen, T. Lepantalo, M. Lounatmaa, K. Sormunen, R. Rantala, A. Leinonen, M. Saikku, P.2008Comparison of polymerase chain reaction methods, in situ hybridization, and enzyme immunoassay for detection of Chlamydia pneumoniae in atherosclerotic carotid plaquesDiagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2008/03/01Feb 26HChlamydia pneumoniae has been associated with cardiovascular diseases and has been shown by different methods to be present in atherosclerotic lesions. However, not all studies have found C. pneumoniae in atherosclerotic tissues. We compared polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods, in situ hybridization (ISH), and measurement of chlamydial lipopolysaccharide (cLPS) by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) from homogenized atherosclerotic tissue in the detection of C. pneumoniae. In a study population of 110 patients with carotid artery disease, cLPS was found in 22.2%, and DNA by PCR was found in 34.3% and by ISH in 39.4% of the samples. Poor repeatability was shown to complicate PCR, and the technical problems inherent in ISH were not insignificant. In contrast, the cLPS EIA test was fast and easy to perform. If the sensitivity could be increased, for example, by testing multiple tissue pieces, cLPS EIA might provide a standardized commercial method for the detection of chlamydia in tissue samples, and it, thus, merits further characterization and validation in different patient populations.XDiagnostic microbiology and infectious disease Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis. 2008 Feb 26;.0732-8893 (Print)183084982.553Respiratory Infection Unit, National Public Health Institute, FI-90101 Oulu, Finland; Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Oulu, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland.DS0732-8893(08)00058-8 [pii] 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2008.0 ||7$Leino, O. Tainio, M. Tuomisto, J. T.2008XComparative risk analysis of dioxins in fish and fine particles from heavy-duty vehicles127-40 Risk Anal281 2008/02/29Feb Dioxins and airborne fine particles are both environmental health problems that have been the subject of active public debate. Knowledge on fine particles has increased substantially during the last 10 years, and even the current, lowered levels in the Europe and in the United States appear to be a major public health problem. On the other hand, dioxins are ubiquitous persistent contaminants, some being carcinogens at high doses, and therefore of great concern. Our aim was to (a) quantitatively analyze the two pollutant health risks and (b) study the changes in risk in view of the current and forthcoming EU legislations on pollutants. We performed a comparative risk assessment for both pollutants in the Helsinki metropolitan area (Finland) and estimated the health effects with several scenarios. For primary fine particles: a comparison between the present emission situation for heavy-duty vehicles and the new fine particle emission standards set by the EU. For dioxins: an EU directive that regulates commercial fishing of Baltic salmon and herring that exceed the dioxin concentration limit set for fish meat, and a derogation (= exemption) from the directive for these two species. Both of these two decisions are very topical issues and this study estimates the expected changes in health effects due to these regulations. It was found that the estimated fine particle risk clearly outweighed the estimated dioxin risk. A substantial improvement to public health could be achieved by initiating reductions in emission standards; about 30 avoided premature deaths annually in the study area. In addition, the benefits of fish consumption due to omega-3 exposure were notably higher than the potential dioxin cancer risk. Both regulations were instigated as ways of promoting public health.Leino, Olli Tainio, Marko Tuomisto, Jouni T United States Risk analysis : an official publication of the Society for Risk Analysis Risk Anal. 2008 Feb;28(1):127-40.0272-4332 (Print)183041111.938,National Public Health Institute of Finland.5RISK1005 [pii] 10.1111/j.1539-6924.2008.01F|7Yegutkin, G. G.2008hNucleotide- and nucleoside-converting ectoenzymes: Important modulators of purinergic signalling cascadeBiochim Biophys Acta 2008/02/28Feb 12The involvement of extracellular nucleotides and adenosine in an array of cell-specific responses has long been known and appreciated, but the integrative view of purinergic signalling as a multistep coordinated cascade has emerged recently. Current models of nucleotide turnover include: (i) transient release of nanomolar concentrations of ATP and ADP; (ii) triggering of signalling events via a series of ligand-gated (P2X) and metabotropic (P2Y) receptors; (iii) nucleotide breakdown by membrane-bound and soluble nucleotidases, including the enzymes of ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (E-NTPDase) family, ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase (E-NPP) family, ecto-5'-nucleotidase/CD73, and alkaline phosphatases; (iv) interaction of the resulting adenosine with own nucleoside-selective receptors; and finally, (v) extracellular adenosine inactivation via adenosine deaminase and purine nucleoside phosphorylase reactions and/or nucleoside uptake by the cells. In contrast to traditional paradigms that focus on purine-inactivating mechanisms, it has now become clear that "classical" intracellular ATP-regenerating enzymes, adenylate kinase, nucleoside diphosphate (NDP) kinase and ATP synthase can also be co-expressed on the cell surface. Furthermore, data on the ability of various cells to retain micromolar ATP levels in their pericellular space, as well as to release other related compounds (adenosine, UTP, dinucleotide polyphosphates and nucleotide sugars) gain another important insight into our understanding of mechanisms regulating a signalling cascade. This review summarizes recent advances in this rapidly evolving field, with particular emphasis on the nucleotide-releasing and purine-converting pathways in the vasculature.ABiochimica et biophysica acta Biochim Biophys Acta. 2008 Feb 12;.0006-3002 (Print)183029422.293MediCity Research Laboratory, University of Turku and National Public Health Institute, Tykistokatu 6A FIN-20520, Turku, Finland.>S0167-4889(08)00039-6 [pii] 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2008.0scl||7Nousiainen, H. O. Kestila, M. Pakkasjarvi, N. Honkala, H. Kuure, S. Tallila, J. Vuopala, K. Ignatius, J. Herva, R. Peltonen, L.2008KMutations in mRNA export mediator GLE1 result in a fetal motoneuron disease155-7 Nat Genet402 2008/01/22^3' Untranslated Regions Animals Base Sequence Case-Control Studies Chromosomes, Human, Pair 9 DNA, Complementary/chemistry Exons Fatty Acid Transport Proteins/genetics Female Fetal Diseases/ pathology Gene Frequency Genes, Recessive Genetic Markers Haplotypes Hela Cells Homozygote Humans Introns Mice Models, Genetic Motor Neuron Disease/ pathology Mutation/ genetics Mutation, Missense Nucleocytoplasmic Transport Proteins/ genetics Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide Pregnancy Pregnancy Trimester, Second Primed In Situ Labeling Protein Structure, Tertiary RNA, Messenger/ metabolism Sequence Analysis, DNAFebThe most severe forms of motoneuron disease manifest in utero are characterized by marked atrophy of spinal cord motoneurons and fetal immobility. Here, we report that the defective gene underlying lethal motoneuron syndrome LCCS1 is the mRNA export mediator GLE1. Our finding of mutated GLE1 exposes a common pathway connecting the genes implicated in LCCS1, LCCS2 and LCCS3 and elucidates mRNA processing as a critical molecular mechanism in motoneuron development and maturation.ZNousiainen, Heidi O Kestila, Marjo Pakkasjarvi, Niklas Honkala, Heli Kuure, Satu Tallila, Jonna Vuopala, Katri Ignatius, Jaakko Herva, Riitta Peltonen, Leena P01 ES11253-03/ES/United States NIEHS Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't United States Nature genetics Nat Genet. 2008 Feb;40(2):155-7. Epub 2008 Jan 20.1546-1718 (Electronic)1820444924.176\Department of Molecular Medicine, National Public Health Institute, Helsinki 00290, Finland.)ng.2007.65 [pii] 10.1038/ng.200 w||7NLaitinen, A. Sainio, P. Koskinen, S. Rudanko, S. L. Laatikainen, L. Aromaa, A.2007}The association between visual acuity and functional limitations: findings from a nationally representative population survey333-42Ophthalmic Epidemiol146 2007/12/29PActivities of Daily Living Aged Aged, 80 and over Aging/physiology Cross-Sectional Studies Female Finland/epidemiology Humans Male Middle Aged Mobility Limitation Motor Activity/ physiology Population Surveillance Prevalence Retrospective Studies Risk Factors Vision, Low/ epidemiology/etiology/physiopathology Visual Acuity/ physiologyNov-Dec~PURPOSE: To determine the independent effect of visual acuity on individual activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) and mobility. METHODS: Cross-sectional survey on a sample representing the Finnish population aged 55 years and above. Of the 3392 eligible people, 3185 (93.9%) were interviewed, 2870 (84.6%) attended a comprehensive health examination, and 2781 (82.0%) had distance visual acuity (VA) assessed. A home interview included assessment of ADL, IADL and mobility, demographic variables and chronic conditions. Mobility measurements and binocular VA were assessed during the examination. RESULTS: Prevalence of ADL, IADL, and mobility limitations increased with decreasing VA (p<0.001). Visually impaired persons (VA< or =0.25) had ADL disabilities four times more likely than those with good VA (VA> or =0.8) after adjustment for socio-demographic and behavioral factors, and chronic conditions (OR 4.36, 95%CI 2.44-7.78). Limitations in IADL and measured mobility were five times as likely (OR 4.82, 95%CI 2.38-9.76 and OR 5.37, 95%CI 2.44-7.78, respectively), and self-reported mobility limitations were three times as likely (OR 3.07, 95%CI 1.67-9.63) as in persons with good VA. CONCLUSIONS: Decreased VA is strongly associated with functional limitations, and even a slight decrease in VA was found to be associated with limitations in functioning.Laitinen, Arja Sainio, Paivi Koskinen, Seppo Rudanko, Sirkka-Liisa Laatikainen, Leila Aromaa, Arpo England Ophthalmic epidemiology Ophthalmic Epidemiol. 2007 Nov-Dec;14(6):333-42.0928-6586 (Print)181616061.640wDepartment of Health and Functional Capacity, National Public Health Institute, Helsinki, Finland. arja.laitinen@ktl.fi/788998442 [pii] 10.1080/01658100701473 (||73Hu, G. Jousilahti, P. Antikainen, R. Tuomilehto, J.2007Occupational, commuting, and leisure-time physical activity in relation to cardiovascular mortality among finnish subjects with hypertension1242-50Am J Hypertens2012 2007/12/01Adult Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology/ mortality European Continental Ancestry Group Exercise Female Finland/epidemiology Humans Hypertension/ complications Leisure Activities Male Middle Aged Occupations TransportationDecPBACKGROUND: The association between different types of physical activity and cardiovascular risk among hypertensive subjects is not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to determine the association of occupational, commuting, and leisure-time physical activity on cardiovascular mortality among hypertensive patients. METHODS: Study cohorts included 26,643 hypertensive Finnish men and women who were aged 25 to 64 years and free of coronary heart disease, stroke, and Type 1 diabetes. RESULTS: During a mean follow-up of 19.9 years (range, 6.6 to 31.7 years), 3743 subjects died because of cardiovascular disease. The multivariate-adjusted (age, study year, education, alcohol consumption, smoking, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, use of antihypertensive drugs, and diabetes at baseline or during follow-up, and the other two kinds of physical activity) hazard ratios of cardiovascular mortality associated with low, moderate, and high occupational physical activity were 1.00, 0.84, and 0.86 (P for trend = .006), respectively, for hypertensive men, and 1.00, 0.85, and 0.84 (P for trend = .014), respectively, for hypertensive women. The multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios of cardiovascular mortality associated with low, moderate, and high leisure-time physical activity were 1.00, 0.84, and 0.73 (P for trend < .001), respectively, for hypertensive men, and 1.00, 0.78, and 0.76 (P for trend < .001), respectively, for hypertensive women. Active commuting to and from work was significantly associated with reduced cardiovascular mortality in hypertensive women. CONCLUSIONS: Moderate or high levels of occupational or leisure-time physical activity reduce cardiovascular mortality among both men and women with hypertension. Walking or cycling to and from work daily reduces cardiovascular mortality among hypertensive women.Hu, Gang Jousilahti, Pekka Antikainen, Riitta Tuomilehto, Jaakko Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't United States American journal of hypertension : journal of the American Society of Hypertension Am J Hypertens. 2007 Dec;20(12):1242-50.0895-7061 (Print)180479123.116Department of Health Promotion and Prevention of Chronic Diseases, National Public Health Institute, Helsinki, Finland. hu.gang@ktl.fi@S0895-7061(07)00447-5 [pii] 10.1016/j.amjhyper.2007.07.015 [doi]eng 163329 [doi]Eng8905000120.2511.024 [doi]Eng 23000022.2939828000092.126  411 Artn 411 1.456 84 Artn 84 715000042.549 318000261.837 882000135.2471.006 [doi]Eng9696000025.094 29000042.116 29329000132.116 38000031.397 338000041.3970338000051.397 53000013.138 053000123.1380046000093.110 29675000082.322 7.65 [doi]eng 28836000273.491 713 [doi]eng9004000052.849 30347000302.445005.x [doi]eng 016000012.090 16000092.090PK:|c8I/**refs.FRM 0B< !// !HPRIMARYyearIndex 6ByP/) idreference_type text_stylesauthoryear title pages secondary_title volume numbernumber_of_volumessecondary_authorplace_published publishersubsidiary_authoredition keywords type_of_workdate2)  abstractlabelurltertiary_titletertiary_author notes isbn custom_1 custom_2 custom_3 custom_4alternate_titleaccession_number call_number short_title custom_5 custom_6sectionoriginal_publicationH) reprint_editionreviewed_itemauthor_addressimagecaption custom_7 electronic_resource_number link_to_pdf translated_author translated_titlename_of_databasedatabase_providerresearch_notes language access_datelast_modified_date !! H!H!H! (H! 3H! >H! IH! TH!_H!jH!uH! H!H!H! H! H!H! H!H!H!H!H! H! H! H! H! %H! 0H!;H!FH! QH! \H! gH! rH!}H!H!H!H!H!H!H! H! H! H! H! H!H! H!H! "H! -H!8H!idreference_typetext_stylesauthoryeartitlepagessecondary_titlevolumenumbernumber_of_volumessecondary_authorplace_publishedpublishersubsidiary_authoreditionkeywordstype_of_workdateabstractlabelurltertiary_titletertiary_authornotesisbncustom_1custom_2custom_3custom_4alternate_titleaccession_numbercall_numbershort_titlecustom_5custom_6sectionoriginal_publicationreprint_editionreviewed_itemauthor_addressimagecaptioncustom_7electronic_resource_numberlink_to_pdftranslated_authortranslated_titlename_of_databasedatabase_providerresearch_noteslanguageaccess_datelast_modified_datePK3Vf8C:mrefs.MYDPK:|c8I/**:refs.FRMPKl8