A novel function of the mitochondrial transcription factor Mtf1 in fission yeast; Mtf1 regulates the nuclear transcription of srk1

In eukaryotic cells, Mtf1 and its homologues function as mitochondrial transcription factors for the mitochondrial RNA polymerase in the mitochondrion. Here we show that in fission yeast Mtf1 exerts a non-mitochondrial function as a nuclear factor that regulates transcription of srk1, which is a kinase involved in the stress response and cell cycle progression. We first found Mtf1 expression in the nucleus. A ChIP-chip approach identified srk1 as a putative Mtf1 target gene. Over expression of Mtf1 induced transcription of the srk1 gene and Mtf1 deletion led to a reduction in transcription of the srk1 gene in vivo. Mtf1 overexpression causes cell elongation in a srk1 dependent manner. Mtf1 overexpression can cause cytoplasmic accumulation of Cdc25. We also provide biochemical evidence that Mtf1 binds to the upstream sequence of srk1. This is the first evidence that a mitochondrial transcription factor Mtf1 can regulate a nuclear gene. Mtf1 may also have a role in cell cycle progression

A descriptive analysis of endotracheal intubation in a South African Helicopter Emergency Medical Service

Introduction: Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) exists to supplement the operations of ground-based emergency care providers, mainly in high acuity cases. One of the important procedures frequently carried out by HEMS personnel is endotracheal intubation. Several HEMS providers exist in South Africa, with a mix of advanced life support personnel, however intubation success rates and adverse events have not been described in any local HEMS operation. Methods: This was a retrospective chart review of intubation-related data collected by a HEMS operation based in Johannesburg over a 16-month period. First-pass and overall success rates were described, in addition to perceived airway difficulty, adverse events and other data. Results: Of the 49 cases recorded in the study period, one was excluded leaving 48 cases for analysis. Most cases (n = 34, 71%) involved young male trauma patients who were intubated with rapid sequence intubation. The first pass success rate was 79% (n = 38) with an overall success rate of 98% (n = 47). At least one factor suggesting airway difficulty was present in 29% (n = 14) of cases, with most perceived airway difficulty related to the high prevalence of trauma cases. At least one adverse event occurred in 27% (n = 13) of cases with hypoxaemia, hypotension and bradycardia most prevalent. Discussion: In this small sample of South African HEMS intubation cases, we found overall and first-pass success rates comparable to those reported in similar contexts. Keywords: Helicopter Emergency Medical Services, Endotracheal intubation, Airway management, Prehospital car