| 1. |
- Grahn, Petra, et al.
(författare)
-
Early disc degeneration in radiotherapy-treated childhood brain tumor survivors
- 2023
-
Ingår i: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. - : BioMed Central (BMC). - 1471-2474. ; 24:1
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- BackgroundChildhood brain tumor (BT) survivors have an increased risk of treatment-related late effects, which can reduce health-related quality of life and increase morbidity. This study aimed to investigate lumbar disc degeneration in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in adult survivors of radiotherapy-treated childhood BT compared to age and sex-matched population controls.MethodsIn this cross-sectional comparative study, 127 survivors were identified from hospital registries. After a mean follow-up of 20.7 years (range 5-33.1), 67 survivors (mean age 28.4, range 16.2-43.5) were investigated with MRI and compared to 75 sex-matched population-based controls. Evaluated MRI phenotypes included Pfirrmann grading, , intervertebral disc protrusions, extrusions, and high-intensity-zone-lesions (HIZ). Groups were also compared for known risk factors of lumbar intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration.ResultsChildhood BT survivors had higher Pfirrmann grades than controls at all lumbar levels (all p < 0.001). Lumbar disc protrusions at L4-5 (p = 0.02) and extrusions at L3-4 (p = 0.04), L4-5 (p = 0.004), and L5-S1 (p = 0.01) were significantly more common in the BT group compared to the control. The survivor cohort also had significantly more HIZ-lesons than the controls (n=13 and n=1, p=0.003). Age at diagnosis was associated with lower degree of IVD degeneration (p < 0.01). Blood pressure correlated with IVD degeneration (P < 0.05).ConclusionsSigns of early disc degeneration related to tumor treatment can be seen in the IVDs of survivors. Disc degeneration was more severe in children treated in adolescence.
|
|
| 2. |
- Nelson, G., et al.
(författare)
-
QUAREP-LiMi: A community-driven initiative to establish guidelines for quality assessment and reproducibility for instruments and images in light microscopy
- 2021
-
Ingår i: Journal of Microscopy. - : Wiley. - 0022-2720 .- 1365-2818. ; 284:1, s. 56-73
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- A modern day light microscope has evolved from a tool devoted to making primarily empirical observations to what is now a sophisticated , quantitative device that is an integral part of both physical and life science research. Nowadays, microscopes are found in nearly every experimental laboratory. However, despite their prevalent use in capturing and quantifying scientific phenomena, neither a thorough understanding of the principles underlying quantitative imaging techniques nor appropriate knowledge of how to calibrate, operate and maintain microscopes can be taken for granted. This is clearly demonstrated by the well-documented and widespread difficulties that are routinely encountered in evaluating acquired data and reproducing scientific experiments. Indeed, studies have shown that more than 70% of researchers have tried and failed to repeat another scientist's experiments, while more than half have even failed to reproduce their own experiments. One factor behind the reproducibility crisis of experiments published in scientific journals is the frequent underreporting of imaging methods caused by a lack of awareness and/or a lack of knowledge of the applied technique. Whereas quality control procedures for some methods used in biomedical research, such as genomics (e.g. DNA sequencing, RNA-seq) or cytometry, have been introduced (e.g. ENCODE), this issue has not been tackled for optical microscopy instrumentation and images. Although many calibration standards and protocols have been published, there is a lack of awareness and agreement on common standards and guidelines for quality assessment and reproducibility. In April 2020, the QUality Assessment and REProducibility for instruments and images in Light Microscopy (QUAREP-LiMi) initiative was formed. This initiative comprises imaging scientists from academia and industry who share a common interest in achieving a better understanding of the performance and limitations of microscopes and improved quality control (QC) in light microscopy. The ultimate goal of the QUAREP-LiMi initiative is to establish a set of common QC standards, guidelines, metadata models and tools, including detailed protocols, with the ultimate aim of improving reproducible advances in scientific research. This White Paper (1) summarizes the major obstacles identified in the field that motivated the launch of the QUAREP-LiMi initiative; (2) identifies the urgent need to address these obstacles in a grassroots manner, through a community of stakeholders including, researchers, imaging scientists, bioimage analysts, bioimage informatics developers, corporate partners, funding agencies, standards organizations, scientific publishers and observers of such; (3) outlines the current actions of the QUAREP-LiMi initiative and (4) proposes future steps that can be taken to improve the dissemination and acceptance of the proposed guidelines to manage QC. To summarize, the principal goal of the QUAREP-LiMi initiative is to improve the overall quality and reproducibility of light microscope image data by introducing broadly accepted standard practices and accurately captured image data metrics.
|
|
| 3. |
- Rank, CU, et al.
(författare)
-
Asparaginase-Associated Pancreatitis in ALL: Results from the NOPHO ALL2008 Treatment of Patients 1-45 Years
- 2019
-
Ingår i: Blood. 134 (Suppl. 1), 3820.. - : American Society of Hematology. - 0006-4971 .- 1528-0020.
-
Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- Premature discontinuation of asparaginase reduces cure rate in contemporary acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment. One of the commonest causes of asparaginase truncation is asparaginase-associated pancreatitis (AAP). We prospectively registered AAP during treatment of 2,448 consecutive Nordic/Baltic ALL patients aged 1.0-45.9 years treated according to the Nordic Society of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology (NOPHO) ALL2008 protocol (7/2008-10/2018). The Day 280 cumulative incidence of first-time AAP (including 99% (167/168) of AAP events at this time point) was 8.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) 7.0-9.9) with a median time of 104 days (interquartile range (IQR) 70-145) from ALL diagnosis to AAP, with a median of 10 days (IQR 6-13) from last asparaginase exposure, and after a median number of five asparaginase doses (IQR 3-7, max 14 doses). All patients received polyethylene glycol conjugated Escherichia coli-derived asparaginase as standard treatment. Eighty-five percent (140/164, unknown in N=4) of AAP events were severe (AAP-associated symptoms and/or pancreatic enzymes >3x upper normal limit lasting >72 hours or with hemorrhagic pancreatitis, pancreatic abscess, or pseudocyst). Four age groups were defined: 1.0-4.9, 5.0-8.9, 9.0-16.9, and 17.0-45.9 years-each containing approximately 25% of the AAP events. Compared with patients aged 1.0-4.9 years, adjusted (sex, immunophenotype, and white blood cell count) hazard ratios (HR) of AAP were associated with higher age (5.0-8.9 years: HR 2.3, 95% CI 1.5-3.6, P<.0001; 9.0-16.9 years: HR 2.5, 95% CI 1.6-3.8, P<.0001; and 17.0-45.9 years: HR 2.5, 95% CI 1.6-3.8, P<.0001). When analyzing the odds of developing any AAP-related complication among patients with ≥100 days of follow-up after the AAP diagnosis, older children (≥5.0 years) and adolescents had increased odds of developing any complication compared with younger children aged 1.0-4.9 years, notably a more than six-fold increase among adolescents (5.0-8.9 years: odds ratio (OR) 2.67, 95% CI 1.07-6.68, P=.04 and 9.0-16.9 years: OR 6.52, 95% CI 2.35-18.1, P=.0003)-including acute and permanent insulin need; intensive care unit admission; pancreatic pseudocyst development; recurrent abdominal pain; elevated pancreatic enzymes at last-follow-up; imaging compatible with pancreatitis (pancreatic inflammation/edema/pseudocysts/hemorrhage) at last follow-up; and AAP-related death. Adult age was not associated with development of any AAP-related complication (17.0-45.9 years: OR 2.3, 95% CI 0.9-5.9, P=.07). Three patients aged 8.6, 17.3, and 18.6 years died of first-time AAP within 0-29 days from AAP diagnosis. Of 168 AAP patients, 34 (20%) were re-challenged with asparaginase. Fifty percent (17/34) developed a second episode of AAP-41% being severe (7/17). The median time to a second AAP event from asparaginase re-exposure was 29 days (IQR 16-94) and occurred after a median of two asparaginase doses (range 0-7). Neither age group nor severity of the first AAP was associated with increased hazard of a second AAP event. None of the patients with a second AAP were further re-exposed to asparaginase, and none died of the second AAP. Among a total of 196 ALL relapses, 21 patients have had AAP including 17 patients with asparaginase truncation. However, the hazard of relapse (age- and sex-adjusted) was not increased among AAP patients with asparaginase truncation versus AAP patients with asparaginase re-exposure (5.0-year cumulative incidence of relapse: 13.2% versus 14.2%) (HR 1.0, 95% CI 0.3-3.1, P=1.0). When analyzing time to relapse among AAP patients versus non-AAP patients, no difference in hazard of relapse was found (HR 2.0, 95% CI 0.8-4.9, P=.2). In conclusion, adolescents and young adults tolerated asparaginase treatment as well as children; however, the risk of AAP was higher for patients older than 5.0 years of age with no difference with increasing age. Despite a low AAP-related mortality, the morbidity was considerable and most profound for patients aged 9.0-16.9 years. Since asparaginase re-exposure was associated with a high risk of a second AAP event and neither AAP development nor AAP-related asparaginase truncation was associated with increased relapse risk, asparaginase re-exposure should be attempted only in patients with a high risk of leukemic relapse. Finally, there is an unmet need for preventive strategies toward AAP
|
|
| 4. |
- Remes, Tiina Maria, et al.
(författare)
-
Radiation-induced accelerated aging of the brain vasculature in young adult survivors of childhood brain tumors
- 2020
-
Ingår i: Neuro-Oncology Practice. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 2054-2577 .- 2054-2585. ; 7:4, s. 415-427
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- BackgroundCranial radiotherapy may damage the cerebral vasculature. The aim of this study was to understand the prevalence and risk factors of cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) in childhood brain tumors (CBT) survivors treated with radiotherapy.MethodsSeventy CBT survivors who received radiotherapy were enrolled in a cross-sectional study at a median 20 years after radiotherapy cessation. The prevalence of and risk factors for CVD were investigated using MRI, MRA, and laboratory testing. Tumors, their treatment, and stroke-related data were retrieved from patients’ files.ResultsForty-four individuals (63%) had CVD at a median age of 27 years (range, 16-43 years). The prevalence rates at 20 years for CVD, small-vessel disease, and large-vessel disease were 52%, 38%, and 16%, respectively. Ischemic infarcts were diagnosed in 6 survivors, and cerebral hemorrhage in 2. Lacunar infarcts were present in 7, periventricular or deep WMHs in 34 (49%), and mineralizing microangiopathy in 21 (30%) survivors. Multiple pathologies were detected in 44% of the participants, and most lesions were located in a high-dose radiation area. Higher blood pressure was associated with CVD and a presence of WMHs. Higher cholesterol levels increased the risk of ischemic infarcts and WMHs, and lower levels of high-density lipoprotein and higher waist circumference increased the risk of lacunar infarcts.ConclusionsTreating CBTs with radiotherapy increases the risk of early CVD and WMHs in young adult survivors. These results suggest an urgent need for investigating CVD prevention in CBT patients.
|
|
| 5. |
- Remes, Tiina M., et al.
(författare)
-
Radiation-Induced Meningiomas After Childhood Brain Tumor : A Magnetic Resonance Imaging Screening Study
- 2019
-
Ingår i: Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology. - : Mary Ann Liebert. - 2156-5333 .- 2156-535X. ; 8:5, s. 593-601
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Purpose: Childhood brain tumors (CBTs) and their treatment increase the risk of secondary neoplasms (SNs). We studied the incidence of secondary craniospinal tumors with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) screening in a national cohort of survivors of CBT treated with radiotherapy, and we analyzed the Finnish Cancer Registry (FCR) data on SNs in survivors of CBT with radiotherapy registered as a part of the primary tumor treatment. Methods: A total of 73 survivors of CBT participated in the MRI study (mean follow-up of 19 +/- 6.2 years). The incidence of SNs in a cohort of CBT patients (N = 569) was retrieved from the FCR (mean follow-up of 11 +/- 12.9 years). Brain tumors were diagnosed at age <= 16 years between the years 1970 and 2008 in the clinical study and the years 1963 and 2010 in the FCR population. Results: Secondary brain tumors, meningiomas in all and schwannoma in one, were found in 6 of the 73 (8.2%) survivors with a mean of 23 +/- 4.3 years after the diagnosis of the primary tumor. The cumulative incidence was 10.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.9-25.1) in 25 years of follow-up. In the FCR data, the 25-year cumulative incidence of SNs was 2.4% (95% CI 1.3-4.1); only two brain tumors, no meningiomas, were registered. Conclusion: Survivors of CBT treated with radiotherapy have a high incidence of meningiomas, which are rarely registered in the FCR.
|
|
| 6. |
- Tulstrup, M., et al.
(författare)
-
NT5C2 germline variants alter thiopurine metabolism and are associated with acquired NT5C2 relapse mutations in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
- 2018
-
Ingår i: Leukemia. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0887-6924 .- 1476-5551. ; 32:12, s. 2527-2535
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The antileukaemic drug 6-mercaptopurine is converted into thioguanine nucleotides (TGN) and incorporated into DNA (DNA-TG), the active end metabolite. In a series of genome-wide association studies, we analysed time-weighted means ((wm)) of erythrocyte concentrations of TGN (Ery-TGN) and DNA-TG in 1009 patients undergoing maintenance therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). In discovery analyses (454 patients), the propensity for DNA-TG incorporation ((wm)DNA-TG/(wm)Ery-TGN ratio) was significantly associated with three intronic SNPs in NT5C2 (top hit: rs72846714; P - 2.09 x 10(-10), minor allele frequency 15%). In validation analyses (555 patients), this association remained significant during both early and late maintenance therapy (P - 8.4 x 10(-6) and 1.3 x 10(-3), respectively). The association was mostly driven by differences in (wm)Ery-TGN, but in regression analyses adjusted for wmEry-TGN (P < 0.0001), rs72846714-A genotype was also associated with a higher (wm)DNA-TG (P - 0.029). Targeted sequencing of NT5C2 did not identify any missense variants associated with rs72846714 or (wm)Ery-TGN/(wm)DNA-TG. rs72846714 was not associated with relapse risk, but in a separate cohort of 180 children with relapsed ALL, rs72846714-A genotype was associated with increased occurrence of relapse-specific NT5C2 gain-of-function mutations that reduce cytosol TGN levels (P = 0.03). These observations highlight the impact of both germline and acquired mutations in drug metabolism and disease trajectory.
|
|
| 7. |
|
|
| 8. |
|
|
| 9. |
- Gottschalk Højfeldt, S, et al.
(författare)
-
IgG Antibodies Cannot Explain Silent Inactivation in PEG-Asparaginase Treatment
- 2018
-
Ingår i: Pediatric Blood & Cancer. 65 (S2), Abstracts from the 50th Congress of the International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP) Kyoto, Japan November 16–19, 2018, e27455. PO-054. - : Wiley. - 1545-5009.
-
Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background/Objectives: PEG-asparaginase represents a key element in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), however allergic reactions and lack of asparaginase enzyme activity shortly after administration (silent inactivation) constitutes a significant challenge. Anti-PEG antibodies formed prior to PEG-asparaginase exposure are suggested to cause the latter accelerated clearance phenomenon. We investigated anti-PEG antibody responses before and during PEG-asparaginase therapy, in children treated according to NOPHO ALL2008 protocol, with and without silent inactivation and hypersensitivity. Design/Methods: PEG-asparaginase enzyme activity was determined in patients aged 1-17.9 years as part of the NOPHO ALL2008 protocol. These measurements were used to categorize patients with or without enzyme activity. In this case control study, recovery of spiked PEG-asparaginase activity after IgG complex depletion with protein G affinity chromatography was used to evaluate IgG antibodies to PEGasparaginase. 359 samples were analyzed from 40 patients with: i) no adverse phenotype (n=10), ii) silent inactivation (n=10), iii) allergy and asparaginase enzyme inactivation (n=10), iv) allergy and asparaginase enzyme activity (n=10) Results: No patients with PEG-asparaginase enzyme activity had or developed anti-PEG antibodies during treatment. Thus children with and without clinical allergy and enzyme activity could not be distinguished serologically. In contrast, IgG antibodies were detected in 19 of 20 of children without enzyme activity, regardless of allergy status. The lack of in vivo asparaginase enzyme activity was always displaying from the first PEG-asparaginase administration, but anti-PEG antibodies were only detected in pre-exposure samples in 2 of 38 patients (5%). 2 patients had missing pre-exposure samples. Conclusions: IgG responses to repeated PEG-asparaginase administrations are not the primary driver of PEGasparaginase inactivation. However these antibodies may accelerate the drug clearance. Further validation and investigation of IgM antibodies is warranted in order to gain more knowledge about the inactivation of PEG-asparaginase.
|
|
| 10. |
|
|
| 11. |
|
|
| 12. |
- Levinsen, Mette, et al.
(författare)
-
Leukemic blasts are present at low levels in spinal fluid in one-third of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia cases
- 2016
-
Ingår i: Pediatric Blood & Cancer. - : Wiley. - 1545-5009 .- 1545-5017. ; 63:11, s. 1935-1942
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Central nervous system (CNS) involvement is associated with relapse in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and is a diagnostic challenge. Procedure: In a Nordic/Baltic prospective study, we assessed centralized flow cytometry (FCM) of locally fixed cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples versus local conventional cytospin-based cytology (CC) for detecting leukemic cells and evaluating kinetics of elimination of leukemic cells in CSF. Results: Among 300 patients with newly diagnosed ALL, 87 (29%) had CSF involvement by FCM, while CC was positive in 30 (10%) of 299 patients with available CC data (P < 0.001). Patients with FCM+/CC+ had higher CSF leukemic blast counts compared to patients positive by FCM only (medians: 0.10 vs. 0.017 leukemic blasts/μl, P = 0.006). Patients positive by FCM had higher white blood cell counts in peripheral blood than patients negative by FCM (medians: 45 × 109/l vs. 10 × 109/l, P < 0.001), were younger (medians: 3 years vs. 4 years, P = 0.03), and more frequently had T-cell ALL (18/87 vs. 16/213, P = 0.001). At treatment day 15, five of 52 patients (10%) who had CSF positive by FCM at diagnosis remained so despite at least two doses of weekly intrathecal chemotherapy. Conclusions: Longer follow-up is needed to clarify whether FCM positivity has prognostic significance and is an indicator for intensified CNS-directed therapy.
|
|
| 13. |
- Monfort-Pires, M., et al.
(författare)
-
Serum short-chain fatty acids are associated with brown adipose tissue metabolism in humans
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Diabetologia. - 1432-0428 .- 0012-186X. ; 66:SUPPL 1, s. S297-S298
-
Konferensbidrag (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) result from the fermentation of dietary fibre in the colon and are shown to play an important role in energy metabolism. The relationship between circulating SCFA and brown adipose tissue (BAT) in humans remains to be clarified. We investigated the associations between circulating SCFA and BAT function in humans.
|
|
| 14. |
|
|
| 15. |
|
|
| 16. |
|
|
| 17. |
|
|
| 18. |
|
|
| 19. |
- Alanne, K., et al.
(författare)
-
Economic viability of energy-efficiency measures in educational buildings in Finland
- 2013
-
Ingår i: Advances in Building Energy Research. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1751-2549 .- 1756-2201. ; 7:1, s. 120-127
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The economic viability of novel energy-efficient design concepts has been evaluated in Finnish educational buildings. The total energy consumption of representative target buildings with each design concept has been found using the whole-building simulation tool IDA Indoor Climate and Energy 4.0, and the financial viability has been assessed using the discounted payback period method. Different thermal insulation and air tightness properties of the building envelope, and different ventilation's heat recovery efficiency assumptions and heat distribution options have been investigated. The results suggest that a prudent attitude should be taken toward the investments in ultra-low-energy designs. Total energy-saving potential of 25-32% can be obtained. The payback periods varied from 15 to more than 40 years. The results can be generalized in cold climates and techno-economic conditions similar to Finland.
|
|
| 20. |
- Alanne, K., et al.
(författare)
-
Multi-criteria evaluation of residential energy supply systems
- 2007
-
Ingår i: Energy and Buildings. - : Elsevier BV. - 0378-7788 .- 1872-6178. ; 39:12, s. 1218-1226
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this paper, we consider the selection of a residential energy supply system as a multi-criteria decision-making problem, which involves both financial and environmental issues. Specifically, we compare micro-CHP (micro-cogeneration) heating with traditional heating systems through an evaluation that accounts for: (i) the decision-makers' subjective preferences, (ii) uncertainties in the performance of micro-CHP heating systems (which are partly caused by the lack of long-term operational experiences) and (iii) the context-dependency of life-cycle costs and environmental burdens of heating systems. Motivated by these considerations, we employ the PAIRS multi-criteria decision-making methodology that captures incomplete information by way of interval-valued parameters and provides support for sensitivity analyses, too. Our comparative analysis of alternative heating systems suggests that micro-CHP is a reasonable alternative to traditional systems, particularly from the environmental point of view. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
|
|
| 21. |
- Anastasopoulou, Stavroula, et al.
(författare)
-
Acute central nervous system toxicity during treatment of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia : phenotypes, risk factors and genotypes
- 2020
-
Ingår i: Haematologica. - : Ferrata Storti Foundation. - 0390-6078 .- 1592-8721. ; 107:10, s. 2318-2328
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Central nervous system (CNS) toxicity is common at diagnosis and during treatment of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). We studied CNS toxicity in 1,464 children aged 1.0-17.9 years, diagnosed with ALL and treated according to the Nordic Society of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology ALL2008 protocol. Genome-wide association studies, and a candidate single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP; n=19) study were performed in 1,166 patients. Findings were validated in an independent Australian cohort of children with ALL (n=797) in whom two phenotypes were evaluated: diverse CNS toxicities (n=103) and methotrexate-related CNS toxicity (n=48). In total, 135/1,464 (9.2%) patients experienced CNS toxicity for a cumulative incidence of 8.7% (95% confidence interval: 7.31-10.20) at 12 months from diagnosis. Patients aged >= 10 years had a higher risk of CNS toxicity than had younger patients (16.3% vs. 7.4%; P < 0.001). The most common CNS toxicities were posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (n=52, 43 with seizures), sinus venous thrombosis (n=28, 9 with seizures), and isolated seizures (n=16). The most significant SNP identified by the genome-wide association studies did not reach genomic significance (lowest P-value: 1.11x10(-6)), but several were annotated in genes regulating neuronal functions. In candidate SNP analysis, ATXN1 rs68082256, related to epilepsy, was associated with seizures in patients < 10 years (P=0.01). ATXN1 rs68082256 was validated in the Australian cohort with diverse CNS toxicities (P=0.04). The role of ATXN1 as well as the novel SNP in neurotoxicity in pediatric ALL should be further explored.
|
|
| 22. |
|
|
| 23. |
|
|
| 24. |
|
|
| 25. |
|
|
| 26. |
- Hannula, M., et al.
(författare)
-
Fabrication of topographically microstructured titanium silicide interface for advanced photonic applications
- 2016
-
Ingår i: Scripta Materialia. - : Elsevier BV. - 1359-6462. ; 119, s. 76-81
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- We present a widely scalable, high temperature post-growth annealing method for converting ultra-thin films of TiO2 grown by atomic layer deposition to topographically microstructured titanium silicide (TiSi). The photoemission electron microscopy results reveal that the transformation from TiO2 to TiSi at 950 °C proceeds via island formation. Inside the islands, TiO2 reduction and Si diffusion play important roles in the formation of the highly topographically microstructured TiSi interface with laterally nonuniform barrier height contact. This is advantageous for efficient charge transfer in Si-based heterostructures for photovoltaic and photoelectrochemical applications.
|
|
| 27. |
- Højfeldt, Sofie G., et al.
(författare)
-
Genetic predisposition to PEG-asparaginase hypersensitivity in children treated according to NOPHO ALL2008
- 2019
-
Ingår i: British Journal of Haematology. - : Wiley. - 0007-1048 .- 1365-2141. ; 184:3, s. 405-417
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Asparaginase is essential in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) treatment, however hypersensitivity reactions to pegylated asparaginase (PEG-asparaginase) hampers anti-neoplastic efficacy. Patients with PEG-asparaginase hypersensitivity have been shown to possess zero asparaginase enzyme activity. Using this measurement to define the phenotype, we investigated genetic predisposition to PEG-asparaginase hypersensitivity in a genome-wide association study (GWAS). From July 2008 to March 2016, 1494 children were treated on the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology ALL2008 protocol. Cases were defined by clinical hypersensitivity and no enzyme activity, controls had enzyme activity ≥ 100 iu/l and no hypersensitivity symptoms. PEG-asparaginase hypersensitivity was reported in 13·8% (206/1494) of patients. Fifty-nine cases and 772 controls fulfilled GWAS inclusion criteria. The CNOT3 variant rs73062673 on 19q13.42, was associated with PEG-asparaginase allergy (P = 4·68 × 10-8 ). We further identified two signals on chromosome 6 in relation to HLA-DQA1 (P = 9·37 × 10-6 ) and TAP2 (P = 1·59 × 10-5 ). This study associated variants in CNOT3 and in the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) region with PEG-asparaginase hypersensitivity, suggesting that not only genetic variations in the HLA region, but also regulation of these genes are of importance in the biology of this toxicity. Furthermore, our study emphasizes the importance of using asparaginase enzyme activity measurements to identify PEG-asparaginase hypersensitivity.
|
|
| 28. |
|
|
| 29. |
|
|
| 30. |
- Kadiiska, Maria B., et al.
(författare)
-
Biomarkers of oxidative stress study V : Ozone exposure of rats and its effect on lipids, proteins, and DNA in plasma and urine
- 2013
-
Ingår i: Free Radical Biology & Medicine. - : Elsevier BV. - 0891-5849 .- 1873-4596. ; 61, s. 408-415
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Ozone exposure effect on free radical-catalyzed oxidation products of lipids, proteins, and DNA in the plasma and urine of rats was studied as a continuation of the international Biomarker of Oxidative Stress Study (BOSS) sponsored by NIEHS/NIH. The goal was to identify a biomarker for ozone-induced oxidative stress and to assess whether inconsistent results often reported in the literature might be due to the limitations of the available methods for measuring the various types of oxidative products. The time- and dose-dependent effects of ozone exposure on rat plasma lipid hydroperoxides, malondialdehyde, F-2-isoprostanes, protein carbonyls, methionine oxidation, and tyrosine- and phenylalanine oxidation products, as well as urinary malondialdehyde and F-2-isoprostanes were investigated with various techniques. The criterion used to recognize a marker in the model of ozone exposure was that a significant effect could be identified and measured in a biological fluid seen at both doses at more than one time point. No statistically significant differences between the experimental and the control groups at either ozone dose and time point studied could be identified in this study. Tissue samples were not included. Despite all the work accomplished in the BOSS study of ozone, no available product of oxidation in biological fluid has yet met the required criteria of being a biomarker. The current negative findings as a consequence of ozone exposure are of great importance, because they document that in complex systems, as the present in vivo experiment, the assays used may not provide meaningful data of ozone oxidation, especially in human studies.
|
|
| 31. |
- Kotilainen, K., et al.
(författare)
-
From energy consumers to prosumers-how do policies influence the transition?
- 2021
-
Ingår i: Electrification. - : Elsevier. - 9780128221433 - 9780128221761 ; , s. 197-215
-
Bokkapitel (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Active producer-consumers (prosumers) still number relatively few in most countries, excluding frontrunner countries such as Germany and the USA, where small-scale solar power generation by property-owners has made strong inroads. To unleash their potential for a transition to a more climate-neutral electric energy system, identifying the potential enablers and constraints for the proliferation of prosumption is crucial. Policy mixes have been identified as important enablers for industry transitions. We report a case comparing the similarities and differences among prosumer-related policies in five European countries: Finland, France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. We also introduce an empirical case study on how policies in these countries may influence consumer attitudes in favor of small-scale renewable energy production. We conclude the chapter by discussing the best practices and the mix of more precise policy instruments deployable for involving citizens in order to accelerate the electrification of the energy system.
|
|
| 32. |
- Laurén, Ari, et al.
(författare)
-
Nitrogen and Carbon Dynamics and the Role of Enchytraeid Worms in Decomposition of L, F and H Layers of Boreal Mor
- 2012
-
Ingår i: Water, Air and Soil Pollution. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0049-6979 .- 1573-2932. ; 223:7, s. 3701-3719
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Decomposition of organic material releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC), dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) and ammonium (NH4-N) into soil water. Each of the decomposition products contributes differently to overall export of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) to water courses. Our aim was to study the quantity and composition of the released C and N as affected by the organic material and soil fauna, represented by enchytraeid worms. We measured the release rate of carbon dioxide, and calculated the release rates for DOC and dissolved N in soil from repeated measurements of DOC and N pools during laboratory incubation of litter (L), fermented (F) and humus (H) layers of boreal forest mor. The intermediate decomposition products, DOC and DON, were characterised according to the molecule size. The release rate of the decomposition products was higher for fresh than for old organic material. The majority of N and C were released as NH4-N and CO2, respectively. The amount of extractable organic N in soil decreased by time but DON increased. Enchytraeids stimulated N mineralisation and the release of large molecule size DOC, particularly in L layer. The results suggest that organic N in extractable form biodegrades effectively, and that soil fauna have an important role in the decomposition. The results were interpreted from the water quality point of view and the implications of the results to modelling of decomposition and export of DOC and dissolved N to recipient water bodies are discussed. In the modelling context, the novelty of the study is the description of the intermediate decomposition products and the division of the dissolved organic compounds into low molecular weight and high molecular weight fractions.
|
|
| 33. |
|
|
| 34. |
|
|
| 35. |
|
|
| 36. |
- Motiani, P., et al.
(författare)
-
Exercise training alters lipoprotein particles independent of brown adipose tissue metabolic activity
- 2019
-
Ingår i: Obesity science & practice. - : WILEY. - 2055-2238. ; 5:3, s. 258-272
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Introduction New strategies for weight loss and weight maintenance in humans are needed. Human brown adipose tissue (BAT) can stimulate energy expenditure and may be a potential therapeutic target for obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, whether exercise training is an efficient stimulus to activate and recruit BAT remains to be explored. This study aimed to evaluate whether regular exercise training affects cold-stimulated BAT metabolism and, if so, whether this was associated with changes in plasma metabolites. Methods Healthy sedentary men (n = 11; aged 31 [SD 7] years; body mass index 23 [0.9] kg m(-2); VO2 max 39 [7.6] mL min(-1) kg(-1)) participated in a 6-week exercise training intervention. Fasting BAT and neck muscle glucose uptake (GU) were measured using quantitative [F-18]fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-magnetic resonance imaging three times: (1) before training at room temperature and (2) before and (3) after the training period during cold stimulation. Cervico-thoracic BAT mass was measured using MRI signal fat fraction maps. Plasma metabolites were analysed using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Results Cold exposure increased supraclavicular BAT GU by threefold (p < 0.001), energy expenditure by 59% (p < 0.001) and plasma fatty acids (p < 0.01). Exercise training had no effect on cold-induced GU in BAT or neck muscles. Training increased aerobic capacity (p = 0.01) and decreased visceral fat (p = 0.02) and cervico-thoracic BAT mass (p = 0.003). Additionally, training decreased very low-density lipoprotein particle size (p = 0.04), triglycerides within chylomicrons (p = 0.04) and small high-density lipoprotein (p = 0.04). Conclusions Although exercise training plays an important role for metabolic health, its beneficial effects on whole body metabolism through physiological adaptations seem to be independent of BAT activation in young, sedentary men.
|
|
| 37. |
|
|
| 38. |
|
|
| 39. |
|
|
| 40. |
|
|
| 41. |
- Oskarsson, T., et al.
(författare)
-
Osteoporotic Fractures in Childhood Cancer Survivors - ALICCS Cohort Study
- 2018
-
Ingår i: Pediatric Blood & Cancer. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 1545-5009 .- 1545-5017. ; 65:Suppl.2, s. S693-S694
-
Tidskriftsartikel (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Background/Objectives: Children and adolescents undergoing treatment for cancer are exposed to multiple factors that impact the development of peak bone mass and bone quality. The aims of this study were to examine the risks and cumulative incidence of osteoporotic fractures in childhood cancer survivors and identify subgroups at higher risk.Design/Methods: In the national cancer registries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Sweden we identified patients diagnosed with cancer before 20 years of age from the start of registration in the 1940s and 1950s through 2008. We compared 26.334 one‐year survivors with a cohort of 162.372 age‐ and sex‐matched population comparison subjects selected from the national population registries. With data derived from national hospital registries we estimated the standardized hospitalization rate ratios (SHRR) and the mean cumulative count (MCC) of hospital admissions for osteoporotic fractures. To identify subgroups at risk we used Cox regression models to generate hazard ratios (HR) for osteoporotic fractures. Death and new cancer were treated as competing risks.Results: The estimated SHRR for the first osteoporotic fracture was 1.41 (95% CI; 1.27‐1.58) but the MCC for recurrent osteoporotic fractures did not differ between the survivors and the comparison group. The SHRR for isolated hip fractures was 2.90 (2.32‐3.63). The adjusted HR for osteoporotic fracture as the first event was 1.53 (1.09‐2.16) if cancer was diagnosed 15‐19 years and 2.10 (1.48‐2.98) for long‐term survivors of CNS tumors. Survivors 15‐19 years at cancer diagnosis and long‐term survivors of CNS tumors were also at higher risk of experiencing a second fracture, HR 3.29 (1.65‐6.55) and HR 2.71 (1.45‐5.05), respectively.Conclusions: Childhood cancer survivors are at higher risk of being hospitalized for osteoporotic fractures but the burden of recurrent fractures is not higher. For subgroups at risk, surveillance of bone health and measures to increase bone strength and prevent fractures should be encouraged.
|
|
| 42. |
|
|
| 43. |
- Raja, Raheel A, et al.
(författare)
-
Asparaginase-associated pancreatitis in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in the NOPHO ALL2008 protocol.
- 2014
-
Ingår i: British journal of haematology. - : Wiley. - 1365-2141 .- 0007-1048. ; 165:1, s. 126-133
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- L-asparaginase is an important drug in the treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). Treatment is associated with several toxicities, including acute pancreatitis. Clinical course, presentation, re-exposure to L-asparginase after pancreatitis and risk of recurrent pancreatitis within an asparaginase-intensive protocol has been poorly reported. Children (1-17years) on the ongoing Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (NOPHO) ALL2008 protocol with asparaginase-associated pancreatitis (AAP) diagnosed between 2008 and 2012 were identified through the online NOPHO ALL toxicity registry. NOPHO ALL2008 includes eight or 15 doses of intramuscular pegylated L-asparginase (PEG-asparaginase) 1000iu/m(2) /dose at 2-6weeks intervals, with a total of 30weeks of exposure to PEG-asparaginase (clinicaltrials.gov no: NCT00819351). Of 786 children, 45 were diagnosed with AAP with a cumulative risk of AAP of 5·9%. AAP occurred after a median of five doses (range 1-13), and 11d (median) from the latest administration of PEG-Asparaginase. Thirteen patients developed pseudocysts (30%) and 11 patients developed necrosis (25%). One patient died from pancreatitis. Twelve AAP patients were re-exposed to L-asparginase, two of whom developed mild AAP once more, after four and six doses respectively. In conclusion, re-exposure to PEG-asparaginase in ALL patients with mild AAP seems safe.
|
|
| 44. |
- Rank, Cecilie U., et al.
(författare)
-
Asparaginase-Associated Pancreatitis in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia : Results From the NOPHO ALL2008 Treatment of Patients 1-45 Years of Age
- 2020
-
Ingår i: Journal of Clinical Oncology. - Alexandria : American Society of Clinical Oncology. - 0732-183X .- 1527-7755. ; 38:2, s. 145-154
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- PURPOSE: Asparaginase-associated pancreatitis (AAP) is common in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), but risk differences across age groups both in relation to first-time AAP and after asparaginase re-exposure have not been explored.PATIENTS AND METHODS: We prospectively registered AAP (n = 168) during treatment of 2,448 consecutive ALL patients aged 1.0-45.9 years diagnosed from July 2008 to October 2018 and treated according to the Nordic Society of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology (NOPHO) ALL2008 protocol.RESULTS: Compared with patients aged 1.0-9.9 years, adjusted AAP hazard ratios (HRa) were associated with higher age with almost identical HRa (1.6; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.3; P = .02) for adolescents (10.0-17.9 years) and adults (18.0-45.9 years). The day 280 cumulative incidences of AAP were 7.0% for children (1.0-9.9 years: 95% CI, 5.4 to 8.6), 10.1% for adolescents (10.0 to 17.9 years: 95% CI, 7.0 to 13.3), and 11.0% for adults (18.0-45.9 years: 95% CI, 7.1 to 14.9; P = .03). Adolescents had increased odds of both acute (odds ratio [OR], 5.2; 95% CI, 2.1 to 13.2; P = .0005) and persisting complications (OR, 6.7; 95% CI, 2.4 to 18.4; P = .0002) compared with children (1.0-9.9 years), whereas adults had increased odds of only persisting complications (OR, 4.1; 95% CI, 1.4 to 11.8; P = .01). Fifteen of 34 asparaginase-rechallenged patients developed a second AAP. Asparaginase was truncated in 17/21 patients with AAP who subsequently developed leukemic relapse, but neither AAP nor the asparaginase truncation was associated with increased risk of relapse.CONCLUSION: Older children and adults had similar AAP risk, whereas morbidity was most pronounced among adolescents. Asparaginase re-exposure should be considered only for patients with an anticipated high risk of leukemic relapse, because multiple studies strongly indicate that reduction of asparaginase treatment intensity increases the risk of relapse.
|
|
| 45. |
|
|
| 46. |
|
|
| 47. |
- Remes, Tiina M., et al.
(författare)
-
Bone mineral density is compromised in very long-term survivors of irradiated childhood brain tumor
- 2018
-
Ingår i: Acta Oncologica. - : Taylor & Francis. - 0284-186X .- 1651-226X. ; 57:5, s. 665-674
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Introduction: The increase in the number of childhood brain tumor survivors warrants detailed research to increase our knowledge regarding the possible physical and psychosocial adverse outcomes of tumor and tumor therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current bone health by measuring the bone mineral density (BMD) in irradiated, adult long-term survivors of childhood brain tumors.Material and methods: We studied a national cohort of 74 adult survivors of childhood brain tumors treated with irradiation in Finland between 1970 and 2008. Dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was performed for the femoral necks, total hips, and lumbar spine. Laboratory tests were conducted for evaluating the pituitary, thyroid, and gonadal functions. The participants were interviewed, examined clinically, and the disease and treatment related data were retrieved from the patient files.Results: One fourth of the patients (23.6%) had sex- and age-normalized z-scores below the expected range for age (z-score -2.0). Mean BMD scores were decreased in all the DXA measurement sites. Male sex was associated with low BMD (p<.05), while body mass index (BMI) had a significant positive association with BMD (p<.01). Mode of irradiation (with or without spinal irradiation) or inclusion of chemotherapy in the treatment did not affect BMD significantly. However, patients with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt had lower BMD than those without a shunt (p<.05). Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were negatively associated with BMD in women (p<.05). However, a higher cumulative dose of glucocorticoids during treatment was not associated with lower BMD, while low BMD was significantly associated with previous fractures in long bones.Discussion: Low BMD should be taken in consideration in treatment of irradiated childhood brain tumor survivors especially in those with previous fractures in long bones.
|
|
| 48. |
- Remes, Tiina M., et al.
(författare)
-
Neurocognitive impairment, employment, and social status in radiotherapy-treated adult survivors of childhood brain tumors
- 2021
-
Ingår i: Neuro-Oncology Practice. - : Oxford University Press. - 2054-2577 .- 2054-2585. ; 8:3, s. 266-277
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- BackgroundLittle is known of the cognitive functions, employment, and social status in adult survivors of childhood brain tumor (BT). We aimed to determine the long-term neurocognitive profile of radiotherapy-treated adult survivors of childhood BT and the relationship between cognitive functions and employment and social status.MethodsNeurocognitive profiles of survivors were assessed in a Finnish national cohort of 71 radiotherapy-treated survivors of childhood BT (median follow-up time: 21 years [range: 5-33 years]) using a cross-sectional design. Neurocognitive outcomes were compared to control (n = 45) and normative values. Tumor- and treatment-related data were collected from the patient files. Information on employment and social status was gathered.ResultsSurvivors’ (median age: 27 years [range: 16-43 years]) median verbal and performance intelligence quotient (IQ) was 90 (range: 49-121) and 87 (range: 43-119), respectively. The cognitive domains with the greatest impairment were executive functions (median z score, −3.5 SD [range: −25.0 to 1.3 SD]), and processing speed and attention (median z score, −2.5 SD [range: −24.9 to 0.5 SD]). Executive functions were associated with employment, educational level, living independently, having an intimate relationship, and having a driving license. Processing speed and attention were related to educational level, living independently, having an intimate relationship, and having a driving license. Performance IQ was associated with educational level and employment status. Working memory was associated with educational level and living independently.ConclusionsRadiotherapy-treated adult survivors of childhood BT experience significant neurocognitive impairment, which is associated with difficulties related to employment and social status.
|
|
| 49. |
|
|
| 50. |
|
|
