1. |
- Sjölander, Annica, 1969, et al.
(author)
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Hospital Design with Nature Films Reduces Stress-Related Variables in Patients Undergoing Colonoscopy
- 2019
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In: Herd-Health Environments Research & Design Journal. - : SAGE Publications. - 1937-5867 .- 2167-5112. ; 12:4, s. 186-196
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose: To examine whether patients' experiences could be improved during colonoscopy by designing the examination room to include a digital screen showing calm nature films. Background: Colonoscopy is the gold standard for examination of the large intestine and the rectum. Around 50% of individuals invited for colorectal cancer screening choose to refrain from the screening due to fear and anxiety. It is therefore important to improve patients' comfort during the procedure. Method: One of the four endoscopy rooms was rebuilt to include a large digital screen showing calm nature films. Patients were randomized to intervention (i.e., the room showing films) or control. During the colonoscopy, pulse and oxygen saturation were measured and the patients graded the intensity of pain and anxiety. Blood samples were taken regularly during the examination and were analyzed for glucose, cortisol, and prolactin. Results: The presence of calm nature films during colonoscopy decreased the release of cortisol, increased prolactin levels, and enhanced oxygen saturation. These effects were more apparent in patients who were unfamiliar with the procedure and the environment, patients who underwent the examination without analgesics or sedation, and patients whose examination procedure was relatively difficult and took a long time. Conclusions: The intervention described in this study is easy to implement and might help improve the patient experience during colonoscopy. However, this study was performed in a single health institution, and more studies are needed to further explore the role of film interventions in endoscopic and other medical procedures.
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2. |
- Aida, Azusa, et al.
(author)
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eHealth Delivery of Educational Content Using Selected Visual Methods to Improve Health Literacy on Lifestyle-Related Diseases : Literature Review
- 2020
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In: JMIR mHealth and uHealth. - : JMIR Publications Inc.. - 2291-5222. ; 8:12
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Lifestyle-related diseases, such as stroke, heart disease, and diabetes, are examples of noncommunicable diseases. Noncommunicable diseases are now the leading cause of death in the world, and their major causes are lifestyle related. The number of eHealth interventions is increasing, which is expected to improve individuals' health literacy on lifestyle-related diseases.OBJECTIVE: This literature review aims to identify existing literature published in the past decade on eHealth interventions aimed at improving health literacy on lifestyle-related diseases among the general population using selected visual methods, such as educational videos, films, and movies.METHODS: A systematic literature search of the PubMed database was conducted in April 2019 for papers written in English and published from April 2, 2009, through April 2, 2019. A total of 538 papers were identified and screened in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) flow diagram. Finally, 23 papers were included in this review.RESULTS: The 23 papers were characterized according to study characteristics (author and year of publication, study design and region where the study was conducted, study objective, service platform, target disease and participant age, research period, outcomes, and research method); the playback time of the educational videos, films, and movies; and the evaluation of the study's impacts on health literacy. A total of 7 studies compared results using statistical methods. Of these, 5 studies reported significant positive effects of the intervention on health literacy and health-related measures (eg, physical activity, body weight). Although most of the studies included educational content aimed at improving health literacy, only 7 studies measured health literacy. In addition, only 5 studies assessed literacy using health literacy measurement tools.CONCLUSIONS: This review found that the provision of educational content was satisfactory in most eHealth studies using selected visual methods, such as videos, films, and movies. These findings suggest that eHealth interventions influence people's health behaviors and that the need for this intervention is expected to increase. Despite the need to develop eHealth interventions, standardized measurement tools to evaluate health literacy are lacking. Further research is required to clarify acceptable health literacy measurements.
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3. |
- Aida, Azusa, et al.
(author)
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Using mHealth to Provide Mobile App Users With Visualization of Health Checkup Data and Educational Videos on Lifestyle-Related Diseases : Methodological Framework for Content Development
- 2020
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In: JMIR mHealth and uHealth. - : JMIR Publications Inc.. - 2291-5222. ; 8:10
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: The number of people with lifestyle-related diseases continues to increase worldwide. Improving lifestyle behavior with health literacy may be the key to address lifestyle-related diseases. The delivery of educational videos using mobile health (mHealth) services can replace the conventional way of educating individuals, and visualization can replace the provision of health checkup data. OBJECTIVE: This paper aimed to describe the development of educational content for MIRAMED, a mobile app aimed at improving users' lifestyle behaviors and health literacy for lifestyle-related diseases. METHODS: All videos were based on a single unified framework to provide users with a consistent flow of information. The framework was later turned into a storyboard. The final video contents were created based on this storyboard and further discussions with leading experts and specialist physicians on effective communication with app users about lifestyle-related diseases. RESULTS: The app uses visualization of personal health checkup data and educational videos on lifestyle-related diseases based on the current health guidelines, scientific evidence, and expert opinions of leading specialist physicians in the respective fields. A total of 8 videos were created for specific lifestyle-related diseases affecting 8 organs: (1) brain-cerebrovascular disorder, (2) eyes-diabetic retinopathy, (3) lungs-chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, (4) heart-ischemic heart disease, (5) liver-fatty liver, (6) kidneys-chronic kidney disease (diabetic kidney disease), (7) blood vessels-peripheral arterial disease, and (8) nerves-diabetic neuropathy. CONCLUSIONS: Providing enhanced mHealth education using novel digital technologies to visualize conventional health checkup data and lifestyle-related diseases is an innovative strategy. Future studies to evaluate the efficacy of the developed content are planned.
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4. |
- Andersson, Agnes, et al.
(author)
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Headache Before and After Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Pituitary Tumor Surgery: A Prospective Study
- 2022
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In: Journal of Neurological Surgery Part B-Skull Base. - : Georg Thieme Verlag KG. - 2193-6331 .- 2193-634X. ; 83:suppl. 2
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective Headache is a common symptom among patients with pituitary tumors, as it is in the general population. The aim of the study was to investigate headache as a symptom in patients with pituitary tumors before and 6 months after endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (TSS). Design This is a prospective observational cohort study. Setting This study was conducted at university tertiary referral hospital. Participants A total of 110 adult patients underwent endoscopic TSS for pituitary tumors. Main Outcome Measures The Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) questionnaire was used before and 6 months after surgery for the assessment of headache. Clinical variables with potential influence on headache were analyzed. Results Sixty-eight (62%) patients experienced headaches at least once during the 3 months before surgery. Thirty (27%) patients reported disabling headache before surgery, with younger age being an independent associated factor ( p <0.001). In patients with disabling headache before surgery, the median (interquartile range) MIDAS score improved from 78 (27-168) to 16 (2-145; p =0.049), headache frequency decreased from 45 (20-81) to 14 (4-35) days ( p =0.009), and headache intensity decreased from 6 (5-8) to 5 (4-7) ( p =0.011) after surgery. In total, 16 of the 30 (53%) patients reported a clinically relevant improvement and five (17%) a clinically relevant worsening. Four (5%) patients developed new disabling headache. No predictor for postoperative improvement of headache was identified. Conclusion In this prospective study, the results show that disabling headache improves following endoscopic TSS in a subset of patients with pituitary tumors. However, no predictive factors for improvement could be identified.
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5. |
- Andersson, Henrik, et al.
(author)
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Competencies in Swedish emergency departments - The practitioners' and managers' perspective.
- 2014
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In: International emergency nursing. - : Elsevier BV. - 1878-013X .- 1755-599X. ; 22:2, s. 81-87
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The task of emergency departments (EDs) is to provide safe emergency healthcare while adopting a caring, cost-effective approach. Patients attending EDs have different medical and caring needs and it is assumed that practitioners have the requisite competencies to meet those needs. The aim of the present study is to explore what kind of competencies practitioners and managers describe as necessary for the practitioners to perform their everyday work in EDs.
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6. |
- Andersson, Henrik, 1968, et al.
(author)
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Management of Everyday Work in Emergency Departments – an Exploratory Study with Swedish Managers
- 2014
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In: International Emergency Nursing. - : Elsevier BV. - 1755-599X .- 1878-013X. ; 22:4, s. 190-196
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction: Through their formal mandate, position and authority, managers are responsible for managing everyday work in Emergency Departments (EDs) as well as striving for excellence and dealing with the individual needs of practitioners and patients. The aim of the present study is to explore managers’ experiences of managing everyday work in Swedish EDs. Method: A qualitative and exploratory design has been used in this study. Seven managers were interviewed at two EDs. Data was analysed using qualitative content analysis with focus on latent content. Results: Managers experience everyday work in the ED as lifesaving work. One of the characteristics of their approach to everyday work is their capability for rapidly identifying patients with life-threatening conditions and for treating them accordingly. The practitioners are on stand-by in order to deal with unexpected situations. This implies having to spend time waiting for the physicians’ decisions. Management is characterised by a command and control approach. The managers experience difficulties in meeting the expectations of their staff. They strive to be proactive but instead they become reactive since the prevailing medical, bureaucratic and production-orientated systems constrain them. Conclusion: The managers demonstrate full compliance with the organisational systems. This threatens to reduce their freedom of action and influences the way they perform their managerial duties within and outside the EDs.
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7. |
- Appleby, R. N., et al.
(author)
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Effects of conventional and a novel colonic-release bile acid sequestrant, A3384, on fibroblast growth factor 19 and bile acid metabolism in healthy volunteers and patients with bile acid diarrhoea
- 2017
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In: United European Gastroenterology Journal. - : Wiley. - 2050-6406 .- 2050-6414. ; 5:3, s. 380-388
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Primary bile acid diarrhoea (BAD) is associated with increased bile acid synthesis and low fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19). Bile acid sequestrants are used as therapy, but are poorly tolerated and may exacerbate FGF19 deficiency. Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the pharmacological effects of conventional sequestrants and a colonic-release formulation preparation of colestyramine (A3384) on bile acid metabolism and bowel function in patients with BAD. Methods: Patients with seven-day (75)selenium-homocholic acid taurine (SeHCAT) scan retention <10% were randomised in a double-blind protocol to two weeks treatment with twice-daily A3384 250mg (n=6), 1g (n=7) or placebo (n=6). Thirteen patients were taking conventional sequestrants at the start of the study. Symptoms were recorded and serum FGF19 and 7 alpha-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one (C4) measured. Results: Median serum FGF19 on conventional sequestrant treatment was 28% lower than baseline values in BAD (p<0.05). C4 on conventional sequestrant treatment was 58% higher in BAD (p<0.001). No changes were seen on starting or withdrawing A3384. A3384 improved diarrhoeal symptoms, with a median reduction of 2.2 points on a 0-10 Likert scale compared to placebo, p<0.05. Conclusions: Serum FGF19 was suppressed and bile acid production up-regulated on conventional bile acid sequestrants, but not with A3384. This colonic-release formulation of colestyramine produced symptomatic benefit in patients with BAD.
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8. |
- Ato Armah, Frederick, et al.
(author)
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The unusual suspects? Perception of underlying causes of anthropogenic climate change in coastal communities in Cambodia and Tanzania
- 2017
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In: Journal of Environmental Planning and Management. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0964-0568 .- 1360-0559. ; 60:12, s. 2150-2173
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Public perception of the underlying causes of anthropogenic climate change is a complex and subjective issue that is critical to effective risk communication. This issue is important to scientists and policymakers because of the role of individual perceptions in influencing their protective behaviour towards risk (e.g., the adoption of climate risk reduction and mitigation strategies). This cross-sectional study elucidated people's perceptions of the underlying causes of human-induced climate change in coastal communities in Cambodia and Tanzania. The multinomial logistic regression model was based on a geographically and demographically stratified national sample of 3,706 individuals conducted between March and September 2013. The distribution of the fundamental causes of anthropogenic climate change in the pooled sample was deforestation (29%), overpopulation – births and immigration (18%), greenhouse gas emissions (12%), illegal resource extraction (14%), and God's will and transgressing cultural norms (26%). Few people in both countries believed that, the usual suspect, greenhouse gas emission was the fundamental cause of anthropogenic climate change. The number of poor rural residents who indicated that deforestation was the major underlying cause of climate change was approximately three times more than members of the same sub-group who noted that greenhouse gas emissions were the underlying cause of climate change. People who had tertiary education were less likely to consider God's will and transgressing cultural norms as the underlying cause of anthropogenic climate change rather than attributing it to greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, it is imperative to mainstream climate change into educational curricula in both countries.
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15. |
- Bajor, Antal, 1962, et al.
(author)
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Indirect evidence for increased mechanosensitivity of jejunal secretomotor neurones in patients with idiopathic bile acid malabsorption.
- 2009
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In: Acta physiologica (Oxford, England). - : Wiley. - 1748-1716 .- 1748-1708. ; 197:2, s. 129-37
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The interdigestive motor rhythm, the migrating motor complex (MMC), is accompanied by active secretion of chloride during periods of distally propagating maximal motor activity (MMC phase III). We studied the behaviour of this system in bile acid malabsorption (BAM), a relative common cause of chronic diarrhoea. We measured motor activity and transmucosal potential difference (PD, reflecting active chloride secretion), in the proximal jejunum in healthy controls (n = 18) and in a group of patients with BAM (n = 11). The phase III-generated voltage was related to the degree of BAM quantified by the (75)SeHCAT test.
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16. |
- Bajor, Antal, 1962, et al.
(author)
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Normal or increased bile acid uptake in isolated mucosa from patients with bile acid malabsorption.
- 2006
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In: Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. - 0954-691X. ; 18:4, s. 397-403
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction: Bile acid malabsorption as reflected by an abnormal 75Se-labelled homocholic acid-taurine (75SeHCAT) test is associated with diarrhoea, but the mechanisms and cause-and-effect relations are unclear. Objectives: Primarily, to determine whether there is a reduced active bile acid uptake in the terminal ileum in patients with bile acid malabsorption. Secondarily, to study the linkage between bile acid malabsorption and hepatic bile acid synthesis. Methods: Ileal biopsies were taken from patients with diarrhoea and from controls with normal bowel habits. Maximal active bile acid uptake was assessed in ileal biopsies using a previously validated technique based on uptake of 14C-labelled taurocholate. To monitor the hepatic synthesis, 7[alpha]-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one, a bile acid precursor, was assayed in blood. The 75SeHCAT-retention test was used to diagnose bile acid malabsorption. Results: The taurocholate uptake in specimens from diarrhoea patients was higher compared with the controls [median, 7.7 (n=53) vs 6.1 [mu]mol/g per min (n=17)] (P<0.01) but no difference was seen between those with bile acid malabsorption (n=18) versus diarrhoea with a normal 75SeHCAT test (n=23). The 75SeHCAT values and 7[alpha]-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one were inversely correlated. Conclusions: The data do not support bile acid malabsorption being due to a reduced active bile acid uptake capacity in the terminal ileum. (C) 2006 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.
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18. |
- Bajor, Antal, 1962, et al.
(author)
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The bile acid turnover rate assessed with the (75)SeHCAT test is stable in chronic diarrhoea but slightly decreased in healthy subjects after a long period of time.
- 2008
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In: Digestive diseases and sciences. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0163-2116 .- 1573-2568. ; 53:11, s. 2935-40
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The stability of bile acid turnover rate was evaluated retrospectively using repeat SeHCAT tests in patients with chronic diarrhoea and prospectively for 16 years in healthy subjects. The SeHCAT values were stable in 39 patients with chronic diarrhoea, as shown by a comparison of the test results [data presented as median and (25th-75th percentile)]: 18% (8-23) in the first test versus 14% (9-21) in the second test [n = 39, P = 0.37, time interval 44 months (16-68), repeatability index >95%]. In contrast, they were reduced after 16 years in healthy subjects: 38% (30-49.5) in the first test versus 31% (21-49.5) in the second test (P < 0.03). In healthy subjects, the body mass index increased by 13% from 23.2 kg/m(2) (21-24.6) to 26.2 kg/m(2) (22.5-27.8) (P < 0.01) during the 16 years. There was a negative correlation between hepatic bile acid synthesis and the SeHCAT values (r = -0.615, P = 0.02, n = 14). In conclusion, the turnover rate of bile acids is stable over a long period of time in patients with chronic diarrhoea irrespective of bile acid malabsorption, suggesting that a repeat SeHCAT test is dispensable. There is a significant negative correlation between bile acid synthesis and SeHCAT test results in healthy subjects. The SeHCAT test values are slightly reduced in healthy subjects after 16 years.
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21. |
- Björkman, Ida, et al.
(author)
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An Intervention for Person-Centered Support in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Development and Pilot Study
- 2019
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In: Gastroenterology Nursing. - : Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health). - 1042-895X. ; 42:4, s. 332-341
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Irritable bowel syndrome is a common and often chronic functional bowel disorder that can cause severe disruption of daily functioning in those affected, with subsequent high healthcare utilization and work absenteeism. Nurses represent an underutilized group in the current management of irritable bowel syndrome. The aim of this study was to systematically develop a person-centered support intervention in irritable bowel syndrome and evaluate this in a pilot study. The development followed the revised framework for complex interventions from the Medical Research Council and involved literature reviews and multiprofessional expert groups. The intervention was then tested in a pilot study including 17 patients and evaluated through validated questionnaires measuring irritable bowel syndrome symptom severity, gastrointestinal-specific anxiety, and self-efficacy as well as through interviews. There was a significant improvement in irritable bowel syndrome symptom severity between baseline and follow-up, but not for self-efficacy or gastrointestinal-specific anxiety. The patients' perceptions of participating in the intervention were positive and induced a learning process; they were able to form a supportive relationship with the nurse and their ability to self-manage improved. The promising results from this small pilot study in terms of feasibility, potential efficacy, and the patients' positive feedback make this intervention a suitable candidate for a larger controlled trial.
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22. |
- Björkman, Ida, et al.
(author)
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More similarities than differences between men and women with irritable bowel syndrome
- 2015
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In: Neurogastroenterology and Motility. - : Wiley. - 1350-1925 .- 1365-2982. ; 27:6, s. 796-804
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Differences regarding symptoms, coping abilities, and quality of life (QOL) between men and women with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have been reported but data are sparse and sometimes conflicting. The aim of present study was to investigate gender differences in gastrointestinal, extra-intestinal, and psychological symptoms, and sense of coherence (SOC) and QOL in a large group of patients diagnosed with IBS. Methods: We analyzed questionnaire data from 557 patients (152 men) diagnosed with IBS consecutively included in studies at an outpatient clinic for functional bowel disorders between 2002 and 2010. Following questionnaires were included: IBS severity scoring system (IBS-SSS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), IBSQOL Scale, Visceral Sensitivity Index (VSI), SOC Scale, Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS), and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-15). Key Results: Women had harder stools (FDR-adjusted p-value: q = 0.033), more severe bloating (q = 0.020), higher symptom severity (q = 0.042), higher total somatic symptom burden (q = 0.035), lower SOC (q = 0.042), and lower QOL. Women rated more general anxiety (q = 0.017) and gastrointestinal-specific anxiety (q = 0.042), but there were no group differences in depression, pain, stool frequency, impact on daily life, dissatisfaction with bowel habit, or extra-colonic symptoms. The differences found were small (effect sizes: r < 0.3). Conclusions & Inferences: In this study, we demonstrated more similarities than differences between men and women with IBS. The largest difference were seen for QOL which might reflect certain structural stressors to which women in general are more exposed than men. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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24. |
- Björkman, Ida, et al.
(author)
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Patients’ experiences of healthcare encounters in severe irritable bowel syndrome: an analysis based on narrative and feminist theory
- 2016
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In: Journal of Clinical Nursing. - : Wiley. - 1365-2702 .- 0962-1067. ; 25:19-20, s. 2967-2978
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aims and objectives: This study aimed to explore patients’ experiences of healthcare encounters in severe irritable bowel syndrome. Background: Irritable bowel syndrome is a common functional disorder with symptoms such as abdominal pain and disturbed bowel habits, the cause of which is not completely known. Treatments options are limited, and healthcare encounters in irritable bowel syndrome have been described as unsatisfying and frustrating for both patients and professional healthcare providers. Furthermore, the influence of power on healthcare encounters has long been recognised, especially regarding the disadvantaged position of those suffering from functional illness which cannot be identified by commonly used tests or investigations. Methods: We interviewed 10 patients during 2014, all attending an outpatient clinic and suffering from severe irritable bowel syndrome. Relying on narrative and feminist theory, we explored how they actively negotiate professional discourse communicated to them in the clinical encounter. Results: The patients’ experiences of healthcare encounters in irritable bowel syndrome were mostly described as negative, and often induced feelings of confusion and self-doubt. Positive encounters were described as being listened to, believed and taken seriously. Narrators found it especially problematic when healthcare professionals described irritable bowel syndrome as a minor disorder with primarily stress or psychological aetiology and put the responsibility for recovery onto the patient. Patients’ actively negotiated such professional discourse by presenting a counternarrative describing their own suffering and strengths, experienced healthcare shortcomings and possible organic aetiology of irritable bowel syndrome. Conclusions: Patients suffering from severe irritable bowel syndrome described how they often felt a need to protect their positive identities in the face of trivialisation and disbelief by healthcare professionals. Relevance to clinical practice: A deepened understanding of patients’ experiences of healthcare encounters in irritable bowel syndrome could enable more helpful and supporting interventions by healthcare professionals. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd
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27. |
- Borand, Laurence, et al.
(author)
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Isolation of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria in Southeast Asian and African Human Immunodeficiency Virus-infected Children with Suspected Tuberculosis
- 2019
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In: Clinical Infectious Diseases. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1058-4838 .- 1537-6591. ; 68:10, s. 1750-1753
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We enrolled 427 human immunodeficiency virus-infected children (median age, 7.3 years), 59.2% severely immunodeficient, with suspected tuberculosis in Southeast Asian and African settings. Nontuberculous mycobacteria were isolated in 46 children (10.8%); 45.7% of isolates were Mycobacterium avium complex. Southeast Asian origin, age 5-9 years, and severe immunodeficiency were independently associated with nontuberculous mycobacteria isolation.
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32. |
- Dahlén, Rahil, et al.
(author)
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Global mucosal and serum cytokine profile in patients with ulcerative colitis undergoing anti-TNF therapy
- 2015
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0036-5521 .- 1502-7708. ; 50:9, s. 1118-1126
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background and objective. The knowledge of the effects of anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) treatment on the global cytokine profile in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) is limited. A better understanding of these mechanisms could improve the ability to select patients that should undergo the therapy. Therefore, the aim was to determine the global mucosal and serum cytokine profile before and during induction therapy with anti-TNF in UC patients. Materials and methods. In total, mucosal biopsies (n = 28) and serum samples (n = 42) were collected from UC patients (total n = 48) before anti-TNF therapy. At week 14 response to the therapy was evaluated and again mucosal biopsies (n = 14) and serum samples (n = 42) were collected. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to determine mucosal cytokine mRNA expression and the MSD MULTI-ARRAY assay system platform was used for analysis of cytokines in serum. The global cytokine profile was evaluated by multivariate factor analysis. Results. At baseline, the global profile of mucosal cytokine mRNA expression and serum cytokines discriminated therapy responders from non-responders. Responders had lower mucosal mRNA expression of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1 beta), IL-17A, IL-6 and interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) than non-responders. Fourteen weeks after therapy start mucosal IL-1 beta and IL-6 were down-regulated in therapy responders but not in non-responders. At week 14, serum levels of IL-6 were decreased in therapy responders whereas IFN-gamma and IL-12p70 were increased in non-responders. Conclusions. Our data suggest that patients with a therapy failure have a more severe pro-inflammatory cytokine profile before start of anti-TNF treatment, which is less well suppressed by the treatment as compared to therapy responders.
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34. |
- Dellenborg, Liselott (Lisen), 1966, et al.
(author)
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Perspectives on Sexuality Among Patients with Hypopituitarism: Broadening the Medical Focus on Sexual Function to Include Sexual Wellbeing
- 2020
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In: Sexuality and Disability. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0146-1044 .- 1573-6717. ; 38:3, s. 515-532
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Hypopituitarism means a partial or complete inability to produce pituitary hormones, including those regulating gonadal function. The condition therefore leads to hormone deficiencies that may affect sexuality in various ways. This study aimed to explore patients' own experiences of hypopituitarism in relation to sexuality, and it is based on interviews with 19 men and women. A qualitative methodology inspired by Gadamer's philosophical hermeneutics was used. Analysis revealed that current healthcare practices, which focus primarily on sexual functioning, fail to address patients' existential concerns about loneliness, loving relationships and selfhood. Another important finding was that women felt that their sexual functioning and wellbeing tended to go unnoticed, while men said that healthcare professionals focused mainly on erectile function rather than problems with sexual wellbeing. Cultural and gender norms were apparent in these healthcare interactions, and proactive efforts to improve awareness is required in order to improve the quality of care provided to these patients. Healthcare professionals need time, space and support for reflection so that they may enhance their knowledge about the complexity of sexuality and discuss the results of research into hormone replacement in men and women. They also need support to develop critical awareness of how gendered norms about sexuality may negatively affect the care provided to persons with hypopituitarism.
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35. |
- Duchesne, Isabelle, et al.
(author)
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Wood Mechanical Properties and Discoloured Heartwood Proportion in Sugar Maple and Yellow Birch Grown in New Brunswick
- 2016
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In: BioResources. - : BioResources. - 1930-2126. ; 11:1, s. 2007-2019
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Rising interest in using wood in non-residential multi-story building structures opens up new opportunities for utilising low-grade hardwoods. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the geographic variation in modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR) of sugar maple and yellow birch wood in relation to stand and tree characteristics for two regions in New Brunswick, Canada. Mixed effects statistical models were developed to test the effects of stand, tree, and wood sample variables. A second objective was to examine geographic variation in heartwood discolouration in relation to stand and tree characteristics. Between-tree differences (trees nested within sites) accounted for 44% and 35% of the total variation in yellow birch (MOE and MOR, respectively) and for 69% and 60% of total variation in sugar maple. The fixed effects explained only a very small part for the variation in MOE and MOR in the sugar maple data (10% for MOE and 5% for MOR). For sugar maple, mechanical properties (MOE and MOR) at 50% of the radius were considerably lower than those close to the bark, but this radial variation was not noteworthy for yellow birch. Discoloured heartwood proportion had no significant effect on wood mechanical properties.
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36. |
- Ekerfors, Ulrika, et al.
(author)
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Muscle performance and fatigue in compensated chronic liver disease.
- 2019
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In: Scandinavian journal of gastroenterology. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1502-7708 .- 0036-5521. ; 54:7, s. 925-933
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: A common and debilitating symptom in patients with chronic liver disease is fatigue (CLD). Muscle dysfunction has been suggested to be a key mechanism of fatigue in CLD. Objective: We aimed to evaluate fatigue and the potential association with muscle performance and physical activity in outpatients with CLD. Methods: Two-hundred seventy outpatients with CLD were included, (52±15years, mean±SD; 151 females) with autoimmune hepatitis (n=49), primary biliary cholangitis (n=45), primary sclerosing cholangitis (n=46), chronic hepatitis B (n=57) or C (n=73). Patients with a Child-Pugh >6 were excluded. The questionnaire Fatigue Impact Scale (FIS) was used to evaluate fatigue, and physical activity was evaluated through a self-reported level of physical activity. Muscle function was assessed with four muscle tests, walking speed, handgrip strength, standing heel-rise test (SHT) and 'Timed Up and Go' test (TUG). Results: The median total FIS score was 30 (40% had FIS > 40, considered high-fatigue). Diminished muscle performance was observed in the SHT (% of predicted value: 53±26%) and with maximum grip strength (85±20%). The FIS score was significantly different between groups of CLDs (p=.004). In multivariate analysis the TUG (p=.001), SHT (p=.005), antidepressants (p<.001), and level of physical activity (p=.001) were associated with fatigue (R2=29%). Subjects with higher levels of physical activity had lower FIS (p<.001). Conclusions: In patients with CLD, fatigue was associated with low muscle performance and reduced level of physical activity, which could be a potential therapeutic target.
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37. |
- Elgali, Ibrahim, et al.
(author)
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Molecular and structural patterns of bone regeneration in surgically created defects containing bone substitutes
- 2014
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In: Biomaterials. - : Elsevier BV. - 0142-9612 .- 1878-5905. ; 35:10, s. 3229-3242
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Several biomaterials have been introduced for bone augmentation. However, information is lacking about the mechanisms of bone regeneration and/or integration of these materials in the recipient bone. This study aimed to determine the molecular and structural events in bone defects after augmentation with synthetic tetrapod-shaped calcium phosphate (Tetrabone; TetraB) compared with natural deproteinized bovine bone (DBB). Defects were created in the epiphyses of rat femurs and filled with TetraB or DBB or left empty (Sham). After 3, 6, 14 and 28 d, samples were harvested for histology, histomorphometry, ultrastructure and gene expression analyses. At 3 d, higher expressions of bone formation (ALP and DC) and remodeling (CatK) genes were detected in TetraB compared with DBB and Sham. Downregulation of bone remodeling genes (TRAP and CatK) was detected in DBB as compared to Sham after 14 d. Histomorphometry at 6 and 14 d demonstrated greater bone contact with the granules in TetraB. At 28 d, a larger bone area per defect was found in TetraB. The present experiments show that a synthetic substitute, consisting of alpha-tricalcium and octacalcium phosphates, induces early osteogenic and osteoclastic activities and promotes bone formation in trabecular bone defects.
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38. |
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39. |
- Falk, Hanna, 1977, et al.
(author)
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Differences in Symptom Distress Based on Gender and Palliative Care Designation Among Hospitalized Patients.
- 2016
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In: Journal of Nursing Scholarship. - : Wiley. - 1527-6546 .- 1547-5069. ; 48:6, s. 569-576
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- PURPOSE: To explore patient-reported symptom distress in relation to documentation of symptoms and palliative care designation in hospital inpatients.DESIGN: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 710 inpatients at two large hospitals in Sweden using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale and the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale. Chart reviews focused on nurses' and physicians' symptom documentation and palliative turning point.METHODS: Descriptive statistics were calculated for all variables and provided summaries about the sample. Patients were grouped according to gender, age, palliative care designation, and symptom documentation. The t test and chi-square test were used to calculate whether symptom distress varied between groups. A two-way analysis of variance was conducted for multiple comparisons to explore the impact of gender and age on mean symptom distress.FINDINGS: Females reported higher levels of symptom distress than did males related to pain, fatigue, and nausea. When comparing symptom distress between males and females with documentation pertaining to symptoms, there were significant differences implying that females had to report higher levels of symptom distress than males in order to have their symptoms documented.CONCLUSIONS: Females need to report higher levels of symptom distress than do males for healthcare professionals to identify and document their symptoms. It can be hypothesized that females are not receiving the same attention and symptom alleviation as men. If so, this highlights a serious inequality in care that requires further exploration.CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Considering that common reasons why people seek health care are troublesome symptoms of illness, and that the clinical and demographic characteristics of inpatients are changing towards more advanced ages with serious illnesses, inadequate symptom assessment and management are a serious threat to the care quality.
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40. |
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41. |
- Feldthusen, Caroline, 1977, et al.
(author)
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Centredness in health care: A systematic overview of reviews
- 2022
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In: Health Expectations. - : Wiley. - 1369-6513 .- 1369-7625. ; 25:3, s. 885-901
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction The introduction of effective, evidence-based approaches to centredness in health care is hindered by the fact that research results are not easily accessible. This is partly due to the large volume of publications available and because the field is closely linked to and in some ways encompasses adjoining fields of research, for example, shared decision making and narrative medicine. In an attempt to survey the field of centredness in health care, a systematic overview of reviews was conducted with the purpose of illuminating how centredness in health care is presented in current reviews. Methods Searches for relevant reviews were conducted in the databases PubMed, Scopus, Cinahl, PsychINFO, Web of Science and EMBASE using terms connected to centredness in health care. Filters specific to review studies of all types and for inclusion of only English language results as well as a time frame of January 2017-December 2018, were applied. Results The search strategy identified 3697 unique reviews, of which 31 were included in the study. The synthesis of the results from the 31 reviews identified three interrelated main themes: Attributes of centredness (what centredness is), Translation from theory into practice (how centredness is done) and Evaluation of effects (possible ways of measuring effects of centredness). Three main attributes of centeredness found were: being unique, being heard and shared responsibility. Aspects involved in translating theory into practice were sufficient prerequisites, strategies for action and tools used in safeguarding practice. Further, a variety and breadth of measures of effects were found in the included reviews. Conclusions Our synthesis demonstrates that current synthesized research literature on centredness in health care is broad, as it focuses both on explorations of the conceptual basis and the practice, as well as measures of effects. This study provides an understanding of the commonalities identified in the reviews on centredness in healthcare overall, ranging from theory to practice and from practice to evaluation. Patient or Public Contribution Patient representatives were involved during the initiation of the project and in decisions about its focus, although no patient or public representatives made direct contributions to the review process.
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42. |
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43. |
- Filipovikj, Predrag, et al.
(author)
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Bounded Invariant Checking for Stateflow
- 2022
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In: Electronic Proceedings in Theoretical Computer Science, EPTCS. - : Open Publishing Association. ; , s. 38-52
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Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Stateflow models are complex software models, often used as part of industrial safety-critical software solutions designed with Matlab Simulink. Being part of safety-critical solutions, these models require the application of rigorous verification techniques for assuring their correctness. In this paper, we propose a refutation-based formal verification approach for analyzing Stateflow models against invariant properties, based on bounded model checking (BMC). The crux of our technique is: i) a representation of the state space of Stateflow models as a symbolic transition system (STS) over the symbolic configurations of the model, and ii) application of incremental BMC, to generate verification results after each unrolling of the next-state relation of the transition system. To this end, we develop a symbolic structural operational semantics (SSOS) for Stateflow, starting from an existing structural operational semantics (SOS), and show the preservation of invariant properties between the two. We define bounded invariant checking for STS over symbolic configurations as a satisfiability problem. We develop an automated procedure for generating the initial and next-state predicates of the STS, and a prototype implementation of the technique in the form of a tool utilising standard, off-the-shelf satisfiability solvers. Finally, we present preliminary performance results by applying our tool on an illustrative example and two industrial models.
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44. |
- Fridh, Isabell, 1954, et al.
(author)
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Extensive human suffering : a point prevalence survey of patients' most distressing concerns during inpatient care
- 2015
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences. - : Wiley. - 0283-9318 .- 1471-6712. ; 29, s. 444-453
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- AIM: To explore patients' most distressing concerns during a hospital stay.BACKGROUND: The characteristics of hospitalised patients have changed. Care is provided at a higher age, lengths of stay have fallen and the nursing workload is increasing. It is presumed that hospitalised patients are more seriously ill and have more palliative needs than previously. Studies show that inpatients suffer from more distress than similar outpatients although there is a lack of overall knowledge about inpatients' distress and major concerns, regardless of age, diagnosis or care setting.METHODS: This study was part of a point prevalence survey (PPS) concerning symptom prevalence. Of the 710 patients who participated in the PPS, 678 (95%) answered an open-ended question in a questionnaire: What is your main concern or what is most distressing or troublesome for you at present? Using a life-world approach, the text was analysed qualitatively and patients' concerns were interpreted in two main dimensions, an intersubjective dimension and a temporal dimension.FINDINGS: The patients reported extensive suffering due to illness, symptoms and failing health. Patients were concerned about family members, existential issues and the future. Three aspects of the patients' most distressing concerns were interpreted: The suffering self, The suffering person in close relations and The suffering person in a threatening world.CONCLUSION: Hospitalised patients are affected by severe illness, distressing symptoms and existential quandaries, revealing extensive human suffering in the midst of the demanding activities that take place during an ordinary day in a hospital. To support patients and alleviate suffering, hospital staff need to be more sensitive to patients' most distressing concerns. This presupposes a hospital environment in which the value system supports caring and comforting behaviour.
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45. |
- Frändemark, Åsa, 1988, et al.
(author)
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Fatigue: A distressing symptom for patients with irritable bowel syndrome
- 2017
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In: Neurogastroenterology and Motility. - : Wiley. - 1350-1925 .- 1365-2982. ; 29:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Fatigue is a frequent symptom in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and is associated with poor quality of life. However, few studies have evaluated its impact on daily life or the perceived distress it can cause. Using a multi-methods approach, this study describes the impact and manifestations of fatigue in patients with IBS and investigates the relationship between fatigue severity and illness-related and health-promoting factors. Methods: A total of 160 patients with IBS completed self-reported questionnaires assessing fatigue, gastrointestinal symptoms, psychological distress, and sense of coherence. Fatigue was assessed with the Fatigue Impact Scale, which also includes structured and open-ended questions which were analyzed with a deductive qualitative analysis. Patients were classified as having severe, moderate, or mild fatigue based on frequency, distress and impact on daily life. Key Results: The open-ended questions revealed a multidimensional impact on life. Fatigue mainly interfered with the ability to perform physical activities, work, and domestic work, and the ability to interact socially. Decreased stamina was evident, along with strategies to limit the bodily consequences of tiredness. Severe fatigue was accompanied by more severe IBS symptoms, anxiety and depression and lower sense of coherence. Conclusions & Inferences: Fatigue is a distressing symptom which occurs in a sizeable proportion of patients with IBS. It affects life in a multidimensional way, with poor bodily stamina being the most prominent feature. Fatigue, along with sense of coherence, depression and anxiety, needs to be assessed, confirmed and targeted for interventions.
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46. |
- Goel, Isha, et al.
(author)
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Enhancement of intercellular interaction between iPSC-derived neural progenitor cells and activated endothelial cells using cell surface modification with functional oligopeptides
- 2022
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In: Biomaterials Science. - : Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). - 2047-4830 .- 2047-4849. ; 10:4, s. 925-938
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Cell-based therapy has been used to treat stroke related disorders, which have no treatment options available 4.5 hours after onset. Although the administration of tissue plasminogen activator and mechanical thrombectomy are potent treatments, their clinical implementation is limited within the available time. Here, we aimed to use induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural progenitor cells (NPCs) for stroke treatment with higher delivery efficiency in stroke areas, which will improve the therapeutic effect. E-selectin binding oligopeptide (Esbp) was conjugated with poly(ethylene glycol)-conjugated-lipid (Esbp-PEG-lipid) with different molecular weights of PEG (5 and 40 kDa) for cell surface modification. Then, we optimized the cell surface modification of NPCs by studying cell-binding ability onto the model surfaces of stroke areas, such as recombinant E-selectin-immobilized surfaces and TNF-alpha activated endothelium. As a result, the cell surface modification of NPCs with Esbp-PEG-lipid was found to induce specific intercellular interactions with the activated endothelium through the binding of Esbp with E-selectin. Additionally, the shorter PEG spacer was suitable for intercellular interactions. Thus, our technique shows potential for use in cell therapy with enhanced cell accumulation in infarct areas.
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47. |
- Gyllensten, Hanna, 1979, et al.
(author)
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A national research centre for the evaluation and implementation of person-centred care: Content from the first interventional studies
- 2020
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In: Health Expectations. - : Wiley. - 1369-6513 .- 1369-7625. ; 23:5, s. 1362-1375
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Person-centred care (PCC) has been suggested as a potential means to improve the care of patients with chronic and long-term disorders. In this regard, a model for PCC was developed by the University of Gothenburg Centre for Person-Centred Care (GPCC). OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to explore the theoretical frameworks, designs, contexts and intervention characteristics in the first 27 interventional studies conducted based on the ethics for person-centredness provided by the GPCC. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: A questionnaire to the principal investigators of the 27 intervention studies financed by the GPCC and conducted between 2010 and 2016. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Theoretical frameworks, contexts of studies, person-centred ethic, and outcome measures. RESULTS: Most of the interventions were based on the same ethical assumptions for person-centredness but theories and models in applying the interventions differed. All studies were controlled; 12 randomized and 15 quasi-experimental. Hospital in- and outpatient and primary care settings were represented and the outcome measures were related to the specific theories used. A complexity in designing, introducing and evaluating PCC interventions was evident. CONCLUSION: The frameworks, designs and interventions in the studies were in line with the established ethical basis of PCC, whereas outcome measures varied widely. Consensus discussions among researchers in the field are needed to make comparisons between studies feasible. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTIONS: Patients or the public made no direct contributions, although most of the studied projects included such initiatives.
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48. |
- Hall, Siobhan Mackenzie, et al.
(author)
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Ten simple rules for pushing boundaries of inclusion at academic events
- 2024
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In: PloS Computational Biology. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1553-734X .- 1553-7358. ; 20:3
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Inclusion at academic events is facing increased scrutiny as the communities these events serve raise their expectations for who can practically attend. Active efforts in recent years to bring more diversity to academic events have brought progress and created momentum. However, we must reflect on these efforts and determine which underrepresented groups are being disadvantaged. Inclusion at academic events is important to ensure diversity of discourse and opinion, to help build networks, and to avoid academic siloing. All of these contribute to the development of a robust and resilient academic field. We have developed these Ten Simple Rules both to amplify the voices that have been speaking out and to celebrate the progress of many Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity practices that continue to drive the organisation of academic events. The Rules aim to raise awareness as well as provide actionable suggestions and tools to support these initiatives further. This aims to support academic organisations such as the Deep Learning Indaba, Neuromatch Academy, the IBRO-Simons Computational Neuroscience Imbizo, Biodiversity Information Standards (TDWG), Arabs in Neuroscience, FAIRPoints, and OLS (formerly Open Life Science). This article is a call to action for organisers to reevaluate the impact and reach of their inclusive practices.
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49. |
- Hallén, Tobias, et al.
(author)
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Circulating brain injury biomarkers increase after endoscopic surgery for pituitary tumors.
- 2021
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In: Journal of clinical neuroscience : official journal of the Neurosurgical Society of Australasia. - : Elsevier BV. - 1532-2653. ; 89, s. 113-121
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Pituitary tumors and subsequent treatment with endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (ETSS) may cause injury to suprasellar structures, causing long-term fatigue and neurocognitive impairment. A method to quantify brain injury after ETSS is not available. In this prospective, exploratory study of patients undergoing ETSS for pituitary tumors, a novel approach to detect possible neuronal damage is presented. Plasma concentrations of brain injury biomarkers (glial fibrillary acidic protein [GFAP], tau, and neurofilament light [NFL]) were measured the day before surgery, immediately after surgery, at day 1 and 5, and at 6 and 12months after surgery, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The association between the increase of biomarkers with preoperative tumor extension and postoperative patient-perceived fatigue was evaluated. Suprasellar tumor extension was assessed from MRI scans, and self-perceived fatigue was assessed using the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory before and 6months after surgery. Thirty-five patients were included in the analysis. Compared to baseline, GFAP showed a maximal increase at day 1 after surgery (p=0.0005), tau peaked postoperatively on the day of surgery (p=0.019), and NFL reached its maximum at day 5 after surgery (p<0.0001). The increase in GFAP correlated with preoperative chiasmal compression (p=0.020). The increase in tau was correlated with preoperative chiasmal (p=0.011) and hypothalamus compression (p=0.016), and fatigue score 6months after surgery (p=0.016). In conclusion, the concentrations of brain injury biomarkers in blood increased after ETSS for pituitary tumors. The results indicate that postoperative plasma GFAP and tau might reflect astroglial and neuronal damage after ETSS.
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50. |
- Hallén, Tobias, et al.
(author)
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Sinonasal Symptoms and Self-Reported Health before and after Endoscopic Pituitary Surgery-A Prospective Study
- 2022
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In: Journal of Neurological Surgery, Part B: Skull Base. - : Georg Thieme Verlag KG. - 2193-634X .- 2193-6331. ; 83:suppl. 2
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- © 2021 Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.. All rights reserved. Objectives Despite the limited invasiveness of endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (ETSS), some degree of nasal structure destruction is unavoidable. Our objective was to evaluate sinonasal morbidity and self-reported health before and 6 months after ETSS for pituitary tumors, and to identify possible predictive factors for deterioration in sinonasal health. Design Prospective observational cohort study. Setting University tertiary referral hospital. Participants Totally 109 consecutive adult patients undergoing ETSS for pituitary tumors between 2015 and 2019. Main Outcome Measures Sinonasal symptoms and self-reported health before and 6 months after ETSS, assessed by the Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and the EQ-5D questionnaire. Predictive factors for postoperative deterioration in sinonasal symptoms. Results The overall SNOT-22 score did not change, but the score of the rhinologic domain of SNOT-22 worsened from 6.0 ± 5.9 before to 8.0 ± 7.4 6 months after surgery (p = 0.011). The EQ-5D visual analog scale improved from 64.0 ± 22.9 before to 71.1 ± 18.7 6 months after surgery (p = 0.00088). Univariate and multivariable regression analyses showed that prior sinonasal surgery was associated with a significant worsening in rhinologic symptoms 6 months after surgery (p = 0.046 and p = 0.020, respectively). Conclusions Although self-reported overall health improved, significant deterioration of rhinologic symptoms was seen 6 months after ETSS. This information is important for preoperative patient counselling. Further refinement of the surgical technique and follow-up strategies to reduce postoperative sinonasal morbidity could be of value, especially in patients who have undergone prior sinonasal surgery.
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