| 1. |
- Hellman, Kristina, et al.
(author)
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Differential tissue-specific protein markers of vaginal carcinoma
- 2009
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In: British Journal of Cancer. - : Cancer Research UK. - 0007-0920 .- 1532-1827. ; 100:8, s. 1303-1314
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The objective was to identify proteins differentially expressed in vaginal cancer to elucidate relevant cancer-related proteins. A total of 16 fresh-frozen tissue biopsies, consisting of 5 biopsies from normal vaginal epithelium, 6 from primary vaginal carcinomas and 5 from primary cervical carcinomas, were analysed using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Of the 43 proteins identified with significant alterations in protein expression between non-tumourous and tumourous tissue, 26 were upregulated and 17 were downregulated. Some were similarly altered in vaginal and cervical carcinoma, including cytoskeletal proteins, tumour suppressor proteins, oncoproteins implicated in apoptosis and proteins in the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Three proteins were uniquely altered in vaginal carcinoma (DDX48, erbB3-binding protein and biliverdin reductase) and five in cervical carcinoma (peroxiredoxin 2, annexin A2, sarcomeric tropomyosin kappa, human ribonuclease inhibitor and prolyl-4-hydrolase beta). The identified proteins imply involvement of multiple different cellular pathways in the carcinogenesis of vaginal carcinoma. Similar protein alterations were found between vaginal and cervical carcinoma suggesting common tumourigenesis. However, the expression level of some of these proteins markedly differs among the three tissue specimens indicating that they might be useful molecular markers.
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| 2. |
- Lomnytska, Marta I, et al.
(author)
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Diagnostic protein marker patterns in squamous cervicalcancer
- 2010
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In: Proteomics - Clinical Applications. - Weinheim : WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA. - 1862-8346 .- 1862-8354. ; 4:1, s. 17-31
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose: Cervical cancer is the second most prevalent malignancy of women. Our aim was toidentify additional marker protein patterns for objective diagnosis of squamous cervical cancer(SCC).Experimental design: Collected tissue biopsies of SCC, squamous vaginal cancer (SVC), normalcervical and vaginal mucosa were subjected to 2-DE, SameSpot analysis, MALDI-TOF-MSprotein identification, and analysis of the expression of selected proteins by immunohistochemistry.Results: In 148 protein spots selected by the difference in expression 99 proteins were identified.A differential protein pattern for SCC was, e.g. over-expressed (OE) eukaryotic translationinitiation factor 3-2b, neutrophil cytosolic factor 2, annexin A6 (ANXA6), for SVC it was OEcathepsin D, g-catenin, RAB2A, for both cancers it was OE apolipoprotein E, tropomyosin 3,HSPA8, and underexpressed cytokeratin 13, osteoglycin. In SCC nuclear expression ofneutrophil cytosolic factor 2, PRDX2, HSP27 (nine of ten cases), ANXA6 (nine of ten cases) wasobserved while tropomyosin 4 was expressed only in two of ten cases. There was 81.1% (43/53)agreement between the expression of protein spots and the immune expression of proteins(www.proteinatlas.org).Conclusions and clinical relevance: SCC is characterized by specific tissue marker proteinpatterns that allow objective detection of the disease. They can become a basis for objectiveautomated cytology-based screening and improve current diagnostics of SCC.
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| 3. |
- Alexandra, Wide, et al.
(author)
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Fertility-related information received by young women and men with cancer : a population-based survey
- 2021
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In: Acta Oncologica. - : Taylor & Francis. - 0284-186X .- 1651-226X. ; 60:8, s. 976-983
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Infertility is a well-known sequela of cancer treatment. Despite guidelines recommending early discussions about risk of fertility impairment and fertility preservation options, not all patients of reproductive age receive such information.Aims: This study aimed to investigate young adult cancer patients' receipt of fertility-related information and use of fertility preservation, and to identify sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with receipt of information.Materials and methods: A population-based cross-sectional survey study was conducted with 1010 young adults with cancer in Sweden (response rate 67%). The inclusion criteria were: a previous diagnosis of breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, brain tumor, lymphoma or testicular cancer between 2016 and 2017, at an age between 18 and 39 years. Data were analyzed using logistic regression models.Results: A majority of men (81%) and women (78%) reported having received information about the potential impact of cancer/treatment on their fertility. A higher percentage of men than women reported being informed about fertility preservation (84% men vs. 40% women, p < .001) and using gamete or gonadal cryopreservation (71% men vs. 15% women, p < .001). Patients with brain tumors and patients without a pretreatment desire for children were less likely to report being informed about potential impact on their fertility and about fertility preservation. In addition, being born outside Sweden was negatively associated with reported receipt of information about impact of cancer treatment on fertility. Among women, older age (>35 years), non-heterosexuality and being a parent were additional factors negatively associated with reported receipt of information about fertility preservation.Conclusion: There is room for improvement in the equal provision of information about fertility issues to young adult cancer patients.
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| 4. |
- Andersson, Björn, 1985, et al.
(author)
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Nitrogen fixation in shallow-water sediments: Spatial distribution and controlling factors
- 2014
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In: Limnology and Oceanography. - : Wiley. - 0024-3590 .- 1939-5590. ; 59:6, s. 1932-1944
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Nitrogenase activity (NA) in shallow-water (< 1 m) sediments was investigated at 60 randomly selected sites along a 150 km stretch on the brackish-water Swedish west coast, without targeting any specific type of sediments, such as microbial mats. Benthic nitrogen (N) fixation and diazotrophs (nifH genes) were found at all sites, regardless of the presence of cyanobacterial or microbial mats. The majority of sites showed N fixation rates between 0.03 and 1 mmol N m−2 d−1. These rates were similar to those of benthic denitrification previously measured in the area. Maximum rates up to 3.4 mmol N m−2 d−1 were measured. A structural equation model was used to investigate direct and indirect effects of biogeochemical and physical factors on NA. Number of nifH genes had the largest direct positive influence on NA, whereas increasing wave exposure had an indirect negative effect on NA through its influence on the diazotrophic abundance. Increased salinity, previously been shown to suppress NA in coastal waters, was found to directly stimulate benthic N fixation, likely by generating favorable conditions for diazotrophic sulfate-reducing bacteria. Our field data confirmed previously observed negative effects of dissolved inorganic nitrogen on NA, which have so far mainly been experimentally studied. Both NA rates and the number of nifH genes correlated positively with pore-water dissolved inorganic phosphorus concentrations. These findings show that the potential for N fixation in illuminated sediments can be considerable, stretching beyond cyanobacterial mats, being controlled by complex interactions between biotic and abiotic factors.
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| 5. |
- Bergstrom, Charlotta, et al.
(author)
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Do young adults with cancer receive information about treatment- related impact on sex life? : Results from a population-based study
- 2023
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In: Cancer Medicine. - : WILEY. - 2045-7634. ; 12:8, s. 9893-9901
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Sexual dysfunction is common following a cancer diagnosis in young adulthood (18-39 years) and problems related to sex life are ranked among the core concerns in this age group. Yet, few studies have investigated to what extent adults younger than 40, receive information from healthcare providers about the potential impact of cancer and its treatment on their sex life.Methods A population-based cross-sectional survey study was conducted with 1010 young adults 1.5 years after being diagnosed with cancer (response rate 67%). Patients with breast, cervical, ovarian and testicular cancer, lymphoma, and brain tumors were identified in national quality registries. Sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with receiving information were examined using multivariable binary logistic regression.Results Men to a higher extent than women reported having received information about potential cancer-related impact on their sex life (68% vs. 54%, p < 0.001). Receipt of information varied across diagnoses; in separate regression models, using lymphoma as reference, both women and men with brain tumors were less likely to receive information (women: OR 0.10, CI = 0.03-0.30; men: OR 0.37, CI = 0.16-0.85). More intensive treatment was associated with higher odds of receiving information in both women (OR 1.89; CI = 1.28-2.79) and men (OR 2.08; CI = 1.09-3.94). None of the sociodemographic factors were associated with receipt of information.Conclusions To improve sexual health communication to young adults with cancer, we recommend diagnosis-specific routines that clarify when in the disease trajectory to discuss these issues with patients and what to address in these conversations.
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| 6. |
- Bjurberg, Maria, et al.
(author)
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Primary treatment patterns and survival of cervical cancer in Sweden : A population-based Swedish Gynecologic Cancer Group Study
- 2019
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In: Gynecologic Oncology. - : ACADEMIC PRESS INC ELSEVIER SCIENCE. - 0090-8258 .- 1095-6859. ; 155:2, s. 229-236
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: Survival in cervical cancer has improved little over the last decades. We aimed to elucidate primary treatment patterns and survival. Methods: Population-based study of patients included in the Swedish Quality Registry for Gynecologic Cancer diagnosed 2011-2015. Main outcome was 5-year relative survival (RS). Age-standardised RS (AS-RS) was estimated for the total cohort and for the pooled study population of squamous, adenosquamous-, adenocarcinoma. Results: Median follow-up time was 4.6 years. The study population consisted of 2141 patients; 97% of the 2212 patients in the total cohort and the 5-year AS-RS was 71% and 70%, respectively. RS stage IB1: surgery alone 95% vs. 72% for definitive chemoradiotherapy (CT-RT) (p < 0.001). In stage IIA1 74% had CTRL, and 47% of operated patients received adjuvant (CT)-RT. RS stage IB2: surgically treated 81% (69% received adjuvant (CT)-RT) vs. 76% for (CT)-RT (p = 0.73). RS stage IIB: 77% for CT-RT + brachytherapy BT), 37% for RT + BT (p = 0.045) and 27% for RT-BT (p < 0.001). Stages III-IVA; <40% received CT-RT + BT, RS 45% vs. 18% for RT-BT (RR 4.1, p < 0.001). RS stage IVB 7%. Conclusion: Primary treatment of cervical cancer in Sweden adhered to evidence-based standard of care. Areas of improvement include optimising treatment for stages III-IVA, and avoiding combining surgery and radiotherapy. (C) 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
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| 7. |
- Borgfeldt, Christer, et al.
(author)
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Survival in endometrial cancer in relation to minimally invasive surgery or open surgery : a Swedish Gynecologic Cancer Group (SweGCG) study
- 2021
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In: BMC Cancer. - : BioMed Central (BMC). - 1471-2407. ; 21:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BackgroundThe aim of this study was to analyze overall survival in endometrial cancer patients’ FIGO stages I-III in relation to surgical approach; minimally invasive (MIS) or open surgery (laparotomy).MethodsA population-based retrospective study of 7275 endometrial cancer patients included in the Swedish Quality Registry for Gynecologic Cancer diagnosed from 2010 to 2018. Cox proportional hazard models were used in univariable and multivariable survival analyses.ResultsIn univariable analysis open surgery was associated with worse overall survival compared with MIS hazard ratio, HR, 1.39 (95% CI 1.18–1.63) while in the multivariable analysis, surgical approach (MIS vs open surgery) was not associated with overall survival after adjustment for known risk factors (HR 1.12, 95% CI 0.95–1.32). Higher FIGO stage, non-endometrioid histology, non-diploid tumors, lymphovascular space invasion and increasing age were independent risk factors for overall survival.ConclusionThe minimal invasive or open surgical approach did not show any impact on survival for patients with endometrial cancer stages I-III when known prognostic risk factors were included in the multivariable analyses.
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| 8. |
- Dahm-Kähler, Pernilla, et al.
(author)
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Has time to chemotherapy from primary debulking surgery in advanced ovarian cancer an impact on survival? - A population-based nationwide SweGCG study
- 2024
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In: Gynecologic Oncology. - : ACADEMIC PRESS INC ELSEVIER SCIENCE. - 0090-8258 .- 1095-6859. ; 186, s. 69-76
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate if time to start chemotherapy (TTC) after primary debulking surgery (PDS) impacted relative survival (RS) in advanced epithelial ovarian/fallopian tube/primary peritoneal cancer (EOC). Methods: Nationwide population-based study of women with EOC FIGO stages IIIC-IV, registered 2008–2018 in the Swedish Quality Register for Gynecologic Cancer, treated with PDS and chemotherapy. TTC was categorized into; ≤21 days, 22-28 days, 29-35 days, 36-42 days and > 42 days. Relative survival (RS) was estimated using the Pohar-Perme estimate of net survival. Multivariable analyses of excess mortality rate ratios (EMRRs) were estimated by Poisson regression models. Results: In total, 1694 women were included. The median age was 65.0 years. Older age and no residual disease were more common in TTC >42 days than 0–21 days. The RS at 5-years was 37.9% and did not differ between TTC groups. In the R0 (no residual disease) cohort (n = 806), 2-year RS was higher in TTC ≤21 days (91.6%) and 22-28 days (91.4%) than TTC >42 days (79.1%). TTC >42 days (EMRR 2.33, p = 0.026), FIGO stage IV (EMRR 1.83, p = 0.007) and non-serous histology (EMRR 4.20, p < 0.001) were associated with 2-year worse excess mortality compared to TTC 0–21 days, in the R0 cohort. TTC was associated with 2-year survival in the R0 cohort in FIGO stage IV but not in stage IIIC. TTC was not associated with RS in patients with residual disease. Conclusions: For the entire cohort, stage IV, non-serous morphology and residual disease, but not TTC, influenced 5-year relative survival. However, longer TTC was associated with a poorer 2-year survival for those without residual disease after PDS.
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| 9. |
- Dahm-Kähler, Pernilla, 1964, et al.
(author)
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Has time to chemotherapy from primary debulking surgery in advanced ovarian cancer an impact on survival?- A population-based nationwide SweGCG study
- 2024
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In: GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY. - : ACADEMIC PRESS INC ELSEVIER SCIENCE. - 0090-8258 .- 1095-6859. ; 186, s. 69-76
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective. The aim of the study was to investigate if time to start chemotherapy (TTC) after primary debulking surgery (PDS) impacted relative survival (RS) in advanced epithelial ovarian/fallopian tube/primary peritoneal cancer (EOC). Methods. Nationwide population-based study of women with EOC FIGO stages IIIC-IV, registered 2008-2018 in the Swedish Quality Register for Gynecologic Cancer, treated with PDS and chemotherapy. TTC was categorized into; <= 21 days, 22-28 days, 29-35 days, 36-42 days and > 42 days. Relative survival (RS) was estimated using the Pohar-Perme estimate of net survival. Multivariable analyses of excess mortality rate ratios (EMRRs) were estimated by Poisson regression models. Results. In total, 1694 women were included. The median age was 65.0 years. Older age and no residual disease were more common in TTC >42 days than 0-21 days. The RS at 5-years was 37.9% and did not differ between TTC groups. In the R0 (no residual disease) cohort (n = 806), 2-year RS was higher in TTC <= 21 days (91.6%) and 22-28 days (91.4%) than TTC >42 days (79.1%). TTC >42 days (EMRR 2.33, p = 0.026), FIGO stage IV (EMRR 1.83, p = 0.007) and non-serous histology (EMRR 4.20, p < 0.001) were associated with 2-year worse excess mortality compared to TTC 0-21 days, in the R0 cohort. TTC was associated with 2-year survival in the R0 cohort in FIGO stage IV but not in stage IIIC. TTC was not associated with RS in patients with residual disease. Conclusions. For the entire cohort, stage IV, non-serous morphology and residual disease, but not TTC, influenced 5-year relative survival. However, longer TTC was associated with a poorer 2-year survival for those without residual disease after PDS. (c) 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
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| 10. |
- Danielsson, Kristina, 1961-
(author)
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Beginners Read Aloud : High versus Low Linguistic Levels in Swedish Beginners' Oral Reading
- 2003
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The aims of this thesis were to examine the utilisation of various linguistic levels in the oral reading of running texts among Swedish beginning readers, and specifically to question the supposedly predominant role of lower (i.e. sub-lexical) linguistic levels by also examining possible evidence of the utilisation of information at the syntactic or semantic levels, as well as textual context. The investigation is based on a corpus constructed from the oral reading of running texts and includes a number of studies using both quantitative and qualitative error analyses.The analyses confirm that other linguistic levels than the sub-lexical have an impact on reading. This was shown both in the linguistic acceptability of errors and the extent to which errors were corrected depending on linguistic acceptability. Although the natural point of departure seemed to be the graphemic level, analyses revealed that graphemic complexity or word transparency alone could not explain error frequencies. In quite a few cases, qualitative analyses revealed, for instance, that higher linguistic levels or knowledge of the world could explain both why words did and did not result in reading errors. However, phonological quantity appeared to be a major difficulty throughout the study, which is clearly related to the graphemic or phonological level.Some differences regarding the developmental perspective were observed. One study indicated that the readers might develop stepwise regarding their utilisation of various linguistic levels, in the sense that they appeared to rely mainly on lower linguistic levels early in reading development. Later they seemed to be dependent on higher linguistic levels, and ultimately they seemed to be sensitive to, rather than dependent on, higher linguistic levels.An interesting result was that the readers seemed to use different strategies for different kinds of words throughout the investigation, using a direct decoding strategy for frequent words, but using a letter-by-letter decoding strategy for less frequent or graphemically complex words.
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| 11. |
- Do, Lan, et al.
(author)
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Anti-CD74 IgA autoantibodies in radiographic axial spondyloarthritis : a longitudinal Swedish study
- 2021
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In: Rheumatology. - : Oxford University Press. - 1462-0324 .- 1462-0332 .- 1310-0505. ; 60:9, s. 4085-4093
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVES: Antibodies against anti-CD74 are related to axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). The objectives were (i) to study IgA anti-CD74 in radiographic (r)-axSpA patients in the Backbone cohort and to calculate the sensitivity and specificity of anti-CD74, (ii) to study the fluctuation of IgA anti-CD74 levels in prospectively collected samples, and (iii) to explore the relation between IgA anti-CD74 and radiographic spinal changes.METHODS: IgA anti-CD74 was analysed by ELISA in 155 patients with r-axSpA and age- and sex-matched controls. BASDAI, ASDAS, BASFI and BASMI were assessed and spinal radiographs were scored for r-axSpA-related changes with mSASSS. Previously donated samples, before inclusion in the Backbone study, were identified in the Medical Biobank of Northern Sweden.RESULTS: A total of 155 patients comprising 69% men and 31% women, age [mean (s.d.)] 55.5 (11.4) years and 152 (98.1%) HLA-B27 positive, were included. The plasma level of IgA anti-CD74 was significantly higher in the patients [median (interquartile range), 12.9 (7.9-17.9) U/ml] compared with controls [10.9 (7.2-14.6) U/ml, P = 0.003]. IgA anti-CD74 was above the cut-off level of 20 U/ml in 36/155 (23.2%) patients and in 15/151 (9.9%) controls (P = 0.002). Multivariable logistic regression analyses revealed ≥1 syndesmophyte associated with IgA anti-CD74 (odds ratio 5.64; 95% CI: 1.02, 35.58; P = 0.048) adjusted for hsCRP, smoking, BMI, sex and age. No distinct pattern of IgA anti-CD74 over time was revealed.CONCLUSION: Plasma levels of IgA anti-CD74 were increased in r-axSpA and independently associated with radiographic spinal changes, which suggests that IgA anti-CD74 could play a role in the pathogenies of r-axSpA.
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| 12. |
- Eliasson, Kristina, et al.
(author)
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Company representatives’ experiences of occupational health surveillance for workers exposed to hand-intensive work : A qualitative study
- 2021
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In: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. - : MDPI. - 1661-7827 .- 1660-4601. ; 18:4
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Exposure assessment seldom precedes the medical health checks in occupational health surveillance. In order to emphasize the interconnection between exposure assessment and medical health checks, a process model was developed. The process model aimed to guide employers and Occupational Health Service providers through the execution of occupational health surveillance. The objective of this qualitative study is to explore company representatives’ experiences of the process model, in terms of feasibility and values, and to identify factors that facilitate or impede the process. Thirty-three company representatives from ten companies were interviewed. Interviews were analyzed using content analysis. The company representatives experienced that the model contributed to increased risk awareness and understanding of the exposure effects on workers’ health. They valued the exposure assessments performed by an ergonomics expert, which led to the discovery of previously unidentified risks. The feasibility was facilitated by: a joint start-up meeting in which the process was planned, clear communication between the involved parties, and clarity regarding the process ownership. The findings reveal that a guiding process model is valuable for the execution of occupational health surveillance. However, the model should not only define the components included; a practical guide concerning how the process can be executed is also needed.
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| 13. |
- Eliasson, Kristina, et al.
(author)
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Does occupational health surveillance lead to risk reduction for workers exposed to hand-intensive work?
- 2023
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In: Applied Ergonomics. - : Elsevier. - 0003-6870 .- 1872-9126. ; 112
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This mixed method study aimed to describe what risk-reducing actions were proposed by ergonomists after the execution of a guided process for occupational health surveillance for workers exposed to hand-intensive work in ten companies. Another aim was to describe the exposed workers' proposals for risk-reducing actions, including their perceptions of potential changes in the self-assessed exposure levels and work-related pain. Several actions, targeting organizational, technical, and/or individual measures were proposed. Proposals from the ergonomists more often targeted the personal measures, whereas the workers' proposals targeted technology or organizational changes. Six companies implemented at least one of the action proposals. These action proposals were not related to evaluation metrics, nor were they evaluated. This study indicates that both ergonomists and companies need guidance on how to improve to work in a participatory process for the implementation and evaluation of risk-reducing actions, e.g., by how to better include workers’ experiences.
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| 14. |
- Eliasson, Kristina, et al.
(author)
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Ergonomists’ experiences of executing occupational health surveillance for workers exposed to hand-intensive work : a qualitative exploration
- 2022
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In: BMC Health Services Research. - : BioMed Central (BMC). - 1472-6963. ; 22:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: In order to reduce work-related upper limb disorders, the Swedish Work Environment Authority introduced an occupational health surveillance targeting hand-intensive work. A process model, aimed at supporting the employers as well as the occupational health service provider (i.e., ergonomist) in the work process with the occupational health surveillance, was developed. The objective of this qualitative study was to explore ergonomists’ experiences of the execution of occupational health surveillance for hand-intensive work when following the novel process model as well as factors influencing the execution.Methods: Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with ten ergonomists on one occasion regarding their experience of following the work process. Qualitative content analysis with an inductive approach was used for analyzing the data.Results: The ergonomists’ experiences were summarized in one theme “A joint roadmap supporting a participatory process” and two categories “Clear structure provided by the components” and “The process influenced by collaboration and context”. The ergonomists valued being guided by the systematics of the model, which provided structure and clarity in their work. Factors affecting the execution were related to communication deficiencies and uncertainties regarding expectations between different roles and functions (e.g., ergonomists and contact person, lack of information to workers). Additional factors, for instance, companies’ routines and the ergonomist’s intra-organizational support, such as access to IT-resources, could also affect the process.Conclusions: The findings reveal that this process model facilitates the ergonomists’ work and cooperation with a client company. However, the process model needs to be developed and accompanied by a guideline with information related to the process, including e.g., description of a start-up meeting and of the roles/functions of the involved parties.
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| 15. |
- Eliasson, Kristina, 1979-
(author)
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Ergonomists’ risk assessments : From guesstimates to strategic approaches
- 2020
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Musculoskeletal disorders are among the most prevalent causes of work-related ill-health, consequently risk assessments of hazardous factors related to these disorders are important for prevention. Occupational Health Services (OHS) providers are independent experts, supporting employers regarding work environment issues and rehabilitation. Ergonomists represents one of the professions within OHS, and risk assessment regarding musculoskeletal disorders is within the scope of their work tasks. The overall objective was to explore Swedish ergonomists’ practices and approaches with risk assessments, in order to contribute new knowledge about how ergonomists’ work methods can be further developed to improve prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Paper I explored the process of risk assessment assignments and the ergonomists’ use of observation-based risk-assessment tools. The result showed a lack of systematic approaches regarding risk assessment assignments and limited use and knowledge of observation-based risk-assessment tools. In Paper II inter-observer and intra-observer reliability of risk assessments, without the use of an explicit observational method were assessed. The results showed a non-acceptable reliability. Paper III explored ergonomists experiences of an e-learning concept for knowledge translation in the OHS context. The e-learning concept was considered as feasible. The knowledge translation inspired increased use of risk-assessment tools, changes in the risk assessment procedures, e.g. selection of tools, and employing a participatory approach. Paper IV described the development of a process model for occupational health surveillance for workers exposed to hand-intensive work (HIW-model), and the studies that will explore the model. Paper V explored company representatives’ experiences of the HIW-model, and factors which facilitated the execution of the model. The model contributed to increased risk awareness and understanding of how individual workers’ musculoskeletal ill-health relates to exposures in work. Facilitating factors were: a joint start-up meeting in which the process was planned, clear communication, and clarity regarding the ownership of the process. In conclusion, the findings showed that ergonomists’ expertise is needed in the entire risk management process and not only in the risk assessment phase. In this process, the ergonomists need to be active and take the expert role (which includes a stocked toolbox) and support the employer through the whole risk management process from initiation to evaluation of risk controlling measures.
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| 16. |
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| 17. |
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| 18. |
- Eliasson, Kristina, et al.
(author)
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Study protocol for a qualitative research project exploring an occupational health surveillance model for workers exposed to hand-intensive work
- 2020
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In: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. - : MDPI. - 1661-7827 .- 1660-4601. ; 17:17
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The objective of this study protocol is to describe the development of a process model for occupational health surveillance for workers exposed to hand-intensive work (the HIW-model), and to describe the studies that will explore the model. The studies are designed to: (1) explore stakeholders' experiences of the model, and (2) explore if, and how, the model affects actions for reduction of exposure to hand-intensive work. The study protocol presents a research project that is described as two studies. The first study will explore company representatives' and ergonomists' experiences of the execution of the HIW-model and its various components concerning feasibility and values. Semi-structured interviews will constitute the data source. The second study will explore whether the execution of the HIW-model leads to work environmental changes, such as actions for reduction of exposure to hand-intensive work, and whether these potential actions are based on the ergonomist's feedback of the exposure assessment and the medical health checks. A mixed method approach will be applied, in which the data sources will be comprised of semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, and documents. The project is expected to generate knowledge regarding the values of the HIW-model. The project is anticipated to shed light on factors that facilitate or impede execution of the model from the different stakeholders' perspectives; the employer's as having the legal responsibility for the work environment, and the occupational health service consultants', being the work environment experts supporting the employers.
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| 19. |
- Forsblad-D'elia, H., et al.
(author)
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DECREASED LEVELS OF T FOLLICULAR HELPER (CD4+CXCR5+) CELLS AND CD27+CD38+ AND CD27+CD38- B CELLS IN ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS PATIENTS CORRELATE WITH MARKER OF INFLAMMATION
- 2021
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In: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. - : BMJ Publishing Group Ltd. - 0003-4967 .- 1468-2060. ; 80:Suppl 1, s. 13-14
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The role of different lymphocyte subsets in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is still to be elucidated. It has previously been reported contradictory data concerning the levels of T Follicular Helper (TFH) cells and differentiated B cells in peripheral blood of AS patients. In addition, the connection to disease related parameters is still to be fully revealed.Objectives:The purpose of this study was to investigate the level of CD4+TFH cells and CD27+CD38+/CD38- B cells in patients with AS from northern Sweden and to compare the levels with age and sex-matched controls. We also studied associations between these cell subsets and disease related factors.Methods:Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMSc) from a cohort of 50 patients with AS from Region Västerbotten (mean age 52±9.1 years, 33 (66 %) men, 50 (100 %) HLAB27 positive) and 50 pair wise matched blood donor controls (mean age 54±8.8 years, 33 (66 %) men) were stained with a combination of antibodies allowing for the detection of CD27, CD38, CD19, CD3, CD4 and CXCR5 markers and analyzed by flow cytometry. In addition, the patient with AS were examined with spinal x-ray for radiographic alterations assessed with mSASSS. CRP and ESR were measured and physical function and disease activity were registered with BASMI and BASFI respectively ASDAS-CRP and BASDAI.Results:When comparing AS patients and controls pair wise, we observed on average a 50% reduction of TFH (CD3+CD4+CXCR5+) cells among CD45+ lymphocytes in PBMCs from patients (p=0,000008). Furthermore, a 20-30% reduction among memory/plasma cells (CD19+CD27+CD38+ and CD19+CD27+CD38-) among CD45+ lymphocytes in PBMCs from patients (p=0,002 and p=0,007 respectively). For female patients a correlation between TFH and ESR (Rs=-0,551 p=0,022) was observed. Moreover, negative correlations between the two B cell subsets (CD19+CD27+CD38+ and CD19+CD27+CD38-) and ESR were observed for female patients (Rs =–0,476 p=0,053 and Rs =–0,522 p=0,032 respectively).Conclusion:TFH cells was reduced in AS patients and this reduction correlated with a reduction in differentiated (CD27+CD38+ and CD27+CD38-) B cells. In addition, the inflammation marker ESR was negatively correlated with TFH as well as with the differentiated B cell subsets in female patients. Our observations indicates a role of the humoral immune response in AS.Disclosure of Interests:None declared
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| 20. |
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| 21. |
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| 22. |
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| 23. |
- Hellman, Heikki, et al.
(author)
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What Is Cultural News Good For? : Finnish, Norwegian, and Swedish cultural journalism in public service organisations
- 2017
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In: Cultural Journalisn in the Nordic Countries. - Göteborg : Nordicom. - 9789187957574 - 9789187957581 ; , s. 111-133
-
Book chapter (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This chapter compares how Nordic public service media institutions (Finland: YLE; Norway: NRK; Sweden: SVT/SR) de ne and interpret their remits regarding cultural news. Relying on policy documents, interviews with managing cultural news editors and a sample week’s broadcast and online cultural news output, the results show distinctive national di erences in the ways cultural news is conceived, the resources and organisation of the cultural news desks, and di erences in news content during the week studied. e countries are most similar in their broad popular culture o ering, and by that fact that all the companies provide broader cultural news coverage on their websites than in their broadcast versions. However, the distinctions between the online and o ine platforms are less clear than those between the three countries. So, despite the commonalities of the Nordic media model, the values and practices of cultural journalism show enough di erences to warrant further study.
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| 24. |
- Hellman, Kristina
(author)
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Vaginal carcinoma : studies on etiology and prognostic factors
- 2005
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Primary carcinoma of the vagina (PCV) is a rare disease, with poor survival, mostly affecting elderly women. Due to its rarity the established knowledge originates from studies based on small materials, therefore little is known regarding the genesis, natural history and factors predicting the prognosis. PCV is supposed to have similar aetiology and natural history as cervical carcinoma, which however mostly occurs at younger ages. Clinical stage is described as the most important prognostic factor. Against this background the objectives of this thesis were focused on the understanding of the genesis of PCV and its prognostic factors. The material in the retrospective studies (paper 1 and 11) is the largest so far published on PCV. A hypothesis was that factors influencing the age at onset of PCV should be connected directly or indirectly with the genesis of the disease. Epidemiological, clinical and histopathological variables were evaluated in relation to age at diagnosis in a retrospective study or 341 cases of PCV, diagnosed 1956 - 1996. According to the statistical analysis the independent predictor for young age at diagnosis was a history of cervical dysplasia and for old age at diagnosis late menarche. Parity >4 as well as nulliparity, smoking and unstable marital status were background factors more common than in the general Swedish female population, but not correlated with age at diagnosis. Clinical and histopathological prognostic factors were evaluated retrospectively in 314 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina. The 5year discase-specific survival rate was 45 % and in stage 175%. In the multivariate analysis there were only three factors that independently could predict poor survival: high age at diagnosis, large tumors (>4cm) and advanced stage. Common background factors with no prognostic significance were prior hysterectomy, other gynecological malignancies and pelvic irradiation. The immunohistochemical expression of laminin-5gamma2 chain, an epithelial basement membrane protein, implicated in tumour cell invasion, was investigated in 59 cases of primary vaginal malignancies. All epithelial tumours showed gamma2 chain immunoreactivity. High expression of the 72 chain was a good predictor of poor survival in the univariate analysis, but not in the multivariate analysis. A positive correlation between tumour size and gamma2 chain expression could also be observed. Comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) of 16 primary vaginal carcinomas revealed that 70% carry relative copy number increases that map to chromosome arm 3q. The pattern of genomic imbalances was strikingly similar to the one observed in advanced cervical tumours. Most PCV were aneuploid, showed high proliferative activity, low p53 and increased p21 expression. Human papilloma virus was detected in 2/8 cases. In the univariate analysis age at diagnosis, tumour size, and laminin-5 expression were identified as predictors or prognosis. Protein expression patterns in six samples from primary vaginal cancers, in five from normal vaginal tissue and in five primary cervical cancers, were analyzed using twodimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2-DE). A total of 23 protein spots were significantly differentially expressed among cervical and vaginal carcinoma. By using these 23 proteins in cluster analysis all samples could be classified into three distinct groups (normal vaginal tissue, vaginal- and cervical carcinoma). There might be a possibility to identify tumour-specific markers among the differentially expressed proteins. In conclusion this thesis supports the theory of related aetiology and tumorigenesis for vaginal and cervical carcinoma. Crude clinical variables (stage, tumour size and age at diagnosis) turned out to be independent predictors of prognosis. PCV appears to be an aggressive tumour characterized by high genomic instability, aneuploidy and high proliferative activity.
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| 25. |
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| 26. |
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| 27. |
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| 28. |
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| 29. |
- Hellman, Urban, et al.
(author)
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Immunological biomarkers in patients with radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, an exploratory longitudinal Swedish study.
- 2024
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In: Modern rheumatology. - 1439-7609.
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives There is a need for more specific biomarkers to diagnose and predict disease course in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). This study aimed to study immunological plasma biomarkers, at different time-points in radiographic (r)-axSpA patients overall and stratified by sex and compare these biomarker pattern in r-axSpA patients concerning disease phenotypes and disease activity. Methods Plasma samples were analysed from r-axSpA patients at and prior (Pre-Backbone) inclusion in the Backbone study. Interferon gamma, interleukin-10, -17A, -17F, -22, -23, -6, MCP-1, TNF-α, VEGF-A, MIF, IgA anti-CD74, zonulin, ESR, hsCRP, white blood cell count, and blood lipids were measured. Results Biomarker pattern discriminated significantly between r-axSpA patients in Backbone and Pre-Backbone compared with controls. When stratifying by sex, it was possible to discriminate between male and female r-axSpA patients in Backbone vs controls and between male r-axSpA patients in pre-Backbone and controls. In Backbone, markers with high discriminative capacity were MIF, IgA anti-CD74, and MCP-1. In Pre-Backbone, IL-6, TNF-α, MIF, triglycerides, cholesterol, IL-10, and zonulin displayed high discriminative capacity. Conclusion Based on their temporal pattern and mutual relationship, we suggest studying MIF, IgA anti-CD74, and MCP-1 in depth, at more time points, to further elucidate disease-driving mechanisms in this complex disease.
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| 30. |
- Hjerpe, Elisabet, et al.
(author)
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Lymph node metastases as only qualifier for stage IV serous ovarian cancer confers longer survival than other sites of distant disease - a Swedish Gynecologic Cancer Group (SweGCG) study.
- 2018
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In: Acta oncologica (Stockholm, Sweden). - : TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD. - 1651-226X .- 0284-186X. ; 57:3, s. 331-337
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) ovarian cancer staging system includes no sub-stage for lymph nodes (LN) as only distant disease manifestation. We explore the prognostic implication of LN as only stage IV classifier in serous ovarian cancer.This is a nation-wide, population-based study on 551 women with serous stage IV cancers diagnosed between 2009-2014. We compare overall survival (OS) in women with LN as only distant metastatic site to those with pleural metastases only and to patients with other/multiple stage IV manifestations. Cox regression models were used for uni- and multivariable estimations.Of 551stage IV cases, distant metastatic site was registered in 433. Median OS for women with LN (n=51) was 41.4 months, compared to 25.2 and 26.8 months for patients with pleural (n=195) or other/multiple (n=187) distant metastases (p=.0007). The corresponding five-year survival rates were 32, 11 and 22%, respectively. Multivariable analyzes confirmed shorter survival for women with pleural (HR 2.99, p=.001) or other/multiple distant sites (HR 2.67, p=.007), as compared to LN cases. LN only patients lived 9.1 months longer after primary than after interval surgery, but this difference was not significant (p=.245).Women with stage IV serous ovarian cancer having lymph nodes as only distant metastatic site live longer than other stage IV patients.
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| 31. |
- Ivaska, KK, et al.
(author)
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Identification of novel proteolytic forms of osteocalcin in human urine
- 2003
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In: Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications. - 1090-2104. ; 306:4, s. 973-980
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In this study, we report the isolation and characterization of osteocalcin in human urine using mass spectrometry and N-terminal sequencing. Multiple proteolytic forms of osteocalcin were found, which consisted of 16-27 residues from the middle region of the molecule. Several fragments had residue Gly7 at the N-terminus and the most predominant was fragment 7-31. Additional fragments starting from residue Asp14 were detected in the samples of children and young adults. Immunochemical detection of urine osteocalcin fragments had a statistically significant negative correlation to bone mineral density in evaluation of urine samples from 75-year-old women. Thus, the measurement of osteocalcin fragments in urine may have potential applications in diagnostics related to disorders of bone metabolism.
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| 32. |
- Kjaer, Josefin, et al.
(author)
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Benefit of Primary Tumor Resection in Stage IV, Grade 1 and 2, Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors : A Propensity-Score Matched Cohort Study
- 2022
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In: Annals of Surgery Open. - : Wolters Kluwer. - 2691-3593. ; 3:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: To determine the association of primary tumor resection in stage IV pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (Pan-NET) and survival in a propensity-score matched study.Background: Pan-NET are often diagnosed with stage IV disease. The oncologic benefit from primary tumor resection in this scenario is debated and previous studies show contradictory results.Methods: Patients from 3 tertiary referral centers from January 1, 1985, through December 31, 2019: Uppsala University Hospital (Uppsala, Sweden), Sahlgrenska University Hospital (Gothenburg, Sweden), and Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston, USA) were assessed for eligibility. Patients with sporadic, grade 1 and 2, stage IV pan-NET, with baseline 2000–2019 were divided between those undergoing primary tumor resection combined with oncologic treatment (surgery group [SG]), and those who received oncologic treatment without primary tumor resection (non-SG). A propensity-score matching was performed to account for the variability in the extent of metastatic disease and comorbidity. Primary outcome was overall survival.Results: Patients with stage IV Pan-NET (n = 733) were assessed for eligibility, 194 were included. Patients were divided into a SG (n = 65) and a non-SG (n = 129). Two isonumerical groups with 50 patients in each group remained after propensity-score matching. The 5-year survival was 65.4% (95% CI, 51.5-79.3) in the matched SG and 47.8% (95% CI, 30.6-65.0) in the matched non-SG (log-rank, P = 0.043).Conclusions: Resection of the primary tumor in patients with stage IV Pan-NET and G1/G2 grade was associated with prolonged overall survival compared to nonoperative management. A surgically aggressive regime should be considered where resection is not contraindicated.
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| 33. |
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| 34. |
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| 35. |
- Law, Lucy, et al.
(author)
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Increased carotid intima-media thickness in patients with radiographic axial spondyloarthritis compared to controls and associations with markers of inflammation
- 2024
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In: CLINICAL RHEUMATOLOGY. - : Springer Nature. - 0770-3198 .- 1434-9949.
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective There is an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients with radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (r-axSpA). In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to, overall and stratified by sex, (i) compare ultrasound derived carotid intima media thickness (cIMT), between patients and controls, and (ii) investigate associations between cIMT, clinical disease activity and inflammation-related laboratory markers in patients with r-axSpA. Method In total, 155 patients diagnosed with r-axSpA using the modified New York criteria and 400 controls were included. Bilateral carotid ultrasound, laboratory testing, and questionaries were acquired. Disease-specific assessments were carried out for patients. Linear regression analysis was used to assess associations. Results Linear regression analyses showed that patients with r-axSpA had increased mean cIMT compared to controls (mean +/- SD, 0.8 +/- 0.1 mm vs 0.7 +/- 0.1 mm, respectively, unstandardized beta (95% CI) -0.076 (-0.10, -0.052), P < 0.001) adjusted for smoking status and age. Linear regression analyses for patients with r-axSpA showed that only males presented significant associations between cIMT and inflammation-related laboratory markers, white blood cell (WBC) count (mean +/- SD, 6.8 +/- 1.6 10(9)/L) and monocytes (0.6 +/- 0.2 10(9)/L); WBC count (unstandardized beta (95% CI) 0.019 (0.0065, 0.031), P = 0.003, R-2 = 0.57) and monocytes (0.13 (0.0047, 0.26), P = 0.041, R-2 = 0.55), adjusted for age, smoking status, body mass index, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, ASDAS-CRP, and treatment with DMARDs and glucocorticoids. No significant association was found between cIMT and clinical disease activity assessed by ASDAS-CRP. Conclusion Patients with r-axSpA had significantly increased cIMT compared to controls. In male patients, higher WBC and monocyte count were associated with an increase in cIMT suggesting the role of inflammation in the development of atherosclerosis.
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| 36. |
- Lejon, Kristina, 1967-, et al.
(author)
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Decreased levels of T follicular helper (CD4+CXCR5+) cells and CD27+CD38+and CD27+CD38-B cells in ankylosing spondylitis patients correlate with markers of inflammation
- 2023
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0300-9475 .- 1365-3083. ; 97:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The purpose of this study was to study CD4+CXCR5+ T follicular helper (TFH) cells, CD27+CD38+ plasmablasts and CD27+CD38- memory B cells, as well as disease-related factors in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) from northern Sweden. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 50 patients with AS (mean age 52 +/- 9 years, 66% men, 100% HLA-B27 positive) and 50 pairwise matched blood donor controls (mean age 54 +/- 9 years, 66% men) were stained with antibodies for CD27, CD38, CD19, CD3, CD4 and CXCR5 markers and analysed by flow cytometry. Patients with AS were examined with spinal x-ray for radiographic alterations (mSASSS), and plasma levels of C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, as well as selected proinflammatory and regulatory cytokines were determined. Physical mobility, function and disease activity were registered by BASMI, BASFI and ASDAS-CRP, BASDAI, respectively. Comparing AS patients and controls pairwise, we observed a 56% reduction of TFH cells in PBMCs from AS patients (P = .000008). Furthermore, a 20%-30% reduction in plasmablasts and B memory cells (P <= .002 and P <= .007, respectively) was observed. In female patients, negative correlations between ESR and TFH, plasmablasts and B memory cells were observed; Rs = -0.551, P <= .02; Rs = -0.476, P <= .05 and Rs = -0.522, P <= .03, respectively. In addition, positive correlations between the regulatory cytokine IL-10 and the proportion of B cells, IL-22, and the proportion of plasmablasts as well as a negative correlation between levels of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-6 and TFH were detected. Our observations indicate a role of an aberrant humoral immune response related to inflammation in AS.
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| 37. |
- Lejon, Kristina, 1967-, et al.
(author)
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Increased Proportion of TH17, TH22 and TC17 Cells and the Correlation to IL-22 and Clinical Parameters in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis from Northern Sweden
- 2020
-
In: Arthritis & Rheumatology. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 2326-5191 .- 2326-5205. ; 72
-
Journal article (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Background/Purpose: Increased levels of TH17 and TH22 as well as TC17 and TC22 cells have previously been associated with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). The correlation between these inflammatory T cell subsets and clinically relevant parameters as well as cytokines has also been reported. However, the status of these inflammatory cells in a well characterized AS cohort from northern Sweden has not been studied. The purpose of this study was to confirm the increased presence of inflammatory T cell subsets in peripheral blood of patients with AS from northern Sweden in relation to age and sex-matched controls. In addition, associations of clinically relevant parameters with the level of the inflammatory T cell subset(s) and cytokines of interest were performed.Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from a cohort of 50 patients with AS from Region Västerbotten (Modif NY, mean age 52±9.1 years, 33 (66 %) men, 50 (100 %) HLAB27) and 50 pair wise matched blood donor controls (mean age 54±8.8 years, 33 (66 %) men) were stained with a combination of antibodies allowing for the detection of surface expressed CD45, CD3, CD4, CD8, intracellular IL-17 and IL-22 and analyzed by flow cytometry. In addition, levels of IL-17 and IL-22 in plasma were determined by the Meso Scale Discovery platform. The patient with AS were examined with spinal x-ray for radiographic alterations assessed with mSASSS. CRP and ESR were measured and physical function and disease activity were registered with BASMI and BASFI respectively ASDAS-CRP and BASDAI.Results: Pair wise comparison of AS patients and controls showed a 1,5 to 2-fold increase of TH17, TH22 and TC22 cells among CD45+CD3+ lymphocytes in PBMCs of male patients (p=0,013, p=0,003 and p=0,024 respectively). Levels of IL-22 in plasma and proportion of TC17 correlated in male patients (Rs=0,499 p=0,003) and plasma levels of IL10 showed an inverse correlation in relation to TC17 in all patients (Rs=-0,276 p=0,05). In female AS patients there was a negative correlation between TC22 and CRP (Rs = -0,573, p=0,016). In addition, after splitting the group of female into pre- and postmenopausal correlation between TC17 and mSASSS (Rs = 0,845, p=0,034), TC22 and BASFI (Rs = 0,986, p=0,0003) (premenopausal) and TC22 and BASMI (Rs = 0,764, p=0,006) (postmenopausal) was observed.Conclusion: We confirm an increased proportion of TH17, TH22 and TC17 cells in blood in AS male patients from northern Sweden. In addition, positive correlation of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-22 and negative correlation of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in relation to TC17 corroborate the influence of these cells in the disease process. Interestingly, in female AS patients there was a correlation between clinical relevant parameters to particular inflammatory T cell subset dependent on the menopausal status, suggesting a role of female sex hormones in AS pathogenesis.
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| 38. |
- Lejon, Kristina, 1967-, et al.
(author)
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Increased proportions of inflammatory T cells and their correlations with cytokines and clinical parameters in patients with ankylosing spondylitis from northern Sweden
- 2022
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0300-9475 .- 1365-3083. ; 96:3
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an autoimmune disease affecting parts of the skeletal structure in particular. Previously increased levels of the inflammatory cell types Th17, Th22, Tc17 and Tc22 cells have been shown to be associated with AS. Here, we analysed the levels of inflammatory T cell subsets, related cytokines and clinical characteristics of AS patients vs controls from northern Sweden. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from 50 AS patients and 50 matched controls were short term stimulated with PMA/Ionomycin, stained and analysed by flow cytometry. Plasma levels of Interleukin (IL)-17, IL-22, IL-10 as well as clinically relevant markers were determined. Compared to male controls, male AS patients showed 1.5- to 2-fold increases of Th17 (P = .013), Th22 (P = .003) and Tc22 (P = .024) among CD45(+)CD3(+) lymphocytes. Plasma IL-22 levels correlated with the Tc17 proportion in male patients (R-s = 0.499, P = .003) and plasma IL-10 levels were inversely correlated with Tc17 among all patients (R-s = -0.276, P = .05). Male patients with syndesmophytes showed significantly higher Th17 proportions (P = .038). In female AS patients, Tc22 was negatively correlated with C-reactive protein (high sensitivity) (hsCRP) (R-s = -0.573, P = .016). We confirmed increased proportions of inflammatory T cells and correlations with relevant cytokines from male AS patients. The correlation between Th17 and syndesmophytes supports a role of Th17 in the pathogenic process.
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| 39. |
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| 40. |
- Malewicz, Michal, et al.
(author)
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Essential role for DNA-PK-mediated phosphorylation of NR4A nuclear orphan receptors in DNA double-strand break repair
- 2011
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In: Genes & Development. - : Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. - 0890-9369 .- 1549-5477. ; 25:19, s. 2031-2040
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) is a central regulator of DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair; however, the identity of relevant DNA-PK substrates has remained elusive. NR4A nuclear orphan receptors function as sequence-specific DNA-binding transcription factors that participate in adaptive and stress-related cell responses. We show here that NR4A proteins interact with the DNA-PK catalytic subunit and, upon exposure to DNA damage, translocate to DSB foci by a mechanism requiring the activity of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1). At DNA repair foci, NR4A is phosphorylated by DNA-PK and promotes DSB repair. Notably, NR4A transcriptional activity is entirely dispensable in this function, and core components of the DNA repair machinery are not transcriptionally regulated by NR4A. Instead, NR4A functions directly at DNA repair sites by a process that requires phosphorylation by DNA-PK. Furthermore, a severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)-causing mutation in the human gene encoding the DNA-PK catalytic subunit impairs the interaction and phosphorylation of NR4A at DSBs. Thus, NR4As represent an entirely novel component of DNA damage response and are substrates of DNA-PK in the process of DSB repair.
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| 41. |
- Marcickiewicz, Janusz, et al.
(author)
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The wait time to primary surgery in endometrial cancer - impact on survival and predictive factors : a population-based SweGCG study
- 2022
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In: Acta Oncologica. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0284-186X .- 1651-226X. ; 61:1, s. 30-37
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Poor survival rates in different cancer types are sometimes blamed on diagnostic and treatment delays, and it has been suggested that such delays might be related to sociodemographic factors such as education and ethnicity. We examined associations of the wait time from diagnosis to surgery and survival in endometrial cancer (EC) and explored patient and tumour factors influencing the wait time. Material and methods In this historical population-based cohort study, The Swedish Quality Registry for Gynaecologic Cancer (SQRGC) was used to identify EC patients who underwent primary surgery between 2010 and 2018. Factors associated with a wait time > 32 d were analysed with logistic regression. The 32-d time point was defined in accordance with the Swedish Standardisation Cancer Care programme. Adjusted Poisson regression analyses were used to analyse excess mortality rate ratio (EMRR). Results Out of 7366 women, 5535 waited > 32 d for surgery and 1098 > 70 d. The overall median wait time was 44 d. The factors most strongly associated with a wait time > 32 d were surgery at a university hospital (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-1.66) followed by country of birth (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.10-1.55) and year of diagnosis. There were no associations between wait time and histology or age. A wait time < 15 d was associated with higher mortality (adjusted EMRR 2.29,95% CI 1.36-3.84) whereas no negative survival impact was seen with a wait time of 70 d. Age, tumour stage, histology and risk group were highly associated with survival, whereas education, country of origin and hospital level did not have any impact on survival. Conclusions Surgery within the first two weeks after EC diagnosis was associated with worsened survival. A prolonged wait time did not seem to have any significant adverse effect on prognosis.
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| 42. |
- Nørgaard Kristensen, Nete, et al.
(author)
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Cultural Mediators Seduced by Mad Men : How Cultural Journalists Legitimized a Quality TV Series in the Nordic Region
- 2019
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In: Television and New Media. - : Sage Publications. - 1527-4764 .- 1552-8316. ; 20:3, s. 257-274
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Based on theories about the role of cultural mediators in cultural production and using the TV series Mad Men as a case, this article investigates how cultural journalists in the Nordic countries have contributed to legitimizing “quality TV series” as a worthy field of aesthetic consumption. Key analytical points are as follows: (1) cultural journalists legitimize Mad Men’s quality by addressing aspects internal (aesthetic markers) and aspects external (culture industry markers) to the series, as well as the series’ broader social and historical anchoring; (2) Nordic cultural journalists position themselves positively toward the TV series based on their professional expertise and their personal taste preferences and predilections; (3) these legitimation processes take place across journalistic genres, pointing to the importance not only of TV criticism, epitomized by the review, but of cultural journalism more broadly in constructing affirmative attitudes toward popular culture phenomena such as TV series.
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| 43. |
- Olsson, Cecilia, 1971-, et al.
(author)
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Adaption of the Quality From the Patient’s Perspective Instrument for Use in Assessing Gynecological Cancer Care and Patients’ Perceptions of Quality Care Received
- 2022
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In: Cancer Care Research Online. - : Wolters Kluwer. - 2691-3623. ; 2:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Research focusing on patients’ perceptions of the quality of gynecological cancer care is needed.Objective: To adapt the Quality from the Patient’s Perspective instrument for use in gynecological cancer care (QPP-GynCa) and describe patients’ perceptions of their quality of care in terms of the care received and the subjective importance of the aspects of care.Methods: A cross-sectional study 6–8 months after diagnosis was conducted, involving 1511 patients (response rate of 50.4%) included in the Swedish quality registry for gynecologic cancer.Results: The exploratory factor analysis (n = 1431) resulted in the QPP-GynCa with a 5-factor structure and an eigenvalue of ≥1, explaining 73.1% of the total scale variance. The final 27-item version of the QPP-GynCa consisted of 18 items with 8 additional single items and 1 global single item. The Cronbach’s alpha was acceptable for most factors (>.80). Subjective importance scores were higher than corresponding quality of care scores for care received (P ≤ .01)in all dimensions, factors, and items.Conclusions: The QPP-GynCa instrument reflects all 4 dimensions of the theoretical model of quality of care and achieved good validity as a reliable instrument in assessing the quality of gynecological cancer care.Implication for Practice: Information related to self-care, aspects of sexuality, and reducing patient waiting times need improvement.What Is Foundational: This study contributes to a better understanding of quality of gynecological cancer treatment and care. The validated QPP-GynCa instrument will be a platform for more research on how this group of patients experience their received care, as well as importance of each aspect of care.
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| 44. |
- Ostensson, Ellinor, et al.
(author)
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Projected cost-effectiveness of repeat high-risk human papillomavirus testing using self-collected vaginal samples in the Swedish cervical cancer screening program
- 2013
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In: Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica. - : Wiley. - 0001-6349 .- 1600-0412. ; 92:7, s. 830-840
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) testing is not currently used in primary cervical cancer screening in Sweden, and corresponding cost-effectiveness is unclear. Objective From a societal perspective, to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of high-risk (HR)-HPV testing using self-collected vaginal samples. Design A cost-effectiveness analysis. Setting The Swedish organized cervical cancer screening program. Methods We constructed a model to simulate the natural history of cervical cancer using Swedish data on cervical cancer risk. For the base-case analysis we evaluated two screening strategies with different screening intervals: (i) cytology screening throughout the woman's lifetime (i.e. conventional cytology strategy) and (ii) conventional cytology screening until age 35years, followed by HR-HPV testing using self-collected vaginal samples in women aged 35years (i.e. combination strategy). Sensitivity analyses were performed, varying model parameters over a significant range of values to identify cost-effective screening strategies. Main outcome measures Average lifetime cost, discounted and undiscounted life-years gained, reduction in cervical cancer risk, incremental cost-effectiveness ratios with and without the cost of added life-years. Results Depending on screening interval, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for the combination strategy ranged from Euro43000 to Euro180000 per life-years gained without the cost of added life-years, and from Euro74000 to Euro206000 with costs of added life-years included. Conclusion The combination strategy with a 5-year screening interval is potentially cost-effective compared with no screening, and with current screening practice when using a threshold value of Euro80000 per life-years gained.
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| 45. |
- Ranhem, Cecilia, et al.
(author)
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Evaluation of dyskerin expression and the Cajal body protein WRAP53 beta as potential prognostic markers for patients with primary vaginal carcinoma
- 2022
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In: Oncology Letters. - : SPANDIDOS PUBL LTD. - 1792-1074 .- 1792-1082. ; 23:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Primary vaginal cancer (PVC) is a rare gynaecological malignancy, which, at present, lacks appropriate biomarkers for prognosis. The proteins dyskerin and WD repeat containing antisense to TP53 (WRAP53 beta), both of which exert their functions in the telomerase holoenzyme complex, have been shown to be upregulated in different cancer types. These proteins have also been proposed as prognostic markers in some types of cancer. The aim of the present study was to examine the expression patterns of dyskerin and WRAP53 beta in patients with PVC. Moreover, as part of a search for effective biomarkers to evaluate prognosis in PVC, the expression of these two proteins and their potential association with clinical variables and survival were also evaluated. The expression of dyskerin and WRAP53 beta was assessed in PVC tumour samples from 68 patients using immunohistochemistry. The majority of tumour samples showed low and moderate expression levels of dyskerin. Upregulation of dyskerin in tumour samples was significantly associated with a shorter survival time and a poorer cancer-specific survival rate. WRAP53 beta was also expressed in most of the cells but was not significantly associated with clinical variables or survival. This study demonstrates that upregulation of dyskerin is significantly associated with poor prognosis. Thus, dyskerin may serve as a promising prognostic marker and a potential putative therapeutic target in PVC.
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| 46. |
- Ranhem, Cecilia, et al.
(author)
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Evaluation of dyskerin expression and the Cajal body protein WRAP53β as potential prognostic markers for patients with primary vaginal carcinoma
- 2022
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In: Oncology Letters. - : Spandidos Publications. - 1792-1074 .- 1792-1082. ; 23:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Primary vaginal cancer (PVC) is a rare gynaecological malignancy, which, at present, lacks appropriate biomarkers for prognosis. The proteins dyskerin and WD repeat containing antisense to TP53 (WRAP53β), both of which exert their functions in the telomerase holoenzyme complex, have been shown to be upregulated in different cancer types. These proteins have also been proposed as prognostic markers in some types of cancer. The aim of the present study was to examine the expression patterns of dyskerin and WRAP53β in patients with PVC. Moreover, as part of a search for effective biomarkers to evaluate prognosis in PVC, the expression of these two proteins and their potential association with clinical variables and survival were also evaluated. The expression of dyskerin and WRAP53β was assessed in PVC tumour samples from 68 patients using immunohistochemistry. The majority of tumour samples showed low and moderate expression levels of dyskerin. Upregulation of dyskerin in tumour samples was significantly associated with a shorter survival time and a poorer cancer-specific survival rate. WRAP53β was also expressed in most of the cells but was not significantly associated with clinical variables or survival. This study demonstrates that upregulation of dyskerin is significantly associated with poor prognosis. Thus, dyskerin may serve as a promising prognostic marker and a potential putative therapeutic target in PVC.
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| 47. |
- Ranhem, Cecilia, et al.
(author)
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Evaluation of dyskerin expression and the Cajal body protein WRAP53β as potential prognostic markers for patients with primary vaginal carcinoma
- 2022
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In: Oncology Letters. - : Spandidos Publications. - 1792-1074 .- 1792-1082. ; 23:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Primary vaginal cancer (PVC) is a rare gynae- cological malignancy, which, at present, lacks appropriate biomarkers for prognosis. The proteins dyskerin and WD repeat containing antisense to TP53 (WRAP53β), both of which exert their functions in the telomerase holoenzyme complex, have been shown to be upregulated in different cancer types. These proteins have also been proposed as prognostic markers in some types of cancer. The aim of the present study was to examine the expression patterns of dyskerin and WRAP53β in patients with PVC. Moreover, as part of a search for effective biomarkers to evaluate prog- nosis in PVC, the expression of these two proteins and their potential association with clinical variables and survival were also evaluated. The expression of dyskerin and WRAP53β was assessed in PVC tumour samples from 68 patients using immunohistochemistry. The majority of tumour samples showed low and moderate expression levels of dyskerin. Upregulation of dyskerin in tumour samples was signifi- cantly associated with a shorter survival time and a poorer cancer-specific survival rate. WRAP53β was also expressed in most of the cells but was not significantly associated with clinical variables or survival. This study demonstrates that upregulation of dyskerin is significantly associated with poor prognosis. Thus, dyskerin may serve as a promising prognostic marker and a potential putative therapeutic target in PVC.
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| 48. |
- Ranhem, Cecilia, et al.
(author)
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Expression of LRIG proteins as possible prognostic factors in primary vaginal carcinoma
- 2017
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In: PLOS ONE. - : Public Library of Science. - 1932-6203. ; 12:8
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Primary vaginal carcinoma (PVC) is a rare malignancy. Established prognostic factors include tumour stage and age at diagnosis. The leucine-rich repeats and immunoglobuline-like domains (LRIG)-1 protein functions as a tumour suppressor, but less is known about the functions of LRIG2 and LRIG3. The present study aimed to evaluate the expression of LRIG proteins and analyse their possible associations with clinical characteristics and survival in a cohort of PVC patients.Methods: We used immunohistochemistry to investigate LRIG1, LRIG2, and LRIG3 expression in tumour samples from a consecutive cohort of 70 PVC patients. The association between LRIG protein expression and clinical characteristics and cancer-specific survival was investigated using univariate and multivariate analyses.Results: The majority of PVC patients (72%) had > 50% LRIG1-and LRIG2-positive cells, and no or low LRIG3-positive cells. HPV status was significantly correlated with LRIG1 expression (p = 0.0047). Having high LRIG1 expression was significantly correlated with superior cancer-specific survival in univariate and multivariate analyses. LRIG2 and LRIG3 expression did not significantly correlate with clinical characteristics or survival.Conclusion: LRIG1 expression might be of interest as a prognostic marker in PVC patients, whereas the role of LRIG2 and LRIG3 expression remains to be clarified.
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| 49. |
- Riegert, Kristina, 1964-, et al.
(author)
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Transnational and National Media in Global Crisis : The Indian Ocean Tsunami
- 2010. - 1
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Book (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The Indian Ocean tsunami was one of the most devastating natural disasters of the modern age affecting hundreds of thousands of people from 40 countries. Some scholars saw the unprecedented “real time” news coverage and international outpouring of aid donations as examples of a cosmopolitan consciousness, while others maintain that in crisis the media look to our national leaders and institutions to act. The tsunami has also been described as a turning point for experienced television journalists, who in lieu of traditional notions of objectivity took on the role of crisis managers, and actively turned to the Internet as a means of helping people. From the vantage points of international communication, media globalization, and crisis journalism, this book addresses the links between national and transnational mediated spaces, crisis management, journalistic roles and ethics, and the mediation of distant suffering. Focusing on national and transnational news channels, it includes quantitative and qualitative text analyses, rhetorical analysis, journalist interviews, and focus group material.
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| 50. |
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