| 1. |
- Gustavsson, Anders, et al.
(author)
-
Corrigendum to “Cost of disorders of the brain in Europe 2010” [Eur. Neuropsychopharmacol. 21 (2011) 718–779]
- 2012
-
In: European Neuropsychopharmacology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0924-977X .- 1873-7862. ; 22:3, s. 237-238
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The spectrum of disorders of the brain is large, covering hundreds of disorders that are listed in either the mental or neurological disorder chapters of the established international diagnostic classification systems. These disorders have a high prevalence as well as short- and long-term impairments and disabilities. Therefore they are an emotional, financial and social burden to the patients, their families and their social network. In a 2005 landmark study, we estimated for the first time the annual cost of 12 major groups of disorders of the brain in Europe and gave a conservative estimate of €386 billion for the year 2004. This estimate was limited in scope and conservative due to the lack of sufficiently comprehensive epidemiological and/or economic data on several important diagnostic groups. We are now in a position to substantially improve and revise the 2004 estimates. In the present report we cover 19 major groups of disorders, 7 more than previously, of an increased range of age groups and more cost items. We therefore present much improved cost estimates. Our revised estimates also now include the new EU member states, and hence a population of 514 million people.
|
|
| 2. |
- Otero, Jaime, et al.
(author)
-
Basin-scale phenology and effects of climate variability on global timing of initial seaward migration of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
- 2014
-
In: Global Change Biology. - : Wiley. - 1354-1013 .- 1365-2486. ; 20:1, s. 61-75
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Migrations between different habitats are key events in the lives of many organisms. Such movements involve annually recurring travel over long distances usually triggered by seasonal changes in the environment. Often, the migration is associated with travel to or from reproduction areas to regions of growth. Young anadromous Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) emigrate from freshwater nursery areas during spring and early summer to feed and grow in the North Atlantic Ocean. The transition from the freshwater ('parr') stage to the migratory stage where they descend streams and enter salt water ('smolt') is characterized by morphological, physiological and behavioural changes where the timing of this parr-smolt transition is cued by photoperiod and water temperature. Environmental conditions in the freshwater habitat control the downstream migration and contribute to within- and among-river variation in migratory timing. Moreover, the timing of the freshwater emigration has likely evolved to meet environmental conditions in the ocean as these affect growth and survival of the post-smolts. Using generalized additive mixed-effects modelling, we analysed spatio-temporal variations in the dates of downstream smolt migration in 67 rivers throughout the North Atlantic during the last five decades and found that migrations were earlier in populations in the east than the west. After accounting for this spatial effect, the initiation of the downstream migration among rivers was positively associated with freshwater temperatures, up to about 10 °C and levelling off at higher values, and with sea-surface temperatures. Earlier migration occurred when river discharge levels were low but increasing. On average, the initiation of the smolt seaward migration has occurred 2.5 days earlier per decade throughout the basin of the North Atlantic. This shift in phenology matches changes in air, river, and ocean temperatures, suggesting that Atlantic salmon emigration is responding to the current global climate changes.
|
|
| 3. |
- Aidas, Kestutis, et al.
(author)
-
The Dalton quantum chemistry program system
- 2014
-
In: WIREs Computational Molecular Science. - : Wiley. - 1759-0876 .- 1759-0884. ; 4:3, s. 269-284
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Dalton is a powerful general-purpose program system for the study of molecular electronic structure at the Hartree-Fock, Kohn-Sham, multiconfigurational self-consistent-field, MOller-Plesset, configuration-interaction, and coupled-cluster levels of theory. Apart from the total energy, a wide variety of molecular properties may be calculated using these electronic-structure models. Molecular gradients and Hessians are available for geometry optimizations, molecular dynamics, and vibrational studies, whereas magnetic resonance and optical activity can be studied in a gauge-origin-invariant manner. Frequency-dependent molecular properties can be calculated using linear, quadratic, and cubic response theory. A large number of singlet and triplet perturbation operators are available for the study of one-, two-, and three-photon processes. Environmental effects may be included using various dielectric-medium and quantum-mechanics/molecular-mechanics models. Large molecules may be studied using linear-scaling and massively parallel algorithms. Dalton is distributed at no cost from for a number of UNIX platforms.
|
|
| 4. |
- Maudsdotter, Lisa, 1984-, et al.
(author)
-
Lactobacilli reduce cell cytotoxicity caused by Streptococcus pyogenes by producing lactic acid that degrades the toxic component lipoteichoic acid
- 2011
-
In: Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. - 0066-4804 .- 1098-6596. ; 55:4, s. 1622-1628
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Lactobacilli are known to prevent colonization by many pathogens; nevertheless, the mechanisms of their protective effect are largely unknown. In this work, we investigated the role of lactobacilli during infection of epithelial cells with group A streptococci (GAS). GAS cause a variety of illnesses ranging from noninvasive disease to more severe invasive infections, such as necrotizing fasciitis and toxic shock-like syndrome. Invasion of deeper tissues is facilitated by GAS-induced apoptosis and cell death. We found that lactobacilli inhibit GAS-induced host cell cytotoxicity and shedding of the complement regulator CD46. Further, survival assays demonstrated that lactic acid secreted by lactobacilli is highly bactericidal toward GAS. In addition, lactic acid treatment of GAS, but not heat killing, prior to infection abolishes the cytotoxic effects against human cells. Since lipoteichoic acid (LTA) of GAS is heat resistant and cytotoxic, we explored the effects of lactic acid on LTA. By applying such an approach, we demonstrate that lactic acid reduces epithelial cell damage caused by GAS by degrading both secreted and cell-bound LTA. Taken together, our experiments reveal a mechanism by which lactobacilli prevent pathogen-induced host cell damage.
|
|
| 5. |
- Staffas, Anna, 1982, et al.
(author)
-
Presence of FLT3-ITD and high BAALC expression are independent prognostic markers in childhood acute myeloid leukemia.
- 2011
-
In: Blood. - : American Society of Hematology. - 1528-0020 .- 0006-4971. ; 118:22, s. 5905-5913
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Mutation status of the FLT3, NPM1, CEBPA, and WT1 genes and gene expression levels of ERG, MN1, BAALC, FLT3, and WT1 have been identified as possible prognostic markers in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We have performed a thorough prognostic evaluation of these genetic markers in pediatric AML patients enrolled in the NOPHO 1993 or NOPHO 2004 protocols. Mutation status and expression levels were analyzed in 185 and 149 patients respectively. Presence of FLT3-ITD was associated with significantly inferior event-free survival (EFS), whereas presence of an NPM1 mutation in the absence of FLT3-ITD correlated with significantly improved EFS. Furthermore, high levels of ERG and BAALC transcripts were associated with inferior EFS. No significant correlation with survival was seen for mutations in CEBPA and WT1 or with gene expression levels of MN1, FLT3, and WT1. In multivariate analysis, the presence of FLT3-ITD and high BAALC expression were identified as independent prognostic markers of inferior EFS. We conclude that analysis of the mutational status of FLT3 and NPM1 at diagnosis is important for prognostic stratification of pediatric AML patients and that determination of the BAALC gene expression level can add valuable information.
|
|
| 6. |
|
|
| 7. |
- Annersten, Hans, et al.
(author)
-
Axel Hamberg som mineralog
- 2012
-
In: Sarek, Arktis och akademisk vardag. - Uppsala : Acta Universitatis Upsaliensis. - 9789155482541 ; , s. 93-111
-
Book chapter (other academic/artistic)
|
|
| 8. |
- Bjørge, Tone, et al.
(author)
-
Metabolic risk factors and ovarian cancer in the metabolic syndrome and cancer project
- 2011
-
In: International Journal of Epidemiology. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0300-5771 .- 1464-3685. ; 40:6, s. 1667-1677
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: No studies have so far evaluated the impact of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) as an entity on ovarian cancer risk. The authors aimed to examine the association between factors in the MetS, individually and combined, and risk of ovarian cancer incidence and mortality. METHODS: Altogether, 290 000 women from Austria, Norway and Sweden were enrolled during 1974-2005, with measurements taken of height, weight, blood pressure and levels of glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides. Relative risks (RRs) of ovarian cancer were estimated using Cox regression for each MetS factor in quintiles and for standardized levels (z-scores), and for a composite z-score for the MetS. RRs were corrected for random error in measurements. RESULTS: During follow-up, 644 epithelial ovarian cancers and 388 deaths from ovarian cancer were identified. There was no overall association between MetS and ovarian cancer risk. Increasing levels of cholesterol [RR 1.52, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.01-2.29, per 1-U increment of z-score] and blood pressure (RR 1.79, 95% CI 1.12-2.86) conferred, however, increased risks of mucinous and endometrioid tumours, respectively. In women below the age of 50 years, there was increased risk of ovarian cancer mortality for MetS (RR 1.52, 95% CI 1.00-2.30). Increasing levels of BMI (RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.01-1.37) conferred increased risk of ovarian cancer mortality in women above the age of 50 years. CONCLUSION: There was no overall association between MetS and ovarian cancer risk. However, increasing levels of cholesterol and blood pressure increased the risks of mucinous and endometrioid tumours, respectively. Increasing levels of BMI conferred an increased risk of ovarian cancer mortality in women above the age of 50 years.
|
|
| 9. |
- Bjørge, Tone, et al.
(author)
-
Metabolic syndrome and breast cancer in the me-can (metabolic syndrome and cancer) project.
- 2010
-
In: Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention. - 1055-9965 .- 1538-7755. ; 19:7, s. 1737-1745
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Few studies have assessed the metabolic syndrome (MetS) as an entity in relation to breast cancer risk, and results have been inconsistent. We aimed to examine the association between MetS factors (individually and combined) and risk of breast cancer incidence and mortality. METHODS: Two hundred ninety thousand women from Austria, Norway, and Sweden were enrolled during 1974-2005, with measurements of height, weight, blood pressure, and levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides. Relative risks (RR) of breast cancer were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression for each MetS factor in quintiles and for standardized levels (z-scores) and for a composite z-score for the MetS. RESULTS: There were 4,862 incident cases of breast cancer and 633 deaths from breast cancer identified. In women below age 50, there was a decreased risk of incident cancer for the MetS (per 1-unit increment of z-score; RR, 0.83; 95% confidence interval, 0.76-0.90) as well as for the individual factors (except for glucose). The lowest risks were seen among the heaviest women. In women above age 60, there was an increased risk of breast cancer mortality for the MetS (RR, 1.23; 95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.45) and for blood pressure and glucose. The strongest association with mortality was seen for increased glucose concentrations. CONCLUSIONS: The MetS was associated with a decreased risk of incident breast cancer in women below age 50 with high body mass index, and with an increased risk of breast cancer mortality in women above 60. IMPACT: Lifestyle interventions as recommended for cardiovascular disease prevention may be of value to prevent breast cancer mortality in postmenopausal women.
|
|
| 10. |
- Bjørge, Tone, et al.
(author)
-
Metabolic syndrome and endometrial carcinoma
- 2010
-
In: American Journal of Epidemiology. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0002-9262 .- 1476-6256. ; 171:8, s. 892-902
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The authors examined the association between the metabolic syndrome and risk of incident endometrial and fatal uterine corpus cancer within a large prospective cohort study. Approximately 290,000 women from Austria, Norway, and Sweden were enrolled during 1974-2005, with measurements of height, weight, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and circulating levels of glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Relative risks were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression. The metabolic syndrome was assessed as a composite z score, as the standardized sum of z scores for body mass index, blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides. A total of 917 endometrial carcinomas and 129 fatal cancers were identified. Increased risks of incident endometrial carcinoma and fatal uterine corpus cancer were seen for the metabolic syndrome factors combined, as well as for individual factors (except for cholesterol). The relative risk of endometrial carcinoma for the metabolic syndrome was 1.37 (95% confidence interval: 1.28, 1.46) per 1-unit increment of z score. The positive associations between metabolic syndrome factors (both individually and combined) and endometrial carcinoma were confined to the heaviest women. The association between the metabolic syndrome and endometrial carcinoma risk seems to go beyond the risk conferred by obesity alone, particularly in women with a high body mass index.
|
|
| 11. |
- Borena, Wegene, et al.
(author)
-
A prospective study on metabolic risk factors and gallbladder cancer in the metabolic syndrome and cancer (Me-Can) collaborative study
- 2014
-
In: PLOS ONE. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203. ; 9:2, s. e89368-
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE:To investigate the association between metabolic risk factors (individually and in combination) and risk of gallbladder cancer (GBC).METHODS:The metabolic syndrome and cancer project (Me-Can) includes cohorts from Norway, Austria, and Sweden with data on 578,700 men and women. We used Cox proportional hazard regression models to calculate relative risks of GBC by body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, and plasma levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides as continuous standardised variables and their standardised sum of metabolic syndrome (MetS) z-score. The risk estimates were corrected for random error in measurements.RESULTS:During an average follow-up of 12.0 years (SD = 7.8), 184 primary gallbladder cancers were diagnosed. Relative risk of gallbladder cancer per unit increment of z-score adjusted for age, smoking status and BMI (except for BMI itself) and stratified by birth year, sex and sub-cohorts, was for BMI 1.31 (95% confidence interval 1.11, 1.57) and blood glucose 1.76 (1.10, 2.85). Further analysis showed that the effect of BMI on GBC risk is larger among women in the premenopausal age group (1.84 (1.23, 2.78)) compared to those in the postmenopausal age group (1.29 (0.93, 1.79)). For the other metabolic factors no significant association was found (mid blood pressure 0.96 (0.71, 1.31), cholesterol 0.84 (0.66, 1.06) and serum triglycerides 1.16 (0.82, 1.64)). The relative risk per one unit increment of the MetS z-score was 1.37 (1.07, 1.73).CONCLUSION:This study showed that increasing BMI and impaired glucose metabolism pose a possible risk for gallbladder cancer. Beyond the individual factors, the results also showed that the metabolic syndrome as an entity presents a risk constellation for the occurrence of gallbladder cancer.
|
|
| 12. |
- Borena, Wegene, et al.
(author)
-
Metabolic risk factors and primary liver cancer in a prospective study of 578,700 adults
- 2012
-
In: International Journal of Cancer. - Malden, MA : Wiley. - 0020-7136 .- 1097-0215. ; 131:1, s. 193-200
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Initial studies have indicated diabetes and obesity to be risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma; but the association between other metabolic risk factors and primary liver cancer (PLC) has not been investigated. The metabolic syndrome and cancer project (Me-Can) includes cohorts from Norway, Austria and Sweden with data on 578,700 subjects. We used Cox proportional hazard models to calculate relative risks (RRs) of PLC by body mass index (BMI), blood pressure and plasma levels of glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides as continuous standardized variables (z-score with mean = 0 and standard deviation (SD) = 1) and their standardized sum of metabolic syndrome (MetS) z-score. RRs were corrected for random error in measurements. During an average follow-up of 12.0 years (SD = 7.8), 266 PLCs were diagnosed among cohort members. RR of liver cancer per unit increment of z-score adjusted for age, smoking status and BMI and stratified by birth year, sex and sub-cohorts, was for BMI 1.39 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.241.58), mid blood pressure 2.08 (0.954.73), blood glucose 2.13 (1.552.94) cholesterol 0.62 (0.510.76) and serum triglycerides 0.85 (0.651.10). The RR per one unit increment of the MetS z-score was 1.35 (1.121.61). BMI, glucose and a composite MetS score were positively and cholesterol negatively associated with risk of liver cancer.
|
|
| 13. |
- Borena, Wegene, et al.
(author)
-
Serum triglycerides and cancer risk in the metabolic syndrome and cancer (Me-Can) collaborative study
- 2011
-
In: Cancer Causes and Control. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1573-7225 .- 0957-5243. ; 22:2, s. 291-299
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- To assess the association between serum triglyceride levels and cancer risk. The metabolic syndrome and cancer project (Me-Can) includes cohorts from Norway, Austria, and Sweden; the current study included data on 257,585 men and 256,512 women. The mean age at study entry was 43.8 years for men and 44.2 years for women. The mean follow-up time was 13.4 years (SD = 8.5) for men and 11.9 years (SD = 7.2) for women. Excluding the first year of follow-up, 23,060 men and 15,686 women were diagnosed with cancer. Cox regression models were used to calculate relative risk (RR) of cancer for triglyceride levels in quintiles and as a continuous variable. RRs were corrected for random error by use of regression dilution ratio. Relative risk for top quintile versus bottom quintile of triglycerides of overall cancer was 1.16 (95% confidence interval 1.06-1.26) in men and 1.15 (1.05-1.27) in women. For specific cancers, significant increases for top quintile versus bottom quintile of triglycerides among men were found for cancers of the colon, respiratory tract, the kidney, melanoma and thyroid and among women, for respiratory, cervical, and non-melanoma skin cancers. Data from our study provided evidence for a possible role of serum triglycerides in cancer development.
|
|
| 14. |
- Brasso, Klaus, et al.
(author)
-
Differences in survival from prostate cancer in Denmark, Iceland and Sweden
- 2013
-
In: European Journal of Cancer. - : Elsevier BV. - 0959-8049 .- 1879-0852. ; 49:8, s. 1984-1992
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction: Register-based studies have shown large survival differences among prostate cancer patients in the Nordic countries. The aim of this study was to determine the background of such differences in Denmark, Iceland and Sweden. Material and methods: Patients with prostate cancer were identified through population-based cancer registers in the three countries. Clinical findings at diagnosis were retrieved from hospital records. In Sweden, clinical information was gathered from regional population-based prostate cancer registers. Country-specific incidence and excess mortality rates were compared, with adjustment for prognostic factors. Results: The relative survival in the cohorts was comparable to that in previous population-based studies. Significant differences in excess mortality rates were found across countries, which diminished or disappeared after adjustment for patient characteristics, i.e. metastatic status, clinical T stage and prostate-specific antigen level. A difference in the proportion of patients with metastatic disease was the main explanation of the differences in survival among countries, while the incidence rates of metastatic cancer were similar. Discussion: Register-based studies of the relative survival of prostate cancer patients are influenced by national differences in clinical presentation at diagnosis. Differences in the proportion of patients with metastatic spread explained most of the difference in relative survival among patients in Denmark, Iceland and Sweden. Future country comparisons of relative survival should include adjustment for differences in patient characteristics, such as stage, prostate-specific antigen level and screening intensity.
|
|
| 15. |
- Cederlund, Ella, et al.
(author)
-
Characterization of new medium-chain alcohol dehydrogenases adds resolution to duplications of the class I/III and the sub-class I genes
- 2011
-
In: Chemico-Biological Interactions. - : Elsevier Science B.V., Amsterdam.. - 0009-2797 .- 1872-7786. ; 191:03-jan
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Four additional variants of alcohol and aldehyde dehydrogenases have been purified and functionally characterized, and their primary structures have been determined. The results allow conclusions about the structural and evolutionary relationships within the large family of MDR alcohol dehydrogenases from characterizations of the pigeon (Columba livia) and dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula) major liver alcohol dehydrogenases. The pigeon enzyme turns out to be of class I type and the dogfish enzyme of class III type. This result gives a third type of evidence, based on purifications and enzyme characterization in lower vertebrates, that the classical liver alcohol dehydrogenase originated by a gene duplication early in the evolution of vertebrates. It is discernable as the major liver form at about the level in-between cartilaginous and osseous fish. The results also show early divergence within the avian orders. Structures were determined by Edman degradations, making it appropriate to acknowledge the methodological contributions of Pehr Edman during the 65 years since his thesis at Karolinska Institutet, where also the present analyses were performed.
|
|
| 16. |
- Edlinger, Michael, et al.
(author)
-
Blood pressure and other metabolic syndrome factors and risk of brain tumour in the large population-based Me-Can cohort study
- 2012
-
In: Journal of Hypertension. - 0263-6352 .- 1473-5598. ; 30:2, s. 290-296
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVES:: Brain tumour has few established determinants. We assessed to which extent risk of brain tumour was related to metabolic syndrome factors in adults. METHODS:: In the Me-Can project, 580 000 individuals from Sweden, Austria, and Norway were followed for a median of 10 years after baseline measurement. Data on brain tumours were obtained from national cancer registries. The factors of metabolic syndrome (BMI, SBP and DBP, and blood levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides), separately and combined, were analysed in quintiles and for transformed z-scores (mean transformed to 0 and standard deviation to 1). Cox proportional hazards multivariate regression models were used, with corrections for measurement error. RESULTS:: During follow-up, 1312 primary brain tumours were diagnosed, predominantly meningioma (n = 348) and high-grade glioma (n = 436). For meningioma, the hazard ratio was increased for z-scores of SBP [hazard ratio = 1.27 per unit standard deviation, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03-1.57], of DBP (hazard ratio = 1.29, 95% CI 1.04-1.58), and of the combined metabolic syndrome score (hazard ratio = 1.31, 95% CI 1.11-1.54). An increased risk of high-grade glioma was found for DBP (hazard ratio = 1.23, 95% CI 1.01-1.50) and triglycerides (hazard ratio = 1.35, 95% CI 1.05-1.72). For both meningioma and high-grade glioma, the risk was more than double in the fifth quintiles of DBP compared to the lowest quintile. For meningioma this risk was even larger for SBP. CONCLUSION:: Increased blood pressure was associated with risk of brain tumours, especially of meningiomas.
|
|
| 17. |
- Ekvall, Hans, et al.
(author)
-
Least-Cost Allocation of Measures to Increase the Amount of Coarse Woody Debris in Forest Estates
- 2013
-
In: Journal of Forest Economics. - : Now Publishers. - 1104-6899 .- 1618-1530. ; 19:3, s. 267-285
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Coarse woody debris (CWD) is crucial for maintaining biodiversity in forests but conservation measures to increase CWD must be performed cost efficiently. We estimate least-cost combinations of CWD-increasing measures in a spruce-dominated Swedish forest estate. Specifically, we investigate how using combinations of the measures tree retention, creating high stumps, manual scarification, prolonged rotations, and retention of dying trees impacts the amount of CWD and net present value at the estate level. We found that by combining CWD-increasing measures in an optimal way the amount of CWD on the estate could be increased 322% with a decrease in present value of only 10%. The optimal combination of conservation measures depends on the desired increase in CWD. The analysis thus shows that huge improvements in cost-efficiency of biodiversity-oriented forestry are possible.
|
|
| 18. |
- Engström, Joakim, et al.
(author)
-
Maintenance of Airway Pressure During Filter Exchange Due to Auto-Triggering
- 2014
-
In: Respiratory care. - : Daedalus Enterprises. - 0020-1324 .- 1943-3654. ; 59:8, s. 1210-1217
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Daily routine ventilator-filter exchange interrupts the integrity of the ventilator circuit. We hypothesized that this might reduce positive airway pressure in mechanically ventilated ICU patients, inducing alveolar collapse and causing impaired oxygenation and compliance of the respiratory system. METHODS: We studied 40 consecutive ICU subjects (P-aO2/F-IO2 ratio <= 300 mm Hg), mechanically ventilated with pressure-regulated volume control or pressure support and PEEP >= 5 cm H2O. Before the filter exchange, (baseline) tidal volume, breathing frequency,end-inspiratory plateau pressure, and PEEP were recorded. Compliance of the respiratory system was calculated; F-IO2, blood pressure, and pulse rate were registered; and P-aO2, P-aCO2, pH, and base excess were measured. Measurements were repeated 15 and 60 min after the filter exchange. In addition, a bench test was performed with a precision test lung with similar compliance and resistance as in the clinical study. RESULTS: The exchange of the filter took 3.5 +/- 1.2 s (mean +/- SD). There was no significant change in P-aO2 (89 +/- 16 mm Hg at baseline vs 86 +/- 16 mm Hg at 15 min and 88 +/- 18 mm Hg at 60 min, P = .24) or in compliance of the respiratory system (41 +/- 11 mL/cm H2O at baseline vs 40 +/- 12 mL/cm H2O at 15 min and 40 +/- 12 mL/cm H2O at 60 min, P = .32). The bench study showed that auto-triggering by the ventilator when disconnecting from the expiratory circuit kept the tracheal pressure above PEEP for at least 3 s with pressure controlled ventilation. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that a short disconnection of the expiratory ventilator circuit from the ventilator during filter exchange was not associated with any significant deterioration in lung function 15 and 60 min later. This result may be explained by auto-triggering of the ventilator with high inspiratory flows during the filter exchange, maintaining airway pressure. (ISRCTN.org registration ISRCTN76631800.)
|
|
| 19. |
- Eriksson, Therese, et al.
(author)
-
A comparison of perceived occupational gaps between people with stress-related ill health or musculoskeletal pain and a reference group
- 2012
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1103-8128 .- 1651-2014. ; 19:5, s. 411-420
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aim: To describe and compare how occupational gaps were reported in everyday occupations in a rehabilitation group of people with musculoskeletal pain or stress-related ill health and in a reference group from the Swedish population.Method: Seventy-two persons with musculoskeletal pain or stress-related ill health and 261 people from the Swedish population were included. The Occupational Gaps Questionnaire, measuring to what extent individuals perceive a discrepancy between what they want to do and what they actually do, was completed by the participants. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data.Results: Occupational gaps were reported more often in the rehabilitation group. Leisure activities were the gaps reported most often. The occupational repertoire seemed to decrease over time as the number of activities was decreasing, particularly leisure and work-related activities. Instrumental ADL were more desirable as the length of sick leave extended.Conclusions: Being on sick leave appears to start a process towards occupational deprivation where the areas that remain in the occupational repertoire become more important. Our study highlights the need to emphasize the whole occupational repertoire in rehabilitation and to facilitate engagement in valued activities to create a sound base for the process of returning to work.
|
|
| 20. |
- Hatherly, Robert, et al.
(author)
-
Technical Requirements for Na18F PET Bone Imaging of Patients Being Treated Using a Taylor Spatial Frame.
- 2014
-
In: Journal of nuclear medicine technology. - : Society of Nuclear Medicine. - 1535-5675 .- 0091-4916.
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Diagnosis of new bone growth in patients with compound tibia fractures or deformities treated using a Taylor spatial frame is difficult with conventional radiography because the frame obstructs the images and creates artifacts. The use of Na(18)F PET studies may help to eliminate this difficulty.METHODS: Patients were positioned on the pallet of a clinical PET/CT scanner and made as comfortable as possible with their legs immobilized. One bed position covering the site of the fracture, including the Taylor spatial frame, was chosen for the study. A topogram was performed, as well as diagnostic and attenuation correction CT. The patients were given 2 MBq of Na(18)F per kilogram of body weight. A 45-min list-mode acquisition was performed starting at the time of injection, followed by a 5-min static acquisition 60 min after injection. The patients were examined 6 wk after the Taylor spatial frame had been applied and again at 3 mo to assess new bone growth.RESULTS: A list-mode reconstruction sequence of 1 × 1,800 and 1 × 2,700 s, as well as the 5-min static scan, allowed visualization of regional bone turnover.CONCLUSION: With Na(18)F PET/CT, it was possible to confirm regional bone turnover as a means of visualizing bone remodeling without the interference of artifacts from the Taylor spatial frame. Furthermore, dynamic list-mode acquisition allowed different sequences to be performed, enabling, for example, visualization of tracer transport from blood to the fracture site.
|
|
| 21. |
- Hedelin, Hans, et al.
(author)
-
Pain associated with the chronic pelvic pain syndrome is strongly related to the ambient temperature
- 2012
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Urology and Nephrology. - : Informa Healthcare. - 0036-5599 .- 1651-2065. ; 46:4, s. 279-283
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective. There are indications suggesting that the pain associated with the chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) may be related to cold. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate how the symptom intensity reported by the patient relates to the time of the year in a temperate climate, i.e. to the ambient temperature and to weather changes. Material and methods. Thirty-one patients, mean age 51 years (range 35–66 years), with CPPS for 17 ± 10 years (3–42 years) were asked to complete a set of questionnaires including questions concerning how they experienced their symptom intensity during the different seasons using the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) questionnaire. Results. The total NIH-CPSI score was 22.2 ± 8.2. There was a highly marked relationship between season and pain intensity as reported by the informants: it was experienced to be three times more intense during the winter months. All subjects reported that a temperature drop was associated with deterioration. Conclusion. The strong relationship between the ambient temperature, a drop in temperature and the pain experienced by men with CPPS confirms the association between cold and symptom intensity in the Scandinavian countries, where the seasonal temperature variation spans a long range and the winters are long. The cause of this relationship is still to be established. Muscular spasm/stiffness is a possibility that remains to be explored.
|
|
| 22. |
- Hellman, Therese, et al.
(author)
-
Connecting rehabilitation and everyday life - the lived experiences among women with stress-related ill health
- 2013
-
In: Disability and Rehabilitation. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0963-8288 .- 1464-5165. ; 35:21, s. 1790-1797
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose: The aim was to describe and understand how connecting rehabilitation experiences and everyday life was characterised in the lived experiences during the rehabilitation in women with stress-related ill health. Method: Five women were interviewed on three occasions during a rehabilitation programme and once 3 months later. Data were analysed using the Empirical, Phenomenological and Psychological method. Results: The participants experienced connections between their rehabilitation and their previous, present and future everyday life influencing both rehabilitation and everyday life in a back-and-forth process. These connections were experienced in mind or in doing, mostly targeting the private arena in everyday life. Connecting rehabilitation experiences to their working situations was more challenging and feelings of frustration and being left alone were experienced. Conclusions: Although the participants described constructive connections between rehabilitation experiences and the private arena in everyday life, they mostly failed to experience connections that facilitated a positive return to work. Recommended support in the return to work process in rehabilitation comprises the provision of practical work-related activities during rehabilitation; being supportive in a constructive dialogue between the participant and the workplace, and continuing this support in follow-ups after the actual rehabilitation period. Implications for Rehabilitation Rehabilitation for persons with stress-related ill health needs to focus on the private arena as well as the work situation in everyday life. Creative activities may enable experiences that inspire connections in mind and connections targeting the private arena in everyday life. The work situation needs to be thoroughly discussed during rehabilitation for enabling the participants to experience a support in the return to work process. Rehabilitation including practical work-related activities, support in a constructive dialogue between the participant and the manager at the workplace, and continued support in follow-ups targeting the workplace might be beneficial for successfully return to work.
|
|
| 23. |
- Häggstrom, Christel, et al.
(author)
-
Prospective Study on Metabolic Factors and Risk of Prostate Cancer
- 2012
-
In: Cancer. - : Wiley. - 1097-0142 .- 0008-543X. ; 118:24, s. 6199-6206
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: There are inconsistent data regarding the association between metabolic factors, separately and combined, and the risk of prostate cancer and death from prostate cancer. METHODS: In the Metabolic Syndrome and Cancer Project (Me-Can), data on body mass index (BMI); blood pressure; and blood levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides were collected for 289,866 men. Cox proportional hazard models were used to calculate relative risks (RRs) by exposures in quintiles as well as for z scores (with a mean of 0 and a standard deviation of 1) together with a composite sum of scores to assess the combined effect of metabolic factors. RRs were corrected for random errors in measurement. RESULTS: During a mean follow-up of 12 years, 6673 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer and 961 died of the disease. Men with high levels of glucose and triglycerides were found to have a decreased risk of prostate cancer: top versus bottom quintile of glucose: RR, 0.82 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.62-1.08; P value for trend = .03) and top versus bottom quintile of triglycerides: RR, 0.88 (95% CI, 0.74-1.04; P value for trend = .001). High BMI, elevated blood pressure, and a high composite z score were found to be associated with an increased risk of death from prostate cancer: top versus bottom quintile of BMI: RR, 1.36 (95% CI, 1.08-1.71); systolic blood pressure: RR, 1.62 (95% CI, 1.07-2.45); and per 1-unit increase of the composite z score: RR, 1.13 (95% CI, 1.03-1.25). CONCLUSIONS: The authors found no evidence of an association between high levels of metabolic factors and the risk of prostate cancer, but high BMI, elevated blood pressure, and a composite score of all metabolic factors were associated with an increased risk of death from prostate cancer. Cancer 2012;118:6199-206. (C) 2012 American Cancer Society.
|
|
| 24. |
- Häggström, Christel, et al.
(author)
-
Metabolic factors associated with risk of renal cell carcinoma
- 2013
-
In: PLOS ONE. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203. ; 8:2, s. e57475-
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Previous studies have shown that obesity and hypertension are associated with increased risk of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), but less is known about the association to other metabolic factors. In the Metabolic Syndrome and Cancer project (Me-Can) data on body mass index (BMI, kg/m2), blood pressure, and circulating levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides were collected from 560,388 men and women in cohorts from Norway, Austria, and Sweden. By use of Cox proportional hazard models, hazard ratios (HR) were calculated for separate and composite metabolic exposures. During a median follow-up of 10 years, 592 men and 263 women were diagnosed with RCC. Among men, we found an increased risk of RCC for BMI, highest vs. lowest quintile, (HR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.13-2.03), systolic blood pressure, (HR = 3.40, 95% CI 1.91-6.06), diastolic blood pressure, (HR = 3.33, 95% CI 1.85-5.99), glucose, (HR = 3.75, 95% CI 1.46-9.68), triglycerides, (HR = 1.79, 95% CI 1.00-3.21) and a composite score of these metabolic factors, (HR = 2.68, 95% CI 1.75-4.11). Among women we found an increased risk of RCC for BMI, highest vs. lowest quintile, (HR = 2.21, 95% CI 1.32-3.70) and the composite score, (HR = 2.29, 95% CI 1.12-4.68). High levels of the composite score were also associated with risk of death from RCC among both men and women. No multiplicative statistical or biological interactions between metabolic factors on risk of RCC were found. High levels of BMI, blood pressure, glucose and triglycerides among men and high BMI among women were associated with increased risk of RCC.
|
|
| 25. |
- Häggström, Christel, et al.
(author)
-
Metabolic syndrome and risk of bladder cancer: prospective cohort study in the metabolic syndrome and cancer project (Me-Can)
- 2011
-
In: International Journal of Cancer. - : Wiley. - 0020-7136 .- 1097-0215. ; 128:8, s. 1890-1898
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- There are little data on the putative association between factors in the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and risk of bladder cancer. In the Metabolic Syndrome and Cancer project (Me-Can), measurements of height, weight, blood pressure and circulating levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides had been collected from 578,700 subjects in cohorts in Norway, Austria, and Sweden. We used Cox proportional hazard models to calculate relative risks (RRs) of bladder cancer by exposures divided into quintiles, in categories according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and as a continuous standardized variable (z-score with mean = 0 and standard deviation = 1) for each separate component and its standardized sum, a composite MetS score. RRs were corrected for random error in measurements. During a mean follow-up of 11.7 years (SD = 7.6), 1,587 men and 327 women were diagnosed with bladder cancer. Significant associations with risk were found among men per one unit increment of z-score for blood pressure, RR 5 1.13 (95% CI 1.03-1.25), and the composite MetS score, RR = 1.10 (95% CI 1.01-1.18). Among women, glucose was nonsignificantly associated with risk, RR = 1.41 (95% CI 0.97-2.06). No statistically significant interactions were found between the components in the MetS in relation to bladder cancer risk. Hypertension and a composite MetS score were significantly but modestly associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer among men and elevated glucose was associated with a nonsignificant increase in risk among women. Epidemiology
|
|
| 26. |
- Häggström, Christel, et al.
(author)
-
Prostate Cancer, Prostate Cancer Death, and Death from Other Causes, Among Men with Metabolic Aberrations
- 2014
-
In: Epidemiology. - 1044-3983 .- 1531-5487. ; 25:6, s. 823-828
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Few previous studies of metabolic aberrations and prostate cancer risk have taken into account the fact that men with metabolic aberrations have an increased risk of death from causes other than prostate cancer. The aim of this study was to calculate, in a real-life scenario, the risk of prostate cancer diagnosis, prostate cancer death, and death from other causes.Methods: In the Metabolic Syndrome and Cancer Project, prospective data on body mass index, blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides were collected from 285,040 men. Risks of prostate cancer diagnosis, prostate cancer death, and death from other causes were calculated by use of competing risk analysis for men with normal (bottom 84%) and high (top 16%) levels of each factor, and a composite score.Results: During a mean follow-up period of 12 years, 5,893 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer, 1,013 died of prostate cancer, and 26,328 died of other causes. After 1996, when prostate-specific antigen testing was introduced, men up to age 80 years with normal metabolic levels had 13% risk of prostate cancer, 2% risk of prostate cancer death, and 30% risk of death from other causes, whereas men with metabolic aberrations had corresponding risks of 11%, 2%, and 44%.Conclusions: In contrast to recent studies using conventional survival analysis, in a real-world scenario taking risk of competing events into account, men with metabolic aberrations had lower risk of prostate cancer diagnosis, similar risk of prostate cancer death, and substantially higher risk of death from other causes compared with men who had normal metabolic levels.
|
|
| 27. |
- Jarvis, Erich D., et al.
(author)
-
Whole-genome analyses resolve early branches in the tree of life of modern birds
- 2014
-
In: Science. - : American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). - 0036-8075 .- 1095-9203. ; 346:6215, s. 1320-1331
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- To better determine the history of modern birds, we performed a genome-scale phylogenetic analysis of 48 species representing all orders of Neoaves using phylogenomic methods created to handle genome-scale data. We recovered a highly resolved tree that confirms previously controversial sister or close relationships. We identified the first divergence in Neoaves, two groups we named Passerea and Columbea, representing independent lineages of diverse and convergently evolved land and water bird species. Among Passerea, we infer the common ancestor of core landbirds to have been an apex predator and confirm independent gains of vocal learning. Among Columbea, we identify pigeons and flamingoes as belonging to sister clades. Even with whole genomes, some of the earliest branches in Neoaves proved challenging to resolve, which was best explained by massive protein-coding sequence convergence and high levels of incomplete lineage sorting that occurred during a rapid radiation after the Cretaceous-Paleogene mass extinction event about 66 million years ago.
|
|
| 28. |
- Johansen, Dorthe, et al.
(author)
-
Metabolic factors and the risk of pancreatic cancer : a prospective analysis of almost 580,000 men and women in the Metabolic Syndrome and Cancer Project
- 2010
-
In: Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention. - : American Association for Cancer Research. - 1055-9965 .- 1538-7755. ; 19:9, s. 2307-2317
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between factors in metabolic syndrome (MetS; single and combined) and the risk of pancreatic cancer. METHODS: The Metabolic Syndrome and Cancer Project is a pooled cohort containing data on body mass index, blood pressure, and blood levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides. During follow-up, 862 individuals were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Cox proportional hazards analysis was used to calculate relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals using the above-mentioned factors categorized into quintiles and transformed into z-scores. All z-scores were summarized and a second z-transformation creating a composite z-score for MetS was done. All risk estimates were calibrated to correct for a regression dilution bias. RESULTS: The trend over quintiles was positively associated with the risk of pancreatic cancer for mid-blood pressure (mid-BP) and glucose in men and for body mass index, mid-BP, and glucose in women. The z-score for the adjusted mid-BP (RR, 1.10; 1.01-1.20) and the calibrated z-score for glucose (RR, 1.37; 1.14-1.34) were positively associated with pancreatic cancer in men. In women, a positive association was found for calibrated z-scores for mid-BP (RR, 1.34; 1.08-1.66), for the calibrated z-score for glucose (RR, 1.98; 1.41-2.76), and for the composite z-score for MetS (RR, 1.58; 1.34-1.87). CONCLUSION: Our study adds further evidence to a possible link between abnormal glucose metabolism and risk of pancreatic cancer. IMPACT: To our knowledge, this is the first study on MetS and pancreatic cancer using prediagnostic measurements of the examined factors.
|
|
| 29. |
- Jonsson, B. Lars G., et al.
(author)
-
Observations on the Resistive Losses and the Electrostatic Field Distribution in anInsulating Nanocomposite
- 2011
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- It has been reported that adding insulating nanoparticles to an epoxy like polymers increases its dielectric breakdown strength. Thermal runaway can act as one of several precursors to the electrical breakdown process, and resistive losses can be an underlying cause of the temperature increase. In this paper, to examine the influence of nanoparticles on the breakdown strength, the magnitude of the electric field distribution and its corresponding resistive losses around insulating Al2O3-nanoparticles has been determined for linear and non-linear epoxy polymer media w.r.t. filling degree of particles. The dc-E-field distribution has been ascertained using both analytical and numerical methods. It was observed that nanoparticle addition to a polymer creates both "no heating" regions and "significant heating" regions in the close vicinity of the interface.
|
|
| 30. |
- Jonsson, Berth, 1944-
(author)
-
Transportation asset management : Quality related accounting, measurements and use in road management processes
- 2010
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Today there are shortcomings in monitoring, control, analyses, learning and reporting of the results of activities and operations in the road management processes. There are also shortcomings in transparency and verifiability, in knowledge of road management’s costs and life cycle costs, of the road capital’s standard and condition and in measures of quality deficiency costs, productivity and maintenance backlog. The starting points for different applications of the model are taken from experience of the subprocesses in practical road management, independent analyses of activities, operations and results, presence at directors’ meetings (in an independent co-opted capacity) and literature reviews. It is my belief that the problems can largely be solved with transparent, verifiable information that is relevant to the sub-processes. A model has been designed with the transport policy’s requirements at the focus for all sub-processes’ applications without repeating errors as regards internal control, use of standard values and index adjustments. For each component, the model provides quality-related information about its current condition and condition value, acquisition value, replacement value and standard target value with the effects of measures carried out. Changes in standard and condition of new construction, improvements, maintenance and consumption can be shown in the model. Information can also be found on a component’s consumption cost, index adjustment and successively accumulated life cycle costs. Quality deficiency costs, inefficiencies, maintenance backlog, cost drivers, productivity and, for example, expected funding needs can be calculated by computer. The model has been tested and this document also describes the model’s implementation project at the SNRA. Most of the road network’s components have been registered for a long time in the SNRA’s road and traffic data bank as compulsory or optional phenomena. The remaining components will to a large extent be entered automatically. Some will require inventorying. In theory, the quality-related accounting will thus have access to information about every individual component in the entire state-administered road network. For at least 75% (80% in the implementation project) of the total value o fthe road capital, current condition information will exist for each individual component in the road network. The information, that constitutes “best available knowledge” of the components’ current functional condition, is administered in dedicated administration systems and comes from different kinds of inventories. The values of the remaining components can be appraised systematically on the basis of individually assessed technical length of life and, for example, planned maintenance. The model shows that decisions to carry out measures can also be based on “best available knowledge” of socioeconomic effectiveness, consideration of the environment, climate and energy in a life cycle perspective, customers’ (society’s and road-users’) expectations and political demands for fairness. These requirements are systematically worked into the limit values for “as constructed” and “worst acceptable condition”. The condition interval between the limit values shows the component’s functional consumption margin provided that the transport policy’s requirements are taken into consideration. The information makes it possible to consider and stipulate requirements regarding the development of components’ accumulated life cycle costs in procurements. Contractors will have a natural focus on increased productivity and cost increases in projects should be smaller. The model makes the long term planning process more efficient and shortens lead times. Prices, costs, accumulated life cycle costs and various types of deviations can be analysed continuously to achieve systematic learning from good examples and failures. In the project follow-up, deviations are automatically divided within the system into causes dependent on time, quantity, and unit price. Control and monitoring with analyses and learning can be made more effective through automatic monitoring against control limits. The concept of quality-related accounting of road capital should be a part of the international discussion around models for Transportation Asset Management (TAM).
|
|
| 31. |
|
|
| 32. |
|
|
| 33. |
|
|
| 34. |
- Jonsson, Hans
(author)
-
Housing, labour market conditions and regional migration
- 2012
-
Licentiate thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Essay 1: Swedish micro and macro data on internal migration indicate that home-owners on average have a higher propensity to migrate to other labour market areas in response to higher unemployment and job vacancy rates than renters and tenant-owners. This is evidence that owning your home does not constrain labour mobility across labour market areas in comparison to other forms of housing tenure. The response to high local job vacancy rates indicates that migration in general is driven by differences in matching efficiency in local labour market areas rather than a pure response to high local unemployment. A third finding is that at higher levels of aggregation high unemployment is associated to high levels of home-ownership as previous researchers have found. The suggested explanation for this correlation, i.e. that home-ownership constrains mobility of individuals, however, seems falsified in Sweden by our results.Essay 2: Swedish micro and macro data on internal migration indicate that interregional migration responds to regional labour market conditions and individual unemployment. Migration is found to go from relatively high unemployment and high job vacancy to low unemployment and low job vacancy regions contrary to earlier research. The response to job vacancy rates indicate that migration responds to differences in local Beveridge curves and migration goes towards better matching efficiency. Unemployment on the individual level is found to increases the propensity for interregional migration.
|
|
| 35. |
- Jonsson, Hans
(author)
-
MICROBIAL DYNAMICS DURING THE FERMENTATION OF WAKALIM, A TRADITIONAL ETHIOPIAN FERMENTED SAUSAGE
- 2010
-
In: Journal of Food Quality. - : Wiley. - 0146-9428 .- 1745-4557. ; 33, s. 370-390
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Traditional fermented foods and beverages are products of spontaneous fermentation. This type of process results in microbiological and chemical variability in the products, as it depends on the microflora naturally present in the substrates, on utensils and equipment used. Isolation and characterization of the microorganisms involved in the fermentation, and identification of the most important starter species may help to undertake controlled fermentation with selected mixed culture starters to optimize the process conditions. This would result in products which are consistent and definable in their flavor and other biochemical parameters, have good keeping quality and are, in general, wholesome. This may pave the way for large-scale commercial production, which may also improve the shelf life of the products, and reduce wastage during processing, which is significant at household level. The strains characterized in this study could be exploited as potential starter cultures for the commercialization of wakalim.
|
|
| 36. |
|
|
| 37. |
- Jonsson, Hans
(author)
-
Segmented filamentous bacteria in human ileostomy samples after high-fiber intake
- 2013
-
In: FEMS Microbiology Letters. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0378-1097 .- 1574-6968. ; 342, s. 24-29
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Segmented filamentous bacteria (SFB) are inhabitants of the small intestine of various animals, where they can be detected microscopically due to their specific morphology and intimate association with the intestinal epithelium. SFB colonize the distal part of the small intestine in a host-specific manner and affects important functions of the immune system, such as the induction of secretory IgA production and regulation of T-cell maturation. Considering the influences SFB have on immune functions, they could be regarded as a key species in hostmicrobial interactions of the gastrointestinal tract. Although these influences might be executed by other microorganisms, a human-adapted variant of SFB is not unlikely. In this study, ileostomy samples from 10 human subjects were screened with PCR, using primers derived from sequences of SFB from rat and mouse. PCR products were obtained from samples taken from one individual at two time points. Sequencing revealed the presence of a 16S rRNA gene with high similarity (98%) to the corresponding genes from SFB of mouse and rat origin, thus indicating the presence of a human variant of SFB. The findings presented in this study will hopefully encourage research to elucidate whether this intriguing organism is a persistent member of the normal human microbiota.
|
|
| 38. |
|
|
| 39. |
- Jonsson, Karin, et al.
(author)
-
Urine bladder catheters in nursing home patients: a one-day point prevalence study in a Swedish county.
- 2010
-
In: Scandinavian journal of urology and nephrology. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1651-2065 .- 0036-5599. ; 44:5, s. 320-3
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The aim of this study was to register the use of long-term indwelling catheters in nursing homes in a defined geographical region, and present the indications for and duration of catheterization, catheter material and size, the time between the regular catheter changes and the number of patients with regular catheter rinses.
|
|
| 40. |
- Jonsson, Karin, et al.
(author)
-
Urine cultures from indwelling bladder catheters in nursing home patients: A point prevalence study in a Swedish county.
- 2011
-
In: Scandinavian journal of urology and nephrology. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1651-2065 .- 0036-5599.
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Abstract Objectives. To survey the bacterial flora and antibiotic resistance in urinary strains from patients with indwelling bladder catheters residing in nursing homes within a geographically defined region. Material and methods. Urine was sampled for culture from 163 catheter patients (126 men and 37 women) during a 2 week period in March 2010. Susceptibility testing of the isolated bacteria was compared with all urinary strains (n = 9994) from hospitals and primary healthcare in the same geographical area cultured during the first 6 months of 2010 (control group). Results. Bacteriuria was found in 159 of 163 urine samples (98%). Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli were the most common species, one or both being detected in 72% of the urine samples, while Proteus species were found in10% and a single isolate of Providentia species was seen.Strains in the study patients were more resistant to antibiotics than in the control group. Particularly large differences were noted for ciprofloxacinin in E. coli (16.9% vs 7.9%) and for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in E. faecalis (39.1% vs 24.8%). One extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli was cultured (1.3%), compared with 1.6% in the control group. No vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) were detected. Conclusions. Proteus mirabilis and Providentia species were rarely isolated, in sharp contrast to previous studies from geriatric hospital wards where they have often been in the majority. The limited incidence of ESBL and the absence of VRE and MRSA is gratifying, but the high resistance to antibiotics needs to be assessed on a continuous basis.
|
|
| 41. |
- Jonsson, Mattias, et al.
(author)
-
Cost-effectiveness of silvicultural measures to increase substrate availability for wood-dwelling species : A comparison between boreal tree species
- 2010
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Forest Research. - : Taylor & Francis Group. - 0282-7581 .- 1651-1891. ; 25:1, s. 46-60
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This study analysed the cost-effectiveness of silvicultural measures that increase substrate availability for saproxylic (wood-dwelling) species. Mixed stands of Norway spruce (Picea abies L.), Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and birch (Betula pubescens Ehrh and Betula pendula Roth) or aspen (Populus tremula L.) in three regions of Sweden were modelled. Inverted cost-effectiveness was calculated by dividing the economic cost associated with a silvicultural measure by the increase in coarse woody debris (CWD) and an index reflecting substrate availability for red-listed saproxylic beetles and cryptogams, compared with a reference scenario maximizing economic profit. Tree species had a large impact on the cost-effectiveness of green tree retention: Scots pine was the most costly tree species to retain and aspen and birch the most cost-effective. Tree species also had an impact, albeit smaller, on the cost-effectiveness of the creation of high stumps. It was most cost-effective to create high stumps from birch and aspen in southern Sweden, whereas in northern Sweden it was more cost-effective to create high stumps from pine and spruce. Therefore, when increasing the amount of coarse woody debris (CWD), deciduous trees should be targeted in southern Sweden more than in the north. However, it is important that CWD is created from all tree species, because different tree species support different assemblages of saproxylic species. As regards measures that are not associated with particular tree species, retention of snags at final harvest is a cost-effective measure in all regions, whereas increasing the rotation period is costly.
|
|
| 42. |
- Jonsson, Patrik
(author)
-
Intelligent networked sensors for increased traffic safety
- 2011
-
Licentiate thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Our society needs to continuously perform transports of people and goods toensure that business is kept going. Every disturbance in the transportation ofpeople or goods affects the commerce and may result in economical losses forcompanies and society. Severe traffic accidents cause personal tragedies forpeople involved as well as huge costs for the society. Therefore the roadauthorities continuously try to improve the traffic safety. Traffic safety may beimproved by reduced speeds, crash safe cars, tires with better road grip andimproved road maintenance. The environmental effects from roadmaintenance when spreading de-icing chemicals need to be considered, i.e.how much chemicals should be used to maximize traffic safety and minimizethe environmental effects. Knowledge about the current and upcoming roadcondition can improve the road maintenance and hence improve traffic safety.This thesis deals with sensors and models that give information about the roadcondition.The performance and reliability of existing surface mounted sensors wereexamined by laboratory experiments. Further research involved field studies tocollect data used to develop surface status models based on road weather dataand camera images. Field studies have also been performed to find best usageof non intrusive IR technology.The research presented here showed that no single sensor give enoughinformation by itself to safely describe the road condition. However, the resultsindicated that among the traditional road surface mounted sensors only theactive freezing point sensor gave reliable freezing point results. Furtherresearch aimed to find a model that could classify the road condition indifferent road classes from existing road weather sensor data and road images.The result was a model that accurately could distinguish between the roadconditions dry, wet, snowy and icy. These road conditions are clearly dissimilarand are therefore used as the definition of the road classes used in this thesis.Finally, results from research regarding remote sensing IR technology showedthat it significantly improves knowledge of the road temperature and statuscompared to data from surface mounted sensors.
|
|
| 43. |
- Lind, Helena, et al.
(author)
-
Glycerol Enhances the Antifungal Activity of Dairy Propionibacteria
- 2010
-
In: International Journal of Food Microbiology. - New York, USA : Hindawi Limited. - 0168-1605 .- 1879-3460 .- 1687-918X .- 1687-9198. ; 2010
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Dairy propionibacteria are widely used in starter cultures for Swiss type cheese. These bacteria can ferment glucose, lactic acid, and glycerol into propionic acid, acetic acid, and carbon dioxide. This research examined the antifungal effect of dairy propionibacteria when glycerol was used as carbon source for bacterial growth. Five type strains of propionibacteria were tested against the yeast Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and the molds Penicillium commune and Penicillium roqueforti. The conversion of 13C glycerol by Propionibacterium jensenii was followed with nuclear magnetic resonance. In a dual culture assay, the degree of inhibition of the molds was strongly enhanced by an increase in glycerol concentrations, while the yeast was less affected. In broth cultures, decreased pH in glycerol medium was probably responsible for the complete inhibition of the indicator fungi. NMR spectra of the glycerol conversion confirmed that propionic acid was the dominant metabolite. Based on the results obtained, the increased antifungal effect seen by glycerol addition to cultures of propionibacteria is due to the production of propionic acid and pH reduction of the medium
|
|
| 44. |
- Lindkvist, Björn, et al.
(author)
-
Metabolic risk factors for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma: a prospective study of 580 000 subjects within the Me-Can project
- 2014
-
In: BMC Cancer. - London : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2407. ; 14
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) and a decreased risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, little is known about the risk of EAC and ESCC related to other metabolic risk factors. We aimed to examine the risk of EAC and ESCC in relation to metabolic risk factors, separately and combined in a prospective cohort study. Methods: The Metabolic Syndrome and Cancer cohort includes prospective cohorts in Austria, Norway and Sweden, with blood pressure, lipids, glucose and BMI available from 578 700 individuals. Relative risk (RR) for EAC and ESCC was calculated using Cox's proportional hazards analysis for metabolic risk factors categorized into quintiles and transformed into z-scores. The standardized sum of all z-scores was used as a composite score for the metabolic syndrome (MetS). Results: In total, 324 histologically verified cases of esophageal cancer were identified (114 EAC, 184 ESCC and 26 with other histology). BMI was associated with an increased risk of EAC (RR 7.34 (95% confidence interval, 2.88-18.7) top versus bottom quintile) and negatively associated with the risk of ESCC (RR 0.38 (0.23-0.62)). The mean value of systolic and diastolic blood pressure (mid blood pressure) was associated with the risk of ESCC (RR 1.77 (1.37-2.29)). The composite MetS score was associated with the risk of EAC (RR 1.56 (1.19-2.05) per one unit increase of z-score) but not ESCC. Conclusions: In accordance with previous studies, high BMI was associated with an increased risk of EAC and a decreased risk of ESCC. An association between high blood pressure and risk of ESCC was observed but alcohol consumption is a potential confounding factor that we were not able to adjust for in the analysis. The MetS was associated with EAC but not ESCC. However this association was largely driven by the strong association between BMI and EAC. We hypothesize that this association is more likely to be explained by factors directly related to obesity than the metabolic state of the MetS, considering that no other metabolic factor than BMI was associated with EAC.
|
|
| 45. |
- Lundblad, Henrik, et al.
(author)
-
Can Na18F PET/CT Be Used to Study Bone Remodeling in the Tibia When Patients Are Being Treated with a Taylor Spatial Frame?
- 2014
-
In: Scientific World Journal. - : Hindawi Publishing Corporation. - 1537-744X .- 2356-6140. ; 2014, s. 1-9
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Monitoring and quantifying bone remodeling are of interest, for example, in correction osteotomies, delayed fracture healing pseudarthrosis, bone lengthening, and other instances. Seven patients who had operations to attach an Ilizarov-derived Taylor Spatial Frame to the tibia gave informed consent. Each patient was examined by (NaF)-F-18 PET/CT twice, at approximately six weeks and three months after the operation. A validated software tool was used for the following processing steps. The first and second CT volumes were aligned in 3D and the respective PET volumes were aligned accordingly. In the first PET volume spherical volumes of interest (VOIs) were delineated for the crural fracture and normal bone and transferred to the second PET volume for SUVmax evaluation. This method potentially provides clinical insight into questions such as, when has the bone remodeling progressed well enough to safely remove the TSF? and when is intervention required, in a timelier manner than current methods? For example, in two patients who completed treatment, the SUVmax between the first and second PET/CT examination decreased by 42% and 13%, respectively. Further studies in a larger patient population are needed to verify these preliminary results by correlating regional (NaF)-F-18 PET measurements to clinical and radiological findings.
|
|
| 46. |
- Lundblad, Henrik, et al.
(author)
-
Preliminary Results of Studying Bone Growth Using NaF-18 in Patients with aTaylor Spatial Frame (TSF)
- 2013
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We were able to see the difference in bone activity ofdifferent parts of the leg over the course of a patient’s therapy. In one patient, we detected at 52 days that the fibula had an SUVmax of 66 while the tibia had an SUVmax of 14, indicating that the fibula was healing much faster than the tibia. The surgeon had to intervene, re-breaking and distracting the fibula. At 94days after the initial surgery, both bones had a more comparable activity (with an SUVmax of 37 and 24 respectively). This study has lead to the use of PET/CT imaging to assess the early clinical state of the bone remodelling process.
|
|
| 47. |
- Lundh, Dan, et al.
(author)
-
Assessing chronic pelvic pain syndrome patients : Blood plasma factors and cortisol saliva
- 2013
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Urology. - : Informa Healthcare. - 2168-1813 .- 2168-1805. ; 47:6, s. 521-528
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective. The aim of this study was to identify changes in inflammatory molecules in the blood (plasma) of patients with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic syndrome (CP/CPPS) compared with controls. Altered levels indicate a systemic component by possible involvement of the prostate and/or the inner pelvic floor musculature. Material and methods. In 32 patients with CP/CPPS and 37 controls, blood plasma levels of testosterone, macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), TNF-beta, interleukin-2 (IL-2) and IL-1 beta were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cortisol in saliva samples was measured in the morning and late evening. All participants answered a questionnaire regarding their health profile. Results. Significantly higher levels of MIF (p = 0.012) were detected in patients. The testosterone level was, contrary to other studies, little lower in patients (p = 0.014; age adjusted). When controls with health issues and patients with a parallel disease were excluded, the MIF and TNF-alpha levels were higher in the patients (p = 0.007, p = 0.016, respectively) than in controls, and the testosterone was slightly lower in patients (p = 0.047). Conclusions. The findings show an immune response extending to the circulatory system, in which MIF makes a significant contribution to CP/CPPS. This study also indicates TNF-alpha as a circulatory component when excluding subjects with concomitant diseases. Both MIF and TNF-alpha have previously been highlighted for other diseases related to chronic pain and here also for CP/CPPS. These results provide further insights into the immunological basis of CP/CPPS.
|
|
| 48. |
- Lönnerholm, Gudmar, 1941-, et al.
(author)
-
In vitro cellular drug resistance adds prognostic information to other known risk-factors in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
- 2011
-
In: Leukemia Research. - : Elsevier. - 0145-2126 .- 1873-5835. ; 35:4, s. 472-478
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Leukemic cells from 230 children with newly diagnosed B-cell precursor ALL were tested for in vitro drug resistance to a panel of anti-cancer drugs. Minimal residual disease (MRD) was measured by RQ-PCR. During follow-up, 24 relapses occurred in the 159 children with MRD <0.1% day 29. The risk of any relapse was correlated to vincristine and doxorubicin resistance, with a relative risk of 3.7 (95% CI 1.3-10.5; p=0.016) for patients resistant to both drugs. There was a significant correlation also for the subgroup with extra-medullary relapses. Our findings indicate that analysis of drug resistance can add prognostic information to other known risk-factors including MRD.
|
|
| 49. |
- Orlova, Anna, et al.
(author)
-
Site-specific radiometal labeling and improved biodistribution using ABY-027, a novel HER2-targeting affibody molecule-albumin-binding domain fusion protein
- 2013
-
In: Journal of Nuclear Medicine. - : Society of Nuclear Medicine. - 0161-5505 .- 1535-5667 .- 2159-662X. ; 54:6, s. 961-968
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Because of their better penetration, smaller targeting proteins may be superior to antibodies for radioimmunotherapy of solid tumors. Therefore, Affibody molecules (6.5 kDa) have a potential for being suitable as targeted moiety for radiolabeled therapeutic proteins. Previous studies have demonstrated that a fusion of an Affibody molecule with an albumin-binding domain (ABD) provides a strong noncovalent binding to albumin in vivo. This strong noncovalent binding can be used for reduction of the renal uptake of the Affibody molecule while maintaining a size smaller than that of an antibody, which is important when using residualizing radionuclide labels conjugated to Affibody molecules. The goal of this study was to design and evaluate a new targeting Affibody - ABD fusion protein with improved biodistribution properties for radionuclide therapy. Methods: A novel Affibody-based construct, Z HER2:2891-ABD035-DOTA (ABY-027), was created by fusion of the reengineered HER2-binding Affibody molecule ZHER2:2891 to the N terminus of the high-affinity ABD035, and a maleimido-derivative of DOTA was conjugated at the C terminus of the construct. Binding and processing of 177Lu-ABY-027 by HER2-expressing cells were evaluated in vitro. Targeting of HER2-expressing SKOV-3 xenografts was evaluated in BALB/C nu/nu mice and compared with targeting of previously reported ABD-(Z HER2:342)2. Results: The binding affinity (dissociation constant) of ABY-027 to HER2 (74 pM) was the same as for the parental Z HER2:2891 (76 pM). ABY-027 was stably labeled with 177Lu and 111In with preserved specific binding to HER2-expressing cells in vitro. In vivo receptor saturation experiments demonstrated that targeting of SKOV-3 xenografts in BALB/C nu/nu mice was HER2-specific. 177Lu-ABY- 027 demonstrated substantially (2- to 3-fold) lower renal and hepatic uptake than previously assessed HER2-specific Affibody-based albumin-binding agents. Tumor uptake of radiolabeled ABY-027 at 48 h after injection was 2-fold higher than that for previously reported ABD-(ZHER2:342)2. Conclusion: An optimized molecular design of an ABD fusion protein resulted in an Affibody molecule construct with better properties for therapy. Fully preserved in vivo targeting of the fusion protein was shown in xenografted mice. Site-specific coupling of DOTA provides a uniform conjugate and creates the potential for labeling with a broad range of therapeutic radionuclides. The biodistribution of 177Lu-ABY-027 in a murine model suggests it is more suitable for therapy than alternative approaches.
|
|
| 50. |
- Pereira, Eugenia, et al.
(author)
-
The participation experience of children with disabilities in Portuguese mainstream schools
- 2010
-
In: British Journal of Occupational Therapy. - : Cot. - 0308-0226 .- 1477-6006. ; 73:12, s. 598-606
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction: This explorative study aimed to chart the participation experiences of children with disabilities enrolled in mainstream schools.Method: The participants were 14 students with disabilities, with good communication skills, aged between 8 and 11 years and attending school in Portugal. The data were collected through open-ended interviews and analysed employing a psychological phenomenological method.Findings: The findings suggest that participation at school took three forms: equal participation, special task participation and onlooker participation. Those three forms contrasted with situations of non-participation, in which the children felt completely excluded. Each form of participation and non-participation presented different performance characteristics and was influenced by the social environment.Conclusion: The findings of this study provide insights that enhance the understanding of childrens inclusion in mainstream schools, as well as the individuals experience of participation.
|
|
